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Starting out as a newbie writer, I gleaned my most valuable piece of advice from an online “how to” article. I wish I could remember who the author was, but I’ll never forget what she said: “Don’t hoard the good stuff.”
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Taking that to heart, I have poured every emotion, every twist, every creative fiber of my being into every single story…as if it were my only book. My final book.
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Because you just never know.
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When my best friend’s mother-in-law “Mary” died several years ago, it fell to my friend to clean out Mary’s house. What she found was shocking, and horribly sad. Literally hundreds of Christmas, birthday and Mother’s Day gifts – brand new appliances, brightly-colored quilts, beautiful, soft, warm sweaters…all sitting, untouched, in boxes. For decades, Mary had been “making do,” using stained, faded bedding and tablecloths, and half-broken appliances, and wearing ragged clothing marred by holes.
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She’d been hoarding the good stuff.
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And after Mary died, all her lovely things were given away to others to use.
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That was a huge wake-up call for me. Because while I never hesitated to pour my very best into my writing, I’d been short-changing myself in so many other ways. Waiting for “someday.”
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My mom’s emergency open-heart surgery the following summer hammered home the point. It was a scary, stressful time and we nearly lost her, but thanks to God’s grace and an amazing surgical team, she pulled through.
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And I was totally done waiting for “someday.”
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I now use my best dishes, tablecloths and flatware any old time I feel like it, even if we’re just having mac & cheese. I scrunch up “decorative” pillows and toss ‘em on the floor and lay on ‘em to play video games with my daughter. I wear the prettiest outfits from my closet to the grocery store if I want. I try not to worry about how much I weigh, instead focusing on health and a positive mental image. I crank up the music and dance in the middle of the day. Vacuuming can wait another few hours until I finish the new bestseller I’ve been looking forward to reading for months.
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But more than that, I now tell my mom that I love her every day. And my step-dad, daughters, son-in-law and husband. I call my sisters more often. I tell my best friend how smart and talented she is and how much I admire her. I stop writing and go out to lunch with my husband on his day off, pause while cooking dinner to give my kids random hugs or kiss my hubby. I strive to be slow to take offense and quick to forgive.
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I don’t hold back any of the good stuff, in any area of my life. Not anymore.
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Two nights ago, I got the phone call from the Emergency Room that nobody ever wants to receive. The car that my husband and daughter were riding in was slammed – hard – by a drunk driver. Again, thanks be to God, they’re both okay. Even thinking about the horrible realization that I could have lost them both still makes me physically sick.
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But I also had the peace of knowing, deep down, that I’d freely given them everything in my heart. I wouldn’t have regrets about love left unsaid, hugs not given, forgiveness not granted.
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What’s hidden in the back of your closet, tucked away, carefully wrapped in tissue? What are you saving for “someday?”
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What are you depriving yourself of – special things you could be using, wonderful feelings you could be experiencing, right here, right now?
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Fling open that door! Liberate your dreams, your hopes, your love, and yeah, even your grudges and your fears. Make today your own personal Independence Day.
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Get out your good stuff. Live every moment. And enjoy it to the fullest.
Diana Duncan
LETHAL ATTRACTION ~ 2009 RITA Finalist
FULL EXPOSURE ~ 2009 Romantic Times Book of the Year Finalist
http://www.dianaduncan.com
writedianaduncan@msn.com
Wow
Fabulous post, Diana. And you are absolutely right. I started to have a similar shift in my thinking a few years ago. While my boys were growing up, I kept emphasizing how they should plan for the future, save money, etc. In other words, think ahead. And while I still think that's necessary, when we started losing friends to accidents, cancer, and so on, I began to realize that life is WAY too short and that you must enjoy the present. Of course you have to be responsible, but you also have to sieze every moment and enjoy it because it just might be your last. Now I urge my boys to have fun and do what they love.
THE ROYAL AFFAIR - March 2010 SRS
MELTDOWN - May 2010 SRS
www.gailbarrett.com
Diana
Excellent post. Good points to read and help change your life patterns.
I'm so glad that your family are okay. That must have really scared you but everything worked out well. You just have to have faith.
You are so right. “Don’t hoard the good stuff" is correct. I know because I just finished going through my mom & dad's things (decluttering). My mom pasted away 10 years ago and dad just moved into a lovely 2-bedroom retirement residence.
