Monday, October 31, 2011

Whodunnit

Happiness is...

Murder mystery parties, where you can dress up, be somebody else for a night, and practice sleuthing. Happy halloween! And no, I was not the killer. I was, however secretly related to Lila lavender and trying to get the diamonds with my gang. Mwahaha!

Sunday, October 30, 2011

Costumes

Happiness is...

People watching on holidays. I told you I'd have more to say, and here it is: I love costumes. No, I don't care to spend a ton of time or energy or money on my own... last year I just stuffed my shirt and went as pregnant, the year before I went as a newsie (PLEASE tell me you've seen the movie)... but I am so glad I had the chance to catch a glimpse of everyone else's last night. That's the thing about a chill night downtown---instead of being an interesting object, I just got to relax and see others for exactly how interesting they were.

My favorite costumes:
- Lego guys (literally, had yellow Styrofoam hats and claws)
- Male sexy nurse... no, not in scrubs, but in the little red and white jumpsuit.
- Frank, from Donnie Darko. Absolutely terrifying.
- Sock monkey, which is now sported by my beautiful baby goddaughter!

I know, I know, it's not Halloween quite yet. But I have taken serious joy out of seeing everyone celebrate pre-spooky.

Saturday, October 29, 2011

Friday, October 28, 2011

Old Friends

Happiness is...

When you're out with an old friend and run into an even older friend. You may be excited to see someone that you haven't seen in a while, but the chances may be pretty good that you'll see another. Suddenly, it's all nostalgia, catching up, and loving being reunited!

Friends lose touch. Then they look back and smile. Then they meet up and share. And life goes on. I'm just enjoying the ride.

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Juice Box

Happiness is...

Juice boxes. Especially the 100% juice variety. I love straws, I love the portion size, and I love the feeling of being a kid again, even if it's only vaguely metaphorically.

Release the stress, forget about adulthood, and just sip. That's my intentions exactly.

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Headbands

Happiness is...

Headbands.
Bad hair day? Forget about it. Throw one on and get out there.

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Answered prayers

Happiness is...

Answered prayers.

If He answers prayers, He's increasing faith.
If He delays, He's increasing patience.
If He doesn't answer, He has something better for you.

Well, I'm the lucky one who got my faith! My life is yours, Lord.

Monday, October 24, 2011

Piracy

Happiness is...

Pirates. I love dreadlocks, and flowy shirts, and sword fights, and booty...

But even more than all of that, I love today's pirates. They can warn you all they want, but the idea of stealing music and shows is just too glamorous. Ah, technology.

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Me Day

Happiness is...

Doing things for you. I get it, it's important to be productive, stay healthy, and maintain the budget. But some days I don't care about being a well-adjusted adult. Take today, for example. After church, I went and bought myself some new clothes. Following my retail therapy, I cooked a party pizza... and I ate the whole thing. Sure, I still went for a run and stayed mostly on track, but after I got home I watched a bunch of television and ate a little bit of chocolate. I deserve a me day. I never stop and do what I want because I want it. Think about it. How much of your daily routine is set up so that you can be a good adult---work, home, exercise, eat a balanced meal, obey the laws of society, take care of your family. I'm allowed some frivolity am I not? My answer is yes. Today's the day.

Saturday, October 22, 2011

Layers

Happiness is...

When you take off layers of clothing and feel your skin breathe. It's even more happy when this is something you're doing at the end of October... there you are, sun!

Totally not ready for winter yet.

Friday, October 21, 2011

Ellen

Happiness is...

Ellen Degeneres. I love everything about her. She's kind, fun, hilarious, and downright amazing. I often say I would cross over for her. Sometimes I think it may be true. She deserves it. Who else starts off a show by dancing and then sits down to scare guests, make jokes, and touch the heart?

It's all of my favorite emotions rolled into one neat hour. No wonder she's got Oprah's old spot.

That's all. Watch on.

Thursday, October 20, 2011

Care packages

Happiness is...

Care packages. I can handle anything else that comes up this week, because I've got love from my friends. Booya.

Included:
- Bath salts
- Candy
- Journal
- Magnets
- Wall hanging
- Blank notes
- Gift cards

Let's see... what could make it better? Oh yeah, if I had all my friends in that box too. But for now, I'll take it.

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

You...

Happiness is...

You. Yes, you, reading this entry today. I recognize that there are hundreds of millions of people out there browsing things on the internet, but I know you're following along with my story. And I love you for that.

I love you for that, and for so many other reasons. Just remember your importance, whenever you're in doubt. I value you. It's just that plain and simple. You are more than a somebody.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

New Album

Happiness is...

Posting photos to facebook.
Yes, I am that vain that I want to show you every moment from my weekend. I love being tagged in pretty pictures and I like commenting on the events as I look back with nostalgia (even if they were just 48 hours ago).

