What place in the world do you never want to visit? Why?

If I could visit anywhere I wanted, I think I’d most like to go back. I’d like to go cuddle my babies again, when they were just tiny little bundles in my arms. I’d give my grandparents and other family and friends I’ve lost more hugs, more phone calls, and I’d never leave without saying I love you. I’d say yes to every invitation to spend time with my mom, back when I still had a mom. I’d play with my brother and sister in the backyard of the home we grew up in, one more time. I’d let my first dog sleep in my bed with me.

These are the places I’d go.

Edit: (hours after I wrote this)

Sooo, I’m just now realizing I misunderstood the assignment. Oops!

What are 5 everyday things that bring you happiness?

Ooh, what a fun prompt! This is such a great one for me, because I genuinely am so delighted by many of the things most people would consider “ordinary” or “everyday”.

• Waking up my kids for school. Helping with styling their hair. Having them ask my opinions or suggestions on outfit choices. Wishing them luck on a big test or presentation. Being able to always give them a quick hug, when the school bus arrives, as I repeat the same “Love you! Have a good day!”, everyday.

• Playing music while I do housework, especially on a sunny and warm day, when I can leave some windows and doors open.

• Kitchen chats with my kids. We have the best talks when they come sit with me in the kitchen. Sometimes the topics are tough ones. Usually, we simply start to talk, and wind up have amazing conversations. We’ve discussed a wide range of issues and subjects. I value their opinions, and encourage them to explore a variety of ideas and perspectives. I tell my kids all the time how much fun it is watching them grow and show me who they are!
• Evening showers with my husband. We’ve been showering together before bed everyday, for years. It’s our time. We are able to communicate, even and especially when there is frustration, hurt, fear, etc. For us, we learned that there’s a benefit in being naked together both physically and emotionally, and in knowing there will consistently be opportunity to talk openly, vulnerable with one another, everyday. It just works for us!
• Beautiful mornings on the back deck, drinking coffee with my husband, or a close friend or family member. Watching as the sun rises. Hearing the birds chirp. The smell of fresh cut grass and sunshine.

These are a few of my favorite things. ♥️

What book could you read over and over again?

My first thought was, the Bible. I’ve read and reread many books of the Bible. Various versions and the passage of time can and does very much help me to gain better clarity and understanding. Having said that, I am by no means someone who would claim any authority when it comes to Biblical wisdom. I’m a train wreck, but I do find meaning in the stories told within the good book.

The truth is, there are several books I’ve read more than once. I’ve read everything from Mein Kampf to 50 Shades of Grey. (For the record, I do NOT in any way shape or form agree with Hitler! I just find it both useful and interesting to have the ability to see into the minds of such atrocious people throughout history.) I remember crying as I read The Hunger Games series, and I’ve read it more than once. I also enjoy books that delve into our psychology. How and why we think and behave the ways we do, is fascinating. I’ve read Dr Phil’s books and Jordan Peterson. Years ago, I remember reading The Purpose Driven Life, and I thought it was insightful at the time.

In conclusion, I suppose I’ll stick with my first answer. The Holy Bible would be my first choice.

Do you have a quote you live your life by or think of often?

“Those who matter don’t mind. And, those who mind don’t matter.

~Dr Seuss

If you could permanently ban a word from general usage, which one would it be? Why?

My first thought is ban. Ban is the word I would ban. We’re constantly attempting to ban books, ban speech, ban anyone “othered” by society. Let’s just quit banning things that make us uncomfortable. After all, how else will we recognize good from evil, truth from lies? It’s impossible to be certain you disagree with someone, or something, unless you’re willing to really hear what’s being said. Even if it’s vile and disgusting. At least then, you can know that for sure.