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Sparkle and Shine!
Hello there Gentle Reader,
Linda
January 11 and so far no snowflakes. Oh we've had a dusting or two in the city but nothing really wintery - yet! I'm ready though. I received a fabulous coat from my Love that will keep me toasty. Which reminds me, who wants cinnamon toast?! Yes, it IS all about food with me!
So far this year we've discussed getting out our fabulous journals and glitter pens. Speaking of which, you can find both on www.etsy.com where you are supporting artists and getting one-of-a-kind goodness.
The key to achieving your goals - aka REACHING YOUR DREAMS - is to make the process fun. Remember when you were a kid and got that huge box of Crayola's for your birthday? You couldn't wait to draw and colour every single wish you ever had. Well writing down your ideas should be just as enjoyable. Maybe even more so since we now live in a world where we are overwhelmed by the media - sights, sounds, and not always happy-ending stories fill each day and night. I'm telling you - a crisp bright journal and a sparkly pen can go a long way in the cheer factor. Trust me.
You should take your journal and pens with you everywhere too. Even those few minutes when you're waiting for the office coffee machine to finish brewing your first cup, you can capture a few ideas. Remember, no idea is too big or too small. Plus having creativity around can inspire you with other goals and plans. It's all good.
Today I want you to get used to taking your pen and journal out and about. The waiting room in the doctors' office or perhaps in a coffee shop for 10 minutes at lunch. These are going to be your tools of the trade! Re-reading your words can raise your spirits and let you know that it is POSSIBLE to achieve all what makes you happy in life.
Until next time, keep dreaming!
LindaStand Tall, Move Forward...
Hello Gentle Reader,
Linda
Great to see you again. You're just in time for a snack too. Double chocolate chip cookies are just cooling now. Tea? Good. Time to chat about goals.
I was re-reading my Facebook statuses from 3 years ago (when I first joined) because of the new Timeline thingy (technical term). While I didn't actually forget that I was a member of Weight Watchers in 2009, I didn't really remember all the baby steps that it took to get to my 50 lb weight loss. I had the support of friends and family and the road was long and sometimes bumpy BUT I eventually got there and became much healthier. Dropped down 5 sizes too. That was a bonus!
Sometimes when you get all enthused about a new project or goal, you can also get that deer-in-the-headlights look (though ALL the Bambi's in my clichés make it safely back into the forest!) That scary thought of not knowing what to do next. Oh you may know WHAT you want but just not how to get it!
The key plan here is to move forward. Even if each step feels like you're going in slow-motion. Venturing ahead is better than turning around and going backwards. To that safe and cozy place but not always a fun and happy one.
Sometimes I like to accomplish a smaller task before I ramp up for the big one. Building your goal-setting muscles AND you don't even have to go to the gym! Gotta love that idea!
That Weight Watchers goal? Well truth be known (and I'm all about keeping it real, folks), is that I gained about 13 lbs back. I'm not worried though, as I've come to learn some things about myself since then. Everyone has their own natural pace and time frame. Also that I work best when I write my goals down. Wishful thinking is fun but never productive. You need to believe it AND see it to achieve it! Writing it down in your journal with your glitter pen is the SEEING it part. Your brain says "Oh, we are SERIOUS about this one I see. Groovy!" or something similar.
Your HappyWork (sounds more positive than homework) for today is start with that first wee baby step. Nothing too flashy or bright. Just that one phone call, or google search or email to start your goal in motion. Maybe it is to find more information on that art course you want to take or perhaps locating that perfect yoga mat for the gym. Whatever it is, however small, remember that they do add up. You WILL reach that goal and you WILL be smiling.
Until next time!
Linda Inside the Box
Howdy Gentle Reader,
Here we are at the end of the first week of 2012. How ya doing? Today's beverage selection includes lots-o-lattes - French Vanilla, Hazelnut Dream, and Creme Caramel. Or you can enjoy an espresso (for those who have A LOT of Tah-Dah-ing to do!), plus of course dark hot chocolate. Comfy cozy? Ok, now back to bizziness....
