Reflections

As December approaches and the end of the year is upon us, we can spend some time looking over our lives ~ where we've been this year ~ what we have accomplished ~ high times and low times. Life is full of all of it no matter who we are or where we come from. I invite you to reflect on the past year of your life, not dwelling on anything in particular or for very long. But spend some time ~ pat yourself on the back for things well done, positive choices carried through to fruition. Forgive yourself for the moments you were less than your best self. The beauty of life is we each are given a fresh start every day. The past is over. Let us all learn from it. Tomorrow is to be anticipated but not worried over. Today is here ~ make it the best ever!

An Attitude of Gratitude

Counting our blessings is always a very healthy practice, but at Thanksgiving time it seems mandatory! Sometimes in my prayer life as I am thanking God for this and for that I feel very redundant, saying the same list over and over again! Yet, I believe God does appreciate hearing our thankfulness no matter how repetitive it may be.

I recently read a book called, Attitudes of Gratitude, by M.J. Ryan. The author shares numerous ways we can show our thankfulness...some of them pretty obvious...some of them a little different. Here's a few of her suggestions:

Exercise Daily
Revel in the Ordinary
Do the Work of Forgiveness
Practice Wonderment
Don't Compare
Develop a Good Memory
Look for the Hidden Blessings of Difficult Situations
Honor Your Ancestors
Send Thanksgiving Cards
Appreciate People Just as They Are
Leave a Trail of Happiness

I think my favorite is "leaving a trail of happiness" wherever I go ~ now that's something to strive for!

On that note, I wish you all a blessed holiday week, and I thank you for being a part of my life.

Need More Energy? Read on . . .

I often hear people talk about how tired they are all the time. We all catch ourselves coming and going throughout the activities of the day. Many people in America are literally deprived of adequate sleep for their bodies to rejuvenate for the next busy day. People are not only physically drained, but emotionally and spiritually as well.

So, what do we do about this?

One of the greatest ways to help yourself find more energy is to become VERY clear about what you REALLY want in your life experience. I say this over and over to people in my groups and coaching; yet, sometimes I think it is overlooked. You see, if you become crystal clear about what you want out of life and what you want your life to look like, then when additional things (or people)come your way that do not fit that picture, you can simply pass over them, say no to "opportunities" you don't want, and focus.

Along with this commitment, you must choose to take ultra care of yourself with adequate rest, a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, healthy relationships, and activities you love. Get done today what MUST get done ~ tomorrow you can start fresh. Prioritize carefully and constantly.

YOU are your #1 priority.

Seasons Change

The colors of fall are brilliant right now where we live. The oranges, yellows, reds, and browns are standing proudly throughout the hills and across our community. Not long ago, everything was green, fresh, and new. Soon, things will turn again into winter, dried up or dormant for a time. And then, just like magic, spring will come.

Human life is full of seasons and changes. I love the journey, and I want you to love it as well. In the next weeks and months, please visit this site often, as I will be addressing changes we all experience or maybe need to make in our lives. Let me know what changes you are going through or hope to make in this coming new year. Together, we can accomplish anything!

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Holiday Time . . .

Yesterday was Halloween, and as I was driving to pick up my children from school, an odd thing happened....I was flipping through radio channels and on one of them, CHRISTMAS music was playing!!!!!! Yes, that's right ~ on Halloween! Wow!

Well, I love the holiday season...all of it. Last night we had 209 trick-or-treaters show up at our door ~ delightful, entertaining, and fun! Now, I am thinking of Thanksgiving and all the many blessings I enjoy each day of my life. And then, of course, Christmas will come.

Many get overwhelmed with all the events, preparations, etc. at holiday time. I am always amazed at the stress levels of people in this process. I encourage you to ENJOY each celebration you are connected with ~ no matter what your religious, cultural, or holiday traditions are. Take it easier, do only what is most important that you love, spend within your means, be with who you want to be with, remember the REASON we celebrate at all....and then, get ready for a brand new year ~ a chance to begin again ~ AWESOME!

Here's to the holiday season upon us ~ and here's to you, wherever you are!