+ 365 THINGS I LOVE IN LIFE

{700} HEARING A CAT PURRING

2011-11-12T05:38:00.002+09:00

I always think (even if biased) that the purr is a proof of the cat feeling happy with me, that the cat loves staying with me, and wants my company.

{699} I LOVE: DOING SOMETHING THAT SCARES ME

2011-11-10T05:34:00.002+09:00

I am not a masochist, actually I hate being scared, but overcoming my fears sometimes involves doing something that is emotionally or physically scary. It is the challenge what matters, being able to face my fears, and overcome them at the end.

{698} I LOVE: BARGAIN HUNTING

2011-11-08T05:28:00.003+09:00

That's my favourite sport. It is not only fun, but saves me lots of money while still buying something I love and need. It is like treasure hunting. I usually look for pieces I love but are too pricey, and wait like a predator to catch it when it is at its weakest point. It is the best feeling ever. So much fun, too.

{697} I LOVE: ORIGINAL LYRIC MOVIE SOUNDTRACKS

2011-11-06T06:22:00.004+09:00

I mean those OSTs purposely composed for a film but that you can hear as stand alone music. They are the true symphonies of the 21st century, the ones that put a soul to stories to which we can relate. They still have the universality, quality in composition and lyricism that a classic piece has, but with a contemporary approach to the world and the needs of the modern listener.

{696} I LOVE: FINNISH TRADITIONAL WOOD SAUNAS

2011-11-04T05:17:00.004+09:00

The rooms are small but very cozy, rustic but so comfy, and the smell of the steam is almost edible. Moreover, they are usually located in front of a river or lake, so you go out to splash in the cold at the end (if you want). They are a bit wild but very charming. Modern Finish saunas are also very nice, but the traditional ones are really wonderful.

{695} I LOVE: WHEN I STOP A SNEEZE IN PUBLIC.

2011-11-02T05:12:00.001+09:00

It is something I’ve learned not long ago, but I love when I can control my sneeze and save the people around the nuisance and spread of germs, especially when I am not carrying a hanky.

{694} I LOVE: GETTING THE ELECTRICITY BACK AFTER A POWER CUT OR SHORTAGE

2011-11-01T06:08:00.003+09:00

It is mostly a relief. Something wonderful has happened, so wonderful that you cannot believe is just the electricity coming back! I always remind myself how much we need it for our daily life, and how much we take it for granted.

{693} I LOVE: THE SOUND OF AN INFECTIOUS LAUGH

2011-10-31T05:05:00.004+09:00

It can cheer up even the saddest person, and makes me turn my head and focus my attention onto something positive.

{692} I LOVE: SEEING AN ACT OF KINDNESS FROM SOMEBODY YOU DON'T EXPECT

2011-10-30T05:54:00.003+09:00

It is very humbling, and a great lesson to learn. Even the ugliest ogre could have a heart bigger than yours or be kinder than you are. We have to remind ourselves of it every day, because, at least me, I forget it quite often.

{691} I LOVE: CREOLE PEOPLE

2011-10-28T05:49:00.000+09:00

Those people who have genes from different races, those where seem to be a patch of different ethnic features put all together. They make the most beautiful people on earth, and those more genetically beautiful too.

{690} I LOVE: THE SOUND TREE LEAVES MAKE WHEN MOVED BY A MELLOW BREEZE

2011-10-26T07:45:00.001+09:00

It is one of the most poetic and pleasant sounds on earth. It is delicate, soothingly calming and I love it, especially in spring, when the leaves' colours and shine add even more beauty to the experience.

{689} I LOVE: THE SOUND YOU HEAR WHEN WALKING ON A CARPET OF FALLEN LEAVES

2011-10-24T19:42:00.000+09:00

The sound of “fewsh fewsh” walking through leaves is wonderful, and if the carpet is one of the autumn fallen leaves, then is not only fun, it is also beautiful and musical, even crunchy! All at once. One of those child-like pleasures that bring a smile to my face.

{688} I LOVE: POETIC THINGS THAT AREN'T POETRY

2011-10-22T05:38:00.002+09:00

To me, Poetry is not the Poetry you have published in books, but those people, landscapes, situations, images and texts that intrinsically bear a high degree of beauty and depth, without trying to be so. Those things that fill in your soul with indescribable feelings of perfection, beauty, and bring out the best of me, and enrapture my senses, heart and mind.

