This year, like most years I suppose, has had its ups and downs. As my husband began his recovery from two back surgeries last year (he’s the strongest person I know), my own health began to fail. Adrenal exhaustion can often go undiagnosed for a long time. It took more than three months for me to get back on track, but I’m grateful for that experience because I learned so much about myself.

I lost my footing again in the Spring. My grandmother, heart of my heart, passed at the age of 94 in March. She was the one who encouraged me to fly but was never far in case I needed to come in for a landing. I know I’m fortunate to have had a grandparent still living at my age, but losing her at any age would have been difficult. If I had my way, she would have lived forever.

I slowed down for a while and spent some lazy summer days with my two granddaughters. I’m not sure how they do it, but when I’m with them it’s like the world around us just fades away. We made homemade mint chocolate chip coconut milk ice cream, did puzzles, went swimming in my neighbor’s pool and watched two seasons worth of Gortimer Gibbon’s Life on Normal Street. It’s a gift to see life through the eyes of a child.

Our older dog Romeo turned 14 this month and his health is not the best. I’m sad that he’ll be leaving us some time in the near future. He’s been my little old man since the day we got him. He’s also been my protector with his big, bold bark that scares anyone who doesn’t know him better.

And then there’s Sharky. Our five year old lab who’s all love, all play, all the time. He’s a good reminder to me to lighten up and not be so serious.

What I wish for you during this holy time of year is the ability to cope through the tough times and rejoice in the good times. To know that it’s not what happens to us that matters, it’s how we respond to what happens that matters.

Be kind.?To yourself and others.?Be brave.?So you can fly to new heights.?Be compassionate.?You never know who might need a shoulder to cry on.?Be tolerant.?We’re not meant to be the same. That would be boring.?And most of all, be blessed.?It’s your birthright to live a life that fulfills you.