Are you a fan of boxes, containers, and baskets? Yeah me too. The dollar store is a beacon for people like us. So many choices for so little coinage!! Here's the tricky part (as the Big Fig Newton would say - 'member that commercial??), containers are only beneficial if you actually know what's in them. Sometimes I use mine like portable junk drawers. One houses a collage of assorted make-up samples, stamps, elastic bands, solo earrings, pens, and a plastic troll (uh-huh). Come to think of it, I have it on a prime shelf in the bathroom. While the box itself IS beautiful, I rarely look in it. I don't even use that make-up.
Same with a box of Christmas cards from holidays past, and a bunch of baskets with IT cords and old computer software (Win 3.1 anyone?!). To be honest, I don't think I'll ever use the tech items again but what if I need them???? Yeah that WHAT IF?!!
I'm a very visual person so while I like the idea of boxes stacked on a shelf, it's pretty much out of sight, out of mind for me. I currently have all of my paint tubes in baskets in the broom closet. They are organized by colour group which is great but because they are hidden away, I am not painting as often. Not good.
Clear baskets are fabulous for seeing items but also not great because you see the items! There are really two tasks here: 1) go through all your boxes, baskets, and containers to see what treasures are stored there and 2) decide what stays and what goes.
Even if you get through 2 boxes this weekend, that's fab progress! You might be able to consolidate all the items from two into one container after you decide which items are no longer of use to you. See - less IS more (please see yesterday's blog).
Until Monday, have a relaxing weekend and happy organizing!!
Linda
Here we are at the end of the first week of 2012. How ya doing? Today's beverage selection includes lots-o-lattes - French Vanilla, Hazelnut Dream, and Creme Caramel. Or you can enjoy an espresso (for those who have A LOT of Tah-Dah-ing to do!), plus of course dark hot chocolate. Comfy cozy? Ok, now back to bizziness....
Are you a fan of boxes, containers, and baskets? Yeah me too. The dollar store is a beacon for people like us. So many choices for so little coinage!! Here's the tricky part (as the Big Fig Newton would say - 'member that commercial??), containers are only beneficial if you actually know what's in them. Sometimes I use mine like portable junk drawers. One houses a collage of assorted make-up samples, stamps, elastic bands, solo earrings, pens, and a plastic troll (uh-huh). Come to think of it, I have it on a prime shelf in the bathroom. While the box itself IS beautiful, I rarely look in it. I don't even use that make-up.
Same with a box of Christmas cards from holidays past, and a bunch of baskets with IT cords and old computer software (Win 3.1 anyone?!). To be honest, I don't think I'll ever use the tech items again but what if I need them???? Yeah that WHAT IF?!!
I'm a very visual person so while I like the idea of boxes stacked on a shelf, it's pretty much out of sight, out of mind for me. I currently have all of my paint tubes in baskets in the broom closet. They are organized by colour group which is great but because they are hidden away, I am not painting as often. Not good.
Clear baskets are fabulous for seeing items but also not great because you see the items! There are really two tasks here: 1) go through all your boxes, baskets, and containers to see what treasures are stored there and 2) decide what stays and what goes.
Even if you get through 2 boxes this weekend, that's fab progress! You might be able to consolidate all the items from two into one container after you decide which items are no longer of use to you. See - less IS more (please see yesterday's blog).
Until Monday, have a relaxing weekend and happy organizing!!
LindaUp with Downsizing!
Hiya Gentle Reader,
How's your year going? Yup, I still have a cold but I'm feeling much better each day. Hopefully I'll be 100% by the weekend. How about a nice cuppa this afternoon? I'm thinking Earl Grey and a gingerbread cookie too. Sugar is my pal.
