A Wildflower at STS-135

A few days ago I was planning out my blog posts for the week, and the plan was to talk about “wildflowers” and the need to take time to appreciate the wildflowers in life. And then NASA stepped in.

My thoughts today(and for the past few days) keep revolving around the NASA Tweetup that I am so very blessed to be participating in. Words can not even begin describe my excitement. In fact, a picture is worth a thousand words, right? With that logic- I’ll need to purchase yet another external hard drive to house my attempt at photographing the historic event. I’ve delved in, trying to familiarize myself with as many bits of information in an attempt to steady my nerves (and therefore my camera) when the time comes to capture the two days worth of events.

The longer I spend “getting to know” the other participants, the more I really start to question- what on earth am I doing among such amazingly accomplished people? (Apparently I am not alone in this thinking!) In fact, the list of people that should be treated to such special treatment would go on for miles- all of the people that wrote in the Shuttle’s storied past, making every mission possible; all of the families and friends of the astronauts and facilitators alike, who supported and encouraged them; even many NASA employees and contractors will never get a taste of the treat that I will have in a few weeks. I keep wondering, in a good way mind you, why me?

I was starting to think of myself as more of a weed in the midst of this beautifully cultivated, and intelligent group of individuals- but the moment has lasted only a for a short while. I’ve decided- no, I am not a weed, but a wildflower. (Ironically, bringing me back to my topic for today) Just like a wildflower, I have found some ways to dig in my roots and bloom where I’m planted. (Thanks in part to the military, that has changed quite a few times!) My resume is not one that contains lines and lines of formal training or intensive experience, but the wildflower in me takes what is available within my reach, and manages to produce something beautiful. I soak up whatever knowledge and experience I can get my hands on, and jump in with what I have. Sure there are some people that may pass me by because of this- but I don’t mind. There are enough people out there that appreciate me just the way that I am.Everything happens for a reason. I am absolutely 100% certain of this. The frequency of “coincidences” that have occurred in my life are proof enough to me that, when you are open to receive, and free to be moved, there is always a gentle guidance pushing you towards what, where and who you are meant to be. I have read more than a few times, that the NASATweetup is life changing. I’m not certain why I am blessed enough to be attending, but you can bet that I am going to be open and free to whatever comes from this experience. Keep your eye open for me- a redheaded wildflower with a camera in hand.