5 Awesome Things I’d Like To Share

Date March 25, 2010

Costa Rica Morpho Butterfly 490x367 5 Awesome Things Id Like To Share

I wanted to take a moment to share some of the things that are currently making my life awesome. We’ll call this a gratitude post… or “a few of my favorite things” list (if you want to get all Julie Andrews about it.) Mostly, I just thought it would be a good time for a happy note. So here goes:

1. The Book of Awesome 5 Awesome Things Id Like To Share

Most of you have probably heard about Neil Pasricha‘s blog, 1000 Awesome Things. I’ve been reading about it for months and, since I knew that practically everyone on the planet loves it, I figured I probably would not enjoy it (’cause I’m just that way). Well, to my great surprise, Neil recently sent me an advance copy of his new book… and I fell in love with it! I feel like such a goob now for missing out on all the Awesomeness he has published so far!

The book, you see, lists a bunch of simple, awesome things we often overlook. But when you take a moment to notice them, to pay attention to that feeling you get when they happen, suddenly, no matter what else is going on, life feels AWESOME. I keep the book next to my bed, and Hunter and I read through a few awesome things each night. Now he’s developed the habit of identifying awesome things in real life that could be added to the book. In other words, Neil’s book has turned us into silver-lining seekers!

Simple pleasures and great moments no longer go unnoticed or get taken for granted. Now, we highlight them, talk about them, and revel in their glory. Needless to say, I am now a 1000 Awesome Things groupie. I love the idea of it. I love the little things that are mentioned, and I really love Neil’s writing style.

So, if you were looking for a great blog, or a great book to give you a brighter outlook on life, Neil has you covered either way. Enjoy!!!

2. Raptitude

Raptitude is the blog I’m married to, mostly because it is a blog unlike any other. I discovered Raptitude about a year ago, and have been committed to it ever since. It has become my better half, reliable, and comforting. I can always count on it to deliver exactly what I need, when I need it.

When I read posts at Raptitude, I don’t feel like I’m just skimming the surface of an interesting subject. Instead, I am taken by the hand and guided, slowly and carefully, into an intricate web of ideas, beautifully presented, and artfully elaborated. I feel like I’m reading a book as it is being written, one electronic chapter at a time, and I can’t wait for the next installment.

I am not skilled enough to find the right words to properly describe how much I enjoy Raptitude. My relationship with this particular blog is made to last a lifetime. (David, whatever you do, don’t stop writing!)

3. Wandering Earl

This is the blog I’m having an affair with, because it takes me to magical and mystical places I can’t get to in real life. Earl is a 100% sure ’nuff modern day nomad. If he ever has to list his “permanent residence” I’m sure his answer is, “My Backpack.”

He’s been just about everywhere, it seems, and not because it would be a cool gimmick, or because it’s a personal challenge, or because he’ll make a lot of money at it. Earl moves around and visits random places because he wants to get to know them. He wants to know what life is like in other places… not the highlights and tourist traps, but REAL life, real people… he is a true citizen of the world.

I would LOVE to do what he does. Maybe one day we’ll figure out how to do the Family Pack version of Earl’s nomadic lifestyle. But until then, I travel vicariously through him. His blog, Wandering Earl, isn’t your typical travel guide. It is the journal of a man who lives for adventure (a rare breed these days). I visit this blog to read thoughtful stories with a unique and passionate perspective. It adds sparkle to my life.

4. Your Life. Live It. Love It.

This is a new e-book by my dear friend, Sherri, of Serene Journey. If there is anyone on this planet who can figure out how to make life simple and enjoyable, it’s Sherri. The book, as she explains it, is “designed to help people break mental barriers, confront insecurities, strengthen relationships, and redesign their life so they can live in a way that is true to who they are.” I’m sure we all could use a little help in these areas.

This e-book is 69 pages, packed full of sound advice, and organized into three major sections:

1) Focus on you.

2) Focus on your relationships.

3) Enjoy the little things in life.

