Moments of Pleasure

I have been hustling so hard lately that I didn't even realize how I've been exhausting myself. Between spending time with my boyfriend, working an average of 45 hours per week, always being available to put work fires out after hours or on weekends, working out, hosting house guests, getting a minimum of 8 hours of sleep nightly, cleaning, cooking all my meals to save money and lower calorie intake, it's been a real juggling act to hold it all together.

Last night I had a moment of pure joy that was so intense I just had to take it all in and forget my worries, my schedule and my diet. It was a long day. I was up at 7:15 AM to see my parents off as they returned home from a father's day visit in Atlanta. I worked 9-6 and promptly flew down the highway to rush my boyfriend to the airport for an 8:00 PM flight (in rush hour traffic). We weren't sure he'd make the flight so I stayed at the airport an extra 45 mins waiting for an update. Around 7:45 PM he text me that he made it through security so I left. I drove 30 minutes in a rush to try and get a quick workout in at the gym in my apartment before dark. When I got home I was just TIRED! It was late, I hadn't eaten since lunch, so I chalked up my workout and decided to rest and enjoy an unhealthy cheesesteak dinner with a glass of wine, instead of chicken salad and water. Sometimes we just need a moment!

I certainly felt no regrets about it as soon as I sat down with the food in front of me. With all the moving I had done across this city and a heavy workoad I deserved to relax! I turned on one of my favorite movies "Eat Pray Love" and while I watched for the hundredth time, I realized I was having an eat pray love moment right there! I thanked God for allowing me to see my parents, for Brandon making it on his flight overseas and for watching over me all day as always. I felt so happy, I just smiled and started laughing... like out loud, alone, for seemingly no reason. I was just that happy to feel loved, covered and free of hunger.

Watching Liz Gilbert, played by Julia Roberts in that movie,

made me realize I don't have to travel the world, having all these unique experiences doing extreme activities to feel joy. I can have it right in my living room at any time if I just let go of the stress and remember what's really important and remain grateful.