Happiness is...
A successful resolution. I can't believe I made it, but I have a full year of happy recorded here. Just check out the Table of Contents!
2011 has been quite the year. I have been fortunate to visit most of Kentucky, Nashville, Houston, the North Shore, and even Jamaica.
I have finished a year of AmeriCorps VISTA in Saint Paul Schools and have transitioned into graduate school and my graduate assistantship. I have taken 12 graduate credits, and aced them all!
I must say, this was no easy transition---it included a new car, a new (crappy) apartment, and a whole new set of friends. Change is never easy... but I'm sure upcoming years will bring even more change.
I have cherished time with my family and seen my man off to his deployment.
I have accomplished goals and organized my life.
I have seen many friends unite in marriage and even more bring new members into their family.
I have a goddaughter!
I have made very little money, but plenty of memories.
I have loved, laughed, and cried enough for more than 365 days.
All in all, 2011 brought happiness in a variety of forms, and now I look forward to a new year with new beginnings! I don't even think I'll make a resolution this time around, though who knows---I may still post some happy in 2012...
Happy New Years everyone! Eat, drink, and be merry!
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And days o’ lang syne!
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, December 30, 2011
Quotes Round-Up
Happiness is...
Quotes. Here are the best from this year, all about Happiness. There are countless others, just take a look around.
"The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance, the wise grows it under his feet."
-James Oppenheim
"The good life, as I conceive it, is a happy life. I do not mean that if you are good you will be happy; I mean that if you are happy you will be good."
-Bertrand Russell
"Happiness is something that comes into our lives through doors we don't even remember leaving open."
-Rose Wilder Lane
"The happy think a lifetime short, but to the unhappy one night can be an eternity."
-Lucian
"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
"Most people are as happy as they make up their minds to be."
-Abraham Lincoln
"We tend to forget that happiness doesn't come as a result of getting something we don't have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have."
-Frederick Koenig
"A happy life is one spent in learning, earning, and yearning."
-Lillian Gish
"Happiness is not a matter of events, it depends on the tides of the mind."
-Alice Meynel
Quotes. Here are the best from this year, all about Happiness. There are countless others, just take a look around.
"The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance, the wise grows it under his feet."
-James Oppenheim
"The good life, as I conceive it, is a happy life. I do not mean that if you are good you will be happy; I mean that if you are happy you will be good."
-Bertrand Russell
"Happiness is something that comes into our lives through doors we don't even remember leaving open."
-Rose Wilder Lane
"The happy think a lifetime short, but to the unhappy one night can be an eternity."
-Lucian
"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
"Most people are as happy as they make up their minds to be."
-Abraham Lincoln
"We tend to forget that happiness doesn't come as a result of getting something we don't have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have."
-Frederick Koenig
"A happy life is one spent in learning, earning, and yearning."
-Lillian Gish
"Happiness is not a matter of events, it depends on the tides of the mind."
-Alice Meynel
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Rush Tickets
Happiness is...
Rush Tickets. Fond of plays? Care to go to the theatre? Not interested in spending 65$ each? No problem.
With rush tickets, you can spontaneously decide in an afternoon to head over to the box office and get half price tickets just minutes before the show. Sure, it's risky. But is it worth it? Absolutely. Today, a few of us went to see A Christmas Carol, just because. Not only were we able to enjoy a great show, but it didn't put us back much either. Win.
p.s. I recommend this show in particular---great set, awesome blocking, and amazing cast. God bless us, every one!
Rush Tickets. Fond of plays? Care to go to the theatre? Not interested in spending 65$ each? No problem.
With rush tickets, you can spontaneously decide in an afternoon to head over to the box office and get half price tickets just minutes before the show. Sure, it's risky. But is it worth it? Absolutely. Today, a few of us went to see A Christmas Carol, just because. Not only were we able to enjoy a great show, but it didn't put us back much either. Win.
p.s. I recommend this show in particular---great set, awesome blocking, and amazing cast. God bless us, every one!
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Recap
Happiness is...
Recaps. At the end of the year we all spend some time planning our celebration to ring in the new year, thinking about our resolutions, and trying to make the most of it. Instead, I like to look back on the year we just had. What happened this year? Who died? What scandals hit the news? How was I impacted?
I can look through pictures and old journal entries. I can see one of the many "Best Of" youtube videos. Or I can talk to my friends and family. Whatever the activity, it's pretty cool to reminisce on how much has changed in the last 363 days or so. Here's to another good year! Bring it on 2012.
Recaps. At the end of the year we all spend some time planning our celebration to ring in the new year, thinking about our resolutions, and trying to make the most of it. Instead, I like to look back on the year we just had. What happened this year? Who died? What scandals hit the news? How was I impacted?
I can look through pictures and old journal entries. I can see one of the many "Best Of" youtube videos. Or I can talk to my friends and family. Whatever the activity, it's pretty cool to reminisce on how much has changed in the last 363 days or so. Here's to another good year! Bring it on 2012.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Gift Cards
Happiness is...
Gift cards. I love receiving gift cards because of many reasons... I hate asking for necessities like groceries and textbooks and hygiene products for Christmas... I don't want to make Christmas another droll occasion... I know people will sleep better at night if they know they didn't get me something I already had or, worse, despise... I love spending money. Not shopping, but splurging. And what better way than if it isn't even affecting my bank account anyway?
Booya. Gift cards. Santa couldn't have been more spot on.
Gift cards. I love receiving gift cards because of many reasons... I hate asking for necessities like groceries and textbooks and hygiene products for Christmas... I don't want to make Christmas another droll occasion... I know people will sleep better at night if they know they didn't get me something I already had or, worse, despise... I love spending money. Not shopping, but splurging. And what better way than if it isn't even affecting my bank account anyway?
Booya. Gift cards. Santa couldn't have been more spot on.
Monday, December 26, 2011
Surprises
Happiness is...
A sheer surprise. Not the kind where you know some unknown something is coming, but the kind where it just takes you out of the blue, dumbfounded, awestruck, and utterly confounded in the best way possible.
Somehow, after all of my advice, he still managed to sneak yet another Christmas gift into my household... from thousands of miles and vast waters away, he took my heart.
This Christmas was full of all things merry. I truly didn't deserve it. I have so many blessings I don't even know where to start. The holiday was it was very pleasant with good food, fellowship, and fun. And just as quickly as it came, it has past. But not without my gentle thanks. I am thankful for 2011. I am thankful for the little things, and big surprises. I am thankful for you.
A sheer surprise. Not the kind where you know some unknown something is coming, but the kind where it just takes you out of the blue, dumbfounded, awestruck, and utterly confounded in the best way possible.
Somehow, after all of my advice, he still managed to sneak yet another Christmas gift into my household... from thousands of miles and vast waters away, he took my heart.
This Christmas was full of all things merry. I truly didn't deserve it. I have so many blessings I don't even know where to start. The holiday was it was very pleasant with good food, fellowship, and fun. And just as quickly as it came, it has past. But not without my gentle thanks. I am thankful for 2011. I am thankful for the little things, and big surprises. I am thankful for you.
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Giving gifts
Happiness is...
Giving gifts. Sure, I stress for a few days about what to get someone. But after a little thoughtful shopping and some nice crisp wrapping paper, all that awaits is their receiving of my present, and the joy that's on their face when they open it and find something that spoke to me about them.
I love presents. They're a little token of personal affection, and they are way better than me just splurging on an impulsive desire. A simple reminder of love, hope, and family. Gifts. Merry Christmas!
God bless us, every one.
Giving gifts. Sure, I stress for a few days about what to get someone. But after a little thoughtful shopping and some nice crisp wrapping paper, all that awaits is their receiving of my present, and the joy that's on their face when they open it and find something that spoke to me about them.
I love presents. They're a little token of personal affection, and they are way better than me just splurging on an impulsive desire. A simple reminder of love, hope, and family. Gifts. Merry Christmas!
God bless us, every one.
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Christmas eve
Happiness is...
Christmas eve.
Candlelit services.
Handbells.
Carols.
Wild Rice Soup.
Family.
Relaxing.
Tradition.
Love.
The spirit of the holiday.
Christmas eve.
Candlelit services.
Handbells.
Carols.
Wild Rice Soup.
Family.
Relaxing.
Tradition.
Love.
The spirit of the holiday.
Friday, December 23, 2011
White Elephant
Happiness is...
White Elephant. Do you have something completely ridiculous sitting around your room? Only at this time of year, only at this type of party---regift it.
Everyone retrieves a present, gets a good laugh, and brings home a new piece of ridiculous. It's a perfect excuse to get together with old friends.
So wrap up your VHSs, beanie babies, or that Buddy Jesus, and come along!
White Elephant. Do you have something completely ridiculous sitting around your room? Only at this time of year, only at this type of party---regift it.
Everyone retrieves a present, gets a good laugh, and brings home a new piece of ridiculous. It's a perfect excuse to get together with old friends.
So wrap up your VHSs, beanie babies, or that Buddy Jesus, and come along!
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Being remembered.
Happiness is...
Being remembered.
Today we visited my old High School and Middle School. Just for fun. It wasn't until my seventh grade band director stopped me in the hallway did I realize that I had actually made a mark there. He remembered my name, my instrument, and particulars about my family. A real footprint! It felt good, if only for a 3 minute conversation. I loved the feeling!
I remember many of the people who have impacted my life. Who'd have known that it was reciprocal :)
Being remembered.
Today we visited my old High School and Middle School. Just for fun. It wasn't until my seventh grade band director stopped me in the hallway did I realize that I had actually made a mark there. He remembered my name, my instrument, and particulars about my family. A real footprint! It felt good, if only for a 3 minute conversation. I loved the feeling!
I remember many of the people who have impacted my life. Who'd have known that it was reciprocal :)
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Blogger
Happiness is...
The modern technology of blogger. For the second time this year, I have been able to write a few days ahead of time so life didn't have to take a time out to blog. This resolution has been important to me, and it has certainly taught me a lot. But it will not interrupt life.
And maybe that's happiness in its purist form.
The modern technology of blogger. For the second time this year, I have been able to write a few days ahead of time so life didn't have to take a time out to blog. This resolution has been important to me, and it has certainly taught me a lot. But it will not interrupt life.
And maybe that's happiness in its purist form.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Him
Happiness is...
Him. All of him. Being with him. Talking him for more than one hour, one day a week. Seeing him---really seeing him. Being held by him.
The life of a military girlfriend is no walk in the park. But oh, isn't leave glorious.
It feels like it should, a real relationship with real ups and downs, and more than just the telephone and computer. It feels like love. It feels like the perfect vacation. If only it didn't have to end.
Happiness is this. Tomorrow it's back to reality. But for today, I can revel in it.
Him. All of him. Being with him. Talking him for more than one hour, one day a week. Seeing him---really seeing him. Being held by him.
The life of a military girlfriend is no walk in the park. But oh, isn't leave glorious.
It feels like it should, a real relationship with real ups and downs, and more than just the telephone and computer. It feels like love. It feels like the perfect vacation. If only it didn't have to end.
Happiness is this. Tomorrow it's back to reality. But for today, I can revel in it.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Luxury showers.
Happiness is...
Luxury showers. Multi-head. 8 speed. Spacious and warm. Not only am I cozy and clean, but I have just taken a mini vacation in the process.
The shower is only one of many pieces of paradise. Here, all things are at your fingertips. Including things as simple as gentle massages. Take that, Minnesota.
If only we could stay.
Luxury showers. Multi-head. 8 speed. Spacious and warm. Not only am I cozy and clean, but I have just taken a mini vacation in the process.
The shower is only one of many pieces of paradise. Here, all things are at your fingertips. Including things as simple as gentle massages. Take that, Minnesota.
If only we could stay.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Caribbean
Happiness is...
The Caribbean. Blue waters and clear skies (for the most part). Not too bad, if I do say so myself.
The Caribbean. Blue waters and clear skies (for the most part). Not too bad, if I do say so myself.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Housekeeping
Happiness is...