{687} I LOVE: SYNESTHESIA

2011-10-20T07:35:00.002+09:00

It is one of the most fascinating neurological conditions ever. It highlights the neuroplasticity of the brain, the way brain connects different sections of the same allowing its "victims" to hear a number or colour, for example. It is one of the coolest possible conditions on earth, I would say, Who wouldn't like having sounds, colours and tactile sensations attached to sensations that are not initially related to those and seeing and perceiving the world in a completely different way?

{686} I LOVE: MUSIC THAT GIVES ME THE GOOSEBUMPS

2011-10-18T07:28:00.002+09:00

That music (songs or just music) that moves me inexplicably, that gets into my soul instantaneously and my body reacts with the goosebumps; it is a very instinctive unconscious thing, a connection between my soul and the Universe through Music, my inner self and somebody else's inner self and music. It is difficult to explain why some tunes produce that effect on me and not others, but I love the way they make me feel.

{685} I LOVE: SELF-AWARENESS

2011-10-16T07:24:00.003+09:00

I think it is underrated as a philosophical and psychological element of our well-being. Being aware of who you are, of who you aren't, and of the little things of the world that make you (and your world) special is a key element to happiness, the mirror to where look at yourself and see the blessings you have.

{684} I LOVE: WHEN SOMEBODY TELLS ME A SECRET

2011-10-14T19:17:00.004+09:00

It is the trust they put in me what I love, not necessarily the secret, which might end being a burden. The fact that they decide to share it with me, tells me that they consider me a trustworthy person, a person understanding and caring with whom sharing such an intimate thing.

{683} THE SOUND OF THE RAIN BATTERING THE WINDOWS

2011-10-12T05:27:00.002+09:00

I love the rhythmical subdued sound of the rain hitting the glass creates a especial musical melancholic atmosphere. It also puts me in an indoors-ish sort of mood, grateful for being at home, protected from the bad weather by my domestic Universe.

{682} I LOVE: THOSE NOT-SO-SPECIAL MOMENTS IN WHICH I FEEL HAPPY AND FULFILLED

2011-10-10T05:23:00.002+09:00

One always assume that happiness and inner fulfilment are attached to very special moments of existence, to special people, but my moments of awaken happiness and contentment are always quite ordinary, and involve me doing things I like when I like the way I like, at home or not, on my own usually - aware. Feeling happy is always great, but feeling happy in a given moment of my life in which nothing special is happening is truly special.

{681} THE SOUND OF A LONG APPLAUSE IN THE THEATRE

2011-10-08T05:09:00.001+09:00

It is the roar, the cheering, the elation, and the sound of hundreds of people clapping at different rhythms and tones but in an harmonious ensemble. It sounds and feels wonderful, and I can truly imagine how an actor can feel by hearing it.

{680} I LOVE: SEASONAL FIRST FRUIT

2011-10-06T05:24:00.002+09:00

Nothing compares to the size, freshness, shine, and tight-plumpness of the first bunch of seasonal fruit. They look so beautiful and taste great. The following bunches, the ones coming out in the following weeks are never the same, whatever the reason is.

{679} I LOVE: GOING TO A PUBLIC TOILET JUST AFTER HAS BEEN CLEANED

2011-10-04T05:18:00.001+09:00

I feels like I got my lucky ball. Almost at home, everything shiny and professionally sanitized, not polluted by any other person. Extra-clean with capitals.

{678} I LOVE: WHEN I LEARN SOMETHING WOW ABOUT A PERSON I KNOW

2011-10-02T05:58:00.006+09:00

It has happened to me several times that an acquaintance, an apparently ordinary person has a special talent, an intriguing past, or a story that gives an insight into what the person really is, not what you think it is. I find these moments truly especial, not only because of what you learn about the person, but also because they remind me that my assumptions on other people are not always accurate, and that an ordinary person can be really special.

{677} I LOVE: CO-WORKERS WHO REMEMBER MY PERSONAL DETAILS

2011-09-30T05:51:00.003+09:00

Those colleagues who remember what I told them about. It could be my birthday, country of origin, where I live, if I am going/coming from your holidays or from a business trip, or any other personal detail that shows that, when they talk with me, they are listening, not just making small talk, and that they have me in their emotional radar in a way.

{676} I LOVE THE TOUCH AND LOOK OF BABIES AND CHILDREN'S SKIN

2011-09-28T05:45:00.004+09:00

It feels like china doll, so velvety soft and plump. It looks so healthy and imperfections free. Just wonderful.

