Thursday, January 28, 2010

Happy Days

My sister tagged me to list 10 things that make me happy so here it goes...



1. Having the day off on a rainy, gloomy day. I love cuddling up on the couch and listening to a thunderstorm.



2. A clean house. A clean house makes me feel comfortable and cozy. Although it's rare because my dogs drool and shed constantly. I would literally have to vaccum, mop, and dust every day to really feel like my house is clean.



3. Seeing results after I finish a project. I'm a very visual person. I love to clean, organize, and decorate because of the feeling it gives me when I'm done and I get to step back and look at the finished product.



4. Spending time with my family. Living so far away from all of them is hard on me. Time together is cherished.



5. Getting a compliment from a complete stranger. It's not something that happens often and it's not something that they owe me so I know it's sincere.



6. Laughing. The best medicine ever!



7. Singing. If I need to be up-lifted all I have to do is put in one of my favorite CD's and sing away.



8. Sleeping. I have never been a morning person and sleeping-in is my favorite thing to do. I used to let people make me feel bad about it. They would tell me that I've "slept the day away" or "I'll have plenty of time to sleep when I'm dead" but now I don't let it get to me. I'm ok with loving sleep so they should be too.

9. My dogs. I've never not had a dog. I just love animals and my dogs are like my children. It's such a good feeling to come home to such a loving being. No matter what, they're always happy to see me and they always put a smile on my face.

10. My husband. Even after 10 years I still can't wait to see him walk through the door.

Thursday, January 7, 2010

New Beginnings

I'm already very grateful for 2010. I know I shouldn't jump the gun but, I have a good feeling.

My year started off at a friends house where a bunch of us got together in our pajamas and played games while welcoming the new year. Just after midnight we played a game called Left, Right, Center that involves betting and the pot grew to $72. I won!!! Talk about a good start to the new year!

We spent the next day with friends eating left-overs and watching movies (I don't recommend "All About Steve" with Sandra Bullock....what was she thinking?!!). Very relaxing.

The following day my girlfriends and I went to look at a new women's shelter that is opening in our home town. The home is for pregnant women that have no where to go and no one to turn to. They house these women for their full pregnancy and the 3 months following while educating them and helping them to get on their feet. The goal is to help them become self sufficient so they can support themselves and become productive members of society without either going back into a bad environment or drawing welfare forever. My girls and I are sponsoring a room. We get full reign on decorating and stocking the main bathroom that will be shared by 3 women. It was very inspirational to go in and see the home and talk with the woman who is heading up the project. Some people amaze me! Anyway, this was a great day because we get to give back by setting these women up for success....it's a good feeling.

Then, 2 days later, I started my new job. This has been quite a feat for me. Last year left me doubting myself and my abilities. After I closed my business I had no idea what I wanted to do. My husband asked me continuously what I wanted to do next and for months I couldn't answer him. I realize now it's because I was in mourning. It's hard to replace something like that. Especially if you've dedicated 4 years of your life to it.

But, I did it and I really think I'm gonna enjoy it. It's only been two days and I have A LOT more training to do but it's different and new and fresh. Just what I needed in 2010!

So, as I sit here on my new laptop (the new job was a great excuse to get one!) excited about my new opportunities I'm thinking this is the year of new beginnings. Bring it on!!!