Today is about Belief.

Confidence. Faith. Trust.

Calm and peace are two things I try to exist in everyday. And this week has posed a greater challenge than usual.

My dad’s surgery is tomorrow morning. I am heading home to stay with my brothers and sisters in the hospital tonight. So a little nervous—definitely. I take comfort with the thought that now is my time to be the support. This is my chance to be a rock—one of the five rocks and give my heart and my energy to my dad and stepmom. As a parent, I can certainly understand the position they both must feel—how “we” are the mom and the dad. “We” take care of our children. “We” are the strength, the foundation, the backbone, and the nurturers for our children and grandchildren.

And right now they’re in a difficult place because in this moment they need “us” more than ever. I am ready.

And I thought I would share a few things I am doing to help me remain calm and peaceful:

 1. Relaxation: I got up this morning and focused on a quick five-minute meditative state, quieting my mind and focusing on my breath. Five minutes was harder than I thought so technically, I think I made it to four minutes. ;0) Busy thoughts are notorious for weaving their way into my head. And pushing them out? Well, all I can say is I did my best. Next time I think I’ll listen to some ocean music. Maybe the sounds won’t tempt my thoughts to trickle right back in.

2. Aromatherapy: Shampoos and soaps. By accident this morning, I realized how a smell can make you breathe easier in seconds. I recently bought a new shampoo. I think it’s L’oreal Sulfate Free Ever Strong. After I rubbed it into my hair, the smells of pine and rosemary overwhelmed me and I couldn’t stop those easy long breaths. I was breathing them and felt so much better…

3. Focus on the Good: Remember my dad’s quote from just a few days ago:

               “Think good things and say goods things. Good things will eventually find their way back to you.”

4. Mantras: Believe. Believe in the best. Everything will work out exactly as it’s supposed to.

5. Love: Lots and lots of hugs, eye contact, and smiles.

So my journey begins.

Something life altering.

And I certainly plan to embrace it.