Accepting August

“Acceptance doesn’t mean resignation; it means understanding that something is what it is and that there’s got to be a way through it.”

Michael J. Fox
August Newsletter (KL Hale)

May your August be abundant with amazing, awesome, and authentic activities and adventures!

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75 thoughts on “Accepting August

  1. What cool trip to Johnny Cash’ house with a crew that does sound like a windup for a joke. I went to the shelter today to visit a dog. He was a Bear type dog and I loved him. I already knew I couldn’t adopt him but it was great to meet him. 😀 I can’t have all the dogs. I’ve accepted that.

    1. Thank you, dear MAK. Accepting. It’s particularly hard when visiting a shelter and you’re someone who has rescued SO MANY precious pups. I understand. I’ve often thought of a sibling for Finn. Thank you for being here and supporting me. That trip was fun—and yes, a joke I could tell with the 4 of us. Sadly, I found out she went back in the hospital (the pastor’s wife, Phyllis). You’d love her. She grew up with horses and was a gritty darn good farm wife and worker. Loves the outdoors.

      1. I was surprised that the dogs seemed happy to have Wick’s smell on me. Very strange. Life is strange, Karla, if you didn’t know already…🐾❤️🐩

  2. fun fact for me. I met Johnny and June earlier in life. A funny guy in person with a wry sense of humor.

    I see some very hard earned wisdom behind your good words in your posts Karla. You are such a good friend to many and even to those you have not personally met… Keep shining!

    1. Gary! I would’ve LOVED to have met them! HOW COOL! Here’s my brain (you know it well by now, lol): “June, that Gary is a neat man.” June replied, “I couldn’t agree with you more, Johnny.” And then, the 3 of you sit and sing (and here I am dreaming of it from the outside of the circle).

    2. Thank you for your precious words, support, and mentorship, Gary. You are one that sharpens me. I want to continue being a good friend. 🤍 Thank you, God, for the Fultz family and friends.

  3. great post, Karla: ‘minimizing pain is not helpful or healthy’: so true; ‘one day you are a mountain; the next day you fall of a cliff’ ; lovely snaps; and that purple moon: awesome !

    1. Thank you, John. You know, my friend. Oh, you know.
      Now,…hold on to your hat~that is the sun. Crazy! Smoke made its way to our area~it was setting on our drive and the color mesmerized me! I had to use my “good” camera to capture it~from the vehicle. It was amazing! I appreciate you so much, my friend.

  4. I think I have that book of unknown poems of Johnny Cash’s too Karla! I’ll have to dig it out and read it again. Great quote by Michael J as well. He has to accept a difficult fate in life. As have you, with grace and such heart. Lovely to read this post X

    1. Kate, your book of poetry, MAK (Martha), and Johnny’s are all by one another. I need to order John’s and Kelley’s, too. You poets amaze me!!

      Have you seen Michael J Fox’s documentary? What an inspiration!

      I appreciate you, dear friend. I’m so happy we’re on this journey together. X

      1. I haven’t seen MJF documentary- I will have to watch it. Oh Karla I have withdrawn all my books from Amazon – so you have some of the rare ones in the world and I couldn’t think of a better place for them ❤️

  5. A joyful wander Karla is an appreciation of that life we lead. To dare an adventure, even if you sleep like a log after it 🤗

    And a lovely encounter with Johnny Cash’s early life, cotton country, and most certainly where God can find you all kind lady 🤣 His love is everywhere, specially where those beautiful hearts are ❤️

    Those images do speak of summer my friend, especially those multi colored suns from the smoke of fires (hopefully going out). I would think, like over here, that a tiny positivity of this time. There are so many colors as the smoke thickens or lightens, it truly stands out.

    And yes, we are all facing our ‘bits’. Seeing us through that smoke and blossoming in the color of love. And we are being loving by having great days, and allowing ourselves to have hard ones too. Even though your light never seems to dim Karla, brightening our world each day.

    Big, big hugs, and much love to you and Finn. And a great big thank you for sharing Johnny Cash, his journey, your journey, and a heart with her window down as her life shares a cool breeze of love with us all 🤗❤️🙏

    1. Aww, Mark. It’s such a blessing reading your words. I always enjoy your perspective and wisdom. And giggles.

      “Seeing us through that smoke and blossoming in the color of love. And we are being loving by having great dys, and allowing ourselves to have hard ones too.”

      Through tears, I found even more joy. If all I knew was joy how would I know that I could have even MORE? lol. To know the extremes–the highs and the lows–grows my grit, Mark. Even more, it elongates (VERY LONGGGGG) my empathy and sympathy for others.

      At the cancer center yesterday I stopped and listened to a lady playing “Hallelujah” on the piano. I told her how much I enjoyed her and how grateful I am that she gives up her time to play the piano for all of the visitors (she’s not getting paid to do this!). Her name is Jan. It moved me to happy tears that she was playing THAT song, too. We don’t have to look far to see that others have it worse–and we don’t have to look far to see the GOOD!

