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Thursdays, March 5, 12, 19, 26 – ONLINE
9:30–10:45 am
Facilitator: Keri Knutson
Hatha yoga is a slow-paced gentle asana practice focusing on introducing basic yoga poses and establishing a strong foundation in the practice of yoga. Hatha yoga balances the "Ha" - sun/ stimulating energy with the "Tha" - moon/calming energy.
Restorative yoga helps promote deep relaxation of the body and the mind. Postures provide similar benefits to classic Hatha yoga postures and are usually done in a supported manner to minimize strain and maximize opening. Dress comfortably and bring a yoga mat.
Register by: 3/3
Office Phone: (815) 877-0118
Fax: (815) 877-0265
3333 Maria Linden Dr.
Rockford, IL 61114
Monday - Thursday
9:00a - 5:00p


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with us
As befits the home of tartan and whisky, simple definitions don't really suit Scotland. Clichéd images of the place abound – postcards of wee Highland terriers, tartan tins of shortbread, ranks of diamond-patterned golf jerseys … and they drive many Scots to apoplexy. And yet Scotland has a habit of delivering on its classic images: in some parts ruined castles really do perch on just about every hilltop, in summer the glens inevitably turn purple with heather and if you end up in a village on gala day you just might bump into a formation of bagpipers marching down the street.
The complexity of Scotland can be hard to unravel: somewhere deep in the country's genes a generous dose of romantic Celtic hedonism blends, somehow, with stern Calvinist prudence.
There's little more splendid here than the scenery, yet half the time it's hidden under a pall of drizzly mist. The country's major contribution to medieval warfare was the chaotic, blood-curdling charge of the half-naked Highlander, yet it's civilized enough to have given the world steam power, the television and penicillin. Chefs from Paris to Pisa rhapsodize over Scottish langoustine and Aberdeen Angus steaks, while the locals are happily tucking into another deep-fried supper of haggis and chips. It's a country where the losers of battles (and football games) are more romanticized than the winners.
Naturally, the tourist industry tends to play up the heritage, but beyond the nostalgia lies a modern, dynamic nation. Oil and nanotechnology now matter more to the Scottish economy than fishing or Harris Tweed. Edinburgh still has its medieval Royal Mile, but just as many folk are drawn by its nightclubs and modern restaurants, while out in the Hebrides, the locals are more likely to be building websites than shearing sheep. The Highland huntin' shootin' fishin' set are these days outnumbered by mountain bikers and wide-eyed whale-watchers. Outdoor music festivals will draw thousands of revellers, but just as popular as the pop stars on the main stage will be the folk band rocking the ceilidh tent with accordions and an electric fiddle.
Stuck in the far northwest corner of Europe, Scotland is remote, but it's not isolated. The inspiring emptiness of the wild northwest coast lies barely a couple of hours from Edinburgh and Glasgow, two of Britain's most dense and intriguing urban centres. Ancient ties to Ireland, Scandinavia, France and the Netherlands mean that – compared with the English at least – Scots are generally enthusiastic about the European Union, which has poured money into infrastructure and cultural projects, particularly in the Highlands and Islands. By contrast, Scotland's relationship with the "auld enemy", England, remains as problematic as ever. The Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh has helped to focus Scottish minds on Scottish affairs, but many Scots still tend to view matters south of the border with a mixture of exaggerated disdain and well-hidden envy. Ask for a "full English breakfast" and you'll quickly find yourself put right. Old prejudices die hard.
Planning your trip to Scotland?
everything you need to plan where to go and what to do
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Contact Us
928, 9th Floor, B2, Spaze iTech Park, Sohna Road, Sec 49, Gurgaon
/ Tel. 0124-4168996

subset: commoncrawl


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Change your flight without a fee on select flights
The cheapest flights to Red Lodge were $133 for round trip flights and $70 for one-way flights in the past 7 days, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.
Prices found within past 7 days. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Price for 1 night 2 adults*
Situated in Red Lodge, this motel is within a 15-minute walk of Carbon County Historical Society & Museum and Carbon County Art Guild & Depot Gallery. Yellowstone ...
nice place to stay
Per night/room
Mar 29 - Mar 30
|Destination Location
|Red Lodge
|Destination Airport Code
|Latest Flight Carrier to BIL
|Air Canada
|Earliest Flight Carrier to BIL
|United Airlines
When you book with CheapTickets, you don't have to worry about missing out on the best deals. Our Best Price Guarantee means if you see a better price for the same flight, we'll credit you the price difference in CheapCash — plus an additional $50 in CheapCash, which you can use to save even more on a Red Lodge hotel.
Don't forget to add your frequent flier account number to your reservation to earn miles while you fly. You can also select your seats during the booking process, so there's no stress about getting stuck in the middle on departure day.
Did you know that when you book your flight and hotel together, you get access to discounts and coupons you won't get if you reserve them separately? By booking a Red Lodge vacation package, you'll save even more money, and save the time you'd spend searching for a cheap hotel.
Traveling on the cheap doesn't mean giving up great service. We're here for you whenever and wherever you need us. Give us a call 24/7 for help finding the perfect cheap flight and hotel, or if you have a question about your reservation.
If you're away from home, use our mobile app to find the same great prices as on our website. And don't forget to sign up for our exclusive email deals, so you'll get the best prices on Red Lodge flights and hotels delivered right to your inbox.
*Savings based on all holiday package bookings with Flight + Hotel on CheapTickets.com from January through December 2017, as compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings will vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and selected travel supplier(s). Savings not available on all packages. For Free Flight or 100% Off Flight deals, package savings is greater than or equal to the current cost of one component, when both are priced separately.
Fare, taxes & fees: Fares include all taxes and fees, except baggage fees. Rates shown reflect fares found by other CheapTickets users over the past 7 days. Due to rapidly changing airline prices & seat availability, these fares may no longer be available.
Refunds/changes/cancellations: Itinerary changes, if permitted for the fare, will have a $75 service fee charged by CheapTickets.
Other conditions: Schedules, fares and rules are subject to change without notice. Seats are limited and may not be available on all flights/dates or in all markets. Lower fares may be available. Fares will not be honored retroactively or in exchange for any wholly/partially unused ticket. Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. Fare rules are provided for the selected itinerary before booking.


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December 21, 2010 Blog, East Region News, Jellystone Park News
Celebrate and Donate Among Twinking Lights in Gloucester
A new addition to the Jellystone Park ™ family, Gloucester Point near Chesapeake Bay in Hayes, Virginia is making a marquee debut with its Christmas Holiday Light Show, held 6-10 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through January 2. With more than a quarter mile of twinkling lights synchronized to holiday music you'll enjoy through your radio, it's sure to become a family tradition. Even better, proceeds benefit the Gloucester Mathews Humane Society and the Abingdon Volunteer Fire & Rescue Department. You can also donate canned goods for the local Humane Society and area food banks. It's a perfect way to enjoy the spirit of the season while making an impact on local lives.


