Just Begin

Just begin. 

Stephen Covey advises to, "Begin with the end in mind." This is excellent advice and will probably keep you on track, except like everything in life there rarely is a one-size fits all solution. In fact sometimes not knowing exactly where you are going might actually end in being a deterrent to starting. 

When I started writing this blog two years ago I really had no idea what direction it would take. All I knew for sure was that it seemed to be an idea that I could not let go of. I had always written, but only in a personal sense. Writing for me had been a way of processing my thoughts, and I had never seriously considered using it to express myself to the world. 

If I had waited until I knew the exact direction of the blog I probably would still be waiting today. Sometimes you just have to take that leap of faith and trust that things will work out. Of course, that may not actually be how you imagined it, but along the way you will grow and learn the lessons made available to you. In fact, you might even find yourself struggling, but that is okay as well because rarely in life are things accomplished without struggle. 

So today I encourage you to just begin that something that has been tugging at your heart. Begin with small uncertain steps and with some trepidation, but that is okay. Happy 2nd Anniversary Grace Found Daily. I can't wait to see what comes next. 

Fortune

Fortune.

"Fortune favors the bold," is a Latin proverb and has been a motto of the military throughout history. I happened upon this quote while listening to the radio the other day. 

I've written about boldness before, and I must admit I have had a few moments of boldness in my life, but unfortunately not enough. Boldness is "a willingness to take risk, show confidence and courageousness." In our hesitancy, according to Wayne Gretzky "You miss 100% of the shots you don't take."

Every time you choose not to live boldly you may be missing out on the fortune that opportunity might provide. I can't help but think back on the times my lack of confidence has held me back from doing something. What earth shaking consequences might have resulted from not taking the risk?

Living in the fear of getting it wrong, offending others, or embarrassing yourself might make for an unchallenged life, but have you really lived your life to the fullest? 

Live with boldness and perhaps you will reap the fortune it might bring. 

Memorabilia

Memorabilia. 

I'm drowning in memorabilia. I'm longing for the days when I had so little that it all fit in a miniature sized cedar hope chest waiting to be grabbed in case of a fire. Fast forward about forty years and I'm not sure it all could fit into a full size hope chest.

Sentimentality which once seemed endearing has now become a curse. I keep going back to organizer Peter Walsh's words, "When everything is important, nothing is important." In addition, he also believes that mementos should hold a place of honor, not just be stored in a Rubbermaid tub in the back of a closet. 

I'm curious, though, as to how other people manage their memorabilia? I know that some take pictures of things they want to remember, and that might be a possibility, except that I'm already drowning in photos as well. I think it's just inevitable that given enough time your memorabilia will take on a life of its own. As much as I keep wanting to convince myself to hold on to everything, I'm beginning to think it may be time to let a few things go. 

Curious Minds

Curious minds. 

One of my favorite series growing up was Curious George. It seemed that George's curiosity was always getting him into trouble. Once it even landed him in jail, however, he managed to escape and soon found himself floating away holding onto a bunch of balloons. 

Although, I never quite felt comfortable with the getting into trouble part, I did fully embrace curiosity. Whether it was the summer I collected toads as pets, or when I rushed home from the library with a chemistry book anxious to mix up a spice concoction in a Dixie cup, I was always curious about the world. 

Recently in reading Brian Grazer's and Charles Fishman's book, A Curious Mind: The Secret to a Bigger Life, I came across the idea that, "You're born curious, and no matter how much battering your curiosity has taken, it's standing by, ready to be awakened."

I've found in my rush to adulthood that I left behind some of that pursuit of curiosity, and I regret that. That childlike wonder of our world really is something that should not be abandoned. 

It is through this curiosity that we find ourselves asking a miriad of questions. However, these questions might have been met with annoyance or ridicule in the past. Perhaps this is the battering that Grazer and Fishman refer to? 

However, this innate curiosity really is kind of like the cherry on the top of life. Curiosity can result in pure joy, something that is worth pursuing. In the spirit of Curious George take back your curiosity today!

Be On the Lookout

Be on the lookout. 

I picked up a fun little book the other day entitled Life is Sweet by Addie Johnson. It's one of those happiness books with a list of 333 ideas of how to enrich your life. 

One of the ideas that caught my attention was to be, "On the Lookout for the New and Interesting." 

Johnson writes about her godmother who made the resolution to, "Open her eyes and really see something new and inspiring every day, something that would enlighten her and lift her morale." 

Now as I gave some thought to how I could achieve this in my life I couldn't help but reflect on something that has been getting a bad rap lately-Face Book. 

