Recess Girl

A Year of Gratitude

I'm grateful for a weekend with my adorable niece and nephew as well as the rest of my family. Very fun to play, color eggs and cookies, hunt for eggs and enjoy their energy!!

A Year of Gratitude

I'm always grateful for a good night's sleep, friends and family, a pretty morning sky, hints of spring and Fridays!!

A Year of Gratitude

I'm grateful for the excitement of our upcoming trip, watching Glee reruns, hot tea, health and strength!

A Year of Gratitude

I'm grateful for the very special people who are willing to take care of our pets when we are away. How awesome are those folks who take responsibility for your precious angels. We are quite blessed by them, especially now, when we have a special needs pup!!

A Year of Gratitude

I'm grateful to arrive safely home from Michigan. I'm grateful for all of the time I got to spend with the Shaws. I'm grateful for all who gathered to honor and remember Deb's Dad. I'm always grateful when a memorial service is personal and full of stories. As Deb said, "Dad has been fading from us for a long time. This weekend, in many ways, we got back the man we knew through stories, photos and memories." What a gift that is!!

A Year of Gratitude

Wow - I'm grateful for all of my birthday wishes from my wonderful world of family and friends. Thanks everyone. It was been a great day. I got to celebrate in Michigan with many of my Shaw loved ones. Shopping, fun hats and glasses and Snicker's Ice Cream Bars (who needs cake!!) You all know how to make a girl feel loved so tonight I am grateful for ALL OF YOU!!!

A Year of Gratitude

I am grateful for celebrating my birthday early with my best buddies, delightful gifts, acts of kindness, a smooth and safe flight to Michigan, still getting to see snow and bed!!

A Year of Gratitude

What a weekend we just had. Getting ready for a memorial service for Dad, thinking about how much future our beloved Chapin might or might not have, spending time with family and friends. Celebrating birthdays and hellos and good-byes. We are so blessed to have so much love and support as we navigate the ups and downs of life. 

A Year of Gratitude

This evening we were going through old photos for Dad's memorial service and I mean "old" photos - you know the ones that are in the boxes under your bed? The ones you meant to put in albums and now you keep meaning to scan them and put them on your computer? What I'm grateful for tonight are all of the people and memories that are in those photos. Some are dearly departed, some have moved on and some are still a huge part of our lives. I'm grateful for all of the gatherings, trips, flowers, animals, sunsets, beaches, moutains, funny things, cool buildings and other beautiful things I've seen. Most of all though, I'm grateful for the people and pets who are in those photos and all of the love and good times we have shared over the decades!

A Year of Gratitude

"One of the secrets of a happy life is continuous small treats."
-Iris Murdoch

I love this quote that recently came to me via Gretchen Rubin The Happiness Project 

Isn't it great and isn't it true? What is a little treat for you that can boost your mood and contribute to the recess life? Some of mine are petting my cat, colorful pens, a little surprise from a friend that is just right for you, Thai food, a glass of wine, citrus scented soap or lotion. Just remember the important part of this quote. The small treats must be continuous!!!