Joie de Vivre

~ joy of living

I turned 25 last year and had the proverbial quarter-life crisis. I barely remember anything because I did not celebrate. Instead, I spent time reminiscing the innocence simplicity of my early years and dreading this milestone age. I thought about the fun, younger and carefree days I spent with my family, where everything seemed possible, and my life was full of hope and wonder. I miss that omnipresent joie de vivre, but if growing older has taught me anything, it’s that my best days are ahead of me.

• Experiment, experiment, experiment
• Learn the basics
• Go easy on yourself. Be kind to yourself
• In the world of one world famous* engineer- nothing from your past is wasted
• You’re not dreaming big enough

Raison D’être

~ reason for being

My life has been dreamy this year. That quarter life crisis came and left, my stories got joyous and my memories even more poignant. I’m glad that I am no longer held hostage by the paralysis of aging because I don’t want my life to pass me by. I want to be reminded of the beauty of my every day and the privilege of aging. I want to tell my stories to my family, my friends and my kids, and I want them to smile, not because they were there with me, but because they can hear, deep within my voice, how much I honored my commitment to show up and be joyful.

Life can be harsh and unforgiving. Acknowledge your strengths and lean into them because there hence lies your resilience. Those moments can be revealing, albeit painful. Take that chance to learn about yourself, your survival almost depends on it.

• Peace is the new nouveau riche
• Your forehead is a thing of beauty, show her off
• Your body/health is one of your best assets
• Slower runs, more rest, deeper sleep
• You define what success looks like to you
• Boundaries are there to protect you

La Vie en Rose

~life is beautiful

Life is long and beautiful. I don’t mean to sound resigned, but I’ve grown accustomed to the tempo my life has adopted. My routines and little knickknacks. I’ve learned to appreciate the simple things in life and the beauty of everyday moments. I have a lot of gratitude for the people who have come into her life and the love and support they have provided for me, I’m excited for what’s to come.

• I’m still learning. I’m still finding my place in the world
• If it’s not on my google calendar, it’s not happening
• Be brave with your ideas. Try stuff. Make mistakes. This is how you learn
• When in doubt, listen to music
• Compassion. Curiosity. Confidence: nurture them every single day
• I am exactly where I am meant to be, and so are you
• I am grateful for the experiences that have brought me to where I am today, and I am excited for the colorful journey that lies ahead
• I’m learning to thrive on the unpredictability of things outside my control. To let go. To color outside the lines