Simple Joys of the Week, December 20th Edition

Thank you for all of the birthday wishes, messages, and comments, everyone!  

I had a wonderful day yesterday and SO appreciate all who took the time to send me a little note :) Birthdays are always chock full o' simple pleasures, aren't they? 

Since I taught last night and Ben had his work holiday party--and I'm attending a Candlelight Winter Solstice Yoga Workshop tonight (yay!)--we've decided to officially celebrate my birthday tomorrow, and of course, on Sunday, when we pick up our new dog (!!!!!). Obviously, due to these events and many more, I'm really looking forward to this weekend ;) 

However, as usual, I'm jumping ahead. Before we talk weekend plans, lets look back at the past week and talk about our SJOTW, shall we? Here are some of the sensory pleasures that brought me happiness over the past 7 days. What made you smile?

HEAR: Kelly Clarkson's Christmas Album, Wrapped In Red
Oh Kelly Clarkson, your voice is simply incredible! After reading multiple reviews of this album, many of which named it as the year's most successful new Christmas music album, I decided to buy it this week. Wowee, can Kelly sing!  I have to say, I think this album rivals my classic go-to holiday album, MCMerryChristmas, and it may have earned itself a permanent spot in my holiday music rotation. Listen to her version of "White Christmas" below: 

SEE: Pics of our new dog!!!!
I couldn't resist. I know I said I wouldn't go crazy with the pics until after we actually have her, but she's getting on her transport bus today, and I'm just too excited not to share! For the past few days, the rescuer has been texting me pics of her, and every time I receive one, I melt inside. Seriously. This week has been crazy exciting and adopting a dog has been wonderful thus far. As mentioned yesterday, I'll officially introduce her and share all of the details about her on Monday.  I. Can. Not. Wait. To. Meet. Her. Eeeeeekkkk!!!!

TASTE: Salty Oat Cookies from Teaism in DC
Back when I was in Advanced Teacher Training, a group of us would often head to a a place called Teaism during our lunch breaks. Those who live in DC probably know that Teaism has these AMAZING cookies called Salty Oat Cookies, and they're simply incredible (I think I've even mentioned them here on the blog before?). But anyways, yesterday, I got home to a package of Salty Oat Cookies sitting on my front stoop from a sweet Tranquil Space teacher. It was such a fabulous treat and I ate one as soon as I opened the package. It brought back memories of my 500-hr training, of DC, and of Tranquil Space. It's amazing how taste can mean so much, isn't it? {Thank you, Angelyn!!!!!}

SMELL:  Seasonal candles
In my mind, a strong but delicious-smelling seasonal candle is one of the best ways to create mood and get in the holiday spirit. Sure, you could actually bake or cook and create real scents, but who has time for that during the holidays? ;) I've been burning scented candles while painting all week, and it's been a wonderful way to get in the holiday mood. Right now I'm burning a newly-received birthday candle in a scent called "Babylon," that consists of Egyptian Sandalwood, Cardamom Bark, and Myrrh. OMG yum. 

TOUCH: Birthday packages received in the mail :)
My friends are the best gift givers EVER. Yesterday I opened a couple of birthday care packages that were filled with only the most thoughtful gifts I could ever imagine--each item more amazing than the next--and I felt extremely loved and lucky to have such amazing people in my life. I'm sure some of these gifts will make it into my next couple of editions of SJOTW as I use them/wear them over the next couple of weeks...THANK YOU, WONDERFUL FRIENDS!!

Other SJOTW? Lots o' painting, a special yoga class with live, acoustic holiday music, beautiful snowfall, holiday parties with wonderful new acquaintances, sweet birthday and holiday cards, and lots of holiday treats (cookies, anyone?). 

What do you have planned this weekend? It's that time of year when everything gets super full and crazy, but I hope that you'll be able to find some time to soak it all up and appreciate the present moment as we get closer to Christmas and New Years...

Have a fabulous day! Oh, and you can follow me on Instagram to see real-time pics of our new pup when we pick her up on Sunday ;)