I would have invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was stained and the sofa faded or the room was messy.

I would have eaten popcorn in the "GOOD" living room and worried much less about the dirt when someone wanted to light a fire in the fireplace.

I would have taken the time to listen to my grandmother ramble about her youth.

I would never have insisted the car windows be rolled up on a summer day because my hair had just been done.

I would have burned the good candle before it melted in storage.

I would have sat on the lawn with the kids and not worried about grass stains.

I would have cried and laughed less while watching television and more while watching life.

I would have gone to bed when I was sick instead of pretending the earth would go into a holding pattern if I weren't there for the day.

I would never have bought anything just because it was practical, wouldn't show soil or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.

When the kids kissed me impetuously, I would never have said, "Later. Now go get washed up for dinner." There would have been more saying "I love You" There would have been more hugs and kisses.