Here are Stephanie's "Five Rules For Life":
1.) Take pictures.
Take LOTS of pictures. Document your life. Write about it and leave your family your history and in turn create the start of their history.
2.) Remember to breathe.
"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take but by the number of moments that take your breath away." - written on a picture frame that hangs in our house.
For me the first moment that took my breath away was when I met my husband. Next was the birth of each of our children; then there was the day they each went to kindergarten. I can't imagine what the day will be like when they go away to college and start their own lives. There are the endless moments I have been fortunate enough to experience through travel; there is nothing like it. And there was witnessing the death of my Father. No one said they can all be happy moments - but remember them all, the good and the bad.
3.) Drive with your windows down and your radio turned up.
Do this often - it takes you back to that first real taste of freedom. You can remember what it was like at 16, before "responsibility" kicked in. You can feel the wind in your hair and hear the music in your heart. Then do it with your kids - watch their faces light up when they see a glimpse of the child in you. It creates a connection with them.
4.) Travel as often as you can.
Go somewhere you have never been. Even if you can't afford a big trip just go somewhere. Take someone with you who has never been there either. Watch their reactions and enjoy your moments together. Go places that take your breath away and give you those "moments".
5.) Be there.
Be there for God, your spouse, your kids, and your friends; it is the most important thing you can do. Get to know them by showing them what's in your heart and learning what is in theirs. Don't hold back. Let them in.
Stephanie currently resides in Hutto, Texas.
______________________________
