Happiness is...
Getting a phone call from a deployed boyfriend. It almost felt like he wasn't overseas!
Yes, there IS an August 31st. Oops. Here's my update: I went to the mall, registered for baby stuff with a friend (which was VERY happy), ate a burrito, and hung out with people half the night. Did I get the homework done that I needed to? Not exactly. But it was every bit as therapeutic as I needed my evening to be. C'est la vie.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Yellow Carrots?!
Happiness is...
Yellow carrots. I saw them in the produce aisle and had no clue what to expect, but I am back in college now and college is the time to experiment right? Hehe. Anyway, they're awesome. End of story. They taste an awful lot like orange carrots, and they apparently still have all the awesome nutrients. AND.... they're cheaper... and organic.
So, I've come full circle. I am no longer afraid of yellow, in fact I think I'll crunch into one right now!
Yellow carrots. I saw them in the produce aisle and had no clue what to expect, but I am back in college now and college is the time to experiment right? Hehe. Anyway, they're awesome. End of story. They taste an awful lot like orange carrots, and they apparently still have all the awesome nutrients. AND.... they're cheaper... and organic.
So, I've come full circle. I am no longer afraid of yellow, in fact I think I'll crunch into one right now!
Monday, August 29, 2011
Sorry,,,
Sorry I suck lately.
Happiness has been hard to come by this month.
Good news: Thursday marks the beginning of September!
At that point, things better start looking up.
I'm serious.
Bleh.
For today happiness is long distance phone calls with long-time friends. There is nothing that makes you feel like the world is settling down like hearing from the other side of it.
Happiness has been hard to come by this month.
Good news: Thursday marks the beginning of September!
At that point, things better start looking up.
I'm serious.
Bleh.
For today happiness is long distance phone calls with long-time friends. There is nothing that makes you feel like the world is settling down like hearing from the other side of it.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Doggie bags
Happiness is...
When the leftovers taste even better than the original. Sure, this is rarely the case... But when it happens isn't it so satisfying? For a moment it nearly makes me want to eat everything from styrofoam and the microwave. Yum.
When the leftovers taste even better than the original. Sure, this is rarely the case... But when it happens isn't it so satisfying? For a moment it nearly makes me want to eat everything from styrofoam and the microwave. Yum.
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Baptism
Happiness is...
The joys of being a godmother. Today was the big day, and though I started off feeling scared and nervous, it was an amazing day. And now, congratulations to my dearest god-daughter Alejandra Soleil! I love you oodles :)
It was a short and very informal service, followed by a very scrumptious reception. And of course the whole family was truly beautiful. I couldn't have asked for more!
The joys of being a godmother. Today was the big day, and though I started off feeling scared and nervous, it was an amazing day. And now, congratulations to my dearest god-daughter Alejandra Soleil! I love you oodles :)
It was a short and very informal service, followed by a very scrumptious reception. And of course the whole family was truly beautiful. I couldn't have asked for more!
Friday, August 26, 2011
Other side of things
Happiness is...
Being on the other side of things. When I was young, I saw things from a young lens. I lived through it, thrived, and moved on. And now I am older and seeing things from the other side. It's a little weird, but mostly refreshing.
They say the grass is always greener on the other side. That may be true, but it doesn't mean you can't learn to appreciate the view. Now that I'm graduated and returning in a different capacity, of course things are different. But I love life all the same. I can still see people I enjoy, do the things that I liked, and live it up. This weekend is one of those times. I love my ladies!
Being on the other side of things. When I was young, I saw things from a young lens. I lived through it, thrived, and moved on. And now I am older and seeing things from the other side. It's a little weird, but mostly refreshing.
They say the grass is always greener on the other side. That may be true, but it doesn't mean you can't learn to appreciate the view. Now that I'm graduated and returning in a different capacity, of course things are different. But I love life all the same. I can still see people I enjoy, do the things that I liked, and live it up. This weekend is one of those times. I love my ladies!
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Quotations, part IV
"Those who are not looking for happiness are the most likely to find it, because those who are searching forget that the surest way to be happy is to seek happiness for others."
Martin Luther King, Jr
Martin Luther King, Jr
Softer highlights...
Happiness is...
