1. Although it’s always a bummer returning to work following a holiday, yesterday wasn’t so awful. Perhaps it was because of the mantra I kept repeating to myself: I will not stress over things outside of my control. As a self-acknowledged control freak and worrier, I could benefit from advice daily!

2. Perhaps part of my good mood/lack of stress was due to my festive office decorations. Next time I want to throw something at a co-worker, supplier, etc., I’ll just gaze at my Christmas tree. 🙂

3. I’m excited for the next couple of weeks. Sunday night, we’re going to see the Alabama Shakes at the Saenger, and the following week, we’ll be in the same place for the holiday symphony—featuring Pentatonix, an a cappella group from NBC’s The Sing-Off. I never watched the show, but the group was featured on NPR a few weeks ago, and they were quite impressive.

4. Last night’s Seahawks vs. Saints game was brutal. I didn’t expect us to win, but I did expect us to show up and play! Here’s hoping we kick some Carolina butt next Sunday.

5. Am I the only person who finds Elf on the Shelf incredibly creepy? Maybe it’s just an antipathy of elves in general (something about their ears?), but I don’t think I could ever have one in the house. My future children will hate me because of my weird and irrational quirks/fears.

6. After a weekend full of indulgences and so. many. carbs. I’m craving a giant salad like nobody’s business (even though we had Five Guys last night, ha). We’re making due with whatever we have in the pantry/fridge this week, but next grocery trip, I’m buying all of the veggies!

7. This past weekend I bought the most adorable pajama pants. I’m obsessed with dachshunds, so anytime I spot anything doxie-related, I must buy it!

8. This list, 10 Things I Want My Daughter to Know About Working Out, is awesome. As a woman, I’m used to society’s general belief that we should work out solely for appearances, but you know what? I enjoy being fit. I crave the post-yoga “high” I feel when I’ve stretched to my limits and pumped my blood full of oxygen; I love the cool breeze on my face when taking a walk or a run; I’m proud when I can move a heavy piece of furniture (like bunking my beds in college by myself) on my own; and I always smile when I feel the barely-detectable remnants of my “gymnast calluses” on my hands. Screw the party dress! (Although feeling good about your appearance is also a nice benefit, too.)

9. I’m not normally gaga over celebrities, but I was so sad to hear of Paul Walker’s death this past weekend. I haven’t seen any of his movies in years, but I had the biggest crush on him back in the day (those blue eyes!). It always stinks to see somebody so young die, especially considering his involvement in disaster relief with ROWW, which he co-founded (I had no idea he was in Alabama following the 2011 tornado outbreak). 🙁

10. I’m super sleepy this morning. I’d blame my being tired on staying up last night to finish watching the game, but Monday I felt the same way. Maybe I shouldn’t have slept late every morning over Thanksgiving break, although it felt great at the time!

That’s all I’ve got. Happy Tuesday!