Five Things Friday

1. GOOD NEWS: Yesterday couldn't have been a more perfect day to find out that I will have a job when my current position ends at the end of this month. I will be staying at the same research institute, but I will be working in a different laboratory. A HUGE weight has been lifted off of my shoulders, and I can finally RELAX during the long weekend ahead. I am very grateful. I know that I've been doom-and-gloom about my possible unemployment - if you ever get a glimpse into how much medication costs without health insurance... eek. So glad I won't have to deal with that.....

2. SPOILED: Somehow the BF and I have gone from doing nothing for Valentine's Day (Year 1) to exchanging cards (Year 2) to cards and flowers (Year 3) to cards, flowers, and a low-key restaurant dinner (Year 4) to this year (5): Beautiful flowers sent to me at work, heartfelt cards exchanged before dinner at a FANCY restaurant (delicious but he/we spent the budget for this year and at least next year for V-day...) followed by a fun/romantic adventure to the Smith Tower Observation Deck and Chinese Room where they had free chocolate (I had to try really hard not to stuff my pockets with all the Ferrero Rochers), free flowers (what?!), and beautiful views of the city and Puget Sound. It was amazing, and it was a great celebration for us, especially with my extra good news. As amazing as it was, I think next year, we'll opt for the heart-shaped pizza and a night in.

View of 2nd Ave to the Space Needle and the Great Wheel on the Left

3. RUN STREAK: Breaking news - today will be day 8 of my run streak. I started it quietly because I need to know that I can keep myself committed to "streaking". Well, I've made it so far. Today will be an easy 2 as tomorrow is my long run for the week. Now that I'm officially over sending in job applications, it'll be much easier to keep it up.

4. BOOKS: I am currently reading "The Twelve" by Justin Cronin. It's the follow-up to his first book, "The Passage", which I picked up at the airport when I went to Minnesota in 2011. It has vampires in it (not the sparkly kind), and it has the potential to cause nightmares.

Also, I have about 5 other books from the library to read. Thank goodness for the long weekend because I have to return "Cloud Atlas" and "Home" (Toni Morrison's book) on Tuesday, and I haven't TOUCHED them. However, I may just relapse into watching junk television all weekend: Project Runway, American Idol, Castle, Suburgatory, New Girl, Once Upon A Time.... Yes, mindless entertainment for the masses. That's how I prefer my television shows.

5. RACES: I am signed up for exactly 1 race - the Hot Chocolate 5k happening in the beginning of March. Are you going to be there? Just come to hang out? :)

Soooo:
Did you celebrate Half-Off Chocolate Day today? I bought some Reese's PB cups, of course.
What are you currently reading? Is it good?
What races should I sign up for in the coming year (within Washington State)?
What are you favorite TV shows?