The Simple Life
- Quiet mornings.
- Sing-a-long songs with my toddlers in the car.
- Sunset and a beer with my wife.
- Runner’s high on a long run.
- Cuddling up and watching a DVD with the wife and kids.
- Walking outside with my son after it rains.
- My “life” talks with my eldest daughter in the car.
- Writing a post for 50,000 people, in my pajamas.
- Feeling sick and lying in bed all day without having to call my boss.
- Showing my 2-year-old the clear starry sky.
- Cheering my kids on in their soccer games.
- Time alone with a good book.
- Freshly brewed coffee.
- My hot veggie soup on a cold day.
- Writing before the sun rises.
- Fresh, cold berries.
- A long conversation with a friend.
- Succumbing to a mid-afternoon nap.
- Playing kickball in the yard with my kids.
- The feeling of satisfaction after a workout.
- Waking up to a clean, uncluttered living room.
- Laughing at my 4-year-old son’s wacky sense of humor.
- Screaming my head off when my son scores a goal.
- Collapsing after finishing a marathon, exhausted but in love with life.
- Spending time with my mom and sisters on a Saturday afternoon, baking sweets.
- Letting a warm chocolate chip cookie melt in my mouth with my eyes closed.
- A long hot shower.
- Walking with the sand between my toes as the sun goes down.
- Listening to the sound of waves lapping a white sand beach.
- A hug when I need it.
- Dew on the grass in the morning.
Discuss.
—-
p.s. sorry for my absence (and for this short post) but I’ve been under the weather the past couple of days. Will be back in full force soon!
- Posted on 15 April 2008 in Simplicity |
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Comments (190)
Julia Says:
April 15th, 2008, 4:36 am
Something to add to the list:
Attending graduate school in my pajamas.
PS - I get a runners high after a long run. Definitely not during.
Evan Meagher Says:
April 15th, 2008, 4:37 am
A fresh cup of tea in the aftermath of 3 hours worth of math homework…
Leo, I have a rekindled appreciation of you and your message after seeing the Dalai Lama today at my school, the University of Washington. His vitality, optimism, and message were beyond inspiring. As he was speaking, I thought of your blog numerous times and how you apply the principles of which he was speaking to everyday life and modern technology. Thanks!
Copes Flavio Says:
April 15th, 2008, 4:44 am
# Writing a post for 50,000 people, in my pajamas.
Could you believe this an year ago? :-)
banji - LessonInLife.com Says:
April 15th, 2008, 4:51 am
One thing about being sick, is we will appreciate our time of health better :)
Get well soon Leo
m_s Says:
April 15th, 2008, 5:00 am
You know, no apologies needed: in fact, this kind of list could be a welcome addition to your postings - sometimes I don’t have the time to read a full post, but a list like this allows me to connect to the spirit of the blog even when I’m shorter on time than I wish. Get well soon.
Dimitris Says:
April 15th, 2008, 5:00 am
You forgot something:
Listening to some music- i don’t know, Beethoven’s 6th, or a Beatles song :)
Pete W Says:
April 15th, 2008, 5:05 am
Domain name - $6.95
Lurgy medicine - $15.97
Having the life you dreamed of - Priceless
Tilee Says:
April 15th, 2008, 5:24 am
Addition to the simple life…
Slowing down enough to notice lady bugs, inch worms, and fire flies… crazy dancing with three year olds… laughing so hard what ever you were drinking nearly comes out of your nose…
It’s a good life. Feel better.
João Carvalhinho Says:
April 15th, 2008, 6:08 am
These are some of my own…
“feeling/hugging your wife’s body under the sheets and blankets in a lazy sunday morning” ;)
“Going to work after waking, washing, dressing, feeding, fighting, and taking your toddlers to school… that usually gives me a satisfying smile”… that quickly fades nontheless :)
Stepping on a virging beach sand after the tides… where only the seagulls have stepped.