Although in the heat of our recent election Face Book has seemed to become an instrument of negativity, it really doesn't have to be. Face Book can actually be an opportunity to enlighten and lift our spirits. Just the other day I watched the most heart warming video of a three year old girl and her father singing You've Got a Friend in Me. How could you not feel better after viewing it?

Face Book is an opportunity to learn about new places, to reach out with prayer to a friend in need, and to discover an amazing new dish for dinner. It shares with the world the goodness of people, and gives you a good laugh now and then. It is a way to reconnect, stay in touch, and share special moments with your friends. 

So my proposal today is start posting more pictures of your pets, children and grandchildren and bring more inspiration into our lives. 

Cleaning Blinds

Cleaning blinds. 

In anticipation of moving I've begun the arduous task of cleaning blinds. That's twenty-two sets big and small. 

Although I would consider myself tidy, I've never been one to enjoy housework. I remind my husband often that I am cerebral in nature, and if truth be told a little lazy when it comes to more physical work. 

What I have learned over the past week is that there is some satisfaction in cleaning the blinds. For one who battles a constantly whirling mind, cleaning blinds forces you into the moment, and allows your thoughts to rest. The repetitiveness of the action of squeezing out the cloth and working your way from one end of the blind to the other is actually calming. 

As I work I enjoy listening to talk radio or podcasts, and am happy to have the time to do so. As I complete one and move onto the other there is satisfaction in a job well done. Now if you are needing help cleaning your blinds please don't call because I'm pretty sure I'll be unavailable. 

Nevertheless, I'm hoping that the next owners of our home will grow to love it as much as I have, and I want its beauty to shine through. 

What To Keep?

What to keep?

"The important thing in tidying is not deciding what to discard but rather what you want to keep in your life." Marie Kondo

As I began contemplating decluttering my clothes closet the other day I kept thinking about what clothes I would discard? I don't have an over abundance of clothing to begin with so I kept thinking about what I might need "Just in case." What if I got rid of something and later wished I hadn't? 

However, after reading the words of Marie Kondo I think I've been approaching the task all wrong. She teaches to look at  each article of clothing through the lense of whether it sparks joy?  I have a feeling  that most of my clothes will not pass that test. I'm also afraid that if I hold strictly to her guideline I might risk a rendition of The Emporer's New Clothes. But, this made me question why I have purchased so many clothes in the past that were just ho-hum? Why did I not insist that they all be fabulous? Maybe Kondo is on to something when she insists that the possessions you own, and surely your clothes should spark joy. 

I remember needing a comfortable pair of shoes for work last year,  and settling for a frumpy brown pair that would rival the fashion sense of Amy Farrah Fowler on The Big Bang Theory. They were comfortable all right, but bordered on hideous. Why in the world did I buy them, and believe me they were not cheap. 

So rather than focusing on what I don't want or need I'm going to start asking what I do  WANT to keep?  It's kind of like the glass half full/ half empty philosophy. I'd rather focus on things that spark joy, especially when it comes to what I wear. 

"Rehearsing Trouble"

"Rehearsing trouble."

Everyone knows what it means to rehearse something. Who can forget that first book report back in elementary school?  You probably found yourself rehearsing it over and over again in your head. Although, rehearsing might seem perfectly appropriate in some situations there is one where it might be more counter productive than anything else;  rehearsing your troubles. Over the years I've become a pro at this. 

Sarah Young the author of the popular devotional Jesus Calling, writes "Rehearsing your troubles results in experiencing them many times, whereas you are meant to go through them only when they actually occur." 

If you are like me and have a tendency to overthink and worry about the details of life, this rehearsing of trouble can only add to your stress and anxiety. My overly active imagination conveniently always goes to the worst case scenario. This especially rings true when I find myself with a long list of things that need to be done. 

I had never really thought about this practice until Young brought it to my attention. It's not something that I want to hold on to. I have found, though, that it can be helpful to remind yourself to stop as soon as you begin to go into rehearsal mode. 

Young also reminds us to place our trust in God allowing him to have the real control over our lives. 

Choose to Dance

Choose to dance. 

One of our favorite things to do is watch our one year old grandson dance. More times than not if there is music in the background you will find him dancing along. It even appears that he has perfected the hip roll when listening to Toby Keith. 

As we were discussing how cute this was my daughter pointed out that his awareness of music has made her more aware as well. Her observation reminded me about how much we can learn from these little ones. Her stopping to smell the roses twenty five years previously helped me to slow down and take in the beauty around me. 

His love of music and the enjoyment it seems to bring him reminds me of the song by Dolly Parton, "And when you get the chance to sit it out or dance, I hope you dance. His natural inclination to dance is something worth emulating. 

