The Big 40

I've officially started the countdown to my 40th birthday: 8 days.  I haven't spent too much time consciously thinking about this typically dreaded birthday, however, last night I had a dream that is making me feel as though I must be trying to deal with it on a subconscious level.

I can't recall all the specifics of the dream, but I do remember being with a group of people I knew and was getting prepared to go for a run with them, a sort of group activity.  While I was gathering my hair to put it into a pony tail, a large clump, pretty much my whole pony tail, fell out into my hand.  In my dream, I was alarmed by it, but then threw the mass of hair off to the side and began running.

Anytime anything weird like that occurs in my dreams, I like to Google possible meanings and below is what I found about both loosing hair in clumps and running.

Powerlessness if losing hair – The loss of hair mostly shows the lack of strength in the dreamer’s life. It could also show the fear of becoming older and unattractive. The hair is one of the most important part of the beauty, especially to women, where it looks playful, innocent and feminine.

To dream of running in company with others, is a sign that you will participate in some festivity, and you will find that your affairs are growing towards fortune.

I'm clearly afraid of getting older but at the same time, looking forward to celebrating my birthday, right? 
Carl Jung, I think you were on to something.

Pre-Thanksgiving Thanks

 

I am on the eve of taking my son to Florida for the first time for a Thanksgiving vacation.   This will be his first introduction to Walt Disney world.  I have been planning this vacation for nearly 7 months and tomorrow at 2:50 pm, our flight will leave the ever growing chill of Vermont for some temperatures in the 70's and 80's.  My packing for this trip began about a week ago, in true DingosMom form and I feel as though I have all my I's dotted and T's crossed.  I have even included my son's Mickey Mouse Halloween costume that he has been wearing religiously ever since the Saturday before Halloween.

Given the excitement of a destination Thanksgiving, I thought I would take a moment, in advance, to observe and share what I am most thankful for this year.

I am Thankful for:

1. My Son - I cannot imagine my life without this little boy who constantly is learning and growing.  Everyday I see him evolving into a little man gathering the tactical and emotional knowledge of how to become the best loving, caring, independent little person he can be.
2. My Family - may they continue to be strong (healthy) and in good spirits though I am unable to share this holiday with them.
3. My Job - It provides me with never ending challenges, personal/professional growth opportunities, personal/professional rewards, and the means to have choices in life many others are not afforded.
4. My home - There is security in knowing you always have a safe place to come to at the end of the day to cook a meal, read a book, relax and make your own.  I'm so thankful for being a home-owner.
5. Food - I'm thankful for the food I'm able to nourish myself and my son with, learning the value of organic food and healthy preparation.
6. My Son's Father - I am thankful that my son has a father who loves him and wants the best for him.
7. Unconditional Love - I'm thankful for the opportunity to feel and give love unconditionally to my family.

I could go on and on as I feel incredibly blessed.  May everyone this Thanksgiving season, take a moment and do a personal inventory on what ways they are blessed too.