"Door to Grace"

In a past blog I told you about a wonderful group called "Door to Grace". They came to me via Laura and "Sixpence"and I was invited to share my art at a training for volunteers. At the time I met Teri and Lori I felt a kinship for them and this great endeavor. The girls/ women who have been caught in the web of sex trafficking have no shelter or trained staff to assist in the challenging work of not only rescue but recovery of " person" and self esteem that has made them so vulnerable those who use and abuse them. "Door to Grace" is stepping forward to meet the challenge. A much needed home and opportunity for these women to reclaim the spirits that have been so abused and begin to discover the joy that is a right for all of us.

The event was a big success and I am humbled in the presence of all the people who have stepped forward to face this greatest of tasks. They are truly blessed, as I am to have been invited.

New year underway and THANKS

New years is not my favorite...shall I say event[holiday], whatever. I have been trying to learn to face each day with a positive "stepping out" attitude. This for me is like learning a new language. Not all of us come from backgrounds that view the "glass half full". Learning THIS and other life affirming ways of thinking/loving/dreaming and being is a journey I have been on for some time and I want to leave this as a legacy for family and friends.

In my opinion.......I have felt soooo much pressure is placed on a single time/day. That pressure has sometimes caused me to look back and see the things that have been"challenges" as negative. I am choosing to change that focus and I have to give thanks to the positive "angels/souls" in my life that love and teach me new ways of being and thinking.

To all of those.ANGELS*** FRIENDS***sweet spirits who are leading and along for the ride, thank you ,LOVE YOU and let us "step out" into a new day each day....how about each moment?

Visions

Later this monthe we head to he sun!!!!!
Enjoy the dreams of sunshine for those who are from colder climes! A hot buttered rum can do the wonders!!!

Christmas Traditions

I stll believe in Santa Clause!!!!!!!!!!!

As Life gets busier and the nest is empty traditions change in our house. This I know can be hard. I choose to believe it is just "change". Perhaps it is a good time for us to really look outside our house and ourselves. I watch my children building their own family traditions. That is nice to watch. they still return to the "nest" for some Verburg family Christmas.

The thing I want to remember....for all of us to remember is "things are exactly as they should be." "All is calm and bright." Allow the Grace that surrounds us all into our lives!

Wonder Twins

We had a great time at a family wedding in San Francisco. As always catching up with family is exciting. More so with this wonderful wedding . I am afraid that last events have not been as happy. What is it "they" say about weddings and funerals????

San Francisco is a great city. We love retuning time after time....but it is crowded. I think We love returning to Portland more each time. A train trip with number one son and sweet wife made it even more exciting. Ah, train travel....sleeping in a closet size space[better than sitting up all night]....walking like a lady who has had one too many[maybe more] a lot more!!! Quite an experience. We had a wonderful time just being together...albeit close together. Great memories.

This picture is of two wonderful women.Boy did they turn heads as we walked near Union Square. They were in front of us as we left Macy's and on down the street. Notice matching pink purses,orthopedic shoes and even in step!!! GREAT! We saw them the next night as we were on the cable car. Boy is S.F. a treat. I think I have new role models!!!

Door To Grace

You will be hearing more about this wonderful project. I have been invited to create necklaces with the key theme to inspire volunteers and spread the message of this group, which is involved with girls and women who have been rescued from " sex trafficking " trade. I have been looking for a direction and way to use my art. This has been provided for me....Laura at "Sixpence" shared the connection and I met with Terri & Lorie to learn more. The project truly touches my heart! Thank you!! Check out www.doortograce.org.

Things and especially souls are all worth of the art of "rediscovery"....all are beautiful as they are and can become even more.....

Magic Continues

Thea's in the Pearl...Christmas is arriving this week.

Sixpence is still beautiful!! More delivered yesterday and Laura is creating wonders. Sixpence in downtown Lake Oswego...3rd and "B" street. They are also doing the Lake Oswego Christmas fair in Millennium Plaza. I can't be there but "The Withies" will be represented. Thanks girls!!!!!!!!!