Happy Easter

Tomorrow is Easter! It is the time each year that Christians celebrate the resurrection of Christ.

It should be clear by now that I live in the southeastern part of the United States. More specifically, I live in the buckle of the Bible Belt! As part of each Easter, some of my family would gather at church, then we would all meet for Easter dinner. (My family will not turn down an Easter dinner, especially if it were my grandmother and Aunt Sue cooking!)

The other day at work, one of my colleagues (and closest friends) asked me what my plans were for Easter Sunday. My response...nothing!

It is absolutely true! This weekend my dad is on the other side of the country for work. My Aunt Sue will be in another state visiting her in-laws. My brother will be working. Where does that leave me...sitting here all alone.

I am determined not to wallow in self-pity. I have much to be thankful for in my life. However, it is difficult to be away from your family during holiday celebrations. Heck, I get depressed when I am not around family and friends on my birthday. In their defense, I do tend to play down the desire for any type of celebration on my birthday. It is really because I don't want to inconvenience anyone. In truth, it sucks to be alone during your birthday and holidays.

Okay, getting back on track!

I really do have a lot to be thankful for in my life. I still have my two incredible parents in my life. Yes, they are divorced, and have been for 28+ years. However, they are both in places in life where they couldn't be happier. That makes me smile. I love them so! I have a truly wonderful career and path in life. I work hard to insure my students are given every opportunity possible. I have amazing friends who I know love me and will be there if I ever need anything.

So, this Easter I choose to celebrate the resurrection of Chris and to be thankful for all that has been provided for me in this life.

Today many of my friends posted this version of Carrie Underwood singing "How Great Thou Art." This song has a special meaning in my life. My paternal grandmother loved this song. As I was growing up she would have me play this song for her on the organ (yes, she had an organ in her house!). I remember her tearing up when she would hear this song. This was one of her two favorite gospel songs of all time. The other is "Amazing Grace." Carrie does an uh-mazing job with this song. I know my grandmother was watching. I get chills just hearing this!

Happy Birthday to HMJ!

Happy 6th Birthday to HMJ!

A Longing...

I long for the times of my childhood,

A period that was simpler and forever joyous.

I long for my years in school,

My love of learning meant every day was something new.

 I long for my college years,

A time when I was invincible and the world was at my fingertips!

 I long for my long lost friends,

Those who have moved away and moved on in life.

 I long for the years I lost

As I scratched and clawed my way through denial and hiding.

I long for my mother to truly know me,

And the hope that she whole-heartedly accepts her oldest son for whom he is.

I long for the life that I cannot yet see.

Whatever is in store for me is beyond my horizon of sight.

I long for a simple touch of the hand,

A sign of love and affection that speaks volumes without saying one word.

I long for the words “I Love You.”

Three powerful words that my heart has not fully spoken or truly felt before.

I long for my partner in this life,

Someone with whom I can walk with as we share each others’ joys, sorrows, fears, and celebrations.

I long for the day of being a parent,

To love and guide my children as they grow and learn.

I long for the days when I change the world,

Even if that day comes and I do not realize it, I continue to work towards that goal daily!

I long for the day where I long no more,

A life that is already out there for me.

I only need go and find it! 

Better Than the Original

Today has been a rather lazy day...if you know me, that is not common place for me! However, I took the day and decided that I would just take time for myself today. It has been wonderful to not do anything. It so rarely happens.

Today, while I was laid up on the couch, I was looking around YouTube at music videos. I came across a number of covers that I haven't been able to get out of my head. Sometimes I feel that the covers are better than the originals. Some of them are just so incredibly inventive that I just sit with my jaw on the floor...in sheer awe! Below are some of the videos I have fallen in love with today! Enjoy!

I Want to Hold Your Hand