10 Things

Lists. Oh how I love to make lists. Most of the time I make lists that will bring me some much needed instant gratification. You know, lists of things that I can do and then cross them off. Having a visual reminder of my accomplishments is truly uplifting. I'm not going to lie, I've even be known to put "wake up" on my list so that I can immediately cross it off and start the day on a positive note. Sometimes when feeling particularly introspective, I make lists that are not meant to be crossed off. Today was one of those days. Here I give to you a list of some things that I think we could all use once in a while. 

1. A friend.
2. A therapist - although I'm not sure these two are mutually exclusive. And upon further thought and consideration, either could potentially be substituted by a good hairdresser or perhaps even a sympathetic bartender. 
3. A realllllly hard core, side-splitting fit of laughter. 
4. A good job that provides affordable health care and an actual living wage. 
5. A hug. Always. 
6. A buddy, which is different than a friend. Although a friend could be a buddy and vice versa, this is not always the case.  For instance, in my family I was the friend and my ex-husband, the buddy. I was there, always, good times and bad, and he was there if you wanted to have a good time. But my goodness! I am not at all trying to suggest I would like my ex back. No thanks. Been there, done that. I'll take an adult buddy, thank you very much. 
7. Some strong shoulders. Those that could hold up the world for us for just long enough for us to find the strength to do it ourselves.
8.  Time in the woods, at the beach, in the mountains - nature. Anywhere that one can absorb the quiet, still, unadulterated beauty that is all around us but not always seen or recognized. 
9. An occasional cocktail or two. Or three. Even better if it can be enjoyed with #1 or #6.
10.  Someone to remind us that even the worst, darkest storms always come to an end and that the sun will shine once again.

Hang tough. Love passionately. Live large.