Furry Friday Edition

Today was a big day!  Lotus the Cat and I introduced our newest furry family member to our happy little clan.  Tucker the Goldendoodle joined our household, and I couldn't be happier with the initial hours of his first day. 

The process of searching for and finding the right pup was fun from the beginning.  After finding Renee the Breeder at Yesteryear Acres, I knew phase one of the search was complete.  Renee exudes nothing but happy and positive vibes when it comes to her dogs, and she and her husband and three children have made the doodle breeding business into an incredibly warm and loving family business.  The dogs are all as much a part of their family as each human member is, which is what I envisioned for my own canine companion.

I started exchanging e-mails with Renee at the end of November, and by the time I received her announcement for the arrival of Tucker's litter, I knew I was ready to take the plunge.  Since confirming my puppy the second week of January, I've literally counted down the days until his arrival.  A further demonstration of my anticipation manifested this week as a "sleeps" countdown.  So, beginning Sunday, I had 5 sleeps until picking up my new baby Tucker.  Every week between his birth and arrival, Renee would provide new pictures, so Monday picture days also became exciting events that stirred anticipation as early as Fridays before.   

After an incredibly fun trip to visit the puppies last weekend, the fun continued on today's journey to meet Renee and retrieve Tucker.  My mom and young nephew joined me, and we started the day off with fresh donuts and plenty of laughter.  After an uneventful drive home, Tucker and I settled in with Lotus.  I wasn't sure how Lotus would react, but he put his game face on and was a trooper.  He showed initial moments of trepidation, but I pet his head and encouraged him to fully explore Tucker, which he did, and that was the end of the trepidation.  This may be his equivalent of "fake it till you make it," but I'm pleased with his ability to do so.  Tucker appeared almost relieved to see a fellow four-legged furry friend, so it looks as though a happy friendship will blossom. 

Today has been a humble reminder of how much love is in this world to embrace, and it can be found in the smallest little packages.  I can't wait to watch Tucker grow and discover more of the world, and with any luck, this will prove a very happy and healthy forever home for him.

A Guilty Pleasure Revealed

It's no secret to people I know.  I am a die-hard American Idol fan.  I've tried and failed to allow a season to pass, unwatched.  This season, however, I find myself to be incredibly entertained by Heejun Han, a top-24 contestant from New York. 

First, I love Heejun's voice.  I think part of it is that what comes out of his mouth is not really like anything I would imagine coming out.  He's a great singer, and I really look forward to seeing where he goes throughout the season. 

Perhaps more, though, I L-O-V-E his quirky personality.  As if the fact that he works with disabled children in real life wouldn't make you love him anyhow, the guy has such a subtle and deadpan sense of humor, I'm never sure whether he's serious or really messing around.  He constantly makes everyone giggle.  His interactions with cowboy Richie Lawson were particularly funny during group week.

He also gets incredibly nervous with each performance, wigglin' his arms like crazy to shake it out, but then he belts it out, and you'd never know he was at all rattled.  And perhaps the best?  Heejun reveals his incredibly tender and humble nature every time he makes it to the next round.  He cries like a baby each time, as if surprised that he's actually making it.

I can't wait to watch this season's contestants (especially my favorites) as they make their way through the competition.  Please, America, I beg you to leave something other than two country singers standing.  Embrace the unique!!!  

Lessons of the Antrim Rope Bridge

During the summer between my junior and senior years in college, I joined a six week study abroad program in Dublin, Ireland.  I kiddingly refer to this time as a glorified vacation because I didn't need any of the credits for graduation.  But soon afterward, I realized it was probably the richest experience of my entire college education, if not my entire life.  I was reminded of this time this past weekend, and there was one moment in particular that sticks with me as probably the most profound of the trip.

Pictured above is the Antrim coast of Ireland, and if you look really close, there is a rope bridge (the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge) that spans the space between that little island and the mainland.  A couple of friends and I took a day to go on a tour of the Antrim coast, and this was one of our stops along the way.  The bridge's framework is all rope and includes wooden steps along the way.  These rope bridges were built years and years ago near fishing communities so that the fishermen could more easily access the best fishing and regularly check their nets.  The scary part?  The drop down to the rocky coastline below is somewhere around 75 feet.  The fluidity of the rope infrastructure and massive plummet potential have a way of intimidating some.  But, we braved the danger and crossed.  When I reached the other side, I realized I could see Scotland from where I stood.  This, for whatever reason, made me stop and evaluate just how big and amazing the world is and how few moments have made me stop and feel that way.  It was also a very humbling moment because it made me realize how very small I am, as an individual, in this world.  Something about sitting on the coast of one country and looking across a huge watery expanse at another country really spoke to my core.  The overwhelming message?  It's not all about us.  There's so much more.

Ironically, the fact that we can turn on the television and see live feed from virtually anywhere on the planet makes this realization hard to grasp sometimes.  There are those surreal moments of watching war and conflicts abroad unfold as cameras roll.  There are the scenes of extreme poverty and illness that plagues communities the world over.  But, what is less frequently captured is the magic that the world has to give.  The sheer joys of better understanding our planet and all of its landscapes.  So, don't let the tube fool you.  Get out there and see what you want--whether that's lands abroad or destinations across state, city or county lines.  The first-hand experiences will be life-altering and humbling for sure.              

Public Commodities (with Human Spirits)

All of the news swirling since the death of beloved singer, Whitney Houston, has only added to my long-time thoughts surrounding celebrity culture.  Don't get me wrong, I understand that each and every television personality, movie star, pop icon, etc., has made a choice to take the path to stardom.  But, I guess it's the culture of how that celebrity is received that pains me on a regular basis.  The news media consistently fuels this growing encroachment of personal space.  And it's even more disappointing to think that people feel vindicated in wanting to know such information.  It's fine to mourn the loss of a celebrity, to celebrate their contributions to the industry, but isn't there a line that we should respect?  A line where the celebrity ends and the universal humanness begins?  A line where we can recognize that this was a real person who really died and that there are real people really hurting as a result?   

I found it to be rather ironic a few days ago when, on Good Morning America, Nancy Grace was scolded for her public speculation surrounding Whitney Houston's death, suggesting she had been pushed underwater.  Dan Abrams lit into her, asking why she simply would not take back what she had said or apologize for it.  But, what I wonder is how Nancy Grace's wild speculations are any different from the countless disrespectful comments and interviews that have aired across all news outlets since the singer's death.  CNN, Fox News, CBS, NBC, ABC and others have all grabbed the opportunity to speculate on countless topics not at all respectful during this time.  For instance, we've had a number of anonymous "eye witnesses" who apparently watched Whitney down countless numbers of alcoholic drinks in the morning hours the week before her death.  We've also got "insiders" who have openly commented on everything from her handling of finances to her every move leading up to the incident.  So, I guess my reaction to Dan Abrams trying to set Nancy Grace straight is one of indifference.  With such a sad state of media ethics across the board, how can you possibly wrong someone who only blends in with the antics that have been routinely employed for, what is now, way too long.  Nancy Grace embellishing her explanation of the death investigation is no different than all of the other outlets embellishing the factual reports on Houston's death.  Just as we don't need Grace's speculation (aka fiction) about certain aspects of the death investigation process (aka fact), we don't need [insert any reporter's name]'s stories of Houston's erratic behavior (aka fiction) that may or may not have led to her death (aka fact).  Surely, we can all see this parallel. 

