Transition me this

Color of leaves transitioning from summer to fall.

When I hear transition I think about two materials transitioning into each other or how spaces transition from one defined space into another. But, I want to talk about other forms of transition. Like how we transition throughout the year. I think now would be a great opportunity since we just finished the majority of cultural holidays and we are getting ready for a new year. I refer to this changing time as a transition. Others may call it a new chapter in life, another page or leaf to turn. Doesn't matter what ya call it, it is something different.

As a student, we have two major transitions (winter/summer break). It usually takes me a week or two into the break to really get use to not getting up at three in the morning to go to school. It is a huge shock to my system because the last two weeks of school we're going all out to meet the deadline. We go from performing on our project every waking moment to an absolute stop. It sucks! At least for me. I get in a rhythm and get set on cruise control to just hitting a wall once the final project is over. How do I deal with the sudden stop? First, I get my sleep! Sleep and hydration are paramount! I usually take a solid day and a half to get all the rest I need. Second, I get selfish. I do not want to see, smell or hear anything about my project. I just want to focus on me and what makes me happy. Usually that consists of having a really great cup of coffee, cooking something I really enjoy, spending time with family and giving my dog lots of belly rubs. Third, I get back into a rhythm that keeps me busy. Usually that is just getting back to work and hobbies that I couldn't devote enough time to during the semester. My hobbies keep me busy and keep my mind fresh and clear in design without having to get burnt out with architecture. I feel all three of these steps are important elements to keeping me sane and allow me to perform well without having to worry about a hard crash or getting stuck in a lazy rut.

Okay... That is good and great for you, but how does that relate to me?  I think everything is relative in principal. When it all comes down to is a transition is a great opportunity to reflect on what you have done, what you're doing and where you're going. The process I have taken allows me to think clearly without much room for anxiety and keep me fresh for the next 'chapter' or event. The process allows me to fully enjoy the special nuggets of moments that I would have usually overlooked because I would have been too tired or wouldn't have enough time to enjoy.

I hope the process above can help you cope if you are dealing with holiday stress and feel like you can't catch a break. I also hope it can help you guys prepare and thoroughly enjoy the next beginning chapter in your life.

Season of giving

Happy Festivus for those celebrating!

Festivus celebrated on December 23. "A Festivus for the rest of us!" (Not an actual recognized holiday...yet!)

Christmas festivities are already starting around the house. The scents of baked treats and the sound of wrapping paper tearing along with a curse word or two. It is starting to feel like the holidays! I love cooking and baking for loved ones, but I love more when I am able to see the moment of joy I have contributed to them when they take a bite of something I made. I think most of us get great joy and even a huge rush from giving something to someone that we know they really want or need.

What happens when we give? When we give something to someone without any expectation of receiving something in return, our brain releases dopamine and serotonin along with other happy chemicals that make us feel pretty good. People that spend time doing charity work often have lower levels of depression and high self-esteem. Also, have you noticed that when you spend money on someone else, you feel much better than when you spend it on yourself? But, isn't that the catch? Is the reason some people do good for others is because that is a way of making themselves feel better? I remember watching Friends and there was an episode that cast members were talking about there is no such thing as a selfless good act. In my opinion, who cares as long as you're contributing to the quality of another persons day. It is a win-win! You don't need to spend lots of money or any money. You just have to show that you care and you took some time out of your day to better another person(s) day.  

I hope everyone is looking forward to the holidays. Regardless which celebration everyone takes part, I hope everyone has a wonderful and a very giving time!