Although I won’t go into detail, another phase of my life is coming to a close involving a labor of love that has spanned several years.  It’s bittersweet but I am finally learning to listen to what God is speaking to my heart.  Faith has kept me moving forward to whatever He has in store next.  I know it will be good, whatever it is, if I just stay strong and keep my focus.  Not an easy thing for me, but I have felt so much negative energy around me for longer than I’d care to admit.  I’ve chosen to ignore it repeatedly, only to my detriment.  It wasn’t always that way, though, and I will always be glad I had the experience and that I was trusted to be a “caretaker,” if you will.

I hope for positive endings/beginnings all the way around.

Not that I’m taking any credit here, but I find it really interesting how things happen around here.  All the time.

After posting yesterday about my longing for fall, I saw this morning on Weather Underground’s forecast that our first “cool front” for the season is arriving midweek.  OK, OK…so it’s only going to drop the heat by about 10-15 degrees.  Believe me, it’s still cause for celebration when you’re sitting at 103 or so, contemplating frying eggs on the sidewalk.  I know I’m not alone in my feelings because it was all over Facebook today.  We humans are so funny.  Unique and yet so alike.

Not bad for a Monday.  Nice to know He hears us, innit it?  Even my fine whine.  )

Just when I thought I couldn’t take summer anymore, we found out purely by accident that the NFL Network was just added to our “open” cable lineup.  (Randy is an endorser for Suddenlink.)  You would’ve thought we won the lottery or something.  We have been so desperate for some football, anything to remind us that summer is almost over.  It’s bad enough that it’s 100-plus horrendous degrees out.  Did I mention how much I hate summer?

There’s just something about football drone.  Even if Da Boys aren’t playing, there’s a sense of comfort about it all.  In fact, I love nothing more than dozing while other teams are on the tube, especially if it’s cool enough to be upstairs (which it isn’t yet…alas).

All in good time.

It’s funny, human behavior.

Since I quit drinking, I have discovered several other distractions.  I guess one habit has to be replaced with another, or in my case, multiple.

I can’t believe I’m actually writing this, but one of them has turned out to be jogging.  Yeah, me…the one who is allergic to exercise.  Since I started jogging in the early morning because of the heat, it’s been extremely therapeutic mentally.  Bonus.  I look down at my shirt while I’m pounding the pavement and marvel at the sweat spreading across my chest like it’s a badge of honor.  Sure, it helps to also know that I’m doing something good for my physical well-being but it’s great to listen to my iPod and let the music take me before the distractions of the day begin.  I actually dread not being able to do it in the winter (hey, I’m not THAT good).  I’m not a treadmill/elliptical/etc. type person.  Believe me, I’ve tried.  I’d much rather get out of the house.  I guess that’s why we started mall walking last winter.  At least it’s visual stimulation.

Did I mention I get bored easily?  In fact, that’s exactly what prompted this blog post.

Football season has started (if you consider preseason actual football).  I love football, but it’s gonna be a major test of willpower.  Just think of all those beer commercials calling to me like a siren’s song.  Did I mention Oktoberfest coming up?

I feel another online Sephora or M.A.C. order coming on.  I will not be defeated.  That is all.

Don’t misunderstand me.

Because I tend to use blogging as an emotional outlet, one gets the impression that I’m unhappy.  Actually, that couldn’t be further from the truth these days.  Sure, the depression demon has taken its toll on me through the years, but I can tell you I’m happier than I ever have been with my new career and my home life.  Over the past few years, I’ve taken some risks I never thought I’d take.  Not sure why God has continued to smile down on me for so long but I’m thankful beyond what mere words can express.  How long will it last?  I don’t know, but I’m sure going to enjoy the ride while it lasts.  With so much ugliness all around, it’s amazing to be able to feel this way.  I want to be there for those who are hurting if they need me, and now I feel I can handle it.

I’m also aware that some of my recent decisions and actions have helped to spin the karmic wheel in my direction, so to speak.  Heck yeah, I’m gonna take some of the credit.  I’m proud of Randy and myself for standing strong.  The payoff is worth it.

That is all.