Peaceful kids/Happy Mama's

GO ON, LIVE YOUR BLISS!!!

Mama Sue and I could not possibly ask for a better two days. Our children (6 total this time) have played so happily together and so focused together that we have just had an incredible time. The kids worked together to create a tipi and a village and we all enjoyed making tie-dye shirts and just hanging out together here at "the farm"...(that's our pretend communal living name)..if only every day could be as nice! hmmm...maybe it can!

Mama and Teah time

So, it is a true test for any parent, after driving all day to get home...to have your child ask you, "Mama, can we paint each other's faces and just have time together with just us?" It would be so easy to say, "no honey, I'm too tired...I just want to sit here and chill for a bit."...but...it really wasn't that much harder to say, "okay, I think we can do that for a little bit." Choices...we all have them, everyday. Choose to spend a few quality minutes with a child today. You'll be glad you did. I am. Thanks Teah!

The journey home

Nolan in a tree at a rest area
My sweet boy

A healthy snack and a kind gesture

Nolan's hut

RevisionsSo many decisions

A proud builder

Nakai's hut

planning the village layout

The journey home was a long one, but these guys were amazing! We stopped at rest areas along the way and had snacks, hugged trees and built villages out of found objects. I was one tired mama, but certainly can't complain about the journey. A beautiful weekend, beautiful children...what more could a mama want?

Nolan's discovery

While waiting for his turn at the face painting booth, Nolan announced that he had found a baby praying mantis. A few of the adults kind of chuckled...but when I went over, I saw that indeed, he had! A sweet, little baby praying mantis! Nolan, thank you for the reminder to slow down, to soak in, to observe each moment...for beauty abounds all around us.

Pow Wow

Ceremony paint!
Gma and Teah, appreciating the dancers.

A very talented hoop dancer

Aho!

Ras and the family searching for shade.

Men's grass dancer with Nakai

Nakai loved this costume!

Beautiful inter-tribal dancing.

Gorgeous Regalia

The dance arena

Native Limbo!!!

The powwow was hosted by: The Miami Valley Council for Native Americans. Their website is: http://www.tmvcna.org , check it out!

We felt so honored to be part of the day's festivities. The dancing was amazing, the regalia beautiful and the folks present were very genuine and kind. It was so great to see old friends again and to meet new ones. I'm so grateful to Doc Herman for inviting us to come out.

Near the end of the pow wow, a memorial was held to honor Dennis. Doc, Anna, the children and I were led out into the dance arena, accompanied by the lead male and female dancers. Doc and Anna read some eloquent words about Dennis, his struggles and his triumphs and some really beautiful words about the children. We then slowly and with great reverence danced a full circle around the arena. Everyone present was then invited to come into the arena and offer hugs and handshakes and kind words. This was a very emotional experience for Teah..and for all of us. Very intense, but good too...it was another chance to express our grief, our sadness, our loss...and to be reminded by those who knew and loved him, that we must go on...that he will continue to fly with us...that we are not alone, but supported by so many people. I was amazed and honored to see so many men comfort my sweet girl. Grandfathers, fathers, brothers, uncles...they embraced her, wiped her tears, hugged her, spoke words of comfort and strength in her ear. You always expect that of women, we are the nurturers. You don't always see it from men. It was quite a testament to the Native way. It reminded me greatly of Dennis. The way he always comforted people. The children he held and embraced...the hugs he offered to everyone he met. It brought me some peace knowing that that energy would continue out in the world. That he isn't the only one providing that comfort. The crowd took their place behind us and TOGETHER we danced around the arena from East to West, honoring our journey together, as tiospaye (family), and the great work that we all do. Afterwards, the announcer asked Teah, Nolan and Nakai to turn around and look at all the people who were walking with them, dancing with them, supporting them and praying for them. It was quite profound and very, very beautiful. Afterwards, the crowd was informed that we intended to feed them a communal meal to honor them and their gifts. A beautiful feast had been assembled by members of the council, and together we fed everyone. It was great to see the children serving the food. There were buffalo burgers, fry bread, beans, fruit, cookies, corn on the cob and so much more.

I later asked the children what their favorite part of the day was. Nakai said his favorite was when "everyone danced behind us." Nolan said he most enjoyed, "serving everyone food." Teah's favorite part was "visiting the village."

