All Work and No Play . . .

My Daily Gratitudes for Sunday, February 23, 2014

I'm grateful for having a friend or two from work where we can hang out and not talk about work.

I'm grateful that our former supervisor returned.

I'm grateful that my employer has expresses seeing value in me by offering me a promotion.

I'm grateful that my kids have a sense of creativity about them both.

I'm grateful for my wife and her courage and strength that she shows every day.

I'm grateful for my friend overseas, always bring me a fresh perspective on this and showing me what real courage looks like.

Positive Event from the Last 24Hours

I broke my fitness lull and exercised today. I also had a meal with a friend and enjoyed my kids sharing some really interesting ideas with me. My boss gave me Monday off since I worked Saturday. Nice.

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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.

The Simple Things

Gratitudes for Saturday, January 11, 2014

While I've been negligent in posting, I haven't stopped taking at least a mental note of the things for which I'm grateful. Now, I've come to a place where I feel the need to write them down.

Water, water everywhere . . .

On Friday, a chemical spill made water undrinkable for several counties in West Virginia. I listened intently to the news reports as people described what it's like not being able to use any city water-- no, not even to shower or wash cloths. This isn't just a boil water notice that we're talking about here. Bottled water only for all their water needs; And lines of people were out the door of many stores Friday in a quest for water.

Hearing about the situation in West Virginia made me feel really, really thirsty all of a sudden.

But to quench my thirst, I can easily go to the water dispenser in my refidgerator and get a cup of water.

That leads me to say that I'm so very grateful today for public works and-- in particular-- the supply of water we take for granted. Not everyone has clean water and I've come to realize it's so easy to take water for granted. I'm very, very grateful for the supply that our community gets to enjoy here and now.

Perhaps now is also a good time to consider helping out in some way. I wonder if a donation to an organization like the American Red Cross is in order to help those in need wherever they might be.


Back to Normal

My wife has graduated. She went on a trip to Minnesota and survived the "polar vortex" that came through. The flight delays almost caused her to get stuck in an airport on her way home. But, fortunately everything worked out and she came home safely and only a few hours late (as opposed to days late).

Looks like my former supervisor is returning from his hiatus. I'm really glad about that. Our department has made it along without him, but his talent and leadership was constantly missed while he was gone.

My daughter made straight A's this term. My son-- well, he only got one C . . . everything else was A's and B's. I'm glad for them both. Though, we gotta work on that C just a little bit. But we must also remember to work on strengths as well. I should start evaluating what my kids do best and put more energy in getting them to improve in those areas, too. It's a balance.

Trying New Things

On New Years Eve, my wife and I went to a gala that raised money for an education program in our community. It was our first time doing anything like that together. We danced and had a good time.

I'm terrible at dancing . . . but I'm actually practicing with a dance DVD. So, by the time New Years came, I felt confident enough to get out there on the floor with my wife and have a nice time without being self conscious. I suspect that's 90% of dancing right there. I feel good about having done that with her. We had a nice time. I think dancing together is something we'll do more often.

I've also gotten sucked in by football this season. I never watched football before. For some reason, I've gotten caught up this season. I'm really excited about the playoff games. I'm just excited to see them play-- I'm not even rooting for a particular team; I'm just enjoying the contest!

Saints and Seahawks at 15:30. I'm ready to watch! Then, I plan to catch Colts and Patriots later tonight.

Wonderment

I've also found myself geeking out over some of the science programs that I've got to watch lately. They have really feed my curiosity while also creating a sense of wonder lately. I don't know why, but I'm really excited about the fact that things I've thought about deeply to my self have had TV programs or episodes dedicated to those topics. It's like the Science channel has been reading my thoughts and then produced programs to help address my curiosities. I'm really enjoing that!


Whew!

I guess I've unloaded enough for right now. While I generally don't care much for New Year's resolutions, I cannot deny that the first of the year does tempt us to try at a new start. I hope to renew my commitment to obtaining and maintaining happiness. I think I'll personally start by going back over the information in the TED talks I saw. Then, I hope to put more effort into turning those suggestions into second nature.

May you have a Happy and Prosperous New Year!

No-- not "may you have . . ." Instead, plan on it.

Happy New Year!

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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.

Communication

Gratitudes for Sunday, December 15th, 2013

I'm grateful that my wife is open and honest with me-- even when that may lead to a tough, undesirable conversation. Better to have the communication lines open, than to have deceit or hidden, negative feelings.

I'm grateful that my wife finally received her diploma Saturday.

I'm grateful that my wife enjoyed several moments of great happiness today.

Positive Event from the Past 24 Hours

My wife and I had dinner with family and friends after her commencement ceremony. She took the time to express her thanks to me for standing by her and supporting her through school. I felt proud of her and I was honored to have had the change to play a significant role in her success.

I also think back to last weekend. I was remiss in posting that my wife and I went out dancing last week. That was a positive event that I've kept thinking about across the week.

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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.

Cold Outside, but Warm Indoors

Ooops!

I scheduled a post to publish on the December 6th (last Friday); however, the blog entry didn't post as intended. I don't know what I did wrong. Regardless, I finally got my entry to post retroactively. So, check it out if you're interested:

Book Share Times Two: The Adventures of Johnny Bunko & Strengths Finders 2.0


My Gratitudes for Wednesday, Dec. 11th, 2013

I'm grateful for central heating.

Yet, at the same time, I'm grateful that it's cooler lately. I get tired of the mugginess that come near the Gulf during summer months. I welcome this colder air very much.

I'm grateful for the management style of our IT Director. When we run into problems that are urgent, he supports us rather than rail against us. I'm really grateful for that.

Positive Event from the Past 24 Hours

My son won a chess game against an opponent who is usually difficult for him to beat. He started studying a few weeks ago. Looks like his studying is paying off. I'm happy to see him focus on something worthwhile for once.

My daughter showed me some items she made out of clay. At first, I thought she was just showing me toys she got from school. Then, it dawned on me that she made them. Wow! I need to put her in sculpture / art classes or something.
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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.

On Saftey, Super Volcanos, Technology, and Interesting Friends

My Gratitudes for Today, Dec. 4th, 2013

I'm grateful for my safety today. I saw a lot of calamity today: firetrucks in my neighborhood on my way to work-- firetrucks and paramedics racing down the interstate on my way home from work. My heart goes out to whoever suffered loss today-- where ever they may be-- while at the same time, I value the safety I have enjoyed today. One never knows how long we get to keep it.

I'm grateful for the fact that a super volcano hasn't blown it's top, changed our weather, and caused famine across a huge portion of the world. Not that it won't happen in my life time-- nonetheless, I'm grateful to not have experienced that so far within my lifetime.

I'm grateful for the level of technology we get to enjoy, regardless of the problems and ethical dilemmas technology sometimes brings with it.

I'm grateful for friends who stir and challenge my curiosity with interesting musings.


Positive Event from the Last 24 Hours

I got a chance to post again-- and on top of that, schedule a post for this coming up Friday. I feel like I'm getting more of my time back again now that my wife is about to graduate. Awesome! I'm also happy for her, too.

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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.

Freedom and Stability

My Daily Gratitudes: 08/27/2013

I'm grateful for the stability that we currently enjoy in the US.

I'm grateful for the extent to which African-Americans have gained civil rights-- especially as compared to 50 years ago.

I'm grateful for being able to go out and enjoy an evening out as a family. OK . . . so everybody wasn't happy, but most of us had a good time.

* * *

Positive Events from the Past 24 Hours:

Despite oversleeping, our kids still made it to the bus stop on time!
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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.

Good Training Goes a Long Way

My Daily Gratitudes: 08/26/2013

I'm grateful that I made some significant progress at work today on a specific project that's due at the end of this week.

I'm grateful that my wife's mood seems better today. She was down; I think she's bouncing back a bit.

I'm grateful for how the school year is going with my daughter so far. I really hope she keeps it up.

* * *

Positive Event from the Past 24 Hours:

Just before leaving work, I put in the time to use a small virtual lab that I had for other reasons. I used it to test for our project that's due this weekend. I didn't feel like doing it, but I tried it and it took a lot less time than I expected. That's what good training can do-- something I've been without until recently. I'm glad for the training that my employer provided for me. I can even see myself become more competent . . . and that makes me feel better about myself as a system administrator.
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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.

The Internet: A Wonder of the World

My Daily Gratitudes: 08/25/2013

I'm grateful that I have employment and a place to live that is comfortable. No, I don't have riches or a big home, but what I have is enough and is comfortable. Upon watching a new story about "ant colonies" forming among college students in parts of China, I realized that what I have is something to be very thankful for in this day and time.

I'm grateful that my wife doesn't give up or give in to the stresses of life.

I'm grateful for the Internet: I'm still amazed at the way it can bring us entertainment, news, useful information-- all while at the same time keeping us in touch with close friends who live far way.

* * *

Positive Event from the Past 24 Hours:

I enjoyed a moment of nostalgia with my kids as we watching cartoon intros from the '80s.
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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.

Trust

My Daily Gratitudes: 08/24/2013

I'm grateful for the level of trust between me and my wife.

I'm grateful for my son helping me with the lawn today.

I'm grateful that I got up earlier than usual today.

* * *

Positive Event from the Past 24 Hours:

My kids played together heartily today.
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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.

Food, Beer, Friends

My Daily Gratitudes: 08/23/2013

I'm grateful for both the sense of humor and in depth level of conversation my co-workers express around me.

I'm grateful for friends with whom I can speak candidly.

I'm grateful to confirm that a friend of mine that I was worried about is OK.

I'm grateful my daughter remember she left her glasses at the restaurant before we got too far down the road.

* * *

Positive Events from the Past 24 Hours:

I just enjoyed food and beer today. Since today is my free day from my diet, I indulged; and it was good.
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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.

Wipe Out

My Daily Gratitudes: 08/19/2013

I'm grateful that my sister-in-law's wedding is finally done and was a happy occasion overall. Her wedding is also the reason why I haven't posted for a few days. Rehearsal, wedding, photos, cleanup-- all had me wiped out!

I'm grateful for the opportunity to witness my son and daughter do something well and make me feel proud.

I'm grateful for (and to) my wife for shuttling the kids around and getting them up early in the mornings for school. I suck at that-- she takes up my slack with so much grace.

* * *

Positive Event from the Past 24 Hours:

This is actually from the past 48 hours or so . . . but it was a really nice thing to see my mom dressed so beautifully at the wedding. I also reflect on how my wife stepped up and helped take charge when no one asked-- she just saw that it needed to be done and played a major role in the wedding turning out to be really nice. And I also enjoyed watching my daughter and son play their role. During rehearsal, things weren't looking so good. But, at the wedding, they both played their roles beautifully and really made me feel proud.

And lastly-- we finally got some much needed rest yesterday.

Time to sign-off and get to my workout, and get ready for tomorrow.
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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.

Restoration, Preservation, and Loss

My Daily Gratitudes: 08/15/2013

I'm grateful that today was payday. Man . . .

I'm grateful that today I still have my mom. My mom's childhood friend lost her husband a few days ago. That loss really underscored how precious the time is that remains with my mom.

I'm grateful for how well my daughter's tutoring is going.

I'm grateful that my children are at home, safe.

* * *

Positive Event from the Past 24 Hours:

I got a lot of work done today . . . meaning, I fixed some things. I get a big emotional boost out of fixing something because I don't generally see myself as a "fix-it" kind of guy. Regardless, I enjoy it.
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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.

Not So Bad After All

My Daily Gratitudes: 08/14/2013

I'm grateful that my daughter's tutoring sessions are going well.

I'm grateful that so far, this week hasn't been as tough as I worried it would be.

I'm grateful that we found time to get my wife's car fully functional again.

* * *

Positive Event from the Past 24 Hours:

I got a really good night's sleep and woke up really early this morning. Doesn't look like I'll get to repeat that . . . but, I'm glad for last night's sleep. It was energizing.
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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.

Family and Friends

My Daily Gratitudes: 08/13/2013

I'm grateful that my wife catered to me when I was feeling sick.

I'm grateful that tonight my kids did their homework with no fuss, did it accurately and completely! Wow!

