Orange you feeling a little Blue.

12 days and counting until I put the finishing touches on this first year. I've stepped it up a notch in terms of studying so that I can finish strong; spent a few days in the local coffee shop cranking out assignments and preparing for this final paper. I can honestly say I'm proud of myself and my commitment to this experience.

As I'm sure I've said before, it has not gone without some sacrifice, sweat, and tears, and a challenging battle with factoring in academic obligations often over and above people and things that mean a lot to me.

I write to you now a little sour after just getting off the phone with my boyfriend who is celebrating his 29th birthday today...IN NEW YORK! My heart sunk as I heard the background noise of those who love him gathered at his home to celebrate. I wanted badly to be there. Anticipating the mounds of work between me and this finish line, I had to trade being in New York today with being here in the books. While I got to celebrate with him and my family on Saturday in New York, it just didn't feel the same.

I tried to snap my self out of my moment of sadness by going to the self-love jar; I pulled out "orange" and "I am grateful for my intellect". A few days ago I decided to put "Orange" in the jar with the hope of making myself laugh at a time when I could use a little chuckle. I'm thankful for the universe serenading me with its quick wit while giving me encouragement for school as well.

In celebration of Lawrence, I've come up with a few words to demonstrate my gratitude for his birth and life:

You are proof that the Universe is listening intently to the soft-spoken requests of my spirit. You have partnered with me in expanding my understanding of some of the ways that God has made love available for our feeling pleasure. You have created a context for my comprehension of the work ethic; we have diligently toiled using the tools of our hearts to build the foundation upon which our union stands. I am proud to look up at what we’ve nurtured. I give thanks for the ways that your life has enhanced mine, and for the opportunity to do the same for yours. Lawrence Miner, Jr., I’m happy to have you and to celebrate your day of birth; HAPPY BORN-DAY! LOVE YOU TONS!

Happy Birthday Babe! I really wish I was home!