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What's the best way to maintain your lawn?
Keeping a lawn lush and green requires consistent mowing, weeding, watering, fertilizing and more. If your lawn is particularly large, it may make sense to hire a full-service lawn care provider. Whether you take a DIY approach or bring in the experts, maintaining your lawn requires a range of tasks.
Plan to mow the lawn often, allowing it stay longer than may seem convenient — longer grass is healthier grass. The general rule is to cut off no more than a third of the grass blade. This helps prevent damage to the lawn as well as keeping weeds from taking root. It's also important to remove any weeds, then prevent new ones from growing. In spring, consider spraying a pre-emergent herbicide on your lawn to prevent crabgrass and other types of weeds from sprouting from seed. During other seasons, broadleaf weeds like dandelions can be pulled by hand or sprayed with weed killers. The best time to water your lawn is early in the morning, allowing the sun to help dry the grass. Make sure to thoroughly soak the lawn so that the water penetrates several inches into the ground.
Lawn care also requires feeding; look for a mixture of fast- and slow-release fertilizers that include nitrogen. Some lawns also benefit from aeration, which creates small holes to let air, water and nutrients penetrate the grass roots. Although most homeowners can manage these tasks on their own, a full-service lawn care company can handle them on a regular schedule, taking the guesswork out of maintaining a beautiful lawn.
What does a landscape contractor do?
Landscape contractors work from outdoor architectural or design plans to build and install hardscaping or softscaping for the client, much as a general contractor uses architectural designs to build a house. Landscape contractors are experts in soil drainage, grading, hardscaping (installing concrete paths and retaining wall, building ponds, etc.), and planting. They have heavy equipment such as excavators and tractors to prepare the land as needed.
Some landscape contractors are also landscape architects or landscape designers. The titles can be compared with those in home construction: A building or landscape architect must earn a specialized architecture degree and pass an exam to have a license. A designer — whether an interior designer or a landscape designer — does not usually require a license to work. Landscape contractors are not required by law to work from plans designed by a landscape architect, so you may work directly with the landscape contractor to specify the work you'd like done. The national average cost for large-scale landscaping projects is $10,160. Pricing can vary greatly depending on the project scope, materials and design.
How do you look after your lawn?
Having a beautiful lawn doesn't just happen by magic. A multi-pronged approach to lawn care will result in a healthy lawn that will have your neighbors green with envy. The national average price for multi-service lawn care ranges from $40 to $50. Whether you tackle the project yourself or hire a lawn care professional, looking after your lawn requires consistent work. A baseline of lawn care is keeping your grass mowed and your irrigation system working properly. Fertilizing plants and grasses, as well as trimming and pruning foliage, may promote the health of your plants and lawn. Many lawn care pros offer different packages with varying monthly fees depending on your lawn size and the services you desire. Here are a few examples of average lawn care prices:
- 1,000- to 2,500-square-foot lawn: $60-$90 per month
- 5,000-square-foot lawn or larger: $110-$150 per month.
- Includes lawn maintenance, cleanups and irrigation repairs. The company trims shrubs, pulls weeds, blows out yard waste, fertilizes and does minor irrigation repairs.
- Up to 8,000-square-foot property: $30 per week/$120 per month.
- 8,001- to 15,000-square-foot property: $35 per week/$140 per month.
- 15,001- to 20,000-square-foot property: $40 per week/$160 per month.
- Includes mowing all turf grass areas; trimming grass away from fences, structures, trees, and lawn edges; and clearing or blowing all grass trimmings from driveways, sidewalks, curbs, etc.
How do you find a good landscape architect?
Hiring a landscape architect is an investment in your home. Landscaping can reduce water bills, improve your home resale value, add to your daily living experience and significantly boost curb appeal. A landscape architect will draw the designs for your new landscape; you'll want to hire a landscape contractor to carry out the plans. Many companies provide design-build landscaping services, with a company architect creating plans for your vision and the landscape contractor executing the vision. With the proper academic background and licensing, a person can be both landscape architect and landscape contractor. Here are a few tips for finding a great landscape architect:
- Research online portfolios and find several landscape architects whose work interests you.
- Read online reviews of client experiences.
- Research whether the landscape architects you are interested in are currently licensed and in good standing with the licensing board, and check whether any complaints have been issued against them. Each state will have their own searchable database. For example, you can search for California landscape architects via the state's Department of Consumer Affairs.
- Request bids from your selected landscape architects.
- Hire the one you like the most, taking care to have a clearly written contract outlining scope of work.
For more, check out our tips for smart hiring on Thumbtack.
How much does it cost to have landscaping done?
Professional landscaping can help reinvent your outdoor space, boost your curb appeal and get a major return on investment with. Landscaping can encompass anything from adding new plants, trees and shrubs, to leveling the ground and laying sod for a lawn, to building in hardscaping such as sidewalks, water features or retaining walls. The national average landscaping price is $10,160. Landscaping prices can be far lower (with hourly rates ranging from $50 to $150) if you're only seeking professional help with softscaping or seeking consultation on landscape design. Softscaping means adding or changing horticultural elements, such as planting a garden or adding a hedge. Hardscaping is where costs can really start to rise. Hardscaping requires labor and heavy equipment to excavate the earth; you may need to pour concrete, or you may need a pro who can transport and place gravel and other inorganic elements. Your total landscaping cost will vary based on the amount of work you want done, how much labor is required, and the cost of the materials you are using. A good rule of thumb for a major landscaping project, according to the American Society of Landscape Architects, is to budget 5 percent to 10 percent of the value of your home.
How much is lawn care service?
Ensuring a lush, green lawn is so much more than simply mowing and watering the grass; it's also pulling existing weeds and preventing future ones, fertilizing with the right nutrients, and coaxing new grass to grow in patchy spots. For many homeowners, a full-service lawn care company is the best way to maintain a beautiful lawn. The cost for professional lawn care depends on the size of the lawn and the services the homeowner chooses, as well as the location. For the typical suburban residence, the national average cost of full-service lawn care maintenance is $40-$50 per hour. Depending on the size of your lawn, that can cost you just $100 per month or more than $1,000 per month, but the average is about $350 per month. Most monthly services include a weekly cut, especially in the spring, as well as edging, weeding, and blowing the driveway, sidewalks and porches.
How much does it cost to landscape your front yard?
Prices for landscaping your front yard can range from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the scale of your front yard project. Your landscaping price will reflect how much change you implement, how much labor is required, and the cost of materials.
Landscaping is typically made up of softscaping and hardscaping. Softscaping refers to selecting trees, bushes, flowers and plants to achieve a desired aesthetic and to meet goals such as having a drought-tolerant yard. Hardscaping refers to moving earth, installing structures, and putting in decorative stonework, sidewalks or lighting. For softscaping, you may want to hire a landscape designer to consult on your plants and layout, and then do the digging and planting yourself or hire a gardner to handle the heavy lifting. A landscape designer's hourly rate may range from $50 to $150 or more. If you want a turnkey approach, meaning someone who works with you to create the vision and then executes all the work, landscaping pricing will typically come down to a cost per square foot rather than an hourly rate. It's a solid investment: Great landscaping can add up to 28 percent value to your home.
What should I do to my lawn in the spring?
Spring is the perfect time to start thinking about lawn care. The ground is recovering from a long, cold winter, plants are starting to grow, and the earth is ready to receive new seeds. When the weather starts to warm, the first step in your lawn care strategy is deciding what you would like to achieve and what you need to do to make it happen. Your next step is to start cleaning up. Rake your lawn free of decomposing leaves, trim back shrubs and branches, and clear out all the weeds. Once your lawn is cleared of debris, tend to your irrigation system. Test your system and decide whether any repairs are necessary. Now it's time to nourish the lawn. If you opt to aerate your lawn in spring, the national average cost is $70-$100. Consult with your lawn care pro, as some regions benefit from only aerating in fall. If you have bare spots, you can overseed the lawn to encourage new growth. Next you'll want to fertilize the lawn to ensure it grows in rich and lush. Professional fertilization services may range from under $50 to over $200, depending on your lawn size. If you have a bad weed problem, you (or your lawn care pro) can apply pre-emergent herbicide to prevent a weed outbreak. Make sure the irrigation system is routinely watering your lawn, and then enjoy watching the grass grow.
What should you look for when hiring a landscaper?
Landscaping can be costly — though it usually pays off in curb appeal and home resale value — so finding a landscaper who is worth the investment is important. When hiring a landscaper, look for proven success with the type of results you want. For example, if you know you want a drought-tolerant yard, research websites, reviews and portfolios that showcase beautiful drought-tolerant yards that the landscaper has installed. In addition to relevant experience, you'll want to find a landscape contractor who has good client reviews. Good communication skills are another important quality in a landscape contractor, since everything from plant selection to hardscape installation needs to be discussed and agreed upon. A landscape contractor who is reliable, easy to understand and able to listen to what you want will help make the process seamless and enjoyable.


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College Partners
Houston Community College
Drawing students from near and far, Houston Community College mirrors the diversity, openness and opportunity of the world-class city that is Houston. Since its opening in 1971, more than 1.3 million students have improved their lives through education and training obtained from HCCS.
Lamar University
Lamar University offers more than 150 programs of study that lead to bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees. There are more than 100 student clubs, organizations, honor societies, fraternities and sororities from which to choose. The eight-story Mary and John Gray library includes resources that exceed 1,000,000 volumes and has electronic access to millions more. With an enrollment that exceeds 11,000 and continues to grow, Lamar continues to offer a personalized environment and a student/faculty ratio that focuses on individual success.
Lone Star College-Kingwood
Lone Star College-Kingwood, opened 1984, serves more than 7,200 students and has distinct offerings in interior design, respiratory care and dental hygiene.
Lone Star College-North Harris
Lone Star College-North Harris, opened 1973, serves more than 11,000 students and is the district's only source for automotive technology, health information technology, child development and family studies, paralegal studies, medical assisting and pharmacy technology programs.
University of Houston
Founded in 1927, the University of Houston is the leading public research university in the vibrant international city of Houston. Each year, we educate 35,000 students in nearly 300 undergraduate and graduate academic programs, on campus and online. UH awards more than 6,900 degrees annually, with nearly 200,000 alumni.
University of Houston-Downtown
Excellence. Opportunity. Diversity. That's what you'll find at UH-Downtown, Houston's Downtown University. UHD is a public four-year university, offering a wide variety of bachelor's and master's degrees. UHD's dynamic campus is located in downtown Houston, easily accessed from all major freeways.
Sam Houston State University
Sam Houston State University was founded in 1879 and has an enrollment of approximately 16,416 students. There are 79 undergraduate degree programs, 54 masters' programs, and 5 doctoral programs in Criminal Justice, Educational Leadership, Counselor Education, Clinical Psychology, and Reading.


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Connected Celebrity Gifting Suite is recognized as one of the hottest tickets in town for actors during award seasons.
Producer Steve Stein and Connected gives creators and new companies from across the country the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get their products to A-list stars.
Participating clients' products range from global travel, jewelry, luggage, and apparel to culinary delicacies, beauty products and consultations with financial experts.
Each seasonal gifting suite provides the ability to get product photo opportunities with celebrities of film, TV,`music, and sports.
In addition to getting their products directly in the hands of stars, companies also receive major media coverage through regional, national, and international press, all of which cover the A-list event on television, cable, satellite, internet, magazines, and newspapers.
Steve Stein has over 20 years in the entertainment marketing industry; his approach enables companies to get their products directly in to the hands of the industry's top stars.
Stein says, "This is truly the answer for businesses in Los Angeles and beyond to expand in this economy."
Stein has lectured across the country on the powers of marketing with an emphasis on "Celebritizing" your product or service. Over the last 10 years, he was the pioneer of taking a sleepy "gift bag" at celebrity award shows and turning it into a full-fledged revenue generating industry. Working with producers, management and celebrities in the industry, he was able to take the gift bags concept to the next level by developing "Celebrity Gifting Suites" backstage at high profile celebrity events.
Steve has been featured in hundreds of media related stories, ranging from Dateline NBC to Howard Stern. Steve does not believe in "Thinking outside the box," his credo is "Smash the Box completely." He and his associates have taken this type of mental attitude and worked with everyone from Krispy Kreme Doughnuts to Scott Kay Platinum Jewelry.
For more information on Steve Stein and Connected Gift Rooms or gift bags, including dates for upcoming events and high-profile marketing opportunities, visit http://connectedgiftrooms.com/wordpress/?page_id=2
Sign up with Connected Gift Rooms here


