Think Happy Thoughts

Based on several of my posts in the pasts (like this one.... or even this one), it is apparent that occasionally I like to have a good rant or whine about some things in life. I am sure this has its value somewhere. But on the other hand, this week I was reading another blog in which the writer was talking about all of the things that made her happy. I was like, “huh… there’s one way to do it.”

So perhaps instead of having a good rant about the craziness of this world we live in, I will focus a little more on the happiness of my own little world. I am not talking about all of the big, amazing moments in life, such as traveling or getting married or having your first baby. I am just talking about all of the little things in which simple pleasure can be derived on a daily basis.

Here are a few things that make me happy. I mean, sometimes, the feelings of happiness literally well up inside of me. These are the moments, and the appreciation of those moments, that make an atmosphere of happiness and thankfulness in one’s life.

- Sitting down to have Starbucks with one of the girls when you can just tell the drink was made perfect. Occasionally I tell those around me not to talk while I just enjoy my first little moment with my coffee.

- Taking a shower after a good, hard workout.

- Sitting in Central Park at Disneyland (preferably with coffee in hand once again).

- Getting in my cozy bed at night and cuddling with my hubby. It is very often those moments that we tell one another how happy we are.

- Reading a good book.

With all of the difficulties and challenges that life brings, sometimes it does you a world of a good to think a few happy thoughts.

Starting the Week Off Strong

Don’t the Mondays come all too quick. The older I get, the more I am aware of the speedy passing of time. It is one of those sobering thoughts that can get a little too heavy if dwelt on for an extended period of time.

I did pretty well on my goals for last week, especially considering I was away from home for most of the week.

I got my miles done running along the beautiful Colorado River in Laughlin. Running is a love/hate thing with me. But when I first take off and the wind is blowing in my face and my music is blaring in my ears, I always think, “this is great. Why do I dread it so much?” And then I have to go through the same thing the next day. Human nature I suppose. In addition to running, maybe I was the girl in the gym doing planks while quoting James 1. And maybe I was the girl chucking a bunch of clothes in a bag while saying the same scripture over and over. Multi tasking. Distraction. Whatever you want to call it. Either way, I am happy to announce that I definitely have adequately refreshed myself on that particular chunk of scripture to the point where I think it is stuck in my heart good. Whenever I memorize scripture, I realize that I could lose it randomly until it is hidden away in my heart. Once I reach that point, I don’t think I will ever forget it. And this week I discovered that James 1 is on the list of those scriptures which are there to stay.

You notice that once more I have not listed a completed edited photo….. there is always this week.

I am really on a tummy tightening kick, so I will be working on that this week yet again. I found this article in fitness magazine with a picture of the most beautiful abs. So I am going to try to work some of that into my routine this week. We will see. I am telling you people, taking a few goals one week at a time is really helpful!

- DON’T eat bread. After all of the homemade loaves and the bread binging at outback steakhouse last week, I definitely need to take a little bread break. (this, of course, excludes homemade pizza night on Saturdays.... I just can't take that away from my hubby)

- Organize two drawers in my office. It is crazy in there.

- Order Photoshop book from library AND EDIT ONE PHOTO for goodness sake!!!

- Refresh my memory on James 2.

- Do 250 ab combo daily (preferably with medicine and bosu balls to change it up)

I think that is a good start for this week. I am one of those people who likes checking things off the list…. So If I feel ambitious in any other particular area I will just add to the list later.

I hope you all have a happy Monday! Make some goals, set yourself up for a happy and successful week!

Romance at its Finest

Funny how the idea of romance can change over time. I mentioned to my sister early in the day yesterday that I didn’t think Cory would have time after work to get me my favorite chocolate from our local fudge store. It would be a little disappointing as he has gotten it for me every year and it is fun to have our little traditions. However, he did not disappoint. When he got home, there in his hand was the tell tale giant heart full of all my favorite goodies. Those are the little things that speak wonders of our own special romance.

Cory and I have had a great many Valentine’s Days together. I was eighteen for our first. That was back in the wooing stage. I have been spoiled by my fair share of five course meals, deliveries of roses, and champagne under the stars. Romance.

Valentine’s Day has changed a little with every year that passes. Last year we decided to stay in and Cory cooked for me. Everything from gourmet stuffed chicken to dessert. That man does know his way around the kitchen when he puts his mind to it. This year we decided to stay in again…. Only this time Cory informed me that I would cook and he would make homemade crème brulee. (hmmm…I see where this is going).

But I didn’t mind. I ran around in the kitchen for an hour with my damp hair up in a bundle. Right before Cory got home I threw on a dress and slapped a bit of mascara and lipstick on, pulled my hair down (without brushing of course) and called it good.

I wanted to dress up, but Cory likes to be comfortable. So we compromised. He could wear shorts or whatever he wanted, as long as from the waste up he looked nice. So in pictures or across the table he was dressed uUp

I set up a little table by the window that overlooks our beautiful view, lit some candles, and put on some Frank Sinatra, and there existed the ideal ambiance for a romantic dinner for two.

It does make it difficult to sit and have nice conversation while waiting for your food when you actually have to prepare and deliver the food. However, there is something cute and cozy about sending the hubby upstairs to pour the wine while I determine the best presentation for the food and bring it up.

We held hands and talked in the candle light about all of the wonderful years that have passed and all of the wonderful years yet to come. That is romance at its finest.

I don’t think that Valentine’s Day is necessarily that big of a deal. But it is a reason to do and say all of those important things you should be doing and saying anyway. If it gives you a little nudge to think little bit more about the one you love and to do a little something extra for him or her, then I say God bless it.