In times of crisis and tragedy, it seems forgotten that these people are human at the core.  Sure, they have raked in unthinkable amounts of money for their talent(s) (or lack thereof), but they are truly owed the same respect and consideration that each of us is owed.  All it takes is a few minutes of stopping and reflecting on one of your own personal losses to put into perspective what Houston's family and many others have gone through at the hands of "reporting."  Is there some positive effect that can come out of us learning of Whitney's last days and financial situation?  Do we really need to see pictures of her room service table and bathroom floor time and time again?  Perhaps, someday, we will learn to relinquish our rights to scrutinize every aspect of the lives of these public commodities in the spirit of human kindness, empathy and respect and react to all instances of media mishaps the same as Dan Abrams reacted to his colleague, thus marginalizing such reporting practices.      

Bobbing for Books

I find it a very difficult task to choose books to read.  I have a very small selection of writers and stories that sit so near my heart, and there have been piles of others that, due to probably slightly unreasonable expectations, have fallen short.  The complicating factor is that I often need time after completing a read to really decide if the book falls into the favorites or not-so-favorites section.  The other complicating factor, as of late, is finding the will to force myself to get all the way through a book even if I'm not really feeling it.

Some other obstacles in this process come to mind.  Not all books have great covers, so a first impression may label them as dull, uninteresting, too wacky, not wacky enough, etc.  Not all books have great authors, so an interesting story may not bloom in all of its glory.  Not all books have a great story, so there may be a fantastic author behind it, but the story may be incredibly bad.  And this list can go on for what seems like forever.

My latest read was The Marriage Plot by Jeffrey Eugenides.  As I dove into this book, I wasn't convinced I should be spending my time on it.  However, since it brought me a certain amount of sadness to reach the end, it obviously resonated with me on some level.  While this book probably will not go down as one of my all-time favorites, it struck me as I finished it up that I had become incredibly invested in the story's characters.  The story was not terribly complicated, but through the introduction and development of its characters, an enormously impressive texture resulted.  

So, the next time your book is falling flat on its face for you, take a moment to think about the characters you've met and whether any one of them may, in the end, reward you for continuing the journey.            

Dear Saint V

Some get chocolates or flowers,
Some get candies or cards,
Others find a way through the hours,
And choose their heart to guard.

But, on this sweetest day,
I reflect on love worldwide,
And hope that there is a way
To somehow unite the divide.

And so to Saint V, I render these requests,
Hoping he can lend the tools from his loving treasure chest.

Abate our worldly sorrows,
Let our collective love shine.
Bring us to our knees with hope,
Replace despair with the divine.

And when today winds down and the next morrow comes,
Remind us of our mission, our mission to love as one.

Winter Blues

And now for a shocking confession.  I am mourning the loss of old fashioned winters.

Over the past couple of months, the mere trickle of a few snowflakes has stirred great excitement.  But, that excitement has been very short-lived because instead of bringing their friends, those flakes were the long and the short of what winter has had to offer.  I am, by far, a better equipped person for the winter months than the summer months.  If it weren't for being such a huge fan of sunshine, I would take winter year round.  I am the champion wimp of all wimps in extreme heat, and I can't even be quieted by air conditioning because I'm not a lover of that either.  The artificial cold is always too cold, and the extreme heat is suffocating.  It doesn't help that I'm borderline albino, so the sun is not kind to my skin even when I slop on the best and strongest sun protection.

Some of my fondest memories from childhood are those when the snow fell...and fell...and fell.  I was lucky enough to grow up in a neighborhood that offered amazing terrain for sled-riding and also close proximity to local businesses, like a video rental store, drug store and fast food joint.  So, once old enough, we'd venture out into the snow, play and then walk to where we could to exploit the guilt-free pleasures of snow days.  In fact, I'm not sure where I got the money, but I clearly remember purchasing my copy of The Beatles Anthology 1 on one such jaunt because the video store happened to carry it.

As I grew up, I started to love going out into the snowy days and nights to listen and observe.  The quiet to be found after a really good snow is hard to capture in any other setting.  And then there are the amazing sights--piles of snow accumulating in the most amazing places, performing high-wire acts, birds in search of vittles, the splendid greens peeking through the otherwise white canvas.  And then there was my trip to Colorado, during which I got to see my first ever hoar frost (picture at right).  Amazing!

And so, as the days and months wear on, I hope that Old Man Winter will graciously give the Ohio Valley at least one solid dose of his grandeur this year.  Kids need to be reminded of the magic of snow days, and we adults need to be reminded of what wonderful gifts nature affords us year round. 

Choices, Choices, Choices

I'm not sure it's always been the case, but as a modern-day American, I feel like I have a plethora of options, regardless of what decision is at hand.  I would say, in most cases, that this is fabulous and even a sign of progress.  But, are there times when not so many options would be better?

I encountered this question as I shopped for a new digital camera.  Not only are there a zillion makes to choose from, but there are a dozen considerations to first narrow down before you can even start deciding on a maker and model.  There's point and shoot under $200, point and shoot over $200, compact zoom, extended zoom, advanced compact, compact mirrorless, dSLR for entry-level, mid-level and enthusiast as well as the full-frame dSLR.  And just like cars, it seems like every new year, if not half or quarter year, will bring with it a whole new set of models and improvements.  So, while the decision to invest in a new camera was seemingly simple, the next step of actually choosing a camera seems so incredibly complex.   

Sometimes it's nice to only have an "A" or "B."  Even throwing a "C" in there can make things a little crazy.  But, I wonder if this seemingly complex state of choices is just a manifestation of our ever-evolving world.  For instance, before there were digital cameras and life was a little less busy and advanced, were there zillions of new options all the time when considering a simple camera purchase?  Before there was the internet, were there infinite ways to find the exact shirt or other random item you wanted?  Were people as overwhelmed by every single choice as we can be today?

It's these moments that the phrase "keep it simple" seems way out of step with where the world is today.  It's also these moments that remind me of how the stage is set to make it really easy to forget to be grateful for the everyday small stuff.  With so many choices and so much "noise," it is so easy to be distracted and move on to the next complicated choice.  Today, I will observe as many "choice intermissions" as possible.  It's okay to take a break.          

