Is it just today, or do we remember to share our love every day? I am sitting here trying to view my computer screen through gooped up eyes as I reminisce about the many blessings and love I have in my life.
I feel as though I’ve been “hit” with a lot lately. Dad has taken a turn for the worse, and then I came down with what I guess was the flu. My muscles and bones ached so bad all I could do was sleep. Next I end up with conjunctivitis in not one but both eyes. I could sit here and feel sorry, but what I really feel is blessed.
I was fortunate enough in the past week to see my Dad’s strength and courage. What I am experiencing is minimal in comparison. He remains in good spirits and is satisfied with his life and his destiny.
Am I?
You know I am. I live each day as if it were the best day of my life… Or at least I give it a good try!
I have so many fantastic experiences and have only shared a few. Sometimes I feel spoiled with all the fun times and memories. I have to say today that not all times are good. Those are just the times I personally choose to “Dwell” on. I focus on the goodness in life so my life is good. This is something I learned not from one, but from many lifelong friends.
This past week a few mentors in my life paid visit. They came to share their LOVE with my Dad. They do it every day with out even knowing it. While they were here my heart filled as they walked into the room. My Dad shared stories about me with them and they smiled because they know where I came from and I know they had a plethora of memories flying through their minds.
Dad shows Steve my "Twitterview" with NRAblog and they reminisce about old hunting trips and why I didn't go. http://www.nrablog.com/post/2012/02/03/From-single-the-family-hunting-with-Mia_Anstine.aspx
We chatted and shared and I felt the LOVE throughout the room. No, it wasn’t Valentine’s Day. They do it every day.
I felt more warmth and caring, good vibrations as another family walked into the room. They have been at my “table” throughout my life. The chief, comandante, head of this family is also a HUGE mentor in my life as I know it. He was shocked and amazed as he received thanks from me for all he unknowingly did to influence me as a child. He was not just a hunter, but a “hard-core” hunter and I hung on every word when he told his hunting tales or when I got to tag along.
My mentor, Gilbert. A mentor and he didn't even know it.
I spent an evening listening to tales of duck hunting, elk hunting, guiding and many other adventures. We laughed and smiled until our sides and cheeks ached. He could spend days, weeks, months sharing these influential stories and not a one makes you frown. It is this influence that I hope to have on others as well.
As I sit here and try not to touch my matted eyes and blink to wipe away the clouds, all I can say is if you have the time, count your blessings. Show your love. Someone is paying attention to you when you don’t even know it. You are a mentor to someone. Be happy. You are loved and this life is a good one. Happy Valentine’s Day!
Dad and Gilbert. Lifetime friends.
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Don’t forget to read about Mia & the Little Gal’s adventures at the Women’s Outdoor News
Visit Prois Hunting for hunting and field apparel for women.
Visit TenPoint Crossbows for “the mark of perfection” in crossbows
Hello there. Thank you for stopping by my blog. I enjoy sharing my adventures with others. Enjoy the stories and please share your comments.
I always appreciate your positive attitude, Mia! Hope you feel better soon!
Thanks Barb! I’m feeling better already after thinking of the great times I’ve had the past few days.
Wow, I had to wipe my eyes….wished I could have shared in the experience I new what you meant the Love of life time friends! Get better soon! Love you Mom
Thanks Mom! I know you felt exactly what I was speaking about. You are on the list of the many as well. Don’t forget it! Love & hugs!
Beautiful post Mia! Had me wiping my eyes along with you – hope you are soon feeling better! Everyday – no matter how it may seem on the surface brings us a blessing and a gift, if we just pause for a moment and look
Don’t we know it G?! Thanks for being a mentor and new found friend! Love you lady!
Sitting at my desk a little misty eyed at the moment. Thank you for this reminder to count our blessings every day. Sometimes with the fast paced world we forget to stop and cherish what is truly important. I will continue to think about you and your family. Love you.
Thank you Sista friend! Don’t forget, you brought me a smile yesterday! Love ya!
Wow … you sure know how to get right to the heart. Appreciate your attitude and insight. Happy Valentines Day!
LOL! It’s the very best I could do for a Valentine’s Day post. I just love all the opportunities and experiences I’ve had in my life and thought I would share them with you all today. <3
All I have to say is…YOU ARE AWESOME! I needed this post today!
Love ya TL. Hope you are well. Keep on keepin’ on!
Mia, you are so loved by many and especially by me. That was a beautiful tribute to your dad and Gilbert.
My heart goes out to you and dad. I keep him in my prayers everyday and have spoken to him several times. Roads are to bad to go in, but he is in my heart.
I understand where he is coming from and respect his wishes.
If you ever need someone to talk to, do not hesitate to call or come by. I am here for you and always will be.
Love you,
Lu Ann
Mia, I was very, very touched by your story. Thanks for sharing that and for brightening my day! Hope by now you are feeling better!
I’m glad it brightened your day Tammy. Thanks for stopping by! Yep. I’m feeling MUCH better now, Thank you.