pride

Today was the annual Pride Parade in Vancouver. I had to work, or you would have seen this space filled with photos of the festivities instead of this home-made photo designed from skittles. I have a lot of passion for this topic because some of the best friends I've had in my life are gay/lesbian. My dear friend Scott passed away almost four years ago in a terrible car accident at the tender age of 39 . He "came out" in his early 30s. When he felt the time was right for him, he told each one of us in our circle of friends individually. Everyone embraced his news and were so happy for him. Our only wish for him was that he had done it sooner. But, it is a personal journey that takes each individual a lot of soul searching before they feel ready to embrace that yes, this is who they truly are. There is the fear of being rejected by friends, by family, or by society. But once he said the words out loud, that he was gay, it was like a weight he had carried around was finally gone. I saw such a change in him - he was truly living authentically. Even though his life was cut terribly short, I am still so thrilled that he got to live his later years openly and honestly. Not a day goes by where I don't miss him. I was the last person to kiss his cheek and tell him I loved him before he left this earth. I feel forever connected to him. He was a gentle soul that touched a lot of lives and taught all of our friends the value in being authentic. Last year, I also had the privilege and honour of attending my first lesbian wedding. One of my best friends got married, here's a link to the post: F & J Wedding. When I look at their wedding photos, or see them in person, I don't view them as different at all (except for the fact they are drop dead gorgeous).  To me they are just my beloved friends who found happiness. I will never understand how anyone can think otherwise. Some people like to live their lives in constant judgement of others for their sex, race, income level, etc. I'm just glad that I don't befriend people like that. All I think is that people should live happily and authentically and those who matter will applaud them on. 

what makes your heart sing?

Everyone has at least one thing that makes them truly feel like they are reaching the depths of who they are. I'm not talking about a romantic partner, I'm talking about a hobby that embodies your essence. For myself, that hobby has always been dancing. There's something about moving to amazing music that makes every fibre of my being feel alive. I love that so many people carry different passions that define them. In our circle of friends, passions range from horseback riding, fishing, mountain biking, running, hockey, painting, cooking, motorcycles.....just that little extra that adds to the unique definition of who they are. I'm definitely not saying that people aren't well rounded and don't thrive on a number of interests, but there's usually that one that stands above all else that truly makes our hearts sing.

As soon as I deliver this baby, I can't wait to sign up for dance classes again. I remember what it feels like, lining up backstage, hearing the murmur of the crowd, the lights suddenly go out, the music starts and all you can hear are the quiet shuffles of dancers' feet taking their places on stage  - it is a truly electric feeling. When the curtain lifts, you can only see the spotlights. You lose yourself in the music and hope that the audience can feel the passion you are expressing. Here's a few moments that capture why I love dance so much, I hope you enjoy them!

this photograph

The League of Extraordinary Dancers

this hip hop dance

these two men dancing

dance about a woman's struggle with cancer

this creative group routine

this contemporary piece to one of my all time favourite songs

the road well travelled

Happy weekend from our home to yours! 

summer patio dining

Whenever we have a good news report about the baby, we like to do something special together to celebrate. I hope the sun was shining on your evening tonight! 

Amelia

I had the pleasure of meeting (squeezing) my friend's new kitten "Amelia" yesterday. I'm in love. 

Camping: Manning Park July 22-24

Camping is definitely one of those things where there are those who do and those who don't. Those of us who do camp, love it - time spent outdoors, sleeping under the stars in sleeping bags, hiking, cooking over a camp stove, waking up with the sun, sitting by the fire, roasting marshmallows..... I often wonder if your love of camping depends on what you grew up on. I was at a dinner the night before where the napkins had written on them, "I love not camping," which makes me smile. I get it. There are definitely people who don't want to use outhouses and prefer the comforts of their own beds, and I totally respect that. I'm just glad that my little family enjoys the outdoors as much as I do.

365 catch up - July 21 Yayas and yoyos

Beautiful Summer night, dining on amazing food al fresco with a hilarious group of people? These are my favourite nights.