None of us can predict the future. We know that none of us will be on this earth forever. When we’re young we assume we’ll be here until we’re old right? But day after day on the news you can see there is no guarantee based on age. This is one of life’s challenges that we had hoped would never happen. The loss of a parent (my husband’s dad). A few thoughts…

Sad days are bound to happen in life. It happens, especially when you have to say goodbye to a loved one. Take this time to hold your loved ones tight. Let your family and friends know how you feel before you’re gone. Because in the end it truly doesn’t matter what we have in our possession. It’s when we spend the time reflecting on our lives that we’ll realize that what really matters is how we made people feel. Our words matter. Our thoughts and actions matter. So be kind. Be a good soul. Respect the elderly. Hold the door for others. Bring your neighbor’s trash can in, smile, say hello. It all matters.

Praise for a life well lived. And as my late father-in-law would have said:

I LOVE YOU… | HAVE A GOOD DAY!

In memory of David Carlisle Stroud, 92 years young. #heisfree

A special thank you to the healthcare team at The Village at Summerville and to Hospice who went above and beyond with their caring ways as well as the chaplain and pastors. Their overwhelming support is beyond heartfelt. We know that Carlisle is at peace – we are left with such thankfulness and amazement for those who work so hard on a daily basis giving their hearts in the most wonderful ways. Not to mention how the Village community has rallied behind my mother-in-law. You can’t imagine the power of love that she feels right now during one of the hardest days of her life. There aren’t enough words to say thank you.

Let’s strive to be a bit like these wonderful caregivers who share their love so freely. Some with tears, some who you could feel were struggling but were trying to be strong. Bless each and every one of you. If we all went out of the way to lift someone up who’s struggling, going through a hard time in life can you only imagine what this world would be like? Perfection! Heartfelt gratitude is what we feel.

🙏 Until next time…