Sprinkle in a Whole Lot of Love

There are times when I wish I could fix everything with hugs. But I have learned that everything cannot be "fixed." Some situations, like the loss of a loved one, come with pain that we have to deal with.

Because I'm one that focuses on solutions rather than problems, I get beyond frustrated with things I cannot fix. I've recently come to the realization that these things are like cooking. If you add too much salt, you cannot take it out, but adding a little bit of sugar can sometimes balance it out a bit. In these situations where pain is, you cannot take the pain away but you can certainly sprinkle in a whole lot of love.

One of those "adult" moments of clarity that I thought I'd share.

Photo credit

I Don't Wanna Grow Up

Especially if that means that life has to get boring. It seems that that most perceptions of adulthood associate it with being hard and not fun. However, I beg to differ.

I'll admit that I've been resistant to becoming "an adult," and I've fought to hold on to my youth. Even though I'm technically considered an adult by age, I couldn't accept the idea of a life is supposed to be not fun, simply full of responsibilities and things you don't want to do.

I was comforted by this month's theme at She Creates Change: Play. Life doesn't have to be hard and not fun as an adult. It should actually be about enjoying life and living it with passion and love. Our homework this month was to think about ways to incorporate more play (things that excite us) into our lives.

If that wasn't enough, I found a similar theme happening in Erin Stutland's class. This month her theme is Pleasure. She also gave us the assignment of allowing ourselves to experience as much pleasure as we could.

I've taken my assignments seriously. This month, I've signed up for an S Factor membership (which I am SO excited about!) and joined Erin Stutland's Shrink Session class (which has been amazing!). I'm also excited about my new do (a new hair color AND highlights), which is how I know I've accepted fall. I also got myself a pay day treat: Forbidden Fudge nail polish, which tickles my fancy every time I look at it. (Note: Buying the polish is more financially friendly than getting a mani/pedi.)

I'm loving November!

The Grass is Actually Greener on My Side

I've had an issue with the saying "the grass is always greener on the other side" for a while now. What I've learned is that the grass may seem greener, but oftentimes it's not as it seems. Other people's lives and situations may look better from the outside but it is not always as visible how much hard work is put into it; Or, on the other side, how far the reality could be from the superficial appearance: i.e. the "glamorous" high paying job that requires 80+ hours a week, stifles one's freedom, or compromises one's integrity and/or purpose; or the "perfect" marriage that is hiding a dysfunctional or even abusive relationship.

I've decided that the grass is actually greener on my side. Or at least that's how I see it. I choose to accept what I have is just what I need and appreciate it. Yes I may be inspired by the example of others and can work towards other things, but I'm happy with what I have right now.

Some People Just Don't Get It

When I do things like buy a one-way ticket to Seattle or tell my job that I need a month off, I get lots of questions. I get tired of explaining myself and end up giving vague answers like "Why not?" or "That's just how I am" that don't necessarily satisfy the question-asker but get them to at least cease the interrogation.

When I read The Lost Girls' book, I felt better in knowing that I am not the only one who thinks the way I do. I honestly believe that most (if not all) people would love the opportunity to escape their day job and travel the world. However, many do not believe that it is a possibility and leave it in the category of things that other people do.

As one of those other people, I sometimes feel "weird" for thinking the way I do and doing the things I do. It's always comforting to meet and discover others who think like I do and who get it without me having to explain "it". I stumbled upon these article: "How a Career Break Changed My Life" and "7 Things You Learn about Yourself (and the World) While Traveling Solo" I was so excited to see someone else articulate thoughts I've had but have been hesitant to share with any and everyone, the fear of having to explain why it's a good idea.

Do you get "it"?

Fun Friday: Getting to Know Miss Journey

10 more things you may not know about me:

1. The word tilapia tickles my fancy
2. I want to be the voice of a cartoon
3. I've always wished for telepathy and the ability to fly
4. I have statue phobia and mythical creatures freak me out
5. I have an indescribable attachment to and longing to go New Orleans
   
6. I have a fascination with butterflies and hummingbirds
7. I spent only 3 weeks in kindergarten, which resulted in my graduating from high school at 16 and college at 20. (Sounds cool now, but I did not always enjoy being the youngest among my friends)
8. I can write with both hands. I'm not ambidextrous because I'm not equally strong in both, but I do pretty well. Also, even though I'm a lefty I do most things with my right. I'm stronger on my right side but have more refined dexterity on my left.
   
9. I can write backwards in print and script.
10. I always wish I had a twin.
    

Fun Friday: Getting to Know Miss Journey

10 things you may not know about me:

1. I'm an only child
2. I'm a lefty
3. I'm a Leo
4. I love chocolate (okay you probably knew that)
5. I love to drive, and take pride in my Fast and the Furious style.
   
6. My fave color is purple
7. I looove word games
8. I used to play volleyball and softball in high school
   
9. I love cartoons
10. My middle name is Lavern

Charity is Sexy with Lifestyle and Charity

I absolutely love the work that the ladies of Lifestyle and Charity are doing. They are making charity sexy, combining the worlds of social life and social good. Every month they gather some of NYC's stylish people altogether for a common cause. In May, it was such an honor to have Her Journey be a part of the event.

LC MAG Party Featuring Mediterra Collection from Lifestyle + Charity TV on Vimeo.

This month they are combining forces with NYC designer Lauren Gabrielson to support City Harvest. For details click here.