tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27267896218042602992024-03-05T08:28:04.802-08:00Time for Me Now - InspirationCindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comBlogger86125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-87418221984863995062015-10-19T11:35:00.000-07:002015-10-19T11:35:12.398-07:00Gathering the Pieces of the Puzzle of Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I recently put a Jug on my hall table beside strips of paper and a pen. This is where I write<br />
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" I AM Grateful for ______________________</div>
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The Gratitude jug is filling fast, as I AM grateful for so many things, yes, even the smallest of things.</div>
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Mediation is a great way to give gratitude as well, but for me, writing it down seems to bring it to life.<br />
I wanted to expand the journal writing into something that I can see when walking past. When I walk past I am reminded of what is written and smile with gratitude.</div>
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The past few weeks as we entered into the back half of the year, I began to assess all the events, people, places and things that have gotten me to this place of Gratitude and Serenity.<br />
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Every person, Everyone I love in my life, adventures to amazing places have all contributed to the quality of my life. Did it come easy? Absolutely not!<br />
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Life is similar to a Zigzag puzzle, the pieces are all over the table and it is up to us to search, scope out what we think will fit into the space until we find the exact piece that fits exactly to create the puzzle. Sometimes the piece fits and other times the piece needs to be put back as it doesn't fit exactly. Forcing a piece never works, same in life.<br />
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Sometime people come into our lives and then they are gone. Our experience is perhaps exposure to new things, ideas or culture. Their time with us gave us the the opportunity to expand and learn what we needed to learn.<br />
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Traveling to new places can be quite the adventure. There we are able to experience new foods, entertainment, landscapes while meeting unique and amazing people with different lives. My travels, over the years, has taught me that fundamentally we are all gathering bits of the puzzle to enrich our lives.<br />
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Though people may come in and out of our lives, our location, jobs, activities may change. The experience and the memories will last a lifetime.<br />
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Imagine what the finished puzzle will look like, what future experiences, people, places and emotions do we want to fit perfectly into our finished product? The choice is ours and the excitement is the adventure of living life! Making each day "The Best Day Ever" and being grateful for all that is.<br />
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Here's to expanding our lives, creating new pieces for the puzzle, with gratitude for all things!<br />
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Double Stixs: The Nourishment and Gift of Change available through Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.com<br />
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-8692309960787542512015-07-22T19:12:00.000-07:002015-07-22T19:12:52.665-07:00The Thrill of Control<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><b>When was the last time you have been spontaneous? </b></i></div>
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The act of doing something without regard, just an inner inclination without any thought or premeditation. If you need to think about it, the answer is way too long!<br />
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My close friends and family have come to know that I totally trust my inner inclination or should I say intuition or "gut feeling". So when out on a morning walk last weekend, my inclination was to get up in a tree to see what I could see. Why? For no good reason, which was reason enough for me.<br />
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I so enjoy "Changing" things up, adding adventure to an otherwise routine walk or other activity.<br />
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The tree was so majestic and strong that I just wanted to be a part of it, to climb up there and feel the strength and see the beauty what the "leg up" would provide.<br />
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<b><i>Results of "changing" things up? Felt Awesome, Strong, In Control and Alive! </i></b></div>
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This Self-Imposed Change to my routine turned out to be pretty cool in so many ways! That's what is so great about self-imposed change, it is our idea! Once again, our idea, our control, right? We certainly love our control or the illusion we are in control.<br />
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Our daily routines can become very boring and automatic over time. The daily routine tends to be bland, drains the energy, a sense of boredom and at times lack of motivation to do anything else.<br />
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Trust me, I'm guilty of it at times as well. So what "Self-Imposed" Change can be done?<br />
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1.Take a few moments and think about your day or weekly routine and activities.</div>
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2. Write down the one routine you have done the longest the same way over and over again</div>
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3. Under the routine put the expected outcome from this routine activity</div>
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4.. Under that routine list the action items that are involved within the routine</div>
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New Page:</div>
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1. Write down the same routine</div>
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2. Under the routine write the expected outcome. ( Is there a different outcome desired?)</div>
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3. Count the number of current action items listed </div>
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4. On this new page under the expected outcome place the numbers. ( if 7, list 1.2.3.4 etc)</div>
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5. Now identify new actions that get you to the same expected outcome</div>
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6. Review and Take Action!!</div>
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Sometimes the self imposed change can be as simple as changing a driving route, selecting a different lunch location (never know what you may see) or perhaps doing phone calls instead of emails. The lesson in changing things up is to create a new sense of excitement and engagement. It could be a slight change but within that slight change a huge reward may be received.</div>
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Here's to incorporating tiny "self-imposed" changes on a regular basis... Get ready, you'll be hooked!</div>
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To learn more about self-imposed changes, see Chapter 5 page 39 in Double Stixs™: The Nourishment and Gift of Change.</div>
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<br />Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-17017894345937807152015-07-04T06:27:00.000-07:002015-07-04T06:27:18.521-07:00Happy 4th of July!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Love surprises, how about you? Wonder what delicious goodies are hiding in this basket? I guess I just have to wait, but I do know it will be great!<br />
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Wishing everyone a great day of celebrations, whether large gatherings or just having the pleasure of hanging with family or self. Enjoy!<br />
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Celebrating the Red, White and Blue!</div>
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<br />Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-34376118532038149332015-07-02T11:40:00.000-07:002015-07-02T11:40:46.252-07:00A Sun Shiny Day in the "Oasis"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Sitting in the back yard after a long day, decompressing from activities and events, I began to smile.<br />
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Having a space that is soothing, relaxing and easy on the eyes is important to rejuvenate and recharge. My backyard is just that place for me. Flower beds to the right and left with trees on the back fence.<br />
A bird feeder being constantly visited by cardinals and a bird bath for their enjoyment. The seating area is setup for great conversations and enjoying the flowering of the plants in the yard as well as all around the seating area. The sound of flowing water from the fountain is both visually appealing and mentally relaxing. Listening to the water flowing is soothing and invites anyone in the area to just take a deep breath and enjoy!<br />
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Today I sat in a different seat and saw things from a different perspective. The blue sky with just the right amount of clouds floating by and the American Flag swaying in the gentle breeze. Perfect timing as tomorrow the US celebrates the 4th of July!<br />
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All the days activities and stress released got to thinking just how profound changing one small routine got my mental wheels in motion.<br />
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Creatures of habit most of us are, routine and staying in comfort zone is what most of us all do best.<br />
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Something as simple as changing a seat on the back patio can shift both experience and comfort.<br />
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<b><i>What small gesture can you do to mix up a routine?</i></b></div>
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<b><i>When a small change has been made what did you observe?</i></b></div>
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<b><i>Taking small steps of change would you be open to doing this once a week, once a day ?</i></b></div>
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(ex: go left instead of right; use the right burner instead of left; let someone else drive and be in control; make the call instead of waiting )</div>
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All great accomplishments start with simple adjustments and taking one step at a time, it's a process.<br />
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The celebration of the 4th of July is a reminder to all that we are free to choose the life we wish to live.<br />
Allow your inner strength, your inner beauty along with all the experience in life to allow for reaching for the sky - reaching for those dreams! <br />
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Find a place that is your "Oasis" and enjoy the simplistic rejuvenation of all that is important:<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i> "You"</i></b></span></div>
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<br />Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-35019126282574040402015-06-30T11:39:00.000-07:002015-06-30T15:06:27.768-07:00Bright, Flowing, Tall and Strong<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The excitement and anticipation of a brand new month has got me giddy and feeling as light as air and as playful as a child! It's like a switch turned on and oh la la there is a change of energy, intention and love of life! <br />
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The saying "In a blink of an eye" is so true, the most amazing situations, things or opportunities happened quickly and believe it or not we were not in control.<br />
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This is also the completion of the first half of 2015 and the beginning of the month of July.<br />
