it seems i have been pretty much a grouch lately. i complain a lot. some of it is joking irony, some of it is "woe is me," some of it is simply venting to get it off my chest. i try to see the positive, and the domino effect of this summer-fall has me down. but i am thankful for many things in my life.
i have a job: it pays well. it provides me with challenges. it has given me a wider network of people i may never have met. it has flexible hours that enable me to spend time with my kids and not pay a penny for child care. it has provided avenues of education. it can be stressful; it can be fun. it makes me feel worthwhile (most days.) my family can afford to pay for things not possible if i were unemployed.
i have medical insurance: my family has access to a worthy network of care providers and we have a positive relationship with them. although it seems expensive at times, the care in the long run is worth not having to worry as emergencies arise.
i have a home: broken though it may be, because of my job and the medical care that keeps me healthy and working, we are able to make changes and fixes. i am proud of the work we have done to this house to improve its space, value, and functionality. i can't wait for the work to be finished and we can sit back, entertain and i can say, "yup. we succeeded."
i have friends: people who care surround me. sometimes just knowing that they are listening is enough to get me by. i give as good as i get, too. my friends teach me things and i pass that on. but whether they are holding me up, pouring that drink, making me laugh, or sweating my equity with me, i sleep at night knowing that i am flush with close friendships. *warm & fuzzy*
i learn from my mistakes: for the most part.
i have rum: and when all else fails, i don't even have to deal with a hangover because rum and i are best good pals.
