I am heading out this week on a road trip with my pal Carolan. It is a yearly event, although for the past few years we have gone to South Dakota. This year we will stay in California. Regardless, it is more about time together than where we go.
Back in the day, we usually took an annual adventure. We have visited San Diego and taken trips to Las Vegas for gaming, food and shows. We once saw my favorite, “Phantom of the Opera,” in a theater created by the show’s creator, Andrew Lloyd Webber. Be still my heart. It was magical indeed.
Mainly, I appreciate that she still makes an effort to spend time with me. As I have gotten older, I have learned to appreciate the people and opportunities placed in my path.
Being back in Colusa County for a time has opened a flood of memories. It was my home during my childhood, teen years and as a young adult. The remaining years found me living in other California cities, as well as Washington, Oregon and North Dakota. It feels full circle now, being back in Colusa County as a snowbird visitor.
The lesson I have learned is to enjoy each chapter of life. Over the years, I have lost people from every chapter. Now, back in this place, I remember those I have lost. The Grimes Cemetery is the resting place for most of my family members. I have visited, but it is not the same as sitting and visiting as we once did.
I have friends I loved as family who have gone on before me as well. There are good memories of all of them and the pain of losing them. Time moves on. If you have the opportunity to spend time with the people you love, do not waste it. Tomorrow is not promised. Today counts.
Life is good today.