Finally! For the first time in two years I was going for my very first bike ride of the Season. I pushed that heavy barn door up, and when open, carefully wove my way towards the back where my bike was sitting, missing by a hair’s breath my knees getting skinned on the jumble of machines. Managing to get that bike out without hurting me or one of those machines, I discovered two flat tires. Yup. No surprise there.
Instead of wasting hours hunting for where hubby had placed the tire pump I saw my neighbor over at his barn, so taking bike I strolled over and asked him if he would kindly put air in my tires for me. (smile) Bless you, Mr. Al. It was a struggle but you did it. Thank you!
Of course that bike was filthy, and running for a bucket of soapy water, I washed it and wiped it dry. Lubricated the chain, checked to make sure brakes were working and all gears, I was confident that bike was ready to go. Yup. I was ready! Dumping my bucket of dirty water and replacing it empty where I found it (note to hubby … learn this!) I stuffed my [now blonde] hair into a scarf and put my riding helmet on. Darn it! But it was too big! Huh. Either my head shrunk (don’t go there!) or I actually had hubby’s helmet. No way was I again about to waste precious time looking for the other helmet so I adjusted the straps so it would properly fit my head.
I had a 3-hour window to have fun! Yippee!!!
My fanny pack with water around my waist together with cellphone and CD player I was off! OH did it feel good to fly again! I did however have to choose a windy day so going against a stiff 30 mph wind I zipped my gears down into second and still I found out within no time hiking muscles aint the same as biking. Whew! But I had a grin!
I had plans on exploring an area I’ve never been before but to get there I had to travel on back country roads that now sadly were expressways. Thank you, progress and subdivisions explosion.
[Photo taken in Como Park after hubby fixed tire …. no head scarf.]
Wearing a neon yellow tank top and purple riding shorts I knew I would be seen but you better believe I hugged that shoulder. No sorry. There was no shoulder. The road became a white line and had from there about 3 inches of blacktop before meeting gravel and rocks and lots of weeds. Not much room for error. I still though just could not stop grinning. I was sprung! And free!
Around the 6 mile mark I felt something wrong with my front tire. Looking down I saw to my horror a bulge in my front tire. NO NO NO NO NO NO!!!!! This could not be happening! I either could:
- Turn around and take a slow and careful ride back home.
- Turn around and walk the bike back home.
- No third choice. None. I had no one to call for help.
I opted for choice two. Not a problem from where I saw things. My legs strong from a 7-mile very challenging hike could easily make this. So began my walk home, with fanny pack now belted to bike and pedals in position so as not to hit my leg. Down one street, turned the corner to another street and that is where trouble began. Those darn weeds hit my pedals and before I knew it my shin was slamming into that pedal. OUCH! I tried changing positions. Nothing worked. I just had to keep going. What other choice did I have? I wasn’t about to take a chance riding my bike and have that tire blow sending me God knew where and ending up hurt. Uh uh!
So I listened to Josh Groban, gazed at the clouds, stopped to take pictures, and truthfully was in my Bliss zone. I was not going to let a tire bulge ruin my day! Now if those pedals would stop moving! After the third slam that left huge welts and broken skin, chivalry arrived.
Two vehicles on the other side of the road pulled over and stopped. Before I knew what to expect a man in the first vehicle said something, and because I had ear buds in my ears, I had to take one out and ask him to repeat what he said. He asked if I needed a lift. He knew I was in trouble. The man in the second vehicle when he heard man number one ask me his question actually got out of his vehicle and when man number one saw this, he got out too. As I stood there stunned they seemed intent on competing as to who could get to me first. Over me?
Huh. And here my blonde hair was not even in sight. (laughing) To have not one but two really nice men not only stop but act as though I was a damsel in distress (which I was) well, this woman preened. A smile broke out across my face and I beamed. Christmas in June! No fear was felt because in scanning both men not a single hair spelled danger. Besides man number two had his 3-year old son in the back seat. I waved to him and said, “Your Daddy is a really nice man!”
I did something I never have done in my life. I accepted the ride from man number one after both men had to thoroughly examine my tire and come to my exact same conclusion …. um, yes sure enough, a bulging tire *silent laugh*. They made such a fuss over me. Oh my. *blush*
So man number one put my bike in the back of his jeep and I hopped in the passenger seat after he opened the door. *faint* He was just so darn nice I could not get over it. It seemed as if I had stepped into a beautiful dream. I was nervous, mind you and it showed when I spoke. My tongue fumbled. LOL In the conversation that ensued one of the things that was revealed was this man actually knows my neighbor and asked me to say hello.
What a small world!
