Sunday Gratitude

Happy Easter! I hope your holiday weekend was marvelous. I'm a little sad that I wasn't able to be with my amazingly fun family for this holiday, but I am reminding myself of all the reasons why I am grateful to be here in Boston (aside from the fact that JESUS IS ALIVE!) I have a wonderful life up here in New England, but occasionally, I just miss being home and curling up with my mom and eating her signature popcorn. And laughing at my dad's shenanigans. With my pretty sisters. But as I sit here with a lovely glass of wine (and a pile of laundry to fold), I am remembering my week and celebrating how great it was. There is always something to celebrate, even if you are a little homesick.

My Week in Pictures:

// NYC presents in the mail from my favorite engaged friends, Meredith and Warren! // Tea Party and Bridge (yes, I know how "The Help"-esque that sounds) // Goldendoodle puppy I chased down the street. His name is Stanley. Pretty sure his owner thought I was hitting on him. // Google car! I posed. // Acting website is in progress... // Easter bike ride through Beacon Hill //

It's been a great week and I have even more to look forward to this upcoming week. Stay tuned for acting news, my adventures at Disney World and touring Massachusetts castles with my super pregnant BFF :-) Life is sweet.

Euro Trip: Fashion // Daytime Sightseeing

Euro Trip: Daytime Sightseeing by oykristen

// 1. Leather belt anthropologie.com // 2. Leather bag anthropologie.com // 3. Tory burch earrings saksfifthavenue.com // 4. MADEWELL Silk Boyshirt In Pansy madewell.com // 5. Sandals anthropologie.com // 6. Sunglasses http://www.synsam.no // 7. Jean Shorts abercrombie.com // 8. Silk Scarf bananarepublic.gap.com // 9. Druzy Bracelet mickeylynn.com// 10. Leather watch anthropologie.com //

Fashion. Statement.

I like to think that this is how I will be dressing when I prance around the Old Country on my beloved Europe trip. I've seen horror photos of American tourists traipsing around Versailles, the Eiffel Tower and The Colosseum in hideous running shoes and puffy workout shorts. Ew. Don't they know their children will be looking at these momentous photographs for years to come? While I may not be decked out exclusively in the above fashionable brands, I do believe that a little outfit pre-planning will make a world of difference. Call it the hokey actor in me, but I believe that how you look affects how you feel. If you're dressed well, you will feel ready to take on the day's adventures!

Since we plan on backpacking on this trip, I will have to be very creative about packing a few items and making them work various ways. This is going to be a fun(ny) challenge, that's for sure.

So Far...
I've made a few initial wardrobe purchases that are super versatile (and I think will be perfect for LOTS of wear on the trip):
- Free People ONE Golden Age top
- Anthropologie Teryn Crepe Shift dress
- A really adorable red dress from Red Pineapple, a tiny boutique in St. Augustine, FL. (I can't find a link to this dress anywhere, which might be a good thing...?)

Still on the List:
- A pair of supple leather sandals (for walking many miles on cobblestoned streets!)
- A pair of sleek (preferably non-chunky) sneakers. I can't go for a month without running, but my Reeboks might be a little large for my pack.
- A Chambray shirt   

As we get closer to the trip, I will have to start really putting outfits together and practicing my packing strategy. Yes, I will definitely have to post pictures of this, don't you worry.

For all you Euro-trip backpacking veterans, how did you manage to pack clothing for your trip? Tips, resources, advice? I'm all ears.

 

Dream Project: Casting and Collages

Life Is But A Dream.
The Dream Project is becoming my life. It's funny though, because I wouldn't characterize it as "living the dream" quite yet. I spend my days submitting myself for auditions, going to auditions, prepping for auditions and reading books about, you got it, auditions. It's pretty all-encompassing. Thank goodness I have Carrie, who keeps me sane and pretends that I am behaving like a normal human being. And she does art projects with me. That's the true sign of a good friend.

