“Youth is not measured by the age of a person, but by the curiosity a person keeps.” ~ Salvador Pániker
Rolling in the grass! Yep, I’m guessing that’s a typical day for Kim and Jason Kotecki!
It is with great enthusiasm that I introduce you to this amazing couple, a husband/wife blogging couple from right here in Wisconsin! And today I sit down and ask them a few questions, as we bounce around between the philosophical and the goofy. And that’s right up their alley, a good mix of what makes life worth living while having fun doing it! Kim and Jason are the proprietors of the very successful and deliciously fun Escape Adulthood website. Escape adulthood? What’s that all about, anyway? Read on, as we dig more deeply into what truly makes life grand!
NOTE: We’re having a give away here today! For the price of a comment, one lucky winner will be chosen to receive a copy of Kim and Jason’s recently released book, “There’s An Adult In My Soup”. Winner will be chosen at random, from all received comments – on Friday October 16th.
And with that, please help me in welcoming Kim and Jason here today!
I ask the questions, and they answer with a mix of lightheartedness and wisdom…
1. Tell us a little bit about who “you” are (family, career, any special life experiences you’d like to share, etc.)
Jason: I am a lot of things. I’m a dad, husband, son, and brother. I suspect I could be better in all four areas, but I’m working at it. Professionally, I’m a cartoonist, author, and speaker, which is a far cry from my early ambition of becoming a superhero. But at least I feel like I’m making a difference, which is something I share with my leotard-clad, cape-donning colleagues. I drew a comic strip called “Kim & Jason” for about seven years. It’s now officially “retired,” but the characters still serve as mascots for our company. My mission in life is to help people struggling with Adultitis and get them living with less stress and more fun.
Kim: I share the same mission as my husband, but my official title in our company is the “Director of Everything.” I am a work-at-home mom, wife, and youngest of four girls who somehow manages to continue to feel five-years-old, while being six times that (okay– a little more than 6 times). I am a former kindergarten teacher who also moonlights as an author and sales director for our speaking side of things.
Lance’s Commentary: Nice title, Kim! And the word “adultitis”, it just sounds like a disease, doesn’t it! Which, speaking of adultitis, if you’re curious whether you’re affected, I see the Adultitis website has a questionniare to help you determine that. Hmmm.…I wonder what it says about me?
2. How long have you been blogging, and what led you to start your site?
Jason: I started blogging back in 2002, before there really was such a thing as a blog. I started out on a message board we hosted on our site, and it was just a personal journal about the early days when I was doing the comic strip and we were starting our business. It has evolved quite a bit since then.
Kim: Our blog is a good example of what happens when you take baby steps towards your interests and passion. Little by little it evolved right before our eyes.
Lance’s Commentary: Gosh, Jason — you’re like an Internet pioneer in blogland years! Your dedication and passion shine through in all you present, and I especially love the videos you’ve created. My personal favorite is your Water Balloon Warfare — although I’d only want to be a spectator, Kim, when you’re launching those balloons! Ouch!
3. Kim and Jason, when I think of you two (and the name of your site – Escaping Adulthood) – I think of tunneling out of a jail cell with a Tonka truck – escaping the mundane that we too often let into daily life. Maybe I’m off-base a bit. Tell us what “Escaping Adulthood” is all about.
Jason: I love that concept of the Tonka Truck. Nice. I think that when we were kids, we had this idealized notion of what adulthood would be like. It sounded so awesome, and we were eager to grow up and take advantage of al the perks, like staying up late, being able to drive, and eating dessert first. Of course, there’s a lot more that comes with adulthood, like work, bills, and responsibility. It’s easy for Adultitis to sneak in, robbing us of the joy and happiness we had when we were younger. Stress piles up, and way too many people live lives of quiet desperation. Our message is that no, we’ll never be six again, but we don’t have to settle for the “adulthood” that seems to be so common. We encourage people to “escape” the busyness that comes standard with most modern lives, and rekindle some of the secrets from childhood that make life more fulfilling, exciting, and fun.
Lance’s Commentary: Ah, yes…adulthood! That place we yearned for when we were kids. To be “older”, and be able to do all the cool stuff! And then to find out…the cool stuff also involves bills, and work that isn’t always fun and games… So, keeping fun in daily “adult” life, that sounds pretty sweet!
4. You’ve just published a book – “There’s An Adult In My Soup”. Tell us about this book, and what inspired you to write it.
Kim: “There’s An Adult In My Soup” is a collection of essays we’ve written over the years. We wanted to create a book that was easy and fun to read, something reminiscent of “Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff,” in which you can open it up in the middle and just start reading. Probably the best way to describe the concept is by sharing a poem Jason wrote for the back cover:
When I was a kid, my soup was just right,
Yummy and tasty, a veritable delight. 
Two cups of dreams and a full pint of play,
A pinch of curiosity for the perfect bouquet.
Passion and wonder and faith it had, too
I’d dare you to taste a happier stew!
But when I got older, my soup it did turn,
Enough to warrant a cause for concern.
It’s gunky and goopy and lacking in fun,
It’s not nearly as tasty as when I’d begun.
It’s bland and it’s bitter and tastes just like poop,
The problem is clearly the adult in my soup!
