Hiking Black Cap Mountain

During my stay in North Conway my family and I discovered the Black Cap Mountain hiking trail, which lead to a breathtaking summit, and a view of Maine and the White Mountains. 

The Black Cap Mountain summit trail is a very steep 2.5 mile trial. The trail head starts in a spruce and beech forest, with a root covered walking path. The summit however is bare, with beautiful views. The trail is marked, and managed by the Nature Conservancy in NH.

My family and I made the hike on a beautiful, cool, and sunny day. The hike was made rigorous by the steep rocky incline of the trail, despite its total length being fairly short. The reward at the top however, was entirely worth it. The sky was clear and open, exposing the budding trees. Round trip, we caught photos of a vole, chipmunk, and an irritated red squirrel. However, in the right season many more interesting animals such as the Red Tanager and the White Tail deer can be spotted.

Overall, this was a wonderful place to hike. If your up for a fairly intense workout and some beautiful scenery, Black Cap Mountain is a wonderful place to do it.

Would you hike Black Cap?

Enigma

7 Things to do in Conway New Hampshire

North Conway NH is essentially a ghost town until Memorial Day hits. The streets are quiet, with low traffic and a mild population of locals. However when the long weekend Holiday arrives, then the streets turn into swarming tourist crowds. Although many businesses shut down for the off season, Conway is still a great place to visit. And personally, the off season can be even more desirable since you don't have to compete with the hordes of people. There are many fun places to explore and experience in North Conway, special hidden gems that get easily overlooked in the bustle of summer. These are seven things to do in Conway New Hampshire.

1: Local Shops- Conway has a strip of unique shops down main street. Zebb's, The Penguin, and Fields of Ambrosia to name a few. These buildings have great gifts, quirky style, and interesting architectural history.

2: Swimming- If your staying at Attitsh or another resort with amenities, then you'll have easy access to indoor/outdoor pools and hot tubs. Otherwise, there are many natural
water pools such as Dian's Bath and Echo Lake that are easy on the wallet to access.

3: Playground- If you're in Conway with a family, the local park is a perfect spot for lunch, and some fun. Conveniently, a large field sits across from this playground, a perfect spot for a game of Frisbee or tag.

4: Settler's Green- The ultimate one stop shop in North Conway. With clothing stores, gadgets, gifts, and food, you'll find everything you need in this plaza.

5: Black Cap Trail- Off some back roads in North Conway is the Black Cap Trail. It's a steep, but moderate hike leading to a breath taking summit. If your lucky, you may even glimpse some local birds such as the Red Tanager. Make sure your prepared with water and bugs spray.

6: The Met- A family favorite,The Met is a unique coffee shop. Renovated from an aging bank building, The Met offers delicious food; including GF/DF options, as well as incredible local photography and art.

7: Recreation- North Conway offers many outdoor recreational activities. My family and I love the biking and hiking trails in the area, however there are also many spots to kayak, and multiple zip lines available.

What would be your Conway destination?

Enigma

Attitash Mountain Village

Attitash  Mountain Village is a ski resort located in Bartlett New Hampshire. Every year in May, my family spends a week in one of Attitash's condo units while we explore the Bartlett, Conway area. Although the ski slopes are bare, we still find plenty of fun adventures. Since its the off season, the traffic is low, the parks peaceful, and the outdoors quiet.

Most of the summer activities don't start until memorial day. So we get extra creative with finding simple, but fun things to do. Some of our long running traditions include, shopping the local stores, having lunch at the Met Coffee House, and playing games at the Attitash pool arcade.

This year we explored some new things in Conway. We hiked a trail up Black Cap Mountain, and took part in a local ukulele club.

Finding time to get away is important, it lets you relax and stimulate your mind with a new schedule and environment. But you don't have to spend tons of money to have a good time, finding simple, cheap, and interesting activities can give you full pockets, and invaluable memories.

FUN FACTS ABOUT ATTITASH MOUNTAIN VILLAGE

The Attitash Mountain Resort was constructed in 1938, opening with a special use permit from the White Mountain National Forest; and was operated by Peak Resort.

The word Attitash, actually means "blueberry" in the Abenaki language.

