Well, that's progress, right?

Apparently I haven't gotten back to regular posting yet. I am trying, honest. I think about blogging; sometimes I even log in and start typing, and ... pfffft. Nothing.

I used to love this, my little blog. I used to love coming here, posting pictures of my family or our travels, talking about the people and things I love, ranting occasionally (okay, more than occasionally) about companies with poor customer service, people I encountered at school, at the grocery store, or in traffic, and poor spelling and grammar everywhere.

I still love it, I guess. I just don't have my mojo back. But I'm trying.

So in the last month, I have attended weekly group grief counseling sessions. And I think it's helping. I have volunteered in my kids' classrooms consistently. I convened my DFL precinct caucus and discovered again what a cool group of people live in my neighborhood. I was the youngest there by about 25 years. They came up with resolutions on immigration (offering a path to citizenship for everyone regardless of their legal status); a repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell; denouncing the recent Supreme Court ruling on campaign donations; and calling for Universal Health care with a single payer. These are people who, if you saw them on the street, you might assume they were conservative grandmothers and grandfathers -- instead they are all aging hippies who truly believe in the power of government to raise people up out of poor circumstances. Inspiring.

Also this month, the last one of my 30s, I have been receiving birthday cards. They started January 31, when I got 2 in the mail from my friend Cara. Five more arrived Monday, and each subsequent day they have been trickling in, 2 or 3 at a time. I believe I'm up to 15 now. All from Cara. How completely awesome is that? Later in the week I'll scan and share a few. I LOVE them. :)

My friend Roxane and I have been getting together on Wednesdays at her house for project days. Thus far I have worked on that apron from 2008 (not done yet, but I will get there) and some scrapbooking projects, including a cute mini album I will post later in the week.

And Miss Teresa, that completely sweet girl, sent me a birthday card and gift card as well.

I am slowly re-emerging. I still curl up in bed some afternoons because sleep is an escape from my sadness, but I am also slowly coming back to some of the things I love; I am crafting, I am spending time with friends, I am reading (!) again.

The other day I was walking from my car into school and I felt it -- even smelled it. Spring. It was there. The air was cold, but only just below freezing, and there was an earthy edge to it. Like everything was waking up from its winter nap, ready to burst forth and remind all of us what alive means. The warmth, the sun, the colors, the promise of spring are coming.

And I think maybe I am ready to burst forth, too.

In living well- living with a sense of adventure, a sense of purpose, a sense of hope - I can honor my friendship and move forward.

And that, my friends, is truly progress.

Thanks for sticking around through this.