Lance’s Commentary: I’m currently reading this book, and it’s great! And one thing I really love are the short chapters (it fits my attention span well!). More than that, though, I think it’s really a great “idea generator”. You two share real-life examples of living Adultitis-free, and those are examples that spur thoughts in me of how I can be more kid-like myself. And that right there is the real “meat” in that soup! And don’t forget, everyone — one of these fantastic books will be given away — so comment away!
5. So you author a blog, have written a couple of books, sell “fun” toys on your site (for any age), have a weekly video series, and do speaking engagements. What are the joys and challenges with all of this, and what have I missed?
Jason: That pretty much covers it. The joy lies in waking up every morning in love with what I do for a living. The challenges are making sure we’re focusing on the right things, keep our lives in balance, and just like every business, figuring out the best ways to market things without breaking the bank.
Kim: A big job for me is being able to work from home and tag team childcare for our little one between myself, Jason and our associate (our daughter’s godmom). With this joy also comes the challenge of knowing when to close the laptop and when to answer the phone. We do well with this overall, it’s just always at the forefront of our efforts.
6. And you’re recently new parents (hi Lucy!). How has that changed things both in your household, and in writing and speaking engagements?
Jason: We have a lot less time to work on the business than we did before Lucy. Balance has become a bigger challenge. But I think it has made us much sharper and efficient with our time. I also believe this experience of parenthood has added a level of richness to our writing and speaking that allows us to connect with people on a whole new level. Parenthood has made us better teammates and better people.
Kim: We always joked (BL– before Lucy) that the business was our first baby, and I still believe that in a lot of ways. Both require tremendous effort and passion to continue to manage in a Adultitis-free manner. Lucy is along for the adventure. By the time she was four months old she had joined us on 25 flights. We’re including her in on the journey!
Lance’s Commentary: Lucy is one well-traveled little girl!! And yes, an additional little life in your household sure does change things! Enjoy the “moments” with that little wonder in your life!
7. Tell us one unexpected thing that has happened to you in the last year (Lucy doesn’t count!).
Jason: We bought our first house! We spent almost nine years in an apartment, building our business. Then we had Lucy last December and were just focused on trying to get our legs under us as new parents. My dad started pestering us to look into what was out there on the market and what we might be able to afford. Like I said, it was probably the last thing on the radar for us, but he was very persistent. We started the process in January as our busy speaking season kicked off, and by mid-April we’d found, financed, and moved into a house we absolutely love. I guess it goes to show that sometimes it pays to listen to your parents, no matter how old you are!
Lance’s Commentary: Ah yes, our parents…they’re always our parents…and sometimes they really do know what they’re talking about. Now, if I could just convince my daughter of that. For some reason, as she’s quickly approaching the start of those teenage years…my “words of wisdom” just don’t hold the same value they used to! It won’t stop me from sharing, though!
8. If you had to pick one thing as your greatest achievement, what would it be (and why)?
Jason: I suppose it’s a big cliché to say having Lucy is our greatest achievement, but it is right up there, although it’s not complete. It will be even bigger if we can accomplish the job of helping her to grow into her full potential as a person, someone making an impact on the world. That’s our goal. I’m also very proud of being able to build a business from the ground up, creating a career that I enjoy so much. It’s been harder and scarier than I ever thought it would be, and we’ve had so much help along the way that I can’t take much of the credit, but there’s a great feeling of fulfillment.
9. A fun day as a family – tell me what that might consist of.
Jason: Hmm. Very low key, that’s for sure. Lounging around. Being goofy. Good food. A nice walk by the lake or a visit to the zoo. The elaborate and more expensive experiences are great, but I quite like the
simple fun that can be had doing everyday things. Most people are living life too fast to notice some of the Cracker Jack prizes hidden right under their nose.
Kim: Jason hit it on the head. People think of us as the adventurous type and in many ways we are, but we sure love to be lazy together as a family. I’d add to his list– movies, a drive to get Dairy Queen, and some homemade cheesy beer and brat soup– hey, we DO live in Wisconsin!
Lance’s Commentary: Hey, I’m all for being goofy! And we have this killer custard stand just down the road from our house, that’s a family favorite here. And being fall is in the air (brrr…it was chilly this weekend in Wisconsin!), that soup sounds about perfect!
10. Hypothetically speaking, you’re stranded in the middle of Wisconsin for a year (maybe this isn’t hypothetical!). You have enough food to eat, and you have shelter. What do you do to keep yourselves connected and engaged and loving life?
Jason: Staying curious and asking questions. As an introvert, I like to get “deep.” The more quickly I can move past small talk and get to a meatier and more interesting discussion, the happier I am. Like a cross-country road trip, I suppose being stranded would be a great catalyst for that.
Kim: I imagine there to be lots of made-up games and silliness. We all love to have fun and a large part of what we do in our mission is to give people permission to do this. When we were kids we would “get bored” and eventually get creative, using our wild imaginations to create worlds and challenges that we’d tackle with courage and zest. Now, people just turn on the TV or video games to be entertained. Being stranded would force you to dust off the ‘ol imagination.
