5 THINGS I'M GRATEFUL FOR

           Image via Wikipedia
1.  I was able to take a lot of time for myself. I quit my job at the end of March, and only worked part time for the rest of the year.I was inspired to do this because of two people who I admire - Stefan Sagmeister (you can listen to his talk The Power of Time Off  on Ted.com), and Tim Ferris (He wrote about "mini retirements" in The 4 Hour Work Week). I've used up most of my savings, but I'll never regret that I did that. It made lots of good things possible. I was able to fulfill some dreams, and I learned more about myself and my expanded  capabilities.


2.  My trip home in April-May. Although I've been in Japan for seven years, I've only been home twice, one time for a family funeral, and the other a very brief, rushed Christmas visit. But because I quit my job so I could spend a whole month in NZ. It was great. I could spend some quality time with my family and friends, do some fun things, and visit some nostalgic places.

3.  My friends. I made a lot of new friends in 2010 who have enriched my life and made it more interesting. Then there were my existing friends who continued to support me and share good times with me. I was able to reconnect with some old friends too. Gratitude to you all!

4. The people who  bought my art. I don't know who most of you are, but it really encouraged me and made me feel great. So I'm sending out gratitude vibes to you all!

5. Another year in Japan. I love living here. I recognize that I have this amazing opportunity simply because I happened to be born in an English speaking country. I'm grateful.

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