I am hearing daily in the news lately these words; leaving a legacy. I’m reminded of something a mentor once told me …always be kind and leave a sweet smell behind you. There is a huge difference in someone saying “oh wow, here she comes” and Oh my Lord here she comes”.

Before we got into the car, my husband often took my hands in his and held them on his chest and then prayed for us before we left for an event. He prayed for safety and to not hit a deer, and, for using a sweet attitude and always doing the right thing, no matter what. He was always one who was slow to respond and I am the one who blurts. In my quiet time every new year I ask the Lord to help me be subtle and not blurt. I am one of those annoying people that thinks in double time. A friend said he is the same way and when listening to a podcast he speeds up the verbiage. hmmm I never thought of that.

My Husband, unknowingly, left a wonderful legacy behind and great reminders, always think twice before speaking. The scripture tells us to take every thought captive and Granny says if you can’t say something nice, say nothing at all. Taking every thought captive works well, so picture this example: You are on another diet plan…You are doing well. Get up, get dressed, tidy up the bedroom and bathroom and get coffee. Wisdom says start the day with protein and fruit, however the muffin on the counter calls your name and you get it, butter it, and eat it without thought. While you are buttering the second one, the thought then arrives to make a better choice. We are always in fast forward and do not take our thoughts captive. Sometimes in the car, in a hurry and the car ahead is poking along, ugh. At times I would mutter and groan, then he would calmly say, “you know Hon, they are probably just doing the best they can.”

Here I am now, adjusting to not having this in-house filter, I remember his sweet spirit and kind ways. He left a legacy and habits that I now try to mimic.

My husband worked for the school district and could not throw away any notebook or pencil. It was overwhelming for a while as I was sorting and purging to deal with stacks of paper etc. Now in my new financial condition I recall his frugality, not in jest, but in practicality. Never pay interest, save a little every month, he would say and the list goes on. His wisdom told me how to be sensible and I regret the harassment I gave him over all those little sayings. Take time to be intentional with your remarks, attitude and countenance, because others are observing. 

sosusann says– you will be enriched in every way, so you can be generous on every occasion. II Cor. 9:11

Here is a new idea:

Cooking for one is a challenge, however the kitchen is my happy place, so here is an easy idea.

pre-made enchilada dinners…1 pkg street tacos…shredded chicken…1 can green enchilada sauce..shedded cheese. spray pan..heat tortillas…place chicken in tortilla…add cheese—roll up and place in pan—pour sauce over all—cover with cheese—adapt the size pan and amounts of chicken and sauce and cheese to the amount you need. Heat in oven, air fryer or microwave (glass dish only). Sometimes I make 6 for me and freeze 6 or give one pan away. They freeze well