It's the Small Things

Tonight we were able to do something we haven't been able to afford to do in a very long time... go to out to dinner! I got up this morning feeling pretty blah, but the day perked up after I picked Matt up from school. Jay came in from SC this morning and we took advantage with some family time. 

We started the afternoon off with a trip down to the pool. I was able to soak up the rays and chat with my neighbor while our kids played together. I eventually got in for a bit when Jay came down, good times for sure! 

Hungry from our swim we ventured out. First stop - the car wash and we even splurged for the deluxe so we could ooh and ahh at the colored foam. Mind you the car has not had a proper bath since we moved to FL in October so this was extra exciting. 

Next on the to do list FOOD! After cruising 436 for a bit we decided on Chili's where I was able to splurge on a pretty drink (which my husband captured a photo of, as well as a very unflattering view of my forehead lol).

We went from dinner to shopping as Jay needed a few shirts for work. And then we capped off the night with a stop at Bruster's for some ice cream. I absolutely love their palm trees that have lights on them that look like they are raining. I will have to make sure I get a picture the next time we stop there. 

Through this transition out of the military, outings like this have just not been financially feasible, which made tonight extra special. It was a confirmation that there is indeed a light at the end of the tunnel, and we are almost there. 

Flying By the Seat of My Pants

Flying by the seat of my pants is a term that I've heard a lot, mostly to describe the way I live my life. Even though it's mostly used in a condescending tone, I don't find that flying by the seat of my pants is a bad way to live at all. In fact I've found it extremely useful! 

According to The Phrase Finder, flying by the seat of your pants, is an idiom that means you "decide a course of action as you go along, using your own initiative and perceptions rather than a pre-determined plan or mechanical aids". They also say that it's origins are related to aviators that had to fly with a lack of navigation instruments and instead had to rely on their own instincts and judgment while in the air.

Todays' meaning of the phrase is not as nice. Although I wouldn't call the Urban Dictionary a reliable source, I think they summed up the way this idiom is viewed by today's society pretty well. Their definition follows:

"Act according to one's own desires or beliefs without regard for standards for social behavior, logical sensibility, or the approval of others.  Generally regarded as negative, irresponsible"

Having spent the greater part of my adult life as an Army wife, I would say that living in this manner has saved my sanity. The Army likes to use terms such as resiliency and adaptable. I believe these to be fancy terms for hold on tight, this is going to be a bumpy ride! They give regular classes to teach these skills to family members because they feel they are that important! Now that we are out in the civilian world, finding our way, I am extremely grateful for this part of my personality. 

I guess what I am trying to say here, is that I live life with no expectations and an abundance of curiosity, excitement, and hope. I know that if I choose to walk down a certain path that the path is not set in stone.  I tend to jump into anything that peaks my interest with both feet. Has this led to some trials and hard times? Well of course. But it has also led to some of the best parts of my life.

A quote made famous by Les Brown pretty much sums it up. “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you'll land among the stars.” Except I don't just shoot for the moon. I build a rocket out of random spare parts, blast off, and hope that it doesn't break apart on the way there! I will be posting all about my adventures and debacles, and I invite you along for the ride. Please make sure your seat backs and tray tables are in their full upright position and that your seat belt is securely fastened.  Welcome aboard and enjoy the flight!