I'm at the barber shop with my boys getting their hair cut for
Thanksgiving. (Posting this from my iPhone today) There is an elderly
man in the barbers chair just smiling so bright... He is delighted to be
here. From what I can tell, he seems very happy to just be out. His son
and daughter in law brought him here, they have to help him because
he's on a walker. This man looks like he just won the lottery! How sweet
it is to see someone so happy and appreciative to get something so
small. Today, remember your elderly people... Grandparents, parents,
neighbors or friends. Our elderly people who can't get out by themselves
count on us to remember them! So visit an elderly person, show them you
care and Live Inspired Now!
We are sending cards again to our military men and women to show our appreciation and support! I love making homemade cards and sending them to service members. Watch the video and you can see how much they appreciate getting them! Get the kids involved too! Some of the soldiers say they love the kids cards the best! The Red Cross does have a few card guidelines which I have posted below. So today, gather the entire family, make some cards together (purchased cards are good also) to show your love and support for our military and Live Inspired Now! (Video link: http://youtu.be/HPD1quy5mIw)
Every
card received will be screened for hazardous materials by Pitney Bowes
and then reviewed by Red Cross volunteers working around the country. Please observe the following guidelines to ensure a quick reviewing process:
-Ensure that all cards are signed.
-Use
generic salutations such as “Dear Service Member.” Cards addressed to
specific individuals can not be delivered through this program. -Only cards are being accepted. Do not send or include letters.
-Do not include email or home addresses on the cards: the program is not meant to foster pen pal relationships.
-Do not include inserts of any kind, including photos: these items will be removed during the reviewing process.
-Please
refrain from choosing cards with glitter or using loose glitter as it
can aggravate health issues of ill and injured warriors.
-If you
are mailing a large quantity of cards, please bundle them and place them
in large mailing envelopes or flat rate postal shipping boxes. Each
card does not need its own envelope, as envelopes will be removed from
all cards before distribution.
All holiday greetings should be addressed and sent to:
Holiday Mail for Heroes
P.O. Box 5456
Capitol Heights, MD 20791-5456
The deadline for having cards to the P.O. Box is Friday, December 7th.
Holiday cards received after this date cannot be guaranteed delivery.
LOCAL ITHACA NY AREA FRIENDS: I will be mailing out a box of cards, feel free to get them to me by this date and I will include them with mine so you don't have to pay for postage!
Wooooo! It is Thanksgiving week here in the USA! As tradition would have it; most of us will gather together on Thursday and share in a huge meal, watch football and enjoy time with family and friends! This week, invite someone to share that day with you; a military person stationed away from family, a single person who may not want to cook for one person, an elderly person or anyone you think could benefit from sharing a meal and good company! Open your home, share your food, give thanks for all that you have and Live Inspired Now!
(I will be posting the address to send holiday cards to our military people in tomorrows post! Get those cards ready, our troops need to know that we appreciate them!)
Today my daughter Mattie and I are going to see the latest movie in the Twilight saga... Breaking Dawn part 2. We have seen all the others and I have read all of the books too. We love the movie but whats more is that I love going to see it with her. We get so excited, we have planned for it since the last movie and we get to talk about our Vampire fever for weeks! (Yes, we are on Team Edward! lol) Even if you are not a fan of Twilight, there are many movie and book series that have come out that you can share in with your kids or someone close. (I also highly recommend Harry Potter which is my favorite!) So today, pick out a series to share with someone, watch the movies together and make a day of it and Live Inspired Now!
Don't be meek, say what you mean and mean it! People often have a hard time being clear and asserting themselves. Try it out in the car when you are alone if you have to. Pick a phrase that you have had to say in the past, something that you were meek about and try saying it with authority! People will not feel confident about what you are saying if you are timid, so convey your thoughts with authority. Whether you are teaching a workshop, applying for a job, speaking with a client, or talking with friends or colleagues, speak with authority! Try it today, practice your authoritative voice, have fun with it and you will build up your confidence; try it today and Live Inspired Now!
Last night was the relationship teleconference! We had people from all over the US and out of the country too! While I was on the phone teaching the workshop, Thad came in and placed a bouquet of flowers on my mantle, it was so sweet! After that, he stayed and did some work and quietly listened in. He would glance up at me from time to time as I paced the floor back and forth, passionately speaking to my listeners. After the conference, Thad said that he was glad he listened in because he got some reminders! I certainly don't think he needs any, but was glad he enjoyed it.
