Curate Your Life

"Your gallery of memories starts with the brush strokes of today." -Me

 

 

While immersed in a recent virtual museum tour, my mind drifted to the role of a curator and their process for designing an exhibit. It struck me suddenly that much like selecting artwork, I too am curating a "gallery of memories" for myself—choosing the right pieces, crafting the flow, and cultivating the ambiance. This concept resonated once more the evening I joined a new women's travel group in town. As I listened to these women share their experiences, hopes, and future plans, I couldn't help but admire how they, too, curate their lives with such intentionality.

Every day, month, and year, we select and arrange elements of our lives, whether we are conscious of it or not. For me, curating involves living purposely so I can craft experiences that embody the life, adventures, and memories I want to hold dear.

In the spirit of Henry David Thoreau, taking actionable steps ensures we don't reach the end of our life and discover we didn't truly live.

Below are 3 Practical Questions to begin asking yourself:

1. What do I genuinely value, and how do these values influence my life's path?

Actionable Step: Dedicate a moment to compile a values list for your "gallery of memories." Think of at least 2 values that matter most to you. If you were able to look to the end of your days, what gallery do you want to see? Common examples of a life value could be: adventure, serving others, seeking truth, carpe diem, or "sucking the marrow out of life." [DPS-Mr. Keating ❤️] Look at these values and see if your daily decisions match up. If not, figure out where you can make changes to make sure you're staying true to what's important to you.

2. Am I creating clear, achievable experiences that align with my values?
Actionable Step: Take some time to decide on which experiences you want that will match the values from above. To illustrate, if you value entrepreneurship, and that's led to the dream of having a coffee shop/bookstore, then make a simple plan to work towards this goal step by step. If instead you value slow-living, identify things you need to remove from your life to slow down the pace.

3. Do I let finances get in the way of curating my life?
Actionable Step: Sometimes we make finances the scapegoat for why we're not living a full life when actually we need to get more creative. So check your money situation but also think about adjusting your plans a bit or finding new ways to make things work. For example, if adventure is your value and Paris your dream, but you can't pay for a trip yourself, look for volunteer options or a part-time work vacation to off set the cost. If your value is to "connect with nature" and that leads you to... I don't know, have a secret garden at your house, then ask garden friends to gift you seeds or ask for plants on holidays.

 

When I view my decisions as though I'm curating my life's gallery, I get inspired! I hope something in this post inspires you too. May every decision and proverbial brushstroke in your upcoming days be a careful curation of your wondrous legacy onto the canvas of time, ensuring that your final gallery of memories reflect your strongest values.

 
 #CurateYourLife #IntentionalLiving"

January - Galadriel Month

🌿✨ January Recap - Embracing the Elven Essence ✨🌿

Hello, fellow adventurers! As I conclude the first chapter of my LOTR-inspired New Year's journey, the "Galadriel/Elven Month," I wanted to share the magical moments that unfolded.

1. Nature Immersion: January beckoned me with the crisp breath of winter, as I took some brisk walks and  had a lakeside retreat during one of the sunny days. The frozen edges of the lake whispered, "be still," while the wintry breeze made me imagine what the elves do in the winter at the Lothlórien forest. 🍃❄️

 Practical Task: Spend time in nature, appreciating its beauty.

 

2. Calligraphy Adventure: In the pursuit of some Galadriel elegance, I decided on trying calligraphy. Siting down with my fine-tip pens (which, as it turned out, were not ideal), I adapted, choosing instead to research how to inscribe my name in Elvish. Each stroke became a dance, a connection to the graceful lines of Tolkien's world.

Practical Task: Try calligraphy.📜

 

3. Enchanting Screen Transformations & videos:The magic extended to the digital realm, as my phone transformed into a portal to Middle-earth. I cannot share those because I cannot find the original artist to give credit to however it's been a nice reminder of my focus this month!

