AA Milne quote featuring Winnie the Pooh: "One of the advantages of being disorganized is that one is always having surprising discoveries".

I adore, have always adored Winnie the Pooh and the work of AA Milne. But I can’t imagine anything more stressful than the surprises that come with being disorganized. Hence why I make significant effort to keep organized. I have my lists, notes, and calendars to keep me on task, to make sure nothing important slips.

That ethos helped me be rather successful as an executive/administrative assistant. And also explains why I have always liked that work. I’m lucky that way, I suppose.

Video: I didn’t have friends most of my life – being ‘unsocial’ and finding belonging

brown wooden cottage at the field during day

As an introvert, I find this video wonderful. She does a great job summarizing my thoughts and feelings, especially my childhood and young-adult-hood. I, too, took a long-time to discover my people, and the way I relate to the world.

I, too, grew up in a military family. I, too, found it challenging to make connections. Eventually, I figured out that I only needed a few, close friends. That I really don’t want my life to be frenetic, a blizzard of activity with tons of friends. It took years, YEARS to discover that, then come to terms with it. But I have, and I’m glad.

Some Words Of Wisdom

pensive grandmother with granddaughter having interesting conversation while cooking together in light modern kitchen

I came across this gem recently, and I think it’s very valuable advice to consider during this season of planning and resolutions.

For me, I see a reminder that we all have limits. So, in planning our lives, it’s critical to remember those limits. Some people have no qualms with taking until we’re empty husks. And many more very well-meaning folks simply won’t see the signs that you’re limits are getting hit without explicit notification.

So, my friends, take care of yourself. You are worth it.

Today’s Dad Joke

male statue decor

I just stumbled upon this one, which ties with one I posted a few days ago:

I cut my finger chopping cheese, but I think that I may have grater problems.

So, with that, I hope you’re having a lovely run-up to Christmas. I won’t remind you have many (few) shopping days there are left. If you aren’t done yet, I wish you the best of luck.

Yesterday was the Longest Night

photo of city under cloudy sky

Some random stats as I think about the apex of our night-life for my community just north of Seattle. Your mileage may vary.

  • Sunrise was at 7:55am
  • Sunset at 4:18 pm
  • Therefore we had 8.38 hours of sunlight
    • That’s 35% of the day with daylight
    • And, therefore 65% of the day was night
    • 15.62 hours of darkness!

Fortunately, slowly, slowly, the days will start lengthening. And another year begins.

Wishing You A Happy Halloween!

Years ago, I grew weary of all the tropes around Halloween. I mean, come on! How many times can you listen to Monster Mash? Well, as someone who values creativity and innovation, my tolerance is low for repetition. So, I created my own playlist.

Moving beyond the clichés Halloween.

So, I hope you enjoy it. Let me know what you think, and if there’s anything I should add.

Quote of the Day

Marcus Aurelius quote

I’ve long been familiar with Marcus Aurelius, though have never taken the deep dive into his work. However, this statement captures a deep truth for me.

This quote reminds me of a Steven Covey concept: Focusing on your Area of Influence. When we focus our efforts and energy on what we can impact, we become effective. Add that to “…you have power over your mind…”, and I see the power of focusing on our thoughts. Controlling our attitudes, I guess.

Winter Haikus

A friend of mine just forwarded me this comic featuring some clever haiku/senryu, and I wanted to share these with you. I find them delightful.

Unfortunately, the creator wasn’t cited in the email. Fortunately, a quick image search turned up “Cul De Sac, the blog of Richard Thompson“. Here’s the link to the original post, from 2010.