Well this morning, when we were kissing and saying our goodbyes before he left for work, Thad took me in his arms, pulled me in close and just stared into my eyes. He was so present, so completely there, he melted me! Then off to work he went! lol. In that 45 seconds he stared into my eyes, he owned me. It was so awesome!! Maybe that was the refresher he picked up for my workshop? Today, be completely present for your partner. Even if only for a magic moment or two, but be there. Without distraction, without phones, kids, dogs, work or whatever, just be there 1000% Try this with your partner, give them your full, un-distractable attention, get really connected and Live Inspired Now!
Anger kills passion, it kills joy and it kills relationships. There is no room for anger in a healthy relationship. That is not to say you won't get angry sometimes, but do not let resentment toward your partner build into anger. I have been speaking all week about effective communication with people, about how couples should be talking, expressing their feelings and emotions. When you let the little things go un-said, they build up into things you eventually resent. "I don't like they way he responds to my text messages" becomes "I hate him, he doesn't care about me at all!" Talk to one another, allow your partner the luxury of being able to express themselves without you taking offense or feeling attacked. If you can tell each other how you feel while the other just listens and refuses to take it personally, you will have a long lasting relationship. Good communication is vital, it makes you feel safe with your partner, it allows you to get things out, it makes you feel appreciated and heard, it creates intimacy and creates a strong bond as a couple. So today, talk to your partner, do not allow resentment or anger to creep into your relationship and Live Inspired Now!
WORLDWIDE RELATIONSHIP TELECONFERENCE TONIGHT AT 7:00PM EASTERN USA. Even if you cannot make it at that time, if you register, you will receive a link to listen to the conference at a time that is better for you! REGISTER HERE: http://www.liveinspirednow.com/workshops.html
For those of you who celebrate it, Christmas is only 41 days away! Yay! Time to get organized! I have a Christmas box that I keep all my things in. It has a notebook for lists, receipts, handmade Christmas cards from years past and lots of ideas that I have about what to buy, make or do for Christmas. My box is looking a little beat up this year so I think I will have to spruce it up with some new decorations. Last night we had our first Christmas meeting, Carrie is in charge of finding out what the kids in our family would like; gift ideas. Mattie and Harry are in charge of coming up with creative ornament ideas that we can make. We all have or will have a fun task to make Christmas a special family event! Each year we make handmade gifts for one another, the kids LOVE doing that and personally, I love getting gifts that are handmade! Remember, Christmas is more about your presence than your presents! Time spent is more valuable than money spent! So today, start to organize your Christmas, get everyone involved to make it more fun and Live Inspired Now!
The other night I strained my injured shoulder and Thad said "Be careful, you have to know your limits!" To which I loudly stated "I HAVE NO LIMITS!" lol. It was pretty funny but the thought is true. We have NO limits. We can say we do, we can make excuses, we can place limits on what we think we can or can't do but the fact remains... for every one of us, we have no limits! There are people with no arms and legs surfing, there are blind people playing instruments, there are autistic people revolutionizing math and science, there are poor people who rise above circumstances and become wealthy. The only thing they have that others don't is the belief that they have no limits! Attitude is EVERYTHING my friends! Check out your attitude today. Are you living in lack, expecting the worst and making excuses as to why you can't have, do or be? Or are you living in abundance, ready to take risks, push yourself through, get what you want and laugh at limits with an attitude of gratitude? No matter what your circumstances are, it is your choice... limits and excuses or limitless and happy! Drop the excuses, get rid of limits, love life and Live Inspired Now!
These are my daughter Madison's eyes. She is so beautiful! She posted this picture on facebook and I got all verklempt and weepy. Those are MY eyes too... only hers are brighter and younger. My daughter will be 18 in just over a week; I can't believe it, it seems like it was just yesterday. Madison has turned into a beautiful young woman and I am grateful that I have taught her to see things through not only her eyes but through others. She takes time to notice how other people are feeling, she is very empathic and cares about her friends deeply. Teach your kids to view the world from different angles, to appreciate other people and their views and to respect the needs of others. Look in their eyes and see if you can see some of yourself, tell them how much you love them and Live Inspired Now!
Several weeks ago I posted about starting a painting class.... the picture above is my painting! Every Saturday I have been going to my class for 2 hours and painting the next layer. In the beginning, I couldn't really see how it was going to all come together but sure enough it did! I noticed as the weeks went by, 2 hours on Saturdays wasn't enough, I had caught the painting bug. I started doing some smaller, less challenging paintings on my own at home. I found it to be fun but also relaxing. I think I am hooked! I think for my first real painting, it's pretty good! So today, try something new and Live Inspired Now!