While Attitash is known mostly as a ski resort, they have plenty to do in the hotter months such as: go swimming at the water park, race down the alpine slide, and horseback ride.

 Attitash Mountain Resort- https://www.attitash.com/



What's your favorite tip for cheap vacations?

Enigma

7 Things to do Before Vacation

Having arrived in North Conway for my annual spring vacation on Saturday, it got me thinking about all the preparation that can go into a vacation. International or otherwise, a successful trip requires some forethought. These are seven things I do to help prepare for vacation.

1: Make a List- One of the most common ways to prepare for anything is to make a list. Having a list of everything that needs to be done before hand, as well as a packing list will ensure that nothing is forgotten.

2: Game Plan- Making a game plan for the days leading up to your trip, especially if your flying, will reduce the stress of preparation. It also ensure you know what to expect, and you get where you need to go without fuss or delay.

3: Schedule- It may seem anal to plan out your whole vacation, but a lot of activities require reservation or some degree of preparation. Having a form of schedule for your vacation will help you get the most out of your time.

4: Clean- Cleaning may not be the first thing that pops into your head when you think of vacation. However doing a quick (or long) spring clean before you leave is a great way to make the homecoming easier. There's nothing like coming home form a trip to a clean house.

5: Clear out- Besides just cleaning, getting rid of things you no longer need is a great thing to do before a trip. Right before vacation is the perfect time to clear old junk out of the house. You'll be too busy to miss it, and when you get back, you'll have a more spacious home to welcome you.

6: Pack- An obvious part of preparing for a trip is packing. Having a packing routine or habit will help things go smoothly. And double checking your packing list will make sure you don't bring more than you need.

7: Relax- The last thing to do before you head off for paradise, is relax. All you preparations are complete, your ready to go, it's time to have some fun.

What's the most important thing to do before vacation?

Enigma

7 Thoughts About Getting a New Job

Everyone takes a job at some point in their lives. We may take jobs because of pay, schedule, interest, etc. But there comes a time to re-evaluate your career situation. Sometimes its easy to gloss over the issues and suck up the rough spots of a job, but other times they can be signs that it's time for a job change. Evaluating what you want out of a job can help you decide whether its time for a change.

1: Schedule-While an inconvenient schedule might be worth putting up with short term, a schedule that causes problems is sure to be a thorn in the side.

2: Long-Term Goal- If your job isn't in a field you enjoy, or helping you get to a career you love, it may be time to evaluate your long term goals.

3: Coworkers- While coworkers should rarely be the single reason for leaving a job, if the people you work with add stress and negativity to your work experience, its a point to consider.

4: Reward- Although sometimes personal enjoyment has to take a back seat when it comes to a job, the emotional reward and fulfillment of your work are an important factor.

5: Respect- It's hard to perform and enjoy your work if your opinion is not respected. False promises and general abrasiveness are red flags for a long term job.

6: Well-Being- Besides a job that appeals to your interests, its good to consider a job that positively affects your well being. If you love the outdoors, an indoor office job would get old quick.

7: Priority- Overall, the value and thought you put into a job depends on the job priority. Everyone takes a job at least once in there life that they dislike. However, for any job, its good to weigh the priority it will take in your life.

Accepting any job is a personal choice that affects multiple aspects of our lives, considering all the changes a job will have on your life is a smart way to ensure you find something you like.

What's your best advice for finding an enjoyable job?

Enigma

7 Art Mediums to Explore

Art is a truly beautiful aspect of human culture. Drawing and painting have been around since the beginning of time, proving our need for artistic expression. While foundation mediums such as pencil drawing, paint, and colored pencils, are impressive in their own right, this list takes a look at some out of the box ways to create art.

1: Ink- An ancient and humble medium, ink can be used for more than just simple pen drawings. Using brushes to paint with ink, or even colored ball point pens gives ink more diversity. Ink is a versatile medium with its own unique style. Experimenting with ink can give art a bolder signature look.

2: Gold Leaf- Gold leaf is gold tightly pressed into paper thin sheets. While it has been traditionally used for decoration, some have turned Gold Leaf into art. Whether on canvas or wood board, gold leaf creates an eye catching masterpiece.

