Free to a good home...

Now that I've realized and accepted the fact that I'm all grown up, I can see that there are many things I need to change.  In the past, responsible, mature, reliable, and dependable have not been synonyms used to describe my personality.  I think one reason is because I have never, ever been a morning person.  Even as a child, I frequently reminded my mother that it was time for my nap.  Anyone who knows me well, understands that it would be ridiculous to expect me to show up for any event and/or appointment scheduled before 11am.  Even breakfast.  But since I have spent every spare minute during the first half of my life in bed sleeping or on the couch relaxing, I have to make up for it by spending the next half of my life out of bed and fully awake.  What I need to do now is become... productive.  I don't have an inner child.  I have an entire playground of children running amuck in my mind with no supervision.  Fighting, arguing, teasing, and telling on each other.  Every one a spoiled brat.  I have allowed them to live in an eternal state of recess.  A perpetual spring break followed by a long summer vacation.  But no more cutting class for me.  I have to be the mother, the teacher and the hall monitor of my own life.  I have to become my own boss.  Answer only to myself.  No more excuse notes to me from me either.  If I want to accomplish anything during my life, I better start doing it before I run out of time.  I want to travel.  Show my kids how important it is to see and explore the world.  I want to dive a shipwreck and see the ancient ruins in Greece.  I'd like to get out and meet some of my fellow Journalers.  Write a book.  Star in an action/adventure/comedy movie.  Be a spokesperson and role model for Menopausal Women.  I'd like to be an investigative newspaper reporter with a weekly column on anti-aging beauty secrets and household products that actually work.  I want to learn to ice skate and take lessons in Latin dancing.  Wear a skin tight, sexy red dress and do a routine with Ray that will make everyone out on the dance floor stop, gasp and applaud when we're finished.  That's just the beginning.  I want to make a difference in the world, too.  I've always believed that people should ALWAYS leave a place better than they found it, and the world is patiently waiting for my contributions.  In order to do all of this, I need to be disciplined.  Make a commitment to myself and stick to it.  So now it's official.  I'm ready to start, but we're leaving for vacation on Monday.  No point in turning over any new leaves until we return.  I'll have to go right back to work at the hospital of course, but the very first day I'm off, I'm going to get up early and begin Part II of My Life.  I will be ready to start immediately after I write a Journal entry on how much fun we had in Punta Cana.  Oh, and do all the laundry that will be piled up from the trip.  And see the kids and Baby Brandon.  Not to mention Ray's birthday on the 29th...  I should probably make a dentist appointment.  There's nothing worse than a toothache when you're trying to make the world a better place...  Maybe get my hair cut again so I won't have any other interruptions in reaching my lifetime goals.  Then there will be absolutely nothing left to distract me and I will be totally focused.  That reminds me... I should also make an appointment to see the eye doctor... and get the oil changed in my car.  But that's it.  In fact...I'll make a list.  Cross out each thing as it's completed.  I'm starting to feel more organized already.  I'll be thinking of you guys!  See ya when I get back!