Day 17: a book that has changed my views on something

Life Laughs, by Jenny McCarthy ( I LOVE her!)

The book is hilarious, honest, and a little vulgar and out there at times.

Jenny is an optimistic person full of life, energy, humor and love.

This book talks about her experiences in life........the good, the bad, and the ugly. She finds the humor and lessons with every experience.

How has this book changed my life? It has put life's obstacles and successes in perspective for me. Through her humor I have learned to laugh things off sometimes and not take life so seriously. I've learned that yes, sometimes bad things happen to good people, but you learn from it and move on. The most important lesson I have learned is to go out and live my life.

Day 16: something/someone I definitely could live without

Negative people. 

I could definitely live without them. They only bring me down and make life miserable. I have learned to steer clear of these types of people. I don't want to surround myself with nay-sayers. I've experienced these people at work, in my social circle and even in my family. I try to see the positive in everything, rather than create scenarios that are negative. 

Mean people.

It makes me so mad when women talk bad about each other -- whether you're strangers or friends. Gossip is hurtful and unnecessary. 

It frustrates me when people honk and flip complete strangers off while driving. I know I sometimes get frustrated while driving, but I try to remember that I will get to where I need to be....to be patient. 

I hate when people feel the need to be bossy and rude just because they have a title. Having a leadership title doesn't mean you can be disrespectful or belittle people. When you behave that way, your title goes out the window - you are no longer a true leader. 

Day 15: Something/someone I'v tried to live with out, but couldn't

My dog, Ellie Mae. 

She lives with Matthew right now, because the owner of my house doesn't allow dogs. :(

I was going to find another home for Ellie, but Matt has grown close to her and he knows how much I love her, so he offered to let her come live with him. 

Even though I don't see her during the week, I look forward to the weekends with her (and Matt too, of course).

I know what you're probably thinking....she is just a dog. 

But, she has helped me through some tough times and I have cared for her like she was my baby (not like dress her up in clothes and push her in a stroller kind of baby).

She is the sweetest, smartest and best dog (ok, I know I'm a little biased) I've ever had. She is the first dog that I, myself, have owned (not my parents). 

I look forward to the day when I can go to sleep every night with her at the foot of the bed and every morning her waking me up to play. I sure miss her, but I am so glad that I have Matthew in my life who has willingly taken her in and cares for her just as much as I do......and didn't let me give her away.

Day 14: A hero who has let me down (a letter)

Dear B,

I have always looked up to you and admired your marriage and your life. You are a Marine - courageous and strong. I wanted to be just like you. Whenever I hurt, I'd think of you and I'd find strength through your sacrifices and commitment to our country and your family.

Even though we are step-siblings, I have always thought of you as my older brother, regardless of details.

When you and your wife asked me to be your daughter's Godmother, I was honored and take that role in my niece's life seriously. I hope to help raise her with Jesus Christ in her life and be a good Christian role model for her.

When my marriage ended, I felt as if I let you and L down as E's Godmother. I felt as if I already failed as a Godly woman.

When I received the news of your actions and choices to stray from your marriage, my heart broke. I didn't want to believe it. My hero would never do that, I thought. To ease the pain and to escape the thought of this being true, I went for a long run. I woke up the next day, realizing the reality of my life.......your life.......L's life...........and most important, E's life.

I was, and still am, angry with you. How could you do this? Why would you cause everyone so much pain? You were my hero.

I will never understand your recent actions or your choices. My heart is broken. You let me down.

I pray that you seek God and let Him into your life again.

Your sister always,

Nikki

"I Don't Know How She Does It"

This is the next movie I want to see. I just LOVE Sarah Jessica Parker. This movie makes me think of all the super moms I know out there (my two sister-in-laws, for starters) who are able to balance it all.

Thankful Thursday

These days I am thankful for.....

1. Flexible bosses, who are willing to work with my grad school schedule and still allow me to keep my job.

2. My friends and family who were present on the day I was baptized..........so thankful for their love and support.

3. V8 juice........it has been helping me with this stinkin' cold.

4. Matthew..........and all the little notes, emails and texts he sends me throughout the week.

5. Pinterest. I've been able to get some awesome decorating and recipe ideas!

And I just love this song.........

Day 13: a band/artist who has gotten me through some tough days (a letter)

Dear Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, Colbie Caillat, Leona Lewis, Adele:

All of you have amazing voices. Thank you for singing everything I am feeling and everything I want to say. Your songs are like stories of my life.

Taylor, even though we are totally different ages, somehow I can still relate to you and your songs. I was once young like you and sometimes feel like that lost, confused teenage girl again.

Adele, your soulful lyrics and voice give me a sense of power I needed to find within myself again. For a period of time, I had lost that. Thank you for bringing me back to life.

Colbie, you have been a favorite for a long time. Your songs have brought me so much happiness and vibrance again.

Leona, your song, "Happy" helped me hold back the tears on days when I didn't want to face people at work. It was my start of the day, power song.

Miranda & Carrie, "White Liar" and "Undo It"- WOW! Awesome. Whenever I am angry and refuse to cry, I turn those songs up and dance around my house.

All of you - your songs put things into perspective for me and help me find my strength, courage and peace in my life again.

Thank you.

Your grateful fan,

Nikki