In case you didn't already hear, I love photography. But I'll take it one step further. I love public photography, displaying my shots, and sharing my memories. I love when others can see how awesome my life is, in short.

Mostly, though, I love photography.

Monday, October 17, 2011

Mylar

Happiness is...

Those little mylar-balloons-on-a-stick. They never deflate! Never stop sending their message! (and depending on the occasion that can be a very good or very bad thing) Sure, you can tell me I did a good job. You can write me a quick heartfelt note or give a few flowers. That's so sweet.

But there's this tiny balloon in the corner of my desk that's still nagging me, I care. It refuses to give up, refuses to be tucked away. In 5th grade I received one that said "Get well"... and I'm convinced that if I hadn't thrown it out when I was packing for college, it would still be shining its beacon. Even after throwing it out, my guilt keeps it in the back of my mind---funny how that works. Who said diamonds are the only forever? Pick up a couple of these bad boys and you'll be on that someone's dresser until they get the courage to pop or toss it. In my case, that's a long time on the dresser.

Sunday, October 16, 2011

Book lights

Happiness is... 

Book lights. No one awake? No problem. I can have my own little midnight party in the corner of the tent. I mean, it's not exactly a party when you're using the wee hours to read your graduate textbooks, but I like the feeling of getting it done regardless. So, sleep on, world. I won't disturb. I'll push the little toggle and read by the solitary little bulb of my companion. Good morning!

Saturday, October 15, 2011

Sleeping Bags

Happiness is...

The way the sleeping bag holds all of your warmth with you. I like to cuddle in and zip it up to my chin. After that, nothing can escape my little forest green envelope.

The other amazing thing about sleeping bags is their properties in making you feel like a kid again. When I was a kid, my parents would almost always be forced to tuck me in tight. With ease, they'd stuff my sheets under my legs and into the nooks of my hips, and they'd kiss my forehead goodnight. I'm still missing that kiss, but I'm feeling pretty good about being trapped in two small feet of blanket room! I get some of my best sleep that way, despite the solid camp floor.

Hello Tettegouche, how I love you.

Friday, October 14, 2011

Legwarmers

Happiness is...

Legwarmers. So it's a frigid morning? Slip on the 1980s and solve your problem. Sweatpants may not cut it, but these babies will keep your calves toasty all day... now if only I could figure out what to about my thighs and my knees. I suppose calling them legwarmers is a little false, but my ankles aren't complaining!

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Crack My Back!

Happiness is...

When your back gives way to a nice stretch or crack. Okay, this sounds silly, but I'm absolutely serious. I love cracking my back. No, I'm not talking about when you stretch and pop one vertebrae... I'm referring to the feeling of looking over your shoulder and having several loud cracks and amazing relief. Cracking my back has some great healing properties that I can't even begin to describe---so I won't try.

Instead, I'll just twist in my seat, let my spine do the work. It's been super susceptible to being cracked lately. I'm not sure why... but I'm not complaining.

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Sun salutations

Happiness is...

Sun salutations. I'm sure I've already discussed my love for yoga, but I'd like to reiterate the benefit of waking up and doing a few sun salutations. Before anything, I like to ground myself, clear my mind, and prepare for the day. That's one more reason I love yoga.

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Coming Out Day

Happiness is...

National Coming Out Day.
They deserve it. Today I celebrated by attending a Safe Zone training to help me be an ally to my colleagues and students. We discussed many facts about the discrimination and violence against LGBT individuals and how we can be the change. It was powerful. I believe there will be positive change in my generation's America. I am happy about this.


And it was a great way to undo yesterday's holiday. Columbus was not a hero. He did not discover America, nor did he start our nation. He exploited, enslaved, and murdered thousands of native peoples. Didn't know? Check it out.

Instead, today I honor people worthy of my admiration. My LGBT friends are truly heroic, and this training reminded me of that. I will likely be in awe until bedtime, warm and fuzzy to boot. Here's to you!

Monday, October 10, 2011

Running beyond my thoughts

Happiness is...

That moment you realize you've underestimated your own prowess! Like, for example... pushing yourself past the 15 minute mark, past the 20 mark, onto 25. Who said I couldn't run? Booya.

Now, if only my head would stop spinning.
I am woman. I am strong. I run like buffalo and sweat like dog.
Who are you?

Sunday, October 9, 2011

Enjoy the weekend!!

Happiness is...

Doing homework for the first time all weekend. No, I have not been consumed with my reading. I put it aside and enjoyed myself the last couple days. And you know what? It feels awesome. So there.

Today, I have to be productive. I have several chapters to get through. But that's not the end of the world. I am happy to buckle down after a couple great afternoons. And I am able to wake up early and do it. Why? Because I wasn't stupid about my weekend. It was just right.

