My nose has been out of joint. My knickers were in a twist. My party got pooped on, it rained on my parade, someone stepped on my toes. In other words: I've been feeling out of sorts lately.
It's been a hard couple of years. I lost a best friend. Raises didn't come. Books weren't published. My life expectations and life's reality have collided recently. They clashed together like a big churning wall of steely gray storm clouds, right over my head.
So instead of using this blog as a forum for the bubbling cauldron of my dissatisfaction, I gave myself a time out. I signed off for a while. I stood looking in the bathroom mirror, gave my face a couple of mild slaps and yelled, "KNOCK IT OFF." OK, no I didn't. But I did crawl in bed with an entire bag of chips, a full jar of salsa and ate most of it while watching the Judy Garland biography. Word to the wise: Judy Garland biography + overeating = heart burn.
My Meme has a well-used phrase that is often repeated in our family. Whenever someone complains, she'll smile and say, "Well honey, you've got the same shoes to get happy in."
It's true. So I'm going to get happy in my shoes. And if I cant get happy, I am going to accept my shoes. Because in the end, no matter how much my knickers may twist, I still like these shoes. I wouldn't trade them for anything.
I'm here to say I'm back. I'm better. How about you ladies? How are you fairing these days?
64 comments:
I hear ya. Life is not always what you want or plan. You just have to wade through the crappy parts and make your way to the good parts.
Too much complaining is never too good. There is always someone in a worse situation. I think all the *crappy* parts are supposed to be lessons to learn. At least I look at it that way when I am trying to figure out why this is happening to me.
I am glad you are back and feel like you can tackle life.
Hope you have a great weekend!
Much love from Mexico!
Funny how what we have planned and what the Big Guy has planned don't coordinate sometimes, huh? That old "if you want to hear God laugh, tell him your plans" quote has been running through my mind a lot lately. I'm just going with the flow right now because if I try to control it I will wear myself out. :)
I'm doing pretty fantastic... back from vacay and hopefully going to do a little thrift store shopping today for the perfect buffet for the kitchen!! :) eee!
'God laughs when (wo)men make plans.' I've had this happen too and it is not fun but I get reminded that things happen for a reason whether it is to protect me, or to bless me with something greater than what I could think of or do on my own. It's okay to visit 'Sadville', just don't move in and it seems like you are doing a great job of pulling your self up by the straps of your sandals! lol
Don't give up.
Whenever I complain, I have a friend that says, "Laura, it's time to put on your big girl pants and get over it." While a little harshly put, she's always right. Sometimes it's hard to wade through the messy muck of adulthood. And by the way, my weapon of choice for self destruction is a half gallon of mint chocolate chip...my hips wish I'd get over it already too.
Welcome back! It's disappointing when our planned version of what life should be doesn't match up with the reality of life. However, I am old enough to have learned that His plans always are ultimately better than anything we could have dreamed.
I hope your shoes are more than just "comfortable," but that you look down at your feet and say, "Oh, yes... love those shoes!"
Blessings!
I've been going through alot of stuff lately and put myself in a blogging time-out too so I totally know what you've been feeling. Mine resulted in a totally new blog!
I'm glad you've decided to be content with where the Lord has you. He knows what's best for us and He promises to give us peace and joy when life doesn't go the way we hoped it would. He's good - lean on Him!!
Anyway...I'm glad you're back!!!
It is so interesting you post this because I am coming to the party a little late but w/ the same issues. Literally, I look around and think "this isn't what I bargained for".
Being a photographer in and of itself is good but it is pretty much the only thing in life I still derive joy from and that's not enough these days given that actually taking the pictures is only like 20% of the job.
It's nice to know you've emerged all right. I hope I will too.
Glad to see you are back!!
Just one day at a time... Gotta play the hand you're dealt.
I have learned the only thing that is certain is change.
I dont know you but your blogs make my day at work, you write so well.
Im a huge reader and if you had a book I would buy it. Ok well back to my job. peace
Fair to Middle.
Really, life is good, there are speed bumps and potholes, but I'm cruisin'.
Turning 50 isn't as easy as it looks, there is some looking back and wondering why things happened or didn't happen. I do know and am assured it is all God's plan and He knows best!
