Quick Check-In

This retreat truly is a retreat. I have been off my cell phone and computer all week, which has been a curious and welcome respite. I am just taking a minute this morning to drop by and say I am thinking of you all. BTW, the retreat and the learning has exceeded all expectations. I will have time over the weekend to catch up with everyone and share my pictures and experiences. Take care.

On My Way to Colorado

My destination tomorrow, Fort Collins, Colorado. I am going to a week-long training at the Center for Loss and Life Transition. It is in a beautiful retreat center just outside Fort Collins - more than 5,000 feet in the mountains. I am taking the first in a series of trainings, this section is "Beginning Bereavement Skills." If I like it, there are other week-long seminars that can lead to a certificate in grief counseling.

I have been looking forward to this week since December when I enrolled. The model the Center for Loss uses is called, "companioning" - it is both for grief and hospice workers. The approach appears to match my core values in so many areas. It is the next step on my journey.

I hope you all have a blessed holiday - Easter, the time of rebirth and renewal. I will be taking pictures and posting while away. I will be back in Minnesota next Friday night.

PS I had a wonderful time in Seattle and will be sharing some of unfoldings in future posts.

Spring in Seattle

The entire rim of the Pike Place Market roof was ringed with daffodils. The first spring peas were in the market - we lightly steamed them to accompany an herb rubbed boneless lamb roast.

Spring in Seattle - tiny white flowers on the shrub outside the back door - so nice to be with my friend.

On My Way Home

What a lovely visit. I have taken a bunch of pictures but have not even downloaded them. I will post some photos after I return. The weather has been beautiful - no rain and over 50 degrees every day. We went to the Pike Place Market, walked along Lake Washington, cooked scrumptious meals, had nice wine to complement the food, watched movies, cuddled and had great time. Spring is definitely breaking out here in Seattle. I needed this break.

I will be back in Minnesota very late tonight. More to come.

So many things

Good Morning - my training this weekend was terrific. An eight hour training day on Saturday felt like it was an hour long - even with good breaks and an hour for lunch. It was amazing to be with a group of 40+ people and be able to talk about the sacred - to talk about the Circle in the spiritual as well as the practical sense.

One thing I learned is circle practice is an ever-expanding area in which to learn and grow - in other words, I will be a life-long student of the Circle. Now I want to go to Whidbey Island to take the five day Circle Practicum - one of these days. One thing I know for sure, the circle practice has a role to play in the emerging grief project - the passion of my heart and soul.

I am leaving town today - I finally have given up. This winter has been a long and cold affair. I am going to Seattle for a visit until next Monday night. It is supposed to rain while I am there but it is in the mid to high 50's. Sounds downright tropical.

It was 4* above zero this morning in my backyard and the forecast for tonight is 5* below zero.

Seattle here I come.