Pic for ICLW

I don't have any big thoughts on this, 'cept that the alley is public and empty. Hmmmmmm.

Late to the ICLW Table

Ah, I am late to the ICLW table. I thought that this month, I would be able to participate more fully, but alas, I am struggling again. So, I will say, "Thanks for all who came to visit. I'll be madly commenting beginning NOW!"

I like the ICLW because it gives me a chance to connect with more bloggers out there in the land of bereavement, TTC, infertiles, adoptive parents, and so many more. Scheeeeeuuuuu there are lots of us out there!

This weekend, DH and I left a busy work week behind and visited friends. It was nice. I'd post a picture, but Blogger and I are "fighting" and it won't cooperate.

Ever just feel like no matter what you do nothing will cooperate?

Back from RealLife

Welcome ICLWeS! I'm back and happy to report some success in my endeavors to pay attention to real life! During my hiatus from e-life, I did have to go off and do a bit of work. But on my drive home, I took a few detours---into Wine country.
In celebration of engaging and enjoying real life, I visited three wineries. I tasted a few (make that several) wines and bought a couple of bottles. Who knew that Virginia is 5th in the nation for wine production? Well, now I know, thanks to a lovely lady who poured a Chambourcin for my tasting at Cave Ridge Vineyard.


I think I enjoyed veering off my path the most. There is something quite liberating in letting the schedule be and just go. I drove into the Virginia country side. I waved back at the people who waved to me as I passed by, as though they knew me. I drove slowly and stopped to take pictures and talk to strangers about grapes, vines, and whether chocolate or cheese would go best with a wine made from Norton grapes! And all the while, I'm intimately aware that this is evidence that I am a survivor, and that it's possible to engage, and yes, even enjoy, life after the death of my precious daughter. And, that it's OK to live again---it's OK.

Nothing in Me Today

I've had "nothing" in me today. Just blah and struggling to get the work in. I'm way behind in my ICLW comments, so will have a quite a day to come . . . Sorry. I think of my friends out in Blogosphere and thank you from the bottom of my heart for your loving comments. Peace.

****** I did it ****** ICLW comments are out there. And, actually, I feel a little better having read and focused on others. That whole sending the love out there works. Just does!!!

ICLW Reflection

First, welcome ICLW bloggers! This is my first time participating, and I'm a bit overwhelmed and humbled by the comments so many of you leave, thank you. You have lifted my spirits and validated many of my emotions. I'm also stunned with the variety of bloggers out there. After three days, I find that I can usually connect with anyone no matter their waypoint in their life journey. But, I have also encountered some fear so I thought I would pose a couple of questions and wonderings, and welcome your responses.

1. I wonder when I visit a mommy-to-be if she is made uneasy that I don't have a living child. I worry that pregnant mom of week 12, 20, or 36 doesn't want to read a comment from a bereaved mommy.

OK, turns out I have just that primary fear. It's just that I haven't been able to comment on some blogs, because I'm afraid to.

Peace.