outlets

Besides a fulfilling relationship, which doesn't always happen, we need to keep our mind, body and spirit engaged to find happiness.

Am heading to Tahoe for yet another snow trip. It's overnight this time. This may be the last Tahoe trip I arrange b/c I can't justify the time or money much longer. I like day trips because I can have the rest of the weekend free.

Still, I appreciate being able to find activities to occupy me. By adding ice skating to this year's activities, it's that much more fun to spend those dreary nights.

Looking forward to spring. On my list this year are swimming, golf and maybe tennis. I want to master every sport, so I can do something different every week. I now know lots of people who play all these sports, and playing with them is the best way to connect!

jolt the brain

I went all the way to the Chinese Embassy to apply for my visa and realized that I forgot the passports for myself and my travel companion!

Doh!

It's good though. My habit of taking two international trips a year has not reminded me to take the passports because I have been going to places that do not require a visa. Many countries allow US citizens to travel for up to 1 month without a special visa. The last time I applied for a visa was to Brazil in 2005.

Another lucky point is that I was suppose to be at lunch today, so a cancellation gave me the chance to get the passport from my friend before her business trip tomorrow. Everything happens for a reason.

I make so many mistakes in life that it doesn't bother me too much when a mishap arise. I just stay calm and move forward. After all, I've got places to go!

working

C asked me about my college jobs, and there is always a satisfaction of walking back my career memory lane.

I started babysitting when I was 12, and I haven't stopped working since. I worked during college and in grad school. Even when I was married and being supported financially, I temped.

My jobs ranged from bookstore clerk to registration clerk, from receptionist to personal assistant, from law clerk to policy researcher, from urban planner to real estate manager, and of course, attorney. Working my way up is a natural progression of my growth.

There is something satisfying about having a job. Besides the money, I feel more connected to the world around me when I have a routine.

I cannot stress enough the importance of earning my own money. It is through my paychecks that I know when I deserve more. It is through my own income that I can fulfill so many ideas about fun.

Now, work is ever more a central part of my identity. I want to fulfill my destiny in my professional life. With so many accomplishments and having had so much fun, career success seems like the natural next step.

experience

Saw a movie Sunday at the SFIAAF. It was not great, although the topic about an artist was intriguing. It surprised me that I was able to articulate precisely why I would not recommend it.

It occurred to me that after years of watching indie films, I can decipher for myself the difference between good and great.

In the end, that's what I have - the wide range of experience that I am able to place subsequent experiences relative to each other.

The satisfaction of knowing that I have lived fully brings me joy. I feel very lucky and grateful to be me right now.