Refocusing and smiling hard

There are moments that pop up and redefine who we are and what we’re doing. Some times these come at dramatic moments–times of stress and loss when you’re burying a relative who died far too young, or comforting a friend who’s facing terrible change.

I’ve had those kind of revelation moments before, and every time they happen, I re-set my world. Make sure that what I’m spending my time on is important, is valuable, is breathtaking. I’ll change directions in terms of work vs family time, or making sure that I’m available to  my parents (…oh, the sandwich generation). There have been times I’ve dropped out of activities, not because they were wrong, but because choosing between something that is good and something that is great is an important distinction.

There are also the quiet revelation moments, and this past weekend I found myself hit up the side of the head hard with one. I’d taken the family to the Calgary Stampede and we’re sitting in the grandstands, watching the chuck wagon races. Chatting and visiting, and by the time Paul Brandt started singing I was ready for the 2×4 hit.

Small Towns and Big Dreams. 

Yup, I was sitting in the middle of the crowd at the 100th anniversary of the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, crying tears of happiness. Because I’m pretty much living a dream, and it’s so so good. The fact I get to write for a living–that people enjoy my stories–knocks my knees out from under me. I have friends who support me, cheer for me and kick my butt when I need it. I’m living in a gorgeous part of the world, I’m healthy enough to travel for fun and adventure…

Life is Good. Doesn’t mean it’s always easy, but there’s no other words for what I’m feeling.

Life is Good.