photo credit: Bart van Damme
The Resignation
I am hereby officially tendering my
resignation as an adult. I have decided
I would like to accept the responsibilities
of an 8 year-old.I want to go to McDonald’s and
think that it’s a four star restaurant.I want to sail sticks across a fresh mud
puddle and make a sidewalk with rocks.I want to think M&Ms are better than money because you can eat them.
I want to lie under a big oak tree and run a lemonade stand with my friends on a hot summer’s day.
I want to return to a time when life was simple; When all you knew were colors, multiplication tables, and nursery rhymes, but that didn’t bother you, because you didn’t know what you didn’t know and you didn’t care.
All you knew was to be happy because you were blissfully unaware of all the things that should make you worried or upset.
I want to think the world is fair. That everyone is honest and good.
I want to believe that anything is possible. I want to be oblivious to the complexities of life and be overly excited by the little things again.
I want to live simple again. I don’t want my day to consist of computer crashes, mountains of paperwork, depressing news, how to survive more days in the month than there is money in the bank, doctor bills, gossip, illness, and loss of loved ones.
I want to believe in the power of smiles, hugs, a kind word, truth, justice, peace, dreams, the imagination, mankind, and making angels in the snow.
So… here’s my checkbook and my car-keys, my credit card bills and my 401K statements. I am officially resigning from adulthood.
And if you want to discuss this further, you’ll have to catch me first, cause.….…
.…..“Tag! You’re it.”
~ Author Unknown
Lance , I want to tend in my resignation too.…I want to come catch you and run around trees and discuss this further over yummy cones of softy ice cream from McDonald(which is still my favorite)
But hey I am still no adult no way 
Even after five kids, grandkids and wrinkles I will still be only 8 years old 
How much fun is that ??
Get ready world.…I have resigned from this “adult thing” too.….
You might find me jumping and swinging in the park next to my house with the other little girl who lives with me…who happens to be my daughter
Lance this was one of the most uplifting pieces i have read in a very very long while.…it made me so so happy
Thank you fro always making my Sunday Awesome and yummy just like McDonald ice creams
Much love,
Z~
.-= Zeenat{Positive Provocations}´s Last Fabulous Post ..Smiles and Laughter =-.
Hi Lance,
Me, too! If I stop and really think, I can still remember those carefree days. Thank you for reminding me to reflect on the past and project some of that innocence on the future.
Thank you for the great message and awesome photo!
.-= Barbara Swafford´s Last Fabulous Post ..Mind Your Own Business, Or Not? =-.
Great post! Put a smile on my face and brought memories flooding back! X
Yay, I’m it — and love being it. have the advantage of having small kids who behave like that everyday. Sometimes that just drives me crazy because there are lots of adult things to do and behaving like kids gets in the way (lingering forever along the road when we need to get to some place quick, asking a zillion questions over and over again, playing with everything but their toys and making a mess in seconds). But then I ask myself why it makes me crazy…? And why I should not join them instead of them joining me… It’s not always possible of course, but hey, I get a reminder every day and that must have some impact
Thanks for sharing that. Have a great Sunday.
M
.-= Mindful Mimi´s Last Fabulous Post ..Sunday laugh =-.
It’s such a nice feeling being a child again. I think that’s the secret to life: to be born again and again and again!
Life is simple, and simplicity is joy.
.-= I TAKE OFF THE MASK´s Last Fabulous Post ..I Am Thankful! =-.
I’m going to put this poem on the bathroom mirror and enjoy reflecting on it some more…it’s great! Your site is fun, interesting and upbeat and I’m signing off to post a link to yours on my new site
http://www.goodoodles.com
Gotta love sites that make us smile! I’ll be checking back on http://www.jungleoflife.com for more of those! Thanks!
Love it, and some morning at the beach I do resign and be like a 5 yearold I think, as soom as I saw that photo I saw myself skipping down the road
As ever inspiring
Love
Suzie
.-= Suzie Cheel´s Last Fabulous Post ..Follow Friday Gratitude =-.
woo hoo!
and yes.
Im ALWAYS it
.-= Miz´s Last Fabulous Post ..I love myself. part 3948 (giveaway post). =-.
Me too
I love all you post
Love Jeanne
.-= Jeanne´s Last Fabulous Post ..My Precious Grandmothers 95th Birthday =-.
This tickles the child within me! It makes me want to kick off my shoes, feel the grass on my toes, and run through the sprinklers! If only it wasn’t 1 below zero!
.-= Joanna Sutter´s Last Fabulous Post ..Sunday School =-.
I love this Lance! Happy Sunday to you.
You’re it!
.-= Natalia Burleson´s Last Fabulous Post ..Monday Goals..1st week =-.
Great sentiment, I like to think I’ll remain young at heart when I’m old in body. I think that’s what was going on with me a couple of months ago when I turned 40. The old concept I had of “being 40″ just doesn’t fit in with my outlook on life. I don’t care how old I get, I want to believe the world is fair, anything is possible, live simple, believe in the power of smiles and hugs… all of it! All we have to do is choose to look at the world that way, and life can be as simple as for an 8 year old
.-= Hilda´s Last Fabulous Post ..One Word Intention for 2010: Connection =-.
