Ladies on a Mission: The Official Site

[Eloise]

I miss Mozart!
He was the only bright light I had here.
Akin bit off the end of my thumb clean. It is so scary looking.

[NoSugar]

SL, You have a meaningful job that really makes a difference in the world but like most jobs that matter, you pay a price. Jobs that don't change the world too much also don't make people lose sleep or feel heartbreak. I guess I like missing the tough stuff but I wish that what I do mattered more. People are so fortunate that you are there, doing what you do.

LB, I'm also getting a great deal out of the 3 Principles information -- as I've written in that thread, the bit I've understood so far (and by bit I mean TINY BIT!) has had a disproportionately positive effect on my stress levels so I'm going to keep exploring.

It's good to see you guys posting quite a bit J-vo and LC. I guess because being very engaged here is what worked for me, it seems like the "right" way to do it. There undoubtedly are others but at least the one you're doing is one I know can work. And like Pav said, being deliberately grateful until it's simply your habit is such a powerful tool. I constantly notice how much better my life is now -- I can't imagine risking losing it by something as meaningless as having a drink, even when it crosses my mind that I could.

El, will you be able to ride again soon? Or at least hang out with Mozart? I hope you're able to paint again soon, too. xx, NS

[j-vo]

Isn't it funny how I feel like I know you all so well, but have never seen you. Gosh, it would be awesome to meet in person...You're all so warm, caring, funny, empathetic, encouraging, and just getting to hear from each of you daily makes my day so much better. Thank you.

Getting ready for a busy weekend, and I welcome it. This is my son's last year in high school, and basketball season was always fun. This year I won't be in charge of much, and that's how I like it! Have enough in charge-ness at work.

Thinking of you El, and LB. I think the three principals sounds good as I've watched some intros on it. I just don't think I can stuff more info in my head at this point. Maybe another time, but it seems as though it's having a positive impact on those that are reading about it.

Have a great sober day.

[j-vo]

Pav and TT,
What great contributions on reducing stress and being in a better place in your head. Thank you for that. There are so many great ideas and something for EVERYONE. I need to find my balance, my niche, and stop shoving chocolate in my face.

TT, glad you had a good talk with your GB and daughter. I know you're going through what I will be in a few months. Strength to us. Is her university close to where you live? Son may be choosing a college that is about 2 1/2 hours away, but that's close enough to be able to get there quickly or for a weekend. I guess that's why I'm excited about this weekend, too. Last basketball season. He won't play in college as he doesn't want to. He's played a long time. There are intramurals, so he'll keep busy. It's a hard thing, isn't it. Our babies are grown up. It was just yesterday that we were cleaning up their toy rooms, cleaning their poopy diapers, singing songs in the morning as we cuddled. OMG. I need to stop. Have a good day.

[jane27]

El, Did they re-attach it? How scary. I know it looks weird now, but thank God it wasn't worse. Please hang in there.
Tomorrow we are going to Florida for 5 days to get the place ready for renting. I am really looking forward to the change of scenery. I *think* I'm in a rut. I don't feel particularly sad or depressed....picture a college drop out stoner that sleeps late, leaves bags of chips and socks everywhere,and plays video games all day- that's pretty close (minus being stoned and subbing in glued to the internet for video games). The event that seems like the marker was when we got Red at the end of August. Maybe I can only juggle so many balls at once and this new one has made me forget my rhythm? I don't feel like doing a darn thing, and I do feel embarrassed & ashamed. What makes it feel like a rut is that I don't feel any end in sight. This isn't a new thing for me. I've experienced these going back as far as 11 years old. Wondering if anyone can relate (which I just typed out as felate), or offer feedback. My life is the color gray.

Much love to all

[jane27]

Thank you TT. So helpful to hear perspective from another person's viewpoint. xxx

[lifechange]

Hello Gloamers..

I have to say, I am so happy it's Friday. I felt that first thing this morning, on my way to work.. just make it through the day. Stay in the moment. Change perspective. Act with love in your heart! This has been my number one motto lately.. I've been trying to look at everything with love in my heart.. if I feel anger or stress or frustration I try to stop, feel it for a moment and move on to changing my perspective.. without a lot of thought (at this point) just action. Just to have another point of view.
I wanted to share with you all that I got in quite a big fight with a good friend of mine last week (the first of two fights with 2 different friends in 2 weeks!) after I'd cancelled a coffee date with her. She reamed me with insults and used confidences that I'd shared with her against me. I was so hurt, I even started crying on the phone.. I wrote her an email to explain to her why I was hurt and why I thought her judgements, which they were, were inaccurate and unfair.. I really stood up for myself, which I know I wouldn't have been able to a month ago. It took her a long time to reply, but in the end she said that she loved me just how I am and that her issues with me had to do with herself.. which I figured. I know that's usually the case with me when I put down others. Anyway, what I wanted to say is that I see positive change in the way I'm able to relate to/communicate with other people.. and I was so happy to be strong in myself. Sad, but strong.. which I haven't felt for ages..