Lance’s Commentary: You two have a great prescription not only for a stranded day in Wisconsin, but also — a great prescription for life in general! Connecting more deeply, and using your imagination — wow! Good stuff! And now, I’m also in the mood for a cross-country road trip!! You won’t even notice me in the back seat, singing classic Willie Nelson songs (“On the Road Again…”).…
11. Deep down, what makes you uniquely “you”? Kim? Jason?
Jason: Deep down, I think I am as curious and creative as ever. That’s the little boy in me shining through. I have a great sense of wonder about things, about people, and about God. I hate structure and I hate rules, but I love to learn.
Kim: Deep down, I am a spunky little five-year-old girl that refuses to grow-up into a grumpy ‘ol adult. I like wearing mismatched clothes. I hate making the bed and doing the dishes. I’ll eat three rows of brownies if no one is looking. I’m just looking to have as much fun as possible while I’m here. I think this life is a gift and I’m not going to waste what I’ve been given.
Lance’s Commentary: What I love here, is that you both relate back to those early years in life, and to the kid in you! I guess I shouldn’t be surprised, given the premise behind everything you do! Still, I think it’s part of the culture we live in today — that this is NOT the norm. So hearing you say that — proudly — is refreshing! Keep on being spunky and curious! And a reminder to self: bring extra brownies the next time we visit!
Closing Thoughts: Kim and Jason, this is all sorts of awesomeness! And what’s so great, is that our families have had the opportunity to meet recently. So, I know that what you’re saying here is much more than just words on this page — it really is how you live your lives! It can be one thing to say something, and another altogether to follow through and do it. And you guys do! You exude child-like wonder, love, and playfulness in all you do! That shines through so brightly! And there’s a gift in that for everyone whose path you cross. You give others the belief that you CAN listen to our heart, you CAN love what you do, you CAN be happy on many levels!
It has been an honor to have you both here today. Kim and Jason, I wish you much success and happiness as you continue to share your mission with the world! It’s a message that is so worth hearing…
This is really great. I actually stumbled upon their website about a week ago, and I have been soaking it up since then. I love their attitude on life, and their mission to help others live that way, too. All you Wisconsinites seem like such nice people! I definitely have to come visit one day!!
.-= Jay Schryer´s Last Fabulous Post ..Memories Best Left Forgotten =-.
Lance:
I’ve been a fan of Kim and Jason for awhile and its great to get to know them a little better in this interview. They’ve got a great attitude about things and I agree that we need to cure ourselves from all of our grown up pressures and stress. Thank you for sharing this interview!
.-= Tim´s Last Fabulous Post ..Weekend Video Diversion: Improv Everywhere =-.
This is awesome. Thanks for sharing this with us… Love it!
.-= Positively Present´s Last Fabulous Post ..finding hope on the bright side of the road =-.
Thank you Lance so much for interviewing such an awesome team!!!
Wow Kim and Jason do sure sound like they are truly living life from the “fun” end. That is so awesome to hear. I love this topic of staying more child-like because I truly feel that it is so much more beneficial than being what our society always tells us it seems, to do “grow up”. Well it seems when we do grow up, we lose such an amazing part of ourselves — the fun, innocent, inquisitive and creative part. Too many of us just become plain old grumpy!
Oh and I LOVE the poem from the back that Kim shared — LOL — how awesome is that! I often think that I do have a child-like presence within me, but I wonder what it would be like to spend a day with Kim and Jason? I predict it would be one playful day, probably would probe me to go further into the child within me that is for sure
.-= Evita´s Last Fabulous Post ..Our Search For Purpose and Meaning =-.
That is so great! I love it when couples share in a project like this! It makes the bond between partners much much stronger!
I love it!
.-= Erin Brooks´s Last Fabulous Post ..A Good Friend =-.
I am looking forward to checking out their blog. Thank you for sharing, Lance.
I could use more fun.
.-= Lynn´s Last Fabulous Post ..Leg lamp, hat required and nurture =-.
Thanks for sharing — I’m going to have a look at their blog. Fun is the one thing we never have enough of.
.-= Lisa´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Race =-.
I’ve been a fan of Kim & Jason for a long time. Thank you for this interview, Lance.
I really like when they say they love the every day. That’s how I feel, too. Occasional fun trip or drive is nice, but the real fun and joy are in the every day, that may look like so ordinary. Like watching the trees change colors every day, picking up acorns, stepping into the paddle…
I think our inner child is far more in tune with our intuition. Our inner child knows what is really important and how to navigate this life effortlessly with love and passion. Kim and Jason offer great resource to get back in touch with our inner child.
And yes, I have that book, too. It’s wonderful.
.-= Akemi — Yes to Me´s Last Fabulous Post ..Eat For Your Health And Spirituality =-.
I’m so glad you highlighted Jason and Kim. This is what working happy is all about — being creative while living the type of life that makes them happy. I have a young son (2 months) and I can relate how hard it is to juggle work, blogging and family.
I’m off to check out their store and take some notes for my site.
.-= Karl Staib — Work Happy Now´s Last Fabulous Post ..How to Find Meaning in Tedious Work =-.