Officially, the book comes out on Monday, March 29, but (as you’ll see in the next point) I won’t be online much that week. I wanted to go ahead and tell you all about it now, so you won’t miss out on Sherri’s beautiful contribution to the world. I am so proud of her for getting this done (with two little ones at home, no less!).

5. My Upcoming Costa Rican Adventure

Hunter and I will be heading to Costa Rica tomorrow, for three weeks!! Unlike last year, this time, I will not be thinking about the blog. I have not pre-scheduled anything to publish while I’m gone. I may post something along the way, if my Muse demands it, but most likely not.

After all, having real life adventures is… AWESOME. (Right, Neil?)

I’ll be back at the end of April. In the meantime, if you are looking for something to read, please check out the first four things I mentioned, or take a stroll through the over-stuffed Quest for Balance Archives. You might find a few more awesome things in there.

I look forward to having some great stories to write about when I get back.

Take Care,

Lisis

PS: Do you have any awesome things to share with us? A favorite blog, book, movie, song, or Ben & Jerry’s flavor? C’mon… there’s got to be something awesome in your life right now!

(Photo Credit)

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Comments
  • Cheryl Paris March 25, 2010 at 4:25 am

    Thanks for Sharing Lisis.
    Have a safe and wonderful trip.

    Bye for Now,
    Cheryl
    .-= Cheryl Paris´s last blog ..How We Grew With An Acorn- N is for… =-.

    • Lisis March 25, 2010 at 8:33 am

      Thanks, Cheryl… I will do my very best to make it so. :)

  • Archan Mehta March 25, 2010 at 4:29 am

    Ah, Lisis:

    Thanks for asking. Everything in my life is fabulous right now save for the fact that my regular supplier of my beloved M-Plant–lovelier than any woman I have ever encountered–is vacationing in Costa Rica. And, before that, he was in Vermont–what a coincidence.

    Now, if that statement does not blow your mind already, this will.
    A list of some of my favorite blogs (well, since you asked..you know me…how could I resist?). And the nominees are…for the Tony Awards…and for the Oscar Awards…and I am whistling dixie:

    Ali Hale of Aliventures

    Charlie Gilkey of Productive Flourishing

    Jen Smith of Reach Our Dreams

    Johnny B. Truant (enough said!)

    Michael Martine of Remarkablogger

    Naomi Dunford of IttyBiz

    Henri Juntilla of Wake Up Cloud

    Maria Brophy’s blog about Art and Lifestyle

    (At this point, I am going to have to leave because my stomach is making growling sounds and it is time to feed the dog. Otherwise, there are several other blogs I would love to recommend, but at least this should be a start. Check it out, folks, no regrets!).

    • Lisis March 25, 2010 at 9:11 am

      Hey, Archan! Costa Rica and Vermont, huh? That really DOES blow my mind!

      Thanks for adding your favorite blogs, too. There are SO many now, that it’s getting really tough to find “the good stuff”. I’m familiar with a few of these, and Michael Martine lives just down the road from me! I’ll be sure and check out the ones I have not visited yet… when I get back. :)

  • David Cain March 25, 2010 at 4:45 am

    Aw, thank you Lisis. Just what I needed on a rough day. *hug*

    I’m not sure what Raptitude would be without your encouragement. You represent my audience in my mind when I write. I know you never asked to be, but you’ve become a part of my conscience.

    Good for you for going blogless on your trip. Thinking of topics and angles can really get in the way of a good voyage. Stay easy and free, and enjoy the sunshine.
    .-= David Cain´s last blog ..How to Make Mindfulness a Habit With Only a Tiny Commitment =-.

    • Lisis March 25, 2010 at 9:14 am

      Sorry you’re having a rough day, David… and I’m glad the timing of this post worked out as it did. I am taking a page from your book this time, and going out to have myself a little adventure. As Alan Watts liked to say, sometimes we need some real life grist for our intellectual mills (or something to that effect). Sunshine, sand, family, tropical fruits, comforting coffee… these are the things my soul needs.

  • Lance March 25, 2010 at 4:57 am

    Lisis,
    Life is filled with so many awesome things. What a great list of five here! You are a bright shiny star in the universe…and that is definitely all sorts of awesome in my book!

