An Improving Economy Can be Correlated to...What!?

Normally I don't watch the news. However, my mother is an avid watcher of such. Over the holidays I was up visiting family and staying with my mother. So naturally one evening the news was on, and I was half listening while surfing the internet. The New Year is approaching and the local news was reporting about a poll that had been taken to assess the general outlook of people regarding 2012. I was not listening well enough to catch if it was a national or local poll; I did manage to hear that 62 percent of those asked were hopeful that 2012 would be an improvement over 2011. I wouldn't say the optimism was overwhelming but at least on the positive side. Time will tell, of course.

Although I have to say, the following “news worthy” story really gave scientific clout to the optimism, at least of the male population. What, you ask, announced to America that the men are thinking happy thoughts about the future? Why, of course, it's the increase of sales for men's underpants - boxers or briefs! “They” say that there exists a subconscious correlation between when men buy underwear and their optimism in connection with the economy! Who knew, but there you have it. If you needed hope for the future, here is a substantial foundation to build your dreams upon and feel confident about the upcoming economic stability. Just thought you should know, in case you missed that meaty story on your news program. :-) Interestingly enough, while getting ready for bed tonight my husband talked about needing to buy some underwear, not a topic that comes up often! Plus, he had neither heard the news story nor read my post. Hmmm!

By the way, count me in the 62 percent. I think 2012 has to be better than 2011. If not, I may return to my ostrich ways! Actually, I'm quite excited for the coming year – changes are on the forefront and new adventures. Wishing you all a Happy New Year.

My Christmas Card!

I don't do Christmas cards. I love the idea of them. I love getting them, although I never feel entitled to them! That's not the reason they are sent, I know. :-) But getting my act together in time to get the cards out just doesn't happen.

Merry Christmas to all!

So this year I'm letting this post be my greetings to everyone. As I've mentioned the holidays this year have caught me rather out of sorts. But I don't want to miss out on expressing my thanks and joy for just being! Let alone I have the gift of friends and family throughout the year. You all are a treasure!

I wish you all God's best in the coming year, a wonderful, laughter-filled holiday time and hope. Hope is the message of Christmas and it's sent with love.

Simple Pleasures

Christmas is coming in less than a week! It doesn't really seem possible but, then again, I'd be foolish to deny it!! I've moved slowly this year into embracing the idea of it all.

Last night we went went out with a couple of other friends for wine and appetizers. Honestly, we decided on going out because to pull something together at one of our houses was more effort than any of us had the energy for. The important point was getting together, and it was delightful. I won't bother you with a detailed description of all the yummies we had! Although taste treats are always enjoyable, it's the company that matters.

Last night was the whole package of a "holiday simple pleasure." I appreciated the Christmas lights inside and just outside our window, reminding me of the season. Our order of food (all shared :-) ) was a wonderful mix of flavors. The atmosphere was warm, the wine warmed my insides, I relaxed and engaged in the conversation that ranged from travel to Christmas visitors, family to future plans.

For me, this shows the best of the holidays. It is simple, more intimate, relaxed and relational.

Distractions Anyone?

What are your top picks for fun things to do? I love traveling but that's not something I can decide to do in the afternoon, for example. It does take some planning and money! A walk on the beach is very cheap; but I don't want to be wrapping my coat around me or afraid I'll be blown away, so the weather has to cooperate. Going to a movie is always a good option, if there is something worth seeing, although I realize that is a very subjective point. We went and saw Arthur Christmas yesterday. It was a great choice for a number of reasons - seasonal :), light and funny with a bit of sentiment, and a wonderful distraction.

I have to say that distractions are quite welcome these days. Perhaps I am really asking what do you do to distract yourself, rather than asking about fun activities. This is to admit I'm struggling a bit. I'm beginning to realize the stress of the recent and still ongoing financial dealings. (I think hormones are helping me to realize the stress and I'm not sure that I'd really call it helpful!!)

In the last 5 years or so I've adopted another low-key activity, maybe I should say sedentary pursuit, that I enjoy. It's looking at real estate by surfing online. Weird, you think?! It kind of is! I do have to have some interest in the area for one reason or another to even look. Plus, I reason the intriguing nature of it for me has to do with the fact that I used to practice architecture. At any rate, this is a good distraction for me lately, as well. I've gone far a field lately in my browsing - Panama and Ecuador! It's interesting to me to see the life, culture and architecture of a different country through their real estate. I also have to say it takes me far away from my present situation. Sometimes I just need a break. You too?

Mornings Don't Always Come Easily!

I love being creative and the results of that creativity, whether it's mine or someone else's; however, like most people, I am not creative in all realms. I function best in the artsy arena but not the crafty one, for example. I also like words and perhaps craft a bit with them although the art of poetry is not my forte. I saw the following poem on another blog I follow, and although you'll never see any poetry from me, this captured the essence of many a morning for me. So I thought I'd include it for your reading enjoyment.  

I slept late.
I am a slug.
But now there's coffee in my mug.

I want to go back to bed.
The sleep won't leave my head.
But there is much to do today.
So I will drink coffee instead.

I was warm & cozy, all tucked up in my bed.
We should stay here all day long my body told my head.
But I refused to listen even though it begged and pled.
I arose, went downstairs and made coffee instead.


It's really perfect and makes me smile! Perhaps some of you can relate, too. The blog post I got this from originally you can find here.