Overview:

This blog is a random concoction and blend of my thoughts, interests, and daily observations. Currently, I am a lover of tea, indoor house plants, trying new foods, and learning about different cultures. I work for the public schools and despite all the downsides that most of us are aware of, it is a job that I am grateful for and feel proud to show up at everyday. Some thoughts here will reflect my experiences at work.

"Optimism is a strategy for a better future."

"Optimism is a strategy for making a better future. Because unless you believe that the future can be better, it’s unlikely you will step up and take responsibility for making it so." Noam Chomsky
It's easy to become discouraged when there are momentous tasks or decisions to be made. It can become overwhelming or tedious and we put it off while feeling unsettled in the back of our minds. I say "we" but I guess I can only speak for myself. With a slew of graduate school applications to submit and a tight deadline I am determined to follow, I have to remind myself not to think in the "...if this doesn't work out" mindset. Of-course, it doesn't hurt and obviously it's highly advisable to have a plan B, but it's still best to center your plans and beliefs around the success of plan A. Because that confidence will give you motivation and extra edge - which could make the difference in whether or not you achieve your original goal. If you believe that you can do it, you are more likely to take the actions necessary to get you there. That's why I've been reading and re-reading the above quote frequently for the past couple weeks.

"Being a tourist in my own city."

Sometimes we live somewhere for so long and we fall into such familiar habits and routines that we overlook the 'hotspots' and activities available to us. Today I had the chance to experience home in a different light without setting foot outside the city. (Translation: our other plans fell through and my friend and I resorted to what google suggested.) 











Now it might sound silly/dull to many people to wander your own town and visit touristy sites, but all you need is an open mind and fresh set of eyes!


Highlight:
I am always impressed by children's excitement and their ability to find fun and games in nearly everything. I guess it's the fact that they're experiencing so many things for the first time ever. It's one of the reasons I love working with them so much. Kids on the ferry yelling and waving at every single sailboat that we passed by, a toddler who was more fascinated by his own feet rather than the lake scenery before him, kids carefully scooping up algae from the water as if it were treasure...



Highlight:
I am always impressed by children's excitement and their ability to find fun and games in nearly everything. I guess it's the fact that they're experiencing so many things for the first time ever. It's one of the reasons I love working with them so much. Kids on the ferry yelling and waving at every single sailboat that we passed by, a toddler who was more fascinated by his own feet rather than the lake scenery before him, kids carefully scooping up algae from the water as if it were treasure... 





And of-course, what's a day off without indulging in a platter of tasty, deadly, overpriced food.