tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9224040417442657742024-02-18T22:59:31.625-05:00The Reluctant SurvivorA story of Healing and Hope.Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.comBlogger206125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-31815659313214370202023-09-02T09:12:00.004-04:002023-09-02T09:12:29.550-04:00Big Goals, Small Accomplishments<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I had big plans for the summer. I had taken an extended
vacation in April so I would not take any weeks of vacation during the summer.
However, I was determined to give myself the gift of time. I was not going to
overschedule my weekends. I was going make progress on my next writing project.
I was going to take a couple of long weekends to spend time with loved ones. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">It is now September and classes start on Wednesday.
Students are coming to campus to finalize their schedules and check on their
financial aid. What happened to my summer? What happened to my goals?<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I made choices. This resulted in a light schedule for June
and July. One of those long weekends was spent with my childhood best friend to
celebrate a milestone birthday. It was lovely and refreshing. My husband and I
spent a long weekend at a local inn. We got to visit with her and extended
family. Afterall, her family was my second family growing up. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">July brought a long talk over coffee with a dear friend one
Saturday morning. My August Saturdays got filled with family and friends. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">As for my writing project? I made connections. I wrote a
chapter. I rethought the structure. It was a big goal. I accomplished little. There
were distractions. That does not diminish what was accomplished. It was a
choice. I would not trade the fun. The laughter. The fellowship. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWiQ_bBsVgBz68VjQZDh8tF0GuozKaPmnYT-JF-PIaVQMtkMPTcqeV0Ao86xonOe7Z3wkNPqU9Nni8-FHeVETJadWdFAozLYLa3bjt_zTS3GTzTfOLCA17Sr7QlcQLET-CEdbMLnX-RT_liqIf_rfmK2HiNt2-e9PygvmgTknt_XAtv0x-9AvvpIWM1DTL/s2000/calendar(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1520" data-original-width="2000" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWiQ_bBsVgBz68VjQZDh8tF0GuozKaPmnYT-JF-PIaVQMtkMPTcqeV0Ao86xonOe7Z3wkNPqU9Nni8-FHeVETJadWdFAozLYLa3bjt_zTS3GTzTfOLCA17Sr7QlcQLET-CEdbMLnX-RT_liqIf_rfmK2HiNt2-e9PygvmgTknt_XAtv0x-9AvvpIWM1DTL/s320/calendar(2).jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">If you enjoy my blog and would like to follow
me on Facebook, I can be found at </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheReluctantSurvivor?ref=hl"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">The Reluctant Survivor</span></a><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-85092074921575815502023-06-03T16:13:00.001-04:002023-06-03T16:13:33.908-04:00I Wrote a Book<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Imposter syndrome is real. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">According to the Caltech Counseling Center, impostor
syndrome is “a collection of feelings of inadequacy that persist even in face
of information that indicates that the opposite is true. It is experienced internally
as chronic self-doubt, and feelings of intellectual fraudulence.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">My book is based on over 25 years of experience in higher
education. For those who don’t know, I am the Director of Compliance at a
community college. My focus is on regulatory compliance. I work with my
colleagues across the college to make sure we are up-to-date on various federal
and state regulations that apply to institutions of higher education.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In my preface I mention that I developed the idea for my
book from meetings, conferences, and trainings that I had attended over the
years. My experience researching federal regulations and writing departmental
policies added to my knowledge. Developing institutional policies and working
with cross-functional teams increased my expertise. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">However, none of this prepared me for the lack of
confidence and feelings of vulnerability. Yes, I have the knowledge. Yes, I
have the expertise. Yes, I know how to do research. Yes, I know how to
communicate. One-on-one. In a memo. During a meeting. At a conference. But to
put it all in one place and share it with the world is daunting. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">And so, I wrote a book. I sent it to the publisher and held
my breath. I do not expect it to be a best seller, but I wanted to share my
knowledge with a larger audience. I wanted to pass on my expertise to others.
For me, it is not a “feeling of inadequacy” in the face of information that
indicates the opposite is true. It is a feeling of vulnerability. Now everyone
knows what I am thinking.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGIzdCv10edOjXZ2Wq0LbOV1F8q_KPq-2JFVMZTmQtlq6SyRIm9qM3kuB8WTMOsdJhIQCmN5mJSKwN4qj_97zx6okZumXU6P8TQhC8w5lcKixffBWU3RbG4WLUpVK70xbx_7holBYNOpBnxkDu-rtsLBrOIAy7P_Y6bUDzCuzV0jpIznki8y12a_oq8g/s340/Institutional%20Compliance.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="340" data-original-width="223" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGIzdCv10edOjXZ2Wq0LbOV1F8q_KPq-2JFVMZTmQtlq6SyRIm9qM3kuB8WTMOsdJhIQCmN5mJSKwN4qj_97zx6okZumXU6P8TQhC8w5lcKixffBWU3RbG4WLUpVK70xbx_7holBYNOpBnxkDu-rtsLBrOIAy7P_Y6bUDzCuzV0jpIznki8y12a_oq8g/s320/Institutional%20Compliance.png" width="210" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">My book can be purchased on Amazon at <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Institutional-Compliance-Navigating-Intricacies-Intersections/dp/B0BZFLQNG4/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1YPRBXNKGRE4K&keywords=Heather+Mores&qid=1685823060&s=books&sprefix=heather%2520mores%2Cstripbooks%2C76&sr=1-1"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Institutional
Compliance: It's a Team Sport</span></a>. <o:p></o:p></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">If you enjoy my blog and would like to follow
me on Facebook, I can be found at </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheReluctantSurvivor?ref=hl"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">The Reluctant Survivor</span></a><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">. <o:p></o:p></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></p>Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-6892300140096133992023-05-28T07:12:00.000-04:002023-05-28T07:12:09.145-04:0015 Years<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhz8C2PnUFpkoTf516caOgHV-4iFWqJ7GNBdJ49QGqJA477IeAp7C2sTm97LAmQ98vj180ddkTW14G00-sKupQI4Qu58ainEeu-j1xGRJSYBM_udPtT4r00GX1TraRL6sWyx_ZaN_RgBoDa18_OZwC4oXS-vrUPcAvCo1VZMci1mGtYgJ-uH6eUxi2BLQ" style="font-size: 10pt; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="536" data-original-width="509" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhz8C2PnUFpkoTf516caOgHV-4iFWqJ7GNBdJ49QGqJA477IeAp7C2sTm97LAmQ98vj180ddkTW14G00-sKupQI4Qu58ainEeu-j1xGRJSYBM_udPtT4r00GX1TraRL6sWyx_ZaN_RgBoDa18_OZwC4oXS-vrUPcAvCo1VZMci1mGtYgJ-uH6eUxi2BLQ" width="228" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiOq6Ccn8jNdjoEaDfC_dkyJyXX4LWzqR79dgnWNNHxgQ1MpE0-6_-AYBV0EpCCFVRt8lxijgcptLllA9lyEqOvMUg6UQko-c_nPw9NYmfKsHMr3OY3tBa2vCE5FwKk8vcSltXDh_NaJFUQHeFlyYjsx3M7xCUQmq_9WGDuV4W4OK_taft6H0-EkUjhOw" style="font-size: 10pt; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;"><img alt="" data-original-height="521" data-original-width="507" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiOq6Ccn8jNdjoEaDfC_dkyJyXX4LWzqR79dgnWNNHxgQ1MpE0-6_-AYBV0EpCCFVRt8lxijgcptLllA9lyEqOvMUg6UQko-c_nPw9NYmfKsHMr3OY3tBa2vCE5FwKk8vcSltXDh_NaJFUQHeFlyYjsx3M7xCUQmq_9WGDuV4W4OK_taft6H0-EkUjhOw" width="234" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhz8C2PnUFpkoTf516caOgHV-4iFWqJ7GNBdJ49QGqJA477IeAp7C2sTm97LAmQ98vj180ddkTW14G00-sKupQI4Qu58ainEeu-j1xGRJSYBM_udPtT4r00GX1TraRL6sWyx_ZaN_RgBoDa18_OZwC4oXS-vrUPcAvCo1VZMci1mGtYgJ-uH6eUxi2BLQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><br />Fifteen years ago, I finished treatment for triple negative
breast cancer. When making the chemotherapy decision the odds were better to go
ahead with the treatment. My oncologist told us that she hoped to prevent
recurrence within the next 15 years. When I reached year 10, I “graduated” from
oncology. There were tears and hugs. My oncologist told me I was her miracle
patient. It’s been 15 years.<o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Those 15 years have seen many changes, joys, and sadness.
