Sharing is Caring

I believe that in this always on, always connected, so-busy-tweeting-about-what-you're-doing-that-you-miss-out-on-the-experience world we live in: 

the beauty is not in what you choose to share, but in those precious few moments that you choose to keep private, to yourself.

 xAmy

Happy New Year

It's finally here, 2012. Since 12 is my birthday, and therefore favorite number, I have big expectations for this year. Specifically for myself. I believe that personal change and growth can occur at anytime, and don't need to be aligned to the beginning of a new year, but the spirit of change is all around us, and I'm welcoming it with open arms.

I've always kind of had this thing against New Years Eve. It's a great holiday and all, but I feel like it's a bit "what are you doing this weekend?!" times infinity. It's generally a lot of hype, and in my cold Boston case, ends in miserably low temperatures, not enough layers and the inability to locate a cab home. This year, I wanted to do something different.

I looked into midnight yoga classes, perfectly timed so that as the clock strikes midnight, you're laying on your mat, eyes closed, feeling utter peace and bliss. This greatly appealed to me, as I wanted to approach this new year feeling zen and relaxed, and not drunk then hungover. I went to sign up for a class in my neighborhood, but it was unfortunately already booked. Feeling bummed, but determined {I'm extremely stubborn once my mind is set,} I found a yoga podcast, and dug out some 90 or so tea lights.

At 42 minutes to midnight, the length of the class, we light the candles, turned off the lights, spread our mats, and began the class. I selected Eoin Finn's Yoga in Bali, which I had done before and loved. His voice is incredibly soothing, and he strikes the perfect balance between motivating speech, and serene silence. Living in close proximity to Copley Square meant lots of background noise out the window, but we were able to quickly tune it out. As the session came to a close, and we were basking in our post-yoga bliss, we heard the crowed cheer as the new year arrived. I couldn't help but feel an incredible sense of well being and peace - exactly the way I wanted to enter 2012.

A Sweet Story

There's a cute old man who works at a parking lot that I always walk by on my way to work. He's usually the first person I talk to every morning, which may sound strange, but I think it's kind of neat. I don't even know his name.

I haven't seen him in a few days, but this morning when I was passing by, he quickly made his way over to me. He then gave a big smile and said, "I missed you Monday" and handed me a heart-shaped lollipop.

{The best part was that the wrapper was kind of tattered, as though he had been carrying it around in his pocket until he saw me again.}

What he doesn't realize, is that this piece of candy means so much more to me than a Valentine's Day treat. It's a measure of kindness a stranger can extend, and a reminder of the impact one seemingly unrelated life can have on another. Use it wisely, use it kindly.

Inspiration on Wheels

While I'm embarrassed that my own city can't boast this, I'm also very inspired..

As someone who has just recently given up having a car, this video really resonates with me. My reason for doing so wasn't largely environmental - it was more that I hardly used my car, it was expensive to keep, and to say parking in Boston is a drag would be the understatement of the century. I am delighted, though, with the environmental impact it has had, and the amount of exercise I'm now getting just by walking.

During the warmer months, I had a 3 mile roundtrip walking commute to work, which took me through the beautiful public garden and commons. Now with the dark nights and the cold, I've finally given in to taking the T, but I still feel good about my decision.

It has proven difficult to see friends, almost all of whom live outside the city. A few live near enough to the train that I can still commute, but for many, visiting them at home is almost impossible. I have grocery stores within walking distance, but to purchase furniture or other heavy items, I need to make arrangements beforehand.

Having a bicycle wouldn't completely eliminate these problems, but it would certainly make getting around easier and less time-consuming. However, I feel that riding a bike around Boston with the awful drivers {I can talk - I was one of them} honestly isn't safe. I've seen the attitude that motorists give to cyclists, and instead of respecting their decision, there is -as the video says- a feeling of two different species. There have been some changes around the city recently, with a bike lane painted onto Commonwealth Ave, but I still don't think my skills/senses are acute enough to get around safely.

I would love to see a movement towards Copenhagen's view on bicycling, for the environmental benefits, the health benefits, and a general respect and kindness towards others.

video borrowed from The City Mouse

Inspiration

I did not create this picture or this saying, but I feel a strong connection to it. This phrase has been getting me through the day lately, and while I'm waiting for all my pieces to fall into place, it has been a source of strength for me to keep on.

{Having amazing friends doesn't hurt either.}

Image via Pink Wallpaper via Fern and Feather