I am not always prepared for change, but dealing with change is a lot easier with the right perspective.  Normally our house is full of people over the holidays, but life has taken the girls and me down a different path over the last few years.

In the past, this weekend would be the kick-off for summertime guests, a house full of people, and lots of hustle and bustle.  It was the middle of the afternoon on Memorial Day and I found myself floating in our pool… alone.   

Interestingly enough, the change was not troublesome, it was peaceful.  As much as I thrive on entertaining, I am an introvert who enjoys some time alone.  It felt like I was given a glimpse into my future. 

One of my girls was exercising and the other walking to the beach.  One brother was at his trailer.  The other was working on spring cleanup at his house.  My parents are social distancing themselves at home.  All of which left me with no plans for the day.

I would not have believed it if someone told me that both my parents were alive, yet I was not spending the holiday together with them.  And then came COVID-19. 

Despite the reality of the world, I smiled to myself as I floated in my oversized donut ring taking in all of God’s blessings around me.  I thought to myself, “This is my next phase in life.” 

It was an eye-opening picture of my future.  We have lived in this house for 3 1/2 years and this is the second time I have floated in the pool.  It was an unexpected yet welcomed moment!

Later in the afternoon, my girls surfaced and my brother and his family came over for a spontaneous backyard picnic.  Things began to feel like a “normal” holiday.  A uniquely wonderful, ever-changing, unplanned holiday for the Damiano’s.

I try to remind myself of the good things that change brings.   Even if I don’t like the change, it is going to happen so adapting and looking for the good is about the best I can do!

Change happens to all of us.  As I review the change in my life, I’m grateful for the times that I’ve had and for what’s ahead.  I trust that God will lead me down my intended path. I may not always choose the right path, but I work very hard at reading the signs and taking the path that I believe to be the one that was intended for me.

Social distancing has changed our “normal.”  The world as we remember has changed.  I choose to face the changes with gratitude and I choose to face the changes one day at a time. I realize things won’t be the same, but I also realize they never are the same.  We are always changing!

I am definitely a work in progress!  Life is ever-changing, I’m happy, I’m healthy, and I am blessed.  I choose to appreciate change.

Click here to stay connected.