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A sense of accomplishment, completion feeling like I am standing on the top of the tallest mountain looking down and around of all that has been the past six months.<br />
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What monumental event or situation has occurred to make me feel like this? Actually not one, only the knowing that each moment of each day there is always the possibility of something amazing! Enjoying each moment, being in the moment, and a grand appreciation of now!<br />
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The same feeling that I had when in Sedona, Arizona with my dear friend hiking. The picture above is the river flowing effortlessly with the view of Cathedral Rock in the background.<br />
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For me, July is special as it is the month that I began my life, so of course I would be excited right?<br />
There is also a sense that July will be a month of powerful energy and sparks of new beginnings with fresh starts! Full Moon is July 2nd and July 31st is the second Full Moon (Blue Moon). Perhaps another reason for my excitement and anticipation of what has yet to appear.<br />
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A perfect month to highlight all the good stuff in our lives, be open to any transitions that may be occurring in your life while illuminating areas that need expanded, renewed or released. A great time to decide exactly what should move forward in our next six months!<br />
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<b><i>Such a great time for each of us to just assess all things so that the next six months are the </i></b><br />
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<b><i>"Best Six Months Ever"!! </i></b></div>
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Some things to think about during this amazing upcoming month of July!<br />
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<ul>
<li>What does forward look like to you? </li>
<li>What do you want to bring into the forward part of your life?</li>
<li> What is working for you and what no longer serves you?</li>
<li>What one thing can I adjust or eliminate to bring balance into my life?</li>
<li>What one thing can I do for "me" to show love and appreciation for who I am?</li>
<li>What are all the things in life, right now, to be grateful for?</li>
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It is always good to assess if all things you desired at the beginning of the year are still relevant now. Do you need to focus and create new intentions?o<br />
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Feeling a little apprehensive or perhaps fearful of embracing a transition or assessing what is working in life and contemplating things changing?<br />
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Change is going to happen, whether it is self imposed or external change. Why not be the master of your change?<br />
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Wishing everyone the best month of July ever! May you be the "Master of Change" in your life!<br />
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Double Stixs<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">™</span></span>: The Nourishment and Gift of Change</div>
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My greatest appreciation for all of you whom have followed me over the years and have allowed me to be a small part of your amazing life! Happy July Celebration!</div>
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It is with great appreciation for all of life's lessons, experiences and people in my life...... <br />
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Offered by: Amazon, Barnes and Nobles</div>
Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-324569846258758602015-02-18T14:54:00.000-08:002015-02-18T14:54:53.051-08:00The Sun, The Moon and The Stars!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Do you have a special place or box where you keep special things? </div>
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I have a special box, it is wooden with the sun, stars and crescent moon shapes. This box is very special to me, as inside are written words of dreams that I have achieved and those dreams yet realized. It's fun to open up my box flipping through the various papers and objects that have significant meaning to me.</div>
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Does the weather play a role in focus and activity in your life? I know when it is cold, cloudy and gloomy my activity level and desire to achieve tends to move as slow as a turtle. The past two months have been really hard on so many people with snow, wind, rain, ice and negative degree temperatures. Though my weather has been mild compared to others, there have been days that my actions towards goals or dreams has been slow, very slow! </div>
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All of us, even coaches, can get derailed or affected by the energy levels and even the weather, keeping us from moving closer to our goals or dreams! Time for me now to get moving and get into ACTION!!</div>
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Today is a new moon phase, the New Moon! I love the New Moon as it brings about a sense of new beginnings! A chance to dust off our goals, our dreams and evaluate. A clean canvas!</div>
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Early this morning I opened up my box and spent some time reading and reviewing exactly all the things I have gotten accomplished. Then began thinking about my next dream, a really really big dream. </div>
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Interested in bringing a really really big dream alive? Here are my initial steps, perhaps these will help guide you to developing a plan to achieve your dream(s):</div>
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<b>What would it be? </b></div>
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<b>What resources or support would I need to accomplish this dream? </b></div>
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<b>What action steps would I need to put into motion?</b></div>
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<b>How long would it take me?</b></div>
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<b>How could I develop this Dream serve others?</b></div>
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Write these questions and the answers down in a journal or notebook. Writing allows for the thought to become real and alive. It allows allows for:</div>
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Clarity- allowing the dream/goal to take form</div>
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Motivates- excitement begins to build to then take Action that sets all things in motion</div>
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Measure- ability to go back and see just how much activity and progress you have made.</div>
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This New Moon- DREAM BIG!! It is only the second month of the year with plenty of time to adjust! </div>
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<b><i>Dream Big, you deserve it! Within you is the Strength, Power, Patience and Passion to Receive!</i></b></div>
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Here's to igniting a really Big Dream today!</div>
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Much love!</div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-68814958983409741602015-01-15T10:06:00.000-08:002015-01-15T10:06:50.241-08:00Celebration Runs!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The ringing in the New Year is celebrated by millions of people all over the world!<br />
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So how do you ring in the New Year? Do you have a specific tradition, such as watching the ball drop from New York City or perhaps attending a gala full of beautifully dressed people and plenty of champagne.<br />
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Back in August I decided to attempt to achieve one of the items on my bucket list- A Half Marathon!<br />
For some this is something that is an easy feat, for me running has never been in my wheel house. The idea of running always evoked a sense of frustration and at times fear. Why? For decades, I compared myself to other runners who were sleek, fast and motivated by beating their last time. The thought of standing among, what I perceived to be, physically trained athletes just scared the living crap out of me! The 5 K's and 10K previously run were fine as that distance seemed manageable.<br />
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What changed? I changed, I changed my perceptions, did some research and last year, with nervous anticipation, added a Half Marathon to my bucket list. Let the training begin and it did in September!<br />
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I found and registered for a New Year's Eve Half Marathon and a New Year's Day 5K. My thought process was end the year overcoming fear and accomplishing something I had in my vision. Then begin 2015 invigorated and encouraged to run after any and all of my dreams this year!<br />
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As in any plan, life tends to get in the way, my road to accomplishment was no exception. There were many obstacles, transitions and a few times training stopped due to physical injuries over the four month period.<br />
Could I have stopped and chalked it up to "I tried" it just didn't work or "wasn't meant to be"? You betcha! Boy am I glad that I shifted my mindset and made the change!<br />
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I completed the Half Marathon in 24 degrees at start time and 34 degrees at the finish line. The 5K on New Year's day started at 33 degrees and ten minutes into the race, rained poured down, the temperatures dropped and the path began to turn to ice in spots. Seriously it took me days to feel totally warm.<br />
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Emotion on both days at the finish line was overwhelming! A sense of accomplishment that no one can take away from me! I own it and I am so grateful to my body for allowing me to realize a dream.<br />
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So what changes are you thinking about making or trying in your life?<br />
What is stopping you from putting action into motion to accomplish?<br />
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Remember, even the smallest of changes or adjustments can make a difference.<br />
It doesn't have to be perfect or pretty!<br />
I know my actions/motions were not sleek or perfect form but I got it done!<br />
Running to or embracing Change sets into motion energy and activity that begins to open opportunities, experiences and brings about accomplishments.<br />
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Confidence within each of us allows for us to experience all that life has to offer each and everyone of us!<br />
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Time for me now to remind you that each of you are amazing, worthy and have the ability to achieve all that you want to for and in your life! Time to start now!<br />
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<i>Chapter 6 in Double Stixs<span style="font-size: xx-small;">™ : </span>The Nourishment and Gift of Change includes an exercise to support your desire to energize the confidence just is and has always been within you!</i><br />
<br />Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-42587813356117019922014-12-23T12:30:00.001-08:002014-12-23T12:30:16.375-08:00"Over the River and Through the Snow "<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhAjLzdISLQLwC4Ko45KT-5x_Ls1cAws_Eif4NJt1wk0SYTwD-HJjS2EiLrrRongSK3d3RMI3XVjQxXSz3htXVhB6tniNBvyA0hBzFPWsqJRuFtneyu_zNMCvJeY7nWeX0yHpzNRBj9sg/s1600/christmas+village+in+the+ornament.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhAjLzdISLQLwC4Ko45KT-5x_Ls1cAws_Eif4NJt1wk0SYTwD-HJjS2EiLrrRongSK3d3RMI3XVjQxXSz3htXVhB6tniNBvyA0hBzFPWsqJRuFtneyu_zNMCvJeY7nWeX0yHpzNRBj9sg/s1600/christmas+village+in+the+ornament.jpg" height="126" width="200" /></a></div>