We bought a new house. We’ll have been in it 14 years this summer. It still
feels like a new home. I started a new job. I’ve been there 12 years and
genuinely love what I do.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I’ve lost friends. I’ve made new friends. I’ve reconnected
with past friend. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We lost three of our beloved cats. We now have two new
cats. Brothers who have brought joy and laughter into our home and help to heal
our broken hearts. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Parents have aged. My husband retired. We’ve aged. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">It’s been 15 years.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">If you enjoy my blog and would like to follow
me on Facebook, I can be found at </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheReluctantSurvivor?ref=hl"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">The Reluctant Survivor</span></a><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-57800087076492319392022-10-01T13:07:00.000-04:002022-10-01T13:07:02.516-04:0050 Years, Almost<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I have a mug that has the following inscription: “Friends.
Our lives were brought together for a reason and I will always be grateful.
Thank you for your love, your wisdom and your understanding. Thank you for you
being a part of my life.” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">This was Amy’s mug. I gave it to her one Christmas as a
gift. Now it is mine.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigpTjLaGgA5M22gQ4hOt65Lfp4kYZoh4-0kpybND9nI8za0Mf_t3cS5UAkhuAFPmtaDguWKBl0uQD9hfvMe29DmxYOBNAo8Wv_zrKgtyG8E0DQ65LnB3j1CRz0GiTHco2_DSJIcnjKctEFdrblRnnqttqix4kdnFKXuftxqOrJKkpCWLSYXUBWNGa69Q/s2048/299706836_10228287029190584_659288363127238285_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigpTjLaGgA5M22gQ4hOt65Lfp4kYZoh4-0kpybND9nI8za0Mf_t3cS5UAkhuAFPmtaDguWKBl0uQD9hfvMe29DmxYOBNAo8Wv_zrKgtyG8E0DQ65LnB3j1CRz0GiTHco2_DSJIcnjKctEFdrblRnnqttqix4kdnFKXuftxqOrJKkpCWLSYXUBWNGa69Q/s320/299706836_10228287029190584_659288363127238285_n.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><br />Amy and I met when we were ten years old. Her sister and my
brother met and became friends in Junior High School. They discovered they had
sisters in the fifth grade who liked to write letters. So we became pen pals.
And then one day we met in person. We sat on a bench at a softball game,
awkwardly looked at each other, thinking “Who is this person? Will she like
me?”<o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">When we reached Junior High School we were already friends,
so it was natural that we hung out with each other. The school was bigger. It
had more students. There were strangers. And we had several classes together. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">At the beginning of eighth grade, tragedy struck when her
sister and father were killed in a car accident. We bore the grief and trauma
of that incident. My brother had lost his friend. Amy had lost her sister. We
became like sisters, sharing our lives through high school graduation.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">After high school Amy went to Bible School. I went to a
Christian Liberal Arts college. We stayed in touch. We married. We moved away
from our home towns. At one point we lost touch with each other, but
miraculously a letter she wrote and sent to a very old address made its way
into my hands because the postal employee knew my husband and hand delivered it
to him at his office.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">When Amy’s children were still little, she moved back to
Connecticut. Our home state. We would get together for tea and long talks when
I was home visiting my mother. She and the kids even came to visit us in
Massachusetts. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">She stayed in the area while her kids were in school. She
sang at my father’s funeral. And she took care of my mother by cleaning her
house when my mother got too old to take care of such things.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">At some point, Amy moved south. And while we did not have
as much correspondence, we never lost touch again.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Amy eventually settled in Pennsylvania. Through email and
eventually text messaging we stayed in contact. We spent hours talking on the
phone. I would go to Connecticut to see her when she was visiting the area.
Social media added a layer of fun; sharing pictures and funny jokes.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In 2020, Amy shared the news that she had been diagnosed
with cancer. She had a treatment plan. I made arrangements to care for her
during her last two weeks of treatment, knowing that she would need the most
care at that time. Due to changes in her treatment plan, and a change the
airline made to my plane ticket, I ended up spending a long weekend with her in
November. It was a weekend filled with peace and grace. We developed a gentle
routine that needed no words. It just worked. We stayed up late. We ate when we
were hungry. We did some sightseeing. We shared our faith.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Over the next two years there were more texts, more phone
calls. Knowing how cancer progresses, I knew her health was declining.
Eventually, my husband said, “You need to go see her.” My supervisor told me to
“go” even though it was a busy time of year. And I went. I spent three peaceful
days with my friend again. We shared memories and music. We talked about our
faith. We prayed. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Amy passed away three weeks later. I cried. She is my
friend. I picked up my phone the next day to send her my daily text. I
remembered she would not see it. I wanted to call her over the weekend to see
how she was doing. There will no longer be those marathon talks. There is more
than the emptiness of loss, there is a hole. <br />
She is no longer here. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The inside rim of the mug has this: “The bonds we have are
everlasting.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">If you enjoy my blog and would like to follow
me on Facebook, I can be found at </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheReluctantSurvivor?ref=hl"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">The Reluctant Survivor</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></p>Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-16966306201838459622022-05-15T14:38:00.002-04:002022-05-15T14:38:57.455-04:00Micah 6:8<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;">“</span><span style="font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;">And what does the
Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly
with your God</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;">?” (ESV)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In January I joined a task force at work dedicated to the
support of students who are English Language Learners. They had begun the work
the previous year. The focus is on support of students who are English language
learners. Students who are in every class. Students who are trying to navigate the
enrollment process. Students who are trying to understand our institutional policies.
All through the “filter” of English being a foreign language.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In April we were notified that our group had been nominated
for, and would receive, this year’s Social Justice Award. “Created in 2019 to
honor the college’s deep social justice roots, the Social Justice Award
recognizes individuals, groups, departments, or initiatives that promote values
such as commitment to equity and diversity or the advancement of human rights
and social justice.” (From notifying letter).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">To say the least, I was more than surprised. I was
speechless. To receive such an award was, and is, both humbling and a great
honor. Having been with the group only a few short months it was difficult to
see how my small contribution could lead to having my name on this award. But this group is amazing. They welcomed me with openness and excitement. My project for the spring semester was to research best practices at other community colleges. I was able to contribute <i>something</i>. And I look forward to continuing our work in the fall semester.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I am honored to work at a college that has open admissions.
