I’m not sure whether it’s the sun peeking out behind the snowflakes or the camaraderie I felt at the play date this weekend or both combined, but I feel an overwhelming sense of peacefulness and inspiration. Life is going to be okay.

So many times I get lost in what I fear when I could feel dizzy with gratitude for all of the good things in my life. My children are happy and healthy. My family is loving and connected. Sure, there are the kinks in the chain of this life, but it remains strong nonetheless. It may look different, but it’s mine.

Hope is in a good space where she feels at ease with who she is (most of the time) and it inspires me. Her little locks are curling down around her ears, which makes for more mom and daughter time in the morning styling her hair. I still sneak a peek at her beaming in the mirror as we brush and comb those precious wisps reaching her collar. She’s so happy. Even Will notices. Yesterday he leaned over and whispered “Hope, you are beautiful.” and it brought streams of tears down my cheeks. How soft. How sweet for this otherwise scruffy voiced little “worker man” as he calls himself. She stopped for a moment and then gave him a huge hug that said it all.

Usually I get grumpy this time of year. Spring seems a little far from our reach in the Midwest and as winter lingers, sentiments run amuck. Not this year. I’ve consciously set my sights on the goodness of right now. Add a bottle of Vitamin D capsules, the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin and some Pilates and I am staying positive about where we are at. I’ve also taken to writing with pen and paper while writing the book and it’s unlocked a well of happiness. And truth.