The things I found that were just put away for a rainy day was incredible. It has been a very trying time, sad when I see things that they were going to do but never found the time - they were going to give us but never did, etc. Heartbreaking!
It makes me realize how short life really is and that you need to get out there and enjoy it. Do things, don't wait for the moment when the good china should be used.
I'm repeating your comment because it is so true -- "Get out your good stuff. Live every moment. And enjoy it to the fullest." But be careful.
Nothing more relaxing than a good book and a cup of tea.
Definitely thought provoking
Again, excellent post that really resonated. My mother died unexpectedly four years ago and that actually was when I started reading romance novels. I didn't need unexpected, unhappy endings. Dad made us divide up all her possessions, his even before he remarried and we took all the stuff because it seemed we couldn't throw anything away. We pared down to the most important stuff in the years since then. Not all stuff is good stuff.
As far as using the good stuff and not putting things off , I had that epiphany when Mom died. I use my grandmother's china, tell my husband I love him a hundred times a day and make sure my adult children know I love and admire the persons they have become. But I realized I was also putting off allowing good stuff to be used in other ways. I have a studio filled with card making supplies and I realized I was hoarding the supplies for the day I had time to make them full time. Well, that day wasn't coming so I find whatever reason I can to make cards each week for others. I built a zen garden when I realized the back corner of my yard would never grow roses. I let go of previous conceptions of what my future would look like and allowed the good stuff waiting for me to be embraced.
Thanks for the reflection and continued healing from your recent trauma.
Julie Steele
The Good Stuff
What a lovely, touching post Diana! I admit I have my good dishes stashed and we often eat off of paper plates. I was upset with my sister in law for taking my silver out of the packaging when she came to visit...and started them tarnishing... but at least we used it!
So glad your family is okay. A great reminder to lavish the good stuff on your family every day!
And I'm going back to look at my WIP to be sure it has plenty of good stuff too! :-)
Take care, Beth C- excited because TALL DARK DEFENDER is available here on eHarlequin starting tomorrow!!
Beth Cornelison- www.bethcornelison.com
THE CHRISTMAS STRANGER-Silhouette Romantic Suspense- October 2009
BLACKOUT AT CHRISTMAS-SRS- November 2009
Mental good stuff
Your post hit on something I've been thinking for a while. I read the Judy Blume poem about burning the good candles, using the good soap, and now I read your blod. I kept waiting for this and that to happen on my plan before I did this or that - and then the day after my son was born - I almost died from post-pregnancy complications. It took 6 months before I emerged from the haze of a newborn and severe illness...
Fast foward six years, my son is in kndergarten, and I am running for City Council in my hometown! I had a master-plan and wasn't enjoying it! I have a passion for politics and it feels good to be taking this leap of faith. Use the good stuff, but BE the good stuff. Gandhi said " Be The Change You Want To See In This World." Dust yourself off and be the one people remember as just, fair, honest, and good.
It can be as simple as volunteering for one hour a week at the local elementary school library shelving books or as complicated as asking your local mayor to appoint you to a board in an area of interest. But, make a difference this spring. And, save time to read these romance novels because they really put a spring in my step when I need mental rejuvenation. Diana Duncan is my "new" favorite author and I can't wait for the next book! In the meantime, I'm catching up on all those Carla Neggers books I never knew were out there waiting for me....
The Good Stuff
A very thought-provoking, powerful post. Thank you!
This is something I've tried to do for a number of years now, even though I don't have what others might think of as "good" (i.e. expensive or valuable) stuff. Life is too short to waste on "some day."
Several years ago I was a volunteer "friendly visitor" with our local seniors assocation, visited a couple in their home, then the wife when she was admitted to a nursing home. I recall that they were very proud of the fact that their 25-year old white/beige carpet looked brand new and never had been cleaned (other than vacuuming, of course). Yet I was so saddened by that...that their lives had been so neat and orderly that they didn't have any mess. Because life *is* messy...and that's where most of the fun lies. With my three fur kids and my own comings and goings, trust me, nothing is *that* clean in my house!
You might as well use it up and enjoy it, make a mess, because you aren't going to be taking it with you once you die.