You've heard the saying that "Less is More"? Well it applies to organizing too of course. The less items you have to maintain/insure/dust (eek), the more time and space you have for other things/activities. It took me a long time to be able to have actual room on a bookshelf and not want to cram an entire library in there. I used to be a huge fan of knick-knacks and little collectibles/figurines but when you have curious felines in your family, you tend to find many of these items misplaced or broken on a regular basis. Plus I find as I get older, I want/need/crave less. What is more important to me now is not tangible - love, life, experiences, etc. I've been very blessed in that area. *insert happy grin here*
So one of my mantras for 2012 is to make room just for the sake of well...making room. As I've mentioned in a previous blog, this is the year of big changes for me (yay!), I want to have room to grow too. About 12 years ago I discovered the simplicity movement http://www.simplelivingforum.net/ and read every book at the time on the subject. I love organizing (ok, I love the THOUGHT of organizing) and my favourite organizer out there is Hellen Buttigieg http://weorganizeu.com/ and you can purchase her wonderful book here
http://www.amazon.ca/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=Hellen+Buttigieg - I highly recommend it! She definitely walks the talk!
Earlier this week, I said that I wanted to go through my clothes closet and weed out those items that no longer make me happy. That's my #1 on my list right now. My TAH-DAH list!! I bought a bunch of hangers from the dollar store in anticipation (would you believe they are CHARTREUSE!!?!). That way I can keep my work clothes organized together and my casual clothes in my dresser - rather than having to go through my regular morning ritual of trying to figure out what to wear (unfortunately Stacey and Clinton aren't up that early!) If that company GARANIMALS ever made clothes for adults, I'd be the first to buy them. http://www.garanimals.com/ Clothes already matched for you. Bliss!
So let's decide to make more room in 2012 for our lives and goals. Yeah, I like it.
Until next time!
Linda
How's your year going? Yup, I still have a cold but I'm feeling much better each day. Hopefully I'll be 100% by the weekend. How about a nice cuppa this afternoon? I'm thinking Earl Grey and a gingerbread cookie too. Sugar is my pal.
You've heard the saying that "Less is More"? Well it applies to organizing too of course. The less items you have to maintain/insure/dust (eek), the more time and space you have for other things/activities. It took me a long time to be able to have actual room on a bookshelf and not want to cram an entire library in there. I used to be a huge fan of knick-knacks and little collectibles/figurines but when you have curious felines in your family, you tend to find many of these items misplaced or broken on a regular basis. Plus I find as I get older, I want/need/crave less. What is more important to me now is not tangible - love, life, experiences, etc. I've been very blessed in that area. *insert happy grin here*
So one of my mantras for 2012 is to make room just for the sake of well...making room. As I've mentioned in a previous blog, this is the year of big changes for me (yay!), I want to have room to grow too. About 12 years ago I discovered the simplicity movement http://www.simplelivingforum.net/ and read every book at the time on the subject. I love organizing (ok, I love the THOUGHT of organizing) and my favourite organizer out there is Hellen Buttigieg http://weorganizeu.com/ and you can purchase her wonderful book here
http://www.amazon.ca/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=Hellen+Buttigieg - I highly recommend it! She definitely walks the talk!
Earlier this week, I said that I wanted to go through my clothes closet and weed out those items that no longer make me happy. That's my #1 on my list right now. My TAH-DAH list!! I bought a bunch of hangers from the dollar store in anticipation (would you believe they are CHARTREUSE!!?!). That way I can keep my work clothes organized together and my casual clothes in my dresser - rather than having to go through my regular morning ritual of trying to figure out what to wear (unfortunately Stacey and Clinton aren't up that early!) If that company GARANIMALS ever made clothes for adults, I'd be the first to buy them. http://www.garanimals.com/ Clothes already matched for you. Bliss!
So let's decide to make more room in 2012 for our lives and goals. Yeah, I like it.
Until next time!
LindaHello NEW year!
Hiya Gentle Reader,
Here we are celebrating day 3 of 2012. YAY for us! Pretty fine indeed I'd say. Ok, we have white hot chocolate, peppermint mocha, or Earl Grey tea ready in Fiesta mugs in the kitchen. Shortbread too. Yup. We got it all going on.