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DALY CITY — The ink still fresh on their learner's permits, the teens got inside their cars, revved them up and fishtailed on wet asphalt. A hundred yards away, other newbie drivers had one hand on the wheel while banging out text messages.
It was enough to make a parent of a teen driver strongly consider hiding the family car keys and start stockpiling bus passes.
But in nearly every case, the crazy driving on Saturday was actually the parents' idea. Their teens were pushed into the hazardous driving scenarios as part of a seminar designed to give nascent drivers literal hands-on lessons in defensive driving and the pratfalls of distractions like smartphones.
"I wish we had this stuff when we were kids," said Mark Villarreal of Sacramento, a former San Jose resident and the father of Aleah, 16. "It makes me feel at ease knowing she's learning these skills and practicing them."
The program had particular resonance in the wake of Wednesday's crash in South San Jose where two 17-year-old drivers were arrested after a purported street race on Leigh Avenue that ended with one of the cars plowing through a house, seriously injuring a 40-year-old mother. According to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, car crashes are the leading cause of death for American teens.
The Bridgestone tire company put on the free clinic, which travels around the country and puts drivers up to the age of 21 behind the wheel of brand-new BMW sedans to learn skills like steering out of skids and properly using anti-lock brakes to avoid road hazards. On Saturday, the lessons were held in the vast parking lot of the Cow Palace, dotted with hundreds of cones to form impromptu obstacle courses while a water truck kept strategic patches nice and slick.
One of the more peculiar features of the three-hour workshop was a tight, winding course that included hairpin turns akin to those on San Francisco's Lombard Street. Driving golf carts, the teens were told to navigate the turns while trying to send a text.
Predictably, several plastic cones were flattened, even when the you鸿运彩票下载网址ths were given a second go-round without their phones.
"It was pretty hard. Before I knew it, I was hitting all the cones," Aleah said. "People always tell you鸿运彩票下载网址 texting and driving isn't good. Until you鸿运彩票下载网址 try it, you鸿运彩票下载网址 don't see what they mean. You have to take everything seriously no matter how easy it looks."
April, by the way, also happens to be National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
Saturday's practical lessons were paired with classroom sessions, and much of the instructions came from professional drivers, some of whom drive stunt cars for Hollywood films.
Among them was Dominic Cicero, a Portland-based race and stunt driver who coached the teens in negotiating a skid by steering out of it instead of fixating on the car's skid path.
"We want them to focus down the road," Cicero said. "After a few laps they feel comfortable. It's good to put them in this situation in a safe place."
In addition, the exercise gave eager you鸿运彩票下载网址ng drivers an excuse to put the pedal to the metal and spin a car around. Radeen Shemirani, a 15-year-old San Ramon resident who before Saturday boasted a wealth of go-cart racing experience but had driven a car for only three hours, relished the chance to practice defensive driving in an environment more forgiving than real traffic.
"You won't have this opportunity on the road, so you鸿运彩票下载网址 go all out and have fun doing it," Radeen said. "It was definitely a shock to me at first. Now if I'm driving by myself, I know exactly what to do. Without this, I would have driven differently out there on the road."
The experience gave his mother, Arezoo Shemirani, a little bit more confidence as she completes the rest of Radeen's driving education. Her elder daughter took part in the workshop last year.
"It's wonderful. I hope they keep up with it," she said of Bridgestone's program. "More teens should join."
Contact Robert Salonga at 408-920-5002. Follow him at .
For more information on the Bridgestone Teens Drive Smart Experience, go to .


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Dswancey necesitaba un nuevo diseño de logotipo y lanzó un concurso de diseño en 99designs.
Un ganador ha sido elegido entre 158 diseños de 37 diseñadores freelance.
Public Square Auction
We bring a modern and contemporary approach to a very "traditional" industry.
-We facilitate the sale of hard assets (ie. primarily real estate) through an online auction process coupled with an accelerated marketing campaign.
-Our name has incorporates "Public Square" which connotes a place where people have historically gathered and come together to listen to someone important, exchange, barter, lounge, and the list goes on and on. We like the deep-rooted traditional/historical thoughts, images, and sense of nostalgia that surrounds this part of the name.
However, we are a cutting-edge online auction company who leverages our state-of-the-art technology platform and highly-sophisticated marketing methods.
Our logo/branding needs to have very broad appeal.
Our target audience is pretty expansive: blue-chip financial institutions, sophisticated investors, first-time home buyers, home owners/sellers, real estate agents, etc.
So it needs to be appealing to both a young, hip, first-time home buyer, and to a mature, stodgy, senior executive at a bank.
We could be facilitating the sale of a dilapidated fixer-upper, starter home/condo, high-end luxury estate, or a high-rise office building.
We may incorporate items other than homes, real estate, etc so we do NOT want to have the home/real estate theme incorporated into the logo.
We are looking for a logo to represent our online auction company - Public Square Auction
-No cartoons.
-nothing too elegant that may take away from broad appeal.
-open both traditional and modern/contemporary feel
-no color specifications
-eye-catching and memorable.
-see comments in other sections of this design brief
Descubre cómo funciona un concurso de diseño u obtén más información sobre nuestros servicios de diseño de logo.


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anastazio necesitaba un nuevo diseño de otro y lanzó un concurso de diseño en 99designs.
Un ganador ha sido elegido entre 489 diseños de 108 diseñadores freelance.
n/ a
I 'm 27 years old and have an online business that is involved with sound effects and music for TV, radio, independent film, video games, websites etc.
I decided to 'crowdsource' my tattoo, since I can't find any cool designs out there and I can't make one myself.
I have studied sound and music production at good schools. Sound is my passion, but also the way I make my living. So I want to always have something to remind me of that, especially in times where the music industry is in trouble and many people are pessimistic about its future as an industry.
I also DJ from time to time at bars, clubs and mainly houses, which I prefer keeping as a hobby, although I went through a phase where I was taking it more seriously. Just so you get an idea, here are a few of my favorite artists/ DJs:
Fred Falke, Alan Braxe, Peaches, Daft Punk, Diplo, A-Trak, M.I.A., J- Dilla, DJ Premier, Erykah Badu, A Tribe Called Quest, Lee Perry, Horace Andy, The Beach Boys, Squarepusher, Aphex Twin.
A lot of reggae/ dancehall, hip hop and a lot of nu-disco/ house/ electroclash.
The target is mainly myself, since I 'll be the one looking at it most of the time ;)
IMPORTANT: There are new instructions added below.
I 'm looking for an original tattoo design for my inner wrist.
The theme of the tattoo is music and/ or sound.
I am in the music and sound industry, and own a pretty successful business related to sound effects and music for picture, video games etc. I want to symbolize music or sound to remind me of my dedication and passion for sound and music.
After I have selected a design, I will give it to a tattoo artist to finalize it and make it suitable for tattooing, if needed.
A few important notes:
- I want the tattoo to be just black and white (skin) without any colors.
- I 'm not looking for something common like a simple bass clef symbol.
However, a common symbol can work, if combined with other elements.
- A waveform or sine wave could work, although its not a necessity and might have to be combined with other elements.
- I would like it to cover most of the inner wrist, so I prefer denser areas to just thin lines.
- Although I like a symbol like the sine wave, I don't want the design to be 'techy' or geeky. I 'm more into more organic styles and/or classic styles such as tribal- inspired, goth style, hipster/ electro/ retro style.
- I 'm looking for something unique and extraordinary that stands out.
So don't think directly about sound and music- it could contain other elements. Think out of the box, even if that means going a bit outside the above guidelines.
IMPORTANT- New part added:
1) I think musical symbols are not working as well as 'sound' symbols. I suggest that designers work more with sound symbols, such as a waveform/ sound wave. However, I 'm also open to combining those with other abstract symbols.
2) I also wanted to show you something cool I found on the internet:
Its not directly linked to sound, but I like it a lot.
Here 's an idea:
A design that includes and/or combines the four types of sound waves:
sine, square, triangle and sawtooth.
(Every type of sound is made by a combination of those four.)


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Travel through Spain by bus
Bus services in Spain run to more than 170 destinations in a maximum journey time of 12 hours - there are a host of companies operating buses over the 16,000+ kilometres of motorways to be found throughout the country. Practically all of Spain's provinces are connected to Madrid, where there are two major bus stations (Avenida de América and Estación del Sur) providing services to a great number of cities, with departures approximately every hour. Barcelona also has excellent connections with the rest of the country. Sus estaciones principales son la de Sants y la del Paseo de Gracia. Many stations offer airport connection services. Use Movelia's search engine for detailed information on the routes, fares and timetables of the different companies. Here you can also reserve your ticket and get discounts for your journey. Remember that tickets must be bought in advance and cannot be purchased on the bus. As a guide, we provide the approximate length of some of the routes from Madrid to major tourist destinations.
|Madrid - Toledo
|50 minutes
|Madrid - Salamanca
|2h 30 min
|Madrid - Zaragoza
|4 hours
|Madrid - Valencia
|4h 15 min
|Madrid - Bilbao
|4h 30 min
|Madrid - Granada
|5 hours
|Madrid - Malaga
|6 hours
|Madrid - Seville
|6h 30 min
|Madrid - Barcelona
|8 hours
|Madrid - Santiago de Compostela
|9 hours


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#IBMtechU IBM Storage University in Washington DC - Day 5 Grid, SOA and Cloud Computing
Visits (19665)
Continuing my coverage of the annual [2010 System Storage Technical University], I attended some sessions from the System x and Federal track side of this conference.
I find it amusing that server people limit themselves to server sessions, and storage people to storage sessions. Sometimes, you have to step "outside your comfort zone" and learn something new, something different. Open your eyes and look around a bit. You might just be surprised what you find.
(FTC note: I work for IBM. IBM considers Novell a strategic Linux partner. Novell did not provide me a copy of Platespin Recon, I have no experience using it, and I mention it only in context of the presentation made. IBM resells Avocent solutions, and we use LCM gear in the Tucson Executive Briefing Center.)
technorati tags: IBM, Technical University, Grid, SOA, Cloud Computing, P2V, VMware, Novell, Platespin, x86, KVM, LCM, GCM, Avocent, CAC, TFA


