Be happy.

Every Thursday night at 8 PM, after my last class, I drive back home to my parents' house. It's for my own peace of mind, as much as it is for my dad to know that there's another person in the house. Some weekends, we get to share 3 meals together, sometimes 2, sometimes 1, and sometimes none. Whatever the case, and whether or not he shows it, I know that he appreciates having me at home, and having someone to talk to.

And as much as I like spending time with my dad or going out with my friends, I appreciate my alone time. I like shopping alone. Eating alone. Traveling alone. My name is Nary and I am a loner.

So on this Friday evening, while my dad is at his weekly Bible study, I have my feet up, with a glass of Chenin Blanc and a dinner of leftovers from last night's dinner at Roy's in downtown with 3 of my sardonic soul mates. (See? I have friends.) DineLA is back and I indulged myself in a 3-course dinner of rock shrimp tempura, tender braised beef short ribs, and a warm strawberry-guava tart to finish. I didn't get to take pictures last night, but I did make sure to capture the encore.

(The green beans are my addition. Blanched green beans tossed in oil and minced garlic. I always need a little bit of crunch and green with everything I eat.)

One of my resolutions this year was to wake up each day and be happy. I admit that I have broken that resolution more than once already. And it's not even February yet. There always seems to be something - mom, dad, brother, BP, school, PMS. But for now, right at this moment, I am happy.