simple things

I think I've smiled my way through most of this week. My friend Jackie from SF was in town this past weekend to see her boyfriend and we got to hang out most of the day on Monday. It was great to see her, even though it had only been a week since I was out there. My roommate and friend who was visiting were watching the bachelor when I got home from work that night and I actually sat down to watch with them for a little while (a rarity), mainly just to be in the same space as them. How can you not smile at the ridiculousness of that show...

Tuesday I started my community clinical and had to drive around like a private detective, surveying a refugee neighborhood. There were definitely smiles to be had when my partner and I watched everyone's reactions to the only white kids on the block. I went to a work dinner after that- free meals are always good- and had a great time hanging out with my coworkers outside of work. I also went to help paint in my friend John's new condo. Painting is always a recipe for some kind of funny situation.

My sister Daelee's birthday was on Wednesday, so after doing stuff for school and running errands, I picked up my brother from Tech and we drove home to celebrate. I rode my mom's new horse and it's been months since I've ridden. Sore or not, I'm so glad that I did. I don't realize how much I miss it until I'm on the horse's back. Daelee loves biscuits and gravy so that is what I made her for her bday supper. So simple but that's what she wanted. My parents were in great spirits. In bdays past, when my mom has been in her usual depressed state, she often forgets to get a bday cake or gift or doesn't feel like celebrating. She remembered Daelee's ice cream cake and was excited to celebrate. What a blessing! On the way back into town, Taylor and I had one of the most meaningful conversations we've had in a long time. He's growing up and it's good to be able to relate to him a little better...

Yesterday I taught ESOL to both seniors and teenagers, all refugees mostly from Bhutan and Thailand. You can't help but smile when they come up with their own words or write the wrong answer, but are so sincere and try so hard. Just their accents alone are precious. In my boxing workout last night my instructor kicked my butt, mostly because I haven't trained in a few weeks. It's not that I haven't been exercising, but just not that kind and it makes a difference when you're consistent. I had to laugh at myself, otherwise I would have been too frustrated with my performance. Last night I went to my friend Erin's house to keep her company because she's sick. I didn't know this, but it was Grey's night. I was reminded why I don't watch the show, but again, I had to smile at the craziness of it.

I'm thankful for the simple things this week that have made it so enjoyable. School's about to really gear up and it's easy to get caught up in the busy work and trying to do my homework last minute, missing the simple things in life. Hopefully I keep it all in perspective and find the balance.