Sunday and I realize I have not yet written for quite awhile. Promise to self write even if it is mundane and not reflecting on anything in particular. Winston is playing with his toys--first one and then another. They all end up in the bed he has claimed as his. The chis are doing nothing as only older dogs can do--ignoring the adhd pup that lives here. A pork roast is in the crock pot, papers await my red pen and I am enjoying this ramble.

Story circle's July prompt is about celebrations and reactions to them.For me holidays are okay but is the private moments of celebrations that affect me in the deepest way.The birth of my girls gave me a joy that is relived on the birthdays that followed. Each of those days the wonder of that little person in my arms for the first time as I counted toes and fingers claims me and I rejoice in the gift of their lives and their accomplishments since that day. Celebration of our joined histories never ceases.

Small celebrations happen when something good happens unexpectedly. Yesterday a friend( a chosen sister) called and a bit of joy entered my life. Someone praises my work , a student says that I have done something that made them feel good are all reasons for small fire bursts of feel good hormones.

Quiet moments spent reading or knitting can release the "feel good" waves also.Perhaps that is why early moments with coffee start my day off well.But I suspect it has more to do with my acceptance of life as a journey which not always smooth is well worth the trip. It also comes from knowing He has my back and will care for me if I accept his will. I find that last easier each year even in bad or uncertain moments.

Big event and big holidays are good things. Who would not enjoy those(but I admit even these are better for me if not in a huge bunch of people)? However for me the true joyful bursts are quiet, small, and personal.