Best Practices in Being Human

You probably don't recognize the man in the image above.  I wouldn't have before last week.  He's democratic senator Ed Murray from Washington state.  One morning last week, as I was driving in to work, I heard a story on NPR, detailing the recent passage of a bill in Washington, which would legalize same-sex marriage there.  Granted, there's all kinds of chatter in the news right now on this topic, especially today after the federal appeals court in California determined the voter-approved ban on gay marriage there to be unconstitutional.  But, my reflections tonight are not on all of that buzz, they are focused on the words of Truth that Senator Murry declared as the Washington bill was being passed.

The senator was quoted as saying the following:

[Lawmakers who vote against gay marriage]"...are not, nor should they be accused of bigotry...Those of us who support this legislation are not, and we should not be, accused of undermining family life or religious freedom...Marriage is how society says you are a family."

I found this statement to be profound because it was an expression of tolerance too seldom heard--in politics or any other sphere of our modern-day society.  After thinking further about the words uttered, I decided I think this statement deserves to be counted as a best practice in politics.  In legal marketing, we often refer to and encourage the sharing of "best practices."  As such, we often discuss our experiences with one another, pointing out issues encountered and resolved, obstacles happened upon and overcome, etc.  Overall, best practices (and especially the communication of best practices) places everyone on the same plane of knowledge, encourages success in approach and places an undeniable focus on the common goals we share.

Sen. Murray's statement above places everyone on the same plane.  We're all human, and we all will require tolerance from someone (or a bunch of people) at one point or another.  His approach demonstrates a willingness to encourage success, regardless of differences, and that success would be in the form of living peacefully and equally.  Is there anyone who doesn't want that? 

In politics today, it's very rare to actually witness peaceful conciliation of partisan differences.  But, I think Sen. Murray did this amazingly well with his words above.  It places a hugely controversial topic on such a basic level of human understanding.  For any given moral priority or personal freedom, we should all be willing to exchange with one another and respect differences.  I'll give anyone their religious freedom and worry-free happiness in return for my personal freedom and worry-free happiness.  See how this works?  Tolerance.  Understanding.  Best practices in being human.     

 

The Wondrous Weekend

Weekends--what everyone lives for, Monday through Friday.  I don't know if everyone is the same about them, but I know in my own case, they're an obsession.  I wake up each day, thinking about how much closer I have gotten to its start.  I go to sleep each night, again reassuring myself that it is almost here.  I've never heard anyone be excited about weekdays.  Unless, that is, a weekday stands for an early entry into their weekend.  A few friends and I regularly celebrate "hump day" Wednesdays, but I definitely don't embrace them as I do Friday night, Saturday or Sunday. 

I think weekends fit into the "supply and demand" concept common in consumerism.  It's what we get least of, so we naturally want more.  When we are given more, we just want more again.  Is this a genetic slip in all of us?  Are we programmed to only want what we cannot have?  To always view the grass as being greener on the other side?  What a conundrum! 

I wonder if it's possible to tackle time, and the busy way of life, and embrace a weekend way of living seven days a week.  I don't know about your weekends, but mine are marked with contentment through cooking what I want, coming and going as I want, taking moments I don't normally take to appreciate the everyday light in my world and lots of other breathable things.  I think I will tackle this.  Yes, work will consume lots of hours it doesn't on the weekend, but as I've learned through an amazing boss with an amazing outlook, those hours don't have to be filled with stagnancy and unhappiness or stress.  Full-time weekends.  I like it.

Punxsutawney...Donald?

It is not a common occurrence that A Tribute to Life post will include blatant political instruction.  However, I have to beg of you, vote for whoever you want in the upcoming presidential election.  But, please, whatever you do, please do not look to The Donald as your voting compass.  I would argue that you should probably do your research and vote based on your own conclusions, not necessarily voting based on any one's endorsement.

This man is a towering figure in popular culture.  He has a reality television show (the sole thing keeping him from running for president, so maybe, just maybe, once May comes, he'll toss his hat in), he is a business mogul, he has a litter of children and has had numerous wives, he has bad hair, he relentlessly pursued further on the Obama birth debate (as if this country should prioritize that in the last portion of Obama's presidency and at an otherwise pretty busy time of real concerns).  You can do better.  Seriously.  Be bold. 

In fact, on this day of annual celebration of Groundhog Day, perhaps we can just quickly ask Punxsutawney Phil to let us know which Republican should be on the ticket.  Now that sounds like a more acceptable solution.        

Seeing Stars

Ever experience one of those days when the world seems a little too close?  In a cramping your style sort of way?  I'm pretty sure they're not a rarity in this world that grows exponentially busier with each passing day. 

Today was a beautiful spring-like day that reminded me I should be missing the sunshine during these winter doldrums.  The experience is no different than being reminded of the never-ending assortment of totally unhealthy food out there smack-dab in the middle of your newest diet.  In any case, due to the impeccably clear conditions of the day, which lasted a good portion of the day (at least up until the moment I stepped out of the doors of work), I was able to spot some stars burning in the night sky.  As I gazed up, I inhaled a deep breath of warmer-than-usual air and was grateful for the moment of space and gentle reminder that we're so stinking small.  This helped me conclude that the worries of the day are even smaller, making them insignificant in the final analysis.  It also made me think of  Don McLean's song, "Vincent," which was an unknown song to me for way too many years of my life.  And then there's Vincent Van Gogh's "Starry Night" painting.  So many great treats these fundamental elements of our world afford us.   

If worries are measured in importance against the stars that burn beautifully for us in the night sky, the worries quickly melt to nothingness.  I chuck this up to be a great little note to self:  Self, it all gets better if you just look at the stars.    

 

Living Passionately: Part Deux

Not long ago, I dedicated an entry to the acknowledgement of Gabby Giffords' bravery and greatness as a result of living passionately.  Today, I want to take the time to acknowledge a recent loss in the world of freestyle skiing, which also demonstrates another flavor of passionate living.

Sarah Burke, a freestyle skier and Canadian native, seems by all accounts to have been a pioneer, amazingly talented athlete and also a good human being (which, in my opinion, trumps all).  Her tragic end came as the result of a bum landing while practicing in her long-time domain of the halfpipe.  I've skimmed several different stories, telling her story and the story of that day, and the best and most comprehensive I've found was published online by SportsNet.  Of all I've read, this was simply a case of someone going through the motions of their workday and unexpectedly encountering a split-second, random complication that proved fatal.

The part of Sarah's story most interesting to me is that which tells of her intense sense of self.  She was dedicated to perfecting her practice of the sport, but she also expanded on this passion and worked very hard to advance opportunities for women in the sport.  She married a fellow skier and, together, they enjoyed what most would consider extreme fun (speaking for myself only, helicopter skiing is not on my list of pastime activities).  But, the theme throughout her story is one of passionate living. 

