This Lamp is a Love Story

'“Lighthouses don’t go running all over an island looking for boats to save; they just stand there shining.”

― Anne Lamott

It sits in the window
catching a ray of light
glistening through its crystal cuts

It glows at night
watching and waiting
always illuminating
until you return safely

It is a long story- aren't they all!
Its travel began in Ireland in the town of Waterford
purchased by my very Irish Mother In Law and brought
to California to shine brightly in their stately home for many years.

Gifted to me after her passing- I cherished its history.
The stories it coud tell
The only place for it was in a corner window,
watching over our family as we grew, lived and changed

The Light was always on -
In good times it shone bright
In sad times, it was a beacon to bring love back through the door
The hope never dimming

Until
It was broken
Shattered and not to be lit again...
Both
The lamp that guided me and - and my heart.


But I wouldn't let my heart go dark- There was always a
glimmer of hope and love was going to win.

Fast forward to Christmas 2014 -
Dinner with the love of my life.
Love had healed wounds and returned.
Our hearts filled with  joy and contentment.

We sat in our favorite quiet cozy table with the snow falling softly.
Candles flickering and reflecting off our wine glasses.
Brian leaned over and  handed me a card and as I read it - I cried
Not out of sadness but pure joy
His love illuminated my heart - His gift illuminated my hope.

The gift:
He had found the exact lamp in Ireland 
The lamp would  once again be in the corner window -
Beaconing and lighting the way for our love to shine.
For future Kelly's to always be guided home to family

Oh The Stories this lamp will tell-
Now back where it belongs

My heart is full
Hope will always shine through when you believe in it enough

Always find your way home  We did..

Happy Valentines Day 

Catch Up and Cultivate

January has come and gone and it has been a nice time to reflect and catch up with
my thoughts after the holidays and more importantly just enjoy the memories that
we made with family over Christmas in the stunning Canadian Rockies.

Thoughts go to why and how often I blog:
I began blogging to have a creative outlet and to  journal for my family and friends.
One of the things I love about blogging is the freedom to blog when I feel I have something to say or something has moved me to share with you. It is a personal decision to be myself and be true to what I love and what I am moved by.
It has been a joy that I have allowed to evolve naturally and therefore haven't blogged as often as some but when I do it feels organic and straight from the heart.

With a new outlook and fresh energy to make this year special and to broaden my
own world- I have recommitted to do more of what I love "BLOG"

So what better way than to begin anew with just
Catching Up with each other-  Me First

January brought snow, cold and spending time indoors,
so what is better than a book and a cup of tea curled up on the couch.
Currently I am --- READING:  The Humans- a sad,silly but soulful charming book about humans by Matt Haig,
and drinking a warm cuppa  Kusmi Prince Vladimir Tea . This tea is amazing.

What are you reading? 
Let me know- maybe a booksclub to come?

WATCHING - Of course Downton Abby - Love Love It and if I am being honest- 
I watch the Bachelor- Yes I said it outloud !

LISTENING: to the new Decemberists Album  (Click to Listen)
with a lot of candles lit for quiet meditation

LOVING: My blanket scarf- my favorite addition to my winter wardrobe- It is a must
               

Goals- Many years ago I gave up New Years Resolutions and instead I choose one Word
that I can use to enlighten and improve my own life
This Year
CULTIVATE

Looking forward to: Spending more time here with you.

Cultivating a warm place to come and sit for a while
with friends- New and Old
Even if the blog only touches a few people,
I look forward to sharing 2015 with you.
Stay Warm and Stay Tuned

Kim