A bit of a rant. Forgive me.

The last few weeks have not been my favorite times. I fear I have not been at my finest. I have simply not acted or lived the way I prefer. 

That's quite a lengthy euphemism for saying I've been stressed and acting like a caged bear. 

These note cards from Mrs. Strong may be warranted. And sadly, no, drinking was not involved. 

I simply have too much on my plate. Way, way too much and it seems as if something is added nearly every day. 

Next up: host luncheon for 20 at house this Wednesday and another on Tuesday of next week. 

I am not generally stressed by such undertakings. I enjoy entertaining. I love pulling out china and silver and crystal. 

The silent auction I chaired {which sucked the life out of me caused this blog to sit unattended for the last few weeks} occurred on Friday. I would love to think that is off my plate, but no, now I need to track down hundreds of auction winners and encourage them to promptly pay for their items. Dear friends, take note of this and please, when you bid at auctions, follow up and promptly pay. Someone has worked hard enough to put the event together. Do not add to their burden by forcing them to place numerous calls to you. Please.

See, this is what I mean: I've become a complainer. I don't like complainers. I regularly tell my kids to stop complaining. I remind them they have absolutely nothing about which to complain.

So how did this horrid trait befall me? 

I could list my excuses which would clearly include being over utilized and under appreciated , but I won't. I'm turning over a new leaf. A non-complaining leaf. 

I am lucky to be able to volunteer for my kids' school. 

I am lucky to have the time. The resources. The support of my family. 

I am lucky to have a multitude of obligations, luncheons, book clubs, and social clubs to look forward to each month.

I am lucky to be able to take three months to remodel my kids' bathroom 

I am lucky to have the freedom to be a stay at home mom who rarely stays at home. 

I am lucky my kids miss me when I'm away and call me crying when they are sick and have been stuck with a babysitter for two days straight {I fear that doesn't sound genuine, but I am glad she still wanted me}. 

I am going to spend the rest of the Spring with the following mantra:

Source: ohthethingsthatilove.tumblr.com via AmyEatLiveLaugh on Pinterest

I enjoy meeting interesting people who talk about something other than themselves. I do not like people who look hurried every single time you encounter them. I am not interested in people who tell me how busy they are or how hard they are working. 

Boring. 

Add value.

Sparkle.

Shine.

New leaf turned.

So what have you been up to lately?