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"Once we conclude that the basic nature of humanity is compassionate rather than aggressive, our relationship to the world around us changes immediately. Seeing others as basically compassionate instead of hostile and selfish helps us relax, trust, live at ease. It makes us happier" - Howard Cutler


Title: Hugging
Flickr User lanier67

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Four Years In The Bay Area

four years ago - Tommy notdefined and I spent 11 1/2 hours on the road in my cooper driving me from Idaho to my new home in San Francisco. SO MUCH has happened since then - and it really has been a top to bottom - side to side - complete reboot of my life.

• I joined Weight Watchers in the fall of 2006 - and by May 2007 had lost 42 pounds. (almost all of which I've been able to keep off; as I continue to go to the gym and eat responsibly)
• in April 2007 - I saw the publishing of my first novel, "House of Wolves" - which has been a success way beyond my hopes and dreams. and I've begun work on my second novel, "The Do-It-Yourself Guide to Getting Over Yourself".
• Miss Kate continues to be in great health - after a brief scare with pancreatitis in the fall of 2007; and she loves living in Palo Alto with all the parks and people to visit
• I made my professional theatre debut in Tom W. Kelly's "FRIENDS ARE FOREVER" at New Conservatory Theatre in San Francisco in the fall of 2008. It was a remarkable experience!
• I've cultivated an amazing group of friends here - that I value more than anything. From the game boys, my opera buddy Sean, and all the guys in the Fine Food Feeding Frenzy group and more. I'm blessed with a cadre of real fine folks that are my friends here.
• Of course, in March 2008, I met David Goldberg. To say that he and I are STILL on one of the most romantic adventures I've ever been on, is an understatement. He's just the sweetest, kindest man I've ever met.
• My career has taken a gigantic step forward - from nearly four years at the radio stations to my new position at Stanford University; I am experiencing a period of tremendous creativity and growth professionally, which would not have been available to me had I stayed in Boise


I mean - this list could go on for several pages - but I am so very glad I risked so much to simply let go and come to the Bay Area. There have been struggles, sure. But I've learned SO much about myself and how to untangle some of the things that got in my way before. I led with my heart and soul; and am unabashedly creative and driven. I wake up every day - with a great sense of thankfulness and know that my life is full of great things and great friends.

When I meditate in the mornings to start my day - I will go often to a repeated mantra of thankfulness; of humility. of reminding myself to engage the world with my heart; and don't let negativity in and give it space. It doesn't always work - but the last four years have been a result of not letting very much stand in my way. and doing my best to forgive and be compassionate when things get rough.

me + toomanyvodkamangofizzydrinks = lush

um, Duh?



had the board game boys over tonight - and served AMAZING chicken enchiladas (slow cooked chicken in the slow cooker with onions, chipolte and seared chicken pieces (legs, thighs, breasts) ---- it really was flavorgasmic. I lost completely (to the point of now longer trying) at fictionary. (I suck at it so terribly bad) and I wallowed in Mango Nectar Vodka Fizzy Drinks. (oh - and I made mango mousse in filo cups for dessert)