Ever since I was a little girl, I've been making collages as a way of getting my creative juices flowing. I would cut out pictures of anything inspiring, funny and empowering. You should give it a try; it's a very revealing exercise that literally captures a visual of what inspires you at the moment. Every season of life is different and showcases a new facet of the journey. For me, it's especially fun to look back over the different collages through the years and see which words, colors and ideals I was drawn to "back in the day." So, of course, I thought it was only natural to make a dream collage as I embark upon this new chapter of life. Carrie came over, we assembled the appropriate treats and crafty tools and got to work.

Inspiration and Invitations.
Thankfully, every time I look at my new collage, I am reminded of what inspires me in this current season. Confidence, going for dreams and lots of light, haha. Something must be working because I booked a role and spent Monday on the set of a short film. Wahoo! I had so much fun working with Derick, Sue and all the crew at Mass Media Vision and playing a really silly character. I'll share clips and photos with you as soon as I have them. (Currently working on a new acting site, so I will put everything up there and link over to it in the next few weeks.)

Feeling uninspired? Feeling the winter blahs? I encourage you to scan your old Instyle and Health magazines and cut out anything that stands out to you. Give yourself 30 minutes. Maybe make a hot beverage. Enjoy a bit of "me" time and see what comes of it. I bet you will be surprised/impressed/inspired by what you see. And by how amazing YOU are.

TASTE: Granola Protein Bars

Happy Monday! I want to share a healthy recipe with you from my dear friend Natalie. She is so ripped. Even though we live far apart, she is still a mega inspiration to me on a daily basis. She is a beautiful lady, inside and out, and I often find myself missing her sweet spirit and uplifting view on life. And she can just really make me laugh. Natalie has a fierce dedication to working out and eating healthy, and I am often honoring her recipes and workouts here on Oy!

She is Miss Fresh Life. And she's done it once again.

Getting Fit.
Okay, I know martinis (above) aren't the healthiest choice, but we like to indulge, too! On a much healthier note, I've savored Natalie's Granola Protein Bars after (and sometimes before) my workouts, and these tasty treats have really improved my recovery. These aren't like the sugary bars you buy in the store; they are chock-full of protein and fiber. They contain awesome raw ingredients like bananas, walnuts, shredded coconut and protein powder. I won't list out the details of the recipe, you can link over to her site here to check it out step by step. Here are my highlights of the recipe process:

Victory.
Yum. These granola bars are killer. Natalie mentioned putting them in the freezer, and that's my favorite way to enjoy them. Usually I only eat a half a bar because they are so hearty and filling. They are the perfect fuel for a pre-workout or a great post-workout snack to tide you over until dinner time. Plus, they are husband approved.

Taste Test.
It has already been determined that I'm a dork. A neon-donning, granola-bar-scarfing dork (see above exhibits for confirmation.) I was honestly a little nervous about making something with protein powder (since I feel like all the stuff in the grocery store is crap), but I found a pretty legit brand at Whole Foods that was worth the investment. It doesn't taste too chalky and doesn't contain any soy (I don't want my man eating soy!) I used the Garden of Life Raw Protein in the vanilla flavor and I have been very pleased. These granola bars are so awesome; almost as awesome as Miss Fresh Life herself.

Enjoy your healthy treat. You will NOT be disappointed. Bon Appetit!

Euro Trip: Gathering Information

Journey to the Old Country.
I know I mentioned it here and here a while back, but I am SO excited about going to Europe this summer. I've never been, except for a layover at Heathrow on my way to Kenya, but I'm not sure that really counts. We had to take a shuttle from one terminal to the next and I remember it because the air smelled so sweet. Like honey. Like European honey. Even when I was 18, I romanticized the London air. Because since then I've heard that there is no unusually special scent. Whatever. I've been dreaming of going to Europe since I was about 15 and now, ten years later, its finally happening. And I want to do it up right.

