Last week I shared one of my aspirations for the new year; being more mindful and present. Thus far (week 1) I’ve practiced mediation several mornings, gone to bed earlier (and rose later), tuned out of social media earlier in the evenings and completely on Saturday, and I’m currently drafting an email reply declining an invitation to attend in an event that does not fit with my brand…JOMO. Some small wins for sure. I still need to drink more water.
In the spirit of inspiration (and accountability), I’m sharing another aspiration today. As I get older, I strive to continue to learn, “expand my horizons;” explore more. There are many ways to achieve this and, per my last post, I’m setting some attainable goals for the coming year.
- Take advantage of Seattle’s cultural offerings. Last year I attended the YSL exhibit at Seattle Art Museum (SAM) and visited the Wing Luke Asian cultural center (as a field trip chaperone, no less). I recently was treated to a presentation showcasing the most influential photographs of Seattle curated by the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI). There is a wealth of cultural inspirations and opportunities to learn from history all in my back yard! This year, I plan to revisit MOHAI (possibly without my children) and find an exhibit at the SAM to take the kids to. One small step already accomplished: renewing our family membership to the Seattle Science Center. I think the IMAX hurricane documentary is on the urgent “to do” list for several members of my family!
- Become a student. At my request, my husband has signed me up for a sewing class (this was a Christmas gift). I have always wanted to learn to sew – or at least be able to make a pillow or curtain panels…hem my own jeans. Although I don’t own a sewing machine (yet), a class is a great start. Also, and I am reluctant to share this fact, but I was actually a Spanish major as an undergrad. I feel ashamed that I use my Spanish so rarely and can barely string together an appropriate sentence. This year, I’m getting a tutor or signing up for a class. I found an adult Spanish school on Westlake. Please leave me any suggestions, if you should have a class or tutor you would recommend!
- Prioritize travel. Last year was a great one for exploration. In addition to visiting my home state of California several times, my family traveled to central Oregon to experience the solar eclipse, we spent time on the Oregon coast with friends, and explored the Northern Cascades camping with one of our favorite families. John and I spent an entire week as tourists in London (thanks Grandma) and I traveled with college friends to Charleston, South Carolina and my sister and close friend enjoyed a long weekend in Santa Barbara. Travel feeds my soul, I’m naturally an explorer; trying new food, being outdoors, and learning a new culture and history fulfills me. While there are many (many!) places on my list, we’re currently refining our travel plans for 2018. Thus far, we have a family ski trip scheduled in February to Big White, BC (Canada). And we’re making our preliminary plans for a summer vacation to visit a national park (considering Glacier, Montana).
Tell me your aspirations for 2018. I have found that writing these posts has helped me to articulate and prepare my goals for the year ahead…with more intention and a heart ready to explore more of this life.
Thanks for reading! ~Jenn
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