When my best friend was diagnosed with breast cancer, she embraced child-like things and I enjoyed that right along with her. A memorable walk included blowing bubbles along the way and knocking on doors of people she knew, just to say hi — without concern of disturbing them. In some cases they didn’t know about her condition and seemed to genuinely love the visit.
.-= Lynn´s Last Fabulous Post ..Snow, being home and flora =-.
No, you’re it! Unh-uh you are!! Ready or not here I come!
How perfect Lance! I’m headed to the Church nursery to PLAY for a few hours. It’s not work, nor is it volunteering, but just pure fun with love and care. What a great way to start it. Happy Sunday!
.-= Angelia´s Last Fabulous Post ..What I’ve learned about blogging =-.
My teen daughter. She talks of growing up and flying the coop. I keep telling her she’s in for a shocker. And I would love to get into a serious game of hopscotch right now. She’ll be begging to join my hopscotch game in 15 years.
This goes along with something I’ve been feeling more and more lately: the magic of being young again. The best example I can give is a snow shoveling job I took to get through winter. At first, being called out at 3:00 a.m. to shovel people’s sidewalks in the dark and crazy cold felt merely bold since I’d never done it before. Then it became more comfortable and fairly routine. Last week, though, it became magical in the way that all winters used to be magical to me as a kid. The moon was shining one morning and I noticed how all the snow sparkled like diamonds. Instantly I was transported back to when I was six years old and used to sit outside and just marvel at the sparkly gemstones all around me.
Not ten minutes later, my shoveling partner made a comment to me about how each shovel of snow we pick up has millions of flakes in it — another kid-like moment!
So yes, Lance, I’d like to re-apply for my position as a kid, too. The world was full of possibility, and that’s what I’m ready to get passionate about once more.
Happy Sunday to you!
.-= Megan “JoyGirl!” Bord´s Last Fabulous Post ..Funny Cookies =-.
I’m with you! Sign me up!
Actually, I’m kinda already doing this. I’ve released so many “shoulds” over the past few months, and learned to embrace my silliness and goofiness. The more I attune with love and light, the more childlike I become, and it’s truly amazing and wonderful.
Thanks for helping show me the way. You rock, Lance.
.-= Jay Schryer´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Miracle =-.
Okay, but I get to be the puppy!
.-= Betsy Wuebker´s Last Fabulous Post ..My Three Words for 2010 =-.
@Zeenat — Hey Z! I’m playing “hide and seek” now! Can you find me?? Being “kid like” is pretty great, isn’t it! And I’m sure your daughter has so much fun with YOU! Okay, let’s go have some of those McD’s ice cream cones!! My treat!
@Barbara — Hi Barbara. Those carefree days as a kid…are all sorts of awesome! Let’s have a few more of those, huh! Every little bit that we can add to our days…well, those are days that are filled with awesomeness!
@aclambart — Memories…of being a kid! Of days that were filled with no worries…if we had those as a child, what a wonderful experience!! And the thing is…we can do that TODAY, too..each of us can be a little bit more kid-like!!
@Mimi — Okay then, Mimi…you are IT!! catch me if you can!! (I suppose that might not be too difficult for you!) Having kids who live in a kid-like state (and they should!) certainly can help to bring that out in us, too. And I know…sometimes we get wrapped up in what we “have” to do…and miss out on what our kids “just get” all along — it’s in the journey, and it best we find joy in that. Happy Sunday! Okay…I’m running!!
@Jocelyn — Hi Jocelyn. When we let that kid in us out, wow!! There is fun to be had! Again and again! And there’s much joy in all of that!
@April — Hi April. This is good to read over and over again, isn’t it! Lest we slip back into more (yikes!) adult-like ways. It’s great to have you here!
@Suzie — Happy skipping!! Which, that feels very kid-like, doesn’t it! And since you mentioned beach…maybe some happy splashing too! Woohoo!!! Have fun Suzie!
One of the beauties of being a parent that for a while, when I was playing with my kids, I was a child again. Playing in the leaves, finger painting, baking cookies, snowball fights, etc. Although not full fledged retirement, it’s not too bad.
Thanks for the go out and play reminder, Lance.
.-= LisaNewton´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook =-.
I simply love this! I feel like that is what I’m getting back to. Though after working at McDonalds’ for almost 3 years during my teen years, I just don’t think I can go back to that…I’m sure I’ll find something else, though!
.-= Stacey Shipman´s Last Fabulous Post ..Awake to Life, Turkeys and All =-.
@Miz — Woohoo!! Okay then…you are IT! No tag backs!!
@Jeanne — Happy skippy day Jeanne!!
@Joanna — Tickle, tickle!! And that thought! Well…I have a couple of ticklish spots… Maybe we need some indoor sprinklers, that would be fun! Because minus one sounds a bit “icy”! come on over here, it is much warmer today — we are at plus one!! A whole two degrees warmer! I promise FUN! Although…the sprinklers will still be a problem today!!
@Natalia — I’m IT!! Okay, you better run then, because I’m coming after YOU! Happy Sunday!
