Simple Joys of the Week, September 21st Edition

Um, how the heck did it get to be September 21st? WTF!?!?! I mean, seriously. W.T.F. Excuse me, but it's just really crazy. Not to mention that Ben and I are getting married in 15 days, and I'm heading down to ATL to prepare for the wedding a week from today. Phew! I'm getting excited.

But, not to fret, among all of the planning and running around I've been doing lately, I've still had time to enjoy a number of simple, sensory pleasures this week. Because, after all is said and done, it really is the simple things that comprise our day-to-day life, isn't it? See below for the little things that have made me smile this past week. What has brought you happiness?

Hear: The Voice "Blind Auditions"

I hate to admit it, but I've gotten into another singing show. I know, but they're just SOOO addictive! Also, last night I realized that I've become pretty confident when it comes to my ability to spot talent during the auditions on these shows, and I need to calm down a bit (conversation with Ben as we watched the show...Me: "She had great energy, but the voice just wasn't there. I could tell right away." Ben: "I totally agree, honey." Me: "We should start our own record label." Ben: "Yeah, we should").  We're not joking, people! Anyways, The Voice is a lot of fun, as are the "blind auditions" that they do--those peeps can sing!!! Oh, and FYI, Florence was DEFINITELY my #1 auditory SJ this week, but I thought I would mix it up and share another, since I've already gone on and on about her...

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See: These GORGEOUS flowers in a beautiful pitcher!

I have been completely overwhelmed with gratitude by all of the sweet cards, gifts, and notes already given to me by students, family, and friends in honor of our upcoming nuptials--and the wedding hasn't even happened yet! One of my TS colleagues brought these flowers (in a lovely glass pitcher!) to the studio for me today, and they're simply amazing. They've already brought so much joy into our little apartment and every time I look at them I feel a bit more relaxed, excited, and uplifted. There's just something about seeing fresh flowers that makes everything more wonderful, isn't there? Plus, I've been wanting a pretty glass pitcher forever (ever since I shattered my last one by adding boiling water to it...whoops!)! Such a fun treat. Thanks to everyone who has brightened my day with your thoughtful gestures lately! It is SO appreciated.

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Taste: Trader Joe's "Just Mango Slices"

I know that I've written about Trader Joe's dried mango before, however, I'm here to set the record straight. The first time I wrote about them, I was raving about their "Soft and Juicy" mango slices. As amazing as those are, they're "sulfured and sweetened," meaning, they've added a bunch of stuff that turns this delicious fruit into something unhealthy. Not cool. I knew it, but was in denial because they taste like candy but are still called "fruit." However, recently, my friend introduced me to their "Just Mango Slices," which are made up of exactly what they say--just mango.Once you get over the fact that they don't taste exactly like candy (like the others did), they're addictive. And I'm proud to say that I've given up the sugar-added variety (thank goodness!) and have latched on to these. My new must-have staple for when my sweet-tooth strikes (which is often). Try them! 

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Smell: Aveda "Calming" Essential Oil

Look at this--another amazing item that I given this week! Can you believe how thoughtful everyone is? This "Calming" essential oil is much needed these days (obviously), and was given to me by a fellow teacher who believes in the power of essential oils and knows how hectic this time can be. I've already dabbed some of the oil on my temples, wrists, and neck (while talking on the phone with our caterer this afternoon!) and the soothing, soft scent did wonders for my mood. Sometimes I forget how much scents can do to calm the body and mind, but let me tell you, this little bottle will be close by over the next two weeks! A perfect gift for anyone in your life who might be under a bit more stress than usual ;) Again, BIG thanks--you know who you are! 

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Dibora teaching (check out the mic!) with me assiting...

Touch: Teaching the TSA 5-year celebration class with two of my favorite teachers (and mentors!)

Last weekend, we celebrated our 5th year teaching yoga in Arlington (only my second, but the studio's 5th!). As a part of the celebration, I taught a free yoga class with the studio owner, Kimberly, and one of my very favorite teachers, Dibora. We had an in-studio DJ, each teacher wore a mic while teaching (totally weird and made me feel like an aerobics instructor/Madonna!), and took turns teaching the class while the other two teachers assisted. It was SO much fun and there was a very special energy in the room--especially since it was also a celebration :) I also felt honored to be able to teach with two of my role model teachers, and it was just a really special feeling. Thanks to all who came out and took part in the event!

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What a week! So many things to be thankful for. I hope that you, too, can find some time to reflect on the past 7 days and bask in your simple, sensory pleasures.

Enjoy your weekend and be sure to indulge in something fabulous--a yoga class, a delicious meal, a mani/pedi, a long walk in the cool fall air, a good movie while curled up on the couch--whatever helps you find balance in this crazy whirlwind that is September..

Namaste!
Mary Catherine