Feeling the same way lately. But things could always be worse! It's sometimes hard trying to find the positive. I hope you have a great weekend
I think it's been a rough year in general, seems like. Some people are totally fine and happy, seem totally unaffected by the economy, etc, but I see a large faction of people struggling lately. Myself included. I haven't had but one grey hair for years and suddenly I've found five - gotta be stress.
Anyway, we are the judge of what we think is "success". At the moment I'm just relieved that I can still pay my mortgage, and be able to live comfortably. And I have health insurance - every day I think about that and feel *relief*.
Glad you have emerged from your funk :o)
A few years ago I went on a mission trip to Agua Prieta, Mexico. There was a little boy there that wadded up a whole news paper, wrapped masking and duct tape all around it, and used it to play kick ball with the other kids. They were happy... laughing and running- and it didn't cost a dime.
We complicate our lives so much. Add too much clutter. I'd say being happy in those same shoes is a very wise thing... because right now, some don't even have any.
{{{hugs}}}
Everywhere I turn around blogland (or at least in my neck of the woods) I hear people are in a funk. And I am too. (Maybe it's this recession I keep hearing so much about.)
Props on moving past it and leading the way! Hopefully I can follow you! Some people default to a certain personality. I tend to default to quiet, and when you mix in any type of heartache, I go straight to sad and sit there for a while.
You have a very upbeat personality and are able to overcome these things so much better (or at least you're better at faking!) I wish I were more that way.
Here's to trying.
Oh yeah, and glad you're back. I've missed your daily sunshine!
Right on, sista! I love what your Meme says. :) And I love your attitude. My shoes look pretty good these days too. And I'm so glad you're back, I've missed you and Mabel.
Just discovered your blog via Ivy Mae. It has been fun reading through your archives - your style has inspired me. And I can definitely relate to twisted knickers. Look forward to reading more from you.
I so very much needed to hear this today.
Thank you.
I wish I had your positive outlook. As you know, I have gone through a very rough time the last 4 years. I started my blog as an attempt to find some good, to do some soul searching for the not-so-bad side of my life, but I struggle. I also wish I had your elegant way of writing. I tend to just ramble. m
So glad you are back with us. Your writing is definitely a delight to read every day. Don't feel as if you have to post everyday, otherwise, it sometimes becomes a chore. In reality it is another way we try to please others. I do not have an outstanding blog, but I have to remember that I am not out to seek the approval others, only God. I wanted to mention to you, have you ever considered writing something other than stories or novels? You do an excellent job of just making the mundane to most seem entertaining. I wish I could communicate about everyday life the way that you share with us. Sometimes I laugh so hard and it is just the pick me up that I need for the day. Glad you are back, and as always, thanks for sharing with us. Jackie
My best friend Kasey has a similar quote when she knows someone is upset with her for no good reason, "he'll just have to glad in the same pants he got mad in."
Thank goodness we worship a creator who can bring beauty from ashes, order to chaos and joy in the morning!
I'm so glad you're back. You're a huge part of the brightness of my every morning!
We miss you when you're away and we're always glad when you're back. I love reading your blog. Whenever I'm having a blah day/week/whatever, I try to remember a quote from Emerson. It has helped me in the past so I'm passing it on to you. “Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in, forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day, you shall begin it well and serenely...”
I'm so happy you're back and feeling better! I've missed you and Mabel. Happy weekend!
I'm so happy you're back and feeling better! I've missed you and Mabel. I think it was John Lennon who said "Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans". Or something true like that. Anyways, Happy weekend and welcome back!!
We're so glad Liz got her grove back! You help keep us laughing! Our Grandma always said that if you take everyone's problems and put them in a pile, you would pick the ones you had and take them back.
Here's to happy days!
Karla & Karrie
I like your perspective. I also like that you have a Meme, because so do I. Her quote is great and I'm glad you're back to share your writing/life/spray painting extraordinariness with us again.
I am just glad your back. The offer to run a book-coffee shop-wine shop that sells kitsch is on the table anytime you'd like to walk on the wild side (and move to Orlando). We could write poetry (good or bad) and have open mike nights... just a thought.
I like Meme's saying.
Ive been avoiding blog land. I feel too overwhelmed lately.
I hope you can get through all that you are going through right now and feel better again quickly.
I'm completely and full-heartedly with you on the "life's expectations and reality colliding recently." I feel ya.
glad you are back!
