So, I tried something new today and after many suggestions not to, I flew Spirit airlines. I have heard very little positive comments from others and after considering it from a friend, AND the option to save $130 I thought I’d give it a try. Well, I’m glad I did. The flight was cozy (as I was told it would be) but all in all, the flight went well and an added plus it was 25 minutes early. I’m grateful to have tried something new and it turn out ok!

What new thing have you tried lately?

Today, I am grateful for this book -> Chew on Life’s Big Questions

Thank goodness today was MUCH less busy than yesterday. I felt like a chicken with my head cut off at a certain point and today was much more smooth. I was less crazed, rested, and more mindful of my surroundings. I am grateful for days like today to balance out the days like yesterday. Aww….slow.

What kind of life pace are you keeping as of late?

Monday, fun day. Today was a crazy busy day but ended restfully. I took part in a market research group today and it was a gracious opportunity to share my insights and lifestyle choices that may eventually lead to products and services that will make shopping and purchasing easier in the future. I am thankful for these kinds of sessions as I feel my experience is valued as a consumer.

Who’s opinion have you valued recently?

It’s been a long time coming but this morning I returned to my 5k participation. I enjoy participating in these kinds of events and today was especially beautiful morning. It was a cool start but quickly warmed up and it felt great to get back out there.

School has been consuming my life and I have craved more balance. Using exercise, especially outdoors with friends as a tool to help create more of a balance is a no-brainer but challenging to maintain. Tomorrow, is a new day and new efforts begin tomorrow, but today I am grateful for a fresh start.

What have you recently restarted lately?

Sleep, oh how much I love you! Not only did I sleep in this morning, but was I was lucky enough to engage in an afternoon nap. It was a fairly slow day and I was able to move through a great deal of reading, finish my discussion for the week and begin my assignment that isn’t due for another week.

Working ahead is a success strategy I have used and I find useful. I am able to meet my deadlines and operate at my best. I am grateful to have the time and wisdom to use this strategy.

What strategy are you thankful for?

And yet another week coming to an end. Today, is especially exciting because me next course in my DBA journey has begun. I am taking a statistics course this quarter and am again feeling confident with the content. In addition, this is course number 7 of 10 which brings me one step closer to the finish line. Here’s to another successful quarter. I’m grateful for this journey and the opportunity I have been given.

What opportunity are you currently grateful?

Today, I attended the NACADA (National Academic Advising Association) conference. I was able to spend the day learning and collecting ideas that I believe will help me develop my professional skills. A world of possibilities exists and I am even more excited than ever before. Now, if only I could more hours to my already extended day.

What kinds of investments have you made in yourself lately?

To live happily is an inward power of the soul. ~ Marcus Aurelius

Santiago, Chile here I come. In exactly 30 days I will be embarking upon my first official international travel experience. I am traveling with a group of instructors and class mates and am beyond excited. Last evening, I bought my airfare and have put on the finishing touches in my travel plans. I love traveling and experiencing new cultures and cannot believe that after 18 months of saving money and planning for this trip it is almost here. I am SO thankful I am in a position to afford to take advantageous of this incredible opportunity.

What has gotten you excited lately?