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Slow-Roasted Asparagus ♥
~more recently updated recipes~
Original Post 2008: These days, when people talk about slow food, it's generally code for Slow Food, the Italian organization that's become an international movement, one that fights the disappearance of local food traditions, people's dwindling interest in the food we eat, where it comes from, how it tastes and how our food choices affect the rest of the world.
But not me, when I write about slow food, I mean slow food quite literally, that is, food cooked unusually slowly, sloooooow food.
This obsession with all-things-slow, it started with my first forays into slow-roasted tomatoes and really picked up steam with the life-changing slow-baked potatoes. But I would never-ever-ever have guessed that asparagus – so lovely when steamed just-til-done, you know, that tender-crisp point of perfection – would turn into some entirely different vegetable when cooked for such a long time.
The inspiration came from pastry chef and cookbook author Gina DePalma. In a recent Spapshot from Italy at Serious Eats, she wrote that the Italians have an undeserved reputation for 'hammering their vegetables', cooking them til kingdom come. (Ha. I hadn't thought about the underlying meaning of that phrase! And speaking of phrases, the comments on Serious Eats are interesting, they really 'hammer' Gina for bringing an abomination to asparagus. Clearly, others could benefit from real experience with slow food!)
These are delicious! They won't replace all my other favorite asparagus recipes and they're best for fat spears of asparagus but add this recipe to an already long list of all the great ways to enjoy asparagus. Thank you, Gina, for the inspiration!
2012 Update: I take it back. These almost-creamy asparagus definitely earn a spot in my list of Six Years of Favorite Asparagus Recipes. When we took them to friends recently, there was a small fuss over who got only three spears, not four! Yes, they're that good.
"I skipped the blanching and cooked the asparagus at that temp for about 40 minutes. It was brown and crispy and so, so good." ~ Jennifer
"Boy! Was. That. Good!!!! I loved the crunchy tops." ~ Sally
"THIS IS SOOOO AMAZING!!" ~ Anonymous
Time to table: 1 hour
Serves 4
Water to cover, well-salted
1 pound thick spears of asparagus
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 ounce Parmesan, grated
1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter
Bring the water to a boil. Preheat oven to 400F.
Meanwhile, wash asparagus well. (Optional: With a vegetable peeler, peel off the skin right up to the tips. Gina doesn't do this but I've learned to appreciate this step.) Snap off the woody end, discard (though you'll find a very tasty edible bite at the first part of the discarded end, the 'cooks treat'). Cook for 3 - 4 minutes, just until beginning to soften but still bright green. Remove from water and drain.
Spread a tablespoon of olive oil on a rimmed baking sheet. (Gina puts foil down for easy clean-up.) Roll the spears in the oil until they're completely covered. Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet, butted up tight against each other, the tips pointed one direction. Sprinkle spears with Parmesan, then dot with butter.
Roast for about 30 minutes, what Gina calls "roasting the heck out of them", until the asparagus is slightly browned and bubbling. Use a spatula to transfer to a serving dish.
ALANNA's TIPS & KITCHEN NOTES
This would be a great way to serve fresh hot asparagus to guests – so long as there's room in the oven, plating is the only last-minute attention that's required.
If you happen to have individual oven-safe serving dishes, these would make for great presentation. The spears look soo good straight out of the oven, especially how they stick together: part of the charm is how the spears become one. Hmm. How about this? Another way to get the same affect for individual servings would be to use one roasting pan but to separate the asparagus into four separate sections, then lift onto individual plates. Yes, much easier!
2012: I happened to have banana leaves hanging around (doesn't everyone? :-) we'd made tamales the night before) and used them to wrap the spears into individual servings. Very cool looking, I'd definitely do that again.
2012: These are good enough, I recommend making extra. People will want seconds.
Still Hungry?
Once you do, new recipes will be automatically delivered straight to your e-mail In Box.
~ Six Years of Favorite Asparagus Recipes ~
~ Gorgeous Raw Asparagus Salad ~
~ Asparagus Tapenade ~
~ Roasted Aspargus with Feta ~
~ more asparagus recipes ~
from A Veggie Venture
~ Roasted Salmon & Asparagus ~
~ Easy-to-Elegant Asparagus Soup ~
~ Asparagus Custard Tart ~
~ more asparagus recipes ~
from Kitchen Parade, my food column
famous asparagus-to-zucchini Alphabet of Vegetables.
© Copyright Kitchen Parade 2012


text:
Getting under way shortly on ESPN, it's the Bengals and the Ravens. Possible topics of discussion: is Baltimore ready to let it fly with Joe Flacco? How does Marvin Lewis still have a job? Public viewings at football stadiums and wakes in general: weird, or weirdest?
Then at 10:15 p.m., the Raiders host the Chargers. Segue: Carson Palmer used to play for the Bengals. Synergy! Oh yeah, Chris Berman and Trent Dilfer will be calling this game so if you're thinking of a self-inflicted public viewing or wake in general, there you go. Double synergy!
Discuss all that and more down below.


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Tag Archives: Tourism
Nashville Music Row
Last week I had to shoot medical training at the Vanderbilt University hospital. This was the second time in two years that I was able to travel to Nashville, Tennessee, the first was on assignment for AAA and we were allowed free access to the newly created Johnny Cash Museum, and boy was that fun! Cash is an Idol of mine and the images and video I was able to capture on that day was a once in a lifetime experience, the memory will stay with me always. Unfortunately,on this latest pass through, the only opportunity I had to film Music Row was a few hours on Friday night as we went out to dinner in preparation for our 5 a.m. call time the next morning.
I left the big cameras (Canon 1DX) in the hotel room and only took the Fuji XT1 for this sunset street session. The Fuji is a very compact camera and I had an 18 to 55 lens attached with a 32 GB card inserted, Velvia setup for the bright colors. The streets were crowded and the neon lights were lit up brilliantly as I walked from bar to bar, dodging in and around drunk tourists and clickety clacking cowboys..all whilst trying not to get run over by passing cars and pedaling bicycle bars on wheels…
I tried my best to capture the essence and flavor of the street without drawing any unwanted attention to myself! Some of the bands I heard were phenomenal with their twangy pulse, others could barely keep a beat and sounded like cats trying to claw their way out of an old Volkswagen bus.
The neon signs were mesmerizing and uniquely crafted and I decided to try to push the limits of the camera as I struggled to learn its menu and buttons. Its compact size allowed me to be free to capture many unposed moments and I admit, though short, my time as a street photographer was fun.
I was lucky enough to chat with the Elvis impersonator and a woman playing for tips on the street, as well as a BBQ food server and a police officer. On our final night, we snagged a few nosebleed tickets to the Ryman Theater at the Grand Ole Opry, and heard country legend Ronnie Milsap perform on the piano. Dude has some serious skills…..
I could spend a week on Music Row and capture thousands of Raw images if I had the time… perhaps I will return here before this Christmas and collect a few different looks and maybe take in a hockey game or tour the Country Music Hall of Fame. Either way, I know this wasnt my last adventure here!
Please feel free to click through and purchase a few images for yourself or your friends if you like.
Check back often as I will continually update this page.
More images can be found at AlexMenendez.Photoshelter.com
Posted in Country Music, Music Row, Nashville, Neon LIghts, Tennessee, Tourism, travel, Uncategorized Also tagged Country Music, Fuji XTI, Music Row, Nashville, Neon Signs, Ronnie Milsap, travel, Vacation Comments Off on Nashville Music Row


