The Happy List

In an effort to put a positive spin on what has developed into an increasingly depressing blog with entirely too much navel gazing, I am going to make a list of all the things I am looking forward to in the foreseeable future (in no particular order):

1. The Superbowl - I organized a Superbowl Party for this coming Sunday night. (yes, it is going to be a very late night!) I have opened it up to anyone and everyone, because I really hope that people actually come watch it with me! I also really hope the Steelers win because a lot of people I know will be happy. And out of all the teams in the NFL, I love the Steelers the best, so I suppose that makes me a fan. And I am not just saying that because the Steelers are in the Superbowl, as it kind of irks me when people pick convenient times to be fans. You all know that I don't love to watch football on a regular basis, but Pittsburgh has a special place in my heart and I like to think of how much Steeler wins, whenever they happen, mean to people there. You gotta love Pittsburgh and its infectious enthusiasm for its sports teams.

2. The International Food Festival - I am also organizing this event, to be held on February 26. In addition to a fun social event here at the college, this is going to be a fundraiser for a very worthy charity. Action Against Hunger does very wonderful work around the world, basically addressing an issue I take for granted all too often- having enough to eat. Very basic concerns like hunger are often overlooked in the big picture of international development. I have learned that the second best thing to being wealthy enough to be a philanthropist yourself is to do charity work on behalf of organizations. It isn't my money, but it sure does feel good to hand over that donation check and know you are the one who made it possible.

3. Groundhog's Day - no matter what country I am in the absurdity of this day always makes me giggle.

4. Time off between March 17 & April 25 - I am still trying to figure out what I want to do with this break. I would ideally like to travel for a week or two, and then fly home for most of April (including Easter!). It is exciting and fun to plan a vacation, and I am open to pretty much anything at this point! I only know that I want to go to somewhere in Europe or N. Africa, spend under $1000, and have it be fun to do on my own. I am looking at some tours, and there was one to Morocco that I was pretty excited about. Unfortunately, it was all booked up. So now I am considering others... Greece/Turkey? Scotland? Ireland? Most days, however, I think I want nothing more than NJ, as shocking as that may sound to some of you. Time at home is so important to me right now, in a way that I can't fully explain. Nonetheless, I know I will regret it if I don't travel at least a little, so I am going to push myself to go through with this.

5. My mom's wedding - This is a big one in my book, for obvious reasons. I can't wait to see my mom so happy and beautiful, and to have everyone together on such a special occasion.

6. Warmer weather, longer days - Each night it stays light out a little later than the night before, and this reminds me that nice, long summer days are on their way. I love the kind of spring days that force people to rediscover how wonderful it can be to be outside. Right now it is cold and grey, but one day when I least suspect it, the weather will be sunny and 60 degrees out. People here will wander around confused about what the glowing ball is in the sky, but happy to be outside nonetheless.

7. Sleep - Coming from a family of champion sleepers, it is crucial to never overlook the wonderous joy of collapsing into a cozy bed. Good night everyone.