Sparkle and Shine

My day went pretty much as I planned... except for a couple of details. The goal was to have a better day, and I did, so that's what ultimately counts.

I skipped the walk and went directly out to the pool after I blogged. The day was gorgeous! Low humidity (rare in these parts in August)and bright sun but a few clouds and an occasional breeze for respite. Almost better than the weather was the fact that there were no kids by or in the pool. Yay. You know I don't dislike kids (or begrudge the ones who live here use of the pool), but today was a day I wanted a little peace and quiet. I usually get a fair amount of alone, or at least adult-only, time during the week (I'm not the only teacher in the complex) but weekends usually are busier, with more kids and noise, and less opportunity for tranquility. Today was my lucky day. Really, it was perfect. Which is why, when I came in to check out Big Daddy's Kitchen, I stayed only as long is it took to make myself a cocktail and head back out. (I figured I can catch a rerun.)

I stayed out for a couple more hours, one of which I spent engrossed in my novel (love it! I'm already halfway through) and the second I spent chatting with a neighbor. I could have stayed longer, would have loved to stay longer and make today that day I devote to an entire book by the pool, but I wanted to see A and be a part of her welcome back dinner.

Dinner was good. Beyond the food, that is. Obviously, it was great to see A and I think we were all so focused on her that we let her lead the conversation and be the center of attention. And since she is still on Europe time, we didn't linger afterward; I followed my parents' lead and left after dessert. I decided against stopping for that cocktail on the way home since I was feeling a little stuffed [insert oinking noise here], knowing I could change my mind later once I digested.

That was two hours ago. I think I'm all set. (Maybe all I needed to do was give myself permission to go out. I'm so textbook Psych 101 it's laughable.) I repainted my toe nails (my last pedicure color was all bleached out from the sun and chlorine) while I watched Meet the Press, and finally cleaned my dingy diamond earrings. Last fall, I bought myself some pave diamond hoops that I wear every day and never take off, so they were overdue for a Windex bath and a toothbrush. A little TLC and they're brilliant. They sparkle and shine again.

The little things in life, once again, making me smile...

Hope that you are well, that TLC is not in short supply in your world, that you are at your best, brilliant self. Love you, Barb