Lessons in Life

My very dear friend, Anit, lost her daughter Natalie on November 10th. Natalie had contracted the H1N1 virus, developed pnemonia and simply could not recover this time. She died at home in Anit's arms, a small comfort and Anit's personal wish. Natalie lived an extraordinarily full life given her limitations thanks to the efforts of her amazing family. She was included in every celebration and beach trip and even play dates in the early years when Anit and I were raising our kids together. The picture on my blog was taken at Anit's wedding 2 years ago - she looked beautiful. I cannot tell Natalie's story with sadness or even relief as some people have suggested upon hearing of her passing. Natalie taught me so much and her lessons were profound. She taught me the power and strength of love, particularly a mother's love. She taught me that perfection is in the eye of the beholder. She taught me that even a life not lived in the traditional sense is still a life well-lived. She taught me that you should always follow your instincts and fight like hell for what you know is right. Natalie brought great joy to her family and friends and her spirit will remain with me forever. Natalie's most recent lesson is one about friendship. My dear friend has a hole in her heart and I will do everything I can to help her in the coming months sharing her process. We will share memories, cry together, laugh, vent and maybe we'll even share a margarita or two - cuz that's what friends do.

Lucky in Love

Its funny, I never thought anyone would miss me! Its been over 9 months since I've blogged and I'm really not sure why. I've got plenty to write about and the time to do it. I'm attributing my rediscovered interest in blogging to my handsome husband of almost 5 years who, to my astonishment, actually checked my blog yesterday and said, "hey honey, do you realize its been almost a year since you've posted a blog??" He noticed and I liked it that he noticed. He actually took the time to find out something about me. He still makes me laugh, sings to me, puts up with me and tries to make me happy, sometimes not the easiest task. (Hormones at 49 are a challenge - Ladies, I'm sure you understand). Honey, I love you! Thank you for the little extra attention and stepping into my life. I'm one lucky lady.

Ok, I'm a little irritated

I posted a blog a couple of weeks ago about a now unnamed drink that I have been taking. Turns out I have been discovered by the blog police, yes big brother bloggers lurk. I got an email saying that I am violating regulations with the trademarked name of the drink I am taking. Don't ask me how it was discovered, I only know that it was FAST. Personally, I think my right to free speech has been violated. I think I should be able to write about Tabasco (tm) sauce if I want to...they only own the trademark use of the name for commercial purposes. Anyhow, I still like the product, rhymes with Kona Me, but I'm a little disillusioned with the big brother tactics of its trademark department. Why do they feel so threatened?

What have we been doing??? Well...never a dull moment at the Dawson ranch. We have constructed 3 raised garden beds, begun composting (gotta love the smell of fresh horse manure) AND it seems that the local blue heron (we think he's the same baby we had last year) is still after our gophers. Go get'em big guy! We hope to grow all of our own veggies, at least through spring and summer and both Mike and I will truly enjoy the feel of the warm soil, smell of organic dirt and fresh food each night. My wildest dreams have come to fruition.