The safety of the sport, as a whole, was of course called into question after Sarah's accident.  But, with some reflection, I fall on the side of personal freedom in this.  My father was a coal miner his entire career, and he similarly walked into dangerous conditions every single day of his time as a miner.  I'm sure there are many other examples of individuals serving professional roles that entail danger, but as with many, Sarah seemed to simply want to live her passion.  Who can blame her? 

From the day we're delivered into this (sometimes) unforgiving world, we begin a journey as an ironically fragile (and yet superior) participant of that world.  Life is quite a miraculous feat when successful.  Just because there are 6.8 billion of us, it doesn't change the fact that there are a million internal and external forces of nature that must flow in harmony for us to sustain life.  So, in reflecting on the life of Sarah Burke, I will be reminded of the intense and lasting force of passionate living, but I will also be reminded of the intense fragility inherent in each and every human life. 

Sunrise Songs

I can't think of a better way to start the day, than to wake up in the morning with a song playing so loudly in your head, minus any technological intervention, you can't ignore it.  This happened to me this morning, and as I reflected on it, it seemed like my subconscious DJ that chose the track had exercised some musical genius.  On a day when the sun was bursting through the window as I woke, Bob Marley's "Three Little Birds" song was on loop in my mind.  What a great way to start the day with a sense of ease, happiness and optimism.  (As the 45 mph wind gusts blew the snow early in the evening, the tune had somehow faded, but it was an awesome start!)   

I'm curious now to track these sunrise tracks and see if there's any rhyme or reason to them.  Are they dependent on mood at bedtime?  Will the sunshine always encourage some awesomely optimistic and happy track?  These are the times I wish I could search through volumes of records of general population to find out such things about the wider world.  This is like the 100% certified organic of the iPod/iTunes shuffle setting. 

As I go to sleep tonight, I will beg my mind's DJ to not get stage fright and to please treat me to a brand new and enjoyable track tomorrow. 

  

Furry Friday

 

Meet Lotus. This is my favorite feline and best pal. I adopted him a year and a half ago from the Belmont County Animal Shelter. They, in fact, warned me of his eccentric ways, gently nudging one another and mumbling, "She's taking the bad kitty." This was not an overwhelmingly encouraging sign for a soon-to-be-owner-who-just-lost-her-beloved-cat, but I thankfully chose to follow through with the adoption and was madly in love with Lotus shortly thereafter.

It didn't take me long to choose a name for my new addition.  I had, sadly, lost my other cat, Lewis, very suddenly due to what appeared to be a congenital heart defect.  So, going through the motions of adopting a new friend was something very therapeutic.  In doing so, however, I definitely didn't want to lose sight of what I had just lost.  I wanted to honor my previous experience but also capture some sense of renewal.  Deep, I know, for naming a cat.  In any case, I loved the idea of the lotus flower, which grows out of the muddy bottoms of ponds and yet breaks the surface with a glorious flower bloom.  My hope was to have the same experience with this new little spirit.  

Lotus has become a hallmark of home for me.  He's very dog-like in many ways, playing fetch with his favorite stuffed mouse and bird, greeting me at the door, hanging out with friends (because cats need friends, too!).  But, sometimes, at the end of a long workday or long day, period, I'm pretty sure he has no idea the humbling reminder he hands me.  His entire life is built around my comings and goings and the time I make for him.  And regardless of how often I leave, he's always at the ready when I return...full of love and kitty vigor.  What more can a kitty mama ask for?

Small Town-ness

Growing up in a small town comes with such a mixed bag of experience, an unmistakable flavor.  While many will vehemently argue that the small town experience encourages cultural isolation or inexperience an insular ways, I've realized recently that there is a certain emotional phenomenon that, I think, results from this same small town experience.  For lack of a better description, I guess it's just a small town-ness that can't be dismissed. 

I recently watched a documentary called Hey, Boo:  Harper Lee & To Kill A Mockingbird.  This novel was a repeating theme in my life from elementary school up through a book club I attended in the not-so-distant past, but I never really knew a whole lot about Harper Lee.  So, this documentary motivated me to learn some more about her by reading the transcripts of the few interviews she's ever done.  One of Harper Lee's key concepts in her writing of this novel was to capture and preserve rural Southern culture.  She elaborated on its differences from urban culture.  Everything from its (former) lack of industrialization, resulting in more interaction between people and less distraction, to its lack of cultural events came up as things that helped shape the rural cultural landscape.  She also stated many times that she wanted to capture the universality inherent in this culture, just as many authors had formerly captured universality in other (particularly urban) instances.  This made me think about growing up in Wheeling and what could be drawn from that as particularly unique and also universal. 

One thing that I kept returning to is how, in this small town setting, everyone knows everyone.  This is not always true in Wheeling, but it's almost guaranteed that if you don't know someone, there is someone in your close circle who knows that person.  And sometimes, there's even a realization that you do actually know the person.  In any case, after some reflection, I finally arrived at a "so what?" about this small town phenomenon.  This is where the small town-ness comes in.  I believe, in my own case at least, it created a strong sense of empathy from a young age.  The empathy grows out of the fact that you usually do have some personal tie to almost everyone, so when anything happens, there is a closeness to it that you don't always have in larger cities and towns.  You grieve with families on a regular basis, as they lose loved ones, young and old.  You share in their joys with the addition of generations and promotions and other successes.  You rally with the community in concern when an outcome is in limbo, threatening. 

In any case, what this experience created for me was a universal sense of empathy.  There is a closeness that I feel to all people, regardless of where they reside on this great planet, because all I've known is to feel this closeness.  I think that it creates a rich sense of community and unity, regardless of whether this is at work, at home or abroad.  It is my nature to meet someone new and desire a closeness, often dismissing any sense of competition, superiority or sense of "other."  It could easily be interpreted more widely as a form of gossip or drama, but in reflecting on my own experience, I think I would say I feel fortunate to have lived this experience.  It has instilled in me an unwaivering sense of appreciation and interconnectedness with others.  And that, my friends, is a fulfilling experience.    

Political Ennui

For any audience member taking in last night's State of the Union Address, it was difficult to miss the overt displays of boredom, smug disagreement and overall lack of interest.  Whether it was Eric Cantor's epic struggle to mute any facial expression or the mechanical and empty applause of others, the clear message was that Washington, DC, and the United States leadership has become so wrought with bipartisan fervor that there's no longer a common theme or purpose to be found anywhere.   