Pastel highlighters. Sometimes that's all it takes to calm me down. Pass me the yellow? No thanks... I'd rather my eyes not itch. Instead, I can grab my light purple and make some subtle cues on the notes. Yep, much better.
Today has been a long day. The last thing I need is fluorescent.
Pastel highlighters. Sometimes that's all it takes to calm me down. Pass me the yellow? No thanks... I'd rather my eyes not itch. Instead, I can grab my light purple and make some subtle cues on the notes. Yep, much better.
Today has been a long day. The last thing I need is fluorescent.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Quick reflection
"But what is happiness except the simple harmony between a person and life they lead."
Albert Camus
Last night I started unpacking at last. Today I finished my first readings. Tonight I get to talk to my man again. If I'm lucky, tomorrow will be the start of my life settling down at last. This IS what it'll be the next two years. It's not everything I pictured, but it could be a heck of a lot worse. Bring on the rain.
Albert Camus
Last night I started unpacking at last. Today I finished my first readings. Tonight I get to talk to my man again. If I'm lucky, tomorrow will be the start of my life settling down at last. This IS what it'll be the next two years. It's not everything I pictured, but it could be a heck of a lot worse. Bring on the rain.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Febreeze it.
Happiness is...
Febreeze. Have a funky smell in your room and maintenance STILL hasn't come? Not a problem. open the nozzle and let it rip. It'll buy you easily a week.
This apartment sucks. But it doesn't mean I can't make it mine.
Febreeze. Have a funky smell in your room and maintenance STILL hasn't come? Not a problem. open the nozzle and let it rip. It'll buy you easily a week.
This apartment sucks. But it doesn't mean I can't make it mine.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Yikes, my body.
Happiness is...
When you get complimented on your weight loss... even though it's been two weeks since you worked out. Story of my life. I WILL get back into my groove soon (just like I WILL go grocery shopping soon), but until then I'll continue to soak it up that my body hasn't taken a turn for the worse just because I've neglected it a little. Some days I worry.
Who am I kidding? I worry almost every day I'm alive and breathing. But, bottom line, I'm motivated to keep this up.
When you get complimented on your weight loss... even though it's been two weeks since you worked out. Story of my life. I WILL get back into my groove soon (just like I WILL go grocery shopping soon), but until then I'll continue to soak it up that my body hasn't taken a turn for the worse just because I've neglected it a little. Some days I worry.
Who am I kidding? I worry almost every day I'm alive and breathing. But, bottom line, I'm motivated to keep this up.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Blessed with friends
Happiness is...
The fact that even though things seem to be difficult, there will always be some friend who can help take the load off. Tonight I had a friend cook me dinner knowing that I couldn't do it for myself (this damn apartment!). And that's all it takes to know that God is watching over me, even when the going gets tough.
It's not a great time in my life. But He keeps reminding me there are great things to hold on to! Thank you Sir.
The fact that even though things seem to be difficult, there will always be some friend who can help take the load off. Tonight I had a friend cook me dinner knowing that I couldn't do it for myself (this damn apartment!). And that's all it takes to know that God is watching over me, even when the going gets tough.
It's not a great time in my life. But He keeps reminding me there are great things to hold on to! Thank you Sir.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Girls Weekend
Happiness is...
Time with sisters... time to make everything seem a little less crazy. They're good for that!
Time with sisters... time to make everything seem a little less crazy. They're good for that!
Friday, August 19, 2011
It's getting there...
Happiness is...
Maintenance! They came... at least we know we're not left in this apartment to rot. Fixed the fan today, linoleum tomorrow, and oven and carpet hopefully next week. Progress, it feels so good!
Maintenance! They came... at least we know we're not left in this apartment to rot. Fixed the fan today, linoleum tomorrow, and oven and carpet hopefully next week. Progress, it feels so good!
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Bananas
Happiness is...
Eating my bananas without feeling self-conscious. Yes, I am that girl who has to turn the other way so you don't watch the act. Bananas, hot dogs, popsicles, they make me feel awkward automatically.
Is that weird? Am I alone in this world?
Or did the movies really just screw me up that much?
Drives me bananas sometimes... ;)
Eating my bananas without feeling self-conscious. Yes, I am that girl who has to turn the other way so you don't watch the act. Bananas, hot dogs, popsicles, they make me feel awkward automatically.