{675} I LOVE: THE SOUND YOU HEAR WHEN YOU PUT A SEASHELL TO YOUR EAR

2011-09-26T05:40:00.003+09:00

It really sounds like hearing the sea waves on the seashore. It is very relaxing and magic. The fact that you are hearing your own flood circulating, your inner self in a way, makes it even more astonishing, and even poetic.

{674} I LOVE: SUMMER'S EFFECTS

2011-09-24T05:34:00.001+09:00

I don't like Summer per se, but I do really enjoy some of its effects, like my laundry drying in two hours, not having to use my hairdryer to dry my hair, preparing yummy colourful meals in five minutes, the wonderful taste of cold frizzy drinks, that you don't have to wear much clothes, wearing sandals, and so on.

{673} I LOVE: THE TOUCH OF SATIN BETWEEN MY FINGERS

2011-09-22T05:15:00.001+09:00

I've loved it with capitals since I was a toddler. So much so that I always have a piece of satin or satin-like fabric at home to touch it while seating watching TV, or in bed, or while relaxing in general. It gives me one of the most satisfying feelings of pleasure and well-being on Planet Earth. The best thing, one you have the satin fabric piece, the pleasure is infinite and free.

{672} I LOVE: RESTAURANTS WHERE YOU SEE THE CHEFS COOKING YOUR MEAL

2011-09-20T05:10:00.001+09:00

It is a way to see that the place keeps certain level of hygiene, that the cooks aren't hiding anything from you, but also a way to check out how professionals cook and plate a meal and learn from them.

{671} I LOVE: THE BOOK "THE BRAIN THAT CHANGES ITSELF" BY NORMAN DOIGE

2011-09-18T05:54:00.003+09:00

One of the more illuminating books I've read about the brain. I have recommended to everybody I know, and I was wow! during the first 70-80 pages. It is not only fascinating, but also well written and entertaining in showcasing neuroplasticity and the advances in the knowledge on how the human brain works, and how to repair it when damaged. Amazing stuff.

{670} I LOVE: I'M TALENTED

2011-09-16T05:40:00.000+09:00

I'm good at many things. I have many talents, as many as defects, but most people don't even have a talent worth mentioning, so I feel special in a way.

{669} I LOVE: SHOWER TAPS THAT MIX THE WATER PROPERLY

2011-09-14T06:26:00.004+09:00

For my shower to be pleasurable I need the water to be at the right temperature, which goes from tepid in hot summers to just hot in cold winters. Having good mixing taps allows the water to be at the right temperature fast and easily, without wasting any water in the process or any time for me to enjoy my shower the way I like it.

{668} I LOVE: HAVING A BALCONY IN MY APARTMENT

2011-09-12T05:22:00.002+09:00

Having a balcony allows me to have a cloth airer to dry my laundry for free, a place to put plant pots, smelly shoes, small barbecues, a place for smokers to smoke, and, if lucky enough, a place to seat to enjoy the view.

{667} I LOVE: MEN WHO CARRY THE UMBRELLA FOR ME

2011-09-10T06:04:00.002+09:00

If a man and a woman walk together under the same umbrella, it is always easier for the man to carry it, as men are usually taller and stronger than women. It rarely happens nowadays, so when it happens I feel that I am walking with a considerate man who has a logical common sense approach to daily stuff.

{666} I LOVE: HONEST FUNNY CONVERSATIONS ABOUT DAILY MATTERS

2011-09-08T09:55:00.001+09:00

You know, those conversations about your clogged toilet, or hairdressers, the cockroaches in your building, or things about public transport, just to mention a few. I find them very entertaining, as most of the time you end laughing, and sharing awkward common experiences. They allow me to communicate with another person on very a human level without the need of sharing my deepest secrets.

{665} I LOVE: THE FEELING I GET WHEN I PUT ON SOMETHING NEW FOR THE FIRST TIME

2011-09-06T05:45:00.001+09:00

It can be a new piece of jewellery, a new pair of glasses or shoes, a new top or dress, or even new underwear. It does not matter whether is noticed by somebody else or just by me, I get very excited, with a silly princess sort of feeling because I am wearing something I like and makes me look better. I go out and I feel like shouting hoo-hoo!

