☆date CE.2022.04.25

Falling in love with someone only takes a moment. Learning to love someone truly takes a lifetime.

›

☆date CE.2022.04.20

Please remember, no matter how hard your circumstance, do all you can to never give up on family. Advocacy for equity in my son's life continues to be a long and worthwhile journey. 🕊

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☆date CE.2022.03.19

Sometimes, to truly move past a problem, we need to re-evaluate our expectations in a way that still fulfills our fundamental goal.

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☆date CE.2022.03.14

Does anyone else wish exercising empathic feelings had the added bonus of burning physical calories?
🤔
Just a thought❣

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☆date CE.2022.03.09

The strength in your bones, the love in your heart, the fibers of your being are not all that you have to lean on in this world.
🕊
Whenever possible, receive & give in a safe community - as you need not be alone throughout the trappings of this life❣

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☆date CE.2022.03.06

One of the best ways to fall through any professional or personal relationship is to expect yourself or the other to be "perfect".
🕊
Instead, let's be real and open with one another on the hard truths we encounter so that we can focus on mutual growth and good will❣

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☆date CE.2022.03.03

Sometimes, it takes more strength (and courage) to listen than it does to speak.

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☆date CE.2022.02.26

Truly ... serving others can be its own reward.

Your heart is too precious to only admire & protect itself❣

🤗
Look outward
... care & serve.

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☆date CE.2022.02.24

Please keep our brothers and sisters in Ukraine in your prayers. 🙏🏾

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☆date CE.2022.02.18

Don't let your conscience be held hostage.

Try to do the right thing ... even when inconvenient.

🕊

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☆date CE.2022.01.31

You can't force a caterpillar to fly ... until it's ready to fly.
🐛
With grace, time, and resilience, may each of your dreams fly❣️
🦋

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☆date CE.2022.01.27

If connection is our purpose in life, communication is the bridge to our purpose.
🤗🌎🕊

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☆date CE.2022.01.06

Something beautiful occured when speaking with my son today.

While Eloy & I were talking about how I've been trying to figure out recent flight delays and cancellations that's affecting our time together, I mentioned "I wish I could somehow wave a magic wand and change everything".

Without any pause, Eloy smiled and replied, "But, you're not the fairy. Lynnette would be the fairy!" ✨

I'm so thankful Eloy continues to have room in his heart to adore and grow in relationship with his beloved Stepmom❣

While I know a Blended Family isn't always easy, thank you Lynnette Fraser for being present and being your magical self. 🤗

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☆date CE.2021.12.17

I'm learning to focus less on a Destination of Perfection and focus more on a Journey of Intention.

🕊

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☆date CE.2021.12.12

This is how I fight my battles:

✝️🙏🏾🎶💖🤗🤝🏾🕊

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☆date CE.2021.10.29

You are not your past.
You are not your mistakes.
You are not your fears.
🕊
You are you.

Gorgeous,
infinitely complex,
ever-growing,
you❣

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☆date CE.2021.10.21

It's not the wind itself that makes the sound, but what the wind touches.

🍃

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☆date CE.2021.10.17

It's such a beautifully sunny day to process hardship and practice renewal.
🤗🕊
You are so fundamentally worth the smile that wants to shine on your face❣

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☆date CE.2021.10.09

While mistakes can be painful, lessons can be providential.
🕊
Rather than let our worst mistakes tear us down, we can let their most powerful lessons build us up❣

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☆date CE.2021.10.06

On one hand, it can be comfortable & blinding to be in a community that always agrees with you.

On the other hand, it can be uncomfortable & enlightening to be in a community that sometimes disagrees with you.

🤔 ... in a safe manner, I choose to pursue the latter.

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☆date CE.2021.09.30

In life ... and especially with your children ... every little moment can become a silly little memory that lasts a lifetime, brings you closer together, and builds a relationship that helps you positively influence them in both the fun times and the hard times❣🕊

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☆date CE.2021.09.26

How precious can be the love in God we share, the authenticity of ourselves we give, and the perspective from each other we receive❣

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☆date CE.2021.09.24

So ... the brilliant way we've decided to enjoy our Friday night is to eat breakfast and watch Star Trek: Discovery.

🖖🏾😁🥞

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☆date CE.2021.09.15

Freedom without empathy is tyranny. Freedom without equity is fallacy.
🕊
For freedom to ring, we must relentlessly pursue harmony for all rather than accept power for a few.