3: Paper- Paper Art is a collection of art forms using paper as the primary material in three dimensional creations. Its cheap, readily available, and easy to use compared to other three dimensional art forms. Some artists have truly mastered this art form, creating detailed and delicate pictures.

4: Dirt- Perhaps one of the more bizarre art forms, Dirt Art is created mostly on the canvas of dirt covered cars. Using brushes and fingers, artist use negative space to create astonishing masterpieces. The value of this art form is how thorough and detailed it can be with such simple tools.

5: Crayon- Crayon is generally seen as a child's art medium, however this diverse tool can be used for multiple high quality art forms. Two common styles are melted crayon art, and crayon carving. For melted crayon art, crayons are glued to a sturdy platform, usually canvas. The crayons are arranged for interesting designs or color combinations. They are then melted to produce bright textured images. For crayon carving, the wax of the crayon is peeled and carved using needles or X-acto knives. The finished product is fascinating crayon sized sculptures.

6: Avocado Pits- Most would not turn to food for artistic expression. One artist however, did. Struck by the intrigue of the avocado pit, she decided to carve it. After much experimenting, the result was magical creatures carved from the small unassuming feature of the avocado pit. Proof, that anything can be turned into art.

7: Animation- While not existing in the same realm as more standard art mediums, animation still requires versatile artistic skill. For those who enjoy digital or more action and movement oriented art, animation may be an interesting art medium to explore.

Art comes in all forms, solid, liquid, 3-D, 2-D, physical and digital. Art is abstract, reflecting the human experience in a way that words cannot convey. This list only scratches the surface of out of the box art mediums. Exploration is the heart of creativity, it encompasses the essence of art. Be adventurous, don't be afraid to break the rules. The result may be a fascinating and entirely unique creation.



Which out of the box art medium would you give a try?

Enigma

7 Reasons to Love a Bookworm

There is something magical about curling up with tea and a good book, the weight of pages in your purse, and the fluttering feeling you get in your stomach when you get a new book. Bookworms are a social class of their own. Possessing powerful minds and keen watchful eyes, bookworms are a force to be reckoned with. These are seven reasons to love a bookworm.

1: Silence- Bookworms are rarely afraid of silence, always with a book on hand they will simply pull it out and stuff their nose in it.

2: Imagination- Bookworms often have bursting imaginations from years of internal adventures.

3: Smarts- Whether your a fact or fiction lover, bookworms have broad knowledge from all sorts of obscure topics.

4: Libraries- Any self proclaimed bookworm will have a solid library that you can borrow from. Permitted you return the book in perfect condition!

5: Understanding- Most bookworms are reserved but very caring people, especially those who read fiction. After spending so much time in other peoples heads, its easy to slip into anther's shoes.

6: Bookish Humor- With quirky wit bookworms have a wonderful and sometimes surprising sense of humor.

7: Easy to Please- A bookworm is rarely difficult to please. Whether its gifts, entertainment, or conversation, books are the answer to everything.


What do you love about bookworms?

Enigma

7 Reasons to Appreciate Generation Z

Besides having the name of a zombie Apocalypse survival group, the new generation of the USA has a lot to offer this crumbling country. I have my issues with Gen Z but I do also recognize that they are sorely under appreciated, and under estimated. Generation Z experiences stress  from a young age that we could only dream of. They are a generation that is left picking up the pieces of those left before them, striving to make a future for themselves. These are seven qualities to appreciate about Generation Z.

1: Motivation-With ever growing competition in the job market, and general high expectations, Gen Z has acquired intense motivation for schooling, relationships, and life ambitions.

2: Flexibility- The world that Gen Z is growing up in is an ever changing, shifting environment. This is creating a generation with a flexible mind, the ability to bend around ever growing obstacles and go with the fast flow of life.

3: Endurance- Gen Z exists in a rapid speeding world. In order to survive and excel in the chaos, Gen Z has acquired endurance like no other generation before them.

4: Adaptability- A separate attribute that flexibly. The adaptability that Gen Z has acquired allows them to mold themselves into any persona in order to accomplish a task or get a desired outcome.

