I would like to start this post with a statement:  I stopped thinking my family, and my life, was “normal” thirteen years ago.

I’ve been doing a great job of keeping things in perspective for the most part, only going to a therapist for “talk therapy” for a half a year at one point.  The reason I bring up all of this is that before people form some idea, however far-fetched it may be, life is never “perfect”, especially mine.  Incidentally, the Latin root of the word “perfect” means “to be finished.  To be done.”  Interpret that how you will.

I bring that up to point out that for the last thirteen years, my Christmases have typically been filled with some sort of drama with friends or family.  I love my family, don’t get me wrong, but they do drive me nuts at times.  So, I would like to thank my family for the Christmas visits with them this past weekend, and I would like to proclaim my thankfulness for my friends and family and all they add to my life.

I would also like to say that I’m trying to keep things in perspective, and trying to see everything in a positive light.  I won’t go into Christmases Past today, but this year, I would like to list a few things that have popped up in the “drama” category…

1. My Uncles new wife was found to have brain cancer a few weeks ago.  It was caught, removed and she is going through chemo and radiation.  I think she’s a wonderful person, very warm and intelligent.  I wish her all the luck and a speedy recovery and remission.
2. To those family members who are seeing their family dissolve and evolve into something different.  DH and I are there for you and the kids, the same as we have always been.
3. To my cousin.  Love you, Lady!  You’re a strong woman who leads an adventurous life and thinks for herself.  Never forget that, and you’re always welcome at my home.
4. To my friend who just had emergency surgery this morning – I wish you a speedy recovery!!  You’ve got a great outlook on life, and keep things in perspective.  If you’re up for visitors, DH and I will swing by to see you soon.
5. To the family in my saddle club that lost their home to fire yesterday.  I am glad that you are all okay, and you have a strong community of people who will rally around you.

So there it is.  A taste that my life, and everyone else’s, is far from “perfect”.  Perfect is an illusion.  Don’t be blinded by fairy tales and the images in your head about what you THINK life should be… It is always evolving and moving, and everything is always more complicated than it seems.

Smile!  Tomorrow is another day.

“Feeling sorry for yourself, and your present condition, is not only a waste of energy but the worst habit you could possibly have.” – Dale Carnegie