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☆date CE.2021.09.14

Personally ... I believe God always puts something on our hearts to contribute & share with the world if we are willing to look for it.
🤗🌍
While there may be a time and a place to give it, trust that it is there to give❣

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☆date CE.2021.08.30

You know ... whenever I'm weeding the lawn, I feel extra space to meditate and weed my heart.
🌱💗🌿
Growing and cultivating your heart is an ongoing process. While at times grueling, being patient and intentional with yourself can ultimately change your life!

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☆date CE.2021.08.27

Sincerely ... I believe physical exercise can benefit your emotional health just as much as your physical health.
💪🏾😊💖
You are worth the discipline required to make it happen❣

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☆date CE.2021.08.02

Cheers to many more years!

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☆date CE.2021.08.01

Sometimes, it feels easier to believe the lie than accept the heartache (and ultimate relief) that comes with the truth.
🤗
But, guess what ... you're worth the truth❣🕊

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☆date CE.2021.07.23

🎊 One week from today is Eloy's birthday!

🕊 Every 3 years, I create a new Photo Book for Eloy to cherish and reference as he grows older. I fill it with wonderful memories and written encouragement.

🤗 Eloy has also appreciated all of you who have been kind to him and have kept him in your thoughts and prayers over the years.

✍🏾 Now, like 3 years ago, if you'd like to speak life and encouragement over Eloy for his birthday, you're welcome to message me your encouraging words for Eloy by Friday 7/30 and I'll print/add it to Eloy's 2nd Photo Book!

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☆date CE.2021.05.23

Racism & hate is bigger than each of us, but not bigger than all of us.

If we each are willing to endure uncomfortable growth, empathy & justice will be our collective sunrise.

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☆date CE.2021.05.05

Every stroke of genius, every spark of ideation, every hue of knowledge, every nugget of wisdom, have all been born out of a space where someone can feel safe & daring enough to learn something new. Let us honor those who steward such a space. Let us honor those who encourage the will for humanity to grow. Let us honor our teachers.

#teachersappreciationweek

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☆date CE.2021.05.01

You're not disposable.

You're monumental.

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☆date CE.2021.04.28

So ... has anyone else's 5 yr old insisted our Milky Way galaxy should have milk in it?

It just makes sense ... 😁

I'm having such a blast teaching Eloy about the universe. He currently also insists that he wants to be a scientist when he grows up. 🚀

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☆date CE.2021.03.26

When someone takes off their mask and reveals their pain, our hearts have an opportunity at that very moment to put down our agendas, embrace their vulnerability, and make a safe space for presence and healing.

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☆date CE.2021.03.22

When we as adults of differing backgrounds and views can pause long enough and listen deep enough to sense a piece of ourselves in one another ... our world can change little by little and our children can benefit from a safer tomorrow today.

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☆date CE.2021.03.14

So many in this world truly feel isolated and forsaken.

Every breath we take can be another brave step towards helping each other no longer feel alone.

🤗

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☆date CE.2021.02.08

🕊

Laying down the wants that actually undermine your needs can be worth picking up those needs that actually redefine your wants.

🤗

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☆date CE.2021.01.18

While acknowledging the pain of our society's current unrest, I'm so thankful to witness & help contribute to the multi-generational progress of our society's humanity towards each other.

While #MLK and countless others have helped us begin to face a brighter dawn, we each today must do our part to painstakingly move ourselves forward into that transformative light - where "mine" becomes "yours", "I" becomes "ours", and no one stands alone❣

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☆date CE.2021.01.06

Please pray for peace and safety for those in and around the U.S. Capitol. 🙏🏾

As a nation, we are at a precipice. 😢

Rather than walk in silence or destruction, we each hold the constructive power to bravely and actively influence empathy and civility in our society❣

I also dearly hope leaders across our nation unite more than ever before against disinformation and violence. 🕊

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☆date CE.2021.01.01

Happy New Year, family & friends! 🤗🎉

I hope you're able to give yourself some time to rest while discovering evermore reason to believe in yourself and what new opportunities you can pursue this new year with passion, perseverance, and some thoughtful planning❣

Personally, I'm planning to focus a bit more on music composition this year. Throughout so much loss and inequity over the past year, I've found more incentive to pause, to listen, to learn, to empathize, to speak, to sing, to connect, and to inspire others to do the same.

