Creative Healing for Women

Taking a break

2012-03-12T03:41:00.000-07:00

Watching the sun disappear...nearing the end of another day.

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I'm taking a little time off from blogging.

...feeling guided to do so

...it's time to nourish and replenish.

This can be a good time to catch up on my old blogs if you haven't read them.

They're categorized to make it easier to locate particular topics.

I'll be back soon! Take care!

Faith...

When you come to the edge of all the light you have,
and are about to step off into the darkness of the unknown,
faith is knowing one of two things will happen:
There will be something solid to stand on,
or you will be taught how to fly.

~ Patrick Overton ~

*****

"I'll follow my intuition even if I don't know here it's leading me to"

"The awakening'

2012-03-11T06:27:00.000-07:00

                                 Taking the morning off...hope you enjoy this wonderful poem.

                                             The Awakening
                                                      By Sonny Carroll

There comes a time in your life when you finally get it ... When in the midst of all your fears and insanity you stop dead in your tracks and somewhere the voice inside your head cries out "ENOUGH! Enough fighting and crying or struggling to hold on."....This is your awakening.

So you begin making your way through the "reality of today" rather than holding out for the "promise of tomorrow." You realize that much of who you are and the way you navigate through life is, in great part, a result of all the social conditioning you've received over the course of a lifetime. And you begin to sift through all the nonsense you were taught about...

Slowly you begin to open up to new worlds and different points of view. And you begin re-assessing and re-defining who you are and what you really believe in...
You accept the fact that you are not perfect, and that not everyone will love appreciate or approve of who or what you are... and that's OK... they are entitled to their own views and opinions. And, you come to terms with the fact that you will never be a size 5 or a "perfect 10".... Or a perfect human being for that matter... and you stop trying to compete with the image inside your head or agonizing over how you compare. And, you take a long look at yourself in the mirror and you make a promise to give yourself the same unconditional love and support you give so freely to others.

And, you stop maneuvering through life merely as a "consumer" hungry for your next fix, a new dress, another pair of shoes or looks of approval and admiration from family, friends or even strangers who pass by. Then you discover that it is truly in "giving" that we receive, and that the joy and abundance you seek grows out of the giving. And you recognize the importance of "creating" and "contributing" rather than "obtaining" and "accumulating."

And you give thanks for the simple things you've been blessed with, things that millions of people upon the earth can only dream about - a full refrigerator, clean running water, a soft warm bed, the freedom of choice and the opportunity to pursue your own dreams.

And you begin to love and to care for yourself. You stop engaging in self-destructive behaviors, including participating in dysfunctional relationships...

Then you learn about love and relationships - how to love, how much to give in love, when to stop giving, and when to walk away. You learn that people don't always say what they mean or mean what they say, intentionally or unintentionally, and that not everyone will always come through... So, you stop lashing out and pointing fingers or looking to place blame for the things that were done to you...

You learn how to say "I was wrong" and to forgive people for their own human frailties. You learn to build bridges instead of walls and about the healing power of love as it is expressed through a kind word, a warm smile or a friendly gesture. And, at the same time, you eliminate any relationships that are hurtful or fail to uplift and edify you.

Moreover, you learn to look at people as they really are and not as you would want them to be, and you are careful not to project your neediness or insecurities onto a relationship. You learn that you will not be more beautiful, more intelligent, more lovable or important because of the man on your arm or the child that bears your name. You learn that just as people grow and change, so it is with love and relationships, and that that not everyone can always love you the way you would want them to. So you stop appraising your worth by the measure of love you are given... You learn that the only love worth giving and receiving is the love that is given freely without conditions or limitations. And you learn what it means to love. So you stop trying to control people, situations and outcomes.

You learn that "alone" does not mean "lonely" and you begin to discover the joy of spending time "with yourself" and "on yourself." Then you discover the greatest and most fulfilling love you will ever know - Self Love.

You learn that life isn't always fair and you don't always get what you think you deserve, and you stop personalizing every loss or disappointment. You learn to accept that sometimes bad things happen to good people and that these things are not an act of God... but merely a random act of fate.

And you stop looking for guarantees, because you've learned that the only thing you can really count on is the unexpected and that whatever happens, you'll learn to deal with it. And you learn that the only thing you must truly fear is the great robber baron of all time - FEAR itself. So you learn to step right into and through your fears, because to give into fear is to give away the right to live life...

Then, YOU LEARN ABOUT MONEY... the personal power and independence it brings and the options it creates. And you recognize the necessity to create your own personal wealth...

Finally, with courage in your heart and with God by your side you take a stand, you TAKE a deep breath and you begin to design the life you want to live...

*****

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Who are you?

2012-03-10T04:27:00.000-08:00

I have no idea what this is...

Which end is which?

******

I'm always learning things about myself. Last week when I fell off my bike, the first thing I did was scan myself for blood or broken bones...and then I looked to see if anyone seen me fall...it happened right in front of my complex...there no one around...just me and my bruised pride.

Yesterday I fell again. This time I was on a nature walk and stepped into the bushes to take a photo...my foot got tangled in the vines and I fell on my butt...when I looked up from the ground, there were two guys on bicycles offering their help...it was an uncomfortable moment...this time I had witnesses to my clumsiness...but it was only uncomfortable for a brief moment...it was followed by gratitude...thank God; no broken bones...I was left with a sense of humbleness...life happens...we all get tripped up some way or another.

Other things I've learned about myself

I am a someone who
is sensitive and gets hurt easily,

but forgives easily too.

...is still uncomfortable being vulnerable,

but tries her best to be authentic.

...may not have had a relationship with God

without pain and struggle.

*****

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If the sight of the blue skies fills you with joy,
if a blade of grass springing up in the fields has power

to move you,
if the simple things of nature have a message that you understand,
rejoice, for your soul is alive.

~ Eleonora Duse ~

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"I am who I was created to be"

An action of faith

2012-03-09T04:55:00.001-08:00

Letting go is a spiritual. emotional, mental and physical process, a sometimes mysterious metaphysical process of releasing to God and the universe that which we are clinging so tightly...

Letting go is the action of faith. It is a behavior that gives God and the universe permission to send us what we're meant to have...

Who are we to say that things aren't happening exactly as they need to happen...

There is magic in letting go...

Letting go sets us free...for the best possible outcomes and solutions.

The Language of Letting Go - Melody Beattie

*****

"Be as a bird perched on a frail branch that she feels bending beneath her, still she sings away all the same,

knowing she has wings!

Victor Hugo

"I give this day over to God knowing all is well"

Soaring above the clouds

2012-03-08T04:56:00.000-08:00

******

You're here to take this amazing journey.

At times, you will experience fear, struggle, loss...

You will also know hope, love, joy...

Open your arms to all life hands you..

...trust it

...have faith there's always a deeper purpose.

Let go of your doubts, worries and insecurities.

Don't live a safe life. Risk everything...

Live without limitations.

The whole world is within your reach.

*******

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My heart knows there's a blind spot in every leap of faith; a sheer panic as the last brick tumbles. At that moment, the space between...is when we are completely vulnerable. There's nothing left except to completely surrender.

Kristen Jong

*****

Faith is the daring of the soul to go farther than it can see.

William Newton Clark

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"I will soar above the clouds"

Connecting with nature

2012-03-07T04:43:00.000-08:00

I was excited to see so many dragonflies and butterflies on my last walk. I also saw several turtles and an alligator. It was one of those days I didn't get many photos...but I still enjoyed the inter-action with nature...not through a lens...but with my heart.

The first photo is a waterway. The other two photos capture the reflection of the trees along the waterway. It reminds me of an oil painting.

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I've received several compliments on my photography so I want to share my secret to taking nice pictures. First of all, let me say that I'm no expert when it comes to photography and my camera cost very little. But there's three things I practice when I'm shooting:

Patience! Your timing may not be nature's timing.

No attachments; don't have any expectations of the perfect pictures. Relax and have fun!

And most importantly, make a connection with whatever you're photographing.

These three things have helped me not only with photography, but also in other areas of my life. Learning to be patient, unattached (without expectations), and fully present (no multi-tasking) are great tools for a deeper, happier life.

The sun is shining...grab your camera...off you go...a fun adventure.

*****

The purpose of life, after all,
is to live it,
to taste experience to the utmost,
to reach out eagerly and without fear
for newer and richer experience.

Eleanor Roosevelt

*****

"My heart is open to connecting deeper"

Being open to guidance

2012-03-06T04:43:00.000-08:00

On my walk yesterday, I came across two sunbathers. This fella and a big soft-shelled turtle.

I rushed home to get my camera, but the turtle was gone. Darn! They looked so cute together.

******

Whenever I see a turtle, I know it's a sign for me to slow down...it's one of the ways God gets my attention...and even though I think I'm already in the slow lane, I will trust the wisdom and accept the guidance.

We all have animals guides that help us. If you have an interest to learn more about animal totems, you may want to look for the book "Animal Speak".

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If a Turtle totem shows up in your life,
slow down the pace of your life.
Bigger, stronger, faster are not always the best ways to reach your goals.

