The map above is of the arboretum -- if you look to the lower right, there is a "Three Mile Drive" that is both a walking and driving route throughout the most picturesque parts of the arboretum.  I'm not sure if it is actually only three miles: given that I walked around for 3 HOURS, it seems like it must have been longer than that!  There were definitely a lot of hills, and beautiful terrain.

When I got home, I spent some time looking for photography classes and was pretty psyched to find two inexpensive Minneapolis Community Ed classes that I think I'll be signing up for -- two classes, 4 weeks each, one is classroom style and one is a class where we go out to "the best shooting spots in the twin cities."  For $45 each, I figure I can't go wrong.

Yesterday's field trip reminded me of a few things -- namely that when I disconnect from the computer / cell phone for a while and enjoy a great combination of exercise and nature, I feel incredibly peaceful and content for the rest of the day.  After I got home, I stretched, knocked a few things off the to-do list, ate a healthy dinner, watched a little TV, read for a while and was sound asleep by 10:15 PM.  I woke up this morning feeling rested, focused, and ready to be productive.  '

Secondly -- I commented the other day on the idea of "go out and start creating," and yesterday was another reminder that I'm happiest when I'm CREATING things.  Cooking. Taking pictures. Making music. Writing.  Planning events.  Decorating.  These are the pasttimes that fill me up emotionally, spiritually, and mentally. 

Now the big question - how to find a way to make a living that way?  There are a few blogs I follow of young women who have struck out and made this work -- Jen over at Follow My Bliss is a great example of "making a living without a job," as her enterpreneurial skills and passions have led her away from the desk job and towards the things she loves creating: writing, acting, baking.  The ChiPassionistas over at "Pursuing Our Passion" left their cushy agency jobs and started their own business.  I had the good fortune to hear them speak at BlogHer last month and was inspired by their determination to do what makes them HAPPY.

I've spent the last decade chasing the almighty dollar, and while I don't think that is a bad thing for somebody in my situation (unmarried, 30s), I also feel a very deep longing to chase the almighty passion instead -- and the first thing I think of when I think of "passion" is my roots as a musician, somebody who was the happiest when tinkering at the piano, standing behind a mic, or playing the flute.  While I don't think that music is my calling anymore, I have found similar artistry in cooking and writing, and hopefully now photography.  At the same time, I feel strongly about helping people to find balance, happiness, and health. 

There's gotta be a way to make that work for me, right?

Personal training w/ a nutrition angle?  Food writer?  Recipe make-over artist?  Food photographer? Personal weight loss coach?  
Lots to think about.

Off and running,
~Jessica