To Visit ...the verb

Visit \vi-zet\ verb: 1: to go to see in order to comfort or help 2: to call on either as an act of courtesy or friendship 3: to dwell with for a time as a guest.

I had an "aha" moment this weekend. One of the things that I miss so much that I used to do as a child is visiting family, friends and acquaintances on the weekends....every weekend. Often we would go with our parents on Friday nights to my Aunt Bernice and Uncle Ed's home near Outer Drive and State Fair. My parents and aunt and uncle would play canasta or Michigan rummy while we played with our cool older cousins. We would dance to 96 Tears by Question Mark and the Mysterians (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7uC5m-IRns). We always ordered Buddy's Pizza from the "original" store on Conant. I remember how delicious it was with Faygo orange pop at midnight. Sometimes we would actually stop by the Top Hat hamburger on 8 mile and get a whole bag of burgers. My Dad must have had the munchies after a couple of shots and beers. The buns on those warm hamburgers would be almost soaked through before we got to eat them when we arrived at home. Not a great idea right before bed!

On Sundays we would visit both sets of grandparents. I loved that because my grandpa Surdel would always give us silver dollars. While he spoke hardly any English, he always had the greatest smile on his face when he snuck us a coin without my Mom seeing him.

These were magical times and the memories are so very clear. I wonder if we have lost the art of "to visit, the verb" in our crazy busy world. I know that I have not been the best visitor.

Make a plan to visit family, friends and acquaintances more often. Stay connected, not only during the Christmas season but all year long. Connecting with people makes our lives better and makes great memories. I hope you can rekindle a friendship, comfort an old friend or make someone's day by your presence. "Reach out and touch somebody's hand, make this world a better place if you can." (http://www.allmusic.com/album/reach-out-and-touch-the-very-best-of-diana-ross-mw0000711299)

To Your Best Health,

Denise Lovat
Certified Health Coach

Visit my website for tips on how to survive the holidays without gaining weight: http://www.deniselovathealthcoach.com
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