If you’ve been reading here for a while, you know I haven’t exactly had a regular posting schedule. I've written posts here and there, depending on my other writing deadlines and life in general. Which has included setting aside time to work on my children's book manuscripts and pursue publication in that genre.
But lately, especially because I'm working outside of the house a day or two a week, I’ve realized that one of the manuscripts I’ve poured my heart into the most is being neglected...
It’s my young-adult novel, sitting in my desk drawer upstairs.
The story that took me over a year to write.
The story about a girl who descends into a battle with an eating disorder and then finds her way out of it.
The story that, some days, I wrote through tears in my eyes.
Because it’s a story that was inspired by my own struggle with self-image and food when I was in college.
I often “hear” the manuscript calling to me—the girl, the struggle, the triumph.
And for weeks now, I’ve wanted to pull it out of the drawer, work on revisions, and send it out to a publisher or an agent.
But there hasn’t been time.
Which is why I need to make the time.
And take a break from my blog.
Because as much as I'd like to "do it all", thanks to My One Month, I realize that right now, I need to prioritize. And follow my heart.
I need to follow it upstairs to that desk drawer.
To that story.
About that girl.
I don’t know how long I'll be "gone" because writing is just that way… sometimes revisions are quick, and sometimes they're not.
If you haven’t subscribed to my blog yet, please enter your email or click on “subscribe” in the right-hand column before you leave. That way, you’ll know when my next post is up. I'll also be putting up a few links / articles, and possibly some of my previous posts, while I'm "away", so you'll get those too. And I'll always try to respond to comments and email. :)
I have some fun ideas about what I want to do around here when I’m back. And I have a bunch of posts that I want to write.
Like the one about what I found in my purse last week.
And the one about my daughter and her mouse at the piano.
But for now, I'm off to work on the novel that's been tugging at my heart.
Wish me luck, and be sure and stop by 5 Minutes for Mom’s Faith Lifts on Fridays to say hi. :)
Cast your vote...
Where my heart is...
Your "One Month" posts...
All right. You guys made this decision really hard. It was impossible to choose just one or two posts to put up here for a couple of days.
So I didn’t.
I chose three.
And here they are:
1. I loved how Kristen at No Small Thing wrote in her post about some of the moments that make up being a mom…
“What if I had just one month to live? How would I live my last 30 days? It is a question that has been posed by many, but most recently by Genny, and it caused me to stop and think if I’m living my life each day the way I want to.
If I were to die, how would I be remembered? What things would my children say about me…what would stand out in their minds? I’m a little afraid of what the answer might be, to be honest.
It has also caused me to think about the way I approach each day, and each task. Do I grumble, or do I smile as I work? Lisa at take90west posted this, which I think sort of hit the nail on the head. It was just what I needed to knock myself off of my throne.
Because my days center around caring for my children, that is what I have chosen to focus my one month on. And what it comes down to is this: I would live my last 30 days without obligation, but with love. While the content of my days would not necessarily change drastically, my attitude toward that content would.
I would wash, dry, iron and fold their clothes because I love them. I would put them away, straightening out their drawers, and feel satisfied that my little ones will have clean, warm clothing to wear each day.
I would cook their meals not as a chore, but as something I could do to nourish the little bodies that house their hearts and minds, because I love them.
I would bake them cookies and I’d watch as the soft, shiny chocolate chips, still warm from the oven, smear on their little hands and their little faces. And then I’d hug them and kiss them, and not worry too much about the chocolate and the crumbs.
I would let them stay in the bath a little longer…and I’d even pour them some bubbles…and I wouldn’t get so upset when they splashed a little too much.
I would stay a little longer in their rooms at night…leave the pots and pans from supper to soak until they were asleep…so that they could slumber in their beds, tucked in their fluffy blankets, and warmed by the time we spend together. They would know that they are immensely more important to me than a clean kitchen.
I’d turn off this computer. And I would talk with them more. I would listen to their stories, and I would tell them some of mine.
We would take more walks.
We would pick more flowers.
We would hold hands, close our eyes and raise our faces to the sun, and take in its warmth.
We would jump in more leaf piles.
We would blow more bubbles.
We would roast more marshmallows.
We’d drink more hot cocoa.
We’d snuggle more.
We’d watch the sunrise together, and we’d watch it set together.
We would read more books together.
We would pray together.
We’d camp out under the stars.
Then I think they would know the most solemn truth of my life…that I love them with all my heart and soul. I hope that is what they would remember. I hope that is what they would say about their mother…
She loved me more than anything.”
2. And I loved how my friend Kelly at Pass the Torch took an “I would vs. I wouldn't” approach…
“My friend Genny is hosting a thoughtful project this month, based on a book she read entitled, One Month to Live. Although I certainly won’t know when my 30 day clock will begin, it’s an interesting prospect to consider how I’d use my time.
In high school I made a “life list” and I’ve considered writing a reprise to that — all the destinations I’ve yet to travel, and the goals I’ve yet to achieve. But this project is quite different. With only 30 days, I find myself thinking more about what I wouldn’t do, than what I would do.
I wouldn’t…go anywhere, see things or fill my life with adventure, like I would on a bucket list that I might take decades to cross off. I wouldn’t achieve, reach goals or buy things.
