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.
Showing posts with label holidays. Show all posts
Showing posts with label holidays. Show all posts
Monday, December 26, 2011
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 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.
Friday, November 25, 2011
Thanks Giving
Happiness is...
Reflecting on all the things I have to be thankful for.
A great graduate assistantship. Free schooling. Savings. Awesome coursework. Good grades. A cozy home. A nice car. Some stellar friends. My loving family. A patient and caring man. An upcoming trip, all-inclusive, to a tropical island. A year with VISTA that changed me for the better. Two adorable cats. Two sizeable closets. A passion for yoga. Knitting. Christmas music. Ellen Degeneres. Jesus Christ. Peanut Butter and Jelly. Losing weight. Silver nail polish. Office supplies. Coffee. Pinterest. Chocolate. Glee. Dinosaurs. Skype.
Everything that I have already posted and have yet to post on my 2011 blog of happiness. I shan't take it for granted.
Reflecting on all the things I have to be thankful for.
A great graduate assistantship. Free schooling. Savings. Awesome coursework. Good grades. A cozy home. A nice car. Some stellar friends. My loving family. A patient and caring man. An upcoming trip, all-inclusive, to a tropical island. A year with VISTA that changed me for the better. Two adorable cats. Two sizeable closets. A passion for yoga. Knitting. Christmas music. Ellen Degeneres. Jesus Christ. Peanut Butter and Jelly. Losing weight. Silver nail polish. Office supplies. Coffee. Pinterest. Chocolate. Glee. Dinosaurs. Skype.
Everything that I have already posted and have yet to post on my 2011 blog of happiness. I shan't take it for granted.
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Thanksgiving dinner
Happiness is...
Thanksgiving!
Turkey.
Mashed Potatoes.
Cranberries.
Creamed Spinach.
Stuffing.
Break...
Nap.
Round Two.
Bring it on.
Thanksgiving!
Turkey.
Mashed Potatoes.
Cranberries.
Creamed Spinach.
Stuffing.
Break...
Nap.
Round Two.
Bring it on.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
No alarm
Happiness is...
Setting no alarms. Yes, my biological clock still gets me up well before 8 a.m., but it's a big change from being rudely awakened by a blaring alarm at 7 or 7:30. There's just something special about a natural morning. I remember more of my dreams, wake up in a calm, and just generally start the day out right.
This will be the trend for the next four days. It's a welcome change from the usual in grad school, and it's the perfect way to celebrate the holiday.
Setting no alarms. Yes, my biological clock still gets me up well before 8 a.m., but it's a big change from being rudely awakened by a blaring alarm at 7 or 7:30. There's just something special about a natural morning. I remember more of my dreams, wake up in a calm, and just generally start the day out right.
This will be the trend for the next four days. It's a welcome change from the usual in grad school, and it's the perfect way to celebrate the holiday.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
First snowfall
Happiness is...
Having nowhere in particular to go during the first snowfall of the year.
Every year around this time, Minnesotans forget what it's like to be here. They have to become accustomed to snow all over again. In the meantime, they whine, under-dress, and drive like crap. Unfortunately, grad school calls me in to Saturday classes. Today was the last one of the semester. People were by no means chipper... but I got to avoid the rest of the world as we sat in that classroom all afternoon. Now, all that's left is bundling up and sipping cocoa, perhaps with one friend. The others? You can have them.
I'm looking forward to a relaxing evening, cozy and comfortable. It's all I need today.
Having nowhere in particular to go during the first snowfall of the year.
Every year around this time, Minnesotans forget what it's like to be here. They have to become accustomed to snow all over again. In the meantime, they whine, under-dress, and drive like crap. Unfortunately, grad school calls me in to Saturday classes. Today was the last one of the semester. People were by no means chipper... but I got to avoid the rest of the world as we sat in that classroom all afternoon. Now, all that's left is bundling up and sipping cocoa, perhaps with one friend. The others? You can have them.
