Tricks of the Trade: 2012

*In this instance the word "trade" meaning...living life in general.

About to cross the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon

1) Hiking the Grand Canyon rim to rim to rim is just the hardest thing ever. But, it is in these types of experiences that we can learn what we're made of.

2) A session on the swings can really help you clear your head. I had a euphoric moment on the swings this year, complete with a perfect breeze, the sun warming my skin, and the feeling of weightlessness and release that comes from each back and forth motion. Don't overlook this childhood staple.

3) Coconut Caramel Coffee-cake will change your world if you let it.

4) Go to concerts. See shows. Feel the energy.

5) People are not consistent. We are ever-changing, learning creatures. We must have patience with ourselves, and others as these changes take place. We also need to allow changes to happen.

6) Seeing movies by yourself is awesome. Everyone should try it at least once.

7) Sometimes we only hear the things we want to hear. Then we formulate opinions based on this selective in-take of information. This needs to change.

8) Drive as safely as possible. (Otherwise, you might get a ticket, or your car will get totaled, resulting in a perma-headache and infringement on your bank account.)

9) I stand by a lesson I learned last year: Let people know when you care about or just appreciate them. It will add value to their life, and yours.

10) Never let fear make your decisions for you.

11) Be honest with yourself and others. Especially when it comes to relationships. Accept the truth when there's someone you're interested in. The older I get, the more I believe this: 

12) When in doubt or discouragement, read the following quotes:

“There is a vitality, a life force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you in all time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and will be lost.The world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is nor how valuable nor how it compares with other expressions. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open. You do not even have to believe in yourself or your work. You have to keep yourself open and aware to the urges that motivate you. Keep the channel open. ... No artist is pleased. [There is] no satisfaction whatever at any time. There is only a queer divine dissatisfaction, a blessed unrest that keeps us marching and makes us more alive than the others.” 

--Martha Graham

"The future is as bright as your faith."

--Thomas S. Monson

"In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different."

--Coco Chanel

“When we truly understand what it means to love as Jesus Christ loves us, the confusion clears and our priorities align. Our walk as disciples of Christ becomes more joyful. Our lives take on new meaning. Our relationship with our Heavenly Father becomes more profound. Obedience becomes a joy rather than a burden.”

--Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Two-thousand and thirteen is here--can't wait to see what's in store.