A Series of Unfortunate Events

Note: The following might be a little bit deeper topic than I usually discuss.

Have you ever read the books 'A series of Unfortunate Events' by Lemony Snicket? Or maybe you've seen the movie that was made starring Jim Carrey? As the story goes, the poor children encounter so many misfortunes that it is almost humorous. Which, if it were actual reality it wouldn't be the least bit funny at all. When something unfortunate occurs in my life these stories return to my thoughts and I can't help think, it could be worse.

That's the trick; perspective. Honestly, it usually takes me a few days to realize that in the scheme of things it could be worse, but after a little time I do come to the conclusion that whatever the misfortune, it could be worse. I, then, ask myself, how can I be more prepared when another situation of the same nature arises? How will I respond if there is a next time? Once I've made a sound decision in my mind I feel much better and I put the current event to rest.

I am only in control of my own actions and thoughts. And I can only improve as I move forward. That is all anyone can do.

When I take a moment to look at the big picture, where I've been, where I'm at and where I'd like to go I realize I am pretty lucky. Sometimes one just has to look at what they do have. Are you lucky to have a spouse? A best friend? Children? Health? A job? Spare change to do your laundry? Ability to walk around or watch your favorite TV show?

See, there is always one thing to be thankful for.

Keep Loving.

Happy Blog-iversary!

There is a completely different energy on Fridays. Or at least there is in the Miller homestead. It might be in part of the holidays! Only 4 more days (for us) until we celebrate Christmas! All though, I think we've been celebrating all month. Do you have a little extra pep in your step on Fridays or near the holidays? It's the weekend and Christmas. Who wouldn't be excited?

Well everyone, today is an even more special day for The Plain Side because this is my 200th post! Hip HIP HORRAY! Can you believe it? It feels like a milestone to reach 200 total entries. I think I'll call it my blog-iversary. I can't believe I've been writing The Plain Side since June of 2011. Time really does fly. Blogging has been such a great way to log my journey, express my feelings and thoughts.

I owe my followers, friends, family and R especially a huge THANK YOU for giving me positive feedback and tuning in every time I write something new. Your support gives me motivation and inspiration during rough pages and moments of writers block. I can definitely feel the love through the amount of views I've received.

Speaking of that I'm nearing 13,000 views. Another milestone that so quickly approached. I want to document this as someday I will look back and remember how I felt today, accomplished, excited and surprised I've come so far in my online journaling. Views are very important part of blogging as it tells you just how many people you reach with your writing. It's exciting to know that on average my blog is read 1,200 a month.

Thank you all again. I can't wait to see where The Plain Side will be 1 year from now. If you have any suggestions, etc. I'd be more than happy to have them. Also don't miss the new page I added.

Keep Loving.

Cheerio!

I was sweeping at work today (I picked up a brunch shift at The Grand) and I found a cheerio mess under a table. My thoughts immediately went to Edee (who is newly in love with the little o's), which my thoughts often do, and I was overwhelmed how one little cheerio had me thinking pretty hard about life.

1. I'm 100% Mom. I know this because even when I have time away from Edee, work or fun, I'm still thinking: is she sleeping yet? should i check with the babysitter? when did she eat last? when did she poop last? And...I'd rather be at home with her.

2. I still can't believe my daughter, MY very own daughter, has 2 teeth, is trying to crawl (but can only go in reverse), has a vocabulary of 4 words, and is undeniably beautiful.

3. I spend more time in the baby food aisle when grocery shopping than any other aisle. And I can't help but quickly veering the cart into the baby clothes, "just to look" EVERY time we almost go passed it.

4. I couldn't do this Mom thing with out the Dad person in our lives. I'm not a Jesus freak but God made a Mom and Dad for a reason, of which I now know. Single Mom's out there, HIGH FIVE!

5. I planned my life up until this point and accomplished the goals in the order I wanted too. I just never imagined how hard, how crazy, how fun, how surprisingly great it would be. I never imagined the love I would feel when I got here.

I finished sweeping the floor. I never would have thought one little cheerio could make me think and feel so many things.

Keep Loving.