“Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming – “WOW – What a Ride!” – Anonymous
There are definitely times when the monotony of daily life (yes, it does exist at Tulane!) can become overwhelming.
In times like these, it’s easy to feel like you’ll end your life’s journey politely tiptoeing, instead of careening, into the grave. That’s where my articles for Her Campus Tulane come in.
I’m here for all of the adventurers on campus, the ones who see themselves as modern day Amelia Earharts, and even more for the ones who don’t. Whether it’s new recipes, cuisines, health and fitness ideas, books, movies, music, outdoor activities or travel destinations, I’m going to urge you to try something new, or to look at something old in a new light. Heck, in a city like New Orleans there’s potential for adventure just walking down the cracked, uprooted sidewalks.
Hopefully that sneak-peak motivated you to jump out of your desk chair, grab a jacket (or not, it has been gorgeous and 70 here lately… New Orleans > January) and hit the road in search of your next escapade. But, just to keep you on your toes, I’m going to start the semester off right where you’re sitting now: in front of a computer.
Truth: I can’t run.
Well, let’s clear that up. I used to run nearly every day, sometimes twice a day if I was feeling extra energetic. Recently though, I’ve had to forgo beautiful long runs through Audubon Park in favor of Reily group classes that won’t exacerbate the annoying leg injury that’s keeping me off the streetcar tracks.
That being said, I’ve found myself running vicariously… through a blog. Yep, if that doesn’t solidify my place in the tech-savvy Generation Y, I don’t know what will. But I’ve found that sometimes, living and learning through the journeys of others can be the best way to get inspired. Here are five blogs and websites to help you figure out where your adventure begins!
Mile Markers http://milemarkers.runnersworld.com/
Kristin Armstrong writes this fantastic blog for the Runner’s World Magazine website. The mix of humorous life stories and recaps of her runs keeps me sane while on my injury-imposed running hiatus, but is great for non-runners and new runners as well.
The Girl Effect http://thegirleffect.org/
This two-minute video introduces a revolutionary solution to some of the world’s biggest problems. Hunger, disease, poverty, war—the idea that girls have a major part to play in changing these realities for millions worldwide is definitely something worth checking out.
How Sweet It Is http://www.howsweeteats.com/
This blog is unapologetically, beautifully, 110% all about food. It includes recipes, step-by-step directions and—the best part—loads of pictures. If you love cooking and/or baking and aren’t afraid to admit that you would choose bacon and chocolate over spinach in a heartbeat, Jessica’s posts are right up your alley. Who knows, they may just bring out the foodie in you!
Nature at Its Finest http://www.photosight.ru/photo/alone/4015606/
While it strays from the blog theme, this photo is absolutely incredible. It’s a great reminder of what pure, untouched nature is like and inspired me to stop and take in the natural beauty that even a large city like New Orleans has to offer.
Marc and Angel Hack Life http://www.marcandangel.com/
This blog on “Practical Tips for Productive Living” has posts on everything you need to get you through the week. Past entries include: “10 Surefire Ways To Live Below Your Potential” and “Where Happiness is Found”. It will make you rethink your daily routine and can help you get out of that making-then-breaking-your-New-Year’s-resolution rut.
In the spirit of arriving at the grave with windblown hair, a disheveled appearance and so out of breath that you’re gasping when you say, “WOW, what a Ride!”—Adventure on!