I'm invincible...

...at least until my final day comes, that is. The problem here is, none of us knows how many days we have left. So, my advice?

1. Take a few moments EVERY DAY to count your blessings.
2. Spend time or pick up the phone and talk to someone important to you.
3. Treat others as though it is the last time you'll see them.
4. Tell your friends and family how much they mean to you...OFTEN!

No, it's not the loss of my cat that has made me reflect on this. It's actually a horrible thing that happened to a co-worker. My co-worker, we'll call her "K", was married a little over a week ago. It was a small destination wedding with a few family and friends, with the reception planned for this weekend. Before I go further, you have to understand that "K" is an upbeat, fun-loving, crazy gal with a heart of gold.

So I was shocked and horrified to learn this morning that "K's" father died suddenly on Saturday. He was found (on Thursday or Friday) unconscious and taken to the hospital to learn that he had bleeding on his brain and prognosis was grim. Remember, her father had just walked her down the aisle one week earlier!!! So now, instead of experiencing the joys of being a newlywed, "K" is dealing with grieving and burying her father. And I can't imagine how she'll ever celebrate an anniversary without thinking of her father's death. He was only 55!

This reminded me just how precious every moment is. I was reminded of the couple times I've nearly lost my mom and how precious it is for me every time I see her. It is difficult living 3000 miles away sometimes because I think I miss out on so much of her life, but I do treasure every moment when I'm "home".

My mission is to be more conscious and thankful for all that I have (instead of what I don't), how people have brightened by day (instead of the day's difficulties), and find at least one way that I can brighten someone else's day up or make their day easier. I know that this may seem idealistic but I'm obviously not expecting that I'll do this 100% of the time. I simply think it is important that I live my life in perspective and to keep my eye on and be thankful for all the positive things in my life. I challenge you to do the same.

P.S. Please pray for "K" and her family as they go through this difficult time. I haven't seen or talked to her since her loss, but I can only imagine what she is going through.