I wouldn’t watch the news, or listen to anyone who shared the negative side of it.
I wouldn’t answer the phone or sort my email inbox.
I wouldn’t resent, regret, worry, or feel obligated, angry or hurt.
I would …pick and choose the small things that have brought me joy.
I’d live at the cabin, like we do in the summer.
I’d fill the freezer with filet mignon and shrimp, make fancy dinners with my daughter and bake chocolate chip cookies from scratch with my son.
I’d rise early and go to bed late, watch the sun illuminate the lake as I drank coffee with my husband, and watch it blaze red at dusk as we sipped Merlot.
I’d go for walks.
I’d toast marshmallows with my kids and ride bikes to Dairy Queen.
I’d blog every day, leaving my own 'Last Lecture.'
I’d take pictures.
If friends and family visited, we’d talk and laugh, and share good news.
I wouldn’t talk about dying in 30 days.
And I’d thank God if he let my last 30 days be healthy ones.”
3. Last, I loved Elle’s post at Fingerprints on my Window because I think it’s a great reminder to seize the day and be thankful, right where we’re at…
“Genny over at MyCup2Yours is one of my favorite sites to visit. She is hosting a contest challenging her readers to write a post and share insights into what they would do if they only had one month to live.
To reflect on this question, I must first share that I am a working mommy. I work outside the home while trying to keep my family first. I have struggled with this over the years, but I work in the best possible job doing something I feel I was destined to do. I am a speech pathologist and feel very passionate about my work. I work in the schools so my hours are great for my children.
This being said, I have a problem at the end of every summer. I have a major depression readjustment about the end of summer and the return to work and school. It's not just for me; I hate sending my kids back to school and genuinely love having them around. I hate the homework, the schedule, the pressure, the conflicts and the stress. My kids do pretty well in school and I still dread the end of summer!
Each year my end of summer blues were getting worse until...two years ago. I had an epiphany in church, something to the effect of "life is not an Elle party".
Yes folks, that became my mantra. "Life is not a party for me." God never intended life to be easy or a personal party. There are no endless summers and no free lunches. I consider myself very blessed to have the glorious summer and the wonderful unscheduled time with my kids. I am certain that I am right where I should be during the school year. I work to help young children and their families. God has been so gracious to give me wonderful summers off to enjoy my kids and recharge my batteries. Of course, it would be nice if my last month was in the summer. If not, I believe I am right where I am supposed to be.
I would make some little tweaks... make fewer lists, try to be present more, seize more moments, and try to make each moment count.
I would write in and read my own blog more! My favorite blog of all time is my own, not because it can hold a candle to some of my favorites.
Fingerprints is my favorite because I write first and foremost for me. My blog is about; my kids, my love, my thoughts and my life. I am thankful for the gift of my life. Keeping a journal online or otherwise helps me reflect, focus and embrace this gift God has given me. One key goal I am always striving for is to live my life to an audience of one... God.
So Carpe Diem - seize the day or the moment and start living your life with no regrets, I hope you feel you are right where you are supposed to be today.”
Kristen, Kelly, and Elle, I’ll be forwarding your posts to the authors of One Month to Live. Thanks again for participating!
I have to add that everyone who wrote a post for My One Month—not just the three I chose—inspired me in some way.
Like my friend Angela at Becoming Me, who fueled my desire to reach out to others when she said in her post, “I would devote my time to contributing to the lives of others. I would listen intently, invite freely, converse openly, compliment lavishly, and forgive without a millisecond of hesitation.”
And Wendi at Everyday Miracles,who inspired me with her faith and her love for life. In her post, she said, “the experience of loving and losing two of our babies has given us a unique perspective into the significance of life. I love the word life. It is bursting with beautiful implications.”
And Diane at The Dishes Will Wait, who wrote, “As for me, I don’t have any place in this world that I need to see. Take me down a road where the trees are framing the hillside in beautiful hues of red, orange, yellow and green and I will see the beauty of God’s creation.” Her post reminded me to appreciate all that is around me.
There are many more I could list, but let me just thank all of you for sharing your heart. You have inspired me, and many others!
Bedtime prayers and...sandwiches?
You name it, I can make it... hot pastrami, French dip, turkey and avocado, salami with the works…
But don't ask my son about the salami sandwiches.
Because apparently he won't agree that they're any good.
The other night when we were saying bedtime prayers together, this is what he said:
"Dear God,
Thank you for my mom and dad and sister and Spot and Blackberry and everything else. Please help Lady up in Heaven. And please don’t have my mom make that kind of sandwich in my lunch ever again.
Amen."
I’m joining in with Rocks in My Dryer’s Works-for-Me-Wednesday, because saying bedtime prayers with my kids is something that works for me.
Just like when they write on their whiteboards, it gives me a glimpse into their hearts.
And I love being able to hear what they're thinking, or hoping for.
Even if it’s just that they don't want me to make them salami sandwiches anymore. :)
What I've Learned...
Thank you to everyone who participated in My One Month! I loved reading all your posts and comments, and I was inspired by your stories and what you shared.
