I'm about 1/3rd of the way through the book, and would say it is an "okay" easy read... but the concept is quite brilliant. The author, Gretchen Rubin, decided she wanted to live her life being as happy as she could, and she then took steps to ensure that happiness became her way of life. The value of reading this book isn't necessarily in the steps she took and how she struggled to create happiness, but rather in the self-reflection that takes place in MY life as I read what she was willing to do to live happy.
Living happy, of course, does not mean being free of sorrow, guilt, pain, frustration and so on... but it does mean acting in the way you want to feel. Being more loving, kind, empathetic, committed and so on so that one feels good about what they are spending their one and only life being and doing. I think it helps me to realize whether the things I am spending my time on actually line up with my values and priorities, and whether I am living my life with purpose. Anything that helps me realign to live with purpose and intent will ultimately create happiness in my life, I think!
Gretchen Rubin also began a blog which you can visit and enjoy.
I have been cleaning my 1000 sq ft studio this week - and THAT has made me happy! I have not only cleaned and sorted, but I have rearranged to get ready for next month, when I begin to teach art students. Two large boxes of art supplies arrived yesterday from Dick Blick Art Materials. The turn-around from placing order to receiving the order was amazingly quick!!! I definitely would recommend them as their pricing and service are excellent. I also received my order from one of my favorite Canadian art stores - KROMA artist's acrylics. I first found this little store in Vancouver on Granville Island a couple of years ago when we were visiting some friends. Last year, another friend went out to B.C., and picked up some paints from there for me, but this year, I ended up ordering online. I love how creamy and smooth the paint is, and how consistent and brilliant the colors are. I am now a very happy artist! Don't you find a clean studio and new supplies inspiring?
Here is a picture of my set-up... a few more chairs and we're ready to go. And, yes, I have a blue floor in my studio!
Have a great weekend, everyone!
