brianreeder.com - I do what I want!

This drunk driving accident changed my life. I was 12 years old when it happened, and to have that experience at that age is sobering. I learned + matured a lot from the accident. It gave me perspective at a young age, and gave me a gratitude for life I would not otherwise posses. It is sad that it usually takes an enormous shock, like a near-death experience, for people to begin to appreciate what they have. I consider myself lucky I had it happen at such a young age- some never get it at all. I wrote a personal account of the crash on strikeyourcolors.com, please read it here.

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The Oregon Coast is not typically known for its weather- especially in May. Luckily, the day I happened to have off coincided with the nicest day of the year to date. It was an amazing + relaxing day: just laying on the sand dozing and being close. After 4 hours of this my face is a brilliant shade of lobster, and I’m sure you could fry an egg on it. Small price to pay for such a day. Every day can be like that- not necessarily the ocean, but the contentment and feeling that comes with spending a day with someone special. Yesterday it was easy to find joy- it was all around me. Now I have that memory to look back on and find joy and strength through a more challenging time.

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I did, I’ve been wound up like a caffeinated child with a serious adhd problem. When I went home for lunch today, I turned the TV on and heard Bob Ross talking about a “happy little tree” or something. I love the show, and today more than ever appreciated the joy and passion Bob has for painting. Hence the name of the program, The Joy Of Painting. I watched for about twenty minutes and by the end I had a smile on my face. It reinforced a lesson I’ve known for years but needed to hear again: it’s about what you put in, not what you get out.

If you’re a fan of Bob and his show, check out this link. It’s all the YouTube search results for him. In the mean time:

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My tan is developing, my mindset is changing, my smile won’t leave my face.  I literally did NOTHING but sit in the sun yesterday.  It was amazing.  BBQ’ing at a friends house (I manned the grill) and sharing stories and laughter with friends completed the evening, I wish more people could have enjoyed the sun like I did.  Everyone was asking me why I was smiling so much- I wouldn’t stop.  I just couldn’t help it, I was more relaxed and happy than I’ve been in a while.  Back to work today, I’m looking forward to it!

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I am always amazed at how much can come from so little.  How fun can be born from boredom.  Admittedly, I missed my dentist appointment, and Dr. Hagler is going to kill me, but it was well worth it.  My corner of freedom is in my ability to control my attitude, and I plan to use it.  I am happy as a clam having the day off and enjoying the sunshine.  Laying out with friends, no plans, no worries.  Just enjoying the day.  It has become so rare in my life, I have learned to appreciate these days when they come around.  The sunshine beckons…

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