{664} I LOVE: HAVING PLENTY OF CANDLES AND TORCHES DURING EVENING POWER CUTS

2011-09-04T06:37:00.001+09:00

So the unfortunate event is just not a drama, and you still get a beautiful cozy atmosphere, read a book or a magazine, and move around comfortably.

{663} I LOVE: REALITY SHOWS

2011-09-02T06:35:00.001+09:00

I mean good quality Reality shows, those that offer an insight into the human psyche, are motivational, do not exploit the participants, and let you learn important lessons without being vulgar.

{662} I LOVE: LONG SHOWERS

2011-08-31T06:32:00.000+09:00

Living in a dry country and being busy equals to short showers. However, taking a long shower now and then is wonderfully relaxing, a way to disconnect and let my body be enveloped by a bunch of wonderful sensations. Nothing cleans my mind better, or yours!, than a long shower.

{661} I LOVE: BEING GRATEFUL FOR THE GOOD THINGS I HAVE IN LIFE

2011-08-29T06:14:00.002+09:00

It is not a religious thing, it is a matter of acknowledging that my life, despite its ups and downs, is quite easy compared to half of the world's population. Being aware of how lucky we are in life help us to not to take anything for granted, and to see our daily surroundings with certain prospective and content.

{660} I LOVE: LAKSA SOUP

2011-08-28T05:50:00.002+09:00

One of my favourite dishes. It is hot, it has an unique taste, goes well with fish, meat or vegetarian protein, has a wonderful orange colour, it is cheap to prepare, and tastes great. Perfection!

{659} I LOVE: MEN WHO OFFER ME THEIR JACKET WHEN IT IS COLD

2011-08-26T05:55:00.004+09:00

If I am cold, he surely is too, so taking off his jacket to give it to me shows me that he is considerate, that he puts somebody else's needs before his, and, most importantly, that he is a true gentleman.

{658} I LOVE: WHEN I CHANGE MY HAIR-COLOUR AND PEOPLE NOTICE IT

2011-08-24T06:18:00.003+09:00

Noticeable hair-colour changes are always stressful, so when somebody notices the change and gives a compliment, it makes my day - Somebody is really looking at me, somebody (beyond me) likes the change, and the compliment/s make/s me feel sexier and prettier, which is the whole point of changing your hair colour!

{657} I LOVE: WHITE HUMOUR

2011-08-22T06:09:00.000+09:00

That is what I call real humour, the one that is successful and makes you laugh without vilifying anybody, impersonating anybody, insulting any social or ethnic group or swearing. It is rare because it is difficult!

{656} I LOVE: FINDING SOMETHING I CRAVE IN MY PANTRY/FRIDGE

2011-08-20T06:00:00.000+09:00

Sometimes I have food cravings (sweet, savoury, crunchy, etc.) so searching my pantry or fridge and having something to appease my cravings is just wonderful.

{655} I LOVE: THE MOVIE "MATRIX"

2011-08-18T05:35:00.000+09:00

It has amazing visuals and an intriguing story, is action-packed and well acted, and, most importantly, it poses interesting philosophical questions about what reality is without being boring or difficult to understand. A modern classic.

{654} I LOVE: GOOD QUALITY FREE-VIEW TV CHANNELS

2011-08-16T06:28:00.000+09:00

In the era of paid TV, free view channels are something to be thankful for, because they entertain without any pocket-expenses.

{653} I LOVE: DVD MARATHONS IN RAINY WEEKENDS

2011-08-14T06:24:00.001+09:00

This is my favourite activity during rainy weekends. I love movies, so I get a mix of movie genres and I watch one movie after another. Time flies by and it is so entertaining!

{652} I LOVE: PHONETIC WRITING OF THE ENGLISH WORDS

2011-08-12T06:19:00.002+09:00

It is completely cool and playful. Moreover, it completely makes sense from a linguistic point of view. This is the way it should be, because, if it was, learning English would be much easier and organic.

{651} I LOVE: BEING SINGLE

2011-08-11T06:58:00.003+09:00

There are myriad advantages if you are single. Being single allows me to be myself, my own master and commander, move in life as an individual and facing the world my way. You can decide on your life path, the things you do in your spare time, the way you decorate your place, what your working hours are... So many things to enjoy about being single. Moreover, most married people will remind you how lucky you are!