Turtle is fine teacher of the art of grounding.
When you learn to ground yourself to Earth's power and strength,
you place focus on your thoughts and actions
and use the Earth's limitless energies rather than your own to accomplish your will.

written by Lin

*****

Prayer from Teresa of Avila

(Teresa of Avila was a great spiritual teacher who drew her strength from prayer)

Let nothing make me afraid.

Silence the voices

that would discourage me

from following the...road of...

My happiness will consist

not in untroubled, peaceful days,

but in the courage to follow your will

wherever it may take me.

....I will find my way.

There are risks, but if I have you...

all things are possible.

*****

"My faith is unshakable"

Growing wings

2012-03-05T04:29:00.000-08:00

A couple of my favorite photos!

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The messages I share on my daily blog are my own personal beliefs and experiences...
i don't research material...i don't use my intellect/thinking mind...and although I'm inspired by some of the great teachers, i don't write about things that aren't part of my own spiritual practice...i write intuitively...sharing from my heart.

Most days, it's easy to write a blog...it just flows...but there are times such as today that i feel a bit uncertain...at the moment, there's a silence...a stillness.

I'm going through another transition in my life...
...it affects my drawing, writing, and other things I love
...there's is a lot of empty space in this transition
...i have no idea what's ahead
...but I'm trusting...

So what inspirational message can i offer today?

You too, will go through transitions...it's how we grow our wings...and go deeper in our spiritual life...open your arms...welcome any changes...be patient...have faith.

******

It is this belief in a power larger than myself...

which allows me to venture into the unknown...

~ Maya Angelou ~

*****

"I trust God's plan for my life"

The world is kinder than you know

2012-03-04T05:04:00.000-08:00

A curious encounter!

Most everyone has compulsive thinking. Some people may not be aware of it though.

Is there a voice in your head that continuously complains...labels...dislikes...looks for ways to feel good...obsesses...judges...attaches itself to something which then causes you pain because you long for it...makes up stories that scare you...and so on.

Unfortunately, we're used to living this way...

...it causes unnecessary pain and drains our energy

...it distorts how the world really is

...the world is softer and kinder than you may know

...don't settle for being "lost in thought".

open your mind to change...there's no magic wand...but with strong determination...there's hope.

For today, practice doing one thing at a time...give your full attention to what you're doing.

If your mind chatters, observe it...but don't buy into the chatter...the stories...the nonsense.

80-90% of your thoughts are false...it's the mind tricking you...don't live a false life.

******

*****

Once you make a decision,

the universe conspires to make it happen.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

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"There's nothing I can't do if I do it with all my heart"

Going with the flow

2012-03-03T03:35:00.000-08:00

Yellow is not one of my favorite colors to photograph. A yellow flower or butterfly picture doesn't usually stand out. This photo with green in it does though.

*****

Do you know that your choice of words can change an experience? For example, I removed the word "problem" from my vocabulary. The word problem implies trouble...something negative. I've replaced it with the word "situation". Instead of having problems, I have situations.

Yesterday I had two situations.

The first was my car...the air conditioning quit working...although it's winter, the weather's quite warm...which I'm grateful for...love the sunshine.

Secondly, I fell off my bike. I landed on the pavement...but thank goodness...no broken bones...just some soreness...got back on my bike.

A simple word exchange changed my feelings about these experiences. Nothing felt negative. It was just life...situations...not a big deal...no need to awfulize...just another day in beautiful Florida.

*****

FYI- I'm no longer crabby...feel happy as a clam again...surrendered my resistance yesterday.

******

“Life isn't as serious as the mind makes it out to be.”

Eckhart Tolle

*****

"I trust life"

From blissful to crabby

2012-03-02T03:43:00.000-08:00

I woke this morning with feelings of disappointment and even some anger. I'm usually pretty good at accepting things, but there's a particular situation right now that I don't like..I feel my resistance...it's causing me pain...but there's a stubborn part of me hanging on...so I haven't surrendered it yet...I will though...I really don't want to harm myself with unnecessary...

The situation I'm talking about is too complicated to explain, but the point is: resistance and attachments are two things that cause people to suffer.

Acceptance is the path to peace.

It's odd to watch how attached I am at the moment to wanting things my way...ughhh...

I have developed an aversion to needless pain and suffering so I'm certain this lesson will be a short one...but for the moment...I feel crabby...ick...I haven't had that feeling in a long time either...being crabby, wanting my way, not accepting...I won't justify my behavior...I'm just telling on myself...sharing my humanity.

I recently had a month of feeling blissful, but as the saying goes say "this too shall pass".

******

To offer no resistance to life is to be in a state of grace, ease, and lightness. This state is then no longer dependent upon things being in a certain way, good or bad.

Eckhart Tolle

******

"I will surrender my will"

The courage to change

2012-03-01T03:54:00.002-08:00

These interesting looking trees are a problem for people with allergies.

This little gal was guarding her nest.

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It's no secret that I'm a BIG advocate for self-improvement. I spent a great deal of my life stuck in misery...fearing change...carrying guilt and shame...having low self-esteem. Once I began to feel the benefits of working on myself, I was hooked. I developed a passion for it that has never diminished in almost 16 years.

It's not always easy or comfortable to look deeply and honestly at ourselves. It wasn't easy for me anyways. I discovered many things about myself that initially made me cringe. And once I stepped out of denial, I had to be willing to change those things. But it helped me to become a better person. And it boosted my self-esteem by taking the right actions.

I also had to learn to discipline myself. Recently, I've been disciplining myself about exercise (that one's still not easy for me). It's another form of self-improvement. As an incentive to ride my bike yesterday, I brought my camera along. I gently pushed myself to ride farther than I usually do and it felt good!

Sometimes we have to dig deep for the willingness to do what's right. But by doing so, we build more trust in ourselves; trust that we will do the right thing. And as most of us already know, procrastination is painful and self-defeating!

******

This girl has eyes and lips...I don't usually add facial details...hmm...a new change?

******

If you deliberately plan on
being less than you are capable of being,
then I warn you
that you'll be unhappy for the rest of your life.

-Abraham H Maslow

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"I have the courage to look at myself"

Faith and patience

2012-02-29T04:39:00.000-08:00

I tried to get a better view of the butterfly, but now I'm glad I didn't get my way. I like how the camera picked up other colors like green and pink/red.

******

I remember as a child going on car trips and bugging my parents with questions like "Are we there yet? How much farther is it?" I was in a hurry...to get somewhere...most of time it was my grandparents house...I was excited to get there...but also didn't like being cooped up in the car...I still don't...I avoid road trips as much as possible.

Today I'm more patient... but can still fall in the trap of wanting things to happen faster than they're suppose to...thinking I should be somewhere I'm not ready to be...on my spiritual journey.

I had to remind myself this morning to be grateful...to have faith...reading this prayer by

Teresa of Avila helped....

O Lord....

If I do my best, I will be victorious,

I will fly,

but not before you give me wings.

Grant me patience.

*******

*****

“The primary cause of unhappiness is never the situation

but your thoughts about it.”

Eckhard Tolle

*****

"I am exactly where I'm suppose to be"

Finding a soul mate

2012-02-28T03:47:00.000-08:00

I took this photo in a gift shop. This is the owner's cat, but my cat (Pippi) is the same breed. I was never a cat lover until I got my first Himalayan. And then I fell madly in love!

******

I have a couple of friends who want to find their soul mate. I remember that feeling! From the time I got my first innocent kiss at 14, I was hooked! I fell in love with being in love. And I chased that feeling most of my life. I was on a search for the perfect guy.

I would say that I was successful three times. My ex-husband, who was the father of my children (he passed away) was a good man and great father. We were together for 23 years. Although I wouldn't call him my soul mate, I had the greatest respect for him.

The second time I was successful was when I met Jack, the man I'm with today. We've been together for almost 13 years. I have the kind of relationship with him that I always wished for.

But my greatest success story was finding myself. Looking back, my ache to find a soul mate came from a woman who felt incomplete. I was empty! I wanted someone to feel the hole in me. But that wasn't possible! I first had to learn to love and accept myself.

******

The purpose of relationship
is not to have another who might complete you,
but to have another with whom
you might share your completeness.

~ Neale Donald Walsch ~

*****

"I'm wonderful just as I am"

A spiritual awakening

2012-02-27T04:40:00.001-08:00

What a beautiful tree! The colors are amazing!

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When I was sick awhile ago, I spent almost a month at home recuperating. It felt like a 30 day retreat. No TV, no music, even minimal talking... I had the opportunity to be alone a lot. I wasn't up to doing many physical things so I spent a lot of time just being quiet and reflecting. It was the most amazing, enlightening experience I've ever had. I never got bored. I was peaceful and content.

When I first starting venturing outside my home again, I had to do it slowly. The every day noise of traffic, people...felt intrusive. I clearly witnessed how fast paced the world really is. It felt kind of crazy at first until I adjusted to it again!

As I began feeling better, my pace picked up. I started to lose some of the peace and contentment I had felt. Not entirely, but there was a noticeable difference. I saw how easy it is to get caught up in the outer world and disconnect again.

