Monday, October 27, 2008

It's Been Awhile

I haven't written on this site for a while now. I don't quite have the hang of writing on multiple blogs. Right now I am focused on my main blog, which is clintstonebrakerblog.com. I am going to keep this one but for now go to the other one. I love it and think that it's pretty cool. Let me know what you think!

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

From the Minds of Children

We are currently at Disneyworld and as always it is the time of our lives. We have had several memories made and plenty of stories to tell. I will elaborate in future posts about all of this but my topic tonight is different.

It will be difficult to do Shelby's perception justice, but I will give it an attempt. She is always fascinated with the way adults speak to and discipline their children. She does not comprehend why people threaten, hit, or angrily yell at their children. As a family we certainly have our heated moments but we aren't violent or threatening with one another. 

The other night Shelby and I were wrestling. Often when we play like this she will mimic recent experiences in her life. At one point in this wrestling match, Shelby decided that it was time to spank me. As she started my well deserved punishment she also grabbed my ear. I couldn't figure out why she was doing this. When I asked her about it she said she had seen parents punish their children by holding on to their ear. I realized that she has no idea what the sensation of a spanking or an ear pulling is. 

As amused as I was by this awareness, I was also very grateful. Not only has Shelby never had to experience this kind of violent interaction with her parents, she sees these actions as being incredibly ridiculous. The minds of children are so perceptive and generally right. Violent actions taken against children are ridiculous. These actions are unacceptable and NEVER justified. May your children never be subjected to acts of violence to coerce behavior.

Saturday, September 6, 2008

Mixed Emotions


Alas, Live and Learn is drawing to a close. As I sit and reflect on the past week a few things stand out. First, this way of life, radical unschooling, is life as it is meant to be for me. To be able to spend the time with my family that I do, to meet the people I have met along the way, to be able to explain a wonderful way of life to those who ask, and to be safe to share my thoughts and ideas. 

To me radical unschooling has absolutely nothing to do with an educational option. Pardon my language, but fuck that. I wouldn't diminish my child's life to such a condescending statement as "Wendy and I chose radical unschooling as an educational alternative for our daughter." What a terrifyingly arrogant statement. Yet it is a statement that is made daily. It is not my place to choose an educational direction for anyone other than me. Where, when, why, or how someone CHOOSES to learn is none of my business. Not even "my" daughter's.

This doesn't mean that I haven't experienced my share of fears or doubts as to how Wendy and I are "raising" Shelby. But when put underneath the self-loving and self-honest microscope I realized that those fears were completely based on someone else's definition of "child-rearing." By the way, what exactly is "child-rearing?" It's not like we're talking about chickens, we are talking about HUMAN BEINGS. 

This is what I like to refer to as the illusion of parenting. Let's not confuse providing a helpless living being who is a product of shared cells, DNA, etc. with property. I consider myself fortunate that I am physically capable of providing for a dependant person. To me it is a way to be of service and provide love. I particularly like Bob's description of "being able to love my love." Because we participate in procreation doesn't mean we have the right to smother, direct, or demand behavior from our children. It simply means that we GET to love our love. For those who adopt, the same way of thinking applies. You choose to be of service to humanity by providing sustenance to someone who desperately needs it to survive. "Step" parents? You, too. 

My point is this. Enjoy yourself. I know it gets scary and stressful sometimes, so deal with it. For those that are looking forward to becoming parents, ask questions and remove the fear. Most of that is just mislabeled excitement anyway. Find people who see the world and see children as you do and find safety and comfort in those relationships. Above all honor yourself, your partner, and your children by remaining in a place of love and gratitude. That is what comes naturally.
P.S. I have a new post on another blog I think you will enjoy, so please check it out!

Friday, August 15, 2008

Home Soon!!!!

I have now been in Phoenix for ten days. Wendy and Shelby stayed home, I think this year's travels and our upcoming trips led Shelby to "just say no" to this one. I miss them tremendously and am excited to get home on Sunday.
The trip has been phenomenal. I did a workshop for Pathway the first week which I think went very well. The format was a little different than it has been but the feedback I received was very positive. We also had the staff pool party and that was a blast. The staff has gotten really close and it is obvious that they are of one mind in building the program. Seeing the Lieberman's was a real treat as well. It reminded me of the thrill and anticipation that happens through pregnancy. What a blast!
The Jack Canfield seminar I am currently attending is phenomenal. I have met so many wonderful people, many of whom I'm sure I will have long-standing relationships with. This entire year has represented stepping outside of my comfort zones. From the RU-Fun week, in which I was in close quarters with people I didn't know that well, to this week , where I and many others are processing many useless belief systems, I am putting into practice many of the things I talk about a lot. 
I will have much more to say on all of these topics in the near future, so in the mean time I will leave you with this. By reading this blog , know that I write all of these words with genuine love and compassion. I am excited to share my life and experiences with all of you. My hope is that others benefit from what I have to share. We do all make a difference. We do make the world a better place. Our love is that strong and powerful. Let someone know how important they are to you.
Talk to you soon!

