Welcome 2013

Happy New Year to you, each one!  2012 was a special year for us and everything felt new in many regards.  We watched a little girl grow from infancy right before our eyes.  We continued to find our footing along our path of parenthood.  We moved house.  We started new jobs.

2013 feels fresh but it also feels like we have found a groove.  More than ever, we are feeling brave enough to dream big dreams and sink our teeth into this good life.
 
I thought I would include a piece that I wrote a couple of years ago.  It was one of those rare moments when I awoke from my sleep with words that simply had to be written before I could return to bed.  I hope they are encouraging to you as you begin this new year.  Let's step into 2013 with great hope in our hearts for all that is in store.  May you feel wonderfully alive in the days to come.

Love,
Erika {Arden & Zoey}

A Message From The Universe

When I think about those who have had the greatest influence in my life, I can't help but note what it is that makes me want to be just like them.

They have the capacity to expand and enlarge your heart and your life. They champion your cause and make you feel like it is worthwhile and worth fighting for.

When I think of those who have done the most harm in my life I think of the sharpness of their words; how I've felt small; how my bundle of insecurities so easily rise to my throat and fall to the pit of my stomach.

If I could do anything in this world, I would want to champion your cause; to make you feel larger and greater; to sing and shout, "You are a bright light, now shine for the whole world to see. Your cause is worth fighting for and your cause will change the world."

Sometimes we need to be reminded of things. Tonight, as the frost is settling in and the street lights flicker, as the evening fire sweeps in around my feet and the winter darkness waves through shadows of trees and branches, I need to remind you of this one thing:

If I could bottle up all the the love in the universe and pour it into your heart, I would.

Be kind to others and be kind to yourself.
You are loved and you are magnificent.