      Finn and I send you bigs hugs and love, too. We are stretching it across the big ocean! I’m so happy you enjoyed my words. It means so much that you understand and relate to them all (and yes, the pictures too! That sun–just wow!).❣️💛🥰🤗🙏🐾💚

      1. This world, His world and all its love is such a very beautiful and profound place Karla. In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye…there is answers for us all, in those gifts of those experiences all around.

        I hope your ok with all of your experiences kind lady. On a day to day basis I have no doubt it sometimes gets very tiring, even doing those basics in life. But I think that maybe that was what your ‘cross’ was for, to bear those days and feel the love within it all. Even the piano lady spoke to you too, a moment to forget all else and smile within at that sound. Have hope my friend…and have faith too.

        Big hugs to you and Finn, and thank you for sharing that light that you have found so that others can dare to hope too 🤗🤣❤️🙏

      2. “But I think that maybe that was what your ‘cross’ was for, to bear those days and feel the love within it all”….wow, Mark. I won’t forget these words. Thank you dear friend. We love you! I’m ok with it all, my friend. I really am. Big hugs and love to you from us two!💕🐾🙏⛰️🎶

  6. Lots of thoughtful commentary. It will take me a couple of days to read all of it, but I read most of it. I did know about Johnny Cash. I read his biography. He was a musician, but he also had a serious side that didn’t necessarily show in his music.

    1. Thank you, Marilyn, for being here and joining in on the commentary. I appreciate you. Learning about artists has inspired me. It seems I always find things in common with them (you wonder at a young age, “Why do I have these thoughts I want to write?” or “Why am I different?” ). Of course, my oddity has never paid me millions. I admire all of those who use their gifts to make the world a better place.

  7. That’s a very poignant quote by Michael J. Fox. He obviously knows what he is talking about. As are you. I continue to admire your positive attitude and acceptance of life’s trials and tribulations, as well as your tireless attempt to help spread positivity and remind us to be loving and accepting of one another.

    Sending you best wishes for your current therapy regimen.

    Warmly,

    Tanja

    1. How thoughtful, Tanja. I appreciate your kindness and support.

      Positivity and acceptance is a daily practice that I never want to stop. With God’s help…

      I think my current regimen is a great thing, my friend. I’m very hopeful and am continuing my healing. ❤️‍🩹 I wish the best for you, too! I know which regimen you have that’s helping me here too~your experiences in the great outdoors and how you see life through that beautiful lens of appreciation and wisdom!

  8. What an amazing adventure for you. We need to enjoy every second God allows us. I feel like it is ticking away so fast right now, but am trying to fill my heart with brave new memories. Stay strong but admit when you need help. A lesson I’m having to learn. Continued prayers and love.

    1. Thank you, Mama K. What beautiful and wise words, as always. “…trying to fill my heart with brave new memories.” I’ve learned to ask, and stop and rest when I need. I can always be better. I’m glad you’re learning too. Your love and prayers are felt. I love you and pray for you and Paul. You inspire me.🙏🏻💕

  9. I agree with you about the need to validate and accept people’s emotions with compassion and understanding. There is no need to compare, and no need to remind someone that others have it worse. Of course they do, but when someone is upset or grieving, telling them they have “first world problems” doesn’t help at all. Still praying for you!!!

    1. Thank
      You, Ann. I appreciate your thoughts and wisdom. Your compassion and understanding are evident! God bless you and your family. I’m praying for you too.❤️🙏🏻 thank you for your continued support!

  10. Such profound words about acceptance born out of a hard-won peace. You haven’t wasted a single tear or walk in the woods, Karla. Your journey has been and continues to be a remarkable one–for all of us, dear friend!

  11. Karla, I will read your post again. There is so much to glean from your writings, your perseverance, and refusing to give up or give in! It is never wise to compare. I am so happy you had a nice trip to visit the childhood home of Johnny Cash. Obviously, it was an interesting visit. He was definitely a poet.

    You are always in my prayers, sweet friend 🙏🏻❤️ For the thoughts of the first day of school ❤️🍎👩🏼‍🏫☕️🖨️⏰📎🖍️

    1. I love you, Pam. Thank you for taking the time to read this. I’ve made two newsletters this year (I used to write them monthly). I can’t say thank you enough for your support and encouragement through these years.
      When I read about James at your place this morning, it inspired me even more!

      I appreciate your prayers and I’m praying for all of you, too! 💕❤️🤍💚🙏🤗🎶

  12. A couple of great August experiences for you. It sounds like your virtual video conference was positive and uplifting for all concerned. I am sure you affirmed everyone else during that time, but hoping you received HEAPS of affirmation from them, also. And a trip to Johnny Cash’s home for the cherry on top. You are living to the fullest, Karla! God bless you and keep you!

