Archive for the ‘Everyday Life’ Category

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Simplify & Stretch

Yesterday’s prompt on The Mindfulist got me thinking about ways I can simplify my life. Are there things, feelings, habits or to-do’s that I could wash away with no (or very little) impact? Am I using words, snacks, email and reality TV to fill in gaps that would otherwise be inhabited by empty space and silence? Of course, one hundred times YES to all these questions…

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Thinking of Strangers

There are times when a brave and happy face will only take you so far. These are the times when the best course of action is to sit quietly, think about the bits of our lives that we can control, and send love out into the universe. I work in a people-facing profession—I ask questions, make connections, tell stories, provide advice, seek answers and hope to help guide folks…

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Action Item: Refurbish a Routine

I recently updated some of my sidebar buttons and added a little area for sponsors. The project took a bit longer than I was expecting, but I felt like the mini-renovation was worth it. Going through the process, I started to think about how important it is to revisit things from time to time. Just like my sidebar buttons, there are a few habits I’d benefit from upgrading…

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Permission Granted

Tonight I’m feeling sleepy, but quite content. After spending nearly three days at the beach, I’m craving quiet time on the couch. A stack of magazines to flip through and the RHONJ season finale are sure to keep me occupied…

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A Season’s Reflections

I felt a hint of autumn’s approach for the first time yesterday morning. As I drove to work, I noticed the sky was darker than usual. It caught me by surprise, especially since the weather will stay warm here in Raleigh for a little while longer. A change in seasons always provides an opportunity for reflection…

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Soothing Sunday Overwhelm

Sunday Overwhelm usually strikes in the mid-afternoon—right around the time when I realize that my alarm is set at 6:00 am the next day, and the hustle and bustle of another week is just around the corner. The magic of creative weekends is replaced with stress. I worry about to-do’s usually ignored and left to the last hour—laundry, grocery shopping and paying bills…

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Rest, Relax, Repeat

It’s important to pause and evaluate a day’s work, to recognize when enough action items are complete, and acknowledge when it’s time to power off. Life has been clicking away at a beautiful pace lately, and I feel fortunate to have stimulating projects to work on in my career at the office and in my web work at home…

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The Things We Tell Ourselves

Do you ever have those days when the sun is shining, the grass is green and the birds are singing—but for some reason, you’re grumpy, frumpy and in a bad mood? When I’m feeling down, I try to stop and listen to the to the story playing in my head. Is it uplifting and positive, or does it cut me down…

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A Summery Thought

Since writing about my craving for cooler temperatures, I’ve received hints to appreciate the seasons as they are. I invite you to soak up summer along with me. Nosh on fresh fruit, go for a late-night walk, relax by the pool, make homemade ice cream, pick up flowers from the farmer’s market, grill out with friends, and cherish the sun’s warmth on your back…

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Back to School is Back

This time of the year always inspires me to buy new clothes and office supplies. Growing up, I delighted in finding the perfect outfit for my first day of school. Getting my notebooks, pens and highlighters sorted was a favorite activity. My love for this time of year even influenced my decision to study education in college…