Nice post, and nice blog… just got here :)
kekilia Says:
April 15th, 2008, 6:49 am
No need to apologize. Sometimes only when we are under the weather we can assess the real good things in life and realize that health and simple life come before money and career (actually we know, but we forget this when mindlessly live our hectic lives).
Thanks for the list. Get well soon!
Simple Mom Says:
April 15th, 2008, 6:51 am
• Smelling my 3-month-old boy’s head after his bath.
• The perfect combination of colors.
• The smell of freshly-cut grass.
• Dancing uninhibitedly in the living room with my daughter.
• Coffee on the balcony.
Lovely post, Leo. It was encouraging.
jaybirdladybug Says:
April 15th, 2008, 7:17 am
the sound of silence.
Thanks for a great post, It makes you just stop and think.
Shirah Says:
April 15th, 2008, 7:40 am
One thing to add: cuddling with my cat!
Just wanted to voice my appreciation for your site. After a few years of trying and being unsuccessful, with your help and advice, I’m finally getting my life on track and organized!
I’m feeling better about myself than ever, and I’m finaly getting ready to apply for medical school :)
Thanks!
PS - Feel better soon.
Matthew Lang Says:
April 15th, 2008, 7:45 am
Here’s some of mine,
Long summer evenings,
Reading my 18 month old son a bedtime story,
Walks through the park with my wife and son.
Simple life, better life.
Get well soon Leo!
Brett Legree Says:
April 15th, 2008, 8:06 am
Sitting under my favourite tree in my back yard, listening to the wind in the leaves, and feeling the grass between my toes.
The best things in life often cost nothing.
Daniel Says:
April 15th, 2008, 8:08 am
There is a reason I choose “Live simple. Live happy.” as the motto for The Art of Zen Living. These are some great definitions of that reason.
I’m fortunate - today I get to trade in my car on a simpler one. Less “cool”, better mileage. Post to come in a few days.
Axel Says:
April 15th, 2008, 8:11 am
Awesome. :-)
Brett Legree Says:
April 15th, 2008, 8:16 am
@ Daniel: I really like your blog so far. I’ll be back to read more and comment soon. “The Tyranny of Stuff” is so true.
John-o Says:
April 15th, 2008, 8:17 am
- Doing my reading for the day at 5 in the morning when it’s impossible to be distracted
- Getting ready in the morning and talking with my beautiful blonde lady friend
- Watching baseball with my dad
- Listening to music with my mom
- Having a great laugh with my friends
Kristy Says:
April 15th, 2008, 8:26 am
The top of my list…
Homemade gifts
Walking barefoot in dewy grass
Splashing in the rain
Planting flowers or a garden
Watching a child create
Today you made me smile. Thank you for sharing this list and for reminding us to take the time to notice the simple things in life that we adore.
Hope you are feeling better soon!
apocalypto Says:
April 15th, 2008, 8:31 am
playing with the dog
Richo Says:
April 15th, 2008, 8:37 am
Love it, despite what some people have said about your lists, i love them!
i find this inspiring. tomorrow i will start my day with this inspiration (as i’m about to go to sleep now). thank you
Corey - Simple Marriage Project Says:
April 15th, 2008, 8:41 am
Coffee on the deck.
The sunset.
Watching your kids laugh with each other.
Wendi Kelly Says:
April 15th, 2008, 8:42 am
The ability to work at home in my comfy chair with my pretty puppy warming my feet.
Waking up to a sunny, warm day on my birthday and knowing I can do anyhing I want and don’t have any * have to’s* on my list, just an entire free day streching out with wonderful weather ahead…..
knowing that I have the most loving wonderful family in the world.
Hope you feel better soon Leo.
Probably not a good time to mention it, but how is the book coming along? I miss your little mentions of how much you have been working on it.