This experience taught me so many valuable things. One lesson is the importance of quiet time. It's in the quiet that we connect deeper with ourselves. I also learned that the world is too busy for me. I've lived a fast pace most of my life, but not anymore. I quit being a multi-tasker. And I do my best to fully give my attention to whatever I am doing. My mind still chatters aways...some times I get caught up in my thoughts and began thinking again...but before long though, I catch myself...I disconnect from the chattering, thinking mind...remembering that most of the chatter is junk.

There's no doubt that I had a spiritual awakening during my hospital stay. Although it wasn't fun to be sick, the gifts that came from it, are priceless. I now have a guide for living. I'm more appreciative of even the smallest things. And I love life more than I ever have.

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“Life will give you whatever experience is most helpful for the evolution of your consciousness. How do you know this is the experience you need? Because this is the experience you are having at the moment.”

Eckhart Tolle

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" I enjoy my own company, flourishing in the solitude"

The secret to happiness

2012-02-26T04:32:00.000-08:00

Taken near Venice beach.

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You are what you believe...your life is what you think it is...in other words, our thoughts create our reality. If you think negative, you'll be a magnet for problems. If your outlook is positive, you'll attract good fortune.

Sounds simple, right? So why would we chose to think negative?

For me, negative thinking began in childhood. I had a lot of fears as a little girl, as well as, trust issues. Over time, I developed a negative way of thinking.

I've worked hard to break these old patterns of thinking. It takes time and patience. You learn to ignore the chattering ego/mind and replace the bad thoughts with good ones.

I heard someone say yesterday that they wish they knew the secret to being happy. Well, the secret is this...change your thoughts...it will change your life...the happiness is within your reach.

******

Another one of new drawings. I'm enjoying using ink instead of pencil.

The only drawback is you can't erase your mistakes.

*****

The real voyage of discovery
consists not in seeing new landscapes,
but in having new eyes.

~ Marcel Proust ~

"I am free"

Accepting all aspects of ourself

2012-02-25T03:09:00.001-08:00

Captured moments of grooming, sunbathing and napping.

*****

We all have what is called "a dark side". Below is a brief explanation from Debbie Ford's book

"The Dark Side of the Light Chasers".

What are you hiding from yourself?
Why do we find ourselves disproportionately angry with the selfishness of a friend, the laziness of a coworker, the arrogance of a family member - or even the rudeness of a stranger? Why do the same old things get to us so easily, and so intensely? Our “same old things,” Debbie Ford explains, are clues to our dark sides - and to the emotions and traits that we fear most in ourselves.

...she explains how - consciously or unconsciously - we hide and deny our dark sides, rejecting these aspects of our true natures rather than giving ourselves the freedom to live authentically...she shows that it is possible to acknowledge and accept our so-called weaknesses - and that in fact, these qualities may prove to be important, hidden strengths. Perhaps a touch of “laziness” is just what the workaholic needs; perhaps some judicious “selfishness” can save us from exhaustion and resentment. .. Debbie Ford shows us how to reconcile our darker impulses, find the gifts they offer - and reclaim our wholeness once again. For more information, go to www.Debbieford.com.

The benefits of doing what is called "shadow work" is freedom; freedom from judging ourselves and others. The freedom to take off our mask. And the freedom from shame; it longer has a place to hide. We come to accept all aspects of ourself. What I call "the good, the bad, and the beautiful".

Are there things you deny about yourself, but find yourself judging in others?
Ready to face your shadow/dark side? It's not scary; it's wonderfully life changing!

******

And the day came
when the risk to remain tight in a bud
became more painful
than the risk it took to blossom.
~ Anais Nin ~

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"I accept everything about myself"

Trusting your intuition

2012-02-24T04:51:00.000-08:00

I think the bug was trying to hide under the rose petal, but the bee wasn't camera shy.

******

I don't know how many hundreds, maybe even thousands of thoughts that run through a person's mind in one day, but what I do know is most of them aren't true. There's what I call "right thinking" which comes from our intuitive self. It's a wisdom we all have which it gives us the right answers. These answers don't come from thinking/analzying; it comes from a deeper place of "knowing".

There's also the kind of thinking that comes from ego; the opposite of right thinking. Don't believe what it tells you. Ego loves to be right, feeds on conflict, and is always looking to be better than others, but also beats the crap out of you because it wants you to feel bad about yourself.

Intuition is a great tool for living, but often people shut it down. Either they don't trust it or they don't like the direction it's giving them. Have you ever looked back on situation that didn't turn out good and see how you ignored the red flags (your intuition) because you didn't want to believe it at the time? Your intuition was telling you it was a bad idea, but your mind talked you into it anyways?

If you learn to only listen to your "right thinking/wisdom", you will be divinely guided. Life will be easier, more joyful, and you will know a peace you've never had before. The ego/mind will continue to try sucking you back into old thinking, but ignore it.

No matter how good you get at listening to your intuition, the ego/mind will continue with it's chattering...giving you bad advice...making others wrong...telling you scary stories...either puffing you up or beating you down...telling you not to trust...and all the other crazy things it says. Don't not to give it any power...don't trust it's intention (which is to hurt you)...let your wiser self be your guide instead.

*******

I played around with some new ideas yesterday. I tried using ink instead of charcoal for outlining and found that I really liked it. With ink, I can be more detailed, making cute little squiggling lines in outlining. I also added eyes. My new girl can see life clearly!

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For those who believe,
No proof is necessary.
For those who don't believe,
No proof is possible.

~ Author Unknown ~

"I am blessed with the wisdom to make healthy decisions"

Your purpose in lfe

2012-02-23T03:44:00.000-08:00

I don't know the names of most of the plants I photograph, to be honest. I'm drawn to colors and textures. I look for things that make me feel something. Colors have always done that for me.

*****

We all have a purpose! It took me many years to figure out mine.

Until I did, I carried an empty lonely feeling inside me. I knew something was missing.

I ached with a longing for a deeper meaning to life...

I would ask myself "is this all there is"?

I was unaware that my longing was a soulful desire to know God

and to know myself.

Who was I? I was lost..

So I prayed; asking for direction.

I began spending more time getting to know myself.

I quit being afraid of the loneliness I felt when I was alone.

I came to enjoy the solitude.

I found a new best friend...ME.

My relationship with God today is intimate.

It is a source of joy and comfort.

So what's my purpose?

To be the best person I can, to help others selflessly,

and to be grateful for all the special moments that make up my life.

That's it!

Though I'm passionate about things like writing and art, they are not my purpose.

My interests change as I change, but our purpose never changes..

What is your purpose...do you feel empty...do you have an ache for more?

******

Since I'm such a craft enthusiast, I try most everything.

These little guys were my first attempt at working with clay.

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Greet everyone you meet with a warm smile.
No matter how busy you are,
don't rush enounters with co-workers, family and friends.
Speak softly. Listen attentively.
Act as if every conversation you have
is the most important thing on your mind today.
Look your children and your partner in the eyes when they talk.. Stroke the cat, caress the dog.
Lavish love on every living being you meet.
See how different you feel at the end of the day. Sarah Ban Breathnach

*****

"I have created a meaningful life"

The practice of forgiveness

2012-02-22T02:34:00.001-08:00

These photos were taken on my walk yesterday.

I'm taking another break from painting/artwork...in a creative slump...it will pass...time to change things around in my blog...I tend to get stuck doing things the same...change is good.

*****

In order to find true peace and happiness, one must forgive everyone...no matter what they've done...a hardened heart will not know peace...you will be stuck...a part of you will be closed off...building a wall around your heart...your judgement will suffocate your ability to love.

If there is resistance to being forgiving, look deeper...this means you haven't forgiven yourself for something...when you forgive yourself, forgiveness for others will come more easily.

Judgment of other's is a mirror...hold it to your face...look closely...what are they showing

you about yourself that you don't like...you must still angry at yourself for?

It's time to move on...let the past go...forgive yourself...you did the best you could at the time

...we've all made mistakes...some small ones, some BIG ones...it's okay...we learn from our mistakes...if you hurt someone, make your amends...be humble...wipe the slate clean

...move on...forgive...enjoy the peace and happiness you'll be blessed with.

*******

My new wall art! I found them at HomeGoods. As soon as I saw them, I was excited. I like to decorate my home with things that make me feel happy. The pink pillow puppy was a Valentine gift from a friend. I put lavender on her so she is soothing to hug.

*****

The practice of forgiveness is our most important
contribution to the healing of the world.

Marianne Williamson

*******

"I am free"

Letting go; the alligator story

2012-02-21T02:17:00.000-08:00

There's an old story I've been carrying around for over 20 years. The story is about my friend's daughter Aaron. Many years ago, Aaron and her brother were walking their dog next to a lake. Unbeknown to anyone, there was an alligator in the lake. On this day, the alligator pulled the four-year old little girl into the water and Aaron drowned. Since that day, every time I see an alligator, I think of Aaron.