Dear Lance, Jason and Kim,
This is simply uplifting, heartwarming and REAL!! I agree with Jay that you Wisconsinites are pretty special people. So grounded and in touch with just good old common sense. I just LOVE that. I enjoyed reading about Jason and Kim. Your questions were great Lance. As Lance knows, I can get pretty goofy and I flat out REFUSE to be pushed into riged adulthood. I am very grown up in the ways that matter.…but the rest of me is so madly in love with Life that I find joy and laughter and fun at the drop of a hat.
I am always shocked when people 20 years younger than me are embarrassed by goofiness, or just too “mature” for such behavior. I don’t judge them, in fact my heart goes out to them. AND I refuse to act in kind. I stand strong in my goofiness. LOL!!! Luckily I am blessed that my dear husband is as goofy and playful as I am. We have an utter blast. Even five minutes together and we are laughing and entertaining each other and ourselves. I even laugh in my sleep dreaming about things he has said or done.
Do you know what I love about coming here? There is always this feeling that I have returned to the best part of my childhood growing up in rural Maine. There is SUCH SUCH SUCH an ease here, so down to earth. Thank you for that dear Lance.
You are a true and cherished friend.
Hugs,
Robin
.-= Robin Easton´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Whispering Winds Of Energy =-.
Dear Lance, I was just out in my kitchen getting a snack and I kept thinking about your site here and also the point of this post, and suddenly the world “wholesome” came into my mind. And I thought, “Yes, that’s the word I was looking for. There is a wholesomeness here that has such a “normal” feel to it. I just love it. It reminds me of the summer evenings that we played baseball with the neighborhood kids, and caught fireflies, and laid on the lawn after dark counting shooting stars, and and and.… Life was good, soooo good in those moments. It went from magical to goofy and back again a 1000 times in an hour, and we felt clean inside and free and happy in those moments. Thank you dear dear Lance.
.-= Robin Easton´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Whispering Winds Of Energy =-.
Jason and Kim, the world very much needs more of what you guys offer. I’m pretty sure waterbomb warfare could solve most of the world’s conflicts! Impromptu Flashdance routines and handstands against the wall are also great antidotes to Adultitis.
Lance, you really need to give water bomb warfare a go. You don’t know what you’re missing! (copping one to the head is a bit of a shock but it doesn’t hurt — I promise!)
.-= Sami — Life, Laughs & Lemmings´s Last Fabulous Post ..Blogging for a Cure =-.
How wonderful and uplifting! I heart being a kid. I knew I wasn’t crazy. Thanks for this interview and website. I am definitely checking it out. I love the made up games scenerio. Last night, starting playing with two small girls, was pretending I couldn’t see them and going around the house yelling for them, while they jumped up and down in front of me screaming, “I’m right here”. It was soooo hard not to laugh but boy did we have fun! Funny how they can just disappear like that
.-= Angelia Sims´s Last Fabulous Post ..From Fit to Flab =-.
I think Kim and Jason have a great view of the world and I’officially adopting the term “adultitis”. I think people make life so much more difficult for themselves than it needs to be by adopting certain attitudes which they think are necessary to be taken seriously. I love this:
“Two cups of dreams and a full pint of play,
A pinch of curiosity for the perfect bouquet. “
.-= Marelisa´s Last Fabulous Post ..NaNoWriMo – How to Write a Novel in 30 Days =-.
Hi Lance — Thanks for the great interview. Kim and Jason sound like really fun people and seven years blogging is a real achievement. I didn’t even know what a blog was back then — I’ll definitely be checking out their blog.
A wonderful interview sir! A very positive outlook…a Positive attitude is contagious!
What a great interview and an interesting couple.
.-= South Beach Steve´s Last Fabulous Post ..Light Peanut Butter =-.
This is so cool and I am very happy you have shared this!
I don’t think I suffer from Adultitis, but I am off to Escape Adulthood just the same. (just in case!)
Thanks Lance and also to Kim and Jason!
.-= Keith´s Last Fabulous Post ..Living The Kind Life =-.
I think I’ve got enough kiditis around my house to keep me out of adultitis for a long, long time!! But I absolutely loved reading about this awesome couple!!
.-= Diane Fit to the Finish´s Last Fabulous Post ..Reaching the 100’s =-.
Ahhh! I’ve definitely got a bad case of adultitis right now! But I’ve been thinking about all the little things that have brought joy to me during this dark time I’m going through right now. And it’s definitely the “kid” things. My kids are my joy and I’m making the commitment to drop the dull adult stuff and embrace hide and go seek and riding bikes through dirt fields and rolling in the grass and laughing so hard that–well you get the picture! Anyhow thanks for this reminder:)
.-= Hope´s Last Fabulous Post ..Learning to have compassion.… =-.
Yes, I too remember the days of wanting to grow old and to supposedly do what I wanted to do.
Do you think that was a ploy by parents to have us grow up fast and furious so they can have time to themselves to goof off again?
However as you all say, being an adult without the inability to look at the world from a child’s eye is not much fun.
I feel that I not only do not want to miss the fun but I also do appreciate the curiosity and the absolute wonder that you can have as a child.
I love looking at nature and just loose myself in all my senses and se, hear and feel what there is right in front of me without holding back.
That intenseness I so love and I missed when I became an adult.
Now I am getting it back thank goodness and it is adding to the quality of life.
As you can hear, you all are preaching to the converted and I love it. Give me more.