January's journey has been Galadriel's ethereal world. 🌈✨ Here's to more enchanting adventures in the months to come! 🗓️🌟 #LOTRNewYear #GaladrielMonth #ElvenEssence #MiddleEarthMagic

Take a Break & Read with Me

 

I enjoy going on YouTube and finding "Read with me" videos. To be creative, I attempted to make one myself with just my phone and a tripod. I know it's bad! ha. However, for my friends and family across the country, I still hope they will enjoy spending this time together. So grab your book and something refreshing to drink then sit with me and let's read! Run time is only 24 minutes. 

"...judge tenderly of me" ~ Emily Dickinson

 YouTube uploaded it in 240p so select the gear ⚙️ to adjust the video quality higher size to match your phone or computer.

 

New Year's for Men: Carpe Diem 2.0

For the gentlemen embarking on a year-long adventure, behold "Carpe Diem 2.0" — a meticulously crafted 12-month plan that weaves together the enduring allure of action and sports with a dash of refinement. Catering specifically to the more discerning tastes of mature individuals, each month unfolds a thoughtfully curated fusion of physical and mental engagement. I hope the more masculine among us will enjoy immersing themselves in these activities tailored to provide a year rich in more meaningful experiences and personal evolution. For this list, the adventurer should grab a simple photo album booklet that has at least 12 slots and take one picture representing accomplishing each month's task.

January: Tenets of Martial Arts - Jump into the New Year and get inspired by learning the philosophy and discipline of a martial art. Consider Tai Chi (study out monk Zhang Sanfeng) or Aikido (research founder Morihei Ueshiba) for a mindful approach. The Core Objective of this Month: to cultivate inner strength and resilience. Take a picture to represent you accomplishing this goal.

 

February: Holistic Health Kickstart - Establish a balanced fitness routine to invigorate your body type. Explore nutritious recipes and embrace mindful eating habits. In 2024, we stop neglecting our health. ❤️ You could also take up gentle yoga or meditation to add to your holistic health approach. The Core Objective of this Month: laying the foundation for a healthier and more energized lifestyle. Take a picture to represent you accomplishing this goal.

March: Tactical Mindset - Explore strategic thinking through chess, Risk or other mind sports. Attend a lecture on strategy or read a book like "The Art of War" or Bear Woznick's, "12 Rules for Manliness: Where Have All The Cowboys Gone?" The Core Objective of this Month: to sharpen your strategic thinking skills. Take a picture to represent you accomplishing this goal.

 

April: Outdoor Explorations - Engage in some type of new outdoor activities you’ve never tried before. Need ideas? How about: Frisbee golf, pickle ball, paddle boarding. For a more relaxed outdoor experience try nature walks or bird watching. The Core Objective of this Month: to step out of your comfort zone and foster a sense of adventure and resilience while getting some fresh air. Take a picture to represent you accomplishing this goal.

 

May: Aquatic Serenity - Enjoy calming water activities like fishing or sailing. If those are not readily available, then watch movies with serene aquatic scenes. Another option could be to watch YouTube videos with ocean relaxation sounds and explore praying-meditation. The Core Objective of this Month: to find some tranquility, relaxation, and develop a more peaceful state of mind amidst life's demands. Take a picture to represent you accomplishing this goal.

 

June: Tech Detox - schedule in a tech detox this month; maybe a whole day/weekend. Take up a non-tech hobby like building a model, woodcarving, or whittling. The Core Objective of this Month: to disconnect from tech and allow more space for introspection and imagination so you can have a better balance between the virtual and real worlds. Take a picture to represent you accomplishing this goal.

 

July: Legendary Athletes - The 2024 Summer Olympics take place from July 26 to August 11, 2024! Now's a great time to study out legendary athletes that inspire you or even research a current athlete that will be attending the summer events. Bonus idea: Organize your own friendly sport-themed gathering with friends. The Core Objective of this Month: to draw inspiration from athletes that apply determination and discipline to their goals and challenges. Take a picture to represent you accomplishing this goal.

 

August: Retro Gaming Retreat- Have a classic board game or retro video game night at your home or a local facility. Build new gaming memories with your kids, or share gaming fun with friends and family. The Core Objective of this Month: to build connections through shared nostalgia, creating memories and embracing a simpler time. Take a picture to represent you accomplishing this goal.

