There Is Something About a Library....

There is something about a Library. I'm not sure if it is the smell, the atmosphere, or the vibe I get from it. 

I can't remember exactly when I started to love to read. I'm guessing it was when I wasn't forced to anymore in school (I can be kind of stubborn like that). It amazes me how easy it is to get sucked into a whole other world just by flipping through pages. This past winter I read "The Fault in Our Stars" and was one of those people that wanted to see it the minute it came out (but waited for Stimulus Tuesday with a few friends.) Personally, I thought this movie did a nice job of representing the book & after leaving the theater I thought about how cool it is that while we read we are hypothetically....directing the movie in our heads. 

I recently went to the Library in Menomonie. As stated before, I love Libraries, but this one has big windows that over looks Lake Menomin......it might just be a little taste of Heaven for me. 

Anyways, while I was sitting there, I realized that our lives are like books. The best part is that we are the main character in our own book, and supporting characters in so many others! We may only be in a few chapters of someone's book, or maybe we will be in pages that haven't even been written yet in someone else's. 

Yet, our book is always changing....take the genre of our stories for example. At some point we might be in the Drama section and then pages are written which slowly leads us to the Adventure genre, but then a tragedy happens that deepens our thoughts and we switch to the Philosophy genre. You get the point....

As I sat in the Library I watched this guy who was using the card catalog. It seemed that he was really looking for something, but couldn't quite find it--he'd write something down and then walk away and return a few minutes later typing in something new. Then, a lady checking her books out caught my attention, she could barely hold all of the books she had found. 

What is it that all of us are searching for? Perhaps, we're all searching for something unique that pertains to our own individual story. Wouldn't it be nice to be able to type a question into a card catalog and get a book called "The Answers to Life"? Sometimes I think the answer to this question is yes...but then I remember the wonderful stories being written while the main characters are searching for the answers. Oh, and don't forget about those supporting actors...helping us along the way. 

We all have our own book, our own characters, our own plot. Some chapters may seem to drag on forever, while others are cut off too soon, but try to keep in mind that we all have a story to tell & we all have empty pages waiting to be read. 

You are whole.

I believe that there is more to life than what we see. I believe that all of us are constantly searching for that thing that "completes" us, and we all have a different perspective of what that "thing" might be. Yet, I also believe that everyone right now is whole...no person or place can be our "other half". The people, things, and places that make us happy aren't "completing" us, they are simply adding to our wholeness.

To make more sense of this, I'll give you an example. I'm assuming at one point in your life you've thought something like "If I could lose 20 pounds...THEN I'd be happy," but once those twenty pounds come off (I say it like it's just that easy), we find that we still aren't completely "happy" so, we instantly search for something new to "achieve". I'm not saying this is a bad thing, in fact, it's great that we are always setting new goals and giving ourselves new experiences, but what does "happy" really feel like? Is it that $100,000 or that new pair of shoes? The funny thing is, we're always going to have obstacles, and as humans we're always going to have struggles...even when we get that new pair of shoes.

I recently went to a church service and the speaker talked about how our hearts are hardwired for relationships, but our lives are hardwired for struggle. Which basically comes down to, we are all here on this Earth to help each other over come struggles and to learn from each other while creating relationships and coming closer together. It's always been a comforting thought to me that all of us (all 7 billion) are going through similar things, just in different forms. That's what makes life fun! Learning and teaching each other things. (But that's a whole other topic).

Many people think that what "completes" them is another person. For example, many girls mope around thinking that they won't be completely happy until they meet someone that "completes them". I'm sorry girls, but if this is your state of mind, you will never be completely happy.You are whole. Right now. And relationships aren't about "completing" each other. They are about two whole/happy people coming together to learn from each other and to create this union of even more happiness. Of course, there will be ups and downs, but that is when you learn the most and help each other learn how to be better people.

It's a hard lesson to learn to just be content and find joy in every situation. I recently read a quote that said, "Believe that everything is rigged in our favor; the Universe is for you".

So, even when your heart aches and situations are difficult, the universe is on your side. Wouldn't the world be a happier place if we all tried to keep that perspective on a daily basis?

With that said, I think this world has become so wrapped up in judging others and thinking that their way is the only right way to live correctly. I find this so sad. Who's to say my way is right? Who's to say their way is wrong? Do what makes you happy. I can't say that enough. Do what brings joy to you, but always do these things in love and with love.

As some of you know, I am an avid "Super Soul Sunday" fan, and if you haven't seen the show, I highly recommend it and will share the link below. In the latest episode a woman was on talking about this same topic and some of what I wrote about relates to the episode so, if you have some time take a peek! (Especially the ladies).

http://www.oprah.com/own-super-soul-sunday/Oprah-and-Tracy-McMillan-Soulmates-Love-and-Marriage

On a side note, I highly recommend trying to find time to do what you really and truly love at least once a week. For me, I love to be outdoors, in my Dad's boat, reading a book, while soaking up the beauty and noises around me.

