being positive and thinking of beautiful things

Today was a particularly emotional day here in Canada. We lost a very special and dedicated politician today, the leader of our official opposition, Jack Layton. He had been the leader of the NDP Party and had fought a very courageous battle with cancer. In short, Jack spent his entire political career fighting for those that didn't have a voice. He fought for the marginalized, for free medical care, against poverty and vowed never to leave anyone behind. It was a sad day here for us here in Canada and I had quite the cry about it when I started to think about all that he had done for his/our country. But as much as I wanted to be sad, I was also reminded that in times like these, it's important to stop and see the beautiful things that make up our lives.

It often takes a sad event to wake me up a bit and remind me that each moment in life is precious, that the relationships in my life are the most important thing to me and that there is beauty all around if I stop to look for it.

So today in honour of Mr. Layton I am reminded of all the amazing things, big and small, that make my life so beautiful.

Today I am thankful for

:: the safe arrival of baby Elliot, my dear friends' baby (Eugenia and Irvine)

:: a fun outing with my little 2 year old at a petting farm today. Still trying to wrap my mind around having a 2 year old.

:: the wonderful feeling of having a delicious meal to come home to. For hot food and a table to sit around with my family. For meal time and family time.

:: for carrots from my garden. They aren't big and my garden didn't yield much this year, but I am treasuring my little Yukon carrots.

:: for this book, one that I am hoping will help me move towards the type of birth I hope to have. An uncomplicated one with little or no intervention at all.

:: and speaking of books, for libraries, a vital service that helps provide an opportunity for people to continue to learn.

:: for the changing of seasons and the beautiful colours on the mountains that I saw today.

:: for the drive I had today. Time to think. Time to sing (at the top of my lungs). Time to be alone...well sorta alone, Noah was sleeping in the back seat.

:: for the amazing gift of being a parent. Some days are hard, really hard. But no matter what, being a parent is a gift and one never to be taken for granted. I'm trying to remember to be present with Noah as much as I can.

Hope you are all well dear friends. I am off tomorrow for an overnight trip to a little community here in the Yukon called Faro. I am planning to do a marathon of photo sessions for 4 families. Wish me luck and and wish for good weather.

xox