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

"I Don't Know!"



Last night I browsed through some of the RU Fun pictures on the Flickr site. I love seeing these pictures along with my own because I get to see the retreat from other's perspectives. We may all be looking at the same thing but it changes through different eyes. 
In going through the pictures, I ran across a couple of one of my new buddies. I talk and write all of the time about the significance of paying attention to those with whom we connect but some people have more of an impact than others. This isn't good, bad, or otherwise it just works out that way. I make an effort to appreciate all relationships that I develop. Some people make it very easy to do. 
Anyway, after being at the retreat for a couple of days, talking and playing I became progressively more comfortable. I was approached by a little girl who kept challenging me with physical feats such as spinning, jumping, and tumbling. At 39 these acts are a bit more challenging than they once were but I pulled it off. This continued for a while and we wound up hanging out the rest of the afternoon and evening. Me and my new friend went and helped my wife and daughter, we walked around the campsite saying hello to people, and we jumped on inner tubes. At one point I asked her how old she was and her response was "I don't know!"
To me that was the most brilliant response to a quintessentially adult question that I had ever heard. This little girl never stopped laughing or having fun. She brought joy and happiness to everyone with whom she made contact. For me, to be reminded that it makes absolutely no difference what someone's age is, what their level of education, or their "future aspirations"is of undeniable value. My life is fun and free when I am able to answer questions like "How old are you" with a care-free and enthusiastic "I don't know." When I am grateful and appreciative not only do I not know but I don't care.
Thank you, Mia!

Monday, July 21, 2008

Oh, Canada......



Tis not my home, nor my native land, but I did have a wonderful week in our neighboring country to the north. When my family and I first heard about the RU Fun week we couldn't wait. For Shelby and me it provided us our first opportunity to leave the country. For all of us it provided an opportunity to meet some families we hadn't met before and become closer to some others we already knew. 
Within this simple week we accomplished all of these goals. Not only were we able to reconnect with some familiar faces from past Live and Learn conferences, we also got to meet a lot of the Northwest and Canadian crowd. What a fantastic group of people. I don't know if I have the words to describe how truly wonderful it is to be able to spend a week with such a beautiful group of people in such an amazing setting. For my family I know that this event has not only brought us closer but it has enriched our lives in so many other ways.
I am a firm believer in that the more people we are able to lovingly connect with, the better the world in which we live. Regardless of what common interest brings a group together, when the members of that group are able to drop their walls of self-protection and truly connect, everyone benefits. The laughter of children, the embraces, the dancing, and the conversations all provided an air of safety and security that most people yearn for.
I am reminded how important it is to have these types of relationships and how I need not take them for granted. Far too many people sabotage their own lives as a result of isolating themselves out of fear or judgement. I refuse to miss the precious moments of my life and the celebration of spirit that comes from human connection.
Thank you Craig and Gillian and everyone else who was at Salt Spring Island last week. My life is truly better as a result.

Saturday, July 5, 2008

....I Was Just Thinkin'......