Missed Opportunities

Missed opportunities. 

I just learned that the iconic Redwood tunnel tree succumbed to the elements. What are the chances that the dream tree of my youth would be gone before I had a chance to drive
through it? 

I remember seeing its picture as a child in National Geographic magazine and assumed that sometime in my lifetime I would make my way up to the Pacific Northwest to see the majestic Redwood Forest. 

Well I'm still here, but unfortunately the tree is not. So the lesson learned is if there is something you really want to do you might not want to put it off indefinitely. Usually, you think about your days being numbered, but just like Celine Dion taking a hiatus from performing in Las Vegas the one time you are there, sometimes you might be ready, but the opportunity might not. 

However, I can't help but be reminded that sometimes we build things up in our minds and find ourselves a little let down when the opportunity strikes. One of my "bucket list" items was visiting Mt. Rushmore. I think I must have first seen a picture of it in that same issue of National Geographic. Upon arrival I must admit I was a little taken aback. Every picture I had ever seen had portrayed it as huge. Which of course it is, except that when you view it from the ground it appears much smaller because it is no longer a close-up view. 

Which makes me realize that as much fun as it is to go on these types of adventures I still think it is important to look for the adventure in the every day. Did you know that some Pet Smarts have Doggie Day Care, and that it is quite delightful to observe a small herd of puppies all running around behind the glass? Now it might not be as cool as driving through a Redwood tree, but it will have to do for today. 

However, as a public service announcement: Consider that the things you want to do may no longer be there when you are ready to go.

Where You Belong

Where you belong. 

I'm beginning an interesting book by Melody Warnick, entitled This Is Where You Belong. Melody is a young author who has found herself moving time and time again always chasing that elusive "perfect place."

Except that there really is no perfect place. Some may appeal more to you than others, but if you let them they can always come up lacking. I'm keeping this in mind as we make our plans to move to our next place. 

I always find myself excited in the planning stages of sonething new. I love exploring new possibilities, but know that often times when reality steps in there can be disappointments. 

Warnick includes a list of actions to help make wherever you live a more satisfying experience. She includes things like buying local, saying hello to neighbors, becoming regulars at local eating establishments, and volunteering in your new community to name a few. 

She also lists her Love Where You Live Principles. One of these that seems particularly poignant is, "If you want to love your town, act like someone who loves your town would act." There is something about feelings following actions vs actions following feelings. 

It seems that several people I know are making some major changes in their lives when it comes to location, and it's good to keep in mind that life is mostly what you make it. I'm looking forward to making my new home the place where I belong. 

The Question

The question. 

Marie Kondo states, "The  question of what you want to own is actually the question of how you want to live your life." 

I love this! Do you want to be the curator of your many possessions or do you want the freedom and less encumbered life of owning less? Caring for your possessions can become your life's work. Spending your hard earned dollars on storage takes away from your ability to spend your money on experiences. 

My first year out of college I was still living at home as I was only teaching half-day and could not afford to move out on my own. That next summer I ended up moving back to Denton to begin my graduate work. It was an easy move to make, because my possessions were few. 

Several summers later I contemplated continuing my graduate work in Colorado. The program sounded so enticing, but I was already tied to a lease and owned several pieces of furniture by then. That dream faded as the reality of being tied down to my responsibilities and possessions hit home. 

Several months ago after Chuck and I decluttered our home we found that we enjoyed it more. Each room had been stripped of unnecessary furniture resulting in a less cluttered feel. Our closets were no longer over-stuffed. It was such a freeing experience. 

The life we want to live today is not determined so much by our possessions. The Joneses are no longer our neighbors. When you think about the kind of life you want to live consider how your possessions could help or hinder that dream? In the end be more discriminating about what you choose to allow into your life. 

"Spark Joy"

"Spark joy."

When Chuck was in the market for a new pick-up truck and was leaning toward the practicality of white, I asked him if it sparked joy? He looked at me like I was crazy. 

It was then that I shared with him the philosophy of tidier-upper Marie Kondo. She teaches her clients to go through their possessions and asks them if they spark joy? As it turned out he chose a beautiful gray truck that sparked joy, and walked away from the work-like aura of the non-joy sparking white truck. 

Kondo believes that you should, "Keep only those things that bring joy." I have found, though, that often times we have so much that we lose sight of the things that we really love. Remembering back to childhood might help remind you of those special possessions. 

Growing up in the sixties we basically received gifts twice a year; on our birthday and at Christmas. Most of us only had one Barbie, but took great pride in collecting outfits for her to wear. In fact, I still have my beloved Tressy from my youth. Tressy was a Barbie-like doll whose hair would grow if you pushed the button on her stomach, and would become short again by turning the knob on her back. I had lovingly pierced Tressy's ears with beaded straight pins, and had painted her lips a soft shade of pink nail polish. 

