JoeGirl: Happiness 101.11

It’s almost lunchtime on Friday. I am in my new lower-level office space, in my new-to-us condo townhouse, on the outskirts of Canada’s capital, Ottawa.

A lot has changed since I last wrote, way back in November 2012. The simplest way to tell the story, is by listing my current happinesses, and letting you fill in the blanks. Enjoy!

Pulling into the driveway to see our two crazy dogs up on their back legs, pawing frantically at the sidelight window, desperate for us to “Come inside, NOW!”
Overseeing our two big kids (Q now 12yrs, Miss G 11.5yrs) collaboratively preparing meals and special treats in the kitchen.
Listening to our two little boys, The Twins, (TJ now 7yrs + DJ 8yrs, born on the same day a year apart), chatting together before falling asleep in their shared room.
Appreciating the last of the daylight as it kisses the tops of the trees in the rolling park outside our front door. As Jamie and I sit on our front step enjoying—most often—a sip of Bourbon, we recount the day’s highlights and anticipate the day ahead.
Discovering + downloading new music from NoiseTrade.
Finding treasures at thrift shops to decorate our home + my body.
Browsing Pinterest, especially for home decor, blended family ideas, fashion + crafts.
All six of us at the dinner table.
Just the two of us at the dinner table.
Having my hair brushed + braided at bedtime.
Exploring new craft distilled + small batch beverages with Jamie—bourbon, whiskey, gin, wine + beer! And yes, we enjoy in moderation.
Tickle Tuesday at bedtime with The Twins.
Late night grocery shopping with Jamie, hunting for deals.
Listening to the kids’ daily highlights.
Receiving text messages from the kids when they are at their other parent’s homes. FaceTime is even better!
My big kid still wanting tuck-in at bedtime, complete with chatting, hugs + kisses.
Hearing my ‘new’ kids tell me they love me, both in person and on the phone.
Spending time with my parents at the riverfront home where I grew up, and sharing that magical place with the kids.
Being a super cool Mom, and super fun ‘Dad’s girlfriend’.
The beautiful way our children have become friends, truly enjoying each other’s company.
Loving + being loved.