My Friday Five. Five things I've been implementing and exploring this week.
Health idea I've implemented: Gratitude
Many years ago I read a book called The Geography of Bliss by Eric Weiner. I love travel journals and I love reading about finding joy and this book hits both. One of the profound discoveries on his search for happiness was the importance of the expression of gratitude. It has always stuck with me that he didn't just say gratitude. He said the expression of gratitude. This expression has led me to send a lot of cards. I've had friends going through difficult times and I have sent them little notes weekly or monthly for a year or more. They usually don't contain insights or encouragement. They are usually more like journal entries about my day or my week. A friend told me that after the death of her son she would dive at them and grab them out of her husbands hands to read them. I never really knew how important they were to her until she told me. I love to write so it is a joy for me to take a moment and write to others. I can't recommend it enough if you're looking for a way to share some love with someone.
Product I'm discovering: O.W. Lee Monterra Rocker Lounge Chair
I love to lounge and the chair I lounge in is important to the success of the lounge. I was a very happy recipient of these OW Lee Chairs when a friend moved and no longer had room for them. They are a chair and a half, super comfortable and they rock back and forth. I can sit cross-legged or with my feet comfortably on the ground with my dog lying in the chair with me. Once you sit in them you will understand why I am outside in any weather enjoying my chair (and the view).
Quote I'm meditating: You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough. – Joe Lewis
Book I'm reading: Creative Calling: Establish a daily practice, infuse your world with meaning, and succeed in life + work by Chase Jarvis
The subtitle of Creative Calling promises a lot from its pages. I can't say that it delivered on all of those promises, but it did keep me inspired about writing. I began writing as a kid. I wrote short stories and poems and started several book ideas. My writing was silenced for several years after my "best friend" read some poems I wrote during our six-week drive through Europe. She said, "Why do people write poetry? They're such a waste of paper.". She was one of the smartest people I knew at the time and I felt dumb and small for writing poetry. It took me years to shake that insecurity and that best friend. I love getting back to write and telling stories. Chase Jarvis dropped out of medical school to pursue photography. He understands the fears and challenges of honing a craft that requires honest expression. I like hearing stories of overcoming obstacles to reach an extraordinary life. He inspires me to keep writing from a place of honesty and I am thankful. Maybe I'll write a letter to him!
Music I'm dancing to: September by Earth, Wind & Fire
Oh my gosh this video is like a trip without the drugs!
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