Today I enrolled 2 of our kids in Kumon. Kumon is a center that provides extra help in math and reading for kids of all levels and ages. One of my kids was super excited about it, the other kid was not super excited but totally understood the benefit and looks forward to getting on track with math. If your child is having difficulties in school, find them some help. Even if you don't go to a formal education center, you can find a tutor or even a high school student to help. There are limitless possibilities for getting a child help and getting them on track for a successful and happy future. Most of you know how I feel about school, I am not a fan of traditional education at all but until we have another system in place, we need to make the most of what we have. I want my kids to be able to feel successful and master the skills they need to move forward. Only we as parents can teach our kids self advocacy, self esteem and personal growth, one way of doing this is through enrichment programs that allow them to feel successful. My kids totally rock, I am super proud of them. Not because they get good grades or excel at school but because they are creative and kind, loving and helpful, respectful and motivated and they make the most out of life! So today, if needed, get your kids some extra help, encourage them to be happy, healthy and proactive in their own personal development and Live Inspired Now!
After months of pain in my shoulder, I finally decided to go get some help for it. I don't go to doctors if I can help it so I decided to try a physical therapist and massage therapy and call my Shaklee rep Jeff (Jeff Whittaker on fb) for a natural anti-inflammatory supplement. I went to my first appointment with my PT Lance; turned out that I had rotator cuff tendinitis and he showed me the exercises to do that would help. Then, I went to my massage therapist and she really worked my arm and shoulder area out. After my massage, the inflammation went down immediately and it felt so much better! I have been going to therapy now for several weeks and I am just about healed! I had to bring my kids in for immunization shots before school and while there I inquired about my painful shoulder. The doctor said I should make an appointment immediately and he would send me for an MRI and he couldn't rule out the possibility of surgery! (One reason why I don't go to doctors.) Of course I left and never made the appointment with him.
So by going the holistic route, I saved a ton of money, didn't have to take any medications and surgery never became an option. We all have the means to take care of our bodies with proper diet, exercise and healthy supplements. I always advocate for natural healers first; chiropractors, acupuncture, physical therapist, massage therapist, coaches, physical trainers and more! So today, check out the natural healers in your area, take control of your health and wellness and Live Inspired Now!
There were many people who suffered great loss from Hurricane Sandy; losing people, property, belongings and a feeling of security that only comes from returning to a warm cozy home each night. There is an immediate need for supplies, food and lots of love and support. The aide from government and from benefits often takes time to get into the hands of the people who need it most and they often have to fill out a ton of paperwork to apply for aid which takes time. My friend Joanne who is in NYC has graciously offered to accept gift cards at her location and she will distribute them to people in need immediately. I would love if you could help! Gift cards from Walmart, Lowes, Home Depot, Target, fast food places, chain restaurants and even toys stores. Many homes were destroyed and people will need to rebuild and replace everything. I am grateful to you all for your help and thank you so much!!
Please send gift card donations to the address below and Live Inspired Now!
Joanne LaRocco DiJoseph
108 Main Street
Staten Island, NY 10307
Most people think of abusive relationships in the sense of romantic relationships but friendships can be abusive too. All too often people stay in abusive friendships because they have been friends for so long they can't imagine not being friends anymore, or they are afraid of being alone, or they feel like the person will use information spoken in confidence against them if they aren't friends anymore. I have a client that was unable to express her true feelings to a friend because the friend would hang up on her, berate her, talk about her behind her back and even went so far as to say nasty things to her kids. My dear readers... THIS is not friendship! A friend appreciates what you have to say even if they disagree. A friend respects your secrets and doesn't share them with others. A friend gives back, not just takes. A friend encourages you and doesn't try to hold you back so they feel better about not going forward themselves. A friend doesn't call you names or spout mean words to your loved ones. So today, take a look at your friendships. Are you in an abusive friendship or are you treating a friend poorly? Be the friend you would want to have, ditch any and all abusive friendships and Live Inspired Now!
PS: Abuse comes in many forms: physical, sexual, verbal, emotional and even financial. Another person attempting to control you to get what they want it never OK. You are worth the entire world... don't ever settle for less.
The other day, I was telling my daughter Mattie the story of when I was a pre-teen in the early 80's and MTV was first coming out. (They actually played music videos back then!) I was in middle school, 7th grade I think and I created a nice little business for myself by selling MTV logos that I had hand drawn and decorated. Almost all of my friends had businesses, from delivering newspapers, to making friendship pins to selling stickers. We were all little entrepreneurs and loved it and really loved having extra money! Once, I even ran a lemonade stand outside of my moms store. My sister and I raised enough money to take a trip to Bush Gardens. These early experiences set the tone for my life, I have been a go getter for as long as I can remember and I have almost always been self employed. So today, encourage a child to start their own business, allow them to be creative and think about how they can turn their talents into profit, or to use it philanthropically, to help other people. Teach kids about working for themselves and inspire them to take some business risks and Live Inspired Now!
