I read in one of my many self-help books that when something is bugging you, you should discuss it and release it so it doesn't remain inside you and turn you into a bitter, angry person. There are a few things that have really been grating on my nerves lately so I am going to save myself by sharing them with you.

1). YOU'RE A RACIST....NOT:

It really disturbs me when someone labels an entire group of people racist, when they know absolutely nothing about that group of people. I am a firm believer that racism still exist in this country even with the election of our first black president. When you call a group of people racist, I fully expect that the statement will be backed up with some real proof on how each and every one of these people are racist. If there is no proof, all the accuser has succeeded in doing is creating more tension amongst different ethnic groups. We will never be able to solve issues involving race if everyone is afraid of being labeled a racist. Let's save this slanderous label for those who are actually perpetuating racism by not hiring or promoting people of color or by any other acts that actually qualify as racist.

2) OUT OF CONTROL SPORTS PARENTS:

This topic is very personal for me. Having been an athlete playing basketball in high school and college, I have witnessed the out of control sports parents up close. My very own parents who I have to say are the most fabulous parents on the planet struggled with this very issue. Yes, my parents were actually thrown out of a game that I played in and they berated the officials on more than one occasion. But, it wasn't until I had my own kids who are now playing team sports that I realized I am not going to be able to put up with the obnoxious, loud, always coaching, forever scolding, and overall annoying parents that have already showed up at the games. I just want to say to them, "guess what, it's not about you so please let your poor child enjoy their sporting experience".

3) BORING PEOPLE:

Here's the deal. If you get an invitation in the mail to a party don't bother going unless you are going to contribute something to the party. If you go to the party and sit in the corner and don't talk to people that is not acceptable. Why bother going to the party, besides the fact that everyone seems to like free food and drinks. Please don't use the excuse, I am an introvert so it's hard for me to socialize. My oldest sister is an introvert and she can work a party with the best of them. That is because she knows that the point of the party is to interact, meet people, tell some good stories and listen to others as well. If you can't do any of those things then go ahead and skip the party.

4) ONE SENATOR:

When I woke up on November 3rd and read that the race for senator in our state was too close to call I found it pretty exciting. Who would win? The entire country would keep an eye on Minnesota wondering what we would do. Now six months later I can barely stand to read about the latest court appeal. This is what causes people not to vote in this country. I find it appalling that in this day and age we are unable to count the voting ballots correctly. We have new technology coming out of our ears but we can't tally every vote that came in for Norm or Al. Can you say election reform?

So there you have it a few of the things that have been bothering me these days. I am sure there are some more but I don't want to become one of those negative people that complain all the time about everything, you know those people that really bug you!