Thinking of You

“Somewhere
there is someone
that dreams of your smile,

and finds in your presence
that life is worthwhile,

so when you are lonely
remember it’s true,

someone
somewhere
is thinking of you.”

Memory Lane

Once upon a time, a starry-eyed girl sat alone on the front porch of her parents home and dreamed of the possibilities. She believed that all things were possible and that she could do anything she tried. While her confidence sometimes hid behind her awkwardness, she never doubted who she was or her God-given abilities. She never questioned the possibility of success or fame or fortune or family & friends. She knew that one day she would have it all.

And then, she grew up.

Often, I find comfort in reminiscing. I hold most of the memories of my childhood so dear and, in the cases when the memories aren't so clear, the people serve as a reminder of when life was pure and the possibilities were endless. I realize most people aren't as sentimental as I am. Oh, but if they knew the part that the each have in keeping me grounded and  helping me find pieces of happiness now and again, maybe they would be. Although we may rarely talk or see each other, they are the ones I turn to when I feel sad or broken. They are the ones I lean on when I'm scared or feeling lost. They are the ones who help rebuild me when I'm starting over once again. And they do it without even knowing it.

Miranda Lambert sings a song called THE HOUSE THAT BUILT ME. It's all about how she wants to go back to the house where she grew up so she can remember who she is. It touches my heart. I get it completely. Some days a quick journey down memory lane is all it takes to remind me that one day I'll have it all. And maybe I'm closer than I think.

God's Gift of Dancing with the Stars

On Monday, March 22nd, a new season of Dancing with the Stars will begin. They claim to have the most controversial cast of dancers ever. I'm sure the set is bubbling with the anticipation of potential wardrobe malfunctions, intense competition and judges spats. But all that buzz pales in comparison to the growing expectancy in our home.

The only DWTS fan I know that's bigger than my mom is my dad. They often disagree, much like Bruno & Len, but they usually root for the same pair to win. Without fail, my dad is on the couch a half hour before the show starts, making sure the television channel is secure and my mom gathers her game-time treats in her corner of the room. It's an event. Every week.

As my time living with my parents draws to a close, I'm saddened. I had no idea, at the time, what a rewarding experience it would be nor that I would discover so much about my parents. For example, I would have never guessed that my dad had a passion for figure skating and ballroom dancing.

Not many people in their 30s would want to move back in with their 70-something parents but now, I can't imagine living apart from them. There are moments when I could use some alone time, when I'd rather not share the bathroom or the tv and when I'd do things completely differently. But there are more often times that I can't imagine being alone.

Tonight, my mom said to me, "Michele, God has given you so much." She's right. I am grateful for the last three years. And I will be equally as grateful for Monday nights without Dancing with the Stars!