My first blog post

Hello world!  Well, it's finally happening!  I am going to BLOG!  I have thought about it alot and finally, tonight, was challenged to get it done!  Part of what got in my way was not what to say, but rather what would I call my blog - I needed a name!  Simple enough it may seem - but even coming up with something like "Thoughts from Chelley" presented a challenge for me.  I wanted cute, creative name - so consider this a warning. When the cute and creative name hits me - I may change the name of this blog!  My thoughts will still be my thoughts - only the name may change!

So let me officially introduce myself!  I am Chelley Pratt - formerly known as Chelley Burton originally from Ocean Springs, MS now living in Waterloo, IA.  I am married and am mom to three fur-kids, Charlotte, Maggie, and Danica.  My two boys, Winston and Hendrix, both left our side way too soon and are missed each and every day. (pictures of all of them will be posted - trust me...there are lots of pictures.)

I have a full-time job where I am able to work with individuals that need help to find work - very rewarding to see success!  I also have other things I do that I consider rewarding and fun - and more will be shared on all of these in the future.

For now, I want to share what a really great day this has been!  Today was a travel day for me as I was coming home from a business trip in San Diego!  I had very little time to see anything - so I will be back there one day!  I rode from the hotel with a colleague who did see some of San Diego and told me about her adventure!  She had a great time!  At the airport, I was kissed by a service dog, Emma!  So sweet!

I admit...I had been dreading the 4 hour flight to Chicago, but was very pleasantly surprised with the trip!  I met a new friend! A gentleman sat down next to me and immediately struck up a conversation that really didn't end until we parted ways at the airport.  We talked about Chicago and San Diego - his hometown and current home, respectively.  Conversations about life and relationships, dogs and cats, oil and water (essential oils and the ocean) and so much more.  So much shared in those short 4 hours - made my trip so worth it!  Just goes to show - you never know who you will cross paths with in life!

As I ate dinner at the airport, I observed people...walking, running, eating, drinking.  I also noticed one very special woman - my server. Quiet but observant, she was probably the best server I have seen in a while - maybe ever!  She was always smiling and ready to refresh my water without the glass being empty. When the gentleman next to me dropped his silverware, she heard it and quickly brought him replacements before he could even turn his head to look for her! Before leaving - I told her that I noticed...that I noticed that she paid attention to her guests (which changed often) and that she personified what a true service professional should be!  She thanked me and smiled her warm, friendly smile as I went on my way.  (I did pass her manager and told him, too - you gotta share the good stuff, too! Managers need to hear that!)

Thanks for sitting through my long first blog!  I promise not all will be this lengthy though you may encounter them from time to time! So for now, I will end for the night  with this...All is Well!