Countdown - 221

When I started this blog, I thought it would be all about me, and my angst over not shopping.  And it IS, it's just that right now I have other things on my mind. 

My Padre is in hospital.  He has been very ill for quite sometime and I am beside myself with worry.  I spoke with him a week ago and he was in such distress, I was ready to jump on a plane and rush to my Home State.  It is disconcerting to say the least, to hear your big strong Papa say he needs help.  It causes one to pause, and think about the bigger picture.  At least that is what it has done for me.

Under normal circumstances, this situation would have driven me straight to one of my fav boutiques to do a little stress shopping.  In times of unhappiness, stress, and worry, the immediate gratification of buying myself a little something 'new', has been a great source of temporary relief.  After almost 7 1/2 months of no shopping, I am realizing the shopping part is very temporary.  It has been during these types of stress shopping spree's I have made some of my worst purchasing decisions.  I am learning to deal with this in a new way.

I am praying more.
I am running more.
I am cleaning my house frequently.
I am working harder.

I am hoping some of these lessons will be permanent.  Mi Padre can't stay in this state forever without some sort of resolution.  As long as I don't 'eat' my way out of the stress, I think I will be ok.

Love,
S