 

September: Mentorship Discovery - Dedicate this month to exploring some mentorship opportunities or seeking therapeutic support. Whether you connect with a mentor in your field of interest or embark on a journey of self-discovery through therapy, prioritize personal growth and learning. The Core Objective of this Month: to gain new and valuable insights, guidance, and a deeper understanding of oneself while fostering positive development and well-being. Take a picture to represent you accomplishing this goal.

 

October: Resilience Revisited - Use this ChatGPT prompt, "Will you write a quick summary about how I was resilient in my life during ______. input your personal example. Soak in that encouragement! The Core Objective of this Month: to reflect on your own personal resilience and recognize in a concrete way the strength you've gained from overcoming adversity. Take a picture to represent you accomplishing this goal or print off what ChatGPT wrote.

 

November: Cultural Immersion - Immerse yourself in a new culture/study out a new culture. Try cooking a dish from a different culture or attend a cultural event in your community. The Core Objective of this Month: to broaden your perspectives and understanding for those different than you. Take a picture to represent you accomplishing this goal.

 

December: Reflective Lens - A Visual Chronicle of the Year - Reflect on the year's experiences. Cap off the year by embarking on a photojournalism project. Take your captured moments from each month and create a visual diary. Write a short description and what you learned with the images as you compile them. The Core Objective of this Month: to celebrate the year you've had and all the different, unique things you tried. 

I hope that you've found this monthly breakdown enjoyable, well-paced, and a diverse journey! Happy new year.

New Year's Enchantment: Embracing Disney-Heroines Adventures

Roses from my garden

Take a look at another themed New Year's aspirations list by stepping into a year of enchantment inspired by the spirit of Disney heroines. Each month brings unique activities that mirror the courage, kindness, and adventures found in these beloved characters. This New Year's themed option is all about infusing new activities each month so that you have a well-rounded year.

January - Mulan Background: Mulan is brave and resourceful, disguising herself as a man to fight and save her father. Aspirations:

• Set a goal that challenges your gender role and learn about a traditionally male-dominated skill. Examples: woodworking, coding, something about your car
• Embrace your inner warrior: try self-defense, martial arts, or Tai chi.

February - Belle Background: Belle is a bookworm and an advocate for kindness. Aspirations:

• This month, read a classic book. Need a suggestion? Try "The Blue Castle" by LM Montgomery
• Practice random acts of kindness throughout the month.

March - Tiana Background: Tiana is hardworking and determined to achieve her dreams. Aspirations:

• Set a financial goal and review your budget for areas of improvement.
• Learn to cook or try one new dish from a different culture.

April - Pocahontas Background: Pocahontas is a character connected to nature and promoted harmony. Aspirations:

• Take care of some nature around you. Volunteer to do a local clean-up or go along your street and pick up trash one afternoon.
• Learn about a local indigenous culture in your area.

May - Ariel Background: Ariel is curious, adventurous, and willing to explore new worlds. Aspirations:

• Plan a trip: to an aquarium, or visit a beach/lake
• Since Ariel collected trinkets try explore an antique shop!

June - Cinderella Background: Cinderella is resilient and maintains hope even in adversity. Aspirations:

• Read "Cinder" by Marissa Meyer - a very modern take on Cinderella.
• Cinderella's story revolves around the ball; learn a new dance/ even try one on TicTok.

July - Moana Background: Moana is a determined explorer who finds her own path. Aspirations:

• Plan a road trip to a new, local city this month that you've not visited before.
• Try your hand at water-based activities like sailing or kayaking; or go swimming.

August - Jasmine Background: Jasmine values freedom and independence. Aspirations:

• Challenge your biases. She did not let Aladdin's social status cloud her view. This month, engage in one conversation with a stranger that is different from your daily interactions.
• Read Arabian Nights. It has several stories and is where the story of Aladdin is featured.

