What I am Thankful for!

I had an incredible week in Arizona. My travels brought many gifts wrapped as people, nature, and experiences. There was no past or future...only the present. Thanks to everyone who was a part of this wonderful week. Here are some pics of my experience and the people that made it special.

The magic started with a 3 day retreat in Tucson with my Reiki master Barbara Van Diest. I love these get-aways as it gives me time to rejuvenate and learn from my spiritual teacher. We even designed a 3-day Reiki master training to be held in Tucson so that my future students get time with both of us in this healing environment.
Each morning started with a walk into Sabino Canyon. Some of my best A-ha moments come during these walks. God's work is present everywhere in the canyon.

Here is Hippo rock. Critters and Deer are common along the paths. Beauty is everywhere. It was a wonderful pre-lude to Thanksgiving with the family in Phoenix.

Next stop was Dad's. I took the shuttle to Phoenix where my dad and stepmom, Lynn picked me up and took me to dinner. After dinner I joined dad by singing some favorite songs from his era. He and Mom sing in their church choir and for the old folks in Sun City West. Here I am trying to hit the high notes by raising my eyebrows. It turned that dad was recording the whole thing on cassette tape. We sounded like a comedy act between the songs and jokes. It was priceless.
I joined my Dad and Lynn at church on Thanksgiving morning to hear them sing in the choir. What a treat this was. Their voices blended so beautifully that it brought tears to my eyes. Their music fills you in such a way that you know you are in the presence of God and his angels.

My Dad and Mom

Thanksgiving evening we went to my dad's, wife's, sister's, husbands, son's house for dinner. Did you follow that? This description started at church Thursday morning as my dad tried to explain to a friend where we were going for Thanksgiving.

My Stepmom, Lynn with her niece Roxanne and sister Liz. They call Liz Aunt Belle...I used to think they were saying Aunt Bill so in fun she is now my Aunt Bill.

Liz aka Aunt Bill with her step-son the Chef, Dustin.

David and me in front of the Eiffel Tower, painted by Liz's husband Jerry...the chef Dustin's dad.

Dustin and his dad, Jerry...Aunt Bill's husband...and the one who painted the Eiffel Tower.

David and Mom.

Dad and me at the Eiffel Tower.

Roxanne and Michelle admiring the Turkeys. One was baked and the other was getting prepped to be deep fried.

Dad lounging after dinner watching football and relaxing.

David and I with Chef Dustin. Watching him cook and eating his food was an incredible experience. It was a Thanksgiving that we were all excited to be a part of and will remember with the fondest of memories. Thanks Dustin...let us know where you are cooking next!

Saturday night my original mom's family came over for lasagne and karaoke. From L - R in the front row...my favorite cousins, Steve, Gloria, Raul, and Virginia with my favorite Auntie Esther.

Auntie playing the keyboards. She turned 80 this year and is still the party girl!

Lynn with my Superman, David

My dad and I performing another duet.

Saying goodbye to Mom and Dad was not easy. They are off to sing in the choir again. I love you both very much! Thanks for making this such a special weekend!