Clay Collins | Anti-Hacks for Living Says:
April 15th, 2008, 8:43 am
Sounds like your life’s better than ever. How cool is that?! Pretty cool.
c8to Says:
April 15th, 2008, 8:52 am
you are living the dream man…
well done…
Mike Johnson Says:
April 15th, 2008, 8:54 am
Walking in the morning sunshine…after a month of cloudy days
Tad Says:
April 15th, 2008, 9:07 am
Watching your 2 month old experience something for the first time.
Rick - Tripping the Muse Says:
April 15th, 2008, 9:12 am
Words to live by as I sip my freshly brewed morning coffee and tap away at my keyboard. Half awake I might add…
My addition:
Relaxing in my hammock in the shade with a book…
Dot Hage Says:
April 15th, 2008, 9:14 am
Standing outside listening to the birds sing on a spring morning.
Tom Marsh Says:
April 15th, 2008, 9:20 am
Waking up early…. finally.
Lyndy Says:
April 15th, 2008, 9:25 am
And for me… the giggle of my twenty two month old and my 12 month old daughters as they learn to play together!
Great post- get well soon!
april Says:
April 15th, 2008, 9:31 am
Feel Better Leo….!!
simple!
A smile from a loved one!!!!
michi Says:
April 15th, 2008, 9:31 am
Aw, get well soon, if you’re not already! I actually find that I’m most content when I’m sick, silly as that sounds. I have so little to worry about besides my health, and I often end up unintentionally fasting as I’m too pukey or whatnot to eat. See? Bright side to everything :D
I would add to the list: “Breathing in. Breathing out.” Have a good sunset tonight!
zara Says:
April 15th, 2008, 9:36 am
isn’t is wonderful how simple things can be? I believe just the fact of realizing that you can have and live all of the above is wonderful ;)
thanks for the good work you’re doing. I like to read your posts, it helps me to clear my mind and put things into perspective.
oh, I’d like to add one: spending a day on the beach and smelling the sea breeze
SpaceAgeSage Says:
April 15th, 2008, 9:41 am
Looking into the eyes of my husband, my soul mate when we share a special moment of understanding about life or about ourselves.
Looking into the eyes of completely loved and content cat who radiates it all back to me with a deep, resonating purr.
Getting video messages on my cell phone from nieces many miles away who have recorded their kids’ firsts — first real laugh, first time eating with a fork, first time crossing a puddle of water, first time touching a fuzzy yellow little chick.
els Says:
April 15th, 2008, 9:48 am
i love that these are things that i think a LOT of people appreciate and enjoy. it’s the simplest pleasures in life that really are the most important, perhaps to all people. although i don’t have kids (yet) or a wife, i could agree with about 99% of those tiny little details.
Vered - MomGrind Says:
April 15th, 2008, 10:01 am
I have two!
:)
1. Going inside and drinking a hot cup of cocoa after playing in the snow for two hours.
2. Getting a full body massage, in the hotel room, in front of the fireplace, after a LONG day of skiing.
Chris Austria Says:
April 15th, 2008, 10:35 am
Listening to my children laugh at each others joke.
Making love to my wife.
It’s nice to know you are in a good place.
Amanda Linehan Says:
April 15th, 2008, 10:39 am
Noticing the new leaves on the trees.
jp Says:
April 15th, 2008, 10:41 am
I’d never thought of baking chocolate chip cookies in Guam. 2 ideas - did not previously connect. I guess small children are small children everywhere (and we are all a subset of small children having been one.)
mmmm
I used to love to bake bread on days when I was bored as a teenager in Puerto Rico - magnificent views to the right - magnificent views to the left - and I am in an apartment working my way through the Tassajara cookbook. Loving life because it takes no effort at all to coax the bread to rise - learning to make perfect, expressive loaves and the intricacies of dough.
Maria - Never the Same River Twice Says:
April 15th, 2008, 10:45 am
Tasting how good peanut butter is when you’ve been hungry for 4 days.
Stanley Stephen Says:
April 15th, 2008, 10:45 am
Playing the piano and writing songs/ideas in your moleskin. Also, brainstorming.