Housekeeping. I have never been one to make my bed.
Nor do I enjoy cleaning bathrooms.
This is why staying in hotels is such a treat. These things are done for me, and much more. I come home to fresh toiletries, a clean floor, and a crisp fold in the toilet paper. What did I say? It's the little things. Thank you to all the housekeepers out there!
Housekeeping. I have never been one to make my bed.
Nor do I enjoy cleaning bathrooms.
This is why staying in hotels is such a treat. These things are done for me, and much more. I come home to fresh toiletries, a clean floor, and a crisp fold in the toilet paper. What did I say? It's the little things. Thank you to all the housekeepers out there!
Friday, December 16, 2011
Mimosas
Happiness is...
Mimosas. Orange juice and champagne, whose idea was that?
What a brilliant way to start the morning. Thank you, whoever.
Mimosas. Orange juice and champagne, whose idea was that?
What a brilliant way to start the morning. Thank you, whoever.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
All-Inclusive
Happiness is...
All-inclusive. If there is ever a chance to travel all inclusive... do it. Any meal, any drink, any activity, and you don't have to worry about the price. You've already paid.
I love it. I love not thinking about anything when I'm down there. I love the carefree relaxation that comes with all-inclusive. And I'd recommend it to anyone. Even just once.
All-inclusive. If there is ever a chance to travel all inclusive... do it. Any meal, any drink, any activity, and you don't have to worry about the price. You've already paid.
I love it. I love not thinking about anything when I'm down there. I love the carefree relaxation that comes with all-inclusive. And I'd recommend it to anyone. Even just once.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Travel Alarm
Happiness is...
That moment when your alarm goes off and tells you it's time. It's time to get your butt out of bed and head to the airport. It's not like you've been sleeping anyway. No, you have been anxiously awaiting this morning and your trip to JAMAICA.
You can do this. You have run through each and every possible scenario in your head. Twice. You have double-checked your luggage and run all of the last errands. And now, you're finally going to an exotic island, a vacation, a getaway with your man.
You deserve this. After the fall you've had, it's all you're looking forward to. It'll be the time of your life. And your alarm. Just. Went. Off. Get up, get dressed, and head out the door!
After all, "I'm leaving... on a jet plane... don't know when I'll be back again..." :) Seeya!
That moment when your alarm goes off and tells you it's time. It's time to get your butt out of bed and head to the airport. It's not like you've been sleeping anyway. No, you have been anxiously awaiting this morning and your trip to JAMAICA.
You can do this. You have run through each and every possible scenario in your head. Twice. You have double-checked your luggage and run all of the last errands. And now, you're finally going to an exotic island, a vacation, a getaway with your man.
You deserve this. After the fall you've had, it's all you're looking forward to. It'll be the time of your life. And your alarm. Just. Went. Off. Get up, get dressed, and head out the door!
After all, "I'm leaving... on a jet plane... don't know when I'll be back again..." :) Seeya!
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Parody
Happiness is...
Parodies. Find something ridiculous? There's an easy response. Make fun of it in just as ridiculous a fashion. Mock it, comment on it, or trivialize its message.
Oh and, by the way, HAPPINESS IS BEING 24 HOURS AWAY FROM A WEEK IN A TROPICAL ISLAND WITH MY MAN. The end. Have a nice day.
Parodies. Find something ridiculous? There's an easy response. Make fun of it in just as ridiculous a fashion. Mock it, comment on it, or trivialize its message.
Oh and, by the way, HAPPINESS IS BEING 24 HOURS AWAY FROM A WEEK IN A TROPICAL ISLAND WITH MY MAN. The end. Have a nice day.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Seconds
Happiness is...
Beverages that come with the leftovers still stirred up. Malts. Perfect margaritas. I love it all, just give me my next round right there at the table. I promise I'll be happier. I value the sweet seconds, and the extra time to just enjoy my time with friends. And I'm sure all the waitresses in the world value being able to do their job instead of running to get me refills. The world should always be so kind, just hand it to me already! At least for tonight. Now that's perfect.