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☆date CE.2020.12.21

Making a difference in yourself or your community can be like gazing at the position of the moon.🌛

Even if a few minutes can seem not to change anything, know that every moment counts.

Keep moving forward❣🤗

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☆date CE.2020.12.14

Praying for safety & integrity over our United States Electoral College today.
🙏🏾

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☆date CE.2020.11.25

I've found gratitude to be a foundational pillar for healthy relationships and a healthy self.
So, this Thanksgiving season, I've started a tradition with Eloy of reflecting & expressing all we're thankful for from our loved ones and community.

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☆date CE.2020.11.06

I just want to say thank you to the thousands of election officials and vetted volunteers helping quickly & accurately parse through millions of ballots in this election.

As we patiently wait while tensions run high, they're working tirelessly (with little recognition) to ensure every vote counts.

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☆date CE.2020.11.03

Praying for grace & civility throughout our nation, especially today.
🙏🏾
#Vote2020

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☆date CE.2020.10.30

This election season, I'm choosing to stay informed, vote, and show compassion.

There is absolutely no reason for me to sacrifice my humanity (or the humanity of others) to stand for my beliefs.

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☆date CE.2020.10.25

Sometimes, it actually seems easier to empathize with others than to empathize with yourself.
🤗
Meet yourself where you're at.

‹ ›

☆date CE.2020.10.24

Don't give up ... no matter the pressures, influences, or ultimatums you may face.
🤗
Learn, reframe, believe, pursue your dreams.

‹ ›

☆date CE.2020.10.15

Reality is rarely binary.

The more we accept the innumerable spectrums we all live in, the more we can begin to say "I see you❣"

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☆date CE.2020.10.10

Remember ... one intentional step at a time.

🤗
You needn't shoulder your world in the blink of an eye.

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☆date CE.2020.10.02

Please pray with me that President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump recover from COVID-19. 🙏🏾

I know times have gotten quite political and even quite personal. In no way do I agree with many of the things he does. Nonetheless, every human life under God matters ... every human life. 🕊

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☆date CE.2020.09.20

Give every today its due and every tomorrow its vision.

You can choose to live beyond each yesterday.

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☆date CE.2020.09.16

Steadily making our house a home. 🏠💞🕊

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☆date CE.2020.09.15

Silence speaks.
Inaction impacts.
Ignorance influences.

You can always grow more than you know. So, be real, be open, be brave❣

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☆date CE.2020.09.03

You know when you're grieving and just want a hug from every friend you've ever met? Admittedly ... I'm there now. 😢
In an unexpected turn of events, Eloy's moving to Denver CO for a year ... maybe more. He leaves tomorrow. I'll miss him very much when he's not traveling back to visit once and a while.
We've both grown and made it through quite a lot together over the years. I pray we make it through this too. 🕊

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☆date CE.2020.08.28

When injustice blooms, must its shade block Hope's light? Must grief's mountain quell Love's might?
💓
"NO!" ... I cry into the night.
"NO!" ... "I'm not done fighting this good fight."

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☆date CE.2020.08.22

Our little Blended Family loves music❣✨🎶

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☆date CE.2020.08.16

Lying down while looking up at the sunroom ceiling, Eloy calmly explains "it looks like we're looking at the stars because of the black spots [Heartwood] on the wood". 😍...my boy. 🌌

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☆date CE.2020.08.02

In one of the biggest weekends of our lives, God has now blessed Lynnette & I with both a new house and marriage.
🏠💍
God is Good, All the time.
✨
All the time, God is Good.
🕊
Community, we can never thank you enough for each of your positive influences in our lives and for your care towards all of humanity. Be brave. Champion your identity. Do not fear failure. You are worth taking a leap of faith for in your journey to a brighter tomorrow. You are brilliant. You are priceless. You are loved. You belong.
🤗
Lynnette, here's to forever❣
🥂

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☆date CE.2020.07.31

Let no one's toxicity steal your joy. Grow & pursue your calling & identity. Be in community & don't give up❣

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☆date CE.2020.07.22

I've been doing a lot of cultural awareness, racial equity, anti-bullying, and fairness activities with Eloy over the past several weeks - including watching the Sesame Street / CNN town hall on racism. A lot of good and hard conversations and silent moments to process information and feelings. Honestly ... Eloy & I both have been learning a lot in the process.