We had such an amazing day and it was so necessary to facilitate some healing. So many times when things are hard, I think we have a tendency to push it all down, to distract ourselves, to do anything but face our feelings. This weekend was important because we weren't able to run, to hide, to pretend...we had to feel. And we did. Hey Ya Ho! (It is good)

Pow Wow at Sunwatch

The pow wow was held at the Sunwatch Indian Village, original home of the Fort Ancient Indians about 800 years ago. The village is very educational and interactive. You can find out more about sunwatch by checking out their website at: http://www.sunwatch.org

The village huts provided the only shade at the pow wow site as well, so the children spent a lot of time there during the day. They found many other children to play with too, so there was no shortage of friends either! Nolan found a toad in one of the huts and tried to teach Nakai how to hold it.... Kaliyah had a great time being pushed around in her stroller by Nolan who really gave her some good rides! We felt so blessed to have been able to come out to the pow wow and experience the beauty of SunWatch.

Trip to Dayton!!...Hotel with Grandma

We were ecstatic when we found out that Grandma Janet and little Kaliyah were going to meet us in Dayton for Dennis' memorial. We had such a nice visit...swimming and cuddling and playing in the hotel!! We love you guys, thanks for taking time out of your super busy schedule to make the journey! I'm so glad you were there.

Teah...?

Hippie kids in the Hood

These kids cannot stand to be inside and they just crave camping and fire! We couldn't go anywhere this day, but the Meholick and Bussell tribes made their own experience in the backyard! I had purchased some citronella bucket candles for them to put in the center of the lawn chair circle, to symbolize fire...since we aren't supposed to have yard fires....and the next time the mama's looked out the kitchen door (25 feet), they were circlizing with sticks....they played so peacefully together for hours...much past bedtime! The Mamas visited over tea at the table and delighted over the sounds of happy children. Ahhh, I love these guys!

Soccer is over!!!

Let the Summer Begin!

Cookout with the Stoker Family

Teah, preparing to ride...

Nakai playing yard games

Scooter was there!

Nolan feeding worms to the chickens

Teah trying to make peace...

We all had a nice time visiting with Chuck and Mary out at their place. We had a fire, and cooked out...we played with horses, chickens, dogs...and Nolan found a mole and the children played with him all evening and then returned him to his home. It was nice to get away (not so far that we had to pack!) and just enjoy each other's company. Despite Teah falling off a really big horse, I think we all had fun. (she's okay now) Thanks for a good evening!

A trip to the farm for milk

We filled Sadie's new ride to capacity and headed for the farm! Unfortunately, we just missed the milk truck so we weren't able to get any milk that day. We all enjoyed the journey together though and the children enjoyed the farm. Thanks Mama C!!

Good Morning!

It felt wonderful to make a good breakfast for my family this morning!

Crepes with fresh blueberries, apples and strawberries served warm with agave nectar and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. We love crepes!

Scooter

These guys just love their little Scooter!

How am I?

I get asked that question every day...I never know how to answer...I ponder..."Do they really want to know? Do I really want to say? Do we have enough time for that? Do I even know?" So at least for this day, I'm not doing well. Heavy. Lost. Tears. Sadness. Emptiness. Hurt. That is how I am.

Powerful Ninja Warrior

Quiet Creek Memorial

Young men, communing in nature
Nakai talking people up

Claire happily hosting and playing

Folks laughing and sharing memories

On June 14th, our friends Claire and Rusty Orner at Quiet Creek Herb Farm and School of Country Living hosted a celebration of Dennis' life. The celebration was held at Dennis' medicine wheel on the farm. I was so happy to see so many beautiful people from so far away, gathered together in such a happy, peaceful setting to share stories, music, food, memories with each other and with us. Thank you to everyone who helped to make the day happen and to everyone who came! The children enjoyed seeing so many of their little friends and playing outdoors and swimming in mudholes!!! I just know that Dennis was smiling down on us, laughing along with us, singing right with us.

Brother Chipmunk

Sweet Boy...he was so excited to find a chipmunk in a pole in the woods..he lifted up the end to show us, and then saw that it was going to escape and quickly put the pole down....on the chipmunk..and. it. died. We had ceremony. Nolan officiated.

some closure

Dennis always felt strongly that his lodges should not remain in places where he is no longer able to watch over them. I have felt called to ceremonially remove a particular lodge for some time now. With the help of my children and a close friend, I finally made that happen. I'm feeling calmer now.

