Sunday, May 27, 2012

The Start of Lily Ink

I don't know about the rest of you, but it is easier for me (when communicating with the vast, open internet) to pretend like we are all old friends that have known each other for years and that every conversation just picks up where the last one left off. But, in order for us to get to that place together, I've got to inevitably share some of myself with you.

So here are the 7 things you absolutely need to know about me:
1) My real name is Denise
2) This is the first blog I've ever successfully started
3) I am married to an incredible man that I never want to live without
4) I am extremely blessed and grateful for everything in my life
5) Nothing makes me feel better faster than listening to music and singing along
6) I just read The Happiness Project and this blog is my first step in my own happiness adventure
7) The name of this blog "Lily Ink" comes from the meaning of a lily of the valley - return to happiness - since I am seeking a new level of happiness through this blog or ink as evidence of my plateaus, lessons learned and triumphs

Have you ever seen a picture that someone has taken of you and not even recognize yourself? Well, I just came back from a leadership retreat where I had so many moments like that (including some pictures I have to come to terms with as well). As uncomfortable as those moments can be, they are kind of everything. After all, the moment we stop learning and growing is the moment we miss out on life. As I left that retreat craving more and seeking some sort of stability and continued commitment to my growth, I stopped at a bookstore and bought The Happiness Project, after ruling out eight other books.

I spent a five hour airplane ride reading most of the book and writing out my own happiness plan. So here's where you come into the picture, I have a strong belief in the power of the collective and I believe that the more minds out there experiencing my project via Lily Ink, the more powerful the experience will be.

So this ink today is designed to make a clean start and be honest about who I am, where I am in my life journey, and learn each day how to be happier with myself and my life. You will all be my witnesses and support system throughout the next seven months of my own happiness project. So buckle your seatbelts... The adventure begins on June 1st! Mark your calendars and stay tuned...