.-= Wilma Ham´s Last Fabulous Post ..What happens when instead of an old fashioned partner I become a sponsor. =-.
Lance,
Thanks for sharing this interview. As a parent, I had discovered their website already and found it very interesting. Having children definitely helps in staying (or becoming) a child (again). Goofing around is a major activity in our house — and it’s fun and probably right up there with the cure’s for depression and heart disease.
Oh, and I’d really love to read their book
Mimi
.-= Mindful Mimi´s Last Fabulous Post ..Sunday laugh =-.
@Jay — Hi Jay. Kim and Jason certainly exude an attitude that is very much one on loving life! And the cool thing is, they’re the same in real life as they come across on their site. And what are you thinking Jay? Blogger party!!
@Tim — More Kim and Jason fans…woohoo! And their site’s a great place to go for anyone feeling a little too “adultish”. Watch a video or two there, and you can’t help but feel the kid in you coming out!
@Positively Present — Thanks much, Dani!
@Evita — Hi Evita. And I think we become grumpy because we’re taken away from the “fun” in life…because, as adults, we’re not supposed to do that stuff. And look where that gets us!! Just a quicker visit to grumpy-land! Having had the opportunity to spend a morning with Kim and Jason, I can just tell you a couple of things — they don’t look any more strange than anyone else we see (whew…right, Kim and Jason!) and at the same time, there just seems to be this perpetual joy and happiness. Now, I’m not sure anyone can ALWAYS feel happy, but there was something about what felt like a deep happiness shining through. And it was so refreshing! And fun!!
@Erin Brooks — Hi Erin. Yep, Kim and Jason have developed a partnership that is much more than just “being married”. And I’m sure that working together has it’s challenges, too. They’ve got a really good handle on making it work, and even more than that — making it thrive!
@Lynn — “Fun” is a really good thing, isn’t it Lynn! Definitely check out their blog — you’ll come away with ideas!
@Lisa — Hi Lisa. Fun rocks!! And so…their website rocks too, then! The videos are a great place to start, there have been some pretty funny ones!
@Akemi — HI Akemi. Coolness, more fans of Kim and Jason!! And when I read what you’re saying, I’m reminded that today I can choose what environment I’ll put myself in. And I can also choose my behavior in those moments too — which, I think, goes a long way toward finding the joy in the everyday. And so, our inner child — or maybe really a part of our soul that yearns to get out — is in connecting with what really matters…openly. And you have the book, Akemi — very awesome!
@Karl — Hi Karl. I would say that Kim and Jason have a really good handle on working happy.…and even more than that…on living happy! Of course, our work life can be a big part of our life in general, so all the better that we find ways to see (and be) the happiness in these moments. Definitely peruse around their site, it’s loaded with great stuff!
@Robin Easton — Hi Robin. Awww…thank you! And that’s such a wonderful compliment, I’m honored by your words, and by your presence here, Robin. And yes, you are no stranger to goofy! And that’s so awesome! Sometimes my kids are “embarrassed” by what I do…and I suppose it’s their age. Hopefully, they’re seeing that life is about having fun and really living. Kim and Jason share this message so well, this idea of getting out and being “goofy”! And what you and your husband do just sounds so good for the soul! When we laugh and are just letting the silliness within us out — we shine our soul…and that’s pretty awesome! So good, always, having you here! Hugs to you, my friend…
@Robin Easton — Hey, long time no see! It’s great to have you here again! Two coments from you — Robin, this put a big smile on my face!! Baseball, fireflies, shooting stars…what sweet memories. And once again, I’m honored by reading this. You have touched my heart, once again. “Wholesome”…Robin, that feels so good hearing you use that word here. Thank you, very deeply, for sharing your heart here. You are a treasure…
@Sami — Hi Sami. Water bomb warfare is pretty fun stuff…right Jason??? Jason??? Okay, maybe I should ask Kim! Right Kim!! Ha!! That video was so fun…well, as long as I wasn’t the one in the chair (sorry, Jason…). I’m working on those handstands, too. Maybe I should send you a video, and you can tell me what I can improve upon (I don’t think so!!).
@Angelia — Hi Angelia. Ha! No, you’re not crazy for letting that kid out…you’re one of the lucky ones — keep on letting that little girl in you out!! And what a fun game — pretending you can’t see the kids right in front of you! Reminds me of a game we play here called “Garbage” — where all the kids run wild through the house, and I chase them, catch them and then throw them on the sofa (the pretend garbage can). And then they (the kids…aka garbage) try to escape, and we do it all over again. A great game on a cold Wisconsin day! Keep on being goofy, Angelia!
@Marelisa — Hi Mare. Isn’t that a great word…adultitis! It just sounds so much like a bad disease! And something we don’t want to have. And that line from the book is really great, isn’t it! Dreams, playing, and a bit of curiosity…a wonderful mix indeed! Thanks much, Mare, and great having you here today!
Hi Lance!
I loved your interview with Jason and Kim! I suffered from adultitis for many years. It sucked…literally sucked my life force from me. And then I divorced it, got healthy, and came full circle. In fact, when my second husband (who once was the boy I first fell in love with back in 1980) found me and we started dating (the second time around!), my dad told me I was more like the care-free teenager he remembered. Funny thing — my husband’s family said the same thing about him.