By the end of this week, I’ll select one (or more) post to put up here for a little while. I’ll also forward the post(s) to the authors of One Month to Live for consideration to use on their website. If you haven't had a chance to read some of the "One Month" stories that people have written, take a few minutes to check them out here. You won't be disappointed.
It's been an awesome, put-it-all-in-perspective month for me. I've learned so many things...
I’ve learned to worry less and pray more.
I’ve learned, when my daughter says, “I want a long hug, Mommy,” to hold on until she lets go. Even if it’s late at night. Or even if I’m in a hurry.
I’ve learned to have more fun.
And say yes more often.
I’ve learned, as a parent, that even though I’ll make plenty of mistakes, the only thing that really matters is if my kids know, at the end of each day, how much I love them.
I’ve learned how much peace my faith brings me.
And I’ve learned how much my relationships with my family and friends matter.
I’ve learned to take more risks.
And doubt myself less.
And I’ve learned to let things like the laundry sit there, undone, while my kids and I read together, or play a game, or go outside.
Even though it sounds ironic, in the middle of one of the busiest months ever--with a new position and writing deadlines and a full schedule--I’ve learned to be more disciplined about taking time for myself and others. And prioritizing.
It’s been a month of focus and change for me. And even though I definitely don’t "have it all figured out”, I’m thankful for the way this month—and the way this book—has affected me.
Because I don’t think a day will go by from now on where I won’t stop and ask myself, “If I really had one month to live...?”
And if I can continue to look at relationships, decisions, and priorities from a “One Month” perspective, then I know, no matter how many months I have left of this life I’ve been given, I won’t have any regrets when it's over. :)
Fortunately, Unfortunately...
It’s been an eventful couple of weeks around our house…
It all started when, unfortunately, my daughter came down with the croup.
Fortunately, though, she got better in less than a week.
As soon as she got better, my son got sick--the same week I had two all-day meetings I needed to be at.
I was glad that my husband was able to stay home with him.
But I was also sad because it was the first time I've had to leave one of my kids when they weren't feeling well.
Thankfully, my son didn't get as sick as my daughter did, and he seemed fine by last Thursday. So I dropped him off at school and headed to Costco to get groceries...
When I got to Costco, I realized it didn’t open until 10:00 a.m. on weekdays. It was only 9:15.
The good part about that was, because I headed back home, I was there for the phone call from my kids' school saying my son was in the office not feeling well (less than an hour after I’d dropped him off).
The bad part was that I felt like a horrible mom for not realizing he was still sick.
The other bad part was that, after I picked him up, I had to drag him back to Costco because we were having family over on the weekend and it was the only time I could get groceries. I hurried and filled my cart so I could get my son home.
When the woman at the register rang me up, and my cart was piled high with boxes, I realized that, when I’d switched wallets the day before, I’d forgotten to put my Costco American Express card in my new wallet.
My checkbook and debit card were at home too, and I had no way to pay.
The woman was really nice and offered to put my cart in the cooler so I could go home, get my card, and come back.
But after I went home, got my card, and came back (for the third time that day), American Express processing was “down” and there was a whole line of customers at the supervisor’s station who were trying to use their cards to pay, but couldn’t.
The supervisor kindly told us that we could pay with cash or a check instead.
But when I ran home to get my American Express card, that’s all I got. My checkbook and debit card were still at home.
The supervisor was sweet, and offered us a free lunch, suggesting we eat while we wait for the processing issues to be fixed.
However, she had no idea when that might be.
As my son and I ate, I debated if I should run home again and grab the checkbook, or wait it out…
Thankfully, it only took about fifteen minutes for American Express to be back up. The supervisor processed our transaction, got the cart out of the cooler, and we were finally on our way.
When I called my husband on the drive home to tell him about our Costco adventure, I joked, “It’s good that I’m focusing on this whole One Month thing or I probably would've cried.”
Actually, maybe I wasn’t totally joking.
Because when I’d gone back to Costco and found out that American Express was down and that I might need to go home and come back for the fourth time, believe me, I wasn’t thrilled. I had a lot to get done, and I was frustrated.
But, as I stood there in line, with my son smiling up at me tiredly, I thought about One Month to Live and the part where it says…
“Our legacy is determined by how we spend our days.”
And I realized the book is not only talking about the activities we choose or what we spend our time on, it’s also talking about our character. Like how we react to different situations, and the lasting impression that those reactions can have on others.
Others like my son.
So instead of getting irritated or impatient, I tried to make the best of the situation.
I smiled and complimented the supervisor for her help.
I made conversation with others who were waiting.
And I joked with my son about the crazy day we’d had.
Because some days are just like that.
And fortunately, when you can keep it all in perspective and realize that life goes on--planned or not--and that little inconveniences are just that--little--none of it is as bad as it first seems.
Whether you have to make one trip to Costco get your groceries.
Or three. :)
From the book One Month to Live:
"God uses the pressures of life to smooth our edges. We learn patience under pressure."
And an anonymous quote: "When you were born, you were crying, and everyone around you was smiling. Live your life so that when you die, you will be smiling, and everyone around you will be crying."
p.s. Just a reminder that "My One Month" is wrapping up Monday, October 27th. I've loved reading everybody's posts and comments, and if you haven't joined in, there's still time!