@Hilda — Yes, that 40 mark…we crossed that bridge within days of each other! In fact, you can thank me, I believe I crossed it first, you know…just to see how “safe” it was on the other side! Ha!!! And it’s A OK, isn’t it!! And I’m believing right along with you — anything is possible and there is so much life in smiles and hugs! Maybe a game of “hug tag”! Okay, how about if YOU are IT first! Go!
@Lynn — I love the story you have shared Lynn! And the beauty is, we can do that anytime, we don’t have to wait for a wake up call. Life is what we make it! And your friend really embraced that — which is wonderful!
@Angelia — Okay then…I am running after YOU! Go!! PLAY!! Woohoo! Fun with love and care…how great is that! And I know you WILL have FUN!! And when you get back…that game of tag will still be going on, so watch out!!! Have a wonderful day of PLAYING!!
Where’s my resignation letter? Oh , there it is…
I think I’ll go outside and play now!
(I needed this today…a reminder to keep my yoga class playful, fun, and light this morning!)
xo
Peggy
.-= Peggy´s Last Fabulous Post ..Your Moment of Bliss =-.
Ha! I’m not a fast runner, but my son tells me I can dodge and avoid with the best of em!~
.-= Natalia Burleson´s Last Fabulous Post ..Goal review week 1 =-.
We always have everything we need anyway, so worries are easy to toss out the door.
Can’t quite wrap my mind around thinking MacDonalds a 4-star restaurant,Even in the name of light-hearted adult resignation — have boycotted them for years. But Ill substitute Chick Filet instead and take my finest silverware and candleabras there next time I dine.
Cheers!!
.-= Jannie Funster´s Last Fabulous Post ..Funny Typos, “Like A Bord on A Wire,” 14 =-.
Oh my gosh… Thank You Lance!!! This is perfect. I want to go swimming and not really care what my bathing suit looks like…on me
I want to jump rope to some silly song; hey can I play hopscotch too!! OK so I’m excited at the idea of letting go of adult worries and focusing on my inner child once in a while. Let’s do it!!
That last part had me laughing, sort of reminded me of the movie “BIG” with Tom Hanks.
Thanks again Lance, for a great post!!
Terie
.-= Terie´s Last Fabulous Post ..I Spy Little Treasures =-.
hey everybody — let’s vote for jungle of life in the 2010 bloggies! http://2010.bloggies.com/
.-= jen´s Last Fabulous Post ..Just. Something. =-.
@Yum Yucky — Your daughter wants to fly away from your coop??? It’s just because she doesnt’t know how über-cool (cool word, too, huh!) her Mom is! Shocker for sure!! Okay…while your daughter contemplates these big decisions in life…I am in for the 15 year game of hopscotch! You gotta move it move it!! Think of how super fit and amazingly good we’ll be at hopscotch after playing for THAT long! Woohoo!
@Megan — Magical snowflakes! How fun to see this in the midst of winter, as an adult, out there not necessarily “playing” in it. Megan, I love the kid like thoughts of the snow…and those weren’t necessarily the thoughts I had as I was out shoveling last week. So…next I’m out there, I’m thinking like YOU! It’s all magical…and that definitely includes the snowflakes that fall from the sky! Okay then…we are re-applying for kid life together! I’m sure the time in front of us will be filled with many moments of wonder and awe…and maybe even a whole bunch of goofiness! Happy Sunday to YOU, too!!
@Jay — Okay then, Jay…you are signed up again…since you are already doing it anyway!! We’ll make you fearless leader #1! So, with that comes great responsibility. Wait!!! We want to be like kids, right…and so let’s skip the whole “great responsibility” thoughts…and just have fun!! Hey, I see it all the time in YOU…shine on, awesome friend!
@Betsy — And do you know what’s interesting, Betsy?? I almost went with a picture of two puppies chasing each other! Ruff!!
@LisaNewton — Kids, especially younger children…they do have a way of helping us to bring out those child-like qualities that we sometimes tuck away far too deeply. Snowball fights!! Now there’s something I bet you don’t do too much of anymore! Me? Well, yep, we still have those here…have to do something with all that snow! And after a good snowball fight, nothing is better than hot cocoa and chocolate chip cookies! Yum!
@Stacey Shipman — And it’s a pretty great place to get back to!! So, McD’s girl…that’s not your favorite restaurant anymore??? Okay, I’ll admit, it’s not too high on my list either. We go there very, very rarely. Although, some of those play-lands are pretty fun (I think I got stuck in one of them once…as an adult!). How about picnics in the park?? That can be fun!! And then there’s a place to goof around too…like for a good game of TAG. YOU can be IT first!
@Peggy — That’s a great resignation letter, isn’t it!! Happy playing today, Peggy! And have a whole bunch of fun with your yoga class!! Woohoo!!
@Natalia — HaHa!!! Okay, well I’m not a fast runner either!! so there!! And it’s all about being able to dodge the tag…and you sound expert!! I have long arms, though…maybe that will help me! Okay, let’s PLAY!!
