What do you appreciate?

I am taking a couple of days off, for relaxation and anniversary purposes. I wanted to go to Vancouver, B.C., but Mr. RK was hesitant to spend that much cash while he is still unemployed. He wanted to spend a night or two at the coast, but I was terrified of too many tourists.

So we are going on a couple of day trips - one to the museum of glass, which is a couple hours away in Tacoma, Washington, of all places, and one to the beach.

Today, however, was a day for getting secret goodies for Pheromone Girl, having lunch with Mr. RK, swimming and renewing my driver's license.

Waiting in line - because the person who worked at the "Express" line was filling in for someone who was out on break (a loooooooong break), the woman in front of me remarked, "Hey, look at those teenagers just getting their licenses for the first time. They're the only people in here smiling!"

She's right - that first trip to the DMV is the only one you'll enjoy. (Unless you flunk your test, I guess.)

So that started me thinking - is there stuff I used to enjoy and now take for granted? Or vice versa?

Having lived on my own or with another person who dislikes cooking for many years now, I APPRECIATE it when anyone offers to cook for me, because personally, I don't like to do it. (Hint: I do not enjoy doing things I am 1) not good at, or 2) likely to accidentally poison someone.)

Having lived in a city where people were routinely rude, I appreciate it when people are nice or friendly. (Not too friendly.)

Having worked in a place where my anxiety had me on my guard all the time due to a sexist asshole boss (Peter Ellis of St. Augustine, FL, you know who you are!), I appreciate the fact that I have a kind boss. One who lets me say "fuck," even.

Having lost all three of my kitties within 15 months of each other, I appreciate my darling little boy kitties, both of whom spent over a year at the shelter. Who knows why - they're sweet, lovable, and so cute!

Having lost "friends" for silly reasons, I appreciate Pheromone Girl, Mike D, Shay, and the select few other darlings I consider my adopted family.

Having been totally fucked over or bored by every other man I've gone out with, I appreciate Mr. RK.

How about you?

PS The pic above was one from a trip to NYC that Mike D made neato with sepia and his artistic techniques. FYI, I don't eat hot dogs (this was taken in front of the famous Gray's Papaya hot dog shop in the Village) and I'm much thinner now!