lessons

Some lessons I've learned on this walk through life. Some thoughts to pass along....

-never gossip. Never listen to gossip. You may learn things about people that you wish you didn’t know.

-a quick vacuum makes a house look clean, even if you haven’t cleaned for two weeks

-plants add life and warmth to every room. And they clean the air.

-never substitute store bought baked goods for homemade.

-don’t put too much of your self-value in your job. It can be gone in an instant.

-have a disciplined work-out plan and stick to it. It’s invaluable.

- don’t have a television in your home. Think twice about the internet.

-do own records. Listen to them. Preferably to old tunes your folks used to play.

-learn the basics of cooking, then toss out your recipe books. Cooking should be an adventure.

-do garden and grow your own herbs. It’s frugal and enjoyable.

-spend time with your family. They are more like you than you may think. And they’re usually pretty awesome!

-you can be the biggest tomboy in the world and still enjoy the swish of a summer skirt.

-when the phone rings, and it’s a member of your family, never ignore the call. Even if you have guests, always answer when it’s a family member.

-learn to be self-sufficient: fix your own mechanical problems, discover the enjoyment of working with your hands, learn your way around electronics. Learn how to really use your computer.

-really love your friends. Enjoy them in the here and now. Don’t be scared to let go of them.

-never make excuses. Learn from your mistakes. Accept the responsibility for your actions.

-try new things. Take risks. Don’t be too cautious. Don’t let the fear of failure hold you back .

-know how to really listen. Don’t interrupt. Don’t follow-up with your own story. Just listen.

-work hard. You’ll sleep better at night knowing you’ve put in a good day. But don’t let ambition be what drives you.

-be humble. But don’t fake it. Humility has to be real, or it just comes across as pride!

-every day is a new day. Don’t let yesterday’s mistakes and tomorrow’s plans get in the way of the here and now.

-be generous. Be generous with yourself, your time, your belongings, and your money. That said, have boundaries.

-be tough. Don’t cry unless there is sever blood loss.

-walk or ride your bike whenever possible. It’s cheap, healthy and fun!

-dance when old country and western songs come on, even if you don’t know how!

-when you see a really great sunset, stop what you’re doing, pull over, or just leave the dishes and stand outside and enjoy it!

-be curious. A curious mind inspires learning and creativity in your life.

-don’t marry the man who will wine and dine you. Marry the man who will lay under early spring stars with you, hold you tight and not give a second thought to the neighbors or the duties of tomorrow. Marry a man who dreams.