{650} I LOVE: COMPANIES WITH A GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE

2011-08-09T06:41:00.001+09:00

They show that they really care about you, and work hard to get a bunch of rules, procedures and people that will help you when you need it. It is a two-way win, as I feel happier with a company with a good customer service, and, by having a good customer service the company gets my loyalty.

{649} I LOVE: WHEN I MAKE A COMMENT ONLINE AND I GET LOTS OF THUMBS-UP

2011-08-07T06:34:00.002+09:00

It makes me feel the most popular girl on planet Earth, a mighty thinker, and, somebody whose opinion is relevant for other people, not just myself.

{648} I LOVE: WALLETS WITH MANY CARD SLOTS AND POCKETS

2011-08-05T06:29:00.000+09:00

I have plenty of cards (from the bank, Medicare, RE Agency, loyalty cards, membership cards, notes, tickets, etc.), so I need to put them somewhere. A wallet with many slots allows me to keep all those important things organised and carry them comfortably in one place.

{647} I LOVE: WHEN MY POO LOOKS NORMAL

2011-08-03T06:25:00.002+09:00

It sounds gross, but it is a way to certify that I am in good health and my stomach is working well. Healthy poo comes from healthy bodies.

{646} I LOVE: FLIRTING

2011-08-01T06:15:00.000+09:00

I instinctively flirt with both men and women, more in a playful way than in a sexual one. It is my unconscious way of showing that I like you and that I want you to know so. It puts me and the other person in a sort of "we like each other" mood, which is always rewarding and makes human connection easier.

{645} I LOVE: CHECKING OUT THE TOILETS AT POSH RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS

2011-07-26T05:40:00.001+09:00

I think this is the best system to rate a hotel/restaurant, because the care they put in the creation of the restrooms is directly proportional to the poshness and quality of the place. It is a discovery trip to luxury and style, and something fun to do with your girlfriends.

{644} I LOVE: FINDING SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL IN MY ORDINARY LANDSCAPE

2011-07-25T15:33:00.004+09:00

The sort of beauty that you find in those places you walk by gazillion times without paying any attention to. It can be some roses protruding out a fence, a wonderful door knob, a majestic tree, an old car, the colours of a garden or fallen leaves, the design of a new building, the special lighting of a spot, and so on. We have just to look at things with intention. I do so sometimes, and I always find myself surprised at how magic normal places are.

{643} I LOVE: SHOP-ASSISTANTS WHO REALLY TAKE AN INTEREST ON YOU

2011-07-24T05:24:00.002+09:00

The sort of assistant that takes seriously helping you to decide or find what you are searching for, and goes out of his/her way to check the stock, availability in other shops, help you at the changing rooms, advising you on what suits you better, etc. Those who not only attend to you, but do so with grace and a smile no matter what you are, look like or wear at that precise moment.

{642} MOBILES WITH A QWERTY PAD

2011-07-23T05:17:00.003+09:00

Despite what most mobile companies tell you, QWERTY pads are the future in mobiles, not all-touch ones. A Qwerty pad makes really easy sms-ing and writing mails, as you have a key for each word positioned in the same way your computer keys are. It is more ergonomic, more modern (to me!) and super-easy to use.

{641} I LOVE: THAT THIS LIST IS A TRULY PERSONAL LIST THAT DOESN'T SELL ANYTHING

2011-07-22T05:13:00.002+09:00

This is a list about the things I love, personally, no matter they are shared by hundreds of people or just me. I think it makes it special, as it is something very personal and honest, not a product to sell, or something so general that does not show who I really am.

{640} I LOVE: DENTIST PRACTICES WITH NICE PHOTOS GLUED TO THE CEILING

2011-07-21T05:06:00.003+09:00

You are going to be looking at the ceiling for a while, and it is much more pleasing and entertaining having something pleasant to focus our eyes on, or to wander around. Moreover, pleasant images have a calming effect, which is always great at the dentist's.

{639} I LOVE: 2-MINUTE MICROWAVABLE ORGANIC UNSWEETENED PORRIDGE

2011-07-20T05:03:00.001+09:00

Yummy healthy fast breakfast. That it's almost perfection!

{638} I LOVE: GETTING WATER FROM THE TAP

2011-07-19T04:57:00.003+09:00

Too often we take for granted that getting clean water from a tap, as much as we want, any time, any temperature, is a luxury that we should be thankful for. People around the world have to walk miles to take it and carry it, or go to public springs, or conform themselves with contaminated sources of water. Think about that when you have a glass of drink water at home or have a shower.