Leslie D. Says:
April 15th, 2008, 10:53 am
I hope you recover soon. I wish you well. This is my first time here. I’d like to add
1. Playing with the kittens my daughter is hand-raising, kissing the tops of their fuzzy, little heads and looking into their baby sweet eyes.
2. Reading in the early morning, while I listen to mourning doves coo, coo.
Heidi Says:
April 15th, 2008, 11:11 am
Leo,
Thanks! I needed a lift this morning & happened upon your site & this list.
Just sitting and reading gave me the reminder I needed of what’s really important in my life!
Reminds me that I need to spend some more time with my 2 year old down at the lake - throwing in rock and rock after rock… Each one producing the same ecstatic squeal of joy from my son!
I wrote about it here: http://www.iwasthinking.ca/2007/10/08/wave-theory/
Vale Says:
April 15th, 2008, 11:12 am
Some of mine:
Being silly with my girlfriend and making her laugh.
Going to class and soaking up every word.
Chewing on chewing gum.
Driving.
Get well soon!
skyz Says:
April 15th, 2008, 11:27 am
this is my most treasured benefit of the simple life: when something blows me off course when my cherished peace is disturbed i can close the door turn off the phone and withdraw into solitude for as long as it takes to regain my equanimity - and knowing that each time i do this i am getting closer to the point where nothing can disturb my inner balance ever !
Anita Says:
April 15th, 2008, 11:39 am
Now, to have this list include an appreciation of every moment, just as it is — and to be in awe at how alive it all is–that is my task at hand!
I, too, had the chance to see the Dalai Lama here in Seattle this week, at the football stadium. Over 50,000 people came — just to feel the crowd’s celebration of the compassionate presence of one (as he put it) simple man was worth it.
v_kas Says:
April 15th, 2008, 11:42 am
Thank you for the subtle words.
They make me think about what I have been so blind as to pass by so quickly with out noticing how much one can truly enjoy from all the pressures of everything else in life.
why do we make things so complicated?
Laurie Says:
April 15th, 2008, 12:38 pm
I call these things wild strawberries. Unexpected blessings in life. For me?
Starry nights
Blue skies in the day
Watching a butterfly emerge from its chrysalis
Finally feeling free during sex
magpie Says:
April 15th, 2008, 12:46 pm
This is sweet. Add:
Running around in cool grass in my bare feet.
Val Says:
April 15th, 2008, 12:53 pm
Gee, Leo, this is a very descriptive post! Maybe you should try writing a romance novel :)
Val
G Says:
April 15th, 2008, 13:07 pm
An amazing dream about my grandma
The deafening sound of birds singing (after a long winter)
Making soup
Honking geese (coming back for the summer)
The smell of laundry dried on the clothesline
Janet Isaac Says:
April 15th, 2008, 13:09 pm
Thanks for your writings and I hope you feel better soon. You should try those cold berries in half-and-half with a little brown sugar. Yum!
One of my greatest pleasures is watching my Tigers come back from a 5 run deficit twice to beat the Twins 11 to 9 when we were all thinking “Here they go again”. There record so far is 3 wins, 10 losses. My summer Will be fine.
Jan
Melanie Says:
April 15th, 2008, 13:31 pm
Morning lie-ins with my kittens
Migo Says:
April 15th, 2008, 13:33 pm
Spending the whole day with your wife in bed, just being lazy!!!
erin Says:
April 15th, 2008, 13:34 pm
I can’t remember now where I learned this but someone (does anyone know who?) says to write out 5 things you are grateful for every day. It keeps you in a state of gratitude. I haven’t done it in a while but your post reminded me. It also reminded me how much more present I was in my life when I did that. Here goes today’s list:
1) I am grateful for my walk this morning and for my chai.
2) I am grateful that I found an article on cutting grocery costs because my husband and I are working on that right now.
3) I am grateful that my husband is a willing partner in our quest to become financially stable and independent.
