Sherry Richert Belul (author of Say It Now) helps AARP remember our loved ones lost during COVID-19 and those who may still be isolated.
I miss my mom, Becky. I live in California and she lives in Ohio. We usually see each other twice a year, for at least two weeks each visit. It is always like being at summer camp when I’m at my mom’s house.
She is wonderful, funny, wise, smart, loving and generous. She lets us decorate her house with light-up balloons in the winter, and she joins us for water balloon fights in the summer. We have themed dinners, dance parties, and movie nights with lots of snacks.
When I’m with my mom, we laugh so much. She can make anything into a fun adventure — even going to the dollar store! Once we hid positive notes all around the store for customers to find, in hopes it would make them smile.
I’m so grateful that in January 2020 I spent a month with my mom. During that time, we took ukulele lessons together. Even though we didn’t get very far, it was fun! Little did I know that I wouldn’t get to see her again for a long time. Thankfully, we sent her an iPad and she learned to use it, so we can connect through video calls.
— Sherry Richert Belul, 56, San Francisco
Say It now
33 Ways To Say I LOVE YOU To the Most Important People In Your Life
Inspiration when the words are hard: Sometimes it’s difficult to find the right way to say “I love you” to the people you appreciate the most in life. The emotions are there, but the words don’t come. Say It Now shows you how to put your feelings into words—and actions, too. From activities that take just a minute, to love letters, joy jars, tribute videos, surprise parties, and more, this book helps you celebrate the most important people in your life.