                           

What's your happy place?

Thanks Dad!

When is the last time you "untagged" yourself in a photo because you didn't like the way you looked?

Well, this happened to me the other day...I saw the picture and my initial thought was "eww untag". I guess one of the main reasons I didn't like the photo was because....and it sounds funny...I didn't like how my nose looked.

Why is it that we can hate a picture of ourselves and then have some people comment and say how beautiful we are and have 20 likes?

Which got me thinking...

Everyone of us is unique. Everyone of us has things we don't particularly care for about ourselves, but guess what? It's what makes us.....us.

For instance, the picture I was talking about earlier....you "nose" which one I'm talking about? ;)

Instead of thinking "gross why does my nose look like that?" I should have been proud because I have my Dad's nose. Ever since I was little people have commented that I have my Dad's nose and my brother has my Mom's nose. If you stop and think about it, how cool is that? How special and unique is that? No, my nose may not look like Jennifer Aniston's and the camera may not always catch it's best side, but this nose is special. In a way, it tells a story.

Now you may be thinking....wow, she must be low on topics because she's writing a blog about a nose... :) But just think about it...what makes you special? What do you have that tells a story? Below I'm going to list a few more things that makes me....me, and I hope that it inspires you to never untag yourself because of something so silly. How boring would it be if everyone looked the same anyways? & to this day I am simply amazed at how EVERYONE in this world looks different in some way or another. Embrace your story!


1. Dad's nose
2. Mom's blue eyes
3. Grandma Seichter's soft hands

The present is a present

As many of you reading this know, I am a planner. I'm one of those annoying people that have to-do lists and gets excitement out of crossing each one off. So, with that said, I don't want to sound like a hypocrite saying this next statement...but...

It's important to live in the moment. Now, let me explain.

Lately I've noticed that I'm always looking forward to something or wishing I was somewhere else. Now, don't get me wrong having things to look forward to is great and exciting, but don't forget about the present moment.

For example, when Monday morning rolls around I usually find myself hitting the snooze button and thinking about how the weekend went way too fast. When really...I should be breathing in the morning air, noticing the sun peaking through the curtains, and embracing the moment I am given at that exact instant. It may sound cliche, but I am starting to realize that if more of us did this, we would be happier and more joyful people.

Another example, Winter. Yes, it has been a cold one and the snow that was once pretty, is beginning to over stay its welcome, but it is what it is, and if you embrace it, it becomes beautiful. If it wasn't for these cold days, some people may not have had extra time to stay inside and be with their family. If it wasn't for these snowy days, we wouldn't be able to catch snow flakes on our tongues and build snowmen with friends. If it wasn't for winter, we wouldn't appreciate the summer warmth, but let's not talk about summer yet because we're embracing this moment, right? :)

I'm not saying planning is bad, and for crazy people like me, it keeps us sane. I just notice that with plans, most of the time comes expectations & that's the part that catches most of us up.

I've recently been quite interested in the Buddhism philosophy and how they practice living in the moment and embracing what they have right now, not what they had in the past, or what they hope to have in the future. Here is a quote that kind of explains the concept well:

“Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment.”

Last week, while I was in church, I realized that I was thinking about all of the things I had to do the up coming week and found my heart raising and anxiety increasing. The funny thing was, once I caught myself, I realized I was obsessing over and completely creating outcomes of that week (mostly negative). Then, I remembered a few things I had been learning about focusing on the present moment and that was to concentrate on my breathing, concentrate on the present experiences (in this case, the song we were singing), or even the smell of the candles burning. 

The truth is, reality only exists right now. So, why dwell on the past, it's already behind you. (Right, Simba?) and why obsess about the future...Like that test you need to pass, that husband you wishfully hope for, and that job you are working towards. They will all happen, on their own time, in their own way. Worrying and planning for it is just going to give you wrinkles and unrealistic expectations.

Like many of you, I'm at that age where the future is quite unknown and the decisions I make will greatly impact what happens, but instead of constantly thinking about where I will find a job, what my house will look like, or what my children's names will be (sorry Pinterest)...I'm going to do my best to concentrate on these exciting days, the ones happening right now, the ones I will never get back-- the friendly feeling of living with 5 other girls, how light my purse is after paying tuition, and the "I'm an adult, but not completely on my own" moments. 

So, when most of you read this it will be Thursday. The day that is so close to the weekend, yet feels so far. Embrace the day! Try not to wish for the weekend, instead, focus on your breath while noticing the noises you hear, the laughter you share, and the little blessings each moment brings.