{637} I LOVE: LETTERS AND MAILS WRITTEN WITH COURTESY

2011-07-18T04:44:00.002+09:00

I love those messages that start with dear and end with a greeting proper to the occasion, those that mention your name and don't treat you like a number, those that address you with courtesy and respect disregarding the matter discussed or the familiarity you have with the other person. Those mails and letters show that the writer has manners and treats me as it should be done.

{636} I LOVE: MY READING TIME BEFORE GOING TO BED

2011-07-17T04:42:00.004+09:00

It allows me to switch off from my daily routines before going to sleep, but, at the same time, puts me in a state of relaxed mental awareness, if that oxymoron is not too shocking to accept. It is even more wonderful when the book is good, and you go to bed earlier than expected full with anticipation.

{635} I LOVE: THE TOILET PAPER HANGING FROM ABOVE NOT FROM BELOW

2011-07-16T04:36:00.001+09:00

This is one of those stupid manias that I find unquestionable necessary in my life. I guess, the paper hanging from above is more natural, from a Physics point of view, than the opposite and makes easier reaching and cutting it. It is also more aesthetically pleasing. I want my roll to have the sheet hanging from above, because... that it is right.

{634} I LOVE: HOW BUSES & TRAINS SPEED UP WHEN APPROACHING DESTINATION

2011-07-15T04:30:00.004+09:00

It is what I call "I'm getting there" rattle. You approach destination and the train/bus seems to speed up, as if the driver was rushing to get. It generates a special joyful rhythm that makes you prepare for the arrival and get in a good mood.

{633} I LOVE: TO HAVE A PLATONIC LOVE AT WORK

2011-07-14T04:22:00.003+09:00

A platonic love at work makes going to work more exciting and pushes me to groom myself properly, to wear nice clothes and make up, but also to smile more, and show off my best qualities. It brings out the princess in me every day.

{632} I LOVE: WHEN THE CUSTOMER SERVICE'S CONSULTANT REALLY LISTENS

2011-07-13T04:09:00.002+09:00

It makes a world of difference to me. I feel immediately relaxed, and I get the feeling that my problem/bother will be dealt appropriately and solved. Besides, a consultant who listens, shows that he/she is not only a good worker, but also a good communicator able to connect with an unknown person on the phone. They are becoming so rare nowadays, that when you find one, you feel like inviting him/her over for dinner.

{631} I LOVE: WHEN A CANCER-AFFECTED FRIEND GETS THE ALL-CLEAR FROM THE DOCTOR

2011-07-12T04:04:00.000+09:00

You always feel happy for the other person, but also an emotional personal relief because when one of your closer friends gets cancer you get devastated too. The all-clear in cancer feels always like a great victory worthy of celebration.

{630} I LOVE: BEING ALONE IN A PUBLIC TOILET WHEN I NEED TO POO

2011-07-11T03:56:00.003+09:00

Pooing is one of those intimate acts of nature that needs of complete easiness and relaxation to be performed. Finding an empty public toilet, with nobody around, allows me to do just that without feeling mortified at the person in the other cubicles having to hear my poo dropping, or the smell of my poo reaching his/her nostrils.

{629} I LOVE: NEXUS DOCKING SYSTEM

2011-07-09T15:44:00.002+09:00

It is an open-source docking system that allows you to have a dock in your desktop with your favourite programs and applications, stylishly designed, very use to use and customize, and free! It is one of those programs I cannot live without in my computer, as I use many programs and applications on a daily basis. It cleans the desktop from shortcuts and leaves them in the dock, or not, as you wish. You can download the program from http://www.winstep.net/nexus.asp

{628} I LOVE: MY SPONTANEOUS BOUTS OF CREATIVITY

2011-07-07T06:13:00.001+09:00

I get them sometimes, especially when I am very busy with a difficult work task at hand. I guess my brain wants to compensate the overloading of rationality with a bout of creativity coming from the other side. I'm just in the middle of one of those bouts, and it is wonderful. It is great having new ideas and doing creative things in a sort of natural "manic" flow. I truly would like to have them more often!

{627} I LOVE: INSTANT COFFEE

2011-07-06T06:03:00.002+09:00

One of those great inventions rarely appreciated. How cool is having coffee ready for consumption in five minutes without having to brew it, but getting the taste of real coffee? I cannot live without instant coffee!