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The traditions of many during the upcoming holidays are in full swing with anticipation of family and friends arriving to be together. My preparations have started with decorating, baking cookies and preparing for family and friends to join in the celebration of the season! Amazing how much energy rises when after working all day there is more energy available to get many traditions in order and baking done.<br />
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Tonight was the decorating of the Christmas tree. This is always done with traditional Christmas songs in the background. Yes, I tend to get a little excited and sing at the top of my lungs when Jingle Bells starts playing!<br />
For me, the tree trimming is special and the awakening of the holiday season for me. It's fun to sing, dance around the tree, realize the plug for the lights is not where it should be along with all the special ornaments gathered from travels over the years. There is no age when it comes to the holiday season, it's a magical time of all that is good, loving with beautiful decor. The Season to remind us that all things are possible!<br />
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Placing the last glass ornament on the tree, inside a tiny village set back in an era of long ago. Admiring this work of art my thoughts immediately without hesitation went directly to Christmas in a small town of Parker, Pa. A small town where each Christmas morning we would pack up and drive two hours, regardless of the weather, to our grandparents. There we were greeted by family congregated in the kitchen and the aroma of a turkey in the oven. Running to greet them and then off to the living room where, at that time, seemed like the biggest decorated Christmas Tree ever seen! The evening brought the light glistening off the snow and the wind blowing the snow around the street lights adorned with red bows. The memory warmed my heart, made me smile as I positioned the glass ornament just perfect on the branch and came back into the moment.<br />
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Yes, I have been told that our recollections of past are typically selective. Perhaps that is true, but why not recall the most endearing and happy memories? </div>
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The images that even today make us feel safe, comfort and full of life.</div>
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My belief is that there is no need to feed into anything other than making each day "The Best Day Ever" and allowing what does not work for me to be released and not stick around. So regardless of what transpires remember nothing is perfect. But it is with what intention and what response that allows for the memory to be crystallized. </div>
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Time for me now to enjoy the memory making of this blessed holiday. New memories that one day may be remembered by a younger generation. Memories of family, laughter, traditions, stories of relatives long gone but never forgotten. Appreciating all that has allowed us to be in this moment.</div>
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May the memories open our hearts to be reminded of a child like wonder, when everything seemed magical, carefree with all things possible. Tis the season for miracles, magic and love! </div>
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<b><i>May the love begin within and expand out to touch and reach all that are in need of receiving. <span style="font-size: xx-small;">cl</span></i></b></div>
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Wishing everyone a Happy Holiday Season! </div>
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My gratitude and appreciation for each of you!</div>
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Thank you for your encouragement, words of support and friendship over the years!</div>
Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-29471598479685995362014-12-15T09:43:00.001-08:002014-12-15T09:43:01.978-08:00Packages of Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Beautiful colors, shimmering lights, festive activities with the sounds and smells of the holiday season!<br />
There is the hustle and bustle of creating our space to reflect our traditions and our inner most memories and feelings of the season. Add in creation of our own traditions blended and intertwined with our past memories and experiences.<br />
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While each of us creates our own holiday space it is impossible not to think of our memories as children. Oh the laughter, fun and memories of holidays gone by along with the recent memories each of us has created as adults or perhaps with our own families.<br />
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The marketing aspect of the holidays seems to lengthen the time of year which shines a light on this season.<br />
A light that for some is painful and not appreciated as their spirit is still and quiet. There can be many reasons for the lack of enthusiasm for celebrating the Holiday Season. Life's changes are typically a common theme.<br />
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When there is a life change, newlyweds to parents, college bound children, loss of a parent or loved one as a few examples. Our new chapter may not be comfortable may even be a little frightening or cause us sadness. The separation or sense of loss is great and may find ourselves trying to recapture or recreate to lessen the sadness or pain. Everything seems to be as tight as a ball of yarn, feeling safe with the encompassing perceived shield. But is it really? Is there really a need to be wound so tight?<br />
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Though life changes are a natural evolution it still is hard and we need to be reminded to be gentle with ourselves. Allow the emotions to rise and take action where it makes sense and is appropriate.<br />
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My mom loved Christmas, she had so many of those bright sparkling sweaters, decorated everything around her along with singing every holiday song written. She wrapped each gift with love from the time all of her children were toddlers all the way through adulthood. Each year mom would watch "It's a Wonderful Life". My mom lived her life each day as being wonderful, but during the season she was more glowing than any other time of the year. For many years I was blessed to have family in my home celebrating and creating new adult memories of family and Christmas. When my mom was killed in 2003 the magic seemed to dim. For a few years the holidays were just "going through the motions", enjoying family but there was an inner sadness.<br />
I felt, or thought, that I needed to create just the same experience my mom and dad had created for me, for all of us. Oh what an inner struggle and disappointment when things just didn't work out the same!<br />
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Tired of disappointment and wanting to celebrate rather than recreate, I ignited my inner self and took control of this change. "Our Self is the foundation and core to all the surrounding elements that are integral to our lives- including the holidays".<br />
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Celebrating life and yes, the holidays, the focus is on the people around me, where I am and those I love. Celebrating and Creating new traditions, new experiences, cooking different foods. Oh most definitely celebrating the memories and all those who helped create such memories that are strong and withstand time.<br />
Is everything perfect or as I planned? Absolutely not, but it is perfect in how it is allowed to unfold! Just the perfect memory with sometimes a lot of laughter, rolling eyes and a whole lot of fun!<br />
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Time to me now to remind you to love yourself, release all fears, loosen up the twine that is tightly wrapped. <br />
and begin to live in the "day", appreciating what is within and around you and to begin to create loving and precious memories each living day!<br />
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<b><i>"An Action executed Today, Creates Memories for a Life-time" </i></b><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b><i>Cindy lake</i></b></span></div>
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During the remainder of the preparation for the upcoming holiday, may each day expand the joy of appreciating self, those around us and sharing the expression of love and gentle spirit.<br />
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excerpts taken from Double Stixs ™ : The Nourishment and Gift of Change pages 25-31<br />
available by clicking the resource tab or also at:<br />
www.amazon.com<br />
www.barnesandnoble.com<br />
<br />Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-54271630673688925332014-11-26T09:26:00.003-08:002014-11-26T09:26:35.743-08:00Create the Gift <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">Creating the space to reflect our innermost visions of joy, beauty and gratitude. There is something about a beautiful space created by our visions. The Gift we create is just perfect, because it is our gift to ourselves. The gift of our experiences wrapped up into a memory to be opened by us.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">Memories are such a gift to each of us, yes even the not so good memories.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">Memories give us strength, make us smile, warm our hearts and for some a lesson or message </span><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">intertwined. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">Who knew all those years of gatherings would become beautiful memories. The long drive in bad weather, heaps of dirty dishes to wash and dry. Food types as a kid not even interested in eating, sitting at the "kids" table. My joy is all of this and the delicious aroma of walking in from the cold and entering a home of various foods being cooked and the clanging of pots and pans being washed.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">The years progress, and so do we! There may be new traditions, perhaps distance from family or no immediate family to celebrate blessings. The essence of Thanksgiving is a gathering to give thanks, gratitude and blessings for all things. Whatever Thanksgiving plans or no plans for some, stay presence in the moment. Each of us has something to give thanks for this season, so give thanks. Observe and soak in the days events, whatever is planned, as soon these times will become a wonderful memory. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">Some prefer not to participate in the holidays, perhaps too painful, no family members to be near or for other reasons. Respectful of those who chose to do so, but perhaps considering being thankful for you.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">The Gift of life is such a blessing! Each day is an opportunity to change, redirect and make a difference in our lives and in the lives of others. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">I have many many things to be grateful for and to give thanks this season. Today, I give gratitude and thanks to each of you:</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span></span>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">For your time and trust visiting my site and providing comments on the positive impact</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">For supporting my dream and passion while writing and when Double Stixs</span><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">™ was published</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">For those who have graciously brought Double Stixs</span><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">™: The Nourishment and Gift of Change into your home and for taking time out of your lives to read and comment on the impact.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">For allowing me to be supportive through coaching to enable dreams to be achieved through change and believing that the change is not to be feared but to be embraced and celebrated!</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">A special thanks to all who share my life, provide emotional support and encouragement and to all who have shared your life with me. </span></span></div>