A Day to Give
When I saw this challenge over at We Are THAT Family, I was excited...
Not only did it tug at my heartstrings, but it also ties into what I've been trying to focus on for My One Month. I couldn’t wait to help someone and then write about it.
I thought about how I might be able to make a difference. There are so many needs out there, and so many great organizations and causes...
Everywhere I went, I kept an eye out. I didn't want to miss an opportunity to give. And while I looked for a need around me, I did other things...
Like help in my kids' classrooms.
And volunteer with my daugther at a luncheon at our church.
And make a donation to breast cancer research when the person at the checkout stand asked if I wanted to contribute.
And send a check for the little girl we sponsor in Uganda through REACH.
Please don't think I'm telling you these things to pat myself on the back or to list them as my "acts of giving".
I'm sharing them because, honestly, the things I did seemed small. I still wanted to help with a "big need" out there. A need where I could really give.
Then I drove through the neighborhood and saw a neighbor watering the lawn of a house nearby. A house that wasn't his. The people who lived there had moved out, and this neighbor was going out of his way to keep the lawn from dying.
And I got to thinking...
Just like I’m realizing more and more that it's the little things that truly matter in life, it’s also the little opportunities to give, when acted on, that can make a big difference.
Opportunities like watering that lawn.
And making that donation.
And helping at our kids' schools.
And bringing someone flowers.
It's living life with open hands and giving freely, not only in situations where you can make a big impact, but also in everyday circumstances where you can help out and touch lives in ways you may never know.
Thank you Kristen for this challenge and for reminding me to "keep a lookout" every day for the needs of others, big and small.
From the book One Month to Live:
"Whether it's through our churches, our schools, our companies, our neighborhoods, or our families, we're called to come together to help others."
A Fun Way to Slow Down as a Family...
In today’s fast-paced world, it can be especially challenging to set aside quality family time. Wouldn't it be great if you could push a pause button on the clock and create more time with the ones you love?
Looking at old pictures together, or watching home videos or DVD’s, can help you do just that.
There's something about taking the time to reflect on the past that helps you to slow down and forget about your to-do list.
Remembering birthdays, holidays, and vacations spent with family and friends can put your focus back on what really matters and give you a new appreciation for the special moments you've shared.
My kids and I did this just the other day. It was such a sweet thing to watch a video of my son, back when he was two, singing a Veggie Tales song into the camera. And it made me smile when my daughter turned to him and said, as she watched too, “Look how cute you are!”
We must’ve sat there for an hour “Awwwing” at all the memories we've shared. And when we were done, I was more thankful than ever for our special times together--including the time we'd just spent watching them.
So the next time you feel overwhelmed by the how fast time is flying or how busy you are, pull your kids up next to you on the couch, pop in a DVD from when they were younger, or get out those old photo albums or CDs, and take a walk down memory lane. Not only can it help you slow down as a family and appreciate each other more, it can also create a slice of quality time well spent.
*Originally written for Beautiful Fabulous online magazine.
***
I thought I'd share this article today and join in Rocks in My Dryer's works-for-me Wednesday because, especially as I continue with My One Month, spending more quality time with my family is definitely something that works for me! :)
From the book One Month to Live:
"People who discover that their time is limited often make radical lifestyle changes. They give up workaholism and slow down the pace of their lives, spending time with loved ones, with God, and alone, reflecting on their lives. They relinquish the pursuit and collection of material possessions and finally enjoy the fullness of what they already have."
There's a Moose in Our House
And there's this, too...
A big, round, pink-igloo fort that my kids made out of umbrellas.
And when they asked if they could leave it up for “a little while”, I let them...
in the front room of the house,
the first room you see when you walk in the door,
in spite of the fact that "a little while" turned into a week,
and friends and neighbors even stopped by.
Because you know what?
I'm learning that the house doesn’t always have to be matchy-matchy and perfect. In fact, it’s a whole lot more fun when you have a pink igloo in the front room. It makes for some good conversation.
But, back to the moose.
There is one in our house.
The game, that is.
And we’ve been playing it a lot lately.
Because with this whole “One Month” thing, I’ve been trying to create more fun moments. Moments like swimming in our socks and sitting in massage chairs.
Moments that are unforgettable.
It’s been a blast.
The other day, my son and I fenced with Star Wars light sabers until we were sweaty. I learned some pretty smooth moves and ended up getting a good workout, too.
And remember when I told you my daughter stood up through the sunroof of our car when we were parked in the parking lot?
Well, I’m proud to say I've officially let loose. A couple of weeks ago, I drove home from the mailbox at the end of our court with her standing through the sunroof. Drove. With the car moving. You should've seen the smile on her face.
And speaking of smiling, I had a lot of fun doing that at the gym the other day…
As I rode the exercise bike, instead of burying my head in a book like I usually do, I decided I'd smile and say hi to every person who turned the corner. It was fun to see the look of surprise on so many faces, and to get so many smiles back.
And through all of this, I’m learning more and more that having fun each day—having fun in life for that matter—is so much about just making it happen.
That’s something I plan to do a whole lot more of. :)
What Really Matters?
All you have to do is watch the news for a few minutes to be reminded of the difficulties that many people around the world are facing right now. And with everything that's going on, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed or discouraged.
