Let's get this party started.

Let me start by saying that my Title for this series, 31 days to create a charmed life on a shoestring, isn't accurate.

Nope.

The truth is we can all live a charmed life in one day, by just changing our attitudes about the way we view our lives.

Trust me here, I know what I'm talking about. Finding myself suddenly single after just shy of three decades catapulted me into a new life. Just a few weeks before my big five-oh birthday, not only was I nursing a very slow healing broken heart, (while learning to live solo for the first time in my entire life) but my very comfortable financial lifestyle plummeted drastically as well.

But wait, There's more!

About the time I was feeling decently recovered from this first big life change, I found myself being laid off from my career job. (adding insult to injury was being laid off as of New Years Eve that year. Try to feel merry and bright after being told that news.)

Oh, and I went through menopause and my dog died.

(I know, it sounds like like it could have been a big hit country-western song, right?)

You can't make this stuff up, people.

Anyway.

I realized, pretty early on actually, (and I have shared here on my blog more than once) that I wasn't the one driving the bus. I wasn't in control of anything in life.

Nothing...except for...my attitude. I could choose to be consumed with worry, and depression, or I could choose to count my blessings and be grateful.

I know, it sounds like a no-brainer, but here's the thing, it's a much easier decision to choose joy over worry, fear, and a decent sized slice of anger when you're simply reading about it here in print. In real life, it's a lot harder.

Times are tough, jobs are scarce and money is squeaky tight. Some of us have lost our homes, and some of us are battling with health situations. It's hard to let go of the worry, and the anger, and the fear. Funny thing is, once you're in the middle of a pity party, it's hard to leave.(Have you felt that way before?)

Hard, yes, but not impossible. The important thing to remember here is - Whatever it is, pitying yourself will not solve it. Once you choose gratitude, oh my! Whatch out.

So, that brings me to this series.

I want to help some folks get to the next chapter in their life. (As I already said, I know life is sometimes hard, but turn the page! The story gets betta!) And, if you're already in a good spot in your life, I hope this series brings you new inspiration. More frosting on your cake. ...And who doesn't want more frosting on their cake? (I know I do.)

Check back tomorrow for my next instllment of 31 Days.

Comments

[Nan]

You've inspired me already! Can't wait to see your wonderful creative ideas!

[A Yahoo! user]

I have been reading your blog for quite a while and your story, strength, faith and optimism has always been inspiring, oh and your work ethic too (when do you sleep?). I have shared your story with a few gal friends that found themselves in similar circumstances as yours. You are inspiring and I am looking forward to the next 30 days with you. Thanks, Jeni

[Bettsi McComb]

Well, Tracey, you know I've been with you for a long time and you also know that I've been through similar hardships. You're attitude has always inspired me! I'm glad you're doing this series- I'll be here to read it all!

[Tracey Buxton]

Aaaaawe, thanks Bettsi! (And everyone else!) I am happy that you seem to be enjoying the topic I chose! I have lots of ideas I will be sharing!
Tracey

[Gayla Pappenfoht]

Tracey, I hear you. I have been here through it all... reading your happy blog and feeling better than usual due to your merry spirit and your cute photos and your antics and your persistence in the happiness project.

31 sounds amazing. I just checked in today (candlelight day, of course. How appropro!)

Health issue, squeaky tight money, --- you have named it. But you are so right, so right. We do control our attitudes... and it IS easier on paper.

Have a scrumptious weekend. It is a beautifully dark and rainy Friday (my personal fave) here in MO.

Hugs... Keep on keepin' on, honey.

[Tracey Buxton]

Oh, Gayla. Your comment touched my heart. Thank you, and everyone else that has commented here, for reading my posts, and sharing your thoughts and feelings.
 I am blessed.
Tracey