On Sunday I decided to take a walk at a little park near the beach. Of course I had my camera. As I was walking, a little boy came running up to me all excited (he was probably about 4 or 5 years old) to tell me there was an alligator in the pond. He wanted me to get some pictures of it. My first thought was the old alligator story. I told myself "no way". But my second thought was to go look (there was a iron fence around the entire pond so it was safe for everyone).

I saw this creature of God with different eyes this time. I had the realization that the alligator has every right to be here as I do. I knew it was time to let go of the old story.

I loved little Aaron. She was one of the sweetest angels I have met. But blaming the alligator doesn't feel right anymore. I don't know why things happen in life sometimes. But the most important thing is what we do with our experiences. Blaming, judging, hold on to the past, isn't good.

So I took some pictures. The alligator seemed unafraid; he posed for me. I have to believe he came to teach me a lesson about love and forgiveness. And it was no coincidence that it was a child (who had no judgment against the alligator; only excitement) who brought me to him.

******

The truth is that our finest moments are most likely to occur
when we are feeling deeply uncomfortable, unhappy, or unfulfilled.
For it is only in such moments, propelled by our discomfort,
that we are likely to step out of our ruts
and start searching for different ways
or truer answers. ~ M. Scott Peck ~

*****

Make a wish!

"In order to live in the present, I must make peace with the past"

Surrendering our fears

2012-02-20T02:25:00.000-08:00

Thinking has been a survival tool...a way I coped with fear...looking for answers...analzying...thinking that if I knew the answer, I could change the situation.

It took a lot of time and energy thinking...it separated me from heart...can't be both places at the same time...moved from my head to my heart...felt more connected.

I'm a seeker...I still look for answers today, but my answers come from within...not from my thinking mind, but my intuition...that way I am free to be present to life...to let go of worry...having faith...experiencing peace.

Peace comes from surrender...nothing to figure out...just trusting the process...trusting whatever comes my way will serve me...no more awfulizing life...expecting the shoe to drop...now I expect good things...life is a miracle.

*******

This little bird was posing for me yesterday at the park by Venice beach. So cute!

*****

I have not ceased being fearful,
but I have ceased to let fear control me.
I have accepted fear as a part of life -
specifically the fear of change, the fear of the unknown;
and I have gone ahead despite the pounding in my heart that says:
turn back, turn back... Erica Jong

******

"I surrender my fear so I may live from my heart"

Things I taught myself

2012-02-19T02:23:00.000-08:00

My mom was good at teaching me some basic life skills like managing money,

taking care of my car, homemaking, etc...but there were also things I had to teach

myself...things my mom never knew how to do.

Listening to my body...what it needs...nourishing it by eating healthy and exercising.

Asking for help...not being prideful or self-reliant...learning to trust others.

Valuing my feelings...knowing they matter...crying is good...so is anger when it's appropriate.

Listening to my intuition...not the voice of my wounded self...differentiating between the two.

Being unique...not comparing myself to others...accepting myself just as I am.

Finding my own personal relationship with God...not a religious one...a spiritual connection.

Loving others unconditionally...no strings...no expectations...from the heart.

******

These photos were taken at North Port Community Gardens. There were so many butterflies!

*******

If you are humble nothing will touch you,
neither praise nor disgrace,
because you know what you are.

~ Mother Teresa ~

*****

" My deepest desire is to do what's right"

A forgiving heart

2012-02-18T02:16:00.000-08:00

White gel pens are fun to use on dark colors! I love to draw hearts!

******

Someone once told me to pray for the people who have done things to hurt me.

At the time, I thought that was a ridiculous idea...but in praying for someone,

it releases toxic feelings of anger, hurt, resentments...you are then freed from your ego/mind

who wants to let hurt fester...causing you needless suffering...the ego builds steam when it can find conflict...don't put ego in charge...take your power back...pray...let it go.

I believe in giving people lots of room for error...this doesn't mean being a doormat,

but we've all made our share of mistakes...nobody's perfect...let's not point fingers

...let's keep our heart soft...forgiving...being patient and tolerant

...practice good boundaries to avoid future resentments

...bless everyone...especially those who push your buttons

...we need button pushers to show us areas we need to work on

...they are our teachers

...what you don't like in someone else is mirroring something you don't like about yourself

...so don't play the blame game the way children do

...take responsibility for your part...send them love

...what you give always comes back to you

...if you send hate, hate comes back

...you send love, love returns to the sender.

********

Something about both these pictures catch my eye. Taken in park near the Venice library.

******

I've learned from experience that the greater part of our happiness or misery depends on our dispositions and not on our circumstances.
-- Martha Washington

" I have forgiven everyone including myself"

Do what you love

2012-02-17T02:49:00.000-08:00

A friend gave me a pack of decorative tissue for Valentine's Day so I used it for her dress.

*****

Yesterday I went to the wonderful little farmer's market on Dearborn St. in Englewood. What fun!

They have so many great vendors. I came home with homemade ravioli (stuffed with walnuts and ricotta cheese), homemade granola bars (no sugar), and quiche made with asparagus and goat cheese and freshly-made mango salsa. They were other things there too like kettle corn, a gluten bakery, a cupcake vendor, fresh seafood...

I confess to being a food lover! I feel passionate about trying new things and eating healthy.

Tonight Jack and I are going to celebrate Valentine's Day at a cozy, eclectic restaurant in Sarasota. http://www.indigenoussarasota.com/.

After I saw their menu online, my mouth was watering. They have very unusual menu!

There are many other things I feel passionate about like:

art, catnaps, teaching, photography, beach walks, biking, fellowship, my kitty, people I love, soft socks and blankets, lavender, dragonflies, solitude, good movies and books and so much more...

It's so important for your well-being to treat yourself to the things that make you happy.

I'm not talking about spending lots of money for...most things may cost you nothing.

Create a passionate, purposeful life!

What do you love?

I used to fill my time with busyness but there was no passion behind it.

Don't fall in that trap.

Better to be still than running around...

Nurture yourself with bubble baths, candles, soft music...

Treat yourself like the precious, deserving person you are.

********

More new photos. Aren't the colors are incredible?

****

The purpose of life...is to live it,
to taste experience to the utmost,
to reach out eagerly and without fear
for newer and richer experiences.

Eleanor Roosevelt

*****

"I am worthy"

Feeling worthy

2012-02-16T02:43:00.000-08:00

I'm enjoying doing artwork more than ever!

*****

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do...It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same....” Marianne Williamson

******

I've read this many times over the years trying to find my truth in it...she is right...I blocked my own light...had a fear of success...felt unworthy...afraid others wouldn't like me...was taught that feeling good about myself was bragging...so I felt ashamed for feeling good...I kept quiet about my achievements...let others shine brighter...but always knew my light was really bright...finally gave up living small...to live authentically...using my light to help others...encouraging them to shine...we all have GREAT potential...let's use it to make a difference in the world!

*******

Took these yesterday! It felt wonderful to have my camera case swinging on my shoulder again!

****

"I will be all that I was created to be"

Being grateful for our life lessons

2012-02-15T02:15:00.001-08:00

Keep a grateful heart!

Express gratitude for everything; even the things that you don't like.

Trust that there is a purpose to all that you experience.

For example, there are two ways I could look at my experience in the hospital. One way would be that I was misdiagnosed, should have never been admitted to begin with, and that it cost me quite a bit of money for some one's error. This is all true.

However, this is how I really see it. A week in the hospital helped me to overcome my deepest fears. For a couple of days, I went to a dark place laying in that hospital bed. But I came through the darkness to a place I've never been before. A place of freedom! I had a spiritual experience there. It changed my life! So am I upset over the money it cost, the needless testing, the incorrect diagnosis? Not at all! It's been a huge blessing!

I don't believe things happen by mistake. There's a purpose for everything you experience.

Trust what life brings you has great value. Don't think negatively. Open your mind and heart to all possibilities. Look deeper for the lesson!

******

I enjoy taking pictures of weeds and wild flowers. You have to look deeper to find their beauty.

But it's there, none the less!

******

There are only two ways to live your life.
One is as though nothing is a miracle.
The other is as if everything is.

~ Albert Einstein ~

*****

"My lessons are always perfect for me"

On the perfect path

2012-02-14T02:51:00.000-08:00

Life is good! But in the past though, it felt hard, unfair...I was wounded...my perception was distorted because of that...the filters through which I saw the world was smeared with pain and suffering...I wasn't able to embrace my life at that time...I was blaming others, myself...so I began to seek out ways to heal.

You don't see life as it truly is unless you're enlightened...our filters change what is real...our perception of our past experiences create the filters/blocks...we become separated from the truth...the truth is that life is good...it here to serve us...for our Highest good...pain is a necessary part of spiritual growth...we need it...yet we try everything to avoid it...looking for an escape through food, drugs, busyness...attracting chaos to keep us from looking at ourselves deeper.

It's only through surrender that life improves...we stop looking for the quick fix...the instant gratification...and we begin to seek wholeness...we change our old perceptions for a new truth...life is good...it always was and it always will be...our spiritual lessons began in childhood...our childhood experiences were perfect for us in some mysterious way...no mistakes...just lessons...don't be a victim...see the good that came from it...open your mind...your heart...work at removing the filters through healing...then you'll see how wonderful and perfect life really is.