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text:
on being 'busy'
Wednesday, August 8
Of course, busyness is an essential and inevitable part of making a living or raising a family. But it's the pace that I find the most challenging to manage. I find myself working in unhealthy bursts of on and off. An imbalance of a high-intensity push and a guilt-ridden calm. Sometimes even my favorite "calm" moments, like story time with my baby boy, have been tarnished by the back of my mind reminding me of other things that I need to "get done". "Getting things done" has become my accidental and uninspiring mantra for day-to-day living, covering up my underlying daily desire to feel connected to myself and my different roles {especially as a mother and a wife}, my family and friends, my community, and the life I want to live.
I don't want to use "busy" anymore, as a filler word or as a social status or whatever it is. So I've made three small goals to help me get rid of the "busy", slow down and refocus on the people I love and the kind of life I was trying to live in the first place.
1. Put down the emails and the phone after 6pm. Just put it away! Read a book, rock a baby, have a meal without distraction.
2. Be OK with untidiness. Become one with it ;) Most of the time it's going to happen and it's alright.
3. Take at least a half hour each day to focus on myself spiritually and physically.
146 comments:
- Madeline Veenstra said...
Wow, this is so similar to the blog post I wrote for work last week! It's a very common affliction, and I'm based in Australia not the US. I'm just as bad though and have decided that instead of saying busy when people ask how I've been, I'm going to say happy or excited- I think that would set a lovely tone for the conversation. Good luck x
- August 08, 2012 12:37 AM
- Nicole Dianne said...
implementing no emails and phone after 6pm sounds glorious.
i'm trying to come up with a game plan to sort out my days and have more "husband and me time," I know it's absolutely necessary to do so
- August 08, 2012 12:38 AM
- iordanovs said...
I love the "high-intensity push & guilt-ridden calm" bit, story of my life! Balance is always so hard, but don't those two balance each other out? ;)
- August 08, 2012 12:38 AM
- [then there was us] said...
This is beautiful Sydney. As a mother of a 16 month old precious boy, and a stay at home mom trying to be a super hero and manage mommy-hood and a house can seem like such busy work at times you forget to stop and enjoy what you're living, which is LIFE. I agree with your three goals. This is also something I am currently trying to work on. PS. Your boy is simply darling. :)
~Yesenia @ {then there was us}
- August 08, 2012 12:40 AM
- EM {Pushups with Polish} said...
damn. i gotta read this book. GO GIRL.
- August 08, 2012 12:43 AM
- Nicole Dianne said...
So I just hopped on over to another blog and read this quote..
this book called "Bittersweet" by Shauna Niequist said that it's not hard to figure out what you want your life to be about. it's figuring out what you're willing to give up in order to have that life.
thought it went along nicely with your post :)
- August 08, 2012 12:44 AM
- Unknown said...
I LOVE this.. I always have my to- do list in the back of my head. I need to take on those goals too
- August 08, 2012 12:47 AM
- Jennie said...
I agree! I work full time, so I'm on the computer an awful lot, but I don't blog or answer emails on the weekends, and I try to stay away from the internet in general on Sundays. It gives me peace of mind. :)
For me though, I NEED to be busy. I think there is something to be said about the fact that busy is a filler word and synonymous with success, but it is something I literally need. If my life is not full with things I need and want to do, I become lethargic and then subsequently depressed. Balance in all things, I suppose. Then again I don't have a child and a blog to manage that must sink a lot of my hours. For me, blogging is a release. I can't speak for you, but I can imagine how stressful I would be if I started having paid sponsors. "Are they getting enough clicks?" Ahh! It would give me severe anxiety. :) I also don't have a husband that works full time and is (will be?) going to grad school. You have a full plate and I wish the very best for you! Good luck with your new goals!
- August 08, 2012 12:49 AM
- dxeechick said...
awesome goals. it is SOOOO hard to do. but utterly important. i need to evaluate how my busy time is spent as well!
- August 08, 2012 12:56 AM
- megannielsen said...
Wow Syd I love this. You are so right. As i was reading this i kept thinking, wow that's what i do.
I'm so happy to hear you are aiming for slowing down and enjoying life more - i think that's such an awesome goal that more of us should have.
Hugs honey.
- August 08, 2012 12:59 AM
- Gizem İzmirli said...
wooww.. I wanna read book asap.. I hope I will find print of it in Turkish. If I don't I will read it in English. Thank you...
Have a nice day..
- August 08, 2012 1:12 AM
- Gaby said...
That book sounds really interesting; I remember reading about this effect in my undergrad psych classes! I just read a book called The Way of the Happy Woman which has inspired me to try out the same kinds of goals. Recently I've blogged a few times about how we use our iphones, and it's been so interesting to hear everyone's thoughts! I'm trying to spend at least an hour technology free in the morning to just be quiet. I also find that as a yoga teacher, I'm busy but not overly so. And it's nice. x
- August 08, 2012 1:24 AM
- Meg O said...
Have you read the NY Times article called The 'Busy' Trap?
It's quite interesting and supports what you are saying. I think you will enjoy it.
- August 08, 2012 1:41 AM
- Aoife said...
This is a fantastic post!
While I agree with all of it, the part that most inspires me is your goals at the end. The idea of personal life mantras and undertakings is something that I have found so grounding. What's more, I think that in setting these out for yourself, you've actually already begun number 3 on your list. That's so wonderful!
I also wanted to compliment you on how beautifully written this is. You're an incredibly talented writer and your blog showcases that in such a pleasurable way.
Have a magical week xx
- August 08, 2012 2:25 AM
- Heidi said...
It's so true, I am constantly saying how busy I am and some days I am not that busy, but I will still respond in the same way out of habit. I guess we all have to work on scheduling down time, you're not alone. -Heidi http://fabricandfrosting.blogspot.no/
- August 08, 2012 3:26 AM
- M said...
awesome, thank you, I'm going to try to find this book now!
- August 08, 2012 3:59 AM
- Evelyn said...
This post is genius. I completely agree that we idolise busy-ness and that I use the word to describe my life WAY too much!
I like to be active and have lots of plans and activities... but why does that need to go hand-in-hand with the tired & frazzled connotations of 'busy'? It doesn't!
Your three small goals are fantastic. I am going to come up with some for myself... when I next get a moment. ;p
- August 08, 2012 4:09 AM
- Bethany said...
I feel so convicted by this! Every few months or so I try to start cutting the "noise" out of my life. I think it's time to do so again.
- August 08, 2012 4:50 AM
- Ana said...
I love this! I read an article on this same subject a few weeks ago that got me thinking, and I'm definitely going to check out this book too. I had never realized it before, but we really do seem to enjoy saying that we're busy (even if we don't actually enjoy having a never-ending to-do list constantly).
I've thought a lot about how to switch things up, and I love your suggestions. For me, I'm also trying to focus on the present moment (which I've realized is harder than you'd think!) and enjoy the process of whatever I'm doing in the moment, rather than plan a few steps ahead in my mind - I think that gives a sense of urgency and busyness, even if we aren't really that busy to begin with.
Happy Wednesday! :)
- August 08, 2012 4:56 AM
- susanne @ tall pine nest said...
I'll have to put that book on my wish list. I resonate so much, here. Constantly my husband reminds me that I don't HAVE to do anything except care for our baby boy, Archer, and make sure our home/finances aren't falling apart. Everything else is extra.
- August 08, 2012 5:12 AM
- Life etc... said...
Love this. Busyness is definitely a part of life these days it seems. I'm a full-time uni student with a couple of jobs, so my kind of 'busy' is obviously different from yours, but leaves the same feelings of guilt/achievement, frantic activity/exhausted inertia. But my boyfriend and I have just made a pact to stop complaining about not having enough 'time' and being too 'busy' - you've got to embrace and appreciate the choices you make I guess! :)
Life etc
- August 08, 2012 5:39 AM
- Jackie said...
These are things I believe a new mother goes through. I felt the same way and have learned to let go of the worrying about the mess and embrace the time with my little ones. Also, I agree I gave up using "busy" a few years ago when it started to feel rude to say to people or to hear from others. " I've just been so busy" translated to I don't know how to make time for you. Plus, like you said its a filler word for people who can't think of something better to say. Maybe more people should consider thinking about these things and taking action...what a thoughtful everyday society we would have. Good Post!!
- August 08, 2012 5:52 AM
- Anna @ IHOD said...
I have been coming to the same conclusions this year! I would love to read this book. Its easy for me to fall into late night working due to my having to work from home, but I crave quiet and calm moments with my family. Recently wrote some posts on this, and Madeline of Uber Chic for Cheap shared this awesome quote with us:
"Besides the noble art of getting things done, there is a nobler art of leaving things undone. The wisdom of life consists in the elimination of nonessentials."
Thanks for the inspiration friend!
- August 08, 2012 6:02 AM
- Unknown said...
i really need to let go of the mess--i am six months pregnant and cannot keep on top of everything like i used to and i have to accept it.
Instead of spending time in the evenings tidying i should spend the time with my husband, it is not like it will be the two of us for much longer :)
- August 08, 2012 6:06 AM
- Ainsley said...
I love this! Great advice.
- August 08, 2012 6:19 AM
- Jessie Frederick said...
Such a great post! Very inspiring. Good luck with cutting out the "busy."
- August 08, 2012 6:27 AM
- Unknown said...
great post, thanks for sharing!
- August 08, 2012 6:33 AM
- Katie Lee said...
I can completely resonate with this post and I'm so glad you wrote it. It seems to have perfect timing for my life right now as other people seem to be telling me I'm not busy enough. If I don't have a perfectly tidy house or missed one task I must have been lazy or didn't do anything all day. When in reality I did a lot and some of it was abstract. And even if I did enjoy a calm moment of peace and reflection...why is that considered wrong?
- August 08, 2012 6:39 AM
- Stevie Leigh said...
Amen. This is great.
- August 08, 2012 6:42 AM
- alissa b said...
great post--i really appreciate these type of posts when you do them! sometimes life is hard or "busy", and it's nice to get honest posts like these!
definitely going to take a look at this book!
alissa b
- August 08, 2012 6:49 AM
- valentina said...
super heavenly post- a thought i think i always have but have never been able to put into action. i'm going to try your 3 rules!
- August 08, 2012 6:58 AM
- Ginger Tea said...
- August 08, 2012 6:59 AM
- Katherine said...
Great post. Thought you'd like this read:
- August 08, 2012 7:06 AM
- Sandy a la Mode said...
this is such an inspiring post and it describes my life exactly! i am always so BUSY with work and blogging and baby stuff... i just need to sit back and enjoy life once in awhile!!
Sandy a la Mode
