Happiness is...
The last lecture. A lot of professors give talks titled “The Last Lecture.” Professors are asked to consider their demise and to ruminate on what matters most to them. And while they speak, audiences can’t help but mull the same question: What wisdom would we impart to the world if we knew it was our last chance? If we had to vanish tomorrow, what would we want as our legacy?
When Randy Pausch, a computer science professor at Carnegie Mellon, was asked to give such a lecture, he didn’t have to imagine it as his last, since he had recently been diagnosed with terminal cancer. But the lecture he gave—“Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams”—wasn’t about dying. It was about the importance of overcoming obstacles, of enabling the dreams of others, of seizing every moment (because “time is all you have...and you may find one day that you have less than you think”). It was a summation of everything Randy had come to believe. It was about living. Here are some of my favorite pieces of advice.
-If you can dream it, you can do it.
-Get in touch with your childhood. Play.
-Be prepared. All you have is what you bring with you. Always bring something to the table, because it will make you more welcome.
-Be a communitarian. Your rights are accompanied by your responsibilities.
-Look for the best in everybody.
-Watch what they do, not what they say.
-Don't complain, just work harder. Complaining doesn't work as a strategy, and the time we spend whining is unlikely to help us succeed. It won't make us happier.
-Never give up.
-Time must be explicitly managed, like money. Time is all you've got. And you may find one day that you have less than you think.
-A bad apology is worse than no apology.
-If nobody ever worried about what was in other people's heads, we'd all be 33 percent more effective in our lives and on our jobs.
-Go out and do for others what someone once did for you (pay it forward).
-You can always change your plan, but only if you have one.
-If at first you don't succeed, try again. Don't be afraid. The person who failed often knows how to avoid future failures.
-Sometimes with the passage of time and the deadlines that life imposes, surrendering is the right thing to do. Life. Is. Too. Short.
-Just because you are in the driver's seat doesn't mean you have to run people over.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Fruity wine
Happiness is...
A good glass of fruity wine on a warm sunny night.
Remind yourself that it's summer, that you have the entire evening ahead of yourself, and that you deserve this. Because you do. Sit on your deck, kick up your heels, and love yourself!
A good glass of fruity wine on a warm sunny night.
Remind yourself that it's summer, that you have the entire evening ahead of yourself, and that you deserve this. Because you do. Sit on your deck, kick up your heels, and love yourself!
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Friends who write
Happiness is...
Friends who write. Blogging is an art that I am certainly no expert at (in case yohttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifu didn't already know), but I have several friends whose blogs I respect completely. They provide a little subtle inspiration, a few choice words, and a heck of a good read.
For example, today, this one.
I like to look at blogs who lay it all out in a simple manner, and allow the internet to be what it was made for: easy. There are few things in modern society that are. Shame.
Due to her, and others in my life, I am Happy.
Friends who write. Blogging is an art that I am certainly no expert at (in case yohttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifu didn't already know), but I have several friends whose blogs I respect completely. They provide a little subtle inspiration, a few choice words, and a heck of a good read.
For example, today, this one.
I like to look at blogs who lay it all out in a simple manner, and allow the internet to be what it was made for: easy. There are few things in modern society that are. Shame.
Due to her, and others in my life, I am Happy.
Monday, June 27, 2011
On happiness
"The good life, as I conceive it, is a happy life. I do not mean that if you are good you will be happy; I mean that if you are happy you will be good."
Bertrand Russell
Bertrand Russell
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Sunshine
Happiness is...
The way the sun feels on your skin after a long and cold and rainy week. In fact, you begin to have a whole new appreciation for sunshine... and vitamin D... and a little tan. I wish I could just lay outside and soak it up before it disappears again. Knowing the summer we've had, it's bound to happen.
The way the sun feels on your skin after a long and cold and rainy week. In fact, you begin to have a whole new appreciation for sunshine... and vitamin D... and a little tan. I wish I could just lay outside and soak it up before it disappears again. Knowing the summer we've had, it's bound to happen.
Friday, June 24, 2011
cheerios
Happiness is...
Cheerios. Today is their 70th birthday, and also conveniently the day I chose to open a new box and dig in.
With all of their health benefits, they confirm the fact that breakfast is the most important meal of the day (and my personal favorite). From honey nut to apple cinnamon, to even fruity now---the incredible alternative to the junk they call fruit loops---cheerios always brings a smile to my face. Seriously, it's of the best cereals I could ask for.
Happy Birthday cheerios, you're awesome.
Cheerios. Today is their 70th birthday, and also conveniently the day I chose to open a new box and dig in.
