MUDDIFIED

As I write this, I liken my life to a big bowl of mud – so much has been happening the last two months I can’t see through it all and certainly haven’t had time to write about it or hold it in my hand to look at it.

Well, that’s not entirely true; I’ve written bits and pieces of it, not really spending too much time on descriptions. But like character development, the devil is in the details.

My oldest son got married. He waited longer than any of my other children or their friends, making sure he was only going to do it once. His beloved has a beautiful little 4 year old daughter, so I am happily a Nana once again. His father and I, high school sweethearts, silently danced together and each thanking God he didn't make the same mistakes we did. All tour respective off shoots of families were there, ex-wives and ex-husbands -and although it lent itself to good natured ribbing, we all were convinced history would not repeat itself.

The ceremony itself was short and was held not in a church. Years ago this would have bothered me greatly; however, I have learned to look at things through my children’s eyes these past years, as their lives are not mine anymore.

Words of love were touchingly recited. But this ceremony was different than any other I’ve attended. For not only did my son pledge his love for his wife to be, he also pledged his love and to cherish a commitment to her daughter, soon to be his as well. A gold locket with a heart was placed around her neck, and as he bent down to put it on her, all the eyes holding back tears now let them flow freely. It was one of the most touching moments I have ever witnessed, and I am so proud of the man he has become. His heart is true and he has followed it all his life. I was not as wise at his age; I don’t know if I will ever be.

Earlier in the year (March) I worked a book signing event at a Borders Books in Virginia, and was surprised to find myself located in the children’s area. Usually you can find me either in the front or the back of the store, while this was way off to the side, next to dragons and Sponge Bob, and part of a school book fair. The book did just as well, though, and I was not surprised to hear the elementary school kids ask for ‘read one more’ when I had finished each chapter. Memories of my own babies (whom the stories are based upon) rose to the top of my consciousness, and I had to watch the catch in my voice when I read the story of “Jacob.” It seemed like yesterday that it was them who were sitting cross legged on the floor before me.

Since I was in Colorado to attend the wedding, I asked my publisher to schedule a book signing at the local Barnes & Noble Booksellers, to promote the book that got me on the literary radar. It was the third event in a year long mini-tour we’ve developed, promoting George & Bob Stories before my next book is released in early 2010.

This event was a little different (in fact, no two are the same) where the CRM had me right up front as customers walked into the store. There was no reading and I sat there, smiling, as they walked in. They had no choice but to stop at my table, and I think that was a great selling point.
The highlight for me was taking pictures of families who had purchased my books, and strangers at that. I laughed to myself as they snapped the shot, remembering when it was only friends and relatives that bought the things.
I’ve begun teaching a class on writing memoirs entitled tongue-in-cheek “A Course in Memories.” From 4:30 to 6:30 PM on a Monday night, I sit and listen to my 7 students read their writings on specific “memory triggers” I have assigned them. The response has been overwhelming and quite awe inspiring for me. To hear some of the things these women have been through is truly miraculous. The “baby” of the group is 77 years old and I believe the oldest is 92. This is only the third class and already I am entranced. They are excited themselves to be writing them and sharing them with those who have undoubtedly been their neighbors for 60+ years. I can’t wait for them to return the next weeks. I also can’t wait to take a picture of the first “graduating class.”

This past week has also found me interviewing two women from very different situations, but whose connection is that of a dog. One is a young woman of 16 who trains seeing- eye Guide Dogs and has won the Youth of the Year award from our town Chamber of Commerce. Home schooled, she spends all day with Beau, her Yellow Lab, and together they learn what is needed to become someone else’s eyes. The commitment and the sacrifice of this teen is truly inspiring – she can only do what Beau can do – so if Beau is afraid of stairs (which he is) she has to find a way to get upstairs without them. Either that or go home. How do you not get attached, being with him 24-7? I asked her. “I remind myself that I am doing this for someone else, that I am helping someone in need. It’s not about me or what I want.” Another one with such wisdom. Anyone who doubts the compassion of this generation should walk a day in my shoes.



The other woman touched by a canine is a mother of 3 children, 2 of which are autistic. The dog, a Golden Labrador, uses the strength of its body to calm its master an 8 year old who has run off more times than anyone can count. Laying on him when he is stressed and licking his face when he is frightened, it is the ultimate in companionship, for this may be the only friend a child like this can have. Taught also to seek and rescue, the animal can locate his scent in a moments notice, perhaps saving his life or return him to safety should he run off. I sit and listen to his mother explain how they learned two of their children are autistic, and all I can think is God bless you, I don’t know how you survive that...

All in all, its been quite a mixture of awe and heartfelt love these few weeks. Via weddings, book signings and wonder doggies. I feel honored and oh so blessed to be here for it all.

And its only April.