"Debbie Downer"?

A good friend recently posted the question, "Are you happy with your life?" My “issue” is though I’m happy with my life, I feel I’ve taken on a pestimistic attitude towards my job. I love what I do and with whom I work, but lately to hear me you wouldn’t think that is the case. I’ve been thinking, “wow, I feel like all I do is complain”. And the chances are, if I think that -everyone else does too! Don’t get me wrong, they’re legitimate issues, concerns, complaints; unmet deadlines, mimimal resources, being lied to, manipulated, and ignored by others when I’m trying to do my very best at my job. BUT, though these may be real areas of concern and issues that need to be voice and addressed, I can’t let them dictate how I feel about myself or communicate with others.
So, I’ve challenged myself, (beginning today) to finish conversations with a positive. Perhaps a compliment to the one with whom I am speaking, or vocalizing an observation regarding my surroundings, the weather, etc. Point is…. I want to end conversations on a high note not a downer.
Anyone else up for this challenge?

I'm................

People find you: Extremely serious and a little eccentric, people find you lovable - even if you don't love them

You are usually feeling: Logical - you rarely let your emotions rule you

You are famous for: Being smart, a total neat freak, and maybe just a little evil

How you life your life: With passion, even if your odd passions (like bottle caps and pigeons) are baffling to others

http://www.blogthings.com/thesesamestreetpersonalityquiz/%22%3EThe Sesame Street Personality Quiz

IN AN INSTANT........

.......Life changes.
How often I feel my life is the same day after day, week after week. I often tell friends and family who complain of not hearing from me enough that "nothing has changed; therefore, I have not much to say". But, it can change so suddenly. I think I take for granted the fact that right now at this point in my life - it's consistent. Almost predictable. Work, home, hang out with friends, sleep, have a good conversation, sleep and do it all over again.

I'm sure we all wish we could add a little spice to our life now and then. Bypass the boredom. Not me. Not now.

I went to church last Sunday and was greeted by a man with a gentle smile, a friendly hug, and the most calming of voices. He appeared health and was what I've recently referred to as a "quiet servant" with a strong presence among our small "church community". (A large group of us had recently joined with another church and this man was already serving in our new-found church). Anyway, I received word tonight that our friend, Jacky, had died. He had come down with the flu, which turned into pneumonia, caught a virus, ended up in a coma and was taken off life support earlier this evening. All in less than one weeks time. And so I say, in an instant...
Life Changes.

I'll take my mundane, same 'ole same 'ole life and be blessed by it. Yes, our friend is in a better place. I don't grieve for him. I grieve for his family and friends left behind whose life changed -
IN AN INSTANT.

Sick Days

I was home sick from work today - the bronchitis I had a few weeks ago thought it would return just to torment me a little. Sore throat, cough... you know the drill. BUT, as the day went on I found myself feeling more energized and, in Traci-like fashion, spent my entire day in busy-bee mode. I did stop for a little chicken noodle soup mid day, then it was back to laundry, cleaning windows and organizing those few piles of miscellaneous items. I know, I know, not typically how one spends a sick day. I think it all had something with the fever I was running... SPRING FEVER! It was 70 degrees -- crazy since less than 5 days ago we had snow. (It seldom snows in Tennessee).

In addition to the previously mentioned errands, I took a trip or two down memory lane on a trail of college photos, letters from friends and old high school yearbooks. I sat in the garage for nearly two hours triggering memories; birthday parties, proms, college RNO's, sporting events and numerous BFF's from junior high, high school and college. Unbelievable how many years have past. At the end of the two hours I found myself very encouraged and blessed and far healthier than I was when I first started my trip. If laughter is the best medicine, then I'd have to say good memories are a close second.

One of my favorite things....

Is spending time with my nephew, Tyler. About three weeks ago, mom and dad treated me to a long weekend of fun with Tyler (and them).

Tyler's normal request during visits is to eat at the Aquarium restaurant at Opry Mills Mall. He loves checking out the fish, sharks and other sea life in the big tank. But, I gotta tell you, the food is over-priced and honestly just not that good. So, I thought we'd have big fun and check out the REAL aquarium in Chattanooga. On our way home, we stopped off at Rock City and took the hike. Tyler loved it and more suprisingly....dad enjoyed it too! So it was a good trip by all.