With all of their health benefits, they confirm the fact that breakfast is the most important meal of the day (and my personal favorite). From honey nut to apple cinnamon, to even fruity now---the incredible alternative to the junk they call fruit loops---cheerios always brings a smile to my face. Seriously, it's of the best cereals I could ask for.
Happy Birthday cheerios, you're awesome.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Sudoku
Happiness is...
Sudoku.
It's great, but you know that.
I'll be back in a bit, I'm in the middle of a good game.
Sudoku.
It's great, but you know that.
I'll be back in a bit, I'm in the middle of a good game.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
From Mitch Albom
Happiness is...
A few insightful musings from a powerful book: Read on. I'm not the only one who's put a little bit of thought into this.
A few insightful musings from a powerful book: Read on. I'm not the only one who's put a little bit of thought into this.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
No goodbyes
Happiness is...
That precious moment at a goodbye when you realize that you just don't want to let go.
So hold on.
That precious moment at a goodbye when you realize that you just don't want to let go.
So hold on.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Hikes
Happiness is...
Long quiet hikes. They're unlike anything you can get in st. Paul, serene and magnificent.
Duluth lake walk.
Two harbors.
Gooseberry falls.
Split rock lighthouse.
What are your favorite destinations today?
Long quiet hikes. They're unlike anything you can get in st. Paul, serene and magnificent.
Duluth lake walk.
Two harbors.
Gooseberry falls.
Split rock lighthouse.
What are your favorite destinations today?
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Fun with fowl
Happiness is...
Children and seagulls. It's truly one of the best combinations. Add a box of popcorn and you have a recipe for an amazing afternoon. So they weren't my children... That doesn't make it any less cute to see them running into the swarm, chasing birds up into the sky!
Maybe I was a little concerned when the gulls chased them back, but hey, I'd do a lot of things for a good handful of popcorn as well. Here we are on our grand trip to the north shore, finding the little things to entertain ourselves. Until tomorrow!
Children and seagulls. It's truly one of the best combinations. Add a box of popcorn and you have a recipe for an amazing afternoon. So they weren't my children... That doesn't make it any less cute to see them running into the swarm, chasing birds up into the sky!
Maybe I was a little concerned when the gulls chased them back, but hey, I'd do a lot of things for a good handful of popcorn as well. Here we are on our grand trip to the north shore, finding the little things to entertain ourselves. Until tomorrow!
Saturday, June 18, 2011
The letter game
Happiness is...
The letter P.
Things I like: popcorn, puppies, panther pride ;)
Things I don't like: pickles
People I like: pirates
Things that are bad: pneumonia
That was fun! Your turn.
The letter P.
Things I like: popcorn, puppies, panther pride ;)
Things I don't like: pickles
People I like: pirates
Things that are bad: pneumonia
That was fun! Your turn.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Yoga
Happiness is...
Yoga. I don't know how it took me this long to write a blog post about yoga, but here it is. Yoga is one of my favorite things to do to stay fit. Why? Because, more than any other form of exercise, it completely intertwines your mind, body, and spirit. The moves help increase your flexibility, build strength and stamina, and even target your inner organs. It's incredible the effect it has on you, for complete calm and utmost power. More than exercise, it's a meditative practice, and I looooove it!
Today we ran through sun salutations A and B, as well as some Warrior and Triangle burn poses. I can't get sick of it (except when my legs start shaking).
Yoga. I don't know how it took me this long to write a blog post about yoga, but here it is. Yoga is one of my favorite things to do to stay fit. Why? Because, more than any other form of exercise, it completely intertwines your mind, body, and spirit. The moves help increase your flexibility, build strength and stamina, and even target your inner organs. It's incredible the effect it has on you, for complete calm and utmost power. More than exercise, it's a meditative practice, and I looooove it!
Today we ran through sun salutations A and B, as well as some Warrior and Triangle burn poses. I can't get sick of it (except when my legs start shaking).
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Last Ride
Happiness is...
That last ride before the downpour begins.
Yes, the field trip was at Valleyfair, and we went on each roller coaster... twice. But more importantly, it marked the end of something big. The last day of school with one final hurrah. And nothing can beat the feeling we got when we waved goodbye.
Race over. Wait in the line. Strap yourself in. Put two thumbs up and prepare for a weeeeeeee. And then it's done, congratulations.
That last ride before the downpour begins.
Yes, the field trip was at Valleyfair, and we went on each roller coaster... twice. But more importantly, it marked the end of something big. The last day of school with one final hurrah. And nothing can beat the feeling we got when we waved goodbye.
