Happy, happy, joy, joy

I am smiling from ear to ear, something my face muscles aren't exactly use to feeling. I can honestly say that I'm genuinely happy. It is such a great feeling to look to the future and feel excited.

What exactly happened that turned this little happy switch on? I don't think anything can be pinpointed specifically, but I have some ideas.

Driving:
As you know, I recently got my license. I never thought that having some plastic picture of myself with my name on it would open up a gateway of joy.

Sure, I don't have a "real" job so paying for gas and insurance may become a thorn in my side, but I have such freedom that I didn't really realize I didn't have because I was postponing it.

For example, the other day I drove myself to Starbucks at 8:30 one night because I had a bad day. If I didn't have my license, I would have had to convince my mom that it was worth the drive.

Singles Branch:
I'll be the first to admit I hate trying new things. Absolutely hate them. I don't like to go into situations where I don't know a soul and try to fit in. It makes me sick to my stomach when I know I have to do it.

The other day, a couple of my friends in the singles branch invited me to attend the branch's FHE (family home evening on Monday nights) with them. This kid has been after me weeks to go to singles ward, so I figured I've give it a try. After all, I am almost 18...and out of high school. I need friends who are going to be experiencing what I am going through.

I went, regardless being scared to death, and I had a bllllllllllast. It was so much fun. I only three people at the whole thing, but I made a couple friends and felt so happy.

Institute:
Institute, which I mentioned in this post, is a religious class for those who are college aged--and actually want to be there (unlike those who were forced to attend seminary, haha.)

I decided since I want to start going to to the singles branch, I'd give this institute thing a try. I love the woman who teaches it, so I figured that it would be decent at least.

Boy, I was wrong. I LOVED IT! I really am quite excited that I get to go now. I was with some of the same people from the FHE activity, and was able to meet some more. I felt really included.

Exercise:
Just recently got Wii Fit, along with Wii Just Dance (addicting game, mind you.) It is cliché to say, but I reallly do use the Wii to exercise. I try to do it at least an hour a day, if not more. It is good on my joints, and it helps boost my mood (would have been useful to have done this during seminary...I could have been less cranky! Sorry, Mom.)

Basically, I'm just happy. I'm happy with my life, and I know that I'll just have to keep rolling with these changes that come with my new life. It is kind of exciting, and nerve racking all at the same time. I'm grateful I've got a great support system behind me though :)