the road I have traveled

Gratitude is overflowing from my heart after an incredibly magical day.  Dustin and I ventured into Brooklyn for a night of storytelling with Jen Lee and Jolie.  We arrived early, which was wonderful.  We had time to explore the area, check out a couple of local shops, and slip into a new restaurant.  The expected rain had held off, and we roamed the streets hand in hand, happy to be in each others company.

We gathered around the table with like minded souls to soak in the stories that Jen and Jolie told.  It was magical sitting in the dimly lit room next to Dustin, listening to these two souls speak.  Their stories spoke to my heart and I picked up some of their words, placing them gently in my pocket so that I wouldn't forget them.   

Sitting around that table I was in awe.  When I first started 'giggling in the rain' I could not have dreamed up the doors my blog would open for me.  Never in a million years could I have imagined all of the beautiful adventures it would take me on.  But it has.  And there I was sitting around a table with these incredible individuals in Brooklyn.  My heart was exploding with joy.     

I am so grateful I took the risk of creating this space that day in May of 2005.  I had no idea what I was doing or even what blogging was all about it. I thought it would be a great new way to pair my photos and words together, and so I began. 

Here I am, six years later and the journey has been incredible.  I have met the most amazing individuals who are now dear friends.  I have gone on beautiful adventures.  I finally learned and embraced that I am a writer.  I saw new places.  I grew and grew and grew.  My heart expanded, my confidence developed and I healed the shy girl that was living inside me.  I learned so much about myself and am so proud of how far I have come.

Without 'giggling in the rain' I am not sure where I would be.  Like any relationship we have had our ups and downs.  Moments when I was to busy to be around and other moments when we spent so much time together.  But always she was here for me, like an old friend.  Ready to hold my words and my heart at a moments notice. 

Today I sit here with an enormous smile on my face, feeling so much love, gratitude, and happiness.  I am grateful for each of you,, who show up here with me and gently hold my hand.  Because of each of you I have learned that I am not alone in this great big world.  Together we stand, besides one another, cheering, encouraging, loving.  Thank you!