I also go because it reminds me to be grateful.

The first time I went to the Texas State Fair, my singular mission was to ride the giant ferris wheel.

I passed most of my time waiting in the long line by spying on my fellow Texans. I was intrigued by the middle-aged woman who ushered fairgoers in and out of the cars. The most striking thing about her appearance was the deep frown lines permanently etched into her face. She was the most miserable looking person I had ever seen in my short life.

When we got to the front of the line, my dad realized that we didn’t have enough tickets for all four of us to go on the ride. He insisted the three of us ride while he took pictures from below. We argued that we should get back in line after purchasing more tickets.

As we started to leave the line, the family behind us offered to give us the tickets we needed. We declined. They insisted. We accepted. They waved away our thanks.

The miserable woman shook her head as she watched us get into the car. She said loudly enough for all of us to hear, “I don’t know why people want to be nice to strangers. What’s the point?”

Even now, I don’t know the answer to that question. What’s the point? I’m not really sure. The only thing  I know for sure is that I choose happiness and gratitude over misery.

I am grateful for kindness without strings attached. I am grateful for the small things which bring so much pleasure. Also, I am grateful for Bel Biv Devoe.

And y’all?  What are y’all grateful for?
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image via the yellow house shop @ etsy.com

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?
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–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