A Traveller's Joy: 2013

August 26, 2013

My Basket List

I don't have a bucket list anymore.

A bucket always seemed too finite:
Filled to a certain level,
hard, cold and unwieldy,
carried by one,
the handle pressure
cutting into my time and efforts.

I think my goals are a basket:
Suggesting open air,
visibility,
flexibility,
movement,
and several places
where others can assist me to carry my burden.

Experiencing a job that brings joy.
Writing every day.
Giving gratitude to friends and family for their presence.
Celebrating beauty in "everyday" things.
Being a good friend.
Finding and using kindness.
Following artistic pursuits.
Exploring and enjoying how strong I can be.
"Barking less and wagging more".
Going outside to feel the sun, enjoy the breeze,
and smile while smelling rain.

Encouraging others to set buckets down,
and try a basket for awhile.

What's in your basket?

-M

May 10, 2013

Sheaffer Pens and Family Trees

It all started with a fountain pen
discovered while clearing out my parents' basement...

A fountain pen
which I originally thought was
my Great Aunt's...
I discover now
(after a few hours of searching a genealogy site),
is my Great-Grandmother's pen.

My father was not one for talking about his family tree,

but I think he would be proud of this tree:
My father:
Kyle;
son of Earle and Vera.
Earle;
son of
Frank and Lelia, (the owner of the pen in question).
Frank;
son of Edward and Margaret...
And at that point the trail is running cold.

I found a photograph of Lelia;
It looks like springtime; she's smiling,
sitting under the shade of some flowering tree.

Finally it is time to write again.
I have found the joy of writing and of
creating single letters and beautiful words
through calligraphy.
Thank you, Lelia!