-Kim (newbie poster)
-Kim
Fuzzy Tales: http://keas-fur-family.blogspot.com/
The Good Stuff
Diana, what a powerful blog post! And I so admire your positive attitude, and how you can glean insight and direction from some of life's saddest and scariest moments.
A couple of years ago, I started walking in the hills in my neighborhood, at first just for exercise, but eventually found that I enjoyed the stretches of alone-time to think about things such as you have just mentioned. I also used this time to idly dwell on whatever book I was currently writing. After a time, I added music to the mix--a soundtrack to my thoughts of the day. Eventually, I got to the point where the music was what really called me...and I started doing my own little dance moves as I walked. And I don't care if people see me. I'm sort of the living embodiment of that line to "dance like no one is watching." Because I love my walks, and the big skies above me, and the alone-time to plot and think. And the fact that I probably have a neighbor or two who peeks out from curtains (like Mrs. Kravitz from "Bewitched") to make comments like "there she goes again!" only adds to my fun!
What an amazing, powerful post!
Even though I am someone who tries to use the 'good stuff' and not hoard it for a rainy day, I grew up with the mentality that 'you must save for the rainy day'. When my dad died, it was up to me to help my mom--it meant a move for her. I was then given the task of cleaning out their place. The things I found that had never been used was sad to see. Then there was the items like rubber-bands, plastic bags, paper used on only one side, etc., crammed into every available space. It reinforced the idea that we need to use what we have now.
Nancy
January 2009 Member of the Month
Participant in Date with Destiny 2009
Participant in Pass the Plot Spring 2009
I'm so glad...
I'm really happy that my post resonated with so many of you!
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Gail, what a wonderful thing for you to teach and encourage your sons. Now they'll have a big head start on appreciating the little things, rather than having to wait for a traumatic epiphany like a lot of us!
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Bookbuff, {{{HUGS}}} on the difficult time of sorting through your mom's things and moving your dad. I hope he's happy and comfortable in his new home.
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Sissteel, how cool that you are using your good stuff, too! It's a great feeling, isn't it? We, and our families, also deserve the nice things that we save back for "company!" Your point about adapting and changing our ideas is so important. I really admire you scrap-booker/card-maker creative artists, because I just can't seem to "see" how they should be put together. I'll bet your Zen garden is a wonderful place to just sit and enjoy some peace.
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Beth, I'm excited about your new book, too! Now THAT is definitely some of the good stuff. :)
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Kelly, how terrifying to nearly die after having your baby! I'm relieved everything turned out well, and you brought up yet another excellent point. It is important to give back, which is why I always dedicate 10% of the proceeds of every book toward a specific charity. Good on ya for running for city council (especially with a kindergartener at home!) Maybe we'll see your name on the state senate ballot someday. Thank you for adopting me as a favorite author, I'm very honored.
Diana Duncan
LETHAL ATTRACTION ~ 2009 RITA Finalist
FULL EXPOSURE ~ 2009 Romantic Times Book of the Year Finalist
http://www.dianaduncan.com
writedianaduncan@msn.com
I'm enjoying hearing your experiences...
I'm absolutely loving hearing about how everyone is changing their lives! It's inspiring!
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Kea, "good" is rarely about "expensive." For years, I pined for "real" jewelry, but never could afford it. Now I realize I'm just as happy (or happier) with the fun stuff from Target. It's a lot more colorful, I can change it out whenever I want, and I don't have to worry about losing it or being robbed. I have 3 cats and a dog, and I hear ya on the furry kids .... *G* They make a huge mess, but turn our house into a home. I can't imagine life without them.
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Tina, I have to admit, I'm not one of the most positive thinkers around, but I'm trying to improve! I freak out a lot less now than I used to. *G* Your walks sound amazingly refreshing and rejuvenating. And I'm giggling just picturing you out there boogying to the music and "Mrs. Kravitz" peering out at you thru her curtains. :)
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Nancy, saving for a rainy day is very important, also. I think the trick is to find the right balance between the two. Save enough to be wise and thrifty without hoarding. I cleaned out my garage last summer and gave away oodles of stuff...and I clean out my closets about every 6-8 months. Hopefully, my kids won't get stuck with that chore eventually. It helps to think of it as recycling!