{626} I LOVE: HAVING ELECTRICITY

2011-07-05T06:44:00.001+09:00

Electricity is one of the quintessential advances of our world, and the one on which much of the rest of our lives relies on: from refrigeration, to working hours, to computers, to TV, to anything really. Without electricity our lives would be much more difficult and less developed. I am always grateful for living in a country in electricity is taken for granted.

{625} I LOVE: KICKING A BALL IN THE STREET

2011-07-04T05:33:00.004+09:00

Can your resist the temptation? I can't. If I see a soccer ball coming my way I am going to quick it in the best and hardest way I can. It is that sort of spontaneous funny moments in life that makes me feel a naughty grown-up and puts an instant simile in my face.

{624} I LOVE: MEDITERRANEAN LIFESTYLE

2011-07-03T05:30:00.000+09:00

It is the weather, the food, the rich and varied cultures, the joy of life, the passionate relationship with death and life — Everything. The Mediterranean is the basis on which the Western Civilisation has been built, so don't you ever forget it.

{623} I LOVE: A MALE TORSO WITH "THE 6 PACK"

2011-07-02T05:25:00.000+09:00

They are quintessential alpha-male, extremely sexy and touchable. The 6-pack pec can make you forget the ugly face of the owner, if that is the case, and puts you in a naughty mood. If the pectorals are so gorgeous, well, the rest of the body must be the same.

{622} I LOVE: MY CAPABILITY OF PUTTING THINGS INTO PROSPECTIVE

2011-07-01T05:12:00.000+09:00

This is one of my best qualities and my most precious intellectual gift. Seeing beyond my nose, the forest and not the trees, allows me to give relevance to what is relevant and to analyse any situation and get to the core of it easily.

{621} I LOVE: FEMININE CLOTHING

2011-06-30T06:06:00.002+09:00

Girlie clothing highlights our womanly parts, and makes us look gorgeous no matter how pretty we are, or how we feel about our body, or the sort of woman we are.

{620} I LOVE: OTHER LISTS ABOUT THINGS TO LOVE IN LIFE

2011-06-29T05:57:00.000+09:00

It is always great to find other people who actively express their love for life in a blog, especially if their list is very long and personal. They teach me that most humans share a love for the same things, which are universal elements of inner happiness, but also make me aware of things that I haven't noticed before and are still wonderful. They are also a window to somebody else's personal life.

{619} I LOVE: I HAVE LIVED IN DIFFERENT PLACES

2011-06-28T06:57:00.000+09:00

Living in a different country and/or cities in a country is always an exciting and challenging experience. It has allowed me to see the social and cultural realities of different world areas from an insider point of view, without clichés or romantic approaches. It has also allowed me to grow as a person to face those new people, cultures, cities, countries, and languages. I feel very fortunate for having been able to do so.

{618} I LOVE: QUITTING WITH GRACE... OR NOT

2011-06-27T06:41:00.000+09:00

Unless it affects negatively to your health, happiness or economy, quitting does not equal failure. It does not make any sense doing something that does not fulfil you for the sake of what others might say or think of you. Quitting with grace (or just quitting) is just human, but also a way of opening the doors to other things that are more fulfilling and that deserve the effort and the focus.

{617} I LOVE: LOOKING AT THE MIRROR AND MAKING FACES

2011-06-26T06:36:00.001+09:00

Quite often, I look at myself at the mirror and make a face, put my tongue out, smile, frown, say hello, and so on. It is a way of seeing myself with other people's eyes, but also of interacting with my reflected self!

{616} I LOVE: AQUARIUMS

2011-06-25T06:32:00.001+09:00

They are beautifully silent, gorgeously looking, educative, and have a fascinating effect on me. They bring out my inner mermaid and I feel like splash!

{615} I LOVE: BEING ABLE TO WRITE DECENTLY

2011-06-24T06:28:00.001+09:00

This is one of my gifts - I write easily and well. In fact, writing puts me in a sort of mental trance, a frame of mind in which my thoughts and feelings flow naturally. In this way, it helps me to clear my mind, to come to terms with myself and my problems, but also to connect with others easily as I express myself better by writing than by talking.

{614} I LOVE: DIGITAL CAMERAS

2011-06-23T06:19:00.000+09:00

They are easy to use and carry round, and profitable from a photographic point of view as you can take as many pictures as you want and then decide which ones to keep. Moreover, you don't have to spend any money in developing them, unless you really want to, and can easily share your photos online hassle free.