My holiday week was lovely despite politely asking my head cold to leave the planet. Persistent little thing. Soon I hope! Lots of family time in there too which I love and this included numerous movie marathons - bliss!
Today let's chat about your BLUE SKY DREAMS. You know the ones I am referring to - the goals that is all big and bright and shiny in January and then start to tarnish a bit by March. Everyone has at least one idea that they think about all the time. The drawing courses you're going to take at the art school, the baby albums you're going to organize for your sister (your nephew is now starting grade 1...), the clothes closet that is so stuffed that you can't possibly cram in another sweater (though you do try!), or those 15 extra lbs that seem to show up only when you want to wear THOSE pants to THAT event.
I have a couple of items on that list (yes MOI, the one that has the TAH-DAH list!!). I've been working on a photo book about kitty Jack since he was born in 2008. Yes, 3 years ago. The photos are all ready for me to select from AND I'm even going to use Blurb.com so you know it's easy-peasy for me to do yet still I hesitate. The other is my clothes closet. I have clothes in there that a) have never been worn, b) are out of fashion, c) are not the most flattering, or d) all of the above. Yup D! I keep telling myself that I need to make order and that I only want to keep clothing that I adore and feel great wearing. Seems simple enough rules but I haven't taken that baby step yet. I can't figure out why either *sips peppermint mocha and reflects*
So JANUARY (yessum THIS month) is the one to tackle those items first. Start with completing a long-time goal. The one that you have written on a post-it that moves from month to month (doesn't seem that bad when you're not actually crossing it out one week and writing it in again the next). The goal itself is usually quite small - ie. "organize vacation photos from the summer" - but seems more like "build a house on a mountain." Yeah, I'd-rather-be-napping kind of stuff.
Today I'd like to list at least one goal that you're going to accomplish this month. The task that will FINALLY be checked off your TAH-DAH list (BIG STANDING OVATION GOES HERE)!!!
Until next time Gentle Reader, keep smiling!
Linda
Here we are celebrating day 3 of 2012. YAY for us! Pretty fine indeed I'd say. Ok, we have white hot chocolate, peppermint mocha, or Earl Grey tea ready in Fiesta mugs in the kitchen. Shortbread too. Yup. We got it all going on.
My holiday week was lovely despite politely asking my head cold to leave the planet. Persistent little thing. Soon I hope! Lots of family time in there too which I love and this included numerous movie marathons - bliss!
Today let's chat about your BLUE SKY DREAMS. You know the ones I am referring to - the goals that is all big and bright and shiny in January and then start to tarnish a bit by March. Everyone has at least one idea that they think about all the time. The drawing courses you're going to take at the art school, the baby albums you're going to organize for your sister (your nephew is now starting grade 1...), the clothes closet that is so stuffed that you can't possibly cram in another sweater (though you do try!), or those 15 extra lbs that seem to show up only when you want to wear THOSE pants to THAT event.
I have a couple of items on that list (yes MOI, the one that has the TAH-DAH list!!). I've been working on a photo book about kitty Jack since he was born in 2008. Yes, 3 years ago. The photos are all ready for me to select from AND I'm even going to use Blurb.com so you know it's easy-peasy for me to do yet still I hesitate. The other is my clothes closet. I have clothes in there that a) have never been worn, b) are out of fashion, c) are not the most flattering, or d) all of the above. Yup D! I keep telling myself that I need to make order and that I only want to keep clothing that I adore and feel great wearing. Seems simple enough rules but I haven't taken that baby step yet. I can't figure out why either *sips peppermint mocha and reflects*
So JANUARY (yessum THIS month) is the one to tackle those items first. Start with completing a long-time goal. The one that you have written on a post-it that moves from month to month (doesn't seem that bad when you're not actually crossing it out one week and writing it in again the next). The goal itself is usually quite small - ie. "organize vacation photos from the summer" - but seems more like "build a house on a mountain." Yeah, I'd-rather-be-napping kind of stuff.
