Children are supposed to grow up and leave the nest and fly on their own. Of course, we want to hold them close, and we want them to always need us. But that is not healthy for them or for us.

Sometimes the thing that's easiest to do now, isn't best in the long run. What would you like your future to be? (...) Choose the course that most likely will lead to that future.

In the winter stillness, Helen heard the faint rustle of leafless branches, the distant call of birds. The snow lay sparkling in gentle drifts. "It's real pretty out here," Rosa said in a near whisper.

"That's my gift to you - to be the kind of husband who works hard so you can have the home you deserve. I love you more than I ever imagined I could love someone. Just return that love. That's all I'll ever ask from you."

She couldn't imagine a love like that, couldn't imagine that someone would want to give so much and ask only for her love in return.

"Mothers give and give and give, unselfishly."

Mothers are often ignored and rarely thanked. But Jesus said that the most important command is to love God and love others. So that tells me that being a wife and a mother is one of the most important jobs in the world. I am not just serving my family, I am serving God. And only He can make you feel fulfilled.

What was it about springtime that made her feel like dancing?

It's great to have plans, but don't forget to live your life right now. It's a mistake to overlook today because your eyes are on tomorrow or looking back to the past.

When we're always wishing for the past or the future, we miss today.