Attitude

I got a mammogram today. Self care is crucial when you're single. I have to take care of me, because no one else will. Really, no one else can. I have 100% responsibility to take care of my own needs, and make myself happy. Everyone does really. No one else can "make" us happy.

When I wake up in the morning I get to choose what kind of day I'm going to live. Will it be wonderful or frustrating, because really no matter what the situation or circumstances are in our lives, we get to choose our attitude.

It's been interesting learning how to lower my expectations when I'm not feeling "up to par". I allow myself to take it easy, take a hot bath, eat a treat, take a walk. I give myself permission to go to bed early and let the children read quietly in their rooms after evening prayer. If I'm honest about where I am and how I'm feeling, I can push myself to accomplish great tasks when I'm "at the top of my game", but when I'm feeling out of sorts, I acknowledge that as well, and "give myself a break".

It's funny. In the past, I've had a pattern of "falling apart" during my PMS time, but now I just schedule it in - in my planner I make a note to take it easy on myself that week, and things go SO MUCH BETTER now.

So, today I choose to have a super fantastic day! I choose to do several things that make me happy, that bring me joy. I choose to "put on my face", do my hair and go out into the world looking like a million bucks. I choose to cuddle my sweet children, to make a good meal, to go out dancing until I turn into a pumpkin. Today is the only day we have to live. Make it a good one.
~ Julia