e=mc2

sometimes time moves so slowly and we ache to get on with it. sometimes time moves so quickly, we are left stunned to catch our breath and absorb what just happened. time is relative.

when we want something, time can be painful. we can be anxious, angry or full of fear while we wait for something we want to come to us. crossing out days on a calendar, tapping our feet with frustration, snapping our fingers to get someone's attention. trying to control what cannot be controlled.

when we are patient, we can see the horizon. we notice what is unfolding around us and we can be prepared.
everything comes in its own time. sometimes we are ready, sometimes we are surprised. either way, it is happening...now.

there is no reality in tomorrow or even yesterday. they are as a dream...hopes or regrets...sweet memories or anxieties...they are unreal. real is now. right where you are...what are you doing with it?

***matisse, the acrobats

family of choice

to the outside world we all grow old.  but not to brothers and sisters.  we know each other as we always were.  we know each other's hearts.  we share private family jokes.  we remember family feuds and secrets, family griefs and joys. 

we live outside the touch of time. 

                                                                                                        -clara ortega 

this year my family is celebrating christmas in january. we are holding off the big family party until my sister arrives stateside with her children and we can all be together. this way, patient adults can wait and the kids, to whom christmas really matters, can get a double-dose of fun (read: presents!). while i am thrilled to see my sister again so soon, it is not without a little sadness that i will not be with my family-of-origin for the holiday. instead one of my oldest and closest friends is coming to stay with me and we will have a proper swedish julafton together. a family-of-choice holiday, if you will.

often our own families can pose challenges and ruffle feathers at this time of year. while it is true, no one knows you in quite the same way as your own flesh and blood, perhaps no one knows the best you better than your family of choice--your nearest and dearest friends. what could be better than spending the holidays with people that share that ease and comfort, that secret unspoken language you develop in your youth and are lucky enough to continue to share in the passing years. i am so looking forward to the comfort and warmth of living outside the touch of time in the coming week.

*photo courtesy of awesome people hanging out together