Beverages that come with the leftovers still stirred up. Malts. Perfect margaritas. I love it all, just give me my next round right there at the table. I promise I'll be happier. I value the sweet seconds, and the extra time to just enjoy my time with friends. And I'm sure all the waitresses in the world value being able to do their job instead of running to get me refills. The world should always be so kind, just hand it to me already! At least for tonight. Now that's perfect.
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Paper snowflakes.
Happiness is...
Paper snowflakes. Each one unique, each one perfectly symmetrical. My favorite thing to do around Christmas time? Watch elf and cut out these beauties. Paper snowflakes and paper chains, the simplest of holiday cheer (and possibly the most economical). They take me to a better place.
Paper snowflakes. Each one unique, each one perfectly symmetrical. My favorite thing to do around Christmas time? Watch elf and cut out these beauties. Paper snowflakes and paper chains, the simplest of holiday cheer (and possibly the most economical). They take me to a better place.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Playlists
Happiness is...
Playlists.
In the old days, they produced records. One artist, one album.
By the time the 70s and 80s came around, people were making mix tapes of their favorite songs. Compilations came out. Now. Best of. Radios played the top 40 and a mix of 80s, 90s, and today.
And then CDs... and the current trend, in Pandora or Spotify or Itunes or LastFM or whatever your favorite service is. Why choose one artist or one album, ever? Go ahead, round up your favorite tunes. Listen to some variety. Keep yourself on your toes. Find the perfect playlist. Now THAT is music to my ears.
Playlists.
In the old days, they produced records. One artist, one album.
By the time the 70s and 80s came around, people were making mix tapes of their favorite songs. Compilations came out. Now. Best of. Radios played the top 40 and a mix of 80s, 90s, and today.
And then CDs... and the current trend, in Pandora or Spotify or Itunes or LastFM or whatever your favorite service is. Why choose one artist or one album, ever? Go ahead, round up your favorite tunes. Listen to some variety. Keep yourself on your toes. Find the perfect playlist. Now THAT is music to my ears.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Winter break
Happiness is...
Winter break! It's here at last, the time to sit around, do some yoga, watch some movies, pretty much anything except graduate schoolwork.
This year features two happy holidays, time with family, dancing, and a week in Jamaica! More to come.
Winter break! It's here at last, the time to sit around, do some yoga, watch some movies, pretty much anything except graduate schoolwork.
This year features two happy holidays, time with family, dancing, and a week in Jamaica! More to come.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
First Semester
Happiness is...
Finishing my first semester of graduate school. At last, after all that work, late nights reading chapters, long study guides, group presentations, 20-page papers, discussions, and work on top if it all... I have finished the semester. I finished with straight-As too, so there!
Mommy, wow! I'm a big kid now! 4 semesters to go and I start my career as a Licensed Counselor. Unbelievable, I know. For the time being, I'm happy to just be done with this term.
Finishing my first semester of graduate school. At last, after all that work, late nights reading chapters, long study guides, group presentations, 20-page papers, discussions, and work on top if it all... I have finished the semester. I finished with straight-As too, so there!
Mommy, wow! I'm a big kid now! 4 semesters to go and I start my career as a Licensed Counselor. Unbelievable, I know. For the time being, I'm happy to just be done with this term.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Lunch Specials
Happiness is...
Lunch specials. A majority of restaurants have them. You know, for the business meetings or lunch breaks... which I don't have. Today, however, I get to meet for lunch and have a soup and salad special!
It's the small things.
Lunch specials. A majority of restaurants have them. You know, for the business meetings or lunch breaks... which I don't have. Today, however, I get to meet for lunch and have a soup and salad special!
It's the small things.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Positive feedback
Happiness is...
Positive feedback. It's the time of the year for a mid-year evaluation. And I love it. I know I'm rare in this manner, but it's the truth.
I am an achiever. I thrive off receiving feedback, implementing it, and growing. I love professional development and I value objective measures of performance. I also could use a good pat on the back every now and then. Couldn't we all?
Today the mid-year evaluation went quite swimmingly. I am leaving the semester with a smile on my face and a spring in my step. Hello winter break. Hello competency. Hello continued success.