Is that weird? Am I alone in this world?
Or did the movies really just screw me up that much?
Drives me bananas sometimes... ;)
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Weekend
Happiness is...
Knowing that the weekend is coming. After all, after Tuesday even the calendar says WTF. This weekend, I am getting out of here... ignoring the still-not-fixed apartment, and heading to a cabin with some sisters. Anticipation is what will get me through the next two days. Yay weekend!
Knowing that the weekend is coming. After all, after Tuesday even the calendar says WTF. This weekend, I am getting out of here... ignoring the still-not-fixed apartment, and heading to a cabin with some sisters. Anticipation is what will get me through the next two days. Yay weekend!
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Chivalry
Happiness is...
Chivalry. I don't care what anyone says, it is definitely not dead....nor does it go against any of my feminist beliefs.
So, boys, keep holding doors, excusing yourselves, letting us go first, etc. Flowers are not for just hopeless romantics (although, my dear, there are still a few of those out there still too ;) am I right?).
Make me feel like a lady.
Chivalry. I don't care what anyone says, it is definitely not dead....nor does it go against any of my feminist beliefs.
So, boys, keep holding doors, excusing yourselves, letting us go first, etc. Flowers are not for just hopeless romantics (although, my dear, there are still a few of those out there still too ;) am I right?).
Make me feel like a lady.
Monday, August 15, 2011
A home is not a home...
Happiness is...
Knowing that, no matter what your environment is, you can change it. Hate work? You can always go home after it. For me, it's the opposite. Home won't be home for another few weeks of heavy work, but I love everything else about life. And that's a good feeling. Take it in stride, have a little perspective, and know that this too shall pass.
Yup, that's all I've got for ya. Nothing too deep or wonderful, but a simple revelation that I will be holding on to while this is my reality.
Knowing that, no matter what your environment is, you can change it. Hate work? You can always go home after it. For me, it's the opposite. Home won't be home for another few weeks of heavy work, but I love everything else about life. And that's a good feeling. Take it in stride, have a little perspective, and know that this too shall pass.
Yup, that's all I've got for ya. Nothing too deep or wonderful, but a simple revelation that I will be holding on to while this is my reality.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
The Potter's Hands.
Happiness is...
The potter's hands. Today church was super amazing. They brought a guest preacher/potter in and he actually throws a huge vase during his talk so he can walk us through this sweet metaphor. God always said we are the clay but now I feel like I see that whole concept from a brand new set of eyes. You see, we start out as a hunk of ugly piece of earth and it's not until we actually are centered in the lord that we can begin to become something beautiful... I'm not sure how much you know about pottery, but if the pot starts off wobbly it just gets worse and worse until it flies off the wheel... Then he brought up how the potter has this great intent for us and starts to work on us from the inside. No one else can really see this work from sitting in the audience, but it is the most important step to becoming a vase because it hollows the bottom and sets the foundation to pull up the cylinder. When you watch a potter do this it really is spectacular, seeing a small mound become a tall, cylindrical mass. However, this cannot happen unless it's under pressure from the hands of the potter. Even once it's there, there are bigger plans too (though it looks great, it isn't the best piece of work yet). The potter swells the vase to create a piece of art. And only then is it fired. Imagine the process of the kiln, putting pieces in and bricking up the entrance, they endure high high temperatures and it seems dark and lonely but the potter is not far away, just outside the door adjusting the levels, watching the pots strengthen to the perfect amount. Do you follow that whole process? Can you picture the vase? Now imagine that as us, in our process of life. The end product is a solid vase, beautiful and ready to withstand the weathers. That is what I experienced this morning. Total mind blow. That was true happiness, sitting right there.