@Jannie — Hi Jannie. Hey, I’ll be right back {pause while Lance steps away from the computer}. Are you still there?? I’m back. I went over to the door and tossed all those worries out the door. It was rather fun, actually!! And then I watched, as the wind picked them up, and now they are completely gone! Woohoo!! So, you are not a McDonald’s type of girl? I’m not either. Well…*ahem*, I’m not a girl at all (anything you have heard is a fabrication!). What I am TRYING to say…is that we don’t make it to McDonald’s very often at all. So, may I join you at Chick Filet?? I’ll bring the fancy glasses (okay, who am I kidding? I’ll bring plastic cups with lids…). Cheers!! What? Are we going to Boston now? I know a bar there by that name. Okay, road trip!! I’m in!!
@Terie — Okay, let’s jump in the ocean together!! Or a pool!! Of course, here that’s gotta be an indoor pool today, or we’ll only be ice skating on it! Woohoo! A hopscotch party!! This getting to be tons of fun, now!! And a game of TAG! And maybe some lemonade afterward! And cookies! And then a nap! Hey, this is sounding like a picture perfect day! Thanks Terie, and now I’m laughing too!!
@Jen — Jen, you are so sweet and kind! Thank YOU, awesome friend!!!
Haha! I love this! I already think like this, though… does that mean I was never an adult to begin with? Can’t quit something I haven’t started, can I?
.-= Lisis´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Star Trek Guide to Enlightenment =-.
To experience your true self freely without restraints of any kind is to reconnect wiht the child within. Your thoughts and feelings automatically change to reflect the light-hearted vibration you send out and align with on levels beyond the physical senses. There is nothing you cannot do, be or experience. That is because you are everything. You have no limitations. You are what you think– limited or limitless. The unburdened truth is you are infinite possibilities in constant motion. It is pure joy now.
.-= Liara Covert´s Last Fabulous Post ..What if you reframe everything? =-.
Hi Lance:
Ha ha…count me in for resignation, too. I love this post and all of the great kid-like ideas in it. I am thankful because in many areas of my life I have that “beginner’s mind” attitude. I think, occasionally, I may get a funny look because of it. But I’m fine with it. I’ve also learned through the years, that life is about the simple, ordinary things. Yeah we remember the big milestones like birthdays, weddings, etc. but the magic of life seems to be the enjoyment in those simple moments of talking with friends at a coffee shop or going out to dinner with friends. Thanks for a post that already makes me feel younger!
Lance, I have seen your name in many comments but my first time here.. I don’t know why! I get this poem a lot thru the years in emails from friends & it always calls to me & hits me right in the gut. I say YES to this! Man, would I love to do this while running away to a Hawaiian island in the process!
I guess we can try to do it every now & then. Why not!
I have to look thru some of your posts. They look great & since I have been collecting quotes since 2003, looks like I can find some more here & they may show up in my quote of the week!
.-= Jody — Fit at 52´s Last Fabulous Post ..Healthcare Reform — Yes, We Need It! =-.
In reference to your comment to Jannie and not being a girl.….I seem to recall a picture. It’s kinda fuzzy in my brain, but I think there was a dress involved, and lipstick? Maybe a wig?.…..
.-= Natalia Burleson´s Last Fabulous Post ..Goal review week 1 =-.
Hi Lance! I didn’t know anyone was watching me skip down the lane, let alone snapped my photo! ha! If you could see me walk (walk?) my dog thru our neighborhood and down to the park, you’d know why some call me the crazy lady! I am SO in — except for the McD part. I was raised on real food (prior to the fast food days) and can’t compromise by drivin’ thru anywhere. Bringing back carefree is definitely good medicine! Great post!!!!
Hugs and giggles
suZen
.-= suzen´s Last Fabulous Post ..Relax — Be the Water =-.
Another thought provoking post. Eight years old might be too old. How about seeing life as if through the eyes of a newborn baby, fresh and new, not as a separate individual, but connected to everything. It can be seen that THIS is joy, peace and love right here and now. It may look ordinary, but this is it.
.-= Diane AZ´s Last Fabulous Post ..Palm Shadows =-.
Great post! The world would be a better place if run by 8 year olds I think! We could solve all our disagreements with paper/scissors/rock or some such thing. Then we could go off as good friends and drink the lemonade from our stand. And give what remains to all our other friends. Yes, I see great possibilities here!
Hi Lance,
I so love this and totally endorse the concept. Acutally, I think I am already living most of it since according to everyone I know, I never grew up on so many levels.
The one line that struck me as strange was that many people actually think life is unfair???? That is so sad.
.-= Nadia — Happy Lotus´s Last Fabulous Post ..Taking Inventory =-.
@Lisis — Hey Lisis! So there you go, you never really did grow up (how cool is that!)!! So…just keep on doing what you’re doing!! Be goofy!
@Liara — Infinite possibilities…that’s a great way to look at life. And especially in how we choose to “live” life. In other words, no matter where we are today, there is just so much that is possible…including being more like that 8 year old kid who sees a world filled with wonder!
@Tim — Hi Tim! Alright, you ARE in!! A group resignation letter, how does that sound! Funny looks = very cool way to live life! So, here’s to being as goofy as we want to be…and being perfectly okay with that! It’s a great way to really LIVE our lives!
@Jody — Hi Jody!! So…I’ve seen you around too, and now I KNOW I have to get over and “meet” you on your site! Hey, maybe we should have a big group party on that Hawaiian island, throw in a game of tag, water gun fights by the ocean, and then finish dancing the night away! I’m there! And I’ll even be IT first. So, you better run fast (or at least faster than me…which isn’t all that fast!).