    Have an amazing trip with Hunter!

    • Lisis March 25, 2010 at 9:15 am

      Lance, you just demoted me! My grandma used to say I was the Goddess of the Universe. Now I’m just a shiny star! How did that happen? ;)

      • Lance March 25, 2010 at 4:32 pm

        Dear Goddess of the Universe,
        I stand corrected! (…you are still shiny!!!!)

        Looking for forgiveness from you and grandma…
        .-= Lance´s last blog ..Sunday Thought For The Day =-.

  • charity March 25, 2010 at 5:36 am

    One of the most awesome things ever was reading this blog that I swear was totally written about/for me and craving every post by this blogger/writer/whatever and finding out that she lives 10 min away!!! AWESOME!

    • Lisis March 25, 2010 at 9:17 am

      Thanks, Charity! I can honestly say it has been equally awesome for me to find you through this blog and discover you are right down the road. Granted, in mid-winter that road seemed eternal, but as Spring approaches, I think it will be easier for me to get out and about so we can play. :)

  • Boris March 25, 2010 at 5:53 am

    Lisis,
    Thanks for sharing these awesome things! Have a great time in Costa Rica.
    All the best,
    Boris
    .-= Boris´s last blog ..Be creative, even if you are uncreative per nature! =-.

    • Lisis March 25, 2010 at 9:18 am

      You’re welcome, Boris! Thanks for all the awesome comments you have always shared here, at Q4B. You have made me think long and hard on more than a few occasions. Thoughtful comments are AWESOME. :)

  • Christopher Kabamba March 25, 2010 at 6:02 am

    Lisis,

    This is great!

    (1) I started reading 1000owesomethings yesterday and
    (2) I just read a great post by David Cain entitled “How to Make Mindfulness a Habit With Only a Tiny Commitment” …. a beautiful piece.

    I love his cross cutting statement:

    “The bottom line of almost all self-help, spiritual, or religious literature is that our ability to be happy is determined by our ability to stay in the present moment. The Buddhists, the Toltecs, the Bible, Eckhart Tolle, Ram Dass, Emerson, Thoreau — anyone at all who is known for having found a path to consistent, recurring joy — cites staying present as the essential teaching.”

    AND I AGREE WITH HIM 100%. It’s all clear now. It is amazing what another wo/man’s words can do…

    Thanks for sharing these truly awesome things.
    .-= Christopher Kabamba´s last blog ..6 SIMPLE Ideas from the Last 6 Years =-.

    • Lisis March 25, 2010 at 9:21 am

      Well, Christopher… if you have discovered 1000 Awesome Things and Raptitude, then I am leaving you in good hands. You’ll have plenty of awesome things to read while I’m frolicking in the tropics. I can’t wait to touch base with you again when I get back!

      :)

  • Sherri Kruger March 25, 2010 at 10:00 am

    Hi Lisis,

    You are so kind. Thank you so much for mentioning my book here and sharing it with your fabulous community. I’m so happy that you’re taking some time away to enjoy the sunshine and not think about the blog. It’s not going anywhere and we’ll all be here when you get back ready to read about all of your fabulous adventures :)

    All the best!
    Sherri

    • Lisis March 25, 2010 at 10:34 am

      Hey, Sherri!! Sorry I had to do this a little ahead of schedule, but… duty calls. ;)

      I really am SOOOOO proud of you for getting this awesome product put together on top of all the other incredible projects you manage, not the least of which is your household. I’ll never figure out how you get so much done in the same 24 hours I have each day, but I admire you greatly for it… not the “getting things done” part, but the grace with which you do it. You are a tremendous inspiration, Sherri.

      Good luck with your new book!!! :)

  • Amit Sodha - The Power Of Choice March 25, 2010 at 10:43 am

    I’ve been reading that blog occasionally 1000 awesome things and there have been some real gems! Thanks for sharing Lisis
    .-= Amit Sodha – The Power Of Choice´s last blog ..My Deepest Gratitude =-.

