unforced merriment

So, the last few days have shimmered with happiness-inspired awesomeness.

For starters, after mulling it over extensively during my Gilbert Family Reunion road trip, a few days ago I un-Facebook-friended the person who’s been a major source of disappointment and negativity over the last couple of weeks, which was a HUGE STEP for someone like me. I never cut people out, even when they fully deserve it. (Which, now that I think about it more fully, might help explain the ‘boomerang boys’ effect, eh Tommy?) I was so proud of myself for standing up and taking charge … it felt really good, like a weight had been lifted. Once again, Maggie’s advice was right on target. Be proud of me.

In other exciting news, I found out my fall TA assignment today, and it’s about as sweet as it gets. I have been assigned to the guy who persuaded me to come to Vanderbilt in the first place, a man whose research closely aligns to my own interests and who seems genuinely interested in helping grad students find their way in academia. I am THRILLED. What’s more, he’s teaching an intro-level undergrad course, so it seems highly likely I’ll get to guest teach his class at least a few times over the course of the semester… and while I still have my own teaching endeavors to fuel my addiction, having the chance to teach Vandy undergrads will be fantastic. When I saw that e-mail, I literally came out of my chair in a giddy jump/wiggle.

Finally, I would be remiss if I failed to mention the wonder I feel at having met someone who is sufficiently interested in me to have read three years of this blog’s archives AND the 20+ pages of “Allen from Allen” e-mails. I’m overwhelmed, actually.

Life’s good. Despite the fact that I’m working my tail off, I’m having a great summer and know I’m going to be energized and ready for the fall semester start next month. That’s always good.

And, lest we forget, Tracy, myself, and others are all planning a big road trip to Mountain Home for the BEAT HARRISON game this fall. I have spent too many football seasons making excuses not to go to Bomber football games, and I am determined to make this trip happen. It’ll be awesome!