A college that offers an opportunity to anyone who wishes to pursue an
education. A college that serves the Merrimack Valley of Massachusetts, with
its gateway cities and large immigrant populations. In my roles as Director of Compliance and Student Grievance Officer I strive to
support students along their educational journey. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I have the words “Micah 6:8” written on the whiteboard in my
office. It is there to remind me of my calling. Of my purpose. On Saturday we
were presented with our award at the 60th annual graduation ceremony. It was there
that I was reminded once again that my God calls me to “do justice, and to love
kindness, and to walk humbly” with Him.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw3oeGSCOreUvg2_16pjOw054lG6S9as8uDzjelqGiEgFtLWuqzlI-y-U_5Y7iUdS9Z-m7Rm3Vejbc83jF8_onLedN3JccGEbngvR6ZAlpyLqYu9XXxs7UmUPqf_PsbDmEFxzp6idYq07Q2soSmMrBH5HGdWxNWWuXkBGuYAroFEHYwW0f5MeNwuy0QQ/s824/Social%20Justice%20Award.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="478" data-original-width="824" height="373" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw3oeGSCOreUvg2_16pjOw054lG6S9as8uDzjelqGiEgFtLWuqzlI-y-U_5Y7iUdS9Z-m7Rm3Vejbc83jF8_onLedN3JccGEbngvR6ZAlpyLqYu9XXxs7UmUPqf_PsbDmEFxzp6idYq07Q2soSmMrBH5HGdWxNWWuXkBGuYAroFEHYwW0f5MeNwuy0QQ/w640-h373/Social%20Justice%20Award.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">If you enjoy my blog and would like to follow
me on Facebook, I can be found at </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheReluctantSurvivor?ref=hl"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">The Reluctant Survivor</span></a><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-52541738645296675772021-05-22T17:53:00.008-04:002021-05-22T18:01:40.176-04:00Maria Stayed<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdEb876Zw7dRem1JuFue6_FDds38Beh4j8L6qanOaFBvLjMv5zrxc7vDFuFaa0qd1eXXiUPJGDzZYfLDmwbVZvA9q1w3zl69HZZuLkjmwZr6XoUhhWDQqGy0dBPq7_TulVreEsxKinNtgo/s960/Maria.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdEb876Zw7dRem1JuFue6_FDds38Beh4j8L6qanOaFBvLjMv5zrxc7vDFuFaa0qd1eXXiUPJGDzZYfLDmwbVZvA9q1w3zl69HZZuLkjmwZr6XoUhhWDQqGy0dBPq7_TulVreEsxKinNtgo/w320-h240/Maria.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>Beautiful Maria will be 17 years old in two weeks. She’s arthritic, and blind, and has outlived two companions. </span><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">In January of 2020 we lost her baby sister to a stroke. My husband and I had nothing really to discuss. We both knew we would not get another cat. Or even a pair of kittens. At the time, Maria still had her sight, but she was old and slowing down. It would not be fair to bring youthful spunk into her life. Liveliness that would jump on her and want to play. She did not have the strength or agility to chase and discipline another young companion. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">Besides, given her obvious frailty we were not sure how long she would be with us. Grief and old age could mean that she would be joining her loved ones, Gentle Horatio and Sweet Kiwi, across the rainbow bridge soon enough. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">In March, a global pandemic hit. By April, I was working full time from home. In May, I noticed that Maria’s eyesight seemed to be failing. And in June, our vet confirmed that she was going blind. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">Over time, Maria and I have developed a routine. Packing a lunch for “Daddy” every morning means a snack. Having me around means getting fed small meals throughout the day. Walks together, down the hallway to the home office are a nice way to start the day. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">Maria spends most of her time sleeping on the couch. She has learned the voices of colleagues through Zoom meetings and will come and lay by my feet. I am not Maria’s favorite person, but through this strange year we have brought each other comfort. This is not what I expected. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">Maria stayed.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt;">If you enjoy my blog and would like to follow
me on Facebook, I can be found at </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheReluctantSurvivor?ref=hl"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt;">The Reluctant Survivor</span></a><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt;">. <o:p></o:p></span></p><br /></div>Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-88344058494166286692021-01-15T18:03:00.002-05:002021-01-15T18:03:42.614-05:00It Is No Longer Dark<p><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">The year 2020 is certain to become part of the history
books here in the United States. Like the Spanish flu of 1918 or the riots,
protests, and assassinations of 1968. I think most of us living in the U.S.
would agree that the year was pretty dark.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">I began working from home on April 2, 2020. While there
were early messages of hope for returning to campus it became clear that the
new academic year would be different. It was under this landscape that I decided
to create and maintain a routine. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">When the daylight hours became shorter, and we changed our
clocks at the end of Day Light Savings Time, I began to turn lights on in my
house every afternoon. This is usually around 4:30 p.m. It has become part of
my routine.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">It is now January 2021. A new year. I am beginning to see,
once again, signs of hope.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">It is no longer dark at 4:30.<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWAQHvGT_CFwJzCXsDZhOY-uFdJ1XaZx3Zqd9qNhYP-BMyvW__6Mcyg87jRHf6ADseWL5KsK49wr-wKM9BdK-yY3_2Lqga9rIyr7q8N_00IbotsQzqLw40etJTC4zskmbdpmLv75oqyc6o/s1900/Solstice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1900" data-original-width="1900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWAQHvGT_CFwJzCXsDZhOY-uFdJ1XaZx3Zqd9qNhYP-BMyvW__6Mcyg87jRHf6ADseWL5KsK49wr-wKM9BdK-yY3_2Lqga9rIyr7q8N_00IbotsQzqLw40etJTC4zskmbdpmLv75oqyc6o/w320-h320/Solstice.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">National Geographic</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">If you enjoy my blog and would like to follow
me on Facebook, I can be found at </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheReluctantSurvivor?ref=hl"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">The Reluctant Survivor</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></p>Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-6075257039636411132020-09-06T08:53:00.005-04:002020-09-06T08:57:01.486-04:00I Put On Heels<p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span face="" style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;">The pea vines turned tan. Or is it beige? Brown is too broad
of a description. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face="" style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;">I pulled the last of the vines from the garden a few weeks
ago.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face="" style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;">The leaves on the raspberry canes are turning yellow while
the fall berries ripen. The contrast is beautiful. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">The sunlight has changed. As it always does. And I wonder
what winter will bring.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face="" style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;">It’s been almost six months since we were told “It will
only be for a couple of weeks.” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face="" style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;">Today is Sunday, so we went to church.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face="" style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;">Today, I put on heels.<o:p></o:p></span></p><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span face="">If you enjoy my blog and would like to follow
me on Facebook, I can be found at </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheReluctantSurvivor?ref=hl"><span face="">The Reluctant Survivor</span></a><span face="">. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><br /><p></p>Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-43074232358470479152020-07-26T12:57:00.001-04:002020-07-26T12:57:40.226-04:00Color Blind<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">When I was in my 20’s and 30’s if you had asked me about my
experience with race relations growing up I would have said that my parents
raised us to not see color. Looking back, I realize this is not true. We saw
color. But it was through their actions and their words that my parents taught
us that there is no difference.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJZhqbUxp0xIjGHlXXbjieTysFbh2hgYeRO0ppB0tqsjs_KdniEujny_Dy_LaDmKURML8QBTAWfg7bDfU7rRrFCBzsLgeg0HkVzUB4BV9uR2d46RtEQyns4c_g0ECKFVE8G4cSPtri3S0O/s1600/Dennis+the+Menace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="585" data-original-width="468" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJZhqbUxp0xIjGHlXXbjieTysFbh2hgYeRO0ppB0tqsjs_KdniEujny_Dy_LaDmKURML8QBTAWfg7bDfU7rRrFCBzsLgeg0HkVzUB4BV9uR2d46RtEQyns4c_g0ECKFVE8G4cSPtri3S0O/s320/Dennis+the+Menace.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dennis the Menace by Hank Ketcham</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">When I was in high school a black* family moved into a
neighboring town. Our school system is regionalized, so three towns attended the
same high school. April was in my class, and in my homeroom. One morning she
pronounced that she was the only minority in the 10th grade. I looked at her,
puzzled, and told her she was not a minority. She had been born in the United
States. She informed me that she was the only black student in our class. I had
to agree.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">When I got home that day I asked my parents about her
statement. I explained that she could not be right. She had been born in the
U.S. After all, only those who had immigrated were minorities. My (white) friend
from Great Britain was a minority. April was not.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">It was then that my father sat me down and explained
racism. He told me about segregation. He told me about Martin Luther King, Jr.
and Malcom X. He shared his own experience in a segregated Air Force where he
was called “n . . .<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>lover” for hanging
out with his friend Mack. And he told me about an incident where a knife was
pulled on him for leaving the “white section” to go and sit with his friend in
the “black section.” I was horrified.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">I still am.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">I questioned him how human beings could treat each other in
such a way. My father suggested I read <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Malcom
X</i>. My mother protested. Slightly. She thought I was too young to read it.