OH did I ever thank this man and wished him all the very best when he returns to school in Maine for his Masters in Forestry. I’ll never forget that man or his name. In today’s world when you hear of so many evil goings on, what JOY it is to know there are really decent nice people out there. And let me tell you, I’m still glowing having not one but two men wanting to assist me when in trouble. It’s been a long time since I glowed like that. Oops. *claps hand over mouth*
[Photo taken in Como Park]
Photography/ “OH My That Bulge!”/ June 2017©AmyRose
http://www.herladypinkrose.wordpress.com
💞🌸💞
There’s still good folk out there.
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Yep. And believe me it is good to know, Richard! ☺️💝
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What an adventure, Amy — and a gorgeous day. Good for you–and fun to have some chivalry too.
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I haven’t seen that kind of chivalry in a long time, Jet. In the days I grew up in you just saw people helping others. Not so today. In the small town I live in I’m actually seeing people helping people again. NICE!!! Finally mankind is acting with heart! YES! 💖💖💖
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And you thought it was just a little bike ride. The things that you get up to Amy…and by the look of it, on a lovely sunny day 😀
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Right? How do I manage to have these adventures? Oh, Mark, if you knew the all of my life you would firstly not believe it and secondly be roaring at some parts. What would I write about if my life was boring? Heaven forbid! 😎🤓🌸🎀
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lol…at least your adventures ‘used’ to keep you off the streets…now I don’t know 😀 ❤
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😂😂😂
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Amy, what a great story. Beautiful pics. My favorite is of you. This may indeed be my absolute favorite of all.
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Gives us hope that not all is lost with mankind, doesn’t it? This act of kindness and what my neighbor did for me …. 85 young …. I honestly did not expect. I’m still glowing. As for my picture I feel sooooooo good!!! At long last I feel wonderful! 😊😉💖🎀🌹
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Yes! There is always hope. You look like you feel very good and that makes me happy.
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😊 Doesn’t look like that wheelchair is anywhere around. I’ve oroven so many doctors wrong and that in of itself makes me jump for joy! Rita, I’ve worked so hard and so long for this victory!!!! 💖💖💖
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Yes you have! Girlfriend, I admire you more that a little comment box will ever allow me to state properly. You are a light in my life.
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Oh. Rita. Bless you, Sis! Tears. 🌹
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Right back at ya!
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There you go, stopping traffic with your blonde wiles.:)
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Well that’s the strange part of all this. I had my hair hidden under a scarf that was beneath my helmet. So no blonde hair was in sight. Huh. I must admit since I’ve gone blonde though I’ve turned heads. 😉 I think it just boiled down to the fact there really are some good people left in this world. 🎀
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What do you mean ‘blonde hair’? The lovely energy coming from you would only attract saints anyway Amy 😀 ❤
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Awwwww. Aren’t you the sweet talker! Thanks, Mark!! 🌸🎀💖
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aaww there you go picking up strangers – snorts and oinks!! I would have helped you too sweet friend. Way to go hubba hubba. XOXO – Bacon
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Hahahahaha …. I didn’t do the picking up. They did the picking up. Tee hee …. And yeah hubby bought new tires for me too so that bulge won’t happen again. I LOVE my bike and feel like a kid on it. (I act it too!) XOXO 🌹
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PS I KNOW you would have helped me. Oink!
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Snorts and oinks! You *know* I would have. Can you picture the both of us walking down the road together? Snorts with piggy laughter. XOXO – Bacon
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ROFLMAO!! Bless you for that picture!! 😂😂😂
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BBS …. be back soon …. to see you over yonder … I’m going fur a bike ride! 😉
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Now that’s the best way to enjoy the day out on a bike! great weather, people and scenery ☺️
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Didn’t get to actually ride the bike much but still all in all, the day was glorious!!! OH I’m enjoying this summer, Andy! 🌈🌸💝
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I hope this summer lasts much longer for you then! ☺️
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Some good people still left around I guess.. 🙂
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Yes there are. Renews my faith in mankind! 💖🎀💖🎀💖
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Oh, Amy! Dying your hair blonde!!? Taking rides from strange men??! What’s next???! Ha, ha.
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Not even I know what is next, Marissa. I really do live in a “small” town and lately I’ve witnessed people coming forward to help others. It’s been awesome to see and now I was helped. That was the first time I took a chance with a “stranger” yet … I honestly do know how to “see” energy and both those guys were good guys. And yeah, I’m having fun with the blonde, oh believe you me! A wee bit of trouble with the women folk but the men … oh my! Like I said … I’m really having fun with this!! I’m finally feeling great health wise and I am in awe as I see youth appear on me. Oh yeah! It pays to take care of yourself! 🤣🌸☺️
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Great story AmyRose! What a wonderful day out – with plenty of nice surprises!! Lovely pics as always!