What are my plans for the weekend? I plan to live in the moment. 

Life Lessons from 4 year-olds

I'm currently student teaching in a 4 year-old classroom. I completely love it and can already tell that I am doing exactly what I want to do the rest of my life... Be greeted each morning with hugs, be spilled on during lunch, and dance to silly songs at the end of the day. After being at my placement for a few weeks, I've realized that I am not the only one teaching in that room. The children have taught me many life lessons in the short period of time. So, I thought I would share a few things I've learned from these cute, innocent, and energetic 4 year-olds (going on 30).

 Be open to new people:

It's funny, I'm never nervous to walk into a new classroom that are filled with young children because I know that they will be so excited to see someone new and instantly be your best friend. I think that this can show us (adults) just how important it is to accept everyone. Yes, we all may be a bit different, but no one wants to feel left out or awkward when being in a new place. The warmth and comfort that these children show you when you are brand new is so calming. For example, a little girl walked up to me on my first day and said "who are you?"  I realize that as adults, if we said this it might not be as cute, but it's the fact that she was wondering....so, she asked. She didn't go and gossip about the new girl. & fifteen minutes later, I had 20 kids on my lap wanting to hear a story. I love that about children. Their acceptance.

 Say what's on your mind (to a certain extent) :

When you talk to a 4 year-old...you're going to get the truth. They don't necessarily have a filter. For example, we had a guest in our room the other day and one child walked right up to her and said, "Why is your face funny?" I over heard it from the other side of the room and couldn't help but giggle. Only from a 4 year-old. I think it's important for us (adults) to take note. Obviously, we have a filter, but I don't think we should be afraid to say when something is bothering us, or we shouldn't just say what people want to hear. It's important to speak the truth (while filtering a little of course)  :)

 Give:

One of the most rewarding things about teaching young children is the wonderful pictures you receive as gifts. It completely warms my heart. To the child, that picture means the world. They took a lot of time to create this perfect image and are even more excited to explain it to you. This shows us (adults) that even the smallest thing can make a huge difference in someone's day!

Share:

One of the hardest things for a child to learn is sharing. It's difficult to give something to someone that you really really want to play with. For children, it can be as simple as sharing a doll during free play. For us (adults) we're still learning to share as well. It can be something as simple as sharing a pencil in class, sharing a smile in the hall, or sharing your money for those less fortunate. I find that the more you practice it, the easier it gets.

It's the simple things:

Last Christmas my mom brought this to my attention. In my family we have a tradition of playing a $1 game before opening the "real" gifts. Once the $1 game was over and the "real" presents had been opened...we noticed that the kids were playing with the dollar whoopee cushion over the $50 video game. Same goes for many things in life. I spent hours planning this lesson plan and making sure each part was perfect. Then, the next day I ran out of time and quickly put a different lesson together and I found that the children got more out of the second lesson where I didn't stress, or even lose sleep. As I grow up, I'm slowly learning that simple is okay---in many aspects of my life.

 Don't care what other people think:

The other reason I love teaching young children is because they will do the silliest things and not even think twice about it. The other day we were singing a song where we had our tongues out, or eyes shut, and our knees together. I thought to myself...if someone walked in right now...they would wonder what in the world we were doing....but with children....they go right along with it. They love being goofy and laughing. So, we (adults) need to take note that life is a lot more fun when we can let go and laugh!

With all of this said, I highly recommend going into a classroom full of young children for a day. Yes, you'll be exhausted by all of the love, energy, and chaos, but more than likely you'll leave with a smile on your face. (& marker on your hands)   :)

10 things I would like to tell my 13 year-old self

 

1.      You don’t need to fit in.

When you’re 13, everything is dramatic and the end of the world. If your crush is talking with someone else, or your best friend is mad at you…it’s not the end of the world. Be yourself. Wearing the name brands isn’t going to get you far in life, being kind and embracing who you are, will.

2.      Do what makes YOU happy.

Just because the “cool” kids are now listening to certain music, or hanging out at a certain place each Friday, doesn’t mean you have to pretend you enjoy it.  If you would rather be reading a book, or painting your nails… go do what makes you happy.  Don’t feel stupid if you don’t like what everyone else pretends to love.

3.      Don’t push your girlfriends aside just because you have a boyfriend.

Some girls learn this one the hard way. They give up everything they have in order to be with their boyfriend every second, of every day, and when they break up, the girl is completely lost because she pushed away her girlfriends. We’ve probably all been the friend that losses their best friend because of a guy too.   Try to balance time with each. Make sure that you leave some weekends to do makeovers, talk about girl stuff, and eat ice cream together. Show your girlfriends that you are able to have a boyfriend and still have time for them too!  Or most importantly, find a boyfriend that enjoys hanging out with you and your girlfriends too. Ps. Dating is not a necessity. You’re not as old as you feel.