Today, Eloy surprised me with the following simple and powerful remark❣
Elwyn: "I don't want anyone to be mean to me because I'm dark-skinned. I don't want anyone to be mean to you because you're light brown."
Eloy: {pauses and thinks for several seconds} " ... I like brown."
🙌🏾🕊

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☆date CE.2020.06.21

Happy Father's Day, fellow Dads & Father Figures. ✨
Thank you for being fundamental in raising your children to new heights❣

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☆date CE.2020.06.13

✊🏾
I am you.
You are me.
Our family's called humanity❣

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☆date CE.2020.06.03

We've collectively experienced so much pain this year. So much pain. It hurts to be in fear of a virus infecting us or our loved ones. It hurts to be overwhelmed in managing both a stay-at-home child and stay-at-home work environment. It hurts to be concerned over potentially losing our job to a strained economy. It hurts to be reminded of how prevalent racial injustice really is in today's society. It hurts to be anxious that violence may reach us or our community's doorstep. Even more, it hurts when any of these perceived threats actually does end up directly impacting our personal family life and blowing apart any remaining sense of safety and best laid plans. We're not even halfway through the year yet and I feel absolutely positive 2020 will go down in infamy. This though isn't the end of our story.

However helpless we each may feel in avoiding the impacts of 2020, we are nonetheless capable of learning from our sorrows to build a better tomorrow. From overcoming a virus, we are learning cleaner lifestyle habits and how to honor every waking moment we have with our loved ones. From overcoming stay-at-home environments, we are learning more intentional self-care habits and more flexible work-life balances. From overcoming job loss, we are learning a deeper sense of self-discovery and resilient pursuit of the next opportunity. From overcoming racial injustice, we are learning a new beat of our heart, a new sound of our voice, and new steps of our feet as we align fresh much needed action on the outside with enlightened values on the inside. From overcoming violence, we are learning to acknowledge the complex mess injustice can spark while focusing on role-modeling peaceful solidarity from the start.

Beyond all else, I choose to believe the tragedies of 2020 can grow our collective empathy ... for one another, for our brothers and sisters, and for those whom we've lost along the way - whether to COVID-19, racial injustice, or another tragedy. For the greatest tragedy of all is if we allow any feeling of helplessness to strip away our very hope and humanity. Both for each other and our children, let's move forward in hope and humanity together.

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☆date CE.2020.05.29

Young children also need help understanding George Floyd's death and how many people are feeling. Here's one age-appropriate way I'm planning to start that understanding for my child.
~ ~ ~
A lot of people are sad and mad because a light skin man was mean and hurt a dark skin man and the dark skin man died. The name of the man that died is George Floyd. A lot of people do not want that to ever happen again.
We should be nice to all people - light skin people and dark skin people. We should be nice to people who look like us and people who do not look like us. Everyone should be nice to everyone. We should help each other. We should not be mean to each other. We should not hurt each other.
Do you have a friend that looks different than you? What is one nice thing you can do for your friend?

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☆date CE.2020.05.03

For the first time ever, Lynnette, Eloy, & I spent time together❣🎉 What a blast!
I'm SOOOOOOO thankful it went so well. Here's to countless more moments of growth & connection to come. 🕊

partner, father, and son first day all together

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☆date CE.2020.05.02

Your body, soul, & spirit needs to be seen more by you than by others. Validation comes more from within than without.

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☆date CE.2020.04.28

Though I personally enjoy the sun, I'm equally thankful for the rain ... and how it's nourishing the 1000's upon 1000's of new budding life all around us❣🌱
Like rain upon new leaves, I pray we each as well can sprinkle life upon all whom we come in contact. Not necessarily because they are doing something for us, but because we find joy and purpose in giving.
Though we've each encountered great pain and strife in life, care and kindness needn't become conditional or transactional. Rather, such values can become a resilient part of who we are. Difficult circumstances do not define your identity. You do.
So, I hope you find more ways to enjoy the rain, help steward our planet, and sprinkle a little life on others while you're at it. 🤗

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☆date CE.2020.04.23

Today, 4 yr old Eloy had a little extra energy. So, I asked him if he could hop on one leg for 30 seconds ...
🙂 CHALLENGE ACCEPTED!!!
30 seconds later, he simply kept going as I told him how proud I was of him for all his effort. 🎉
Then, he stopped and calmly explained to me that he could do it because he switched legs. 🤔💡Indeed, I said "on one leg". I didn't say on which leg. So proud of him and his growing problem solving skills!