Hey, Liz, I haven't been in touch lately, but I always enjoy reading your stuff... you have such talent with words and photography. I'm glad you took some time off; it's good to get perspective and recharge your batteries. We love you both!
I have to say I think it's pretty important to allow yourself to FEEL your emotions but strike a balance with being grateful for all that you have. So, feel - don't dwell. Sometimes it's tough to find that middle ground!
Even with twisted knickers, your writing is exquisite.
You said, "So instead of using this blog as a forum for the bubbling cauldron of my dissatisfaction;" and I said, "Ouch!" Yes, I HAVE been using my blog as a forum for my dissatisfaction! And it felt good, I must say. But, for me, it's bacon sandwich and Judy Garland! C
ah, the eternal battle (for some of us) to be happy in our own shoes. I often struggle with my feelings of despair/dissatisfaction because nothing is ever really THAT bad, and there are so many horrible things in the world more worthy of my worry. So, I usually just internalize everything & don't share until I'm ready to jump off my cliff. I spend A LOT of time in my head ;) That being said, I'm off to my therapist in a couple hours to (attempt) to work some of my shit out. Hope you're feeling like yourself again soon :)
Glad to see you back, I missed you. I'll use my same shoes to get happy in, too.
While going through my own rough time recently I made it through with the mantra "It is what it is".
Repeating this over and over kept me from losing my mind over things which I had no control.
Here's hoping you find your mantra...
Fairing quite well lately, thank you very much. Oh, and I am going to a fair tomorrow.... er, well, a festival that is. But they sort of count as fairs, don't they?
DI
The Blue RIdge Gal
You are beautiful, Liz. Deep down where it really matters and posts like this just prove it.
Have a refreshing weekend! Shilo
P.S. We get to see our house tomorrow and pick out paint! I'm excited!
YEA!!! I'm glad you're back.....great Blog!
Welcome back! Your right. Life just doesn't turn out the way we think it should. However, I do want to encourage you! I know that I speak for many people when I say that I look forward to reading your blog. I am new to blogging but I have to say, I have read yours and laughed out loud on many occasions. You make me laugh and in this world that we live in....bringing laughter and joy to others is a huge gift!
Glad things are better for ya. I have a favorite saying that goes something like:
"I used to complain that I had no shoes, until I met a man that had no feet."
Thinking of you. Please take some time for yourself - get a massage, go to a movie in the middle of the day, get your hair done, I don't know - just do something special for yourself to lift your spirits. You're such a wonderful person and you do so much for so many. Just be sure you're not getting lost somewhere in there.
XOXO
I'm glad to see you back as well. Yours is one of the blogs I check every day, because I like it. (smile)
What is that saying-'Bloom where you are planted'...it's so true! There is unmentionable heartbreak in the world, really big things that can happen. But for the most part, life is what you make it, how you choose to see things, realizing that most things happen for a reason, making a choice to live your best life. You don't have to make a big splash in the world to be happy or successful or feel you are making a contribution. Don't worry, be happy...and keep your chin up. (could I sound any more cliche? Don't answer that).
Do take care. We love you here.
mary
My life, I realize, is like an ocean. I ride it like a wave. Sometimes, I'm riding high. Life is good. I'm optimistic and hopeful.
Other times I'm down in the trough of the wave. I'm low. Life is rising up around me threatening to crash down on top of me.
But if I wait a little bit, another wave will come along and pick me up.
And I'll be riding high again.
I know what you mean. We all get our knickers twisted sometimes. At the moment I'm not thrilled with some stuff in my life, but I keep trying to focus on the good parts, because there are a lot of good parts. I'm glad you're back!
I've never commented on your blog before but I had to after reading your post today. I was at a point in life where I thought everything was going good - new house, great marriage, baby boy due in Oct. But then reality sets in, people get sick and things aren't as good. Especially after this week, I've had to remind my self that life goes on and I've to make the best of it. I can choose to be sad and dwell or I can get off the couch and get a pedicure. So, I'm off the couch today and getting my toes pretty-fied!!
THAT sounds like a fabulous way to be! I also know that there are times when things are just not what we expected and don't you find that when you start off that way you continue...things look even more bleak and you can tie yourself up in a real misery blanket! I hate that.
I'm glad you are feeling better and I just bet once you start at it things are going to look a whole lot better around you...I often times tell myself to smarten up. Smell the roses...look at others around you who really have cause to feel as they do and they would love my miseries instead.
