There is nearly a decade and a half that separates my husband and me. It’s funny because the age difference has never been something to consider. I was enamored that this older man was interested in me. But we’ve experienced the wear and tear life brings, and the reality is, as my sweet husband would say, “We are getting old!”

I share this little insight about the passage of time to remind you—time is precious, people are precious, and what you do with both matters.

There was a season in my life when I spent as much time inside four hospital walls as I did outside them. A time of illness and recovery, repeat. I made many plans, dreamed of a better time, and prayed. Then the day came when the doctors felt I was well enough to go play. My husband and I traveled the world, I worked hard, accumulated memories, and checked off most of our bucket-list items. It was a wonderful opportunity, one I thank God for providing, but I must admit, I wish I had taken a little more time to look deeply into my loved ones’ eyes and listen to their hearts. Looking back, I wish I had spent more time “being” and less time “doing.” Time being present, being understanding, being kind. And less time worrying about doing more, being more, wanting more.

This month, my husband and I are headed to the Oregon coast. We plan to spend time on the beach at our favorite tiny home rental, then it’s on to make memories with dear friends. We’ve packed for the trip, food for the journey—strangely, there is no Trader Joes on the Oregon coast—gifts for friends (so many birthdays to celebrate), and most importantly, we packed a hefty amount of intentionality.

I intend to listen more, share more, and stay present. I want to sit on the beach and really see my husband as we watch the sun set and rise again. I hope that, unlike our globetrotting days, we take the time to slow down, enjoy the beauty of our surroundings, and the gift of the people we come in contact with. Because time is precious, people are precious, and what we do with both matters.

Be Blessed,