TWO HIBISCUS BLOOMS

TWO HIBISCUS BLOOMS

Life has been exciting and challenging. I was going to add the word "recently" to that last sentence, but came to realize that for me it has always been thus.

I am still having a little difficulty coping with the end of a marriage I thought was forever. With every ending is a new beginning. My sons have drawn me closer and as a result, my life is even fuller than it had been.

On the personal level, due to health problems with my children, I have had a chance to take on enhanced grandmother duties. One of my grandsons has named me GrandBa. When he speaks of me he refers to me as GrandMa, but he calls me GrandBa. Oh, well. As I have become more open, I have discovered more friends than I realized I had. I am discovering me. My life, like many I am sure, is divisable into four stages.

In stage one, I was someone's child. My grandmother made all of the major decisions for me.

In stage two, I was someone's mother. My decisions were guided by what was best for my children.

In stage three, I was someone's wife. My decisions were all aimed toward what would be best for us.

I am now in stage four. My decisions are pretty much what will be best for me. But in doing so, I am actually better for others. I have given myself permission to be the real me, always.

I have no one to tell me not to do something. I am therefore taking on a bit more than most would deem wise. For me, it is the right amount.

At present, I am expanding my teaching institute and taking on three new teachers. The Acme Institute is growing. It may soon give birth to the Acme Academy. Stay tuned for more on that. It is possible, we may expand and be more than just one of Michigan's top real estate schools.

I have been asked to teach for the country's news auction school. Dan Stone Auction School which will be conducte at Monroe Community College in March. In addition to being Chairman of the Michigan Board of Auctioneers, I am chairman of the Legislative Committee of the Michigan State Auctioneers Association. I am amazed that throughout two moves and many house cleanings, I never through out information that I would need to write a curicullum for an auctioneer class. I kept it all.

For leisure I am President of the Traverse City Parrot Head Club and working on our summer fundraiser to benefit those less fortunate. I am also taking over the position of Gate Chairman for the Original Dulcimer Players Fun Festival at Evart.

I was doing grandma duties in Saginaw last week when we received the wonderful news that my son's pancreatic tumor is non-malignant and very operable. Praise the Lord. He will have to have it surgically removed and remain in the hospital a full week. Recovery will not be quick, but I am assured all will be well. I have been contacted by many friends who are sharing in my prayers for him. I have quite a few non-traditional religious friends, so I should say "prayers and good thoughts".

Yesterday, I came home to a worderful sunny afternoon. As if to celebrate and say "Life is Good," I noticed my hibiscus had two blooms. It has five more ready to go any day. All summer long, it only gives me one a day. I second its motion. Life is Good!!! All in favor, respond by saying, "Aye!!!"