Do you try to live life with no regrets? Do you try to do things "right" the first time. I know that I do, but not always very successfully. I have gotten upset at Mr. Shook or my children at times when it really didn't matter all that much. I have said something that didn't come out the way that I meant it. I have allowed myself to not be spontaneous and then been disappointed in my reaction. But, I think it's learning from these regrets that makes me a better friend, wife and mother.
Lately I have been having some regrets on the last few months of my Grandpa's life. I know it's the way life works out - I lived 480 miles away from him, I have 3 kids under 7, my husband is busy at work and we couldn't get to Ohio nearly as often as we should have...you catch my drift. I hope that Grandpa knew how much we all loved him. I think he did but I wish I could have had one last chance to tell him. I wish I could have hugged him one last time. I wish I could have heard Bether once last time.
Mr. Shook, my brother, my sister-in-law and myself are moving my parents to Illinois after Thanksgiving. It really feels like a whole chapter of my life is going to end. We have been Buckeye's for a very long time! I know that I will still have many reasons to go there and visit but things will be different. I guess it will eventually be like driving past an old house you use to live in. It's always a part of you but it becomes less and less of a memory over time. That can be said about the house on Pleasant Street but that could also be due to how scary it looks now!
If you are reading this it's probably because you are a friend or you are my family. Thank you to each and every one of you for appreciating my quirks, my sometimes weird sense of humor and for just appreciating me.
Because you are important to me and I say that with no regrets.
A Slow Cooker Thanksgiving
4 weeks ago
There have been so many changes in such a short amount of time. It is overwhelming for everyone. You get so busy in the details that it is hard to step back and see the picture. Thanks for this post. It is good to see a smidge of your perspective.
ReplyDeleteMuch love from those left behind in Ohio.
Beth, I think we have all been there sometime and we just pray that we've learned from it. I knew your folks were out there looking but had no idea they'd be moving this soon it will be so nice for all of you to be close together again. Keeping all of you in my prayers for a smooth transistion for all don't be strangers though!!
ReplyDeleteHugz!!
I can imagine how you must feel. That is how I felt with Parma, and in a way still do. Those roots for you will always be here...and in some part of your heart. I am glad that the Shooks are still in the area and that you will still be coming around once in awhile. Remember we would love to see you and your precious family any time. This may sound weird, but I think of you and myself like I used to think of me and Eva...only now my role is reversed. I still miss her an awful lot. Best wishes for you and Dale and your families having your parents close to you.
ReplyDeleteDearest Beth,
ReplyDeleteI see it everyday working in the field I chose as my ministry; but, looking in from the outside to a friend, fellow church members and someone that has grown up with the Hall's, it is DIFFERENT! It is hard seeing chapters turning into books! May God give you peace during this time; enjoy these moments, and as you said, "Live with No Regrets!" You are in my prayers and thoughts; if you need anything else; I'm here for you! P.S. It was a blessing to do the Meadowview Nursing Home Church with your dad in October. I am glad I took the time! Bless You!
Hey Beth,
ReplyDeleteI know that I will always feel a regret about not spending more time with my grandma, but I think that they know how much they are loved. No time is enough, is it?
I think of my mistakes as "learning opportunities..." It helps me to keep going with a smile!
I understand the regret you feel as well. I too live with regret. Regret I went to visit with my grandmother while I was sick with the flu which I thought was only a cold. Two days after my visit, my grandmother came down with the flu which turned to pneumonia and from there she was unable to recover. I have to believe it was God’s timing and thank Him for the times I had been given with my grandmother. Remember often the sweet memories you had made and speak of them with your children. I truly believe it is not about how often you see your loved ones but rather the quality of time you spend with your loved ones. *hug*
ReplyDeleteHow awesome that your parents are moving closer! I hope that this is a wonderful thing for everyone! Cameron definitely has the right attitude and Seville will always be "home," especially since you still have family there!
ReplyDeleteHey Bether....teared up. My memories are riding bikes down to you house in
ReplyDeleteSeville, then growing up and driving the Honda Express II...then the Granada's yours and Jenny's! Nobody can ever take away memories! Thats the magic about it! Im hear if you need someone to watch your kiddos while you are packing or doing whatever,,,even if its the girls...we are a fun home! Love Laughter and God is our motto!
Love ya Bether
Lo