Today I'd like to list at least one goal that you're going to accomplish this month. The task that will FINALLY be checked off your TAH-DAH list (BIG STANDING OVATION GOES HERE)!!!
Until next time Gentle Reader, keep smiling!
LindaDays before the Year
Howdy Gentle Reader,
Would you like a hot apple cider and a warm gingerbread biscotti? Snowy day here in MonkeyWorld. Very chilly too which explains why my layers have layers! The kitchen is always cozy though and there's always room for everyone.
There's something nice and lovely about those few days before the start of a new year. That "the skies the limit!" feeling when you decide what adventures you want to embark on in 2012. Oh and there's gonna be a lot this coming year. A lot, a lot!!!
My life has completely changed from 12 months ago. COMPLETELY. I still have my beloved Siamese feline duo, and endless passion for my art. My family and friends are amazing and their incredible support this past year was wonderful and appreciated. However, the biggest change came in the form of
L-O-V-E and something I have never ever experienced before - pure joy from falling in love with someone who makes you grin and laugh uncontrollably every single day. Tears running down your face laughing. We finish each other's sentence and can usually communicate with just a few words or a special glance. Someone who is beyond your bestfriend and partner. Yup. In that happy place and I am so grateful. Mucho gracias Universe!!
This year I am kicking it up a notch (you KNOW how much I enjoy doing that right?) and planning a Vision Board for 2012. I usually take my glitter pen (green of course) and write my goals in my new journal (rainbow coloured book this time - didn't want to pick just one!). This time I need more space to do...well...more!
We've chatted about Vision Boards before but here's a little reminder. You cut out pictures of things that make you smile and that you want to accomplish or acquire in the new year and then paste them on a board - 18"x24" is a good size - construction paper from the dollar store works well or even a canvas for painting. If you want to be healthier, you can tape up pictures of healthy people, nutritious foods, or perhaps write in the actual weight you want to be. If you want a new kitty in 2012, paste a photo of one on the board (or draw it - you talented Gentle Reader you!!) Continue adding things that make you excited and giddy. Writing the word BELIEVE could mean to never give up on hope and belief. A running shoe could represent that half-marathon you want to do in the summer or that you just love those particular Nikes and want to wear them! The more specific you are about your goals and dreams, the better it is! You'll see.
Tomorrow we'll discuss next steps.
Until then GR, have a fabulous evening and keep smiling!
Linda
Would you like a hot apple cider and a warm gingerbread biscotti? Snowy day here in MonkeyWorld. Very chilly too which explains why my layers have layers! The kitchen is always cozy though and there's always room for everyone.
There's something nice and lovely about those few days before the start of a new year. That "the skies the limit!" feeling when you decide what adventures you want to embark on in 2012. Oh and there's gonna be a lot this coming year. A lot, a lot!!!
My life has completely changed from 12 months ago. COMPLETELY. I still have my beloved Siamese feline duo, and endless passion for my art. My family and friends are amazing and their incredible support this past year was wonderful and appreciated. However, the biggest change came in the form of
L-O-V-E and something I have never ever experienced before - pure joy from falling in love with someone who makes you grin and laugh uncontrollably every single day. Tears running down your face laughing. We finish each other's sentence and can usually communicate with just a few words or a special glance. Someone who is beyond your bestfriend and partner. Yup. In that happy place and I am so grateful. Mucho gracias Universe!!
This year I am kicking it up a notch (you KNOW how much I enjoy doing that right?) and planning a Vision Board for 2012. I usually take my glitter pen (green of course) and write my goals in my new journal (rainbow coloured book this time - didn't want to pick just one!). This time I need more space to do...well...more!
