The strength to carry on

People keep telling me that I am strong. 

I have to admit that I have always considered myself a strong person. But in my former belief system the accepted idea was that you are GIVEN the strength you need, when you needed it.

So I used to believe in something outside of me. 

I used to think that I was never enough. 

But since then I have learned that I am. 

I am me.

I am enough. 

All I will ever need is already in me.

Last summer a very dear friend reminded me that 

I am not here to learn how to be me. 

I am here to remember and recognize who I already am. 

I am grateful for the freedom that lies in knowing that I don't have to depend on anything other than me. I am enough. 

I have written more about my beliefs in this blogpost. 

Vilja Marie's big day

April 2, 2017 was my granddaughter Vilja Marie's christening day. 

It was a day to celebrate her arrival to her life on this earth,

and she is already a huge joy and blessing to all who love her.

6 years ago I made the gown for her eldest brother Helmer. In order to symbolise continuity, the tulle layer covering the gown is made from Hilde Marie's bridal vail. In our tradition it's called a christening gown, although for our family the christening aspect bears no significance. However, celebrating rites of passage has been significant to humans for thousands and thousands of years, and the birth rite is one of them. 

Vilja Marie has two very proud big brothers.

Helmer got to pour the water into the christening bowl, 

and Leon got to wipe Vilja Marie's head.

I love that they both got to take part in the ceremony.

Three generations of Maries.

Gratitude.