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Embracing Peace: A Christmas Message

December 8, 2023

As the holiday season approaches, our hearts fill with anticipation for the festivities, gatherings and the spirit of togetherness that Christmas brings. However, amidst the joy and warmth of the season, it’s important to remember that maintaining our inner peace is a gift we should never allow anyone to take away, not even during Christmas.

In a world filled with hustle and bustle, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos that can sometimes accompany the holiday season. Whether it’s the stress of holiday shopping, family dynamics, or the pressures of creating the perfect Christmas experience, we often find ourselves losing sight of what truly matters. The result is an erosion of our inner peace.

But this Christmas, let’s make a conscious decision to safeguard our peace. Here’s why it’s essential.

1. Peace is a precious gift. Your inner peace is a treasure that should be cherished and protected. It’s the calm in the storm, the sanctuary in the chaos, and the source of your strength.

2. It’s essential for well-being. Peace is not just a state of mind; it also has a significant impact on your physical and emotional well-being. Stress and turmoil can take a toll on your health, while peace promotes overall well-being.

3. Better connections: When you carry your inner peace, you can better connect with others, spreading the joy and harmony of the season. Your presence will be a gift to those around you.

4. Mindful celebration: A peaceful state of mind allows you to be more present and fully enjoy the beauty of Christmas. You can savor the little moments, the twinkling lights, and the warmth of loved ones.

So how can you ensure that no one takes away your peace this Christmas?

1. Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries to protect your time and energy. Learn to say no when necessary, and prioritize self-care.

2. Practice mindfulness: Embrace the practice of mindfulness to stay grounded and focused on the present moment. Let go of worries about the past and future. (I know easier said that done.)

3. Choose your battles: Not every disagreement or conflict requires your involvement. Priortize peace over winning arguments.

4. Gratitude: Focus on the blessings in your life and the things that truly matter. Gratitude can help you maintain a positive perspective.

5. Self-compassion: Be kind to yourself. You don’t have to be perfect and its okay to take a step back and recharge when needed.

6. Find your sanctuary: Identify a quiet space or activity that brings you peace, whether it’s reading, mediation, or a walk in nature.

This Christmas, let’s make a commitment to ourselves to never let anyone take away your peace. In doing so, we can truly embrace the spirit of the season, share love and joy with others, and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Remember that your inner peace is a gift you can give to yourself, and it’s a gift that keeps on giving.

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Advice Column Household Lifestyle

Happy Thanksgiving 2023

November 7, 2023

Thanksgiving is a time when we gather with loved ones, share a hearty meal and express our gratitude for the blessings in our lives. It serves as a reminder to appreciate the abundance around us and to cultivate a thankful mindset. But gratitude is not limited to a single day or holiday. It is a powerful practice that can transform our lives and bring us lasting joy and fulfillment.

The Power of Gratitude

Gratitude is the practice of acknowledging and appreciating the good things in our lives. It shifts our focus from what is lacking to what is abundant. Practicing gratitude can have numerous physical, emotional and psychological benefits. It reduces stress, improves sleep, and enhances mental health.

When we express gratitude, we engage in positive thinking and train our minds to look for the good in every situation. It helps us develop resilience in the face of challenges and enables us to find the silver linings even in difficult times. Gratitude also fosters a sense of interconnectedness, reminding us of the kindness and generosity of others.

Cultivating a Thankful Mindset

1. Keep a Gratitude Journal

Take a few minutes each day to write down things you are grateful for. It could be a simple as a beautiful sunset, a kind word from a friend, or a cozy cup of tea. By recording these moments, you create a tangible reminder of the abundance in your life.

2. Practice Mindfulness

Developing a practice of mindfulness can help you become more aware of the present moment and appreciate the little joys in life. Take time to savor your meals, notice the beauty of nature and engage fully in your interactions with others.

3. Express Appreciation

Don’t keep your gratitude to yourself. Express it to others. Take time to thank the people in your life who have made a positive impact. Write a heartfelt note, make a phone call or simply say “thank you”. Your genuine appreciate will not only brighten their day but also strengthen your relationships.

4. Shift your Perspective

Instead of focusing on what you lack, focus on what you do have. Practice reframing negative thoughts into positive ones. When faced with challenges, ask yourself what you can learn from them and how they can ultimately benefit you.