*****

I wanted to capture the blue sky with my camera. It was breathtaking!

******

The man who views the world at fifty,
the same as he did at twenty,
has wasted thirty years of his life.

~ Muhammed Ali ~

*****

"My journey has always been perfect for me"

Looking fear in the face

2012-02-13T01:52:00.000-08:00

I'm having fun making new stuff!

******

Let this be the year you face your fears!

Running, denying or avoiding fear holds you hostage!

What are you most afraid of?

Make a list of your fears!

Tell yourself that if the worst things on list happened that you would be okay.

Too often we tell ourselves that we won't be able to deal with it.

But you can and you will, if you have to...

This will help you reclaim the power you given away to fear...

It will empower you instead...

Remember to breathe....

Let the fear fear dissolve into faith...

Turn it over...

Let it go...

Feel the peace...

You are free.

*****

I confess that I'm a wimp when the weather gets a little cool. I hibernate inside!

But as soon as it warms up a bit, I'm off on a new adventure with my camera. These photos were taken a couple of months ago.

******

Love is what we were born with.
Fear is what we learned here.

~ Marianne Williamson ~

******

"I ignore the voice of ego for my faith is strong"

Lessons of the heart

2012-02-12T02:20:00.000-08:00

Another new one! Love being back in my creative space!

*****

Most of us have had someone who influenced our lives in a wonderful way.

What we might call an little angel!

That's what my grandma Cora was. An angel!

She showed me what love, compassion, kindness, integrity and patience was.

She was the person I wanted to be.

She cared about people and loved helping them.

But not in way that said "look at what I'm doing". She wasn't looking to get anything back.

She gave purely from her heart.

Grandma believed in God.

She would drag me to church every Sunday I stayed with her.

I'd try getting out of it by forgetting to bring my church clothes. But that trick didn't work.

She made me go anyways. I went to church many times in my shorts and t-shirt.

Thank goodness for grandma's stubborn side and her wisdom.

I will always treasure the special memories I have sitting next to her on the church bench.

I can still remember the sound of her sweet voice singing hymns.

Her voice makes me weep with gratitude!

My childhood was difficult. My parents did their best to raise us,

but neither of them knew how to be nurturing and patient.

It was my grandma who offered me comfort.

She taught me that I mattered. That I was lovable!

I thought it was my responsibility to make my parents happy.

If I could just be a better little girl, they would show me love. But they couldn't!

I'm thankful to my grandma for loving me...

...for being my teacher

...for showing my a way of life that was good

...for opening my heart to God

...for teaching me values

...for shining the light of hope.

******

Pippi is happy I'm back creating too.

*****

If you cannot find happiness along the road,
You will not find it at the end of the road.

~ Author Unknown ~

"I'm thankful for all the teachers who helped shape my life"

Things my mom taught me

2012-02-11T02:26:00.000-08:00

Had fun yesterday creating some new pieces!

*****

My relationship with my mom was complex. Part of me rebelled against her and another part of me wanted to be like her in some ways.We had our share of differences yet shared many things in common (cooking, crafts, cutting coupons, yard sales...).

Growing up, I was angry at her for not being there for me in the ways I needed her. Yet after I had my first child, we became friends and continued to be until the last year or so of her life. It was after my daughter died that I felt my mom pull far away from me. That hurt! I felt abandoned! But I understand now!

She too, had gone through the heartache of losing a child (my brother) and then her beloved granddaughter (my daughter). Whatever her reason for pulling away from me was, I'm certain it had to do with her own self-preservation.

Mom died from lung cancer a few years ago. I think of her often and smile! She was a character!

My son and I still laugh when we talk about some of the things she's did over the years (like the time she insisted we were going to have Kentucky Fried Chicken for Christmas dinner. Yuck! We had quite a disagreement over that one. She won though! We had chicken. And it was so awful that even my mom couldn't eat one piece. Oh yeah, did I mention that she bought it two days in advance so it was soggy by the time it got to my house?)

Even though we had our differences, I'm grateful that she was my mom.

She was a good person. Over the years, she taught me some valuable things.

She taught me how to be responsible and independent.

She taught me how to manage money; pay bills on time and save for the future.

She taught me good manners; to treat others respectfully.

She taught to take good care of my things and appreciate having them.

And she taught me to keep a clean organized home...

These skills have given me a good foundation for living. Thanks mom!

******

Mom with her Tina Turner wig. She always took pride in her long blond hair but when she got cancer, her hair was falling out so my sister got her this wig. I think she looks cute!

*****

We can do no great things,
only small things with great love.

~ Mother Teresa ~

*****

"My heart is filled with gratitude"

What makes you feel passionate?

2012-02-10T02:50:00.000-08:00

I re-organized my art supplies yesterday. I'm getting ready to play! To help inspire me, I went to one of my favorite artist's blog site for new ideas http://www.lepetitstudio-woolf.blogspot.com

******

The way to find what you love is to try new things. Be adventurous! Don't get yourself stuck in a rut! More than once I've discovered a passion that I didn't know I had. If you knew how many months I resisted the idea of writing a blog until one day I said to myself "let's just try it". The rest is history! I love blogging!

We can also rekindle an old passion. Recently I've fallen in love with cooking again. I look forward to making simple healthy meals everyday. No additives, no fat, just fresh food! I found a new blog site yesterday www.mydarlinglemonthyme.com that will keep me recipes for a long time. Yummy! I want to try them all.

What excites you? What fills you with joy when you're doing it? Whatever it is, do more of it....

*****

Lady bugs are awesome! Took these last year!

*******

If we don't change, we don't grow.

If we don't grow, we are not really living.

Growth demands a temporary surrender of security.

~ Gail Sheehy ~

*****

"My heart is open"

Promises to myself

2012-02-09T02:23:00.000-08:00

It's been weeks since I've done any new artwork. I took a needed break.

But now I'm feeling that longing urge to create something again.

******

Over the years, I have made many promises to myself.

As I continue to improve on self-care, I have to let go of the things that don't work anymore.

And build on what does.

Here are my newest promises:

I promise myself that...

I will not invest myself in relationships with people who are emotional unavailable..tricking myself into thinking if I am kind and patient with them, they will change...when people show me who they are, I'll believe them.

Eat healthier...listening carefully to my body...give up night snacking...no more medicating my feelings with food.

Being resourceful...using what I have instead of buying...mindful spending...exchanging lack thinking for gratitude.

No more people pleasing...being honest and direct...in a kind manner...standing in my truth...allowing others to stand in theirs.

This year is about freedom. The freedom to be all that we can be...to create the best life possible...to reach our dreams and goals...to find lasting peace and happiness.

******

Looks yummy, right? Colors make me feel...

*****

Your task is not to seek for love,
but merely to seek and find all of the barriers within yourself
that you have built against it.

~ A Course in Miracles ~

****

"I am whole"

Follow your heart

2012-02-08T02:38:00.000-08:00

Following my heart means doing what resonates with my soul. It means being connected to my truth about life. Though I'm still learning things about myself, there are some things I know for sure.

Solitude soothes and nourishes me. It is as necessary for me as breathing.

Creativity helps me to find more of myself and at times, has healed me.

I care deeply about people. Helping others has been my passion since I was a young girl.

My grandmother had a beautiful loving nature. She was my mentor. I wanted to be like her.

I'm a pet person. I had a little dog growing up who meant the world to me. I cherished that relationship, as I still do with my kitty today.

I am bothered by how we've taken care of our planet. I'm as guilty as anyone. Some of the changes I've made to correct it is ...I quit using chemicals in my home (cleaning, cosmetic..)...I recycle everything possible... I pick up liter...I buy my produce from growers who don't use chemicals.

I'm sad that our beaches have been polluted. When I was 15, living in West Palm Beach, I would come to Venice to visit my cousin. Going to the beach here was a treat. Now I'm reluctant to swim in the water.

I'm super passionate about self-improvement. I'm open and willing to change!

I feel gratitude even when things aren't going my way. I changed my old negative thinking. Writing a gratitude list every day helped me with it.

I love and appreciate my life...the people who share it with me...my home...my recovery program...my serenity...my clarity...my wisdom...my commitment to staying true to myself.

So enough about me! I hope I've given you some ideas. What does your heart say?

*****

Taken at Venice beach.

******

The future belongs to those
who believe in the beauty of their dreams.

~ Eleanor Roosevelt ~

*****

My friend Deb created this using her photography. I love it!

******

"I will follow my heart wherever it leads me"

Don't stuff your feelings

2012-02-07T02:09:00.000-08:00

I used to be good at stuffing my feelings.

I learned to do it so well that I lost sight of what my true feelings were.

I ignored, minimized or made excuses for people whose behavior impacted me negatively.

I shoved my own feelings away.

I know why I did this.

It was my need for approval and acceptance from others.

I was afraid of being alone!

I was afriad of not being loved!

I felt unworthy so I settled for less than I deserved!

I have been unkind to myself and have recently made an amends for it.