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☆date CE.2020.04.14

Art is such an important part of children's education. 🎨🎭🎼🎶🕺💃
Everything from fine motor skills to empathic expression to innovative problem solving can be nurtured in an artistic atmosphere.
Here's Eloy & I practicing drawing a rainbow. ✨🌈 ( Since Eloy is also into lava, he made sure to draw a little red line in the grass towards the bottom right. 🔥)

father and son drawings of sunny rainbow

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☆date CE.2020.04.12

On this Resurrection Day, today's weather reminds us of two things:

the clothing of the angel who informed Mary that Jesus has risen (Matthew 28)
the grace of God to wash our sins away (Isaiah 1:18, Psalm 103)

We've found that life is rarely about simply enjoying "perfect weather" all the time, but rather about:

finding beauty in what others may cast aside
finding strength when circumstances feel hopeless
finding peace to authentically love others as you would love yourself

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☆date CE.2020.04.08

We all have highs & lows. None of us are always strong ... & that's ok.

Be vulnerable with yourself❣
You'll make it through.🤗

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☆date CE.2020.04.02-2

I'm so glad Eloy still adores 3D puzzles and building things. Every time a child learns something new and constructive, I feel the world has just gotten a little bit brighter. ✨

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☆date CE.2020.04.02-1

Sometimes, a fine way for a 4 yr old to keep practicing letter & number recognition is to act like the carpet is now "lava". That way, we keep putting big letters & numbers on the ground so we have safe places to walk, get food from the kitchen, and move all our favorite stuffed animals and pets to safety.
Yes, Eloy came up with this idea. So much fun! 🔤🔥🧑🏽‍🚒🧸🐢

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☆date CE.2020.03.22-2

Strength cannot be measured by how well one can hurt another. That is weakness, not strength.

‹ ›

☆date CE.2020.03.22-1

If we were all a global citizen, there'd soon be no hunger, thirst, or abuse. Especially in crisis, there's opportunity to care.

‹ ›

☆date CE.2020.03.19

Over the years, I've learned to love & prioritize sleep. In so many ways, it really is critical to every aspect of our well-being.

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☆date CE.2020.03.14

🕊️
One of the many beauties about community is that you needn't be perfect at everything...

We are here for each other❣

‹ ›

☆date CE.2020.03.13

From birth, so many of us go through cycles of "I know enough".

Though independence matters, a growth-mindset is critical.

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☆date CE.2020.03.05-2

Feelings can literally strip your sense of reality ... or add innovative majesty to your deepest fantasy made reality.
However difficult at times ... remember that it is a choice.
Choose wisely❣🤗

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☆date CE.2020.03.05-1

Eloy accidentally broke one of his first "complex toys" today. Instead of getting angry or depressed, he chose to find a solution without skipping a beat.
"Let's super glue his wing back on!", Eloy said. So ... with very steady hands, we did just that.

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☆date CE.2020.02.28

Abundant Assumptions => High Risk of errors, faux pas, & about every "ism" out there. There's no shortcut for open communication.

‹ ›

☆date CE.2020.02.26

Parenting (or caring for anyone) is a loving commitment. Though biology can help, it isn't the deciding factor.
You are❣👨‍👧👩‍👦

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☆date CE.2020.02.24

After I explain why not to have too many toys, Eloy says he wants to donate his old toys❣ We'll be going on a "giving spree". 🎉

‹ ›

☆date CE.2020.02.22

🤗
Your life isn't a flash in the pan. More like a pebble creating rippling waves across eternity's waters. Make your waves count.

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☆date CE.2020.02.21-2

✊🏾🥰✨🙏🏾🔥

God, thank you for embodying Love. For, I can't imagine going through this life without it ... or without you❣

‹ ›

☆date CE.2020.02.21-1

🕊

Doing the right thing for the wrong reasons doesn't make the reasons right.

‹ ›

☆date CE.2020.02.12

Sometimes it takes a leap of love to help quell another's torrent of pain.