Here's the deal. Thirty days. A zillion countries (I've gotta cut down the list.) 2 backpacks (small one for him, smaller one for me.) I'd like to stay, primarily, in hostels and castles. And I'd like to conduct extensive alcohol/cheese/bread research. While I stay in castles.

This Euro trip planning has been a jazzy experience thus far. This probably has a lot to do with the fact that I've been planning while streaming Justin Timberlake's new album for free (thanks, iTunes!) There is SO MUCH to prep and prepare for this trip, and there is more information out there than ever before. Forget those lonely planet books, there are so many blogs, websites and articles out there with REAL stories. And that doesn't include all the resources available on Pinterest. Check out my Euro trip board here. Here are a few of the resources I've compiled:

Planning.
DreamEuroTrip: Travel like the jetset on a gypsy budget. This blog has been SO helpful!

How to Pack.
7 Things to Pack to Save you Money: This post by the Amateur Traveler is so helpful. I love my Nalgene, now I have a legit reason to bring it with me. Hydration is sexy.

Two Weeks in a Carry On: Thank God someone actually gave me packing photos. I need to know what GIRLS pack on trips like this.

How to Pack a Suitcase for a Month: Even more tips. For even more days.

Packing and Gear: Euros Ate My Dollars is such a funny blog. And useful.

How to Sleep.
Knock Yourself Out: Great tips on how to actually sleep through bumpy train rides and red eyes. I need one of those neck pillows!

Jaunted: How to appropriately beat Jet Lag. Because that's a real thing. And I don't want to catch it.

Get More Mileage Out of Your Wardrobe.
The Infinity Skirt: It might not be totally my style, but this could be a huge benefit when traveling abroad.

The Versalette: Interesting concept, not unlike the above suggestions.

Those Who Have Forged Ahead.
Andrew&Jenni: This couple did their Euro trip a few years ago. It is SO helpful reading up on their experience. They are precious.

Talk to Me.
I know many of you have been on backpacking trips through Europe. I welcome your stories and input! If you have any resources worth looking into or advice to share, it would be oh so appreciated. Share lots! Share often! Share with me!

(Late) Morning Musings

// Mail-order Makeup from Sephora // Teacups I just couldn't resist bringing home // Impromptu Facetime dinner date with my dear friend Meredith // Waited 1.5 hours at an audition // Magical day at the Magic Kingdom (more to come on this delightful adventure!) // (Finally) a sunny jog along the Charles River //

I've been lazily enjoying Spring Break this week. My husband has a week off from school, so we have enjoyed the time away from the normal everyday hum-drum. Ha, I say hum-drum, but I really wouldn't describe our life that way. There is always something going on! Which is why it's been a lovely break this week :-)

Noshing // This tasty treat has really been perking up spirit in the midst of the woeful wintery blues.
Reading // "Oh, the Places You'll Go" by Dr. Suess. I read it aloud (twice) to my sweet nephew Ollie and I was the one weeping at the end. Oh Auntie Kristen. Seriously, though, every adult should read this book once a month. It's so inspiring.
Musing // How does one garden in urban spaces? I gave my sister some seeds for flowers this week and it really got me inspired to grow some herbs when we move to NYC. Shouldn't be hard, right?
Wanting // All kinds of springy clothes, especially items that could be worn over and over again in Europe, like this and this...
Celebrating // Spring! I love the warm dry sunshine, running out doors and the pastel water-y colors I'm seeing everywhere. This is probably my last Spring Break so I am totally enjoying it. Although...  I feel entirely too old for this!

What are you celebrating about Spring this week?

TASTE: A Sweet Springtime Snack

Happy Monday, Friends!

I have news for you. I have finally discovered the perfect snack. Or breakfast. Or anything. It's just the tastiest treat. (Okay, I didn't discover it, but I discovered it for myself, you know what I mean.) It's even better than dessert at Max Brenner's, no joke. I've been treating myself to this since I started loading up on extra berries at the Haymarket. Having an abundance of berries around the house makes me feel like the Queen of England. This snack is truly magnificent. Live it up and treat yourself.

