October 19

I'm not sure yet what has made the change, but I am feeling much better about my life today.  I'm thinking it is likely that I have had a fabulous overdose of great company over the past 5 days.  I have seen so many friends and family members - it has been so energizing and uplifting:)

I realized today that love is truly an enduring thing.  I shared an evening the other night with a family who was a very special part of my life two whole decades ago... and even though we hardly see each other anymore, they took time to spend time with me and my sisters and we had a really cool reunion.  Love forges bonds that last a lifetime. 

Tonight I am compelled to blog about random acts of kindness.  My friend Karen gave me the gift of a handmade pair of mittens tonight, and I have felt emotional about it ever since.  I LOVE handmade mittens.  And, the fact that she took her time, and thought of me, and handcrafted a pair just for me made me feel so special and loved. 

I have to confess that I do not often commit random acts of kindness, but I know now that I will start doing it more often. 

Today, I am grateful for all the love that I have in my life.... and the lessons that I learn from those who love me. 

I am also grateful for all of my friends on Facebook who shared their kind thoughts and words in helping me to solve a problem for my daughter.  I love her so much and hate to see her suffer.  It is such a relief to know that I am not alone as a parent, and that I literally have a whole community of friends and family who care about both of us.  I am grateful for everyone who took a moment of their time in the last 24 hours to share their warm thoughts and encouragement with me.

Aloha,
Emily