Which is why I wanted to take a minute to share this quote from the book One Month to Live:
"When all is said and done, relationships are all that really matter. It doesn't matter how much money we have, where we live, or how many beautiful toys we've collected. None of these can comfort us, console us, cry with us, or love us. Our investment in the people we care about is the only legacy that has the power to endure beyond our lifetime."
I'm thankful for the reminder about what really matters. And I'm thankful for the inspiration I've gotten from many of you who've joined me in "My One Month".
I loved hearing from Joyful, who commented on one of my posts and said, "This past week has been special for me, as I've embraced all of life and said 'yes' to impromptu opportunities." She also reminded me about Tim McGraw's song, "Live Like You Were Dying". It talks about making the most of your time, and is definitely worth a listen...
Ronel at Mommy Accountability has taken "My One Month" a step further and is posting about it almost daily. She recently commented, "If I were to leave today, I know my son would remember the last three days for the rest of his life. We took time as a family this weekend instead of getting wrapped up in running errands and cleaning the house. I finally realized the time I took to teach my son new things was worth more than me taking time to get a pedicure. Life is so short that we need to stop focusing on the things we can't take with us and start focusing on the values, beliefs and memories we will leave behind."
Thanks for sharing, Ronel! I've been having a lot of fun with my kids lately too, but I'll tell you about that in my next post.
And here's something else that inspired me:
Even though Wendi at Everyday Miracles didn't write this post as a part of "My One Month", I think it fits perfectly. I love the way she describes "the journey" and the choices she made.
If you want more inspiration, you can click to find links to all the great posts that have been written so far for"My One Month". If you haven't commented and shared your thoughts yet, don't leave today without doing that. I know there are a lot of "silent visitors" out there and I'd love to hear from you. How has thinking about all of this affected you? Have you made any decisions or changes as a result?
And whether or not you're participating, let's all take time today to look for someone who may need a helping hand, a phone call, or a visit. You might be the very one who can keep that person from feeling hopeless and give them the encouragement they need during hard times.
"The measure of a life, after all, is not its duration, but its donation." --Corrie Ten Boom
Making Each Moment Count...
It had been a busy night and my husband was working late. I'd been rushing around making an early dinner and helping the kids with their homework before heading off to take my daughter to cheer practice.
On the way home from dropping her off, I looked at the time and sighed. It was already 7:30pm and I still had a lot to do…
“Mom?” my son asked as we drove into our neighborhood. “Since it’s just you and me, can we go for a walk when we get home?”
I looked at the darkening sky. It was a school night, and he still had to take a shower and finish his reading homework and…
I was about to say no.
But then I stopped and thought, If I really had one month to live, would I pass this up?
It’s not often that my son and I go for walks together, just the two of us.
So I changed my mind.
“Sure,” I told him.
As we headed out, there was only a faint line of sunlight left on the horizon. The neighborhood was quiet and the air was warm. It was beautiful.
My son looked up at me and smiled. “Thanks for saying yes about the walk, Mom. I thought for sure you were gonna say no.”
I swallowed the lump in my throat and smiled back. "You're welcome."
And I thought, how many times do I miss opportunities like this and not even realize it?
We headed across the park to the school playground. “C’mon!” he called, running ahead of me, “Let’s find a ball!” (There are usually one or two left over from the school day.) A couple of sprinklers were running and the grass was soaked. He ran across it anyway.
Not the grass, I groaned inside. It’s wet…
But I kept my mouth shut. Because if this was my last month, I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t care if he got muddy.
“Look!” he called a few seconds later, proudly pulling a ball out of the bushes. He splashed back across the grass, beaming. “I’m gonna teach you how to play wall ball, Mom.”
He served the ball hard, sending it sailing. It hit the wall and bounced back toward me.
Let me just say that, as someone who usually closes my eyes when a ball is flying at me (and hopes it lands elsewhere) it took a little effort to jump in and hit that wet thing and act like I was having fun.
But that’s what I did.
And before I knew it, I was having fun.
Back and forth, we played. Our wrists and arms (and my t-shirt) got filthy. But I didn’t care. What I cared about was the smile on my son’s face. And the sound of him laughing.
After a few minutes, he stopped and held the ball on his hip. “Okay, Mom. Now I’m gonna teach you my specialties,” he said. I never knew that there were so many different kinds of serves in wall ball. Or that hitting the ball up over the wall is called a tree-top.
By the end of the night, I felt like a pro. And I might’ve even impressed my son a little because when we were done, he asked, “Did you play this when you were a kid?”
We had a great time together, and I'll never forget it.
I hope he doesn’t either.
And even though he ended up getting to bed late that night, and he was tired the next day, it was worth it.
I’ve already decided that the next time either of my kids ask me to go for a spur-of-the-moment-walk, I’m going to say yes without a second thought.
And who knows, maybe I’ll even surprise them and ask them first.
From the book One Month to Live:
“Time once spent cannot be reclaimed. Once an hour, minute, or moment is over, it’s gone forever. However, we can redeem the remaining time we have.”
And a quote by Diane Ackerman… “I don’t want to get to the end of my life and find that I have just lived the length of it. I want to have lived the width of it as well.”
