How much can the heart hold? . . . .

The love of partnerships

Photo via Google Images

The love of a child

Photo by Brooke Fasani

The love of friendships

Photo via Getty Images

The love of life

Photo via Google Images

The love of a pet

Photo by Antonio Cangiano via flickr

The love of God

Photo via Google Images

......and there's STILL room for more!

Read any good books lately? . . . .

“You know you've read a good book when you turn the last page and feel a little as if you have lost a friend.”

-Paul Sweeney

Finding inspiration . . . .

I am so inspired by these beautiful photographs of the GAP Ad Campaign, even though a few of them are from seasons past. I love beautiful photography. I know I am inspired when I feel my emotions stir. I immediately feel drawn in. It can even begin to shape my thoughts. I find inspiration in so many different ways....books, blogs, music, photography, design, color, art, quotes, nature, friends, exercise & especially humanity. There is nothing like people watching to motivate and encourage you!

What inspires you?

Josh Duhamel

Anne Hathaway

Liv Tyler

Will Arnett & Amy Poehler

John Mayer

Angie Harmon & Jason Sehorn

Hugh Dancy

Quiet time . . . .

I love to be alone. It's so good for my well-being. Even though I'm a very social person, I crave alone time, and when I don't have enough of it, I begin to feel over stimulated. For me it's all about regaining clarity. It means it's time to decompress, to organize my thoughts, and to remove myself from the influences of others. There is no negotiating when you're alone.....you get to indulge yourself in your own thoughts without having to compromise. It literally fuels my life and nurtures my soul.

"We need quiet time to examine our lives openly and honestly. Spending quiet time alone gives your mind an opportunity to renew itself and create order."

- Susan Taylor

Photo via Getty Images

For your viewing pleasure . . . .

Beauty comes from within,

but sometimes,

well, you just have to enjoy the view.

Happy Friday!

Wishing you a lovely weekend!

Photo by Cameron McDonald

It can turn a life around . . . .

"Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which has the potential to turn a life around."

- Leo Buscalgia

Photo by Guildford Grace

With love . . . .

There's a little bit of everyone inside of you, and there's a little bit of you inside of all others. Humanity's greatest and most vile potentials lie within each of us. By understanding what motivates us to act kindly or with malice, we can begin asking questions about the behavior of others. And with understanding, we can begin loving - not their behavior, but their potential; not their decisions, but their journey. And with love, we can begin healing by example, showing kindness, compassion, and another way.

-From the book Choose Them Wisely by Mike Dooley

-Photo via One League Artists

Pure pleasures . . . .

Hugging.

Fresh, clean clothes.

An evening in front of the fire.

Getting lost in the music.

Not needing an alarm clock.

Candles.

A cleansing laugh.

Photo credits:

Hugging - Photo by Jenywin via flickr

Fresh, clean clothes - Photo via One League Artists

An evening in front of the fire - Photo by europa70 via flickr

Getting lost in the music - Getty Images

Not needing an alarm clock - Photo by Mark Williams via One League Artists

Candles - Photo by moemoechi via flickr

A cleansing laugh - Google Images

No complaints . . . .

"You wanna know what living life to the fullest actually is? It's waking up on a Monday morning with no complaints. It's knowing you always deserve to laugh. It's doing what feels right no matter what. It's doing what you want to no matter how stupid you look. It's about being yourself, because no one can tell you you're doing it wrong."

-Unknown

You get to choose . . . .

What if we woke up in the morning and got to decide how we were going to feel for the day? Let's just say it's our decision. You get to pick ..... Excited? Happy? Sad? Motivated? Grumpy? Jealous? Angry? Ok, now let's just say that someone you knew had the power to rearrange all the people and circumstances of your life to make it happen. You'd like that, right? You'd choose happy, right?

Well, that someone who can make it happen for you, is YOU. You get to choose! I have found that what you give, is returned to you many times over. Make sure that what you are giving is good, if you want good back. If you emit anger, rage, jealousy and envy, you will receive suffering of some kind. If you emit gratitude, love, kind thoughts, words, and actions, you will bring joy into your life, and you'll begin to see the misery subside.

Three steps that will bring more to you

than you can ever imagine:

Think good thoughts.

Speak good words.

Take good actions.

Happy Friday!

Partial text content via Mike Dooley

Notes From The Universe

No expectations . . . .

"I decided, very early on, just to accept life unconditionally. I never expected it to do anything special for me, yet I seemed to accomplish far more than I had ever hoped. Most of the time it just happened to me without my ever seeking it."

-Audrey Hepburn

It comes from within . . . .

"A feeling that greater possessions will, of themselves, bring contentment or happiness, is a misunderstanding. No person, place, or thing can give you happiness. They may give you cause for happiness and a feeling of contentment, but the Joy of Living comes from within."

-Genevieve Behrend (1881-1960)

Your Invisible Power

Say I Am Wonderful! . . . .

Today, I am so inspired by this song by singer songwriter London-born Gary Go, and wanted to share it with you. It truly is a "Wonderful" (click to watch) song . . very inspirational.

The person that you were has died

You've lost the sparkle in your eyes

You fell for life - into it's traps

Now you wanna bridge the gaps

Now you wanna bridge the gaps

Now you want that person back

And all your ammunition's gone

Run out of fuel to carry on

You don't know what you wanna do

Cause what you want does not want you

If what you want does not want you

And you've got no pull to pull you through

Say "I am"

Say "I am"

Say "I am wonderful"

Oh you are

Say "I am"

Say "I am"

Say "I am wonderful"

If what you've lost cannot be found

And the weight of the world weighs you down

No longer with the will to fly

You stop to let it pass you by

Don't stop to let it pass you by

You've gotta look yourself in the eye

Say "I am"

Say "I am"

Say "I am wonderful"

Oh you are

Say "I am"

Say "I am"

Say "I am wonderful"

You're wonderful, oh

Cause we are all miracles

wrapped up in chemicals

We are incredible, oh we are

Don't take it for granted, no

We are all miracles

Oh we are

Say "I am"

Say "I am"

Say "I am wonderful"

Oh you are

Say "I am"

Say "I am"

Say "I am wonderful"

You're wonderful, oh

Cause we are all miracles

wrapped up in chemicals

We are incredible, oh we are

Don't take it for granted, no

We are all miracles wrapped up,

yeah we're wrapped up

Oh we are wonderful.

