
There are so many beautiful things in this world that feel as though they have been stripped from us. I’m hoping to share that they are all still here, perhaps even more beautiful and bountiful than you have been used to seeing!
I have received a few messages over the past few weeks that have made me aware of how vulnerable so many people are feeling.
I thought it would be good to address this in the most positive way possible.
So let’s start by lifting each other up, right now.

What do you see when you look at this weathered tree?
I see that it has been kissed by sun and rain over time and embraced by the westerly offshore winds blowing in from the mighty Pacific Ocean. I see that its reach has travelled from the from the depths of the Earth stretching high to touch the heavens above.
I see the struggle for balance and the desire for harmony.
What do you see when you look upon this weathered tree?
I see that this tree could be me!

In order to be able to touch and smell the rose, are we willing to chance being pricked by the thorns? Do the thorns stop us from inhaling the rose’s heady scent? Heck no! All that it does is teach us to NAVIGATE and proceed with caution. I believe that is where we all are now. We are asked to live in these current moments navigating through the uncertainty with caution.
In essence, maybe we live this way everyday already? Maybe the only things that have changed are the things we perhaps need to be cautious about.

As the rose blooms, expands, withers and collapses, it is on its natural journey. The one thing I know for certain, is that nothing stays the same forever.
And That is OK!!!
What I do believe is important to focus on now is how we allow ourselves to think.
I can’t speak for anyone but myself. I recognize all of my thoughts and I let go of the nonsense that just doesn’t make me feel good. I think most people would find it funny if they could hear my internal dialogue.
Most times I can hear myself say, “Ok! That’s enough of THAT!”
What it comes down to everyday for me is, am I really content and happy with the choices I’m making given the circumstances around me?
Most days I’d give myself high marks, and the times I don’t, well, I forgive myself and move on. Nothing lasts forever and there is always a new minute on the horizon.
So laugh more, do a little shimmy dance, shake it all off and love yourself a little more in the process.

Sending those Prayers UP!

Looking for and Finding Balance

Appreciating that Moment of Awe

Life is Always Better with Leo
My cousin, Adam, who lives in Scottsdale, Arizona is always looking for a good recipe from me. I am very humbled and always happy to share cooking tips with him. I wish he would ask me more often!
I am sharing Breaded Veal Cutlets here today. For those of you who follow my Instagram account @life_around_my_table, you will also see in my highlights the demonstration I did last week for this recipe.

The veal in this recipe can be substituted for chicken, thin pork chops and even thin swordfish steaks.

Help another when you can. Look around to see where there is lack and if possible, fill in the gaps. The smallest gestures these days carry the most weight. Do things for people not because of who they are or what they may or may not do in return, but because of WHO YOU ARE.
Remember all the times someone was there for you or a loved one, and keep paying it ALL Forward. Kindness wins the day.
I feel that there is always a way to show kindness and unconditional love. These two things don’t come with any attachments or intentions of garnering attention. Be patient and kind with yourself, the rest will come to light in good time. It is in the journey and the cycles of life that there is learning, growth and wisdom achieved.

I pray.
I pray for you and for me. I pray for Balance and Light.
Most of all I pray for LOVE.
Thank you for spending a little time here with me. Please leave me a comment on how you are all doing and what things you are putting into your lives everyday to keep you happy and healthy.
PEACE AND LOVE
as always food for thought. thanks for inspiring always. Were good here, life seems to roll along. Cant wait to see you. How are you? Love you Toni
Author
I’m doing well, thanks! I must say though, that I’m ready to get things moving again. Looking forward to spending time with you soon. Keep well! Love you right back🥰🥰🥰
I LOVE THAT LAST PHOTO OF YOU AND LEO!
FRAME THAT!!!
WHAT DO I SEE WHEN I LOOK AT THAT TREE?………..BEAUTY!
I have some NEWS for YOU!
Will contact YOU LATER!
XO
Author
I will have that photo printed the next time I go to CVS! Isn’t that tree amazing? That’s another special sight on my early morning walks with Leo. I’ll be available most of the day today, just cleaning la casa oggi!😉XO
What lovely thoughts. I find I am enjoying the beauty of flowers and an unexpected storm. Life has its challenges for all of us and the only way we can make it easier is to be kind to each other.