Recent days have brought on many joyful experiences, which of course will create many more. This summer has been a whirlwind of activity. From Shelby piercing her ears, to the events that led to the Traaseth family moving to Georgia, my trip to St. Louis, and the Meehan's trans-Atlantic cruise aboard the Queen Mary2 , wonderful events have taken place in my life and the lives with whom I am intimately connected. In the past couple of weeks I have found out about the Liebermann's and the Schendel's being pregnant. Recently, Steve and Heather have gotten engaged. Finally Mike and Morgan Pierce were given the opportunity to move to Kansas City to further their personal and professional lives and they took it.
With many of these situations comes a feeling of pure joy. I love being connected enough to people to be able to share in their excitement for the wonderful things that happen in their lives. Because of these relationships I am able to learn and grow not only from my personal successes, but also from the successes of others. How awesome is that?! I know that I either choose to involve or exclude myself. IT IS ALWAYS ME WHO MAKES THAT CHOICE!
As I go into this upcoming week, the event I am looking forward to is the Are You Fun un-schooling non-conference in Salt Spring Island, B.C. I absolutely love any event that involves the un-schooling community. The kids are pure joy. The families are in touch with what is truly important. Their shared love and experiences. That is also true in the programs in which I am involved. When my priorities are straight, it is pure joy and love. Even when scary or sad circumstances arise, I am empowered by the connections of love and understanding I have as a result of my relationships. 
The bottom line is that my life is unbelievably good. I am grateful for my beautiful and supportive wife. I am grateful for my thoughtful and exciting daughter. I am grateful for my patient and understanding in-laws. Finally, I am grateful for all of the people with whom I GET to share my life and who so selflessly share their lives with me.
I hope that is how YOU roll.

Sunday, June 29, 2008

The Joy of Manpri's


Ah the joy of manpri's. You know shants, clam diggers, or any other name they may go by. For years they have been considered a fashion faux pas by American "manly" men. Over the past couple of years on our Disney World trips I started to notice that many of the European men were wearing manpris. They seemed quite comfortable, as I would have imagined, and very secure with their masculinity. I started my manpri hunt but came to realize that most Americans were not yet ready to accept this particularly comfortable article of clothing as "mainstream." Those that know me are aware of what little concern I have for the"mainstream' so my hunt continued. Finally, after two years of trying, I found my source. In America we had to come up with a way for these pants to be respectable from the male point of view. So they are called "climbing" pants. Mountain Hardwear. Whatever they are called, I will call a spade a spade. They are MANPRI'S and they are awesome. Don't fear them, embrace and accept them. I love my manpris and always will.

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

New Blog

I have just started a new blog in addition to this one. This one will remain invitation only so that I can continue to be more personal, so don't worry about any weirdo's gaining access. At the same time I want to make sure that I don't shoot myself in the foot marketing wise out of my own petty fear. The other blog is called The Fearless and Joyful Life. It will be a little more professional and centered on marketing but I will certainly be myself. So visit it often to see what's new and continue to visit here for a more personal side of mine and my family's lives. By the way, Kelli I wasn't trying to steal your title! I just realized how close our titles are. I am so sorry! If you want me to change my title, I will. Let me know. OOps!

Friday, June 20, 2008

Inspired?


 Sitting with my family tonight I was suddenly struck with a feeling of overwhelming joy and gratitude. They,through just being themselves, allow me the opportunity to always be aware of how good my life is. At any point I can think about or get around them and be immersed in absolute love. Shelby is an incredibly gifted and headstrong nine year old. She definitely marches to the beat of her own drummer. Wendy, with her beauty and intelligence, constantly pushes me to be a better person. I know that the three of us enhance each others lives and bring each other joy.
Any person has the choice as to what will affect them. Anyone can shift their perspective and become inspired at any point. For most it is a matter of rising above whatever self-centered fear they are choosing to allow to control their life. Along with my family, I am surrounded by people who are in a constant state of self-improvement. Because I choose to connect with such forward moving people I am never able to justify remaining in a state of self-pity. I'm not saying that I don't try to from time to time, I'm saying that I can't justify it. 
To find inspiration is simple. Existing in an inspired state is a habit. It has to do with how we choose to think. When I am thinking about the people I love, everything I have to look forward to, the wonderful memories I have, and the beautiful world I live in I am inspired. I must remember that I can get to this blissful state whenever I want. I only have to remember how.