This is how I build it (in the order of layers, from bottom to top):
- Greek yogurt (I like Fage, but I don't discriminate)
- Granola
- Strawberries
- Sliced almonds
- Blueberries
- Walnuts
- Shredded Coconut
- Drizzle with Honey*

*The honey I use is from the fabulous honey store that I'm madly in love with. I find excuses to walk through this little boutique, Follow the Honey, far more often than I ever actually need to. They have honey on tap. They have beeswax candles. They have honeycomb jewelry. I can't get enough. Just like this tasty parfait.

I hope this special snack will brighten your Monday and make you feel like the sweetness of springtime is just around the corner :-)

Bon Appetit!

The Haymarket Hustle

Oh, how fond I am about fruits and vegetables. I could write a sonnet about the sweet scent of springtime strawberries. I could sing a lullaby about the earthy crunch of celery. I love to cook, bake and most importantly, EAT, and fresh ingredients are key to the way I create in the kitchen. I like to think I am Giada, though I can't rock the low-cut blouse the way she can. How does she stay so powder fresh in the kitchen? She's really something.

Boston's Best-Kept Secret.
It's not a new discovery, but I've just never taken part in Boston's own fresh farmers' market. Partly because I never venture out of Cambridge (which is ridiculous, since downtown Boston is approximately a 6-minute ride on the train), and partly because I rarely venture out of my apartment (only in the Winter, but yeah, I'm a hermit), I just haven't made the move to get out on Saturday and take advantage of this amazing experience.

The Haymarket is an open-air farmer's market that has been in existence since 1830. It's another one of those historical wonders that you can just stumble upon up here. The market is jam-packed with frantic people bustling, shouting and negotiating deals. It's like an auction. "I want 6 grapefruit! Give me the pink grapefruit! No, not that one, the other one!!" "Over here, a bag of onions and avocados! OVER HERE!" It's a rush of energy and attitude. I just love it. Old Italian broads shouting at the children to stop eating the fruit. Sweet Indian gentlemen clutching their wives' purses and patiently waiting while she feels each papaya for its stage in the ripe cycle. Every tribe and tongue is represented in the market and I just love feeling a part of this vibrant community. I am not very vibrant or cultured, but I can really appreciate this special intersection of all people, where we come together with one purpose: we want fruits and vegetables. Give us the fruits and vegetables.

Ladies Who Lunch.
I hit the market with my girlfriends, and oh wow, I can't believe I haven't been doing this all along! Not only did we have a blast (despite the a fore-mentioned bitter cold) but we made a remarkable discovery. At the market, EVERYTHING IS SO CHEAP. For example, Strawberries: 2 packs for $1.50. Blueberries: $1 each pack. Lemons: 6 for $1. I'm not making this up. Don't cry when you see the following, but... I got everything you see below for a grand total of TWELVE DOLLARS.

That's right. This probably would have cost $50 at Whole Foods. I got:

- 1 package carrots
- 1 package celery
- 1 large bunch spinach
- 1 bunch fresh rosemary
- 3 Roma tomatoes
- 2 packages strawberries
- 2 packages blueberries
- 1 package blackberries
- 5 plums
- 4 apples
- 3 oranges
- 3 kiwis
- 3 lemons
- 1 grapefruit

All for a grand total of $12.

I think I can actually hear Miss Fresh Life weeping all the way from Florida. Just come visit me and I will shower you with abundant and exotic fruits!

Score.
We had an absolute blast and scored mad deal. Stevie and I decided this is what we are doing for the rest of the weekends that we are here in Cambridge. Anyone up for deliciously cheap finds, outdoor fun, a historic treat and a lesson in cultures? Join me. Though I can't promise that I won't turn into a shouting Italian when I get there. I am easily influenced by passionate people.

