HAPPIER

It seems that Buddha's  thinking suggests we would be happier if we  acknowledge suffering as a part of living.  But the problem is most of us want to be free from suffering, from anxiety, from fear or poverty, of the fear

we are really are unlovable .

I think that a visit from Clarence, the guardian angel, in “It’s a Wonderful Life” might be just what I need.  Instead a friend from church came and dropped by.  Yes, we were missed when we didn't show up in our usual pew at church.  I am sure my voice was missed as I sing out with enthusiasm not worrying if I am on key.  I am sure I may hit the odd note right once in a while.

Dad's  eye was bothering him again, another eye-lash causing him pain.  He had a rest.  \I was feeling a little unsteady and not to confident to be driving.  We were pleased when Carol and Panteli came to join us watching the soccer game.  It is always more fun with others.

They left to join the party at Sandra and Randy's house.  I had my bathing suit on ready to make a big splash but dad eye was still bothering him.  He slept for several hours.  This was when Diane came to the door with G.F. goodies and some bread she had got at the Farmer's market. I was glad  was at home because it cheered her up to have a visit as well as myself.

By the time dad woke up he did not feel like going out;  was sorry to miss the family gathering.
I never even thought people would worry because we did not show up.  I apologize to all.

To be able to create something of beauty and meaning in my day was difficult.

Dad was feeling very depressed with his pain in his eyes, his back, and his stomach along with his painful feet.

Today I am having lunch with Lee, another very good friend from church.

The Moon

Extra big moon for three nights.  Closer to the earth.

SUDDENLY

Suddenly everyone is peering out their windows to see what Bennett is doing what. No it was nor dad or I but the Bennett daughters slaving away in the garden. (this is a family joke). Sandra came early as she promised and got right into the weeds that are getting higher and stronger and may take over not only the yard but the whole world. Carol came a little later as she was caught up in the air with her first flying lessons. More difficult than she has estimated. Dad got out his log book as his flying days came back to life. Dad certainly loved to fly but since I am well grounded in all things I like to keep my feet on the ground. What not parachute I always asked?




Suddenly dad realized he had not paid all his taxes.  This is what we did on Friday morning first thing.  We drove into City Hall to find out they had been paid after all.  For once maybe he listened to me to pay the bills when they come in.  So he did but then he forgot.  We had a chuckle over that one.


Coming out of the tunnel on the other side of Richmond and Vancouver on our way to the Burnaby Hospital.  Lots of memories of the many times we used to drive there to visit family and even go to church.  I wonder why the family all choose to live across the bridge?

   
Coming home traffic was steady.  Hot and tiring.
Dad now has paid the insurance on the car so we are legal for now.  So many things suddenly seem to come due, even my library books.

Suddenly it dawns on me that once I stop wanting what is out of my control to change,
 I will be happy.

 

A good day yesterday with a beautiful full moon at night.  It is closer to the earth.

I got ready for church but was feeling too dizzy so I think I should not drive.

WHOLENESS

Wholeness is gathering all you are, the good and bad, not regreting the past nor fearing the future being  free to be yourself. 
Be happy when you have found a safe "place" to be yourself!   Even for short periods of time. Then include others into this space where all are equal,

My morning walk begins being greeted by happy faces, the flowers and the human faces I meet.

The joys and sorrows of life all in a couple of days.  Tavia, one of Cathy's five, phone to tell she is engaged and getting married in August.  She is ecstatically happy.  She has done everything in a sensible manner which for her is unbelievable.  She is strong willed and very full of energy and drive and very involved in her church, playing the drums in the band.  We have met her young man as we were included in the list of those she wanted to approve.  Dad and I are very happy for them both.

Next we receive news that our very dearest friend Shirley is living out the last of her life in hospital in Burnaby.  She is 94 and she has earned her wings and is ready to fly on  I considered it a great honor to be able to hold her hand and pray a loving prayer over her spirit. 

 

She has touched many with her kindness and generosity to all.  She will leave us beautiful memories of the times we have spent together.  She loved going up in the plane with dad and sharing a cup of tea on my weekly visits.  She loved to travel  and she enjoyed life!

Dad and I had a long walk to find here way in the bottom floor at the farthest end and then a big walk back to the car.  So it was no wonder dad's feet were painful last night.
 

We drove home feeling very sad.  It was hard to say good-bye.

It was a real blessing Carol dropped by to see us after her visit with Susan and Sandra.  Her exciting news is she is starting the first steps to getting a flying license!  How cool is that!  She starts today.
Also she and Sandra will come and help with my out of control garden.  It is very warm here but thankfully cools off at night.

I pray that in the midst of sorrow Your comfort,  Lord,  will be there for all who need it.

BETTER

I think this was a bit clearer picture. It is Morgan at her house standing in the doorway with her ballons. One had already popped so I thought I had better hurry up and take a picture. She is now 8 years old and growing so fast!

EVERY DAY

Everyday counts.
Your brain never stops paying attention to what you tell it, and it can respond very quickly.
Yesterday I made it to boundary Park on my early morning walk and was very pleased  with myself.

In the afternoon dad and I went visiting at the home.  There was a man there wanting to meet dad.  James was his name and I did not know but he had read letters in the paper by Larry Bennett, who is not dad.

James is a professor of English literature and has worked at several Universities.  I took him a couple of dad's stories which he read and e-mailed about how much he enjoyed them.  I promised James I would ask my famous husband Larry to come with me.

Actually James was waiting there for him so I am thankful we decided to go.  They had a good visit and James is very interesting and very pleasant.  He has a room full of books and I do mean full.

I took Jim his milkshake but I know he is not well and that contributes to his grumpiness.  I offered to pray for him and he responded with great hostility.  I cannot help but compare him with the Korean people who are very religious and enjoy a wonderful time singing together.   Some are not that well but they are always gracious and polite.  There is a calmness about them.

My brain book suggests that becoming adaptable is a good thing. " Einstein was one man who broke free of old habits of thought.  His great motivation he tells is that way he viewed the world as full of awe and mystery.  A spiritual point of view".  from   Super Brain by Chopra and Tanzi

To become adaptable we need to let go, become flexible, and laugh at ourselves.  Stop worrying about being right and allow others the right to disagree.

"Be willing to redefine yourself everyday."  

That is hard to do.  It is important to be sociable and teachable and have an open heart and mind.  

"Resist conformity"

"Put a higher value on being awake and alert."

"Value yourself"

Question your own core beliefs."

"Keep faith that inner growth is an unending process." 

"Walk the spiritual path however you define it."

"

SO GROWN UP

Morgan had a busy morning at swimming lessons, and now she is busy making bracelets. 

"Every child is an artist.  The problem is how to remain  an artist once they grow up."   P. Picasso

Keeping your sense of youth, innocence, freedom and wonder is vital to staying happy.

Ben is excited to watch the soccer with great grandpa.


The drive out was pleasant with a great view of the mointains.

We arrive at the front door and hear Haiti  barking inside.

It was a bit of an unpleasant morning as I was trying to be super woman, thinking I am helping but annoying dad once again.  All I can do is say I am sorry and will try to do better.  Very naughty of me when dad is doing his best to look after me

I would certainly do things differently if given another chance.


Lincoln and mommy very happy.


Simone feeling adventuresome.

My headache is preventing any thoughts or ideas.

Had a great day but so happy to be home.
Dad and I will be going visiting today at the Senior's Home there is a fellow who likes dad's stories and would like to meet him.