One Happy Chica

Been feeling a bit under the weather physically the last few days. Nothing serious, probably just allergies, as it seems to be responding to Claritin. The night before last, I woke up in the middle of the night completely drenched — my t-shirt and the sheet beneath me soaked. I haven't had night sweats like that since I had malaria, so it was a little disconcerting. I think I definitely need to get back on hormone replacement therapy.

Despite feeling slightly icky, this has been a good week so far. I've stopped completely hating south Florida, and am starting to think I can actually be happy here. :D

I went to a meeting Monday night that was absolutely awesome. There was such a sense of spirituality among the women there. It was an all women's meeting, and it's been going on for 34 years! In fact, they are celebrating their 34th anniversary as an AA group next Monday.

This was one of the most welcoming groups I've been to, but it was more than that. I felt that there were women there that I have more in common with socially and professionally than at most of the other (handful of) meetings I've been to since we moved here. I finally feel that I've met some women with whom I can connect, and more importantly from whom I can learn. I want what they have.

The woman who led the meeting said something that really resonated and has stuck with me. She said she has this quote on an index card, taped to her mirror:

You are looking at the face of the only person responsible for your happiness today.

So simple, yet so profound.

And I'm finding happiness, or joy, in other, seemingly small things, too:

• The serenity on my husband's face as he sleeps.


• Boots's renewed contentment and confidence since the installation of his kitty door.


• Sunshine, palm trees, and butterflies.


• Really good coffee.


• My husband's telling me in a moment of self-doubt, "I love you very much." (Okay — that one's really huge!)

Yeah, today I'd have to say, I'm one pretty happy and grateful gal!