@Natalia — Natalia!! Why can’t I recall that same image you have in your brain? Are you SURE it was me?? Would I really do something like that??? Lipstick? I just can’t picture that???? (Ha!!!)
@Suzen — Hey Suzen! I guess you never know who’s out there with a camera, huh!!! Ha!! Okay, so now I’m thinking this would be the perfect opportunity for you to make a video of YOU and your dog…(and for the record, I happen to think crazy is just another word for super-awesome!). Yep, the McD part…I’m not so sure of either (except the Playland’s can be pretty fun!). Growing up in “sticks” of western Wisconsin, there were no fast food restaurants anywhere near where we lived (they do have a McD’s now), so it was real food all the time at our house too. And speaking of drive thru’s, I do use them…at the bank! Hugs and giggles right back to YOU…crazy friend!
@Diane AZ — Ahhh.…seeing life through the eyes of an infant, where everything is new! Just think of all the wonder we would have for everything in our life! Wow! And I completely love the idea of how connected everything is — so much peace and love in that thought!
@Diantha — Hi Diantha. Oh, that’s great!! The rock/paper/scissors game to solve life’s perceived issues! And if we could finish that off over some lemonade (and maybe even a cookie or two). Friendships…real and meaningful friendships…would rule the world…in beautiful colors (that might be just a bit outside the lines!)!!
@Nadia — Hi Nadia. And I suspected this would be something that fit you to a T! In fact, I was positive of it!! It’s so awesome that you view our world and everything in it with wonder and amazement…signs of really that child-like spirit within you, still fully alive! And it is sad that people see life as unfair. Although I cannot speak to everything and everyone, I know that many of life’s “unfair” things, are really just opportunities for us to explore life in new and more meaningful ways.
Hi Lance!
This is so sweet. My favorite line is “I want to think M&Ms are better than money because you can eat them.” I am trying my hardest to reclaim the simplicity of childhood. I check the news only when I need to, I live within my means and I try to cultivate as much free time as possible. The trick now is choosing how to spend the free time–reading, writing or getting outside and tumbling around with the boys. Play seems to be absolutely essential to my joy and well-being.
Thanks for another great start to the week!! Jodi
.-= Jodi at Joy Discovered´s Last Fabulous Post ..Shake Things Up! =-.
Ha, I think 8 years old are already corrupted, I want to be a two year old.
.-= Wilma Ham´s Last Fabulous Post ..‘What is so’ in relationships. =-.
It’s funny how many of us are ruined on McDonalds! I will pretty much go hungry before I will eat there, but Chick-Fil-A is the perfect substitution. Anyway, I do believe that living life is all about living with the heart of a child. We can be grown ups, but still on the inside, see everything with childlike wonder.
I believe you do that Lance, every time you post at the Jungle or leave a comment it is with the insight and fresh, joyous heart of a child. Never grow up!
.-= Audra Krell´s Last Fabulous Post ..Loving With Abandon =-.
We do get too caught up trying to either get ahead or avoid pain. We’ve forgotten to enjoy life for all it offers. All the fun and beauty is infinite. We just need to open back up to the part of us that is still 8 years old. I’m going to do that right now by doing a headstand because I haven’t done one in forever.
Update: I forgot how much blood rushed to the head. I’m a little light headed while writing this and I’m so glad that I did a head stand.
.-= Karl Staib — Work Happy Now´s Last Fabulous Post ..The 100–100 Divide =-.
@Jodi — Well, you HAD to bring up the M&M’s, didn’t you, Jodi???? I have this thing for chocolate, and now I want some!! Okay, I’ll be right back {pause while Lance looks for M&M’s}. None!! Although I found a rogue chocolate truffle, and that worked! So, I suppose I should really thank you! (thank you Jodi!) Happy tumbling with your boys! Joy calls!!
@Wilma — Okay, let’s be two year olds. Innocence. Carefree days. Play. Discovery. Laughter. Crying. Exploring. Life with everything being new! Sounds pretty sweet…
@Audra — We have one child (our youngest) who will ask for McD’s every now and then…so we make it there about once a year (that’s not too bad!). So…I’ll meet you at Chick-Fil-A, and I’ll even bring the cloth napkins! Deal? And I think you’ve really nailed it, Audra — it’s about being an adult, yet still seeing the world and everything in it with wonder and awe. And I don’t have any intentions of growing up! And I happen to think you fall in this category too, Ms. Dancing Audra!
thanx for a good , lovely poem . excess of complicity of life makes life difficult. thanx again. have a nice day.
Since we can’t go back, the real trick is to take some of that beautiful, open, fun loving free spirit with through all the other stages of live. Our job as adults is not to leave childhood behind, but rather to continue building on it.
.-= Jonathan — Advanced Life Skills´s Last Fabulous Post ..Time to Focus on Abundance Instead of Scarcity =-.
And no waiting for Simon to say, “Simon says… ” either. No permission required. I love the playfulness of the photo Lance.
.-= Davina´s Last Fabulous Post ..Mother Nature Waits for Nobody =-.
