Things I Love
Original Post Date: February 14, 2023
“Let’s genuinely celebrate love by showing gratitude for the aspects that fill our hearts with joy, whether they’re big or small. ”
The fourteenth of February is one of the best holidays of the year. The day that we get to celebrate love. I went back and forth about what I wanted to discuss today. My relationship status could’ve led me to talk about celebrating singleness (which is important). On the other hand, I could’ve bashed the holiday, persecuted the couples partaking in the festivities, and wallowed in my aloneness. That's not really me though; I admire love and I’m fortunate to be surrounded by so much. Therefore, I chose to focus on love itself. There are so many ways to express affection and so many elements to express it to. I considered writing about all my loved ones, but they deserve more in-depth appreciation than being featured on a bulleted list. I landed on the decision to appreciate all the small things that I love; the elements that make life sweeter. Valentine’s Day doesn’t need to be restricted to focusing on whether you’re in a position to be on a date. Let’s genuinely celebrate love by showing gratitude for the aspects that fill our hearts with joy, whether they’re big or small. Here I present, a list of things that bring me love and happiness.
When you get halfway through a book and can finally break the binding.
Coming home to a winter wonderland during winter break.
Reliving my adolescence and pulling all-nighters.
Going to the movies with my parents.
When the outfit matches my imagination.
When the recipe meets my flavor expectations.
The undoubted happiness I feel at Disney world — I’m very much a child a heart.
How candles are always more fragrant at my mom's house — I think it’s her genuine warmth.
The office — I’m currently rewatching for the 6th time. Its humor never fails.
My dad's chili — It’s the epitome of a comfort meal.
Little Rock, Arkansas and my grandma's house — they’re both the location of so many formative moments.
Guessing a plot twist correctly — We all enjoy being right, sometimes.
The expression after someone tastes my cooking — Cooking is one of my favorite ways to demonstrate love.
Luxurious items — I love romanticizing my existence.
A night out with my friends — my college days are full of core memories.
Watching my parent's relationships with their friends — I can’t wait to go on more adventures with my own.
Quality time with my Granny — She’s the ultimate nurturer and comedian.
Pairing fries as an unconventional side.
Making a perfect cup of coffee, with the perfect amount of cream.
Pink Peonies — They’re easily my favorite flower.
I encourage you to create your own list of elements that bring you joy. On that note, I hope everyone has a beautiful Valentine’s Day! Don’t forget to do something for yourself to exhibit some self-love.
Xoxo,
Allie
Song of the Post:
This week’s song of the post is Memory Lane by Minnie Riperton. A song that my mom has always sung. A song that’s grown to be one of my favorite throwbacks. Riperton explores the range of emotions coupled with love. She also shows her appreciation for the minute moments in life. The experiences that had once fled her mind are reignited and bring her glee.