Sunday, June 15, 2008

Drama Queens and Real Rock Radio

I spent the past week in St. Louis, which is one of my favorite places in the world. Great food, great people, and the best radio station ever; K-She 95. Nowhere will you hear as much Sammy Hagar, Rush, or REO Speedwagon as you will in St. Louis on K-She. I love it. They thumb their nose at what is supposedly "relevant" in music and play what they love. Rock on K-She.
I went to St. Louis to do another seminar based on my book and a book signing. It also gave me the chance to spend some time with the staff at Crossroads, an adolescent drug treatment program in St. Louis. Leading up to the week there was a little bit of fear of possible disruption. There are a few people who were at one time associated with programs like the one I own who have left and made it their life's purpose to sabotage the work that we do. Being the sensitive person that I am, if I get any indication that someone doesn't like me, I become very bothered. Most of the time that is a very easy emotional state to deal with, but if I get caught off guard it can send me into a tail-spin.
I did go into the week feeling very prepared. For one, I love my book. Being able to share myself that intimately has been extremely rewarding. The seminars have been an extension of that feeling and every time I do one I feel as if I have grown immeasurably. Although I had never done a book signing before, I had a lot of confidence going in because Kerry and Jim Winkelmann had done an awesome job of preparing the event. It was set up at a great coffee shop, Wired Coffee, and the Winkelmanns took care of invitations and other details.
For the entire week Mike, Megan, and Desiree were awesome. Every detail was taken care of. The hotel that held the seminar was perfect. Everything along the lines of organization was extremely smooth. I was able to focus on the tasks at hand because I didn't have to worry about anything else. Following through with these events was a huge deal. The terrorists had been threatening to sabotage both events. They sent letters and made phone calls to the hotel. They called the owners of the coffee shop. For the first time I was able to see these people through objective eyes. The hotel manager and the owner of the coffee shop saw these people for what they are; terrorists holding on to sour grapes. They didn't feel at all threatened and were more annoyed than anything.I was able to meet Rose Jonas who gave me great perspective on the whole situation. Not only were there no problems at either event, there was a ton of validation that if I choose to become afraid at the threats of angry and irrational people, I am being a drama queen. The only action taken by these people was a guy that used to work for me taking my picture with his cell phone and then scurrying off. Wow.
Getting to spend time with the staff at Crossroads was a big time highlight of the trip. What a wonderful group of unbelievably talented and exciting people. They have a tremendous amount of power and do great work with the families who come to them for help. As they continue to gain more confidence their ability to provide solid guidance will only continue to grow. It's fun to be around people who so clearly love what they do. 
As I mentioned before, what a wonderful week. Hopefully it was as beneficial to other people as it was for me. I am home now very satisfied and grateful.

Monday, June 9, 2008

Exciting Times

What a busy few weeks! The in-laws just left on a European cruise, our good friends, the Traaseths, just left town, and tomorrow I leave for St.Louis. First of all, what a wonderful week we had last week. The Traaseths came down from Minnesota in search of a new home. Most of us know what a frightful time that can be, wrought with insecurity. Unfamiliar surroundings coupled with the pressure of buying a home is a daunting situation to face. Wendy, Shelby, and I hoped to be able to provide a little bit of security and calmness to this family at a strange time. By the way, the Traaseths are a family we met through the Live and Learn unschooling conferences. 
Not only were the Traaseths able to use our home as a base, their children stayed at our house most of the week. What a pleasure and joy. I have dedicated my life to helping teenagers and their families, so to be able to open my home to three wonderful children, and for them to feel comfortable and secure, was truly a gift for my family and me. We haven't known each other for too long but our families really connect. Wendy, Shelby, and I were able to open our lives with ease and the Traaseth family made that so much easier just by being themselves. For that, we are grateful.
Tomorrow I head to St.Louis. I get to spend some time with some people that I haven't seen for a while. To be able to visit somewhere to share my experience with so many people that I love is an honor. I have been doing a series of seminars for about seven months based on my book and St. Louis is my next stop. As a part of this trip I get to spend a lot of time with the staff at Crossroads. This is an unbelievably dedicated and loving group of people. I can't wait to get there.
The bottom line with all of this is that I get to live a very exciting life. Whether it is through the people I have grown close to as a result of my work or through the relationships I have built through the unschooling community, I always have a ton of experiences to look forward to. I am fortunate to have a beautiful wife and wonderful daughter with whom to share these experiences. What I would share with anyone is to be true to your passions and to always pursue those things that bring you joy. Although situations will come up that are scary and decisions that are difficult to make, your pursuit of happiness will always prevail. Anyone who tries to sabotage this pursuit does not deserve your mental energy. Do not give it to them. Live your life and enjoy what you do. Rock hard!


Thursday, June 5, 2008

A New Review and a Giant Whatevs

This is a copy of a review of my book that is in the current edition of Midwest Book Review. Having a positive review in this publication is a big deal because Midwest Book Review is very reputable in the publishing community. Here is a part of the review:

Why struggle? It's needless suffering that many people go through with their relationships when they could be happy now. "Relationships for the Intimately Challenged: Connecting with Family, Friends, and Co-Workers to Create a More Joyful Life" is a guide to help all readers make the most of their relationships instead of pettily fighting over the problems that come up through the course of life – to celebrate the joy that is there to begin with to make relationships tighter and more fulfilling overall. "Relationships for the Intimately Challenged: Connecting with Family, Friends, and Co-Workers to Create a More Joyful Life" is highly recommended to community library self-help collections and for anyone who wants more out of their relationships.


