Sunshine or Moonshine - Which Light Can You Be?

Everyone loves the sunshine, right?  There just seems to be something about the brighter sky that aids in lifting our spirits and making the day seem better overall.  The Sun serves many purposes and aids both us as humans and the universe as a whole. Thinking generically, the Sun provides us individually with boosted energy, happiness, and Vitamin D, and universally, it aids in warmth, light and controls/affects our weather systems. The Sun heats us, warms us, fills us and in some ways radiates positivity. For me personally, I enjoy spending as much time outdoors in the sunshine whether sitting on the deck swinging and soaking up the rays or just riding in my car with the roof open and enjoying the natural warmth.  There is just something relaxing and soothing about the sunshine.  (Should we pause a moment and sing some songs about sunshine? I have a list handy if you need some suggestions!)

While I do love the Sun and its brightness, I must admit that I am quite drawn to the Moon.  There is just an ominous yet mysterious presence about it, and sadly, I feel, its importance is often overlooked in contrast to the powerful Sun.  While the Sun provides us light in the daytime, the Moon often provides us some light during the night, yet it is magical in that it goes through phases and periodically, we may not even see it.  In times of darkness when the Sun’s absence is felt, the Moon reflects the Sun’s light upon us making the two go hand-in-hand. Additionally, the Moon can affect and alter the ebbs and flow of our ocean tides, and it aids in maintaining the rotation of the Earth’s orbit/stability. The Moon is useful as a navigational beacon for ships at sea or hikers in the forest, as well. The moonlight and the stars twinkling overhead in the night sky provides a calm and tranquil feeling.  Isn’t there just something glorious about seeing the moonlight reflect off beautiful river or ocean waters?  (Again, lets take a moment to pause and listen to Andy Williams’ serenade us with Moon River -- Ahhh!!!)

In considering the correlation of the actual Sun and Moon and their impacts upon the universe and us, I could not help but reflect upon how we, as individuals, could in some aspects mirror the Sun and Moon in our lives by being lights in this chaotic world. We seem to gravitate towards the brightness and often crave sunny days over cloudy days (you can ask one of my friends, and she will gladly tell you how my own personal moods are affected by the absence of sunshine!). If in our lives, we lack some sort of light, we can easily get sucked into a web of darkness that can entrap you in a skinny minute making it very difficult to not only climb out of but leaves lingering effects upon your moods, thoughts and overall outlook on life.  So, what does this have to do with allowing the Sun and Moon to reflect through us?   Stay with me for a few minutes and hear me out, you never know as it could be useful for you somewhere.  (And no, I won’t ask you to sing any more songs about the Sun or the Moon, unless you just want to!)

So, here is my thought:

Everyone always wants to be the sunshine so they can try to brighten someone's life and hopefully leave a positive impact upon that individual.  This could be done by sharing funny stories to make someone laugh, doing small acts of kindness for them such as sending a card, giving a gift or offering to just run an errand for them or leaving a small note for them to find to let them know they are thought of. It never hurts to be kind and show you care in whatever fashion you choose there is nothing wrong with that.

But, equally important, I think in addition to being someone’s sunshine, we have to be a moonlight (I actually prefer saying ‘moonshine’ and no, I do not mean the alcoholic beverage!) for others as a light during their dark moments so they can see even a small glimmer of light and know that somewhere, someone is willing to help them. There’s an old saying about if you find yourself staring at the Moon, somewhere someone else is doing the same thing and they could be thinking about you.  Well, what if it were that simple?  What if someone only needed a sliver of hope/light to help pull them back into the full light?  Couldn’t we be that small phase of light for them?  It doesn’t have to be a full moonshine we could be waxing or waning.  It would even be a new moonshine that is regenerating its light from the Sun, but the individual struggling in the darkness knows we are still there for them because they can feel our presence.

As mentioned earlier, the Moon controls the ebb and flow of the ocean tides (even when it is in its dark phase), so think about the impact we can make on others if we can be a small ray of moonshine for them.

The Moon can be a positive light just like the Sun. Sometimes we have to channel both of the heavenly orbs and be beacons of light in the day and night. After all the Sun and Moon reflect off each other, so why as people can we not do that for each other instead of dismissing those when they are struggling and pushing them aside?