Everything now is a debate, and within the various debates, meaning seems to be lost and individual or partisan vendettas reign.  Even this traditional report, which is meant to inform and rally the members of Congress and present an opportunity for thoughtful consideration or even (scandalous!) unity in purpose, includes the opposing party's response.  The fact that this began happening in the 60s and continues today proves the undoing of our nation's leadership has been incubating for some time.  And why this would ever seem like a good idea, I'm not really sure.  Taking just a minute for consideration, it immediately becomes clear that this "response" is never going to be someone standing to profess their alliance with and belief in the nation's president and his parties legislative goals.  It's simply another medium of disagreement and chaos.  How can anyone keep track of what issues are truly at hand when there's a constant volley that makes the core set of facts a moving target?  It would be like every news report being countered by a "response" or competing news unit's interpretation of the facts.  This happens frequently, too, but just imagine if this lack of grounding was found in every area of life.  Never mind the fact that it seems to have the greatest hold in one of the most important areas--our nation's leadership both on the domestic and international stages.     

When reading articles, watching news reports, listening to radio commentary, the only common theme these days seems to be the disunion in politics and nation-building.  This trend undoubtedly leads to a common disinterest and lack of confidence in the system.  It seems a systemic collapse into political ennui, which has reached record heights and has affected most everyone--both representatives and constituents alike.  Rebuilding a sense of confidence and recovering a state of balance and progress seems just out of reach.  But, for the well being of our nation and world, let's hope that someone steps up and helps end this "waiting for Godot" moment in politics. 

 

 

  

Striking Your Own Fancy

The dawning of the newest season of "Oscar buzz" has caused me to ponder the question of whether our quickly growing information technology arsenal is speeding up the extinction of individualism. 

One of the easiest ways to denote the importance of any object you describe is to add the tag of "...it was nominated for..." or "...he/she was endorsed by..." or "...it was highly rated by Consumer Reports..."  Have you ever wondered what the world's people did before this information was easily attained?  More importantly, could it be that these easily accessible resources make us think a little less about what we actually like? 

I am a true lover of the "Flixster" app on my iPhone, which handily provides the daily movie times for virtually all movie theaters within my reach.  The app also includes all commentary offered via the Rotten Tomatoes web, which provides movie reviews far and wide.  All movies have a percentage approval from both everyday viewers as well as the elite critics circle.  If you see a red ripe tomato, you have a winner, if you see the green splatter of what once was a tomato, then you're going to have to suffer through the potential film of choice.  I find myself often trusting these ratings without hesitation, and I've not had a problem in doing so, for the most part, but I wonder how people made movie decisions before this all existed. 

This movement reminds me of the overarching theme of globalization of all things.  In the sharing of ideas, it seems we run the risk of perhaps having fewer promoted for consideration.  And then we run the risk of becoming a world of followers.  So, in this ever-condensing world of ideas, I think I will actively work to seek out opportunities to differentiate.  Not to the extreme or so as to become counterculture, but perhaps just a enough so that I can look at some of these measures of success (the Oscars, the Emmys, the Grammys, the Nobel prize in literature, the Booker Awards, film critics, newspaper editorials, etc.) and occasionally recognize that something has been missed.  Something that I perhaps stumbled across all on my own and can appreciate, minus all of the buzz.      

Living Passionately

Today marked a day of at least two major headlines.  One of those two was the announcement that Gabrielle Giffords would step down from Congress.  Ever since the unfortunate events of January 8, 2011, I've paid fairly close attention to the progress the congresswoman has made.  I listened and watched to find out that she survived.  I listened and watched to find out that she was progressing as needed.  I listened and watched to find out if Mark was going to, indeed, make his last mission in space.  I listened and watched as Gabrielle gave her first interview with Mark by her side.  Gabby and Mark went from a couple of people I had never heard of to a couple of people I am grateful to have in this world every day.  

Strip down the public personae, and at the heart of this couple, you have an amazing amount of love, first, but in the backdrop, you also have incredible demonstrations of work ethic, bravery, loyalty, patriotism and inspiration.  It was no surprise, for instance, when I viewed Gabrielle's videotaped message today and instead of feeling disappointed or shocked, there was an overwhelming feeling of excitement for what's to come for her.  Her outlook is contagious and inspiring, and that has never changed.  

While the face of politics contains indelible blemishes from adulterous acts committed and bipartisan disrespect, this undercurrent of hope and bravery that Gabrielle Giffords has introduced to the dialogue seems almost misplaced.  This is not to say that she doesn't have or never had any mistakes to contribute, political or otherwise, but rather to say that out of all the stories we endure with regard to our political system and those participants within it, this one is one that brings unbelievable value to the table for adults and children alike. 

As Gabrielle Giffords dedicates herself to the current task assigned to her, my hope is that her story can bring others to their feet and inspire action.  Gabrielle's story has taught me that to live passionately is to do so across all areas of one's life.  We've heard the stories of her constantly visiting her constituents, dedicating herself to their needs and causes, but what we've had the precious opportunity to also see is how that same spirit of passion has lived on in her survival and recovery. 

I have not seen any stories in which she and her husband are dissecting what happened that day last January or stating what should or should not happen to the shooter.  What I see is two people living passionately, despite an awful situation, and continuing to light up the room with their optimism.  I see two people redirecting their attention from what they did over a year ago to what they must now...but happily so.  Making the best of it.  And if Mark Kelly and Gabrielle Giffords can make the best of a gunshot to the head, then I have great hope that I, too, can make the best of all of the little complications (comparatively speaking) each day brings.  It is also a great reminder that this spirit of hope and optimism is contagious.  Think about this the next time a "downer" conversation comes up and try just a brief application of positive thinking.  The rippling outward of good is amazing to watch.        

When Nature Inspires

Thanks to a free birthday day off that my firm allows all employees, I was able to start an extra long weekend today.  Because I didn't have to worry about hitting the office, I decided to catch up on some items in my Netflix instant queue.  I was so inspired by both, I have to share the recommendations with any Tribute readers out there. 

Last night, I watched a documentary produced by National Geographic, called The Appalachian Trail, or the AT as many hiking/outdoors aficionados would refer to it.  My first reaction was one of awe at the assortment of flora, fauna and landscapes available to those who take this trek.  On a recent trip to Colorado, two Ohio Valley natives and I discussed the grandeur of the Rockies in the context of how distinctively different they are from the Appalachians.  But, not once, would any of us utter a word about a lacking of any sort on the part of the Appalachians.  Nor could anyone argue that any of the rolling mountain ranges along the AT are lacking.  The images of the mountain landscape National Geographic offered were nothing short of breathtaking--and I don't even own a fancy TV that would've made them extra special.  The other thing that struck me about the thru-hikers (or those who undertake the entire trail) is that there is a distinct culture that has developed as a result of this trail, and it affects each and every hiker who takes to its paths.  Not only that, there are amazing samples of wildlife to also add to its charming existence.  For instance, in the segment of the trail that cuts through Virginia and the Shenandoahs, there are packs of wild horses that hang out along the trail.  According to the documentary, they came about simply as the result of some random horse escapes and comings together.  Isn't nature just awesome?  Left to its own devices, it's far more creative and complex than any man-made anything.