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Oh, and Kea/Kim, I meant to say WELCOME to the eHarlequin boards! Glad to have you!
Diana Duncan
LETHAL ATTRACTION ~ 2009 RITA Finalist
FULL EXPOSURE ~ 2009 Romantic Times Book of the Year Finalist
http://www.dianaduncan.com
writedianaduncan@msn.com
Terrific post
Oh Diana, what a wonderful blog. I think we all must be raised to horde the good stuff. It's so easy to fall into that trap. I should know better. My lovely step-daughter was killed by a drunk driver when she was twenty. Since then, none of us ever lets a day go by that we don't say how much we love each other. My dh never leaves the house before we say 'I love you.'
Still, when it comes to other areas of my life, I continue to horde the good things. Like the china and the favorite author's book and the one fabulous story of a lifetime. :) Your blog came at a good time for me. Life is short. Time to stop putting off the best things and start using and appreciating what I've been given.
Thanks so much for the great reminder!
Linda Conrad
www.LindaConrad.com, www.myspace.com/lindaconrad
SAFE BY HIS SIDE - SRS March 09
IN SAFE HANDS - SRS April 09 RT TOP PICK!
Excellent!
What an amazing blog and truer words have never been spoken. The world moves so fast anymore it's hard for us to remember to do these things so thank you for the reminder!
Great post!
I'm so glad your DD and DH are okay...scary!
When my mom got sick last year and had her surgery, I wasn't sure she was going to make it. I'm incredibly thankful for the time we have together now, and whenever I get frustrated with her (because she lives with us, and hey, I'm only human!) I remind myself of how I felt during those dark days.
I *always* tell my DH and my DD and other family members that I love them. I never want them to question it. I never hang up the phone without saying it.
As for "stuff", I generally only have what I use....although I don't always use what I have! (If that makes sense!) I'm a fabric hound...got loads of it and buy what I like, but often without a purpose.... But we put pillows on the floor, cats sleep on blankets, things get muddy and messed up. But we're havin' fun!
Prepublished and workin' to change that!
Winner of the BIG FINISH 2 2008
Participant in PASS THE PLOT Aug 2008
Participant in DATE WITH DESTINY 2009
Participant in PASS THE PLOT Aug 2009
good stuff
Having lost a father, a dear mother-in-law, a nephew just 21, and a brother, I'm much more aware of the shortness of time and how unforseen occurances can befall anyone. You never know, as you say.
I use good china, I rarely keep anything back from use. I don't see the point. I use my special things everyday.
I always try to give my best. That comes in to play whether it's a article on Over Coffee, my blog, or when writing stories. Make it your best. It makes you feel good. When I have guests on my blog, I do the same. Make it the best with pictures, my time, my laughter and make something special to read. Our writing should be the same. Write what you feel. Put those emotions out there for others to feel. People respond to those things that touch them. If you're closed off for fear of looking silly, or being hurt, it shows. When you put your heart in something you're doing, it shows.
Don't wait for someday. Today is 'someday'. Make it count.
~Sia McKye~
Perspective
How fitting, Di, that you should write this post and I should read it today - two days after my Dad has died and the day before his funeral. I'm sitting here, feeling horrendously sorry for myself, my mom, my brother and my son, but at the same time I am aware that there are NO regrets. For so long we lived the life you describe. When they were young newlyweds, my parents would hock Dad's watch for $20 and buy it back for $25 every other week. They had just enough money to get by. Even after things settled down a little bit, money was still tight. I didn't know until I was a senior in high school that we "didn't have enough." According to whom? Certainly not my family. My parents always used the good stuff, always said I love you and never waited for "someday" to come. Every day was someday for us. And as we lay him to rest tomorrow, I can sleep easier knowing that he knew how much I love him because I told him and I showed him every day.
Jennifer August
www.jenniferaugust.com
I love it.
What a wonderful way to look at life. Use the good stuff.
I think there's a motto there, Di. Don't be surprised to see a character of mine show up sometimes with that motto.
Embrace life. Because yeah, it's too short.
Thanks for sharing this!
A Family Recipe (w.t.) - Finn Hawkins' story
July 2010 - Superromance
Semper Fi Guy (w.t.) Hayden Hawkins' story, release date tbd
www.SusanGable.com
Great post, Diana!
