HappyUP!!! - rain
Why it happened - c'mon..who knows
Why it makes me happy - we are playing serious catch up. I am thinking the Sierra's may have gotten a little snow too.
HappyUP!!! - two lazy cats
Why it happened - who knows
Why it makes me happy - it was windy...and rainy....and I woke up....and heard the tumult outside....and both of my cats were still out on my bed. This is NOT the usual program. Babies do cool things...I get the dog owners and the puppy love....but a couple of purring cats is a tough thing to beat for calm.
HappyUP!!! - breakfast on a Sunday
Why it happened - it was time for my morning feeding
Why it makes me happy - hot coffee...short stack...sausage...sitting by the window looking out at the weather.....niiiiiiccccce.
HappyUP!!! - book review
Why it happened - I decided to go through the box
Why it makes me happy - I make notes while reading books on the idea that I get back and do some summarizing. I knocked out a couple of them today.
JollyJottings
Two lazy cats
Breakfast
Book review
Chatting with a friend
Playing some guitar
Rain
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Andrew Carnegie: The Mission Statement
From his journal:
"Thirty three and an income of $50,000 per annum. By this time 2 years from now I can arrange all my business as to make no effort to increase fortune but spend the surplus each year for benevolent purposes. Settle in Oxford and get a thorough education, making the acquaintance of literary men -this will take three year's active work -pay especial attention to speaking in public. Settle then in London and purchase a controlling interest in some newspaper or live review and give the general management of it attention, taking a part in public matters especially those connected with education and improvement of the poorer classes. Man must have an idol - the amassing of wealth is one of the worst species of idolatry. No idol more debasing than the worship of money. Whatever I engage in I must push inordinately, therefore I should be careful to choose that life which will be the most elevating in its character. To continue much longer overwhelmed by business cares and with most of my thoughts wholly upon the way to make more money in the shortest time, must degrade me beyond hope of permanent recovery. I will resign businesses at thirty five, but during the ensuing two years, I wish to spend the afternoons in securing instruction, and in reading systematically."
Carnegie didn't get it done - in two years. It actually took three decades for his vision of a life of service to happen.
The amazing thing to me - is the amount of clarity Carnegie had at the age of 33.
The above is from the book, Halftime, by Bob Buford.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
HappyUP!!! Day 748
HappyUP!!! - 75
Why it happened - that's how many it took to get around the course today
Why it makes me happy - I didn't hit it that good but this was the best score of the year. A good short game always comes in handy.
HappyUP!!! - sand play
Why it happened - I asked the pros for a tip last week
Why it makes me happy - they told me some things in the pro shop. I went out to the practice bunker the next two days and worked on it. My technique had definitely been flawed. Today, I was in two traps....and got it up and down both times. I got some training...I worked on it...and it paid off today...HappyUP!!!
HappyUP!!! - chatting with my Minnesota friend
Why it happened - we were both on Facebook
Why it makes me happy - this guy is a brother from a different mother....no question about it. We did some fun IM-ing.
JollyJottings
Good weather
Sandy on 2
Chip in on 5
Up and down on 7,8, and 9
Sandy on 13
Birdie on 15
Up and down on 17
6 iron out of the bunker on 18
Why it happened - that's how many it took to get around the course today
Why it makes me happy - I didn't hit it that good but this was the best score of the year. A good short game always comes in handy.
HappyUP!!! - sand play
Why it happened - I asked the pros for a tip last week
Why it makes me happy - they told me some things in the pro shop. I went out to the practice bunker the next two days and worked on it. My technique had definitely been flawed. Today, I was in two traps....and got it up and down both times. I got some training...I worked on it...and it paid off today...HappyUP!!!
HappyUP!!! - chatting with my Minnesota friend
Why it happened - we were both on Facebook
Why it makes me happy - this guy is a brother from a different mother....no question about it. We did some fun IM-ing.
JollyJottings
Good weather
Sandy on 2
Chip in on 5
Up and down on 7,8, and 9
Sandy on 13
Birdie on 15
Up and down on 17
6 iron out of the bunker on 18
Friday, February 13, 2009
HappyUP!!! Day 747
HappyUP!!! - golf
Why it happened - got a break in the weather
Why it makes me happy - we had written it off...then the weather cleared...kind of. We got in 18 holes in dry weather. As we were wrapping it up on 18, it started to sprinkle
HappyUP!!! - golfing with the Boz
Why it happened - he had today off
Why it makes me happy - Boz cracks me up. I hadn't golfed with him in a month....and he played good!
HappyUP!!! - golf shots
Why it happened - I keep working on it
Why it makes me happy - good up and downs on the first three holes, a nice wedge on 4, a good 4 iron on 7, a nice drive/wedge on 8, a GREAT cut 6 iron on 10, a SUPER par featuring a stellar pitch shot on 14, a nutted 4 iron on 16........it's why I play.
HappyUP!!! - rain
Why it happened - it's a God thing
Why it makes me happy - waking up to it is always a nice sound.....and we desperately need the rain.
JollyJottings
Waking up to rain
Going to breakfast
A break in the weather...and golf
Facebooking with some friends
Writing about Obamanation
Why it happened - got a break in the weather
Why it makes me happy - we had written it off...then the weather cleared...kind of. We got in 18 holes in dry weather. As we were wrapping it up on 18, it started to sprinkle
HappyUP!!! - golfing with the Boz
Why it happened - he had today off
Why it makes me happy - Boz cracks me up. I hadn't golfed with him in a month....and he played good!
HappyUP!!! - golf shots
Why it happened - I keep working on it
Why it makes me happy - good up and downs on the first three holes, a nice wedge on 4, a good 4 iron on 7, a nice drive/wedge on 8, a GREAT cut 6 iron on 10, a SUPER par featuring a stellar pitch shot on 14, a nutted 4 iron on 16........it's why I play.
HappyUP!!! - rain
Why it happened - it's a God thing
Why it makes me happy - waking up to it is always a nice sound.....and we desperately need the rain.
JollyJottings
Waking up to rain
Going to breakfast
A break in the weather...and golf
Facebooking with some friends
Writing about Obamanation
Thursday, February 12, 2009
HappyUP!!! Day 746
HappyUP!!! - part 1 of annual physical
Why it happened - it was scheduled
Why it makes me happy - all systems AOK.....wheeeeeee!
HappyUP!!! - mentoring
Why it happened - it's a Thursday thing
Why it makes me happy - I keep making new friends as I pass along what I know
HappyUP!!! - facebook
Why it happened - I added a couple of friends
Why it makes me happy - there is something neat about reconnecting with people that, without Facebook, you would never hear from again.
Why it happened - it was scheduled
Why it makes me happy - all systems AOK.....wheeeeeee!
HappyUP!!! - mentoring
Why it happened - it's a Thursday thing
Why it makes me happy - I keep making new friends as I pass along what I know
HappyUP!!! - facebook
Why it happened - I added a couple of friends
Why it makes me happy - there is something neat about reconnecting with people that, without Facebook, you would never hear from again.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
HappyUP!!! Day 745
HappyUP!!! - an unexpected round of golf
Why it happened - the rains let up
Why it makes me happy - it was tough.....lots of wind but that makes it a little more challenging. I hit some really bad shots in the conditions...expected. I didn't expect to hit the pin on 4 for a near eagle!
HappyUP!!! - hitting the stick
Why it happened - I hit a great shot
Why it makes me happy - it almost went in. It bounced back a few feet for a tap in birdie. This was a wedge after a great drive in the wind. HappyUP!!!
HappyUP!!! - smoked mid irons
Why it happened - I was very loose
Why it makes me happy - I hit a perfect 4 iron and a perfect 5 iron. You can play some rounds without hitting any perfect mid/long irons. I got two today.
HappyUP!!! - coffee conversations
Why it happened - it's on my weekly calender
Why it makes me happy - it was good chatting with my friend but also with a group of guys that regularly has coffee where we do.
HappyUP!!! - phone call from N
Why it happened - N called me
Why it makes me happy - it's good catching up with this person. It had been a couple of weeks.
HappyUP!!! - Facebook friends
Why it happened - it's what Facebook is about
Why it makes me happy - Facebook is perfect for staying in touch with acquaintances that should be friends. I found about 3 of them today.
JollyJottings
Coffee
Talking with some guys
An unexpected round of golf
Being joined by a good player
Near eagle
Hybrid on 6...8 iron on 8....7 iron on 9
5 iron on 11
3 wood on 12
Hybrid on 13
4 iron on 14
15th hole
Phone call from a friend
Why it happened - the rains let up
Why it makes me happy - it was tough.....lots of wind but that makes it a little more challenging. I hit some really bad shots in the conditions...expected. I didn't expect to hit the pin on 4 for a near eagle!
HappyUP!!! - hitting the stick
Why it happened - I hit a great shot
Why it makes me happy - it almost went in. It bounced back a few feet for a tap in birdie. This was a wedge after a great drive in the wind. HappyUP!!!
HappyUP!!! - smoked mid irons
Why it happened - I was very loose
Why it makes me happy - I hit a perfect 4 iron and a perfect 5 iron. You can play some rounds without hitting any perfect mid/long irons. I got two today.
HappyUP!!! - coffee conversations
Why it happened - it's on my weekly calender
Why it makes me happy - it was good chatting with my friend but also with a group of guys that regularly has coffee where we do.
HappyUP!!! - phone call from N
Why it happened - N called me
Why it makes me happy - it's good catching up with this person. It had been a couple of weeks.
HappyUP!!! - Facebook friends
Why it happened - it's what Facebook is about
Why it makes me happy - Facebook is perfect for staying in touch with acquaintances that should be friends. I found about 3 of them today.
JollyJottings
Coffee
Talking with some guys
An unexpected round of golf
Being joined by a good player
Near eagle
Hybrid on 6...8 iron on 8....7 iron on 9
5 iron on 11
3 wood on 12
Hybrid on 13
4 iron on 14
15th hole
Phone call from a friend
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
HappyUP!!! Day 744
HappyUP!!! - new member
Why it happened - it was a Toastmaster Tuesday
Why it makes me happy - we keep growing the membership....it's what it is all about
HappyUP!!! - my speech
Why it happened - it was my turn
Why it makes me happy - I gave a pretty good rendition of "Be Impeccable With Your Word" in a 5 -6 minute span. No question.....I am a work in progress as much as anyone. Today's speech was good for the audience....and for me.
HappyUP!!! - golf with my golf partner
Why it happened - he wanted to play today instead of tomorrow
Why it makes me happy - I would probably have been playing alone today....I may have filled in with another game....but I like playing with my golf buddy.
HappyUP!!! - invitation to the State Amateur qualifying
Why it happened - the NCGA took notice
Why it makes me happy - I qualified for the State Am once. To qualify, you have to meet eligibility which I now do.
JollyJottings
Toastmasters...new member
Speech
Golf with buddy
Hole 1
5 iron on 5....chip on 7....putt on 12....hybrid on 13.....8 iron pitch on 15...drive on 18
New Facebook friends
Why it happened - it was a Toastmaster Tuesday
Why it makes me happy - we keep growing the membership....it's what it is all about
HappyUP!!! - my speech
Why it happened - it was my turn
Why it makes me happy - I gave a pretty good rendition of "Be Impeccable With Your Word" in a 5 -6 minute span. No question.....I am a work in progress as much as anyone. Today's speech was good for the audience....and for me.
HappyUP!!! - golf with my golf partner
Why it happened - he wanted to play today instead of tomorrow
Why it makes me happy - I would probably have been playing alone today....I may have filled in with another game....but I like playing with my golf buddy.
HappyUP!!! - invitation to the State Amateur qualifying
Why it happened - the NCGA took notice
Why it makes me happy - I qualified for the State Am once. To qualify, you have to meet eligibility which I now do.
JollyJottings
Toastmasters...new member
Speech
Golf with buddy
Hole 1
5 iron on 5....chip on 7....putt on 12....hybrid on 13.....8 iron pitch on 15...drive on 18
New Facebook friends
Monday, February 09, 2009
HappyUP!!! Day 743
HappyUP!!! - lunch with JJ
Why it happened - we set it up
Why it makes me happy - I used to work with JJ. I got all caught up on the family and how work is going....and had a great pot roast sandwich
HappyUP!!! - the ATM
Why it happened - Wells Fargo has good ones
Why it makes me happy - do you know how amazing it is with what you can do with one of these machines. You can even get images of checks you deposit...right there. Yes, this technology has been around for more than a year but it makes me happy every time I go to the money machine.
HappyUP!!! - chipping
Why it happened - I showed some discipline
Why it makes me happy - some people whittle on a piece of wood...or knit...or one of a million things. I could chip golf balls all day long. There is so much creativity involved....and it is going to make me a better golfer. The short game is everything.
HappyUP!!! - wrote my speech
Why it happened - I am speaking tomorrow
Why it makes me happy - I used the first of the Four Agreements here as the topic....so I could spend all my time on honing the speech for quality and not thinking so much about structure. The structure was already written out.
JollyJottings
Chipping
Sunshine
Grocery store
Bank
Why it happened - we set it up
Why it makes me happy - I used to work with JJ. I got all caught up on the family and how work is going....and had a great pot roast sandwich
HappyUP!!! - the ATM
Why it happened - Wells Fargo has good ones
Why it makes me happy - do you know how amazing it is with what you can do with one of these machines. You can even get images of checks you deposit...right there. Yes, this technology has been around for more than a year but it makes me happy every time I go to the money machine.
HappyUP!!! - chipping
Why it happened - I showed some discipline
Why it makes me happy - some people whittle on a piece of wood...or knit...or one of a million things. I could chip golf balls all day long. There is so much creativity involved....and it is going to make me a better golfer. The short game is everything.
HappyUP!!! - wrote my speech
Why it happened - I am speaking tomorrow
Why it makes me happy - I used the first of the Four Agreements here as the topic....so I could spend all my time on honing the speech for quality and not thinking so much about structure. The structure was already written out.
JollyJottings
Chipping
Sunshine
Grocery store
Bank
IF....Wisdom by Rudyard Kipling
It just doesn't get - any better than this.
IF
If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you
But make allowance for their doubting too,
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or being hated, don't give way to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:If you can dream--and not make dreams your master,
If you can think--and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And treat those two impostors just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools:If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it all on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings
And never breath a word about your loss;
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you
Except the Will which says to them: "Hold on!"If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with kings--nor lose the common touch,
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you;
If all men count with you, but none too much,
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run,
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,
And--which is more--you'll be a Man, my son!
--Rudyard Kipling
Sunday, February 08, 2009
HappyUP!!! Day 742
HappyUP!!! - golf finish
Why it happened - I made a couple of putts
Why it makes me happy - many times, I have gotten to the 15th tee and thought, "I could pull this round together with a 2 under finish." I didn't think that today because this round was gone ......and, voila, the 2 under finish happened. I hit some quality shots but the putter came through.
HappyUP!!! - meeting my friend
Why it happened - we made a plan
Why it makes me happy - it was good to do some catching up over an afternoon refreshment. I also found out some things that I didn't know.
HappyUP!!! - rain
Why it happened - who knows....it hasn't been
Why it makes me happy - it held off and gave us a nice day but it is starting to come down now... and we need it here in Nor Cal. It makes me happy because I am pretty sure that I'll want a drink a bit later in the year.
HappyUP!!! - Grammy Awards
Why it happened - it's an annual thing
Why it makes me happy - listening to music used to be a big deal to me. I don't keep track of anything current now. With this show, I at least get to hear what is popular.
JollyJottings
Rain
Meeting my friend
Golf shots
Par...Birdie...Par...Birdie....finish
Why it happened - I made a couple of putts
Why it makes me happy - many times, I have gotten to the 15th tee and thought, "I could pull this round together with a 2 under finish." I didn't think that today because this round was gone ......and, voila, the 2 under finish happened. I hit some quality shots but the putter came through.
HappyUP!!! - meeting my friend
Why it happened - we made a plan
Why it makes me happy - it was good to do some catching up over an afternoon refreshment. I also found out some things that I didn't know.
HappyUP!!! - rain
Why it happened - who knows....it hasn't been
Why it makes me happy - it held off and gave us a nice day but it is starting to come down now... and we need it here in Nor Cal. It makes me happy because I am pretty sure that I'll want a drink a bit later in the year.
HappyUP!!! - Grammy Awards
Why it happened - it's an annual thing
Why it makes me happy - listening to music used to be a big deal to me. I don't keep track of anything current now. With this show, I at least get to hear what is popular.
JollyJottings
Rain
Meeting my friend
Golf shots
Par...Birdie...Par...Birdie....finish
Saturday, February 07, 2009
HappyUP!!! Day 741
HappyUP!!! - birdie on one
Why it happened - I played it perfectly
Why it makes me happy - we were on an up tee....so I smacked a three wood off the tee, hit it again off the fairway, and got within range of my 60 degree wedge....which I hit to about 2 1/2 fee. A good start is a superHappyUP!!!
HappyUP!!! - new golf partners
Why it happened - one of our regulars didn't show
Why it makes me happy - I got to meet a couple of guys that I had heard of at the club. I also got pared again with another good guy that I played with last fall. Fellowship.
HappyUP!!! - getting repaid
Why it happened - my friend is doing OK
Why it makes me happy - c'mon...you've lent out money. Admit it....it's a good feeling when it comes back.
JollyJottings
Golf partners
Birdie on the first hole
Lunch with my buddy
Cash repayment
Arranging to meet a friend
Two cats on the lap
Why it happened - I played it perfectly
Why it makes me happy - we were on an up tee....so I smacked a three wood off the tee, hit it again off the fairway, and got within range of my 60 degree wedge....which I hit to about 2 1/2 fee. A good start is a superHappyUP!!!
HappyUP!!! - new golf partners
Why it happened - one of our regulars didn't show
Why it makes me happy - I got to meet a couple of guys that I had heard of at the club. I also got pared again with another good guy that I played with last fall. Fellowship.
HappyUP!!! - getting repaid
Why it happened - my friend is doing OK
Why it makes me happy - c'mon...you've lent out money. Admit it....it's a good feeling when it comes back.
JollyJottings
Golf partners
Birdie on the first hole
Lunch with my buddy
Cash repayment
Arranging to meet a friend
Two cats on the lap
Friday, February 06, 2009
HappyUP!!! Day 740
HappyUP!!! - Bob Sutton's Blog Picture
Why it happened - I was getting caught up on this author's blog
Why it makes me happy -it may not be a good example of being impeccable with one's word....but it is funny. I spent years in the mortgage world and I have a lot of realtor friends. I could just imagine what they would see if they saw this sign (if you are the neighbor, remember the Four Agreements.....Take Nothing Personally)
HappyUP!!! - birdie on 14
Why it happened - I hit two OK shots....and then an awesome putt
Why it makes me happy - I was kind of a load to my partner today. Knocking in the 25 footer on this tough hole helped the effort.
HappyUP!!! - stock market rally
Why it happened - who knows
Why it makes me happy - we actually netted out a good week in the financial markets. Can we start seeing some gains here?
HappyUP!!! - golfing with Wah and RC
Why it happened - Wah set it up
Why it makes me happy - I always play with R...today, we played with these two other good players.....we even won a couple of bets!
JollyJottings
Breakfast
Driving range
Getting golf in
Drive/Wedge on 4
Drive/3 wood 5
Flop/Putt on 13
Putt on 14
6 iron on 16
Pitch on 18
Stock market rally
Thursday, February 05, 2009
HappyUP!!! Day 739
HappyUP!!! - visit with a friend
Why it happened - my friend needed a favor
Why it makes me happy - it's just nice to be free and able to do things for people
HappyUP!!! - Oracle Toastmasters
Why it happened - it's Thursday and I volunteered
Why it makes me happy - I am "second chair" on this mentoring job....which means that I don't do much....perfect for a guy like me! LOL It's actually nice to sit back, make some notes, and just sprinkle a few seasonings upon the group. These are some good people.
HappyUP!!! - chicken sandwich
Why it happened - I had leftovers
Why it makes me happy - I never have made a grilled chicken/pastrami/cheese sandwich....and I have never seen it on a menu. I must say...it was tasty!
JollyJottings
Chicken sandwich
Oracle
A little rain
Why it happened - my friend needed a favor
Why it makes me happy - it's just nice to be free and able to do things for people
HappyUP!!! - Oracle Toastmasters
Why it happened - it's Thursday and I volunteered
Why it makes me happy - I am "second chair" on this mentoring job....which means that I don't do much....perfect for a guy like me! LOL It's actually nice to sit back, make some notes, and just sprinkle a few seasonings upon the group. These are some good people.
HappyUP!!! - chicken sandwich
Why it happened - I had leftovers
Why it makes me happy - I never have made a grilled chicken/pastrami/cheese sandwich....and I have never seen it on a menu. I must say...it was tasty!
JollyJottings
Chicken sandwich
Oracle
A little rain
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
HappyUP!!! Day 738
HappyUP!!! - favor from a buddy
Why it happened - I asked...he said yes
Why it makes me happy - this guy had the perfect tools and we did what we needed to do in a snap! Plus, it was just good to see him. I used to work with him and hadn't seen him in a long time.
HappyUP!!! - breakfast with E
Why it happened - we do this regularly
Why it makes me happy - we had food and good conversation about business and life
HappyUP!!! - beautiful day on the course
Why it happened - I play
Why it makes me happy - it was just beautiful to be outside. The golf wasn't much to brag about. I hit a few very good shots. You can't hit it well every day. I still could have rescued the round with a few putts. I think I am on the verge of playing lights out again.
HappyUP!!! - coffee with T
Why it happened - we have it on the calendar
Why it makes me happy - it was brief but we had a fun chat.
JollyJottings
7 Negative Emotions
Coffee with T
Breakfast with E
Beautiful Day
Golf
Shorts
Up n down on 8....hybrid on 17....2 putt on 11....wedge on 15
Why it happened - I asked...he said yes
Why it makes me happy - this guy had the perfect tools and we did what we needed to do in a snap! Plus, it was just good to see him. I used to work with him and hadn't seen him in a long time.
HappyUP!!! - breakfast with E
Why it happened - we do this regularly
Why it makes me happy - we had food and good conversation about business and life
HappyUP!!! - beautiful day on the course
Why it happened - I play
Why it makes me happy - it was just beautiful to be outside. The golf wasn't much to brag about. I hit a few very good shots. You can't hit it well every day. I still could have rescued the round with a few putts. I think I am on the verge of playing lights out again.
HappyUP!!! - coffee with T
Why it happened - we have it on the calendar
Why it makes me happy - it was brief but we had a fun chat.
JollyJottings
7 Negative Emotions
Coffee with T
Breakfast with E
Beautiful Day
Golf
Shorts
Up n down on 8....hybrid on 17....2 putt on 11....wedge on 15
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
HappyUP!!! Day 737
HappyUP!!! - first one on the course
Why it happened - who knows...no one was at the course
Why it makes me happy - I teed it up with no one in front of me. I have been walking but decided to ride so I could play fast.....in two hours
HappyUP!!! - pitch in on 3
Why it happened - I've been practicing
Why it makes me happy - I hit 200 pitch shots on Monday. The shot I had today was a little tricky but it was hit perfectly and fell nicely into the cup. It's cool when you watch a chip roll and you KNOW it's going in.
HappyUP!!! - talking with N
Why it happened - he called me after I text him
Why it makes me happy - his company got in the news today....and not for a good reason. We had some laughs about it.
HappyUP!!! - visit with my nephew
Why it happened - he was dropping something off
Why it makes me happy - I don't see this guy enough so it was nice to chat a little bit.
JollyJottings
First one on the course
Chatting with the greenskeeper
Chipping in on 3
7 iron on 5....4 iron on 6...9 iron on 8....9 iron on 15.....7 iron on 16
Talking with N
Why it happened - who knows...no one was at the course
Why it makes me happy - I teed it up with no one in front of me. I have been walking but decided to ride so I could play fast.....in two hours
HappyUP!!! - pitch in on 3
Why it happened - I've been practicing
Why it makes me happy - I hit 200 pitch shots on Monday. The shot I had today was a little tricky but it was hit perfectly and fell nicely into the cup. It's cool when you watch a chip roll and you KNOW it's going in.
HappyUP!!! - talking with N
Why it happened - he called me after I text him
Why it makes me happy - his company got in the news today....and not for a good reason. We had some laughs about it.
HappyUP!!! - visit with my nephew
Why it happened - he was dropping something off
Why it makes me happy - I don't see this guy enough so it was nice to chat a little bit.
JollyJottings
First one on the course
Chatting with the greenskeeper
Chipping in on 3
7 iron on 5....4 iron on 6...9 iron on 8....9 iron on 15.....7 iron on 16
Talking with N
Hey....Any Room at the Inn?
Awhile back - I made a list of things that would be likely results of the economic squeeze.
My number one item - people moving in together. Multi-family households in a single family house would become more of a norm.
While kids have always - had the revolving door with parents as the younger set try to get established in this world, this downturn would lead to something more. I even foresaw that you would see non-related families moving in together. Brothers and sisters was on the list. Aging parents was a given.
I found the article in USAToday-today to be very interesting. It talks about this very phenomenon.
The article described something I hadn't thought about - divorce rates are falling because couples can't sell the home they are in. Even if they could, the cost of setting up separate households would be prohibitive. Even though many of these couples are living a "War of the Roses" existence with boundaries/schedules set up, I see nothing wrong with a little "cooling off" period under one roof. Who knows? Maybe these people can work it out.
Many of the newer homes - that have been built are much larger than traditional homes. When I grew up, a 2000 sq foot house was considered quite large. To achieve that same status today, you would need to go to 3500-4000 sq ft. Where did this "need for more" come from? I don't think average family size increased. It only makes
The comment that really perked my interest was this one - "moving in with relatives can be demoralizing, humbling, dehumanizing -but a lot of people don't have a choice. You lose that sense of independence, privacy, and self-esteem. You lose somewhat of your identity."
I get what the guy is saying - but since when did living in more space than you need be a vital fuel to one's self-esteem? As said, I "get it" and I am not arguing that this doesn't happen.
The better question - WHY would anyone allow their stuff to define who they are?....even to ourselves?
My number one item - people moving in together. Multi-family households in a single family house would become more of a norm.
While kids have always - had the revolving door with parents as the younger set try to get established in this world, this downturn would lead to something more. I even foresaw that you would see non-related families moving in together. Brothers and sisters was on the list. Aging parents was a given.
I found the article in USAToday-today to be very interesting. It talks about this very phenomenon.
The article described something I hadn't thought about - divorce rates are falling because couples can't sell the home they are in. Even if they could, the cost of setting up separate households would be prohibitive. Even though many of these couples are living a "War of the Roses" existence with boundaries/schedules set up, I see nothing wrong with a little "cooling off" period under one roof. Who knows? Maybe these people can work it out.
Many of the newer homes - that have been built are much larger than traditional homes. When I grew up, a 2000 sq foot house was considered quite large. To achieve that same status today, you would need to go to 3500-4000 sq ft. Where did this "need for more" come from? I don't think average family size increased. It only makes
The comment that really perked my interest was this one - "moving in with relatives can be demoralizing, humbling, dehumanizing -but a lot of people don't have a choice. You lose that sense of independence, privacy, and self-esteem. You lose somewhat of your identity."
I get what the guy is saying - but since when did living in more space than you need be a vital fuel to one's self-esteem? As said, I "get it" and I am not arguing that this doesn't happen.
The better question - WHY would anyone allow their stuff to define who they are?....even to ourselves?
Monday, February 02, 2009
HappyUP!!! Day 736
HappyUP!!! - Don't Make Assumptions
Why it happened - I'm doing a series
Why it makes me happy - I don't know why it took me the time to get to writing this one. I thought it would be a much longer piece than it was. I was happy with the output
HappyUP!!! - talking with MM
Why it happened - I did some detective work when an e-mail bounced back
Why it makes me happy - MM has had some issues come up but they are being dealt with in a constructive manner. M is in good spirits
HappyUP!!! - making contact with J
Why it happened - we are on Facebook
Why it makes me happy - I'll be stopping by to visit J.....and J is going to do me a favor and take care of a little niggling issue that I have been tolerating. J has the tools for the job.
