Keep Stretching!

Yes – it’s almost September!

And I’ve been STRETCHING all summer long! I’ve taken every advantage to enjoy the summer as we continue to move forward in our world. Below are a few stories and photos I wanted to share with you.

The end of July I chaired a lobster roll luncheon for our church in Maine. It was the first event for the church in a number of years and it was so exciting to have people of all ages come together. My parents and friends pitched in and my mother looked stunning in yellow!

The first weekend in August David and I had our annual talent show! We’ve been doing this for seven years (canceled the one in 2020) now. When David told me in 2015 that he wanted to host a BBQ for his friends and family, I suggested the talent show. (I know – some of you are not surprised:) The kids and parents all perform on the stage in the driveway and a great time is had by all – no devices!

The second weekend in August we attended a wedding postponed since 2020! Turns out all those dancing moments in the living room during COVID really made David a rock star on the dance floor!

On August 18th, I traveled to Nashville for the Toastmasters International Conference – my first live convention since 2019. I landed at @ 9:10am and arrived at my hotel @ 9:45am. The Gaylord Opry was able to check me in to my room by 10:00am. I set up my laptop on top of the ironing board and ottoman and was ready for my interview @ 10:45am! I was beyond thrilled at the possibilities ahead – recognizing that I was indeed able to STRETCH and design my career path to move in this world. Click here to see the quick interview.

I love being an aunt, and with four nieces and eight nephews with an age span of 20 years, there is never a dull moment! Ella came to NYC to visit, Evan came with his girlfriend to study Jujitsu, Shannon got engaged, Luke began his first year in college and Shane made the JV soccer team!

Amidst all the fun, I am highly aware that many are also struggling. We have community members who are managing with illness themselves or that of a loved one. We have lost members of our community. We have members who are settling into new homes, new living arrangements and new states. And we have members who struggle with isolation, loneliness and depression. None of this is lost on my heart.

As Labor Day approaches, I always have a bit of sadness – the end of summer. When I was a kid, we always left Maine to go back to school on Labor Day, saying goodbye to summer friends and long days playing outside. But for the remainder of the week, I’m going to continue to STRETCH and live into every ray of sunshine.

So yes – I’ve been STRETCHING in all ways and I certainly hope you have too! Please feel free to email or text me your summer photos! I’d love to hear from you! And for those who may be suffering, may you know you are not alone.

Thank you for the privilege of being a guest in your inbox. I’m looking forward to an exciting fall season and hope you will join me at an upcoming session or event!