Okay, you've got me thinking. I admit that I don't set out the good china . . . for anything really. You have to hand wash the stuff and I hand wash for no man anymore. (Although, hey, if a man wanted to do the hand washing of china, I wouldn't object to eating off of it
.) As for the rest, I have rituals for every time a kid or dh leaves the house -- love you's, hugs, kisses and have a great days. They know they can't leave until I have my way, either. Similar rituals for bedtime. Can't sleep otherwise. Frankly, I think I have them all trained well enough that they couldn't sleep without the rituals, either
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I'm so glad your husband and daughter are okay, Di.
Honk if you love pucas . . .
www.NataleStenzel.com
Food for Thought
First of all, I am glad to hear that your family is okay. :)
The thing that I had been keeping and saving for someday was my imagination.
When I was in grade school, my imagination was almost limitless. I could fly, I could play with my alien pals, I could go to foreign lands, and I loved to tell and share stories.
When I became a teenager, I put those notions aside because of all the big, "what are you going to do with your life" talk. There didn't seem to be much room for imagination so I put it aside for a someday where I could share stories and go on adventures again. I chose something I was pretty good at (computers) and dived right on in.
Fast forward to today...my weight isn't where it should be, my arthritis makes walking a chore, and the career I had so carefully chosen has revealed itself to be an endless money pit with minimal chance of success.
Instead of letting that get me down, I decided enough was enough. I took out my imagination, dusted it off, and set it loose. It feels good to exercise the creativity I left long ago - it has also helped me realize that I had been holding myself back as well. A new diet and drug regime is keeping the arthritis at bay and life is looking up, one step at a time.
As to the stories I am writing now - well, I might be brave enough to share these someday, but the steps I have taken so far have been the most liberating.
Hopefully, I'll be coherent here
Because I just got back from the dentist and I'm Xanaxed up for a while. *G*
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Oh, Linda, condolences on the death of your stepdaughter. As far as I'm concerned drunk drivers should be locked up forever and the keys tossed out. Too many of them just repeat and repeat until they do kill someone. I'm so very sorry for your loss. I'm glad you're inspired to get out the good stuff and use it. And I can't wait to read that hoarded story. I'll bet it's terrific!
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Netti, life does move too fast. It seems like just yesterday that my kids were little, and now they're (mostly) adults. At least chronologically. *G* Time is so precious!
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Jodie, excellent reminder. I found myself getting frustrated with my daughter and her boyfriend yesterday when they were blaring video games as I was trying to work. Then I reminded myself that I *could* have been planning her funeral. Sobering thought and my patience came right back! The fabric obsession I can totally relate to. I used to be a non-stop seamstress before I started writing, and then some hobbies just had to go. But I still sometimes go into the fabric store and drool over all the pretties. I keep thinking I want to get into quilting. (Just what I do NOT need! *G*)
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Sia, I have visited your blog, and I whole-heartedly agree, you certainly put your all into it, and it DOES show. Passion always translates to the page! Which is why, if and when I ever stop having the passion to write, I will hang it up. Don't see that happening, however. ;)
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Jen, my heart absolutely goes out to you upon the loss of your beloved father. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. I hope that in time, the pain will recede and the good memories of him will be in your heart as a constant comfort and reminder that he will always be a part of you and with you wherever you go. And that he knew you loved him so much...yes, he took that with him as well. Peace and blessings tomorrow and in the days to come.
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Susan, I think that would be a fabulous character motto. I can just see that hero or heroine paired up with an absolute pessimist. What fun they'd have coming to terms with their relationship. *G*
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Natalie, I don't hand wash anything, for anyone. *G* Luckily, my good dishes are all dishwasher safe. I sorta planned it that way, knowing my preferences. ;) I'll bet those rituals are such an important part of your kids' lives that they'll grow up and continue the traditions with their own children! And how cool would that be?