I'm grateful that my kids had fun playing together-- the old, fashioned way-- with toys and not i Pods and Nintendo games. They're OK, but sometimes you gotta play the old school way.

* * *

Positive Event from the Past 24 Hours:

A friend told me about Duolingo today. Looks awesome.
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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.

Taking It Easy

My Daily Gratitudes: 08/11/2013

I'm grateful for having some time to relax today and take it easy.

I'm grateful for the good feeling I had after finishing my workout. I got a lift from it and felt like I had won a race or something. It was a good feeling-- and I made my best time yet on my exercising machine.

I'm grateful for my wife. She's been a good companion to me through the years.

* * *

Positive Event from the Last 24 Hours:

Rest.
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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.

A Little Girl and Her Teddy Bear

My Daily Gratitudes for 08/04/2013

I'm grateful for the opportunity to see my daughter's excitement at Build-A-Bear today.

I'm grateful for my son's sense of humor.

I'm grateful that I got most of my errands done for this weekend-- which also included grocery shopping for my mom.

* * *

Positive Event from the Past 24 Hours:

Watching my daughter have so much fun with her bear-- and seeing my wife come home and play with her and the new bear before I ran off to get my mom's groceries.
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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.

Relaxing, Purple Circles

My Daily Gratitudes: 07/28/2013

I'm grateful that my wife found a new hobby that seems to make her feel relaxed. She's working on a craft where she's stitching purple, paper circles together in a stream-- a dot garland. They're very beautiful and I think she really enjoys doing it. She seems to have found an activity that gives her a sense of flow or that puts her in the zone. Studies show that people who often engage in activities that produce a state of flow are happier than people who don't get to experience flow as often. More about that in a future post . . .

I'm grateful for the overall, relaxing evening I got to enjoy today.

I'm grateful that I had time to work on some future posts for this blog.

I'm really grateful that today my laundry only consisted of two small loads! Awesome!

* * *

Positive Event from the Past 24 hours:

Though my back isn't 100%, I was able to do my cardiovascular exercises today. My back is more, or less the same since exercising. I'm glad about that. And . . . my son mowed the front lawn and did a nice job.

And I got to sit on the couch.  Heh, heh . . .
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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.

Just Hanging Out

My Daily Gratitudes: 07/27/2013

I'm grateful for having a lot of downtime today. Today, I just basically sat around and chilled out after exercising. Nice.

I'm grateful that our family gets along overall. Having that is underrated.

I'm grateful for my wife's love.

* * *

Positive Event from the past 24 hours:

Today was my free day to eat something outside of my eating plan. I got a few donuts with the kids. Krispy Kremes rock! My daughter ate one and said: You can always count on Krispy Kreme to make the day a happy one!

I agree.
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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.

Home Sweet Home

My Daily Gratitudes: 07/24/2013

I'm grateful for the comfort of my own home. Now that I've caught up on some cleaning, home is more relaxing lately.

While I don't enjoy any amount of back pain, I'm grateful that stretching again tonight has really helped my back feel even better.

I'm grateful that my wife brought home dinner tonight.

* * *

Positive Event from the Past 24 Hours:

Disk two of Life in Cold Blood came in. I popped it in and the kids stopped doing whatever it was they were doing and ran in to watch it with me. I like that they are captivated by something educational.
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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.

Stretching, Cleaning, and Old Friends

My Daily Gratitude: 07/23/2013

I'm grateful for the stretch technique I read about for my lower back. It works wonders!

I'm also grateful that my back isn't hurting as much as it could. I've felt worse before. I'm glad I'm not dealing with that kind of pain.

I'm grateful for the fact that my wife found the courage to workout today. I'm glad about that.

I'm grateful for my kids: my son's sense of humor and maturity, and my daughter's creativity and loving-kindness.

* * *

Positive Event from the past 24 hours:

I heard from a few old friends via e-mail. And I got my kitchen cleaned up and back in order tonight.
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If you haven't already done so, I invite you to read my main title post in order to better understand the purpose behind this blog. In that post, you'll find links to three TED Talks that could really impact your life in a positive way.