Uncle.

I give. I am absolutely certain that I'm not the only person who thinks there are simply not enough hours in a day. I'm also certain that many of you reading this probably lead far busier lives than I could possibly even imagine. 

Being away from home for 2 weeks out of every month and attempting to balance a new career, two families, friends, a relationship, planning a wedding, and numerous life obligations has been an unbelievable challenge to say the least (how lucky am I to have so many blessings that require such balancing). Lately I've been relentlessly reminded how terrible I've been at balancing these blessings and obligations since starting my new job. With that said, I feel I owe many and most of you an apology. 

For all of the events and occasions I have missed the past 6 months-- the birthdays, BBQs, break-ups, coffee catch-ups, wine nights, movie dates, moving days, bike rides, milestone celebrations and more-- I am truly sorry if my absence has let you down. I am still learning to balance. 

Life- and consequently my schedule- will continue to change, as it seems to do for all of us. My balancing skills are under constant construction and development and I hope they will improve as life continues to inevitably challenge my strengths and weaknesses. I guarantee I will drop the ball...probably more than once and maybe even more than one at a time. Such is life. Expect more apologies. I will graciously hope for your continued understanding and forgiveness. 

Considering my travel and work schedule the next month, unfortunately my absentees will get far worse before they get better. I boarded my flight this morning with a heavy heart, counting the number of friends and family I didn't get a chance to see this past week. I'll be back in Calgary for a week mid September and hope to make it up to those of you who I must unfortunately continue to miss. 

Without all of you, I am not me. Many thank you's (in advance) for your support, forgiveness and understanding. 

These thoughts and my words are dedicated to you busy folks who seem to flawlessly juggle life and all it entails. Please teach me. 

To one of the best friends I have ever had. Happy birthday Jord. You've had my back without fail - thank you, especially for the times I had no one else. I love you. I wish I could celebrate with you today.  

And to my mother. A master juggler, who raised four, wild, very active children and lives to tell the stories- it is you who I owe the biggest apology. 

With a heavy but love filled heart, 

J.

5 Years - 4 Legs and a Tail

Who would have thought that a four legged, wet nosed, tail wagging, hairy little blonde friend could teach a person so much about life. Today the little fur ball that I refer to as "Goodie Four Paws" turns FIVE (thirty-five)! It's truly unbelievable how quickly 5 years of life comes and goes...

  

For some odd reason I've always related the number 5 to progression and the passing of time. Strange and random I know. Growing up I thought...yup...by 25 I'll have this whole "life" thing completely figured out. Pretty sure I made my first 5 year plan at the age of 5. Perhaps I'm on the right track but it's funny how time and age changes a persons perspective.

 

This adorable not-so-little creature has been a constant source of joy in my life the past 5 years. Here's to you Bud--  you've taught me more about friendship than some who stand upright and only on 2 legs. Your unwavering loyalty and unending selflessness inspires and amazes me.
 

With love and unlimited milk bones,

J.