5: Creativity- Gen Z is a generation that has exploded with creativity. With the growth of technology, Gen Z has taken full advantage of new artistic outlets. As well as creating new art mediums, Gen Z has also used these mediums to artfully convey messages of hope. And to share their view of the future.

6: Humor- While much of Gen Z's humor is disturbingly dark, I find that within that humor is a persistent optimistic streak. Many are using this positivity to help others and improve the world.

7: Guts- Last of all Gen Z possesses a vital element for survival of modern day life. Guts. This generation has the guts to stand up for what they believe in, to say no to what is wrong, and to go for the glory.

What is your favorite attribute of Gen Z?

Enigma

New Beginnings

Although the calendar date of spring was last week, for New England this week is just beginning to have the real taste of spring. The snow is melting, and staying melted, the birds are out, and the sun is alive and well. Its been a long wait, but it seems spring may finally be here to stay. 

In response to the return of the sun, and my motivation, I start to plan out all sorts of things, such as craft projects, To-Do Lists, and even long term goals. Spring just has a way of jump starting the year. It's a time of renewed energy and purpose. A time to clean out the dust of winter and start anew.

Bellow I've compiled a list of suggested To-Do's for Spring, mostly from my own goals:

-Clean out your closet

-Go for a walk

-Spend time with your pets

-Finish uncompleted crafts

-Make summer plans

-Try out new recipes

-Make time to read

-Go on a short trip

-Pick a bouquet of flowers

-Avoid spring bugs!



What is your favorite spring activity?

Enigma
-

7 Ways to Improve Your Artistic Mindset

Being an artist is not about profession, skill level, or medium, its about mindset. Having an artistic mindset is what makes the term artist appropriate. Whether you love photography, calligraphy, or watercolor, if you have the desire and imagination to bring your unique perspective to life, you are an artist.
That being said, it does take effort and a conscious awareness to perceive the world in a artistic way and convey that through your chosen medium. I've put together seven things you can do to encourage your artistic outlook.

1: Ponder: Taking time out of your day, whether it be ten minutes on your lunch break or before bed can help your brain develop ideas.

2: Be Open-Minded: Allowing yourself to be exposed to other cultures, mediums, and art styles will keep you full of new ideas. Studying others also helps you become a well rounded artist.

3: Inspiration: Inspiration is fleeting and unpredictable. However, seeking out art that inspires you to keep going when its tough can go a long way to improving your craft.

4: Do Things You Love: Inspiration and passion come from things we love. Whether its reading, jogging, or playing with your dog, more often than not, our passions will bleed into our art.

5: Surround Yourself: Surrounding yourself with your chosen art medium will help you consciously and subconsciously absorb style and technique. You'll start to notice patterns related to each medium.

6: Take Art With You: Having a portable means of doing your art will not only help you practice more, it will help you stay in an art mindset even when rushing through the day.

7: Practice: Perhaps the most important piece of keeping an artist mindset and improving your art is practice. Practice is the one surefire way to improve at anything, art is no exception.

What is your artistic expression?

Enigma

7 Reasons to go Hiking

Hiking is a simple activity with many benefits. Recently I've been exploring local hiking trails, slowly building up my experience. Hiking reconnects you with nature, giving you a sense of humility and appreciation for what nature provides for us.

1: Exercise: Hiking is a great way to get an all body workout. Your trail can be long and vigorous, or short and mild. The choice is yours.

2: Beautiful Scenery:  Most hiking trails have scenic views or interesting plant and wildlife. Perfect for those with an interest in photography.

3: Family:  Hiking is a wonderful family activity. It gets everyone out and moving, and creates many precious memories.

4: Adventure:  Hiking can be a great adventure. You never know what special sight or experience you'll come across.

5: Fresh Air:  While this is a great companion for exercise, fresh air in itself is a wonderful motivator to hike.

6: Contemplation:  Hiking is a beneficial way to turn the brain away from the everyday hustle, to ponder.

7: Its Cheap!:  Besides basic safety items and equipment, the only thing you need for hiking are feet!

What is your favorite hiking story?