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Congratulations to the winners of the autographed copies of One Month to Live! They are: comment #7: Sandy Toes at Shell In Your Pocket and comment #16: Laura at Storytellin' Mama. Email me with your address so I can have the books sent your way!
Thanks to all of you who commented and who are participating in "My One Month". If you haven't joined in yet, you can at any time. I look forward to reading more posts and comments!
What if...you had one month to live?
I’m reading the New York Times bestseller One Month to Live by Kerry and Chris Shook and I’ve been asking myself that question a lot lately.
If I had one month to live, what would I spend more time on? Or less?
How would my perspective change?
The book has inspired me to look at life in a whole new way, and to really try to make each day count. It's helped me to focus on what truly matters.
In fact, seeing everything through “One Month” lenses has impacted me so much that I wanted to share it.
I’ve heard it said that if you do something for thirty days, it can become a habit. So for the next month, I’ll be hosting what I’m calling “My One Month”—focusing on living life in a way that if I did find out I had a month to live, I’d have no regrets.
I’ll be blogging about my journey and would love for you to join me.
Just ask yourself the question--what if I had only one month to live? Then write about it. Your post can be as simple as a list of things you’d like to do, or it can be about something that happens as a result of looking at life from a “One Month” viewpoint.
If you don’t have a blog, you can still participate. Simply stop by throughout the month and comment to share your ideas and stories.
I contacted the authors of One Month to Live, and they offered to send me a couple of autographed copies of their book to give away. So to kick this off, leave a comment on this post for a chance to win. (I’ll be randomly selecting the two winners from the comments and will announce them on Friday, October 3rd.)
The authors will also be considering a couple of your posts and/or comments for publication on their website. (Read the details below to see how this will work.)
Like the book says, living a no-regrets life isn’t about focusing on the fact that we’re all going to die someday.
It’s about choosing to live in a way that makes each moment matter.
And that’s something worth doing.
Don’t you think?
Here are more details about how to join me in “My One Month”:
Grab this button:
Write your own “My One Month” post any time from September 29th - October 27th. (Again, if you don’t have a blog, comment to share your story.)
Link up. After you’ve written your post and linked here, come sign the Mr. Linky box below. (When this post is no longer at the top of my blog, I’ll have a link that will get you back here and to Mr. Linky. So whether you want to write something now or later in the month, you can come back at any time and add your name/URL.)
As I blog about “My One Month” and read your posts and comments, I’ll be linking to some of my favorites so that others can read them as well.
After October 27th, I’ll be selecting one or two posts/comments to put up on my blog for a few days, as well as forwarding them on to the authors of One Month to Live for their consideration. (Note: This isn’t a writing contest; it’s just a matter of sharing your heart and your experiences.)
Spread the word and tell your friends about this. The more people we have joining in, the more I think we’ll all be inspired and encouraged by each other’s stories.
And I hope, by focusing for a month on making the most of the lives we’ve been given, that the impact will last forever.
Laughing and wedgies and something about Monday...
I heard on the radio recently that adults laugh an average of 15 times a day, while kids laugh an average of 400 times a day. And while this makes me happy that kids are having so much fun, it makes me sad that maybe us adults aren't.
So I thought I'd share a comment I got from Mandy, at Discursively Happy, since it had me literally cracking up. In response to my post about the red balloon in my kitchen, Mandy said...
That is funny! I have a fear of helium balloons because one night I was getting ready for bed and all the lights were out and I saw what looked like a head a little shorter than me and I thought it was my son so I started talking to him and there wasn't any response so I started to panic and reach for the light with trembling hands just to see one of the kids' helium balloons floating in mid-air. It has freaked me out enough that I don't allow balloons at my house after dark. Crazy huh!
Thanks for the laugh, Mandy! I loved it!
And here's another thing that cracked me up...
I was driving to Target with my son yesterday, and he was reading a book in the back seat.
I looked in the rear-view mirror and smiled. "I'm so glad you like reading,” I told him.
“Yeah," he looked up and smiled back. "This is the kind of book for me, Mom. It’s all about wedgies and underpants and stuff. Captain Underpants is probably going to be my specialty.”
Laughter is such good medicine, isn't it?
And here are a few other good things...
Does anyone like jewelry? Kristen at Kristen's Custom Creations designs the most creative and beautiful pieces. I bought this necklace from her not too long ago and hardly ever take it off...
(In fact, if you read my post "Funny How Things Happen", you can see the necklace in the picture.) Kristen has a blog too, so pop on by and tell her hi.
While I'm on the subject of great gals, I want to thank Stephanie at Metropolitan Mama for her mention in Tuesday Tours. If you haven't had a chance to stop by Stephanie's site, make sure you do. She always has valuable information and insights, and her Tuesday Tours are a great way to see what's happening on the web.
And here's another blogging resource that I think is awesome: ProgBlogger. I subscribe to his feed and am always impressed with the quality of tips and information that he shares.