He responded that if I was old enough to ask the questions, I was old enough to
read about it. Besides, they would be there to talk to me about what I was
reading.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">This memory has stuck with me over the years. I do not
think about it all the time. However, it becomes forefront in my thoughts every
time see it on the national news or I encounter racism at work. My heart breaks
that this is who we are as a nation. It is not what I want in a work
environment. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">My dear black, Latina friend tells people we are twins. I
am the vanilla to her chocolate; we are chocolate and vanilla swirl. </span><span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;">I have asked her to teach me about her reality. So s</span><span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;">he teaches me about micro aggression by pointing it out when she encounters one
and we are together. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;">I never want to live in a world where she cannot be my
friend. Where I cannot hug her when we meet for lunch. Where her life is in
danger because she is my friend.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">I will not be color blind.<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">*I use the word “black” because several of my black friends
prefer that description. They tell me, “My ancestors are not from Africa.”
Also, it is the word that my generation grew up using.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you enjoy my blog and would like to follow me on Facebook, I can be found at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheReluctantSurvivor?ref=hl">The Reluctant Survivor</a>. </span>Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-6439371461509680672020-05-17T10:25:00.001-04:002020-05-23T08:24:51.606-04:00Coffee Filters & Toilet Paper<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There was a run on toilet paper at the beginning of March
here in New England. At the time, I didn’t get it. We were fortunate that we
had stocked up on groceries and necessities before March 13. To me, the
hoarding made no sense. I have been working from home since April 2nd. Now I
understand. And then there are coffee filters. My afternoon coffee is now made
at home. I’m using twice as many coffee filters each week. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Here are some reflections on the past few weeks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Stick
to a schedule</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">. When I was first told I had to work from
home, that it was no longer optional, I made the decision to stick to my usual schedule.
I would set my alarm clock and go through my morning routine. The only
difference was that I did not have to leave the house.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Get
dressed</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">. This is closely tied to “stick to a schedule.” My first
week at home I dressed as if I was going to campus. I even put on slacks and
dress shoes. I quickly dispensed with pantyhose and skirts because that just
felt like too much work if no one was going to see me. Sticking to a schedule
and getting dressed for work has kept me focused and helped with the
transition. (By the end of the first week I realized that jeans and sneakers
were ok. As long as my Zoom attire was professional).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Makeup</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">. This
obviously goes along with “stick to a schedule” and “get dressed.” However, I
never realized how much makeup I wear until now. I have always worn some makeup
to work, and a lighter version for Church on Sundays. Saturdays, holidays, and
vacations are makeup-free. Now that I put on makeup even though I’m staying
home I realize how often I apply that lip gloss. (Saturdays are still free).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">New
ways to wear my hair</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">. I discovered a new way to pin my hair away
from my face when I wear it down. It’s not a drastic change. And I bet no one
would even notice. But it makes me feel accomplished. Plus ponytails. I wear a
lot more ponytails.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Less
TV</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">.
One observation is that I am watching less television. Which has led to:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">More
reading</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">. I am currently reading two books. One for a weekly book
study. We are covering a chapter a week. It is certainly a good way to get
through a book. The other is a novel. For fun. I am making better progress on
this one than other books in my recent past. Instead of watching television
(see above) I am reading. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Lunch
breaks</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">. My lunch breaks are different now. I still make a typical
workday lunch, but I do not eat it at my desk. Taking a break from the computer
is refreshing. I wondered why it feels different than being at work until I
realized that all of my meetings and interactions with people is on the
computer. Taking a break from screen time is helpful to recharge.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Cooking</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">.
Having to stay home has resulted in more home cooking. Many restaurants are
closed. During the week my husband and I often have a couple of dinners that
are take-out. Since I am not out, to drive past our favorite take-out places,
we have been having more home cooked meals.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">More
meals at the dining room table</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">. See above. It feels as if we
are not rushing quite as much. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">New
choices</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">. Several of my friends and colleagues have chosen to leave
their current home. Some have left or are making plans to leave New England.
Others are moving back. When asked, it is the same message: we choose family.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">At some point we will emerge into a new normal. There are
things about the current situation that I hope we keep. Deliberate choices. An
intentional pace. And ample supplies of coffee filters and toilet paper.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
If you enjoy my blog and would like to follow me on Facebook, I can be found at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheReluctantSurvivor?ref=hl">The Reluctant Survivor</a>. Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-7184583089885178162020-03-07T13:35:00.003-05:002020-03-07T13:36:45.430-05:00Grief<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghJR-UHCArKgj1MFZ8-Ekge8fdo7-jzoKMxJoQYkHzoeTN32K9e_J-2cKv5T8mObuTWGOu3W5BlMcbC1kG1ivphybl3_AVKX0D_Gs0-TvVVaqXblfo_n9FkuHLQTZXc7HxARQfrmrIdbJQ/s1600/Yellow+Roses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1071" data-original-width="1600" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghJR-UHCArKgj1MFZ8-Ekge8fdo7-jzoKMxJoQYkHzoeTN32K9e_J-2cKv5T8mObuTWGOu3W5BlMcbC1kG1ivphybl3_AVKX0D_Gs0-TvVVaqXblfo_n9FkuHLQTZXc7HxARQfrmrIdbJQ/s200/Yellow+Roses.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
There is an emptiness<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
In the house<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
You no longer greet me<o:p></o:p></div>
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When I get home<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I miss our evening<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Routine<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
And your soft kisses<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
That wake me in the morning<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
There is a hole<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
In my heart<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When do the tears stop?<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">2/16/20</span>Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-44002180736158250832020-02-02T09:23:00.004-05:002020-03-07T13:36:14.636-05:00Kiwi<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "lucida calligraphy"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In
Loving Memory<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
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<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "lucida calligraphy"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Kiwi</span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "lucida calligraphy"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEdglvTQN625NxYl732QnrB0t1Uv6HF-Sp5rB9gI1sV4pG6TyCB0U0-nOPeqFM5AutxqYMxm8vKUboljXiqw2NymsDLAhVRHU2NnXEVMv66rgXUu0izj8LMMRrzj6X4KH99y67L0bxBYuI/s1600/Miss+Kiwi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1440" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEdglvTQN625NxYl732QnrB0t1Uv6HF-Sp5rB9gI1sV4pG6TyCB0U0-nOPeqFM5AutxqYMxm8vKUboljXiqw2NymsDLAhVRHU2NnXEVMv66rgXUu0izj8LMMRrzj6X4KH99y67L0bxBYuI/s320/Miss+Kiwi.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "lucida calligraphy"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">September 18, 2008 – January 30, 2020<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Also known as
Miss Kiwi or Kitten, Kiwi was best known for her silly, curly whiskers and
loving temperament. She never met anyone she did not welcome into her home.
Strangers were just friends she hadn’t met yet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Kiwi loved to
play chase with her beloved sister or snuggle together on a soft pillow or bed.
