First things first

As 2018 draws near,
before we ask for what we want,
let us first be thankful
for what we have.

Resolutions

With a new year fast approaching,
many of us will make resolutions.

How about disposing of . . .

selfishness
greed
cold-heartedness
ignorance
antagonism
despondency
hate
gloom

How about offering . . .

Kindness
Generosity
Compassion
Understanding
Assistance
Hope
Love
Joy

Peeps

Oh what joy!
What a marvel and a blessing!

Those fabulous people
who come into your life
and touch it in a way that
only they could.
The childhood friends.
The faux family -
that is often MORE than family could ever hope to be.
The coaches who not only coached your sport,
but mentored you in life.
The acquaintances that became 'uncles'.
The supportive friends you can't imagine life without.
The neighbors that were far more than neighborly.
The pals you know - no matter the lapse in time -
were always right there for you.
We are given these gifts
in such a seemingly random way.
And yet . . . when you step back and look . . .
these Precious Peeps we've been presented with
are given when we need them most,
offered when we are searching earnestly,
cross our paths when the path seems impassible.

Lovin' My Peeps!

An Idea

There is not a person alive
that doesn't appreciate a
"Good job!" or "Well done!"
It's not that you need approval.
It's not that you need affirmation.
It's not that you need recognition.
Every now and again,
it's just absolutely fabulous
to have someone be nice to you.

The phrase could be 'nice sweater',
or 'great smile',
or 'what an infectious laugh'.

A little unexpected bliss bomb
is a beautiful thing.

Today . . . here's an idea . . .
throw one out there.
Mean what you say.
And watch the magic unfold.

My Gifts

Over the years, I have received many great gifts,
but . . . the absolute best ones would be the people in my life.

The ones who said I couldn't.
They made me more determined.
The ones who said I wouldn't.
They made me more persistent.
The ones who betrayed me.
They taught me about trust.
The ones who are whiners.
They taught me about diligence.
The ones who are two-faced liars.
They taught me about honesty.
The ones who are braggarts.
They taught me about humility.

The ones who stood by me.
They taught me about unity.
The ones who listened to me.
They taught me about understanding.
The ones who supported me.
They taught me about strength.
The ones who pushed me.
They taught me about vision.
The ones who guided me.
They taught me about tenacity.
The ones who loved me.
They taught me more than I could ever know.

You see, they've all been gifts.
Some were returned.
Some were exchanged.
Some have been cherished for eons.

Enjoy what's not under the tree.

Merry Merry

The game of life
is much different than say, Monopoly.

It is definitely NOT about
grabbing up all the tangibles.
It is definitely NOT about
having the newest, latest and greatest gadgets and gizmos.
It is definitely NOT about
the size and/or shape of one's bank account.
It is definitely NOT about
what make and model of vehicle you own.

It is about living.
It is about sharing.
It is about listening.
It is about exploring.
It is about learning.
It is about giving.
It is about people.
It is about honesty.
It is about caring.
It is about faith.
It is about honor.
It is about thriving.
It is about hope.
It is about love.
It is about one another.

Be merry in your actions.
Be merry in your speaking.
Be merry in your existence.
Have a blessed and Merry Christmas!

Miss You

Christmas time makes it harder,
but I miss you EVERY day.
Your kindness, laughter, wit and charm
will never fade away.
You took a piece of me with you
when you left this earthly plane,
But I carry more of you with me,
it's what truly keeps me sane.
I laugh at what seems to be nonsense,
cry at the drop of a hat,
smile when I know you're present
it could only be you doing that.
Continue to push me forward
on the days I'd like to quit.
I know we'll be reunited.
I may just have to wait a bit.
My love to you as always.
Miss you more than words can say.
Have a Heavenly Merry Christmas
and a blessed every other day.