Inspiring words for 2015

I love January. Everything has potential for a fresh start, a do-over, another try. It's an inspiring time of year and I've enjoyed reconnecting with so many of you through this practice of sharing our words and intentions. 2015 is off and running and my word waypoint is feeling g-o-o-d! 

There's a nice balance between action-oriented and quieter choices this year. Remember, it's pretty much never to late to pick your word for the year so don't feel like you're too late!

WORDS of INSPIRATION for 2015

Available as in "being present", but it also includes not over booking myself!

I'm going with results - it’s about getting unstuck, taking action and actually doing the things that are most important. 

In the hectic-ness of everything, somewhere in me is clamoring for a little serenity.

I want to create a better environment in my life to fulfill my own happiness, hobbies, and overall space to recharge. 

Courage! Set a boundary, then go wild within it. Live with the inherent vulnerabilities that having the courage of our convictions invites. Life is too short now to keep my options open. Choose, boldy go, and then face the consequences of mistakes forthrightly.

Loud, Not from a literal sense but more having to do with having an opinion and not being afraid to express oneself. Tall order for an introvert!

I really want to execute in 2015 on my plan to make a career transition to a sustainable/conscious capitalist company (or potentially starting one myself).

Maintenance to me is all the little things in between starting something and finishing something. It’s a commitment. It means having the desire, will and grace to continue doing things when it feels hard, laborious or practically unbearable. It means being in the moment to experience joy when it comes.  

I chose me - putting a priority on taking care of myself so I have space to take care of others.

Other words:

Ignite

Momentum
Shed 

Healing

Progress
Commitment
Patience 

Potency/Acceptance 

Relationships 

Nimble 

Altruistic
Hustle 

Advance 

Harmony

Walk 

Intention 

Choose

Bold

Explore

Persevere

Senses

Hug

Forward Motion

The other day, I came home to find the former owners of our house, Gillian and Rita, parked outside, patiently waiting to see if someone might come home. When they introduced themselves I eagerly invited them in to have a look around. I had met them only once, when we closed on the house, and none of us could believe 10 years had passed! 

Before: decades and many layers of old paints and drips

It's funny how a visit like that can unstick you. Gillian and Rita were very complimentary as they walked from room to room, noticing color choices, how we had laid our our furniture, spaces we had opened up. They were so sweet! But there was something else. Suddenly, I realized - they were pleased because in ten years (10!) some things hadn't changed at all. 

The bookshelves Gillian had built downstairs (which we've been meaning to remove) were still in place. The bathroom's vintage tile (long overdue for a makeover) was still there. And the original kitchen cabinets from 1939, with all their many layers of paint and drips - yup - those were still there too. 

After: It's a whole new day! Clean and crisp. Just how we like it.

Of course, we love things vintage and we have many reasons for keeping some things they way we have. But, we've also been in the process of re-painting our kitchen for months now and haven't been able to finish it. It's like we've been stuck in a foggy maze of complacency.  

Within an hour of their departure though, I had the sander and paint out and was going at it. It felt great! Sometimes the universe gives you a kick in the pants just when you need it most. So here's to you Gillian and Rita. Thanks for that!

Shaking things up in 2014

Walk-On Beach, Sea Ranch

It's a new day and a new year and when I opened my eyes this morning, it felt like a fresh start.

My word for 2014 is Disruption. That's right. I'm shaking things up over here. But don't worry, I'm not throwing the baby out with the bath water. Disruption means letting go of things that don't serve me anymore and welcoming the new. It means getting out of my comfort zone and...

Saying yes when I might have automatically said no

Saying no where I too easily say yes 

Learning new dances (Tango!?)

Being less critical

Going to new places

Trying new things

Eating new foods

You get the idea. Thanks to all of you for sharing your words. It is always incredibly inspiring to me. 

Some favorites so far are:

Act

Finish

Build

Moxie

Forty-three!

Elevate

Own it!

Clear

Recommit

Positive

Health

Commit

Open-hearted

Transformation

Acceptance

Boldness

Reconnect

Share them if you've got them! Happy New Year to all.

Choose your word for 2014!

It's December, which means - it's officially time. That's right. You know you're thinking about it. What's your word for 2014? Something to inspire you? Keep you on track? Motivate you? What do you want to change, invite, explore, bring to fruition?

My word came to me early this year, but I'm holding out for January before I reveal. Share 'em if you got 'em! Hearing what you're thinking about is one of my favorite parts of this tradition. And please feel free to pass it on!