Yes, tomorrow's Monday, and the week gets going all over again. Boo. But for today, I am going to revel in my relaxation and get some of this done. No worries, just work. It's all about your attitude.

Saturday, October 8, 2011

Apple Everything

Happiness is...

Most definitely Fall. It's my favorite time of the year for a multitude of reasons. One of these is apples. I love everything about them. I love orchards, I love cider, I like just eating them or baking them into pies, crisps, bars, and all of the above.

Honey crisp, zestar, braeburn, gala, or my new favorite sweet sixteen, I love to grab an apple and bite into its juicy goodness. And there's no better time than Fall for that. tonight it was a combination of all of this awesome, with an orchard, fruit dip, eating, and baking (the apple crisp was by far the best one I've made in years). Tomorrow, I shall continue. Just you wait.


So,what's your favorite part of Fall? Corn mazes (I love those too)? Photos (yeah, you know me)? Crunching the leaves (which I believe I've already written about)? Cuddling up for the first time in the year (I wish)? Back to school season (hehehe)? Or do you simply love it as much as I do?

Friday, October 7, 2011

Animated awesome

Happiness is...

Children's movies. I love animation. And I extra love it when people burst into song. That's why I will hold on to Disney til the day I die. Luckily, they are still making a good one here and there... sure, they've evolved to computer animation and adult humor, but sometimes I strike gold and there's an all-ensemble song and dance. Today, I watched Rio. My head bobbing, a smile creeping across my lips, I felt like a child again. If I don't find another one like that I just might break out Aladdin and Little Mermaid on DVD. Yeah, that's the life... singing along to my movies, dreaming of being a princess too. Don't judge.

Thursday, October 6, 2011

Comments

Happiness is...

Comments.
Wall posts.
Likes.
Messages.
In this immediate, internet world it is so easy to go through the motions and become completely anonymous. Then someone takes you off guard and writes back. It's a little beacon of hope---"I see you, I know you're there... And I'm here too!"


Comments are a sweet reminder that you matter, at least to somebody. So thanks, somebody :)

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Quotes (yes, another)

"A happy life is one spent in learning, earning, and yearning."

- Lillian Gish

Countdown

Happiness is...

A friendly countdown. Put a ticker on the computer desktop, fashion a paper chain, or whatever other idea you have... but make those days count leading up to the big event!

There are still 70 days until I see him again... probably too early for a paper chain, but never too early to start counting. 70 is a good number, a number I can handle. It's a number that'll fly by before I know it. You gotta love the sound of that. 

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Travel

Happiness is...

Travel. It's one of my biggest passions... but I suppose I can't write a post every few days about it (what a shame). I have the heart of a foreigner!

I love experiencing new sights and getting a glimpse into a different culture... the language, the customs, the food, the people. When I was studying abroad I feel like I grew more in three months than I had in my 21 years before! I want to live my entire life in the mindset of a traveler, constantly exploring and learning. There is so much more to the world than our materialistic ignorant American background. I intend on looking into it all. I love trying new dishes, and I have a strong urge to continue with my language.

Traveling will always be a priority for me. Since I left Spain (and toured France, Italy, and Greece) I came home and have not left U.S. soil. It has now been over two years. Sure, I've visited South Dakota, Wisconsin, Colorado, Chicago, Texas, Kentucky, Tennessee... but it's about time for another stamp on my passport. I need to see more than the same life, different accent. I am beyond stir crazy.

That's why I'm so excited for Jamaica. What's happier?

Monday, October 3, 2011

Anniversary

Happiness is...

One and a half years. It has flown, that I am sure of. But these 18 months have been a blessing, filled with great memories and zero regret.

I love you David James.

Sunday, October 2, 2011

Quotes cont.

“We tend to forget that happiness doesn’t come as a result of getting something we don’t have, but rather of recognizing & appreciating what we do have.”
- Frederick Keonig

Life lessons

Happiness is...

Learning important life lessons without significant consequences. They say it's best to learn from mistakes, but I disagree, slightly. We could all benefit if we learned from near-misses. You end up much more grateful that things worked themselves out and won't take it for granted! Example: try almost losing something, or misplacing it entirely for a few hours... when you rediscover it, not only will it be that much more valuable, but you'll be that much more careful with it. Lesson learned. Thank you, last night.

Saturday, October 1, 2011

Pinot Grigio

Happiness is...

Pinot. Wash that spaghetti down with a glass of white wine, and your dinner will suddenly feel classy and wonderful. Sometimes, the cheaper the better. Studies have shown that even wine connoisseurs cannot taste the difference between a $7 bottle of wine and a $40 one anyway.

What's in a label anyway?

Objective: enjoy some adult pleasures. Indulge in fancy cheeses. Listen to Tchaikovsky. Drink some pinot grigio with dinner. And relax into your role as somebody special, important, and refined.