4.      Listen in class.

Yes, each class can seem repetitive and it’s easy just to memorize the information for the test, but really listen to the facts, take notes, engage in your learning. Someday you will be glad you did. The information that the teachers give isn’t just “because they have to”… it is to better your future.  Yes, at the time it seems like a big deal to pass notes and see what everyone is wearing, but please listen.

 

5.      Try not to have expectations.

What screws us up most in life is the picture in our head of how it is supposed to be. Don’t try and plan out what high school will be like, who your date for the prom will be. Okay, I know that is the fun part, but don’t EXPECT those things. Learn that things don’t have to go a certain way in order for you to be happy. Everything happens the way it is supposed to in the end. You’re right where you are meant to be.

6.      Take one day at a time.

 

Don’t wish your life away. It’s a good idea to set goals & just remember, you may not be there yet, but you are closer than you were yesterday.  It’s easy to live for the weekend, and count down the days until your 16^th birthday, but don’t wish it away. Each day is precious. Every day holds a gift. Look for those small gifts hidden throughout the day. At 13, it’s easy to take life for granted, but try to remember that we are not guaranteed tomorrow, so live in the moment. Don’t stress about what college to go to, or why you don’t have a boyfriend and everyone else does. Take time to remind yourself that you can’t control the wind, but you can direct the sail.

7.      Be nice to EVERYONE.

 

If you like someone’s shirt, tell them. If you know someone is eating alone, invite them to your table. Don’t purposely leave people out when handing out birthday invitations.  Everyone has feelings, everyone has struggles, and everyone wants to be included. Be nice, be generous, and be thoughtful. We all know the golden rule.

8.      Listen to your gut instinct.

If your gut is telling you that staying out past your curfew is a bad idea, it’s a good idea to listen. Your gut will lead you in the right direction. If your gut is telling you that your friends are doing something wrong, listen to it & stand up for yourself. What you put up with, you end up with.

9.      Your parents really do know what they’re talking about (99% of the time).

I realize that every child goes through a stage where their parents are the stupidest people ever, and everything they say deserves an eye roll, but trust me, out of everyone… they are the last ones that deserve an eye roll. They are looking out for you. They want the best for you and are trying to protect you. It’s hard to listen to their life lessons and things that they learned the hard way, but stop & appreciate that they are trying to save you from heart ache. Just listen, hold that eye roll, and thank them for all that they do.

10.  You are beautiful.

Music videos, magazines, and social media all have high expectations. Therefore, we all think we are less if we don’t compare. Please don’t fall for that. You are unique & that is beautiful. No one on this earth looks like you, acts like you, or is you, embrace it!

Is the grass always greener?

I read a quote the other day. It read: "We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses." -Abraham Lincoln

It caught my attention that day because I had been thinking a lot about how life is what you make it. Life has a lot to do about your persepective on situations and experiences. On this particular day, I was feeling kind of down in the dumps. It was one of those days where something just felt off, where worries seemed to creep in on my every thought.

That day I really didn't feel like going to class. I just felt like cuddling up on the couch all day watching movie after movie, avoiding the real world. But, if you know me....you know I didn't skip class..... :)

When I got to class, I noticed that someone had taken my seat. You know, that seat that you sit in on the first day and then mentally claim as yours because it's a spot that makes you feel half way comfortable in a room full of strangers? Well, that spot of mine, was filled by a butt that wasn't mine. So, I casually went to the back of the room on the far right hand corner. (Probably stealing someone elses "seat").

As I sat there in class, I thought about how the view point seemed so different in this particular spot. How I saw the teacher was different, the people surrounding me were different. It may sound funny, but this particular situation made me think about life. Maybe when we are having a bad day, we can mentally try and switch spots. By switching spot, we can try and look at the room (or life) from a different perspective, from a different view.

I know, switching our thinking isn't as easy as it sounds. It's hard to try and cheer yourself up. So, maybe when you switch seats, sit next to a new person, or someone that can share what they see from their view.

A speaker recently told the audience to shut there eyes and try to remember what was red in the room surrounding them. He told them to keep their eyes shut for awhile a really think about the area. When he said to open their eyes, he said, "If you're not looking for the color red, it's sometimes hard to notice, but when you have your eyes open and are purposely picking items that are red, it's a lot easier." That kind of applies to life. If you go around looking for good, postive things with your eyes open they'll pop out more. If you keep your eyes shut, stay in one spot, and focus in on the "non red" items, you might miss out!

Are you complaining because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoicing because thorn bushes have beautiful red roses?