J-vo, I loved this.. ditto! "Isn't it funny how I feel like I know you all so well, but have never seen you. Gosh, it would be awesome to meet in person...You're all so warm, caring, funny, empathetic, encouraging, and just getting to hear from each of you daily makes my day so much better. Thank you."
I would love to meet you all in person.. we could have a yoga/trekking retreat, like Choice's, but without the "special" drinks!!:happy2:

Jane, I'm sorry you're feeling grey. blah. I definitely know how that feels.. haven't had it for a while (for me it was more extremes until very recently) but I can remember. I wish I had some great advice, but I don't really.. I know at times, I've just let myself carry on that way for a while, knowing I needed a break and have come out of it.. and other times I've fought it, changing up my daily routine, diet, etc. I hope you'll be able to enjoy your 5 days away and not have to endure too much stress.. that Red sure is a sweetie..

TT, I take it your teaching at the Uni? or researching? What's your specialty? or maybe I've got it wrong? What are your daughter's interests?

My daughter and I are going to an exhibition this weekend, which I'm excited about.. I'll tell you all, this is the second we've EVER been to.. because there aren't many worse things to do on a Saturday with a hangover..IMO! Nightmare..
Now I can not only go, but really and truly appreciate and enjoy the art, open myself up to be inspired. I can even "get it"!
Actually, I feel this way about almost everything right now.
Maybe because I'm coming upon 30 days tomorrow!!:sohappy:

Sending strength and love to all of you during this hectic time of year.. I don't think we have to let it be.. we can also slow down, I think.? Though I realize I'm living in a place where it's easier to ignore the craziness..

[j-vo]

You sound fantastic LC. I'm really happy for you and your perspective on life and how you're changing your negative thoughts right away is inspiring me to try and do more in that area. Enjoy your exhibition tomorrow and your 30 days!

Jane, I know what that feels like, and sometimes I have a hard time pinpointing the source. Then I get tired of trying to figure it out!! Whatever it is, just accept you're feeling this way and getting some florida sunshine will definitely help your mood as it always does for me. I love florida and I hope to rent the winter months when I retire. While you're there, get outside as much as possible. Soak in the sunshine and just appreciate that warmth on your face. I load up with high SPF, but it still feels so good. Maybe get a few fast walks in or some form of outdoor exercise, too.

TT, it's going to be a big change for both of us and I'll send my thoughts your way. I need to do some instruction in washing clothes and a few other things. I know my husband will be making lots of food and freezing it for him to take. Gosh, can't think about that now and won't! Where will you travel to next year?

Tonight, son played an awesome game. He's one of the point guards, so he's not the one usually getting the points, he just gets everyone else ready to shoot. But he had 13 points in addition to his guard duties and he was feeling really confident. Great game. The last first game!!

Have a good night.

[scottish lass]

Another crazy silly day - lacking sleep and somewhat disheartened by many things - there are so many good people, who have to deal with idiots and can't do the good that they would like to.
Have not managed to read back yet, hopefully some time this weekend to read...
Hope all are doing well, thinking of you.
It is interesting/amazing how many people who realize all the difficulties that have occurred this week have just suggested wine as relief! Only the briefest thought on way home at the place where I turn right, but used to turn left! It was easy to ignore - love that!
So thank you all for being here so I can sign in after getting home before going to bed - it is appreciated!

[NoSugar]

Today was a fun day - I got to meet an MWO friend in person for the first time :smile:, just like you were writing about, LC. LostSoul came and picked me up from my hotel and we drove around, parked, and then walked around chatting and looking for a coffee shop. After 2 hours of talking and laughing (as if we'd known each other for years - nothing like a common addiction for cutting through the BS!), I had to get back to my meetings. When we got outside, we realized that neither of us really knew where the car was :egad: but at least it wasn't because we'd been drinking! That's the kind of thing that would have seemed mortifying (but not unusual) if we had been but because we hadn't, it was hysterical.

