The times I’ve spent in conversation have largely been in my own head. I’ve spent little to no time writing it out or typing it into a document. Thinking, wondering about, contemplating, feeling, more feeling, looking for understanding in circumstances, trying to know and understand myself, trying not to get caught up in life and …
Category Archives: motivation
A Moment in Paradise
Weathering out the Storms & Preparing for the Next Season
God has a way of bringing each of us through the storms and trials in life. This winter definitely hasn’t been a typical Alaskan winter. After the last 4 seasons of being much colder and with higher amounts of snow accumulation, this makes me feel like spring time has arrived and we are in early …
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How Are You Showing Up Today?
As I arrived in the clinic for an appointment, a woman noticed the outfit I was wearing and commented and complimented me on my clothing. The words she used and the way she said it took me by surprise. She said I was smokin’ hot-the summertime look and loved the specific color of pink. Whoa, …
Image of Self
My bodyMy mindMy essenceMy being is foreverChanging Evolving Into something Worth seeingIt is IWho he called My name He keeps repeatingDaughterChildBelovedBlessed oneBeholdI created youI formed youGave youThe breath of lifeBody imageFleshCompare notWith anyone elseIn your wombYou carried lifeA new ageA new stageA new chapterYearsOf sacrificeBe not discouragedNor are youA disgraceMy spiritIs in youForeverI remainIn love …
On the Eve of My Last Day at My New School
Today marked the last day of teaching in my new school. Two years ago, the school I was at, closed and our preschool classrooms were relocated. Originally, I was overwhelmed at the news, having to pack up everything and move on. I didn’t know how long we would be here before we were told to …
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Strugglebus
Have you ever felt like you were going places, yet not really going anywhere at all? Life can get so complex and seemingly complicated that we need a navigational system to help us find our way through. May has arrived. The school year is almost over. With that said, there have been many things on …
My Kind of Blacktop
Here in Alaska, we had a lot of snow this winter and spring. Fortunately we’ve had temps in the upper 40’s to low 50’s, which has been helping the snow melt and give way to spring and upcoming summertime feels. To better help my vision of the 2024 gardening season, I really wanted to see …
Take Time to Care for Yourself
There is no better time than the present to take good care of yourself, spiritually, mentally, physically, and psychologically. Unfortunately, when we allow pain to settle in, there is repair and restoration, tending to and taking care of those neglected parts of ourselves. I know it’s not that hard making doctor appointments, it’s just the …
Over You
I rolled out of bedWent to my windowOpened my curtainsThen my blindsThere you wereOnce againYou looked at meI looked at youSo beautifulDressed in whiteLooked spectacularYet…I wanted you to goLeaveWhat I needIsA warmGentleComforting embraceFeeling your love from the light you emitThe words“Over you”Kept competing withYour beauty and solitudeI love youI appreciate youI am grateful For all …
Hearing the Whisper of a Word
While listening to a podcast on, “The Connected Life” (I will attach the link and notes about the episode), I was given a word that brought me peace, gave me a sense about myself. Although I don’t think they mentioned it on this episode, this word was brought to the forefront of my mind for …
What a Difference Your Voice Can Make
TodayThe voice withinDid speakPrompting meTo reach outTo take a chanceThrough wordsThrough actionsMaking it knownWho it isThat I amHere to helpHere to supportHere to make a differenceHere to have an impactWhat once was painIs now becomingSomethingMuch more beautifulThanOnce imagined and believedSeeds Have been plantedMessages Have been well-receivedI look forward toThe harvestWhere we may one dayReap and …
Know Him and Expose the Enemy’s Lies
How clever!How deceiving!In my mind,Almost believing!Lies…more lies,Then anyone can possibly beConceiving.RegretsGuiltShameCondemnationSpiralingNearly out of controlThinking…Wondering…Is this me?Or…Is it the enemy?ThoughtsFeelingsEmotionsMindsetOne That was lacking love.OneThat was thinking,Unkind things.Out of balance.Out of sync.SadnessDepressionPainOh, so deep.ForgivenessIs necessary.ForgivenessIs essential.ForgivenessBreathes life.ForgivenessI need.Forgive myself.(I thought I had, but was shown otherwise.)Amazing, isn’t it?How convincing.How twisted.The enemy can be.Taking me on,At my lowest …
Temporary Times
When going throughDark timesNever-endingIt does seemRemember…This is only…TEMPORARYNot foreverSomethingYouAre going THROUGHSoonA ray of lightWill appearShining through and throughBringing hopeBringing peaceBringing loveHis love isUnconditionalHis love isTrueHe isIn you
I’ve Got This, Trust Me!!!