There’s a lot to be said for being adultitis-free!
oh…and Jason and Kim’s book goes on my list!
Thanks,
Peggy
.-= Peggy´s Last Fabulous Post ..Your Moment of Bliss =-.
Lance,
Are you sure you’re not related to Kim and Jason? They remind me of you and how you live life. I love the poem and there will be no more missing Cracker Jack prizes for me! This has so inspired me…I think that poem should be hanging in every household!
We live in such an intense society I believe that Jason and Kim should be what the doctore orders for everyone. I also like the way they focused on their business for 9 months before buying a house. It shows what focus can do, doesn’t it.
Jason and Kim are examples for us all. Great interview.
.-= Tess The Bold Life´s Last Fabulous Post ..There Is Nothing To Fear =-.
@Cath — Hi Cath. Doesn’t that seem like forever…seven years! Wow! And I think it shows that when you find something you love, and stick with it, great things can happen! Have fun “escaping adulthood”!
@Mark — Great to see you Mark!! And yes, I’d say their positive attitude is very contagious!
@South Beach Steve — Hi Steve. And yes, they ARE interesting…and part of that is just in how they live their life — so fun!
@Keith — Hi Keith. I’m kind of guessing that you’re right…adultitis is something you’re not inflicted with. Be careful though, it’s out there…and just like a bad cold, it can be catchy if you’re not careful. The really cool, thing, though — is that just as easy as it can be to get a case of adultitis, the cure is easily within your reach too — it’s within YOU! Anyway, keep being kidlike, my friend…it rocks!
@Diane — Hi Diane. “Kiditis”!! I love it! The cure for adultitis is sometimes a whole bunch of kiditis! And when you’re surrounded by kids…shoot…sometimes they start to rub off on you! In some very good ways! Keep enjoying your amazing family!
@Hope — Hi Hope. There are moments…when we all have some dark days. Some worse than others. And in those moments, if we can find something to hold onto, that helps to pull us out — even if just temporarily at first — this can be so good for our spirit. So, Hope, enjoy “being” with your kids, and doing the “fun” activities with them. And let their joy raise your own. And know that it’s there, within you, that child-like wonder…
@Wilma — Hi Wilma. Ha!! So, maybe our parents were onto something, especially during those teenage years! Yikes!! Nature is such a good source to connect with. In fact, I am in awe when I really stop and think about nature, and even just try to comprehend how it all works. So, then I just go out and build a snowman, or something like that! Really being in nature is powerful! Anyway, Wilma, so good to hear where you’re at on this continuüm…child-like wonder is such an awesome place to be!
@Mimi — Hi Mimi. Very awesome…that you’ve already discovered Kim and Jason’s website — it’s fantastic! Having kids around is a great way to reconnect with the kid inside each of us (although that doesn’t mean at all that you can’t do that without kids around too — you definitely can!). I know that, in a way, it feels like we’re given permission to act a little goofy when we have kids of our own — especially little ones. Weird, huh? How doing the same thing, with and without kids around — can evoke completely different feelings (in ourselves and from others…). Mimi, this really has me thinking today — how we limit ourselves sometimes, just to adhere to some “social standard”…and I’m pretty sure that’s not such a good idea… Anyway, this is really great stuff. And, you would love the book!!
@Peggy — Hi Peggy. I think you’ve come up with a pretty “right on” description of what adultitis is — sucking the life force from us. And yet, we let that happen to us sometimes, huh. So good to hear you’ve found a cure! And what a story…sometimes it just takes a while to find that “right” connection. And the beautiful thing here is that both you and your husband have fed off of each other, to all that child-like “you” for each of you shine! And Kim and Jason’s book is excellent! Just very much stuff we can all do to make life more “fun”!!
@Tess — Hi Tess. Ha! I don’t think we’re related!?!? Maybe it’s because we’re neighbors…they’re goofiness is rubbing off on me! Well, not like next door neighbors… Although I think that would be good fun, watching Kim and Jason’s antics in their yard!! And, yes — that poem that Jason wrote is so good to read! Kind of sums up what can happen if we just start to “conform” to the world around us. Yes, Jason and Kim shine!! As do you, Tess! I’m sure you’re adultitis-free!!!
Kim and Jason ,
You two ARE awesome! And it’s so great to know both of you, and not just through your site, but to have also met in person! It’s really so neat to see that you live what you write. You are both “buckets of joy”! And, well…so is that special little girl in your life too! And that’s you two, showing her, through your actions, how life can be fun. Of course, for kids, that’s easier — carefree days rule. Still, though, you are a large influence in her life, and what a wonderful message she’s receiving!
Keep on being beacons of light in our world. What you share is such a great message to spread! Like jelly on toast, you make what’s hard and crunchy (life, sometimes) — softened, sweet, and tasty!
Godspeed, in all that life holds for both of you!
YAY Lance! Picking Kim and Jason to feature — just fabulous! What a cool cup of water in the desert they are, aren’t they? I love the “adultitis” word! I’m a huge believer in the fact that our inner 6 yr. child never really goes away and that part of us needs as much “air time” as the rest of us! To me, age is a useless number really. It’s the spirit and curiosity and creativity we need to hang on to. The enthusiasm and delight we experienced as kids doesn’t have to go away! It shouldn’t!