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Wishing Blessings, Joy and a Celebration of Life Creating our Gift of Living!</div>
Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-20151218136072043192014-11-26T09:12:00.002-08:002014-11-26T09:25:11.391-08:00Creating the Gift<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu6PJrD4khWwKA5Op1yTkBkV1GGlxDvOfIHgQnf-UKsEsE1SLnpwjVJYBm_t1STmTSoVhsOuprYQXxmZbbSJ-znC6sNfrQiS5ty_FwQNJEu_g1KApGxs_hYVfNw5FIDYEgJXigJ8ACDn8/s1600/Thanksgiving-dinner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu6PJrD4khWwKA5Op1yTkBkV1GGlxDvOfIHgQnf-UKsEsE1SLnpwjVJYBm_t1STmTSoVhsOuprYQXxmZbbSJ-znC6sNfrQiS5ty_FwQNJEu_g1KApGxs_hYVfNw5FIDYEgJXigJ8ACDn8/s1600/Thanksgiving-dinner.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">Creating the space to reflect our innermost visions of joy, beauty and gratitude. There is something about a beautiful space created by our visions. The Gift we create is just perfect, because it is our gift to ourselves. The gift of our experiences wrapped up into a memory to be opened by us.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">Memories are such a gift to each of us, yes even the not so good memories.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">Memories give us strength, make us smile, warm our hearts and for some a lesson or message </span><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">intertwined. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">Who knew all those years of gatherings would become beautiful memories. The long drive in bad weather, heaps of dirty dishes to wash and dry. Food types as a kid not even interested in eating, sitting at the "kids" table. My joy is all of this and the delicious aroma of walking in from the cold and entering a home of various foods being cooked and the clanging of pots and pans being washed.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">The years progress, and so do we! There may be new traditions, perhaps distance from family or no immediate family to celebrate blessings. The essence of Thanksgiving is a gathering to give thanks, gratitude and blessings for all things. Whatever Thanksgiving plans or no plans for some, stay presence in the moment. Each of us has something to give thanks for this season, so give thanks. Observe and soak in the days events, whatever is planned, as soon these times will become a wonderful memory. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.4444446563721px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">Some prefer not to participate in the holidays, perhaps too painful, no family members to be near or for other reasons. Respectful of those who chose to do so, but perhaps considering being thankful for you.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">The Gift of life is such a blessing! Each day is an opportunity to change, redirect and make a difference in our lives and in the lives of others. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">I have many many things to be grateful for and to give thanks this season. Today, I give gratitude and thanks to each of you:</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span></span>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">For your time and trust visiting my site and providing comments on the positive impact</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">For supporting my dream and passion while writing and when Double Stixs</span><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">™ was published</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">For those who have graciously brought Double Stixs</span><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">™: The Nourishment and Gift of Change into your home and for taking time out of your lives to read and comment on the impact.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">For allowing me to be supportive through coaching to enable dreams to be achieved through change and believing that the change is not to be feared but to be embraced and celebrated!</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.466667175293px;">A special thanks to all who share my life, provide emotional support and encouragement and to all who have shared your life with me. </span></span></div>
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Wishing Blessings, Joy and a Celebration of Life Creating our Gift of Living!</div>
Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-68039651938822688712014-11-04T14:50:00.002-08:002014-11-04T14:50:19.431-08:00She "Believed" and She "Did"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9k9Exk0Ki64LCfgWQxf-JYzWdsWzrVHd4HprxhQQRl_NBEuhent3dBTBozuoFwiVe51XZcg-pn1e8-kMFCQrarW7anp3FHTxSXA_FojNMeXndZ16tdFXqP7yovZeDWkKGiOwk23ll1Jo/s1600/believe+pre.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9k9Exk0Ki64LCfgWQxf-JYzWdsWzrVHd4HprxhQQRl_NBEuhent3dBTBozuoFwiVe51XZcg-pn1e8-kMFCQrarW7anp3FHTxSXA_FojNMeXndZ16tdFXqP7yovZeDWkKGiOwk23ll1Jo/s1600/believe+pre.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b><i>The power of "Believing in Self" is so Inspirational! </i></b></div>
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Many a stories have been written and filmed on the power of believing in something or someone. </div>
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These stories motivate us, encourage us and enlighten us to all the possibilities of accomplishment. </div>
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Many quotes that have inspired millions have come out of the desire to dig deep within and excel.</div>
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The most powerful is belief in self! Each of us are our own inspirational story ready to unfold to the power of accomplishment, success while inspiring others along our journey. </div>
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Whatever it is that you may want to do, accomplish, try or create it doesn't have to be large or expansive, it can be subtle and meaningful only to you. </div>
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<b><i>There is power in beginnings combined with the strength of believing in self there is nothing that can not be accomplished! <span style="font-size: xx-small;">clake</span></i></b></div>
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Do you have a bucket list? It is a list of things to experience, visit or accomplish. I have one, I cross off and add to this list all the time, it is part of the fun of having the list! </div>
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One of my bucket list items was to run a half marathon. I seriously believe this item was added twenty years ago or at least that is what I keep telling myself! Finally the time has come to cross this off my list, so September I started training for the New Year's Eve marathon. Great idea right? Complete the item on the list in 2014 and start off the New Year with yet another item crossed off my list. Yes, it probably would have been a great idea but the organizers are doing a "Back to Back" combination event.. New Year Eve Marathon and New Years Day 5K combo. Oh yes I did, I clicked the box and registered for this event. What was I thinking? "I CAN do this" with some training, focus and a whole bunch of Epsom salts!</div>
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So how am I doing? I AM making progress! My criteria is simple: </div>
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1. Enjoy the Event 2.Finish 3. Finish prior to the roads being opened</div>
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Looking through some files I came upon my race bib from the Steve Prefontaine 10K in Coos Bay, Oregon. Yes, that particular race was on my bucket list too! I remember when I heard Pre's death announced on the<br />
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evening news. Steve Prefontaine continues to be an inspiration and his quotes are still relevant. </div>
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What is on your list or within that you would like to accomplish? What would you like to change? </div>
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1. Identify 2. Believe 3. Take Action </div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">I so enjoy this quote, it transcends across all things for me this </span></span><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">resonates on living life to the fullest!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i>To give anything less than your best, is to sacrifice the gift.</i></b></span></div>
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Steve Prefontaine</div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Life is a gift, a gift that needs to be opened and enjoyed! Believe in "you" and Believe you CAN and make the changes necessary to enjoy life. Yes, change can be scary at times, but only if we stop believing in ourselves. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Time for me now to remind you: You have made it to this point- Release any fears, Believe in You NOW and experience all the endless possibilities that life has to offer you!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">" Here's to Living each day as The Best Day Ever"</span></span></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-46995429184289315782014-10-17T14:47:00.002-07:002014-10-17T14:48:09.374-07:00"Bundle of JOY"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5cnn_6zlHV5vstqgUNA6DNtjFVbeeURUko34FekGqU6Ef6P3u0yn2bcPRjgV5GJoQGkOkbZgdxkZOFo_n_IrW7fyGi63_VJ6Pg8lvQxTMRfE8bhE7Z0kshMZsC9M1uPkaz2UbPB6dAw4/s1600/The_Name_Joy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5cnn_6zlHV5vstqgUNA6DNtjFVbeeURUko34FekGqU6Ef6P3u0yn2bcPRjgV5GJoQGkOkbZgdxkZOFo_n_IrW7fyGi63_VJ6Pg8lvQxTMRfE8bhE7Z0kshMZsC9M1uPkaz2UbPB6dAw4/s1600/The_Name_Joy.jpg" height="154" width="200" /></a></div>
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"<strong>Journey Of YOU"!!!</strong><em><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> Cindy Lake</span></em></div>
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What is the true definition of Joy? </div>
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Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines joy as, "feeling of great pleasure, happiness and understanding.</div>
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The moment we made our appearance here on earth there has been Joy! "Bundle of Joy", our birth, brought happiness, love and great pleasure to our parents and throughout our life to many others. Our journey to this point may have masked or perhaps hidden the qualities of expressing or even feeling joy and love in life or perhaps the joy in ourselves!</div>
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Joy and Love are so often blended together that there seems to be no separation of these two emotions. The past several years it is real clear to me that Joy and Love are two totally different experiences. </div>
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Time for me now to explain my definition based on my experiences and what these two emotions mean to me. This may shed some light in supporting your journey to JOY</div>
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Joy is Unconditional</div>
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Love/Happiness is Conditional (can evolve with change)</div>
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<strong><em>Reminder:</em></strong></div>
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Look in the mirror, the reflection of <strong><em>you</em></strong>, is a reflection of pure <strong><em>JOY</em></strong> and <strong><em>LOVE.</em></strong> <br />
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Each of us is our own pillar filled with strength, love, courage, grace and joy. The reflection looking back is a reminder to really see you! Remember the occupation and material stuff is not who you are rather a byproduct of all your efforts. These are conditional and can change at any given moment.<br />
The key is to maintain love and happiness in times when external change rocks our world. <br />
