Do I see myself as a "victim?"

I have a sweet boyfriend but like most couples...we have our share of fights.  We live an hour an a half away from each other...so there are a lot of difficult moments.

Usually it's because I get upset because he goes hunting instead of coming over to see me.

To be fair, I work a strange schedule so on Saturday morning I go into work at midnight, get off around 8 or so and usually go home and sleep all day.   Same goes for Sundays.  So if Michael was to come over, it would be likely that he would be sitting next to me why I sleep all day.  

Still, I get so upset when he doesn't come, because come Monday, I will drive to be there with him even though he'll be at work all day.  

I feel like if he doesn't come visit, he's choosing something over me.  It's either because he wants to go out with friends in his home town or he's getting up early to go hunting.  He says this isn't so and he says he would not have a problem with me not coming to see him one Monday if I was to develop some sort of hobby that kept me in my town.

He says when I say things like he's picking something over me, I'm making myself out to be a victim.  I think I'm just airing my concerns.

I know he loves me and I love him but I want someone who wants to spend time with me.  Especially when there are some days when we can't see each other at all.

Happiness is Free

Since extra money seems to be a luxury no one has these days...I thought I'd make a list of my ten favorite things that make me happy...and cost little to nothing.

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1. Working out, Losing weight...feeling healthy about your body in general actually

This isn't number one because it's what makes me the absolute happiest...rather, it's at the top because you can do it any time you want. I find a good work out just brings a smile to my face. A run in the park, an hour at the gym, doing a bunch of push ups...it all makes me feel good about my body...which then makes me happy.

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2. Family/loved ones/significant others

These people are your support, your "parachutes," they will catch you when you fall. Cherish them and love them if you have anyone in your life who loves you...consider yourself lucky.

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3. Wing Stop

This one doesn't cost more than ten bucks...I cannot describe here in words how much I enjoy Wing Stop wings and the fries that come with. They are amazing. My comfort food. I could eat this meal for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

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4. Making someone smile

This is also an easy one. This can be as simple as opening a door, telling someone you appreciate them, doing something kind, or just sharing a smile. Do this as often as possible.

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5. An amazing date

This doesn't have to cost much at all. For me, a walk along a river, going on a picnic throwing a frisbee at a park, slow dancing in the middle of your house all constitute a great date. Branch out of what is normal: food, bar, movie...and do something fun and creative with the one you love...or maybe just like.

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6. A nap

Naps are very underrated. They have the power to uplift, relieve, and calm you down. I'm known to pull over into a Cracker Barrell parking lot and steal a quick snooze. I've even taken a nap before I've gone to work out. I feel better and you feel better because I'm not cranky. My advice: Don't let your nap take more than 20 minutes. You'll feel more refreshed if you don't let yourself slip into too deep a sleep.

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7. Cuddling

There is little in this world better than finding somone to hold onto where your body and their body feels as though it is a puzzle...meant to be together. When you find someone to cuddle with and it feels absolutely perfect...hold on tight. If you don't currently have someone to cuddle with...go hold a dog, hug your mom, cuddle with a stuffed animal. You'll feel better for it.

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8. A favorite TV show

For me, it's The Office. Some days, the only thing that gets me through the day is knowing I get to come home and watch The Office. That show makes me laugh out loud even when I'm alone in my home. If you have a show that makes you feel this way...cherish that time you get to watch it.

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9. Singing REALLY LOUD

You probably don't want to know what it sounds like on a typical drive in my car. I'm singing and yelling and having a great time. Take the opportunity to unleash your inner rock star whenever you are given the opportunity.

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10. Havin a relationship with God

This is where you get JOY. It's different than happiness. Talk to God as much as you can. It feels great to know somone else is in control.

Missing Memphis

I was born and raised in the Bluff City (Memphis)...and lived there for most of my 23 years.  It's a beautiful crazy city with a lot of personality.  

To chase my dreams of being a reporter, I moved to Arkansas in November 07, a few months later moved to West Monroe, Louisiana, and now I live in the Shreveport area of Louisiana.

I like where I am.  It's a good size, no too small...not too big.  But it's not home...my wonderful family is not here.

My boyfriend and I visited Memphis this weekend.  It was wonderful.  

My mom and brother and I showed him all over, including Beale Street, the Peabody, Shelby Farms...the list goes on.  He also got to watch my dad work, which was very interesting. 

He also got to meet my grandma, cousin, her boyfriend, as well as my aunt and uncle.  We played Trivia Pursuit and Catch Phrase.  I swear I would be happy the rest of my life playing board games with all the people I love.  

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Now, I'm back in Louisiana.  I miss Memphis for so many things, but the number one reason is my family.  While I love being independent and having such a fun job...I truly miss not having a place to go...when there is no where else to go.