While it will be impossible to turn back calendar time, it is important that we reconnect with the inner child — the parts that we have left behind in our hurry to grow up. My gratitude is also to my lovely kids — one of whom turns nine today — who has provided me the window to be silly once again, to play skip, and to laugh with abandonment.
.-= Evelyn Lim´s Last Fabulous Post ..My Gratitude To You =-.
It’s so true — you really shouldn’t eat money, so M&M’s are better in that regard.
.-= J.D. Meier´s Last Fabulous Post ..Lessons Learned in 2009 =-.
Hi Lance .. you’ve certainly got everyone running around .. we should all be joining hands and playing
ring-a-ring-a-roses, all fall down!
Gosh — wouldn’t it be lovely to be childlike again — and I’m sure we all are sometimes — sadly there are times when responsibility has to be there.
Sometimes though when we’re frivolous with our words and become somewhat juvenile and laugh and laugh — it’s not appreciated .. pity really; othertimes it’s fine and everyone enters into the scheme of things. Everyone’s too serious too much of the time ..
Oh — I do look forward to just being me!! To step away and relax and just be me — kids do that to us .. be on that warm path with a blue sky skipping happily down the road .. we can and must able to make time for just a little reliving of our childhood.
Lovely — makes me think of times gone by ..
Hilary Melton-Butcher
Positive Letters Inspirational Stories
.-= Hilary´s Last Fabulous Post ..Start of weather forecasting, some stats and memories … =-.
Well this is pretty fitting since I just got done playing vacuum tag! Ha Ha!
It is a good reminder cause as much as my work really is about play.…it can be a lot of work. Thank you for giving my intention this week. To make sure that my work about play is play too!!!
People keep looking at me funny when they ask what my 2010 resolutions are. I simply want to take more vacations or to act as if certain moments are like vacations. It is going fantabulously so far-these moments of play and wonderment are around every moment
Oops I have to go catch my two best reminders (my 2 and 4 year olds) that laughing, loving and playing are where it is at!
.-= Katie West/The Levity Coach´s Last Fabulous Post ..How do you want to greet your days in 2010? =-.
@Karl — Wow, Karl!! Very impressive…and fun — a headstand!! We sometime have little contest here, and I’ll get into the three point stance of a headstand against one of my kids. They always win…unless I push them over (hey, that fits the eight year old mentality, though, right!). So, I know how hard this can be — and that’s without even putting my feet in the air! And I LOVE it! Incorporating fun “on the fly”!!
@Rohit — Thanks much, Rohit, enjoy your day!
@Jonathan — Yep, no going back. Going forth though, we can choose to bring in the fun and free spirit within us. It can feel “weird” sometimes, I think — because not everyone embraces it — so we can feel a bit “out there” by being a kid at heart. There is so much good, though, in being at that spot…that it is so worth it!
@Davina — Hey Davina! Simon says!! Okay, we won’t wait to hear what Simon has to say…let’s just PLAY!!! And maybe even skip a little bit (just like that playful photo!)!!
@Evelyn — And why are we in such a rush to grow up, anyway?? The lure of adulthood…and all it’s promises… Yet, we get there, and we can all too quickly lose that sense of play, of being a free spirit, or being carefree. So Evelyn, keep connecting with that inner child, and shine, like you do so beautifully already! And happy birthday to the new nine year old in your house!! Sounds like a great reason to celebrate with some silliness!! (although, who needs a reason, right!)
@J.D. Meier — Mmmm.…M&M’s! They make friends too, right! That makes them doubly good for you!! Woohoo!
@Hilary — Hi Hilary. It’s like a big bunch of games going on here today!! Ring around the rosie is next then!! There is a point, you’re correct — where fun could cross over to being mean. And that’s not a good place to go. Good, wholesome, all-around fun — if we can spend more time in that space, what an even more wonderful world this would be! Let that little kid in you shine!!
@Katie West — Vacuum tag! Okay, I’m guessing that involves a real vacuum and a bunch of running around. So much for quiet mornings at the West household!! And that reminds me of a story — we had a group raising money for a mission trip a few years ago — and one of the guys brought in a shop vac to collect the money — and they called it the “Suck a Buck Campaign”. well, my daughter went to put a dollar in, and it sucked her arm right into the machine! She has avoided vacuums and cleaning ever since (scarred for life, or milking a good thing???). So, vacations…that sounds pretty great! And I love the thought of just having moments that can be vacations — so, we could have several mini-vacations every single day! Have fun PLAYING Katie…I’d say you’ve got it down! Keep on shining your shiny-ness and fun into the world…it’s so, so good…
Ahh yes…I often wish it was an option to put away responsibility and live carefree. How about just enjoying the “now” and walking peacefully through the day without worry. For now this is a dream.…hopefully reality one day. Thank you Lance.
awesome !
=)
.-= Rocky | R O C K O N O V A.COM´s Last Fabulous Post ..Why Waiting A Few Days Is The Best Course Of Action When You’re Angry =-.
That’s awesome.
.-= Blake´s Last Fabulous Post ..Self Discipline =-.
Me too! Me too! Please, I wanna go!
.-= lisaschaos´s Last Fabulous Post ..Macro Monday – Pooping bear =-.
Oh that would be so sweet…
.-= Caroline´s Last Fabulous Post ..Mind wash =-.