Race over. Wait in the line. Strap yourself in. Put two thumbs up and prepare for a weeeeeeee. And then it's done, congratulations.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Last Day of School!
Happiness is...
The last day of school! Get excited, hug all of your friends, and reflect on one great year. I know I will... after the field trip, that is.
The last day of school! Get excited, hug all of your friends, and reflect on one great year. I know I will... after the field trip, that is.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Fruit salad
Happiness is...
When you get that bite of fruit salad that has the perfect proportion of everything. Fruit salad (or trail mix, or anything really) wasn't made to be so great. But you made it so anyway! Bravo.
When you get that bite of fruit salad that has the perfect proportion of everything. Fruit salad (or trail mix, or anything really) wasn't made to be so great. But you made it so anyway! Bravo.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Hotel Service
Happiness is...
Hotel service. A fresh towel and turned down sheets? Yes please! You can even order food to be delivered, or ask for a razor if you forgot yours. Is it okay if I stay here forever, instead of going back home where I have to make my own bed and clean up after myself? Hmmm.... if only. Ta-ta for now.
Hotel service. A fresh towel and turned down sheets? Yes please! You can even order food to be delivered, or ask for a razor if you forgot yours. Is it okay if I stay here forever, instead of going back home where I have to make my own bed and clean up after myself? Hmmm.... if only. Ta-ta for now.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Weddings
Happiness is...
Weddings. A man, and a woman, joining together officially as one. What's more beautiful than that? The symbol of eternity, the elegant expression of love, the happy ending at last. Love does a special thing within a person's soul, and they share it with hundreds of guests for one hell of a party. They take their vows, and seal it with a kiss. No wonder so many people cry at weddings.
Today my post is dedicated to the new happy couple in my family, wishing you a happy marriage and hoping that your life together will be rich in joy and love. Congratulations!
Weddings. A man, and a woman, joining together officially as one. What's more beautiful than that? The symbol of eternity, the elegant expression of love, the happy ending at last. Love does a special thing within a person's soul, and they share it with hundreds of guests for one hell of a party. They take their vows, and seal it with a kiss. No wonder so many people cry at weddings.
Today my post is dedicated to the new happy couple in my family, wishing you a happy marriage and hoping that your life together will be rich in joy and love. Congratulations!
Friday, June 10, 2011
Adventures
Happiness is...
Finding a new place to explore. Traveling is like a new adventure every time, and it is seriously invigorating. These days, it always reminds me of the semester I spent in Spain... of course I miss it, but the wonder of this world is that everything is so accessible these days! Care to hop on a plane to Guatemala? Count me in.
For now, I'll settle for heading to Texas for my cousin's wedding. Which reminds me, weddings...
Finding a new place to explore. Traveling is like a new adventure every time, and it is seriously invigorating. These days, it always reminds me of the semester I spent in Spain... of course I miss it, but the wonder of this world is that everything is so accessible these days! Care to hop on a plane to Guatemala? Count me in.
For now, I'll settle for heading to Texas for my cousin's wedding. Which reminds me, weddings...
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Travelers.
Happiness is...
People from around the world. We are all travelers, you see. And you can find a place like home at my table.
At least that way I can quiz you about your food and culture, talk about your language (and your kicking accent), and everything else that's onmy mind... Like last night, when a german businessman stopped by for a drink, and we learned about all things Germany. He sounded like a young Schwarzenegger! If that doesn't make you happy I don't know what will.
People from around the world. We are all travelers, you see. And you can find a place like home at my table.
At least that way I can quiz you about your food and culture, talk about your language (and your kicking accent), and everything else that's onmy mind... Like last night, when a german businessman stopped by for a drink, and we learned about all things Germany. He sounded like a young Schwarzenegger! If that doesn't make you happy I don't know what will.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Great start to the day
Happiness is...
When you turn on the car and the first thing on the radio is a song that makes you smile. It's God's little way of saying, "Good morning, have a great day!"
And I will.
When you turn on the car and the first thing on the radio is a song that makes you smile. It's God's little way of saying, "Good morning, have a great day!"
And I will.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Great news. Literally.
Happiness is...
Hearing a funny news story that puts a bounce in your step for the entire afternoon. We have war, poverty, unemployment, and republicans ;) But there are still moments where the news is just great, instead of horribly depressing.
Human stupidity. It knows no bounds. And it makes me laugh. For example, I stumbled across a quote today, ""Genius may have its limitations, but stupidity is not thus handicapped." - Elbert Hubbard
Or just happy stuff on the news? A rare treasure.