I was really excited when I saw this. As we all know, doing something new can be very daunting and scary. One of the best lessons in this whole "I'm An author" thing is that it reminds me to put my money where my mouth is. I talk all of the time about the importance of taking risks and following your passion. This is something that I believe in very strongly. The fact of the matter is that I am a giant wimp. Despite being a wimp and at times wanting to crawl in a cave and hide, I continue to take risks. 
To my fear, I give a giant whatevs. It doesn't need me to feed it. By giving it a whatevs I empower my self to continue to take the risks that are necessary for me to continue to grow and change. I am fortunate to lead a life that enables me to be surrounded all the time with people who tell fear to f-off and give it a loud, resounding whatevs. I love ya'll and have an extraordinarily wonderful evening!

Sunday, June 1, 2008

Have a Little Fun


The past few weeks have been very interesting for me to say the least. From being terrorized to having dear friends deal with real tragedy, it has been an emotional roller coaster. Through all of these circumstances I have been reminded of what is, and always has been, important to me. Near the top of the list, of course, is having fun. Along with the emotionally trying situations there have also been some fun, weird, and rewarding events as well. 
First of all, about two weeks ago I decided to shave my head for the summer. Joining me in this endeavor were Glen and Matt. I had no idea that I would be that into having a shaved head, but I LOVE IT. I may never go back. Maybe it will just be a summer cut but we'll see. I am pretty into it.
Also, a few weeks ago Wendy, Shelby, and I went to one of our favorite vacation spots in the world, Pigeon Forge, TN. Yes, the famous home of Dollywood and countless variety shows that no one has ever heard of. The capital of high culture in the mountains of eastern Tennessee. If you haven't experienced Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg, TN. you are seriously missing out. Try to imagine Branson, MO. without the lake but in the mountains. By the way for those of you out west, there are REAL MOUNTAINS in the south and the east. 
Any way, on this trip we experienced two things that I have never done before. One thing we did is the Zorb. Check out the link, it is awesome. It is a huge ball that you get inside of and get rolled down a hill. The other thing we did is called Fly Away. It is kind of a sky diving simulator. You are inside a tall padded room with a fan underneath the floor that blows at about 120 miles per hour. I have never been sky diving before but it was definitely a fun sensation. All three of us loved it. The entire trip was a blast and we were able to just completely relax. We played miniature golf, went to an aquarium in Gatlinburg, and drove up for a day in Knoxville. It was a wonderful week for all of us.
Finally, after a couple of strange days after we got back, we started preparing for the Traaseths from Minnesota to visit. The Traaseth family are a fellow unschooling family who we met at the Live and Learn conference a couple of years ago. Shelby really connected with Kyra, a girl close to Shelby's age. Over time we have gotten to know the family better. Wendy and Shelby visited the Traaseths a couple of months ago at their home in Bemidji, Minnesota. Now, through a wonderful series of events, it appears the Traaseths are moving to Georgia. Wendy,Shelby, and I have always talked about how fun it would be to have a like minded family that lived close to us. Now, not only is that happening, it is a family that we love and they may be moving into our neighborhood! What a wonderful turn of events.
The lesson in all of this for me is to remember to remain aware of where I allow my attention to go. When I focus on my faith and knowledge that the universe is all rewarding and filled with love and life, things go better than I can ever imagine. When I am focused on my hurt, fear, and anger it feels like the shit never stops hitting the fan. I suppose that is true when my head is lodged so far up my own ass that the only fans I have are covered with shit. The point is that I love my life 99% of the time. The 1% that I don't, I have no one else to blame but me.
Everyday it is vital that I find a different version of shaving my head. Whether it is trying something new like Kathy, taking leaps of faith like Kelli and Tim, or facing life with the courage of Marcos and Ashley, I have examples all of the time. So friends, let's keep each other fired up. Let's do what we love and you know the rest!!!