My amends to myself is that I will no longer ignore my feelings.

If something feels wrong, then it is.

My feelings are valuable! I will honor them!

******

Since I got sick I haven't been taking any photos. But I'm starting to feel antsy. Feeling much better now so it won't be long before my camera case will be swinging on my shoulder.

******

Friendship with ones self is all important,
because without it

one cannot be friends

with anyone else in the world.

Eleanor Roosevelt

*****

"I will trust my feelings"

Loving discipline

2012-02-06T02:48:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I'm happy instantly with what I've created. Other times, I redo it over and over until it feels right. This one was easy and fun!

*****

Some of you may know that I get up extremely early in the morning. I love the quiet time!

However, I have to discipline myself to stay in bed until a certain time. Otherwise, I find myself wanting to get up even earlier rather than give myself a chance to fall back asleep.

I've learned to lovingly discipline myself. It feels good!

I used to think taking care of myself was giving in to all my wants. But because I still have a little girl in me (I was raised with harsh discipline) who wants more than she needs, it's helpful to give myself some structure and rules. Not the way I was raised, but with loving boundaries.

******

This rose reminds me of crepe paper!

What fascinates me about this photo is the lighting!

FYI- When I shared in an earlier blog that my photos are taken with an inexpensive camera, I forgot to mention what kind it was. It's a Kodak Easyshare.

*****

The difference between
a flower and a weed
is a judgement.

~ Author Unknown ~

*****

"I will trust my intuition for guidance today"

Letting go of clutter

2012-02-05T01:25:00.000-08:00

Being home recuperating the last couple of weeks has given me the opportunity to de-clutter my home. I've been carefully going through every drawer, closet and cupboard; organizing and getting rid of everything that isn't useful. I'm only holding on to things I need or treasure. Everything else goes to Goodwill. More freedom! More letting go! What a gift!

One of the best investments I made this year was buying a Nook. At first I was resistant to owning anymore more technology, but then decided to give it a try. I've been an avid reader all my life. I have more books than I need and no more space for new ones. The problem is solved with my new Nook. I don't need to buy any more books. In fact, today I'm cleaning out my bookshelf and donating part of them to the library. Another way to lighten up my life!

The lifestyle I chose for myself today is simple...practical...comfortable...resourceful (I don't like waste)...environmentally friendly...mindful...helpful...peaceful.

********

It had just finishing raining so you can still see tiny drops of water holding on to the foliage. Taken on a walk in my neighborhood.

*****

There is hope
if people will begin to awaken that spiritual part of themselves...
...we are caretakers of this planet.
~ Brooke Medicine Eagle ~

******

"I am open to learning new ways that will improve my life"

Heaven on earth

2012-02-04T01:55:00.000-08:00

I shaded in the background with pastel chalk but followed the pattern of the textured paper.

*****

Heaven on earth for me means to live free of baggage.

Can you imagine that for yourself?

Imagine yourself loving others without being overly attached to them

to enjoy material things, but also be okay if you lost them

to give freely to others with no expectations

to have no guilt or regrets

to follow your passion instead of settling

to let go of money worries because you trust you'll always have enough

to have perfect health because your body and emotions are in balance

to see the shining light that you are

to see the light in others too, no matter how poorly they may behave

to accept all your circumstances trusting there's lessons to be learned from them

and to be free of all your fears?

Sounds wonderful, right? Do you believe it's possible?

I do...with all my heart...I believe...

open your mind and heart too...begin to picture this for yourself.

Remember: all things are possible.

*****

I took this photo in Mexico. A Mexican butterfly!

******

"Do you really want to look back on your life
and see how wonderful it could have been
had you not been afraid to live it."

~ Caroline Myss ~

****

"Just like a child, I have a song in my heart and skip in my walk"

Pain leads to transformation

2012-02-03T03:09:00.000-08:00

I have fun creating the background designs. On this one I used bubble wrap paper dipped in acrylic paint. I also added more circles with water soluble crayons.

******

Understandably, no one likes pain. But pain, like everything else, has a purpose. Without pain, how would we motivate ourselves to change? Often we can get stuck in old patterns of thinking and behavior. But we're not meant to stay stuck. Life is always evolving and changing, so we must too.

Without pain, how would we learn to be compassionate? Compassion is birthed though our own trials and tribulations. That doesn't mean that we don't have the capacity to care about others, but empathy comes from being able to identify what that other person is feeling. Trying to imagine how someone feels is not the same.

If you're being challenged at this time with a situation that is painful, can you trust there is purpose in it...it is has something valuable to teach you...it will lead you to transformation?

*****

A few years ago, I went back to Michigan (where I grew up) for a visit. It had been many many years since I had been there. The whole trip was rewarding and special. These photos were taken on that trip. Here's a Michigan butterfly!

******

You may encounter many defeats,
but you must not be defeated.
In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats,
so you can know who you are,
what you can rise from,
how you can still come out of it.

~ Maya Angelou ~

******

"My pain and sorrow is welcomed as equally as my joy and peace"

A time for dreams

2012-02-02T03:36:00.000-08:00

Time for change?

Are there things you want? Perhaps to be happier, more peaceful, improved health, more money, a new career...?

Now is the time to open your mind and heart to all possibilities.

Believe in yourself; there is no dream too BIG to achieve.

It's can also be a time to work harder on your spiritual life...building a closer relationship with yourself, God, others...work on self-esteem issues...unresolved anger, resentments, hurts...clean up the past by making amends...give yourself a clean slate in 2012.

Expect a miracle...be a miracle...share the miracle with others.

******

One the changes I'm making this year is to move myself farther away from the retail business in regards to my books and greeting cards. I have loved the whole process of creating and sharing my work, but it's never been in my heart to be a salesperson.

I will no longer be selling my books and cards on my website. They will still be available at a wonderful inspirational gift store in Englewood called "Mystic See" (pictures above). My cards are also in several stores in Venice and Sarasota so check out my website if you want the locations. (www.creativehealingforwomen.com)

I have no idea where my creative process will be taking me next, but there's one thing I am certain of. I will stay true to my passion and follow my heart wherever it leads me...

*****

" My life is more than I could have ever dreamed of "

Building faith

2012-02-01T02:17:00.000-08:00

My recuperation is going well. I went to the doctor's on Monday and received good news. The original diagnosis appears to be incorrect. Although I still don't know what caused me to get sick, I'm grateful that I don't have colitis.

There have been many valuable lessons in this experience. One of the biggest is FAITH.

By having to face my fear of hospitals, doctors, illness, and the other million things I feared before this, freed me from them.

There was a time in the hospital where I was so sick and so afraid that it was almost paralyzing.

It was at this point though that I turned it over to God. I knew I could no longer manage the anguish I felt without help.

I continued to be sick for a few more days, but I just put my faith in those who were caring for me, trusting God's hand was in there too.

This faith building exercise has been a huge gift for which I'm grateful for.

Remember: Running from fear will only keep you stuck. Be willing to face it. Put your faith in God. Give yourself the gift of freedom !!!!

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I shared in one of my earlier blogs the story of the tortoise and the hare. Moral of the story; we don't win the race by being the fastest...

I'm finding life in the slow lane is really good for my soul. I would highly recommend it.

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Cease trying to work everything out with your minds.
It will get you nowhere. Live by intuition and inspiration
and let your whole life be Revelation.

~ Eileen Caddy ~

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"I'm grateful for all my life lessons"

The gift of peace

2012-01-31T03:57:00.000-08:00

The dragonflies in the background were applied with a rubber stamp. Instead of using a stamp pad, I used acrylic paint.

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Acceptance is the key to serenity.

No matter what the circumstances are, if you practice acceptance, peace will follow.

How often we fight to change things because we're uncomfortable with the circumstances.

We put fear in charge of running our lives.

Learn to sit in the discomfort rather than forcing change.

Maybe there's a life lesson to be learned from it.

Life lessons are gifts. They help us evolve in our spiritual life.

And remember that resistance to any circumstance will only cause you pain.

I believe with all my heart that everything that happens to us is for our Highest good.

I know that's a lot to embrace, but open your mind to the possibility. You may come to believe...

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My special little friend Alicia, and my partner Jack. Though they were smiling, earlier they had a disagreement over who was going to eat the last piece of toast (at the Cracker Barrel restaurant). Jack ate it. Alicia said he was "rude". I just chuckled...both of them LOVE to eat... don't mess with their food.

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As human beings we all want to be happy and free from misery.

We have learned that the key to happiness is inner peace.

The greatest obstacles to inner peace are disturbing emotions such

as anger and attachment, fear and suspicion,...

Dalai Lama

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"I trust that what life brings me, serves me"

peaAsAs

Quieting the busy mind

2012-01-30T02:41:00.000-08:00

The red circles in the background were done with water soluble crayons. All you do is scribble the area with a crayon (in this one I made red circles). Then take a wet paint brush to blend and dilute the color. It almost like using watercolor paints. Fun, fun, fun...