Thankfulness and gratitude are something we can all share, it is not reserved for certain people. No matter who you are, you always have something to be thankful for. This month we celebrate Thanksgiving and we remember all the wonderful blessings we have in our life. I think one of the best ways to be thankful is to give to others. With the cold weather setting in here in the Northeast, there are many people who need warm clothing, coats and gloves. You can drop off warm clothes to schools, many children unfortunately show up to school without coats. You could drop off a Thanksgiving meal to a family in need. There are so many opportunities to show your gratitude through service and contribution; especially now with Hurricane Sandy leaving so many people without shelter, food and electricity. Show your gratitude and thankfulness for all you have by helping someone else and Live Inspired Now!
Watch the video: Change For A Dollar here. Let me know if you are able to watch it without crying! I can't! ;)
Show a genuine interest in other people and what they have to say. If you are not genuinely interested then don't inquire. We have all met people who ask questions about you, your religion, your family or your political views just so they can start a debate with you or to prove you wrong. Nobody likes this! If you ask someone a personal question and they respond, they are sharing part of themselves with you and trusting you to be respectful of their answers. It is manipulative to ask a question with the intent to harm, embarrass, change or to prove the person wrong and it comes straight from your ego. When approaching people about something personal, come from your heart with a true desire to know the other person better. Today, ask a genuine question, show genuine interest and care and Live Inspired Now!
I don't believe in tolerance, I prefer compassion. To me, tolerance sounds like "Yea, I can't stand you but I put up with you." Compassion on the other hand sounds to me like "I care about you as a person and wish you well." Maybe it is just semantics but I prefer to offer compassion to other humans. I may not agree with what they believe in but I don't think I have to. I don't think I have to change anyone or convince another person to believe what I do. Politics, religion, morality or whatever the topic, everyone is entitled to their own opinions and that has no bearing on me which is why I can remain compassionate. I hope I am never just "tolerant," I hope I am always compassionate to my fellow man no matter who they are or what they believe. You never know what another person is going through, dealing with or working on, so today, try compassion and Live Inspired Now!
Although we all can work on ourselves and grow as people, that doesn't mean you are broken. People are not broken, people cannot lose part of themselves even though we use those words sometimes. If you are feeling down or like you have something blocking your growth, reach out and seek help but don't spend time feeling that you are broken. Life is too short to go through it feeling broken. Every person on earth has an inner light that wants to shine, some allow it, some only allow it a little but even some refuse to let it shine. Our life is our opportunity to leave a lasting impression on the world, how will the world remember you? Do you shine your inner light, grow and evolve as a person, help and give to others and live to the fullest? These are the things that make us feel good, that remind us we are whole and not broken, that we are capable of unbelievable love and joy. So today, realize that you are not broken and make the decision to live a full and joyous life and Live Inspired Now!
When Thad and I were dating, we used to do lots of "drive by" hugs and kisses. We were both working full time but I would often have to run somewhere for my job so I would purposely drive by his work and text him that I was there and he would run out and give me a quick hug and kiss! It was so cute! Now I drive by hug friends too. My friend Holly just last week gave ME a drive by hug.
We don't always have time to visit with the people we care about but if you are in the area, there is always time for a quick hug or a kiss! So today, make someones day and surprise them with a drive by hug or kiss and Live Inspired Now!
Oh my gosh... have you ever felt really bad about not liking someone or their personality? Or even worse, felt badly because someone didn't like you? I hear people all the time trying to justify why they don't like a person, trying to convince themselves that they are not bad people for disliking another human. It is perfectly natural and normal to dislike some people. Maybe someone gossips at the office and you don't want to hear it, or someone is constantly rude and burps in the lunchroom; you don't have to like everyone! You should however be respectful of other humans and treat them kindly. Just because you don't like someone doesn't mean you should insult them, call them names or hurt their feelings. We don't have to get along with everyone, but we do have to maintain civility. Set a good example by living with integrity and treating everyone with kindness and compassion, even those you don't like. Today, acknowledge that your feelings are valid, that you are not a bad person for disliking someone, treat everyone with kindness, take a deep breath and Live Inspired Now!