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Thank you, Donna!!! I again go out today on that bike of mine! OH it has been so glorious here even though a bit wet. Temps so cool but hot sun!!! I’m in heaven!!! 😄😇🌈
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Amy the angels are watching over you at all times dear friend.. Seems both were competing for their wings LOL.. So pleased you were rescued Amy. But the photo’s you took along the way were Stunning.. As was the blonde in Yellow. LOL.. hehe..
Loved this post and it restores our faith in human nature..
Love and Blessings Sue xxx ❤
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Sue, there is no doubt that Angels watch over me all the time even though the darnedest things do happen to me. And yeah, pretty funny about that competition, wouldn’t you say? I know I don’t look my “age” but to be on the receiving end of kindness and chivalry, well, my feminine me fluffed her feathers and preened. I mean, I’m truly just human and what woman wouldn’t like that kindness coming her way? And male attention? Tee hee ….
Yes my faith in mankind has been renewed oh believe you me! And thank you about my photos …. it was just such a gorgeous day in every way!!! Much Love to you! 🌈💞
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So pleased you were able to fluff your feathers out dear Amy.. We woman always respond to a little male chivalry every now and again.. And we woman of a certain age still have our womanly instincts.. 😉 Love and Hugs dearest friend..
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Soooooooo relate to what you said about women…. regardless of age. 😂
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😀
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I am so glad you were found and helped by such a nice young man. It’s good to know they are out there. Be careful on that bike, and (I don’t want to be a nag, but) I’d lose the earbuds when riding. I ride mainly on the road, and I added a mirror to the left handlebar and I never use earbuds – I like to see and hear what’s coming.
Beautiful photos, and you look pretty happy on that bike!
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Dan, I so appreciate your concern. Seeing I haven’t ridden my bike for 2 years I honestly was shocked by the amount of road traffic which has increased dramatically because of the subdivision explosion. I listen to music yes but I still hear the traffic but someone from the opposite side of the road with cars whizzing by, no. When I had my earbuds just hanging down after taking them out to have a conversation with this man, you couldn’t even hear the music. (Smile) In talking to hubby about how the traffic has really increased, our bikes are getting some new additions. Mirrors on the left side, new breaks, new tires, and lights. We used to be able to ride with barely any cars around but today is a different story all together. Thank you for your stamp of approval on my images. My phone is amazing! And yeah, I feel very happy on that bike except for today … sore bum syndrome. LOL 😂 I gotta get used to this bike thing again. Yeppers!!!
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Ok. I feel better. I try to avoid heavily traveled roads but I’ll take one with a wide shoulder to avoid a 2-lane road that seems to attract a lot of idiots. You get a feel for the roads after a few passes.
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Those streets I were on ARE the back roads. I was avoiding the main drags that are 4 lanes. It’s gotten nuts around here. And because traffic is so heavy on those country roads they need to be widened. I’ve got some figuring to do as to how best to ride safely. I really was thankful for that kind man. Even he said I could have gotten killed. Grrrrrr ….. I miss the quiet we had! 😩
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It takes a bit of research but I know you will figure it out. I have a few loops of various lengths.
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Thanks for the encouragement, Dan. Safety first. Those busy fast moving roads I avoid!
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Hmmmm ….. GPS for bike? 🤣
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That is a very nice story. There are many more nice people than we sometimes thought of.
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You are so right, YellowCable. There are many more nice people out in the world then we at first think are because all we tend to hear is the bad side of humankind and this world. How sad. Why doesn’t someone come up with Happy News? I know I would listen to it or watch it! I abhor the ugly bad news and avoid it like the plague. I’ve honestly been seeing more people where I live help others out. Wow! NICE!! 🌼
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You are absolutely right! We would not survive if it is the other way around.
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I agree with the comments above. Lots of people are willing to help you when you are in trouble. And never ride a bike without being able to hear what is going on. It’s dangerous.
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John, as I explained to Dan I do hear the traffic having my music on very very low. And yes there are many people who are willing to help out. This trend I’m happy to report seems to be on its way back and growing. YES! How about that?! 🎁🌸
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‘what a time.
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Right? What an adventure! LOL😂
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What an adventure! you look amazing! 🙂
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Aw, thank you! I feel wonderful after years of gaining my health back! 💖
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Great story. Like the pictures too. I look at clouds to practice oil paintings. The shadow picture of you and the bike is a story in itself…the determination of a different outing.
