50 Things I know

In a few short days, I will be 50 years old. I'm not sure how this can be, but it's true. And I'm excited about fifty!! I'm already feeling some real freedom in it and excitement. Reflecting on the past decades and my hopes and dreams for all that lies ahead has made me realize, I've learned some really great nuggets these past 49+ years. Many are biblical truths. Some are life experience. Some are words of wisdom from my mom and/or dad. Some I've just gathered and remembered along the way! Thought I'd record my top 50 nuggets of wisdom. 

Other than #1, no particular order. Enjoy. 

1. Jesus literally saved my life in countless ways!  He is the way, truth and the life and I'm thankful. 

2. This life is not about me.

3. Being born into a loving family is a gift that lasts a lifetime. 

4. You never outgrow the need for being loved by your mom and dad.

5. The days are long, the years are short. 

6. I have no greater joy (and peace) than knowing my children are walking in truth!

7. You only need 2-3 really true, faithful, authentic friends.

8. There's no such thing as constructive criticism. 

9. Words can be forgiven, but not forgotten.

10. There is absolutely no substitute for nightly dinners around the table with family.

11. Thoughts can destroy your peace of mind.

12. Those who forgive much, love much. And, vice versa.

13. Our value has nothing to do with what others think of us, nor does a number on the scale. 

14. Out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks. 

15. A mother's love does not divide. It mulitplies.

16. Prayer is a rare and great resource.

17. The world is not impressed with a more religious version of themselves.

18. Actions speak louder than words. 

19. We can't compare losses. 

20. Every change involves grief and joy.

21. Don't judge what you don't understand. Different does not necessarily equal wrong. 

22. No substitute for the written word. Save notes and letters. Treasures. 

23. Less is more in just about everything and every way.

24. Memories become more precious with time.

25. Holding babies does not spoil them. 

26. Teens are amazing people. Make a habit of spending time with them. Always. 

27. We can age without getting old.  *Psalm 92:14

28. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

29. Pretty is as pretty does.

30. People quit too soon.

31. Keep doing what you love. 

32. Never ruin a good apology with an excuse tied to it. 

33. Hurt people, hurt people.

34. Be kinder than necessary. Everyone is facing a battle we may know nothing about. 

35. Always keep learning. 

36. College (or high school) are not the best years of your life. 

37. There's no love like a mama's love.

38. Celebrate the little things. 

39. Home is not a place. It's where people you love reside.

40. Love is a choice, not a feeling.

41. It's the little things we miss the most.

42. Children are intuitive, perceptive, resilient and forgiving. 

43. Being a mom is the greatest thing I've ever been.

44. Unrealistic expectations will become unmet expectations.

45. Never be too busy or substitute imitations for face to face.

46. You can never have too many people who love you. 

47. Be the kind of friend you want to have in life. 

48. Relationships are greater than most anything. 

49. Dads are critical to a healthy family. 

50. Money doesn't make people happy.