Her favorite thing was watching television with her human parents. That was the
time for cuddles and a warm lap. An equal opportunity kitty, she would share
her affections with both parents but particularly liked the lap that her human
mother provided.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Kiwi leaves
behind her older sister, Beautiful Maria, her human parents That Lady and
Daddy, and several human aunts and uncles who will miss her terribly. In
addition, she leaves behind her four legged, furry cousins in the states of
Connecticut, Maine, Washington, and Florida.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">She is forever
in our hearts. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
If you enjoy my blog and would like to follow me on Facebook, I can be found at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheReluctantSurvivor?ref=hl">The Reluctant Survivor</a>. Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-15840656067240828512019-08-24T15:09:00.000-04:002019-08-24T15:09:43.547-04:00Little Women<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Except that there are five of us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Growing up my family had close ties to another family just
up the road. My sister and I were close friends with the three sisters. Our
school district was quite small so classes were often shared among the grades.
My best friend from the age of six was the oldest of us. One grade ahead of me
she led the way from elementary school to high school. She paved the way
through our teen years and into college. Though we are geographically distant,
to this day we are as close as ever. I know I can call her any time of day or
night and she will pick up the phone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Her younger sisters were spaced between me and my sister in
terms of age. My sister had the privilege of sharing classes with both. And a
classroom with the youngest. The bond among the three of them is strong and
everlasting.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The years have taken each of us in different directions.
Three of us have stayed in New England. One moved to Texas. Another lives in
Switzerland. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Their father recently passed away. It was sudden and
unexpected. We came together as a family to love, and hold each other tight. Such
an event is never the easiest way to reunite. The occasion brought us together
to celebrate his life, and our lives together. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Our lives are different from the characters in Louisa May
Alcott’s novels, but track closely all the same. We grew up together. Shared
triumphs and disappointments. And have experienced life, and loss, together. As
adults we continue to be more than friends. We are family. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We are our own Little Women.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBdaeobiG8U5UmOwevioSds5rk8mIXmkhl04HrvPknf46mZVEVp8xcDva7q-2FDxPa6EUuPjPMzvpggUFTe8uct8ev8KQO-A6hjF9bFq4C_tha-hwPZqw00jqfvEwYPp91vW149RxHBQFO/s1600/five+girlfriends.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="148" data-original-width="341" height="138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBdaeobiG8U5UmOwevioSds5rk8mIXmkhl04HrvPknf46mZVEVp8xcDva7q-2FDxPa6EUuPjPMzvpggUFTe8uct8ev8KQO-A6hjF9bFq4C_tha-hwPZqw00jqfvEwYPp91vW149RxHBQFO/s320/five+girlfriends.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">If you enjoy my blog and would like to follow me on Facebook, I can be found at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheReluctantSurvivor?ref=hl">The Reluctant Survivor</a>. </span>Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-48464323770579820352019-05-25T11:12:00.001-04:002019-05-25T11:12:23.900-04:00Inheritance<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">When I hear the word “inheritance” I think of an estate;
where someone has died and bequeathed a financial benefit to a relative.
According to Merriam-Webster, the definition of inheritance includes “the
acquisition of a possession, condition, or trait from past generations.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">My mother recently moved into a Senior Living Apartment. My
sister and her friend did most of the heavy lifting when it came to the move.
They packed things in boxes, identified furniture to move, and disassembled the
various electronic devices that went with her. I helped with some of the
packing. Some. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Sorting through my mother’s things afforded us an
opportunity to inherit items that she wanted us to have. There were items that
she was not going to take with her, but we had given her as a gift so we
“helped ourselves” to the inheritance. At some point, we will have a family
gathering to sort through items that others may want. I am sure there are gifts
my brother or niece gave her that they would like to keep for themselves.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Sorting through my mother’s vast collection of coffee mugs
was interesting. I hope that those she left behind will be inherited by family
and friends. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Over the years, there is one mug that I always used when I
visit my mother. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAIz-ZBfofz5veklxBVP_m9edJVAvIZOQx5TI_WBTFRN1GGUhuH4d4onNn7BJyEUiTtrPv8WJJpVkeYkYhmvBrVEEz1IucXn1rI3KTGZ9GaHAphf2whkoycssbCEoPooo2xwvwqoaExqgp/s1600/Ladybug+Mug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAIz-ZBfofz5veklxBVP_m9edJVAvIZOQx5TI_WBTFRN1GGUhuH4d4onNn7BJyEUiTtrPv8WJJpVkeYkYhmvBrVEEz1IucXn1rI3KTGZ9GaHAphf2whkoycssbCEoPooo2xwvwqoaExqgp/s400/Ladybug+Mug.jpg" width="224" /></a></div>
<br />
<o:p></o:p><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I assumed she would take it with her to her new apartment
so that I would have “my mug” during my visits. Instead, she asked that I take
it with me. It is my inheritance. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Of all the items I could ever inherit, this mug will mean
the most to me. My mother is still alive, and I think of her every time I see
it. I treasure it when I use it. And I am aware that there will come a time
when this mug will be all that I have left as a tangible reminder of my
mother’s love for me. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">For me, this is the greatest earthly inheritance a daughter
can receive from her mother.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Thank you, Mom!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
If you enjoy my blog and would like to follow me on Facebook, I can be found at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheReluctantSurvivor?ref=hl">The Reluctant Survivor</a>. Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-77048009500990529642019-03-16T17:15:00.000-04:002019-03-16T17:15:04.510-04:00Other Gods<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "lucida calligraphy"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 14.2667px;">You shall have no other gods before me.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Deuteronomy 5:7 (ESV)</span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">This past week there was a national scandal in higher
education related to admissions at several elite, private schools. The short
version is that wealthy parents used an intermediary to bribe someone so that
their child could get into the college or university. There are several layers
and different scams, but ultimately it is all the same. Bribery.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">One of those parents is Lori Loughlin. When I read the “breaking
news” (that came as an email into my in-box at work) I thought: this can’t be!
