"Life isn't a matter of milestones, but of moments." -Rose Kennedy

The Thinking Spot, Audubon Park | Photo: Rachel DeHayes

I am a firm believer in celebrating milestones; I love birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and all major moments in life. Yet, I often find that the memories that make me stop and smile are not always these special occasions, but rather tiny moments that shine through the drone of the day-to-day. Don't get me wrong, remembering special dinners, gifts, parties, events and the like all make me smile, but so do the little things, like strolling in the park, playing Scrabble for hours, unintended stories from girls nights in, and even a moment shared through a wink, a smile, a hug, or a kiss. Sometimes those milestones produce the best moments, but sometimes, those moments happen all on their own. For better or for worse, those, my friends, are the moments of life.

"Live well...Laugh often...Love much!" - John McLeod

Photo: Rachel DeHayes     

Live….Laugh…and Love 

By John McLeod

Live well dear friends 

In all you do, 

Tho' paths be old 

Or paths be new, 

But to yourself 

Be ever true, 

Live well!

Laugh often friends 

Tho' passing years 

Bring, sometimes, smiles 

And, sometimes, tears, 

For mirth forever 

Warms and cheers 

Laugh often!

Love much dear friends 

For love will bring 

The healing joy 

And hope of Spring, 

Where pain and fear may never dwell 

Nor anguish touch….

And so Live well, 

Laugh often too, 

And more, dear friends, 

Love much!

The condensed (aka Target wall decal) version of this John McLeod poem, entitled "Live...Laugh...and Love," hangs over my bed in my New Orleans apartment. In decorating a room, I've never been one for posters. Most likely for the same reason I will never get a tattoo: there is nothing in picture/symbol form that I care about so much that I need it to be permanent. Not that posters are permanent, but I fear I'll tire of the latest movie title or trendy, abstract photo. So, when I found these three simple words that I paired with wine and accompanying grapes, I knew it was perfect for me. These are the first words I see in the morning, and the last words I see before going to bed. They are a subtle reminder to take a moment to reflect on life, to embrace the joy of laughter, and to relish all the love that I am so lucky to have and to give.