When you slow down and count your blessings, it helps you to live in joy and appreciation.
I just returned from a very fun trip back to Ohio. My hometown is Toledo, Ohio and I’m one of 5 children. I got to spend some very precious time with my amazing parents, Homer and Mary.
They are 89 and 87. You wouldn’t know it though! Dad and Mom both have great energy, they walk fast and move like people much younger.
They have a summer home in Port Clinton, on the Portage River that feeds into Lake Erie. My friend from second grade, Debbie, joined me for 3 nights in my parent’s guest house.
As I found myself slowing down, in vacation mode, spending time with Debbie and my parents, it was easy to count my blessings.
My brother and his wife live down the street from my parents summer home. I got to spend more time with my only brother than I usually do while back in Toledo.
As I spent time with him, I got to see how caring and loving he is.
Such a blessing!
As you slow down, stop living on the autopilot I often speak of, you’re aware of so much more.
As I began to slow down, it was also easier to laugh and enjoy myself. Laughter is good for your heart and soul.
My Mom kept saying how Debbie and I talked so much and were like little girls again! Being friends now for 57 years, is so very special. We talk on the phone throughout the year to stay updated on each other’s lives, and it’s easy to just pick up where we left off.
We found ourselves laughing often at my Dad’s comments. His sense of humor is such fun!
It was like heaven one evening as my brother took all of us out on his boat down the river and to where Lake Erie begins. It was a peaceful, beautiful evening.
Summer is my favorite season. I know it can get hot, only I love the freedom to not bundle up in boots, coat and gloves, like I do about 6 or more months out of the year here in Minnesota.
When was the last time you allowed yourself to slow down long enough to appreciate the people and the scenery around you?
It was so good for me to take this time to slow down and enjoy the people I was with and allow my inner child to come out and play.
We had a family reunion for my Mom’s side when we went back to the Toledo home, I grew up in. Think of that, I get to sleep in the same room/bed I had as a young girl! How many 64-year old’s get to do that?
Spending time around cousins that I spent so much of my childhood with, was precious.
I got to spend time with each of my three sisters as well. My youngest sister lives just 6 houses down from my parent’s home in Toledo.
They have a refreshing swimming pool, I was able to enjoy two different times, during the hot weather. It was such a delight to spend time with she, her husband, kids and grand kids!
The mornings at my parent’s home having breakfast and time with my parents is priceless. Nights after everyone is gone, watching TV and talking with my Mom, is something she and I love.
So, I urge you to slow down, find appreciation and enjoy your life!
With much love, appreciation and feeling blessed,
Connie
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