Enigma

Life of Pi

Life of Pi is a genre of its own. Haled a modern classic, it truly lives up to the hype. Written by Yann Martel, the story follows the survival of Pi, an Indian boy who is stranded in the Pacific after the Japanese cargo boat headed to America sinks. Finding himself suddenly orphaned, Pi's predicament is further complicated by the zoo animals that take refuge from the wreck in his life boat. One of these refuges is a 450 pound Bengal tiger.

The plot starts out leisurely with stop and start action, but that does not make it less riveting. If anything the slow thoughtful theme of the story deepens every action and brings home the impossible situation Pi is faced with. Pi's internal dialogue and revelations at sea are moving. This story provokes an infinite question that everyone has an opinion on. Is there a God? It would be hard to go through Pi's situation without the support of some type of faith. As Pi shows in the story, his faith is severely tested and at moments denied. The religious thoughts and questions brought up in Life of Pi are eye opening. It truly is a life altering story for those with an open mind.

The characters are few and unique. Pi's family is a big part of his life and the set up for the story, but the longer Pi is at sea, the more the mention of other characters dwindle. Richard Parker, a commanding presence on his own, is simplistically described. His personality is elaborated throughout the story by Pi.
Pi himself is an interesting character. He holds fast to his own beliefs and opinions. Yet is willing to grow and adopt other beliefs if they connect with his morals. A boy of science and faith, his perspective is anything but ordinary.

The incredible journey at sea is wrapped up with their rescue. Pi shares his experience with the authorities and anyone who will listen, but the majority are skeptical of his story. Richard Parker runs off into the forest is not heard from again. As the story closes, the surprising true facts about this event are described: There really was a boy who was lost at sea in the Pacific for 227 days, a Japanese cargo ship really sank at the same time and area as in the book, and this boy claimed he was at sea with a Bengal tiger the entire journey. This story leaves you feeling uncertain, maybe even hollow or uncomfortable. It leaves you with a big question, and a sense that more exists in this world than we comprehend.

What are your thoughts on this out of the box novel?

Enigma

7 Reasons to Not Get the Flu

Not getting the flu should seem like an obvious goal. Nevertheless, for your convenience I have compiled a list of reasons not to get the flu.

1: Your head feels like its going to explode: The flu has a way of making your head feel like an overinflated balloon, which makes it difficult to accomplish anything.

2: You cant sing, or dance: The flu will reduce your voice to the sound of gravel, and your dance moves to the zombie shuffle.

3: Eating any kind of food creates a hole of nausea in your stomach: The simple pleasure of eating is quickly snatched in the clutches of the flu, just one of many symptoms to endure.

4: Your pets don't understand that playing with them feels like running a marathon: Unfortunately time doesn't stop when you get the flu. Pets are the best example of this, when they come begging and demanding, and you feel like you've been hit with a mac truck.

5: Moving at all makes you feel your at the top of a building and about to pass out: I don't know if nausea is an across the board symptom of the flu, but for many, it makes any simple tasks feel like fighting a pro wrestler

6: Your too tired to even enjoy your time off: for those with sick days, getting the flu can feel like a mutated vacation. But with the energy of a decrepit 102 year old, it can feel utterly pointless.

7: It sucks: Perhaps the best synopsis of having the flu, it simply sucks. No explanation necessary.

So, basically, don't get the flu this season. Your best chance is to hide in your home like a hermit until it passes.


What is your worst flu experience?

Enigma

Where did Valentine's Day come from?

The origin of Valentine's Day is not something commonly known or discussed. The modern Valentine's Day that we know, with flowers, hearts, and chocolates is a recent cultural development. The birth of the holiday started in early modern England and spread throughout the English speaking world by the 19th century.

The origin of the significance of February 14th is connected mostly in celebration of Christian and Catholic martyrs. It developed as a western holiday honoring different saints (individuals differing with location) named Valentine. The celebration was called Saint Valentine's Day or the Feast of Saint Valentine.
There are records of a Saint Valentine who supposedly performed wedding ceremonies for soldiers. Who at the time were forbidden to marry. This Saint Valentine also ministered to Christians persecuted by the Roman empire. According to legend, Saint Valentine left a letter to his judge's daughter before his execution. The letter was signed "your Valentine".

