Birthday Reflection

It's my birthday. Sort of. I have so much homework; I'm not even really sure where to begin. I wanted to take a moment to blog about how fortunate I feel to have such amazing friends. People were so thoughtful this year. People came out to my party that I hadn't seen in a while. A few friends drove long distances to make it out. People brought gifts--and really thoughtful ones at that. Drew got me this amazing 3-d frame. The photo is a landscape of S. Dakota, but in front of the photo is a toy buffalo. The buffalo is a Jesus-like figure in Lakota spirituality. Then, around the frame is a beautiful quote by the peaceful Chief Black Elk.

Tammy got me the second season of 30 Rock, which I am so excited to watch, a wonderful Yoga book, and sweetarts :) Rucha gave me different kinds of tea. Sailor's sister made me an adorable bag--like literally sewed me a cute handbag. It was such a surprise. I couldn't believe it. People bought me food, drinks, and gave me lots of hugs. I felt very loved. And then today, I'm feeling horrible because I just have more work than I can physically do, but Laura paid for me to get a massage from Tammy's sister, Elizabeth. It was just what I needed to help this negative mood I'm in due to school. A friend sent me a card that told me not to stress and, "there is so much more to life than school." I try to remind myself this because my perfectionism is just plain unhealthy with the circumstances I'm working under. It's so unrealistic for me to try and make up all of the work I missed last spring, in addition, to keeping up in my current classes. I'm working hard, though. I'm back to work. Just wanted to take a moment to reflect on how thankful I am--no matter how burnt out I may feel right now.