Christmas is in the air...

Today's post is way overdue. I mean extremely overdue. I wasn't sure if I would draw a blank when the time came to start typing, or if I would want to keep on typing for days on end. So far, so good...let's keep this going. You wouldn't think much could happen in a week's time, at least not enough to write about. That's not the case here, I assure you. The majority of my time over the past week was spent in front of a computer, typing and preparing three final projects, all of which exited my life yesterday. The feeling that rushed over me as they left is one of my favorite feelings in the world; completion. After having these things hanging over my head since I saw them written on the syllabus on that first day of the semester, they have finally disappeared. They are out of my hands and there is nothing more I can do with them. *Sigh* Now, the only thing on my agenda for the remainder of this last week of school is a final art project and 3 final exams. One of which will be about as easy as writing my name; this is my art class and the material is basically embedded in my brain since I reference it so often. The other two will also be a breeze, after some memorization of course. And as far as the art project goes, no problem! I'm actually anxious to get started on it this morning after I make my way to Blick's to pick up some needed supplies. My day will consist of drawing, painting, sipping coffee, and listening to Christmas music. Does it get any better than that? A much needed day of enjoyment after running around like a chicken with my head cut off for the past week; perfect.


Well, my walk here was bittersweet. The sweet part references the warmth of the holidays that surrounds me constantly, no matter where I go. The bitter part is meant literally, it is currently 13 degrees in the city. That doesn't stop me from getting where I want to go, though. I bundled right up and headed here, to my favorite Starbucks on Jefferson Street, a place I haven't visited in far too long. I blame my final projects for my lack of Starbucks; in fact, I blame my final projects for my lack of blogging too, just because I can. Anyway, let's get back to the presence of the Christmas season that I am currently enclosed in. Lights are hanging from nearly every tree in the city and those soft, upbeat tunes can be heard everywhere you go. This makes walking around the city in the bitter cold actually enjoyable, as crazy as it may sound. In fact, to get the full effect, listen to one of my favorite Christmas songs that I have posted below. As this is what I was listening to (on repeat) while writing this morning. Nevermind the cheesy (but cute at times) video...simply listen to the audio. And smile.


So now I'm leaning toward the "writing for days on end" side of my uncertainty that I experienced earlier. But don't worry, I'll try not to...so please don't bail. I was greeted with a surprise yesterday after returning from my night class, as if completing a few major projects wasn't enough to make my day. My thoughtful big sister (Shelby; I guess I should specify since I have a few of them) sent me a Christmas-themed package full of goodies and I can't even explain the amount of appreciation I feel for receiving it. I tore into that box like a kid on Christmas morning, smiling from ear to ear. Then the tears came. These were tears of joy, so I accepted them and let them continue to flow. Each item in the package was carefully thought out, and I knew exactly why she had picked each of them and what she was thinking while doing so. A few of the things brought me back to our childhood; the Lifesavers Sweet Storybook that we always got during the 12 Days of Christmas from the "Weatherman", also known as mom. And a copy of Home Alone, a classic and also a favorite of ours growing up. This brought a flood of memories from our extremely happy childhood that we are so grateful for. And I haven't stopped smiling since. 


Although I would love to write for hours and hours, I do have painting to do. My weekend is already occupied, so the majority of it needs to be completed today. Two of my favorite people (Mom and Dad) will come rolling into the city on Friday at approximately 3:00 PM. I will be waiting for them at Union Station and we will spend the weekend shopping, relaxing, and enjoying the city during Christmastime. I couldn't think of a better birthday gift for my mom, as her birthday is on Friday. You can imagine my excitement for their arrival, and I will be sure to fill you in on our adventures. 


I hope to not wait so long for another posting, but you never know what life may send my way. And remember, my mom said it's okay to only write when I feel that urge. And I always listen to my mom's advice. So take my advice and do something today that makes you your happiest you, no matter what it may be. After all, that is what life is all about.


The Weepies - All That I Want