Orange Blossoms, Cupcakes and Other Good Things

“Kindness in words creates confidence.

Kindness in thinking creates profoundness.

Kindness in giving creates love.”

—Laozu; ancient Chinese philosopher, central figure in Taoism

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Walking the Walk

Yesterday I went to the library and found alot of books for the various term projects and papers I have to work on. I was determined not to have to come back to campus over spring break so I checked out quite a pile. I put one large volume in my computer bag. I crammed four or five more in my bookbag and finally carried two in my arms. I looked like the most awkward nerd I am sure as I walked with my two bags banging against me with every step. Even though the parking lot is a good mile from where my classes take place, I usually walk when the weather is nice because it is good exercise and I just love to walk for some reason. But I decided my overburdened back needed the benefits of the shuttle bus. By the time I got on there were no seats left, but I was just happy to not be walking with my load. But a nice guy insisted that I take his seat. As he stood and grabbed the rail across the way I saw he had a cross tattooed on the inner side of his upper forearm just below the elbow. I just wanted to say to him, "Thanks for walking the walk, man". It was a little act of kindness but it instilled hope in me that there really are good people left out there.

Orange Blossoms

Right now the orange blossoms are starting to bloom. This is my first time living in a place with orange blossoms, and I have to say, if you have never smelled this intoxicating delight, I suggest you consider a trip to Arizona. right. now. All across campus, in addition to the palm trees and occasional lemon and grapefruit trees, there are orange trees everywhere. I think they are beautiful with the green leaves and the little round oranges peeking our everywhere. But now they are even more wonderful. I purposely adjust my walking path to walk right next to them so that I can just breathe in more of the beautiful smell of the blossoms.


Cupcakes

I went shopping with my cousin Megan this week. That in and of itself was a wonderful treat. Megan is great, and I wish you could all know her! She introduced me to a very posh cupcake shop in Scottsdale, which we just had to try. The cupcakes are, of course, shamefully over priced. But very trendy and cute and fun, not to mention very delicious! I got a chocolate coconut cupcake, which, honestly was a little dry, so I wasn't initially impressed. But I also got a pumpkin cupcake and it was moist and lovely and the frosting was generous but not quite enough that I needed to scrape it off. yummy! (I also found a black dress for a wedding I'm going to, and got the free gift at Clinique-- so it was a good shopping day!)


Hello Kitty Beach Cruiser

I saw a bike like this locked up at school as I was walking to the parking lot (click on the picture for a bigger, better view). It was equipped with a basket though in addition to the very cool and hip bell. I couldn't help but love it. If only I had had this bike on my mission, I'm sure I would have been much, much, much more successful! ;) If only because of the lightning speed with which I would have been able to cruise through the street of Japan with!

Flowers

Finally, I bought myself some flowers. Ladies-- I suggest this to all of you. I know times are not great economically-- but if you can spare the extra few dollars, hit up Target, Walmart or Costco and get some just for the pure joy they will bring to your home. I love the smell, and I especially love walking into a room, having forgotten they were there, and having them bring a smile to my face. Even a $2 single rose can do wonders for the little trials life brings. :)