Because you just never know...

The holidays are over, & we’re easing into 2021…

As we put our Christmas tree away this weekend, I was struck by all the memories represented in one particular spot of the tree.  

The 2014 baseball hat for Miles...because yanking at Matt’s hat was his favorite that year.

The Lady Gaga ornament we bought in memory of my late brother-in-law, Robert, who was tragically killed by a drunk driver almost 7 year ago.  He was 20.  And every year since we’ve bought an ornament that reminds us of him.  He loved Lady Gaga, & that was the boys’ pick this year.  😊

The Eiffel Tower ornament we bought during our amazing trip to Paris in 2019...back when travel was possible & Matt used his deal finding wizardry to get cheap tickets (which is how our destinations are usually determined).

The ornament from Miles’ 1st birthday.  And then I blinked, & he turned 7.

And obviously the ornament each of the boys chose for 2020.  No explanation required.

Our tree is covered in memories, at least one from every year.  

But what especially struck me about these was the reminder to take opportunities when we have them.  Because we don’t know how long we will.

Especially the ones we can’t possibly imagine going away.  
Like going to a concert or doing anything with my brother-in-law.  

Like flying anywhere, especially internationally.  

We know what ultimately lies ahead for each of us, & it’s still hard to fathom, isn’t it?

So much lies ahead that we can barely fathom...even once it has happened.

What thoughts go through your mind as you start this new year?  

As you start the rest of your life?

What opportunities will you take that you don’t want to regret not taking?

Whatever you’re considering, I encourage you to do it now.  Because you just never know.

And few things are worse than wishing you had.