I never made it to Scotland or Ireland. The year we returned to the US I found out that my biological father was 100% Irish - I already knew my mom was a high ratio of Irish. I then knew my family Irish 'name'.
The first summer we were home my husband was stationed in the 'desert' - Kuwait, I believe. After 5 brutal summer months in the Saudi desert he flew home to two weeks of free time. Since we were homeschooling the kids we decided to take a day and drive up to our Nation's capital and see the sites. We arrived at the White House to see a long line wrapped around the building and decided we'd 'do it next time'. Next time never came because 9/11 has forever closed the White House doors to public viewing.
I felt the pull to go to New York to help. I went - three years later. In January of my 40th birth year.
So many times in my life I made a choice based on believing that I would have another opportunity. I'd get another chance. Later. In "Hope Floats" Ramona, Birdie's mom says, "Do you think life goes on forever? ... It's the worst kind of extravagance the way you spend your chances, Birdie."
That year I decided I was done with regrets. No more should haves. I promised myself that I would make decisions based on the truth that I may never be here at this moment, at this time, with this choice. Let the chips fall where they may - but no more regrets.
10 years later I can say it's been the best gift I ever gave myself.
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