The other film I watched is called 180° South, and this film featured the journey of one adventurer (Jeff Johnson) in which he made a similar pilgrimage as that of two of his idols, Yvon Chouinard and Doug Tompkin, to Patagonia.  This film was great because it offered amazing images and scenery, but it also told a really interesting story of the climbing/surfing culture of the 1960s and the modern day culture of outdoors enthusiasts.  The really awesome message underlying this entire film is that nature is worth it.  It's worth putting everything down, it's worth fighting for and protecting and, most of all, it can offer some of the most rewarding gifts in return.  At the core of nature is a certain simplicity, compared to our incredibly fast-paced and technological world, and yet it takes a lot of hard work to achieve this simplicity as a human communing with nature.  The men (and women) featured in this film offer such inspiration for putting the hard work in and living the simplicity.

Maybe it's the New Year spirit, or the spirit of a new decade, but I see some serious potential for the adoption of some of the tenets from each of these films in my life.  Hope you can take a watch and walk away even half as blown away.   

Upon Turning Thirty

Upon Turning Thirty

Every day is an adventure, taking me here and there,

I never know where it might stop or if I should even care.

But on this day, I ring in thirty, and more humbled I could not be,

I only hope the next ten are as fruitful as the first three.

My wishes are quite simple, I have only three,

To give to this world and receive of this world and have great company.

When the sun sets and the moon takes its place, when thirty is no longer new,

I will be lying in bed wondering what, in this decade, lies in lieu. 

And then a wise thought will slip gently into mind,

Reminding me of that something much more important to find.

That in my day, my every day, the most valuable thing that waits

Is the present moment at my hest, the one taking beautiful shape.

~ c.e. chase

Consuming War

As I made the commute home from work this evening, listening to All Things Considered on NPR, a thought occurred to me.  Every time I turn on the news, regardless of medium, I hear at least one reference to war.  Sometimes this is a part of a human interest story, part of an economics story or part of a politics story.  But, just as often, it is the entire story.  In other words, the story--or the news--wouldn't exist were it not for war existing.  Perhaps I have a faulty memory, but I tend to believe it hasn't always been this way. 

It did make me wonder, though, what the news could possibly be like without any wars on which to report.  And, this day in age, would this be better or worse for the news industry?  Already, it seems that at every turn, the news is reporting on random acts of violence, transportation accidents and other deflating happenings.  War is definitely not a happier story, but without the subject, would our news grow even more dim and superficial?  I am probably a news snob, as I prefer outlets like NPR and PBS Newshour to any other network reporting, and I enjoy sitting down, old-school style, with the New York Times on Sunday mornings.  But, even the outlets that are known for more in-depth reporting or those that focus on the arts or intelligentsia, as a whole, are riddled with stories from or about the various war fronts.  So, now that we've arrived in this historical moment when war is such a large part of our every day culture, is it possible to go back to a time of peace?  While 5-10 years ago, this may have been a somewhat absurd question to ask, it seems valid.

Business, economics, the media, society--these are all immersed in the war culture.  Just as the economic crash of 2008 has forever changed the way global economics works, it is very possible that the chronic states of war have done the same.  There really isn't a foreseeable end to the general state of unrest.  And it could be possible that the changing politics, encouraging a more constant state of unrest, is a result of the newer generations of men and women who have grown used to the thought.

So, will war ever be over?  Or are we destined to now become full-time war consumers?  Day-by-day, soaking in more and more of the war culture through our media outlets and, one day, no longer noticing that so much of our news surrounds an unfortunate and completely avoidable state of unrest. While this seems totally plausible, I will continue to hope not.    

Sink or Swim?

Have you ever watched swimming competitions on television?  Have you noticed how easy the athletes make swimming look?  Next time you catch a glimpse, you should take a moment to appreciate the effort that goes along with the smooth, competitive swim stroke that these athletes demonstrate.

Over the holidays, a couple of friends and I ventured to the pool at a local gym.  Due to issues stemming from a foot injury, one of the two friends wanted to learn to swim in order to compensate for the unfortunate loss of ability to engage in any other form of cardiac exercise.  The other of the two friends, a kind and patient soul, offered to assist in teaching the basics of the freestyle form of swimming.  I joined in simply because I had time off from work and couldn't think of any better way to kill some time.  I figured it would be fun and, if nothing else, healthy.

We arrived at the pool, two of us craving our morning java and the third strolling in a few minutes late due to her unwavering respect for coffee first thing in the morning.  After several iterations of the mechanics of breathing as you swim, I thought that I would surely be able to complete at least one lap competently.  I was so wrong!  The intersection of the correct arm motion, correct leg motion (don't dare kick from the knee...only from the hip!) and coordinated breathing proved too much for me.  For some reason, my out breath extended beyond the time of my face being in the water, which meant that my in breath stretched beyond the time of my face being out of the water...which meant I partially drowned with each stroke.  Combine this struggle with goggles that kept bursting off of my head at every turn, and you had the makings of the perfect, not to mention hilarious, silent movie.  While I may not have taken the trophy for fastest learner, I'm quite sure I proved most entertaining to all in and around the pool, which included many regulars. 

The lesson learned was to have respect for athletes across all sports because you simply never know until you try it, exactly what efforts and skills are required.  My guess is that my next pool experience will be reserved for that time, hopefully way down the road, when I must resort to "aquacise" classes due to the deterioration of my joints.  But, should I decide I'm really up for a challenge before then, a true test of coordination and cardio endurance, then swimming will be just the ticket.  

Photographic Grandeur

As a friend and I embarked on our inaugural New Year's Day hike at Tomlinson Run State Park, we shared a laugh about how many pictures both of us are apt to take during the course of any given event.  We also happen to take many of the same pictures.  In the end, the only difference is we each walk away with a collection of pictures that feature the other of the two of us.  So, we eventually combine and have the comprehensive snapshot of our outing.

While this habit may be one that seems a bit tedious to others, I   started to reflect on why it is that we would be this way.  My only answer is that we both revel in the novel perspective we gain with pretty much every step.  It doesn't matter how many fallen trees we see on any number of forest floors.  Each new one we come across offers a hidden world to be explored visually.  Whether a new color, a unique flaw or a simple expression of beauty, it's like my eyes crave the novelty, something new to scan and absorb.

The great gift in this appetite for the visual is that there is almost always something in our presence that can be new and appreciated.  And every once in a while, it's this type of fresh vision that can help renew our overall appreciation for the complexities and beauty available in the world around us.  Go ahead and try it sometime.  Pause amidst your busy day and just find one thing to take in.  I promise that while not every thing spotted will be fascinating or full of beauty, it will connect you with the world around you.  And this can be very satisfying.        