I'm looking forward to a relaxing evening, cozy and comfortable. It's all I need today.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Celebrations
Happiness is...
Thanksgiving dinners on days besides Thanksgiving.
Tonight I celebrated with the office. We all brought a dish to share, enjoyed each others' company, and engaged in rowdy games and conversation. It felt like family. In grad school, when you see family every 6 weeks or so (if you're lucky), this can be invaluable.
There isn't much I love more than holidays... except, perhaps, the chance to celebrate them multiple times. Food on!
Thanksgiving dinners on days besides Thanksgiving.
Tonight I celebrated with the office. We all brought a dish to share, enjoyed each others' company, and engaged in rowdy games and conversation. It felt like family. In grad school, when you see family every 6 weeks or so (if you're lucky), this can be invaluable.
There isn't much I love more than holidays... except, perhaps, the chance to celebrate them multiple times. Food on!
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!
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.
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
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!
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!
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Halloween Sales
Happiness is...
Halloween candy sales. They mean chocolate overloads and afternoons nibbling on things made of processed sugar and corn starch. That's right, world. I have a weakness for candy corn. I love the thought of spreading the joy when it comes to trick or treating, and I love the idea of being someone besides me, just for a night!
It also means holiday season is approaching! The way retail goes Halloween stuff is on sale late September, Thanksgiving stuff is on the shelves the morning after Halloween, and Christmas is in full swing just hours after Thanksgiving, if not before (for the record, I do not like black Friday). I will be celebrating something until the end of the year now! AND even when January rolls around, it'll be just anticipation for another (semi) eventful Birthday! I'm ashamed to say that I am one of those people who is very forward thinking, but this is the perfect time of the year to embrace that fact. Welcome Halloween :)
Halloween candy sales. They mean chocolate overloads and afternoons nibbling on things made of processed sugar and corn starch. That's right, world. I have a weakness for candy corn. I love the thought of spreading the joy when it comes to trick or treating, and I love the idea of being someone besides me, just for a night!
It also means holiday season is approaching! The way retail goes Halloween stuff is on sale late September, Thanksgiving stuff is on the shelves the morning after Halloween, and Christmas is in full swing just hours after Thanksgiving, if not before (for the record, I do not like black Friday). I will be celebrating something until the end of the year now! AND even when January rolls around, it'll be just anticipation for another (semi) eventful Birthday! I'm ashamed to say that I am one of those people who is very forward thinking, but this is the perfect time of the year to embrace that fact. Welcome Halloween :)
Monday, July 4, 2011
Fireworks
Happiness is...
Fireworks. After all, today is the day for celebrations with pyrotechnics. Tubes are filled with combustible materials, preparing to blow noise, light, color, and even confetti. In other words, firework displays are literally happiness in a neat little package.
Did you know that they were invented by the Chinese in the seventh century to scare away evil spirits?
Fireworks give me the rare chance to simply relax and enjoy some bright lights. Accompanied by some "Ooos" and "Aaahs", it's a timeless afternoon. Have a good holiday all, and find a great show!
Fireworks. After all, today is the day for celebrations with pyrotechnics. Tubes are filled with combustible materials, preparing to blow noise, light, color, and even confetti. In other words, firework displays are literally happiness in a neat little package.
Did you know that they were invented by the Chinese in the seventh century to scare away evil spirits?
Fireworks give me the rare chance to simply relax and enjoy some bright lights. Accompanied by some "Ooos" and "Aaahs", it's a timeless afternoon. Have a good holiday all, and find a great show!
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Free Cities for the Summer
Happiness is...
Finding free things in the summer....
Music in the parks.
Art events.
Walks at the lake.
Free museum nights.
Wandering around the cathedral.
Going roaming downtown.
Free movies or outdoor theater.
Beachbeachbeachbeach.
Art fairs and farmers markets.
SUN!
Tomorrow's memorial day. And it all begins <3
One of the many things I'll miss about living in the Twin Cities.