... they're worth it❣

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☆date CE.2020.01.25

Do you find that whenever you stop thinking, you start singing - completely independent of the situation or location? 🤔 IDK, maybe that's just me ... 🤷🏾‍♂️🎶🕊

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☆date CE.2020.01.19

Last January, I resolved myself to read (and study) the entire Bible in a year.
This January, I'm completing that resolution. I've journaled dozens of personal questions and revelations as I continue to grow closer to God.
Now, I'm resolving myself to do this every year! For, there's always more to learn as we grow closer to Him❣

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☆date CE.2020.01.17

Elwyn [father]: I don't drink caffeine.
Eloy [son, age 4]: I don't drink caffeine either. We don't drink caffeine, right?
Elwyn: Well, I don't drink caffeine & you don't drink caffeine. So, I guess we don't drink caffeine in this house.
Eloy: I want tea [caffeine free].
Elwyn: Me too! Let's choose some tea and fill up the water heater together.
😁💖☕ ... no moment is too small to bring family closer together.

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☆date CE.2020.01.09

My 4 yr old son, Eloy, noticed a photo of another child on my table today.
After I told Eloy the child, Dilaksha, is someone across the world without much that I help and pray for, Eloy kept wanting to find ways to help Dilaksha - including sending Dilaksha a "water heater", "toys", and even "finding someone here to adopt Dilaksha". 😲
Though Eloy has much to learn as he grows up, what's fundamental is that Eloy cares about others early on in life. Every day, I thank God for Eloy's care for others❣ It's critical we all nurture our children's identity and give them the best foundation possible to soar. 🕊

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☆date CE.2020.01.05

As one of our sage friends have told us, "When you know ... you know❣"

Lynnette, for 2 years, it's been sheer revelation after revelation getting to better know you. Authenticity brought us together, integrity fueled our flame, and God has foundationed our journey. The values, hardships, blessings, and experiences we've shared thus far speak to the brilliance of our God's care for His children. It's been a private (and recently more public) journey of growth, deliverance, and peace beyond understanding.

Now, we're moving into a new season of deepening love and being ... thank you for saying "yes"❣ As you have once said, "Love is a simple truth. It is. We are. God is."

May God grant us wisdom and protection as we continue to grow in our relationship with Him, each other, and our communities❣

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☆date CE.2019.12.31

✨
You're glorious, precious, and miraculous. You're not less than, an accident, or a mistake.

Be you and have a happy new year❣

‹ ›

☆date CE.2019.12.29

To freely embrace your future, you must fully accept your past.

Forgiveness is a part of that. Today, choose to forgive {_____}.

‹ ›

☆date CE.2019.12.25

Merry Christmas
🎄💖🤗🎁🕊

May presence fill your heart with cheer as loved ones far and wide draw near❣

‹ ›

☆date CE.2019.12.13

Heart beating, breath deepening, eyes closing, muscles relaxing, mind slowing, soul accepting, spirit whispering "you're enough"❣

‹ ›

☆date CE.2019.12.08

I've decided to switch to a plant-based diet.

😊

‹ ›

☆date CE.2019.12.07

Let go of what you want when it blocks what you need. Accept what you need even when it blocks what you want.
💖😌🕊
#SelfCare

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☆date CE.2019.12.06

Eloy & I have started a custom "Family Blueprint" activity inspired by "Positive Parenting" by Rebecca Eanes. Eloy drew the circles and I filled the circles with letters. Even at 4 yrs old, I want Eloy to feel consciously a part of the values, beliefs, and goals we share together.

So, to get things started, I made it easy by asking Eloy about "being honest vs lying", "believing in Jesus vs Satan", and "helping others vs not helping others". He chose "being honest" (H), "believing in Jesus" (J), and "helping others" (H). I like how this written activity collaboratively reinforces Eloy & I's family identity.

We'll see where it goes and how it grows. I definitely look forward to taking this deeper as Eloy & I proactively add more values, beliefs and goals. ... eventually, Eloy may need to draw more circles - LOL. 😊

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☆date CE.2019.12.05

So ...Eloy just told a precious young girl his age that "Santa's not real". He then proceeded to ask me to explain it to her... 😅

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☆date CE.2019.11.27

Eyes closed, breath breathed.
Cherish those in whom you believe.
Heart composed, tears released.
Thank those who bring you peace.

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☆date CE.2019.11.26

You needn't know every grain of the ground before you to discern the best path forward.

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☆date CE.2019.11.24

Truth is not a ball to be thrown around or a top to be spun. Rather, a path to race upon and a heart to be won.

✊🏾😌💖🏃🏾‍♂️

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☆date CE.2019.11.23

You are beyond the scope of your perception. Not because you are perfect. But, because you are loved!

