I now know why life doesn't come with an instruction book. The instructions would be complicated, change every day and be dependent on outside forces over which you had no control. The children's manual would be worse! Needless to say many people would opt out. Hmmmmm.population control?
Rick and I have been married for seventeen years now and we have eight children who have brought us joy, laughter, tears, lots of wrinkles and fourteen grandchildren. Yes, grandchildren are God's reward for raising children. Not a day passes without stories of a special grandchild adventure. Family is our core. Rick is one of eleven children, each of whom have at least three children and a few grandchildren. My brother-in-law and his wife have eight children and umpteen grandchildren. My mother, Rick's parents and his grandmother are all still living here in Michigan. Our family gatherings are large enough for our own zip code. We count this as a blessing and chuckle at the ongoing soap operas occurring in a family this size.
In 1999 my Mom came to live with us. We bought a house with an attached one-bedroom apartment so she could have her own living quarters. Unfortunately, she had the beginnings of dementia and in 2006 moved into an assisted living residence. Ah, alone at last. Not! We next had our teenage daughter move in, then a friend, then a grandson. Currently, our household consists of two semi-sane humans, two cats, one puppy and a vacancy sign. We tell inquiring relatives that we have seen Norman Bates lurking near the bathroom window.
My life's journey has had some interesting/exciting stopovers. I have a great husband, family and strong spiritual roots. My journey has taken me to many foreign countries with memorable adventures. I've had interesting jobs, meaningful volunteer experiences and the opportunity to share life with fascinating people. I have indulged my creative streak and was even paid for it. My latest quest has been introducing the courts to a new technology for drug and alcohol testing.
I have lived outside of Minnesota since 1978, but still consider it home. I miss the people most of all and the State Fair! Until you have experienced life elsewhere you don't appreciate how considerate, caring and competent people are in Minnesota.
Before my sister died in 2002 she gave me a beautiful necklace of silver links. She said, " We are linked together forever." To me these words could apply to everyone reading this. We were and continue to be, the Edina-Morningside High School class of '65
Smile, life is what happens while you're making other plans. Can't wait to see you all in 2015!