That Birthday Feeling

Just as another year goes by, so does another birthday. I used to consider this to be one of the most exciting times of the year. Over the years, it has now become somewhat depressing to say the least. We only get older with each passing year, and while there is nothing we can do about that, we can live it up to the fullest extent. I turned twenty-five years old a couple days ago. That is kind of hard to imagine. Many of you would argue that that is hardly an age to fret about, but just the idea that I’m getting older every year, sends a whirlwind of emotions through me. It seemed like just yesterday, that I was living the carefree days of a child. However, I won’t get on my soapbox about that any longer, but I will say that I cannot think of a year that’s gone by when I haven’t relished in the festivities of my birthday. My family and friends are always so gracious in wishing me a ‘Happy Birthday’, that I should be so grateful. The parties and celebrations are always a reminder of how much the loved ones in my life care about me. It is such a wonderful feeling to feel so loved! Thanks to everyone for making me feel so special on my birthday!

A Few Birthday Photos

My Animal Friends

I have worked at my job now for three years, and since there is not always a lot of activity here at the office, I often find myself observing everything around me. Here at the mini storage, there are a combination of sights and sounds to engage my senses, even on the many quieted days I spend here. I don’t like to spend my time in front of the computer all day, so to occupy my time, I have included in my daily routine, a leisure walk on the property. Over the years, I have seen stray dogs and cats, and occasionally, I might even spot a few groundhogs (informal term for the lack thereof). But every day I see the usual birds in many varieties chirping their tunes to each other, and the horses and cows, grazing the pastures that surround the property grounds. You may be asking why I would take random photos of these animals, and my answer to that is simple. I find joy in the little things, and when I spend many lonely days here at work by myself, I find company in other ways. I seem to have made a few friends. The cows and horses featured in the photos above, like to walk up to the fence line for a visit every now and then. I have a passion for animals, and seeing them day to day has me reminiscing of my days on the farm as a young girl.

Major Discount Bargains!

Many of you may know that I love a good bargain, but it is rather, a secret obsession of mine. One look at a “reduced” price tag, and I get all giddy inside, grin from ear to ear, and tell myself I’m the luckiest girl in the world. Over the weekend I had an experience just the same. I have many favorite stores to shop, but Old Navy tops my list at #1. I browse the whole store, admire the new styles that have just arrived, but always find myself migrating to the clearance racks, where I can usually find a steal or two. That’s just what happened. I was actually looking for a few summer tops, when I came across a couple winter sweaters for just .97 cents! I couldn’t believe my eyes! My husband didn’t share the same excitement I did, but could see that it was in fact the best deal ever, and that I couldn’t pass that up. So, although I cannot wear these sweaters for several months, I will look forward to the opportunity when the weather becomes cold again…but I’m not wishing for that anytime soon. I’m going to enjoy this beautiful warm weather while it lasts.

Life Updates and More

Who knew that two and half months would go by before I would write my latest post? It seems I have some catching up to do. I used to think of myself as an avid blogger, but that doesn’t seem so true anymore these days. It is pouring rain outside, and as I listen to the roaring thunder, my mind has started to wander. I am elated at the thought of the additional free time I have gained over the last couple of weeks. The decision to work our business in Primerica on a very part-time basis has significantly reduced the amount of stress that has been weighing me down. As I take a break, I have reflected on the amazing opportunities that the company has allowed me to further my growth as an individual. I had taken the plunge with a great leap of faith to make a difference in my life, and more importantly, the lives of others. I’ve conquered my fear of public speaking to some degree in Business Expansion meetings, developed more confidence in myself, and acquired a few leadership qualities. Primerica is a company of Integrity and principles molded around the service to others and the quality of business. Since Primerica has set the standard with a system designed to succeed and fulfill the hopes and dreams of many who desire to have it, I shouldn’t say that we’re putting our business on the back-burner. However, I seem to be discovering more alleviation in other activities of which I have a greater passion for. I am letting the creative juices flow from my mind as I embrace the pleasures of writing and art. That is where my focus lies. Aside from business, I should update all of you on the other daily happenings in our lives. My husband is currently studying for a health insurance license for another company, and is excited to be working a regular schedule again. Oh, the mayhem of one company to another. Will it ever end? It’s the story of our lives. Other exciting news… we are seeking rabbits! We’re looking for a large, docile-type rabbit breed that can roam freely in the backyard, and can be cuddled and loved as many furry animals like to be. We recently planted about twenty-five strawberry plants, and our fruit trees are growing more proudly every day. We are enjoying the warmer weather, and our time outside in the yard. My husband has finally started working out with me every day, and even does stretching exercises with me after we run or play tennis. That is a big commitment coming from him. Also, I found my dream car the other day. I never thought I would want any kind of car, specifically, but when I saw the Subaru Tribeca, I was in love. In conclusion of this recent update, I have to share a quick story I find to be both humorous and a bit sad. This event took place at the families’ cabin in Donnelly, ID. My husband and I wanted to get away last weekend, and spend some quiet time up in the mountains. Nothing too exciting took place while we were there, since it was too cold outside to go on a hike and even too windy to start a campfire. We made the best of our trip there, so to create somewhat of an extra “rugged” camping experience, we decided to make tin-foil dinners. They can be made of a simple concoction of ingredients like ground hamburger, carrots, potatoes, and of course onions. As I was peeling and chopping the onion, my eyes began to burn and sting, producing tears of pain flowing down my cheeks. Now, I’ve always known that the enzyme properties that make up an onion will cause this physical reaction on a person, but this time it was worse than I’ve ever experienced. I couldn’t help but jokingly, think that the onion had hurt my feelings. I really didn’t expect to be sobbing over a splendid weekend away from the suffocating routine of daily conflicts and demanding responsibilities. Sure, I had dismantled it out of its perfect onion form, but really, what did I ever do to it?