Creativity + Socialization

In small town living, there is rarely an opportunity like the one I experienced with a few friends one evening over the weekend.  In a totally indirect way, I came to find out about a new program in Wheeling called "Paint n' Sip."  I came across a flyer for the December offering and, with great excitement, asked a friend if she'd be interested in joining.  Since my New Year's Eve weekend would be, otherwise, pretty mellow, it was the lone item of major interest, and it did not disappoint!

The idea of Paint 'n Sip is to have about 35 individuals reserve spots, in advance, for an evening of painting.  The most important note is that absolutely no talent is required.  The only requirement is that participants show up, pay the reasonable $35 to paint, and bring along a beverage of choice (the most common beverage of choice in our class was wine) as well as a creative and enthusiastic spirit.  All materials are provided, so we arrived to two large rooms stocked with canvases on easels, a large assortment of brushes, paint colors and other various tools.  There is a single image that the class is instructed to paint.  In our case, it was a guitar amidst a fantastically colored backdrop.  One of my friends and I slightly modified ours to be violin images since we both play and adore the instrument.  In addition to the common theme of image, the background music for the night was Beatles music (how can any beginning go awry when Beatles music is involved?).

So, we arrived, got positioned at our respective easels and immediately started getting into the Beatles groove.  The instructor provided details in very manageable doses and walked everyone through the mechanics of producing the common image.  The instruction was minimalist so as to promote personal exploration and creations.  At the midpoint of the evening, we took a break and snacked on a delicious assortment of crackers, cheeses and fruit as well as hot apple cider.  Afterwards, everyone returned to put the finishing touches on their pieces and gathered for the group photo.

I've been told this type of program is available in other places around the U.S., and I would highly recommend it as a fun way to spend time with friends.  It's so unique and free-spirited, and you walk away with your piece as well as very fond memories of an evening spent allowing your creative spirit to reign.  

Milestones in Life's Marathon

I'm turning thirty this year. And you know the saying, a woman over thirty is more likely to get hit by an A bomb than find a man. (Fanny Fink)

Birthday milestones are everywhere you turn.  You're either hitting your double digit years, becoming old enough to drive, old enough to claim independence, old enough to drink alcohol or old enough to know you're getting old.  This year will mark one in my series of milestones, with this one being my 30th.  The funny thing about turning 30 is that there really isn't anything ground-breaking that accompanies its arrival.

Some say that by 30, one should be more settled into life.  Married.  Raising a family.  Progressing in their career.  Others vehemently argue that 30 is just a continuation of the glorious 20s.  I have a feeling these beliefs are largely formulated around one's own experience and whether it was a good or bad one.  Regardless, it's a very fuzzy milestone.  At 21, no one can really argue about what you're supposed to be doing.  Get thee to the bar and order as many drinks (legally) as possible!  Just not the case with 30.  I think someone really needs to put together the "owner's manual" for 30. 

What am I supposed to be doing after I turn 30?  Should I be panicked that I'm not married, raising a family and following the favored, mainstream American path?  Am I going to feel more wise?  That's the lone theme I could find in researching various reflections on turning 30.  I'm about to learn a lot of important lessons on life.  And here I thought I'd learned a lot to this point!  I guess the concept of learning more sends a shiver down my spine.  Between my own reality and the onslaught of reality television, I'm just not sure how much more reality and lessons in life my soul can handle.

And so, as my 30th birthday nears, I guess I will sit back, 3-D glasses in hand, and prepare myself for the new wave of reality that is about to hit.  I resolve to take all that life has to offer in stride and maybe compose the owner's manual for turning 30.     

Our Dance with Time

I realize seasons are geographically relative.  However, as an East Coast/Midwest fixture, I cannot help but appeal to my own sensibilities.  In the case of the holiday season, I find it somewhat entertaining that the warmth of the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays and new year fall at the deadest time of the year.  Just as the natural world decides to break for a brief sabbatical, ceasing to provide us the necessary sunshine and warm temperatures, we humans decide it's time for celebration, travels near and far for time together and a fresh start.  Amidst the cold and dreary backdrop of winter, we engage in retail therapy (an extended and largely guilt-free session given that we're often buying for others), culinary indulgences and many other forms of self-satisfaction. 

Is it possible that this is mere coincidence?  As a 29 year veteran of the wintertide, I must admit that I think it's fascinating and am not sure what this long, dreary season would be like without the predictable break from school/work, gift giving and receiving and, perhaps most of all, the new-found hope of the new year.  As the days and years seem to pass more quickly in pace, with the growth of technology and its expansion into virtually all areas of life, perhaps this time is the perfect time to stop and appreciate our origins and the time when not everything was quite so straightforward.  A time when stopping for reflection on the meaning of the present moment was one of the few options.  Before Facebook, iTunes, Netflix, Twitter or any number of the other more recent entries on our great stage demanded constant attention. 

While sometimes an intimidating dance partner, time can also be a great motivator, an inspiration and, more than anything, a great gift.  So, during this winter season, my hope is to fall better into step with time.  After three eventful decades, I figure it's the least I can do. 

Hibernation: Not Just for the Wild Things

hibernation (n.) to pass the winter in a dormant or torpid state.  

What can we learn from the world of hibernating animals, such as bears, bats and chipmunks?  They call it a wrap for the winter months and enter into a sleep state that could fool some into thinking they're dead.  This natural means of survival during the extreme season(s) of the year is one of those phenomenons of nature that reminds us how amazing the natural order of things can be.  

While some humans can definitely enter into similar sleep states for various reasons, life seems to only continue to move faster and faster about the Earth for us.  So, perhaps it's worth considering the value of slowing down, allowing our bodies the proper care and downtime they need.  Also, it brings to the forefront the concept of life designed around necessity.  This seems an appropriate consideration as well since we oftentimes get mixed up in the fast pace of life, prioritizing work, social expectations and family expectations over the fundamental needs of our bodies.  Ironically, none of these other three priorities can even be a thought unless we have our health and well being.  

As we drift into another New Year, and the time for the year's resolutions comes, take a moment to think about all of the wildlife out there, yielding to the natural order, and consider doing so yourself.  In doing so, you're bound to find a happier, healthier balance as a new calendar begins.       

In Memoriam: Furry Lessons on Life

Meet Bella.  Bella was a loyal member of my family who came into my life early last fall and, sadly, departed last Friday.  Her brief but precious presence has left me with several new and beautiful insights about this life. 

Life is truly a miracle.  Bella suffered a terrible case of hepatitis/pancreatitis.  We're not positive what caused the issue and never will be.  But, in a very real way, Bella's struggle reminded me of how miraculous it is when our bodies operate properly and fully.  There is such an incredible balance and impeccably designed framework that maintains our every day on Earth. 

