on memories...

Im sure like most of you, I have experienced a good deal of loss in my life. Most recently, my Grandmother passed away at the young age of 94! I feel very blessed to have had my Grandmother in my life for such a long time, and I feel equally as blessed that my daughter has memories of her Great-Grandmother as well. Since my Grandmother passed away, a few days after Christmas, I have been pleasantly plagued by memories of her. I often times find my mind wandering and thinking about her. Ive looked at photos of her, young and old, and I have thought about her laugh and smiling face on many occasions. I have relived, in my mind, the stories she shared over the years. I laugh thinking about the times we shared through my youth; trips to Dairy Queen, walks to the “corner store”, singing “Sly and the Family Stone” into the upright vacuum.  Thinking about her may seem normal to all of you, but for me, it seems a bit odd. Im not sure why, but it does. I must admit, that for many  years, when I was much younger, I did not care for this Grandmother very much. Don’t get me wrong, I always loved her, but sometimes I did not like her. I often felt she was rough, tough, bitter, and angry. In years past, I did not feel like I could cuddle up to her, like most children can do with their Grandparents. However, I always viewed her as being the leader, or matriarch, on my father’s side of the family. The only conclusion I can come up with, for my feelings, is that I am growing up! Yup, that must be it! I think I am evolving into a real –live adult. This is a bit scary to me, but what I am realizing is that I have been able to weed through all the crap, and sift out the fond memories of my Grandmother, and I have peace around them. During the last months of her life, my Grandmother endured some falls, some memory loss, difficulty breathing, eating, and doing normal daily functions on her own. Although I do not think she suffered much, or was in pain, I do know that she is now resting in peace. I know that her family will live on in her memory, and I know for me, her memory and her smile, will always bring peace and a smile to my heart!

Today’s activity: cherish the memories

Today you may be struggling with the recent loss of a loved one, or even a pet. Or perhaps it has been years since you’ve lost someone close to you. Whatever the case may be, I encourage you to cherish the memories! Spend a few minutes, or more, thinking of a special person who is no longer with you. Take the time to look through old photos, or perhaps you have a hand written note from that person, or maybe you cook up one of their favorite recipes for dinner tonight. Perhaps you already think of this person every day, or perhaps it has been years since this person has entered your mind. Whatever the case may be, cherish and honor the memory of the person you have lost. Know that although they are no longer physically with you, their spirit lives on. Just like my Grandmother with me…I am smiling right now thinking of her! xo

On fresh starts...

Around the beginning of the year, I put some thought into life in general, and some of the mistakes or errors, I perceived Ive made in my life. I was thinking about my New Year’s resolutions, and listen to my family and friends talk about theirs as well. Whenever I think about my life, and wish I had not done certain things, perhaps taken some things more seriously, and even acted on some opportunities that have since past me by, I realized two things; 1. I can wallow in my own self pity, and beat myself up for opportunities past, and mistakes made, or 2. I can move on, and start fresh. I am happy to report that most times, I opted for number 2, and I move on. Here is the thing about life….it is forgiving! YUP, that is right…life is forgiving. Every morning when we wake up, we have the opportunity to start fresh. We have the chance to start new, to forgive ourselves, or others who may have hurt us in the past. We have the chance to do our best each and every day. No matter how horribly we think we may have messed up, we can always refresh, renew, and restart. Some errors are easier to repair than others, perhaps it may take a little time to mend the past, but anything is possible. With strong will and determination, by putting our best foot forward, by living through the eyes of love, and by forgiving yourself and others, we can move on!

Today’s activity: start fresh

Today I encourage to you refresh, renew, and restart. Take note of the fact that you have made mistakes in the past, and move on. I understand that some mistakes are bigger than others, but we are all human. When doubting yourself realize that life is forgiving, and so long as you can begin anew day, and do your very best, all will be fine. Made amends with yourself, and those who may have hurt you in the past. Life is forgiving, and it is ok for you, and I, to forgive ourselves. No good can become of us holding onto to hurt, anger, errors,  and guilt of the past. Learn from your mistakes, wake up and be thankful for this day, and move on with a happy, healthy heart and attitude. Living fresh can make you feel alive, and that my dear is what you are…ALIVE!