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How to do that? Accept self! Accept and acknowledge the person standing in front of that mirror. Accept your likes, dislikes, little quirks, habits, beliefs and everything that makes you -you! Acknowledge that you are a gift of love with brilliant bright energy to live life with Joy.<br />
Yes, there may need to be some healing or alignments that need to take place, but the first step is in feeling pure unconditional joy for self! Allow for those tears of joy to trickle down!<br />
Despite our ages, we are all still "Bundles of Joy"! Time to shed the shields and be wrapped in swaddling warm joy! <br />
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Next step when walking away from the mirror? </div>
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Shift perspective in everything seen, experienced and in every situation. <br />
Navigate each and every minute of the day from a place of strength and appreciation. <br />
Each day enjoy you for you knowing that you are pure joy<br />
Sometimes it is the smallest of things that bring us joy like how I started my morning.</div>
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This morning I felt pure joy as I sat on my back patio drinking my morning coffee. My attention was drawn to the bird feeder and bath. There were six birds, flying back and forth from feeder to bath to fence. Listening to the sound of birds chirping and watching these birds enjoy their morning too.</div>
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Relaxing, Soothing, Calm and Peaceful were all that I experienced during this time. The overall emotion was JOY. Why joy? There were no conditions, nature was doing it's thing, I was doing mine.</div>
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When feeling joyful those conditional emotions are much more in your control! </div>
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To learn more on healing and alignment refer to Double Stixs<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">™ : </span><span style="font-size: small;">The Nourishment and Gift of Change</span></span></div>
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Here's to experiencing all of your joy and living each day, "The Best Day Ever" </div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-88997179641817235522014-10-01T16:06:00.000-07:002014-10-01T16:06:02.624-07:00What Lights "Your" Spark?<span class="bqQuoteLink"></span><br />
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<span class="bqQuoteLink">Amazing how the answer to our question comes in forms and times when least expected!</span><br />
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The other amazing component is that the answer is never what is expected or is it?<br />
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Let's see, the request for an answer has been spoken or perhaps even prayed upon many times.<br />
This could be for direction, guidance, support, love or anything that expands, enriches or enhances our lives. Requests for answers that our heart and mind can conceive and then we patiently wait!<br />
Well, let's say we attempt to patiently wait, most of us would like the answer like yesterday!<br />
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Then unexpectedly an action, conversation, email or event happens that is the answer to the question.<br />
However, the answer is unexpected and not delivered in the form that was expected. Then again, what was expected, right? If all the scenario's were lined up and all the anticipated outcomes have been outlined, then why ask the question in the first place!<br />
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So what happens when the answer arrives and it isn't exactly what you needed or expected or is it? The answer is always what is in our best interest, sometimes a step back is necessary to really understand and fully embrace the message. <br />
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Answers typically do not come in the form or method that is expected and the timing is never perfect!<br />
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Time for me now to provide some insights and thoughts expressed in the Double Stixs<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">™ </span><span style="font-size: small;">program.</span></span><br />
Shift perspective and see the answer from a different point of view! Objectivity is our friend!<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Respond to the answer- Let the emotion out</span></div>
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Center your mind, body and spirit!</div>
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Breath and Breath again allowing for your mind to be calm and open</div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Revisit the answer: playback the voicemail, reread the message, visualize the conversation</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Grab a journal: List all the pros or highlights/headlines of the message</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">List all the downsides or the pieces of the message that does not resonate </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Answer: How was the message communicated? Who communicated the message? </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Any symbolism, such as at a significant time/event/place or day- record the meanings</span></div>
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Be specific and as detailed as possible</div>
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Review all that you have written with an open mind.</div>
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Write the question down that you have been waiting for an answer</div>
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List the "answer(s)" down that you pull from all that you have written</div>
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Is there a theme? There certainly is a message that you are meant to receive!</div>
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If only one golden ignitor - allow the spark to shine brightly</div>
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Gratitude- for the delivery and for any or all who delivered the message</div>
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The answers may not be a step by step manual but certainly will have a tone or theme. </div>
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A tone or direction for which to focus, make a plan and take action! </div>
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A tone that lights a "Spark" that then becomes a plan for which to move life in the direction of the answer that was being requested! Time to take control or perhaps time to go out on your own, explore other options, change a course of direction, are all possibilities from a message delivered. </div>
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<strong><em>The Spark ignites, a twinkle in the eye returns and the heart says: " I get it"</em></strong></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Cindy Lake</span></em></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"></span>Time for me now to say: Here's to living each day as "The Best Day Ever" <br />
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-44691792522668228772014-08-31T07:26:00.002-07:002014-08-31T07:26:56.981-07:00Spontaneous Joy!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This weekend in the US is the holiday of Labor Day! A long weekend that most of us, including myself, really need at this point after an amazing fun-filled Summer! <br />
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Do you ever get that little giddy-up feeling at times when something exciting or a vacation arrives?<br />
Perhaps this Friday when we knew we were going to have a long weekend?<br />
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Sometimes it's just as simple as hearing a song on the radio that takes you back to a time of happiness, oh that swelling of excitement that surfaces to bring about that giddy-up feeling.<br />
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Yes, I received that exhilerating feeling on Friday too. Then I had a flashback of a time when a Spontaneous action relieved anxiety and brought joy to myself but also to others. Similiar to the joy and excitement of this holiday weekend!<br />
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Returning from an overseas trip our flight was delayed getting back to the US. Everyone was waiting at baggage claim to retrieve luggage to get through customs. The anxiety for so many was the worry of missing flight connections to get home. Yes, it was late, it was a long flight, and I must admit I was a little concerned about missing my connection. Then standing there observing everyone anxiously anticipating for the buzzer to indicate our luggage was about to be received, a Frank Sinatra song came on the sound system. Don't ask me why I did it, perhaps it was the remandents of the beautiful vacation or just me being silly. So what happened?<br />
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I took Mike's hand, my husband, and began to dance in our space around the baggage area. We danced, laughed, smiled and just enjoyed the moment, like there was nobody else in the room. When the song was done, we high fived and laughed! To our surprise, our flight companions were clapping and laughing with us! Did I care what other's thought or may have said? NOPE! I ran with my gut instict and relieved my anxiety the best way I knew how at that moment. By being in the moment, enjoying the spontaneous urge and somehow knowing that everything would work out. Yes, it did!<br />
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Each of us through our actions, make such a difference and at times do not realize how our actions or not acting can make an impact. Time for me now to encourage all of us to continue to enjoy each situation and when that spontaneous urge to do something joyful arrives- do it!<br />
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The dancing couple, at the top of the page, was a reminder of this story. When traveling in Sedona, I came across this statue and years later this story brought a giddy-up in my thoughts! <br />
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“When you do things from your soul, you feel a river moving in you, a joy.” <br />― <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/875661.Rumi">Rumi</a></div>
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Celebrating Joy, Celebrating Life, Celebrating each of you and Celebrating " Labor Day weekend" </div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-27589188341811251962014-08-27T15:21:00.000-07:002014-08-27T15:21:00.929-07:00Psst! The Answer Rocks!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Do you follow your intuition, better know to some as "gut feeling" ? Have you found in listening that there tends be an amazing outcome or experience? This has been the case for myself over my life.<br />
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Sunday I decided to go to the Arboretum to spend the day amongst beautiful plants and flowers. A day just to be surrounded by beauty and perhaps get an idea or two for my back yard. <br />
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Leaving one of the pond areas , I began to walk away, when all of a sudden my intuition pinged. Turning around I looked at the pond from a different angle and observed the beauty in the photo at the top. Interesting enough, I had noticed this budding beauty. Evidently I had not noticed it enough! This time upon observing I noticed this beautiful glowing yellow center. The way the sun was reflecting down, the intensity of the yellow seemed to magnify the closer I observed. <br />
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Why is this significant? My heart absorbed the message my brain was sending to me.<br />
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<em><strong>Light and Love ALWAYS resides in our core!</strong></em> </div>
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This was such a beautiful reminder that sometimes we need to pause, turn around and see all things from a different perspective! Living life sometimes hides our passions! Sometimes our light and love is covered in layers that does not allow us to be present in the moment. To smile at a stranger or to bring a positive energy or perspective to our every day living. <br />