Don’t you just love it when God speaks directly to you, saying what you need to hear? I do and I know He is spot on! I wasn’t letting go and letting God handle ALL of my circumstances. He wanted me to just quiet myself, be still, have peace and not worry about anything, but …
Yes, God is Still in Control, He Reminded Me Again Today
Have you ever had one of those day where there seems to be one odd thing happening after another, those moments where you stop and say to yourself, what is going on out there? The energy has shifted, something has changed. You hope for this to soon pass, giving way to good things and positive …
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Love is in the Air
What does love, look like to you? Is it what a person says? How about their actions, the things they do? Is it the gifts they bring whether purchased or handmade? What is about them that says, “I LOVE YOU”? For me, it’s about the little things people do, the simple act of noticing, taking …
Taking Life Moment By Moment
As you know, I’ve been going through many emotions, while processing and accepting this new assignment which has been given to me. I greatly appreciate you keeping me in your thoughts and prayers as I learn to listen for His voice and trust all which He has planned. Yesterday, the waves of emotions came flooding …
Receiving and Working Through Unexpected News
What do you do when you are faced with unexpected news? Do you avoid? Do you run away from and hide? Do you escape in hopes that it will go away and pretend it never existed? Are you in denial? Do you face fear head on? Do you open you heart and mind rather than …
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Great Things
Early this morning @ approximately 1:45 AM (1.30.2024), I woke up and took a bit to fall back to sleep. The words, “God has done great things for you–keep praying” kept repeating over and over and over again. I felt like I needed to keep saying these words for someone was in need of prayer, …
Travel Within Oneself
Age Is Just A Number, Or Is It?
In 5 days, I will turn 51. January 19th is my birthdate. This is not a shoutout for all kinds of attention, rather it’s to bring about an awareness of the significance of being 51. This birthday is coming at me from a different angle. The thought of getting older and age doesn’t bother me, rather …
The Way One Feels-Empathy
Is it possible, For one to be Without Empathy? To not think To not know How one may feel How, What you say And What you do May Impact them? Empathy You are, My SUPERPOWER! Empathy You are, At times OVERWHELMING! How is it, That I can be? Too much! Not enough! ME
Father-Daughter Moment
Not ready to goShe said her goodbyes Uncertain Hesitantly Like a childShe waitedShe resisted PleaseOh pleaseCan I stay longer Two more minutes I’m not ready to goShe waited She wanderedShe wonderedExperienced many thingsHer gaze fixed On the sunsetHer mindOn collecting TreasuresRocksShellsMore memoriesThe sightsThe soundsThe smellsRenewed her soulShe foundHer happy placeA place where she belongedA place …
My Sister & Me
Dear Sister, What a blessing it is To have shared In a moment Your presence Your energy Your smile Your hug God knows How to fill The voids The emptiness Of one’s heart God knows What a blessing Seeing you Means A gift This day Filled my heart With great joy God Has done great …
C and Me
Dear Friend, Messaged Impromptu Thoughts of you Filled me Reach out Why not My mind did say Took a chance Was hopeful Everything would work out To meet 1st attempt Disappointment felt And then 2nd time Perfect Like a charm Making time A moment Spending time with Someone whom I love Great respect Admiration Inspiration …
When the Crown Fits, Wear it!
A much-anticipated phone call came, with word my new crown had arrived!! Yay! I was so happy to have received the phone call and waited with eagerness for my appointment day. Nearly 6 weeks had gone by since my first appointment. This may not seem like a long time to some, but for me it …
Destined To Be Crowned
Someday, the time will come and I will receive my crown. If you read my previous post, Getting Ready to be Crowned https://magnificentmeraki.home.blog/2023/11/07/preparation-for-being-crowned/ I was reflecting on my October 21, 2023 experience of getting prepared to receive my crown. This wasn’t the typical crowning ceremony with a tiara, rather a porcelain crown for my tooth. At the …
Getting Ready to be Crowned
On October 21st, I had a crowning ceremony, so to speak. It wasn’t your typical gemstones on a tiara sort of celebration where the crown is placed upon your head. Rather, I was seated in a chair which soon laid back, a blanket placed on me for warmth, had needles with numbing injections placed in …
Vulnerability Looks Good On You!
Dear Sweet Mommas, May the trials you face Turn in to triumph Facing fears Walking mile after mile Searching for answers Trying to understand Life’s big mysteries A caretaker Your child’s Biggest fan Unconditional love Human compassion Giving EVERYTHING you have to them Making sacrifices Not everyone will understand That’s OKAY Be kind to yourself …
Okay, I Surrender!