We've chatted about Vision Boards before but here's a little reminder. You cut out pictures of things that make you smile and that you want to accomplish or acquire in the new year and then paste them on a board - 18"x24" is a good size - construction paper from the dollar store works well or even a canvas for painting. If you want to be healthier, you can tape up pictures of healthy people, nutritious foods, or perhaps write in the actual weight you want to be. If you want a new kitty in 2012, paste a photo of one on the board (or draw it - you talented Gentle Reader you!!) Continue adding things that make you excited and giddy. Writing the word BELIEVE could mean to never give up on hope and belief. A running shoe could represent that half-marathon you want to do in the summer or that you just love those particular Nikes and want to wear them! The more specific you are about your goals and dreams, the better it is! You'll see.
Tomorrow we'll discuss next steps.
Until then GR, have a fabulous evening and keep smiling!
Linda
Joy for 2012!
Hello Gentle (and patient) Reader,
Whoa! When the monkey goes off the grid, she does so big time!
Just relaxing in the Diner now. Peppermint mocha anyone? *smiles* Thought so. The shortbreads will be ready in a minute. Please put up your feet. We're on quiet time here and everyone is welcomed.
Well this year has been quite the adventure! Incredible highs and lows. For every challenge there has been a equally wonderful outcome elsewhere to balance. Found beautiful true love in my personal world. Late bloomer but a happy one! Finally found someone who not only appreciates and loves me for me but encourages me to be my BEST me. Priceless! There's a first for everything in life. Now I want to live to be 100!!
SO as you can imagine, my goals for 2012 are pretty mega ones. Like a King-Kong-sized Tah-Dah list! (yay monkeys!).
The new year will be less equals more when it comes to things in my life. After a half century of living (yeah I admit it), you acquire all sorts of items. Twice in my life I have given all of my worldly possessions away to others but as time goes on, things have taken their place. I want to treasure 2012 and everything in it. Some other BIG adventures are on the list - more about those later! Why YES they DO involve cake...
So as we head into the last 10 days of the year, I want you to grab that glitter pen and well-loved journal (or snazzy notepad), and write down your top 3 "gotta be, gotta do, gotta love" items. For me it is learning a new language (I've started but want to be fluent), enroll in some more art courses, and start up an artsy brunch club (yup, you read that right - so pals can get caught up while enjoying French toast and lattes - calling it Project ABC). Most of my friends are comics, musicians, actors, and artists so they tend to work the same days/schedules. Thank goodness for FB to keep us connected. However, I know we all miss face-to-face time too. The new year will be about re-establishing connections.
Tomorrow we'll review your list. For today, take a deep breath and smile in knowing that 2012 will be YOUR most amazing year yet!
Linda
Whoa! When the monkey goes off the grid, she does so big time!
Just relaxing in the Diner now. Peppermint mocha anyone? *smiles* Thought so. The shortbreads will be ready in a minute. Please put up your feet. We're on quiet time here and everyone is welcomed.
Well this year has been quite the adventure! Incredible highs and lows. For every challenge there has been a equally wonderful outcome elsewhere to balance. Found beautiful true love in my personal world. Late bloomer but a happy one! Finally found someone who not only appreciates and loves me for me but encourages me to be my BEST me. Priceless! There's a first for everything in life. Now I want to live to be 100!!
SO as you can imagine, my goals for 2012 are pretty mega ones. Like a King-Kong-sized Tah-Dah list! (yay monkeys!).
The new year will be less equals more when it comes to things in my life. After a half century of living (yeah I admit it), you acquire all sorts of items. Twice in my life I have given all of my worldly possessions away to others but as time goes on, things have taken their place. I want to treasure 2012 and everything in it. Some other BIG adventures are on the list - more about those later! Why YES they DO involve cake...
So as we head into the last 10 days of the year, I want you to grab that glitter pen and well-loved journal (or snazzy notepad), and write down your top 3 "gotta be, gotta do, gotta love" items. For me it is learning a new language (I've started but want to be fluent), enroll in some more art courses, and start up an artsy brunch club (yup, you read that right - so pals can get caught up while enjoying French toast and lattes - calling it Project ABC). Most of my friends are comics, musicians, actors, and artists so they tend to work the same days/schedules. Thank goodness for FB to keep us connected. However, I know we all miss face-to-face time too. The new year will be about re-establishing connections.
