What does “having it all” mean to you? Is it attainable?

I used to think that was what I was supposed to do but have since learned something entirely different. I don’t believe in “having it all” I believe in being content in the present & not striving for what in many ways is unreachable.

I believe in the basic contentment about being in the present & being happy with that. When you strive for what is unreachable you end up being sad & depressed. By focusing on what you have in the present. You see what you already have & be grateful for that.

By focusing on the unattainable & unreachable you lose focus on the Very Important present. The present is a gift that is very important to be in. By constantly focusing on tomorrow or the next week you don’t focus on Right Now.

By being grateful for the present you see all you have in the present & not tomorrow or the next week. I’m looking for the present to be a gift no matter how hard or easy it may be. It’s the present & that’s what matters most.

I’m grateful for the present & for all it gives me, no matter how hard it may be. Be here now.

What personal belongings do you hold most dear?

I’m not really into jewelry but one of my favorite pieces is Rachel the Pig from Pike’s Place Market. I know a jeweler that made Rachel 5 years ago as a fundraiser for the famous market. It reminds me of the good times I had in Seattle. I also have a charm that hangs in the market.

I will always hold Seattle in a special place in my heart. Rachel the pig just reminds me of how many good times I had there. I know the city has gone through quite a shift since we moved.

I think I hold my grandmother’s sweaters that she knitted & that I hold dear. I have quite a few of them but it makes me proud. I feel that’s her heritage & I’m proud that I knew her so well.

I’m not into being flashy but I adore my engagement ring, although that’s hidden & tucked away. I just like that it’s so one of a kind & very much like me.

Do you have any collections?

I used to collect t-shirts, but about 10-12 years ago I began collecting cups & mugs. For instance I’m more impressed with handmade cups than manufactured cups made in China.

I have a cup from Hollyrood in Scotland & it’s King Charles’ favorite motif on the porcelain cup I enjoy one of a kind designs & cups with a story. It makes it more fun to let guests use & hear a story behind the mug.

When I was in Brussels, Belgium a few years ago pre-pandemic I found a cup that is hand-printed with mushrooms. It’s my hot chocolate mug in the Fall & it’s one of my favorite mugs. It’s from Gien & it’s all handmade.

I have a few others but those are more private. It’s easier to get through the airport & it’s fun to take home & unpack. That’s my collection & I’m really happy with it. Do you have something you can share with friends & loved ones?