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The beauty of the light and love is that it is always within us, to be allowed to blossom and shine!<br />
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May in this moment you peel back the layers or open up to let your light and Love shine brightly!<br />
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The positive projections will positively impact others and you will receive many blessings that enrich your life!Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-54622750533115332582014-07-18T05:00:00.000-07:002014-07-18T05:00:04.123-07:00Innocence, Changes and The Journey!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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To everyone who read and sent comments or questions on the last post on Gratitude and Appreciation, a huge Universe of thanks! I appreciate the sharing of your gratitude! There was one question which has sat with me all week that I thought might support others,<br />
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Question: Can I still give gratitude for all the bad things done or experienced in my life?<br />
Answer: Yes! Absolutely! Today is a great day to begin, if ready!<br />
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The picture above is the beginning of my earliest memories. Yes, awhile back let's just say! <br />
This was a time of innocence, each of us has this point in time. From this point until now there have been many changes and quite the journey for me and for you, right? <br />
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I am sure most if not all have experienced, hardships, lost loves, betrayal, untimely loved ones passing over, careers soaring and then crashing, disappointments, missed opportunities, health issues, just to name the biggies. These have been my experiences which were changes from a particular point in time. Changes that needed to be navigated through to get me back on that smooth paved road!<br />
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All of these untimely life events, no matter what they may be are part of the journey, mine and yours! What would a journey or trip be without some unknown event to get our attention. Attention for lessons to be learned and in some cases lessons for others to learn. <br />
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Gratitude and Appreciation is a piece within the journey; at some point there is an awakening or acknowledgement that becomes an aha moment. Reflection is a power tool that helps to heal, gives the opportunity for forgiveness to ourselves and others. During the time of reflection there may be another aha where if that particular occurrence had not happened you would not be where you are today or be with the person you are today; or better yet- would not have become the person you are today! <br />
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Today, looking at my picture of many years ago, I reflected on all the years that has brought me to this day, my birthday! What a ride! What an amazing magnificent journey! The lessons I have learned, the experience over the years, the incredible people who have come into and then moved on their journey, and the opportunities presented to me, I am so grateful! Would I have wished for easier times at certain stages, you betcha! But then I would have missed something along the way... <br />
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<strong><em>I AM Grateful for the transitioning out of Innocence into all of life's Changes and for an amazing Journey! May the journey continue in this amazing gift called Life!</em></strong></div>
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When ready:<br />
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Reflect over each stage of your life</div>
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Write down each change that brought impact </div>
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Next to it or under: Write what lessons you may have received</div>
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When done, on a clean sheet of paper take each ocurrence and write: I AM grateful for _______</div>
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When completed keep the I AM grateful sheet of paper and dispose of the exercise page.</div>
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<strong><em>May all these lessons and future lessons bring you happiness, joy and a life filled with opportunity and amazing adventures!</em></strong></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-82185799865227304392014-07-17T00:30:00.000-07:002014-07-17T00:30:03.423-07:00An Amazing Day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I wanted to send out a huge heart felt Thank you to each and everyone of you who took time out of your day to wish me a "Happy Birthday" yesterday! My heart was full of grace and gratitude for your well wishings and kind thoughts... Each of you are amazing!<br />
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This year decided to journey to a new town and do some exploring in my new home state of Texas! <br />
Touring historical venues and even staying what is suppose to be a haunted hotel, so I'll post pictures if I capture anything. What fun, right? <br />
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Know that your well wishes are being carried with me this weekend as I go on this adventure!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Thank You"</span></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-69531989315699852192014-07-11T16:05:00.002-07:002014-07-11T16:05:35.051-07:00The Gratitude and Appreciation Waterfall <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Time seems to be going so fast for me lately. Do you sense or feel the same way? This week marks the first anniversary of my new chapter in an amazing incredible life. Each evening this week, while enjoying the glow of the patio candles, glass of red wine, I reflected on all events, people and experiences that have transpired in the past year. Double Stixs™: The Nourishment and Gift of Change was published, opportunity presented itself and within thirty days of publication a Change! Imagine that, a change developing to someone who writes and works with others on change! I sensed a change brewing but the timing was way sooner than expected. Don't you find that in most things in life? Perhaps you asked for something, prayed about something and it was received but not in the form, fashion or timing that you expected it! Amazing how that always happens!<br />
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This Change resulted in a relocation to a new state - 1,664 miles, a new home, my husband and I began living under the same roof after two years of weekends only due to work, My husband and I both transitioned into a new position, opportunity for book tour, new coaching clients, added "Marti" our new little guy, into our family and purchased a much needed second vehicle. The opportunity also appeared to complete my studies for Reiki Master Teacher! Each event has layers of stories but for now, I have told you the headlines and shared my life experience of this past year to let you know how gratitude can open up endless opportunities! During the final phase of the book editing I began to shift my thoughts and daily practice to giving immense gratitude for the ability to bring a passion, a dream to life. I released any outcomes of my personal life goals and began giving immense gratitude for the moment, focused on the good around me not the pieces that were not aligned or perfect. Each morning gave gratitude for another day to experience and each evening gave gratitude for what I encountered, experienced or received. I really began to enjoy the "now", meaning wherever I was, whatever I was doing, the past, the next 10 mins didn't matter to me, just enjoyed that moment in time. Being in the presence of gratitude sets off an energy and a vibration that one just can't help but feel happy, feel more balanced, a vision of clarity emerges and a sense of peace flows through the entire body.<br />
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Living life in gratitude and appreciation brought about the synchronicities that opened up opportunities for me to take action. Confidence in the ability to accept and seize change allowed for the past years events. You too can accept, seize and flourish through change! That's right, you can most definitely have the ability!<br />
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Please note that it took me years to be able to describe my life as amazing and incredible! Please do not think that everything is always rosy and wonderful as it is not! Living Life is an adventure and with adventure comes switchbacks, bumps and stop signs! But it is in the moment of those most challenging times that giving gratitude for the now, even the smallest thing that is going right in your life, can shift and change the balance and energy around. Through the years, even during times of struggle, I acknowledged and knew that life was precious. It's only been the past ten years that even in the times of change or challenges, I view life as being amazing and incredible! This is also the time I began to give gratitude and appreciation for even the littlest things in my life and yes even for the challenges. My experience is that through each challenge I grow, gain new experiences while gaining the ability to shift to view from a different perspective. This is not unique or new, but sometimes it is worth bringing to light.<br />
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<b>"Be Grateful and Appreciate each little detail of life, as it opens up the heart to accept each new chapter, bringing synchronicity and beautiful, enriching blessings, allowing the abundance of life to overflow within and around you! ~~ </b><i>Cindy Lake</i></div>
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Double Stixs™ : Poles of Support: Gratitude and Appreciation Exercise</div>
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Time frame: 30 days</div>
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Tools: Open heart, journal, pen/pencil</div>
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Exercise: Morning when first awakening while lying in bed, give gratitude for good night sleep, waking up, etc</div>
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Evening, take some time to reflect on the day- write what you are gratitude for and what you appreciate</div>
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you may also do this during a mediation or prayer if that is a belief or practice.</div>
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Do you journal? if so, this would be great to write down what you are grateful for or appreciate, any shifts, changes, out of the blue opportunities or just plain feeling better than normal and for reference exercise in 31 days.</div>
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Do this exercise each day for 30 days. Day 31 take an hour to really reflect on your notes in your journal.</div>
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What are you reflecting on? </div>
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Where there any particular areas of your life that were the primary focus</div>
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Any changes in that area</div>
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Health- any shifts or changes</div>
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Increase in happiness, feeling more balanced or just find yourself smiling more</div>
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Any unexpected or unplanned events, opportunities or people that showed up </div>
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The last sentence in your journal should be: </div>
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I AM grateful and appreciate who I AM!!! Yes You! </div>
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You ARE Amazing</div>
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" Marti"</div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-20433268589990141962014-05-28T13:49:00.000-07:002014-05-28T13:49:10.170-07:00A Question Asked and A Question Answered!