What if that person needs support, a word of encouragement, a hug, something to know they truly matter and are not left to question their existence? Something to make them feel loved, give them hope to look toward. If we toss them aside and run away from their scary/dark times, what does that say about us?

No, we cannot be there 24/7 physically, nor can we possible resolve their problem entirely.  But, we can support them in our thoughts, vibes, prayers, messages or some means so they can feel our strength in various realms when we cannot physically be present, see their face or audibly hear their voice. We have to try to be their light (sunshine or moonshine) because pushing aside and abandoning them, while that may be an idea that some adhere to, what if it causes more fear and damage than good? What if the one thing someone is clinging to as their life raft is the person that gives up hope on them? Then how does the struggling one feel - like giving up all around? What happened to their beacon of light in the darkness?

I believe in the Heavenly power above, and I know God is more powerful than the Sun or the Moon. He created them from His own lips after all, so they do as He says. He is our ultimate Lighthouse, Sunshine and Moonshine. He holds us and cares for us, but at times, it is hard when you cannot truly physically see Him. You have to have faith and trust Him. He sends people along to be in your life, I believe. Some will hurt you to help teach you a lesson; some will change your life in ways you never imagined. No matter how they impact us, they do, and we should be grateful and even tell them. That small iota may be what the helper needs as well as the helpee.

Ultimately, each person is going to face some type of circumstance in their life, and how they react and respond to it, will gradually differ from how you or I may handle the situation.  Nonetheless, remember to try to shine bright for them. Whether you choose to be someone’s Sunshine or someone’s Moonshine or both, just be a presence for them, even if it is sitting quietly beside them with no words spoken or breaking out in a Sun or Moon related song (Gooooooood Day, Sunshine…okay, sorry, I forgot, I promised no more singing!). Be a spirit lifter, be the light that this world could use many of right now.   

The Sun nearly completing its evening descent at Sunset Beach, North Carolina.
(Photo taken by yours truly)

A super Moon on a smoky evening in the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee.
(Photo taken by yours truly)

Kick It Out The Door ... But, Was It Really All That Bad?

Dearest 2020… 

Those four digits send shivers down our spines as we think back on the tumultuous year this has been.  It is definitely a year that will go down in the history books. From panicking over finding toilet paper (I guess people forgot good ‘ole wash cloths and soap can also clean ones derriere!) to being locked down or quarantined within our homes to visiting with family and friends via virtual communication methods to well, you name it, it likely happened during these crazy past (almost) 12 months! 

While most of us are ready to kick 2020 right on out the door, one must look back and ask was it really all that bad?  No, I am by no means saying COVID-19 was a blessing, especially considering the number of lives that have been lost, as well as those tragically affected by the virus itself or the loss of a loved one.  But looking back as a whole at 2020, can’t you find at least ONE positive thing that happened to you?  (I challenge you for a few moments to sit back and ponder over that by December 31^st – as no matter the circumstances, there should always be something we can find to be grateful for.)

That being said, I’ll be the first to admit, if you had asked me that very same question toward the
beginning of the year, I would have thought no way could anything good come from a year riddled with a pandemic, violence, riots, chaos in the polling places and so many other ‘negative’ thoughts that come to immediate mind.  2020 was filled with darkness, and believe me, I know.  I am NOT one who likes isolation.  I do not like being quarantined or staying at home.  I want to be on the go.  I want to be at lunch and/or dinner with friends.  I want to be at sporting events and concerts IN PERSON.  I want to be on an airplane travelling across the United States.  So, when all of that was basically put on hold (or to be honest, felt like ripped away from me), it hit deep. It hit hard.  There were many days and nights where I cried, I’ll admit that I’m not ashamed to say.  I struggled with feeling all alone merely for not being able to see friends and do things that were ‘normal’ to me, sometimes I still struggle with that, and yes, sometimes I still cry too!  It’s extremely hard when you uproot a natural on-the-go person and force them to stay put or have some restrictions placed on them. 