In case you're new to this, here's the deal:
It all started nearly 20 years ago at a holiday dinner. We were all sitting around the table lamenting the tradition of New Year's Resolutions. We all had them, or attempted a list, but we never managed to fulfill them and it made us feel bad. So we scrapped the whole idea. Instead, each of us came up with a single word that would set the tone for the year to come. It could be anything, it just had to inspire. The idea is that this is YOUR word for the whole year - a singular rallying cry, intention, reminder, kick in the pants, inspiring thought.... use it however you like. Live it for the year. See how you feel.

A few all time faves are above, and more can be found here.

Percolating on Words for 2014!

Alright peeps! It's time. A couple of you have already been thinking about your word for 2014 and I just love how this tradition has caught on. I've got a couple of potential themes swirling in my head, but still have a ways to go on honing in on "the word". 

For those of you new to this idea - here's a bit of history.

My word this year was juicy and it's definitely been a juicy year - just not exactly in the way I had thought it would be. Note to self: be careful what you wish for! In case you're looking for a little inspiration, check out some of my favorites from earlier this year. As always, please feel free to comment, email me your thoughts and share with friends. 

The sweetest birds!

I bought this dresser on the sidewalk in Noe Valley over 20 years ago. Given my "single-girl-just-finding-her-way-in-the-city" status, it was definitely a splurge at the time and I distinctly remember the woman who sold it to me refusing to bargain because she was happy to keep it for herself. 

I can't say I blame her. I've kept it all these years because it's just the sweetest piece and the perfect size. And of course now, it's also a nostalgic reminder of my bachelorette days. It had seen me through a few moves and gotten a big banged up, so I decided it needed a refresh - and painted it a dark navy blue. But the best part is the knobs. Pepo offered to paint them for me and we quickly settled on a bird theme. Just a little bit of quirk always works wonders. Aren't they the cutest? I don't know which bird I like best!

Words to live by

Sea Ranch at sunset

The year is flying by and I can't believe it's already mid-February! Chinese new year was just this past Sunday and B heard on the radio that the Year of the Water Snake is supposed to be a time for transformation and rebirth. I liked that sentiment a lot and thought it was the perfect time to thank everyone for sharing your words for 2013. I'm always surprised and delighted by the various themes that emerge and this year is no exception. 

There were some wonderful ideas bouncing around this year - so in the spirit of sharing, here are some of your intentions for 2013. If I missed you - please feel free to post a comment or email me. It's never to late to pick a word!

Connect both to connect and reconnect with people as well as "connect the dots" in the areas of my life. 

My word is going to be Cross-train as in cross-train in everything I do so I am more rounded and involved in a variety of things. This will include exercise (I'm adding pilates to the mix of running and swimming), as well as my personal life.

Spunk as in courage or spirit

Got some big decisions facing me this year. I think I'm going for Dare.

Engage...as in stop multi-tasking, be in the moment and pursue things with passion instead of going through the motions.

This is my year to Soar! My visual for this is a macaroon with wings!!

I think mine will be Run. As in “run my life”, “go for a run”, etc.

For this year I'm going with Shipshape and Crackerjack, looking to focus on using my time better and being less of a dawdler.

My word of the moment (and longer) is 'Containment'. Learning skilfully to find the balance between over-doing it and under-doing it appears to be a life's work. 

I'll post the word Balance. Because that is what I Must do for 2013. Balance work and life. Balance exercise and meditation (which I never have done but plan on trying 10 min each day).

I think mine is Connect both to connect and reconnect with people as well as "connect the dots" in the areas of my life. 

I am going with "Health". 

Appreciate. Stop taking so many things in this world for granted. Step back and take the time to appreciate everything.

My word is 'Fun' - which we have decided we need a lot more of in our lives… the last year has been so tough and a really hard grind and we seem to have lost our 'joie de vie'. It is our mission this year to get it back… so we're going to do some crazy shit, go paint balling, go zorbing, camping, get a dog and try to have more fun…

This year is all about Focus for me. Whether that's spending time with the kids, getting my finances in order, solving a challenge at work, making time for [my wife] & I, striving to run a half marathon or anything else that comes up throughout the year, I just need to live in the moment and block out the other distractions. 

Other words:
accelerate
flex
cherish
involvement
gratitude
bloom
create
momentous
wonder
embark
collect
growth
make
relax
choices
wisdom
energy
compassion
be alive
involvement
patience
momentous
seize
embark
wonder
small wins
finish
friend
jump

2013 is going to be a juicy year!

I love picking a word for the year, especially when it comes to me in a rush of inspiration. I had been leaning towards something else but it wasn't feeling completely right. Suddenly, while standing in the kitchen, it hit me. JUICY! 

As we all launch into 2013, my intention is to make this as juicy a year as possible. It's all about keeping the good mojo vibe going from last year - embracing all that life has to offer, nurturing and deepening relationships, doing things that make me feel good and keep me healthy, and being inspired by learning and doing new things.

Mr. B chose "action" this year - he's all about "gettin' it done!".

Other words have started to trickle in... here are just a few that I've heard from friends so far:

Spunk
Appreciate
Make
Dare
Relax
Choices
Wisdom
Cross-train
Energy
Compassion
Collect
Be Alive
Run
Involvement
Patience
Shipshape/crackerjack
Engage
Focus
Momentous
Seize
Embark
Wonder
Containment
Health
Small wins
Finish

If you have one, please post a comment or email me. Happy new year all!

A fond farewell to 2012

During these last few days of 2012, I've been reflecting on what an incredible year this has been. There were tremendous challenges, but also spectacular gifts. While we were deeply saddened by the loss of family elders and a four-legged friend, these events also opened the door to beautiful moments of grace - and strengthened connections with family and friends. I also made many wonderful new friends and we were thrilled to find Otis. 

I'm looking forward to spending a lot of time in nature over the next few days, landing on my word and embracing the new year. 

Sending big hugs and wishing everyone a Happy New Year!!!

Hidden Gems

One of the benefits of having a dog has been discovering my own neighborhood. I know - I'm a little embarrassed that it's taken eight years (!) to walk myself up and down and around my own backyard. Since Otis and I are out a lot, I quickly grew tired of the usual route and started branching out. That's when I found Indian Trail, one of the many paths throughout Berkeley. Truly, it was a magical discovery and I was so excited to find it. Thanks, Otis!

It's time! It's time! Pick a word for 2013!

In this sleepiest season, I love taking time to reflect on the year. This was an incredibly challenging and also rewarding year for us for lots of reasons. My word for 2012 was mojo and I really used it to rally and inspire me. In anticipation of all that 2013 will bring - I've been thinking about what's important to help set my intention for next year. Not sure what word I will pick just yet, but as always - I really love hearing what my friends are thinking about. What are you inspired by? Please post your comments or email me. I love hearing your thoughts!

The Tradition:
By now - this is old hat to many of you, but for those of you who don't know the story, this tradition goes back over a decade to a holiday dinner. We were all sitting around the table lamenting the tradition of New Year's Resolutions. We all had them, or attempted a list, but we never managed to fulfill them and it made us feel bad. So we scrapped the whole idea. Instead, each of us came up with a single word that would set the tone for the year to come. It could be anything, it just had to inspire. The idea is that this is YOUR word for the whole year - a singular rallying cry, intention, reminder, kick in the pants, inspiring thought.... use it however you like. Live it for the year. See how you feel.

Some favorites from this year:
Basics
Play
Gumption
Chance
Center
Music
Chutzpah
Collect
Embrace
Presence
Intention
Finish
Grateful
Patience
Cherish

Found my mojo!

Just back from a run on a perfectly dreamy misty morning with our dog Bear at my side, and the whole beautiful fall day ahead of me. It's been a heck of a journey this year - but I finally found my mojo.

I made a lot of changes –clearing out the "old" and making space for the "new" including finding a new job, making lots of new friends, reconnecting with extended family and opening my heart to a new pooch. I think a lot of it has been about sloughing off old ways and embracing new adventures.

Someone once said to me that "perception is reality" and I think there's truth to that. Like this hole in the fence. Is it just a hole? Or is it a window of possibility? You decide. 

Gifts of the North, South, East and West

I cannot believe that ten years ago today, B and I tied the knot in Sonoma on a beautiful, balmy fall afternoon. I remember the warm breeze as we said our vows under an ancient oak tree and hearing geese call out as they flew overhead during the ceremony.

It was an incredible day filled with friends and family from near and far. Great Aunt Eva and Uncle Reuben's cake topper from the 40's graced our cake, and there was champagne and salsa dancing late into the night. 