So dearly loved ... 🤗

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☆date CE.2019.11.18

Sometimes, slowing down is the best thing you've done all day. 😌 Marinate in the moment ... and hold close the ones you love❣

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☆date CE.2019.11.10

"Letting Go" can be one of the hardest and most freeing acts one can do in life.

You can do it: "Let Go".
✨🤗🕊

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☆date CE.2019.11.09

Self-care & compassion for others needn't just apply to now. It can apply to 30 min/hrs/yrs from now.

Make your empathy timeless.

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☆date CE.2019.10.30

4 Year Old Conversations

Today, four children from 3 different families attempted to get my attention and speak with me all at once. Before the turf war for attention went nuclear, I directed all to take turns talking, starting with Eloy.

Eloy subconsciously made origami shapes with my hand as he very consciously worked hard to articulate all he wanted to say to me … for about 5-10 minutes straight.

All the while, one of the other children periodically asked me softly, "Can I talk now?" Eventually, I got Eloy into a place to let the other child take their turn talking. The other child sees my nod to her and finally says what she's so patiently and seriously waited to say. She points to another child present and says, "she got her hair cut". ... that was it. 😊

Children are awesome in their own way❣

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☆date CE.2019.10.29

A cost of choosing Control & Fear can be Love & Connection (& vice versa). We're all affected by choices. What do you choose?

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☆date CE.2019.10.24

house lights off ✔️
candle lights on ✔️
cathartic music ✔️
self-acceptance ✔️

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☆date CE.2019.10.18

Father & Son "Physics Moment"
Eloy (son, age 4) - "How fast is a wormhole?"
Elwyn (father, age 32) - "Faster than light, because it's a shortcut."
Eloy - "Faster than light? … Maybe if we put one Earth and another Earth together, we can make a wormhole."
Elwyn - "Oooh, that's a cool idea!" {thinking: my son just happened to come up with a simple example of time travel or inter-universal travel ... sweet❣}

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☆date CE.2019.10.15

The best way to fight for your future is to show up in your present.

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☆date CE.2019.10.11

When you start on plan A and end up on plan Z, I applaud you.

For, you haven't given up ... 👏🏾

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☆date CE.2019.10.05

Innovation often lives between the boxes we're too scared to climb out of.

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☆date CE.2019.09.26

It's not weak for a man to care, cry, and be vulnerable. Frankly, empathy has made me stronger than ever.

💪🏾💓👍🏾

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☆date CE.2019.09.21

I'm tired of playing it "safe".

Sometimes in life, you simply gotta go all the way❣

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☆date CE.2019.09.16

My Dear Father, thank you for friends, family, & community. For lessons in tribulations. For blessings beyond measure. For You❣😌

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☆date CE.2019.09.05

Be the friend you wish you had (or were blessed to have) at your deepest darkest time of life. Let your light save someone's life.

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☆date CE.2019.09.01

A truly strong individual isn't strong because they're invincible. Rather, they cope with their weaknesses without being defined by them.

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☆date CE.2019.08.27-2

One of the best ways to move past feelings is to accept them. With acceptance comes insight & opportunity to then act wisely.

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☆date CE.2019.08.27-1

What is doing without being? What is life without meaning? What is striving without relating?

Be in meaningful relationships❣

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☆date CE.2019.08.25

PAUSE 🖐🏾
BREATHE 🌬️
breathe out toxicity, breathe in true identity and
✨ROAR✨
🦁

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☆date CE.2019.08.24

Self-awareness & empathy deepens in diverse community. Great divides can vanish as we look deep & recognize ourself in each other.

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☆date CE.2019.08.17

What is knowledge if you don't have the moral capacity to wield it?

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☆date CE.2019.08.16

Sometimes, "productivity" simply means "not giving up".
😌

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☆date CE.2019.08.10

I pray your patience & perseverance helps yield a new season of life & liberty for you & family❣

Step by step, day by day...
🤗

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☆date CE.2019.08.07

You are not a paycheck, body warmer, milk dispenser, milkshake, trophy, or eye candy. You are you... immeasurable & incomparable.

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☆date CE.2019.08.04

Dads can be fun AND responsible. Moms can be responsible AND fun.

No stereotypes. Just beautiful types.

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☆date CE.2019.08.03

Your beauty needn't be defined by anothers' cruelty. Belonging involves believing your being has meaning.

You matter so much...

