the things that make us smile (Sept. 2011 edition)

It's been a long day already, but I still have a long way to go before my day at the office is over.  And although I told myself I would trudge on, and work straight through the night, I need to take this short break.

For my well-being.

Sometimes, we have to listen to our bodies.  Right now, my brain is telling me it cannot look at another report.  It cannot look at anymore disturbing things for awhile.  It needs happy thoughts.  It needs beautiful things.  It needs to be reminded that life is beautiful.  I haven't done this for awhile, so thought I'd give it what it needs: the things that make us smile series. 

I had a wonderful non-work weekend.  Got to spend time with people I love.  Saturday was just beautiful.  Friends and I spent the evening outdoors, had dinner by the pool, delicious grilled chicken and steak, and lots of wine.  It was lovely.  Beyond lovely.  I learned a lot about my very good friend's husband, who I spent the earlier part of the evening speaking to.  Funny how you can know someone for years, but not really know much about them.  I loved hearing about his life growing up in Scotland.  For some reason, I get along very well with foreigners, i.e. non-Americans.  I find them to be wonderful and fascinating people.  It's the reason why I love traveling.  How I wish I could do more of it. 

Then, Sunday I got to see my favorite kids who are growing up way too fast.  I love hearing them talk amongst each other, joke with one another, and especially, I love it when they talk to me about their lives.  It's such a privilege to have them trust me that way. 

And my Sunday became even lovelier when I got to see my sweet, charming friend (who I've mentioned a few times but let's just call him "Dex"...), and well, who I just absolutely adore.  I haven't seen him in months, and so, it was great catching up.  Even if it was only for a short while.  He makes me smile.  Those are always the best people to have around: someone who brings out the happy kid in you.  :)  I miss him already (which is the part I dislike the most).  I'm never one good with partings ...

So, let's move on to other things that put a smile to my face:

Lovely!  I love flowers. :)

photo: nobi*

Butterflies and cupcakes!  What more can I ask for?

photo: Shamima Desai

The always-changing (but constant) beautiful sky, and how it meets the ocean.

photo: angus clyne

     
And well, of course, text messages from my best friend.  That really made me smile.