We are planning a non trick or treating Halloween for tomorrow night! The kids are all older now and in the aftermath of the hurricane, we just think it would be better to hang at home and have some family fun! I bought plenty of candy and have assigned a "party planning committee" to plan the low key fun! Carrie and Ethan will make decorations, Mattie will pick a kid friendly scary movie and Harry can dole out the candy! Thad and I will make a yummy dinner and the kids have the option to dress up or not. Halloween trick or treating is always fun but this year there will be no complaining about the cold or the long walk, just a quiet and fun night at home with the family! So this year, try planning a Halloween at home, no tricks, just treats, movies, family fun and Live Inspired Now!
Here on the East coast, we are bracing for a Halloween storm! Hurricane Sandy is heading our way and we are ready! Don't panic, just be prepared. Panic won't help, nor will it ease the storm so why stress yourself and others out. Make sure you have what you need; water, candles, generator, non-perishable food and lots of fun time activities for the kids. The world has seen storms for as long as it has existed and while it is scary sometimes, we are not in control. Mother nature will do what she wants and the best we can do is to be prepared, stay POSITIVE, help our neighbors and Live Inspired Now!
I love all things that have to do with Fall! Last night Thad and I took the kids to a haunted corn maze. Harry and I stayed back while Thad took Mattie and Ethan through the maze. Harry and I had so much fun watching the people nervously waiting in line and we ran around the farm taking "spooky" pictures and even made a silly "Blair Witch" style video. Thad, Mattie and Ethan were "terrified" in the haunted maze while being chased by ghosts and goblins! We all had such a great time and today the fun continues with pumpkin painting! We love to paint instead of carving, it is a little easier and you can be super creative with a variety of paint colors! So today, have some Fall fun with creative pumpkin painting and Live Inspired Now!
Thad and I are lucky enough to have 3 sets of parents; his, mine and ours. "Ours" is the older couple who live across the street. They truly consider Thad as their third son and graciously welcomed me as their daughter in law when Thad and I got married. EJ (dad) was over this morning for coffee before he and Thad get busy on our home construction project. While EJ was here, he regaled us with stories from his youth. He told us about scuffles at the local bar and where everything used to be located. He shared stories about him and Pat (mom) dating and where they used to go. I think I could have sat there for hours listening, it was nice to get a glimpse of a time we would never have known about. Stories are the only way people had to communicate hundreds of years ago, these days we have a million options to convey a story but I still think the best way is to listen. So today, talk to your parents, grandparents or even and older person that is close to you. They have some amazing stories if you will take the time to ask about them. Listen, learn, enjoy the time spent with an elder and Live Inspired Now!
I am a total YES person! I love saying yes and trying new things but sometimes you have to say NO! Saying no for some people is difficult, they say yes so much that they forget to say no when they are over extended or just need time for themselves. I often hear people (especially Moms) telling about all the things they do and how they feel so overwhelmed. Soccer practice, music lessons, tutoring, work, laundry, cooking, cleaning, volunteering, taxi services, lending an ear, projects and more... learn to say NO! You can't do all things for all people at all times. You have to say no once in a while and remember to take care of you, or at least take a break. It is perfectly fine to say NO to one more responsibility that someone wants you to take on! Say it with me: no, no thank you, not now, I'm sorry but I can't, maybe next time, I would love to but I am booked up. Say no and take time for yourself before you get overwhelmed or resentful and Live Inspired Now!
How many times in life has someone tried to bait you into an argument or provoke you into a fight? Our ego loves to engage with other people but we don't have to participate in the drama of other people. Even though it might be a difficult choice sometimes, we can choose to walk away. We are responsible for what we engage in. Truthfully though, who cares about being right? People will try to debate you about your opinions but who cares? Do we really need to be right? What would happen if we just walked away and the other person was left thinking they were right because we didn't choose to engage and debate with them? Who cares; just walk away! Walking away from people who want to drag you into their drama leaves you feeling in control. People who continuously argue and fight or feel the need to provoke others are trying to feed an ego and they usually have pretty low self confidence. A person with self confidence never has to prove that he is right, he just knows it. So today, walk away from arguments and drama, keep your head high, be in control of your own life and Live Inspired Now!
People have stories, some deep and painful, some shameful, some they would never tell anyone. Everyone has these stories, you are not alone or unique. Sharing these stories can take the shame, guilt or pain out of them. It can also make you realize that you are not the only person who felt that way, that other people have felt or experienced the same thing.