On a different topic, I have to let you know that I love change. So if you see some color or background changes around here, it's just me having fun. I've learned just enough (thanks to Shera at Sweet N Simple Designs, who is wonderful, and who works closely with the people she designs sites for) to be able to make a few modifications to my blog. And since I’m one of those people who gets excited about moving furniture around just to see it in a different spot, you may notice some changes here, depending on the season. Or the weather. Or maybe even my mood. :)
Last, BUT NOT LEAST, I'm launching something that I'm really excited about on Monday, so be sure to stop by and check it out.
Happy weekend, everyone!
Five Gift Giving Ideas for Any Time of Year
1. Make it a surprise. Don’t just give gifts on holidays, birthdays, or anniversaries. Surprise your husband with a framed portrait of you and the kids…just because. Or buy your sister a bag of her favorite coffee the next time you’re getting a mocha. Sometimes when gifts are given “out of the blue” they have the most impact.
2. Make it homemade. Who doesn’t love something that’s been made just for them? Putting time, thought, and effort into making a gift can say a lot to the person you're giving it to. And sites like this can provide some easy homemade gift ideas.
3. Make it personal. Personalization can add an extra touch to any item, whether it's a blanket, a jewelry box, or a bracelet. You can find a variety of personalized products at places like this.
4. Make it unique. Everybody loves the not-so-common gift. And sites like this have some really fun and unique ideas.
5. Make a difference. Give a gift that helps others. One of the most meaningful gifts I ever got was from a friend who donated a goat to a family in Africa in my name. Visit organizations like this to see how you can honor someone in your life by giving donations to needy families around the world in their name.
And when you make a difference, not only in the life of someone you love, but in the lives of others, that may end up being the greatest gift of all.
*originally written for / posted at Beautiful Fabulous online magazine.
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Since the holidays are right around the corner (can you believe it?), let's share some ideas...
Do you have any fun suggestions for giving?
What's the most memorable gift you've been given?
p.s. I mentioned last week that I'm launching something around here soon. Just a quick update that I'm working on the final details and should have it ready in a week or two. I'm really looking forward to it!
And then she said, "I think I'm falling in love with rodents..."
The other day, my daughter and I went to the pet store to get some food for the mice. While we were there, we made our normal rounds, stopping by to say hi to the parakeets, the rats, the hamsters, the chinchilla, the snakes, the lizards, the turtles, the fish, and, yes, even the tarantula.
After we got the food, she turned to me and asked, “When our mice are gone, do you think I should get a rat or a bird?”
“I’m not so sure we’ll get anything,” I told her. With all the animal adventures we’ve had lately, two cats, a fish, and two mice are enough for me, thankyouverymuch.
She looked at me with sad eyes.
“But Mommy, we have to get more pets when Spot and Blackberry are gone because my heart will be broken.”
(How do you say no to that?)
“We’ll just have to wait and see.” I hoped that would satisfy her.
She smiled. And then she looked at me and said, "I think I’m falling in love with rodents.”
“Rodents?”
She nodded. “When I saw those rats' faces, I just fell in love with them. Did you see their tails and how long and cute they were?”
Let me just stop here for a second. I know this may give some of you the creeps, but I had pet rats growing up and I loved them.
However.
When I was a kid, my dad built a custom cage for the rats and we kept them outside.
I don’t know how to build custom cages. Nor does my husband. And besides, somehow rats don't look as cute to me anymore as they used to.
“If I get a rat, I’m going to get a boy rat…” my daughter continued.
Let me stop again. Nothing against boy rats, but we got a male mouse before we got the female ones, and it didn’t quite work out. On account of the fact that he was very focused on marking his territory inside his cage. Every square inch. Every five seconds. It wasn't pleasant.
“And I’m going to name my boy rat Tigger…”
I listened to my daughter and thought about how, if we got a rat, we’d have to get a bigger cage, and we’d have bigger messes, and my son would probably end up wanting a rat, too…
And that’s when I snapped to my senses.
“If we get anything after the mice, it’s probably going to be more mice, Honey.”
She looked at me with sad eyes again. “But, why?”
“Because if we get a rat we’d have to get a whole new cage and everything.”
“Say house, Mommy! Never say cage. They don’t live in a cage. That’s mean. They live in their house!”
And that’s when I realized she really does love rodents.
But I guess I should be glad that at least rodents are small. Unlike this alpaca (I’m not kidding) that we saw going into the store when we came out:
And now I’m holding my breath, hoping that seeing that didn't give my daughter any new pet ideas…
Funny How Things Happen...
Not long ago, Joanne from Blessed and I realized we live near each other.
We had met through our blogs, so discovering we were both in the same area was fun and coincidental.
Needless to say, we decided we had to get together.
We met for coffee (of course) and had a great time talking about writing and blogging and family. She's so much fun, and I felt like I'd known her for a long time. Here’s a picture of us at Starbucks that morning:
It’s funny how sometimes people come into your life, or things happen, and you know it's meant to be.
Like the position I recently got at a publishing company. If I hadn’t run into somebody I hadn’t seen in years (at a different Starbucks a few weeks ago), the opportunity wouldn’t have presented itself. But I’m glad it did, and I’m really excited to be embarking on some new activities.
And though I'll be working in my new role a couple of days a week, and balancing that with my other writing, you’re not getting rid of me. :)
I'll still be posting, and I’ll be launching something around here soon that I’m really excited about.