Gratitude is a transformative practice that can bring immense joy and fulfillment into our lives. By cultivating a thankful mindset, we shift our focus to the abundance around us and develop resilience in the face of challenges. Whether through keeping a gratitude journal, or expressing appreciation of others, practicing gratitude allows us to live more fully and connect with the world around us. So this Thanksgiving and every day, let us remember the power of giving thanks and embrace the practice of gratitude.

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Advice Column Household Lifestyle

Back to School: Strategies for a Successful Academic Year

August 5, 2023

As the end of summer approaches, it’s time to shift gears and prepare for the upcoming academic year. Whether you’re a student, parent or educator, a successful school year requires careful planning, organization, and a positive mindset.

For Students:

  • Set clear goals. Start the school year with specific academic and personal goals. What grades you want to achieve? What extracurricular activities do you want to participate in?
  • Time Management: Develop good time management skills to balance your academic, activities and downtime. Use tools like planners, calendars or digital apps to schedule your tasks and stick to your routine.
  • Create a Study Space: Designate a quiet, comfortable and well-organized space for studying. Minimize distractions and ensure you have all the necessary supplies to stay focused on your work.

For Parents:

  • Open Communication: Maintain open and regular communication with your children about their school experiences. Encourage them to share their challenges and successes.
  • Establish Routines: Create a structured daily routine that include designated homework and study times. Consistency helps children develop good study habits.
  • Encourage independence: Help your child develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Encourage them to take responsibility for their own education.

For Educators:

  • Set Clear Expectations: Clearly communicate your expectations for students in terms of behavior, performance and classroom etiquette.
  • Foster a Positive Learning Environment: Create a welcoming and inclusive classroom where all students feel valued and supported. Encourage a growth mindset and a love for learning.
  • Collaboration with Parents: Establish open lines of communication with parents to keep them informed about their child’s progress and any areas that may need improvement.

A successful academic year requires cooperation between students, parents and educators. By setting clear goals, managing time effectively, maintaining open communication and fostering a positive learning environment, you can make the most of the school year ahead. With dedication and a supportive community, the upcoming academic year can be a productive and fulfilling experience for all.

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Advice Column Household Lifestyle

Spring Cleaning Tips for a Clutter-Free Home

March 8, 2023

As the temperatures rise and the flowers begin to bloom, spring is the perfect time to refresh your living space.  While many of us associate spring cleaning with dusting and mopping, it’s also an excellent opportunity to declutter and organize your home. A clutter-free environment not only looks better but can also improve your mental well-being. So here is a little practical advice on how to declutter and organize your living space as spring approaches.

Set Clear Goals

Before you dive into your spring cleaning, take a moment to set clear goals. You should determine what you want to achieve in each room of your home.  Whether its creating a more organized workspace or making your living room more inviting, having a clear vision will help you stay motivated  and on track.

Declutter Room by Room

Start your spring cleaning journey by tackling one room at a time. Sorting through your belongings can be overwhelming, but breaking it down into smaller, manageable tasks will make the process more manageable. Begin with the room that needs the most attention or the one that will give you the most satisfaction when it’s decluttered.

The Three Box-Method

The three-box method is a tried-and-true technique for decluttering. As you go through your belongings, use three boxes: one to keep, one to donate or sell and one for items to discard. Be honest with yourself during this process. If you haven’t used or needed it within the last six months or even a year, it’s probably time to part with it.

Organized with Storage Solutions

Now, if you have storage bins available, please use what you have around the house. If you don’t, invest in storage solutions that help you keep your space organized. This can include storage bins, under-bed storage, and closet organizers. Use these tools to store items that you want to keep but don’t use regularly.

Take Advantage of Vertical Space

Maximize your storage options by utilizing vertical space. Install shelves or hooks on walls to store items like pots and pans in the kitchen, towels or toiletries in the bathroom. Vertical storage can be a game-changer in small spaces.

Tackle Paper Clutter

Paper clutter is a common issue in many households. Set up a designated space for incoming mail and documents and sort through them regularly. Shred or recycle unnecessary documents and file or digitize important ones. You might want to consider going paperless with bills and statements to reduce the influx of physical papers.

