{ A Spark }

There is in every true woman’s heart a spark of heavenly fire, which lies dormant in the broad daylight of prosperity; but which kindles up and beams and blazes in the dark hour of adversity.

The spark.

It comes and goes.

For months my spark has been slight. Barely there.

Just writing about where Wayne is … how the children are …

I can feel the knot in my shoulders tighten. And words escape me.

And just when I want to give up and never get out of my yoga pants…

Our friends and family remind me of that spark.

Gently push me to find it. Re-light it.

Find the blaze needed to guide us all through this trial.

Find enough light to make the hurt a little less …

The reminders come in verses from the bible.

A hug.

A call.

Last night, a mailbox FLOODED with love from Matilda Jane Trunk Keepers.

Surprises from far away Candy Stores (Shelby. Goodness I how I adore you for bringing such huge smiles to the kids!)

Christmas pictures from long ago from my soul sisters in Kansas (taped to the fridge right now …)

You name it.

Friends and family rallying around my chickens.

Around Wayne.

Around me.

And I lay awake at night thinking about how I could possibly thank everyone who has taken care of us through thick and thin.

And I thought of this idea from something similar Matilda Jane is doing:

Paying it forward.

Please email me at valkoop@mac.com and tell me about a person or a family that you would like to nominate for a full blown photoshoot – complete with all digital images. Maybe someone who could not other wise have access to some captured memories…just tell me a story of the nominated person and be sure to leave me your email address and I will contact you for their information if your nomination is chosen.

You can nominate anyone you want … I will find a way to make any location work …

Thinking there is no better way to find my spark than to start giving back.

Thank you. Each and every one of  you.

There is NO way we’d be able to get through these days with out you.

Now, tell me.

Tell me of someone who needs me.

I’m there.