Lori Loughlin? How is this possible?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Many know Ms. Loughlin for her role as Aunt Becky in <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Full House</i>. Some know her from Hallmark
Channel’s <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Garage Sale Mystery</i>. I know
her best as Abigail Stanton on Hallmark’s <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">When
Calls the Heart</i>. What shocked me most was that the roles she plays are
always so wholesome. Additionally, I have seen her on interviews in which she
comes across as someone with good ethics and moral standards. I first heard of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">When Calls the Heart</i> in an interview
when she talked about her relationship with Hallmark and how fortunate she was
that they let her set a family-friendly schedule of filming so that she could
be home more with her children. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I am not devastated. That is too harsh. However, I was
disappointed. How could this honest, trustworthy actress who plays these upstanding characters that seek justice and uphold noble standards possibly have done <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">this</i>? Yes, we are all sinful and have
fallen short. I am sure she has personal flaws. We all do. But something this
big, and this bad, was completely out of character. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">You see, I had come to equate her television characters
with who she is as a person. She could not possibly be any different from the
roles she plays. And while I don’t think <a href="https://www.nbc.com/the-blacklist">James Spader</a> actually is a
con man who manipulates people and industry to get what he wants, somehow Lori Loughlin
was <a href="https://www.hallmarkchannel.com/when-calls-the-heart/videos/this-season-abigail-stanton-when-calls-the-heart">Abigail Stanton</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">However, my heartache is not because Lori Loughlin is
human. It is because I created an idol.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
If you enjoy my blog and would like to follow me on Facebook, I can be found at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheReluctantSurvivor?ref=hl">The Reluctant Survivor</a>.</div>
</div>
</div>
Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-56083801238007070982019-02-10T12:50:00.000-05:002019-02-10T12:50:47.774-05:00I'll Remember<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">She sits,
drinking her morning coffee<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">I ask her
if she’d like eggs for breakfast<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">“Yes,
that would be fine”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">She takes
another sip<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">“What’s
for breakfast?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Eggs, I
remind her<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">As I
empty the dishwasher<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">We talk
about today’s agenda<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">A trip to
the store is planned<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">“What are
you going to make for breakfast?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">I tell
her I thought eggs would be nice<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Oh yes,
she likes eggs<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Easter is
coming; “Do you remember?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">There was
that Easter that it snowed<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">She likes
to travel<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">And would
like to go to Maine<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">I offer
to plan a trip<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">“But I
won’t remember”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">I’ll
remember for us<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-26579077140591322312019-02-02T08:32:00.002-05:002019-02-02T08:32:28.517-05:00Pennies On The Floor<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj21-_0OU4qB73wI7PpSjBMCRBCpMs76rwwnez5TIzokxUEWuyI8Ecz-4Oq4oKaEti8vgJR5aZDBCITfwv_jx6CE4UWPXvJsAAkYRgH6E1ezQyW7SLyv586t9A1FyQYjk9Wgk2WUUlsN4fH/s1600/pennies.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj21-_0OU4qB73wI7PpSjBMCRBCpMs76rwwnez5TIzokxUEWuyI8Ecz-4Oq4oKaEti8vgJR5aZDBCITfwv_jx6CE4UWPXvJsAAkYRgH6E1ezQyW7SLyv586t9A1FyQYjk9Wgk2WUUlsN4fH/s200/pennies.png" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">The
pennies scatter<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Across
the floor<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Under the
bed<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Glass
shards interspersed<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Gently I
stoop <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">And begin
to pick them up<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Gloves to
prevent cuts<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Gloves to
keep from getting dirty<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">It is
painstakingly slow<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">I sit on
the floor<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">And shoo the
cats away<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">I do not
want them to get hurt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">She would
have left them<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">The
glass, the dirt, the chaos<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">The
possibility of harm<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">No
capability to rectify<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Angry
tears form<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">I am mad
at her for not caring<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">But she
can’t help herself<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">She does
care; she can’t do<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">This is
not what I wished for her<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-49366009792739817252018-09-20T18:30:00.000-04:002018-09-20T18:30:28.586-04:00When Bumblebees Sleep<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Early
morning. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The
temperature is cool.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There
is dew on the grass.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There
they are.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Tucked
underneath the raspberry leaves.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">They
are asleep. It is too early. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Even
for them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I try
not to wake them<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">As I
pick my morning breakfast.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">They
do not move.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Even
as I lift the canes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">They
huddle together. Waiting.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">For
the warmth of the sun.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I find
comfort in these friends.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Unexpected
companions in my quiet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDWSruQE0v_YKyyn5j45LBcd43GwZS9NS37oiZwXnuSA2S4wgGRwH0y8SwT2YuxSj7efjBzvnXod8ga0sgePDuZO8G_1GGcOy6uWu62sS7wptgbDKLLxSJGaljUNoaOkgncirre5pyuwEW/s1600/20180915_084233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDWSruQE0v_YKyyn5j45LBcd43GwZS9NS37oiZwXnuSA2S4wgGRwH0y8SwT2YuxSj7efjBzvnXod8ga0sgePDuZO8G_1GGcOy6uWu62sS7wptgbDKLLxSJGaljUNoaOkgncirre5pyuwEW/s400/20180915_084233.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">If you enjoy my blog and would like to follow me on Facebook, I can be found at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheReluctantSurvivor?ref=hl">The Reluctant Survivor</a>.</span>Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-5285394597594989682018-09-14T12:26:00.000-04:002018-09-14T12:26:19.291-04:00Finding Joy<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioGuHhbXA6DpNbSA4W_KkZ6TuZBFPZ9bbbByzDSl8sg7C7yG_2_3L6vMiboIBCRDDsii7CUVH40J6lRBXyO3krhTqQEJKMUZE9OrJlmcEJbrT4POc5OiW2g2I_FhiuApOJnJPsYoRtiBN9/s1600/Mary+Beth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioGuHhbXA6DpNbSA4W_KkZ6TuZBFPZ9bbbByzDSl8sg7C7yG_2_3L6vMiboIBCRDDsii7CUVH40J6lRBXyO3krhTqQEJKMUZE9OrJlmcEJbrT4POc5OiW2g2I_FhiuApOJnJPsYoRtiBN9/s320/Mary+Beth.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Used with permission from David Loose</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I
cried when I learned there was nothing more the doctors could do.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There
were no tears when I heard of your death.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Grief
is like that. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">It is
the living in the hard places. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The
desperate wish that things would be different.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">You
asked if you could call me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">My
heart sank when you told me the news.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There
were tears when I told my husband.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The
grief started then.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">All
those months ago.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There
is always hope.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">But I
knew differently.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I
never want to be that person.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The
one who insisted “you’ve got this beat.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Because
life is not like that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Life
is messy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">It caught me off guard.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">And
hurts in the deepest part of my soul.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Until I
remember more of the good times together<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Than
the past few, painful months.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">That
is when I find joy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">If you enjoy my blog and would like to follow me on Facebook, I can be found at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheReluctantSurvivor?ref=hl">The Reluctant Survivor</a>. And on Twitter @relucsurvivor. </span>Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-16743906229472732142018-09-01T18:23:00.000-04:002018-09-01T18:29:35.560-04:00Dear Mom<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Dear Mom,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">You are into your eighth decade now. You walk a bit slower.
You are involved in fewer activities. Your pace. Your pace has slowed. As a
result, you need a little more help. Some things are not as easy as they used
to be. There are aches and pains that limit your mobility and make it difficult
to do routine tasks. Time moves faster and it’s difficult to keep up. To stay
on track.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">However, none of these things diminish who you are. As I
reflect on my time with you I am comforted by how truly blessed I am that you
are my mother. My brother is the lucky one. He has three more years with you
than I do. And my sister is the privileged one. She gets to spend time with you
every week. But when I think of all the gifts you have given us over these 50
plus years there is not enough paper to capture them all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">First, and foremost, you gave us life. Thinking of our
childhood, you taught us to play. To imagine. We didn’t play “cowboys and
Indians.” We played “Indians.” We ran around outside in bare feet. We swam in
rivers, the ocean, the ponds. We danced in the rain, and marveled at thunder
storms. We collected strays and had our very own “Gentleman’s Farm” with
various animals and a garden. Summer evenings were spent popping snap dragons
and collecting fireflies. Winters included building snow forts and drinking hot
chocolate. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We grew up. I’m sure our teenage years were a challenge. Yet
you let us explore. There was music. And drama. And books. We traveled. We
tested our boundaries always knowing there was a safe haven at home where you
and daddy would catch us when we fell.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Do you know how much we love you?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF4K_aAhAyctQSz40RQ54KVRzQuGkb04RJwnuRJ8wdtMCVoJGwzCcsfWJnhFt8b8SSA7wE4PWFQsgELup_nZ2Rp5V49Y4Cnt3p9yvRRrxH1FAIYayCloWyBPb0f17LiEkQo34sirf01wbL/s1600/I+love+u+mom.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF4K_aAhAyctQSz40RQ54KVRzQuGkb04RJwnuRJ8wdtMCVoJGwzCcsfWJnhFt8b8SSA7wE4PWFQsgELup_nZ2Rp5V49Y4Cnt3p9yvRRrxH1FAIYayCloWyBPb0f17LiEkQo34sirf01wbL/s1600/I+love+u+mom.png" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">If you enjoy my blog and would like to follow me on Facebook, I can be found at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheReluctantSurvivor?ref=hl">The Reluctant Survivor</a>. And on Twitter @relucsurvivor. </span>Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-19927795243022919082018-06-03T14:27:00.001-04:002018-06-03T14:27:53.366-04:00My Story<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">What
does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to
walk humbly with your God? </span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">- <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Micah 6:8<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Some of you know my story because you were there with me.
Some because you came along later and heard me tell it. Some may just be
reading about it for the first time. It’s not an unknown story. Many have a
similar one. But I feel that my story is one of a miracle that must be shared.