Donate or Sell Unwanted Items

Once you’ve gathered items to donate or sell, follow through with the process. Schedule a donation pick-up or drop off items at a local charity. Alternatively, you can sell items online through online platforms like Facebook or Ebay and if you want something simple, a garage sale will do.

Maintain Regular Cleaning Habits

Spring cleaning shouldn’t be a once-a-ear event. If you establish and maintain regular cleaning habits to keep your home clutter-free throughout the year, it will reduce anxiety and stress.

A clutter-free home can create a more peaceful and productive living environment. Spring cleaning is the perfect opportunity to declutter and organize your space and the tips outlined will help you get started on the right foot. Remember… set clear goals, declutter one room at a time and you will be well on your way to a more organized and clutter-free home.

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Advice Column Lifestyle

The Power of Love: Nurturing Relationships on Valentine’s Day

February 8, 2023

Love, an emotion that transcends cultures and boundaries, is one of the most profound and cherished aspects of human existence. It has the remarkable ability to bring people together, create lasting bonds and provide a sense of purpose in our lives. This Valentine’s Day, we celebrate the significance of love and relationships and explore ways to nurture and strengthen these precious connections.

The Significance of Love and Relationships

Love and relationships play a pivotal role in our lives, shaping our emotional well-being, happiness, and overall quality of life. Whether it’s the love between two romantic partners, the bonds shared with friends and family, or the deep connections formed with mentors and colleagues, these relationships have a profound impact on our sense of self and our place in the world. Love provides emotional support, comfort during tough times and a sense of belonging. It inspires us to be better, to grow and to care for one another.

Ideas for Meaningful and Unique Valentine’s Day Celebrations

Valentine’s Day offers a perfect opportunity to celebrate love and relationships in all their forms. Instead of defaulting to the clichéd gifts and gestures, consider meaningful and unique ways to make this day truly special:

  • Create a Memory Book: Compile photographs, mementos, and notes that capture your journey as a couple or your relationship with a loved one.
  • Plan a Surprise Adventure: Plan an exciting adventure or road trip to a place that holds significance in your relationship. It could be the location of your first date, shared interest, or simply a place you’ve always wanted to explore together.
  • Volunteer Together: Giving back to the community can be a profound way to bond. Volunteer at a local charity or organization that’s close to your hearts. The act of helping others can bring you closer and provide a sense of fulfillment.

Tips for Improving Communication and Strengthening Relationships

Strong and lasting relationships are built on effective communication, trust, and mutual respect. Here are some tips to help you improve communication and strengthen your bonds:

  • Active Listening: Truly listen to what your partner or loved one is saying without interrupting or formulating your response. This demonstrates that you value their thoughts and feelings.
  • Open and Honest Conversations: Foster an environment where both parties can openly express their thoughts and feelings without judgment. Honesty is the foundation of trust.
  • Surprise Gestures: Keep the spark alive by surprising your loved one with small, thoughtful gestures of affection, even when it’s not a special occasion.

This Valentine’s Day, let us celebrate the power of love, not just with chocolates and roses, but with meaningful gestures and a commitment to strengthening the connections that enrich our lives. By practicing open communication, trust and the art of thoughtful celebration, we can nurture and cherish the bonds that mean the most to us.

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Advice Column Lifestyle

The Power of Embracing Life’s Little Details: Finding Success Everyday

January 1, 2023

Introduction: Embracing Life’s Little Details

Life is a collection of moments, both big and small. Often, we find ourselves chasing after the grand achievements and milestones, overlooking the beauty and significance of the little details that make up our everyday lives. In this fast-paced world, where success is often measured by external factors, it is essential to pause and embrace life’s little details. These seemingly insignificant moments hold immense power and can be the key to finding true success and fulfillment.

The Importance of Finding Success in the Everyday

Success is often associated with big accomplishments, such as promotions, financial gains, or reaching significant milestones. While these achievements are undoubtedly noteworthy, true success lies in finding fulfillment and happiness in the everyday moments. It is about recognizing and appreciating the small victories, the brief moments of joy, and the simple pleasures that surround us.

By shifting our focus from external measures of success to the present moment, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities. We become more attuned to our surroundings, more connected to the people in our lives, and more aware of the opportunities that present themselves each day. Embracing life’s little details allows us to find success in the present moment and cultivate a sense of gratitude for the life we are living.

