This last week, a close friend passed on.  She was one of a handful that I expected would be around to grow old together and continue to share life’s milestones and laughter for years to come.  Not to be.  How quickly things can change.  In moments like this, we become more aware of the limited time we have.  Clichéd as it is, life is short; live to the fullest.  Those are not just words, but rather, a call to action.

Sometimes, I look at my calendar and wonder how it became so full.  I’m the scheduler; no one to blame except myself.  When I review my engagements, they are concentrated with names of friends and family.  I love to spend time with people!  At the same time, I’m conflicted, because I want to do all the things – the crafting, the writing, the organizing, the riding, etc.  It’s an ongoing balance of time invested into people or time poured into activities.

I’ve been away from my writing and craft room through the summer to be outdoors, enjoying lots of time with family and friends.  I chose people over my artistic endeavors.  I don’t think we can ever go wrong investing time into relationships.  Personally, it fills my emotional bucket to spend time with those closest to me.  Each individual places a chunk of love into my being.  Whether it’s the grands, running to give just one more hug, or a girlfriend, enjoying coffee, leaning in with a listening ear or a golden-aged friend sharing stories from long ago, they all pour into me.  Their unique connections create life-long, indestructible bonds.

How will you choose to allocate your schedule today?  It’s okay to be a little bit selfish and take moments just for you.  Perhaps, you’re like me and need to feel that connection to people.  Set aside time to reconnect with a dear friend today.  Are you longing to create?  Spend an hour or two making art.  Whether it’s a new recipe or a tiny watercolor masterpiece, give yourself permission to indulge in your passion.  Check your calendar and see what is filling the days.  Is it time to rearrange the priorities? Make each moment count.