After I had my first child, 18 years ago, I had postpartum depression. I had no idea what that was, nor did I know that I had it. I had just had a baby and didn't understand why I was so sad and constantly thought about jumping out of the window with my baby in my arms. I refused to talk to anyone about it because I thought I was crazy and was ashamed at how I had felt. It wasn't until years later that I realized what I had been going through and wished I had told someone back then. It might have made that time easier or given me peace of mind to know that I was not crazy, nor was I the only one to ever experience that. I am grateful that my daughter and I got through it unharmed and now I share this story with the hope that it may help someone who is afraid to ask for help.
Please share your stories and experiences, don't hide them away and let them have control over you. Let them out so that other people can learn from it and feel better about their own stories. On a planet with billions of people, nobody is alone, if you have experienced it, so has someone else. We are all connected by our emotions, our feelings and our stories. So today, be brave, inspire and help others with your story and Live Inspired Now.
"I'm not going to lower my standards, so up yours!" I heard this on one of the political stations on satellite radio yesterday and it cracked me up! The play on words is pretty funny but it is also very true. I often hear of people lowering their standards for what is acceptable in their life. They decide to put up with abuse, they try things that they know are wrong (drugs) or they keep people in their life that don't belong there. It is a slippery slope and once you lower your standards it makes it easier to lower them again and again. Don't do it! Raise your standards, live with integrity, maintain your convictions and Live Inspired Now!
Relationships don't make you happy, they reflect your happiness. If you are single, don't search for that person who will make you happy. Look for the person you can share your own happiness with. Happiness is not something you can find, it is something you can be. If you are not feeling very happy, whether you are in a relationship or not, try being grateful. Everyone has something to be grateful for, even the fact that you woke up today. I am always grateful for choices, we all have choices even if we choose not to acknowledge them. We always have the choice to be happy, to start a new relationship, to leave an abusive relationship or to re-create the passion and excitement in an old relationship. So if you are unhappy in your current relationship, look within, is there something you could be doing to change or improve things? Are you truly reflecting happiness in your daily life? Think about the things you can do to remind yourself to choose happiness each and every day and Live Inspired Now!
Remember this toy? Actually, remember when we had "toys?" Everything now is digital, computerized, wireless and virtual. Thad and I were explaining the wooly willy toy to a friend a few days ago and then there it was last night in a craft store! I was thinking about all the cool games, board games and toys we had as kids and how we would sit in our room and play for hours. I spent more hours playing barbies and jump rope than anything else.... oh wait, I also liked marbles! Today, introduce your kids, or younger friends to some old favorites and Live Inspired Now!
There is really no reason in this day and age to "not know something!" I often hear people say that they "just don't know how to do it" or "I didn't go to school for that" or even "I can't, I don't know how." With the internet at our disposal, there is NO reason to "not know something" ever! You can research that behavioral challenge your child is having, you can learn how to create your own website, you could learn to speak another language or how to build something! We are so very blessed to have access to the entire world of people, knowledge, information and instruction... and for free! So today, if there is something you don't know how to do, research it, learn about it and Live Inspired Now!
It's Friday! Yay! Today, make a list of all the great Fall activities you can do this weekend! Check your local free papers for farm fun activities, ask your friends where they pick their pumpkins or do a local web search for festivals. There are so many fun options! So today, compile your list, buy some cider and prepare for a pumpkin patch, apple pie, corn maze filled weekend and Live Inspired Now!
My list of Fall activities.... message me your add ons!
Farm visit
Hay Ride
Hot apple cider and donuts
Pumpkin patch
Corn maze
Apple festival (or any festival)
"You pick" farm
Farmers markets
Foliage tour/Leaf peeping
Pumpkin carving/painting
Hiking
Snuggling with your lover and sipping hot cocoa
You cannot know too much but you can certainly say too much! Learn all that you can but don't use it to correct or call people out. Nobody likes a "know it all" who butts into the conversations of other people. Correcting everyone or butting in does not prove that you are intelligent, it proves that you are rude. So today, mind your manners, respect other people enough to let them manage their own conversations and Live Inspired Now!
The holidays are right around the corner and now is a good time to start planning your good deeds, random acts of kindness and donations. There is plenty of time now to set aside some extra funds to help someone in need. You can buy a grocery store gift card and provide Thanksgiving dinner, or buy the food yourself and deliver it or even invite someone over for dinner with your family. There are many people who are in need but won't seek help, they just quietly go without and never complain. If you are not sure who to help, ask around. Everyone knows someone who could use a little (or a lot) of help! Premeditate your kindness now so you have time get what you need or save up a little extra to share and Live Inspired Now!