The Chocolate Brunch

Last Saturday I went to something fantastic called a chocolate brunch. You didn't misread. I put on a frilly frock and joined my pals as we trudged through the cold and attempted to be normal human beings again. Okay, most of these ladies ARE normal. I might be the only one who has trouble leaving the house when the mocking outdoors are so uninviting with the usual down pouring of snow, sleet and overcast skies. Thankfully, there is something called a Chocolate Bar that hosts a weekly Saturday Chocolate-themed brunch to brighten the spirits of those downtrodden Bostonians. Thank you, dear Langham Hotel, for inventing such a wonderful distraction.

Interested in hearing more about this decadent affair? You can check it out here, where I wrote all about my deliciously fine dining experience in this week's issue of The Harbus. Check it out and let me know which dessert you just couldn't have resisted.

The Dream Project: Just Do It

The Dream Project has been going swimmingly. Just absolutely swimmingly.

Last week was a big week for me. I dove into a sea of auditions, and although I haven't heard back from any yet, I am over the moon about how much fun/terror/fun it's been.

My week included:
- An audition for a comedy web series
- An audition for a student film
- An audition for a feature-length film (eek!)
- An acting class with Tom Kemp, focused on auditioning for TV and Film

The Myth.
Let me tell you something. There is a misconception about acting. People think it all looks like this:

// Exhibit A: Can we get a wind machine up in here? //

Can you say DIVA?! Cue this jam. This photo always makes me chuckle. It's a still from a short film I did a few years back. I have no idea how they caught me in such a breezy, thought-provoking moment. It's really important to reflect on these moments and realize that SOMETIMES the world of an actor is ridiculous. The real life of an actor-wannabe (that I was fondly reminded of this week) is just a hustle. Just a big fat hustle for WORK. Much like this:

// Photo Courtesy of a very sneaky Steven L. Hale //

// Exhibit B: That dirty hair just screams, "GIVE ME A JOB!!!" // 

This is it. The job hunt. Submitting myself for tons of auditions and seeing if I get any bites. I mean, does it get more glamorous than this? I think not.

The Down Low.
In all seriousness, this past week wasn't just fun because I was finally getting out there. That was great, but I honestly enjoyed the process so much. I feel like I grew as an actor in just a few days of putting myself out there, challenging myself with new material and pushing the limits of my own vulnerability. I felt myself actually improving with each audition. The last one went so well, I don't even care if I don't get cast. Seriously. It was just so much fun being in that room, in that moment, in character. I know I'm getting all artsy here, but that is the honest truth.

Walking away from each audition this week, I had that, "I'm so happy to be alive" feeling, and I wouldn't trade that for the world. Don't get me wrong. I still sweat like a pig and I was nervously clutching my script so much that it sort of got tattered and kept flopping over in my hands. Hopefully, just hopefully, they don't count off points for nervous passion?

Sunday Gratitude

There is no other way to put it. This has been a wild week. I've been scurrying around Boston town attending auditions and workshops in the thick white snow that paid us a very long visit mid-week. It snowed torrentially for two days straight until the sky opened up to the sunshine yesterday. Which led to incredibly fast melting ice. I slipped and almost cracked my head on an iced, cobblestone sidewalk. It's a wild world out there.

My Week in Pictures.

// Beer Sampler at John Harvards // Strange relic at the Somerville Movie Theater // Submitted My Sister for a Model Casting Call, perhaps without her knowledge... // They have honey-graham flavored yogurt at Berryline! //

Reflection.
I find that when my life has become so jam-packed with to-do's that I forget to meditate on what is truly important. Everything gets lost in the rushed fog. And then I forget what even happened all week long! Does this happen to anyone else? It's like, I know I was busy, but what in the world was I doing? Sitting down and intentionally reflecting on the week really helps me maintain perspective.

