I love new years resolutions! It’s a time that forces me to sit down and think about how I want to improve.

For the last several years I’ve made it a mission to be non-judgmental. I try my hardest and typically I do OK.

This year, I want to take it one step further. I want to start to focus on what I have in common with people as opposed to what is different.  

Anyone care to join me? Or, just tell me one of yours and maybe I’ll join you!

I can’t shake the thought. Here I was, sitting down to a great meal with my family in the security of my own home. Halfway around the world, hundreds of people were targeted and killed for being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

It really puts things into perspective…

So what if your husband forgot to pick up his socks.
So what if you don’t like your job.
So what if a friend made you feel slighted.
So what if can't find your favorite ___ (fill in the blank with whatever you want).

It’s a reminder to recognize and hold close those things that are truly important.

My heart goes out to the people and country of India. It’s a sad week for them and for the world.

Once in a while, I run into someone who is dripping with sweetness. Every single time you talk to them they call you dear, honey, sweetie, etc. If it's said once in a while, it doesn't bother me at all. If it's said all the time, I'm OK with it for a while, but sometimes it is just too much and I have to ask the person to stop.

And it’s funny, I don’t have issues when people say nice things, compliments, etc. But these pet names/phrases really get to me.

Now mind you, I’m guilty. Once in a while I may say something like that as well. I admit it! But, I don’t say it everytime.

I don’t know why I have an issue with this and I’m trying to figure it out. Is it because it doesn’t seem sincere? Is it because it seems almost condescending?

What are your thoughts on this? Is it cultural? Does it depend on where you live?  

(And if you are one of my friends and do this, don’t think it is aimed at you. It is just something I’ve been thinking about.)

There are so many reasons why I like my on-line friends here…

First, we are here because we chose to be. We aren’t shoved together because we are in the same company, neighborhood, or school. So the people that are here, are here because they like it.

Second, we can be candid and not worry about the repercussions. I’m pretty candid in general, but I like that people here tell me when they disagree. (There’s not enough honesty in day to day conversations that happen in person – especially at work).

Third, I don’t see alot of the pettiness that I see in day to day life. People don’t get angry because you didn’t ask them to go to dinner with other friends, etc. I hate pettiness.

Forth – There are always new people that join. That makes it more interesting and fun.

I’m sure there are lots of other reasons that I just didn’t think of! Feel free to add.

Yana - You've done a great job with creating and running this site!

Everyone else – you are all fabulous!

Work is really hard these days.  

It’s difficult to go.
It’s difficult to be there.
Everyone is gloomy.
It’s like we are just going through the motions.
Waiting for the layoffs.
Will it be me? Will it be my friend?  

No one can plan.
No one is creative.
No one knows.
The teamwork is gone.
The comraderie is gone.
We are just waiting, waiting.  

There is nothing we can do but wait.
We still work while we wait.
We still laugh while we wait.
But in the back of everyone’s minds, we are waiting.  

In spite of it all, we are friends.
We have our momentary giggles and also some really good laughs.
We take our lunches and talk of other things.
The waiting continues, but so do we.

Yesterday, I asked for Home Remedies for health. Today, I want to know about home remedies for the house. I’ll start.

1 – White vinegar to unclog drains
2 – Peanutbutter to fix scatches on cds/dvds. Actually, I never tried this one but I’m curious if anyone has.
3 – Grind lemon peel in garbage disposal to keep it smellng fresh.

I’ll post others as I think of them!