Someone once told me that, like a garden, every relationship needs care and feeding. Today we're retreating to one of our favorite places to walk in nature and remind ourselves of these hopes and wishes, shared by our dear friend Victoria (aka "Fearless") as she married us:

Blessed be this union with... 

the gifts of the East:

Communication of the heart, mind, and body. Fresh beginnings with the rising of each Sun.

the gifts of the South:

Warmth of hearth and home,  the heat of the heart's passion,  the light created by both to lighten the darkest of times.

the gifts of the West:

The deep commitments of the lake, the swift excitement of the river, the refreshing cleansing of the rain, the all encompassing passion of the sea.

the gifts of the North:

Firm foundation on which to build, a stable home to which you may always return.

These years have been such a gift. I am so very grateful that you came to my door, Pepo. I love you madly. 

Good medicine

This weekend was a journey for us. We weren't sure about going, and then we knew that we had to. As it turns out, my brother and sister came to the same conclusion on their own. So we all gathered at Marilyn and Rich's house to love on our ailing Uncle Reuben.

While the circumstances were sad, it was amazing to see us all gathered around the long table outside. We were four generations of sisters, brothers and cousins enjoying a gorgeously warm summer evening-- eating together, swinging over the stream on a rope, sitting around the fire -- and talking about the love of family, the importance of transitions and of saying goodbye. It was good medicine.

Midwest meets West! What a success!

This was a pretty spectacular weekend. Our Chicago nieces came out to California for the first time and met their West Coast counterparts. It was a whirlwind of giggles, screams, and ridiculous amounts of fun. Before we forget all the highlights, here are just a few of our favorite moments:


1. Endless amounts of kisses and hugs from our favorite girls
2. "Dads vs. Nieces" soccer smack down at the park
3. Learning how to make friendship bracelets again
4. Responding to endless shouts of "Aunt Mary! Aunt Mary!" from all locations

5. Watching cousins make fast friends at the pool
6. Nightly living room "dance parties" to Justin Bieber
7. Learning that one round of "twinkle, twinkle, little star" is the exact amount of time needed to secure a temporary tattoo

8. Singing rounds and rounds of "You are my sunshine"

9. Finding our missing Jenga piece inside Uncle B's guitar (thanks Kylie!)

10. Having the family all together in our backyard, grilling Italian sausages

Snappy medicine cabinet makeover

"after"

We've been running around like crazy people trying to spruce our house up for this year's great family event: our Chicago nieces are meeting our California nieces for the first time at our house. It will probably be madness and mayhem -- but we just can't wait. 

It's funny the things you decide to take on before company comes over. Like redoing the medicine cabinet in our bathroom? Who would've guessed! But when I saw this idea at a local shop it just seemed to easy and too fun. A pretty piece of paper, some glue dots and voilà... cabinet transformed!

"before"

Bees, glorious bees!

B captured this amazing photo in our backyard this morning. I love the flower, but it's the pollen-laden bee that took my breath away. It's a great personal victory for him that the flowers have managed to get this tall. Usually the squirrels come by to snap their heads off one by one. Every. Single. Year.  But not this year. Woo hoo! It just warms my heart -- all the wonderful things he's planted to attract bees and hummingbirds... and we just love watching them flit about doing their thing. Here's to summer!

Stretching a new muscle

"Use it or lose it!" is a phrase I've been thinking about a lot lately. Beyond the usual ideas about health and fitness this saying conjures up, I think about it in terms of my whole life. Trying new things, learning new skills, encouraging the tiniest seeds of an idea are so important and so easy to forget when we're in our usual routines. 


That's why I'm so proud of Pepo. He's been nurturing his creative self slowly and steadily for awhile now - dabbling in acrylics, oil painting and even water colors. Personally, I think he's ridiculously talented but I'm just a little biased since I'm in love with him. His typical comfort zone is small and detailed, but last night he branched out and went big! The inspiration came from a photo he took when we were in Baja earlier this year. This is just the underpainting - but already I can see where he's heading and I love it!

Flea market inspiration

I love the Alameda Flea! It only happens the first Saturday of each month, and I hardly ever get there, but there's always a fun discovery every time. Like these little lavender-filled fabric hearts. Such a cute idea with the different initials and whimsical embroidery. If I get my act together, these would be perfect Christmas gifts to make!

S is for slow

"Tell me, what is it you plan to do 
with your one wild and precious life?" - Mary Oliver

This quote and a few others are hanging in the air today. It's a perfect Sunday: the sun's out, our resident mockingbird has an endless amount to say, and sitting here in the garden seems to be the way to start the day. All of the things I should do have been taken off the list. Instead - I think the day should be called "S is for Slow" - starting with a leisurely breakfast and a wonderful hike outside. Doesn't that seem right?