However, in many ways, I was willing to do what was asked as I didn’t want to get my parents sick from a virus or anything else that was ongoing in this crazy world.  I wanted to help them by running their errands and attempting to minimize their going out in public (although keeping them home, at times, was almost like herding cats or telling a teenager to be home by a set curfew!).  It’s seemed very strange working from home for almost a year, but I’ve been grateful to have been afforded that opportunity as so many others don’t even have a job to go to.  Have things always been ideal?  Certainly not.  But God never said we would have an easy path; we must depend on Him and rely on Him to get us through.

As crazy as it sounds, staying home and helping out, I feel, has allowed my parents and I to grow closer.  Yes, we get on each other’s nerves occasionally (okay, that’s a lie, probably daily!) but we have become closer and hopefully more appreciative of each other. We’ve learned more about each other’s quirks, and I’ve attempted to show them more technological advancements (the Chick-fil-A One App, Instacart, DoorDash and Grubhub have nearly blown their minds!).  I’m very grateful they’ve allowed me to be home and aid them over these past few months and try to be a better daughter for them.  So, see, there is something that proves 2020 wasn’t all that bad, right?

Additionally, while 2020 has been complex for any type of relationship, it has also brought some of my friendships closer in ways that I could never have imagined.  Whether it’s been texts, calls, video chats, picture messages, cards or whatever, each little outreach has meant more to me than some will ever know.  Some friendships aren’t meant to last a lifetime as I believe some people may only be meant to be in your life for a certain reason or season, and for someone like me, who cares very deeply, it’s often hard to lose friends.  And part of me truly feared that happening this year with a literal separation, yet in some respects, the opposite happened. Even though separated physically, friendships grew closer and blossomed in new methods, deeper bonds and trusts were formed.  For someone who battles a number of health issues, one of which was just discovered this summer (that is for another blog as I truly feel it may aid some people in their own journeys) having new ways to still reach out to those who care for you definitely aided this ole’ gal’s heart, mind, body and spirit.  I am beyond blessed for the friends that I have.  None of them are a like as they’re all ages, in various locations and all share varying interests, yet they mean the world to me, and I cannot thank them enough, especially some that I may have pestered a ton more than others! 

That’s just the tip of the iceberg for why 2020 wasn’t all that bad for me.  Yes, the dark moments hit me very hard and still affect me, but having family and friends who are by your side or praying for you from afar, that is what you need to help you get through the uncertain times.  But, most importantly, if it weren’t for my faith and hope in my Lord and Savior and having more time to spend in my own Bible studies, who knows where I may be, let alone any of us.  It amazes me to think how some people can’t believe, yet I know they don’t, or they have a false hope/belief.  Many believe that 2020 has been a sign of the end times, and while I can understand that, only God knows when He plans to send our Savior back to us to take us to Heaven where peace, love, healthiness and happiness will abound – there will be NO DARKNESS.  I hope and pray that you’ll be ready, and you’ll be there to join me as I don’t want any of my friends and family to not be there with me.  If you aren’t sure or have any questions about your eternal home, please don’t hesitate to ask me, as it would be my privilege and honor to share Christ’s love with you. 

There are only a few days left in 2020, so anything can happen (I’m still waiting for dinosaurs to return!).  But I pray that you will be blessed and try to find one small glimmer of hope that has touched you this year and share that memory with someone. Reach out to a loved one (friend or family) and let them know how they’ve blessed you this year, as you never know one small blessing and kind word can be all that we need to spark a fire of light and happiness during these chaotic times.  Here’s hoping for a much better 2021 and may we all keep on shining!  

Be Down, BUT Don't Drown!

“Turn around. Don’t Drown.” 

It’s something we hear on the news every time we are expecting significant amounts of rainfall, which could lead to localized flooding.  It’s a warning to be safe on the roadways and if you see, what could be, high water, don’t try to push through it, but instead, turn around and get out before things worsen. Ironically enough, in many instances, this same statement could also be applicable to our personal lives, and not just potentially hazardous roadway conditions.

2020 has been an unprecedented year to say the least.   With so much uncertainty in the air, stemming from a multitude of sources, it can leave anyone feeling on edge.  Have you had moments of disappointment?  Confusion? Do you sometimes feel all alone? Hurt? Angry? Fearful?  – You name the emotion, I am sure someone has bound to have experienced some form, if not all, within the past five months or so.  And, you’re not alone, I’ll raise my hand and join you – actually, let me raise both my hands to testify to the emotions I’ve endeavored this year!

