Mother Theresa gave Freely!

   How much is to much?   How much time and energy do you put into a giving of yourself?.  Do you run yourself ragged and give your family the leftovers?  What lines do you draw to make sure your life is balanced?  I find that I have no problem saying no and meaning it.  But sometimes I get myself in situations where I want to do for someone and then they take advantage(in my opinion).   Then I'm upset because they took advantage-But did they "take" advantage or did I give it away.  My self inflicted Catholic guilt kicks in and I feel guilty for being upset at the person and when I offer to help it should not come with strings attached.  I'm a dog chasing my tail.  How do I let go of the hurt of being taken advantage of and just give freely?  I'm not certain that there is a pat answer to such a complex feeling.
    I imagine Mother Theresa never felt frustrated giving 100% to the orphans and nuns.  Is this because she didn't have children and a husband she was taking time from?  This might be another reason I feel guilty...I give to others at whose expense?  Do I give 100% to my family?  Or do I, on a regular basis, give away my best self to others?
    In reading what I am writing I see the decisions I make directly effect my domino's(those who I directly impact and bring down with me when I fall).  How can I change my actions so I don't negatively impact those around me?  More importantly, what can I do or change in myself that when I do give my time and energy it's a positive impact on those around me?  I think I have a list to guide me and possibly change how I view the giving of myself.

1. does it take away from my domino's? 
2. Can my domino's be involved and make a difference?
3. do i love what I am doing, does it make a difference, it is important?  
4. can I fit it into my schedule without causing stress or conflict?
5. Am I the best version of myself when doing this?

How'd that Gratitude work out for you?

   Haha.   I'm not sure I made it past the first month of my Gratitude year.  Lets be honest....I get caught up in day to day tasks and schedules and gratitude focus took a back seat.  I am thankful every day, for what the good Lord has given me, but to put a focus on something singular in this house..it's not gonna happen.  
    I did start 2014 off with a memory jar.  I picked up a large jar at TJMaxx and set index cards by it.  We've added several so far but like anything lets see if we keep it up.   My ADD kicks in and I walk away and never look back from so many projects.  I need to focus on today and one thing at a time.  So today, just today, I'm writing in my blog.  Lets see if tomorrow I can add a little something something to it as well.

   I'm working on cleaning out the cesspool we call a refrigerator, washing bedding, and cleaning bathrooms.  Being a stay at home Mom has yet to be all I thought it would be.  The part I love is no schedule but it's also my down fall.  The dogs are happy to have me here and for today I'll appreciate that!
 Speaking of thankful-I am thankful for my baby boy...the one who dreams of being an actor and can rock that tutu and wig like no one else!