Post-Valentine's Reflections, or Things I Really, Really Like...

My husband

• Because he's super, duper smart.
• I like the sound of his voice.
• No one else could put up with all my bullshit.
• He's ultra-patient and tolerant.
• He takes really good care of us.
• He's a great dad.
• He has a good sense of humor and makes me laugh.
• Did I mention he's really patient, and puts up with all my shit?

My kiddos

• They are super, duper smart.
• I love the way they laugh.
• They are so adorable, sometimes I'd like to eat them.
• They are brave and adventurous.
• They are full of mischief.
• They still think I can do anything and know more than they do.
• I see parts of my brother in them.

My family and friends -- you know who you are!

• For all your dysfunction, idiosyncracies and craziness, you've been around, made me laugh, held me up, talked me down and make my life full and complete. I love you all.

Aikido at Itten Dojo (hope this comes up on your google search, Sensei!)

• It is full of fun, dedicated and genuinely nice people.
• It has whipped me into shape.
• It is both physically and mentally challenging.
• NO ONE SMELLS BAD! Can you believe it? I can't, but it's true.
• Once in awhile, for a few brief seconds, by some alignment of the planets, or some freak chance, I actually experience the magic and power of Aikido and it is exhilarating!
• Sometimes, there is blood.

The Farm

• The farm holds all of my best childhood memories.
• It is my refuge, my retreat and where my family gathers.
• It is beautiful and clean and lush.
• There is something fun to do there in every season (hunt, make maple syrup, garden, swim, hike, sled, snowmobile, four-wheel, harvest honey, fish, can/freeze/preserve, relax, eat/drink/talk, etc., etc.)
• No matter where I am, it's what I think of when someone says "home."

Books and Music

• Duh!

Ashley @ Lush317

• She's super funny, totally real and cuts and colors like a magician!

Tattoos, Boots, Harleys, Dive Bars

• They're just cool.