It can be quite easy to wallow in the November blues but in an effort to keep myself above water, here are some things making me smile these days:
+The opening of a Vinmonopolet (Norwegian liquor store) in our neighbourhood. Alcohol is state run here and aside from beer in the grocery store, all booze must be bought via the Vinmonopolet. Now we're never more than a 5 minute walk away. (As long as it's between 10:00 and 18:00 on weekdays and 10:00 and 15:00 Saturdays. Norway.)
+This post on Jess' blog on British English.
+Jasper learning to smile socially (as opposed to random upturns of the lips that are completely unintentional.) I have to work really hard for them but the high pitched voice and exaggerated smile are completely worth it.
+My daily latte - taken with a shot of vanilla. The crappy weather seems to make it taste that much better.
+UnblockUs for giving me an American IP address and Hulu for keeping me up to date on Fall TV - essential with all the time I'm sitting around with an infant on top of me.
+Jimmy Fallon has been nailing it lately. The Wheel of Impressions with Kevin Spacey, Daniel Radcliffe Rapping, Andy Samberg's Facebook Account, Wheel of Musical Impressions with Adam Levine --- pure gold.
+The rare days where blue skies (or grey) grace us and taking long walks with Jasper. Fresh air does the body and the baby good.
+All the snail mail we've been getting lately. Baby gifts and cards are showing up regularly and it fills my heart with happiness.
+WhatsApp for the ease of chatting and sending photos to friends and family back home and for simple conversations with the ones I love.
+Perusing the photos we had done when Jasper was one week old. I can't believe how tiny and new he was and I love that we captured a few low key moments as a new family of three. (Thanks Desiree.)
What's making you smile these days?
Have a lovely weekend!
these photos are making me smile in a big way! at least if you have to stay in and cuddle more, you have some extra special cuddles these days! ;)
ReplyDeleteThanks Annie! It is quite nice to have a cuddly companion.
DeleteAwww! Love the pics!! He's so little in them :) Rainy season is just starting here so I can commiserate on the gray days...but when people here complain, I always remind them that we don't have to shovel rain!
ReplyDeleteVery true Rika. Spoken like a Canadian ;)
DeleteI think you look so lovely in the photo third from the bottom. I don't know, something in your expression...
ReplyDeleteI've been happy for the exact reason you are feeling the blues! It's so hot here all the time, and even more so these last few years (Climate change has not been kind to Northern California). We've had a rain twice now which has cleared away all the summer smog, and temperatures have been much more moderate these last few weeks. The leaves are starting to turn, the morning air is crisp, and the sun is starting to give up its strength in the late afternoon. For me, that means celebration!
Also, my boy is 6 months old today! He brings me so much joy.
Happy 6 months to Harrison!
DeleteAnd crisp, cool air is so, so good.
Hi Jay. I have been reading your blog for a couple of weeks and I love it. I can't wait to read more about your expat life. I myself love travelling and I had two one-year expat experiences (one in London and one in Toronto - I am French). All the best. Carole.
ReplyDeleteMerci Carole!
DeleteSuch a lovely photo series!! What an adorable little man. I hear ya Jay. I'm feeling the same way here in London - it is so hard when it gets dark at 4:30. I'm also taking joy in the warm beverages, fuzzy blankets and funny internet finds. Thanks so much for sharing the linguistic silliness :) xx
ReplyDeleteHope you find some sunshine in Seville!
DeleteI love these photos! You have a beautiful family.
ReplyDeleteWhatsApp is fantastic for keeping in touch with family. My family in Central America made me download it a few months ago and I'm so glad I did!
Aw, thank you Annie!
DeleteOh I agree, it's the worst time of year by a mile. That's why we're off to Tenerife next week for the third November in a row. Sun! Cute photos btw :)
ReplyDeleteEnjoy the sun David!
DeleteThe last pictures of you three definitely made me smile :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing!
ReplyDelete