Tomorrow we'll review your list. For today, take a deep breath and smile in knowing that 2012 will be YOUR most amazing year yet!
Linda
Now means Now.
Good day Gentle Reader,
Hope your week is going very well so far. Sunny and warm here in the big city. Summer is taking her sweet time in leaving! Niiiiice.
Normally I don't chat about myself as much as I love to discuss YOU. However, this past week has been difficult because my dear childhood pal Kathy passed away from cancer. Always painful to lose a close friend but even more so when you've had a huge history together. She was the keeper of all my secrets and my sidekick in all my childhood adventures (since grade 1). We were a mini version of Lucy and Ethel. I will miss her tremendously.
So today is all about exactly that - TODAY. Being in the now. The present. Sure it can be tempting to put your projects on the backburner and take a break for a bit but it's always better to move forward each and every day. You can still take those baby steps but it's important to make them. Even a little progress each day will add up to a lot in just a few weeks.
It takes just 21 days to make or break a habit - that can be very good in turning those big dreams into even bigger realities! It's important to fantasize about how you will feel when you complete that project, write that book, or lose those 25 lbs (yay!) but the recipe really needs a mixture of action plus dreaming in order to equal success.
Your homework this week is to revisit some of those goals that you have written on those post-it notes and keep moving them week to week in your agenda book! I do the same thing so you're certainly not alone. However this time, we're going to write them in INK and assign specific deadlines. For today, acknowledge at least three and commit to finishing them by December 31, 2011.
I know you can do it!
Until next time, hug your loved ones a little tighter today.
Linda
Hope your week is going very well so far. Sunny and warm here in the big city. Summer is taking her sweet time in leaving! Niiiiice.
Normally I don't chat about myself as much as I love to discuss YOU. However, this past week has been difficult because my dear childhood pal Kathy passed away from cancer. Always painful to lose a close friend but even more so when you've had a huge history together. She was the keeper of all my secrets and my sidekick in all my childhood adventures (since grade 1). We were a mini version of Lucy and Ethel. I will miss her tremendously.
So today is all about exactly that - TODAY. Being in the now. The present. Sure it can be tempting to put your projects on the backburner and take a break for a bit but it's always better to move forward each and every day. You can still take those baby steps but it's important to make them. Even a little progress each day will add up to a lot in just a few weeks.
It takes just 21 days to make or break a habit - that can be very good in turning those big dreams into even bigger realities! It's important to fantasize about how you will feel when you complete that project, write that book, or lose those 25 lbs (yay!) but the recipe really needs a mixture of action plus dreaming in order to equal success.
Your homework this week is to revisit some of those goals that you have written on those post-it notes and keep moving them week to week in your agenda book! I do the same thing so you're certainly not alone. However this time, we're going to write them in INK and assign specific deadlines. For today, acknowledge at least three and commit to finishing them by December 31, 2011.
I know you can do it!
Until next time, hug your loved ones a little tighter today.
LindaWhen Sometimes becomes Always....
Howdy Gentle Reader,
Another crisp day in the big city. Lovely weather though! This is my favourite time of year - the colours of the leaves (there will be LOTS of photos soon), the chilly breezes, and the "fresh start" feel of the season. I think of it as spring cleaning for the soul!
As we discussed yesterday, it's soooo easy to let discipline take a vacation during the summer. My "occasional" weekly sorbet treat suddenly became the daily norm. When the owners AND staff ALL know you by name at ye olde ice-cream shoppe, well you know it's more than a rarity that you're there. Including the cleaning lady!Yup true!
Same with my painting and photography. I am even lucky enough to have a studio in my home but it's also very easy to not see the obvious around you - blank canvas waiting for paint, boxes of art supplies staring at you from the shelves, etc.
So here I was happily enjoying my new sorbet habit and yet neglecting my usual painting routine that I love so much. It felt so good though - rewards for no work!
