Circle of Life

Every May 14th, I prepare for a big sulk.  All my friends and family prepare, too.  They either send me hugs or run and hide.  :)  Seriously, it's the anniversary of my husband's death from cancer in 2005, which was a very traumatic experience for our family.

I have now realized that he or Fate or some higher power has determined that I shall not be allowed to sulk any longer.  That's probably a Good Thing.  Last year on May 14th, my beautiful niece married her Prince Charming.  It was a wonderful wedding.

This year, my second granddaughter, Eliza Judith Carr, came into this world just before dawn on May 14th.  She's perfect and beautiful and a shining tribute to her grandfather's memory.

So now instead of sulking on May 14th, I will be celebrating my granddaughter's birthday.  I'm confident her Grandpa is somewhere giving her a big thumbs-up.  :)

Welcome to the family.

Love,
Grandma Deb

Friends & Life Lessons

If there's one thing I have learned during this decade of loss, it's that life is too short to carry grudges. Friends are a very important part of our lives, but not as important as family. When we have a falling out with close friends, if we're the party who was in the wrong, all we can do is apologize and ask forgiveness. If the other party isn't willing to forgive, we have to accept that and get on with our lives. It's sad when this happens--yes, it's happened to me--but, as my late husband always said, "It isn't the worst thing that ever happened to me."

My advice for today? Forgiveness is a Good Thing. Embrace it.

Happy Reading!

Love,
Deb