- August 08, 2012 7:15 AM
- Simonne said...
this is something I think about 24/7! Def going to read the book. Great goals!
- August 08, 2012 7:22 AM
- Brandi LeAnn said...
I need this. Thank you! ♥
- August 08, 2012 7:24 AM
- Nicole Renee said...
I needed this post today BAD! Thanks for sharing:).
- August 08, 2012 7:26 AM
- Unknown said...
I love your baby
is so adorable
you doing a perfect family. Step by here often and is the first time you write
A greeting from Spain-
- August 08, 2012 7:43 AM
- Meredith said...
I think this idea is wonderful. It's hard to not use "busy" as a crutch. Thanks for sharing!
- August 08, 2012 7:54 AM
- 3 Peanuts said...
I totally agree with this. I too have written about it on my blog and plan to write about it again. I also think that our words shape our own reality so if we describe ourselves as busy and stressed, we will be.
- August 08, 2012 7:54 AM
- Unknown said...
Awesome post, and great perspective! I think I need to work harder to refocus as well :)
- August 08, 2012 8:02 AM
- Unknown said...
Love these suggestions!! Need to do this myself!
- August 08, 2012 8:06 AM
- Amber Du said...
Great post!
There was a recent article in the NYT on a similar topic of how we have found ourselves in the "busy" trap. I think we sometimes default to "busyness" to feel value in what we do because we live in a culture in which our productivity is linked to our self-worth.
- August 08, 2012 8:07 AM
- Lana Lulu Handmade said...
I love your goals. I started doing just that last year when I decided to slow down on the sewing/crafting/blogging at night and just "hanging out" with my family. My site hasn't had many new entires for awhile, my traffic has slowed down (didn't really have much to begin with anyways) but thats ok. Being a mommy and wife is by far funner and way more
- August 08, 2012 8:16 AM
- Anna Demko said...
ohhh WOW! You speak for so many of us and with added personality of a perfectionist, I cannot help myself but 'do things'. Every day is valued by how busy it was and what was done... I applaud you for trying to refocus and gain control over busy.
- August 08, 2012 8:19 AM
- Tanya Dempsey said...
I love this and I'm going through the same thing with a toddler and a baby due in the next few weeks.
Thanks for the inspiration.
Well said.
T xx
November Grey
- August 08, 2012 8:30 AM
- Unknown said...
This is so great! I'm working full time, planning a wedding that's coming up in less than two months (eek), and I'm finding myself feeling overly busy, but not particularly overly fulfilled.
We've taken to having 'family' night on Sundays where our friends with kids come over and we cook them dinner and just play and hang out. We don't want to miss anything because we're too busy to get together, so scheduling it ensures we'll have time.
Even though we could be playing catch up, taking time just for yourself (an hour of yoga, lunch with a girlfriend, church) can completely rejuvenate you and make you that much more productive because of it! Great post!
- August 08, 2012 8:31 AM
- Hailey. said...
Those are things we all need to do, but we just get wrapped up in life. Loved this post!
xo Hailey
- August 08, 2012 8:40 AM
- Dave and Stephanie said...
so true and a great reminder to slow down. it reminded me of this fantastic talk by elder uchtdorf from general conference a couple of years ago. http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/of-things-that-matter-most?lang=eng
- August 08, 2012 8:45 AM
- Emily said...
This post resonated with me so much. I have been thinking along these lines the past few months, and I'm definitely going to check out the book. I keep thinking my "busy" life will calm down and I will "catch up" at some point, but I recently realized it has been years since I felt like I was anything other than overwhelmed with busy-ness. I think that in itself made me realize how out of touch I am with myself in too many ways. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this, and I'm looking forward to picking up the book!
- August 08, 2012 8:45 AM
- Jen Holtkamp said...
these are perfect goals! thanks for the morning inspiration! :)
- August 08, 2012 8:48 AM
- Danielle said...
Love this! Multitasking is my enemy right now. I feel like it's such a catch-22: you want to get things done and live in and enjoy the little moments. It's a struggle to strike a balance.
- August 08, 2012 8:50 AM
- Megan Nash said...
I am still in college and this feeling of being HAPPY when making things off my list is one reason I love when school starts. Don't get me wrong I love summer but the weather and being busy is amazing to me..Thanks for your post making me realize I am not crazy haha
- August 08, 2012 8:51 AM
- mK said...
I agree soo much. My husband and I have a bit of a crazy summer and so we finally got to take a vacation. I decided not to do email or blogging the entire time. it was Wonderful. BUT then mid way through our vacation I got a call that the business I worked for decided to sell...and sell fast!!! In fact I wouldn't have a job by the end of my vacation. I got home and suddenly my schedule is halved - it's been an interesting week of just realizing that busyness and having a million things on my to-do list (like I see most bloggers do) doesn't define who I am. So I TOO am learning to thrive in other areas like blessing people, taking time to pray more and read more..etc. And of course I still will be looking for a new job in the midst of it all. Thanks for your post - it's very encouraging and affirming!
- August 08, 2012 8:55 AM
- Krysta said...
The book sounds a little similar to a recent Op-Ed piece in the NYT: http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/06/30/the-busy-trap/
A funny, yet true, read that probably resonates with a lot of people these days!
- August 08, 2012 8:59 AM
- Sarah said...
I can so relate to this! thanks for the inspiration. Time to re-prioritize and set some new ground rules!
- August 08, 2012 8:59 AM
My husband and I have been talking about this a lot in the past year. We rarely have the same days off (he works retail, I work in an office), and we realized that we both felt really guilty if we relaxed much on our days off. We felt like we should always be running errands, cleaning the house, working in the garden or SOMETHING. The fact of the matter was, we both wanted the other person to relax. We never got upset if the other took a day off to chill. So now we try to make it a point to spend at least one of our days off mainly just relaxing. I take naps on Saturdays now without feeling guilty. He's been laying around watching the Olympics. You know what? STuff still runs just fine. Our house is still clean, we still have groceries, and we're both happier.
- August 08, 2012 9:01 AM
- Sarah said...
beautifully written! Definitely something I need to think about more often :)
- August 08, 2012 9:01 AM
I've got to read this book ASAP. Where to grab a copy? It looks interesting. Natural Remedies for Allergies
- August 08, 2012 9:03 AM
- iamchasingbaby said...
I just wanted to thank you for posting weeks ago about reading Buddhism for Mothers. I was in a pretty pathetic state at that time, considered it a sign, and purchased on Amazon immediately. It has been life changing, thus far. Seriously. Thank you thank you, again!! This is why I LOVE the world of blogs!
- August 08, 2012 9:11 AM
- Steph said...
Thank you for this. As a new mom getting ready to go back to work this is exactly what I needed to be reminded of.
- August 08, 2012 9:12 AM
This is the greatest thing I've heard in a long time.
So very true.
- August 08, 2012 9:13 AM
- Rissy said...
I know a lot of us love to read your blog for your fantastic style and pictures, but you just proved once again that you are a fantastic writer! I absolutely loved reading this because I myself say "busy" when responding to peoples' questions regarding my days.
Great reminder post
- August 08, 2012 9:21 AM
- Unknown said...
This is an awesome post. I am sure just keeping up on your inbox alone takes like 5 hours a day, let alone all of your other things going on with your blog! It's a double-edged sword, huh?
Thanks for reminding me to take time out for the small and simple joys in life :)
- August 08, 2012 9:36 AM
- Link said...
Outstanding insight. Thank you for sharing. I feel as if it is ingrained in our culture to keep "busy," otherwise you are seen as lazy or unmotivated. I think I'll start saying I'm motivated to keep myself happy, and that means lowering my busy levels!
- August 08, 2012 9:38 AM
- Kelsey said...
For some reason, my previous attempt to post a comment was unsuccessful. GREAT post! Thanks for the food for thought. I agree. Also, this reminds me of Pres. Uchtdorf's message from the Ensign last month about always considering ourselves as in the middle so we live more meaningfully.
- August 08, 2012 9:38 AM
- Alyson said...
I connect so much with this on so many levels. We are always so busy but are we always doing what we love? How am I valuing my little girl when an email to whoever is more important than spending a few minutes with her, especially since I don't see her all day?
- August 08, 2012 9:39 AM
- Kelsey said...
Just in case you want to look up what I'm talking about: https://www.lds.org/ensign/2012/07/always-in-the-middle?lang=eng
- August 08, 2012 9:39 AM
- MelissaMichelle said...
I have been having conversations about this very thing a lot lately. Something that really gets me at work is that if anyone takes their full 1 hour unpaid lunch break then they are viewed as a "slacker". We NEED that time to break away from 8 hours on the computer and step away from the busyness. In other countries everyone takes two hour lunch breaks to eat and nap. Thanks for the book rec! I'm going to pick it up :)
- August 08, 2012 9:42 AM
- Newlymeds said...
Great post! I recently promised myself the same thing. It is important to slow down and enjoy life!
- August 08, 2012 9:58 AM
- thankfifi said...
I'd love to try to adopt that rule of putting away the computer after 6pm to focus on quiet time with the husband or family or friends. I shall attempt to start next week (when I'm not so... busy). Doh.
♥ ThankFifi
- August 08, 2012 9:58 AM
- kelly said...
great post. love it.
- August 08, 2012 10:01 AM
- Unknown said...
I recently wrote a post similar to this too. Maybe we're all feeling "busy/guilty/not guilty/calm/imbalanced" about keeping priorities in line. Anyways, I wanted to recommend a book to you and everyone! "The Culture Code" by Clotaire Rapaille. It's amazing and explains how culture vs. others. But the reason we have a "pride" about being so so busy is b/c our culture (america) holds it in such high regard. And if we're NOT moving, we're "dead." It's a great great book...lots to be learned and realized. I feel calmer about life after each chapter.
- August 08, 2012 10:03 AM
Unfortunately, i think this is a very common 'problem' that you are facing, and it is sad that happy calm moments are muddled with guilt and thoughts of what's next. I too am constantly working off a list and feeling guilty for what i did not get done, especially when it comes to my loved ones. I often fantasize about living somewhere in the country or the woods, where there is no hussle and bussle, but then i wonder if i would slow down, or just find a different version of 'busy'?
- August 08, 2012 10:03 AM
- Stephanie said...
I read an article in the NY Times recently that talks about this same subject - how "busy" has become a sort of crutch for not fully experiencing life. You might like it: http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/06/30/the-busy-trap/
- August 08, 2012 10:05 AM
- Chantelle said...
This is fantastic. I really hope to incorporate some of your goal in my daily living as well. Busy is such a terrible word because it encompasses a plethora of activities, but none of which we take the time to explain and delve into how they make our life more fulfilling or not fulfilling at all. Some peace and quiet to reflect each day is a great idea.
- August 08, 2012 10:19 AM
- Mickelle said...