At times, the pressure from such tumultuous times can almost leave the feeling of a cloud hanging over you. While it is absolutely, 100% okay to periodically feel down, we must be careful of how long we stay down and try to ‘turn around’ and head back up the hill to keep from drowning in the emotions brought on by our minds.  I will be the first to admit that 2020 has given me a lot of time to do some thinking, which for those of you that know me well, know that is NOT always a good thing. During times of chaos, the mind can often play tricks on you. There have been times during the past five months where I have been low and other times where I’ve just been okay and tried to remain steady. The emotional rollercoaster with the constant ups and downs, what ifs and so forth, it will begin to take its toll on you – physically and mentally. 

There has always been much discussion over whether it is okay to allow yourself to experience a period of the blues.  Some people even question whether such times even exist and instead accuse individuals of making everything up.  Well, I don’t know about you, but I know that I have experienced the blues, and I am not fabricating these feelings – I mean seriously, if you feel as bad as I have, who on earth would fabricate such a thing, let alone why would anyone enjoy those types of feelings?  When you are at low point, you sometimes have no idea what brought you there.  It could be a combination of many things or it may just not be anything at all that you can identify.  We all have moments, whether you care to admit it or not, but how we handle those moments is what is the most critical step.

I’ve been doing a new Bible study by Nicki Koziarz on the two infamous sisters Rachel and Leah.  The study itself centers on comparison and how so much comparison not only affected their relationship, but it affected those around them, and it also affects us.  While I won’t delve into the study itself, one lesson that I just recently finished up was entitled “It’ll be Okay, Just not Today,” and that lesson really helped open my eyes to a lot of my ‘not so’ okay moments.  Call it a pity-party or a meltdown, let yourself have one. Sometimes you need a good soul-cleanse and realize that you can still be okay, but it just doesn’t have to be right then and that day. 

Here are some pointers that I took away from my “It’ll be Okay, Just not Today” lesson regarding our momentary emotional lapses:

• It's okay to not be okay, but we must be wary of not letting the 'not okay' days stack up.

• During your ‘not okay’ times, it is okay to admit to someone that you are suffering – it doesn’t have to be a secret.  Reach out to someone to confide in and/or ask for help – don’t let your ego get in the way!  If that person truly cares about you, they’ll support you no matter how up and down you are.

• Even in the midst of your suffering, attempt to find some type of sanity. 

• Even when things aren’t okay, we still have to maintain our faith in God because He is in control and will see us through the bump in the road. 

• No matter how many ‘non-okay’ days we have, there is NOTHING that can keep us from God’s love.  

God loves us more than I love Diet Coke (and that is A LOT!).  In the midst of our chaos, never give up

hope.  God is just waiting for us to call on Him so He can toss us the life preserver that we need to keep us from drowning and ultimately pull us back to safety.  No one said the road will be easy.  It may take baby-steps to recover and convince yourself that you can keep going.  BUT YOU CAN!!!!!!!

So, the next time you start feeling down, just know that somewhere, the sun is still shining.  You may not see it right then and there, but you can press onward.  Don’t give up the fight or hope.  If you need a listening ear, message a friend or family member, or even me.  Remember, no one has all the answers but sometimes, all you need is someone to just sit beside you and listen.  Additionally, and most importantly, spend time in God’s Word and pray asking Him for strength, guidance and peace.  Remember that God is higher than your highest highs and your lowest lows – He will always be with you each step of the way, even if no one else is there. 

And remember, it is absolutely okay to be down, BUT don’t drown!

Which Sheep Are You?

Baaaa, Baaaa….

Oh! Sorry, I was channeling my inner sheep voice, and it was not a success.

Sheep – there’s just something about them.  Precious little lambs that you just want to pet and cuddle, who when grown up turn into a big fluff ball of wool.  Meek, mild and gentle, but often viewed as dumb and clueless.  Some sheep are calm and timid and typically remain within their herd, however, periodically, one will stray and develop a wild and rebellious streak attempting to live life on its own, which makes it more susceptible to attack from predators.  Predominantly, sheep are known for flocking, meaning they are most likely to be found in a herd with other fellow sheep, which aids in their ability for protection against predators – proving that there can be power in numbers!

