“Today was good. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one.”

Dr. Seuss

Life is supposed to be fun. Wednesday July 30, 2008: One hundred percent of the shots you don’t take don’t go in.
-Wayne Gretzky

I have a theory about life, and it stemmed from observing little children. If you watch any Super mom in action, any good preschool teacher or camp counselor, any dad, grama, grampa, or child care person who’s a hit with the little ones, it all boils down to two words: projects and snacks.

We have play dates a lot at the pink house. For all ages. As long as we have fun stuff to do—and it doesn’t have to be fancy (it can be a can of shaving cream and a sink to play in)—and good snacks, the play date’s a hit.

As I drop our four-year-old Sagey off at her preschool, I observe for a moment what’s transpiring. The children are busily engaging in a number of different “stations.” There’s coloring, puzzles, painting, reading, dress-up, kitchen play, etc. and always a special new project that was just introduced today. The teachers are supervising and dealing with any mishaps that arise, giving guidance where needed, and giving love to all, but their big “work” is done: they’ve set up the projects that will make the day flow with ease and joy—provided that there are breaks with yummy food to follow.

And it’s really the same with our ten-year-old and one-year-old as well—“the project and snack for happiness template”—and, I’m suggesting, with adults to boot.

Think about it: as long as we’re happily engaged in a “project” that is pleasing to us and we have good stuff to eat when we are hungry and need a break, we’re happy, for the most part. Now the “projects” we choose vary widely, and that’s the beauty of human nature… we’re all so different.

And so it is with your yoga practice. Even if you are practicing with 35 other people in a hot sweaty room, ostensibly following the “same” practice and lead by the same instructor, your practice is uniquely your own as you flow with your own breath, your own intention, and your own unique body and needs, resting when you need to and listening from within.

According to my theory, the only thing missing from this yoga practice scenario is the snacks. I did practice at a studio in DC once that offered cookies shaped like cats after class. Perhaps that studio owner is on to my theory.

Take care of the minutes—the hours will take of themselves.

Happiness is not having what you want, but wanting what you have.

Don’t wait for amazing moments. Love this moment, and that energy will spread throughout your entire day.

Happiness is not a destination. It is a method of life.
-Burton Hills

The secret to happiness is not doing what you like to do, but liking what you are doing.

There is nothing as beautiful as the happiness of a child.

Inspire those around you with your kindness.