And it is a story that continues today, more than 10 years later.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">It started in 2007 with a routine physical that referred me
to an ultrasound that led me to a surgeon. It was the surgeon who first used
the words “breast cancer.” As I lay on the examining table, being prepped for
the first of several biopsies, I was surrounded by nurses and technicians who explained
what would occur. They were nice, and spoke in calm, routine voices. A medical assistant
stood by the table and held my hand. She talked to me as if we were friends. Knowing
where I worked, she asked about mutual acquaintances. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I was surrounded by caring strangers, yet I felt
disconnected. However, I had a sense of peace and comfort. The words from Psalm
46:10 were brought to mind: “Be still and know that I am God.” And somehow, I
knew that everything was going to be alright.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I had surgery in November, followed by four rounds of adjuvant
chemotherapy. I then underwent radiation treatment. It was during chemotherapy
that I took the California bar exam and participated in my law school graduation.
Having completed that major milestone I could not imagine what would come after
I finished my treatments, but I knew I had a purpose. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Romans 8:28 speaks directly to what I know is God’s work for
my life: “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for
good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” At the time I hoped
that I would pass the bar exam on my first attempt (I did pass the bar exam the
second time I took it) and go on to big things in both my career and this story
about a woman who had survived breast cancer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">However, while I was undergoing radiation treatments my
mother called to tell me that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer. I had
the privilege of helping her navigate all that meant for her. While our cancers
were very different, the trials of understanding the diagnosis and undergoing
treatment are daunting. I am happy to report that we are both 10 years
cancer-free. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">But my story did not end there. In 2013 I became involved
with transporting a friend’s mother to cancer treatment. She had a
recurrence of breast cancer that had metastasized. Linda became part of my life
when I helped take to her Boston for radiation treatments for the tumors on her
brain. She became my friend, and we became companions as I routinely took her
into Boston for chemotherapy in 2014. She passed away in March, 2015. Her death
was a heartbreak like I’ve never experienced before. And yes, I would do it all
again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">After Linda’s death I wondered what God would put in front
of me. I call it “my next yes.” My experiences in the past three years have
taken me in directions I never would have imagined. Upon reflection I realize
that God has allowed me to continue to care for others who are dealing with
cancer. I will admit that my heart breaks a bit each time a friend reaches out
and asks, “Can I call you?” My answer is always yes. Yes you can. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">You see, my story isn’t over. It did not end the day I finished
treatment. Nor did it end when I reached my 10-year mark and I graduated from
oncology. God’s story for my life is more than I could ever have imagined. My
story is one of “yes.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<br />
If you enjoy my blog and would like to follow me on Facebook, I can be found at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheReluctantSurvivor?ref=hl">The Reluctant Survivor</a>. And on Twitter @relucsurvivor. Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-5069332581848016342018-05-26T17:44:00.003-04:002018-05-26T17:44:58.888-04:00Someone Else's Story<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">When you tell a
story about someone else, it is also about you, as the storyteller</i>.” –
Stephen Denning, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><u>Squirrel, Inc</u></i>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I haven’t written in a while.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Well. That’s not true. I’ve written. I just haven’t
published.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">My time has been limited. My heart has been full.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There have been moments of grief, and moments of anger. But
there has also been joy and grace. Oh, so much grace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There have been tears of anguish, and diagnoses confirmed
long after we knew the truth. Along the way, God has poured out His blessings;
reminding us of His goodness and mercy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There is the comfort in belonging, and the newness of
adoption. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">You see, my life has been full. Full of living. Full of
learning. Full of stories that I have yet to tell because they are also someone
else’s stories.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFEGZUXRynm2NGcH1ZvAKY2TpjphLhhX_CqEdvHohfzqSQSu2qnKqPiZmmhzgz7_jGTtGucUIFDEfqLDtqjOL-YTVWPN-ZZBc6nEDHkfrZJ8hOMOq2wkuX6x6MZ5zkHuDPCNbRB0czM0km/s1600/Two+Roads.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFEGZUXRynm2NGcH1ZvAKY2TpjphLhhX_CqEdvHohfzqSQSu2qnKqPiZmmhzgz7_jGTtGucUIFDEfqLDtqjOL-YTVWPN-ZZBc6nEDHkfrZJ8hOMOq2wkuX6x6MZ5zkHuDPCNbRB0czM0km/s320/Two+Roads.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">If you enjoy my blog and would like to follow me on Facebook, I can be found at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheReluctantSurvivor?ref=hl">The Reluctant Survivor</a>. And on Twitter @relucsurvivor. </span>Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-18705398770192034952017-12-03T17:02:00.000-05:002017-12-03T17:04:29.053-05:0010 Years<div abp="30">
<div abp="4729">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div abp="31" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="32">
<div abp="4732">
<span abp="33" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;">On November 29, 2017 I marked the ten-year anniversary of
my breast cancer surgery. I know that I have shared before that I think of that
day as my cancer-free date. Ten years ago I was healing from a lumpectomy and
facing a round of chemotherapy followed by radiation treatments. I was also
finishing up law school with a graduation date of March 1, 2008. I was
reviewing some correspondence to family and friends during that time and
thought I’d share a few notes with you. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="34" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="35">
<div abp="4736">
<span abp="4737" style="color: black;"><b abp="36" style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span abp="37" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;">From
November 2007</span></b><span abp="38" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;">:</span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="39" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="40">
<div abp="4743">
<span abp="41" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">“What is most
amazing to me is number of people I am sending this to. God has truly blessed
me with some tremendous friends. Your love and support is my strength.”</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="42" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="43">
<div abp="4747">
<span abp="4748" style="color: black;"><b abp="44" style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span abp="45" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;">From
December 2007</span></b><span abp="46" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;">:</span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="47" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="48">
<div abp="4754">
<span abp="49" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">“I had a call
from my surgeon this afternoon. My lymph nodes were clear – no cancer. And she
was able to get clean margins. Both of these are excellent news. The diagnosis
is officially stage one.”</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="50" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="51">
<div abp="4758">
<span abp="52" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">“We met with
the oncologist today. The doctors continue to get good news. As a result of my
various pathology reports the recommendation is to still do a series of
chemotherapy treatments. However, the treatments will be a total of four treatments,
every three weeks (as opposed to eight treatments every other week).”</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="53" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="54">
<div abp="4762">
<span abp="55" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">“My doctor told
me I was a remarkable patient because the news is continually better than
expected. I know <u abp="56"><span abp="57" style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">that</span></u> it
is the power of prayer.”</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="58" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="59">
<div abp="4768">
<span abp="4769" style="color: black;"><b abp="60" style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span abp="61" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">From January 2008</span></b><span abp="62" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">:</span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="63" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<div abp="64">
<div abp="4775">
<span abp="65" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">“Thought I’d share a funny
little side effect. I’ve been joking around at work that the chemo has
compromised my immune system so my brain isn’t working right. Little did I know
that there is a name for it: chemo-brain. Yes, I was reading last night that
some chemo patients experience significant short-term memory loss. At least
mine is minor enough to not cause too much damage at work.” </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="66" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<div abp="67">
<div abp="4779">
<span abp="4780" style="color: black;"><b abp="68" style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span abp="69" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">From February 2008</span></b><span abp="70" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">:</span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="71" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<div abp="72">
<div abp="4786">
<span abp="73" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">“Wednesday is my third treatment and
everything went about the same after treatment #2 as it did after treatment #1.