4) I am grateful for my lovely, funny kids.
5) I am grateful for you Leo for reminding me of important things.
Andrew is getting fit Says:
April 15th, 2008, 13:45 pm
Great list from you and everyone else. Get better soon.
Kim Says:
April 15th, 2008, 13:48 pm
My son’s smile when he first tasted chocolate mousse.
My other son’s dance when he masters a new trick with his yo-yo.
Sharad Says:
April 15th, 2008, 13:50 pm
Few more tops my list :
Listening to music with a head phone, cutting all noises, such a high.
Helping my dad with plants in the kitchen garden.
Ginger tea on a wet winter day.
Edwin | Fitness Chapter Says:
April 15th, 2008, 14:00 pm
A new one on my list would be raising and training my puppy papillion. They are really tough to handle.. or is it just me?
Kristin Says:
April 15th, 2008, 14:02 pm
Sometimes the simplest of posts can have the most impact…
This really hit home for me today ~ I am sorry you are sick but so grateful for remembering the simple things that make life worth living!
It is hard to find those simple moments when you live in a fast paced environment….time to move ;)
SPGreenlaw Says:
April 15th, 2008, 14:27 pm
Hey Leo. I’m sorry to hear you are sick and I hope you recover soon.
I just wanted to thank you for having such a great site like Zen Habits. Its been an inspiration to me, and it deserves no small amount of credit in helping me get my life going in the direction I want it to. It even motivated me to start my own blog to keep track of my writing habits and goals! Keep up the great work.
cybernik Says:
April 15th, 2008, 14:36 pm
I think that the most important thing should be missing, but unfortunately it’s right in front of you!
Could you get rid of your PC for life?
Bekks204 Says:
April 15th, 2008, 15:26 pm
I love the simple post too! Such universal things that make us all happy - it’s nice to think about.
I have some to add, too!
Playing fetch with your dog as the sun sets.
Discovering a new band with your husband.
The promise of summer after a long, hard winter.
Finding your cat curled up asleep on the clean laundry.
Jeenilicious Says:
April 15th, 2008, 15:37 pm
*Cross my legs over and meditate
*Listening to mum’s laughter
*Freshly brewed coffee with my fav book in a garden
Orlandorand Says:
April 15th, 2008, 16:04 pm
Dusting off the eraser shreddings from a fresh, “thick-paged” sketchpad & rusting through the pencil box for a new, finely-sharpened pencil…
…using only the window’s afternoon sunlight to draw whatever comes to mind.
-Orlandorand
http://orlandorand.blogspot.com
Jennifer Says:
April 15th, 2008, 16:22 pm
It’s funny how being forced to take time off because of sickness or something will easily put things in perspective. Sickness can be such a blessing.
Jessica Says:
April 15th, 2008, 16:34 pm
This was a great post — beautiful!
Mine (my dogs bring me such joy!):
- Laying on the couch with my two puppies sleeping on me, as if there’s no better place in the world then to lay right there with me!
- The “frito feet” my french bulldog and pug have…it sounds gross, but they smell just like fritos and there’s something I absolutely love about that!
Marelisa Says:
April 15th, 2008, 16:41 pm
I thought the bullet point list of “simplicities” was very innovative, then I saw it was the result of feeling under the weather. As they say, “necessity is the mother of invention”.
Some of my simplicity bullet points are:
- bike riding along the “Amador Causeway” (thin strip of land in Panama City uniting the mainland with three islands)
- hearing my 3-year old nephew laugh (the most infectious laugh I’ve ever heard)
- petting dogs in the park
Get well soon Leo!
Colleen Says:
April 15th, 2008, 16:54 pm
Wow Leo!
Haven’t been here for awhile. Glad I stopped by today. What a blessing.
Here’s mine:
Helping to birth my new granddaughter, Gracie.
Sending you peace and healing.
