I actually wrote this the day after Christmas and never remembered to post it. Other than some grammar corrections, I stand by the original, hastily written post:
- I can almost always find joy no matter how tough things get. Even when I’m sure I’m surrounded by darkness, there is always light to be found if I squint really hard and tilt my head to the side. It’s very similar to the puppy dog head tilt, now that I think about it.
- Similarly, laughter is always on the tip of my tongue, I just have to give myself permission to lose myself in the moment and experience it.
- I noticed that I could see the search terms that folks use to find posts on my site. It seems I get traffic from folks looking for porn. I credit that to the Vivid company that puts out all the celebrity sex tapes. The grossest search term I’ve seen (so far) is “vividmommy and daughter sex”. Very freaky folks out there, so be sure and keep your eyes peeled for creepers like that.
- In 2011, a very dear friend of mine had a drug of some sort slipped into her drink. We were not at a frat party, and this is something we are vigilant about already. We missed it, but luckily were there when it kicked in and were able to watch over and protect her. Watch your drinks, because rapists are still pulling that crap.
- In spite of recent posts that would lead you to believe that people suck, there are many amazing and loving people in the world. Trust your instincts. You have them for a reason. With that advice you should be able to dodge the douche bags and find the awesome people.
- I am a guilt sponge. I will absorb the guilt and shame of every bad event if I do not guard against it.
- You are never too old to discover soul mates.
- 20 is not the age when you can stop worrying about your kids. I’m starting to think I’ll still be worrying even when I’m in the ground.
- People you know extremely well can surprise you. In good ways and in bad. Learn from the bad, but focus on the good. If they will let you.
- Respect is earned. And has to be re-earned, sometimes.
- I am not in control of the happiness of others. I can do acts of kindness for them, but they are responsible for their own lives. I am powerless.
- Because I am unable to fully embrace the above, I now put the things I cannot control in a red balloon and watch it float away. Even if it takes 10 times.
- Because the above doesn’t always work, I sometimes visualize bb’s getting shot through the aforementioned red balloons.
- The giggles of children is medicinal and energizing. Okay, this one I already knew, but I’m happy to relearn it every chance I get.
- Love is all you need.