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Tmegrdian, It's never too late to start living your dreams! Wasn't Grandma Moses like in her 70's when she started painting? The amazing thing about our imaginations is that the more we use them, the more active they get. I'm pleased that your new diet and exercise are helping with your arthritis. My mom suffers from that and fibromyalgia, and she is often in a great deal of pain. She copes by reading sometimes 3 books a day. Which is another reason why storytelling is so valuable to me. If I know that my stories help folks get thru difficult times, there's no better reason than that to keep on keeping on. I hope that someday, you will share your writing, even if it's just with close friends. :)
Diana Duncan
LETHAL ATTRACTION ~ 2009 RITA Finalist
FULL EXPOSURE ~ 2009 Romantic Times Book of the Year Finalist
http://www.dianaduncan.com
writedianaduncan@msn.com
What a wonderful, thought
What a wonderful, thought prevoking(and re-awakening) post Diana! About the only material things i don't use these days, when i've a mind to, are my china and fancy crystal. Although i did use my china teapot once or twice years ago...but coudn't relax with it, lol. It's worth a small fortune and i love it. lol My crystal i probably would use if i had a use for it. Your post has really got me thinking again though, and that feels good.
And thank god your dh & dd are both ok!
~ Kathy D - Team member of Novel Obsession
Great post
Great post. Glad your family is ok.
I haven't been able to think of anything I'm saving. I probably will later.
Living and loving every day
You're absolutely right about the importance of not hording the good stuff, and it's good to be reminded why now and then. I'm so glad your family came through that horrible accident okay.
Before my DD was born, I could absolutely not imagine giving up my career. I've never been that fond of housework, and I just didn't get it. Then, once she was born, I suddenly got it. I mean, I really GOT it. I couldn't bear to consider leaving my very high maintenance baby in a daycare situation crying all day just so that I could go back to work. (And I'm not exaggerating, either. When she was 3 months old, we traveled 500 miles for a niece's wedding. My darling DD cried for about 7 hours straight, except for the brief times we'd stop to feed her, change her, and TRY to get her to sleep.)
So, despite the fact that I was actually making more money than my DH at that time, we made the decision to seize the day, since we'd only get one shot at her childhood. I quit my job to stay home with her and have spent the last 19 years volunteering at her schools and doing PTA and anything else I felt she needed. We went to zoos, visited museums, and joined other kids and moms on playgrounds all over the city. I still do as little housework as I can get away with (which is pretty little, I'm not proud to say -- and with 1 dog, 2 cats, and a chinchilla, there is plenty I should do) and my DH occasionally has to check the dryer to find clean underwear, but it has been worth it. I just didn't want to have regrets.
Having lost more than half of our family income when I left work, we don't have a lot of "fine" things to save for "someday", but we're pretty good at using and enjoying stuff. And I feel pretty good about not saving up all the good times for "someday when we have more time", too.
By the way, God (or fate or luck or whatever you believe in) works in wondrous ways. Within a few years after I left full-time employment, DH got promotions and raises so that before too long we were no longer really scraping to get by. We still can't do everything we'd like to do, but we enjoy life.
Adopt a shelter pet. Save a life; gain a best friend for life.
View my DD's very public video acting debut at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-E-v05kMucw.
July 2009 Member of the Month
More Thoughts
Kathy, Okay, I wouIdn't use the teapot either. *G* I have a teapot collection that I don't use because I'm afraid they'll get broken. However, I do put it out on display where I can admire and enjoy it every day! Maybe you can do the same with yours. ;)
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Thanks, Chey, I'm so grateful that my family is all right, too. As you're mulling things over, you might be surprised with what pops up.
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JV, I too made the choice to be home with my daughters from the moment they were born, and we gave up a lot of material things for it. But I've never regretted it for one moment. I wouldn't trade those years of being a full-time mom for anything! Now my girls are mostly grown (I still have one living at home, but she's *almost* self-sufficient.) Ours has always been the house where all their friends hang out, and we've always taken in stray animals, with no regard to the rug or the furniture or whatever. Having people feel welcome is far more important than "stuff." :)
Diana Duncan
LETHAL ATTRACTION ~ 2009 RITA Finalist
FULL EXPOSURE ~ 2009 Romantic Times Book of the Year Finalist
http://www.dianaduncan.com
writedianaduncan@msn.com
Diana
Wow, Diana. And Wow also to all who added such great comments. I think of so many things...the hand embroidered dishtowels from Mom's cedar chest that she'd saved for so many years, and when she gave them to me it was with the comment: "Because I know you will use them." And I did.
