Pausing... a brief reflection from Vienna

Anyone who knows me well knows that I've been traveling in Europe for the last two weeks. It is an adventure and dream come true where I occasionally have to stop, pinch myself, and ask 'how in the world did I get here?' There is so much I want to share... but today I offer a brief pause...

"It's silly to anthropomorphize bread, but I love the fact that it needs to sit quietly, to retreat from touch and noise and drama, in order to evolve." Sage/Jodi Picoult - "The Storyteller"

Here in Vienna with my friends John and Christine—away from my family and US friends—I've slipped into a lovely morning rhythm of awakening and chatting via text with my husband and children. It's an odd conversation as they close their day and I begin mine. I miss my furry cat and his reassuring purrs. I imagine Bill's photographic eye and where it might land as I stroll through these gorgeous cities... Last night the light reflected on the Viennese buildings in the most stunning and soft way.

I wish I could stroll with my daughter and have her arm tucked inside mine. I imagine exploring the Klimt museum and the ever-present street art with my son, but for now... I am here... in this moment in time... cozy in my pj's, city sounds drifting through my open window and Earl Grey tea by my side. For now, this is home.

I will create pauses where I'm able and luxuriate in the awesomeness of this adventure just like the rising opera music and the clip clop of horses outside my window.

I am here now. Pausing where I am. Grateful. Grateful. Grateful.

How will you pause today? For what are you grateful?