Hearing a funny news story that puts a bounce in your step for the entire afternoon. We have war, poverty, unemployment, and republicans ;) But there are still moments where the news is just great, instead of horribly depressing.
Human stupidity. It knows no bounds. And it makes me laugh. For example, I stumbled across a quote today, ""Genius may have its limitations, but stupidity is not thus handicapped." - Elbert Hubbard
Or just happy stuff on the news? A rare treasure.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Chickpeas
Happiness is...
Everything the chickpea can make. I love it all.
Salad toppings.
Hummus.
Falafel.
Curry.
Stew.
Socca.
Flour.
Falafel. (Oh, did I say that already?)
Alcohol? Betcha never knew.
Just plain chickpeas.
Chickpeas belong to many cultures, so I think we all agree they're awesome.
Everything the chickpea can make. I love it all.
Salad toppings.
Hummus.
Falafel.
Curry.
Stew.
Socca.
Flour.
Falafel. (Oh, did I say that already?)
Alcohol? Betcha never knew.
Just plain chickpeas.
Chickpeas belong to many cultures, so I think we all agree they're awesome.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
iPod Touch
Happiness is...
My new iPod touch. Yes, I am that nerd. I just bought it as a reward to myself for a great year of work (school ends in a week and a half) and I have been playing all weekend. Free apps, games, facebook, music, photos. I couldn't ask for more.
I don't have an iPhone. In fact, I am planning to continue paying practically nothing for cell service...mwahaha. However, I sincerely enjoy my new gadget anyway. Touch, I'd put in a good word for it. Not bad at all...
My current favorite: cut the rope.
Any recommendations?
My new iPod touch. Yes, I am that nerd. I just bought it as a reward to myself for a great year of work (school ends in a week and a half) and I have been playing all weekend. Free apps, games, facebook, music, photos. I couldn't ask for more.
I don't have an iPhone. In fact, I am planning to continue paying practically nothing for cell service...mwahaha. However, I sincerely enjoy my new gadget anyway. Touch, I'd put in a good word for it. Not bad at all...
My current favorite: cut the rope.
Any recommendations?
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Friday, June 3, 2011
Live music
Happiness is...
Live music. It quickly brings a smile to my face. Like tonight, with miss Naomi Marie.
We spent a little time heading out to Minneapolis and settling down in the coffee shop. But once we were there my head was bobbing, my legs were pumping, and my soul lit up. I know this girl... the one with that incredible talent that makes your heart sing. Yes, that is where happiness must lie.
Live music. It quickly brings a smile to my face. Like tonight, with miss Naomi Marie.
We spent a little time heading out to Minneapolis and settling down in the coffee shop. But once we were there my head was bobbing, my legs were pumping, and my soul lit up. I know this girl... the one with that incredible talent that makes your heart sing. Yes, that is where happiness must lie.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Garage sales
Happiness is...
Garage sales. In my hometown we used to have a weekend dedicated to the city, with events, and specials, and garaaaage saaaaales. Mmmm. Unfortunately, it occurs in September and I will be unable to attend due to GRAD SCHOOLZ. Fortunately, now that the sun is out the season of garage sales will be ongoing for the next few months! Wooo :)
Today I got an air popper for popcorn. I spent a dollar. I am so excited. I love popcorn. The end.
Long story short: I love garage sales, where you find random treasures, hilarious junk, and much more. A story behind every one. Garage sales <3
Garage sales. In my hometown we used to have a weekend dedicated to the city, with events, and specials, and garaaaage saaaaales. Mmmm. Unfortunately, it occurs in September and I will be unable to attend due to GRAD SCHOOLZ. Fortunately, now that the sun is out the season of garage sales will be ongoing for the next few months! Wooo :)
Today I got an air popper for popcorn. I spent a dollar. I am so excited. I love popcorn. The end.
Long story short: I love garage sales, where you find random treasures, hilarious junk, and much more. A story behind every one. Garage sales <3
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Late Night Showers
Happiness is...
Late night showers. Get wet, get clean, get into bed. It's awesome. Everyone in the world is asleep and you are doing the old lather, rinse repeat. Better yet, try one in the dark.
I don't care that I'm going to wake up with all of my hair on one side of my head, I get to crawl under the covers all cozy and warm. Hits the spot.
Late night showers. Get wet, get clean, get into bed. It's awesome. Everyone in the world is asleep and you are doing the old lather, rinse repeat. Better yet, try one in the dark.
I don't care that I'm going to wake up with all of my hair on one side of my head, I get to crawl under the covers all cozy and warm. Hits the spot.
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