Every Monday, I’m picking from the List of Things to Do, Places to Go, Possible Acts that Help, and Possible Fun to Have. It’s a list I made before The Projectstarted, and I’m still adding to it. If you have suggestions, please feel free to throw them my way. I’m calling the list my Monday Dares, as I get overwhelmed just looking at the words “challenge” or “goal.”
This week: Enjoy the small things.
It feels good to be back home. I went somewhere, I did some things, and I didn’t get arrested. You have your personal measures of success. And those, well, those are mine.
The whole trip is now a blur, but the one thing that stands out? Let’s just say I pampered myself a shitload.
Yesterday, I treated myself to a hot wings lunch. When my server asked if I needed anything else, I looked him straight in the eyes, chin up, intent clear, and asked for an additional serving of blue cheese dip, knowing it would cost an extra 75 cents. Clearly, I’m all about being good to myself.
I carry this attitude in my day-to-day life as well. I dream of big vacations and even bigger margaritas, but the small things that are in my reach make such an impactful difference as I go about my daily business. (Side note: I didn’t have my first margarita until recently. Lordy, why did I wait so long?)
My favorite thing? An extra pump of hand soap. It started out as an act of defiance when I was a single mom. I had to make every dollar count, and there wasn’t room for a flashy pair of new shoes or even an extra movie rental from the local supermarket. But, the little thrill I got from watching the mound of foam grow bigger with one extra pump of soap beat out any guilt I felt for being wasteful and ridiculous.
I still do it. And every time I watch the bubbles in my hand rise a little higher, I am still tickled. If you happen to be standing at a sink nearby, and you hear me mumble “Fuck yeah,” I’m having a moment with my hand soap.
What’s one small thing that brings you a little thrill?
___
–I’ve received lots of questions about the gang I started last week. First things first: I think we need a name. Something with “Cartel” in the title. Suggestions?
–More importantly, y’all need a street name. I think you should be able to choose your own. Don’t be shy. Be hardcore. And then share with us.
As for me, I’m sticking with Sha-nasty Poof Poof.
–You can still sign up to be a part of the gang and do your Own Project.
image via marriedtothesea.com
