My 92 year old mom died two weeks ago. Like I mentioned at her celebration of life last Saturday, which really was a celebration of her fiercely independent nature, compassion for others, and gutsy expression of free will right to the very end, Mom was strong and positive role model, mentor, and darn good friend.  As I’ve written here before, she was a pioneer both in medicine and as a well-rounded, frontier-loving world traveler.

Mom had some terrific lines she used to lay on us as kids – and even as adults. “Better safe than sorry.” That one usually prodded me to do something other than what was prescribed. “Always bring a sweater.” Mom knitted us some gorgeous sweaters as kids, and if one of them, like the one shown below, was on me when I walked out the door, great. Otherwise, I’d be ok. “Put a nickel in it!” I never knew where that came from or where the nickel was supposed to go, but my brothers and I sure got the intent whenever we “lallygagged” behind her brisk and purposeful forward stride.

But the one line that stands out most now is, “Wake up and die right!” I found that line a bit odd in my younger years, but I sure get it now. It’s all about living life full-on moment to moment and doing whatever you can to make a positive contributing difference wherever you are.

Well, Mom, that’s the deal. I get it, greatly appreciate every moment I got to share with you, and will keep your spirit alive in everything I do!

Lots of love, Mom! Thanks and cheers!