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☆date CE.2019.08.01

It's not about being different.
It's not about being the same.
It's about being you.
😌

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☆date CE.2019.07.26

Be not ashamed of the pain you've survived. You're a diamond in the rough. And though it's been rough ...

You're on your way. 🤗

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☆date CE.2019.07.25

To be fully able to take care of anything or anyone, you must first be fully able to take care of yourself.

🕊

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☆date CE.2019.07.22

Your neck was never built to just keep your head low. Your heart was never built to only dream & never know.

Rise • Dream • Live

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☆date CE.2019.07.18

Know yourself before you express yourself.

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☆date CE.2019.07.17

True forgiveness ( bone-deep & full-release ) can never be earned ...

🌺 It can only be given❣

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☆date CE.2019.07.13

I don't care how much you've failed. You're beautiful & you're worth giving it another try now a little wiser & a little stronger.

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☆date CE.2019.07.12

We live not to cage the hearts of the hopeless and silence the lips of the helpless.

No ... we live to set them free.
😌

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☆date CE.2019.07.07

Before finding the path, seek the conviction to traverse it.
🕊
For, the way does not matter if the will does not persevere.

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☆date CE.2019.07.02

Do not let your fears write your story ...

😌

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☆date CE.2019.06.30

You don't need to convince people who you are to be who you are.

Go right ahead and BE.
💖

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☆date CE.2019.06.29

Patience ≠ Giving Up

You are worth fighting for. There's wisdom in learning when, where, & how.
🤗

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☆date CE.2019.06.27

Respect yourself before you wreck yourself. You're complicit in the pain moments if you're doing nothing to prevent them.

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☆date CE.2019.06.26

Life isn't about the next self-seeking moment. Your actions (or inactions) can affect generations.

Dream • Stand • Give

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☆date CE.2019.06.21-2

Let not your well run dry.

Even when all you feel left with are tears in your eyes, let 'em flow to sow Love's sea deep inside❣

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☆date CE.2019.06.21-1

Always ✅ your 💖 when connecting with someone. Truly, are you there in part to benefit them? If not, you may be objectifying them.

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☆date CE.2019.06.16-2

To me, being an active father means being present in your child's life. Whether they're doing the "right" things or the "wrong" things. Whether they "treat you with respect" or "couldn't care less". Whether they know who you are or haven't seen you until right now. You love them nonetheless with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength. At least for me, I want my son to grasp a glimpse of the Father's love through me. I know I'm human, at times broken, at times in need of healing. Frankly, no parent has ever "arrived". We all must remember to rise without ceasing, to dream without stopping, to grow every single day. For all parents, it is an immeasurable honor to love and grow and love and grow and cry and awe and heal and persevere and love and rest and grow and love and grow.

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☆date CE.2019.06.16

Happy Father's Day
💪🏾😌💖✨🕊
May we give beyond ourselves, lift beyond our height, and love our children every day of our life.

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☆date CE.2019.06.08-2

As we show up in life authentic & considerate, we make space for those around us to feel open & safe.

😌

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☆date CE.2019.06.08-1

I strive to give ... not because I want something from someone. Rather, because I want something for someone.

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☆date CE.2019.06.02

Sometimes, moments are happy and sad ... and that's ok.
Don't marginalize yourself.
Honor all of you.
🤗

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☆date CE.2019.05.28

Humanity needs more avenues to heal than to divide.

Be one of them.
😌

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☆date CE.2019.05.26

Sometimes, the journey is the destination.

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☆date CE.2019.05.12

Mothers,
You are beautiful beyond compare.
Let none convince you otherwise.
You are a fountain of love to your child.
Let none convince you otherwise.
You are a priceless gem to the world.
Let none convince you otherwise.
You are stronger than the hard times.
Let none convince you otherwise.
You are greater than the painful moments.
Let none convince you otherwise.
You are a role-model of persevering growth.
Let none convince you otherwise.
You are worthy to live your identity.
Let all affirm who you are.
Thank you for your beautiful, empowering, enduring love.

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☆date CE.2019.05.05

Life's journey isn't about getting what you want.

It's about standing for who you are.

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☆date CE.2019.05.02-3

Breathe
It's only the present.
The past you can't control and the future is unknown. But, now breathes infinite possibility.

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☆date CE.2019.05.02-2

How ever can we reach the stars if we seek not the tools to fly?

Belief, Honor, Growth
Truly ... give yourself a chance.

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Welcome to Universe III