Simple Joys of the Week, February 3rd Edition

Well hello, February! Thanks for being so warm and sunny! If all Februarys started with 60-degree temps and spring-like days, I would like this month even more...but alas, it looks like the past few days have been an anomaly, so I hope you were able to enjoy them while they lasted. 

Anyways, we have a BIG weekend coming up for this household, but before delving into all of that, lets talk simple, sensory joys. The little things that made me happy over this past week are below. What made you pause and smile, or laugh? 

Hear: "Messages" by Xavier Rudd

I'm obsessed with this song. My dad recommended Xavier Rudd to me last week, and after just one listen I was completely hooked. I think he sounds a lot like Paul Simon (another one of my faves) in this song, but have listened to his other music and think he does have his own unique voice in others (not that sounding like Paul Simon is a bad thing--it's amazing!?!). Anyways, this is a great song that I've now added to my February yoga class playlist and highly recommend. You can listen to the song below:

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See: The Ides of March

Very good movie. I was sad that it ended when it did because I wanted more ("what happens after this? I need to know!!!"), but it was extremely interesting and was definitely a sneak-peak into the behind-the-scenes action of a political campaign, something that I know nothing about. Also, it has an amazingly-star-studded cast and everyone was perfect for their roles. Plus, I'm kind of in love with Ryan Gosling (have been ever since The Notebook...I know, I'm SUCH a girl!), and I think that he's been everywhere lately for a reason--he does a great job in this movie. You should see it!

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Taste: Cava Mezze (and my first dessert since December!)

After wanting to go there for MONTHS and basically living off of their hummus (you can buy it at Whole Foods), Ben and I finally went to Cava Mezze--and they did not disappoint! We had an amazing meal, including this crazy cheese dish that they light on fire in baby cast-iron skillets (so cute!) right in front of you, and I think it may be one of my new favorite restaurants. I also enjoyed my first dessert since I gave it up in January, and that was nice :) It was actually kind of anti-climactic because the dessert that we got to share was so small that 2 bites was half of it (Ben was kind of disappointed...haha!)--and I've kind of gotten over my need to have sweets all the time (which is why I did it, so yay!)--but still, definitely a moment worth noting :)

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Smell: Fresh Lemon Ginger Tea from Cafe Green

I realized yesterday that I've never had FRESH ginger tea before...um, FYI, it's DELICIOUS. So good. I've been slightly enamored by ginger lately (so many health benefits and it tastes so good!), so it was the perfect warm treat on a weirdly cold and windy, but sunny, day. The smell of the ginger and lemon wafting through the air as the wind blew = great moment. I suggest you go there and try some!

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Touch: Outfits for my first CrossFit SMACKDOWN (it's tomorrow! eek!)

Um, yep, you read that right. I'm competing in my first CF competition tomorrow (lord help me!!?!?). I'm excited and think it's going to be a total blast, but am also extremely nervous and am slightly afraid that I'm going to die. Anyways, I'll give a full report on Monday, but the good thing is that they've already announced the events and *I think* I can do all of them in some capacity, even if I have to use the lightest weight offered for women. Also, I forgot to mention that you shouldn't be too impressed, as this is just a fun, local, team competition, and they've made it accessible enough that everyone who wants to can participate, can--so a great place to start (and probably end) my CrossFit competitor career :)  Anyways, we picked up our team outfits last night, and they're amazing. I would include a picture, but we're keeping our outfits top-secret until tomorrow (!). Is it bad that I'm more excited about wearing the "uniform" than I am about the competition? Haha! Just kidding...

Bonus Simple Joy: This email (see below) from one of my best guy friends in response to my wedding flowers post from Tuesday...

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AMAZING, right? Love it :)

Also, a BIG thanks to all who shared your opinions on the flower options--the only clear "winner" was #1, but there were 4 or 5 bouquets that tied for a close second place. So, I'm going to continue pondering and soliciting opinions until I feel ready to make the decision...

Thanks for reading! Here's to a beautiful weekend full of lots o' simple joys!

Namaste,
Mary Catherine