Un Cafe, s'il vous plait~ Missing Paris Day

I've been missing Paris quite a bit of late. 

I have family visiting here from Paris and occasionally

they break into French because, for them, it's easier.

Wish it was easier for me. 

Have missed my blog peeps

and looking forward to making the rounds. 

Time to start planning the next Paris cafe visit.

And writing time sitting at a spot just like this. 

A bientot. 

(Photo copyright: Kirsten Steen)

Faith is Nourishment~ Buddhist thought for the Day

"On life's journey faith is nourishment, 

virtuous deeds are a shelter, 

wisdom is the light by day

and right mindfulness is the protection by night. 

If a man lives a pure life,

nothing can destroy him." 

~Buddha

It's been a whirlwind, in and out of town

for both the most difficult of family times, to the best of times and back again. 

Right after my father-in-love passed, 

I flew to Park City to join my father's birthday bash/family reunion in progress, 

then back this week for the extended family memorial service. 

An emotional roller coaster to say the least. 

I liked this quote because it exemplified exactly what everyone has been saying 

about my father in law. 

He is still with us. 

(Photo copyright: Kirsten Steen)  

Tribute to Abb

 

Please accept my apologies for being gone so long.

We have lost a beloved family member. 

My father-in-love of twenty years

lived a wonderful, full, happy life

and still left us too soon.

He welcomed me with loving, wide open arms on every visit
regardless of political differences.
He gave us joy, love and laughter...
and with a slight Texas accent, called us all 'Sugar'. 
He gave me my beloved
and taught him how to be a good man.

We miss you, Sugar. 

I will return soon, I promise. 

Happy Birthday U.S.A.

via Pintarest

Wishing all a Happy Independence Day! 

And especially to those who serve to protect our freedom every day.

Hoping everyone is enjoying a safe, cool and happy fourth of July! 

"We must be free not because we claim freedom,

but because we practice it." ~William Faulkner