Work-Life Balance: Key to Embracing Life’s Little Details

In our pursuit of success, we often neglect the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. The never-ending demands of work can easily consume our time and energy, leaving little room for embracing life’s little details. However, finding success in the everyday requires a harmonious integration of our personal and professional lives.

One way to achieve this balance is by setting clear boundaries between work and personal life. Establishing designated work hours and creating a dedicated space for work can help create a sense of structure and separation. Additionally, prioritizing self-care activities and making time for hobbies and interests outside of work can rejuvenate the mind and foster creativity.

Cultivating Creativity in Daily Life

Creativity is a powerful tool that can enhance our experience of embracing life’s little details. It allows us to approach everyday tasks with a fresh perspective, transforming mundane activities into opportunities for self-expression and growth. Cultivating creativity in daily life requires us to tap into our innate curiosity and explore new ideas and possibilities.

One way to foster creativity is by engaging in activities that stimulate the mind and inspire new ways of thinking. This could include reading books, attending art classes, or experimenting with different forms of artistic expression. By incorporating creativity into our daily routines, we unlock our potential to find innovative solutions, discover hidden beauty, and fully embrace the little details that make life meaningful.

Embracing the Mundane: Finding Joy in Everyday Tasks

Life is filled with a myriad of tasks that may seem mundane and routine. However, by shifting our perspective and approaching these tasks with mindfulness and intention, we can find joy and fulfillment in even the most ordinary activities. Embracing the mundane means recognizing the significance and purpose behind each task we undertake, whether it is washing the dishes, folding laundry, or commuting to work.

Practicing mindfulness while performing these tasks allows us to fully immerse ourselves in the present moment. We can appreciate the sensory experiences, such as the warmth of water while washing dishes or the rhythm of our footsteps during a walk. By embracing the mundane, we transform everyday chores into opportunities for self-reflection, relaxation, and finding beauty in the simple moments of life.

The Power of Mindfulness in Embracing Life’s Little Details

Mindfulness is a practice that encourages us to be fully present in the moment, without judgment or attachment. By cultivating mindfulness, we can deepen our connection to the little details that often go unnoticed. By devoting our full attention to the present moment, we become more aware of our thoughts, emotions, and surroundings.

Incorporating mindfulness into our daily lives can be as simple as taking a few minutes each day to pause, breathe, and observe our thoughts and sensations. This practice helps to quiet the mind, reduce stress, and enhance our ability to embrace life’s little details. Whether it is savoring a cup of tea, enjoying a walk in nature, or engaging in a meaningful conversation, mindfulness allows us to fully experience and appreciate the richness of each moment.

Embracing the Unexpected: Finding Opportunities in Challenges

Life is unpredictable, and it often throws curveballs our way. Instead of resisting or fearing the unexpected, we can choose to embrace it as an opportunity for growth and learning. Challenges and setbacks provide us with a chance to develop resilience, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

When faced with unexpected situations, it is important to maintain a positive mindset and seek the silver lining in every experience. By reframing challenges as opportunities, we can approach them with curiosity and openness, finding hidden lessons and new paths to success. Embracing the unexpected allows us to navigate through life’s twists and turns with grace and resilience, ultimately leading us to greater success and fulfillment.

Embracing Gratitude: Finding Success in Appreciating the Small Things

Gratitude is a powerful practice that can transform our perception of life’s little details. By cultivating gratitude, we shift our focus from what is lacking to what is abundant in our lives. It is about acknowledging the small blessings, expressing appreciation for the people and experiences that bring us joy, and finding contentment in the present moment.

Practicing gratitude can be as simple as keeping a gratitude journal, where we write down three things we are grateful for each day. This practice helps to reframe our mindset and cultivate a sense of abundance. By embracing gratitude, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities, finding success in the everyday moments that often go unnoticed.

Embracing Simplicity: Streamlining Your Life for Success

In our modern society, we are often bombarded with an overwhelming amount of choices, distractions, and responsibilities. The pursuit of success can sometimes lead to a cluttered and chaotic life, leaving little room for embracing life’s little details. However, by embracing simplicity, we can streamline our lives and create space for what truly matters.

