This morning was typical in our household of 2 dogs and a cockatiel. If I have any stress our bird Snuffy is like my inner stress meter. His normal happy sounds turn into high pitched squeals at a time when I can least handle it. I wasn't graceful this morning and yelled "bad bird' a couple of times as I hastily got my things ready to go work in the office. There would be no peace if I stayed. I was throwing things around and heading out to my car when I stopped and took a deep breath.......

If this beautiful bird is my stress meter my getting mad wasn't helping. I quietly walked upstairs and went over to his cage. I took the time to make cooing noices and pet him. I told him I'm sorry. Animals can be humbling if you let them. He reminded me to take a deep breath and take it easy.

Many times we let the situation, our family, the client, the economy get us in a frenzy, I hope you all listen to that inner voice when it tells you to slow down and be grateful for everything we do have. I know I spent the rest of the day a better agent, friend and mother.