As I asserted myself and let the voice of my heart be heard, I had the best of intentions of bringing awareness to the situation. For who knows how many years, I’ve been trying to express what it is I am feeling inside to help someone else “see” differently. I know I can’t change anything …
Growing in Joy & in Peace
It Wasn’t About The Omelet
During the last couple of days, I felt myself to be in a peaceful place. His love flowing and speaking through me, the Holy Spirit no doubt. I am grateful when He brings me back; draws me in, reminding me of His unconditional love and how it is we are to live our lives. A …
Where I Have Come From-Where He Is Leading Me To
The weekend Time away from work Getting out in nature Walking the neighborhood In conversation With family With friends Oh, how I long for Oh, how I miss The times The freedom The space The moments Without A work or school schedule Go places Explore Last minute On a whim These days Not the same …
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Striving For Peace
Refuge
Keep Going
Who God Created You to Be
Food For the Soul
It is He who continues to amaze me! It is He who I give all glory, praise and gratitude! It is He who gave life to me, the world, such beauty for all to see! Let your soul be nourished by the crisp, cool air, the sounds of leaves falling and crunching below your feel …
Putting Life Into Perspective
My family and I went out for an evening walk as the rain let up for now. We’ve had a very rainy season this year for sure. Winter is also showing signs it won’t be long until our ground covering becomes white like the mountain tops too. Fall awakens all my senses, from the smell …
I Know Who I Am
I have come To love myself More than Ever before I know Whose daughter I am I am The richest Most Sought after Girl Inner light Shines bright Unconditional love Flows His armor Protection Guards Shields Deflecting All the lies Deception Deceit Enemy’s loss Spiritual gain
Try Again
Have you ever believed in something so strong, you would do whatever it takes to make it come to life, into reality? For years now, I’ve been writing down many children’s picture book story ideas. Back in 2010, I believed in a story, the words God had spoken to me and through me while my …
There’s No Mess too Big For God
Recently I reflected on my experience as I went mushroom picking with my husband and his cousin. The post on 9.10.2023 was called, “Options- I thought I knew what was best” You can read it at the link below. Options, I Thought I Knew What Was Best My pants, shoes and socks were an icky, sticky mess. …
Life Teachings
Today
The present moment Is all we’ve got A chance A choice To live To love Today This very moment As I sit here writing I’m not exactly sure Of what to say I- I know how I feel Sadness Loss No regrets Final moments spent With My mother-in-law This week Today- Her funeral Many wept …
Resistance
What do you think of when you hear the word, “CHANGE?” Does something inside you start stirring? Do you feel uncomfortable or irritable? Anxious or fearful? Change is a good thing; did you know that? What? Really? How? Change provides us with opportunities to get uncomfortable, push us outside of our comfort zone. This discomfort …
Humble Yourself Before the Lord
Autumn is my favorite time of year. As summer gives way to cooler temps, plants, trees and vegetation show us how they are preparing for the winter months and dormancy. Out in nature, I am in awe of the beautiful display God provides for us-free of charge. We need only be open and receptive to …
I Am the Living Water
My mind keeps drawing me back to the story of the woman at the well. From hearing the story in church during mass and in some podcast, something keeps resonating more deeply with her experience. As much as I’ve tried to be a good girl throughout my life, do what’s right, be open, honest, kind …
New Each Morning
Today is the eve upon which our preschool students arrive. I am at peace. I am accepting of what will be. I am ready to receive what the good Lord has planned for me. I am hopeful and excited about the opportunities this year will bring. I feel as if many things have been done …
God Over Google
Does it matter what’s popular? Does it matter what’s trending? Google Popular searches His presence His voice Quickly intervened, Interrupted my thinking. Ended my scrolling. Stop looking. Stop wasting time, On unnecessary things I listened. I obeyed. I followed His command. For some reason He wanted me to stop, No questions asked, pause, listen. How …
God’s Peace Washes Over Me
What a wonderful day today has been, spending time with my teaching partner and my team, preparing the classroom for our preschool arrival next week. After such big emotions just a day ago, it’s amazing to see the wondrous miracles God has worked in my life today, from turmoil to peace. Prior to today, I …
Day 1 of Year 16
Today marks the 1st day of my 16th year teaching and the 2nd year at my new school. Recent years have been a whirlwind for so many reasons. There certainly have been many crazies and plot twists during this time which have forced me out of my comfort zone, learned how to persevere, built resilience …
Hey There, I’m Still Here!
Well, hello there! I know it’s been a while since you last heard from or seen me. Can you see me now? I thought this was the perfect image to use, especially since I haven’t written much in quite a while. I am still here. I haven’t forgotten about you. Sometimes, we get so busy, …
Settling In To The Night
Happy 4 Year Anniversary!
