Thankful

As I look at these pictures I realize how thankful I am for all the love, inspiration, friendship & support that surrounds my family.

The first picture: my mom, grandmother, aunt, cousin & the Frentz family (best in-laws you could ask for) supporting each other from our losses at the Hard Rock Casino last weekend. A few, however, came home with some loot. Even without hands, I was determined to play. Play, I did. Win, I did not. :(

Check out the next photo. This is pure inspiration. Her name is Jamie and she lost both legs and hands just a few months ago to meningitis. Yes, she is standing and walking now. I have been blessed to get to know her & her family over this past year. Jamie spoke to school kids in Dallas recently and I was there to see her in action. We are both standing and able to understand the obstacles. I'm really touched by her bravery and friendship.

We are never fully who we are without the love support of our family. I had this photo of my husband Nick & my grandmother from a special moment at home. My entire family has given so much love & support.

I love you all and looking forward to seeing everyone this week. I'm thankful for my losses as it's giving me so many gains. Have a great Thanksgiving and remember to reflect on all that you are thankful for!

Love,
Jen

"700 Sundays"

One of my favorite pastimes is to be in the company of live entertainment and be a part of a living story. Last night we were able to get "last, last minute" tickets to see "700 Sundays" with Billy Crystal in a beautiful new venue in Dallas, the Winspear Opera House.

Not only was the venue filled with charm and stories itself, the stage completely lit up with life when Billy Crystal entered stage left. If you are not aware, "700 Sundays" is the story of Billy's life. With his dad working two jobs to keep the family going, the story immediately captures the essence of the middle-class American experience.

Sundays were saved for family times. His father passed away and left his family to begin his spiritual journey when Billy was only 15. Although time seemed limited, the play brilliantly reflects on their most priceless 700 Sundays together.

The story is beyond funny, fascinating and warm all at the same time. He took so many family member characteristics and developed them into such a captivating picture book with his words and genius ability to engage the audience with is acting. And what's more, he of course had the classic American home movies to share.

We all have a family tree, funny stories, teachable moments and the emotional "stuff". And every bit of it is invaluable to our experience as people. Without it we are unable to love and grow spiritually. Art like this truly sparks curiosity into our own story.

I've come to appreciate how every day marks a new untraveled path. Simply writing and reflecting on your own experiences can open a book you never knew was so rich with life. Our individual stories don't have to be billed on Broadway to treasure them. But if you have a chance to see the production, you won't be disappointed! :)

Love,
Jen

About Uncomfortable

So, I mentioned several posts back that I have been accepted into a leadership/self development program. I'm really enjoying it and finding the development process something I needed a long time ago. The learning is in regards to communicating, personalities (good & bad) and how negotiating the art of feedback vs. advice enhances relationships. We have a choice when we get feedback -- take it and learn or choose to dismiss it because we got hurt.

But, out of all the cool things we did today and will do tomorrow, it only took 10 minutes to get "real" and "raw". Picture this, a room full of 22 women and we had to pick 2 or 3 and share with them why we admired them. Not so bad, right? Well, the task gets better.

This exercise felt like good cop bad cop. Part two was again, picking 2 or 3 women and sharing with them. But, this time we had to share why we either shy away from them or have not taken time to get to know them. Yikes! It's one thing to write your thoughts down on paper but we had to actually verbalize it.

It was really tough but so liberating if done right. There were a few tears by some but then we learned how to push through those moments and have these tough conversations. Perceptions vs. reality is so much of misunderstanding.

I really admired some of the discussions. Its not easy, but I challenge you to have just one tough conversation this week and then notice how it feels after its done. It could truly be a gift. I'm really proud of the work we did today. Not that I need this test everyday :) but, it can be done.

Love,
Jen

Laugh!

As I entered the gym this morning, I was greeted by a lovely elderly man who was holding the door for me. I noticed he was looking at me with a classic Andy Rooney squint! I thought how sweet it was that he was "looking out for me".

Then, we move to our respective cardio machines and after several minutes I look over at him and he is reading the paper as if it was printed in microscopic font!

A coin would have been difficult to slide between the paper and his nose. I am sure the Dallas Morning News felt a bit violated of personal space.

Yes, we know age can affect our site but I wondered why he wouldn't have glasses or a magnifier (I'm sure it's the same thing people wonder about me and hand prosthetics).

I watched him for a while until a very sweet lady says "honey, where are your glasses?" He just looked at her and said, "Who are you? I can't see you." Ha!. The sweet lady was his wife! I enjoyed watching the caring and playfulness of this couple.

Differences can be a connection that can enhance your relationships. Embrace and find the funny! I'm thinking his looking at me was trying to see whether or not his eyes were playing tricks on him. Hands, no hands?

Have a great day!
Jen

Not Taking Ourselves Too Seriously

First, happy Friday and Halloween Eve! What a week I have had. We finally have sun today in Dallas with no rain. One more day of this and I was about to buy a wetsuit. :)

I attended a luncheon this week that has been on my mind everyday since.

I met and embraced several women whose stories made me think how life really is a story in the making.

We are all developing our own book everyday. We just don't realize it. Or, if we do, it becomes a fleeting thought.

I was so touched by talking with these amazing people that I have found myself reflecting and understanding how much letting go of any anger, hurt, resentment, etc. just opens up your heart and mind. It is so healthy and why do we need to hold on to the negative, really?

Also, I was amazed at how freely these women were able to discuss their obstacles or challenges. I was intrigued by that because I'm in the process of developing this for myself. Being "free" to trust and share is a life thing but I'm truly enjoying the learning process.

So, as a small side note in my week, I am looking for a pair of shoes. People ask me all the time if there is anything I miss. YES! High-heel shoes! There is something about the heel that just brings confidence and style. Now, it is a bit of a balancing debacle and scavenger hunt. Can anyone make a really cool flat that looks like a high-heel style?

Oh well if the search goes on! It's all about enjoying the moment and letting go. But, if you come across some, let me know! Also, the picture I posted was taken by my great friend Soulyavanh that now lives in Portland, Oregon. You can check out her photography website here. :)

Love,
Jen