Reflecting on Christmas Eve

I'm reflecting on this Christmas Eve, as I have for the past ten years. Sadly my beautiful mother took her last breath and passed at 4 pm on December 24, 2011. She was 90 years old and lived a rich life as a strong independent woman who was in control of the choices she made in her lifetime. On that sorrowful day, I reframed in my mind that this was her last gift to our family. We no longer had to worry about her pain; she was finally at rest, dancing in heaven with the love of her life, my father.

What I learned from mom… life is a precious gift with an expiration date. You have control of your life choices; choose them wisely.

Be with the people who love and support you!

Do ALL the things you love to do!

Be kind about talking to yourself; your inner voice is mighty!

Celebrate all the little moments; they will become cherished memories, like this photo of my mom giggling with Santa!