We are inspired by those who, despite unbelievable pain and hardship, have chosen to become victors.

Judge Glenda Hatchett

Dear Daughters,

Let me tell you about my mother’s mother.

Her given name was Anna, but her friends and family called her Ann or Annie.

She possessed a sweet, sassy, joyful spirit and a fierce determination.

She grew up during the depression as the youngest of 9 children on a farm run by her widowed mother.

They were so poor she never had a doll as a child.

She lost her father at a young age. He was allegedly pushed off a cliff over a land dispute.

Then, as a young adult and mother, she endured the fear and horror of WWII.

And yet, despite her early hardships, I knew her as a happy woman who lived life with gratitude and gusto.

A woman who knew what was important and practiced those beliefs every day.

A woman who created her own joy for herself and her family.

My hope is that after reading this list you will feel a dynamic, living connection to her.

She was amazing.

She is one of my greatest influences.

And she lives on in you.

Grandma’s Wisdom Practices

Get up with the sun because the early bird gets the worm and there’s a lot to do.

Rocking chairs are good for relaxing an agitated mind and soul.

Break into happy jigs throughout the day to celebrate moments.

Spend hours making food from scratch imbued with love and tradition.

Enjoy sweets in moderation but watch your figure.

Tidy home, tidy mind, tidy soul.

Cultivate your favorite flowers in mass quantity.

Sing your favorite songs at the top of your lungs even if you’re off-key.

Live lean, save, then take fabulous trips guilt-free.

Tell loved ones how proud you are of them…often.

Choose a signature style and wear it with pride. (She loved suits, hats, fuchsia lipstick, and beautiful brooches.)

Make time to count your blessings every single day.

Enjoy a good soap opera on TV but avoid them in real life.

Be specific about what kind of life you want then create it with intention and discipline.

Be generous with your family and friends and those who need a helping hand.

Write lively letters to stay in touch.

Sit front row and center everywhere. It’s the best seat in the house.

Sleep on silky pillowcases to prevent bedhead and wrinkles.

If you can’t say something nice keep your mouth shut.

Wear a purple bikini when you are 70.

Daughters, she would be so proud of you.

All my love.

Speaking of wonderful daily practices, read my book review of The Daily Stoic, 365 Meditations on Wisdom, Perseverance, And The Art of Living here.