I am all about finding the good in a seemingly bad situation. Many are feeling a sense of lack because their current finances keep them at home right now. I say there is much to love about home and much to help one feel a sense of abundance. This recession, which, by the way, is now officially over, still continues to affect many. I call it a recess from consumerism---a second chance to discover people rather than things. This is not to make light of those who never had enough to go overboard from the start. It is a chance to commune with those who had plenty and are now having to adjust. Check out one of my favorite monthly (and free) magazines---Skirt. It is touting the virtues and comforts of home in the May issue and has some great thoughts on which we can reflect. Try making a list of all the things you long to do at home when you are overworked with chores outside the home. If you cannot jog your mind, think of the things you loved to do when you were grounded to your room as an adolescent! The idea is to have a go-to list when you have lost sight of the joys of home. For instance, one of the things on my list comes from the joy of dressing up. I went through my closet and assembled outfits to wear when I get the job I want. Assemble, try on, accessorize---be prepared, act as if opportunity will meet preparedness and it probably will. While out doing my daily constitutional I have discovered another thing to add to my list---my community.

Home, for me, encompasses more than the box of several four walled rooms. It is the neighborhood, the town, the view from my bedroom window. One of the things I love most about my home is the convenience to nearly everything I need. If my job were also in the area, I would not need a car. There is sheer joy in combining exercise and running errands into one outing. Moreover, I get that Cheers sort of feeling of wanting to be where everybody knows my name and face when I shop. Now, how is this finding the good in a bad situation. First, I walk daily because I always have errands to run. Alas, with gas prices inching up again, I can make it an entire week on one fill-up. While out walking I see the beautiful flowers of the season on the grounds of the apartment complex, and can gather a bouquet for free. I am contributing to the good of the environment by cutting down on emission pollution. My love of reading books and magazines has taken a large chunk out of my wallet, so, I have discovered the neighborhood library, which is free. You can also check out movies and music for free at the library. Resale shops are experiencing a renaissance. I have discovered two within walking distance, and three more within five miles. Even though I am not shopping I am preparing for a simplifying of my already simple life. Lastly, I do one of my favorite things---as I encounter people without a smile, I give them mine! A smile helps all of us to find the joy. Until next time...