We enjoyed a girls trip to Seattle, WA last month - my sister, daughter and I. There was the usual parasailing, kayaking, sight-seeing, and lots of walking. Along with the wonderful bonding and sharing.

While there, I also found my passion - sailing! My dream now is to move back to Erie, PA and own a 29' Hinckley sailboat. Ah, now that would be heaven....my husband and I sailing on Lake Erie.

After all my travels, I'm still convinced Erie, PA is the best of the best. An undiscovered, gem. A hidden jewel. The best-kept secret of the northeast.

I'm heading to Erie on the 17th. It's the best time of year to be in this wonderful city! Cool lake breezes on warm summer days! The smell of freshly cut grass teases the nose while the song of seagulls plays in the background.

Heaven!

Find the Joy

Noise all around. Moving, continually moving. People coming and going. Demands, requests, conversation. Up, down. Bend, lift. Work, drive, shop. Technology advancing, better, faster, don't stop!

Pause....the cheerful twitter of a sparrow. The bark of a dog. The monotonous purring of a mower. Simplicity. Joy.....

Erie, PA - 2009 Dynamic Dozen Women in History

Congratulations to my big sister, Barb Ertl (pictured)! She's been selected as one of the 2009 Dynamic Dozen Women in History in Erie. I'm so very proud of her!

The awards are taking place on April 14th.....unfortunately, the same date of my daughter's 25th birthday. What's a good mother/sister to do? Of course, my daughter comes first -- even if it's only 10 minutes together, she wants me to be here in NC......however, my sister thinks that birthdays come each year while her award is once in a lifetime....

Such a problem, having two very special people celebrating separate special events on the same day!

Wishing everyone a peaceful new year!