Atria Park’s Post

Joy to our public spaces! The best public spaces enable people to experience and express joy. Whether we see the joy of others, or are outwardly sharing our own, when we find joy in public it can grow a virtuous cycle of joy for all. Creating public spaces for joy is not just a luxury or privilege, or even necessarily something to achieve after other basic needs are achieved. Joy can be a force for equality, crucial social connections, and healing. Many lower income communities have public spaces that support great amounts of joy, often at minimal costs, while many upscale communities rarely have pleasure in the public realm in spite of expensive design and ample resources. Joy also can be a form of authentic cultural and political power, even protest. When marginalized or minority groups participate in joyous activities in public they often feel and project acceptance. Human joy is contagious, when shared in public spaces it brings us together, melts barriers, and lifts us all up. Happy holidays from the Social Life Project and PlacemakingX.

Finding joy in your work is already a gift, but having a team that feels like family elevates the experience to a whole new level. When colleagues share your passion and values, work becomes more than just a job—it becomes a fulfilling journey where everyone grows and supports one another. That kind of environment nurtures not only professional success but also personal well-being. https://lnkd.in/gmVMtYFT

With our recent partial move to the Baltimore area, we have been exploring the outdoors to find hidden gems. Recently, I found one. While our wives were reconnecting with old high school friends in D.C., I had the chance to walk 4.5 miles in Patapsco State Park with David Illar. It was more than just a hike—it was a conversation about life, aging, and what comes next when our traditional careers slow down, but our energy and curiosity don't. I recently spoke on this topic and on Dialogue Miles™ at the Miami Valley Age-Friendly Summit.   Dave and I found ourselves reflecting on questions and topics that feel especially relevant at this stage of life:    - What does the morning look like when “work” is no longer the destination? - How much richer is life when we share active pursuits with our partners? Having something to do together can make all the difference. - New friendships remind us how much we still have in common. The possibilities are endless when we take the time to connect. - E-bikes are a game changer for the 60+ age group! - Friendships grow when we spend meaningful time together like a walk, a cold beer after and watching some football on the sofa.    And perhaps most importantly: Don’t overthink friendships. If you leave feeling energized—laughing, reflecting, or just seeing something from a new perspective—that’s a friendship worth investing in.   Here’s to many more walks, conversations, and connections like this one.

Teamwork. We all have our skill sets. As a team, we can be stronger together. Yesterday was 'Make it happen Monday', and I briefly chatted about that Literacy Matters has some great programs. And they really wanted to bring back the pancake breakfast. Around the same time, I was connecting with United Way of the Fraser Valley on some upcoming events and grant applications. Well, today is 'Talk about it Tuesday', and it is always exciting to hear the good stories and successes. Also, when we share our challenges, it opens a door for communication. How can we find a way to make it happen? Who can we connect with in the community that has those tools to fill in the gaps? Did you find it challenging at first to connect with someone? When you need to process information, who do you communicate with and discuss your success story or challenges? Do you find yourself finding solutions working within your team? Teamwork really does make the dream work. #talkaboutittuesday #abbotsford #literacymattersabbotsford #unitedwaybc #community #conversations #communication #locallove #grants

More Than a Social Butterfly 🦋: Celebrating 60 Years of Connections! They say I'm a social butterfly, flitting between friend groups. But there's another side: I'm the ‘glue’ that connects them. From childhood friends in Scotland and South Africa, to friends and colleagues in London, my network spans decades and continents. Turning 60 later this week, I reflect on what truly matters: the incredible people who've shaped my journey – family, friends, employers, clients, and strangers-turned-acquaintances. What lights me up: * Connecting people: Matching clients with valuable connections, or simply planning outings with loved ones. * Building relationships: Walks with my husband, catching up over dinners, fostering genuine connections. I may flit, but I also bring people together. Hence, I'm not just a butterfly, but "butterfly glue." My personal definition of ‘butterfly glue’* is, ‘A person who strengthens the bonds within their social circles by facilitating connections and interactions.’ P.S. If we haven't connected in a while, reach out! I'd love to reconnect.

🏠 There's nothing quite like the feeling of home, and if you ask me, Houston is truly something special. From its vibrant neighborhoods and diverse culture to the atmosphere that is welcoming and full of energy, this community is one of a kind. Locals here love exploring the many parks, like Buffalo Bayou or Memorial Park, and you can often find them enjoying delicious meals at local spots like The Heights or strolling through the Museum District. 🎁 Not to mention the magic of the holidays here, where you'll find spectacular light displays at The Houston Zoo and festive events at Discovery Green. It's why Houston will always feel like home to me. ❤️ Share with a friend who loves living here, too! #HoustonRealtor #HoustonRealEstate #RealtorHouston #TexasRealtor #HoustonHomes #HoustonHomesForSale #HouseHunting #MoveToHouston #HoustonRelocation #HTX #TheWoodlandsTX #CypressTX #SpringTX #KingwoodTX #KatyTX #HoustonRealEstateUpdate #HoustonHousingMarket #HoustonLifestyle #HoustonFirstTimeHomebuyer #HoustonInvestors #PetFriendlyHoustonHomes #NidiaKnowsRealEstate

Did you know only 2 in 10 folks have a work BFF? Companies get the culture memo but find fostering friendships tricky. Dive into the latest Briefings Magazine to uncover why. https://krnfy.bz/4aRiCtR #KornFerry #workfriends #connections

Did you know only 2 in 10 folks have a work BFF? Companies get the culture memo but find fostering friendships tricky. Dive into the latest Briefings Magazine to uncover why. https://krnfy.bz/4aRiCtR #KornFerry #workfriends #connections

Did you know only 2 in 10 folks have a work BFF? Companies get the culture memo but find fostering friendships tricky. Dive into the latest Briefings Magazine to uncover why. https://krnfy.bz/4aRiCtR #KornFerry #workfriends #connections

Did you know only 2 in 10 folks have a work BFF? Companies get the culture memo but find fostering friendships tricky. Dive into the latest Briefings Magazine to uncover why. https://krnfy.bz/4aRiCtR #KornFerry #workfriends #connections