Been a while...

I haven't posted since August 7 - an update to say I would be taking some time off due to a fire we had in our condo. Four months to the day, we were able to get back into our home. We have our bedroom set, and in the basement - a TV, couch, and recliner. No other furniture upstairs. If anything survived, it's in boxes. Boxes and boxes and boxes. At this point it's almost like - "I don't miss it, might as well pitch it..."

You spend your life thinking - "I want this, I need to get that," until one day it's all gone. And then you spend 4 months of your life living with the clothes you have in a hotel room thinking how lucky you are to have what you do. We spend so much of our life putting value on the things we own. Especially this time of year - Christmas is the worst time of year for possessions. You think the things you own make you happy, make you a better person - but when it comes down to it, what are you without those things? What are you without your "stuff?" What if your home were empty today except for the basics? Could you function? What do you need to function on a day to day basis? You would be surprised if you were forced to find out.

Look around and determine what is really important in your life - because the "things" aren't what makes you happy. Living your life, making memories, being with friends and family - that's the important "stuff." You can try and document it all, but even then, you can't fireproof it - so make sure those memories are embedded deep in your heart, because the fire can't reach the images you have there.

Taking Stock of What is Important

I only have a moment to update, but I wanted to share what has gone on in the past couple days. On Tuesday evening, our condo suffered a fire. The kitchen is destroyed and there is smoke damage throughout the remainder. We are staying with my sister for the meantime, but eventually will be placed in an extended - stay hotel. We are all safe and no one suffered any injury (besides emotional) and that is the most important thing. Stuff can be replaced - people and pets cannot.

I just want to tell everyone to take stock of what is important and to remember that the divine works to grant your wishes in the strangest ways. I have been saying for months now that I need to simplify my home and life, but I didn't plan on doing it this way. The old adage goes - "be careful what you wish for as it just might come true." But the Lord does not give you that which you cannot handle, and we will pull through this just fine.

Hug your loved ones close! (and make sure you have enough insurance!!!!)

Angie