wow, i really liked this post. I've been feeling like a failure lately bc i'm either "too busy" or "not busy enough". it just made me think. i really like your goals too. thanks for sharing!
- August 08, 2012 10:21 AM
- Kristal said...
This is just perfect timing. I think everyone can relate to this in some way. You are so right on, it's almost like "busy" makes us feel like we are achieving something. We thrive for busy for some reason and most of us probably create the things to do. We all need to slow it down and implement little house rules, things to make us stop and enjoy the time. I love the idea of simply replacing that word and spreading the positivity.
- August 08, 2012 10:26 AM
- Katie said...
Such insight from you here, Sydney! Thank you for the reminder.
- August 08, 2012 10:31 AM
- Ana said...
best piece I've ever read- talks about EXACTLY what you are expressing. I will have to go out and purchase that book
- August 08, 2012 10:37 AM
- Melinda said...
I just taught a lesson about this very thing last Sunday!
Dieter F. Uchtdorf said this:
"Let's be honest; it's rather easy to be busy. We all can think up a list of tasks that will overwhelm our schedules. Some might even think that their self-worth depends on the length of their to-do list. They flood the open spaces in their time with lists of meetings and minutia—even during times of stress and fatigue. Because they unnecessarily complicate their lives, they often feel increased frustration, diminished joy, and too little sense of meaning in their lives.
...we would do well to slow down a little, proceed at the optimum speed for our circumstances, focus on the significant, lift up our eyes, and truly see the things that matter most."
- August 08, 2012 10:40 AM
- Ana said...
Ok, I should have scrolled through your posts first- apprently people have already sent that nytimes piece to you. Sorry!
- August 08, 2012 10:40 AM
- Torrie said...
For most of my life, I have been a very busy-oriented person. When I was still in college, I always took at least 18 credits (one semester I even took 21) and worked 2-3 jobs. I was constantly going, going, going all the time, and it seemed like there would be no end in sight.
However, our Heavenly Father often blesses us with the necessary trials we need to teach us the lessons we most need to learn. The trial that we were sent was the unexpected passing away of my 3-year-old nephew. When I heard of my nephew's death, it was a huge wake-up call. I could see very clearly that in those days immediately following his death, I did not focus on my schoolwork or on my jobs or on how much I was getting done. I instead focused on truly enjoying each day to the fullest because I knew from personal experience that you never know what may happen next.
Thank you so much for your thoughts. I'll have to check out that book soon.
- August 08, 2012 10:43 AM
- carli said...
Beautifully said. I couldn't agree more. I feel like I'm often in a very similar state of mind. I love your idea of 3 small goals. I am going to write some down for myself today. Already I feel more hopeful that 'busy' doesn't need to define my life, who I am, and who I really want to be. Thanks for the lovely post today Sydney. TOTALLY needed this :)
- August 08, 2012 10:47 AM
- Callie Lynch said...
This , unfortunately, seems like my most common response also when people ask how life is. I really like the 3 goals you have set. Especially spending daily time to spiritually build yourself up. Great post topic!
- August 08, 2012 10:57 AM
- Ashley said...
So very true. Someone commented the other day that I "thrive on being busy". I actually hated that and think your personal goals are pretty great!
- August 08, 2012 11:06 AM
- Unknown said...
my favorite: be one with the untidiness! sometimes, you just gotta be ok with it. :)
ashlee @ somethingus.blogspot.com
- August 08, 2012 11:12 AM
- bronwyn said...
Such a great post! You should also read http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/06/30/the-busy-trap/!
- August 08, 2012 11:15 AM
- Walker said...
Agreed! I know many people have posted this NYT op/ed, but here it is again: http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/06/30/the-busy-trap/
My oldest sister sent it to me in response to our other sister's chapel message a few weeks ago. She discussed the importance of "Rest." God made the universe in six days, then took a day of rest. Sunday is our accepted day of rest. Shouldn't we take the time each year for a special rest? Some call it vacation, some call it a sabbatical, but we all understand the importance of fitting it into our lives.
I think this goes hand-in-hand with our busyness problem. I just had a nice relaxing lunch break with my husband, but instead of enjoying the casual conversation, I brought along a notebook and pen so we could map out the next few weeks' worth of childcare, trips, and purchases. Whew!
I like your plans for taking rest in your busy life and hope I can model that behavior, too!
- August 08, 2012 11:22 AM
- Andrea said...
Ohh I totally want to read that book!
I have a friend who is constantly telling me how "busy" her life is to the point I feel like she's bragging and putting down me because I choose to prioritize and let things go so I can enjoy my life with my husband and kids. (though I am human and do find myself wishing for more hours in the day from time to time) Everyone has a busy life but how are we spending our busy life? Stressed, overwhelmed, trying so hard to be perfect? Or are we enjoying and embracing the busy-ness?
- August 08, 2012 11:41 AM
- Jordanecdotes said...
I can totally relate to this post! Thanks for inspiring me to start relfecting and thinking of ways to get the "busy" out of my life.
- August 08, 2012 12:01 PM
- Jess said...
It is great that you can recognize your need for change early on, instead of when you have blown by many years of your life and Everette's childhood. Sometimes we all need to step back to see if the life we are living is being lived in the way we want it to be. Good for you! Definitely take some time for yourself each day!
- August 08, 2012 12:11 PM
- Maria @ GLD said...
Those are great goals. I should do the same.
- August 08, 2012 12:21 PM
- Bethany said...
I struggle with this, too! I love your goals. I might have to adopt some of them myself!
- August 08, 2012 12:28 PM
- Bethany said...
I struggle with this, too! I love your goals. I might have to adopt some of them myself!
- August 08, 2012 12:28 PM
- The Flynnigans said...
I totally agree with you. I think far too often we forget to stop and "smell the roses" and assess our lives. We're much too critical on ourselves and need to slow down. Of course, I'm no straight-A student in that department but I'm learning to live with some disorder and that it's okay not to have everything perfect or just like so. It's something I always have to remind myself but gradually things have changed. :) xo sista
- August 08, 2012 12:59 PM
- Unknown said...
i really love this. i think when having little ones it makes us realize the importance of the little things that take a little time. when i just had my first (i feel so old saying that for some reason) i felt so guilty day in and day out on ways to interact with her. guilty every time i put her down. the good news is once you have two a lot more stress comes-but the baby has an older sibling to tug them along and play with.
what a great post-makes me stay "busy" but remember whats really important.
you seem wonderful-love that ive added this to my daily rotation.
- August 08, 2012 1:26 PM
Love love love the idea. I know I've had this conversation with others before...why is it that we always feel the need to respond "busy" when people ask as how we are? I even did that earlier today! We need a new standard response - or, better yet, a lack of a standard response.
- August 08, 2012 1:46 PM
- Rini said...
Totally agree with you! I think everyone should have small goeals like that. Taking about busyness, it also seems to me that nowadays people are more than ever afraid to be alone or lonely ...thats why maybe the prefer to be "busy" rather than just LIVE and BE with themselves, go with their own pace...I see this in the daily, simple things too...I spent a lot of time on the train, riding to and from work, there are people who can not just sit on their seats and "ride the train" you know or just do...nothing (!?) they HAVE to talk on the mobile or write messages or E-Mails or post on Facebook.....always looking at the screen or clicking on buttons...it is kind of sad in a way, really...
- August 08, 2012 1:56 PM
- ZADIN said...
Busy stress is my middle name... but I think I've become addicted with both of them... Thank you for the advise, I will try to take it into consideration.
- August 08, 2012 2:11 PM
- Aja said...
Totally relating to this right now.. it's like "busy" is the go-to answer for everything.. but we're ALL busy. It's not unique and it really tells a person anything about how you are, where you're at, etc. It's like a "fine" response.
Love your 3 new goals! Good luck!
- August 08, 2012 3:21 PM
- Postcards from Rachel said...
Great goals. I struggle with this too sometimes!
- August 08, 2012 3:26 PM
- Jessica Broyles said...
I love this. I first felt this push to be "busy" when I got my first job. It's funny, when we aren't really even busy, we make it sound like we are, because that seems important to people.
- August 08, 2012 3:38 PM
- B said...
This was a great post, Syd. Something I needed to read. I appreciate your honesty. And I think I'll take you up on your goals.
- August 08, 2012 3:50 PM
- Rosie said...
This is actually really true...I also always reply with "busy" and feel like I never have a quiet moment just with myself...going to try and not stress so much about the small stuff!!!
- August 08, 2012 4:13 PM
- Sam said...
I've never really thought about it like that. Really gets ya thinking.
- August 08, 2012 4:23 PM
- Rachael said...
Oh man, this really resonated with me... and so timely! Thank you for your insights, oh wise momma/wife/woman/human being.
- August 08, 2012 4:39 PM
- Laura | The Velvet Doe said...
This is fantastic!! I want to start implementing these pointers. Thanks, Sydney! x
- August 08, 2012 5:58 PM
I've noticed too, how much I tell people how busy I am. I don't know if it's habit, or if I secretly enjoy sounding busy. Either way, you are completely right, it's time to put things down and pay attention to life. I'll have to check out that book too. Thanks for sharing!
- August 08, 2012 6:23 PM
- haley said...
Sounds like a great read. May have to go pick that one up :) I like your 3 new rules! xxx
- August 08, 2012 6:23 PM
I too am having this feeling. My son is 9.5 months old and I am a stay-at-home mom while my husband is a busy soldier in Upstate New York. His day is full of a long list of to-do's followed by schoolwork (he is finishing his degree). His plate is full and just makes mine fuller it seems. I too have a hard time with untidiness. I make it a goal to clean up after the toys each time I put Wes (our little one) down for a mid-day nap. To fold all the laundry and get it put away by the end of the day. This past week I even started to try and make the bed each day. These small and pointless tasks make me feel like if I don't do these things my job is not being done well. That if I were being paid for these services I'd be fired. This week I needed some perspective and totally relate to this blog entry. You sort of took the words right out of my mouth! You've inspired me to make a small to-do list like this one. I have been considering putting the phone away, as well and as soon as my husband comes home at the end of the day, that's exactly what I'll do!
- August 08, 2012 6:26 PM
- Kahla said...
I've been reading your blog for a couple years now. Obviously, I love the standard outfit posts (which first got me reading) and the awkward and awesome Thursdays are alllways entertaining and giggle-inducing.