The potter's hands. Today church was super amazing. They brought a guest preacher/potter in and he actually throws a huge vase during his talk so he can walk us through this sweet metaphor. God always said we are the clay but now I feel like I see that whole concept from a brand new set of eyes. You see, we start out as a hunk of ugly piece of earth and it's not until we actually are centered in the lord that we can begin to become something beautiful... I'm not sure how much you know about pottery, but if the pot starts off wobbly it just gets worse and worse until it flies off the wheel... Then he brought up how the potter has this great intent for us and starts to work on us from the inside. No one else can really see this work from sitting in the audience, but it is the most important step to becoming a vase because it hollows the bottom and sets the foundation to pull up the cylinder. When you watch a potter do this it really is spectacular, seeing a small mound become a tall, cylindrical mass. However, this cannot happen unless it's under pressure from the hands of the potter. Even once it's there, there are bigger plans too (though it looks great, it isn't the best piece of work yet). The potter swells the vase to create a piece of art. And only then is it fired. Imagine the process of the kiln, putting pieces in and bricking up the entrance, they endure high high temperatures and it seems dark and lonely but the potter is not far away, just outside the door adjusting the levels, watching the pots strengthen to the perfect amount. Do you follow that whole process? Can you picture the vase? Now imagine that as us, in our process of life. The end product is a solid vase, beautiful and ready to withstand the weathers. That is what I experienced this morning. Total mind blow. That was true happiness, sitting right there.
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Demo Derby
Happiness is...
Demolition derbies. Tonight was my first. Naturally, I had a million questions about those cars, and did you know after the derby they fix them up and smash them again? That experience is out of this world, and I recommend it to anyone. Awesome.
It rained. It got muddy. That made it all the better. I bet my old car will never be souped up enough to compete, but it was neat to see what kinds of beasts they had salvaged and put on the track.
No matter where you're from or what you like, you have to see it.
Demolition derbies. Tonight was my first. Naturally, I had a million questions about those cars, and did you know after the derby they fix them up and smash them again? That experience is out of this world, and I recommend it to anyone. Awesome.
It rained. It got muddy. That made it all the better. I bet my old car will never be souped up enough to compete, but it was neat to see what kinds of beasts they had salvaged and put on the track.
No matter where you're from or what you like, you have to see it.
Friday, August 12, 2011
In short...
Sorry I'm behind, but I can tell you one thing: Happiness would not exist if I didn't have the amazing family and friends that I do. Simple enough. You must get it.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
New job!
Happiness is...
Filling up the coffee cup, knowing you're on your way to a new job! This means:
- new experiences
- new things to learn
- new people to meet
- new successes
- new stories
- new space
- new persona.
Advisor Kristy, at your service!
Filling up the coffee cup, knowing you're on your way to a new job! This means:
- new experiences
- new things to learn
- new people to meet
- new successes
- new stories
- new space
- new persona.
Advisor Kristy, at your service!
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
This too shall pass.
Happiness is...
The weight off your shoulders. Decision: made. Car: bought. Debt: still accruing. But for the time being, I can rest easy knowing that I have a replacement for poor Antonio that will get me going to grad school.
It's not always easy, but it's always going. Things come and go, with the ebb and flow of life. And, really, life goes on. I am seriously satisfied too. A good find with perfect timing from a dealership with real integrity. Thanks for all the prayers!
The weight off your shoulders. Decision: made. Car: bought. Debt: still accruing. But for the time being, I can rest easy knowing that I have a replacement for poor Antonio that will get me going to grad school.
It's not always easy, but it's always going. Things come and go, with the ebb and flow of life. And, really, life goes on. I am seriously satisfied too. A good find with perfect timing from a dealership with real integrity. Thanks for all the prayers!
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Still hoping and praying.
Happiness is...
When you tell someone your issues and they literally stop what they're doing and pray... right there, right then. Sometimes we get so caught up agonizing or sympathizing that we forget to just stop and send out some words of encouragement, to put it back in God's hands.
I need a reminder to trust in God, especially right now. Only he can make things work. Right now it may seem like things just aren't, but that's what faith is all about.
p.s. for any of you on the interwebs who actually read this blog, someone ran into me and totaled my car on Friday. You can feel free to gift me one at any moment. Or send out a little prayer on your end, I need them all!
When you tell someone your issues and they literally stop what they're doing and pray... right there, right then. Sometimes we get so caught up agonizing or sympathizing that we forget to just stop and send out some words of encouragement, to put it back in God's hands.
I need a reminder to trust in God, especially right now. Only he can make things work. Right now it may seem like things just aren't, but that's what faith is all about.
p.s. for any of you on the interwebs who actually read this blog, someone ran into me and totaled my car on Friday. You can feel free to gift me one at any moment. Or send out a little prayer on your end, I need them all!
Monday, August 8, 2011
Trying to find the bright side
Happiness is...