  • Srinivas Rao March 25, 2010 at 11:07 am

    Hey Lisis,

    Love all the stuff in this post. I got myself a copy of Neil’s book too and it is definitely and entertaining read which teaches us how to appreciate alot of small things in life. Regarding your Costa Rican adventure, I hope you’ll take a surf lesson and come back and write about it. I think Costa Rica is next on my list

  • Chania Girl March 25, 2010 at 11:15 am

    I think the most awesome thing in my life right now is being back in the blogging world and able to read beautiful posts like this one. I loved reading your gratitude list not just because it’s fun to read other people’s joy, but because you also gave me some sources of joy to pursue for myself! :)

    Lisis, have a safe and wonderful trip to Costa Rica and take a ton of pictures to share with us when you return. I have a feeling that this trip is exactly what your Muse needs. When you return, Her cup will be running over. :)
    .-= Chania Girl´s last blog ..Two Lists =-.

  • Erin March 25, 2010 at 11:32 am

    Have fun in Costa Rica and watch out for those giant bugs. Raptitude rocks and so does Quest For Balance. Be blessed. We look forward to Costa Rica photos and tales of adventure.
    .-= Erin´s last blog ..Night Vision =-.

  • Alison | Quest for Balance March 25, 2010 at 12:04 pm

    I know you’re going to have an AWESOME time in Costa Rica. Enjoy the “Sunshine, sand, family, tropical fruits, [and] comforting coffee…”, not to mention the gorgeous scenery and wildlife. I will be thinking of you and wishing I were there, too. Say hi to the fam for us! :)
    .-= Alison | Quest for Balance´s last blog ..Remaining Calm in Stressful Situations =-.

  • Mars Dorian March 25, 2010 at 1:54 pm

    Hey,

    I mainly use two powerful forces as my light of guidance:

    Reading my favorite blog BoingBoing and listening to the larger-than-life band Angels and Airwaves.

    Seriously, it’s more than a blast – it’s a tidal wave of explosive little thunder balls!
    I’m all about passion, and those two things help me increase that endless fire within.
    .-= Mars Dorian´s last blog ..Why YOUR Brand Changes the World =-.

  • Earl March 26, 2010 at 1:07 am

    Hey Lisis – All I can say is a simple thank you. It is an absolute honor to be mentioned in such a post that is shared with such an incredible community as yours.

    I wish you a brilliant few weeks in CR and shall look forward to the tales of your adventures upon your return home!
    .-= Earl´s last blog ..My Pockets Are Full Of Change…Are Yours? =-.

  • Brett - DareToExpress.com March 26, 2010 at 6:54 pm

    Here’s my good news, Lisis!

    I’m back blogging (though things are blowing up in my face. Damn technology!).

    But I’m better than ever. And I got my wisdom teeth out this morning… So that means I’m gonna be eating plenty of Ben and Jerry’s this weekend! :D

    As soon as I asked my mom to get some B&J’s, I instantly thought, “Man, Lisis would be so happy for me!”

    I keep thinking of ya, even when I’m not active.

    Take care, and have a blast in Costa Rica!
    .-= Brett – DareToExpress.com´s last blog ..Being Naked and… Glowing. Now With 72% Identity! =-.

  • finding happiness April 7, 2010 at 3:59 pm

    Hope all is well with you. Haven’t seen any posts in a while. I think that’s a good thing. I’ve been struggling with try got post a lot through the last 6 months or so as I’ve been working on some other things and didn’t want to just post to post… But was just thinking about you when I looked in my feed reader and realized you hadn’t posted since the 25th so thought I’d drop by and say hi.
    .-= finding happiness´s last blog ..How to Find Happiness Within Yourself =-.

  • finding happiness April 8, 2010 at 8:27 am

    OK, yes, I finally read the end of this post. ;-) Hope you’re having fun in CR! You deserve it!