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Gosh it is so wonderful to be back connected to each of you!
I certainly have missed our connections.<br />
Thank you to everyone who still stopped in to say hello or
to check out any potential new postings. My heart is overjoyed and I am extremely
grateful always for your love and support.<br />
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For those who have read my book, there is a line, in the
About The Author, that says “Currently resides in Northern Nevada that is,
until the next adventure!” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Take a guess
as to how long until this change and new adventure presented itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Total of 38 days, then the adventure began to
unfold and action taken six days later! A whirlwind, yes! A change, oh yes! The
whirlwind and change has been all good and necessary to stay on my path and the
journey of my amazing and loving life. </div>
I know the suspense is getting great, you really want to
know what has been going on right? <br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Memories</i> are made
in each moment of time and activities. The past six months is exactly what I
have been doing! Life’s transitions and change of a new state, new home, new
car, new day job and new puppy have inserted amazing new changes while creating
a new world for me.</div>
These changes have expanded, enhanced and brought new
adventures and opportunities into my life. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, I am truly blessed and grateful to each
and every change that I have experienced over the last six months. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The biggest blessing has been the opportunity
to live close to my brother and to interact and make new memories with my
sister-in-love and my nephews! Who could imagine the joy of attending baseball
or basketball games, school events or just having a sleep over playing dominions!
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Yes, huge changes but by following these opportunities and
making the changes necessary have all enriched my life beyond the written word.
During these six months I spent time just enjoying and transitioning each day
while allowing for the balance and inspiration to determine next steps.</div>
The memories I have been creating here with family will one
day be the memories to those who have been part of my change. Memories that
form, inspire, invoke emotions while giving gratitude for the time together. <br />
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Each action and time
that is spent becomes a memory in that moment! The acknowledgement section and
Chapter 1 of Double Stixs<span style="font-size: 11.5pt;">™: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Nourishment and Gift of Change</span><span style="font-size: 11.5pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">are just those
moments. It really is impossible to acknowledge all who have been part of each
of my memories in a few pages. Those amazing individuals captured in print are
those with direct participation or have been part of my journey of inspiration
for Double Stixs</span><span style="font-size: 11.5pt;"> ™. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Are there any
memories you would like to make but can’t seem to make the change?<o:p></o:p></span></li>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Should you answer “yes” , get into a quite space and
return to Chapter 6.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Next time together I will be adding additional remarks relating to
Chapter 6! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Meanwhile Remember this: </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;"><strong><em>“YOU ARE AMAZING”!!!!!</em></strong></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-68837578844259961032013-11-01T14:57:00.001-07:002013-11-01T14:57:43.492-07:00The Cover<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><strong>Continuation of insights of Double Stixs™</strong> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Children have neither past nor future; they enjoy the present, which very few of
us do. ~Jean de la Bruyere</em></span> </span><!-- end body text format, 300x250 ad bottom of page, page information title and format --></div>
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Recently during a book reading I was asked how I came about to select the image on the book cover. <br />
For those who have worked on a project or published a book, the image can be a challenge. <br />
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Double Stixs<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">™ </span><span style="font-size: small;">theme is maintaining harmony and balance through life changes. The inspirational stories and examples in some of the chapters come from my childhood. A childhood that was spent playing games and creating imaginary locations such as western forts in the woods behind our home. These years were fun, creative while doing what came to mind immediately not hesitating for a moment of any repercussions. Sure sliding down a muddy hill did get the attention of my mom when my clothes were a mess. Oh well, was my general mental response never once saying that out loud! I knew better! The point being, when looking back at our lives, the greatest sense of freedom and exploration was when we were children. My sense was to pull from that time period and bring into "now" to support the release of fear of change. The image of a young girl, representing a period of time in my life that was carefree, fun without fear. As a child we live in "the now" not worrying about yesterday or what in the world is going to happen tomorrow, next week yet alone next year!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Life was an adventure with <em><strong>UNLIMITED </strong></em>possibilities</span></span></div>
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The search was on to find "the right" image to convey balance with a child demonstrating no fear and with full confidence. Yes there were hundreds of images to review and over time my excitement was slowly turning to disappointment. I did not want to settle yet I just knew there was the right image(s) that could be used to convey my inspiration and message. Finally I had a discussion with my art director and Stephanie really listened to my vision. A few days later she directed me to a specific place, within a short period of time, there she was! </div>
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Goosebumps all over! Buried in the last few pages was the image that was configured and is now the book jacket cover! A fallen down tree trunk (like I use to walk during play), a little girl walking confidently balancing with two sticks (story in the book) in the woods. Once the configuration and the final book cover jacket was approved, I jumped out of my writing chair, did a happy dance while repeating YES! Arms up in the air and happily celebrating! Yes, I allowed my adult self to celebrate and my inner child surfaced with giggling and tears of joy! The words were now alive and ready.</div>
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Time for me now to remind myself and each of us: " Allow for our authentic self to rise to the surface", enjoy "the now", each day and each event in that day. <br />
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<em>Tomorrow will come but today will go to never be enjoyed again. <span style="font-size: xx-small;">Cindy Lake</span></em></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"></span>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-84044420607954289932013-10-03T04:59:00.001-07:002013-10-03T04:59:17.654-07:00Recharge!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am always so amazed at the magnificence of our bodies. Seems that just when it is time to rest, recharge and release, our body knows exactly how to support us. <br />
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Preparing for the next round of postings on Double Stixs<span style="font-size: xx-small;">™, </span><span style="font-size: small;">I began to feel "off", you know that feeling during the change of seasons, especially from summer to fall? Did I listen to the signs and my body? Of course not! LOL I kept up with my daily schedule, even adding a few additional responsibilities. Yes, additional signs showed up for me. Tickle in my throat, seeming to be a little more tired than usual.. Did I still pay attention to the signs that my body was telling me? Nope!</span><br />
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Finally, after landing in the emergency walk-in clinic and receiving my diagnosis, finally did I listen!<br />
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Today I just wanted to remind each of us that: <br />
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" <em>It is OK to slow down, take care of <strong>you</strong>, and honor yourself and your body"</em></div>
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All of us are so very good at taking care and supporting others that we tend to forget about ourselves!</div>
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Feeling a little off or perhaps out of sync with how you normally feel? Pay attention to the signs that the body sends to us, even if very subtle! The signs may only be for slowing down, but still important.</div>
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<em>Slow Down</em></div>
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<em>Pamper yourself with a bath, massage or time with friends.</em></div>
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<em>Increase the normal sleeping time</em></div>
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<em>Incorporate more fruits, vegetable's and juice into daily routine</em></div>
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<em>Reduce instead of increasing daily workload- (even doing this for a day or two helps)</em></div>
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<em>Sink into that perfectly made bed, pull the covers to the neck, breath and relax</em></div>
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The fall time of year is for reaping all that has been planted so far for the year! This is a perfect time to recharge and reignite ourselves for enjoying all the hard work and passion each of us has put into our lives..... </div>
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Time for me now to return to my perfectly made bed, pull the covers up to my neck, breath, relax and just allow for sleep to take over and allow for the recharging to continue.</div>
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Wishing each of you amazing health, a green light of fully recharged life and the arms to receive all that you are so deserving.</div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-1076281411405254622013-09-22T12:54:00.000-07:002015-09-23T11:07:08.768-07:00Beautiful Colors!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Waking up this morning was not sure as to what the sunrise would bring to me. Marti, my 19 week puppy, was sure as to what time it was for him! Together we ventured downstairs and out into the morning air. Crisp, fresh with a few remaining starts twinkling down upon us.<br />
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Sitting on the glider mesmerized by the stars and waiting for Marti to return back to the patio. The thought of what today was according to the calendar... The first day of Autumn! <br />
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So what does Autumn mean for you? Perhaps.......</div>
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<em>A break of Summer scorching temperatures</em></div>