Love, 

Clint

Saturday, May 31, 2008

Welcome Friends

It is weird to have an invitation only blog. However it is kind of a blessing in disguise. I started doing this out of a desire to share my life with people, so this way I am able to be more intimate. I want to be able to describe events of my life in a manner that is beneficial to those of you who choose to read this and to myself. Everyone I have sent an invitation to, I trust immensely. Therefore if there is anyone who you would want to read any of this, get me their e-mail address and I will invite them to. I rather enjoy the opportunity to spread love, joy, and positivity in as organic a manner as possible anyway. So as you read different posts know that it was written with love and enthusiasm. Let's all enjoy our lives and live by one of my favorite quotes ever: "Do what you love and fuck the rest!" (Quote from Little Miss Sunshine.)

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

My Article in Life Learning


I wanted to post a link to an article that was published in Life Learning magazine this month. The link is to a PDF of the May/June edition of the magazine. The article is on page 30. The tone is centered on parenting, but even if you're not a parent the message is cool. The title is "Learning Through Effective Communication." I also included the picture I used which I love. Hope you enjoy! 


Monday, May 26, 2008

Who Is This Person?

Allowing fear to run our life is like demonic possession. I mean real deal, no bullshit, pea-vomit spewing demonic possession. Any time I have ever allowed myself to become consumed by my fear I seriously do not recognize who I am. The past few weeks have been quite strange to say the least. From dealing with people holding on to sour grapes to friends having to face real tragedy, I am now in a position to put my life in true perspective. To remember what is really important to me is a priority that cannot be diminished. 
A few weeks ago some people from my past resurfaced. Whether this reappearance was due to their becoming aware of my new book or simply that they felt galvanized with a deeper level of hatred and resentment, they resurfaced none the less. They began an attack that primarily centered on harassing e- mails to my employees and employees of similar programs around the country. Pure terrorism. This same situation happened years ago and many of us got really scared, having never dealt with anything like this before. In fact many people became angry and wanted to know how we were going to deal with these people. It has been a great feeling to be connected to the love and support that we all have for each other. 
Last night I turned to Wendy and asked, "Do you think that we are making a bigger deal out of this than what it really is?" She said yes. I knew underneath all of my bullshit fear that only I can choose to buy the wolf tickets these harbingers of terror are trying to sell. I have known all along that these people have zero power. I know that the work that I, and everyone I am associated with, do is unbelievably important and good. We have committed our lives to providing love and genuine healing to people. We have chosen to follow the lead of a man and woman whose love has created an opportunity for us to build wonderful lives for ourselves that are beyond our comprehension. There is nothing of which to be ashamed. There is nothing to fear. There is no one to answer to other than those whose lives rely on our ability to stay out of ourselves and give selflessly. 
I am proud of what I do. I apologize to no one. I am always willing to change, to grow, and to learn. I sure as shit will not allow a few old, resentful, and sad people force me to change anything. My life is mine and I choose to live it riding the comforting waves of love. I commit myself to sharing my spirit with anyone with whom I come in contact. Finally, I assure anyone who happens to read this that I will never allow the power of negativity to stop me from doing what I love. God, however you choose to define it, is everything or nothing. With this awareness we shall always live with the knowledge that we are in the right place at the right time for the right reasons. Although I lose sight of this at times, I always come back. I love all of you and may your bountiful blessings continue always.

Thursday, May 15, 2008

Beautiful Lessons

My life has been filled with many different kinds of lessons. Some have been difficult to comprehend, some I have just made difficult. What I love is that these lessons can come from such diverse sources. I am a firm believer in the fact that the human experience is one that is ever-teaching and my responsibility to me is to pay attention. I don't always like what is in front of me. I don't always understand why certain situations spring up the way that they do. I sometimes react very poorly to people or circumstances that create discomfort within me. One extremely valuable lesson that I have learned is how incredibly important it is to be aware of those with whom I am surrounded. We sometimes need the motivation that comes from seeing those we love continue to move forward and enjoy their lives despite circumstances that are painful. Our greatest teachers are our children. They deal with more adversity than any adult could possibly bear. They are not yet equipped with the emotional tools needed to transcend fear, hurt, or disappointment, yet they do. In a time when we see adults succumb to depression, anxiety, drugs, alcohol, and a number of other fear related disorders, children continue to deal with life exactly how we as adults should. They take a step back, get things back in perspective, and PLAY. Have a wonderful day and by all means enjoy yourself and do something FUN!!!!

Oops

I was changing some settings last night and accidentally deleted my blog! I apologize for this and promise to go much slower in the future as to not repeat the same mistake. I will be posting later, there is some fun stuff to write about. Check back with me!