Sunday, July 5, 2015

Things I Miss

     I have many fond memories of my childhood; in fact I have fond memories from each stage of my life.  As a young kid it was all about hanging out with friends, running around the neighborhood, playing ball, hide-n-seek, really any outdoor activity but we also played board games and had puppet shows.  

     As I got older in high school I made new friends and had new experiences like learning to drive, cruising on a Friday night through Steak n Shake going to school events.  It was similar in college but now being more responsible I had a job and goals.  Going to concerts and sports events were an important part of college life.

     Meeting my wife (Mimi) and her family was another big event in my life, which brought many fond memories and laughter.  Family always created great memories for me.  Playing all day with my kids was as much fun for me as them.  Teaching my kids to ride a bike, swing a bat, kick a soccer ball or fly a kite was an achievement for me as much as them.  I thoroughly enjoyed those moments and think about them often.  Seeing your child laugh uncontrollably, the expressive look on their face when they discover something new like sledding down a snowy hill is a fun memory.

     You may have owned many cars, clothes, jewelry, toys and other material possessions but the fondest memories are the good times you had with others.  Buying a fancy watch, cool car or fast boat was exciting but without your family and friends to share your life experiences these material possessions would have little value.

     How much fun would you have driving your cool car without anyone sitting next to you?  Don't get me wrong we all need and want things but as you get older you realize that things are not as nearly as important as they might first appear to be. 

     I hope you are still making memories with friends and family, playing cards, enjoying a barbecue or just sitting around talking and laughing maybe even reminiscing about old times.  I love seeing my kids as grown adults and listening to their stories and laughter about their life, those are good memories for me too.  Today's good times will be tomorrow's fond memories.

     I guess my story title is not totally accurate since these are my memories I didn't miss out on them I keep them in my memory so every once in awhile I go back in my mind and relive these moments just for a brief time.  Like most people life has brought me good times as well as bad but the funny thing about my brain is that it seems to put a fog over the bad things making the good memories more prominent.

     Many people collect things, stamps, coins, beer cans, fishing lures, etc. but I never was in to collecting until I realized I collect friends and memories.






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