Finding Freedom in Material Possessions

I have never been an advocate of owning expensive possessions because I felt, and still do feel, that is not the material things you have that define who you are as a person. However, as my purchases become larger and more lavish, I justify the expense of possessing these items by the freedom and happiness they cultivate.

Our newest "piece of serenity" that we added to our ever growing collection was a 2010 Harley Davidson Street Bob. Since I was a child I was raised on these American Made Machines, taught to respect the road and the rider. Some of my fondest memories as a girl came from riding through the mountains with my father, clutching his thick leather jacket and feeling the whipping wind all around my tiny, little body. I witnessed first hand the community of misjudged men and women, who under their harsh and alternative exteriors, were some of the sweetest and most loyal people I have ever encountered.

It is no surprise to me that the man I marry would share a similar appreciation and passion for these beautiful and timeless motorcycles. There is an overwhelming sense of joy I feel from watching the smile stretch across Jerry's face when he rides his Harley. I not only adore the ritualistic way he prepares for each journey, but also the way his cheeks are flushed red when he comes home from his ride.

As ironic as it may seem, spending money on the things that truly bring light into your life, is a great way to reward yourself for the hard work of the daily grind. I wonder what is next...

20TEN Roots

It has been well over a year since I have last posted an entry, and I must admit, I have missed this creative outlet.

Over the last 13 months, the affirmations I worked so hard at becoming reality, are now tangible. One of the most gratifying accomplishments of 2009 was the purchase of our first home. My fiancé and I decided it was time for us to really build a solid foundation for our future and the best way to do that was to invest in property.

Last March we set forth on our uphill journey towards home ownership. After 5 long and grueling months, which in reality felt like an eternity, we managed to accomplish what seemed impossible to us before. From the moment the keys were placed into our hands, home ownership has proven to be the most rewarding experience we have ever gone through together. Years before I met my husband-to-be, my head was filled with notions that my personal freedom would be jeopardized & my spirit trampled, if I was to ever lock myself into a huge commitment, such as marriage or a home mortgage. I now see that these were the whispers of jaded person, who for countless reasons, feared being happy and feared the opportunity to break vicious cycles.

In all honesty, my home has been and still is a constant learning experience. Whether it was practicing patience while dealing with a chaotic real estate market, adjusting to to "adult" worries such as property taxes and insurance, or allowing myself to embrace the wife and mother I will become within these walls, my home is the catalyst of these major life changes.

"It takes hands to build a house, but only hearts can build a home".