8 Things That Made Me Really Happy This Week
The Barbie-inspired dance cardio session was especially *chef's kiss.*
Recently when people ask, “How are you?” my answer is, “I’m okay.” Just okay, for a myriad of reasons. Let’s just say, I’ve been in a phase of life where, when it rains, it pours.
But, I think I’m on an upwards trajectory. Attitude-wise, at least.
I don’t do well with a lack of control, and I haven’t had control over a lot of things lately. But if I can take away anything from these experiences, it’s that life deals you a hand, and it’s up to you how you play them. It’s up to you how you approach the cards.
Ergo, I’m starting a gratitude practice and thought, “I like reading about the highlights of people’s weeks, why not share mine?” Here are eight things that made me happy over the last seven-day stretch.
1. Celebrating my husband’s birthday.
I love birthdays. I love my birthday and I love celebrating the birthdays of the ones I love, especially my husband! I woke up early to make him a “Happy Birthday!” banner and hang it in the living room. When he woke up, I made him French toast for breakfast and a rack of lamb chops for dinner. We watched Shark Tank while we ate, and he requested chocolate chip cookies for dessert. I surprised him with a Yankees Dugout Mug (a novelty beer mug made from a baseball bat - I gifted my father a Mets one for Father’s Day, too) and it was a real hit. He told me it was a perfect day and I was so happy he felt that way, because - unlike me - his birthday is not his favorite. We also had some family visit over the weekend to celebrate, and I always enjoy hosting in our home!
2. Almondmilk lattes sweetened with honey.
I decided to order this on a whim. I really like Starbucks’ Honey Almondmilk Flat White and wondered if an almondmilk latte with honey would taste much different. It’s not the same, but it is really enjoyable. That will probably be my go-to for a little while.
3. Putting artwork up around my apartment.
I mentioned in my last post that I’d put some pictures up around my apartment, but I don’t think I told you the story of this floral painting. I first saw it at TJ Maxx about three or four months ago. I liked it but wasn’t sure if I loved it, so I didn’t buy it. Now, anyone who shops at TJ Maxx knows as well as I do that this could have been a grave mistake. Items are typically there one day and gone the next, never to be seen again.
Well, consider the artwork an anomaly.
A month or so ago, I saw it again, sitting pretty on a shelf. I did love it, but I didn’t know where I would put it. I walked away again. I said to myself, if I’m still thinking about it in a week, I’ll come back for it. I was playing with fate. But, fate was clearly on my side because a week later, I went back for the painting and purchased the last one in the store.
I think it was meant to be mine. Don’t you?
4. Discussing Breaking Bad with my sister.
I am always 10 years late watching shows. The only shows I watch in real time are Big Brother and Survivor, and the occasional Netflix/Amazon/Hulu series. But here’s the thing about me and shows (and movies, actually): If I like a story, I want to talk about it with anyone and everyone who also likes said show or movie. So when my sister told me she started binge-watching Breaking Bad, I was thrilled. She finished the series tonight, and we’ve talked about it a few times throughout this last week. It’s a little thing, but it made me happy.
5. Visiting with Devon from .
You might remember Devon Loftus from our interview all about emotions and her book Dwell. She’s one of my favorite people to spend time with, even if that time is just a conversation over iMessage. She has a special energy I liken to sunflowers. Bright, warm, and inviting. Our day was spent exploring with her curious three-year-old son and protective bulldog. We enjoyed the outdoors and tapped into our inner children. Kids have that effect on people. Kit especially. The whole day was a breath of fresh air. I came home sun-kissed, eaten by mosquitos, and smiling.
6. Starting The Fairytale Life of Dorothy Gale
I love, love, love a retelling, and Virginia Kantra’s modern-day interpretation of Little Women was one of my favorites. Her newest title, The Fairytale Life of Dorothy Gale is her spin on The Wizard of Oz. It’s set in Ireland, so it automatically gets points from me for its setting. I’m only about 50 pages in, but I can already tell this is going to be just as excellent as Meg & Jo and Beth & Amy were.
7. Gina B’s 35-Minute Barbie Dance Workout
This dance cardio workout was so much fun. I’ve done a few Gina B classes, and I’d rank this one in my top five. Every song was a winner, which made the 35 minutes fly by. I was a sweaty mess by the end of it, but I was bummed it was over. I’d highly recommend it to anyone who needs a mood boost after a long day.
8. Getting a postcard from my parents.
They returned home from a two-week vacation in Scotland last Tuesday, but we just got their postcard in the mail today. I’m a sucker for a postcard (or any snail mail, really) and it was a nice surprise to end my work week.
Love all of these!! I think it’s wonderful to reflect on the things that make us happy. I have to try that dance cardio!! Looks so much fun. Love you ❤️😁
Oooo that dance cardio workout - must try! And love postcards snail mail too! My highlight has been getting the response cards to my upcoming wedding :)