My life. My liberty. My pursuit of happiness.

Over the past week or so, I've realized the following:

1. I have some amazing friends. Sometimes we agree - sometimes we cry together - sometimes we hurt each other - sometimes we laugh hysterically.....but we always find a way to appreciate each other and our differences....and we continue to cultivate those aspects of our friendships that brought us together in the first place. I am beyond blessed.

2. If I had children, I'm pretty sure I'd f*ck things up beyond repair.....and if I ever try to tell you that you're doing it wrong, please remind me that I have no damn idea what I'm talking about. I can't even imagine how difficult it is to raise a child.

3. I don't know what Amy and I did to deserve our little faith community.....these people came along when I didn't believe I'd ever call another church "home" again. Their very existence brought love into my life. I am grateful for the smiles, the hugs, the crazy little emails throughout the week, the nights of sewing and ironing, the shared meals, the laughter, and the total acceptance. It took me 40+ years to really learn the meaning of "community."

4. It takes only one small action from just a couple of people to create a huge amount of change. It's been a good reminder that if I simply continue to live openly and honestly, my life can actually create change. And that's no small thing.

5. You can't buy coffee (or anything, really) if you don't remember to bring money.

6. I fell in love with someone who comes from good people. Very good people.

7. This Marriage Amendment thing is difficult. And it's brewing a lot of hate on both sides of the issue. I can appreciate good passion, but not when that passion turns into hate. I'd love to see the "vote no" people stop stealing the "vote yes" signs.....and I'd love to see the "vote yes" people stop stealing the "vote no" signs. Issues like this can create amazing dialogue, but screaming at the opposition only spreads hate.....and I don't want any part of that. There is no room for that kind of hatred in my life with Amy. No room at all.

8. I love my life. I love my love.