mother nature is a man and other observations..

If you are depressed, you are living in the past. If you are anxious, you are living in the future. If you are at peace, you are living in the present.” Lao Tzu

Holiday time , and once again looking forward to spending precious time with  family and friends. Over the years, I have noticed , many have fewer friends and  family to share this special time with. It saddens me to observe, and makes me forever grateful to have the treasured people in my life, that I value heart and soul. Difficult to express  when it runs  so deeply. Just returned from almost a month visiting my brother and  family in Virginia. My “sister” his wife, makes me feel  loved and cared for,  there are  no words to fully describe. I don’t want to gush because it would embarrass, but  she knows how much I dearly love and  appreciate her being in my life. My visit  is like being at a spa where the food is  nutritious, delicious, and homemade.  The night I returned to my home  ,quickly called the little cafe across the street and ordered take out. WHAT a difference. I posted pictures of my greeting when I arrived. Beautiful flowers and  goodies I relish. Everyday was special  with lovely memories.   My niece and her two daughters, my GREAT grandnieces, whom I adore,  give me overwhelming joy with their love. . The entire family radiates good feelings,  and makes me realize how easy family can be when it works. Volunteering on a hotline called Women In Self Help many years ago, taught me that family can be most destructive. The people you so need in your life to love and understand you are just not there. I  had such an issue many years ago, and have put it  where it belongs,  In the past. Living in the moment works best for me.  I have too many people in my life who “get me” to dwell on that which is negative. My wonderful husbands niece, since his untimely death ten years, has called me everyday. Another emotional jewel to treasure.

So for this holiday season, I reflect and give thanks to all  that make my life so full. My sons, my “daughter” my granddaughter and my two grandsons. My Virgina joys…. The rest of my family and friends of so many years, and new friends that are not really new. My belief…..  people are in your path for reasons……forever long friendships, or experiences that teach and turn into life’s lessons.

As 2014 comes to a close, I wish all , including mothernatureisaman and Twitter followers, all that you wish for yourselves, and if I can give just a few words of wisdom. Your health is the most important aspect of your life. Take care of yourselves by eating nutritionally, exercise, and get to really know and love yourself. To be your own best friend may sound banal, but it’s one of the most important relationships you will have. The only one that is 100% everlasting.   Having the capacity to love and be loved is essential, and be forever grateful for all in your world who know the meaning of  those words.

2015 May it be a year filled with joys!!!!!!!!!