However the modern association of romance and Valentines Day didn't developed until the 14th century, in a time when courtly love was in full bloom. Romantic poetry encouraged the connection of romance to Valentine's Day, but it still wasn't until 18th century England that giving gifts and letters to lovers became common. These love letters were called "valentines" and by the 19th century the custom became so popular that handwritten cards were bought over by mass produced greeting cards.

In the U.S. mass produced Valentines cards with popular paper lace were sold by Esther Howl around 1847. In 1868 a British company introduced the box of chocolates with their "Fancy Boxes", decorated heart shaped boxes of chocolate. They quickly became a staple item for the holiday.

Many suspect or have made claims that Valentine's Day is connected to the Roman celebration of fertility and love. However there is no record of Valentine's Day being associated with anything romantic or sexual before the 14th century, when Chaucer mentioned "Valentines" in his poetry.
Although modern Anglo-American customs have significantly altered the celebrations of Valentine's Day, there are still events connecting the Saint Valentine with its original purpose, the arrival of spring.
The famous  symbols of Valentine's Day, chocolates, flowers, and love letters originated in the UK. However parts of England still retain their original Valentine's Day customs. Norfolk has a mysterious Valentine "Jack" that leaves treats at the door for children. And Slovenia has a Saint Valentine to mark the coming of spring.

Valentine's Day has a long and complicated history, but the holiday brings a smile to my face. Unexpected flowers, sweet valentine cards, and indulgent chocolates help boost the spirit.

What is your favorite part about Valentine's Day?

Enigma

Tiger Eyes

Tiger Eyes is a YA novel written by the one and only Judy Blume, the original queen of teen. Simple and powerful, this story is about a daughter coping with unimaginable loss. Its basic storytelling is made strong and fascinating by the subject matter. The plot is given depth by its sheer simplicity and honesty.

This story follows Davey, the daughter in a family of four. When her father is violently killed Davey retreats inside herself trying to make sense of a sense less incident. Davey's pain and reactions are contrasted by her younger brother, who copes by trying to bring back normalcy. Her mother slowly recedes in shock and exhaustion, leaving her family to figure things out alone. Davey is reeling with pent up emotions, in a fit of frustration she finds herself hiking down into a canyon. Through hiking Davey meets Wolf, a stranger who helps her start the journey of healing.

The characters in Tiger Eyes are strongly defined, each one possessing memorable features and traits. Davey is a relatable teenager, but still her own person. Her personality shows a sharp attentive view of the world. Her little brother is fun, carefree, and childish, but on the inside he realizes the affect of his fathers death. Wolf is silent and supporting, left mostly as a mystery for the reader to think over on their own.

In the end Davey is left with a new outlook on life and a better acceptance of death. She begins to repair the relationships with her family and put the pieces back together. Davey and Wolf go their separate ways, but Davey receives a gift from Wolf in the mail, a reminder that they will see each other again.

Tiger Eyes is a touching story of healing after loss. It shows that no matter what horrible events happen in our lives, family can help put you back together. Tiger Eyes truly is a timeless YA classic.

Have you read this original teen drama?

Enigma

The Heretic Queen

Although I have not delved into the depths of historical fiction, I find the genre fascinating. The Heretic Queen felt like a thrilling ease into the genre. The story follows the niece of Egypt's former queen, Nerfertari. The author portrays the growth from reckless girl to powerful queen, with every heart break and struggle along the way. Based heavily on history, with vivid fiction filling in the cracks, this story was enrapturing. The environments are descriptive, giving you a real experience of ancient Egypt. The writing style was simple, not flowery or distracting. And it was honest and emotional. The author clearly conveys Nerfertari's strength, and her uncertainty.

The plot consists of Nerfertari's struggle to survive as a forgotten princess. Her dead family is branded as heretical, shunning her from her full princess status. As a childhood friend of Ramesses, the prince in line for the throne, she plots to become his queen to gain the status and recognition she was denied. Nefertiti slowly climbs the ladder to success, fighting to keep her life and her morality. Her story is gripping, filled with indecision and heartbreak. Nerfartari is portrayed as determined, a women equipped with the wits and strength to succeed.

