2011 Focus Word - Part 2 (2nd post for today)

Recently I wrote up the post on my focus word for 2011. My dad read it & brought something to my attention...something which I really hadn't thought of, but does fit.

This is the email I received from him:

Don't forget about "embrace", the noun. It's what you can give Casinodad & the Munchkins, and I don't mean just physically hugging them. Give them a spiritual, psychological, whimsical, heartfelt embrace as well. That means wrapping your love, your very self, around them, not merely your arms.

So how can I do this? The first thing that comes to mind is prayer! I can pray for them throughout the day...as I prepare their meals, do their laundry, clean the house, etc.

I can be there when they need me (& even when they don't think they need me).

I can laugh more & yell less.

Each night, before I go to bed, I check on the munchkins...making sure they are covered up, not too hot or cold, & sleeping in a comfortable position. (And if I go to bed before doing this, I can't fall asleep because I feel something is missing.) Sometimes, I linger a bit & say a little prayer for them. Last night, I gently placed my hand on each of their heads & offered a silent prayer of thankfulness.

And I can wrap them in a loving embrace each time I hug & kiss them.

So, I guess it really comes down to the fact that "EMBRACE" overlaps itself as a noun & a verb...both of which can be my focus for the upcoming year!