i feel it in my fingers, i feel it in my toes

this holiday season everything seems to be lined up perfectly -- minus of course the small part that i'm not with my family, but chicago has made me feel more welcome than i've possibly ever felt since leaving minnesota. i was invited to more christmas celebrations than i can count or remember with everyone from two of my closest friends and roommates to a new friend to random coworkers. it is refreshing and comforting to know that i am surrounded by people who care about me and want to make sure that i am not alone for the christmas holiday centered on the birth of jesus and family.

however, i think the best part of this christmas is that i am giving back to those who can't celebrate with their families either. i volunteered to cook/serve dinner at a homeless shelter not too far from my apartment in chicago, and i haven't been this excited for christmas in a long time. for the first time in a long time, i'm giving something to those who have nothing and no one -- their situation is much more grave than mine. and i'm happy to give them a little holiday joy, something i've been blessed with my whole life. it should be fantastic. also, for the first time in my life i am cooking a turkey. a 20 pound turkey no less. this should be...entertaining. but alas, you've gotta start somewhere!

and then tomorrow i found myself torn between 2 christmas celebration the kolak and the orange. two fabulous friends who opened up their homes and families to me. i am ever greatful. i only wish i could be at both at once. but due to the fact that my holidays have never maxed more than 10 nelson-johnson relatives, i opted for the smaller, more intimate holiday where it will be a little more like home...at least on some level.

other than that things i'm greatful for this holiday season:
*family--you're my family. you put up with me. you're the best. enough said.
*my girl friends--you always are there with a good laugh or a shoulder to cry on. and you most definitely always have my back.
*a handsome physics teacher--you always make me smile, challenge me and keep me on my toes.
*northwestern university--for giving me a job and having faith in me that i will do it well.
*chicago--for being my playground, keeping me safe and making me feel right at home. i may never leave you at the rate we're going.
*minnesota--for always welcoming me back with open arms. i love returning to the place i know and love so much.
*hope college--you gave me amazing memories and friendships. i wouldn't be where i was today without you or the fabulous professors you employ
*argentina--you stole my heart, but taught me more than i ever asked for or dreamed of.

so merry christmas, happy holidays! much love to you all.

poem of the day.

poem of the day. inspired by ck who kindly gave me the topic: killer bunnies (in love)

killer bunnies everywhere
killer bunnies for eachother care
they show their love with jabbing ears
they claim their mate by killing bears
the end.
(its the end cuz they just killed one another)