A wee bit of encouragement

Today was a pretty good day. I'm not quite sure why it was so positive. I have lots of little details to take care of for an upcoming trade show, which sometime makes the day drag a bit. Not today though.

Had a really great conversation with a coworker today about goal setting and struggles with weight. I was encouraging to talk with someone who has been there and successful at achieving progress. It was also a reminder that this is probably a life ling journey. It guess I have to come to terms with that.

Right after that conversation, I went to my voice lesson and was also reminded that while I may be struggling in one area, I've made strides in others. Work is heading in a really positive direction and I have lots of potential for growth. I have a wonderful marriage and a home that I feel blessed to be in every single day. It was another source of encouragement.

And that wasn't even the lesson! It's funny how the Lord can send you these little sources of light if you are just open to receive them.

My lesson itself was really good too. I've been struggling with recovery from bronchitis for four weeks or so. It was the first time I felt I could sing without my voice feeling all gummy and coated. It was a lot of fun and I'm back to being excited about the concert again. I really think the set is going to be challenging and fun and really representative of what I love to sing. I can't wait!

It's been a really good day. Found out my 40th year is shared by Nathon Fillion today. He tweeted that be prefers to think of it as Nathon 4.0. I like that. Maybe becoming Paula 4.0 might not be too bad. :)


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Starting Over

It has been a long time since I added to my blog. This is a big year for me and the idea of writing again has a great appeal.

So what is so special about 2011?

Well, it the year I turn 40.

It's funny. I know that I'm not special with this milestone and really, am I any different at 40 than I was at 39?

Not really. It is a little difficult. I can't help but think of my sister who only had 9 years left after reaching this milestone. A small part of me wonders if I'll surpass that. I guess that is only natural.

I think about how much family means to me yet how hard it is to continue those bonds as we grow older, our lives shift and change, families take on their own lives...how natural it is to drift apart. All the while realizing how much I still need family.

And I have to wonder if, when I'm older, what family will be there. Especially now that it's clear that I am not to be a parent. It makes you wonder what life will be like when you are 80. What will be my legacy?

Does everyone think of these things as they hit milestones? Is this what makes us all equal and what should make us feel more connected to each other? These questions about life?

I'm finding that as look at the journey my life has taken so far, I'm amazed at how much things stay the same. All those insecurities that I carried with me in my teenage years are very much still my companion. I think by 40, they should have been left behind.

I really wish they were.

But then, my 20's or 30's didn't turn out the way I expected. Why do I think any preconceived notions I have about 40 be any different? And my 30's were better than any expectations. 40 could be the same.

I look and know I am very blessed.

There is a lot to look forward to this year. New hobbies such as photography to fall in love with, new songs to sing.

And I guess that's what life journey is all about.