I remember a dear friend asking me this question about six or seven years ago. It was at a time when I had been through a bit of upheaval, and I remember answering, through a lot of tears, that I was afraid to really wish for anything. We sat in my car, parked on North Street, just around the corner from the blue, and over a long conversation part of what emerged was this deep desire for a yoga community. I don't remember now the timing of it all, but it wasn't long before I wandered into the shell of the newly store-fronted Creamery warehouses and the wheels of karma and destiny began to turn and blue lotus came to be.

I didn't have a clear picture of the details of that community I longed for, but as I step back now and look at what has grown from a small dream, it is with immense gratitude and awe that I see so many aspects of that vague dream realized in full color: a place where people come to be together; to laugh and learn and grow; a place where new friends meet and old friends reunite; a sanctuary when we need to rest and rejuvenate; a reflection pool when we need to see what lies within.

I have tremendous appreciation for all of the teachers who have come and gone from the studio- so many of whom have come and stayed. I am daily thankful for our amazing "peep" staff who makes the day-to-day business at the blue happen with ease. I am eternally grateful to Sandy Scherer, who has been by my side advising, managing, directing, counseling and consoling since long before Day 1. I am inspired by the students who show up week after week, month after month, and year after year. It is all of you who have created the depth and breadth of the community we all enjoy- authentically welcoming newcomers daily.

About a year ago, I re-engaged with this question of what I want my life to look like. And now we begin year 6. This year marks significant changes at the studio: launching our Advanced Training/YTT500 program; expanding class offerings into a new space with our friends at Studio Hargett Pilates; offering our 5th "9 months of transformation" training program starting in September; and biggest and best of all, welcoming our beloved "Cupcake," Kathleen Yount, as full time Studio Manager at blue lotus.

There is most certainly more change ahead, but as I continue to open to the possibility of what I'd like my life to look like, it is with so much sweetness I recognize how very beautiful it looks right now. Many, many thanks to all.

Peace,
Jill