My childhood best friend and I played Barbie's for hours on end dressing and redressing our dolls with care. Years later I was blessed to reconnect with her via the internet. Our paths crossed again, and as I was packing to visit her I slipped Tressy into my suitcase. Much to my surprise she had kept her Barbie, and the two doll friends were reunited as well. 

Tressy sure sparked joy in my life. Prior to reading Kondo's first book, the life-changing magic of tidying up, I was first inspired by the words of designer William Morris, "Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful." Kondo and Morris sound like kindred spirits. 

Frozen

Frozen. 

We returned home the other day to find the pool pump making a horrible noise. My husband was quick to turn it off, and was able to do a few on-the-spot repairs. He knew the pool was in need of water, but found the faucet and hose to be frozen. 

As you know being a home owner requires staying on top of any maintenance issues that come along the way. This is one of the contributing factors to our desire to live a simpler life. Sometimes it's as simple as a squawking smoke alarm, and other times it's a cold shower on New Year's Eve leaving you with crossed fingers that you can find a repairman in a timely fashion. 

Just like the many possessions you acquire in your home, the responsibilities of home ownership is a job in itself. It's interesting, though, how that job becomes less and less appealing when you reach a certain age. 

So we'll just have to keep our fingers crossed about the pool because the pipes seem content to stay frozen. 

Bullet Journal

Bullet journal. 

If you are one who has a habit of writing random things down, then you might enjoy keeping a bullet journal. At its simplest a bullet journal is basically a journal with a table of contents and numbered pages. 

What makes this so appealing is that it so easy to retrieve information, as all you have to do is locate it in the table of contents. My bullet journal was an inexpensive 8x5 inch bound journal I purchased at Walmart, but to be honest next time around I'm going to splurge on a nicer one like a Moleskine Journal. Although, it can fit in my purse I do not carry it with me on a regular basis. 

I've included goals, lists, Bible studies, quotations, and blogging ideas to name a few in mine. I can always refer to it or add to any information I have collected. In the past I was always good about writing stuff down, but never remembered exactly where everything all was. 

You can certainly check on Pinterest and find a large variety of really beautifully designed bullet journals with many including weekly and monthly planners. However, I use my own calendar for planning purposes, and try not to get too caught up in the intimidation of the art work that some enjoy adding to theirs. More than anything just make it work for you. I think you will enjoy this handy tool for keeping up with bits of information. 

Gallivanting

Gallivanting. 

To gallivant according to its definition means to "go around from one place to another on pursuit of pleasure or entertainment."

I propose that we all make more time for gallivanting in our lives in 2017. Some of my most memorable experiences all began by gallivanting. 

About a month ago Chuck and I did a little gallivanting in Historic Downtown Grapevine. We were totally unprepared and way under dressed for the cold snap that had hit that day, but we still had the best time. 

We ate lunch at Tolbert's Chili Parlor and their chili did not disappoint. Coupled with a grilled cheese sandwich it was the perfect combo for a cold December day. As we perused down Main Street we happened upon a quaint log cabin and a delightful Christmas display. It was the perfect opportunity for a photo op or two. 

We returned to our car and crossed over to the other side of Main in search of Redefined Coffee House. One of our friends' son works there and I had been meaning to check it out. If you haven't been, I highly recommend it and the cafe latte. It was some of the best tasting coffee I had ever drank. The atmosphere was relaxing and inviting, and the coffee was actually served in a real cup. 

Although our adventure only lasted a few hours, taking the time to gallivant was really enjoyable. I'm looking forward to our next adventure. 

Don't Be Afraid

Don't be afraid. 

Authors of Think Like a Freak, Steven D. Levity and Stephen J. Dubner write, "Kids aren't afraid to like the things they like." 

I think we can all take a lesson from these little wise ones. Somewhere along the way we begin to worry too much about the things we like and what others think of us. However, as Gretchen Rubin is quick to remind us, "We can choose what we do, but not what we like to do." 

In addition, my blogging pal and former seventh grade Life Science table mate, Kathleen Duff recently posted some guidelines for the upcoming year. One that resonated with me was, "Most importantly, this year promise yourself to be yourself. People don't have to like you and you don't have to care. Be unique and an original in 2017."

Technically we are all born originals, but are easily shaped by the influences of others.  It's time to embrace your authenticity. Thinking like a child may help you remember your favorite color, and your long-lost desire to be a ballerina fireman. Either way don't be afraid. 

Happenstance

Happenstance. 