Life is connection.  Connections can be a double-edged sword.  They sustain us, foster happiness and lend meaning to our lives.  But, they can also result in extreme heartache and struggle.  A friend's words conjured up real meaning for me in the seemingly senseless loss of my connection with Bella.  "Just remember these things are part of life and ensure we experience the total depth of life as humans in our short time on this little blue marble."  So, connection is depth, and that depth carries through to the end, regardless of outcome.

Life is love.  When I think of this phrase, I think of what I learned about the symbolism of the cross in Christianity.  The vertical portion is about our relationship with God (or your choice of higher power).  The horizontal is about our relationships with one another.  This is the overarching meaning in life.  Know these relationships and support them with all the love you have to give.

Life is mercy.  Giving of ourselves what we can in order to lessen the loads of others is so important always.  But, as I look back at the times I've had to care for the sick, those times mark the pinnacle of purpose in this world.  In my own experience, I can say I've lost total sense of self and become consumed only by a concern for other.  Again, this can be a very painful experience, but also an incredibly meaningful one.       

Life is beauty.  I don't speak of this in a materialistic sense but more a philosophical or aesthetic sense.  Bella was a sample of God's amazing artistry in my eyes.  Her physical beauty was stunning.  But, even more, her gentle nature and elegant movements never ceased to catch my attention and remind me of how beautiful this life really is.   

And so I close with a heavy but humbled heart.  My hope is that many many others have the same opportunity to experience amazing and beautiful souls in this world.  In my view, this "little blue marble" sure has the potential to support a large number of them. 

What is the What

There's a fascinating work by Dave Eggers titled What is the What.  While the story, itself is an amazing tale of resilience, persistence and incredible resourcefulness, it's also a powerful account of what seemingly results from the human will to always choose the "what."  What is the what, you ask?  I can best explain it as what is commonly referred to as "the road less traveled."  This is a sweeping generalization, but hold onto it for the purpose of clarity. 

I've recently experienced a series of events that have made me stop and re-evaluate where I am and what I'm doing in life.  This is not at all uncommon and even less so when one speaks of a twenty-about-to-be-thirty-something.  In any case, my recent reflections have reminded me of the experience found in the beginning of Eggers' book.  In very watered down terms, a legend in the protagonist's village holds that their God offered cattle or the What as a gift at the beginning of time.  Instead of taking the cattle--the sure thing, the concrete beginning--the villagers chose the What.  The What is not defined, has no certainty about it and lacks the centering affect that the former traits can offer.  One could even venture to say that the choice of the What leaves the villagers with future troubles and civil unrest. 

There is a trend in our world to be innovative and "self-made (wo)men."  But, this cultural phenomenon can leave us, at times, wondering what exactly it is we're chasing after.  So, whether through meditation, writing or otherwise, it seems a good idea to explore this concept put forth in Eggers' book on a regular basis.  Perhaps it's even a good way to begin each morning...after all, how do we put one foot after the other day in and day out without knowing, personally, what is our what?  Think about it (and then pick up Eggers' book!).  

The Aesthetics of a Hometown

Growing up in a super small town with little entertainment and lots of time on my hands, I never thought I'd actually desire to live here as an adult...or even in the state for that matter.  But, as time has passed and my perspective has changed, I've quickly learned the value of waking up each morning and having the gift of looking out the window at the surrounding hills and what they carry into the early morning hours from the night that has passed.  The neighborhood that I grew up in is one of the prime spots to get a bird's eye view of the hills and valley, so it's made it quite difficult to live elsewhere, abandoning such amazing sights.  I'm positive I never considered this as a child or teen, so it's funny to me now that it means so much.  I've, on two occasions, left the region for educational and professional opportunities, but it's simply the aesthetics and accompanying peace that always brings me back.

The quiet and still of the mornings always beckon such a feeling of well being and balance.  Whether it's beautiful sunshine bathing the hilltops or solemn raindrops, quenching the earth's thirst, the morning is a time of appreciation and contentment.

The nighttime is not much different, except it will oftentimes offer dazzling colors or gentle patterns of twinkling stars.  The beauty of the sky and surroundings almost always causes the melodies of the highway to fade into the background or disappear.  So, whether from the busy East Coast, laid back West Coast, chill Midwest or various other geographies of the States, I would recommend the next time you're "home," you find a moment to fall madly in love with your surroundings.  In the busy world that is ours, I have found this to be one of the few ways to briefly make time stop and immerse myself in the stillness that is ours as well.

From Black Friday to Cyber Monday

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It's that time of year again...the holiday season.  Within a blink of an eye, the iconic turkey day has already passed.  And after a mere four weeks of time, Christmas will have done the same.  As I've settled into adulthood, I can't help but feel that the "fast forward-ness" of life only becomes more so around this time of year.  I oftentimes wonder if it was always this way for past generations as well.  When there weren't families of iGear to keep us distracted and countless opportunities to abandon quality time in the name of huge holiday savings, did the time fly quite as quickly?  I think this is worth investigating.

We humans are so good at creating debates of all kinds.  So, with this year's holiday season came the debate about whether it's reasonable for retailers to open on Thanksgiving night to start the crazed gift buying process.  I am of the mind in most cases that we all deserve the right to decide for ourselves what works and what doesn't, always with some thought about those around us.  However, I struggle with this one a bit because it seems to fit into the larger trends of consumerism and materialism, which seem to always only weaken the somewhat antiquated tradition of family and quality time.  The temptation to run out and catch the amazing sales seems even more of an issue now that the economy has tanked and decided to laze in the hammock named ebb for a time.  Even those with the best intentions of keeping company with friends and family, watching the holiday football offerings, eating leftovers, taking walks, etc., can hardly pass up an offer to reward those same loved ones with the fruits of Black Friday.  And then, just in case we happen to miss anything in our supermarket sweep on Black Friday, we thankfully have Cyber Monday to make up for our mistakes.

Perhaps it's too idealistic or old-fashioned to think this way, but what if we invested all of this time we put into Black Friday, Cyber Monday, the perfect gift, the perfect decorations, etc., into coming up with the best way to spend the holiday season with our families and friends?  Plan a game night or two, plan a special dinner where everyone can pitch in and have fun doing so, find some time to just be with those around us instead of desperately searching for the perfect gifts?  It's amazing what a little time together can do, so take an evening or two this holiday season and try it out!

The Classic Brillo

I had a small mishap on my stovetop last week, and I tried cleaning it up with several household cleaners. It was useless, the milk that had boiled over and out of a pot had decided it would forever stay caked on my smooth stovetop. Then, as I was cleaning up my kitchen over the weekend, it dawned on me (no kitchen pun intended) that I should try the classic brillo or S.O.S. So, while out at Target this weekend, I grabbed a box. A simple wetting of the pad and a few swipes later, and my stovetop had returned to its shiny and clean condition. Since this first use, I have already started grabbing for the fearless clean up pad for difficult dishwashing and sink cleaning. It makes me wonder...how could I have been so brillo ignorant all of this time?