As I promised myself, I'm honoring my contract to both acknowledge the things that make me happy and do things that make me happy as well. Here are some things that have made me happy today:

1. It feels like Autumn. The sky is a mysterious gray-blue and the scent of woodsmoke is drifting on the cool air.

2. I have several packages on the way with things in them that smell of autumn. Pumpkins and nutmeg and allspice and crushed leaves and sweet anise.

3. I bought my sister easy batter so she can make Halloween cupcakes decorated with minature black ghosts and orange jack-o-lanterns.

4. I've just started reading a book about the traditions and lore behind Samhain and Halloween. It may not be the most in-depth of the books that are out there (which I still intend to read), but it does look interesting. I also have a review of that Mabon book I was reading to post.

5. I indulged myself quite naughtily today. I spent a little too much, but I am quite, quite satisfied.

6. I get to go dancing on Friday. I get to see Serenity on Saturday with the girls. These are things to look forward to.

7. Thanks guys. I have really good friends. Sometimes I lose sight of that, but I do. Special thanks to Anna and Scott because you guys just listen, and thank you, Mike, for the pep talk. It was very much needed and appreciated.

8. I love early morning naps. Thank you for that. I think today is the calmest I've felt in weeks. I genuinely feel refreshed.

9. And finally... I am the proud owner of a learner's permit! I got a perfect score on the test. Go team me.



Everybody, I am unreachable by cell until Thursday. Please either email or call my house before 10.