On July 23, 2019, I gave birth to my blog Magnificent Meraki! Thanks to a co-worker and friend who believed in and encouraged me weeks beforehand, I’ve had 4 years of writing, reflecting, healing and understanding, in addition to sharing some of my photography. Where did the time go, I think to myself. There are …
You Made it Through
I know You have done your best You were learning About yourself You were learning About life You were learning How to be A wife A mother You were challenged You struggled You experienced much suffering Mental health Is no joke Who was it You were married to? Didn’t know him He was there A …
Soft & Subtle-So Profound
There is a voice Inside us all It’s soft It’s subtle It whispers Yet Speaks loud So profound The timing Such randomness This voice I know The spirit within Guiding Providing Directing My words My thoughts My actions My next steps Listen I do Learn Trust in His ways Follow Pray
Set Forth Into the Wilderness
On Eagle’s Wings
Making the Most of the Moment
Life is betterWithSunshine & friends “Two are better than one,because they have a good return for their labor:If either of them falls down,one can help the other up.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)
Things Are Not Always As They Seem
Today I accomplished a lot of cleaning in the house today. The last place I tackled was the laundry room. I started by disinfecting the floor, the washer and dryer, as well as some other odds and ends things. To more thoroughly clean behind the machines, I moved each one forward, one by one, cleaning …
Trust Fall
Today was the second day we went fishing on the Russian River since opening day earlier this week. For some reason, I haven’t been a big fan of nor fully enjoyed fishing on this river. Most people love it! Not me. Does that make me weird? Maybe! You know what, that’s okay because I’ve been …
Encounters
My initial thought while reflecting on this past week, was to call it, “A blast from the past,” but that wouldn’t fully be accurate. You see, I was reunited with people from my past, but then I crossed paths with someone I didn’t know. The word, “encounters” seemingly popped into my mind, which was a …
The Other Side of Heaven
After reconnecting With former colleagues Those whom She hasn’t seen In many months Even years She thought about Tried to imagine The life after this Death Into life If She were to die Before those Whom she cared about How Would she communicate? How Would she speak? How Would she get their attention To know …
Going Inward and the Complexities of Life
To better understand myself, my life, this world, the people around me, my circumstances (both present and past), I’ve found myself to be in a bit of a struggle in my mind, my heart, and memories. Is it, perhaps that I am looking too deep when really the answers may really be quite simple? Or …
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What is Sown in Your Heart?
In Alaska, winter is not the typical time of year to prepare seeds for planting in the summer months. January, now that’s when I started thinking about summertime gardening and seeds. I guess you could say I wanted to be well prepared, very thoughtful and intentional with the seeds selected, where the seedlings would be …
Exemplary Status Achieved! Yay!
Today I had my end of year conference with our school principal. I was eager, yet nervous (I really didn’t know why), anticipation and waiting I suppose and the unknown of what I would hear. At the time of my observation, we had just got students started with an end of day snack. One student …
Senior Prom
My youngest is a senior in high school this year. There have been a lot of bittersweet moments, many last times, knowing within the next couple weeks will be her last day of school, graduation, then on to college in the fall. Over a month ago, we went to go prom dress shopping to see …
He Responded With His Word
On the evening of April 25th, I may have been seated alone in our sauna, but He was there, with me, waiting for me to spend quality time in conversation. I had written down several pages of words, trying to work things through my mind, set my heart and thoughts straight. It took some time …
Living A Purposeful Life
Something inside her Began to change As much as she loved Being A busy worker bee She noticed There is more to life Than Keeping the dishes caught up Doing the laundry Tidying up Being OCD About many things She harbored The feelings The energy The emotions of others She took on Their weight As …
The Greatest Therapy for Restorative Healing
Every time I get knocked down, whether it’s with an illness, demands and everyday work, home life, simply dis-ease, it takes more energy to rise and move forward. Feeling out of sorts, out of balance. There’s got to be so much more to life, but during these times it’s hard to see. I know I …
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Words of Wisdom
Mom Take it easy Don’t worry About the cleaning Grocery shopping Can wait You’re tired Worn out Just rest Watch a movie Take a nap A bubble bath May help Tomorrow awaits A new day Will come A reminder Of just how much We love you We care about you You don’t have to do …