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<em>The unveiling of beautiful colors</em></div>
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<em>The full swing of school activities</em></div>
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<em>Football </em></div>
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<em>Breaking out the comfort foods </em></div>
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The list can continue on given we each of our own associations with each season.</div>
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For me, Autumn is most of the above associations but Autumn also means to me gratitude, new beginnings and celebrations. </div>
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Autumn is a time of harvest~ reaping rewards for all the seeds that have been planted! The fall harvest, our intentions being realized, celebrating all that has been given and received so far this year. A new season and a time of celebrating all that once was, that which is now, while looking forward to the upcoming holiday seasons! </div>
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Today, I just wanted to stop in to wish each of you the best on this first day of Autumn! May the upcoming weeks and months bring to you all you deserve and may you be open to receive! </div>
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<em>May abundance flow in and around you with the beauty of color and inspiration!</em></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-73427325585416308472013-09-18T16:07:00.000-07:002013-09-18T16:07:14.674-07:00" Once Upon A Time"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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"Once Upon A Time"! </div>
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Though this phrase is mainly used to begin children's stories, decided to begin this series with the phrase. There are many elements of self in the symbolism and after all this is a story, with inspirational stories, chapter exercises and resources. A story written so each reader feels like they are sitting in a room having a conversation with a good friend, family member or a coach!<br />
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Each of us has our own beginning from our first memory that can be recalled and our life story continues to evolve over the decades, but there is always a beginning! <br />
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A Boulder Moment blog earlier this month gave insight as to how the subtitle: "The Nourishment and Gift of Change". My desire is to share the significances and symbolism's for an understanding.<br />
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Moving forward now to the title of the book which is the foundation for the program.<br />
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<em>Double Stixs<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">™- </span><span style="font-size: small;">- More than a Name or two Words!</span></span></em></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Once Upon ATime when I was a child growing up in Western Pennsylvania in a very small town my playground for myself and my brother was the woods. The woods was our playground and for me my sanctuary. A place that came to be my connection to adventure and to just play while exploring. The woods, to me, was peaceful full of colors in the fall and a place where I could allow my imagination to create. All the creations of forts, Tarzan scenes and adventures began at base camp. Base camp was an area surrounding this very large maple tree on the only flat surface on one side of the hill. The base around the tree was barren with only dirt and rocks visible. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Traveling from base camp there were rocks, boulders, fallen tree trunks and inclines that required climbing over, under or trekking up an embankment. It was the embankments that always got me. I needed help to keep my balance. One day I decided to explore to find two sticks strong enough to use to help me climb up up up. I found not only planting them up in front did I get that extra ease in climbing but kept balanced. So the two sticks were always part of the adventure, even using them to balance walking along the tree trunks near the creek. Imagine my excitement when the image on my book jacket was found! Never in a million years did I ever imagine this image would be found, but ooh la la there was this precious image after many weeks of searching! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Throughout my life being in balance and even numbers have always been part of who I am. Dancing I do this funny thing with both index fingers and there are other symbolism's that relate to sticks and balance. When needing my sticks, hand me my sticks didn't work, so I would say, "Hey please hand me my Double Sticks! These two sticks were special to me, I didn't just want two ordinary sticks!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">The name just stuck and resonated with me! For the book decided to change up the spelling of Stixs, why? The "x" connects in the middle making two while evenly balanced! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><em>The "Once Upon A Time" for Double Stixs</em><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>™!!!</em> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <em><strong>Double Stixs</strong></em><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>™:</strong> Balance with Control</span></em> </span></span>"The Nourishment and Gifts of Change"*</span></span></div>
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There you have it, the story behind the Title and Subtitle for Double Stixs<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">™: </span></span></span>"The Nourishment and Gifts of Change". Additional stories that connect the symbolism's and synchronicity can be found throughout the book.<span style="font-size: small;"></span></div>
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The Resource section contains complementary audios of inspiration, please feel free to download. A monthly newsletter is preparing to go live soon, please sign up to receive monthly. Please feel free to email me with any questions or comments, I so enjoy hearing from you!</div>
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Here's to living life in balance with confidence, control and fearlessly!!</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">* A Boulder Moment, Sept 5th blog details the birth of the subtitle: "The Nourishment and Gifts of Change</span>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2726789621804260299.post-1790653082416689492013-06-03T17:24:00.001-07:002013-06-03T17:24:26.807-07:00Hello Forward!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The Title of this post might be a little confusing to some, at first for me too!<br />
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So wondering how the past two months has been for you? Do any of these experiences ring true?<br />
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<strong>A game of "Tug of War"</strong> - (don't remember requesting to play the game)</div>
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<strong>A Roller Coaster Ride</strong> - (without even entering an amusement park)</div>
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<strong>A Game of Hopscotch</strong> ( Oops forgot to bring the chalk)</div>
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<strong>Watching a beautiful romantic movie- tearful</strong> (without even putting a DVD in the player)</div>
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Reflecting over the past two months these experiences, emotions and lessons have brought me to the point of saying: <br />
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" Hello Forward"..... (certainly didn't want to stay any longer in the lesson then necessary!)</div>
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When opening up my bedroom curtains this weekend, it was with a different awareness. The awareness of the sun shining, the clear blue skies and the warm breeze. A beautiful morning after several days of severe weather. The awareness and symbolism for me came to mind.</div>
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Yes, the months have been fast, furious and at times unexpected in and around me. Please note that each event, action or emotion were not necessary bad- just fast and furious. Similar to standing on a tennis court and an automatic ball machine was propelling tennis balls for me to smack over the net.</div>
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Talking with folks yesterday, they too experienced similar events and emotions. As the storm ceases and the calm rolls in, so does our awareness. The awareness that there really were lessons, opportunities, gifts and messages within all of the experiences. So I began to capture these thoughts, specific lessons, learning's, opportunities and gifts into my journal. Amazing revelations!!!! </div>
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Sometimes there is a tendency to make all things much too complicated! My revelation was actually a validation of each day, each experience, each interaction is a gift. A gift given to us to experience, learn, enjoy, embrace and gain a better understanding. A better understanding of what does work for us and what doesn't work. </div>
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All the fast paced activity and energy was for my benefit. The gift of propelling me forward to the new chapter in my life. </div>
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The activity of being pulled in different directions, the high and lows of each day bringing that free fall feeling in the pit of the stomach. Moving from right and left to get things done when time was always of the essence and on someone else's terms. The emotional connection to sometimes the smallest things. All these actions and the experiences in the past couple of months was for preparation. Preparation for the now and for moving forward. </div>
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Change has always been something that I have embraced and encouraged regardless of the outcome...</div>
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My experience professionally and personally is that in order to "Live our Dreams" or to "Live Life to the Fullest" there are two factors.. </div>
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<strong>"Change and Self"!</strong></div>
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Each of us are amazing individuals with capabilities of accomplishing so many things. Each of us "can do"! If it isn't working for me or you, then something has to Change... </div>
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<strong><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Be grateful and appreciate each little detail of
life, as this opens up the heart to accept each new chapter of life bringing
synchronicities and beautiful, enriching blessings, allowing the abundance of
life to overflow within and around you! </span></i></strong></div>
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<strong><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Cindy Lake</span></i></strong><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<strong>Hello Forward!!!!</strong></div>
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It is with great appreciation for all of life's lessons, experiences and people in my life...... </div>
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Offered by: Amazon, Barnes and Nobles</div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10932924253839465578noreply@blogger.com