♦ The word 'occurred' informs someone that something has come to mind or has been found. You are letting someone know that you suddenly have thought or remembered about something.

Examples:

1. It occurred to me that I forgot your birthday.
2. It occurred to me that we both belong to the same gym.
3. It occurred to me that we enjoy a lot of the same things.
4. It occurred to me the price for homes are more expensive here.
5. It occurred to me that eating healthy makes me feel better.

► Using the word 'had' or 'has' can change what you are saying to represent something remembered in a past time.

Examples:

1. It had occurred to me that I forgot something at the grocery.
2. It had occurred to me I might need to change my email address.
3. It has occurred to me I forgot my mom's birthday.
4. It has occurred to me before.