Kim and Jason are my kind of people! I’ll be going to their blog for the reinforcement I occasionally need to keep that kid in me alive and well! They can be my Daily Kid Vitamin!
Thanks Lance! I’m “in” for November’s Laugh Fest — sorry I haven’t called you back yet but I will!
Hugs and giggles,
suzen
I love the concept of their book! Enjoyed reading your commentary, too.
.-= Sagan´s Last Fabulous Post ..Walk and Get Fit =-.
Thanks for sharing this, Lance. I checked out their site and I can see instant possibilities for applying Kim and Jason’s ideas to our life. I’m looking forward to continuing to try to find a balance between responsibilities and playfulness. We deserve to be silly and to laugh!
.-= Daphne´s Last Fabulous Post ..Own Your Way =-.
I can’t imagine Lucy making anything other than an absolutely wonderful impact on the world — with such great parents as Kim & Jason!
Wow, Lance, you have the best friends. Thanks as usual for sharing them and bringing us all a little closer together in fun and frolic. Their book sounds great!
I am so honored and blessed to be a part of your sphere, Lance. I truly am. As are we all to know you.
.-= Jannie Funster´s Last Fabulous Post ..Goin’ For The Page Rank Juice =-.
Adultitis, love it! Although kids added to our responsibilities, I think they have definitely saved my husband and I from adultitis…I don’t have much more to add, just wanted to be sure I was eligible for the giveaway if it hasn’t happened yet:-)
.-= Lisa (mommymystic)´s Last Fabulous Post ..Tibetan Knowledge on Birth, PND, Motherhood, and Childcare =-.
Oh my gosh, I definitely have a case of adultitis that I developed when I was 10 and my parents split up. I NEED YOUR WEB SITE & BOOK! Gracious…
Actually, this post is so well timed in two ways (only one of which I can mention here). The one way I can share has to do with a trip I just took to Pittsburgh with my boyfriend. Even though he was working and away from me most of the time, when we were together, it was pure silliness from start to finish. Things like racing down the hotel hallways to see who could get to the elevator first (including wrestling moves and sneaky grabs to throw our opponent off-balance); singing silly songs, etc. My gosh, I was 9 again and it felt SO SO GOOD!
I loved reading this interview, so thanks, Lance, and thank you Kim & Jason for sharing a bit of yourselves here!
.-= Megan “JoyGirl!” Bord´s Last Fabulous Post ..A Study in Sibling Reverie =-.
Fabulous introduction and interview with some remarkable people.
I never learned to play — I am incredibly intense…
When I had a silly moment, my mother would shut it down by saying “My aren’t you Lucy-Goosey today,” and she would remind me not to embarrass her in public.
One day I was leading worship at my church and something just caught me as funny and I could hardly stop laughing in my controlled fashion…it took me getting up and leaving for a minute to continue on.…more people said to me after that moment that they were relieved to see that I could laugh…I am afraid though I still work at it…trying to laugh and play
.-= Patricia´s Last Fabulous Post ..Jeepers Peepers – Where Have You Guys Gone? =-.
@Suzen — Hi Suzen. Coolness, no doubt!! Letting that inner spirit shine, that’s really letting the six year old within us out! And yes, check out Kim and Jason’s blog — it loaded with so much fun stuff! And, I’ll be in touch about November…shortly… Peace and laughter to you!!
@Sagan — It’s a great book, Sagan! And it’s so easy to pick up whenever you have a couple of minutes — that’s what I really love!
@Daphne — Hi Daphne. And that’s the thing, what Kim and Jason talk about are things that are so easily applicable to our daily lives. Sure, maybe not all of it will be a perfect fit. But, even if just one thing is, then it’s worth it. And they speak (and act out) in very down-to-earth ways, while loading up on the fun factor! So, to you and Donald…enjoy the moments of laughter and silliness!
@Jannie — Hey Jannie. Yep, little Lucy’s got a great start in this world with her wonderful parents leading the charge! And their book is great — so easy to read (hey, I’m all for easy!). And so down-to-earth useful! And Jannie…thank YOU! For what you’re saying today…really, though, so much more than that — for being this wonderful, amazing, life-giving, totally fantastic Jannie!!
@Lisa — Isn’t that a great word…adultitis! Well..great in terms of what the word means and implies. Not so great if we catch it! And you know, Lisa, I love what you’ve added here — kids can bring out the kid in us! So true! Maybe it’s that we feel more comfortable if we’re acting like a kid…in the presence of children? I’m not sure… Although I know exactly what you mean… Thanks so much for being here!
@Megan — Hmmm…that’s interesting Megan. I wonder if divorce has any effect, typically, where kids have to “grow up” quicker. Anyway, I know I’m not going to solve that one tonight…what I do know, though, is that your weekend and getting back to feeling like that 9 year old Megan again was not only a real gift to you (and your boyfriend), it was also a gift to me — to read and feel the joy in your words! And it has me thinking about me, and where I spend my time — am I really letting the 9 year old Lance out enough?? Megan, thank YOU for sharing this story, and for leaving me with a great big ol’ smile tonight! I’m pretty sure you’re well on your way to living life with the child-like wonder of your youth!!
