Just a Reminder

Today's P.S.A. has to do with something we should all take time to do often. Backing up our hard drives? (No, but we should do that too.) Living with gratitude and appreciation in our minds, acts and words? (Not what I was thinking about for this post, but also a good idea.) Not living beyond our means? Remembering to vote? Being kind to old folks and animals? (Nope, nope, nope, but all good and worthy endeavors.)

That really important reminder is this ~~ take time today to let those you love know how much they mean to you. Make a phone call, send a note or card, write an email, give them a hug and tell them in person, whatever it takes.

I've been to several wakes and funerals these last two weeks, and sitting in the church or funeral home, I think, what if that was me or someone I love more than words? Did they know how much I loved them? A friend lost her husband suddenly yesterday. Now she is arranging for his funeral. I hope they had time to exchange kind words and expressions yesterday before she left for work.

The people you express your feelings for will appreciate the boost and brightened day. You'll feel better too, just for having shared the love. Win-win. And on that note -- thank you for being so kind to me in my new blogging journey. You have made a difference! *smile*

Regret Less

[In case you think you're seeing doubles, don't worry. I'm using this same post for our Year of Gratitude blog and this one today because I'm tired and my eyes are googly. Been a long day of football fundraising, cooking for others, and helping take care of Mom. ;)]

Sunday, the traditional first day of the week. I wonder what today will hold? My two sisters and I are taking our mom on a short trip as she’s been very ill for almost a year and has been itching to go somewhere. She’s always loved nothing more than cozying up to a poker slot machine for hours and hours, so we’re going to fulfill that wish for her at a large casino and spend time just the four of us for an overnighter. We’ve got the meds, supplies, wheelchair, and insulin packed up and our don’t-leave-home-without-it Bag O’ Snacks that has always accompanied us on every journey.
After so much bad weather lately, we’re hoping for sunny skies with maybe just a light sprinkle or two. I’m grateful for this time and for this getaway. Three people close to me have lost a loved one suddenly in the last week, so I know what a blessing it is to have as many good days to spend with those you care most about as possible. When the time comes, I won’t have as many shoulda/woulda/couldas and regrets hanging over me as some people do. That is a blessing I truly am grateful for.

All this pondering about time and loss of loved ones and regrets got me to wondering if there are things we can do to minimize those dark cloudy feelings, besides the obvious one of doing today what could be put off until tomorrow or later on. How do you live more fully each day pursuing the things, people and plans most important to you?