Living the Dash **Pursing Happiness**

Two days from another transition, I find I can not stop thinking about how to take advantage of this time. I have looked for similar opportunities like the one I am leaving and it actually depresses me think of going back to more of the same. Life is too short and knowing this, should I not live it fully in every single area of my life?

It is not just this area I am speaking of. Another is this blog. The name no longer suits or fits me. I will always be radical about my artwork, but I am more radical about authentic living, writing and being. In fact, I have spent the good part of this year perfecting my writing and photographing things and people that capture my attention.

So, what makes me happy?

Conferences. I love connecting with people, the conversations and all the new things I learn. I always come away from them refreshed and full of new ideas.

Reading. I devour books. I am always looking to renew my mind and change my thinking. My goal is to maintain a consistently positive way of thinking. I have achieved more with this kind of mindset than allowing negativity a foothold. Plus, being positive is more fun.

Yarn. I love to crochet flowers and little things. I am not the most patient person when it comes to creating clothing, so making flowers and granny squares makes me happy.

Fabric. While I have not had as much opportunity to sew, I plan on doing more in the coming weeks. Sewing relaxes me. I love looking at the new patterns and feeling the fabric. It has always been one of my favorite hobbies.

Photography. When I am in the zone during a shoot, creating a certain kind of picture is a thrill. Especially if I am photographing a person who does not believe they photograph well. I do this because I love it.

Outside of the conference thing, unless I am invited to speak somewhere in the coming months, I plan on diving into the other four and seeing what else I discover that makes me happy. Anything that helps me live authentically is welcome in my life.