Desert Magnolia

Simple things are truly what make life rich and wonderful. In fact, some days, the simple stuff is all that keeps me from running screaming from the room. Seriously. Like, when my friend JL would do her silly happy dance as she walked by my office door. That would jolly me out of any stress out I could conjure. Every single time. Like when Son called yesterday and announced he'd be joining us in Mexico for the holidays. Woot! So now our fam will be complete plus 1 sweet friend of Daughter's...laying on the beach, contemplating whether it's time to apply more sunscreen. Or or to reach for a cold beer or order a chilly marg. You know, that kind of stuff. Easy. Like Daughter and I spending time at our hair stylist's yesterday afternoon. Sipping a glass of wine, getting our 'dos done. Then shopping, and actually finding a cute pair of boots and some darling jeans for the girl. Like dancing in the kitchen..while listening to Tom Petty, laughing with my girl, p...

Do you remember when being polite and courteous above all else was paramount? When the thought of calling someone out on their BS stream or challenging a relative on a political or religious stance was unthinkable? Me too. But it's been awhile. I'm not sure when my filter started to fail, but for sure the last five years have definitely taken a toll on its integrity. Nonconfrontational by nature, I avoid runins that get messy whenever and wherever possible. I've strained my emotions and sensibilities so many times it's a wonder I haven't ended up looking like a female version of Gumby.  I guess I'm just wired this way. (Note: My natural inclination to avoid confrontation and anger has, however, been known to evaporate under the influence of too much cabernet. I'm just sayin'. Another reason to moderate intake, right?) Through the years I've envied those who can just let loose and tell their opponents how they feel, hold their ground, etc. I...