Happiness Is....

*waking up refreshed and glowing after some romantic time with My Man followed by a good nights sleep..ahhh...



*the fact that after today Beren and I are on vacation! Whoo-hoo! Although we're not planning to go anywhere, I know that plans can change in a heartbeat around here and I might find myself packing up Bettie for a little road trip, who knows? (If Tabitha will give up my luggage, that is!) Either way, I'm looking forward to a 10 days of puttering around the Castle, frolicking in the pool and just generally relaxing with my family and friends.

*the sense of accomplishment having done a good day's work yesterday. I hate leaving unfinished business before vacation so I kicked a** yesterday to tie up some loose ends. I worked late, came home tired yet satisfied. Today will probably be another long one but well worth it for peace of mind while I'm away.



*booking a beautiful hotel room for Kali & Kevin's 1st Anniversary, I can't believe it's been a year since their wedding! They've had a lot of stress over the past 12 months, they deserve a night to themselves to unwind and just celebrate each other.



*Inspired by La Belette Rouge (love her blog!), I looked up one of my favorite musical movie moments and enjoyed it all over again. My dear friend who is a phenomenal opera singer in her own right (I must introduce you to her soon!) provided me with this link for further auditory pleasure as well as translation. Swoon...what better way to start my day than with beautiful music?

Have a Beauty-Full Day,

Ladies Who Lunch

It's a busy time at work, Quarterlies are due, so I'm working more hours than usual. I don't mind since I really like to be busy and I do get a real sense of fulfillment from my current job. I love my co-workers, we have a lot of laughs and since we are a small company, it truly is like a family. Oh, and another good reason for the increased hours - I need the extra cash for an upcoming vacation but more about that later..wink..

You know, as much as I enjoyed being home full time in my "prior life," I admit that working, even part time, gives a sense of order and structure to my life. Without that, I find myself meandering through my days, puttering around and letting the hours slip away from me. I appreciate my home more since I'm in it less, and I find that getting up and going to the office gives me more energy, gets my body and brain moving!

Anyway, since I am usually home by 1 pm I rarely have occasion to pack a lunch so it's a real treat when I get to do so. Most of the ladies at my office grab fast food or a quick sandwich, but I'm on a budget so I'll be "brown bagging" it today. I prefer it that way, especially since I get to pack my pretty little Bento box like this...



and tuck it into this fun little tote bag...



Along with a glass of homemade iced tea, doesn't this just beat Burger King any day?!

So, off to work for this little gal...see you later!