September - Elsa Background: Elsa has a journey of self-discovery and embracing her uniqueness. Aspirations

• Do a mindset shift challenge. Identify a limiting belief or negative thought pattern and actively work to shift your mindset toward more positive and empowering perspectives. Here's how: Thought Transformation Guide .
• Check in with yourself each week to see how it's going.
  

October - Merida Background: Merida is a skilled archer and a symbol of independence. Aspirations:

• Learn about Celtic knots and consider learning to tie Celtic Heart Knot.
• Explore a cultural festival or event in your area.

November - Rapunzel Background: Rapunzel is resourceful and creative, using her long hair to navigate life. Aspirations:

• Let's try a new recipe! To be on theme, create your own Hazelnut soup. Here a recipe to try. 
• Try a new hairstyle or self-care hair routine.

December - Snow White Background: Snow White is known for her kindness, innocence, and gentle spirit. Aspirations: 

• Make a Wishing Well Craft - Create a simple wishing well from craft materials where you (or planner users) can write hopes, dreams, or intentions on slips of paper and “drop” them in. This ties to the classic wishing well in her story.
• Nature Walk & Bake - Like Snow White, take a nature walk! 
• Prepare an apple-themed treat—like spiced apple cider to celebrate the iconic fruit tied to Snow White’s story.

S.T.E.P. into Prepping: A Jumpstart Guide for New Preppers

The beauty of preparedness lies in its ability to transform fear into empowerment.

I've come to truly appreciate the calm that stems from being well-prepared for different types of emergencies. I’m not talking about doomsday scenarios, but rather real-life emergencies like fires, tornadoes, financial challenges, or staying calm in chaos. Here are some basics.

S-Stockpile: Each time you shop, buy one extra item. For example, buy three cans of beans instead of two and store the extra in your pantry. This simple habit helps build your backup stash without breaking your budget. You don’t need a huge stockpile—a modest backup is often enough to get through some tough times. Pro-tip: Foods like lentils may be on sale for a great price however if you don't like them, then don't stock them. I learned that your pantry should hold foods you actually enjoy otherwise you don't choose them. The best choice is items that you'll actually eat so that your pantry "rotates" easily to avoid waste.

T-Tailored Plan: Plan for your family's needs. Quick-grab packs for each family member are easy to put together! There are two main kind: bug-out bags & get-home bags. So figure out which one you might need more. Imagine these bags having your essentials for a speedy exit from your home or to your property. They might include spare outfits, hygiene items, comfy shoes, and perhaps some snacks. And don't forget a pet-friendly emergency bag with food and collapsible bowls.

E-Essentials: Organize critical documents – insurance, wills, medical records – in one grab-and-go binder. In case of the unexpected, you'll have all the essentials right at your fingertips. Include photos of everyone in the family—including your beloved fur babies. To ensure an added layer of security, avoid labeling the binder as containing important documents – it's a smart way to keep your preps discreet and safeguard them.

P-Prepare: Easy items to get!

• At home: Keep a flashlight by your bedside, store spare water bottles under the sink, and invest in a solid tool kit. We also keep a key to shut off the water supply in case of a leak. Most people don’t have a fire extinguisher, so consider a small, easy-to-use one. A tip I love: store medications in a portable toolbox. It’s great for emergencies and easy to take on road trips, so you never have to buy what you already have at home.
• In your car: Have an extra pocket knife, a little cash, gloves, little first aid kit, water, blanket, trash bags and a jump start kit at the very least.
  

Side note: Everyday Carry (EDC)
Though most EDC videos are geared toward men, women need to be prepared too. Although not as common, consider carrying a small waist knife. It's versatile for everyday tasks and unexpected situations. I’ve surprised coworkers by using my pocket knife instead of searching for scissors—it's both a tool and a safety measure. Also, if it feels right, consider becoming licensed to carry a firearm. Proper training is essential. One important thing to consider if you are a woman, is to make sure you can rack the slide. People may try to sell you on something more powerful but often we don't have the hand strength. It's got to work for you and being comfortable is essential.

If you have questions, let me know. Otherwise, in a nutshell, prepping empowers you. You've got this!