My teacher

When I got divorced and moved out of my house I lived in Birch Bay for about six months. It was during this time I met someone important in my life. Her name is Maureen Kelly and she's had a dramatic impact on my life. I would like to say that I'm a changed man, but that's not really true. I'm the same person, but with some new skills in my life toolbox that my teacher has shared with me.

I got to go to her yoga class today live in-person for the first time since Covid hit. That hug felt good. I had the honor of taking her out to lunch after class and we were able to share some stories and update each other on our lives.

We can never know what's going on in the life of a stranger we happen across. I can only hope that I pay the kindness and understanding forward that Maureen showed to me. When I was hurting and most vulnerable she listened to me with a caring ear and helped me down a better path. I'll never forget our first phone conversation. She heard my pain and guided me towards the meditation app Indight Timer. Some of the best money I've ever spent. Who would have guessed that sitting on the floor and breathing while contemplating who I really want to be was the path to a better more meaningful life? Platitudes and hyperbole? Not so much. That's how I really feel about this.

This coming weekend I get to spend four straight days golfing with my buddies Steve, Brian, and Tony. We've been doing a similar trip the past five or six years. This year we're returning to Spokane. We'll play the Links at Moses Pointe on the way over, Indian Canyon and Hangman Valley while in Spokane, and lastly Apple Tree in Yakima on our return trip. I've been hit and miss recently with my game, but after a short driving range session this afternoon I feel dialed in. My gut tells me there's going to be some wagering on the weekend. Confidence is high. I'm taking these boys down to the woodshed for a beatin'.