Aho!

soccer with friends

soccer

Backyard Soccer

it's hard to be little.
so frustrated...

these guys are happy...

...and now he is too!

Paddling the Sandy Lick

Andy and Teah got away for the afternoon and paddled down the Sandy Lick! From all accounts, they had a great time.

I'm glad they enjoyed some time together.

Sunscreen, Mamas!

'Nuf Said! This is how I looked after three soccer games on a very sunny afternoon! I had applied sunscreen to all three children...but as it usually goes, I forgot myself....Great lesson!

why don't I ever answer my phone?

See Nolan in action?

Go Nolan! #22!

He's the man!

I don't answer my phone because seven days a week, this is where I'm at!!! The children love their sport and it keeps us very busy. Please leave a message...I return all important calls within 24 hours!

soccer

When you give a boy a camera...

You get to glimpse into his world. Thanks Nolan, for showing us what you see.

Snuggles and Fun times

What a great way to end a super great day in the woods! I love these guys!

Let's get away!

Nolan found a fish.
Sand super-star!

Teah and Nakai got in the very cold water!

What do you do when the children beg you to stop answering the phone, stop "doing work" and please just "not talk about it anymore?"....well....you hear them. You make it all stop. You physically remove yourself from the space so you can focus on what's really important. Your children. Thanks Teah, Nolan and Nakai for reminding me....

we had a wonderful day in the woods...and you know what? The phone calls were still there, the work still there, all still needing to be done, when we returned.

Party with friends

Mama Sue made the cake!
We love you Teah!

Elaine Grace was there!

Dreg and Marlie were there!

Mama Sadie held it down in the kitchen making veggie sandwiches!

So many people love you Teah! We hope your eleventh year is everything you need it to be!

Go out there and LIVE YOUR BLISS!

Teah's Birthday Celebration

Teah got a Kayak and paddle and life jacket for her birthday....and...an ipod! For real, the girl cleaned up this year! Thank you to everyone who worked together to make her birthday a memorable experience. We all went out to Parker Dam State Park and had a great time paddling and playing in the sand all day. Happy Birthday Teah!

Can you believe...

...Teah is 11 now?

Happy Birthday Little Precious one!

We love you!

soccer

on the sidelines
ready for action

on an empty field nearby

Soccer...it's where we're at.

Sad boy in a tree

Sad monkey in a tree
Not sure if me climbing up helped or not....

Mama goes to work

Weddings are tough right now, but I'm super thankful for the opportunity to work.

Soccer season starts

Remind me why I thought I could handle three kids on three different teams this season? Each with two practices (on different fields) and a game each week. Yes...that makes seven days a week for us! It is really good exercise, they enjoy it and it keeps them distracted....that's why. So, somehow, I work it out. Well...we work it out....it really does take a village. Thanks, team!

"Ready for soccer, Mom"

Mama: "Nakai, it's time to get ready for soccer practice."
Nakai: "I'm already ready for soccer."

Mama: "Hmm...well, usually kids wear a t-shirt and shorts with their shinguards and cleats, Nakai."

Nakai: "But Mom....I just love my ninja/batman outfit for soccer. I have my shinguards and shoes on."

Mama: "I see...yes, you do."

I mean really, could you have told him no? I couldn't. We grabbed a water bottle and we were off for Nakai's first soccer practice of the season. Really!

very.hard.day

tired.dark.heavy.my head is full. thoughts spin. questions. sadness.pain.anger.sadness.loss.

A day in the woods with some sweet, sweet friends

We shared a peaceful weekend at Parker Dam with Susan (Dennis' Friend from NY) and her daughter Kelly. It was nice to get away from the phone and the heaviness that has encompassed my home recently and enjoy a day in the woods. We hiked, we played on rocks, we watched the children play in the water, we smiled as Nolan found salamander after salamander, we shared stories and memories, we practiced deep breathing.

That evening we shared time together at the hotel swimming pool and laughed and played and smiled. We all needed that time together.

Tadpoles!

Nolan liberated some tadpoles from a pond at Chuck and Mary's house and has been happily watching their progress ever since!

I'm Awake!

