My intentions were to write a few blog posts this past weekend about the holidays and year-end thoughts.  Those topics went out the window with the horrific story about the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary this past Friday.

I was enjoying a birthday lunch with three other Moms when one of them received a text asking if she had heard about the shooting.  With the gift of technology, we were able to quickly read the terrible news of the day.  Like everyone, we were stunned and then quickly moved to tears with more questions than the news site had answers.

All weekend I wondered what I could write about that was not swirling on the social media sites and the news feeds.  Then it occurred to me; all we really have are the moments in our lives.  How we spend our moments is what is important.  In fact, we must cherish and embrace our moments.

On Sunday morning I watched my 11 year old daughter’s play practice and was touched as 30 kids sang happily under the funny director’s piano playing leadership.  I delighted in listening to their young voices, and at the same time I was mindful of the children who lost their lives.

Then I went to the gas station, filled up my tank and got a car wash.  As I sat at the car wash, it occurred to me that each of these activities make up the moments of my life. I want to be happy and have fun doing them, no matter how mundane they may appear.

This holiday season I intend to enjoy all the moments. It is my goal to relax and be present, whether it’s the fast-paced work days, last minute shopping and wrapping or special holiday meal preparations.   This year I plan to make sure we spend time laughing with friends and family over the next several weeks.

The shooting reminds us of how important it is to live every day like it could be our last.

Cherish your moments!