measuring up and belly laughing

1) When I feel like I'm not measuring up to the world around me, this little guy offers joy and reassurance. He tells me to wear my color with pride. That my path can take the long, winding road. That he'll be there if I do need to take the fast, direct, accurate route. That with a push of the button in the middle, he'll take the measuring stick away entirely, no questions asked.

2) There were exactly two juice boxes left for lunches on Friday. I'm usually one short of everything when I'm packing lunches, especially when I'm in a rush. It was a good omen.

3) I doodled five letters for what will be an 8 foot banner when I'm finished. Peep here. (I put a lot of works and creations in progress over on my Facebook page if you want to hang out with me there too!)

4) I'm soaking up the new Design*Sponge book. I rarely buy home decor books, but something told me to get this one and it is a prize winner. I spent a couple of heart-thumping nights this week making lists of ideas and spinoff ideas.

5) I cleaned out the car for the first time since leaving Kansas. It was bad, so bad I can't even tell you. It's remarkable how reclaiming one small space like that emboldens me. Right now I feel like the most powerful woman in New Jersey driving around in my clean car. This will change as soon as someone drops a Cheerio or M&M in it.

6) Karen opened her beautiful home again yesterday to Lisa, Jen, Beth and me for a crafty afternoon. It is restorative to be around friends who make me feel at home here. Thank you online world for connecting us all.

7) Last night I took my regular walk up the hill to my Distant Perch, which rises just above the treeline and opens up to a beautiful view of New York City. Up above I saw stars and planes; down below I saw the trains; in the distance I saw the beautiful skyline through the fog and rains. I didn't mean for that to all rhyme. It just did.

8) My kids belly laughed themselves to sleep last night. My older one has a giggle that sounds like a high powered waterfall; my younger one has a deep, hearty, healthy cackle.

{That's the bliss list this week!}