Receiving

Today was the last day of the receiving project for me. It has been a real gift, even though I haven't made the most of it every single day. Being able to accept what I need and not beat myself up for being imperfect is actually one of the main gifts I've given myself. It goes along with my word for 2012, feel. I want to lean into feeling, without judgement. Part of this is committing to a meditation practice. More on that later...

My Word for 2012

This beautiful locket that I ordered from Liz Lamoreux came today, with my word for 2012: feel.  I absolutely love it.

VT Collage

The kids and I made this in my art journal while we were in Bolton Valley.

Uncle John

Last Wednesday's gift was lunch with Uncle John. We walked to the deli at BV (quite a comedown from big plans for Burlington) in the snow. We ate grilled cheese sandwiches with tomato and talked about Iowa City, Things, the beginning of the time, Zen retreats, my work and his work. I forgot to tell him this: my unit of measure for something tall is an Uncle John. Uncle John is 6 feet tall, so whenever I'm estimating distance, since I was a small girl, it is in Uncle Johns. That's how far back, how deep he is in my life. The way I see the world around me. Measured in Uncle Johns. Very cool, and very fitting.

So lucky

I had a wonderful day today, so many gifts and I feel like I have so little time to record them all... I admit this is partially due to Self-inflicted Holiday Knitting Pressure (SIHKP). Anyway, I really wanted to write about and remember a visit today from a former student, Dave Douglas, who was in my creative writing class when he was a senior and is now almost graduated from Alfred University. Dave is an artist and he came by to show me photos of his work and tell me about what he's doing. For me, as a teacher, this is the most amazing gift. To be able to connect with someone who is doing such interesting and beautiful things, and to have had even a small part in who he is today, is what it's all about. So thanks Dave! If I can figure out how, I will link to his blog so more people can enjoy his work!

Two gifts

I was waiting all day today, wondering what gifts I would receive... It was kind of a busy, stressful day, running around getting ready for the holidays and the week of school before vacation. Anyway, now that I have a moment to myself there are two gifts I want to record here. Gift #1. My friend Amy's post on Facebook today was about hugging your family and telling them that you love them. It's the anniversary of her parents' terrible car accident, and she exemplifies someone who is so strong, hurting, and still giving. I admire her so much and will do whatever she says (...within reason). I hugged my kids and husband tonight. Thank you, Amy. Gift #2 was the beautiful starry night sky. Deedee gave it to me by demanding to be taken out. I had some good clear breaths and feel much better now. Thanks Deedee!

Receiving

I am on day three of The Receiving Project, an experiment in opening myself to guidance from the universe... as new agey as it sounds, I am loving the idea of daily reminders to be aware of and accepting of all the good things that come my way.  Yesterday, my gift was a huge hug from our school social worker, who came down to my office just to tell me that she thinks I'm great.  It was exactly what I needed as I try to fight the good fight and not be overwhelmed by the holiday season!  I'm hoping that it will also encourage me to blog more regularly... we shall see.