Currently it’s ten at night, and I’m sitting with my friends Bonnie and Todd on their porch. Our friend Jessica is here, as are her children, Allison and Corban, and Corban’s girlfriend, Emilee. The seven of us have been together since two this afternoon for what we’ve been calling “dance camp,” a one-day swing dance intensive. (I was the teacher.) First we danced for a couple hours, then we ate ice cream, then we danced some more, then we ate dinner (KFC). Now we’re on the porch relaxing, digesting.

I can’t say what a lovely day this has been. I woke up worn out this morning–I guess I still am–but I’ve still had such a great time. I’m a teacher–I adore watching people learn–and everyone did a fabulous job this afternoon. We worked for over four hours, and it’s amazing to see how much someone can progress in a short amount of time. It absolutely made my heart soar.

And then fried chicken for dinner!

Tomorrow morning I’m getting up early to be tested for allergies. Because they prick you with dozens of potential allergens, I’m prepared for my back to look like a war zone. The point is, since I’m already worn out and getting up at the butt crack of dawn, I’m trying to keep this short. Easy enough. Other than dancing with my darling friends (and eating all the calories), not much has happened today. Well, wait, my recent bad mood has improved. Disappeared just like it showed up–out of nowhere. I’m guessing this is because I got out of the house (got out of my head) , socialized, moved, danced. Four over six hours I’ve been surrounded by smiling, happy people, and maybe their joy has rubbed off. Or would it be rubbed on? Regardless, I’m reminded that life isn’t always a bitch. On occasion it can be kind and generous, full of delights.

For this I am grateful.