@Patricia — Hi Patricia. Learning to play…that’s interesting. I’m sure that played a role in who you are today…and maybe moments like the one at church are just what are needed to let that inner child in you out…the one that, even as a child, had a hard time coming out to play. Patricia, I reallly appreciate you sharing your story here today, and it’s a reminder to all of us that play doesn’t necessarily come easy — especially trying to unlearn the only ways we’re familiar with. So, thank you, very deeply, for sharing a bit about you. Know that you can get there, to that place you want to be at…I believe it…I believe in you…
Lance,
First as a human, second as a Mom, third as a teacher of teens for 7 years, fourth as a Kaizen-Muse Creativity Coach (maybe not in that order-hard to say)…YES!…I love that both Kim and Jason open to their inner children and allow them to dance daily with their outer adults! Not just on weekends or occasionally, but woven throughout their daily adult doings and beings. Such Joy, Zip and Zest for life!
gentle, playful, twirling, skipping, hopscotch steps,
Laura
Lance,
Jason and Kim sound like such a wonderful couple!!! So full of life and really showing the world how to live in the NOW and enjoy each moment. What funnn little Lucy is going to have growing up with such cool parents
Adultitis…ahhh…the wittiness of this word just keeps ringing in my head. My little angel has taught me to be a little girl again since she came into my life. And i thank god for that. But, i often have my husband gigglingly complaining.…“Zee will you ever grow up???” I end up watching cartoons and playing with the kids outside almost everyday.…..so fun to forget youre an adult
Am going to head over to their site..and have some funnnn.…:)
Thanks Lance for such an awesome introduction…to such awesome folks!
.-= Zeenat{Positive Provocations}´s Last Fabulous Post ..My New Beginnings =-.
I definitely agree that as adults we take ourselves too seriously! There is always time for play and silliness. I keep threatening with those finger paints…time to really pull them out!! i bought them…just haven’t used them
Hi Lance,
Thank you for introducing me to a new site. Very cool. I love the idea of escaping adultitis. Personally, I do not believe in growing up and it is great that Jason and Kim are doing what they can to help people to remain young in spirit.
.-= Nadia — Happy Lotus´s Last Fabulous Post ..Breathe in Life – Interview with Dorothea Delgado =-.
Great Blog! These guys bring a smile just looking at their picture.
Hi Lance, Kim and Jason!
Love the exeburance of both of you! I think we are kindred spirits…I love having fun in my work even the mundane stuff. Don’t always pull it off but work at on those days. It just makes each day alot brighter when you do! The smile just come more readily. Made me smile and laugh reading your poem!!! Sounds like your book that will add laughter and also help everyone who reads it bring more of that into your everyday!
@Laura Hegfield — Hi Laura. And having met both Kim and Jason in person, I know this very much to be true…that they let that inner child of theirs shine! So good to have you here — skipping, twirling, and playing…
@Zeenat — Hi Zeenat. Little Lucy is a ball of joy! And as much as we are all our own person, we definitely also learn what we live. And that’s giving her a start on life that is filled with fun! And the answer to your husband’s question…is “NO”, right!! Keep on playing and having fun…and living life!
@Stacey Shipman — Okay, maybe I have to come out there…and we’ll have a paint fight (and hey…it’s your house, not mine!). Here’s to living life and having lots of fun along the way!!
@Nadia — Hi Nadia. Enjoy perusing around the “Escape Adulthood” site! And I really think you shine at this, Nadia…you LIVE your life…and it’s so great for me to be here, and see that unfold!
@Laura — Hi Laura. Lot’s of smiles, no doubt!
@Diane — Hi Diane. And isn’t the poem fun! Jason did a great job with it!! And that’s a great point — even when we’re doing something that seems mundane, that doesn’t mean we can’t have fun!
CONGRATULATIONS!
Winner of the “There’s An Adult In My Soup” book goes to: Wilma Ham
Congratulations Wilma!!
THANKS Lance AND Kim AND Jason.
I LOVE winning which I never could with 3 older and stronger brothers who never ever let me win even though I was a lot smaller! Even now they still go for the kill when we play fight!
So, this is great! It hugely adds to my joy of being alive, these unexpected surprises; I love books like this, showing the joy and fun in life!!!
Once again, I am thrilled and thanks so much.
Love and joy to you all, Wilma.
.-= Wilma Ham´s Last Fabulous Post ..What happens when instead of an old fashioned partner I become a sponsor. =-.
They really sound like a great couple. I really enjoyed the interview.
.-= Rose´s Last Fabulous Post ..An Online Interview with Lorelle VanFossen =-.
Great post! Very uplifting. Thanks for sharing!
Hi Lance — thanks .. that was a great interview introducing us to Kim and Jason, and now little Lucy — and so good you were able to meet.
We are all too serious — aren’t we .. we need to laugh more, laugh at ourselves .… sometimes as adults life does creep up and we may need to be adults to get through; but then we can be ourselves again, once we’ve jumped that difficult hurdle.
We should never take ourselves too seriously ..
Thanks — love it .. and your love of life too
Hilary Melton-Butcher
Positive Letters Inspirational Stories
.-= Hilary´s Last Fabulous Post ..What can you read from Kitchen Utensils? =-.