So please keep coming back, and bear with me as I transition. I love your comments and the sense of community you’ve all helped to build, and I know that’s something that hasn’t happened by chance… it’s happened by you taking the time to stop by, read, and share a little bit of yourself.
And I appreciate that more than I can say.
The Big, Bad, Red Thing in my Kitchen...
I sat there at the kitchen table, hunched over my keyboard, finishing an article I was working on. The house was quiet, except for the sound of the ceiling fan, some soft music, and water trickling in the fountain on my counter.
A few minutes into my writing, I heard a noise…
Clink. Clink.
I stopped and looked around, but didn’t see anything.
Thinking the sound must’ve been part of the music, I shrugged and went back to writing.
But then I heard it again...
Clink. Clink.
I paused and listened harder.
Was the fridge making noise?
Was it my kids’ mice?
I got up and checked their cage, but the mice were sound asleep.
I sat back down to type.
And heard it again...
Clink.
I have to admit, at that point, I got a little creeped-out.
Slowly, I got up and checked to make sure the front door was locked. Then I went back into the kitchen and began walking around, determined to get to the bottom of things.
And that's when I saw it....
the big,
bad...
red balloon with a shoehorn tied to the bottom of it.
Don’t ask what.
Or why.
Because I don’t know.
All I know is that it was another one of my son’s inventions, and the ceiling fan was blowing the balloon around on the tile, dragging the shoehorn with it.
Thus, the clinking noise.
I’m sure my son had a good reason for tying the shoehorn to the balloon.
Just like I'm sure he had a good reason for the tornado in the salad spinner. And the soap on the shower wall. And all the other creative things he comes up with.
And I should be thankful that he does.
Because life just wouldn't be as fun without tarantulas hanging from my steering wheel. Or red balloons scooting around my kitchen. :)
A Man Named Ted
I'd been driving by the Home and noticed him sitting out front, watching cars go by. As I drove past, I wondered what he was doing...
Was he waiting for a ride? Was someone coming to visit him?
A couple days later, I was on the same road, at about the same time, and there he was again--white haired, tall and thin. And all by himself.
Again, I wondered...
Did he have family? Or friends?
I thought about him the whole way home.
When I saw him again a few days later, I felt a pull to stop and talk to him--a pull so strong that I slowed down and turned into the parking lot after the next intersection, thinking I should go back. But when I looked at the clock, I realized I had only fifteen minutes to pick my son up from school.
I sighed and drove off, promising that next time I’d say hi.
Then I realized I didn’t have to wait until next time...
"Want to surprise someone today?" I asked my son when I picked him up. I told him about my idea and the man I'd seen.
We went home and cut roses from our yard. I took the thorns off, and we made a bouquet. Then we drove back to the Home.
But when we got there, the man was gone.
I parked the car and we went inside, hoping to find him.
“Can I help you?” a woman asked as we walked in.
“This might sound strange,” I started nervously, “but I’m looking for a man who sits outside in the mornings, right out front. He’s tall and has white hair…”
“That sounds like Ted,” she said, smiling.
I pointed to the roses. “We wanted to give him these.”
"He was just here." She looked around the lobby. "There he is," she said.
I saw him by the stairs.
My son and I walked up to him. “Ted?” I asked.
He nodded.
“I see you in the mornings sometimes when I drive by here." I held out the bouquet. "We just wanted to give you these and say hi.”
Slowly, he took the roses, a look of surprise on his face.
"Thank you," he whispered.
Then he turned to my son and reached out his hand.
I got a lump in my throat.
Because it’s beautiful to see the hand of a six-year-old child wrapped inside that of a ninety-or-so-year-old man.
He asked my son what his name was, and he thanked us again. We only stayed for a minute before saying goodbye.
But in that moment, Ted made his way into our hearts.
When my husband and I took our kids to the Home last Christmas to deliver some cards that they'd made, they walked up and down the halls looking for a door with the name Ted on it. When they found one, they picked out their favorite card and set it on the floor in front of the door.
And to this day, when I drive down that road, I look for Ted sitting outside.
The best part is, so do my kids.
I know that Ted might have a family that sees him often. And he might have friends that bring him flowers or send him cards.
But, then again, he might not.
Either way, I'm thankful I met him. Because it reminded me of the impact that reaching out to others can have. And the importance of caring about people we may not necessarily know.
And I’ll never forget the image of that man holding my son’s hand, or the smile on both of their faces that day.
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p.s. I’m over at 5 Minute for Mom's Faith Lifts today. Stop on over and say hi...
Be Back in a Bit...
I'm working to meet a magazine deadline, so I won't be posting for a few days.
In the meantime, stop by Beautiful Fabulous to read my articles "A Fun Way to Slow Down as a Family" and "What does your blog say about you?" and to learn about some fun blog resources.
And stop on over at 5 Minutes for Mom's Faith Lifts to read "Give Away That Baggage".
See you soon!
p.s. My friend Shera at A Frog in My Soup (who also happens to be a great blog resource--Sweet N Simple Design) is currently looking for submissions to be featured in The Sampler over at 5 Minutes for Mom. If you're interested, please visit here for information and guidelines. I'm sure Shera would love to hear from you!
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