The title, Shut Up and Love! is a quote that belongs to my beloved Aunt Cindy, who died unexpectedly in her sleep a month ago. And though I’m writing a blog about this unimaginable loss, there truly are no words.
Cindy was only two years older then me, so not only did I lose one of my favorite aunts, but I’m also now looking over my sixty-six year old shoulder for the grim reaper.
Like me, my aunt had a strong faith, so it comforts me to know she’s traveled over the rainbow and beyond to be with family and friends who have gone before her. And though I believe what awaits me is better than my life here, I’m having a hard time accepting the end draws near.
Do I only have two more years? I seriously hope not, because I’m not going to be ready. It’s taken me a year to write my next two books, and while I’ve loved every minute, I find myself worried about what I should write next. Do I only focus on one book, or should I try to write four?
My faith tells me it’s not my place to worry about my time on earth, nor plan for when I’m no longer here, but as a consummate planner, this logic goes against my nature. Hence, why my planning gene is on full throttle, making lists and checking them twice.
Am I in good health? Should I lose weight? Is it possible to live forever?
I know the last question might seem ridiculous, but even as a little girl, I wanted to live forever. I remember telling my mom I planned to live until my 100th birthday, complete with an elaborate description of my party. Yes, I know living forever is a lofty goal, but I know I’m not going to be ready to leave planet earth. Leave my kids, grandkids, friends, and family.
One of my favorite quotes is:
And I would add: Fifteen minutes late, with a margarita in hand, still asking for more time!
Since I don’t have a crystal ball, the answer is simple. Live for today. Write my books, short stories, blogs, birthday cards. Spend as much time with my kids, grandkids, friends, and family.
Take the love my Aunt Cindy and I shared and find a way to weave the beauty of our feelings into the characters that spring from my imagination. Maybe there’s a favorite aunt in my
Stoneybrook heroine, Harley Harper’s future. Or does the hero, Wyatt Stone, have a meddlesome aunt who needles him about his relationship with Harley.
And if you’ve been kind enough to read México Mayhem novels, then you know I love Mexico. What if Aunt Cindy appears as a character in Chaos in Cabo. Or maybe she must save her nephew in Lost in Loreto from a shotgun wedding.
So, I wish you good health and long lives … and please, Just Shut Up and Love!
I love this Kim! You truly have the gift of gab..and writing!! I love being swept away in your amazing stories..I pray continuous health for you,( my goal is to make it to 98) so who knows, maybe some adventures together still await us? My condolences on the loss of your favorite aunt. God’s peace be with you.
Hello Kim! Such a nice blog! I so agree with the worry of looking over the shoulder and living life to the fullest. Certainly one of the reasons John and I travel.
I am sorry to hear about your aunt. I had three elderly aunts pass this year. One aunt left. I am going to visit her in K. Falls when we return to Oregon.
I hope you are well. Sending love and hugs! Caroline
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What a beautiful way to remember Cindy. I’m pretty sure you will find ways to weave her character into your upcoming books. Shut Up and Love is a perfect reminder that we all pass this world but once. As the lyrics of one of my favorite music goes – Love is never gone, as we travel on, love’s what we’ll remember….
A wonderful tribute, Kimila. Write on!