However, I'm all about loving the individual and never about guilt or criticism. There's enough negativity on the planet that you don't need to add more to your own personal world. Every day is the chance to start again and move in a more positive direction. I'm always about baby steps towards your goal. Appreciate the fun you had with the sorbet (or trips to the beach, buffet, or couch to watch tv!) and make changes to your life that will better enhance YOU!
Please take out your "ta-da" list (and that metallic glitter pen - oh I KNOW you have one), and I want you to add two NEW healthy habits to it. If you're like me and want your Fall clothes to fit a little looser (crazy that the humidity shrinks stuff over the summer eh??), write down that you'll take the stairs 50% of the time over the next 3 weeks and will walk for 25 minutes a day. I'm not suggesting drastic changes and certainly not going cold tofurkey (as we say in my family - Veganland!). Any shift that severe will not want to stay around for long.
Today give yourself a few extra hugs and enjoy a relaxing warm beverage as you write your "ta-da" list! I'm proud of you! Linda
Back to the Basics!
Hello Gentle Reader,
Did ya have a fun summer? Can you believe we're already into the cooler temps? Whoa! I have been wearing a jean jacket for days now. WTFall! Now who wants hot cocoa?
I always find that I am all over the map when it comes to the warmer months. My discipline tends to go on vacation in every area - health, diet, and goals! Soooo, here we are back at the front door of school. Time to put those shoes on again and start writing down plans in our journals. School supplies are on sale all over the place which is great since you can pick up some colourful notebooks and pens at affordable prices. Even the dollar store has lots of sparkley items! You KNOW how much I love me some glitter!
This season, my focus is on my home and my art. I am very grateful for having a fabulous person in my life who is incredibly supportive of me and my creativity. You really can accomplish a lot when you feel there is someone on your team rooting for you.
I'm like most people and have that never-ending list of errands that seems to follow me around like paparazzi! I always feel better when I get to check off each item, no matter how big or small the task. Some tasks are solo and others appear to have the Von Trapp family in tow (that's kind of like the Gosselins to you younger folk!)
As we've chatted about before, I call the list my "TA-DA!" list. Makes it more exciting and fun!
So the homework for this week (let's call it YOUwork) is to take inventory of the projects that have gone astray over the last few months and herd them back to our journals and writing pads. I like the pen to paper approach best. Makes it more personal. Something about writing items down makes them more real and reachable too. Oh yeah, and you have to use at least 3 different colours in your list. What can I say, I'm an artist. That's how I roll!
Until next time Gentle Reader. Keep smiling.
Linda
Did ya have a fun summer? Can you believe we're already into the cooler temps? Whoa! I have been wearing a jean jacket for days now. WTFall! Now who wants hot cocoa?
I always find that I am all over the map when it comes to the warmer months. My discipline tends to go on vacation in every area - health, diet, and goals! Soooo, here we are back at the front door of school. Time to put those shoes on again and start writing down plans in our journals. School supplies are on sale all over the place which is great since you can pick up some colourful notebooks and pens at affordable prices. Even the dollar store has lots of sparkley items! You KNOW how much I love me some glitter!
This season, my focus is on my home and my art. I am very grateful for having a fabulous person in my life who is incredibly supportive of me and my creativity. You really can accomplish a lot when you feel there is someone on your team rooting for you.
I'm like most people and have that never-ending list of errands that seems to follow me around like paparazzi! I always feel better when I get to check off each item, no matter how big or small the task. Some tasks are solo and others appear to have the Von Trapp family in tow (that's kind of like the Gosselins to you younger folk!)
As we've chatted about before, I call the list my "TA-DA!" list. Makes it more exciting and fun!
So the homework for this week (let's call it YOUwork) is to take inventory of the projects that have gone astray over the last few months and herd them back to our journals and writing pads. I like the pen to paper approach best. Makes it more personal. Something about writing items down makes them more real and reachable too. Oh yeah, and you have to use at least 3 different colours in your list. What can I say, I'm an artist. That's how I roll!
Until next time Gentle Reader. Keep smiling.
Linda