Once upon a time, an idealistic young lady thought that changing the world involved perfection.  So she worked tirelessly to make sure everything was just so, with all i's dotted and all t's crossed.  If it wasn't good enough, she did it again.  If it still wasn't good enough, she practiced and researched and did it over.

Now she knows it is called perfectionism at best, OCD and AR at worst.  And she is tired.

Let's add this up, shall we?  Um...working full time in a demanding educational position, finishing a (second) master's degree, working on syllabi to cross the boundaries between liberal arts and business, preparing an application packet for a doctoral program, working a business from home, researching and facilitating healing for a child diagnosed with ADHD/ODD/anxiety/depression, holding down the fort which occasionally involves home-cooked meals and housework, taking care of two high energy lovey boxers, and trying to be a friend, mother and wife.

Yes, I am referring to myself, and it's no wonder 4 different Starbucks know me by name and beverage.

I read to escape.  I always have.  Lately I read and keep reading and then cross reference that and read some more.  Which is why I haven't blogged in over two years...I didn't have enough research on anything I wanted to say.  Well, enough with the analysis paralysis.

Just do it.  NOW.  If you like to read, read.  If you want to watch a movie for a little entertainment and escapism, watch.  Sing along with the radio.  Sing along with the TV while viewing Glee or American Idol or whatever makes you happy.  Most of us run like a top, spinning and spinning; stopping to pick up the juggling balls we dropped and set them in motion again; dizzy as a dervish with never a moment's rest.  We need escape and entertainment just to stay sane.  I finally picked up a fictional tale of the life of Anne Bolelyn that has been on my library shelf for at least a year.  This caused me to go back and re-watch The Tudors (Showtime) and enjoy that version of history.  Is any of that "useful?"  Yes, because it keeps me present and healthy.

Read.  Watch.  Do.  Just live your life. :)