When flocking, sheep are known for following their leader, which can be a good or a bad thing.  Depending upon which sheep is leading the flock, could determine the outcome of the entire herd.  For example, if the herd has a bad leader, it could result is severe consequences for entire flock, which was confirmed in 2006, after over 400 sheep followed their leader off a cliff and into a ravine ultimately and tragically perishing. 

So, while there can be safety in numbers when fending off a wolf or predatorial animal that may be on the prowl waiting to pounce and attack, power in numbers in following a wrong leader, can have very tragic and damning results.

Sound familiar?  Sound like anything or anyone else?

While we may not like to admit it, there are a lot of parallelisms between sheep and humans.  We humans (or at least I think that’s predominantly all that read my posts!) often can be calm or timid folk, who may or may not prefer to stick with our group.  Some will possess wild and rebellious mannerisms and depart from their atypical routine.  But ultimately, just like sheep, humans can be very, very easily led astray by following a wrong leader, influencer, group, movement, example or whatever notion they could be tempted by and ultimately fall prey to. 

In this day an age, where virtually any and everything goes and is possible, we need to keep our eyes open to the dangers that lurk amongst us.  No matter what group, movement, influencer, leader or whatever you are passionate about, and you have every right to believe what you choose to believe, support who you want to support, always keep your guard up to what may be looming on the horizon.   Don’t become one of the 400 who falls off into the ravine of doom and perishes because you fell victim to the wrong trap, belief, myth.  Listen to your heart, trust your gut and stand up for yourself, even if that is against your own family and/or friends, as sometimes and very sadly, even they can try to lead you astray. 

While there are many people and things vying for our attention and support these days, ones who want to be our shepherd and try to sway us with their beliefs to joining their side, in the end, there is only one true Shepherd – the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ.  If you follow Christ, you cannot be led astray.  Oh, yes, you will be tempted, you will veer off the path many times in your life, you will face persecution and deal with people who have no desire to associate with you, but if you put your faith and trust in Christ, believe that He died on the cross to save you for your sins, accept and trust Him as your Savior, one day, which could be very soon, He will return and you will be led to the best pasture ever known to mankind – Heaven! 

Even in the Biblical times, where sheep were most notable for being sacrifices upon the altars, we see numerous situations where humans are referred to as sheep, who were easy targets for being led astray.  Isaiah 53:6 clearly states that we are like sheep and are known for being led astray.  Similarly, with flocking, we as fellow Christian believers must flock together and stand strong together to ward off the attacks of Satan and his deceptive tactics.  By following our leader, the Good Shepherd, we will not be led astray and off a cliff into a ravine. On the contrary, if one of us should stray, as it says in Ezekiel, “I will search for My sheep and seek them out.”  Christ will not allow one of His flock to wander lost and weary.  He will seek and find them and bring them back to the fold.  Additionally, when we face times of consequences, when we are hurt and betrayed by others or when we are utterly at a loss of what to do, Christ will always be our protector.  John 10:11 quotes Him the best when He proclaims, “I am the Good Shepherd.  The Good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.”

Isn’t that a wonderful blessing to think about?  In a time that is filled with much chaos and confusion, when we are often left with a multitude of questions over who or what to believe and may even feel scared for our own lives at times, there is not likely one leader, group, movement or influencer who will voluntarily lay down their own life for the lives of all their followers.  In this current era, we simply need to turn to the Good Shepherd and follow where He leads.  The path may not be easy, matter of fact, it will likely be very cumbersome at times, but, by following our true Shepherd, it will keep us in the pasture surrounded by His love and protection.

 

So, which sheep are you?  Who do you want as your Shepherd, your leader?  Who or what will you choose to follow? The choice is up to you, and you alone. No one can tell you what decision to make, as that is a choice you freely can make on your own.  But, choose wisely because you could end up either in the Heavenly pastureland or in a deep ravine. 

