in case i haven't told you recently

This past semester has definitely been the most difficult in terms of studying, but also the most exciting in many other ways. I am one step closer to becoming a doctor, planning an amazing conference, and learning skills that will actually help me to heal people some day. There were many times when I felt overwhelmed by all of this and inclined to complain about how stressful it is to be a medical student, but life kept sending me reminders that she is filled with so many more important things. The stress of exams is simply nothing compared to the joy and sorrow of life.

Life ≠ medical school. Life > studying.


A family member passed away, but it was his time. He was ready, it was peaceful, it was as he wanted. Few people today get to die in their own homes. It was a blessing, really. But, beside my desk sits a blank sheet of paper on which I meant to write a letter, and a photo, and a few stamps that I had meant to mail to him. I was going to do it as soon as this crazy week was over and I was no longer buried in books.

And so I am reminded of how painfully important it is to tell people that I love them. To make them feel that love as often as possible, without delay. That will be my New Year's resolution. That will be my new life resolution.

In case I haven't told you recently, I love you.

Perhaps that's the answer to it all.
Life = Love

i am thankful for

hot coffee,

and warm hats.

crowded buses,

and nearly empty streets.

red balloons that make me think of Le ballon rouge.

turkeys of all kinds.

time  to  stand  still .

wish list

 Do you remember getting the Toys-R-Us catalog right around Thanksgiving and circling everything you wanted for Christmas? That was always so much fun. It meant putting X's on the calendar each night as we got one day closer to Christmas, thinking about the airplane to Grandma & Grandpa's house, and dreams of snow! I never expected to get half the things I marked in that catalog, but, in a way, putting that circle around them made them mine in my head. So, in the spirit of playful dreams and extreme satisfaction even with none of them, here is my wishlist:

• An Ashtanga Yoga DVD so I can practice even on the days when I can't make it to the studio.
• The coolest cookie cutters I've ever seen!
• A whistling  teakettle, because sometimes Ian forgets about the boiling pot he leaves on the stove for tea.
• A bunch of these candles (in autumnal and wintry scents) to make a cozy fireplace effect.
• Headphones that won't hurt my ear after listening to multiple lectures on double-speed.
• A book of this incredible photographer.
• My water filter broke over a year ago and a still haven't replaced it!
• I don't think I have gotten one of these since the days when my sister and I got matching Christmas dresses every year.
• This outfit.
• Pretty much anything in this online magazine.  
• A very unique locket.
•  Well, why not?
• A beautiful bicycle bag.
• While I'm dreaming away, I'd also love to find the perfect perfume.

What's on your list?