Given my impromptu Flashdance routines and previous cardboard sledding adventures, I must have already resigned but I do have my days when I come down with “adultitis”. This is a great reminder to find me some antidotes when I’m inflicted!
By the way, I stole the term adultitis from Kim and Jason’s blog Escape Adulthood (http://kimandjason.com/blog/). Now THERE’S a place to find antitdotes!
Boy you sure have this community going:) Did everyone did a group “sick out” and go play? Love th eSpirit in it all!
I must admit though, I’m not sure I ever officially signed up for adulthood. I know I signed up for a license and I registered to vote, I have a bank account…but never signed the adult papers.…I love jolly jumps, roller skating, birthday cake, dancing in the streets, jokes, dodge ball, falling leaves, swimming.…all of it…couldn’t imagine my life without it. If the sun is shining it’s a play day, if the sun is not shining it’s an inside play day:) Just can’t help it!
.-= Joy´s Last Fabulous Post ..What Kind of World Do *You* Want?/Monday Mosaic =-.
To live simply. To believe that anything is possible. To be happy.
All within reach for us but as grown ups we think the more complicated; the more diligent we are being. What a great reminder to us all with this post. Well done.
.-= Erin´s Last Fabulous Post ..You Can Do It =-.
Ah! the joys the childhood. Don’t we all actually look out for these experiences/moments in our regular life. As Woody Harrelson rightfully says … A grown up is a child with layers on .…
.-= Avani-Mehta´s Last Fabulous Post ..Connect – For A Better Life =-.
Now this is sheer brilliance! Absolute brilliance. I love it. I love it so much I’d like to share this on my blog. Can I? I promise to get you an icecream
@Mark Salinas — Hey Mark! Enjoying the “now” is a very good place to be, and if we can limit our worries…even better. Keep on believing Mark…it’s there…
@Rocky — Thanks!
@Blake — Thank you!
@Lisa — Alright!!! Great to have you on board, Lisa! Let’s PLAY!
@Caroline — Sweet is there…waiting for you, Caroline. I know there are moments when that seems hard to fully fathom, as we go through our days — and there are worries, problems, challenges, etc. I do believe it is possible, though…and that’s it’s not just a pipe dream. So, I’m pulling you into the game of tag…and I’m it…so it’s time to forget everything else and just RUN!
@Sami — Hey Sami! Yep, I think you secretly practice the Flashdance every day! And cardboard sledding (I saw that!!)! Okay, what happens if we combine the two? Maybe after you reach the bottom of the hill, you can break out into the Flashdance routine! The crowd would love you (and there would be a crowd!). Hey, I think I can find a place around here where we could do that — come on over!! No, you definitely seem adultitis-free! And speaking of that, and the wonderful Kim and Jason — did you know that I know them personally! Yep! They are practically neighbors, and are just down the road an hour from here! Way cool! And Way cool fun-people! (hey, that’s just like YOU!)
@Joy — Hi Joy! There HAS been some really great spirit in the comments! Just imagine the fun and games we could have if we were all together! Hey, maybe we should have a FUN conference (except conference doesn’t seem like the right word). Maybe a FUN DO! Because we would be DOing things, and having FUN!! So Joy, if you have never signed up for adulthood, I guess you have always been officially kid-hearted!! Awesome!! Okay, you get to lead the “birthday cake eating without using hands” contest! Oh, and the “belly flop splash” contest! Woohoo!! Doesn’t this sound like it would be a GREAT party!!
@Erin — That’s a pretty wonderful statement, Erin — “To live simply. To believe that anything is possible. To be happy.” Yes, we, as adults, can definitely over-complicate things. when we can get back to living simply and really believing with wonder and awe…what a great place to come from !
@Avani — Hi Avani. I suppose we are looking for these experiences. Sometimes, though, I think we get caught up in expectations of what an “adult” should look/act like. And we limit ourselves. So…it’s time to bravely take those layers off, and let that child that is in there…out!
@Jacqui — Hi Jacqui! This really is a brilliant thought, isn’t it! Share away!!! The more people that are exposed to this, the better! And I get ice cream!! Woohoo!! Blue moon, please!!!
My little cousins are only 14 months old, but when I look at them, I remember that the simple things in life are sometimes the ones we cherish the most.
.-= Sagan´s Last Fabulous Post ..Guest Post: Athletic Therapy =-.
Hi Lance,
I’m going to be devils advocate here and say, in all honesty, as much fun as it was to be a carefree child for me, that’s not the case for lots of kids in the world…it isn’t so sweet and easy. And you could say that’s my grown up mind and experiences that have taught me that..and that would be true. But that grown up mind that knows stuff also allows me to take actions to bring some ease to 8 year olds who’s lives are not all lemon aide stands and bliss. My adult mind reinforces not just my belief but the exactly why these things are so deeply needed and powerful “smiles, hugs, a kind word, truth, justice, peace, dreams, the imagination, mankind, and making angels in the snow”…I’ve learned so much along the way, getting here to this place of adulthood in which my spirit now dwells…and there is plenty of joy to be found each day, right next to the yucky, sad, horrid stuff…I’m really ok with being a grown up.
although, being MY DOG, now that would be a pretty good gig!
