Taking time to relax

Bodie Island Lighthouse



Vacation......ahhhh! 

Ocracoke Lighthouse

 
What does vacation, or the term relaxing mean to you?

It is something different for everyone.  Some of us have to have all of our time planned, right down to the minute and an itinerary to go with it.

Some of us just want to chill, go with the flow, take whatever comes up at the moment.  Be free to explore, just read a book, or walk on the beach.

I like a combination of both.  We took a long week-end with a friend who wanted to visit the Wright Bros Museum on the NC Outer Banks.  I wanted to photograph the lighthouses.  So, away we went.  We had 3 days, and what a great time we had.

Beach walks, sightings of unique tiny shells on the shore, sharks & dolphins, sunrise & sunsets.  The last photo I took was an adventure in itself.  The site was closed, so I had to climb over the fence.  But, that was not the challenging part.  It was with a tornado watch that had touched down just a county away.  It was raining hard, but it was worth it.  Sort of a challenge to hold the umbrella and camera.  So, I set the umbrella down, got my shot, and then ran after the umbrella!

We enjoyed great seafood, lots of drinks, talking and laughing about nothing in particular.  We even got chased by a snapping turtle, but that is a story for another day.

So, why not take a couple of days and relax.  It doesn't have to be anything more than time with people you love and enjoy.  You'll feel so much better and ready to take on the world.

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

 
Carpe diem!



Currituck Island Lighthouse



Betrayal



Photo posted by Donna Frasca

 Have you ever felt betrayed?  Maybe by a friend or a co-worker, or possibly by a loved one?

I think it is something that happens to everyone at some time or another, but it is always a blow to the soul. 

The thoughts that run through your mind, like...
"How could they?  What did I do to deserve this?"

It is such an uncomfortable feeling, and leaves you wondering how to handle the relationship.  Were you totally blindsided?  Are you hurt and feeling resentful?

Well, as with all of you, I have just been the victim of rude behaviour  like this.  And, I am considering how to handle it.  But, I also wonder what caused this other person to act in such a manner.  What provoked them on my part?

In all cases, I believe these are the reasons:

• A misunderstanding as to my reasons for acting in a certain manner
• Jealousy, always a factor
• Feeling threatened by their own feelings of inadequacy.

I have found that if I try to analyze their reasons for the betrayal, it usually goes back to the betrayer, not myself.  And in reality, it helps to dissolve the pain and anger.
I refuse to play the victim, and trying 'to get back at them' just is not my style.  Why should I sink to their level?

I feel sorry for those that try to make themselves feel better by demeaning others.
So, next time this happens to you, here are my suggestions.

• Know that this person is not really your friend.  And keep in mind that old saying, 'keep your friends close, but your enemies closer'  Don't give them any reason to cause you problems. 
• Try to keep them at a distance.  I don't believe in spending time with those I don't enjoy being around.  Life is too short, and I don't want mine to be a soap opera!
• Pity them, try to be nice, and live your life as a better example. 

Here's hoping you a life of wonderful friendships, and wisdom to handle adversity and clear the air, so they remain your friends.  Donna

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