sustainable systems & storytelling
“Man is condemned to be free; because once thrown into the world, he is responsible for everything he does. It is up to you to give [life] a meaning.” --Jean-Paul Sartre What if we could wrestle down life’s big questions using the scientific method? What if we could systematically improve human thoughts, actions, and environments... Continue Reading →
We're a little over halfway through 2018, and it's been a rough year. My beloved dog passed away suddenly after four short years, my doctors are increasingly worried about the severity of the valley fever infection, and my head is too foggy to fully process anything. My heart hurts tremendously today. Quote I'm pondering as... Continue Reading →
I've been to over 50 doctors’ appointments so far this year, all of which inevitably involved a blood pressure test. The physicians typically just scrunch up their face ask if I've been tested for anemia. I reply, "I think so," and we move on. Last month, a new doctor took my blood pressure and was... Continue Reading →
Four years ago, my brother showed up at my parents' house with a tiny little golden retriever mix who needed a home. Everyone quickly fell in love with the sweet and spunky little pup who loved and licked everyone he encountered. Forever a puppy, he adored his squeaky stuffed animals and shared them with everyone... Continue Reading →
In yoga, teachers often speak of non-attachment, encouraging students to embrace a mindset of contentment. When things go wrong--as they always do--we are told to sit back and observe our feelings, watching them float past without judgement. The same practice is advised for celebratory occasions to which we may cling: observe any thoughts and allow... Continue Reading →
Hey there. How have you been doing over the last few weeks? Do you have anything planned for the next few weeks? I've been lying in bed each day for the last several weeks listening to the rumbling thunder and pouring rain, watching as the cracks in the blinds light up like passing street lights.... Continue Reading →
Happy Friday! Did June pass by in the blink of an eye for you too? Here are some articles I found interesting this week. Enjoy! Knowledge is the new money. If you’re not spending 5 hours per week learning, you’re being irresponsible. I grew up watching Koko the gorilla. So sad to see that she's passed. Justin... Continue Reading →
The third module in Elizabeth Gilbert's What is Creative Living? online course build upon previous lessons, asking the student to consider what and who they care about. It's lucrative to set our eyes on a grandiose dream, but the lesson suggests that we break down those larger goals in to our core beliefs, and then actionable steps. Don't... Continue Reading →
My boyfriend is a bit of a smartass. Whether pranks (like the April Fool's Day he convinced his father that Costco was closing and my mother that we were expecting), puns (which his mother refers to as two-thirds of a pun--a "P U") or miscellaneous silliness (like caressing my hair with a creepy "little hand"... Continue Reading →
I have been continuing the What is Creative Living? online course hosted by Elizabeth Gilbert, author of Eat, Pray, Love and several other books. The second portion of the course involved some videos on the difference between hobbies, jobs, career, and vocation. The second assignment was to sort through my daily activities and distinguish between hobbies,... Continue Reading →
