If we choose to remain ourselves, full of potential, then we can take whatever happens and redeem it by openness, courage, and willingness to move on…  (Madeline L’Engle)

This will be my first attempt at blogging and I’m excited to see where it takes me!

I am Susan Ideus from Magnolia, TX.  As I begin this blog, I am a 58 year old woman with a husband of 38 years, Harold. We have two lovely and extraordinary daughters, Rebecca Suzanne and Johanna Lanell — and are also blessed with an extraordinary son-in-law, Becca’s hubby, Nathan Taylor.  Harold and I complete our household with our Cairn “terror”, Sir Ryan McDuff of Alvin aka Duffy. (Think Toto in The Wizard of Oz)  I was born in Indiana, which I am sure is a fine state for all loyal Hoosiers, but the place of my spiritual birth and home of my heart is New Mexico, where I have spent most of my life.

I thought I would tell you that writing is one of my favorite pastimes and that is why I am here, but, that doesn’t begin to say it all.  My writing is an extension of me — who I am, who I was, and who I hope to become.  It is beginnings and endings and all the times in between.  In writing, I dream, I remember, I plan, I journal, I create.  It is in writing that I find and express the deepest parts of Susan.  I look for the child I was and the wise old woman I will become.  I express joy, grief, pain, longing, humor, possibilities, anger, forgiveness, faith, serenity, and feelings I have yet to unearth.  I chronicle my life’s journey and those who go with me.  I hope you’ll come along too.