I'm reminded again today how external things can have such a huge impact on your mood. It's Friday, the sun is shining (even though it's in the 20's), I'm listening to fabulous tunes, a new and exciting project just fell in my lap, I feel good about my potential for a tax refund, and I'm generally surrounded by people who are supportive. Aside from seeking out music, none of that was really my doing, and yet, it can all make you feel so gosh darn good.

I'm kind of giddy too because of all the travel coming up. In the span of six weeks I'm going to Orlando, Vegas and Seattle. I can't even tell you how sweet it is that the Vegas trip is mostly paid for by work (I say mostly because I'm staying a couple extra days on my dime). I've never been to Seattle, aside from a layover there, and I'm super excited to go there. If it's anything like Portland, I suspect I'll fall in love with the place.

The list of places I want to visit is pretty extensive, and I want to travel more. Certainly going to Italy will bust me out of my comfort zone. I look forward to taking loads of pictures of stuff there.

Only a few weeks in, but I feel like this is finally going to be that great year I've been longing for.