Keri Smith defines happenstance as, "A combination of 'happen' and 'circumstance'. To find or come across by chance." 

This happened to Chuck and I a couple of months ago. As we were checking out an area close to one of his company's locations, we came across an apartment complex that we could easily imagine ourself living in. We had been contemplating selling our home for several years, but just couldn't get up the nerve to do so. After all, it had been our home for almost eighteen years. However, more and more we were feeling that it no longer seemed to fit where we were in our lives. 

Happenstance brought us to an apartment complex tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It was bordered by a peaceful lake and a winding walking path perfect for our poodle Cooper. As we envisioned a life less encumbered by our house, we could actually imagine ourselves living there. 

In addition to a simpler life its location cut Chuck's commute significantly with a train station within walking distance. Anytime you make a major change it can come with uncertainties, but sometimes you get a more peaceful feeling about your decision. I'm just happy that happenstance came our direction. Or maybe it had more to do with, "The heart of a man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps." Proverbs 16:9

Randomness

Randomness. 

Keri Smith, author of The Wander Society writes, "The wanderer is open to the unknown, to the unexpected, to randomness."

My nature is to be very concrete.  I like order and predictability, but Smith believes that, "When we repeat the same activities day in and day out, we limit our ability to have new experiences. Over time our bodies, senses, and brains start to atrophy. Our world becomes smaller and smaller until we are living in a tiny box."

Unlike me, my husband Chuck has a more spontaneous nature. However, I think over the years I have had a tendency to squelch that impulse. My cautious nature seemed to take over. However, several weeks ago as we left church Chuck turned left and not right. 

This one random act opened up a world of possibilities when it came to our future. We were able to envision ourselves possibly selling our home and embracing a simpler lifestyle. Sometimes you just have to venture out and see where randomness leads you.   

As we contemplate our future and begin to make plans I don't want to squelch the joys of allowing myself to wander, and not always knowing where we are going to land. 

The Wander Society

The Wander Society.

I'm contemplating becoming a member. "Society wants us to live a planned existance, following paths that have been travelled by others. Tried and true. The known, the expected, the controlled, the safe."

These are the words of Keri Smith, author of an intriguing book entitled The Wander Society. Wandering does not have to be a place that you visit, it can be a state of mind. Allowing your thoughts to wander is a way to spur on your own creativity. 

Recently, I saw an "out of the box" idea on Face Book. Amazon has come up with a clever idea surrounding the many millions of boxes that are delivered during the Christmas season. Instead of throwing them out, why not fill them up with items you no longer need or want, and use a free shipping label to send them to Goodwill? I'm always impressed by ingenuity. 

I'm thinking that members of the Wander Society are probably comfortable doing things in a new and different way. They might find themselves asking "Why?" and "Why not?" more than most. A wanderer probably will embrace adventure and risk as opposed to the familiar.  I'm hoping to find myself wandering more in the next year. 

The Gratitude Jar

The Gratitude Jar. 

I'm starting something new this year. Each day I'm writing down one thing I'm grateful for, and placing it into a Gratitude Jar. 

Next New Year's Eve I plan on reading each blessing and reflecting over the year. Research has shown that gratitude plays an important part in happiness. Gratitude is the catalyst that can pull you back from the brinks of negativity when the inevitable happens. Being mindful of life's often overlooked blessings can help bring a smile to your face. You might want to consider a Gratitude Jar of your own for the coming year. 

"I don't have to chase extraordinary moments to find happiness-it's right in front of me if I'm paying attention and practicing gratitude."

Brene Brown

Move

Move.

I've chosen the word move as my one word resolution for the year 2017. 

It looks like Chuck and I will be actually moving from our home soon. We are ready for Chuck to have less of a commute, and less responsibilities of home ownership. As you know we spent several weeks last fall decluttering, and now we are working on getting the house ready to be on the market. Our plans are to embrace urban style apartment living for a period of time as we get ready to build a house on our farm in the country. 

Along with this move I'd like to be more committed to living a less sedintary life. It's easy for me to fall into the trap of the couch and tv, and along with the internet I can find myself not moving around much in a day. Luckily, I've discovered a feature on my Fit Bit that can actually track the percentage of my day that is active and sedentary. I know that setting a goal of 10,000 steps might not be realistic for every day, but I do know that I can make a conscious effort to move more through out the day. Just getting up every hour and moving around for a few minutes can help. 

In addition, to an actual move, and physical movement I'd also like to challenge myself to move toward learning something new. I'm quick to come up with ideas, but often slow to act upon them. I'd like to move toward changing this habit. 

Although, there were challenges along the way in 2016, there were also many blessings. So look out 2017 here I come.