Positive feedback. It's the time of the year for a mid-year evaluation. And I love it. I know I'm rare in this manner, but it's the truth.
I am an achiever. I thrive off receiving feedback, implementing it, and growing. I love professional development and I value objective measures of performance. I also could use a good pat on the back every now and then. Couldn't we all?
Today the mid-year evaluation went quite swimmingly. I am leaving the semester with a smile on my face and a spring in my step. Hello winter break. Hello competency. Hello continued success.
Monday, December 5, 2011
Packing Lists.
Happiness is...
Packing lists.
I am not a huge fan of packing. I love the idea of travel, and packing adds to the excitement, don't get me wrong. However, I also have too much anxiety---did I pack everything I need? What am I forgetting? What will happen when I get there and realize I didn't bring _____?! So, I love packing lists. They relieve a lot of my stress and give me ideas I wouldn't have thought about. I feel competent about taking off and not looking back.
Wednesday morning I head home until January. In that time I celebrate two holidays and take a trip to a tropical island. So, naturally, this time around packing is especially difficult. No worries, though, I have a list. That solves everything, right?
Yikes.
Packing lists.
I am not a huge fan of packing. I love the idea of travel, and packing adds to the excitement, don't get me wrong. However, I also have too much anxiety---did I pack everything I need? What am I forgetting? What will happen when I get there and realize I didn't bring _____?! So, I love packing lists. They relieve a lot of my stress and give me ideas I wouldn't have thought about. I feel competent about taking off and not looking back.
Wednesday morning I head home until January. In that time I celebrate two holidays and take a trip to a tropical island. So, naturally, this time around packing is especially difficult. No worries, though, I have a list. That solves everything, right?
Yikes.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Words of Wisdom
Happiness is...
Great words of wisdom. Today at church, talking about the importance of trusting God to fulfill needs instead of bumbling through life solo: "After all, sin is when you have a legitimate need, but meet it in an illegitimate way."
Sigh.
Amazing.
Thank you and goodnight.
Great words of wisdom. Today at church, talking about the importance of trusting God to fulfill needs instead of bumbling through life solo: "After all, sin is when you have a legitimate need, but meet it in an illegitimate way."
Sigh.
Amazing.
Thank you and goodnight.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Crafting Gifts
Happiness is...
Crafting gifts. You can go shopping all day if you wish, but when you sit down and make some homemade presents, the Christmas cheer is multiplied for sure. Knitting scarves, writing cards, baking treats, decorating candy, even making paper snowflakes...
Crafting gifts. You can go shopping all day if you wish, but when you sit down and make some homemade presents, the Christmas cheer is multiplied for sure. Knitting scarves, writing cards, baking treats, decorating candy, even making paper snowflakes...
Friday, December 2, 2011
Continuing Ed.
Happiness is...
Continued education. Today in class we were each invited to share a relevant article about counseling. It was fun to investigate extra things in the field, and it revealed a lot of other information through classmates' articles... they were all so interesting, and an excellent reminder of the continual learning within this profession!
When I was in college, I used to say I wanted to grow up to be a student; I guess this is about as close as I could get. :)
Continued education. Today in class we were each invited to share a relevant article about counseling. It was fun to investigate extra things in the field, and it revealed a lot of other information through classmates' articles... they were all so interesting, and an excellent reminder of the continual learning within this profession!
When I was in college, I used to say I wanted to grow up to be a student; I guess this is about as close as I could get. :)
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Hugs
Happiness is...
Hugs. Human contact that reaches straight through you to lift your spirit and feed your soul. Hugs are the most basic form of interpersonal warmth, and they remain my favorite. They are unlike any other physical contact... They communicate affection, friendship, and support.
It's the best way to start the day, and it keeps me going til the end.
Hugs. Human contact that reaches straight through you to lift your spirit and feed your soul. Hugs are the most basic form of interpersonal warmth, and they remain my favorite. They are unlike any other physical contact... They communicate affection, friendship, and support.
It's the best way to start the day, and it keeps me going til the end.
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