Laura in Montreal

🤗🤗🤗

Life is like a train—each person rides with you for a reason, some to help you grow, others to share the journey, and a few to become lifelong companions. Though some may only stay for a few stops, their impact shapes you in profound ways. You collect moments, laughter, and memories, and even though some departures can leave an unexpected emptiness, they also reveal the strength you've built. The train keeps moving, carrying lessons learned and experiences gained. Every person who boards and departs teaches you something valuable about resilience, love, and the unpredictable nature of life. And in every goodbye, there's a new chance to discover the next station, the next friend, or the next chapter that will enrich your journey.

As you observe Good Friday and Holy Week, remember that God acknowledges every heart that remains kind despite being hurt.

Some individuals have faced lies, betrayal, disrespect, and exploitation, yet they've chosen to stay compassionate and gentle. Their resilience matters to God.

Just as Jesus endured betrayal, mockery, and rejection, yet chose love and forgiveness, don't let others' wrongdoing convince you that your kindness is futile. You don't have to stoop to their level;

God's justice, favor, and blessings are real, even in the midst of pain. Continue to cultivate kindness, honesty, and purity, even when hurt. God recognizes those who maintain their integrity despite adversity.

As Jesus said, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” Matthew 5:8. Your kindness is strength, not weakness, and your blessings will come.

God sees your actions and will reward you in His time.

Small steps today can spark significant growth tomorrow, focus on tiny gains and cultivate progress at your own steady pace.

Valentine's doesn't have to make a big statement.

It doesn't have to be grand or overly elaborate. It's the tiny gestures that speak volumes - the thoughtfulness, the consideration, the intentional acts of love.

Being remembered, being noticed, being deliberately chosen.

Love's value isn't determined by price, but by the depth of its details. And those details? They reveal everything.

I was struck by Noel Trinidad’s simple yet profound answer when asked about his definition of the most romantic place on earth, “Any quiet place where I can be alone with my wife.”

Romance is not always found in grand destinations, expensive views, or carefully planned moments.

It lives in the absence of noise.

A quiet place does not mean a perfect place.

It simply means space.

Space to listen.
To notice.
To be fully present.

That is what romance becomes after years of choosing each other, not spectacle, but stillness.

When love is real, it does not ask for scenery. It only asks for presence.

The most romantic place on earth is simply where the two of you can be alone.

As December unfolds its long nights and early sunsets, it's a reminder that even in the stillness, potential for growth remains.

This darkest stretch of the year can be a catalyst for introspection and renewal, urging us to slow our pace and trust the cycle of life.

Our bodies, minds, and hearts may feel the weight, but nature whispers words of wisdom: pause, breathe, and turn inward.

Like the trees releasing their leaves, we can shed what's holding us back and stand strong in our truth.

If energy wanes or motivation flickers, know it's not weakness – it's syncing with the season's natural rhythm.

Rest is not only necessary but also preparatory for the light that will return, bringing new possibilities.

It's okay to be tired in December; it's a time to recharge and rediscover our inner strength.

IF I GET DEMENTIA…..
I’d like my family to hang this wish list up on the wall where I live. I want them to remember these things.

1a. Every time you enter the room announce yourself. “Hi Mom! It's it’s Angela.”
NEVER ask- Do you know who I am??? That causes anxiety.

• If I get dementia, I want my friends and family to embrace my reality.
• If I think my spouse is still alive, or if I think we’re visiting my parents for dinner, let me believe those things. I’ll be much happier for it.
• If I get dementia, don’t argue with me about what is true for me versus what is true for you.
• If I get dementia, and I am not sure who you are, do not take it personally. My timeline is confusing to me.
• If I get dementia, and can no longer use utensils, do not start feeding me. Instead, switch me to a finger-food diet, and see if I can still feed myself.
• If I get dementia, and I am sad or anxious, hold my hand and listen. Do not tell me that my feelings are unfounded.
• If I get dementia, I don’t want to be treated like a child. Talk to me like the adult that I am.
• If I get dementia, I still want to enjoy the things that I’ve always enjoyed. Help me find a way to exercise, read, and visit with friends.
• If I get dementia, ask me to tell you a story from my past.
• If I get dementia, and I become agitated, take the time to figure out what is bothering me.
• If I get dementia, treat me the way that you would want to be treated.
• If I get dementia, make sure that there are plenty of snacks for me in the house. Even now if I don’t eat I get angry, and if I have dementia, I may have trouble explaining what I need.
• If I get dementia, don’t talk about me as if I’m not in the room.
• If I get dementia, don’t feel guilty if you cannot care for me 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It’s not your fault, and you’ve done your best. Find someone who can help you, or choose a great new place for me to live. With a bus and activities!!
• If I get dementia, and I live in a dementia care community, please visit me often.
• If I get dementia, don’t act frustrated if I mix up names, events, or places. Take a deep breath. It’s not my fault.
• If I get dementia, make sure I always have my favorite music playing within earshot.
• If I get dementia, and I like to pick up items and carry them around, help me return those items to their original place.
• If I get dementia, don’t exclude me from parties and family gatherings.
• If I get dementia, know that I still like receiving hugs or handshakes.
• If I get dementia, remember that I am still the person you know and love.”

ᴄᴏᴘʏ ᴀɴᴅ ᴘᴀsᴛᴇ in Honor of someone you know or knew who has dementia. In Honor of all those I know and love and lost who are fighting Dementia/Alzheimer’s.