aggrandize.

[uh–gran-dahyz, ag-ruh n-dahyz]

verb (used with object), aggrandized, aggrandizing.

to widen in scope; increase in size or intensity; enlarge; extend.
to make great or greater in power, wealth, rank, or honor.
to make (something) appear greater.

When I want to aggrandize my day, when I need to widen the scope, enlarge my perspective, and bask in something greater, I race to the sunset on the Gulf coast. Sometimes I give myself plenty of time and it’s not a race. I walk around Crystal Beach, set up my hammock, read, pet a few dogs, and take it all in. Other times, I see the sky light up from the dining room window and feel an immediate sense of urgency. I cannot be the sucker who misses this show tonight! I throw on my shoes, unlaced, and make a mad dash. I stare at the clock in Sangria Kia every eighth of a mile, and calculate in my head whether I’ll make it in time or not. It’s an addictive thrill. Rush, rush, rush, then I sit in the sand amongst the crabs scurrying around. They rush back to their holes when I move. This makes me giggle every time. The breeze is refreshing and the colors are always different. The birds seem to put on a show. I tend to take more deep breaths and dream bigger dreams when I’m in front of the aggrandized sunset.

Here are a few of my favorites: