Happy UP!!! - a party
Why it happened - I got invited...and I went
Why it made me happy- I am not a huge party person. This was different. I don't know why. I'll have to get back to you on that...really. All I can tell you is that I had a very good time.
Happy UP!!! - more plants in the ground
Why it happened - I just did it
Why it made me happy- once the vegetables are planted, it's pretty much just watering after that. I am not a meticulous gardener. I have good soil....I plant with generous amounts of potting soil to amend. This year, I even have the mulch thing going on to cut back the weeds. I'll probably throw a drip system in this year...all above ground letting it all hang out in the open. Also, it felt good with the shirt off...getting some sun on an 82 degree Norther California day
Happy UP!!! - my tax appointment
Why it happened - it was scheduled
Why it made me happy- I like my tax guy. I have been seeing him for 20 years. This is the fourth office that he has been in. I have a lot of confidence in him. While I don't have the final results, I think I am going to be looking good based on his preliminary assessment. Cash back is a cool thing.
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Friday, March 30, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 62
HappyUP!!! - a retirement party
Why it happened - a friend spent 30 yrs at the company and is getting out at 52
Why it made me happy - hey, it gives me hope! I got to say a few words...and people laughed quite a bit. The best part was when the honoree spent so much time talking about his wife. It is awesome when people married a long time gush over each other. That was the real HappyUP!!!
HappyUP!!! - seeing an old friend
Why it happened - we both went to the same retirement party
Why it made me happy - I hadn't seen the guy in about a year. He relocated. He is within a car drive. He is living on the coast. Has his boat there. Mountain bike trails. He wants me to come down. Besides seeing each other again, it sounds like there is a new place to play!
HappyUP!!! - hot issue resolved
Why it happened - one of my employees got on it and did a good job
Why it made me happy - THIS could have turned into a major blowup...super stressful. You absolutely MUST revel in times of pain that is avoided. Just because it didn't happen is no reason that it shouldn't be a HappyUP!!!
Jolly Jottings
Meeting with employee
Builder issue ...hot...done
My part in conf call
King's game
Second interview
Message from recruiter
Call with equity person
Thursday, March 29, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 61
Life isn't always HappyUP!!!'s - hopes of just yesterday can be dashed. Today was a day like that. It happens. You make new plans.....and you focus on the things that move you forward. Let's go....
HappyUP!!! - lunch
Why it happened - a coworker said, "let's go."
Why it made me happy - it was a stressful day. Sometimes those are the days when you need to take a little breather. We had great conversation about things that were fun.
HappyUP!!! - solved a problem very easily
Why it happened - a department found some money
Why it made me happy - we needed this solved...and NOW. This kind of problem with this department doesn't always (rarely) get solved so rapidly. This, in turn, will prevent another MUCH bigger problem from developing. Sometimes, we don't stop and think about how appreciative we should be when someone steps up and not only solves the problem at hand but also mitigates the chain effect that would have begun.
HappyUP!!! - got into a catalog website
Why it happened - I needed stuff
Why it made me happy - I hadn't used the site in forever. The "forgot password" didn't look like it was going to work. This would have meant a call to customer service tomorrow, dealing with that, then finding the time to order the stuff at a later did. I got it all done tonight.
HappyUP!!! - lunch
Why it happened - a coworker said, "let's go."
Why it made me happy - it was a stressful day. Sometimes those are the days when you need to take a little breather. We had great conversation about things that were fun.
HappyUP!!! - solved a problem very easily
Why it happened - a department found some money
Why it made me happy - we needed this solved...and NOW. This kind of problem with this department doesn't always (rarely) get solved so rapidly. This, in turn, will prevent another MUCH bigger problem from developing. Sometimes, we don't stop and think about how appreciative we should be when someone steps up and not only solves the problem at hand but also mitigates the chain effect that would have begun.
HappyUP!!! - got into a catalog website
Why it happened - I needed stuff
Why it made me happy - I hadn't used the site in forever. The "forgot password" didn't look like it was going to work. This would have meant a call to customer service tomorrow, dealing with that, then finding the time to order the stuff at a later did. I got it all done tonight.
Cheerful People
Some of you may be familiar with Bob Proctor - Bob has been a motivational speaker and author that has been around for some time.
He also is making the rounds on the talk shows - pimping "The Secret." My stance on "The Secret" is they are stretching it a bit on the Law of Attraction. Do I believe in the Law of Attraction? Yes, I do. Do I believe in how far the people behind the promotion of "The Secret" have taken it? Sorry to seem wishy washy but I can't say "Yes," but I won't say "No." I do believe that synchronicity exists. I join Carl Jung in this regard. There are just too many things that are coincidences. If synchronicity exists, there is room in the ether for other things as well.
"Coincidences - are God's way of staying anonymous," is a favorite quote of mine. I believe that coincidences are there to be explored. Heck, exploring coincidences is probably a lot more interesting than most of the things that we do everyday.
Proctor sends out a thought for the day - and, because I am a quote guy, I allow him into my e-mail box almost every day. Here is what came across the web this morning:
"You will find yourself refreshed by the presence of cheerful people. Why not make earnest effort to confer that pleasure on others? Half the battle is gained if you never allow yourself to say anything gloomy."
He also is making the rounds on the talk shows - pimping "The Secret." My stance on "The Secret" is they are stretching it a bit on the Law of Attraction. Do I believe in the Law of Attraction? Yes, I do. Do I believe in how far the people behind the promotion of "The Secret" have taken it? Sorry to seem wishy washy but I can't say "Yes," but I won't say "No." I do believe that synchronicity exists. I join Carl Jung in this regard. There are just too many things that are coincidences. If synchronicity exists, there is room in the ether for other things as well.
"Coincidences - are God's way of staying anonymous," is a favorite quote of mine. I believe that coincidences are there to be explored. Heck, exploring coincidences is probably a lot more interesting than most of the things that we do everyday.
Proctor sends out a thought for the day - and, because I am a quote guy, I allow him into my e-mail box almost every day. Here is what came across the web this morning:
"You will find yourself refreshed by the presence of cheerful people. Why not make earnest effort to confer that pleasure on others? Half the battle is gained if you never allow yourself to say anything gloomy."
-Lydia M. Child
1802-1880, Abolitionist and Writer
1802-1880, Abolitionist and Writer
What if it was a felony - to spoil someone else's day and a misdemeanor to bring someone down? How would that change your behavior?
Don't answer that question too fast, sunshine! - you may be a fairly positive sort already. If this was a law, you might step it up and go a little further just to make sure you didn't end up in the hoosgow*.
You have the freedom to believe - anything that you want to believe. You can make that a law for yourself if you want to (NO...until you become Czar of the Universe, you don't get to impose sovereignty on anyone else). If you do decide to do this, you would need to take a course to make sure your skills are improved.
Hmmmmmm - where would one start? Thinking..........thinking......searching my marvelous computer (that is the couple of pound sack of wet, mushy stuff that sits atop my neck) for an answer......the little hourglass is spinning along......BINGO!
A great starting point would be to - HappyUP!!! for 7-30 days. Full details on the program here. For those of you that just want to cut to the chase, every day write down three things that 1)made you happy 2) why you think they happened and 3) why they made YOU happy.
*HappyUP!!! points to me - I have never seen the word "hoosgow" in print. I had no idea how to spell it. I spelled it the way you saw it here, went to dictionary.com for a spellcheck, and found out I had nailed it correctly the first time. Yes, that will find itself into the journal as a JollyJotting and possible HappyUP!!! today....it makes me happy! You may think it is stupid....and that is totally cool. Your attempt to bring me down will fall on deaf ears. Watch out, though. If you pull the same thing on someone else, you may succeed in lowering their image of themselves and YOU will be in violation of the law.
Don't answer that question too fast, sunshine! - you may be a fairly positive sort already. If this was a law, you might step it up and go a little further just to make sure you didn't end up in the hoosgow*.
You have the freedom to believe - anything that you want to believe. You can make that a law for yourself if you want to (NO...until you become Czar of the Universe, you don't get to impose sovereignty on anyone else). If you do decide to do this, you would need to take a course to make sure your skills are improved.
Hmmmmmm - where would one start? Thinking..........thinking......searching my marvelous computer (that is the couple of pound sack of wet, mushy stuff that sits atop my neck) for an answer......the little hourglass is spinning along......BINGO!
A great starting point would be to - HappyUP!!! for 7-30 days. Full details on the program here. For those of you that just want to cut to the chase, every day write down three things that 1)made you happy 2) why you think they happened and 3) why they made YOU happy.
*HappyUP!!! points to me - I have never seen the word "hoosgow" in print. I had no idea how to spell it. I spelled it the way you saw it here, went to dictionary.com for a spellcheck, and found out I had nailed it correctly the first time. Yes, that will find itself into the journal as a JollyJotting and possible HappyUP!!! today....it makes me happy! You may think it is stupid....and that is totally cool. Your attempt to bring me down will fall on deaf ears. Watch out, though. If you pull the same thing on someone else, you may succeed in lowering their image of themselves and YOU will be in violation of the law.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 60...Delivering as Threatened
It is official - two months of solid HappyUP!!!'s. There doesn't appear to be an end in sight either.
It matters not - if it is a day when the multitudes of you tune in or on a day when traffic is down a bit.
I am at confessional - I now do this for me....Me.....ME! No shame. No guilt. No worries about self-absorption. Why? Because if you know there is one crazy guy out there doing it for him, YOU now have permission to do it FOR you should you choose to join in and HappyUP!!!
HappyUP!!! - being named as a top 5 thought provoking blog by a person that I have tremendous respect for
Why it happened - she and I took the time to read each other's things.
Why it made me happy - she writes from a perspective and talent level far beyond mine. Yet, at the same time, there is something she finds here that makes her day a little brighter when she stops by. I was asked a long, long time ago, "Nutster, what should your tombstone read?" My reply today is the same as it was over a quarter century ago, "It was always a little bit better when he was around." This recognition is an acknowledgement that I am staying true to that purpose. No, you and I may not be curing starvation or ridding the world of AIDS here.....but we may be making life a little better for someone who is.
(Editors Note: whose life were you a light to today?)
HappyUP!!! - a wonderful dinner
Why it happened - I made it happen and went to dinner
Why it made me happy - I had never eaten indoors at The Town Lounge. (Hey, hit the link...the cool music is worth it). I have heard of it being more of an upscale, pick up joint. I figured that it was probably safe on a Wednesday night. The service was outstanding. The sea bass was tremendous. The guy playing guitar was playing at a volume level perfect for background music for the dining crowd. The company was outstanding.
HappyUP!!! - a possible solution to a nagging problem
Why it happened - I made a phone call
Why it made me happy - my admin is going out on maternity leave in less than 30 days. I have wrestled with the solution of what we are going to do for six months. Do I hope that the temp that I bring in will work out....I only have one shot for my current admin to train him/her? Do I try to spread the load amongst my current staff, the staff above me, and with a peer or two? THIS solution, if it works out, will be THE BESTEST! That's right, I said the BESTEST. I love that non-word. It will be the BESTEST for everyone...if only I can pull it off. Keep your fingers crossed.
It matters not - if it is a day when the multitudes of you tune in or on a day when traffic is down a bit.
I am at confessional - I now do this for me....Me.....ME! No shame. No guilt. No worries about self-absorption. Why? Because if you know there is one crazy guy out there doing it for him, YOU now have permission to do it FOR you should you choose to join in and HappyUP!!!
HappyUP!!! - being named as a top 5 thought provoking blog by a person that I have tremendous respect for
Why it happened - she and I took the time to read each other's things.
Why it made me happy - she writes from a perspective and talent level far beyond mine. Yet, at the same time, there is something she finds here that makes her day a little brighter when she stops by. I was asked a long, long time ago, "Nutster, what should your tombstone read?" My reply today is the same as it was over a quarter century ago, "It was always a little bit better when he was around." This recognition is an acknowledgement that I am staying true to that purpose. No, you and I may not be curing starvation or ridding the world of AIDS here.....but we may be making life a little better for someone who is.
(Editors Note: whose life were you a light to today?)
HappyUP!!! - a wonderful dinner
Why it happened - I made it happen and went to dinner
Why it made me happy - I had never eaten indoors at The Town Lounge. (Hey, hit the link...the cool music is worth it). I have heard of it being more of an upscale, pick up joint. I figured that it was probably safe on a Wednesday night. The service was outstanding. The sea bass was tremendous. The guy playing guitar was playing at a volume level perfect for background music for the dining crowd. The company was outstanding.
HappyUP!!! - a possible solution to a nagging problem
Why it happened - I made a phone call
Why it made me happy - my admin is going out on maternity leave in less than 30 days. I have wrestled with the solution of what we are going to do for six months. Do I hope that the temp that I bring in will work out....I only have one shot for my current admin to train him/her? Do I try to spread the load amongst my current staff, the staff above me, and with a peer or two? THIS solution, if it works out, will be THE BESTEST! That's right, I said the BESTEST. I love that non-word. It will be the BESTEST for everyone...if only I can pull it off. Keep your fingers crossed.
A HUGE in a WORLD of it's OWN HappyUP!!!
It's right here
My friend Tara runs Paris Parfait - Tara is a journalist who has led a fascinating life. She has seen the world from the top, close or at bottom, and everywhere in between.
Currently - she lives in Paris (which answers half of your question about why her blog is titled what it is).
I "met" Tara - through a mutual participation in SundayScribblings. It wasn't hard for me to see that, of the many wonderful writers, artists, poets, etc that contribute to that site, she was the cream of the crop.
If you enjoy excellent writing - you will enjoy her blog (WARNING: when she does the political thing, you may not agree with her stance. Just KNOW that it is written from her heart and a little more knowledge of the topic than many "pundits". She's been to those places in the Middle East covering the stories. She knows the landscape, the people, and the players.)
If you enjoy great pictures - she serves those in her parfait
If you enjoy antiques and antique shopping - she will bring that to you as well.
If you enjoy style - hey, she lives in Paris and has lived the life..............and lived to tell about it.
My accolades above are far overdue - but the dearth of the recognition was brought home to me today. She actually named OUR (that's your's and mine) little blog here as one of her five most thought provoking.
Quite honestly - I was floored when I saw her picks. Humbled. Beyond an academy award. I see some of the places that she visits on this great big web that we travel. This is no small deal in my book.
I have been asked a question - several times lately about what I would wish for more of in life...money, fame, respect, or something else that I forget. I always check the box, "respect." You can't get respect out of a printing press. To receive such recognition from someone like this is.....well.....you know.....
A big ol HappyUP!!!!
TO New Visitors - besides a daily dose of HappyUP!!!'s, you can find some interesting treasures in these
classic posts:
A guy trying to avoid the Man Police at the bedding store
All about being a man
Thoughts to think about before you install your chain link fence in the front yard(just save yourself some time...and don't do it!)
A brief foray into the deep stuff around "Goodbye"
(hey, it's not all just giggles here)
Habits......Disciplines....and Time
Tonight, I post day 60 of accountability - to all of you regarding my HappyUP!!!'s. While I have worked on this in my journal for a year, I didn't do the formal process every single day. I did continue to return to it after I did several 7-14 day excercises. I had done the HappyUP!!! process enough that, while not a daily habit, it was always there in the background. It had left an imprint.
Now, as I get ready to post day 60 - I look back and go, "Day One was just yesterday." I also reflect upon how much more powerful this self-improvement tool has been to my outlook now that I have added some accountability and discipline to it.
The ever present "they" - say that it takes 21 days to create a new habit. No generalization works for everyone. I can say that after 30 days of doing this, I wasn't going to stop anytime soon. I internally felt that if the HappyUP!!!-ing was taking away time from other things in my life, it was the other things that had to go. I have not dropped anything on purpose to make room for the HappyUP!!!-ing. Heck, it only takes 10 minutes a day. Maybe it cost me a few minutes of sleep because I was 10 minutes later to bed. As I did the JollyJottings during the day, perhaps it was a welcome little few minutes of break that I needed. Everything still seems to be getting done at the office.
When the HappyUP!!!-ing moved from an "I gotta do it" - to just an "it's something I do," that is the point when a new habit became ingrained. It was probably around day 30. I could go back through the archives and actually pick out the day.....but, what would be the point? So I could say, "it takes me 14 days or 18 days or 28 days to ingrain a habit" for me? Who cares?
Let's bring it home - maybe introducing a disciplined attempt at HappyingUP!!! isn't for you. I would only say that I think you have 10 minutes you can find every day for the next 30 days. Go to blogger.com. The account is free. If not HappyUP!!!, what will you commit to doing differently for the next 30 days that might change your life? Don't know? Well, try HappyUP!!! Just starting SOMETHING may take you in the direction of your dreams and purpose that you can't access right now.
You see, if you don't move from where you are standing - the landscape never changes. If the scenery doesn't change, how can you expect your perspective to? Do you think that a blinding revelation is going to come down and annoint you? Well, I suppose it could. I hope it does. My experience goes back to a quote I heard a long time ago, "most things that fall from the sky are decidedly unpleasant."
If 60 days passes by - like it was just yesterday, then 30 days will seem like it was just this morning. If you operate a little slower, 60 days may seem like 2 days ago and 30 days will seem like yesterday. Small, consistent, 10 minute changes are easy to do.....and they could lead you to somewhere you never dreamed of going.
I won't share where this has led me - because I don't like to put something out there that I am not 100% on. That's my issue. I can only tell you this. I do have a strong inclination that would never have materialized had it not been for this process. I will share it with you all when it is time. I can only tell you that it has the ability to impact many, many people in a positive way.
I caught a blog the other day - on how a guy is sick of the "positive cult." Now that Positive Psychology has made it's way to the forefront, more people are being given permission to make changes that they would not have made in a previously in a positive direction. For those that want to stay in the negative, they get uncomfortable. They don't want to see people leave their club. That is pretty much how I see how most things are when change happens. Your friends, your cronies, your family...they will be quick to point out how "that won't work," or "that is stupid." They are absolutely correct. It won't....for them. You are not them. You are you and you are a precious child. You are full of things that not even you can imagine for yourself. But, unless something changes, you will either be the same you tomorrow or a product of the "them's" that you are allowing to control your behavior.
To that guy who is sick of the "positive cult" - I would say, "dude, don't worry about it. Stay as you are. No one is making you do anything. You make a choice to stay how you are. I make a choice not to listen to you. I still love you like any brother here on Earth. I believe with my heart and soul that I am helping people that want to be helped. I am not here for you and where you are at right now. You can always call me. I may even act like I am listening. I will not try to change you. If you want help, I'll be there to pull you up but I will not let you pull me down. If you just want to complain, I'll give a sympathetic ear but, if it's chronic complaining, I know you have someone else to call. "
All we can do - is try to be the change that we seek. I started this process from a place where I was pretty content with myself. I feel that I have moved up the continuum from there. I feel like I am becoming a better person. I hope my negative friend mentioned above can be as happy for me as I am happy for him that he has fulfilled his goal of maintaining the status quo. It's all good......
....I just want good - to become gooder.
What is happiness? - who knows? I saw a study about twins conjoined at the forehead. They were fully grown with careers. The possibility of disconnecting them was given to them as an option. They said, "why would we do that? We are happy."
"Oh, how could they be. They don't know happiness" - that is not for me...or you...to say. Brighter minds than mine have tackled this question of what is happiness for centuries. I will never spend that much time studying the subject. I only know one thing....
Wherever you are today on YOUR own happiness scale - you can move up if you want to. I wish that for everyone. The PURSUIT of happiness is what our founding fathers died for....and what I hope you will devote 10 minutes a day toward for the next 30 days.
Now, as I get ready to post day 60 - I look back and go, "Day One was just yesterday." I also reflect upon how much more powerful this self-improvement tool has been to my outlook now that I have added some accountability and discipline to it.
The ever present "they" - say that it takes 21 days to create a new habit. No generalization works for everyone. I can say that after 30 days of doing this, I wasn't going to stop anytime soon. I internally felt that if the HappyUP!!!-ing was taking away time from other things in my life, it was the other things that had to go. I have not dropped anything on purpose to make room for the HappyUP!!!-ing. Heck, it only takes 10 minutes a day. Maybe it cost me a few minutes of sleep because I was 10 minutes later to bed. As I did the JollyJottings during the day, perhaps it was a welcome little few minutes of break that I needed. Everything still seems to be getting done at the office.
When the HappyUP!!!-ing moved from an "I gotta do it" - to just an "it's something I do," that is the point when a new habit became ingrained. It was probably around day 30. I could go back through the archives and actually pick out the day.....but, what would be the point? So I could say, "it takes me 14 days or 18 days or 28 days to ingrain a habit" for me? Who cares?
Let's bring it home - maybe introducing a disciplined attempt at HappyingUP!!! isn't for you. I would only say that I think you have 10 minutes you can find every day for the next 30 days. Go to blogger.com. The account is free. If not HappyUP!!!, what will you commit to doing differently for the next 30 days that might change your life? Don't know? Well, try HappyUP!!! Just starting SOMETHING may take you in the direction of your dreams and purpose that you can't access right now.
You see, if you don't move from where you are standing - the landscape never changes. If the scenery doesn't change, how can you expect your perspective to? Do you think that a blinding revelation is going to come down and annoint you? Well, I suppose it could. I hope it does. My experience goes back to a quote I heard a long time ago, "most things that fall from the sky are decidedly unpleasant."
If 60 days passes by - like it was just yesterday, then 30 days will seem like it was just this morning. If you operate a little slower, 60 days may seem like 2 days ago and 30 days will seem like yesterday. Small, consistent, 10 minute changes are easy to do.....and they could lead you to somewhere you never dreamed of going.
I won't share where this has led me - because I don't like to put something out there that I am not 100% on. That's my issue. I can only tell you this. I do have a strong inclination that would never have materialized had it not been for this process. I will share it with you all when it is time. I can only tell you that it has the ability to impact many, many people in a positive way.
I caught a blog the other day - on how a guy is sick of the "positive cult." Now that Positive Psychology has made it's way to the forefront, more people are being given permission to make changes that they would not have made in a previously in a positive direction. For those that want to stay in the negative, they get uncomfortable. They don't want to see people leave their club. That is pretty much how I see how most things are when change happens. Your friends, your cronies, your family...they will be quick to point out how "that won't work," or "that is stupid." They are absolutely correct. It won't....for them. You are not them. You are you and you are a precious child. You are full of things that not even you can imagine for yourself. But, unless something changes, you will either be the same you tomorrow or a product of the "them's" that you are allowing to control your behavior.
To that guy who is sick of the "positive cult" - I would say, "dude, don't worry about it. Stay as you are. No one is making you do anything. You make a choice to stay how you are. I make a choice not to listen to you. I still love you like any brother here on Earth. I believe with my heart and soul that I am helping people that want to be helped. I am not here for you and where you are at right now. You can always call me. I may even act like I am listening. I will not try to change you. If you want help, I'll be there to pull you up but I will not let you pull me down. If you just want to complain, I'll give a sympathetic ear but, if it's chronic complaining, I know you have someone else to call. "
All we can do - is try to be the change that we seek. I started this process from a place where I was pretty content with myself. I feel that I have moved up the continuum from there. I feel like I am becoming a better person. I hope my negative friend mentioned above can be as happy for me as I am happy for him that he has fulfilled his goal of maintaining the status quo. It's all good......
....I just want good - to become gooder.
What is happiness? - who knows? I saw a study about twins conjoined at the forehead. They were fully grown with careers. The possibility of disconnecting them was given to them as an option. They said, "why would we do that? We are happy."
"Oh, how could they be. They don't know happiness" - that is not for me...or you...to say. Brighter minds than mine have tackled this question of what is happiness for centuries. I will never spend that much time studying the subject. I only know one thing....
Wherever you are today on YOUR own happiness scale - you can move up if you want to. I wish that for everyone. The PURSUIT of happiness is what our founding fathers died for....and what I hope you will devote 10 minutes a day toward for the next 30 days.
Julie Andrews turns 69...a HappyUP!!!
Julie Andrews evidently turned 69 last year---she made a special appearance for the benefit of the American Association of Retired People at Radio City Music Hall. For those of you who remember her in the Sound of Music, she came out and sang My Favorite Things from that movie. It is one of her signature songs from a classic movie. Yet there was a twist. Here is the report from my friend Wes Roberts :
Here are the lyrics she reportedly used:
* * * * * * *
Maalox and nose drops and needles for knitting,
Walkers and handrails and new dental fittings,
Bundles of magazines tied up in string,
These are a few of my favorite things.
Cadillac's and cataracts, and hearing aids and glasses,
Polident and Fixodent and false teeth in glasses,
Pacemakers, golf carts and porches with swings,
These are a few of my favorite things.
When the pipes leak,
When the bones creak,
When the knees go bad,
I simply remember my favorite things,
And then I don't feel so bad.
Hot tea and crumpets and corn pads for bunions,
No spicy hot food or food cooked with onions,
Bathrobes and heating pads and hot meals they bring,
These are a few of my favorite things.
Back pains, confused brains, and no need for sinnin',
Thin bones and fractures and hair that is thinnin',
And we won't mention our short shrunken frames,
When we remember our favorite things.
When the joints ache,
When the hips break,
When the eyes grow dim,
Then I remember the great life I've had,
And then I don't feel so bad.
* * * * * * *
It was stated that Ms. Andrews received a standing ovation from the crowd that lasted over four minutes with repeated encores. Must have been some younger people in the crowd to remember to keep standing and clapping for that long.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 59
HappyUP!!! - Toastmasters Meeting
Why it happened - I go every Tuesday
Why it made me happy - our assigned speakers didn't show up. Two of the members filled in unexpectedly and did a great job. They gave two great "off the cuff" speeches. Sometimes, those can be disasters. Here is what I know: these two guys couldn't have done what they did a few short years ago. One of the members spoke about how he now goes out and speaks to service groups on behalf of people in places that have no clean water. Awesome stuff! He is putting his new found speaking skills to good use
HappyUP!!! - an employee about to have his best month ever
Why it happened - he keeps working and working at it
Why it made me happy - I know this guy is working hard. He has some adversarial conditions. He is working through them anyway and is on his way to a record breaking month for him. It is just awesome to see the people that report to me...the people I serve...do well.
HappyUP!!! - a brilliant idea
Why it happened - I took a meeting and problem from yesterday and combined it with a solution to a different problem
Why it made me happy - Voila....it is kind of like dunking a chocolate bar in peanut butter to get a Reese's Cup. I didn't use today's solution. I used the spirit of it's solution to come up with a different possible solution to a problem many of my HMC's are suffering with.
Why it happened - I go every Tuesday
Why it made me happy - our assigned speakers didn't show up. Two of the members filled in unexpectedly and did a great job. They gave two great "off the cuff" speeches. Sometimes, those can be disasters. Here is what I know: these two guys couldn't have done what they did a few short years ago. One of the members spoke about how he now goes out and speaks to service groups on behalf of people in places that have no clean water. Awesome stuff! He is putting his new found speaking skills to good use
HappyUP!!! - an employee about to have his best month ever
Why it happened - he keeps working and working at it
Why it made me happy - I know this guy is working hard. He has some adversarial conditions. He is working through them anyway and is on his way to a record breaking month for him. It is just awesome to see the people that report to me...the people I serve...do well.
HappyUP!!! - a brilliant idea
Why it happened - I took a meeting and problem from yesterday and combined it with a solution to a different problem
Why it made me happy - Voila....it is kind of like dunking a chocolate bar in peanut butter to get a Reese's Cup. I didn't use today's solution. I used the spirit of it's solution to come up with a different possible solution to a problem many of my HMC's are suffering with.
Monday, March 26, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 58....a Bittersweet HappyUP
I can't believe it - I'm feeling a little melancholy about the first HappyUP!!! today...but in a good way.
HappyUP!!! - we lost our Arena Softball playoff game
Why it happened - we played like dirt (and this is indoors where there is no dirt)
Why it made me happy - or, melancholy happy. We have played about 5 seasons. With Spring around the corner, some of the players are taking their game outdoors. In a younger day, I would have been tempted to join them. Outdoor softball just moves to slow compared to indoors, however. Long games at the park. It just doesn't have the allure. It looks like a case of "their breaking up that old gang of mine." I doubt we'll get back together in the fall. Along the way, we collected a championship. It's time to move on to the next hobby to have some fun with.
HappyUP!!! - an e-mail from one of my employees
Why it happened - she fought through adversity...and is going to win
Why it made me happy - the strategy that I had put in place worked....and it makes me more confident that it will work for more of my employees on an important, long term initiative. It was a little victory...but a big victory for this employee. She now realizes that the adversity is natural...and, if she fights through it, there just may be a carrot on the other side of the stick.
HappyUP!!! - an interview
Why it made me happy - the person that I was called in to do the second interview with had "that thing." I call it magic. It's where confidence and intelligence meet along with a pleasing personality. It's very attractive and that will get you a long way. It's not about physical beauty. It's about having presence. Who knows if the person will work out but I think they have a great shot at it. The hiring manager is excited. It's all good.
JollyJottings
a great meeting with a client
HappyUP!!! - we lost our Arena Softball playoff game
Why it happened - we played like dirt (and this is indoors where there is no dirt)
Why it made me happy - or, melancholy happy. We have played about 5 seasons. With Spring around the corner, some of the players are taking their game outdoors. In a younger day, I would have been tempted to join them. Outdoor softball just moves to slow compared to indoors, however. Long games at the park. It just doesn't have the allure. It looks like a case of "their breaking up that old gang of mine." I doubt we'll get back together in the fall. Along the way, we collected a championship. It's time to move on to the next hobby to have some fun with.
HappyUP!!! - an e-mail from one of my employees
Why it happened - she fought through adversity...and is going to win
Why it made me happy - the strategy that I had put in place worked....and it makes me more confident that it will work for more of my employees on an important, long term initiative. It was a little victory...but a big victory for this employee. She now realizes that the adversity is natural...and, if she fights through it, there just may be a carrot on the other side of the stick.
HappyUP!!! - an interview
Why it made me happy - the person that I was called in to do the second interview with had "that thing." I call it magic. It's where confidence and intelligence meet along with a pleasing personality. It's very attractive and that will get you a long way. It's not about physical beauty. It's about having presence. Who knows if the person will work out but I think they have a great shot at it. The hiring manager is excited. It's all good.
JollyJottings
a great meeting with a client
Sunday, March 25, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 57....Kings Win!
HappyUP!!! - spending a few hours with my nephew at a Kings game
Why it happened - he accepted my offer
Why it made me happy - the dude had to work graveyard last night. He got home in time to get a few hours sleep. Then, he rousted himself out of bed to spend a few hours with his uncle. My nephew has had to battle through a lot of health challenges from the time he was born. He has had more exotic drugs through him than entire towns of people have had. Every minute I spend with him is precious.
HappyUP!!! - ...and the Kings beat the Phoenix Suns
Why it happened - who knows? Mike Bibby knocking down 9 out of 12 three point shots didn't hurt
Why it made me happy - it's always great when the underdog wins....and that was the case here. The Kings are probably not even going to make the playoffs. The Suns are battling for the top spot. When the Kings get it going at Arco Arena, the fans turn it up like nowhere else in the league. You have to be there to experience it. It has been missing most of this year but it was there today.
HappyUP!!! - top down and 72 degrees
Why it happened - it didn't rain as the weather man had forecasted
Why it made me happy - 72 degrees is perfect top down weather. When you slow down, it can feel a little warm. As soon as you speed up, it cools right off. This is a pure indulgence of the senses and I am lucky that I have the opportunity to experience it.
Why it happened - he accepted my offer
Why it made me happy - the dude had to work graveyard last night. He got home in time to get a few hours sleep. Then, he rousted himself out of bed to spend a few hours with his uncle. My nephew has had to battle through a lot of health challenges from the time he was born. He has had more exotic drugs through him than entire towns of people have had. Every minute I spend with him is precious.
HappyUP!!! - ...and the Kings beat the Phoenix Suns
Why it happened - who knows? Mike Bibby knocking down 9 out of 12 three point shots didn't hurt
Why it made me happy - it's always great when the underdog wins....and that was the case here. The Kings are probably not even going to make the playoffs. The Suns are battling for the top spot. When the Kings get it going at Arco Arena, the fans turn it up like nowhere else in the league. You have to be there to experience it. It has been missing most of this year but it was there today.
HappyUP!!! - top down and 72 degrees
Why it happened - it didn't rain as the weather man had forecasted
Why it made me happy - 72 degrees is perfect top down weather. When you slow down, it can feel a little warm. As soon as you speed up, it cools right off. This is a pure indulgence of the senses and I am lucky that I have the opportunity to experience it.
Saturday, March 24, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 56...all in one shot
No...these probably aren't the three biggest HappyUP!!!s of the day - but I thought that I would do a twist for you faithful....three HappyUP!!!s in one picture.
That plant with the fuscia flowers - I don't know where those buds came from but it was EXPLODING with color today.
That bush from the neighbor's yard - same thing as above. It must be spring because it wasn't like that last week. The white is just BLINDING.
The lawn - freshly cut by your's truly.
HappyUP!!! - the geranium? I think that is what is providing the fuscia to the scene
Why it happened - the plant was already planted...probably by the previous owners...my parents
Why it makes me happy - I love that color. It's not power red or passion purple. It is the color in between that I just really dig. If I could find a men's dress jacket in that color, I would own it!
HappyUP!!! - the white bush
Why it happened - my neighbor has let it become overgrown
Why it made me happy - OK...the chain link fence is not a HappyUP!!! (see here) but nature's beauty is. I just could never recall it being so white. I just stopped in amazement at what He has done with his artwork this week.
HappyUP!!! - the freshly cut lawn
Why it happened - I got on it
Why it made me happy - one of the reasons I don't have a service do this is that I actually like cutting my lawn. I know...sick, isn't it? I do, though. Remember, this is MY HappyUP!!! that we are talking about. Plus, I always have a freshly cut lawn on the weekend. I seemed to always get the Tuesday service with my prior yard guy. By the time the weekend rolled around, it was looking shabby. The grass is turning to a deeper shade of green. The bermuda is almost entirely awake from it's dormancy of winter.
Hmmmm....- what have we discovered today? A common thread. I really do dig colors!
What's Cookin in the Nutster Kitchen?
( A Special Posting for SundayScribblings)
This is so "James Bond"-ish - take a look at this innocent little gas cooktop. If you could look a little closer, you would see that it isn't that innocent. One of the burners cranks up to 1 million BTU's.
OK - maybe not a million but it is something like 18000. It was enough that the people at Dacor only put ONE on the range that was that hot.
It's probably more than I should legally be able to operate as well - is there a licensing department somewhere?
Now, you ladies - are probably just marvelling at my female side with the lovely candles....
...which is exactly why they are there! - OK....I lied again. If my mom was alive, it would be time for a soap mouthwash. I actually like the smell and ambiance almost as much as a female (once again....DO NOT TELL THE MAN POLICE...they have me under close surveillance)
"But, Nutster, where do the fumes go? Do you have a fancy hood out in the middle of your kitchen?" - you ask the best questions. The answer is, "Bond...James Bond." With the touch of one button, I get this:
Yep - with a little toggle of the magic swithch, it's a side pulling, downdraft with a blower under the house that requires you to keep your tie away from it's mighty intake for fear of being sucked in! This thing just pops up out of nowhere. Holy Houdini, Batman!
You want some garlic? - I'll pour it on for you. The blower even gets some of it. I do have to admit that garlic is still going to permeate the house....and I am good with that.
This is so "James Bond"-ish - take a look at this innocent little gas cooktop. If you could look a little closer, you would see that it isn't that innocent. One of the burners cranks up to 1 million BTU's.
OK - maybe not a million but it is something like 18000. It was enough that the people at Dacor only put ONE on the range that was that hot.
It's probably more than I should legally be able to operate as well - is there a licensing department somewhere?
Now, you ladies - are probably just marvelling at my female side with the lovely candles....
...which is exactly why they are there! - OK....I lied again. If my mom was alive, it would be time for a soap mouthwash. I actually like the smell and ambiance almost as much as a female (once again....DO NOT TELL THE MAN POLICE...they have me under close surveillance)
"But, Nutster, where do the fumes go? Do you have a fancy hood out in the middle of your kitchen?" - you ask the best questions. The answer is, "Bond...James Bond." With the touch of one button, I get this:
Yep - with a little toggle of the magic swithch, it's a side pulling, downdraft with a blower under the house that requires you to keep your tie away from it's mighty intake for fear of being sucked in! This thing just pops up out of nowhere. Holy Houdini, Batman!
You want some garlic? - I'll pour it on for you. The blower even gets some of it. I do have to admit that garlic is still going to permeate the house....and I am good with that.
Friday, March 23, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 55...
HappyUP!!! - NCAA Basketball tournament
Why it happened - it's March
Why it makes me happy - it is raw, young enthusiasm at it's best. Kids just out there busting the gut for glory and glory alone. Cheerleaders. It's an awesome time.
HappyUP!!! - finished The Ultimate Gift
Why it Happened - this is the book that my friend gave me a few nights ago
Why it made me happy - it's a neat story that covers all the things that are good...excellent reminder about what character is and how it contributes to happiness
HappyUP!!! - Friday
Why it happened - yesterday was Thursday
Why it made me happy - looking forward to a great weekend of just doing stuff around the house/garden with some great weather.....plus a little bit of work.
Why it happened - it's March
Why it makes me happy - it is raw, young enthusiasm at it's best. Kids just out there busting the gut for glory and glory alone. Cheerleaders. It's an awesome time.
HappyUP!!! - finished The Ultimate Gift
Why it Happened - this is the book that my friend gave me a few nights ago
Why it made me happy - it's a neat story that covers all the things that are good...excellent reminder about what character is and how it contributes to happiness
HappyUP!!! - Friday
Why it happened - yesterday was Thursday
Why it made me happy - looking forward to a great weekend of just doing stuff around the house/garden with some great weather.....plus a little bit of work.
preHappyUP!!! Day 55....starting the day
You know the drill by now - JollyJot the good things that happen during the day, review in the evening, capture the best three, and do the "why they happened" and "why they made you happy" narrative.
On this most gorgeous of Friday mornings - and after a case of late coffee induced insomnia, I thought I would give you something else to consider.
Due to the late falling asleep - I was late waking up. I have only been comatose for about an hour. I haven't even moved around that much. Here is what I have going on already:
-a tremendoulsy beautiful spring morning
-an e-mail from a buddy with pictures of a gorgeous Colorado morning where he is doing some consulting work
-a lovely e-mail from my new friend "Blue"
-a few minutes done of excercise
-an optimistic outlook towards today
-a high degree of feeling alive (despite the sleeping issue)
-anticipation of a great weekend (though it is not even planned as of yet)
-plants in the garden awaiting my supply of nurturing water
-two hungry felines at the backdoor waiting to purr for me
-a couple of deadlines to complete some GREAT projects at work
-a personal note to deliver to a new friend that will make their day (the insomnia inspired this one)
....and I am barely awake. Let's take a look at that last JollyJotting....
Whose day are you going to make.......TODAY? - who will be the main beneficiary of the gift that IS you before the fall of darkness?
On this most gorgeous of Friday mornings - and after a case of late coffee induced insomnia, I thought I would give you something else to consider.
Due to the late falling asleep - I was late waking up. I have only been comatose for about an hour. I haven't even moved around that much. Here is what I have going on already:
-a tremendoulsy beautiful spring morning
-an e-mail from a buddy with pictures of a gorgeous Colorado morning where he is doing some consulting work
-a lovely e-mail from my new friend "Blue"
-a few minutes done of excercise
-an optimistic outlook towards today
-a high degree of feeling alive (despite the sleeping issue)
-anticipation of a great weekend (though it is not even planned as of yet)
-plants in the garden awaiting my supply of nurturing water
-two hungry felines at the backdoor waiting to purr for me
-a couple of deadlines to complete some GREAT projects at work
-a personal note to deliver to a new friend that will make their day (the insomnia inspired this one)
....and I am barely awake. Let's take a look at that last JollyJotting....
Whose day are you going to make.......TODAY? - who will be the main beneficiary of the gift that IS you before the fall of darkness?
Gratitude Corner
"It is as important to Want What You Have as
it is to Have What You Want"
That is the quote - and I am not sure who it is to be attributed to. It's a solid notion stated as is.
Let's raise the stakes - "It's MORE important to Want What You Have than to Have What You Want"
You can always - get what you want. Today....TOday....TODAY may be the last day that you have something that you are overlooking.
....act accordingly
....act accordingly
Thursday, March 22, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 54.....the Vision is clear
HappyUP!!! - a trip to the opthamologist
Why it happened - it was time for a vision check
Why it made me happy - I was thinking that things may be getting a little out of synch vision wise. I had Lasik 8 yrs ago. It was a god send. Absolutely amazing to be free of a 30 yr glasses curse. I was afraid that I may need to do it again. Nope...vision is 20/30. I can get away with a light prescription for glasses to drive at night and I am good to go...Awesome
HappyUP!!! - the first eye doctor that saw me
Why it happened - my eye doctor is the best. He comes in at the end and only handles things at the highest skill level.
Why it made me happy - the first eye doctor that did the "this is number 1...this is number 2...which is better" was cute and may be available. Me, being my charming self, got her to laugh. Hmmmm.....how will the Nutster pull this one off? I usually space my eye visits a few years apart. A challenge is always a HappyUP!!!!
HappyUP!!! - giving my staff a bonus
Why it happened - they qualified and won a contest
Why it made me happy - they kicked butt, got a tough thing done, and they were thrilled to be rewarded. It meant a lot...the dough and the accomplishment. My biggest HappyUP!!! is when the people close to me get happy and excited. They were screaming and beaming.
Why it happened - it was time for a vision check
Why it made me happy - I was thinking that things may be getting a little out of synch vision wise. I had Lasik 8 yrs ago. It was a god send. Absolutely amazing to be free of a 30 yr glasses curse. I was afraid that I may need to do it again. Nope...vision is 20/30. I can get away with a light prescription for glasses to drive at night and I am good to go...Awesome
HappyUP!!! - the first eye doctor that saw me
Why it happened - my eye doctor is the best. He comes in at the end and only handles things at the highest skill level.
Why it made me happy - the first eye doctor that did the "this is number 1...this is number 2...which is better" was cute and may be available. Me, being my charming self, got her to laugh. Hmmmm.....how will the Nutster pull this one off? I usually space my eye visits a few years apart. A challenge is always a HappyUP!!!!
HappyUP!!! - giving my staff a bonus
Why it happened - they qualified and won a contest
Why it made me happy - they kicked butt, got a tough thing done, and they were thrilled to be rewarded. It meant a lot...the dough and the accomplishment. My biggest HappyUP!!! is when the people close to me get happy and excited. They were screaming and beaming.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 53....home from Bakersfield
HappyUP!!! - multiple sunsets on the drive home from Bakersfield
Why did it happen - a strange combination of where I was driving and the time of day
Why it made me happy - it gave me something to do that was enjoyable to pass the time on this flat drive. There were rolling hills close by to the west. As I drove, the sun would disappear with all of the flair of a sunset. Everyone loves a sunset. I drove further, hill disappeared, sun was back, another hill came up, and another sunset happened. This must have occurred 5 times. I was just very aware of this privilege that I was granted.
HappyUP!!! - arriving home
Why did it happen - I kept driving
Why it made me happy - 4 hrs and 20 minutes is about as fast as you can sanely make it back from Bakersfield. Once I pulled off that freeway and I was near my house, I just said to myself, "ahhh.....home."
HappyUP!!! - I was given a book
Why it happened - I picked up the tab for dinner last night. My dining companion showed up at the meeting with a book
Why it made me happy - it is always great to get a present...especially unexpected ones...and I love books! This is going to be a good one but that is just the cherry on top. It was a really cool thing for my friend to do.
Why
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 52...on the road to Bakersfield
For those of you familiar with Interstate 5 through the Central Valley of California - you know that this "little" drive can be a bit of a stretch to make a HappyUP!!! out of...right?
If you are coming from Northern California - one way to do it is to go through this agricultural/wasteland drive with a happy destination in mind at the end of the trip. Or...a happy activity
I was going to end up in Bakersfield - which is on this side of the mountains before So Cal.
...and an all day meeting awaited me - the next day.
HappyUP!!! - I got to Bakersfield
Why it happened - I kept on driving
Why it made me happy - I don't know if I hit 5-6 different storms or the same storm kept zig zagging in and out but there were about 1/2 dozen times when it rained so hard, visibility was near zero. High speed, wet roads, and a big semi-truck next to me in my rental mini-SUV were not the most stable of conditions. I was relaxed during the drive but, when I pulled into thUPat hotel, it was a HappyUP!!!! I made it.
HappyUP!!! - dinner in Bakersfield
Why it happened - one of my colleagues took the initiative to call me as he had made the same drive I had for the above mentioned meeting
Why it made me happy - we just had a great dinner. First, but not foremost, the food was tremendous. A New York strip with some potatoes that were out of this world. More importantly, it is a rare occasion when you get to talk to another guy at a level that a couple of women usually talk. No, I don't want it to be all of my conversations but, whenever I have one of these with another guy, it's refreshing.
HappyUP!!! - my room key didn't work
Why it happened - I think my cell phone desensitized it
Why it made me happy - I have a habit of losing my hotel room keys....or forgetting what my room number is. When I came back from dinner, I went to room 440. I slid in the key...NOTHING. I had to walk all the way to the front desk to find out what my real room number was. While I didn't beat myself up too badly, I was thinking, "how absent minded you were...you could be on that bed right now but you are walking to the lobby to stand in line. For what? To get your room number!" I got to the line. The lady said, "nope, you are in room 440. You must have had your cell phone in the same pocket as the room key." I am not losing my mind as fast as I thought! That is a HappyUP!!!
Monday, March 19, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 51.....Ouch! That's Gonna Hurt Tomorrow
HappyUP!! - an arena baseball win
Why it happened - we came from behind
Why it makes me happy - I am focusing on the win...not on my poor hitting or a ball I missed. I am focusing on the great catch and unassisted double play. It makes it a bit easier to forget that, when I dropped the ball, I also slid and..............hello raspberry! Win....Win....Win. This puts us in the playoffs next week
HappyUP!!! - an employee advances the agenda
Why it happened - he turned a lemon into lemonade
Why it made me happy - I know some people would have really whined when the bad thing happened. Not this guy. He fought through it...solved the problem...and is now being rewarded.
HappyUP!!! - Bob the Locksmith
Why it happened - He was referred by a client
Why it made me happy - he got me back into my garage. He squeezed me in the middle of a couple of stops so I wasn't inconvenienced. It worked out great because I called my garage door guy...he is coming at 9 am tomorrow and the garage door opener loss will be forgotten. No stress. Just fix it, baby!
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Bonus HappyUP!!! - Ten Bucks for the Nutster!
$10 handed to me!!! - no, it wasn't someone coming up and offering cash to get their picture taken with me. If it was, that would be at least a twenty anyway!!! LOL
TraderJoe's (my grocery store) doesn't carry cod liver oil- This necessitated a trip to the health food store. I am not a health nut. I do go to Sunrise Natural Foods a few times a year.
For whatever reason - I remembered to take my Stamp Card with me. I have gone their many times and not had it. The literally stamp your card for the dollars that you purchase.
I get to the counter - and everything totals $42. As she is stamping out the amounts, she notices that my card is now fully stamped.....I get $10 taken off my purchase right there!!!
This wasn't a phony baloney sale - it was cash on the barrelhead.
Why do I make a big deal out of this - I remembered the card. I don't carry something like this around with me. I could have easily gone to the store without it. I did something well. One of the many blessings about HappyUP!!! is to take moments and celebrate THINGS THAT GO RIGHT.
One of the greatest causes of sub-optimal mental health - is that we take for granted the things that go right (trust me.....even the little things don't) and focus on things that go wrong. Think about it. If I hadn't taken that card, when I got to the register, I would have given myself a little boot in the fanny. No, I wouldn't have obsessed about it. Rather than self-flagellate, I self-congratulate in this case.
Do more of that - you increase your level of happiness....and are in a better frame of mind to help the world around you.
TraderJoe's (my grocery store) doesn't carry cod liver oil- This necessitated a trip to the health food store. I am not a health nut. I do go to Sunrise Natural Foods a few times a year.
For whatever reason - I remembered to take my Stamp Card with me. I have gone their many times and not had it. The literally stamp your card for the dollars that you purchase.
I get to the counter - and everything totals $42. As she is stamping out the amounts, she notices that my card is now fully stamped.....I get $10 taken off my purchase right there!!!
This wasn't a phony baloney sale - it was cash on the barrelhead.
Why do I make a big deal out of this - I remembered the card. I don't carry something like this around with me. I could have easily gone to the store without it. I did something well. One of the many blessings about HappyUP!!! is to take moments and celebrate THINGS THAT GO RIGHT.
One of the greatest causes of sub-optimal mental health - is that we take for granted the things that go right (trust me.....even the little things don't) and focus on things that go wrong. Think about it. If I hadn't taken that card, when I got to the register, I would have given myself a little boot in the fanny. No, I wouldn't have obsessed about it. Rather than self-flagellate, I self-congratulate in this case.
Do more of that - you increase your level of happiness....and are in a better frame of mind to help the world around you.
HappyUP!!! Day 50
Wow!!! - half way to 100 on the HU days. This is one way to realize how fast time does really pass by. Get started on your HappyUP!!!s....before it's too late.
HappyUP!!! - fixed a broken chainsaw
Why it happened - I really needed the chainsaw
Why it made me happy - it was easier to do than I expected. Yes, I had to take the thing apart. It was a hand me down from my dad. At the same time, I have no chainsaw fixing experience. I got the chain back on. More importantly, I had the guts to fire it up with me holding it in my hands. Yes, I had a couple of those "chainsaw accident stories you hear about" going through my mind but only fleetingly. My mind was on getting the job done....and I did. I got a task done....and fixed a tool.
HappyUP!!! - took down the bean tree
Why it happened - it has needed to be done forever. It was an ugly volunteer tree that was encroaching on a power line
Why it made me happy - I used the hatchet (hadn't mustered up the motivation to fix the chain saw yet). I chopped a "V" into the tree so it would fall where I wanted it to.....NOT on the powerline. It came down exactly where it was supposed to. After that, I hacked it up with the chainsaw, put it in the green waste, and another little chore is out of the way......smoothly, safely, and as planned. This is NOT the way things always (usually?) go.
HappyUP!!! - found the missing Blue Tooth headset
Why it happened - I was looking for the missing garage door opener
Why it made me happy - whether I take the one back that I just purchased (it's container is trashed) or not, I really dig finding stuff that I once had written off. It was a validation that I am not totally careless. In this case, it must have fallen between the seat and the console of the truck and worked it's way under the seat. Hmmm....I swear I looked there before. Those gnomes that hide things....they move around while you are looking....I know they do.
JollyJottings
Slept in
Got garage cleaned out
Got rid of a tree
Fixed a broken chainsaw
Coco Mulch
Battery Operated Timer discovered
Irrigation system possibilities
Found the Blue Tooth headset
Bought some new books
Trip to the health food store
TraderJoe's French Market Lemonade
HappyUP!!! - fixed a broken chainsaw
Why it happened - I really needed the chainsaw
Why it made me happy - it was easier to do than I expected. Yes, I had to take the thing apart. It was a hand me down from my dad. At the same time, I have no chainsaw fixing experience. I got the chain back on. More importantly, I had the guts to fire it up with me holding it in my hands. Yes, I had a couple of those "chainsaw accident stories you hear about" going through my mind but only fleetingly. My mind was on getting the job done....and I did. I got a task done....and fixed a tool.
HappyUP!!! - took down the bean tree
Why it happened - it has needed to be done forever. It was an ugly volunteer tree that was encroaching on a power line
Why it made me happy - I used the hatchet (hadn't mustered up the motivation to fix the chain saw yet). I chopped a "V" into the tree so it would fall where I wanted it to.....NOT on the powerline. It came down exactly where it was supposed to. After that, I hacked it up with the chainsaw, put it in the green waste, and another little chore is out of the way......smoothly, safely, and as planned. This is NOT the way things always (usually?) go.
HappyUP!!! - found the missing Blue Tooth headset
Why it happened - I was looking for the missing garage door opener
Why it made me happy - whether I take the one back that I just purchased (it's container is trashed) or not, I really dig finding stuff that I once had written off. It was a validation that I am not totally careless. In this case, it must have fallen between the seat and the console of the truck and worked it's way under the seat. Hmmm....I swear I looked there before. Those gnomes that hide things....they move around while you are looking....I know they do.
JollyJottings
Slept in
Got garage cleaned out
Got rid of a tree
Fixed a broken chainsaw
Coco Mulch
Battery Operated Timer discovered
Irrigation system possibilities
Found the Blue Tooth headset
Bought some new books
Trip to the health food store
TraderJoe's French Market Lemonade
LOST!.........and found
I am a great finder of stuff - I really am. You say, "that's a handy trait."
I say - "I am good because I get lots of practice!"
Today's count - 1 garage door opener lost (the second of two that are now MIA) and 1 Blue Tooth Headset (scene here) and 2 cheap pens found. I can also pencil in a solid hour or two or search party work!
The found items - were found in the search for the garage door opener. Often, that is how it works.
"Nutster, have you checked your cars? Why would a garage door opener be anywhere but your car?" - ahhh, grasshoppah, seek first to understand and then to be understood.
If you have a detached garage - your car would be the LAST place you would want your garage door opener to be. In today's case, I did some extra garage cleanup. Two weeks ago, one of my HappyUP!!!s was two cars in the garage. Phase two was to be able to get them in there so I didn't door ding my own cars. This was accomplished today....well, if I could get back in the garage I could tell you. Anyway, when not in the house in a specific place, the GD is in my pocket or in the car that I am driving. I never use the push button thing on the wall so it reminds me to always take my GD with me when I go inside.
Anyway, the garage door opener(s) - have to be somewhere else. In the meantime, NO vehicles can get into the garage. I have gone from one car in to two cars in to zero cars in. I am amazing that way! I know, "use the manual key that unlocks the garage door." This would be excellent advice but when I moved into the house and I don't recall ever seeing that key show up as part of the transfer of ownership. Don't even think about sending me looking for that! That would just be flat out mean.
The cool thing - in finding the BlueTooth in the search was that I had just purchased one today...at a cool $100. The cost of a locksmith letting me into my garage and then replacing an opener.....probably $100. I'm even when I return the headset purchased and I still have the hope of the garage door opener (or two) showing up.
Hey, if you see it laying around - let me know.
This year's count of significant items:
Lost - BlueTooth
Found - BlueTooth (one month later)
Lost - cell phone
Found - cell phone (two days later got a call from a store it dropped out in). Of course, I had already bought a new phone but it was only $40...now, I have a spare. Most importantly, original SIM card was recovered
Lost - my moleskine
Found - my moleskine (I called a store I was in the previous day...yep, they had it)
Found - $550 in gift cards (lost and deemed gone forever in 2006....big winner for 2007)
Lost - two garage door openers
All in all - I am a little ahead of the game.....well, if you can ever be ahead in a game that you don't particularly like to play!
The Nutster: MAN...all MAN
The Home Despot - someone wonders why church attendance is down in America. What are the people doing on Sunday mornings anyway?
Well, besides going to umpteen youth activities - like soccer, football, baseball, cheer, etc that would never have been scheduled on a Sunday when I grew up. Hey, it wasn't that long ago (.....wait....I guess my parents would have the said the same thing at my age....I guess it was that long ago).
Anyway - they are all worshipping the ruler of the universe...Home Depot.
Home Depot takes away any excuse - a man has for not being a man. They make it appear that any project could be done....even by a woman. Now, ladies, don't get your corsets all in a bunch (yeah, right, like anyone would wear a corset today). The point is that the marketing behind the marketing is that, "if a woman could do it, any REAL MAN can and should do it."
It's subtle - but it's there. My personal opinion? Hey, Helen Reddy, if you want to tile that bathroom, go for it! If you need any help, give me a call but, if I am not here, it is because I am down getting my pedicure. Welcome to the joy of being a man.
Do you see this truck? - it's a small personalized dump truck. Wow, I bet you could really do some manly things with that. You could get a load of stuff, dump it all out, go to the rental yard (another manly place), rent a tractor, spread and dig to your heart's delight, and, at the end of the day, tug on your belt buckle with one hand (because you have a Budweiser in the other), and say, "hey, look at what I did today"
Not me - I have a different goal. Goals are good, right? One of my primary goals in life is to NEVER be involved with something that requires me to rent this truck. There was a time in my life where I did stuff involving trucks like these. There is a reason that time is not now. I changed my reality with no desire to go back.
It is infinitely better - to allow people that enjoy renting these types of trucks do that type of work. Therefore, it is my utmost responsibility to go out and earn enough money so that I can hire those guys to do that. Yes, I am helping them attain their happiness. No, I don't get to rack up those valuable man points but it is just the giver in me to allow another male to accumulate my guy chips. I am a giver.
I must confess, though, that there is one thing - that I can't get out of. It's in the Manbook. This is where all the rules about what it takes to be a man are found. Caution: a lot of the rules of being a man are not created by the official keepers of the book. It's kind of like Websters. There are the official new words and then there are the new words that someone that pronounces things poorly comes up with.
Anyway, the Manbook clearly states - you must fell a tree WITH a hatchet once in awhile...annually if possible.
Ah....- it's only March and I have already got my continuing education done.
OK, I confess - I snuck the hatchet part in. My chainsaw was broken!
Plus, guys - the Manbook doesn't say it has to be a mighty oak. Pick a scrawny, volunteer, poisonous bean tree if you can. You can knock it down with about 10 to 14 whacks! Shhhhh....don't tell the man police or they will try to officially amend that darn book.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 49
HappyUP!!! - my trip to Home Depot
Why it happened - time to get the garden in...spring has come early
Why it made me happy - I got a late start. I thought the entire world would be at the place that I really have apprehension about going to. Yes, they have what I need. When you hit the gardening department though on a day like this, it was bound to be a zoo. It wasn't......score
HappyUP!!! - first planting
Why it happened - I got off of my fanny
Why it made me happy - I really didn't have much going this weekend. This is going to put me ahead and let me do something on a future weekend....when I would have been planting. Also, new life was brought into my home site. Tomatoes, strawberries, watermellon, peppers, basil....all will be gracing my table later this year. I have a lot of space left, too. Cucumbers and squash are yet to come.
'HappyUP!!! - cocoa bean husk mulch
Why it happened - a buddy told me about this yesterday
Why it made me happy - I laid some down and immediately added the wonderful smell of chocolate into the garden. I hope the ants don't come!!! Nah....this is the husks. No sugar. Anyway, it is a very nice mulch. I didn't mulch last year. The mulching is going to make the garden more aesthetically pleasing this year. It should keep the weeds and dust down a bit. We'll see......anticipation is always a happy up!
JollyJottings
Arnold Palmer special
Sunday Scribblings topic
Cocoa Bean Mulch
Easy trip through Home Depot
The convertible
The first planting
The weed eater fired right up for first time of the year
A new tank of propane
Inspiration
(A special posting for SundayScribblings )
Where does my inspiration come from? It depends on from which perspective the question is asked. If it is about writing and creativity/creative thinking, the answer is everywhere. I just look for it. If I am going to make a trip to Bed, Bath, and Beyond, I guarantee you that before I step in that store, I am not thinking about a bedspread. I am thinking about a man voyaging into the great unknown. This morning, I went to Home Depot to get some plants. It's time to garden. I took my camera. I snapped a picture of Home Depot. I will think of looking at Home Depot from a different angle than anyone else or very few have. I am looking for that ironic twist. My preference is to twist it with a humorist bend.
The newspaper can be another excellent source. Just last weekend, the Sacramento Bee ran an article on builders that are building dual suites for married couples. AHA! I finally found something in print that picks up on a common thought that I have always had. The Bee just didn't go far enough. They also don't have the forum for it. I can guarantee you that I will have an upcoming post around, "who the heck made the rule that says I have to sleep (and I mean SLEEP) with you right next to me if I love you?" The answer is: No One. It is not in the rulebook. Anywhere. My doctor says that sleep is a medicine that we need to take daily to function optimally. Why would I let my daily vital dose of medicine be disrupted just because someone has attached nodding off together as vital to a relationship. In Elizabethan times, the King and Queen had separate quarters. Despite this, there didn't ever seem to be any lack of Princes and Princesses. With snoring, light sleepers vs heavy sleepers, tossers and turners, early risers, late risers, etc, it makes no sense. It is kind of like the toothpaste users. You have the squeezers and the rollers. Don't argue about it. Get separate tubes! My goodness, the things that we attach emotion too that have no business attaching them too.
How about his and her checking accounts? No, not for everyone. For many, it would be the cure to a lot of hassle. Yes, it could mean a lack of trust. Yes, it could mean that you respect each other's use of funds without needing to lord over it. Both camps can be correct. You do what works.
Inspiration? Look at the example I just used. I took a newspaper article about a new trend in homebuilding. I expanded on their idea. This drove me over to the toothpaste. Next stop, finances. If I was going to write and entire article about this, I would go interview people, do research, etc. I just may. It helps to be a bit of a contrarian also. I have been accused of using Nutterlogic. When that comes out, it usually means that I have checkmated (or frustrated the heck out of ) the other person so I just say, "thank you."
Inspiration is everywhere. It is on billboards. It is a trip to make some copies. It is absolutely limitless. Unfortunately, I do believe in the statement that creativity is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration. My problem: I don't like to sweat that much!
Where does my inspiration come from? It depends on from which perspective the question is asked. If it is about writing and creativity/creative thinking, the answer is everywhere. I just look for it. If I am going to make a trip to Bed, Bath, and Beyond, I guarantee you that before I step in that store, I am not thinking about a bedspread. I am thinking about a man voyaging into the great unknown. This morning, I went to Home Depot to get some plants. It's time to garden. I took my camera. I snapped a picture of Home Depot. I will think of looking at Home Depot from a different angle than anyone else or very few have. I am looking for that ironic twist. My preference is to twist it with a humorist bend.
The newspaper can be another excellent source. Just last weekend, the Sacramento Bee ran an article on builders that are building dual suites for married couples. AHA! I finally found something in print that picks up on a common thought that I have always had. The Bee just didn't go far enough. They also don't have the forum for it. I can guarantee you that I will have an upcoming post around, "who the heck made the rule that says I have to sleep (and I mean SLEEP) with you right next to me if I love you?" The answer is: No One. It is not in the rulebook. Anywhere. My doctor says that sleep is a medicine that we need to take daily to function optimally. Why would I let my daily vital dose of medicine be disrupted just because someone has attached nodding off together as vital to a relationship. In Elizabethan times, the King and Queen had separate quarters. Despite this, there didn't ever seem to be any lack of Princes and Princesses. With snoring, light sleepers vs heavy sleepers, tossers and turners, early risers, late risers, etc, it makes no sense. It is kind of like the toothpaste users. You have the squeezers and the rollers. Don't argue about it. Get separate tubes! My goodness, the things that we attach emotion too that have no business attaching them too.
How about his and her checking accounts? No, not for everyone. For many, it would be the cure to a lot of hassle. Yes, it could mean a lack of trust. Yes, it could mean that you respect each other's use of funds without needing to lord over it. Both camps can be correct. You do what works.
Inspiration? Look at the example I just used. I took a newspaper article about a new trend in homebuilding. I expanded on their idea. This drove me over to the toothpaste. Next stop, finances. If I was going to write and entire article about this, I would go interview people, do research, etc. I just may. It helps to be a bit of a contrarian also. I have been accused of using Nutterlogic. When that comes out, it usually means that I have checkmated (or frustrated the heck out of ) the other person so I just say, "thank you."
Inspiration is everywhere. It is on billboards. It is a trip to make some copies. It is absolutely limitless. Unfortunately, I do believe in the statement that creativity is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration. My problem: I don't like to sweat that much!
Friday, March 16, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 48
HappyUP!!! An unexpected breakfast guest
Why it happened - the other person came to my breakfast place to kill a few minutes..."join me"
Why it made me happy - it's good to have a nice talk about some common subjects that the two of us have gone through. Commonality is something that is inherent to the human condition
HappyUP!!! A needed talk with an employee
Why it happened - the opportunity arose
Why it made me happy - some errant communication had been disseminated. Some bad assumptions resulted. We found that out, got the air cleared, and now can move forward to more opportunities ahead.
HappyUP!!! An employee review completed
Why it happened - it happens every year
Why it made me happy - I think that we will make some progress with some of the opportunities for improvement. We hadn't had this kind of talk in a long time.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 47
HappyUP!!! - the billboard (see post below)
Why it happened - well, I didn't put the billboard there...but I did take an extra 5-10 minutes to go back and get the picture.
Why it made me happy - I just gave a HappyUP!!! talk.....20 minutes before. I hadn't even gotten to the freeway yet. There is the message, "Dare to be Happy."
HappyUP!!! - my copy story (see post below)
Why it happened - a little procrastination (should have had the materials ready earlier), a bit of boldness to ask strangers for help, and a very nice girl at a front desk
Why it made me happy - (see post below)
HappyUP!!! - the group at the company I spoke to
Why it happened - I said, "YES," to the invitation
Why it made me happy - the presentation went great. I got 10's from the audience...yet, I knew that I really could have done much better. The purpose of speaking is to transfer emotion. This was done. I have full confidence that all of today's students are going to live up to the HappyUP!!! challenge over the next week.
JollyJottings
-beat the 4 am alarm -a beatiful crescent moon on the drive -Starbucks
-great shave -good calls on the way home -a brief nap -a day off
-truck ran great -a gorgeous day -some great postings
-Mapquest -I found Cisco's Headquarters (by accident....man, it's big!)
-No traffic
"The Nutster.....makin copies..."
Today, I took a vacation day from my day job - so I could go do some HappyUP!!!-ing for one of my corporate clients. I was up late last night creating a new handout for this morning's training. After finishing, I thought, "I could run over to Kinko's now and make copies." But, it was 10 pm. I already was going to get up at 4 a.m. so I could beat the traffic down to my venue.
"Hey, I'll be in town 2 1/2 hrs before my engagement. There has to be a Kinko's or copy shop nearby," was my thinking.
I took the drive down to San Jose. I went past my venue in the business park and went on a search. Like any real man, I wouldn't think of stopping and asking someone.
Well, not until I had seen way too many businesses and NO copy houses! I went into Starbucks. I got my mocha. I did the un-manly thing, "Excuse me, do you know if there is a copy place nearby?"
"You're standing in one," was the reply.
"No, copy....not cofee," said I.
"I'm from Portland, I wouldn't know."
I then saw a local policeman. A rather portly policeman...even for a policeman. "Excuse me officer, could you tell me where the closest place I can make copies is?"
"I really have no idea. Why don't you ask the lady behind the counter?" was the help that I got from the local authorities.
"OK....mam, do you know where I can get copies made?"
Well, she may make a heck of a chai latte but, outside of that, I had reached the no help desk.
The policeman jumped back in, "why don't you ask the hotel next door?"
Seeing that Starbucks wasn't brewing up or grinding out any solutions, I took the advice. I walked next door to the Hilton. It was one of those garden inn type places. It's a step up from a motel but it doesn't do the full lobby thing like a full-on hotel does. I walked up to the check-in desk.
"Mam, can you tell me where the closest place is that I can make copies for a presentation I am giving this morning?"
"It's right down the hall in our business center."
"Excuse me, what did you say?"
"You can make copies down the hall to your right?"
"Thank you very much," I beamed.
And beaming, I was. I could smell a HappyUP!!! coming. I walked down the hallway expecting to find a copier that you needed to stick your room key, a credit card, cash, something into to make it work. There was none of that. I put two pieces of my presentation into the feeder. I looked at the display.....YES!!!! It duplexes!!!
I ran....yes, I ran....out to my car, grabbed my purple paper and hustled right back in there.
I thought, "wait, Nutster, are you stealing?"
Then, I said, "I did give her the extra opportunity to ask me if I was a guest." With that, the copies started flying.
Now, if I was 100% honest, I suppose I would have volunteered that I was not a guest that evening. I would have then explained that I do travel on business more than the average person does in a year and that I often stay at Hilton. I think, at that point, she would have given me the approval. And, I was supplying my own paper so all I was really scamming on this was a little electricity and some toner.
USE HILTON FOR YOUR NEXT VACATION or BUSINESS TRIP
(There......now I feel better. I wasn't stealing. We just did what is known in the industry as a "trade out")
The real point of the story: I never once was panicked or concerned about getting these vital materials copied. I didn't get frazzled when no one helped me. I just kept at it and looked at this as an opportunity that a HappyUP!!! might occur. All I was looking for was to be able to tell a tale of how someone gave me some directions and those directions led me to having to spend $5-7 on some materials. Little did I know, my HappyUP!!! would be a feeling that getting copies was a game......and I won!
....and another story and testimony to the power of HappyUP!!!
HappyUP!!! Marketing Spotted
There I am - in San Jose, California. I just conducted a HappyUP!!! training session this morning. As I am driving out of town, I see this billboard...
I couldn't believe it - I turned around, negotiated a couple of side streets (seems San Jose doesn't much care for U-turns), parked in an industrial lot, and took off on foot just to get this picture.
...and it was worth every inconvenience! - while Volkswagen has a little different cure to the happiness issue than I would prescribe, I will applaud their marketing research department.
They didn't throw this up on the billboard just to be cute - rest assured, they know that the promise of happiness if you buy a topless bug is alluring......alluring enough to justify the price tag of the billboard space.
As for me - I just dig the fact that I was provided a free power point slide for my next presentation.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 46
HappyUP!!! 1 - finishing my presentation for tomorrow
Why it happened - the presentation is tomorrow! A deadline was set
Why it made me happy - it is always a challenge to me when I am asked to speak. It is a tremendous responsibility to know that you have the podium. I'll be giving my HappyUP!!! presentation....something that I am passionate about and enjoy sharing with outside groups.
HappyUP!!! 2- seeing some really cool office furniture
Why it happened - I visited my buddy, Alex, website. See it here
Why it made me happy - just the title to the post was a crack up, 12 ways to pimp your office. Plus, all of the stuff is different. I like different. It is so.....not bland. It just had a look of fun.
HappyUP!!! 3 - a good conversation with a staff member
Why it happened - I needed information
Why it made me happy - it was just a good, honest exchange about an issue we are having in the workplace between employees. I got to hear the staff person's side of the story. I got to hear how the behavior of another person was impacting this person. It was good information to have to help me deal with a sticky issue
(no, HappyingUP!!! does not make your issues go away....it just may help you deal with them better)
JollyJottings
Spending time with a prospective client
A good conversation with a staff member
Taking a couple of hours of PTO (paid time off)
Finishing up my presentation for tomorrow
An e-mail exchange with an author friend
Seeing some really cool furniture
Finishing up some HappyUP!!! buttons
Fixed my printer
Got some raking done in the garden
Going to Home Church
Is Happiness Important?
Happiness is when what you say, what you think, and what you do are in harmony
-Gahndi
Most men are about as happy as they decide to be
-Abraham Lincoln
....dedicated to life, liberty, and the PURSUIT of happiness
-United States Declaration of Independence
Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has many; not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some
-Charles Dickens
Whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.
-James 1:2-3
Gahndi made it a priority. The founding fathers of the United States were willing to die for it. Abraham Lincoln knew that it takes work. Dickens totally understood HappyUP!!! James? Well, he looked as troubles as a chance to HappyUP!!! That's an overachiever there!
It's a pursuit. It's work. It's discipline. Happiness may be the most important thing in life. My, oh my, happiness is serious business.
How important is it to you?
-Gahndi
Most men are about as happy as they decide to be
-Abraham Lincoln
....dedicated to life, liberty, and the PURSUIT of happiness
-United States Declaration of Independence
Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has many; not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some
-Charles Dickens
Whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.
-James 1:2-3
Gahndi made it a priority. The founding fathers of the United States were willing to die for it. Abraham Lincoln knew that it takes work. Dickens totally understood HappyUP!!! James? Well, he looked as troubles as a chance to HappyUP!!! That's an overachiever there!
It's a pursuit. It's work. It's discipline. Happiness may be the most important thing in life. My, oh my, happiness is serious business.
How important is it to you?
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 45
HappyUP!!! 1 - a new piece of business coming my way
Why it happened - I work for a great company
Why it makes me happy - new people...new challenges....new opportunities....I get to see how my team performs.
HappyUP!!! 2 - a teaching opportunity
Why it happened - someone appears to have done something they shouldn't
Why it makes me happy - I should be able to make some progress with a person by showing them in the moment a behavior that is holding them back. I will probably find out sometime tomorrow. If taken well, this could be life changing. If taken poorly, the relationship between myself and the person is going to be strained. Sometimes you have to risk the relationship to have the relationship. I actually would prefer not to have this opportunity. I would rather that things just went along smoothly. Change happens, however, and is needed. I am happy that this incident has come up now.
HappyUP!!! 3 - an employee found another source of business
Why it happened - he was tipped off by some contacts he had
Why it makes me happy - I love it when the people that report up to me find opportunities. I like it better than when I find them. This tells them to keep looking for opportunity much better than if I find something and hand it to them.
Why it happened - I work for a great company
Why it makes me happy - new people...new challenges....new opportunities....I get to see how my team performs.
HappyUP!!! 2 - a teaching opportunity
Why it happened - someone appears to have done something they shouldn't
Why it makes me happy - I should be able to make some progress with a person by showing them in the moment a behavior that is holding them back. I will probably find out sometime tomorrow. If taken well, this could be life changing. If taken poorly, the relationship between myself and the person is going to be strained. Sometimes you have to risk the relationship to have the relationship. I actually would prefer not to have this opportunity. I would rather that things just went along smoothly. Change happens, however, and is needed. I am happy that this incident has come up now.
HappyUP!!! 3 - an employee found another source of business
Why it happened - he was tipped off by some contacts he had
Why it makes me happy - I love it when the people that report up to me find opportunities. I like it better than when I find them. This tells them to keep looking for opportunity much better than if I find something and hand it to them.
Monday, March 12, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 44
HappyUP!!! 1 - an employee found a new business source
Why it happened - she is working hard
Why it made me happy - she is just putting principles to work in a difficult market. This is the kind of thing that will make her win. When my employees win, it makes me happy. I love to see them do well.
HappyUP!!! 2 - my conference call with my managers
Why it happened - it is in the calender. I wanted it upbeat so I set that tone today
Why it made me happy - the group was a bit more playful today. I would like to see them run a little more but that is OK. My belief: happy employees do better work and see more opportunities.
HappyUP!!! 3 - a pleasant call in the afternoon
Why it happened - someone went out of there way to thank me
Why it made me happy - hey, can you ever hear "thank you," too much? I think that "thank you" is sweeter to another's ear than even hearing their own name.
JollyJottings (Wow...this was a great day....lots to choose from)
Employee found new business source
Another employee working on a new account
Another employee delivered an excellent script
A nice e-mail on my personal computer this morning
A pleasant phone call this afternoon
My conference call with my managers
The conference call with my boss was cancelled
A solid interview this morning
A win in arena baseball
Some excellent stir fry
A gorgeous day
Coming home to a plowed yard
My meeting with one of my builders
A great recruiting call and appointment set
A recruiting call with a phone appointment set
Why it happened - she is working hard
Why it made me happy - she is just putting principles to work in a difficult market. This is the kind of thing that will make her win. When my employees win, it makes me happy. I love to see them do well.
HappyUP!!! 2 - my conference call with my managers
Why it happened - it is in the calender. I wanted it upbeat so I set that tone today
Why it made me happy - the group was a bit more playful today. I would like to see them run a little more but that is OK. My belief: happy employees do better work and see more opportunities.
HappyUP!!! 3 - a pleasant call in the afternoon
Why it happened - someone went out of there way to thank me
Why it made me happy - hey, can you ever hear "thank you," too much? I think that "thank you" is sweeter to another's ear than even hearing their own name.
JollyJottings (Wow...this was a great day....lots to choose from)
Employee found new business source
Another employee working on a new account
Another employee delivered an excellent script
A nice e-mail on my personal computer this morning
A pleasant phone call this afternoon
My conference call with my managers
The conference call with my boss was cancelled
A solid interview this morning
A win in arena baseball
Some excellent stir fry
A gorgeous day
Coming home to a plowed yard
My meeting with one of my builders
A great recruiting call and appointment set
A recruiting call with a phone appointment set
When "This" starts to become "That"
So...you get home at about 6 pm - you are a little tired. There are a million things that you can do inside the house.
You have about 1 hour of daylight left - what should you do?
It's only an hour - if you do anything out in the yard, you have to change clothes. You might have to see if a piece of equipment will fire up after sitting idle all winter.
And, after all, you are a little tired - what a perfect time to go inside and kick back and watch some tube.
....or you can create a HappyUP!!! - it was dark last night when I finished that first pass with the RO-TOE-Tiller but I was glad to get the dirt turned. It was a HappyUP then.
Tonight when I got home - I actually got to go take a look at it in daylight and....
It re-HappyUP!!!'d me !!! - it was a two for one HappyUP!!!
Hmmm.....- I wonder if I had gone out and raked instead of writing this blog if I would have gotten a third HU.
Nah.....that's what the weekend is for - what is on the tube tonight anyway?
(Actually, I really have some pressing things to take care of as soon as I finish typing this....otherwise, I would be down and dirty in the dirt).
Moral of the story - sometimes you look for HappyUP!!!s......and sometimes you just go out and make them happen.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 43
HappyUP!!! 1 - went to t he King's game
Why it happened - I bought tickets a long time ago so I was committed to go
Why it made me happy - OK...it was a really crummy game. I mean the Kings just flat out STUNK today. But, I went with some great company, we got out of the parking lot without a major traffic jam, and had a good time
the rest of the afternoon.
HappyUP!!! 2 - the garden got tilled
Why it happened - I took advantage of the extra hour on the time change at the end of the day
Why it made me happy - the weeds are plowed under. There is something about the look and smell of fresh dirt that has just been turned that makes me happy. I know...it doesn't do much for you but it's MY HappyUP!!! Plus, I am ready to rake and get some of those vegetables into the ground next weekend.
HappyUP!!! 3 - visiting with my brother and dad
Why it happened - I went a little out of my way on the way home to stop and say "Hi."
Why it made me happy - it's family time. Always the best. Nothing more needs to be said.
JollyJottings
-Starbucks
-great night of sleep
-car washed
-lawn mowed
-Kings game with great company
-running into my friends
-a wonderful afternoon
-new template for HappyUP buttons
-visiting with my neighbor
-seeing my brother and dad
Saturday, March 10, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 42...a gorgeous Saturday
HappyUP!!! 1 - Monte Carlo Night
Why it happened - a friend of mine is very social...and I accepted the invite
Why it made me happy - first, I showed up in black slacks and black open collared shirt with a black and white checked jacket....only to see that everyone else was wearing suit and tie. "Geez, buddy, I was unaware we were going the full out dress code." The host immediately went, "Nutster, you look great.....just like Vince Vaughan our of Swingers." I guess I need to rent the movie. Anyway, it was a very nice party.
HappyUP!!! 2 - Driver's License found
Why it happened - I was just heading up the stairs and the angle I was at allowed me to see a spot under the cabinets
Why it made me happy - well, I can drive legally again and not be the outlaw that I have been for the last couple of weeks! Plus, based on where I found this, I felt better that I hadn't been careless somewhere. I also KNOW that it wasn't stolen. It merely fell from where I normally load up my pockets.
HappyUP!!! 3 - King's Tickets for today
Why it happened - I was talking to a friend on the phone about the Kings and thought, "I wonder when my next King's game is."
Why it made me happy - I found out the next tickets are today. Because I had the friend on the phone, I said, "hey, I have King's tickets for tomorrow and no one to go with as we speak!" I asked my friend to go and, voila, ...a great time at today's game (featuring the return of Ron Artest) is assured.
JollyJottings
-Gorgeous Day
-Found a granite remnant
-Client grand opening
-had great conversation
-and another great conversation
-found Driver's License
-discovered I had King's Tix
-Monte Carlo Night
-Great time playing blackjack
-Ran into an old friend/client....twice in one day
Why it happened - a friend of mine is very social...and I accepted the invite
Why it made me happy - first, I showed up in black slacks and black open collared shirt with a black and white checked jacket....only to see that everyone else was wearing suit and tie. "Geez, buddy, I was unaware we were going the full out dress code." The host immediately went, "Nutster, you look great.....just like Vince Vaughan our of Swingers." I guess I need to rent the movie. Anyway, it was a very nice party.
HappyUP!!! 2 - Driver's License found
Why it happened - I was just heading up the stairs and the angle I was at allowed me to see a spot under the cabinets
Why it made me happy - well, I can drive legally again and not be the outlaw that I have been for the last couple of weeks! Plus, based on where I found this, I felt better that I hadn't been careless somewhere. I also KNOW that it wasn't stolen. It merely fell from where I normally load up my pockets.
HappyUP!!! 3 - King's Tickets for today
Why it happened - I was talking to a friend on the phone about the Kings and thought, "I wonder when my next King's game is."
Why it made me happy - I found out the next tickets are today. Because I had the friend on the phone, I said, "hey, I have King's tickets for tomorrow and no one to go with as we speak!" I asked my friend to go and, voila, ...a great time at today's game (featuring the return of Ron Artest) is assured.
JollyJottings
-Gorgeous Day
-Found a granite remnant
-Client grand opening
-had great conversation
-and another great conversation
-found Driver's License
-discovered I had King's Tix
-Monte Carlo Night
-Great time playing blackjack
-Ran into an old friend/client....twice in one day
Friday, March 09, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 41....just cleared 40 days...
....which can only mean - that it is time to get out of the ark!
OK- not a very good attempt at making a funny Bible reference but, hey, it's been a great Friday but the brain is weak...
but the HappyUP!!!'s - are strong!
HappyUP!!! 1 - breakfast with a direct report
Why it happened - it's in the bi-weekly calender
Why it makes me happy - I enjoy the company. We get some work done. We do it early so there isn't pressure to rush. Quality time that doesn't even feel like work
HappyUP!!! 2 - Speech Contest
Why it happened - I had to go and support our club's entrant
Why it made me happy - he WON! I mentored this guy year's ago and now he is out there doing it better than I do.
HappyUP!!! 3 - a great night's sleep in my own bed
Why it happened - I was gone a couple of days
Why it made me happy - it was late nights at a client function, early rises, and, despite my cheery outlook, I don't always sleep well in hotels. So, after a couple of nights of less than quality slumber, it was great to get a good one under the belt...well, it was even better to get my pillow under my head
OK- not a very good attempt at making a funny Bible reference but, hey, it's been a great Friday but the brain is weak...
but the HappyUP!!!'s - are strong!
HappyUP!!! 1 - breakfast with a direct report
Why it happened - it's in the bi-weekly calender
Why it makes me happy - I enjoy the company. We get some work done. We do it early so there isn't pressure to rush. Quality time that doesn't even feel like work
HappyUP!!! 2 - Speech Contest
Why it happened - I had to go and support our club's entrant
Why it made me happy - he WON! I mentored this guy year's ago and now he is out there doing it better than I do.
HappyUP!!! 3 - a great night's sleep in my own bed
Why it happened - I was gone a couple of days
Why it made me happy - it was late nights at a client function, early rises, and, despite my cheery outlook, I don't always sleep well in hotels. So, after a couple of nights of less than quality slumber, it was great to get a good one under the belt...well, it was even better to get my pillow under my head
Thursday, March 08, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 40....Thursday..BACK in Town
HappyUP!!! 1 - flight back to town
Why it happened - hey, you have to come back
Why it made me happy - everything from the cab ride from hotel to security to getting on plane to the flight itself to arriving to finding my car to my car starting right back up so I could get back to the office went off without a hitch. OK....in LA, the enforced the new rule about "liquids" and they confiscated my full tube of toothpaste. Big deal. I should have been carrying travel size. This is a part of HappyingUP....I know people that would make a federal case around the stupidity of having one's toothpaste confiscated. Yes, I would have preferred they not take it...but they did....so what! In the meantime, the return was perfect.
HappyUP!!! 2 - found my power chord to my laptop
Why it happened - I emptied my suitcase
Why it made me happy - I thought I left it in the hotel. I had written it off. NOW, I don't have to go through the pain of ordering a new one.
HappyUP!!! 3 - meeting with my managers
Why it happened - it's regularly scheduled every month
Why it made me happy - we get together as a team. Tell each other how we are doing. Divvy up some tasks. Have a meal together.
Why it happened - hey, you have to come back
Why it made me happy - everything from the cab ride from hotel to security to getting on plane to the flight itself to arriving to finding my car to my car starting right back up so I could get back to the office went off without a hitch. OK....in LA, the enforced the new rule about "liquids" and they confiscated my full tube of toothpaste. Big deal. I should have been carrying travel size. This is a part of HappyingUP....I know people that would make a federal case around the stupidity of having one's toothpaste confiscated. Yes, I would have preferred they not take it...but they did....so what! In the meantime, the return was perfect.
HappyUP!!! 2 - found my power chord to my laptop
Why it happened - I emptied my suitcase
Why it made me happy - I thought I left it in the hotel. I had written it off. NOW, I don't have to go through the pain of ordering a new one.
HappyUP!!! 3 - meeting with my managers
Why it happened - it's regularly scheduled every month
Why it made me happy - we get together as a team. Tell each other how we are doing. Divvy up some tasks. Have a meal together.
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 39...Wed, March 7
Still travelling....I'll be posting on Thursday.
Rest assured...I AM Happying it UP!!!.....Big Time.
Rest assured...I AM Happying it UP!!!.....Big Time.
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
HappyUP !!! Day 38 Tuesday March 6
OK...I am travelling on this day. Rest assured, I will be keeping track and Happy-ing UP in my journal. I'll "back post" upon my return. Already today, I have these:
-Gave a great speech
-running on time
-got a project done
-got a great.....great e-mail
-Gave a great speech
-running on time
-got a project done
-got a great.....great e-mail
Monday, March 05, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 37
HappyUP!!! 1 - found my Moleskine
Why it happened - I had to lose it first
Why it made me happy - do I even have to write this? I am a pretty good super sleuth when it comes to finding things. Why? Because I lose a lot of things. Anyway, during the Bed, Bath, and Beyond debacle, I set my journal/notebook down to help the saleslady....oooops! Big mistake. I knew (hoped) it would be there. One phone call.......ahhhhhhhhhhhh....yes, they had it!
HappyUP!!! 2 - DMV
Why it happened - I lost my license (I told you...I lose stuff) but I just decided to bear it and hit the govt agency
Why it made me happy - I had made an appointment for next Friday. Problem? I wanted to be out of town next Friday. But, you have to have ID to use your credit card. Anyway, I stopped by....half hour tops...and it included the eye test. I had the lasik surgery about 8 yrs ago....the eyesight has been fading a bit. I was hoping to pass the eye test...and I did....just barely! Eye doctor appointment coming at end of month
HappyUP!!! 3 - gave a great report at a business meeting
Why it happened - I didn't prepare as much as I have just been in touch with my industry a bit more lately
Why it made me happy - my client grabbed me after the meeting and said, "nice report." He doesn't do that all of the time. It is nice to get a pat on the back from your client. It makes you want to work harder for them....hmmmm....do I have any vendors I should give a pat to?
Sunday, March 04, 2007
HappyUP!!! Day 36 - Picture HappyUP Day
HappyUP!!! 1 - a new bed setupWhy it happened - I figured out the issues...and then acted
Why it made me happy - I was told that, because I have a weird bed, I had to have custome sheets ....or have some seamstress do special stuff. All it took was looking at the situation and about an hour or two of my time. Everything looks great! On to the next project
HappyUP!!! 2 - a room to call my own
Why it happened - I just took my day off and acted
Why it makes me happy - I am no super musician. No, really, I am not. But, I like to make noise. I got rid of that dining table that I never use. That's what I put the dining counter in for. Now, I have my favorite things right out where I can stop and play with them....conveniently. And it all looks smart.
The old house - is really starting to shape up. A new hearth and remote gas fireplace is next!
HappyUP!!! 3 - two cars in the garage
Why it happened - hey, like the others, I got busy
Why it makes me happy - hey, I am no wealthy guy. I just live in a cheap house and drive a couple of decent cars....and neither really should sleep outside like they have. I just took an extra 30 minutes...moved some things around...and, voila....the way it should be. Now, I just need to get my arms around the crap surrounding the vehicles.
What a great day - a really, really great day.....and it is only 5:14. I'm cheating. I may be back with HappyUP!!! Day 36.5 before I go to bed!
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