Masquerading Into Spring
Here it is, the 10th day of April in 2023. I had forgotten when I had originally written, “The Other Side of Winter” and needed to look it up. With winter weather still making its grand appearance in Alaska, I thought about that post and how I longed to be through the long, cold, snowy …
Backup Plans
What if? Then what? Implement Plan B Plan C Plan D, E, or F? Hold up! Wait! No need For expenditure No need For depleting So much unnecessary Thinking Energy Wondering Worrying If plans may fail If people Leave you or your life God Has a resolution for this Trust In His works In His …
The Size of One’s Heart is Worth the Weight
If it’s been a while Since Our last meeting Perhaps You will notice Something different About me My weight No losses Just gains You see My friend My heart Has clearly changed Filled with God’s grace Overflowing with His love Compassion For each And Everyone
How You Start Your Day Matters
Got in my car and turned on the radio. Just talk, nothing much. Definitely a good time to listen to my audiobook. I’ve been “reading” a lot more books when I’ve been able to listen to someone read them to me-LoL!! Listening to someone read to me has always been quite relaxing, comforting, soothing. I …
He Makes All Things Possible
God placed before me unexpected news, words of which I was unprepared to hear, let alone receive. I was nearly numbed by it. This wasn’t something I would have imaged to have happened to someone I know, rather suddenly. The person who shared this information, was the messenger, not the person who received the diagnosis. …
Sometimes it Takes Losing Your Voice to Find it
Last night, something inside me changed. Feeling as if I had a clump in my throat, I had great difficulty getting my voice to speak. Voice, scratchy sounding, crackled, gone. Hard to hear me. Hard to understand. How things change when you literally lose your voice. As I was driving into work this morning, I …
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Empowerment
Build confidence Help them to believe in themselves Share in success Comfort in trials Praise Celebrate Milestones Big and small
Shine Bright!
Meditation in the Sky
Let us never lose that sense of wonder! Go inward See outward His mighty works The way He speaks
Learning to Let Go of What Was
I want to let go Yet I still hold on to To what was The past Things No longer can I change Wishing I had been told sorry Wishing Other people Owned up to being wrong (when they were) Wishing I felt safe To share and express The depth of my heart and emotions Wishing …
Loyalty
How Much Are You Exercising?
A Letter of Encouragement
Dear _________, I felt in my heart the need to reach out and write to you. Usually, my words flow more easily as I sit, listen, and reflect on life. I do believe this is God prompting me to reach out and share with you, my heart. Be not discouraged or dismayed for the Lord …
Waiting in Joyful Hope
As I gaze up at the evening sky in awe and wonder, a peaceful presence and knowing is brought before me. Even though I’ve struggled to find the right words in my own mind as I hoped, I feel God working things out for the good, even though I don’t have a clear vision or …
Be a Reflection in a World You Wish to See
Had I known back then what I do know now, I wonder how different our lives would be? What if I had a close and personal relationship with God, put Him at front and center, the focus of my life and everything? Would that of made me a better mother? Maybe a better wife? Nobody …
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Glow With the Flow
I was going through my cute and sweet little Valentine’s cards, trinkets and treats received from my preschool students and their families. As I looked at this miniature glow stick, God’s presence, His words drew me in. I thought only of this as an itty bitty, tiny little glow stick, nothing more. Pretty cute, right? …
Intentionality
The Things God Does to Get Our Attention
Sunday morning, I finally had the opportunity to lay around in bed until around 8ish or 9:00. There was no place we needed to be or things of urgency that needed to be done. Got up, dressed in sweatpants (the first time in a very long while), finished up some odds and ends projects, organized, …
She Had Yet to See
There She sat Her mother By Her side She noticed Bare skin Rolls The fullness Of life A tree She was Bore fruit In her life Pregnancy She carried Children In her womb Lacked Self-confidence Poor Self-image Words Spoken negatively Rather than Speak life Parts and pieces She disapproved All the things She didn’t like …
Step By Step
God Who is it You have called me To be? Your servant I am Many things I don’t Understand The feelings The emotions The heartache The pain Suffering Of others Life Wasting away Unnecessary So, it seems Higher purpose More gains Within me I search Working hard Making the change To unbecome What I was …
50 is Fabulous!