Simplifying our lives involves decluttering our physical and mental spaces, letting go of unnecessary commitments, and prioritizing what brings us joy and fulfillment. By reducing the noise and distractions, we create a sense of clarity and focus, allowing us to fully embrace the little details that make life meaningful. Embracing simplicity is a powerful step towards finding success in the everyday and living a more intentional and purposeful life.

Conclusion: Embracing Life’s Little Details and Finding Success

In a world that often values external achievements and grand accomplishments, it is essential to shift our focus to the little details that make up our everyday lives. Embracing life’s little details allows us to find success in the present moment, cultivate gratitude, and live a more fulfilling life. By embracing the mundane, practicing mindfulness, and seeking opportunities in challenges, we unlock our potential for growth, creativity, and happiness.

So, take a moment to pause, look around, and appreciate the beauty of the little details that surround you. Embrace the simplicity, find joy in the everyday tasks, and cultivate gratitude for the small blessings. In doing so, you will discover that true success lies not in the grand achievements, but in the ability to fully embrace and appreciate the richness of life’s little details.

CTA: Take a moment today to embrace life’s little details. Pause, breathe, and find gratitude for the small blessings that surround you. Share your experiences and insights in the comments below.

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Advice Column Lifestyle

Speakerphone Etiquette

May 1, 2022

Speaker phone capabilities can be a good thing and a bad thing. How many times have we heard other people’s conversation in a public area? I’m still in shock to this day of a conversation that I heard walking around a dollar store.

The lady receiving the call immediately placed it on speakerphone while navigating the aisles with one hand on the cart and the other holding the phone. The party that placed the call was talking freely about her upcoming divorce and child custody issues. I know my face showed utter shock with my lower jaw dropped and all. Mind you, this call went on for about ten minutes before I couldn’t stand it.

Yes, I interjected. As politely as I could, I spoke up and stated, “You’re on speaker phone!” Then, there was silence. After a few moments, the question was asked to the receiving party of that call – Was I on speakerphone this whole time? The lady gasped, took the phone off speaker and scurried away.

For the love of goodness, please don’t do this to anyone. With that said, here are a few suggestions when thinking of putting a phone call on speakerphone.

Distractions

I try to take pride to make sure that I am in a place to fully focus on the call and give my undivided attention to the person at the time of the call. If you are in a place with loud background noises and you are unable to focus, please don’t pick up and just reschedule to return the phone call at a later date and time.

Notice

Just like the situation that I just described, it is so important to ask the party if you can put them on speaker phone. This notification will eliminate any awkward and embarrassing moments. No one wants to hear about someone being in the room after discussing another situation or person that is personal and private to them and to the party participating on the phone call.

Public Places

The most important rule of etiquette is make sure you go to a private area. I can guarantee that most people do not want to participate on your call.

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Advice Column Health & Fitness Lifestyle

3 Things My Pets Have Taught Me.

April 1, 2022

I had some amazing pets in my life time. Each one brought their own unique personality and challenges. Quirks that made me think outside the box to feel comfort, trust and love. At times, it was not easy. As I reflect back in time, these are the top five things that my pets have taught me.  

Live in the Moment

Dogs don’t focus on the past. Shoot, how many times have we come home to pee on the floor and get so freaking mad? Our hootin’ and hollering doesn’t mean too poops to them. They don’t know what you are upset about and they definitely don’t remember that they peed on your new rug earlier in the day.  All they are getting from that situation is that when you come home; just go hide.

Take a Nap or Unwind

I know this one is probably making you giggle. How many times have we caught our pets napping? I will raise my hand and say out loud, A LOT! I have senior dogs so its 23 hours of the day. TBH, I love watching my dog go pick a place in the sun and gently settle down. So many times, I get encouraged to do the same. There are times that I hit the floor or lay on the couch to snuggle. In a world of social media or working on our computers all day, it’s nice to disconnect and shut our brains off with our four-legged pals.

Play

The drop of the toy at your feet by your four-legged pal can make you smile. Who can turn down such a lovely invitation? Ok, I know sometimes we have to decline because of working at home nowadays. That moment you look offline in your VPN/Network, your phone is ringing with your boss on the other line. However, it is important to play with your pet, friends and family. So, pick up that toy for a toss, get the zoomies, jump in the sprinkler and play tug of war. You won’t regret it.