This week, I am thankful for my dreams. I have spent a long time shelfing certain dreams, thinking that maybe, one day, I'll reach up and perhaps pull that one down and have a look at it. But the truth is, I feel that dream looking down at me from the shelf, its eyes begging me to give it a chance. Even when I think that I am in control of it, it's been nagging at my heart and my heart has a big expressive mouth, so I never hear the end of it. Alas. I am only beginning, but I have been doing my best to pull my dreams off of that shelf, shake off their age-old dust and give them a shot. I have no idea if I'm doing it the right way, but I am at least trying, and Dreams are the motivator. Dreams drive those to-do lists and busy schedules. If they aren't the fuel behind my everyday life, I find that I am easily tired out and apathetic. So, this week, though I haven't really anything to show for them (yet!), I am thankful for my God-given dreams and their potential.

Do you have one specific dream that you have purposely said "No" to over and over again? Does it (in a non-creepy way) haunt you a bit when you think of what could become of it? I dare you to take a long look at it this week. Really consider all its beautiful potential. There is no one in the world exactly like YOU, so cherishing those dreams and taking baby steps toward them is something that no one else can do. It's up to you. In the words of one of my favorites, "Dream on, dream until your dreams come true."

TASTE: Fresh Veggie Homemade Salsa

I woke up this morning to inches of fresh white snow.

I couldn't help but cry out in shock. Yes, it's been on the forecast for days, but I've been willing it away! More snow? MORE??? I mean, we still have icy patches of dirty snow from Nemo. There are thousands of cigarettes burned into each of these disgusting snowy depositories. Selfishly, I wanted to run errands today. I wanted to RUN today. This weather, while it looks positively lovely outside my window, is really cramping my style. I can't drive in the snow! I can't do anything in this weather. I want to see little pink buds on the trees, I want the sun to warm my soul and tan my sallow face. I want to wear sandals on my pedicured feet and sing pop songs at the top of my lungs whilst skipping down the cobble-stoned streets. But it is 30 degrees and STILL snowing. Hmm have I complained enough? I am doing everything I can to beckon Spring: I'm thinking happy thoughts, dressing in neon colors, and making summery foods. Like this homemade salsa (best if served with margaritas).

Take a moment to gather all these Fresh Ingredients:
- Tomatoes (3-4)
- 1 Onion
- 1 Lime
- 1 Hot Pepper
- 1 Bunch of Cilantro
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
- Some Garlic (if you really want to add a kick - this is optional!)

The Method: (is pretty simple)
- Quarter the onion and tomatoes and throw them in the food processor. Blend just a bit.
- Then add the cilantro and 1/4 of the pepper (depending on how spicy you like it!), and blend those as well.
- Lastly, cut up the lime and squeeze all the juice into the mixture.
- Add salt and pepper to taste. Voila!

Yum.
I put my salsa in re-seal-able jars so we can eat it at our leisure. There is no need to ever buy store-packaged salsa again! Now if you really want to get crazy... here is a lunch I've been making with the salsa lately. It has tons of veggies so it feels fresh and healthy. I love feeling like I'm getting lots of veggies in early in the day :-)

Ingredients:
- 1/2 Avocado, sliced
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 3-4 Baby Bella Mushrooms, chopped
- Some shredded Mozzarella
- A handful of Baby Spinach
- 1 Tortilla
- The yummy salsa you just made!

Method: Combine all and enjoy! It's even more fun if you have a pretty plate to munch upon. See, you're ready for Spring already.

Happy healthy lunch day!

The Dream Project: Let it Begin

"It isn't necessary for you, the actor, to like yourself - self-love isn't easy to come by for most of us - but you must learn to trust who you are. There is no one else like you."

