In Awe
This year, especially toward the end, provided me with plenty of awe-inspiring moments and memories. When I’m awestruck, my heart is lifted up at least ten stories high. Sometimes, I’m lifted so high I feel like I can touch the clouds with my fingertips. Here’s a small sampling:
– In October, my mother and I were driving to one of my book events along a stretch of oceanside that we’ve passed many times, but that never looked the way it did that cloudy morning. As streaks of sunlight shown through, soft, glistening waves were threaded in silver and gold. I didn’t take a photo (my hands were on the steering wheel, thankfully) and Mom was busy drinking in the majestic scenery. This lovely photo comes close: 
But in our stretch of sparkling sea, jagged gray rocks matching the silvery waves had replaced the sand. Breathtaking. I still feel ripples of awe when I revisit the picture in my mind’s eye.
– I am perpetually in awe of the affectionate and playful love between my canines, and the pure love they show to us humans as well. That love is so palpable that I feel it pouring through me by just being in their company. 
Chico is nine-years young and Willow is four. Willow is nimble-pawed and races with the ease and stamina of a Kentucky Derby thoroughbred. Chico lumbers around at tortoise speed. Occasionally, he’ll pick up his paws and cantor about twenty feet before reverting to his relaxed ambling. Yet, patient Willow will not eat her food until Chico arrives, so they can chow down together.
– I don’t take book writing for granted. Ever. It’s a miracle every time. When I take a breath and remind myself that seven of my books have been published, I’m in awe. How did that happen? I’m so grateful that there’s always some help from above. Otherwise, I’d still be writing and rewriting my first book, ten years later.
So many wonderful awe moments fill our lives. May we never be without them.
