Things to Do This Summer

It was in a moment of relaxation at a family BBQ that I found myself daydreaming of summer. As I stared at the setting sun and listened to the laughter of children running through freshly mowed grass, I experienced overwhelming feelings of nostalgia. I vividly remembered the anticipation of summer vacation and all that it had to offer: the late night swims, trips to the beach or to the lake, bad television, messy kitchens, and a feeling of freedom as I watched my overwhelmed parents finally leave for work.

Insert {sighs} here.  

Upon relieving these sweet memories I had to ask myself: When did we all have to start being responsible? Why do we have to go to work?! I joke about this particular sentiment but seriously, Why are we always so uptight? Why can't we tackle the thought of summer with the same excitement as we used to? Isn't life too short?

The answer is apparent. It's time to stop being so "lame". ;)

This summer, don't focus on work and the bills you have to pay. Indulge that younger version of yourself and....

Run through the sprinkler to cool off. 

If you decide to slide through the Slip N' Slide, I won't judge you. In fact I'll applaud you. 

Run after the ice cream truck and buy the popsicle that turns your mouth blue.

Kiss your sweetheart in the pouring rain

Slip off the stilettos and run through the grass in your bare feet

Go for a midnight swim {bikini optional} 

Grab a bottle of wine, a blanket, your Ipod and head to the backyard.

{Stare at the stars for awhile...}

Grab a bunch of your girlfriends and head to the beach

Stay up way past your bedtime. Who cares if you have to work in the morning.

Do what makes you happy. Summer comes only once a year.


Xo- Kristina

Work Smarter: 10 Tips

It's not always easy, but here are ten tips to help you work a little smarter:

1. Do one thing at a time
Although it seems impossible, especially with an extensive to-do list and an inbox of unread e-mails, it is often better do one task at a time.

2. Know or Identify the problem
Sit back, take a deep breath, and tackle the real issue at hand.

3. Learn to listen
Yes, at times we think we know everything. But that is simply not the case. Listen to what your supervisor has to say; listen to what your co-workers have to say. They may provide valuable insight!

4. Learn to ask questions
In school I remember my teacher telling me: "Don't be afraid to raise your hand and ask questions!" The same theory applies to the workplace. If you have a question, ASK.

5. Distinguish sense from nonsense.
Enough said.

6. Accept that change is inevitable.
That project you have been working on all week? Sadly, it's possible that your boss will change his or her mind and you will have to start over. Change is INEVITABLE. Roll with the punches...

7. Admit Mistakes
I'm not just talking about jamming the copying machine. That proposal that feel through, fess up baby.

8. Say it simple
No need to complicate

9. Be calm
If you need it, take a quick 3 minute bathroom break, and come back to the overflowing inbox after.

10. Smile
They are contagious.

photo: whatweareburiedwith.tumblr.com

Classic Margarita

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

 

Let's celebrate with a Classic Margarita!

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces tequila made from 100 percent agave, preferably reposado or blanco
• 1 ounce Cointreau
• 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
• Salt for garnish

Prep:

Combine tequila, Cointreau, and lime juice in cocktail shaker filled with ice. Moisten rim of Margarita or other cocktail glass with lime juice or water. Holding glass upside down, dip rim into salt. Shake and strain drink into glass and serve.

 

 

National Geographic