The other things that come to mind I'm saving for my own blog!
Great stuff, Diana. Thanks for sharing. And thanks to all who added their terrific comments, too.
RITA WINNER! Book 1 in "THE TAKEN" series, "DANGER SIGNALS" SRS April 2008!
Book 2: "DAREDEVIL'S RUN" August 2008
Books 3 and 4: "LADY KILLER"May 2009, and "KINCAID'S DANGEROUS GAME, June 2009
Watch for Book 5: "MISTAKEN IDENTITY" Coming in 2010!
Diana, I'm happy to say, my
Diana, I'm happy to say, my fancy collection, while not used, is sitting behind glass for all to see, in my china cabinet. Where it gets washed once a year, so it's all nice and shiny again. lol
~ Kathy D - Team member of Novel Obsession
Great post, Diane. Can I
Great post, Diane. Can I send it to my mother?
"Saving the future, one presidential edict at a time."
March's Member of the Month--2008
Diana A really special
Diana
A really special post. I've been doing a lot of reflecting about my life (yeah, had a birthday on 2nd), and I've realised that we spend so much of life waiting for something special to happen when so much is already going on around us that we can enjoy. I've decided to embrace life to the fullest and making used of everything I have in me to be kind to those around me.
I made a vow earlier this year. Never to go to bed angry with anyone I consider special. I don't want to wake up the next morning to know that I never got the chance to ask for forgiveness or say "I love you".
wj
Sorry...
It took me so long to get back here, but we've had major stuff goin on.
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Kathleen, my son-in-law's mother gave me a gorgeous set of hand-embroidered dishtowels for Christmas, and I use them every day! I didn't want them sitting in the closet, where nobody could see them!
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Kathy, glad to hear you're enjoying your collection. I wash mine about once a year, too. *G*
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Frenchie, absolutely, you may share it with anyone you'd like. I'm happy that it inspired you.
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Wayne, birthdays tend to bring on those reflections, don't they? What a wonderful vow you've made, and I know your life will be all the richer for it.
Diana Duncan
LETHAL ATTRACTION ~ 2009 RITA Finalist
FULL EXPOSURE ~ 2009 Romantic Times Book of the Year Finalist
http://www.dianaduncan.com
writedianaduncan@msn.com
good stuff
When I got married, I got a full 8 place setting of china, with extra dinner plates. I've got good flatware (not sterling, but good stuff nonetheless), and was collecting good crystalware. For years, I've only taken it out at Christmas. Finally, I said to heck with it, and I pull it out more often, and even put the dishes in the dishwasher.
What prompted me to do this was one year recently, as I was setting the table for christmas, one of the crystal wine glasses snapped - the base seperated from the stem. It had been set down carefully, and just went snap with no warning. So as I sit here typing each evening, unwinding with my home made wine or champagne, I'm using the 'good' wine crystal wine glass.
What is the point of keeping it hidden in a cupboard? Its lovely stuff, and it should be used.
Lynne
Absolutely!
You are right on, Lynne! And, hey, doesn't that wine taste even better from an extra pretty glass?
Diana Duncan
LETHAL ATTRACTION ~ 2009 RITA Finalist
FULL EXPOSURE ~ 2009 Romantic Times Book of the Year Finalist
http://www.dianaduncan.com
writedianaduncan@msn.com
Good Stuff
Di,
Your post touched me in a very special way--because I too had the same "seize the moment" epiphany when cleaning out my deceased father's home. Like your friend's mother, he had stockpiled all the gifts received for a long time, saving them for a rainy day.
That rainy day came when he was only 68 and suffered total debilitation following a post-surgical stroke. His quality of life was ruined and his days were numbered. One of the things he stressed to me---when he was able to speak---was that he wished he had used his money, his time and his life differently.
His words inspired and deeply affected me. So did your post today. It reminds me of priorities that tend to become lost in the stressful shuffle of life.
In writing, I strive to offer inspiration in my stories. In reading, I seek inspiration. That's why I love your books!
They are thought-provoking and memorable. And I have to tell you I turned a friend onto your books recently. She packed up the O'Rourke books to take on vacation and told me before departing that she was already enthralled by MIDNIGHT HERO!
Keep writing, for yourself and for the rest of us--we need writers like you!
Deb