Sunday Smiles

1. Andrew has been in port. For several days now. Which has meant a number of wonderful phone calls and a couple of chats online. Yes, I am living vicariously as he goes went to my childhood dream zoo and Sea World. But it's such a joy to wake up to a text from my sailor and to catch up on life....

2. In another completely gushy smile, Andrew sent me a Ziggy card... it was wonderful and sweet and romantic. Can you tell that I am more ready than ever for him to come back home?

3. The Good Shepherd church ohana. Ohana is the Hawaiian word for family... and I have to admit that I've found that ohana doesn't just apply to the traditional family unit. But they make it apply to the sense of community as a whole. And Good Shepherd makes the word Ohana come alive. With care and hugs... and eating. I remember that one of my college profs talks about the family of God eating... and there really is something to be said about family eating a growing together. And every Sunday after church there's an eclectic assortment of delicious food... from pasta to sandwiches to muffins to cake to sushi to SPAM. All that to say, I am so thankful for that Ohana.

4. I went and tried on dresses this evening. Didn't buy one, but it was just fun.

5. Two wonderful phone calls with friends. Catching up on life and jobs. And planning their trips out to the land of Aloha!

6. My mother. Only fitting that she is a smile this Sunday. How to thank a woman who is not just my mother but a cherished role model and friend? Words can't describe how much I love her. She blesses me continually with love and support. I love you mom.