On our travels west this August, we enjoyed meeting some relatives we had never met! Our destination was actually Salem, Oregon, to visit my dad’s cousin, Gail, who had been to our home several times. Usually she and her husband came to see my parents who lived with us at the time. When she was here the last time she asked if I would like some old dishes from her grandmother. The more we talked, plans developed for us to drive out this summer and bring some of her treasures back with us.
Dan wasn’t so sure about anything really being much of a treasure, but he agreed it would be fun to take a trip to Oregon and meet some of the extended family. We arrived in time for a little family reunion supper, and by the time we left, we went from knowing three of them to about fifteen! It was a great evening, with delicious food and some fun family games.
The picnic was hosted by a younger neice in the family, and nestled in between the games was a list of advice for all of us to take home with us. It was titled, “ Lovely Advice”, and I have enjoyed reading it while we have been on the road. I will share some of my favorites with you today.
Health:
Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants, and less food that is manufactured in plants.
Live with the 3 E’s – Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy.
Play more games.
Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.
Take a 10-30 minute walk daily…and while you walk, smile!
Personality:
Don’t compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
Don’t waste your precious energy on gossip.
Make peace with your past so it won’t spoil the present.
No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
Society:
Call your family often.
Spend time with people over the age of 70 and under the age of 6.
Life:
Do the right thing!
However good or bad a situation is, it will change. No matter how you feel; get up, dress up, and show up.
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