New identity, new sense of self. These are the words brought to the forefront of my mind as I drove to work this morning. I repeated the words several times in hopes I wouldn’t forget by the time I parked the car in the parking lot and turned the car off. Before those words were …
364 of 49
I’ve been neglecting taking the time to write and reflect upon life and those things which have been called upon to my heart and mind. I know it’s healthy for me in so many ways to sit down and write, getting things out of my head. To clear my mind as best I can, is …
A Song For You
The words to a song and the singer’s voice have come to the forefront of my mind over the last couple of weeks. The name of the song is: “What a Difference You’ve Made in My Life” by Ronnie Milsap. Something about the song resonated deep within my heart and soul, spoke to me in …
Miss Chievous
Since December 18th, I’ve been part of a secret plan to prepare something special for my middle daughter. Her and her cohort group graduated from nursing school in December. Throughout their journey together they’ve been very close, uplifting, encouraging, and looking out for one another. They made sure to make time with one another back …
The Freedom of Being Yourself Brings
Jack-in-the-Box Feels
How might it feel to be a Jack-in-the Box, pushing everything down every emotion, stressful event, traumatic events, and memories, just to hide out for a while until it springs back up again? If you have ever repressed your emotions, you may have a better understanding of what I am trying to say. I’ve depended …
Special Kind of Soul
Kindred Your spirit How beautiful Your eyes How youthful Such wisdom How wise Old soul One Can sense Can feel Your presence Your energy Your light Your love Radiates Sends forth Penetrates Heals Comfort Like an infant To a mother You Nurture us all
Courage Found Me
On December 31st, my daughter shared an email with our family about selecting a word for the year. I had been wanting to do this for quite some time, but seems like I hadn’t spent enough time thinking about and reflecting on what is most important for me to focus on. The email included a …
Hot Date!
Have you had a hot date recently? I know I have! So far, I’ve had two hot dates this week (and my husband has had one). How can that be, some of you may be thinking? Well, how it all started is really kind of funny! My husband has been having his hot dates on …
Feel the Freedom of the Soul
I felt something so freeing Without trying to control and perfect every line, shape, and color I felt the freedom of expression As I learned to let go for the need of perfection I felt my soul come to life Given the opportunity to explore my creative self I felt something deep within Passion, joy, …
Living in a Snow Globe
Photo by Mecit Tarık Arıöz on Unsplash Some people are talking about our days as if we are living in a snow globe. Don’t get me wrong, I had one of those as a kid and love watching the snow fall and settle down to the bottle of the globe. Right now, it’s just that we’ve had a …
Teaching Has Taught Me Many Things
A few nights ago I did some reflecting on my career of nearly 15 years as a preschool special education teacher. At the end of school year, I will be able to count on one hand the years I have left until retirement. Whoa! I need to pause for a moment to take that thought …
Traveling Within
There is a time There is a place There is a knowing There is a space Somewhere to go Somewhere to be In the heart In the mind In thoughts Many things Travel The distance Not in miles Nor with footsteps Rather Travel within Begin to see Believe Through faith Rather than By sight Joy …
Getting High on Giving
Natural high So good to feel Pure joy Bliss Happiness This season This time of year Giving Offering Providing hope And Good cheer Acts of kindness Acts of service Doing something For someone Just because Lending a hand Speaking words of encouragement A still and silent mind Presence Material gifts Homemade things Making lives brighter …
It All Started With the Kombucha
This day I arrived with a grateful heart, being thankful for so many things-my family, friends, home, food, job, good health, loving and forgiving God that offers us grace. One of our local stores was open. I needed to pick up a few things. I asked my spouse if he needed me to get anything …
Emotions Have Something to Be Told
Getting to know oneself takes a lot of patience, time, practice, self-love, forgiveness, and grace. Every day I am learning more about myself and becoming more in tune with the rhythms and patterns happening inside of me. Even though the person I once was, is no longer the same person today, a part of my …
Different Than I Used to Be
Maybe You will Maybe You wont Recognize The human The person The friend The one Who once was The one For a moment in time Who let her guard down Who let herself be Stayed a while You did Not a little Not a lot Life path Journey Circumstances People come People go We live …
Be You
It’s nice to know There are those Out there Who remember Still care The days Carry on The hours Do go Going the distance Across the miles Keep glowing Keep growing Keep showing Your light Your smile That spark Inside The world needs Your gifts Your talents Your quirks Your uniqueness Keep living Keep loving …
Be it Your Will
What is it I can do better at next time? What healthy steps do I need to take? What patterns need to change? What lifestyle is best for me? With every crossroads Comes a challenge Forcing me To think To look deep within Discover All the gifts You bestowed upon Me Your light-heartedness Your patience …
Being Out of Focus Helps Us to Refocus & See What is Most Important
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10 ESV) As the mental fog lifts, after settling deep within my brain, I am starting to feel more human, more functional …
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You Can’t Please Everyone
Recently I’ve been thinking about how people view the world, how they project their life and reality on to other people as if it were the one and only truth. Let’s face it, we’ve all had our own life experiences and come to be who we are by the people we’ve spent the most time …
Getting to Where I am Today
To be where it is I am today took a lot of sacrifices, working through big emotions, learning how to forgive myself and other people, learning how to love my whole self especially those parts and pieces that are more difficult to love, not taking things for granted or personally, learning how to be grateful …
Making Friends With Emotions
What is it You Are afraid of? What is it You fear? Uncomfortable feelings? Uncontrollable emotions? Unkind thoughts? Unknowing of what is? Unknowing of what might be? The future The past One a memory The other Has yet to be seen Welcome The visitor Seeking attention It is Let it in Lean in To whatever …
What is Your Prayer Posture?
