Life is Good

Life is good.

I took my social work licensing exam this morning. The closest testing center is in Norman, OK so I made the two hour trip yesterday afternoon and stayed in a hotel last night. I have (and have always had) some pretty serious exam anxiety and was hoping to use the long drive to Norman to clear my head. The drive ended up being the best thing that could have happened to me. The views were breathtakingly beautiful, serene, and peaceful. I passed the time rocking out to my old favorite songs, appreciating the views, reflecting on the past year, gaining perspective, and (dangerously, I know) snapping photos with my phone. I know I will probably catch some heat for doing this (from my mom, dad & Mr. Fred specifically), but as you can see there was little to no traffic and I just felt I had to share the views I was witnessing.

The thing is, it's not often that I sing the praises of Southwest Oklahoma, but on that particular day, I can honestly say it was one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen.

Enjoy...

How would you like to live there?

I arrived in Norman with a clear head and happy heart. Oh, and just a couple months shy of the one-year anniversary of my graduation and subsequent move to Oklahoma, I passed my test this morning.

Housewife, House Life

As a general rule, I try not to use my blog to spew negativity or complain (extensively) about my life. For one thing, there is already far too much negativity in the world for me to add to it with my ho-hums about whatever is bothering me at any particular moment. Additionally, I live a pretty fortunate existence. I have my health; my loved ones have theirs. I have more than adequate shelter, clothing, and food on the table. I have what friends and I like to call, first world problems. 

But to be honest, I've had a few hard days in Altos. I miss using my brain and feeling intellectually exhausted. I miss having lots of friends, colleagues and constant connection to other living, breathing beings. I miss having a schedule. Granted, there are many out there who wish (on a daily basis) that they could have a break from the bonds of their oppressive schedules; an opportunity to do whatever they want whenever they want. I recognize this. In fact, I'm sure that in the past, I made that exact same wish. I acknowledge that the grass is always greener. 

Apparently, today pictures of standing brooms have been sweeping Facebook. I only saw one picture, but articles are being written about how many people are trying it (successfully). I did not believe it was possible and, of course, had to see it for myself. I was sure that I was going to spend the better part of the afternoon in an endless cycle of stabilizing the broom, slowly stepping back, watching it fall, and cursing those who said it was possible. But, alas, on try number one, this is what I got...

Now that is pretty cool. There was apparently a lot of hype about how this phenomena has something to do with the vernal equinox (which isn't even until the 20th by the way), but the equinox has nothing to do with why I think this is cool. It is cool because I just had no idea it was possible. And it is nice sometimes to be reminded (even if by something as silly as a standing broom) that you never know what is possible until you try. It is also nice to have the time to appreciate the little things. Like standing brooms.

I only feel bad for my broom. Just think of all those times I've rested it against the wall when it wasn't in use. From now on, it shall stand tall. Chin up.