.-= Laura Hegfield´s Last Fabulous Post ..Where the Wild Thoughts Are =-.
haha, this is awesome Lance. I think many of my friends would already say that I have done this. No sense getting old and boring, keep the childhood imagination, fearlessness, joy and playful spirit alive everyday. Great reminders of ways to change our thinking int his.
.-= Mike King´s Last Fabulous Post ..Book Review: The Power of Appreciative Inquiry =-.
love this, I will pass it on.….….…
@Sagan — 14 months old! Imagine the wonder in which they see the world! Pretty awesome view of things, where EVERYTHING is new and exciting!
@Laura Hegfield — Well, that is a great point, Laura. Not everyone has an idyllic childhood, and in fact some I’m sure have bordered on horrific. I guess I read this passage, though, and see it through the eyes of what we hope life is like for an eight year old — one that is filled with play, with carefree days, with no worries, being in the moment. And I think those thoughts are really great ones — and places that, as adults, we sometimes veer away from. Reading your words, I kind of think that you are probably there — that these qualities are something that you have embraced. And when we can do that, and do it consistently, then I believe that being THAT adult is a great place to be. And being your dog…yep, I’ll wholeheartedly agree on that! Sounds like a really sweet place to be!
@Mike — Awesomeness!!! Being at that spot — seeing life with wonder, having fun, playing, living life — that’s what it is all about! Keep on being young in spirit!!
@Jen — Thanks so much Jen!
I believe that each of us want to go back to our childhood, a time where everything is magical and anything is possible. But maybe we can as an adult if we could only let go of the stifling system which has corrupted the child within us.
.-= Walter´s Last Fabulous Post ..The essence of giving =-.
I love this! I hadn’t seen it before, so thanks so much for sharing. We must stay young at heart!
@Walter — I do believe that those child-like qualities of wonder, exploration, ad discovery exist in all of us. We just tend sometimes to stifle them, in our efforts to follow some “standard”. It’s in letting that “child” in us out, though, that our true colors shine! And that definitely can be magical!!
@FatFighterTV — “Young at heart” is a great place to be, isn’t it! Woohoo!!
Lance, This post is great! So timely! I actually did this and bought a few fun symbols last month as I resigned to be a 7 year old forever!
yup I have the b-day candle and my fav. Strawberry Shortcake character. We lose so much when we get all serious and stuff.. For some of us who this naturally comes for, I think these ‘resignations’ are truly effective for balancing us out more delicately and encouraging more ‘playing as a team!’.. what a great reminder of this here today, again! I giggled at the thought that you also have resigned with me! Here, here, I celebrate with you 
!! I hope your 2010 is starting out wonderfully, my dear friend! 
~Jenn
.-= Jenn Z´s Last Fabulous Post ..Love is Ministering to the Needs of Each Other: =-.
Jenn,
Well, that is completely awesome Jenn!! What a party! (boo! I missed it…) We WERE doing this together, though! Woohoo!! A virtual party!! And yes — this new year is starting out fantastically!! Jenn, thanks so much for your presence here…you are a gift!
I’d like to resign my computer crashes too! LOL! The “blue screen of death” this morning was the sign I needed to take a breather and go for a walk.
.-= Squawkfox´s Last Fabulous Post ..10 Ways to Cut Your Fitness Membership Costs =-.
Kerry,
Ha!!! Frustrating…and way too adult-ish (those blue screen’s!!). A walk sounds like a great way to break away from grown up error messages (why can’t they make these message fun, at least?) and into more of a kid-like moment.
One day each week I get to play tag with Joseph and be a child again. I love when he is teaching me and he loves what I am teaching him. It is a mutual admiration society and I have two more years before he goes to school.
Lance, life is so simple when we are together.
Take care my friend, you are a very special child.
Hugs
Peggy xxxx
.-= miruspeg´s Last Fabulous Post ..Fear-le-well =-.
We would all be so much happier and mentally healthier if we adopted a child’s view of the world every once in a while. So often we allow our imaginations and sheer joy for life to become bogged down in the mundance day-to-day “stuff”. Setting aside time to get in touch with our childish side seems to be the perfect antidote to that.
Great post Lance!
Kristin
Self Confidence Matters
http://www.self-confidence-matters.com/
@Peggy — Hi Peggy! How fun playing with Joseph! Kids sure can bring out the kid in us, can’t they! Treasure these moments you two have together. And from the child in me, to the child in you…have a fantastic, fun, and laughter-filled weekend!
@Kristin — Hi Kristin. There’s a lot of wisdom in the actions and behaviors of kids! Now, if we could harness all that childlike wonder they have and apply it directly to our lives…wow! A very happy and joy-filled day to you, Kristin!
I just found this one! How delightful! If only we didn’t allow the blessings of growth and learning how to handle our lives with direction strip us of the sheer joy of letting go and running free. At least keep the wonderment and sense of adventure.
.-= Barb Hartsook´s Last Fabulous Post ..Do We Doodle to Doodle, Solve a Problem, Find a Design? =-.
Barb,
I love this one, especially!! It feels so freeing. And it’s reminding me to keep the kid-like wonder alive always. It’s really great to see you here today, Barb — thanks for stopping by!