Laughing after a long cry. It makes the cry seem so much better and the laugh so much happier. Live life with a little perspective and keep pushing through.
Laughing after a long cry. It makes the cry seem so much better and the laugh so much happier. Live life with a little perspective and keep pushing through.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Clarity at last!
Happiness is...
Skype head sets. Happiness is finally understanding my man when he is talking to me instead of hearing some garbled charlie-brown type vocals, instead of feeling like he's speaking to me underwater.
Happiness is a real, nice, conversation. Granted, it's going to be a little bitter for a while, but things will get better and skype talks will remain great.
Skype head sets. Happiness is finally understanding my man when he is talking to me instead of hearing some garbled charlie-brown type vocals, instead of feeling like he's speaking to me underwater.
Happiness is a real, nice, conversation. Granted, it's going to be a little bitter for a while, but things will get better and skype talks will remain great.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Friday, August 5, 2011
Sorry... it's just...
Happiness is...
Difficult to find today. Sorry to let you down...
Let's just go with learning about other religions. That was fun at least. Happiness will return on an undisclosed date. For now, pray.
Difficult to find today. Sorry to let you down...
Let's just go with learning about other religions. That was fun at least. Happiness will return on an undisclosed date. For now, pray.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Don't Forget the Lyrics
Happiness is...
When you finally remember the lyrics to the tune that's been stuck in your head. It's like being freed from bondage, from a long day of "I KNOW this! uhhhh..." And though that damn song is still stuck in your head, at least it's finally complete.
When you finally remember the lyrics to the tune that's been stuck in your head. It's like being freed from bondage, from a long day of "I KNOW this! uhhhh..." And though that damn song is still stuck in your head, at least it's finally complete.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
At the Car Wash....
Happiness is...
Washing the car. It makes me feel like I'm taking care of things, getting stuff done, being a man. Wait, what? Exactly. I enjoy putting on my bikini, scrubbing my car, and heaving the vacuum hose around the carpet. Best part? After I've worked my tail off and gotten wet and dirty, I can look at the car and see it as nearly brand new again! Smooth, shiny, and clean... I am ready for another season with my dear Antonio. Yes, that's his name. He's silver and a little rough around the edges, and delightfully Spanish. How did you spend your sunny day after all?
Washing the car. It makes me feel like I'm taking care of things, getting stuff done, being a man. Wait, what? Exactly. I enjoy putting on my bikini, scrubbing my car, and heaving the vacuum hose around the carpet. Best part? After I've worked my tail off and gotten wet and dirty, I can look at the car and see it as nearly brand new again! Smooth, shiny, and clean... I am ready for another season with my dear Antonio. Yes, that's his name. He's silver and a little rough around the edges, and delightfully Spanish. How did you spend your sunny day after all?
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Underwear
Happiness is...
Underwear. Tonight we went to the history center for a free outdoor concert and while we were there we checked out the exhibits... about the depression, minnesota, and underwear. It was interesting to see how far we've come in the last century, and my appreciation for it grew tenfold! I gave my underwear far too little credit. It comes in all shapes and sizes, many fabrics, and wonderful colors. That's my story, in brief... ;)
Speaking of outdoor concerts, did I mention my affinity for them? I sure will miss summer in the cities.
Underwear. Tonight we went to the history center for a free outdoor concert and while we were there we checked out the exhibits... about the depression, minnesota, and underwear. It was interesting to see how far we've come in the last century, and my appreciation for it grew tenfold! I gave my underwear far too little credit. It comes in all shapes and sizes, many fabrics, and wonderful colors. That's my story, in brief... ;)
Speaking of outdoor concerts, did I mention my affinity for them? I sure will miss summer in the cities.
Monday, August 1, 2011
The right stuff
Happiness is...
When you're feet are cold as you crawl into bed. Nothing says sleep tight like wrapping yourself in a warm cozy blanket... And in the middle of the summer it's best with cold feet, you know? Mmmm I'm just gonna let myself get comfortable now. Buenas noches!
When you're feet are cold as you crawl into bed. Nothing says sleep tight like wrapping yourself in a warm cozy blanket... And in the middle of the summer it's best with cold feet, you know? Mmmm I'm just gonna let myself get comfortable now. Buenas noches!
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