HappyUP!!! - catching up with JJ
Why it happened - we had to cancel lunch
Why it makes me happy - love JJ...wish we could have done lunch...but our phone chat was terrific!
JollyJottings
Making contact with a buddy to do me a favor...have to thank Facebook for that
Talking with my friend, MM
Talking with JJ
E-mail from T
Gorgeous afternoon
Afternoon nap with Stogie on the lap
Don't Make Assumptions written
Good feedback
Why it happened - I'm doing a series
Why it makes me happy - I don't know why it took me the time to get to writing this one. I thought it would be a much longer piece than it was. I was happy with the output
HappyUP!!! - talking with MM
Why it happened - I did some detective work when an e-mail bounced back
Why it makes me happy - MM has had some issues come up but they are being dealt with in a constructive manner. M is in good spirits
HappyUP!!! - making contact with J
Why it happened - we are on Facebook
Why it makes me happy - I'll be stopping by to visit J.....and J is going to do me a favor and take care of a little niggling issue that I have been tolerating. J has the tools for the job.
HappyUP!!! - catching up with JJ
Why it happened - we had to cancel lunch
Why it makes me happy - love JJ...wish we could have done lunch...but our phone chat was terrific!
JollyJottings
Making contact with a buddy to do me a favor...have to thank Facebook for that
Talking with my friend, MM
Talking with JJ
E-mail from T
Gorgeous afternoon
Afternoon nap with Stogie on the lap
Don't Make Assumptions written
Good feedback
Open Happiness - is Coke the new Dalai Lama?
Many of you may have seen the Best Buy campaign - that said, "hey...you! Come in here. Buy an expensive electronics thing that you probably really don't need....you'll be happier!"OK - it didn't really say that. That was my translation.
Still, I find it interesting - that so many marketing minds have now shifted over to flat out putting the word and concept of happiness in their promotions.
Happiness has always been - the basis of most consumer advertising....but it has been subliminal.
Now, Coke has a new drone - "Open Happiness"
Coke must have done some heavy market research - you don't go plunking down millions of dollars for 30-second spots without serious data to back up the decision.
One could even argue - that Coke is the best marketer in the world. They have to be in the top 10. So, Coke spends all this money to find out what people want....
...it's to be happier - and what says happiness like sucking on some carbonated, flavored water....or getting a new big screen.......or buying a Volkswagon?
I have another idea - and I'll save you some dough and some calories.
Do your HappyUP!!!'s
Four Agreements - Don't Make Assumptions
Be Impeccable With Your Word
Don't Take Anything Personally
Don't Make Assumptions
Always Do Your Best
(Remember....to catch any of this series that you might have missed, just click the "labels" icon below on the website where it says "Four Agreements" )
Directly from the author - "With just this one agreement, you can completely transform your life"
Whoa! That's a pretty heavy statement - and the first thing to understand is that you make assumptions about everything...and BELIEVE they are the truth.
Let's go to an extremely literal thing you do everyday - you come up to a red light but you are moving. It changes to green just as you are coming upon it. You make an assumption that all of the cross traffic clearly saw that they had a red light. You make an assumption that they will abide by the law. You happily speed through...
...but, what if your assumption is wrong - your life will change dramatically for the worse in an instant. When I hit that "just changed green light" situation, my head is on a swivel. I may or may not avoid someone that ran that red but I am ready to take an action that may save a life...mine or the other driver.
OK....a very literal example - let's build from there. Let's say you are in a relationship. The other person knows you well. You assume that your partner knows what you think and want and that you don't have to say it. They know you that well is what you assume. If they don't do what they should, you feel violated or hurt and either think or say, "they should have known."
The result - sadness and drama.
These assumptions go on all day long - with children, co-workers, bosses, etc.
I challenge you - write down "assumptions" somewhere where you will see it all day. Count or make a quick note of all the assumptions you make. Question your assumptions.
Yes, doing this exercise will take some effort - but you need to understand one other very important concept and one that this blog is based on....
Happiness and increasing it's level - is HARD WORK. It is why our constitution says, "....the PURSUIT of happiness." While the pursuit can and should be fun and meaningful, the word "pursuit" should connotate that effort is required.
How do you stop making assumptions? - you ask questions. If you don't understand why something happened, ask the courageous question to find out. When you fail to do this step, you get mad, mope, and behave poorly. You become a victim.
Find your voice - to ask for what you want. Everyone has the right to say "yes" or say "no" and all have the right to ask.
When communication is clear - all relationships change. This is what I want...this is what you want.