PS... COMING SOON: My new website which will have the blog build right into it! I can't wait to show you all! :)
We tend to see life through a filter that shuts out other peoples struggles unless they are very close to us. We must remember that every other person on earth has struggles and challenges and are trying to navigate through life just like you are. Ask the people around you what they are working on, what their goals are, what they do in their spare time. See if there is some way you can encourage them! Be a friend to your friends. If there is nothing you can do to help, take an interest, offer a compassionate ear or even show up to cheer them on! Be encouraging, acknowledge other people and their interests, inspire them if you can and Live Inspired Now!
Last night I lost the page counter on this blog. In one evening I went from over 78,000 hits to only 7 hits. I tried to figure it out but my google analytics had reset itself and all my counts were gone. I decided to let the Universe handle it and went to bed. This morning, my counter was back and working fine! I am not sure what happened but it made me realize we need to make things count while we can! When you do something, do it right, when you love someone, tell them, when you want to try something, try it! Make your life count by leaving joy, love, peace, happiness, laughter and good memories wherever you go! Your life will be counted by the good that you do... make sure to leave a legacy of kindness and Live Inspired Now!
Last night my husband gave me an anniversary present... a piano! It is beautiful and I am so excited! Many many years ago, when I was a single Mom, I was taking piano lessons. It was way before I became my current self. Back then I didn't do much for myself, just for the kids but I have always wanted to play piano so I made it work. My dad came over once per week to watch the kids while I went to the music store across the street for my lesson. I made it through the beginners book before I had to stop because it became too financially difficult to maintain. Diapers were definitely more important! I always thought I would take lessons again but never did... until now! I don't think even Thad knows just how much the piano means to me! I have always dreamed of having a piano in the house and gathering around it at Christmas time to sing carols. I am going to go buy a piano book today and start practicing and soon... once I find someone local, lessons! So today, consider that instrument that you loved, look for lessons in your area and Live Inspired Now!
Compare yourself to you, not another person. Compete with yourself, not someone else. No other person on earth is a comparison, we are all unique. Even siblings, raised together in the same circumstances will always have a different take on their life.
Always do your best and be your best and set your own bar for accomplishments. Also, don't judge another person for what they have not accomplished. Everyone has a different story and set of experiences, no two people are comparable. So today, see yourself as a completely unique individual, be your best you, don't compare or compete with others and Live Inspired Now!
Adapt to situations and make the most of it. Life, events and people are always changing, be flexible and go with the flow and you will always fit in. Nobody wants to hear complaining about the new software, having to park far away or how they were out of your favorite coffee flavor. Remain positive and adjust yourself to your environment. Just go with it... adapt and Live Inspired Now!
I watched an interesting Ted talk the other day about body language and appearing powerful. It stated that when you stand tall and keep your arms open rather than folded you appear more powerful. Also, those who slouch, slump in their chair, fold their arms or put their arm up with hand on the neck are subject to being over-powered by people with stronger energy. Think about this in your daily life.... how are you using your body? Are you open and approachable or is your body conveying that you are closed off and ill at ease? Today, pay attention to your body language and adjust it accordingly, make yourself feel more powerful by observing good posture and open arms and Live Inspired Now!
Here it the Ted talk I was referring to: Ted
Today I am letting my son Harry stay out of school. He is helping to film a video for our local youth bureau. I am on the board of directors for the Friends of the Ithaca Youth Bureau and we are filming a video around town; interviewing local leaders and asking them why they support the youth bureau. We needed extra help with the filming and Harry has become quite proficient at making his own "youtube" videos so I thought it would be a great opportunity for him to help out! He is very excited about the project and didn't mind skipping school to support the youth bureau. I think things like this are a great opportunity for kids to learn from and certainly worth missing a day of school to participate in. Keep your eyes open for opportunities for your kids to "ditch school" and help out in their community, church, family or group. The lessons they learn about generosity, philanthropy, compassion and more are priceless. So today, or soon, allow your kid to ditch school to participate in volunteer work and Live Inspired Now!
Have you ever known someone that was rejected and they went mental about it? They yelled, screamed, threw things, broke things or even got violent with a person? I am sure the "reject-or" was happy they rejected that person after they saw the destruction that occurred as a result. Rejection doesn't mean that you are unworthy as a human, that you are unlovable or undesirable, it merely means that you are not getting what you want at that moment. Rejection can feel bad, but it is not the end of the world, do not globalize it. I always think it is an opportunity because something else better is coming. I believe that rejection is often a good thing. We all have examples of when getting what we wanted would have been a bad thing. Like the job we didn't get but then a much better job came about. Or the person that said "no" when you asked them out but you met the perfect person shortly thereafter. Or even rejection in a loving relationship can just mean that it is time to change some things or to re-connect as a couple.
