Monday, December 31, 2012

Lessons Learned and Re-Learned in 2012

Lesson One: You Can't Take it With You, and You Sure Can Leave a Mess Behind







I'm at the age where many of the previous generation, and even members of my own, are heading to the great beyond. The good news is that happy memories and interesting collections live on, and the less good news is that piles of stuff and conversations that should have been had, become time-consuming problems to solve.





This year we've made great strides to leave clarity behind, and it feels good! As for the stuff, it's a work in progress, but at least there's forward motion.



 

 

Lesson Two: There Will Always be More Where That Came From




If I don't bring it in to the house, I won't have to store it, clean it, or feel guilty about not using or wearing it. And, better yet, I won't leave it behind for other people to deal with (see Lesson One).

 

 

 

 

Lesson Three: Do Not Check Work Email While Not At Work 



Nine times out of ten there's something in that in-box that will irritate the stuffing out of me, and I didn't have to look in the first place.

I'm trying to stop, and I'm getting better at it.


 

 

 

Lesson Four: Listen To Your Kids or Others Who Will Tell the Unvarnished Truth





"Mom, you don't need any more cookbooks." True.



 "Mom, you say you're trying to be helpful, but you're criticizing me." Ouch. 








 

Lesson Five: Time is the Only Finite Resource






If I have one resolution for 2013, it's to focus on the good stuff, and to spend time doing what I enjoy.









I love being with my family, laughing, going outside, cooking, eating, reading, and making stuff, and in 2013 I want it all!


Happy New Year!

6 comments:

  1. Diane, This is really a good wake-up call for some of the rest of us too. Happy 2013, and I know I'm hoping to do and be better. Write more often if you feel like it. I always enjoy your posts.

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    1. Liana, I hope you have a wonderful new year! And thanks for the encouragement. Please do write more, too!

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  2. Replies
    1. Happy New Year, Cidell! And thanks for writing your blog so regularly. I enjoy every post.

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  3. I'm so glad I read this on the last day of the year. Thank you. And the Happiest of New Years to you! -Karla

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