**This post is not meant as a debate nor to sway to you to my side or anything, but should you have any personal questions about your eternal future, please feel free to message me and I’ll be happy to discuss with you.  Until then, I wish you all a hearty Baaaa!**

Hello, My Name Is...

Well, I must admit that I have not been the greatest at keeping my blog up to date as of late, which is not typical of me! A lot has transpired which has caused me to ponder how I want to proceed with my current blog, or even if I really do want to continue. 

However, in looking at my statistics and seeing how people from all over the world occasionally view my blog, it inspires me to want to continue some type of writings.  No, not everything I write may be meaningful to you, or even enjoyable, but as I always have said, you never know how something you say or do may impact someone else, and ultimately, it could be what someone needs to make it through that day! 

With those things, and a few others, in mind, I decided to press onward with the blog.  Rather than continue with the travel theme, I have decided to start over.  This post will basically be another introduction to me, a blog survey of sorts, where I’ll answer a few random questions that allow you, the reader, to have a little more insight into who I am.  Afterwards, and when the notion strikes me (hopefully more frequently than every two years!), I’ll post random topic blogs.  Some may be travel related or random thoughts or even suggestions by friends to discuss.   I hope you’ll buckle in and enjoy the ride!

Oh, and by the way, “Hello, My Name is Meredith!” and let’s play 20 questions about my life!

1. Do you have any nicknames?

I used to have a lot when I was younger, but mostly now, people will call me M, Mere, Merf or Merfy (pronounced like Murphy).  I also will respond to Tennessee, which was bestowed upon me by my favorite Georgia Belle!

2. Are you named after anyone?

To my knowledge, no.  I used to think I was named after Meredith College, but apparently, I was not.

3. Do you have any siblings?

No, I am an only child.  Sometimes that’s a blessing and sometimes it’s depressing, ha!  But, thankfully, I have a lot of cousins and some friends who are like siblings to me.

4. Where did you grow up?

I was born and raised in Raleigh, North Carolina – one of the rare few authentic ones who are left.  I say that merely because my great-great-great…ever how far back it was, grandfather was one who donated a portion of his land to help form the city of Raleigh.  So, my roots run deep here, although lately, it is hard to find true born and bred native as so many transplants have moved into the area.

5. If you could move anywhere else in the United States right now, where would you move to or would you prefer to stay where you currently are?

Had you asked me when I was younger, I would have told you that I would never foresee myself leaving Wake County, North Carolina, but my how times have changed.  I am itching to get out of this county and likely this state!  North Carolina does have a lot to offer from the mountains to the coast, but sometimes, a change can be a good thing, if not needed! 

I think if I could move today and it had to be within North Carolina, I would likely relocate to Wilmington, North Carolina.  If it were outside of North Carolina, that would be tough as I’ve been to so many places that I have enjoyed.  I could see myself living in Knoxville, Tennessee; St. George, Utah; Henderson, Nevada; Marietta, Georgia; Austin, Texas; or on a house boat in the harbor in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada (yes, I know that is not within the United States but it is a short ferry ride away!)

6. Where did you go to college?

Campbell University – Go Camels!

7. What was your favorite thing about college?

Most people would say Chicken Tenders day at Marshbanks or Shouse Dining Halls, and that was always a good day!  Overall, I really enjoyed college from the atmosphere to the courses themselves, there wasn’t much that I didn’t enjoy.  I didn’t stay on campus, so sometimes I feel like I may have missed out on part of ‘college life’ but I feel I was able to get a great education and make a lot of lasting memories!

8. What did you study in college?

I studied Government, which is now reclassified as Political Science and minored in History with a concentration in American History. 

9. What was your first job out of college?

I had been working a seasonal job ever since I had graduated high school and all throughout college.  Closing in on graduation, since I wasn’t 100% sure what I wanted to do, I was offered a full-time position at that employer, which I took.  It wasn’t in any way related to Government or History, but it was a job nonetheless!

10. What kind of music do you like?

Maybe the question should be ‘what kind of music do you NOT like’!  Music is my passion, and I will literally listen to anything under the sun.  I have so many varied playlists that one minute I may be listening to Praise and Worship music before it transitions to Bluegrass, Country, Rock, Pop, Classical, Rap, Hip-Hop – well basically any and everything.   As Marie Osmond’s song says, “Music is Medicine” and it is clearly my medicine and holds a dear place in my heart.  

