5 Things I Love ... right now!

I submitted a comment on M.Writes for my chance to win her latest Valentine's giveaway and the prompt for this giveaway's entry made me realize that despite the setbacks I've experienced recently, I have much to be happy about.

Reading the reasons why she loves her husband - who is 35 today! - also reminded me that the happiest people are the simplest people. Not a simpleton, but someone who embraces the little things and create their happiness from these little things. Everyone wants the biggest, bestest thing in the world and we should definitely never stop dreaming or aiming for something bigger and better. But learning to live contently is no easy task and one that we should always strive for nonetheless.

And the five things I love right now?

1. Having friends that are different. Different backgrounds. Different experiences. Different wisdom and knowledge. It's great to have friends who are similar to you, who you can relate to, but it's also great to have people you can turn to for specialized help. Case in point, my desktop computer has been bit by a trojan virus and I've got at least 3 friends (of different backgrounds and studies and habits) giving me very similar advice on how to tackle this issue. So kind of them and so empowering to me to be able to learn from them so next time, I know what to do from the get-go.

2. Finding a book that you just can't let go of until the very last word is read. Currently, that is the second installment of the Mysterious Benedict Society. I've only read a couple pages so far but am waiting for when my schedule clears and I've got a huge chunk of time to devote to reading and ONLY reading.

3. I will never be rich and right now I'm even poorer out of college than while I was in college (something about being a current student actually makes it easier for you to find jobs and internships - go figure!). But I still enjoy my travels and going to NYC has been a regular institution of sorts. It is almost a game for me to figure out a way to go to fancy places with the least amount of money used. Mostly, this is for practical reasons. I'm sure if I had the money I'd just do it up lavishly. But... I don't. So.... life moves on. But, it's just so thrilling! I've had way less money compared to working friends and yet I've managed to travel a lot more than some. Makes life difficult but this is worth way more than any money I'll ever make in my lifetime. Why be rich if I'm too worried about money all the time?

4. Having the time and energy to make myself a yummy filling lunch instead of my usual leftovers or processed/prepared meals. Always a healthier option (even if the fat content remains the same) to take the time to make a meal and eat it, without the rush and fuss that usually goes to meal time. Good for the soul if you know what I mean. Chewing seems to be less important more and more in this fast-paced world. A luxury of the past.

5. Re-watching Gilmore Girls episodes, especially the early days. If you have all the time in the world and not enough fun activities to fill it, re-watching old episodes of a favorite (classic, in my humble opinion) is a must. And, quite the frankly, the simplest way to put some joy in your life for $14.99 (thank you Costco). :) (Though, I must admit, this is quite a lazy activity.)