Confessions of a Grandma

Sitting here by the shoreline, watching dolphins slowly circle in their feeding and carefree children flirting with the surf, listening to the call of shore birds and the lapping of waves against the sand, smelling the fresh sea scented air mixed with a heavy dose of coconut scented sun block, tasting the salty essence of the gulf, and feeling the warm sun on my skin-- Here, where every sense gently drifts in the soft arms of our beautiful Mother who sings a loving lullaby, it is easy--easy to feel loved and caressed; easy to feel blessed, favored by the universe; easy to feel grateful and contented; easy to forget-- But, there, in the distance a siren sounds.  Listen.  That low, swirling wail is a reminder of what we forget too easily and too often. The earth, so solid seeming beneath our feet, can lift and crack, split open and spew its molten innards.  The gentle wave can turn, pulled back and sent forward in a mighty thrust like a craz...

We have had another fun visit with Mike's sister and brother-in-law.  It went by so fast, though.  A lot of good food, good drink, good company and general relaxing.  I remember how much we loved a winter vacation when we were working and had reached a point where we could afford to do it--just gave us hope that winter would end eventually; gave us something to look forward to and then to remember during those distressing late spring snow storms.  Good company and sharing good times make me happy. The landscapers came yesterday and planted a new orange tree in the backyard.  It is full of blossoms and smells absolutely wonderful.  That makes me happy.  I haven't heard much lately about the concern for bees dying, but there certainly are honey bees buzzing around the orange blossoms.  I hope that is a good sign. Doesn't the world just cry out for a good sign or two right now?  We watched the news about Japan and earthquakes and tsunamis an...