Julie has been in and out of the hospital for over a week now and it's made me realize how very precious the gifts of time and friendship are. I'm not ever going to take either for granted. Friends are not the same as family - friends are 'invited' into our circles and family members are obligated into them ... which doesn't mean we love our families any less - just differently! Julie, Michelle and I have walked through so many ups and downs together - we've shared laughter, secrets and fears(some our husbands don't even know!) and tears too... we are building our futures together and supporting each other through it all.

The thing we need most is time - time to fulfill our goals and dreams. We're working on making our vision a reality - to have 'Choosing to Smile' become a Canadian best seller. So many people have read it and been touched by our stories - it's a wonderful feeling to feel as if your life has made a difference somehow. I just want there to be enough time for us to do everything on our bucket lists and more! I think I'm going to add new things to my list every day so I've always got dreams to follow... Julie shared her bucket list with me the other day in the hospital - I was touched and moved to tears by the 'little' things she has included like a 'shopping day with Abby' her grand-daughter. Ultimately, it is those little things that make our lives worthwhile - so WHEN our book becomes a best-seller I will have no regrets because I will also have enjoyed so many of those 'little' things on my bucket list along with all the 'big' ones. Somehow I just can't see a one-legged lady bungee jumping so it's coming off the list but jet-skiing every summer is definitely staying on!

glenda@choosingtosmile.com