...all. the. time.

school is still happening

For those of you who were wondering:) Still happening, it just looks different now.

Rainbow in the sky

Thanks Creator, for bringing such beauty to my attention.

Trash-Eating Robot

Designed and built by Nolan Bussell

Easter with the Stokers

She's got her basket!
"An Egg!"

"Andy, Look!"

"Nolan found one!"

The hunt is on!

"come on, Teah...run!"

"Nakai, I think there's one over here."

Happy Easter!

Mary and the children count eggs!

A perfect spot to journalize in...chickens don't talk.

Andy and Nakai take a ride.

Nolan and Andy take a ride.

Chuck and Nakai ride

Teah broke down and took a ride too!

Thanks to Chuck and Mary for hosting such a wonderful Easter dinner. We all had a nice day. The egg hunt was wonderful, the children had a great time. Everyone enjoyed the four wheelers and just being in the woods.

He deals in his own way.

Nolan isn't saying much. I understand. There's just not much to say.

Uncle Gene and Aunt Connie

Happy Early Birthday!
A kiss for my sister!

Nakai demonstrates his sword form!

Nolan taking a break from his hard work.

Teah and Aunt Connie

Nakai and Uncle Gene at the Harley shop.

Nolan and Uncle Gene at the Harley shop.

Teah and Aunt Connie at the Harley Shop.

For the remainder of the week, we visited with Uncle Gene and Aunt Connie. We went to the Harley shop, we celebrated Teah and Gene's bday early, we went shopping for an Easter dress, and we shared stories with each other in between all of the things we had to take care of. I'm so thankful that we were able to have this time together.

Connie, I am so glad you were able to connect with Teah...she really needed all the hugs and girl time you gave her. Gene, thanks for loving up the boys...they needed the physicality that can only come from a man who loves them unconditionally. Thanks for all you do for us. We love you!

Distractions along the way

This has been such a challenging, difficult, painful time for us. I'm thankful that there have been so many people here with us to help out, comfort and even distract us. Thanks Uncle Gene and Aunt Connie for being here, for loving up the kids, for taking them places, for making them smile. Thanks Auntie Megan, Grandma Janet, Grandpa John for being here, for jumping in and helping where needed, for lightening my load, I don't know what I would've done without you guys. Thanks to everyone who stopped by with food, who stepped in and did what needed to be done, without being asked, without hesitation. I would've been lost without Joe and Gwen Michaux, Jeff McCombie, Joe Occhipinti, John McDermott, Daryl Liddle, so many beautiful people who gave so selflessly. Special thanks to all the Mama's...you know who you are. There is no way I'd be doing any of this without you girls. You stood sentry at my door, you took the phone from my hand, you made a thousand and one phone calls, you went and accomplished terrific feats, you sheltered my children, you loved them, you scrubbed my house, you held me, you prepared food for everyone, you hosted so many people, so many things that needed to happen...you took care of them all. I am one blessed Mama. I will never forget the generosity of you all, the abundance, the expressions of love and hope, the memories and stories shared. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you all.

Fly Free Tawoda, Fly Free...

November 26, 1959 - April 2, 2009

Udadulada Tawoda

(Shadow Hawk)

It is with great sadness and a very heavy heart that I let you know that we lost our sweet Dennis on April 2, 2009 in a car accident. We are experiencing the most pain we have ever known. We are thankful for all the friends/family who have surrounded us during this painful time. Please keep the prayers coming as we find our way. We are finding much comfort in the memories shared by all and by cards and letters, emails and phone calls. Our community has been wonderful and we have not been alone. We take solace in knowing that he is free now and the children are sure he is playing his drum up in heaven with Uncle Manny and Grandma Stella and Duane and that he is already working, healing, singing. I'm sure they are right.

Don't stand by my grave and weep...

I am not there, I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow,

I am the diamond glints on snow,

I am the sunlight on ripened grain,

I am the gentle autumn's rain.

When you awake in morning's hush,

I am the swift uplifting rush

Of quiet birds in circling flight,

I am the soft starshine at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry...

I am not there, I did not die.

~Unknown Native American Author

Cleaning them up!

Last night, while all the children (Nolan, Sophie, Nakai and Xenia) were gathered at my house, Nolan came up with a great idea. They should all wash their bikes! (at 7:30pm) So...in they came, for buckets of hot soapy water, rags and towels and other things...

