Monday, October 27, 2014

Life Savors

    Life has many precious moments.  Times that make us relish each moment and “savor” every morsel of memory like a fine wine, a delicious cheesecake, or a plate of escargot.  These are times when we look back and remember events, people, or situations from our past,  or perhaps recognize something that happened recently.  We recall them with a smile, with joy, with sorrow sometimes, but always with heartfelt comfort, at least I do.  Here is a list of “life savors” that warm my heart. 

    Arriving home after a trip of any length.  Home always looks best!

    Clean sheets any time – the smell, the feel, it’s just the most relaxing, comfortable way to fall asleep.

    Receiving an unexpected call/card/email from someone you haven’t heard from in awhile.  What an unexpected delight!

    Watching kittens or puppies roll around and play with each other – priceless!

    Enjoying a sunset or sunrise from your kitchen window or front porch as the colors change from pale to vibrant and then back to pale shades – the palettes are endless.

    Hugs and "I love you's" -  they are seasonless, and always welcome.

    Flipping channels on your television, finding a favorite movie is about to begin and you have several hours to just sit and enjoy.

    No plans for the day but to get comfortable in your favorite chair, with a favorite beverage and read that book you’ve been dying to start.

    Knowing that if you ask for prayer, you have an uncountable number of “friends”, thanks to the new social medias.

    Dining out and selecting the most sinful dessert - enjoying every mouthful of it, without guilt.

    Finding that perfect little gift for someone, even when it’s not their birthday or anniversary, just because you like them.

    Finding flowers from your husband,  partner, significant other in the house when you return – “just because”.

    Sitting on the front steps, porch, or patio and looking up at the sky, searching the clouds and imagining you see faces, creating characters and stories, like we did as children.

    Old photographs – letting precious memories wash over you and if tears bath your cheeks, let them flow. 

    Attending a wedding and waiting for the “I do” – then feeling your spouse squeeze your hand and smile at you.

    Waiting for an important diagnostic or final test result, then hear the doctor say, “Negative” or “benign”, or “all is well”.

    Raindrops on a metal roof – very soothing – raindrops any time here in Texas!

    Remembering past seasons that are special to me  - particularly my annual fall girl’s parties and all the fun and friendships we've shared.

    Thinking of dear friends, far away, and reliving wonderful adventures with them that are forever etched in the pages of my memory book.

    Receiving a text photo from my niece or sister-in-law regarding our great-nephew who is just precious; seeing his wonderful little smile and wave.  How I wish I could reach through the mobile phone and touch his sweet face.

    Knowing that I live in a free country and can do whatever I want, whenever I want – what a wonderful feeling!

    Having your name announced (individually, or in a group) as a champion, winning first place.  I remember when my high school band was awarded first place in a Cavalcade of Bands competition – what a great feeling that all of our hard work paid off.  I will never forget that feeling as long as I live. 

    Retirement day – all the years of working, moving across country/world, competing for  promotions, work experience, skill sets, team work, recruiting, everything I worked for culminated in one special day where I received many accolades that made me proud.  The government has a special ceremony and luncheon with a set protocol which honors the retiree, their spouse and family.  I’m sure everyone must feel this way after a lifetime of hard work.  Kudos to all retirees!

    Time and time again as I think about those things that bring me peace, comfort, joy and happiness, I will savor those special times and people.   I’m sure you have special life savors, as well.  I would love to know what moments you savor in life.