This evening my attention was brought to the topic of prayer. As Fr. Fred began his Homily, I was drawn in, listened more closely as the words he had spoken, sparked something from within. I knew I wasn’t alone. There was a reassurance in the words he shared and how they were spoken. Maybe you …
Final Wishes
What is it you want on your final days? How will you enter Eternal Rest? Do your loved ones know what you want or prefer? You know, it’s crossed my mind, but I had never given this much thought. My spouse had brought up this topic. The conversation was more about those who we leave …
Realizing The Truth
I lost it Time So much of it Withered Wasted Away Bitter emotions Victim of circumstances Distorted memories Deception Lies Of those things Once believed To be true Broken record Skipping Then going on Repeat Time Precious time Oh, how I wish I could get back Try again Redo Be a better person Get out …
What Do You Do When the Storm Hits?
Is it just me this past week or so, or have you also been hit by a hurricane, in the eye of the storm? Yes, Hurricane Ian hit Florida and is moving along the southeastern coast of the United States. Ever before Hurricane Ian hit, a storm was brewing within me, causing a great disturbance …
Listening, Learning, Growing
Over the many days of my life, I feel God’s presence washing over and through my life. In my thoughts. In my actions. In my words. Do I perfectly execute everything in my life? Gosh, no! I’ve had years of practice, but I have only recently come to know God more intimately in my life. …
Thinking About Things…
Lately, I haven’t been doing much writing and reflection (on paper and typing on the computer), but there are plenty of times I’ve spent talking things out with God, gaining His perspective. I’ve been trying to spend more time with family, time, and moments we can never get back. I have my interests and hobbies, …
Mean Girl..(Was she really?)
It all started With one little thought One Itty Bitty Seed Implanted Her mind It wandered His mistress She was becoming He Was so convincing He Was quite charming She trusted She believed Every word Every vision Every thought Every emotion Everything She questioned Is this real Am I imagining An actress Foreigner Not knowing …
Friendship in all Seasons
Friends I’ve had Long haul Short term Some Come to stay Weaving in and out All the days Of my life Others They visit Short seasons Gone In the blink Of an eye Friendships That are built to last Friendships That are meant to be Will find a way Endure Stay forever In the heart …
Staying in Perfect Peace
(well, close to perfect…) Have you ever had those days, the moments when the stars have aligned, everything is going well, flowing, nothing can stop you or get in the way of this moment in time? That has been my day. I appreciate all the moments and days like this. I know how this peaceful state …
Ebb & Flow of Emotions, God Still Loves Me Through Them All
Yesterday, I mourned the loss both of someone I did and did not know. I got lost. I was caught up in emotion. A part of me was grieving, mourning the loss of years gone by, lost opportunities, in a world where time passes by. Emotions…big and so many of them. Anger, bitterness, resentment-so much …
Continue reading “Ebb & Flow of Emotions, God Still Loves Me Through Them All”
A Moment in Time
She and I On a walk We did go Views Of the ocean Mountains On the other side Not far Nor wide Taking steps Making strides Hesitation At first Talked into Convinced Was this Happenstance? Stars aligned? This moment In time
The 22-23 School Year Has Begun
The first full week back at school has been a busy one. Looking back on the days, I wished I had journaled something from each day. That would have made it so much easier for my memory and to reflect on the events and things that were said and done. Monday and Wednesday, were the …
It Caught Up With Me!
Your body has a way of telling you to slow down even though your mind and adrenals keep telling you to keep going, keep pushing it, keep doing more and more and more! That moment hit me on August 11th! I was started to feel tired out driving back from my daughter’s house. The weather …
Day 2 @ My New School
8.9.2022 With adrenaline rushing through my veins, my body and mind were roaring and ready to accomplish great things in the classroom today. My energy level high. I knew once I would pause for a break, getting my momentum may take more mental and physical effort so I had to keep going. I had the …
Day 1 @ My New School
8.8.2022 The moment arrived! The day I would get to see my new classroom at Aurora arrived! I wanted to take in every moment, savor, enjoy the moment. A fresh start. A new beginning. Letting go of the past. Letting go…Letting go…Letting go…and letting God in. Driving to my new school took 2x as long …
Getting Through the Days Together
Have you ever had one of those moments (or days) when you didn’t know what you were feeling or really understand until sometime after? I didn’t know it at the time, but I am pretty sure I was getting caught up and emotional about not being enough, and the dreaded comparison trap. Would you like …
Ready for What Comes Next
Here it is Friday morning The rain keeps falling Splashing Crashing On the pavement Down Summertime And Sunshine days I miss your warmth The way you make me smile The weekend Two days I know What is to come On the other side Monday A breather A break I’ve tried I’ve cried To find balance …
Anticipation of a New Beginning
As I made the drive in this morning to my school (the one where we are packing everything up and moving out of), my heart and mind were already focused on driving to the new school. I had to take a step back and remind myself we are preparing everything for transport yet and I …
Packing Up and Moving On
I was going to take some time to sit and write last night to reflect more on this journey God is taking me on. Seems I got a bit more distracted and had only a little update to write about and share. This morning I feel there is something more to express, felt more deeply …
My New School!