Looby Says:
April 15th, 2008, 17:52 pm
Laughing so hard with my mum that we both end up in tears.
My partner playing with my hair as we watch a movie.
Getting lost in a good book.
Watching the waves lap on the beach.
Melissa Says:
April 15th, 2008, 18:02 pm
Watching your children grow… learning new things everyday and saying I love you for the first time!
Kalika Says:
April 15th, 2008, 18:04 pm
Your body is telling you to take a retreat. Take this time to be in a space of gratitude for all you have accomplished. Thanks for making a difference in the world.
Namaste
Sean Says:
April 15th, 2008, 18:24 pm
Paddling all day into your campsite and sitting on the edge of the lake just taking in the quiet.
Liara Covert Says:
April 15th, 2008, 18:26 pm
Awakening to discover that you have been given the miracle of another day is another simple blessing.
I love your lists. People relate to them and get inspired to rethink who and what they are.
kate Says:
April 15th, 2008, 18:33 pm
wonderful! thank you - you are exactly right! hope you feel better soon :-)
Janice C. Cartier Says:
April 15th, 2008, 18:47 pm
Sails newly billowing.
Do not apologize for this beautiful list.
Jennifer Says:
April 15th, 2008, 19:02 pm
I think the post should be re-labeled “Simple Pleasures”. Some of the items are not necessarily the result of what I think of as a simple life.
Amazing that many simple pleasures are so universal: (nature, physical exercise, children, books, companionship, food, pets) and some so unique to the individual (”perfect combination of colors”, “watching my Tigers come back”, “a new, finely-sharpened pencil”).
I melt at the sound of a train whistle.
Thanks for your website.
Terry Says:
April 15th, 2008, 19:14 pm
Leo, this was a lovely post.
hope you are feeling better soon.
barbara-ann Says:
April 15th, 2008, 19:27 pm
The smell of fresh grapefruit uplifts.
The fragrance of lemongrass enlightens.
And the scent of eucalyptus heals.
Feel better!
kspin Says:
April 15th, 2008, 19:50 pm
I absolutely love your list and appreciate many of the same things. My marathon is in four days and I am looking forward to my ‘runner’s high’. I have only been reading your blog for a few days, but I get so much out of it. I’m glad that you take the time to share your treasures.
I hope you feel better soon.
k
gerryc Says:
April 15th, 2008, 19:58 pm
laughing with my 31 yr old daughter about something my 2.5 yr old granddaughter did or said
just being aware of how blessed my life is no matter what is going on
laying in bed with one cat on each side
sitting, talking with the incredible women in my women’s circle
Jeff@My Super-Charged Life Says:
April 15th, 2008, 20:14 pm
I have to agree with Sean above. I love getting out in nature and camping. It always inspires and rejuvenates me. Nice list!
Grace Says:
April 15th, 2008, 20:50 pm
Feeling the wind on my face on a warm spring day
Love the list. It brings me back to easier times. =)
Marsello - feedbacksecrets.com Says:
April 15th, 2008, 20:56 pm
Flag football + BBQ on a nice sunny day
A good soccer game
The feeling of near death exhaustion after a Crossfit workout
A nice long massage
Lucas Says:
April 15th, 2008, 21:02 pm
“A hug when I need it”
I’d change “when I need” to “whenever I want”.
Rich Ee Says:
April 15th, 2008, 21:48 pm
Living life as a human simply “being”. Learn from the native people and live in harmony.
I admire your willingness to simply live, or live simply as your blog puts it.
Nicole Says:
April 15th, 2008, 22:05 pm
-The way your “pets” look up to you with the sweetest forgiveness and innocence
-(for artists) The way a single line of medium contrasts with the canvas or paper
-The sound of twenty pens and pencils as an English class scratches out their own words, their soul
Great post and get well soon :D
Nicole Says:
April 15th, 2008, 22:06 pm
I say “pets” because you never really own them, by the way.
