My favorite things

1. Del Taco. It's official, I like Del Taco better than Taco Bell. We went while we were in Colorado, and I forgot how much I love that place. It brought back memories of when Emily (who introduced me to it) and I would drive to North Orem for a fix. Their spicy jack chicken quesadillas and chicken soft tacos are fantastic--and don't leave you with that icky what-was-I-thinking feeling that Taco Bell does. Unfortunately, the nearest Del Taco is in Ohio, so I won't be getting another fix for a long time. Toledoans don't know how good they have it.

2. Spring. When we left, the leaves were just beginning to come back on the trees. Now, everything is green, it's warm, sunny, and gorgeous.

3. My birthday, proving that I still haven't matured beyond the "it's my birthday--heeeeeeeee!" stage. But birthdays are a fabulous excuse for going out with friends, eating lots, and general self-indulgence. I bought everything I need for my perfect dinner (tri tip sandwiches and chocolate delight!) on Sunday, and the aforementioned perfect weather will be a nice compliment. Between now and then, there will be much celebration, but again, it's just an excuse for excess. So go ahead and eat that ice cream/leftover Easter candy/midafternoon meal at Del Taco--you're not bingeing, you're celebrating me!

4. My new skirt:
I tried it on at Ann Taylor Loft and quickly realized that I may be spending my entire summer in this skirt. So thanks to a buy-1-get-1-free coupon (who knew ATL did those?), I got it in black and green. It's much cuter in person, and the elastic waist and jersey knit make it more comfortable than yoga pants. (I realize according to Stacy and Clinton, "comfort" isn't reason enough to buy something. But perhaps if they had to chase/wrestle a 40 lb 3-year-old at the park on a humid Southern summer day, they'd change their minds...) So just a heads up to those looking for flattering, comfortable summer wear--run to Loft, thank me later.

5. Vacation planning. Sarah's post pretty much sums it up. And while August in Orlando may be slightly uncomfortable, we'll be having so much fun it won't matter. Plus, I'll be wearing my marvelously comfortable new skirt. I was initially excited merely by the thought of Mabes getting to go to the Magic Kingdom for the first time. Between the castle, princesses, rides, and--oh yeah-- celebrating her birthday, she very well may explode with joy. And after reminiscing about past family vacations last week, I'm looking forward to having a ridiculously fun time posing for pictures on rides (have you found those yet, Moom?), keeping silly Captain's Logs (more on those later), and all the general craziness that accompanies Ostler gatherings. It's going to be a blast.