~ the sun came out yesterday (hello, march. nice to see you), and it was neither windy nor freezing. i was ostensibly out running errands, but gave in to the urge to stretch out like a kitten, sitting in the sun with a book of poetry, a hot cup of tea and some great music. within 30 minutes i felt taller, more optimistic, and so much clearer. i might be ready for spring (because i’d like to replay this scene without wearing a winter coat).

~ as i was going to church the other day, i saw a man and his son walking toward me. the boy was probably about nine, and was telling a story, while his dad (a big burly guy) occasionally asked a question. when they came to the curb, without pausing in the story or even making eye contact with each other, the father very subtly put his hand out, and the boy grabbed and held his hand as they crossed the street. it struck me as such an intimate, tender movement, something they had clearly done many times before.

~ yesterday i ran into another mom from emma’s summer ’09 tap class, someone i quite liked, but haven’t made contact with since then. we only had time for quick “hi! bye! great to see you!” as i was in a rush to pick up our neighbor from school. as we walked away, she turned back, waved and, so sweetly, blew a kiss (the nyc in-a-rush equivalent to the cheek-kiss). it was so spontaneous and kind, and it was so nice to see her again. i love little moments like that.

other little things that make me happy:

~ making waffles for the family in the mornings. em’s current favorite are waffles with nutella (whilst i eat mine plain, hoping that such acts of caloric abstinence will finally pay off).

~ rediscovering a forgotten piece of jewelry, then wearing it everywhere for a week, feeling like it’s brand new

~ wearing red cowboy boots. or green ones. or mocassin boots with fringe that makes a determined “fwip” sound with every step

~ flying a kite, or watching someone you love fly one against a perfect blue sky

~ songs that make you want to listen over and over on a loop, singing along every time

~ finding that thing you wanted is on sale, just when you’d decided to buy

~ reading aloud

~ putting the last piece in a jigsaw puzzle

~ holding the camera at waist level and taking a picture without looking