The main focus of the story is Nerfertari, however the side characters are equally charming. Ramesses is shown to have a strong sense of justice, and a kind heart. Nefertari's personal maid is wise, nurturing, with strong morals. Even Nerfertari's head priestess is shown to have her own personal struggles. All of these characters combine to form a fascinating story of strength, love, and sacrifice.

The novel concludes with a confrontation of Egypt and a rival land. Egypt's roots are shaken and Nerfertari must hold her county together. In proving herself she wins over the people and Egypt is victorious.

Overall, this novel is unique even among historical fiction. Nerfertari is not as well known as other Egyptian Queens, but her story is equally worthwhile. It covers the great change of a mighty nation. And the dedication of a fearless women.

Is The Heretic Queen a novel you would try?

Enigma

The Free Thinkers

Life is not what you think it is going to be. You plan things, you make assumptions. Whether consciously, or unconsciously, we do it. We assume all the time. We assume we will be alive tomorrow, we assume the grocery store will have food, and we assume our pay checks will come in on time. In short, we assume life will maintain a steady rhythm. Until it doesn't. As much as we like to think we lust for adventure, we strive for stability, predictability.
It takes a strong heart to break away and pursue the unknown, to lust after the abyss. But there are a few who succeed. Some who are so out of the box we can't wrap our minds around them, so society shuns them. They are the ones so bizarre, so out of common character, they cant possibly be one of us. When in fact they are the best of us.

I've been lucky enough in my life to meet several people who have broken the chains of normality. They are a precious encounter. These people inspire me to break free of general ideas. To contemplate the unknown, the unspoken. These people rebel simply by being. While multiple minds might fervently agree on a topic, theses people pause. They reflect and analyze. And when they point out a flaw, or a different idea, they are given strange looks. They are banished from social circles. But they are blessed with a lens that strips away lies and facade.

Some of these characters are well known, moral celebrities. Others never reach fame. The social outcast rarely lusts after it. But they don't need to, these individuals have a way of attracting attention from the masses. Whether you chat getting a coffee, or meet intentionally, one thing is for sure, these genius free thinking minds are one of humanities gems.


Have you met a free thinker?

Enigma

How to Make it Through the Winter

There's a heavy cloud that hangs over my head around this time of year. My spirit seems to darken as much as the sky in these dark winter months. With dampness in my bones and no sunshine in sight, it can be hard to keep your spirits up. When I feel myself fall into this post New Years dip, there are a few things I've found that help keep the weariness away. This is a list of seven ways to help make it through the winter.

1: Making space for Pastimes: No matter how busy you are, pastimes are a vital and simple way to stay positive. Reading in bed or building toy models, whatever your interest, going back to fun is a great way to take a break from busy life and reduce stress.

2:Go Outside: Even though the weather may be horrid, wet and slushy, frigid and icy; go outside. If only for a couple minutes. Moving around outside is a sure way to get rid of the winter sluggishness.

3: Be around pets: There are scientific studies proving that pets improve the mood of their human companions. If you have a pet, spend some snuggle time. If not, visit a friend's or volunteer at a shelter to get your animal time in.

4: Exercise: Exercise not only makes your body healthy, it also makes you feel good. Whether you like stretches, yoga, or weightlifting finding time to exercise in the winter will keep you in  good spirits.

5:Balance your Diet: While it's great to have a good diet all year round, many of us struggle with it the most during the cold months. Cookies, muffins and all the holiday leftovers can lead to some junk eating habits, which drain your energy. Making sure to eat some healthy foods every day will keep your energy up.

6:Sleep: When its over cast and dreary I want to take a 7 hour nap. For most that's not possible, or practical. However getting some extra sleep will go a long way in tackling the cold day.

7: Have Fun: You don't have to like the cold or the snow, but finding something positive about it that you can enjoy such as skiing, sledding, or even drinking hot chocolate, can help you squeeze some joy from the harshness of winter.

For many winter is the highlight of the year, the time to whip out the snow gear and go extreme. I am not one of those people. I have the frail cold resistance of a desert lizard, so winter is something of a dread for me. These are just a few things I remind myself of when the going gets tough.

What is your winter survival trick?

Enigma