They were all so excited to show me how shiny their bikes turned out! And I was surprised to see how decorative they were...I mean really, how often do you see bikes with antlers, furs and feathers?

I love these guys! They certainly are nice to come home to and I miss them so much when I'm working. I'm nervous for changes to come....they love the freedom of being home, of learning at home, of creating and exploring....I'm sad that they may have to give all that up so that I can take a job next fall....we'll see how it all turns out. I'm sure we'll make the best of it.. (sigh)

Homeschoolers Coop Picnic

It really is so nice to have such a close-knit bunch of homeschoolers around. We get together pretty often for food, laughter, parties and fun. Mama's gather in the center and children run freely all around. Between the three of us that live close, we have nine fairly free-range children. It's nice to connect and support each other and hey, there is always someone to play with!

On this day, we decided that since we had to fix lunch anyway, we might as well make it communal! We all brought what we had and gathered in the greenspace with blankets spread out and dishes and food. What a nice afternoon! The boys were happy and wild and rough, as boys are, the babies were cuddly and adorable, the big girls were grown and independent, on their own separate blanket sipping tea and the little girls were happy to chase the boys (for awhile) and practice their cat growls and such.


There was a nice variety of food...Mama C made some pizzas; Mama Sue made some hummus; Mama B made gypsy soup and there were lots of extras too! Such a good afternoon. We will definitely have to do it again soon!

Science on the porch

Teah: "Mom, I need some water, oil, lemon juice, baking soda, india ink

I and some other stuff."

Me: "What for?

Teah: "I want to make a potion."

Me: "What kind of potion?"

Teah: " The kind I made at Harry Potter Camp."

Me: "So you've done this before?"

Teah: "do you have them?"

Me: " I think so...where do you plan to do this?"

Teah: "Here. On the stove."

Me: "(while washing dishes and stove) Ahhh, no way...how about outside?"

Teah: "Ooohhh, okaaaaayyyy"

And then I handed them over....

I snapped this picture just after the bubbling over occured.

She was a happy girl! I was happy for her...and then she handed me the messy left-overs from her experiment...naughty girl....I asked her not to add ink to the pot because you know, like..we do use it for food....and she acknowledged that request. Apparently sometime between when I said that and when she brought the stuff back in, she forgot that request...Yeah....forgot! Naughty, naughty girl~

Typing...

...a lost art. Remember the click clack of all the machines in high school typing class? And the teacher who walked around watching over your shoulder and correcting you? I do! I'm continually thankful for choosing that class..it has certainly served me well.

So, Teah brought this typewriter home from her dad's house recently and it has been a big hit by all. The children are all discovering the benefits and drawbacks of technology!

Carnegie Museum of Natural History

So, when visiting Children's, we always try to end our day with something fun...this time it was Carnegie. Lot of hands-on educational exhibits, and of course, the DINOSAURS! We all had a very good time and can't wait for our next trip to the Burgh when we'll visit the zoo!

Children's Hospital

Nolan had a super great visit to Children's this month. His pulmonary function test results were off the charts! He was so proud! Now if we can just get through soccer season, we'll be doing alright!

Nolan's monster

My crafty goal of the day was to finish up some monsters for a craft show this weekend. My super crafty son here wanted in on the action. I tried to tell him that I couldn't help him sew until I finished mine....but then I saw how sad he was. He told me he could do it himself...that he didn't need my help.....( I wasn't so sure) and you know what?
He did make this monster softie all by himself! With very minimal help and most of it verbal. Look at that face!

First Bugs of Spring

It's happened. Nolan has begun the season long practice of catching bugs in jars and observing them. Today flies and bees, tomorrow, who knows? I just hope we don't run out of drinking jars this year!

Silly Leprechaun!

Nolan was the first one up and announced loudly that Lucky had been here! He knew it because there were green sparkles on the floor. He woke everyone (at 7am) and we all ran down to check it out! There wee sparkles and gold coins all over the floor and table. The shoes were filled with sparkles, gold and even little gifts (balls on strings) for the children! There was a picture from Lucky and a card describing his homeland (Ireland) along with baskets of pretty green stones and organic chocolate bars!!! The trickiest thing of all though was the dog....Scooter's hair was green! Nolan said he must've heard Lucky last night and gone down to bark at him and then Lucky played chase with him and put magic green stuff in his hair!

