10 things that make me happy

Someone suggested I do this - it's always nice to see what makes other people happy. Maybe it will help you remember what makes YOU happy!

1. Being creative - using my hands to do anything, whether it is drawing, painting, decorating...basically creating anything.

2. Fall - I love the colors of the fall, especially in New England. The leaves turn anywhere from red, to orange, to yellow...

3. A good book - there's nothing like relaxing (if you can find the time) with a good read...

4. Swedish Christmas - I grew up with a Swedish Christmas Eve. I love the food, the rustic decorations, the Akvavit. It's an awesome celebration of life and people.

5. A Summer Swim - Diving into a cold lake, pool, pond in the summer is one of the best things in the world. Refreshing and fun...try to act like a kid again.

6. Ski Resorts - Is there anything better than shacking up in a hotel/cabin, using an outdoor pool, going skiing, staying cozy...all while other people clean your room and serve you food? I think not.

7. Wine with Mom and Gummie - Although I can't do it anymore, I love sitting outside in the summer, or inside in the winter, and having a glass of wine with my mom and grandmother. No better way for three generations to get together and talk.

8. Hot Chocolate - A hot mug of hot cocoa on a cold afternoon is always special, if you make it that way.

9. White snowy mountains - I love driving up and into huge, snow-topped mountains. It's breathtaking and somehow makes me feel at home.

10. Breaking a good sweat - getting out and releasing stress, feeling strong, and sweating a little (or a lot) is key to my happiness.


What makes you happy? Think about it, and maybe create your own list. It's funny how really simple things make you happy. I think we need to focus on the smaller things, stop racing through life, and live with more fulfillment from the little things around us.

Getaway Weekend

Hey all. I've been busy all week so a little MIA. We are heading up to Angelfire this wknd for a fun wknd away. Mike needs a break from work, and I just want to see the leaves and run around up north! Really looking forward to taking Logey out for a run in the mtn area. We're staying in Mike's bosse's house which is B-E-A-utiful! Mind you, this is only one of the houses the guy has. He has two up in Durango, CO as well. I have yet to go up there but it is on the list.

Mike's sister arrived in town late last night and is staying at Gail's (the mom) house. She will get to see Logan for the first time! Before I know it it will be time to go home for X-Mas which will be great. I can't wait to see the whole family - and possibly some snow??

Things have been tense lately. Lack of sleep is catching up with me, and I'm acting a little like a jerk, but that doesn't let every one else off the hook. If anything, I could use some support and help. We all get through it and forget about it - but it is hard when it's happening. We need to find happiness somewhere, in the little things.

Oh, so I went to do my tempo run on the 'mill last night, and only got in 4.25 miles bc SOMEONE got cranky (hungry) in the daycare and started crying a bit. Of course, the second I went in there he was fine. But we left anyway bc I knew he would start squaking if I left again. The run was supposed to be 7.5 miles, so yeahhh. I'm trying to run it at my 9 min pace but, wow, I only was able to do 9:20. I know for a fact that this extra weight is slowing me down, so as I shed some lbs I should speed up. The lady on the treadmill next to me was like, "you were chuggin' along there still!" when the daycare lady came to get me. At least it looked like I was workin' hard! Haha!