Yesterday we went for a walk around Lake Harriet, and explored the gardens, and had a mini picnic from a lemonade stand... :) Today we went to the sculpture garden and walker. I like weekends like this, they should happen more often. Weekends.like.this.are.happiness.
Finding free things in the summer....
Music in the parks.
Art events.
Walks at the lake.
Free museum nights.
Wandering around the cathedral.
Going roaming downtown.
Free movies or outdoor theater.
Beachbeachbeachbeach.
Art fairs and farmers markets.
SUN!
Tomorrow's memorial day. And it all begins <3
One of the many things I'll miss about living in the Twin Cities.
Yesterday we went for a walk around Lake Harriet, and explored the gardens, and had a mini picnic from a lemonade stand... :) Today we went to the sculpture garden and walker. I like weekends like this, they should happen more often. Weekends.like.this.are.happiness.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Cinco de Mayo
Happiness is...
Cinco de Mayo. 5 D Mayo. Dia del Mayo.
I know, I know, it's far past Cinco de Mayo (which, for any super gringos out there, was Thursday, the FIFTH). However, I was able to celebrate today in one of the largest parties in the state. Parade, Music, Food, it really put me in the mood!
It's a day of Mexican heritage and Pride. And, no, it is not Mexican Independence Day... although there was a little bit of Mexican victory to be had.
What are you going to do to observe the holiday? I recommend the tamales, though cervezas are always a slightly healthy alternative, verdad? Felicidades!
Cinco de Mayo. 5 D Mayo. Dia del Mayo.
I know, I know, it's far past Cinco de Mayo (which, for any super gringos out there, was Thursday, the FIFTH). However, I was able to celebrate today in one of the largest parties in the state. Parade, Music, Food, it really put me in the mood!
It's a day of Mexican heritage and Pride. And, no, it is not Mexican Independence Day... although there was a little bit of Mexican victory to be had.
What are you going to do to observe the holiday? I recommend the tamales, though cervezas are always a slightly healthy alternative, verdad? Felicidades!
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Easter
Happiness is...
A relaxing holiday with the whole family.
The day started with a cup of coffee and a quiet morning on the porch. Church was warm and welcoming, as usual. Our Easter dinner included pineapple glazed ham, salad, potatoes, green beans, rolls, jello salad, AND orange poppyseed cake.
And yes, I got to eat the cake. TGIEASTER! Lent is over and chocolate is back <3
Oh yeah, and we got to sit around and catch up and play games. Watch a movie and cuddle up. Spend some time just plain sitting around. What an afternoon.
Happy Easter... He is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!
A relaxing holiday with the whole family.
The day started with a cup of coffee and a quiet morning on the porch. Church was warm and welcoming, as usual. Our Easter dinner included pineapple glazed ham, salad, potatoes, green beans, rolls, jello salad, AND orange poppyseed cake.
And yes, I got to eat the cake. TGIEASTER! Lent is over and chocolate is back <3
Oh yeah, and we got to sit around and catch up and play games. Watch a movie and cuddle up. Spend some time just plain sitting around. What an afternoon.
Happy Easter... He is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!
Friday, March 18, 2011
St. Patty's
Happiness is...
Wearing green. And chasing friends around to pinch them, may they never forget to wear it too.
Reading through a few Irish blessings to begin your morning.
Seeing the school covered in different shades of emerald, and different attempts at accents and sayings.
Sitting down to a nice, possibly green, frothy refreshment.
Corn beef and cabbage.
Imagining the fun being had.
Happiness is St. Patrick's Day. Man, am I ever proud to be Irish!
Wearing green. And chasing friends around to pinch them, may they never forget to wear it too.
Reading through a few Irish blessings to begin your morning.
Seeing the school covered in different shades of emerald, and different attempts at accents and sayings.
Sitting down to a nice, possibly green, frothy refreshment.
Corn beef and cabbage.
Imagining the fun being had.
Happiness is St. Patrick's Day. Man, am I ever proud to be Irish!
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