Genesis Says:
April 15th, 2008, 22:11 pm
Excellent list, it really captures your life. Here are a few of my own to add:
- Sitting under the palm trees sipping coffee
- Getting spontaneous kisses from my 2 year old and 11 month old.
- Being silly and crashing toy cars with my boys.
- Being able to earn a living by writing in between making bottles and snacks, fixing cars, changing diapers and making dinner.
Hope you feel better soon.
Lilly D Says:
April 15th, 2008, 22:15 pm
Leo, I think this is my favorite post so far.
-Water splashing into a pool.
-Sunlight on trees with black storm clouds in the background.
-Clean white paper.
-Getting beaten in a game by my little sister (aargh!)
-Watching seedlings sprout from the earth.
-Realizing all of nature is God saying, “I love you.”
Siva Says:
April 15th, 2008, 23:21 pm
Sitting and smiling for no apparent reason :)
ghazal pirzada Says:
April 16th, 2008, 0:21 am
just got to work, so addicted to ur readings thats the first thing i do!
made me smile|!
Miss Gisele B | myBeautyMatch.com Says:
April 16th, 2008, 0:50 am
Simple life for me is a good book and a great cut of cafe latte…heaven!
I hope you’ll feel better soon Leo!
Gisele
Kate Says:
April 16th, 2008, 2:32 am
You are the one who has inspired me to start blogging. I have always been complimented on my ability to write, and help people. Your blog seems like a perfect combination.
I have been working for the past four years to learn as much as I can in this little time we have on earth. I am young (21) and realize there is much unknown, and also much I still have to conquer. I take solace in knowing there are other people (like you, and your readers) who think as I do.
So I hope you feel better. And please keep doing what you do. It’s amazing.
-Also. You have inspired me to make my own list and post it. Thanks for the inspiration!
Kate
Ivan Says:
April 16th, 2008, 3:02 am
Thank you for that list. Thank you.
Sergey Says:
April 16th, 2008, 5:02 am
“Our Father” prayer makes my day complete (other prayer, more prayers)
Teresa Says:
April 16th, 2008, 6:37 am
Beautiful post. Glad to know that there are more people in this world that truly appreciate and savor these moments. Here are a few more:
Watching my son sleep when he was four years old and hoping he would not grow up too fast.
Laughing with my husband until our sides hurt.
Fresh baked cookies.
My daughter’s beautiful smile that seems to light up an entire room.
And my most recent moment of “zen”:
I was grumbling because I had to get up extra early on a Sunday morning to take my daughter to her riding lesson. The sun was just coming up and peeking through the trees, filling the fields that we drove by with sunlight. There was a slight fog and horses were grazing in the pastures. Yes, there was a red barn and everything. It was ethereal, and I wasn’t grumbling anymore. I was thankful. Get down on my knees thankful.
Simon Says:
April 16th, 2008, 7:03 am
Sunrise or sunset walking along the beach - yep that’s pretty special Leo. Nice to have mother nature remind us occasionally just who is in charge.
What are the beaches on Guam like?
Simon
Hilary Says:
April 16th, 2008, 7:19 am
–At the end of a long run on a cold day, when the freezing blast of wind feels like a refreshing breeze
–Signs of spring: the first robin, the first wild coltsfoot flower, “the swallows are back!”
–Rushing, foaming water after a heavy rain
–When someone says something unexpectedly funny and everyone laughs–especially if I said it :*)
–The feel of comfortable pillows, sheets and blankets after a tiring day
–Good, funny, or exciting dreams (REM sleep, not daydreams, although those are great too!)
–Realizing “this is a GREAT book” after one chapter and seeing there are many more to come!
–Using just the right tool (even a plain screwdriver when it exactly fits the screw)
Rose Garden Says:
April 16th, 2008, 8:27 am
Hadn’t noticed you were missing in action Leo - hope you’re taking some good drugs and feeling better soon.
How’s your book coming along?
