“When you are comfortable in your own skin, you can be at peace anywhere.” — Antsy McClain

So today I either discovered or was reminded of some irrefutable truths about myself.

• For starters, my car seems a lot smaller when the lid from a filled-to-the-brim Big Gulp pops off and Diet Dr. Pepper saturates everything in its wake.
• Soaked pants, shoes, and car upholstery from said Big Gulp does not have to ruin one’s day. Even if it does happen at 8:00 a.m. before the day actually gets going. The only option is to laugh.
• My ability to spot nearby Hello Kitty advertising or merchandise is arguably a sixth sense. Or a sickness.

• I’ll buy absolutely anything with that little cat’s face on it. Even if I don’t know what to do with it or have no interest in consuming it. In fact, if I don’t want to consume it, I’ll inexplicably buy two.

• Projectile cat vomit is an inevitable part of my daily existence. It simply is. Frustration with or yelling at our seemingly bulimic cat really is pointless.
• I’ve noticed that my desire to take photos is often overwhelming, but I’ve realized that it’s not because I’m compulsive or have some sort of ADD (my kids’ conclusion). It is a vital form of communication — even if I’m only expressing something to myself. It helps me process the world around me and hone in on what I value. (Arguably the most important observation of the day.)
• Even after 45 years on this planet, I still jump out of my skin every time I pop open a cardboard tube of refrigerated rolls or dough. That chubby Doughboy doesn’t giggle for nothing. Sadistic little bastard.
• I have an impulse purchase problem with paper towels and toilet paper. With every trip to the store, I’m convinced that we’re just three or four sheets shy of running out of both. Never mind that we have an unopened 24-pack of toilet paper already stored in the closet and at least three rolls of paper towels in the pantry. We might run out of milk, eggs, and other staples, but, by golly, we will always be able to wipe just about anything.

So there you have it. The goofiness that is my life. But I’m comfortable with it. And I am learning to be at peace just about anywhere. Even with a lapful of soda.

Today I was grateful for: Time.

1.) Time spent shopping with my boys.
2.) Time spent making a home-cooked meal for them.
3.) Time spent hanging out at home, doing exactly what I want to do. No stress, no obligations, no worries.