That makes things look better.
I've enjoyed your blog...come by and visit me too...
have a WONDERFUL new day!
Judi
I visited every day and am glad your break wasn't for long. It's okay to be unhappy and it's even better to put on your happy shoes and push through!
We should all spend a day or two in bed more often.
Oh do I agree with you there!
Blogland is somewhere to escape to - most of us have to work hard and try and cram in a bit of time for our selves..whether you have kids or just seem to be working all of the time! (No kids for me just a busy busy job a cat, husband and small house that is never clean enough or nice enough for me!)
I do love stopping by - and don't forget there are lots of us that feel the same xx
Sam xx
PS Mabel is cuteness - I would love to paint a picture of her!! xx
Sam xx
Good for you for reframing your snag and trudging forward. And the best part? It looks like you have loads of support and encouragement. How great is that?
Your honesty is refreshing...I think that's what makes the blog world satisfying.
I'm glad you're back!
Definitely going through the same feelings lately. It's sometimes hard to deal with things when they don't go as we imagined. Like you, I'm trying to make the best of everything & be happy for what I have. Too many times we overlook the true treasures in our lives.
Glad to have you back! Have a wonderful weekend!
I'm determined to be happy in my shoes, too. It's really the best way to go. Unhappiness just isn't any fun, you know it? :)
Glad you're back. Keep working at this "being happy" stuff. It gets easier with each successful day you have at it!
Kari
I'll be the first to say that I've lived so much of my life in unhappy shoes. Life hasn't been at all what I expected it to be. Life is hard. Life is unfair. What I always fail to realize when I get in my poutiness phase is that it wasn't ever promised to be fair, happy, easy and all the other wonderful things I expected. Where did I get my expectation from? Why did I feel entitled to a life of freedom? I don't know, but what I've gained recently is such an appreciation for my life struggles. The reason is that it enabled my compassion for others to grow and for my faith in Christ to grow. It's so weird to say but at the point I've come to, I wouldnt' trade those diappointments for the world now. I love having to trust Christ daily to meet my needs and to realize the victory in Him for every breath I take.
I know losing your friend and life not going the way you expected has been hard. I hope that today life is a little easier on you and you are able to have joy today...and that today you'll walk in happy shoes.
so glad you are back! If I had to guess I'd say that is a limestone sidewalk from our favorite little town in the Ozarks?
Thank you for this post. It is EXACTLY what I needed to hear right now. I think I am constantly trying to find new shoes for these big feet and I just end up with blisters.
Again, a beautifully put life lesson.
If you read my latest blog entry (which they are much fewer and far between than yours are), you will get a taste of the same thing. Work is absolutely horrible, but I keep telling everyone, including myself, that right now, you either don't have a job or you have a job you hate. That's just the reality of things right now. I try to stay positive because all the negativity really does affect me and everyone around me if I stay that way. I am right there with you, though, and totally understand. I'm glad you decided to share with the rest of us, and even though we've never met, I look forward to reading your blog every day and can usually rely on you for some comic relief!=) Thanks for letting us all be a part of that!
I'm somewhat older than you so the saying I always heard was, "You've got the same pants to get glad in." Welcome back. You were missed.
I have found the best site for getting happy.
Its, http://www.happiness-project.com/happiness_project/
i just love coming here.
:)
it's always nice to hear honesty from other women. it's so good.
Glad you are back. Life is sometimes complicated. I like getting the curve balls thrown at me though. Keeps me on my toes. Plus there is always that rewarding feeling after I pick myself up...knowing that I was able to get back up and get through whatever it was.
LOVE LOVE LOVE your Meme's saying. Thinking I am going to have to find a lovely font to print and frame that in and put in the house somewhere.
Well that's a tricky question these days...we thought we were finally coming out of our own dark tunnel after 11 months only to have that turned on its ear today. Need to find my happy shoes stat.
Thanks Liz. I needed your post...even though you wrote it a few days ago...it's perfect for me today! I got some bad news yesterday from the doctor and was feeling pretty sorry for myself. I read your post on your friend Angela and decided that I needed that same attitude...even if my results aren't as dramatic as hers were. And today, your "happy shoes" reminded me that I CAN be happy and grateful...in the same shoes I lost it in! ;) Love ya girl! You make my day!!
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