In two weeks, two dear friends have told me no. It’s gratifying to have special people in my life who realize the importance of taking care of themselves, even if it means having to turn me down. Sometimes it seems there are not any new ideas. It’s just some ideas get recycled to meet new needs or new situations. The idea that we should not feel guilty when we say no, isn’t new. Yet, why do so many of us (myself included), feel badly when we have to decline?  It can be downright difficult to say no.

Both of my no-saying friends, were quick to give explanations for their denial of my request. I hope I was quick enough to let them know they didn’t need to explain. I think I even told one friend that if I was in front of her, I might have slapped her for feeling like she had to give me her rationale. (You know I’d never slap anyone!!)

In reality, I felt so proud both times, pleased that these confidants were able to say no! What a skill to have. Our time is so important. Whether we are doing something we love, reading, napping, cooking, cleaning, gardening, taking care of family, it is all important. It all matters. Can you do it, say no, without guilt? Or, does it wear on you all day?

I know, I know. We have heard this before, and maybe today you needed to be reminded that it’s just fine to decline an invitation or say no to a request, without a lengthy explanation, guilt-free. Take care of you!

Slainte! Susan

I love quotes. Though we can be inundated with them on social media, still, I enjoy them and often they speak directly to my heart. Since my holiday in Ireland, I have been  fascinated with Irish proverbs.

What is for you will not pass you by…yes, I believe this! Even when it’s meant to be, sometimes I still have to remind myself effort on my part is still required.

I can look back at so many events that didn’t work out how I wanted, and as I follow the story through in reflection, I realize it wasn’t for me.  But, gosh, at the time the let down can be incredibly tough.

My latest venture is to be an author of a school for middle-schoolers, to help them navigate through the tough part of of being a tween.  Fingers crossed that being an author is “for me” as the Irish proverb says. I’ll keep you posted on my progress.  Anybody know how to get more hours in one day? Anybody know a publisher?

Slainte! Susan

Optional Reading******************************************************

I took this picture last summer while on the Island of Inishmore in the Republic of Ireland. When I look back on some of the best days of my life, this day is right at the top. It was like stepping back in time. The houses have thatched roofs, few cars are on the island, and stone walls are everywhere.  When we tried to rent bikes with a credit card we were told Euros only-of which we didn’t have enough. A kind man with his family asked the bike guy to add our rental fees onto his. We rode around the island hugging the Irish Sea. The sun was out, the sky was clear, and truly I felt like it was a dream! A perfect day, though we failed to follow the directions given, we ended up on a road, less traveled, and we were exactly where we needed to be!