11. What’s one hobby that you’d like to take up?

This is a tough one!   Part of me would love to learn to play another musical instrument, and another part of me would love to develop some photography skills.  So many other ideas that I can think of as you’re never too old to learn something new!

12. What did you think you wanted to be when you grew up?

As a kid, I always wanted to be an airline pilot or flight attendant or a television news anchor.  As I grew older, my desire was to be a local political analyst but was informed that there wasn’t a need for that in our area, so it kind of deterred my plans.  Little did I know how times would change and our local news stations now have their own political bureaus! 

13. What’s the biggest project on your to-do list right now?

Hmm…at work, I’ve got plenty of little projects here and there that I need to delve in and focus on. Outside of work, I’m not actively working on any major projects.  I likely should put my mind and attention towards something though to distract my overthinking mind!

 14. Do you have any irrational fears?

I am not a fan of snakes – real ones, rubber ones or photos of them.  They absolutely terrify me, as I had an incident as a child while looking at a photo of one in an encyclopedia and someone jarred the book, which made it seem like the snake was jumping out at me.  To this day, I am unable to look at a photo of one because they are creepy looking and just terrifying! 

15. Have you ever traveled outside the country? If so, where?

The vast majority of my travels have been within the United States, of which I am beyond blessed to have those many opportunities to see things that I never dreamed I would see, but I have travelled outside the country albeit not very much.

My first experience out of the country was to the Bahamas, where I went to Nassau and CocoCay on a cruise.   Otherwise, I have also visited Montreal, Vancouver and Victoria in Canada.  The three times I have been to Canada, I have never been disappointed! The beauty that exists in each city was amazing!  I would go back to any of those three cities in a heartbeat. I am hoping to expand my out of country travels in the near future, as well!

16. When’s your next vacation and where are you going?

Alas, since we are still in the midst of a worldwide pandemic, that has kind of hindered any travel plans, including a trip that I had planned to London back in March,  (See, I was expanding my out of country travels!) it is hard to contemplate travelling now without some remorse sinking in!

I must admit that I have been perusing flights and pricing for various locations within the United States as I am going beyond stir crazy and need to get out of North Carolina!   So, as far as when and where the next vacation will be, that’s anyone’s best guess.  It could end up being Gatlinburg, Tennessee, or who knows, it may be Las Vegas (again!) or anywhere in between.  Get out an explore, that’s what I like to do!

17. Do you speak any other languages?

Fluently, no!   I can read Spanish, but not speak it very well in conversation – well, at least not at the speed in which they speak it!   I am also currently learning Russian, which is a HUGE challenge, but it is a challenge that I am willing to take.

18. What’s one talent that you wish you had?

I wish I could dance.  I’ve never really had many opportunities to dance, except with the Cow at Chick-fil-A, and shockingly, I actually did well.  But, I would love to learn how to do some of the amazing dances one sees on Dancing with the Stars!

19. What’s something that you wish you could do one more time?

Honestly, probably spend more time with my grandparents.  I never thought I would have lost them so early in life.  Many things I wish I could have asked them or talked to them about, places I could have taken them and other things I wish I could have done with them. 

Additionally, I can think of a few other situations in my life where I wish I could either do things over or go back and completely not do some situations!   The lessons we hopefully learn! 

20. If you weren’t in your current job, what would you want to be doing?

I would truly love to be a flight attendant.  I absolutely love flying.  I enjoy meeting new people and obviously travelling.  I just think it would be such a neat experience.   Otherwise, I sometimes wish I had gone on to law school so that I could be a District Attorney, or I think I would enjoy being an investigator of some type, whether with the FBI, CIA or some organization of that nature! 

What about you?   Why don’t you answer some of these questions and share you own insights with me or your own friends!   It never hurts to learn from our own experiences and share them with others!   

Go out and make it a great day.  When it’s dark, cloudy, rainy and gloomy outside, when all you want to do it cry, dig deep and try to be a light for someone else!  Inspiring others can only cause you to be inspired yourself!