I remember reading in a magazine, a long time ago, about a woman whose life got turned upside because of some particular tragic events.  I don't remember her story exactly but she did mention what she did to turn her life around.  She said she made a book, her "dreams book".  She took a scrapbook, wrote about she wanted most out of her life, as well as cutting out magazine pictures of what she exactly wanted, i.e. a picture of a beautiful home, a picture of a happy family, etc.  The point was to turn her dreams into solid visions, making those dreams more tangible.  Eventually, this woman did manage to achieve all of those dreams.

Even though my life has never been as tragic as that woman's, I felt like I could also construct my own "dreams book".  There are many things that I want in my life-- not necessarily materialistic things.  They may not be things that can happen right now but are definitely things I want for the future.  But, being the lazy person that I am, I still have not constructed this book; however, I have finally put together a list of all the things I want.

Here it is (not in any particular order):

- a successful career-- not necessarily in teaching!

- to see the world and experience it, and not only from a tourist's point of view

- true happiness that comes within and that doesn't depend on other people or on material objects

- a loving, caring husband who always puts me first

- a stable home

- to make a difference, no matter how subtle or minor, to the world

- people to respect teachers!!!

- the clarity of mind and strength of will to overcome any obstacles

- independence: the ability to survive and thrive without depending on others

- to remain innocent but not naive/ignorant

I'm sure there will be more things that will be added to this list in the future.  Do you have a "dreams book" or a "wish list"?  What would be in your "dreams book"?