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Advice Column Household Lifestyle

House Hunting Tips

February 1, 2022

Even though the housing market has slowly blown our minds these last two years with rapid home prices, it hasn’t stopped people from purchasing new homes. Some homes are brand new constructions and others are fixer uppers.

My husband and I have been looking for a new home in a warmer climate for some time and learned quite a bit during this process.

Know your Numbers

The most important part of this process is to have a budget and stick to it. You don’t need to over extend yourself. If you can have 20% down, that is even better. If not, it is important to speak with a financial advisor and a mortgage broker to educate yourself with as much information on this process to ensure you can afford the home.

Know your Credit History and Score

Way before you start looking, be prepared. It is important to know your credit score anyways but especially before making a huge purchase like a new home. Review your credit history on all the major reporting agencies. Clean up any old items, update addresses, make sure employment and other pertinent information is correct.  

Location, Location and Location

It so important to get to know the neighborhoods you want to live in. Is it a rental area? Long term or short term rentals? Does it have a HOA? Do the property owners take care of their homes? How is the crime rate?  Is it close to all the amenities you desire? We drove around so many neighborhoods and visualized ourselves living in those areas.

Get Alerts from Real Estate Apps

We signed up for alerts for homes in the areas that we liked and within our budget. Yes, there were some alerts set that exceeded our budget just a smidge. People can ask for that home price but you never know when you could negotiate on a home that has been sitting on the market a bit. Unfortunately, there were months that every house that we looked at was being gobbled up with full or way over asking price.

Get Pre-Approved

I highly recommend you connecting with a mortgage broker. They are able to educate you on the available mortgages, rates and the process of buying a home. We worked with Brian Fenlon of All East Mortgage located in Boston, Massachusetts. It was the best experience from beginning to getting the keys.  P.s. I am not getting any kickbacks for this referral but here’s his contact information.

Brian Fenlon, Owner/Loan Originator

All East Mortgage

(508) 523-4301

brian@alleastmortgage.com

Interview Real Estate Agents

This is the most important. We tried to go that route of not having a representative and it was the most brutal and stressful moment that I don’t wish on anyone. It’s important to talk to a few of realtors and see how they can help you achieve your goals of purchasing your first, second or retirement home.

Don’t get discouraged

My husband and I submitted so many offers and got rejected or outbid. That’s ok because it wasn’t our door. Time is on your side.

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Advice Column Lifestyle

Perspective ~ The Essential Life Skill

July 25, 2018
Perspective Lifes Little Details

“When asked if my cup is half-full or half empty,

my only response is that I am thankful that I have a cup”

~ Anonymous

Each day, I journal my thoughts and adventures. It allows me to share my successes and vent my frustrations. I try hard like hell not to have too many frustrations and view each of them with a certain perspective.

The Latin root for perspective is “look through” or “perceive”.  That said, I look at each hiccup that comes my way with an open mind, choosing how I will respond to it and making sure it doesn’t effect me long term. Mind you, it is easier said than done.

I have met some amazing people that implement this essential life skill everyday. One person that comes to mind was my Great Aunt by marriage, Aunt Albertine. I knew her for 15 years, but had the honor and privilege to get to know even more these last 8 months before passing just weeks ago at the age of 102.

Every visit, Aunt Albertine would say, “It’s a wonderful day”. Even as her eye sight and body began to fail with old age, she always said it could be worse. She explained that she had been blessed and lived a wonderful and full life. She never had a complaint, never said an ill word about anyone, always saw the light in each person that she knew and said thank you to those taking time out of their busy schedules to visit or take care of her.

Auntie’s perspective and optimism reminded me that I needed to continue to take every hiccup in my schedule or negative interaction with people, places or things as a significant learning experience and turn that poo into something that I am grateful for.

Thank you Aunt Albertine for leaving a legacy of empathy, compassion, kindness and laughter but most importantly, reminding me, your family and friends that life is too short to waste their time on negative thoughts or uncomfortable situations but to put them in perspective. Learn from them, be grateful for them and make that choice to either rise up to make it better or worse.

Until next time, peace be with you.

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