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Sharon, I am not able to thank you enough for your comment about my silhouette photograph. You are the only one who commented on it. I thought it to be a truly intriguing image including 3D reality with shadow reality. I’m very grateful to you!! I’m so glad you enjoyed this post! Much Love, ❤
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YW. Keep doing what makes you happy. I do enjoy your photos
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And I enjoy you here. 😊💖
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wonderful adventure
of cycling & heroism, Amy!
I too, have had
the generous assistance
of others helping
this damsel
in distress 🙂
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Now I really hope this is Mrs. David who wrote this comment because to my knowledge David is a “he” and so cannot be a damsel in distress. And yes this was quite the adventure! ☺️💞
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I’m not surprised .. you look fantastic! Wonderful post .. hugs
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LOL Pretty good for a woman who wasn’t walking for almost 2 years, was told by surgeons if I did not have more back surgeries I’d end up in a wheelchair, and who by the way, just turned 60. Oh yes, friend, I have worked hard to obtain health and stay there. It’s been a very LONG road of over 20 years but to see and feel the results today just spurs me on to keep on doing what I am. HUGS right back at you, Julie! ❤
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Great story! Yes there are good people out there and we need more of those kinds of stories. Glad you got home safely and enjoyed some opportunities to capture the scenery around you. Always lovely to see your work.
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Thank you, Catherine. Yes it is astonishing that there really are nice people out there when all we tend to here is the opposite. I’m seeing a trend here where I live and that is people are beginning to reach out to others (again). How NICE! 🌈
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Thank goodness, you stopped and let the men take over, if there had been a woman I would have gone with her! Hurray for kindness and goodness prevailing, Amy! xoxo 🌞💕
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What a an adventure Amy. Love the photos, your wonderful view of life and its unexpected “bumps” ( or bulges as it were 😉), and that gorgeous smile. Just think what a wonderful story that little guy has to tell his Mom and what a great example his Dad set for him. Positive vibes all around. Sorry about your leg though. Ouch. Sounds like maybe too much air or you need new inner tubes. Do they still make bike tires with those?
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Cheryl, since this story, hubby has taken upon himself to blueprint both of our bikes which means taking everything apart and replacing parts. Not only that but fixing parts that aren’t perfect and fine tuning the enitre bike as well. Yes the tires have been replaced. Today we plan on going to find me a comfortable bike seat because my private area *blush* is the reason I turn my bike home. My legs are really strong right now and could still continue but those woman parts OH BOY need a custom seat. That’s being addressed today. Thank goodness! And yes that young boy does have a tale to tell his Mom how nice his Dad is. What a great example that man set for his son. I do tend to have adventures. If I didn’t what would I write about? LOL 🙂 ❤
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I agree about adventures Amy. It is why I leave the house! 😊Glad to know your ‘ride’ is getting an overhaul. Boy does your hubby sound like mine. And as for those seats, mine can tell you the FIRST thing I do when I get a new bike is to sit on it, rip off the factory seat and replace it with a nice, cushioned, wide one. I don’t know how those professional bikers ride on those. It’s like have a vinyl covered stick up your bum . 🙊Happy riding. I look forward to your next ride!
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I’m just SO excited, Cheryl!! OH boy I got my new seat! Hubby still is fine tuning my bike (GROAN!) so I cannot even try it out but I sat on a bike at the store with this same seat on it and OHHHHHH it felt wonderful. No wonder the seat I’ve been using hurts. The owner’s wife who was helping us told me that seat was made for a guy! Dang! No wonder I hurt. Duh! Hubby is a lot that starts with the letter A. I wrote a post about that letter A. He’s very very very thorough. That’s your hint. LOL 😜😂
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Oh my but we do have things in common. I can sight hang a group of framed pictures while he is away and no one is the wiser. But rue the day I say “hang a picture” in hus presence. A fufteen minute job of joy turns into an afternoon project, complete with at least two measuring tools. 😱And yes his projects are meticulous. Don’t even ask what happens when he decides to help wuth the housework. (I think that one is a ploy to keep me from asking. 🤔)
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ROFLMAO!!! OMG!!! DITTO!!! I dread when we work together. PALEEZE! I’m so handy with my hands and I’m good but because I don’t do things his way … not going there cause you know. Oh this is too funny! What’s going on here? Are we living parallel lives? 😂😂😂
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I almost forgot yay for your new seat! 👏
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👏👏👏👏
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Bottom relief! 🤣
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We sure have lots in common. Lol!
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a life full of miracles like that mine has been as of late…is kewl when thingz werk out as the higher order of things wants them to right! 🙂
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OH man do I know that one, Q! When the Flow happens it just is sooooo amazing!! Glad you can relate to the miracles!! Kewl! 🌈
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