  • Vincent Nguyen April 12, 2010 at 9:52 am

    Hi Lisis,

    How have you been?
    Just recently came back from a serious car accident and now I get to read my favourite *awesome* blogs again. :-)
    Out of all this craziness…the most “awesome” experience after the accident is being in the delivery room and witnessing the birth of our little baby girl “Mikayla”…now that is just the most beautiful and emotional feeling ever.

    Have yourself an awesome day Lisis.
    .-= Vincent Nguyen´s last blog ..How do you "leverage" your T.I.M.E.? =-.

  • Quinn April 12, 2010 at 4:26 pm

    Interesting post thanks for the pointers to some other great place have a great trip.
    .-= Quinn´s last blog ..The journey to here part 1: making the rock =-.

  • Ivan April 12, 2010 at 8:10 pm

    pura vida amiga…espero que todo valla bien…cuidate…I wish I could have met you down there…I don’t think I mentioned it to you, but I left Costa Rica in February and I am now living in South Korea….have a casado for me :) …ciao
    .-= Ivan´s last blog ..Expansion: Our Greatest Fulfillment =-.

  • Laura Hegfield April 14, 2010 at 4:44 pm

    :)

  • Annabel Candy, Get In the Hot Spot April 27, 2010 at 9:44 pm

    I thought I left a comment:) Must have been too emotional and messed it up. Buenas suerte amiga! Hope to stay in touch.
    .-= Annabel Candy, Get In the Hot Spot´s last blog ..5 Reasons You Should Learn Something New Every Day =-.

  • S.Pradeep Kumar May 10, 2010 at 9:06 am

    Am always addicted to random thoughts stuffs.

    These are really gr8 posts and hope you had a gr8 trip. Cheers! ;)
    .-= S.Pradeep Kumar´s last blog ..15+ Reasons Why I Want To Marry A Female Blogger! =-.

  • John Sherry May 17, 2010 at 10:41 am

    Wow, great stuff. Why choose a little description of your life right now like ‘great’ when it can be ‘awesome’?. And that’s just it. If you think awesome and declare it’s awesome then your senses start to pick up on awesome. So, everyone, choose a BIG definition of your life and let it into your pysche and infect you happily from the inside out. Awesome post Lisis

    PS Mine is fantastic!
    .-= John Sherry´s last blog ..The Danger of Meaning =-.

  • Mike O'Connell July 14, 2010 at 2:34 pm

    Wow!…1000 things is truly awesome lol…every single one I read put a smile on my face. Thanks for sharing. Keep up the great work!

  • Jamie Saunders July 23, 2010 at 2:57 am

    I love the way you say how you should live your life and love it. Being one of those people who want to promote empowerment and acceptance among women, I think we should start this before making a difference.

  • SenseiMattKlein July 27, 2010 at 8:43 am

    Great resources. Spent more than enough time on 1000 Awesome things to know I want to bookmark it along with your site.
    SenseiMattKlein´s last [type] ..10 More Lessons Learned from the Karate Kid Movie

  • Henri Labelle August 9, 2010 at 11:58 am

    Great post, keep up the good work! :)

  • Happiness August 12, 2010 at 12:24 pm

    Yes, I HAVE a lot to share and I have just began a blog to share good feelings, happiness and increase our feeling good sensation. I hope you feel like posting some experience of you :-)
    Happiness´s last [type] ..Share your happiness

  • jason@ dog wash August 24, 2010 at 3:54 pm

    enjoying the little things in life will keep you at peace with yourself and keep your spouse happy. Because being mopey and miserable all the time is a negative way to live so live and let live I will follow your site great info and I wish it was me who was going to Costa Rica.

  • Neil Martin September 20, 2010 at 3:11 pm

    I love your blog always full of such positive insights. I know this was posted a long time ago, but feel your posts are like a good wine, they never age.

    • Lisis September 21, 2010 at 6:55 am

      Thank you, Neil… tha’ts a really sweet thing to say! :)

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  • Some stranger April 16, 2011 at 5:57 am

    Thanks for share! “1000 Awesome Things” is the nest that I read for last month!

  • Pavel April 24, 2011 at 1:42 pm

    it`s interesting,
    thanks