Here is a real insane kicker - you may not know what you want. "I don't know what I want but it sure isn't this," may even go through your mind. Yet, you assume someone else will figure out what you want. This is called a recipe for disaster.
Saying you will make no assumptions - sounds easy but we do the opposite based on habits and routines. Awareness and understanding is great but ACTION is what is required.
Action is asking questions - make it a goal to ask some questions today of people around you that you wouldn't have asked before. If you are at work as you read this, try it out and think of an assumption about a co-worker that you know and ask a question. Do the same when you get home.
Do It Now! - Make note of what you find out in your journal. You should walk away anywhere from amazed to enlightened with your findings.
Make this one change - and as Don Miguel Ruiz says, "you will completely transform your life."
Sunday, February 01, 2009
HappyUP!!! Day 735
HappyUP!!! - three birdies
Why it happened - I hit some shots
Why it makes me happy - these were all great birdies...nothing cheap....no long putts....just awfully good golf shots
HappyUP!!! - "Shoulda" birdies
Why it happened - I hit some shots
Why it makes me happy - I had a 10 footer on one, a 10 footer on 4, a 10 footer on 5, an 8 footer on 6, and a 8 footer on 12....it would have been nice to make one of those putts but I have to focus on having the opportunities. On the day, I was 3 for 8 on birdie opportunities.
HappyUP!!! - weigh in
Why it happened - it's Sunday
Why it makes me happy - held it at the same as last week....which is four pounds lighter than the beginning of the year. This is without trying too hard. I'll make some modifications this week to try to keep things dipping down. The less I weigh, the better I feel.
HappyUP!!! - insurance
Why it happened - it's the first of the month
Why it makes me happy - my new coverage should save me some dough....always a HappyUP!!! There was also some confusion....I was uncovered for the last week or so. I got a new appreciation for people that live without health insurance every day. It's a bit scary.
HappyUP!!! - SuperBowl
Why it happened - it's an annual thing
Why it makes me happy - there is nothing better than a thrilling game....for all the stakes...with both teams laying it on the line and playing their hearts out.....only to have one of those hearts ripped out. No StuporBowl this year.
HappyUP!!! - Rory McElroy
Why it happened - he won the Dubai Desert Classic
Why it makes me happy - we have a 19 year old golf prodigy on the horizon. By winning this prestigious tourney, he steps up in the eyes of the world of golf. People are saying, "this guy is better at 19 than Tiger Woods was." McElroy does not have 3 US Amateur titles on his C.V. but he has a professional win when, at the same age, Tiger was still slapping it around at Stanford and didn't have a pro victory.
JollyJottings
Weather
First hole
Fourth Hole
Fifth, Sixth, Seventh, Eighth
Birdie on 7
Birdie on 14
Birdie on 15
FBR Golf
Super Bowl
Crappy Eating
Weight
Why it happened - I hit some shots
Why it makes me happy - these were all great birdies...nothing cheap....no long putts....just awfully good golf shots
HappyUP!!! - "Shoulda" birdies
Why it happened - I hit some shots
Why it makes me happy - I had a 10 footer on one, a 10 footer on 4, a 10 footer on 5, an 8 footer on 6, and a 8 footer on 12....it would have been nice to make one of those putts but I have to focus on having the opportunities. On the day, I was 3 for 8 on birdie opportunities.
HappyUP!!! - weigh in
Why it happened - it's Sunday
Why it makes me happy - held it at the same as last week....which is four pounds lighter than the beginning of the year. This is without trying too hard. I'll make some modifications this week to try to keep things dipping down. The less I weigh, the better I feel.
HappyUP!!! - insurance
Why it happened - it's the first of the month
Why it makes me happy - my new coverage should save me some dough....always a HappyUP!!! There was also some confusion....I was uncovered for the last week or so. I got a new appreciation for people that live without health insurance every day. It's a bit scary.
HappyUP!!! - SuperBowl
Why it happened - it's an annual thing
Why it makes me happy - there is nothing better than a thrilling game....for all the stakes...with both teams laying it on the line and playing their hearts out.....only to have one of those hearts ripped out. No StuporBowl this year.
HappyUP!!! - Rory McElroy
Why it happened - he won the Dubai Desert Classic
Why it makes me happy - we have a 19 year old golf prodigy on the horizon. By winning this prestigious tourney, he steps up in the eyes of the world of golf. People are saying, "this guy is better at 19 than Tiger Woods was." McElroy does not have 3 US Amateur titles on his C.V. but he has a professional win when, at the same age, Tiger was still slapping it around at Stanford and didn't have a pro victory.
JollyJottings
Weather
First hole
Fourth Hole
Fifth, Sixth, Seventh, Eighth
Birdie on 7
Birdie on 14
Birdie on 15
FBR Golf
Super Bowl
Crappy Eating
Weight
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