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Isn't it kind of crazy how our minds are always spinning stories in our head? Most of the stories aren't even true. They're imaginary scenerios that our minds spend hours entertaining. And how many of those stories are scary ones? I don't know about you, but I don't watch horror flicks. Why on earth would we want to scare ourself by playing frightening untrue stories in our mind? My guess is two reasons; habit and fear.

We get in the habit of thinking too much. And if you're fearful by nature, your stories won't be positive ones.

Often our thoughts consists of a lot of junk. Don't believe all your thoughts.

Stop the stories when you catch yourself playing them.

Thinking your way through life blocks you from taking the heart journey.

Find nourishing things to do that will help quiet your busy mind.

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The photo is a little blurry, but there's something about it that still catches my eye.

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For those who believe,
No proof is necessary.
For those who don't believe,
No proof is possible.

~ Author Unknown ~

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"My thoughts no longer hold me hostage"

"I am free to live in my heart"

The power of your thoughts

2012-01-29T03:47:00.000-08:00

Created with a charcoal pencil and inexpensive acrylic paints.

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I want to share this article with you because it's important to know that at every moment your thoughts are directly influencing the quality of your life. If you want more happiness, one of the things that will help you achieve it is positive thinking. Negative self-talk, gossip, embellishing stories, or portraying yourself as a victim rather than empowering yourself by taking responsibility for your circumstances, will not work in your favor. Explore your thinking!

The Power of Your Thoughts by Susan Velez

Do you realize the power of your thoughts? Whatever you focus your thoughts on whether negative or positive will come to pass; especially if you spend a lot of your time focusing on it. Not many people seem to understand this and they spend a majority of their time focusing on things they are worried about like not enough money to pay the bills, they worry about their health and other things that they do not want to experience.

Have you ever thought about a friend you have not heard from in a while and as you give it more thought a couple days later you hear from this person. Do you think that is coincidence? Well it is not, you actually brought that into your life through the power of your thoughts. You can actually test this process out if you are skeptical one of the things you can do is create a vision board. Paste several pictures of things you would like to accomplish, begin focusing on those things on a daily basis and see yourself already in possession of whatever it is you put on your vision board. As you continue doing this daily you will begin attracting those things to you. Things will begin working out the way you want, however you must be open to signs and looking for little miracles that are occurring in your life because of the power of your thoughts....

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These guys were too busy to notice me (thank goodness).

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I've learned that people will forget what you said,
people will forget what you did,
but people will never forget how you made them feel.

~ Maya Angelou ~

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"My words have the power to heal or harm someone. May I remember to practice kindness wherever I go"

Staying out of the fast lane

2012-01-28T04:01:00.000-08:00

That's me sitting on the turtle's back...slowing myself down...being more grounded.

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I'm loving my pace these days;

SLOW

MINDFUL

PEACEFUL

CONTENT

IN THE MOMENT
CONNECTED
PRESENT
HAPPY

My days of life in the fast lane are over...days of instant gratification...seeking to fill an emptiness inside me with something outside of myself (which isn't possible)...looking for others to fill the hole in my soul (that doesn't work either).

My cup is full...

Life has taken a drastic turn for the better.

I've never felt happier than I am at this moment or more certain that the changes are right for me. I have fallen deeper in love with my surroundings...with people... with myself...with nature.

My heart is brimming with gratitude...joy....warmth...overflowing with LOVE.

I'm discovering that I've had a connection with turtles for a long time. This pic were taken more than ten years ago (before digital cameras).

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"We're on this journey called "life" to learn only one lesson; how to love"

Making amends to myself

2012-01-27T05:09:00.000-08:00

I recently spent six days in the hospital after being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. I've been home for a week now. My health has been slowly, but steadily improving each day. I can see though, it's going to take time for my body to heal properly. And that's okay. I'm in no rush to get back to any kind of busyness. I look at this experience as my opportunity to make amends to myself for neglecting my needs (emotionally, physically, and spiritually) in the past.

Do you practice good self-care? Today offers you the opportunity to practice being kind, gentle, and loving to yourself. You deserve it!!!!

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Some of my older photos. This duck was a hoot to shoot!!!!

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I seldom think about my limitations, and they never make me sad. Perhaps there is just a touch of yearning at times but it is vague, like a breeze among flowers.

Helen Keller

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"I am worthy"

The heart of a child

2012-01-26T04:19:00.000-08:00

One of my first attempts at doing mixed media art.

I loved the fact that there are no rules to follow with mixed media art. The crazier you get with your piece, the more fun it is, and the better it looks. As you can see, I was still in my cocoon stage with this piece, not quite ready to play freely...just testing out my wings.

I spent so much of my life trying to color inside the lines, wanting to be perfect. I was raised to believe that in order to be loved, you had to be a good little girl. Boy, did I ever want to be loved... I tried to be the best little girl I could, but in doing so, I lost my self...my spirit...my playfulness.. my true nature.

Art has helped me to reconnect to the little girl I used to be. Together, we're learning to play by new rules. No more coloring inside the lines. We make lots of messes... mistakes...explore...play.

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I often forget my age because I feel so young. No blue hair or polyester pants in my future.

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It is important from time to time
to slow down, to go away by yourself,
and simply Be.

~ Eileen Caddy ~

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"I will be all that God created me to be"

"I am enough"

2012-01-25T06:02:00.000-08:00

I enjoy creating cute little houses in my artwork.

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My word for today is "ENOUGH".

It's taken me a long time to figure out that my core belief "I am not enough" was the driving force behind a lot of my poor decision making, throughout my life. Not feeling good enough made push myself hard so as to prove myself. But no matter what I achieved, it never quieted the critical voice in me. My unworthiness was always ready to point it's gnarly finger at me anyways

Yuck!!!! I was being so mean to myself.

My truth today is different. My value as a human being has nothing to do with what I do for others or my achievements, or how perfectly I do things. Being enough is about feeling good about myself without all the crazy stuff.... doing too much, going too fast, buying things I don't need, overworking, overextending myself, using food to medicate my feelings....

Are you enough? I would love to hear about you.

If you join as a follower so you can participate in the comment box, you may want to choose a cute name for yourself such as Dragonfly Deb or Yoga Girl.

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I once loved taking photographs of colorful little beach cottages. I used to fantasize about what it would be like to live in one. It hasn't happened yet. I'm not sure if it's even a dream anymore. I feel very content where I'm at. But it was fun at the time...

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I've learned that people will forget what you said,
people will forget what you did,
but people will never forget how you made them feel.

~ Maya Angelou ~

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Affirmations for today

I am enough

I do enough

I have enough

A turtle's pace

2012-01-24T06:39:00.000-08:00

If you look close, you'll see little grains of sand (very tiny) that add texture to the paint.

There are so many interesting things to play with in the creative world. There's a little girl in me who wants to try them all.

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The last few days of being home have been soothing to my soul.

I'm going to take life slower.

No more pushing, achieving, cramming, driving myself...

I'm looking forward to learning to live deeper.

I'm letting go of my search for MORE..more of this, more of that..

I've learned this past week that I have everything I need.

What is your life pace? Is it too busy? What would you like to change?

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Rememer this guy from one of my earlier blogs? I meet him in Shamrock Park.

I think he's living life right...

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The best and most beautiful things in the world
cannot be seen nor touched
but are felt in the heart.

~ Helen Keller ~

"Let me just savor the moments"

There's always a silver lining

2012-01-23T11:41:00.000-08:00

Nothing like a week in the hospital to change the direction of your life.

If you've wondered where my daily blogging went off to, I'll give you the mini version.

It started with a trip to the emergency room, nine hours of waiting on tests, and finally being admitted to the hospital. Then another four days of not eating, more IV fluid bags I've ever seen in my life and the worst pain I've ever been in. Than another 2 days of regaining my strength to come home. And here I am...

In just 10 days, my whole life changed. I went from being sicker than I've ever been,

to coming home happier and freer than I've ever felt. Go figure!!!

I said this year was going to be about freedom. It's starting out with a BANG.

I'll give you more medical details as I slowly process it myself. Right now, I'm focusing my energy on healing.

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How did I ever take this picture? Isn't he exquisite? As I said before, a cheap camera and some patience..

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"I am free"

Free to be ME

2012-01-13T03:46:00.000-08:00

My favorite word this year is: FREEDOM.

freedom' independence, moving with ease, lack of attachment

After examining my life, I have some goals for this year. I'm excited.

At the moment, there's three areas I'm working on.

The first one is my attachment to food. I love chocolate and popcorn. Both of these comforting bedtime snacks have soothed me since my daughter Jody, died. A week ago, I gave them up.

A buried layer of grief came as a result. I was ready...more healing...part of the process of letting go.

The second thing I'm changing is my relationship with money. I'm less attached to spending than I've ever been in my life. I'm also letting go of worrying about money. Letting go doesn't mean I have more money; it means I have more faith.

The third area has to do with relationships. Freedom means I can allow people to move in and out my life without attaching needs or expectations to them. It also means making good choices in my friendships so I don't set myself up for unneccessary hurt. If someone tells me "this is who I am", I need to believe them instead of thinking I can change them. Then, in knowing who they are, it's up to me to make mindful choices about what works for me. The desperate woman who once wanted everyone to love her, isn't who I am anymore..