I'm closer than usual to you and Pav, too, SL, but this is a pretty big state! It sure would be fun to meet you guys, also. Maybe someday we'll all figure it out. I'm so glad you didn't let your tough couple of days get to you.

Glad you had a good night with your boy, J-vo, and that you're there for him and he doesn't need to be worried about you. That is one of the best things you can do for him.

Enjoy Florida, Jane - sounds heavenly to me, and an art exhibit sounds nice, too, LC. It's cool your daughter enjoys doing that sort of thing with you. How's Saturday looking, TT? Hope we all have a good one!

xx, NS

[narilly]

Hi everyone, some great posts to read. Sorry you are feeling kinda bummed out Jane. I a
Ways said that AL made my life grey and sort of blurry. St least the grey is not from drinking.

NS, that is so cool you met up with lost soul. I bet you had lots to talk about. We all have a lot in common. JVo, it sure is cool how we seem to know each other so well. We have been talking for a few years now. I am glad we are sober together.

Well, goodnight everyone.

[j-vo]

Hi Nar! How's the weather up there? It's sunny and going to be about 49 F today. Perfect for December 5.

Glad you made it through the busy day, LC. Sometimes it feels as though it's never going to end, but it's much easier to handle without a pounding headache.

LB, how are you doing, Friend?

NS, how cool that you had a great time with LostSoul. Love the car scene! Hope you have a productive time in Cali with your work. Is it warm where you are?

Getting ready to do some errands. After that, have to get to my concession stand duties and will watch another game. I'm grateful for this unhung day. Hope everyone has a good one.

[Pavati]

Hi, All:

Jane, I know that feeling. My outside of home work has been a good antidote for me. It is crazy, busy, fun, challenging and never the same day twice. I really spend all day thinking about other people and circumstances, so it helps take me outside of myself. J-Vo and I have talked about how summer can make us feel un-moored because we don't have the structure to get us out of the house every day. Maybe, even though you don't feel like it, you could sign up to do something new? When my dad was in the hospital he got visited by a helper dog - it was an amazing visit and made him feel great. Maybe you and Red could go brighten someone's day? I agree with J-Vo that the FLA sun should help as well. I have visited Florida twice and loved it both times. Have a good time.

NS - glad you got to meet LostSoul - that is cool when MWO people meet up in person. I still think that it is something I lack here - an "in person" friend who does not drink. I have a good friend who I see from time to time, but she lives far away. I think I'll get there eventually, but I am so private about this all still.

TT - I agree with your list!

LC - YES! I talked about that quite a bit earlier here - I have so much more confidence in my personal interactions now. It is on of the MANY unexpected benefits I got from quitting drinking. I feel like I can face things and bring more honesty to every situation. You DO sound great.

Sorry, El, I thought it was Mozart who bit you. Where is he? How far away? Can you arrange a visit?

Off to get some work done.

xo
Pav

[lifechange]

Hi Gloamers!

SL, :hug:

I'm right on your tail, J-vo, following you around the boards!!:happy2:
This is the first chance I've had to write today.. without being interrupted. We're having a lazy day at home, mostly doing a whole lot of nothing.. though we did bake sugar cookies and some vegan "sugar-free" (with dates and banana) for my eldest, which turned out great if anyone needs an alternative Christmas cookie recipe..

NS, What a hoot! That's happened to me before, but with my bike! And while sober! I'm so happy you were able to meet up with Lost soul.. I would love to meet up with any of you. Anyone coming to Europe, give me a shout out! I'll travel.. And I'll be in Arizona at the end of March for 4 weeks with the girls.. if anyone will be in the area and wants to meet up..I think we'll be heading to CA as well..Southern, around Laguna Beach. Not positive about that yet..

How's everyone doing this lovely weekend? We are having unseasonably warm weather (around 50F) and the birds are all confused. This should be a cold and snowy time of the year for us.. Scary the way things have changed in just the past 10 years.. even less. Tonight the kids clean their (biggest!) pair of shoes and set them outside the door with cookies and carrots for St. Nikolaus and his donkey.. and in the morning they're filled with sweets, tangerines, nuts, a little present.. I think they get more excited about this day than actual Christmas.. El, do they have the same tradition in your neck of the woods?

Well, we're heading out to dinner now.. I've decided to make the yummy soup I had planned tomorrow.. feeling too lazy at the moment!:happy2:

Wishing you all a relaxing Un-hung (at the very least!) Saturday..and Sunday for TT, G and Choices..

Oh!! I'm celebrating 30 days AF!!!! today. It sure does feel good..

[lifechange]

Xpost, Pav!!! Hi!