Have a good day!
jametta Says:
April 16th, 2008, 9:44 am
I agree one of the high points in my life was showing my infant daughter everything for the first time-fist time I held her up to touch a leaf, the first time she heard a really awesome thunderstorm-in my arms. She’s a “worldly” 7 now….And runners high-that is deep meditation in itself
Pat Says:
April 16th, 2008, 9:58 am
Hugging a cat!
Leo, I can’t tell you how much I’ve enjoyed your blog. I’ve been going through a difficult time lately and find it soothing to read your posts and try to put some of the ideas into practice.
Get better soon!
Joe Jaegers Says:
April 16th, 2008, 10:30 am
Just sitting on the floor and letting your grandchildren climb all over you.
Summer Says:
April 16th, 2008, 10:50 am
Get feeling better soon - but enjoy the downtime.
This is a wonderful list, and something we all should do now and then. I feel strongly that people would be so much happier if they would stop and think of all the little things that make them happy and appreciate each one of them.
I have to agree with so many of the wonderful things people have listed here. And add…
sleeping under the stars - this wonderful ever changing New Mexico sky I never get enough of
watching a horse gallop and dance and play across the pasture, full of the joy of life
seeing the Cottontop Quail run across the yard - they always make me smile and laugh.
the “finding a treasure” sort of joy I get when I gather the eggs my chickens have laid.
eating those eggs!
a surprise wildlife sighting - a pronghorn dashing through the yard in the morning, the badger trundling across a field, a glimpse of a desert fox beside the road at night.
Melissa Says:
April 16th, 2008, 10:50 am
It is the simple things in life that make life so grand! I am learning more to slow down and not to take these things for granted. Your blog has helped me with this….
Great list and as always so inspiring. Hope you start feeling better soon!
Stephen Ticehurst Says:
April 16th, 2008, 11:49 am
Graphical representation of “The Simple Life” from friends - inspired by Zen Habits.
Chica Dificil Says:
April 16th, 2008, 12:55 pm
After my mom’s prolonged battle with cancer and subsequent passing, I learned how to appreciate the simple things…like a full moon, a warm hello from a stranger, running in the evening with the wind rustling in the trees….
Carmen Says:
April 16th, 2008, 12:58 pm
What you wrote just sent chills down my spine. I’ve been looking for some kind of inspiration, in the search of happiness and uncluttering my life with material things that just don’t matter. I’m excited to start reading your blog.
Carmen from Montreal
Deborah Says:
April 16th, 2008, 15:33 pm
Leo, your site has been an inspiration to me since I landed here. Not sure if I ever left a comment before but here is one for you. I love your articles and it just fits.
I think I will build a list and post one as well, but will not be near as long as yours. Thanks for the privilege of posting…
Scameronde Says:
April 16th, 2008, 17:02 pm
I had a hard work day today. 15 hours.
When i came home, i got a sweet kiss from my wife, looked at my two kids sleeping in one bed, my son in the arms of his older sister, then i got myself a cold bottle of beer out of the fridge and read your post. Now i am sitting here smiling.
What a great evening!
Blue Hasti Says:
April 16th, 2008, 17:38 pm
My list:
Watching sheer curtains blow in the breeze.
Putting on a sweatshirt fresh out of the dryer.
Homemade lemonade with ice.
The scent of rain just before it arrives or just after it has ended.
A small ice cream cone from a road-side stand–any flavor
The crackling of fire.
Rebecca Says:
April 16th, 2008, 19:37 pm
What is runners high? -must research and wonders if i have had it-
Caron Says:
April 16th, 2008, 19:59 pm
get well soon leo!
Ryan McLean Says:
April 16th, 2008, 20:14 pm
Looking forward to your return
I run a financial blog and I am inspired by your blog…thankyou
Shilpan | successsoul.com Says:
April 16th, 2008, 21:28 pm
I love this bullet -
Feeling sick and lying in bed all day without having to call my boss.
Just fabulous and humorous as well..
Shilpan
