One small road trip for a woman

I have lived a life of fear, though now to a lesser extent than in the past. Today I did something that I'm very proud of. I drove a pickup truck from one city to another and back again to bring home something that I chose to buy on my own. Let's break down that accomplishment.

1. I drove a truck! I hate driving large vehicles and goodness knows how glad I am that I didn't have to park it anywhere small. Normally I avoid driving anything larger than our sedan if I can possibly help it. It was actually quite fun and I enjoyed the get up and go of the thing, nodding sedately to other truck drivers as we passed each other on the road.

2. I drove it from one city to the next. While it isn't so unusual for me to get on a highway and drive nowadays, it's still something that fills me with anxiety.

3. I chose to make a major purchase on my own. I studied, prayed, looked around, and got what I wanted.

4. I identified something I wanted. Some of you will understand the enormity of this better than others. I wanted it. I wanted it! I could say that, work to get it, and love it when I got it. I was able to deliberately declare my desire to obtain this thing, and intentionally go and obtain it. It's taken me years to learn how to say that I want something without feeling guilty about it, or even acknowledge that I want something in the first place. Now I just need to pick out pillows to match. :)

The kids were so dang cute tonight in their Halloween costumes. We only did three streets but their bags were full enough for kids their age from this generous neighborhood. Tag was Robin Hood and Mog was a conglomeration of all the things she really loves: butterfly wings, princess crowns, leotards, tutus, and pink tights. I think she was telling people that she was a dancing butterfly princess. It was a lot of fun this year, telling the kids they could be absolutely anything they wanted. Tag never did really pick. We just sort of talked up a costume that was already available. Pebbles went as an adorable baby and slept most of the time. Pictures forthcoming.

That gives me an idea. Mog is now Princess Butterfly, or PB if I'm in a hurry. Mog is such an odd sounding name for such a pretty girl.