The first day in August, one day closer to the start of the new school year. My colleagues and I, we had the opportunity to meet with administration and find out what our new location will be for teaching this year. I’m sure not every was ready, open, and receptive to facing and hearing the …
Never an Ending Only New Beginnings
Friday, July 29th had been a day I was looking forward to for quite some time. This was the last day I needed to have an alarm set (in the odd chance I would have overslept). I guess you could say I under slept as I awoke and got up much earlier than I needed to …
Receiving Unexpected News
With August right around the corner, I know summer will soon be making way for fall here in not too long. I really don’t want to think too much about the changing of the seasons yet, but I know the time is coming. After having such a long, cold winter here in Alaska, my body, …
Moving Forward
Slow and steady She Did pace As if Like A turtle She carried Her weight A load So heavy Her burdens Her past Day and night Night and day Every day She carried all Through and through One day She woke up She understood She realized The weight Was not For Her to carry alone …
Happy 3rd Anniversary!
Officially 3 years ago since I first started blogging. This has been a journey of discovering, unfolding and understanding who I am! Thanks to you, Magnificent Meraki has received 12,400 views, 8,976 visitors, 660 followers, and 4 email followers. I have also published 947 posts, and best views ever has been 148. I am amazed …
How Beautiful You Are!
How beautiful You are! Do you Not see The beauty That I do? Your spirit Your light Your smile A delight! To be In your presence… A friend Just right! Encouraging Inspiring Your wings Have Taken flight
Back Home
Only As a visitor Do I experience Wide open space Sounds of animals Country air The energy The essence Memories They come They swirl In my mind Debonaire Connections Musings A love Higher callings This life What was To it Nothing Can compare
Wedding Day… (a Haiku)
Family and friendsCelebration gathering Joy, love, happiness
Someday Be
Windows open Sun setting Evening breeze Soul refresh A dreamy state Mind wanders Anticipate Someday Living in a place Visions Wide open spaces Acres Endless views Sunrise Sunset Reflections On water A rainbow Cast upon Mountain tops What a view Evening sky Stars Twinkle Shine Aurora Borealis Dance Before my eyes I am here I …
Looking Back at the Life I See Now
As I carry out my days Life Here upon earth I have learned A thing or two Gained wisdom and insight Old ways of thinking Patterns Mindsets Altered my reality Distortions of self Over time I’ve come to know His kindness His mercy His love His grace His forgiveness Change Oh my! My gosh, I …
A Life Lived
Your hair Turns many shades Your memory Begins to fade Will you Look back and say I wish… I regret… Why didn’t I… It’s too late… (the list can go on…) Will you Be able to accept Your choices Your decisions Embrace The person You are today Knowing You’ve lived life Everything A part of …
The Friend You Needed
Be the friend You needed When no one was there Be the friend You needed When people Stopped and stared Be the friend You needed A world turned cold Frightened and scared Be the friend You needed When you were Quiet and shy Be the friend You needed And Never ask why Be the friend …
From the Heart…
Our lives carry Bittersweet And Tender moments Sometimes We’re out of breath Sometimes It takes our breath away From Our struggles Our trials To Peace And solitude Life Gives us Provides Opportunities and experiences To grow in us The true nature Of God’s will Wisdom We’ve gained It’s no surprise To be humble To be …
How Does God Speak to You?
For as long as I can remember, I have been a lover and a dreamer when looking up at the sky, imaging and thinking about what each cloud might be. I saw many different kinds of animals, ordinary objects and other things. How fun it was to let my mind wander and dream about the …
Express Yourself
Friendship Is…
Friendship So beautiful Endures So many things Engages in Hard conversations Embraces The moments God’s timing In everything Stays strong Across miles Over time Love prevails Seeing the good Expecting the best Encouraging Uplifting Being a shoulder To cry on Offers insight Wisdom Openness Freedom Vulnerability In being oneself
Magnificent Meraki 