    1. Russell, thank you for being here, dear friend. My apologies for late response. I’m doing my best to keep experiencing all that I can. There are a few things that sideline me at times. But golly, Russell, I’m making up for it when I can. I did receive HEAPS of affirmation (you’re so kind!). I hope you and Joan are recovering and healing well. God bless you and keep you, too!

  13. Curtis Proffitt's avatar Curtis Proffitt

    I don’t believe I have ever seen such a beautiful blood red moon! After reading your post I listened to Johny’s last album; “American IV, The Man Comes Around”…., festinating!
    I also ponder acceptance. Often times I accept things because I don’t have a choice, like the August heat.🔥And why does God accept me? He has a choice, and doesn’t have to accept me, but yet he does. And he wants to accept me with more vigor than my desire to “accept” his gift. 💝

    You are such a blessing, Karla!

    1. You’re a blessing to me, too, Curtis. I’m so happy you had time to listen to Johnny Cash! Awesome! It was such a fun trip.
      Acceptance–not an easy thing is it, dear friend? I appreciate your wisdom and thoughts–“He has a choice, and doesn’t have to accept me, but he does…” Amen!
      I appreciate you! Love in Christ from Finn and me ❣️🙏🤗💕🐾

  14. I’m sitting here this Monday morning as a hurricane is overhead, and the rain is pouring, getting caught up on my reading. I missed four of your posts! I’m not sure how, but I’m so glad to be reading them now. Reading your words is such a beautiful way to start my day. 💕💕

    1. Rachel, what a sweet and thoughtful thing to do–in the midst of weather unknowns and horrible conditions–you’re “with” me. My heart gulped! Oh my goodness.
      You never have to worry about being behind on reading. I know you’re “here”. You’re a busy momma and homestead hero! THANK YOU for your precious words and support. Much love.
      I’m going to pray right now….💕🙏💛🤍

      1. Thank you for your prayers! Thankfully, we’re much higher than the lake, so we don’t get much flooding, but it’s the wet heavy trees and winds that often cause a problem. Have a beautiful week! Sending big hugs!

      2. It’s my blessing!Thank you for sharing what you experience. Those winds though…oh my..tree limbs…ugh! I’ll be off to Oklahoma this week to help my youngest son. I appreciate your hugs and prayers so much! You have a blessed week, too!

  15. You always inspire to think bigger, to be more generous, to look outside my comfort zone, and acknowledge that life is so much more complex, inequitable, unpredictable, and uniquely ours even though we share the same emotions felt over very different circumstances. What a gracious and kind woman you are Karla. Love you little sis, C

    1. What an amazingly thoughtful and precious response, C. To think I could inspire you is humbling. I don’t take that lightly, big sis. Thank you. I love you!!!

    2. Oh, C…wow. I just love you, big sis. Thank you is not enough for how you lift, encourage, and inspire me. And to think I do that for you is humbling. I’m sending lots of hugs and love. I’ve been out for a bit and happy to be back to read your precious words. I hope you are well! I can’t wait to see what big adventure you’ll have next!

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  17. Not a day goes by that I don’t bow in grace and think of you as I bow my head in grace. You remind me to be compassionate when I don’t think I have another ounce left to give which gives me fortitude and strength. You truly do the work which is so inspirational. You live inside me daily and that is the biggest gift we can give someone. Thank you, Karla for making me a bigger person and loving me when I’m not.

    1. Oh, C…my heart. Your words touch me. You are family to me. It’s humbling how God is working through me. I’m doing a lot of work on myself, C. I’m SO FAR from perfect! I love that HE loves us messy and imperfect.
      I’ve been away a bit–I’m sorry for late reply to this sweet message. I’ll always love you! Thank you for being here and walking alongside me on this journey.

  18. Dear Karla, I love you AND Johnny Cash! Reading your words and catching up is good for my soul…ALL is well with my soul. 🙏🏻 always for you!! Sending you a BIG hug this morning!

    1. I love you, C!! Your words are so precious to me. Even more, your friendship and support! I feel the hugs, my friend. I’ve been away and slowly returning–completing responsibilities and you’ll love this–I’m going to substitute training today. I’m sending love and hugs always! 💕🩷🤗🙏

  19. Karla, I feel fortunate to stay connected with this August post. I was away for much of the month with my travel to Montana. Thank you for sharing some Johnny Cash memories. I’ve always been appreciative of June Carter’s role in Johnny’s life. It was most definitely a “God-inspired” intervention filled with unconditional love. The song “Jackson” is one of my favorite duets with Johnny and June.

    1. Richard, thank you for taking the time to read and connect! How thoughtful and kind! I was so happy for your trip.

      What would Johnny have been without June? I’ve watched several documentaries, read books…thank God for her! He was such a deep spirit and researcher, too. Together, they were a great duet. I love that song, too! Many blessings!

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