What does freedom mean for you? Are there things you'd like to change this year? What are they?

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I came across this picture yesterday of Jody and I.

"I am free to be ME"

Heart lessons

2012-01-12T05:04:00.000-08:00

Reading the article below evoked a lot of feelings in me yesterday.

Feelings of sadness, admiration, compassion, grief... It put me in touch with my own truth about death, having lost a child too. Losing someone you love may violently shove you into a dark passage...you feel alone....you're forced to face your fear of abandonment...but after awhile, being alone is warm and comforting.

To grieve a loss means to surrender. Your heart physically feels like it's breaking...but maybe it's really just expanding...old walls of protection are crumbling...you become more vulnerable.

There's something about grief that makes you feel more alive than you've ever been...you go deeper emotionally than you ever have...you find new strength...you find new purpose...pain transforms you...you emerge from the tunnel different than you were....life will never the same...you will never be the same...plastic parts of your life fall away.

Faith gives you glimpses of hope...you move forward...your life isn't over like you thought it would be...you find the courage to begin again.

You then, have a responsibility to take the lessons you've learned about love and letting go and pay them forward...help someone else...comfort them...change lives...serve.

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Lessons of Lily, Sarah, and Grace

For those of you who haven’t heard this unspeakably tragic story, Madonna lost her daughters and her parents in a house fire on Christmas morning. As the fire fighters pulled her away she said to them, “my whole life is in there.”
I can say I have never heard anything of which I was more certain that that. Those five people were her life. She was limitlessly committed to them, her life revolved around them. She would have died for them.
We went to the funeral yesterday, pre-judging her by the expectations we would have of ourselves in those same circumstances. That simply to breathe would no longer be possible. That existence itself would be more than we could bear. We expected to find a broken woman.
Instead we found a woman whose strength filled a church of well over a thousand people, and who left me with a personal reference point that is unshakable.
That life is an opportunity. A chance. An unimaginable gift.
And we should treat it that way. Every day...

from the mother's eulogy
Lily, Grace, and Sarah are not here with us today and they won’t be here tomorrow and I am trying to come to terms with this.. But I feel very strongly and the reason why I wanted to speak to you today is to let you know who my girls were.. my little girls are not gone from us entirely because my girls are in my heart they’re right here and this is where they live now.. And I want you to remember my girls... they were my little girl tribe...

I have been asked a million times, ”how can you do this, how are you talking, how are you surviving?” Because when I used to hear about people losing a child, or if a child got very, very sick, I would say, “I could never survive that. I could never live through that, I could never, ever, ever live through losing my babies.” But here I am.

I was a daughter and a mother, and I still intend to be both, so I can make my girls proud and carry them forward in love. This love, I am realizing, is to be my children’s legacies because they left the world at such tender ages that all they left behind was love.
And I think and I pray and I hope that it is all of our great responsibility to spread that love. And for me, God does not call on us just to love because that is too easy. He also calls on us to be of service. Service to our friends, our families to those we know and those we don’t.
So the message I want to share today, on behalf of Lily and Sarah and Grace, is that we can talk all day long about love, but love without service is not enough...

FYI- I wanted to give the person who wrote this article credit for sharing this remarkable story, but I couldn't locate their name.

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There are other kinds of loss besides death. There's the loss of a dream, a relationship, a job, your health... Going through the grieving process is the only way to make peace with your loss. Shoving your feelings down will keep you stuck. Grief...letting go... surrendering...moves us forward...have faith...beautiful new possibilities waiting for you for your arrival.

Healing from co-dependency

2012-01-11T03:22:00.000-08:00

Headbands and ponytails... makes me feel young again.

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Here's a good question to ask yourself; what am I ready to change?

My answer is this; co-dependency. It's a painful condition to have to live with.

Years of working on it has greatly enriched the quality of my life.

And I have a good feeling about this year;

things are going to get even BETTER yet.

Author Melody Beattie has been instrumental in my recovery. Her wisdom has guided me.

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Melody Beattie

Sometimes, our instinctive reaction to being in a new situation is: Don’t be yourself.

Who else can we be? Who else would you want to be? We don’t need to be anyone else.

The greatest gift we can bring to any relationship wherever we go is being who we are.

We may think others won’t like us.

We may be afraid that if we just relax and be ourselves, the other person will go away...

We may worry about what the other person will think, but when we relax and accept ourselves, people often feel much better being around us than when we are rigid and repressed...

If others don’t appreciate us, do we really want to be around them?

Do we need to let the opinions of others control us and our behavior?

Giving ourselves permission to be who we are can have a healing influence on our relationships....We relax. The other person relaxes...

Who we are is all we can be, all we’re meant to be, and it’s enough...

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A picture of cuteness.

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Friendship with ones self is all important,
because without it one cannot be friends with anyone else in the world.

~ Eleanor Roosevelt ~

"I'm the most important person I will ever meet"

Recipe for love

2012-01-10T05:12:00.000-08:00

I did a little experimenting with letter art using the word "wisdom". It was fun.

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Acceptthe fact that you are not perfect,

andthat other’s may not always approve of you.

Loveyourself.

And as you begin to love yourself,

stopengaging in self-destructive behaviors,

dysfunctionalrelationships, negative self-talk...

Learnmore about love...

howmuch to give,

whento hold on,

andwhen to let go.

Don'tlook for someone to make you feel happy.

Peoplecan only enhance our happiness.

Make yourself happy.

Loveand accept who you are.

You are wonderful.

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I did not realize when I was sniffing and rubbing this pretty lavender wildflower against my face that there is a bug in it. Yikes!!!!

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The Tortoise and the Hare

2012-01-09T02:51:00.000-08:00

Determination brings us closer to our dreams. Sometimes we have to look fear in the face

and say "I won't be listening to you anymore".

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A funny thing happens when my life gets too busy.

A turtle shows up.

Remember Aesop's Fable: The Tortoise and The Hare

This is a famous story of a race between the tortoise and the hare. It's best known for teaching us that "slow and steady wins the race." The foolish hare takes a nap during the race with the tortoise, and as a result the tortoise - who keeps plodding along, slow and steady - is able to reach the finish line first. He wins the race.

When I see a turtle, I'm reminded to slow down.

Do turtles show up in your life too?

We achieve our dreams by plodding along (like the tortise) rather than by being fast (like the hare).

I need reminding.

I often forget this important lesson.

hurry, push, faster... is not the way.

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Met this big fella in Shamrock Park. He just came over to me as though we were old buddies.

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Set your sights high, the higher the better.
Expect the most wonderful things to happen,
not in the future but right now.
Realize that nothing is too good...
~ Eileen Caddy ~

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"Life is a series of little moments"

Barriers that block our happiness

2012-01-08T03:27:00.000-08:00

My love for creating started when I was young....a coloring book and crayons ... hours of entertainment...it comes from the heart...we all have it.

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Be HAPPY!

Being happy means to be joyous, blissful, merry, gratified, radiant, contented...

How do we achieve happiness?

Removing the barriers; anger, negativity, strong attachments, fear, resentments...

Replacing it with love, compassion, understanding, forgiveness...

Your happiness can make a DIFFERENCE in someone's life...

....be a shining light of HOPE

....keep your heart SOFT with gratitude

....have FAITH

...LOVE yourself completely

... all parts

...the GOOD, the BAD, and the BEAUTIFUL.

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There's nothing ordinary in life, whether it's a simple leaf or a barren tree. The lens through which we view the world determines our experience with it. I once viewed the world through wounded eyes, seeing only the pain. Healing my wounds transformed pain into passion.

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"I am free of any barriers that block my happiness"

Things I hold dear

2012-01-07T02:42:00.000-08:00

Things I hold dear...

the quiet

a good book

nature

creative time

solitude

family

friendships

helping people

my feelings

food from the garden

simplicity

belly laughs

babies, puppies, and kittens

good health

memories

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What's dear to you? I encourage you to share in the comment box below.

My tiny computer room where I do my blogging.

Pippi entertaining herself in my creative corner/dining room table.

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Praise Yourself. Criticism breaks down the inner spirit. Praise builds it up. Praise yourself as much as you can. Tell yourself how well you are doing with every little thing. Louise L. Hay

"I surrender my smallness to become all that God created me to be"

A change of heart

2012-01-06T04:09:00.000-08:00

I often create several art pieces in one sitting, but may end up with only one that excites me.

It's the same with photography. It's easy to snap 75 photos, but I may only get a couple that I like.

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I wasn't always optimistic.

For the first 40 years of my life, I was pretty negative.

I spent too much time regreting the past and worrying about the future.

I was often unhappy and rarely peaceful.

I lived in fear of everything.

But many things have changed over the years..

I'm hopeful.

I'm happy.

I have faith and I trust...

I've given birth to a meaningful life.

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Forgive yourself. Let the past go. You did the best you could at the time with the understanding, awareness and knowledge you had. Now that you are growing and changing, you will live life differently. Louise L. Hay

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"My heart is soft and forgiving"