Forget about it Friday-- Get Out

 The week is winding down. In my world it means it’s time to forget about all things stressful, kick off your shoes, and just have fun! The last part of spring is such a great part of the year. It’s nice and warm, but not scalding hot. This makes weekend days and nights so much fun because you don’t have to be cooped up inside. I love being outside gardening, boating, going to the pool etc., but so many of my friends would rather just stay inside and read or watch movies.  I'm all for this when it's freezing outside, but not while the grass is green and the birds are chirping.   To those of you who would rather hibernate indoors I say this –force yourself to go outside this weekend. I know the thought of it makes you want to sink back down into your bed, but take a great book or your i-pod, find a pretty park or garden and take it all in. You may find that you feel more like you belong in your favorite book or movie if you’re actually out doing something rather than sitting on the bed in your pajamas eating Bon-Bons. For those of us who love to be outdoors here are some other ideas for getting out this weekend either by yourself or with friends and family. Putt-putt (aka mini golf), disc golf, catch a local baseball game, walk around an outdoor shopping complex, visit a local farmers’ market, fishing, swimming, boating/canoeing, hit the beach, take a walk or a hike, rock climb, play games in your back yard, walk or jog, visit a local garden or do some gardening at home. Make some yummy  homemade ice-cream to enjoy on the back porch. Life is short. Take time to enjoy it.  Sometimes to add to the beauty, you have to take in the beauty that surrounds you.   Forget the weekly stresses  and focus on the fun because it’s FRIDAY!!!!

Thursday Therapy -- Is Mr. Bubbles Really the One?

It seems things always get crazy this time of year. It isn’t nearly as bad as the holiday season, but with school finishing up and with a down economy, I think you’ll agree that things can get a little nutso. Whether you’re finishing up finals, planning family activities, keeping grandkids, stressed about family problems, praying you don’t lose your job or that you can just keep your head above water, today’s “therapy” is for you. I have found over the years that any time I’m in overdrive the best thing for me is Mr. Bubbles. This may not be your favorite brand. You may prefer the lavender or coconut scented bubble bath, but I'm telling you - Mr. Bubbles is the cheapest, and he gets the job done. If you’re only slightly stressed, you can hop in a nice bubble bath with a good book or magazine, maybe some John Tesh, and just relax for a while. I highly recommend that every woman do this at least once a week just for some “me” time. If, however, you’re in a really trying time in your life, and you have no idea how on earth you’re going to make it through the day, here are some of my "must haves" to go along with your bubble bath:
First, you’ll need a few candles (no other light - the flickering glow is the first step towards total relaxation). Second, you’ll need soothing music- something like Enya or Sarah McLachlan. Finally, you’ll need prayer. There is no right or wrong thing to say when you pray. Just stumble your way through with the thoughts that lie deep within. I can’t begin to tell you how many times in my life these few things have gotten me past the point of no return. It’s amazing how thirty minutes of time spent alone in a bubble bath can completely refresh your body and calm your fears.So, whether it’s just a hectic week or a horrible time in your life, take time for some Thursday Therapy.

My lame disclaimer

So to begin this journey (yes, that is cheesy), let me start by saying I am not a writer.  I do not claim to be a writer.  I guarantee you that I will misspell several words on these postings. Probably several times.

I am not a therapist.  I do, however, have one of those "faces" that seem to say "Hey.  Do you have a deep, dark secret that your husband/wife/parents/sister/brother/best friend/cousin/aunt/uncle/godparent would probably disown you if you told them?  No problem. Tell me.  I care.  I can fix it."  So I find that people come to me for advice a lot.  Sometimes I can help.  Sometimes I'm horrified and try my best not to make a face while they're unburdening themselves.

All that being said, I feel like everyone makes a difference in specific lives - good and bad.   This is my shot at making a postive difference for women of all ages and situations.  If you log onto this blog and it makes your day a little brighter, then that's exactly what this is about.

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