TABOO TRUTHS

My daughter and I made the trip to Michigan yet again over the Easter holiday weekend.  Spending time with my family, seeing friends and breathing in that Michigan air that feeds my strength are always good justifications convincing me to put my butt in that car seat for another 20 hour ride.  This time however I had one additional purpose…to clear out the storage unit I’ve paid for since my move to VA.  Yes, I had a 10 x 4 foot unit housing the treasures I left behind and couldn’t fathom losing!

Really?  After almost 4 years of surviving without those “treasures”, kept safe in a cozy little storage facility I decided it was time!  If I hadn’t needed or missed them by now, I no longer did.  So my daughter Lindsay, her boyfriend and I began the task of deciding what could be given away, what was trash (and there was plenty!) and what sentiment  would not let me live without.  It took several hours, a “three car filled” trip to St. Vincent De Paul donations and a load of junk to dispose of but….we accomplished our goal.  I had only a few buried bits of gold I could not let go.  One was the rocking chair that resided in the nursery of both girls.

Purging is a wonderful feeling!  There is nothing that gives equal satisfaction and fulfillment to let go of things in ones life that weighs…pulling you into the past.  Objects that may have once been precious but have no further purpose.  My tip for today?  Clear your space and your mind!  It does wonders for the soul.

What are you willing to let go?

Next week my Dad turns 70 years old!  Hard to believe.  I’m heading back to Michigan to celebrate with my family.  The last several weeks have worn on my soul and placing my feet on Michigan soil will do me much good!

My sisters and I have been contemplating how to approach this momentous event.  A roast?  Party?  Trip?  With the date coming closer my Dad expressed, in NO uncertain terms, he wants no party!  A bit disappointing since I don’t have the opportunity to see my extended family very often but it is his birthday.  My siblings and I have come up with a gift idea that I hope he will love and use!  I’ve never been able to call my Dad…my Father.  Our relationship is one of comfort, love, realness and yelling…sometimes.  He is and always will be the rock in my life.  We are far to similar in personality for there never to be challenges.  As with many Dad’s, he is always there for me.  Though his expectations are high, he always wants only my happiness.  After being the care-giver for my Mom before her passing and all he’s done for myself and siblings…all we want is his happiness!  It appears he may have met someone recently!  What a joy it would be to see his heart full again…

He is considered the “Godfather” of our Maino family.  The last of the elders.  So is celebrating expected???  ABSO-FRICKIN-LUTELY!