Therefore, I'm pretty confident that I know how things will go. I did buy some
hats and am enjoying them. It is kind of fun to pick out a hat to go with
today's outfit. I have enough variety to keep it interesting.”</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="74" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="75">
<div abp="4790">
<span abp="4791" style="color: black;"><b abp="76" style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span abp="77" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;">From
March 2008</span></b><span abp="78" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;">:</span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="79" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="80">
<div abp="4797">
<span abp="81" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">“Saturday,
March 1 was graduation. It was a wonderful and very special ceremony. My
classmates are my heroes. We accomplished something truly amazing. We made it
through law school and earned our degrees.”</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="82" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="83">
<div abp="4801">
<span abp="84" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">“My update
comes as the result of a slight set-back. I was admitted to the hospital Monday
night due to a very low white blood count.”</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="85" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="86">
<div abp="4805">
<span abp="4806" style="color: black;"><b abp="87" style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span abp="88" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">From April 2008</span></b><span abp="89" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">:</span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="90" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="91">
<div abp="4812">
<span abp="92" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">“I am feeling
better. My white blood count is up over 5,000, which is where it should be. My
head cold has gone away, though I still have a residual cough. My energy is
best in the morning and good in the evenings. I have a “2 p.m. slump” but I
think that is normal. I am told that I may begin to feel more fatigue after two
or three weeks of radiation treatments. It’s a cumulative effect. However, I’ve
been encouraged to do some light exercise; specifically walking (or the
treadmill at the gym). Now if we could just get rid of winter.”</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="93" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="94">
<div abp="4816">
<span abp="95" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">“Thank you for
taking care of me over these months. Your prayers and love have been my
support.”</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="96" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="97">
<div abp="4820">
<span abp="4821" style="color: black;"><b abp="98" style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span abp="99" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">From May 2008</span></b><span abp="100" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">:</span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="101" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="102">
<div abp="4827">
<span abp="103" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">“Radiation
treatments are routine and there is not much to report.” </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="104" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="105">
<div abp="4831">
<span abp="106" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">“My hair is
coming in nicely. I am still self-conscious about the length and the amount of
gray so I will keep wearing hats for a while. Now that spring is here (I think)
I’ve switched over to my beautiful baseball caps. I have received many
complements on my different hats and it is kind of fun to pick out a hat to
wear each morning.”</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="107" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="108">
<div abp="4835">
<span abp="109" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">“I hope this
finds everyone well. I am thankful for your love, prayers and support. I could
not have gotten through this without you.”</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="110" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="111">
<div abp="4839">
<b abp="112" style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span abp="113" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">November 29, 2008</span></b></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="114" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="115">
<div abp="4844">
<span abp="116" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Dearest Friends
& Family –</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="117" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="118">
<div abp="4848">
<span abp="119" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">One year ago,
on November 29, I had my surgery for breast cancer. I celebrate today as my one
year anniversary of being cancer free. I know I faced other challenges with
chemotherapy and radiation over the past winter, by I count those as
preventative medicine. I truly believe that I was cancer free as of my surgery.
I owe each and every one of you a huge debt of gratitude for your love, prayers
and support. I learned that you can get through anything with the love of your
friends. I also believe that I received the gift of healing between the time of
my diagnosis on November 2 and my surgery. Even my doctors were amazed at my
various test results. I know that came from the faith that each one of you
carries. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="120" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="121">
<div abp="4852">
<span abp="122" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">While the past
year was filled with challenges and losses, it was also filled with grace, love
and many gifts. I am thankful for so many things: my health, passing the bar
exam, and my new kitten to name a few. However, love and hope remain the
greatest gifts I received. Each one of you expressed your love in a unique way
and I treasure each one. I send this with a virtual hug and plan to give you
one in person the next time I see you. Please celebrate with me at this time of
thanksgiving.</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="123" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="124">
<div abp="4856">
<b abp="125" style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span abp="126" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Today</span></b></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="127" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="128">
<div abp="4861">
<span abp="129" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span abp="4863" style="color: black;">With much love
and gratitude, thank you for ten years of life.<o:p abp="130"></o:p></span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="131">
<div abp="4866">
<span abp="4867" style="color: black;"></span><br /></div>
</div>
<div abp="132" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div abp="133">
<div abp="4870">
<span abp="134" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><o:p abp="135"> </o:p></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div abp="136">
<div abp="4874">
If you enjoy my blog and would like to follow me on Facebook, I can be found at <a abp="137" href="http://www.facebook.com/TheReluctantSurvivor?ref=hl">The Reluctant Survivor</a>. And on Twitter @relucsurvivor.
</div>
</div>
Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-69115401877832715972017-12-02T17:09:00.000-05:002017-12-02T17:09:09.780-05:00Bucket List<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I want to say “Thank You” to all of you who have supported
me over the years. Your encouragement. Your love. Your generosity toward my
Avon Walk fundraisers. You may have heard that 2017 was the last year for Avon
39 – The Walk to End Breast Cancer. The email I received indicates that the
Avon Foundation will launch a new fundraiser in 2018. I do not know what it is.
And I do not know if I’ll participate. Stay tuned.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In April 2011, I participated in my first Avon Walk. A team
from law school was formed from in honor and memory of a colleague. During that
first walk several of us committed to walking the following year. We did. In
Washington, D.C. At some point I made the decision to walk in each of the host
cities; a new city each year until I had walked in them all. At the time there
were nine walks per year. By the time I walked in Boston there were only seven.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Each year I have walked. Each year I have held a fundraiser. Each
year family and friends helped me reach the financial goal necessary for me to
participate. Each year was a unique experience. And each year I came closer to
fulfilling that item on my bucket list.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">This year I walked in my seventh Avon Walk, in city number
seven on the list. I was only able to walk the first day due to a knee injury,
but I did in fact walk in Santa Barbara. I had accomplished my goal.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I never doubted I would get here; it just seems to have
gone so fast.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-922404041744265774.post-47598131204969412662017-09-17T12:39:00.000-04:002017-09-29T08:02:13.465-04:00Seeking Community<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Community. What is it, really? According to
Merriam-Webster, community is a “unified body of individuals.” The definition
goes on to describe community in more detail. One of the characterizations of
community relates to fellowship and states that community is social activity.
For me, the better definition is “a group of people with a common
characteristic or interest, living together.” Though even that definition does
not fully define what I am looking for.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">When I think about community I am struck by all of the
different places where community exists. There is my community at work. In
fact, I work at a community college. Community is in the name! The community I
find there is one that has the common goal of educating those who come through
our doors; traditional and non-traditional students. Beyond education, we are
part of the towns in which we have a campus. This community is just as
important to us. We are part of them, and they are part of us. We serve a need,
which is education. But we also serve the needs of the residents of those towns
through partnerships and volunteer opportunities. For us, community is at the
core of our mission.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Another community in my life is my friends from the Avon Walk.
What started as a group of friends who attended the same law school has turned
into a group of friends, their family and their friends. The Avon Walk is what
brought us together. It has turned into friends who are family. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">My husband and I belong to the Commander Owners Group (COG).
A group similar to a car club or a bike club. We have our Commanders in common,
but have found there are many deeper bonds. We have been with the group for 15
years. Over that time folks have left, others have joined. Some people we’ve
known for over 10 years. Others we met for the first time last year. Some of
the bonds will be for a moment in time. Others are deep and will last a
lifetime. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There is also our Church. Church is a place where people of
a similar faith gather to worship. Church is a community that supports its members through good
times and bad. We each bring our own gifts to the community, and can give when
needed or as able.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">When I look for community in my life I realize I am truly
blessed. There are deep riches to be found in each of these communities. At
work, when there is a need we rally together to get the job done. If one of our
teammates is out, others step in to help fulfill the needs of the office. We
care about the college, we care about our students, and beyond that we care
about each other. My Avon Walk team and COG friends are extended family. We
love and support each other through the good times and the bad. As much as we
laugh we are also there to hold each other through the difficulties. And Church
has taught me that God’s love knows no boundaries. I have these communities
because of His grace in my life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">These communities are God’s gift to me.</span></div>
Heather Moreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05751958188888903294noreply@blogger.com1