SO, we had a really fun morning, laughing and talking about Lucky and his mischievous nature. Nolan drew a picture of Lucky, we made breakfast together and played with the balls until I made the executive decision (after saving the lamp, the bellies, and my yoga alter) that the balls were officially outside toys! We spent the afternoon watching the full-length documentary on Ireland (on PBS) and learning about the different animals, and plants in Lucky's land. We meant to visit a children's site to learn more about St. Patrick's day, but never got around to it! Maybe we'll check it out tomorrow.... we got into crafting after that...

Offering it up for Lucky

I don't know what you all do to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, but we like to have some fun here! We always leave something out in hopes that "Lucky" the leprechaun will choose our house as one of his hot spots to play in. The children left gold and jewels in treasure boxes under a plant on the table, along with personal notes and even a lucky pokemon card! They lined up their shoes by the back door and went to sleep all giggly and smiling at the thought that the little guy would choose to come and play here and leave us with good luck for the whole year through and maybe even some treats! They were eager to wake up and see if he had been here and what kind of little silly things he had done!

Time to Dig

Nakai is feeling the pull to get out in the garden and till up the soil, drop in the seeds and watch things grow. I feel it too. I long for the days of bare feet, sun tea, children playing while mama's stitch and chat in the yard, camping and festivals...farmer's markets, drum circles....long, lazy days, fresh food everyday....ahh, it'll be here soon, I know!

Don't forget to check out more of Nakai's personal journey over at his own blog:

http://www.Nakai-learns-at-home.blogspot.com

Lots of fun stuff over there, including Nakai's first shaving experience!

On a Mission to Earn!

...not sure what Nolan needs all this green for, but he's really been focused on earning money lately. He took the job of washing windows to earn some cash and also set up a "crabby patty" ( homemade bread, spinach, carrot slices, mustard) sale out front the morning before this. They weren't the hit he was hoping for (so he polished them off), so he turned back to sewing and stitched up some things for the farmer's market season. He recently offered to spot me some cash when I came up a bit short and the eye doctor's office! (They wouldn't take a card for my copay!) I think I'll keep him around!

Teah smiles!

Those of you who are regular followers of this blog know that for some time now, Teah has been avoiding having her picture taken. I don't know what changed, (or if I just caught her early) but this morning, Teah came down and took over my yoga mat and stretched out with the dog. She seemed so sweet and peaceful, so I nonchalantly grabbed the camera and snapped these shots! She usually scowls and frowns and hides, but gracefully let it slide....this time! Doesn't she have a sweet smile?

.

Nolan experiments

...with electric current and Rockets!

He actually had the entire circuit figured out somehow....he fully understood (i don't know where he learned this) how all the pieces should go and that they all needed to be hooked together....he had it almost right. One of the wires was touching the plastic, but he soon fixed that. Then he very patiently explained to Nakai (his assistant) that it wouldn't hurt him....that it would be fun...."go on, go on...it won't hurt you, you will laugh.." and actually got Nakai to shock himself by touching his tongue to this setup! Yes! Nakai actually did it! And got shocked.....and .....liked it so much that he did it over and over again. And then Nolan felt secure enough to try it....and liked it...and did it over and over again! I sat nearby amazed and dumbfounded at my sweet, sweet children! Smart and Sweetly Manipulative, he is.

Three Little Builders

Nolan, Ayden and Isaac enjoyed building their table-top basketball projects together at Lowe's Build It and Grow workshop. They all did a super fine job!

Nolan came home and went straight for the sewing room where he very quickly stitched that new patch onto his apron! I honestly don't know if he was more excited about building the project or about the possibility of getting a new patch to stitch on...but either way, I'm thankful there is a company in our community who is providing positive, meaningful activities to the children here!

Nolan was in awe of one of the boys at the workshop, whose apron was covered in patches....he must attend faithfully! I think Nolan is on a mission now!

Later that afternoon, Nolan got out his hammer and hung up several things for me....a mirror, and three pieces of wall decor. Oh, he also very generously fixed Nakai's jewelry box, which had fallen.....apart.
He asked me if I could print out a calendar so that he could write down all the Build It workshops, so as not to miss one! Dedication....Mastery....Perseverance...Determination.....all good things!