I started re-reading an old acting book called "Audition" by Michael Shurtleff. It's the actor's bible, in a way. And aren't we supposed to be in the Word everyday? Ha, bible humor. Some Christians out there just chuckled a little. Okay they probably didn't. Anyways, I've begun re-reading this book because I am baby stepping my way into acting (with my eyes closed and my armpits sweaty) because, I guess, this is what it looks like to try to go for your dreams. Fear, terror, sweat and the occasional chest pain. I am so looking forward to this.

Confession.
I've reached an impasse in my life. I'm 25 years old and I've had the same dream since I can remember. I was a tiny little child dressing up in my Strawberry Shortcake bedsheets (I made them into a princess gown) and I draped my mom's necklaces on my head as a crown. Alright, every little girl played dress up and wanted to be a princess, but I didn't. I just wanted to play the princess. I also wanted to play the bad guy, the fearless leader, the timid underdog, the quirky sidekick. I wanted to play characters. Pathetic as it may sound, I still do. And I'm not getting any younger, so it's about time I pursue this gig all-out and see if I get any traction. In the case that I DON'T, well then... plan B. I'll let you know when I figure out what that is. I enjoy water color painting, so perhaps that? You should probably be rooting for me in this acting thing. I'm not that good at water colors.

There is a point to all of this.

Dream. Project.
I am excited to announce a launch of The Dream Project, which is (drum roll, please) a happy new endeavor I made up and I'm dragging my dear friend Carrie into. I decided that I probably need accountability on this long road to pursuing the actor's dream, and my friend Carrie, well, she's on a dreamy journey, as well. We both have dreams. We both have time on our hands. And we both have a ticking clock, as we are moving away from each other and Boston in a few very short months. We could use each other's talents, brains, time and resources to kick start ourselves into our destinies. So that's just what we're gonna do.

The Plan.
Every good project has a plan. Even more importantly, every good project has action steps. Carrie and I meet once a week, make a list, and then have at it. To be totally honest, we see each other a lot more than once a week, and we tend to color and munch on snacks, which is why it's important that we dedicate specific time to this project. Her brain processes things completely differently than mine, which makes her an excellent companion. I can already tell this is going to be a beautiful thing.

I wanted to share the beginning of this long endeavor with you. There are many details that I will fill you in on. Lots of change and excitement in the coming weeks and months in my household (moving to NYC, pursuing a creative career, just minor stuff, you know....)

I'm scared to pursue my dream, but I'm even more scared of what I will become if I don't. An old bitter woman. Ew nobody likes her. Stick with me as I dream big and audition my tail off.

Sunday Gratitude

The nicest thing happened today.

I woke up this fine Sunday morning to a phone call from my husband. He left early to help with church set up, so he was out of the house before I even stirred. Our church is a quick walk from our building (I like to tease that we are very convenient Christians), so even though it's not too far, the early hour mixed with the cold makes it quite the morning sacrifice. Ok I lied. It would be a sacrifice to me, but he actually likes helping out. Imagine that. He is clearly the better one between the two of us. So, like I was saying, he called me this morning and I figured it was because he left something or needed something or something. Shame on me. He was calling to ask if he could bring me Starbucks. You did not misread. Starbucks for my morning. Coffee for me. Heaven's elixir for turning bitter mornings into better mornings. How NICE is that?! He said he had a short break from setting up, so he would walk over with coffee. He came gallantly up the steps of our apartment building, toting the beloved caffeine wonder (and blueberry muffin!) with honor. Ok maybe I was still half-asleep. But he seemed like such a stallion.

I LOVE presents and thoughtful acts of kindness. I just love them. And this morning, my kindhearted husband surprised me in the most special way. It may just be coffee, but it was coffee for me. I am so thankful for his thoughtfulness. I have to brag on him. Sometimes love is hard, sometimes love is awful, but sometimes it is sacred and special and laced with the darkest roast Starbucks has to offer. I think I have a praise report for the morning service. Haaa just kidding. I don't talk in church. I just doodle.

In all seriousness, I have much to be grateful for on this blustery cold day. What's your Sunday Gratitude? Cherish it.