See rejection as a gift, sometimes is hurts, sometimes it hurts deeply. But rejection is not about you as a human, it just means you are not getting what you want. Hang in there, you might be getting what you NEED instead. So if you are rejected, accept what is, recognize your feelings, focus on and be grateful for what you have, look for ways to improve your own self and Live Inspired Now!
If any of you are a fan of "The Office" you will get the picture! Everyone loves to get awards, so why not host your own family award night? You don't have to get all fancy and buy trophies, you could use certificates that you print or even go to the dollar store and get little prizes to give away! Make the categories fun, like "Best chore do-er" or "Most likely to make Mom laugh" or even something serious like "Best homework completion." Whatever you come up with, make it fun for the entire family and Live Inspired Now!
Are you wide awake? Are you fully experiencing life or are you watching others enjoy it? Wake up and open your eyes to all that life has to offer. Don't sit on the couch and watch other people have fun... turn the TV off and have fun yourself! Don't consign yourself to "this is how it is, I have to accept it," make a CHANGE if you are unhappy! Life is not happening to us, we are full participants and we can either choose to be pro-active, or we can sit around waiting for something to change. We have to take the pro-active approach because life doesn't come looking for us. Today, get out of the house, do something spectacular, fall in love, run a 5K, explore the woods, take a road trip, try something new, do something adventurous... whatever it is, get out and do it! Wake up, take charge of your OWN happiness because only you are responsible for it, experience life fully and Live Inspired Now!
I meet with so many Mom's that suffer from Mom guilt. Many Mom's feel like they don't do enough, like they must meet every single need of every person in their life or that they are the only person who could provide a high enough level of care for their kids. I am here to tell you... you can take time off! Yes, you will always be a "Mom" but you can go off duty and take time for YOU! Besides being a Mom, we are also significant others to someone, beautiful daughters, goddesses, warriors, professionals and so many other things! I don't know one single Mom that is strictly a Mom and nothing else. So take some time off from the Mom responsibilities once in a while and relax, take a bath, go on a date, have a glass of wine, read a book... whatever it is that YOU like to do. (If you take "time off" and you are watching Nickelodeon and drinking out of a plastic spongebob cup, you might be doing it wrong!) So tonight, get the kids settled then tell them you are off duty except in the case of house fire or medical emergency. Put the spongebob cup in the sink and go spend some time doing what makes you feel like a grown up and Live Inspired Now!
Here in the United States, we had the presidential debate last night. I have seen people posting all about it and their opinions on facebook and twitter... everyone is a buzz with election fever. It is easy to get caught up in it, especially if you are very involved in politics. However... not everyone cares about politics and some people don't want to hear about it. In fact, some people might feel offended if you voice your opinions because some people try to avoid political talk. Also, you never know what another person's views are and they may be completely different than yours. I see so much drama on facebook lately about people getting un-friended because of political posts and opinions.... just ask yourself, are your political posts worth friendships and relationships? Focus on positive, uplifting messages, don't try to put down the "other side." Leave those slimy tactics to the politicians and Live INSPIRED Now!
Pack a nice healthy lunch today... brown bag it! Pack one for your spouse too and slip a love note in it. I love peanut butter and jelly sandwiches with some fruit and veggies to go with it. Save a few bucks today and pack your lunch, eat healthy and Live Inspired Now!
Opportunities look for you when YOU are worth finding. Bring your best YOU wherever you go by putting your best foot forward, speaking kindly, never judging people and always thinking compassionately. People are often cranky and unkind but when you realize that it is not about you, you can start to think about ways to show compassion. If you are kinder than you have to be and always doing your best, people will seek you out when they have an opportunity. Are you worth finding? Are you positive and easy to be around? Are you flexible and willing to help? Today, be the person you would want to hang out with, have a positive effect on those around you and Live Inspired Now!
I love to sit in the car at night in the yard! When I first moved here to Upstate NY, I had house mates and the between the house mates, kids and pets, it was quite loud in the house. When a client would call, I would take the calls outside in my car because it was super quiet and I could focus better. Sitting out there one evening coaching a client, I realized, it was really beautiful and peaceful out there. I lived in the country and you could see every star in the galaxy and it was nice and warm in the car. I often saw deer walking through the yard and one night I even saw a shooting star. From that time on, I would sit in the car when I needed some quiet or to have a quiet talk with one of the kids. So tonight, if your house is loud, get out and sit in the car in the yard, look at the stars, enjoy the peace, share a quiet moment with someone special and Live Inspired Now!
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