But, as a recent graduate, something I've come to love about your blog is seeing how your posts have evolved as you greet new challenges in your life (and I imagine some of these challenges seem far more profound and gratifying that college exams ever did). Anyways, while I'm sure our post-grad lives will take vastly different paths, it's so inspiring to see someone like you, close to my age, negotiating your 20s with so much enthusiasm, grace, and, really, insightfulness. Good luck with your three steps away from "busyness"! I might have to start a few of my own! :)
- August 08, 2012 6:26 PM
- Christina said...
I would also like to try this out. I think my busy mentality started out of necessity in college and just continued on. I feel like part of it is that I never want to fall behind. I always want to be that hopeful, optimistic person I was when I graduated. Like maybe I am afraid if I'm not busy my life will end or something. But now that I am out of college, there are just other things to focus on like family.
- August 08, 2012 6:43 PM
You should read the Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin. Also an extremely fascinating read and quite inspiring.
- August 08, 2012 6:43 PM
- the runner said...
Back in college, I attended a chapel speech in which the speaker talked about practicing solitude, keeping silent for 1 hour per day. I did it when feeling "busy". Probably one of the best thing I learned from college.
- August 08, 2012 7:31 PM
- Lily Marek said...
Absolutely something we all need to consider! I've also found that taking a few minutes each day to just think about all the things that I'm grateful for and that make me happy can really change my mood/day/outlook for the better. Great post!
- August 08, 2012 10:12 PM
Thanks for making me think about 'busyness'. You're absolutely right, busy has become to be synonym for 'successful'. It's rather sad that we turn into these hamsters in wheels. Let's read more books, light a candle and lean back after let's say 8pm ;) hehe
- August 08, 2012 11:00 PM
- LOLA C. said...
Beautiful blog
Saludos desde Andalucia
- August 09, 2012 3:38 AM
- Love Your Clothes, Love Yourself - CK said...
What good goals! I feel like taking time to work on yourself spiritually and physically is necissary, but it's often the first thing to go when we're 'busy'.
Thanks for inspiring me to take some time for myself too ;)
- August 09, 2012 7:00 AM
- Renee said...
totally love this post! and i think it sums up some of the problems america has (working so hard, but spending little time w/family....filling the void in our hearts w/stuff and busyness rather than God, etc.). not that you are doing that, but we are all guilty of it in some sense. if you like that book, you should try this one- totally changed my view on how i want to raise my girls. and it comes from a Christian perspective, which i think you'd like too! :)
- August 09, 2012 7:09 AM
- Laicie said...
I could use a little of this in my own life! But I'm not sure I could keep up with everything haha... I always find myself working until 8, 9, sometimes 10... then back up and at it at 6. You are so right though. I touched on this topic a little in relation to Anne Marie Slaughter's article for the Atlantic... I think the problem isn't so much that women have a hard time finding balance, it is that we *all* live in a culture of "work" - it's hard for anyone to find balance.
I'll have to check out that book. :)
- August 09, 2012 8:05 AM
- Lydia - Running Wild(er) said...
I loved this! And really related with using "busy" as an answer to "how have you been" type questions. After reading your alternatives "fulfilled", "energized", it reminded me that I am those things and do feel those things and need to embrace. I am going to replace "busy"! Great post and great goals....I need to focus on #3 too!
- August 09, 2012 8:06 AM
- Unknown said...
Great post! I totally agree with you!
- August 09, 2012 9:14 AM
- arlina said...
This has been my favorite post of yours thus far. Not only are you poking at a sore spot we all wish we could deny but know we possess but you're getting real with your readers in way that acknowledges that even you, talented, successful, and idol to all; even you can take it slow and soak some moments in a little longer. I'm completely guilty of throwing down the "busy" card so people think I'm important and valued in life but don' realize that it can also make me somewhat unapproachable to people who might need me or those who just want to spend time with me. I do though love your plans of attack.. so here's to saying "no", reading books past the introduction and taking at least 7 minutes to attractively eat through that bowl of ice cream, spoon by spoon and possibly even licking the bowl dry for a finale.
Take luck!
- August 09, 2012 9:21 AM
- Annalisa said...
such a great idea bout putting down emails & phone after 6pm...LOVE it. Smiles!!
- August 09, 2012 10:14 AM
- Clara Artschwager said...
Sydney, I don't comment too often, but I wanted you to know I think you're such a talented writer. The whole busyness topic seems to be floating pretty heavily around the blogosphere, but I think your take and perspective on it is so smart and fresh. I loved reading this post (and all your posts). Thank you! xx
- August 09, 2012 11:11 AM
I have always thought of "busy" as a state of mind. If you let it, it will completely overwhelm you.
- August 09, 2012 2:51 PM
- Kristin said...
I once heard someone use the acronym for busy as (Busy Under Satan Yoke). I have made it a goal in life to seek after becoming productive and proactive and remember life is short not to do the small things in life that truly matter. Great goals and another awesome reminder.
- August 09, 2012 2:58 PM
I can completely understand where you are coming from, I always seem to be living in that 'busy' state at the moment!
Your goals sound like a good idea, it would be lovely to have those moments to just enjoy the simple, slow pace that life can sometimes have! I might aim for this myself!
- August 09, 2012 2:58 PM
- Hannah said...
Being 19 I have only just started to even remotely grasp the concept of true busyness, and I dare say I'd rather it stay that way! It definitely seems that way though, that as the world keeps on turning the 'busier' people are the more enriched they supposedly are. What's wrong with taking a day to just be and to enjoy family and friends though really? Why do we seem to always put that busy business first?!
I also must say, as a newcomer to your blog, your little boy is absolutely gorgeous. Beautiful babies such as him on lovely blogs like this make me so excited for when the time in my life comes when I'll be blessed with a little one. You're more than just a little inspiring... Just saying!
HT x
- August 09, 2012 6:49 PM
- amy said...
This is such an encouragement to me. I fill my days with busy-ness and my children (and husband) are watching me. I want to be more intentional when I am with them. There are many distractions that are truly not that important. Your 3 step plan is a great idea!
- August 10, 2012 6:50 AM
this post really hit close to home.. as a new momma and first month back to work as a nicu nurse.. i'm really struggling with 'busyness'.. i know part of it is what i do for a living, but then i'm finding on my days off i'm so exhausted i'm having trouble making it all work. will have to pick up this read tonight for sure and make a list to quite the 'busyness' for me today :) thanks so much xo!
- August 10, 2012 7:44 AM
That's so true!!!!!! I've had the summer off and I'm going crazy! I think back to the end of last semester and all I wanted to do was tan and read a book. Well I've done that and now I want to get back to work.
- August 10, 2012 12:52 PM
- Alexa said...
so i read this post when you first wrote it and have caught myself answering "busy" every time i've been asked how i am ever since. thanks for making me think intentionally about this word's role in my life—it's far more present than i ever knew, and i am not too proud. something to work on and progress in :)
- August 10, 2012 1:04 PM
- Natalie Dressed said...
This is fantastic. Thank you so much for posting this. Definitely going to look into that book!
- August 10, 2012 1:19 PM
- Emily Catherine said...
Your post reminded me so much of this New York Times article from a couple of weeks ago - http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/06/30/the-busy-trap/?smid=FB-nytimes&WT.mc_id=OP-E-FB-SM-LIN-TBT-070112-NYT-NA&WT.mc_ev=click
It's amazing all the life that happens when you put busy aside :)
- August 10, 2012 5:28 PM
- DisplacedExtrovert said...
Couldn't agree more =) Husband and I were JUST talking about this!
- August 10, 2012 10:58 PM
- Adventures in Dressmaking said...
I've been having the exact same problems (for ages) and same realizations (recently). I need to DO less--I do value my days based on how much I got done, and of course there's a never-ending to-do list! So I'm still learning to be okay with not doing everything, and hoping things quiet down after the summer... or after... sometime... it never ends, does it?!?
Sounds like a good book, though, thanks for the rec!
- August 11, 2012 12:26 PM
- Unknown said...
Being 'busy' is something I've thought about a lot and your goals are really good! I too feel guilty in my down time because I should be doing something, even if there's nothing to do. It's this kind of mentality that we all need to change!
- August 12, 2012 10:53 AM
- Unknown said...
This was so well said. I'll have to read the book! Thanks!
- August 14, 2012 9:20 AM
- Erin said...
I would love to read this book! I struggle with the whole "busy" thing too. I even find when I'm not busy I feel guilty! Crazy. What a good reminder to enjoy every moment and be content in life.
- August 14, 2012 5:31 PM
- Cole. said...
" "Getting things done" has become my accidental and uninspiring mantra for day-to-day living, covering up my underlying daily desire to feel connected to myself and my different roles {especially as a mother and a wife}, my family and friends, my community, and the life I want to live."
This has been on my mind a lot lately. I want to change. I have to change.
- August 15, 2012 11:21 AM
This inspires me. Why do I feel important when I'm busy and worthless when I have nothing on the agenda for the day. Especially being a stay at home Momma..it's easy and appealing to fill up my day, minute to minute.
Love your idea of electronics off after 6pm. Going to steal it.
- August 15, 2012 5:50 PM
Those are great goals, I've actually been incorporating the same ones. Also I love and thank you for being so transparent as a lot of popular bloggers seem to put on a perfect façade.
Something that helps me when feeling overwhelmed from managing two businesses is to only focus on 3 things a day. Sounds crazy but if you only focus on the top 3 priorities it really truly makes a difference!
- August 16, 2012 10:45 PM
- Kristen said...
Sounds like a book I could read right about now. I am transitioning from working full time out of the house to part time within with my 4 year old. It's hard to not feel productive when I'm so used to juggling millions of tasks daily and now I juggle maybe 5?
- August 18, 2012 4:10 AM
- Unknown said...
I had to go on a "high performance teams" retreat with a group from work last year that truly changed my life, and is very much related to your post. We each had to go in with one goal we were trying to reach - mine was balance. The retreat moderator, a lovely woman, gave me sage advice. She said something along the lines of, "You can't fight for balance. That's an oxymoron. Balance is a decision. It's your choice. You can choose to be present in every moment. That is the beauty of it...you can have balance this second if you chose it." Those words have changed the last year of my life, as I have had fewer "mindless" moments on autopilot. I hate the feeling that the days and weeks and years are flying by without my realizing it! "Busy" is a symptom of the same fight for balance. Good luck to everyone in achieving peace!!!
- August 18, 2012 8:15 AM