I have been reminded lately, and frequently, of how important it is to allow yourself to just be present with those you care about. As others in their middle years can attest, it is a time of challenges of many kinds. I have been spending more time assisting my father, with his worsening dementia, my mother with heart disease and cancer, and more recently, my long time friend and office manager with serious heart issues. It is interesting to examine how each requires something different and very individual to them and my relationship to them. I am trying to be more present in the time I spend with each and am grateful for the exchange of love, caring and appreciation we have for each other. I am also reminded of just how they have contributed to my life and to others in our respective circles. Life is an amazing journey, my friends, and my heart is full to overflowing.