And last, but not least, a slightly different kind of challenge: the August Happiness Challenge (via Random Thoughts of a Midnight Mind—thanks, cj!) Every day during August, I’ll post a happy thought. In Toronto, August is often the hottest, stickiest month, so it’ll be good for me to focus on the nice things!

Since today is already August 5, here are five happy things:

1. I got the job I really wanted! I am now a professional French tutor. The tutoring centre is great, the staff (including my boss) all seem nice and friendly, and the one kid I’ve tutored so far is bright and studious. And the pay is fantastic. I’d forgotten how much I love tutoring—I’m so excited!
2. I bought an outfit for my cousin’s wedding, so once I get her a wedding gift, I’ll be ready to go! I also bought some new clothes, which I desperately need.
3. Sarah Monette’s The Mirador lived up to all my expectations. I can’t tell you how pleased that makes me.
4. My roommate’s new apartment is awesome. I’m so glad she’s going to be living somewhere nice (and on a very pretty street, too!)
5. Unusually enough for August, the weather the past couple of days has been very pleasant, with lower temperatures and less humidity than we’ve had over the past couple of weeks.