{613} I LOVE: GOOD QUALITY BUFFETS

2011-06-22T06:19:00.001+09:00

They are my food-dream moment as I love eating good quality food, in a certain quantity, and trying new things. The perfect setting to make me happy.

{612} I LOVE: COUPLES WHO ARE STILL IN LOVE LONG AFTER THEY MARRIED/GOT TOGETHER

2011-06-21T06:16:00.001+09:00

They are the walking proof that true love exists, and that this is the sort of love and relationship we should be aiming to in our personal lives. It always amazes me and gives me a reason to believe in love.

{611} I LOVE: WHEN YOU BUY A CHEAP WINE AND ENDS BEING GREAT

2011-06-20T06:13:00.002+09:00

It is always a nice surprise and tells me not to be judgemental - not every expensive wine is excellent or every cheap one is terrible. It is a proof that you can have a great product for a decent price.

{610} I LOVE: SHARING MY BIRTHDAY WITH A FAMOUS PERSON

2011-06-19T06:10:00.001+09:00

It is like if that day was magical and was embedded with special qualities, and also as if the celebrity and I shared something indescribable that tied us together forever. As if by them being famous, I was in my stars for me to be too. It is a sort of mental enjoyable illusion.

{609} I LOVE: WHEN PEOPLE GIVE ME FRESH PRODUCE FROM THEIR GARDEN

2011-06-18T06:07:00.001+09:00

Fruit, herbs, eggs, whatever. I am always grateful as food prices in Australia are crazy, and moreover, they never taste as good as the one people grow in their gardens. They could waste them, but they are thoughtful enough to share them with friends and colleagues. Thanks!

{608} I LOVE: MY PRE-TRAVEL ROUTINES

2011-06-17T06:04:00.001+09:00

They have become a ritual that helps me to detach myself from my daily life, and put me in the right mood and frame of mind to explore the world, and enjoy every minute of it.

{607} I LOVE: WOMEN HATS AND FASCINATORS

2011-06-16T06:35:00.001+09:00

They are the quintessence of sophistication, elegance and creativeness, and they brighten up any boring outfit. I especially love fascinators, as they are very creative, playful, naughty and elegant, but not invasive at all.

{606} I LOVE: THE SONG "DUERME NEGRITO"

2011-06-15T06:18:00.000+09:00

It is a lullaby composed by Atahualpa Yupanki that gives me the goosebumps every time I hear it, especially when sung by Mercedes Sosa. It is about black/indigenous slave poor mother singing a lullaby to her child, in hunger and poorness, but with great love. It is a song that puts you in the shoes of a poor mother wanting her child to dream about good things in life and forget the harsh reality they live in. A magic lullaby.

{605} I LOVE: COZINESS

2011-06-14T06:24:00.001+09:00

Nothing supersedes that fulfilling feeling of being comfortable, at ease with yourself in your place, and that sense of warm intimacy and relaxed atmosphere, at least to me. Coziness is the new nirvana, and also a very cute word.

{604} I LOVE: AWKWARD COUPLES

2011-06-13T06:10:00.001+09:00

I mean those couples in which one of them is much shorter, fatter, older than the other, or those in which one of them has a serious handicap. My heart always goes with the "ugly duckling", because their inner beauty is so big that shadows any of their physical shortcomings. However, I also admire the "swan" as they show that they are mature people able to love a person for what he/she is not for what he/she looks like.

{603} I LOVE: WHEN I VISIT A COUNTRY WHERE MY CURRENCY IS STRONG

2011-06-12T06:03:00.001+09:00

If the exchange rate is good, even if it is a 10-15%, you can have some extra-shopping, pay for better hotels and restaurants, and experience the country in a more comfortable way.

{602} I LOVE: WHEN THERE IS A GOOD MOVIE ON TV

2011-06-11T06:50:00.000+09:00

It is free, it is good, it is entertaining, your are cozy at home, you have your breaks to go to the toilet or prepare a drink. What else do you want?!

{601} I LOVE: GETTING ON THE BUS AND FINDING AN EMPTY SEAT

2011-06-10T06:42:00.002+09:00

Alleluia! I always carry lots of stuff, so finding a seat is not a matter of commodity but of necessity, as I can get a rest and avoid obstructing the corridor with my bags. If I can choose the seat where to seat, on my own, without anybody beside, it is an extra bonus.