What are your habits? . . . .

I am using this space today to remind those of you who have been saying......."I'll start my exercise program on Monday."

Today is Monday!

"We are what we repeatedly do.

Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit."

-Aristotle

Who inspires you? . . . .

I could list so many people who inspire me for a number of reasons. There are the obvious ones who create music and art. The ones who take my breath away with design. The ones who speak so eloquently in front of a crowd. Writers who form words in such a compelling way that it causes me to close the book just so I can sit with the beauty of the words. I could go on and on. But today's post is on more of a personal level of appreciation in regards to those who inspire me.

I have made it a priority in my life to surround myself with people who have chosen to live their life with passion, lift others up. . . are encouraging, and who speak well of others. The people who truly inspire me have an inner beauty. They are people who motivate me. People who make me want to be a better person. People who make me laugh. People who are true to themselves. I love people who live their life with grace. Oh my goodness, I'm surrounded by these people, and I'm so grateful!

To those of you who live with passion...you inspire me. You make me want to listen.

To those of you who motivate me...I can't get enough of you!

To those of you who encourage...you will be rewarded many times over.

To those of you who have grace...I will always have room in my heart for you.

To those of you with inner beauty...never change.

To those of you who make me laugh...never leave!

To those of you who make a difference in the lives of others...you make me think about how I will be remembered, and what I can do to enhance that.

To those of you who have faced major obstacles...you have made a significant difference in my life as I watch you accomplish meaningful change.

Thank you.

I am so grateful for all the people in my life.

I love you!

Create a more positive you . . . .

Unfortunately, many people have a continuous reel of negative words, thoughts and statements running through their minds. It is no wonder that they live their lives unenthusiastically. Words and statements can build you up or destroy you, but you have the power to make them work to your advantage. It is up to you how you use them. When you repeat positive statements, they become your convictions, and in turn, become your reality. Even a lifetime of negative programming can be changed when you hold on to, and repeat affirmations enough. If you are putting yourself down, you are your own worst enemy. Clean your 'mental' house by making the decision to stop the whining, playing the victim, and begin to respect yourself. At this point you will begin to gain control over your actions. You'll create a stronger, more positive version of yourself, and it will automatically create more success in your life.

You have to refuse to think negative thoughts,

if you wish to attain positive results.

Your inner voice . . . .

There is something in every one of you that waits and listens for the sound of the genuine in yourself. It is the only true guide you will ever have. And if you cannot hear it, you will, all your life, spend your days on the ends of strings that somebody else pulls."

-Howard Thurman

Let your mind lead . . . .

My yoga instructor said something this morning that I know is very powerful. She said, "Let your mind lead, and your body will follow." I've known for quite some time how powerful the mind is, and I have even used mental techniques that have helped me go further than I ever could have imagined. For many of us, it is so easy to convince ourselves that something is too difficult, and give up much too soon. If we allow ourselves to use the power of the brain, it is astonishing at what we can achieve.

Kurt Lee Hurley

The Whole Body, Whole Mind, Whole Health Solution

writes:

The body can only achieve what the mind can conceive. The mind is designed to perform as a command center and the body serves as the production department. When the mind is strong and integral, the body will obey. If the mind is convinced otherwise, inability sets in, and the body begins to command the mind. Consequently, at the slightest hint of difficulty and pain, the body wants to give up and so it communicates to the mind that it can do no more, and indeed gives up.

Once the mind decides the body is unwilling to do something, a tug-of-war starts. It is in such conflict that the body must be disciplined to succumb to the mind. If this is accomplished, the mind is strengthened and given authority over the body, which is trained to respond positively. As this goes on, the mind is promoted to heights never before imagined, and is encouraged to go beyond its limits. The body does what it is told to do. So the body begins to outdo itself. It is at this point where limitless potentials break out of hiding and release the champion in all of us.

It is wonderful what the body can do,

if you've got the mind to let it.

Shifting seasonal gears . . . .

Last week I allowed myself to shift gears seasonally, spent time reading my favorite blogs, gathered new music for my ipod, and freshened my mind with new inspiration. I found some great ideas online for holiday decorations. I took the time to immerse myself in projects around my house that needed attention, and in turn, ignored my own blog after I had just mentioned in my last post that I was so excited to be back! Well, I'm always excited to return home after vacation, but I did exactly what I needed to do. I love the 'essence of knowing' when I need to do something. . . . . getting it done, and moving on. Seasonal change does it to me every time.

What's your story? . . . .

All humans are storytellers with their own unique point of view. When we understand this, we no longer feel the need to impose our story on others or to defend what we believe. Instead, we see all of us as artists with the right to create our own art.

-Don Miguel Ruiz

So good to be back . . . .

Going away on vacation is always so great, but coming home is heaven! I am so happy to be back, return to my daily routine, (the above photo is my motivation to get back at it, girl), and of course, to be blogging again! I've missed it all.

I'm hoping this short motivational video 
will get your week off to a great start!

Happy Monday!

Focus on the good . . . .

To change our lives, at some point we have to decide that, rather than suffer anymore, we are going to live in happiness. And the only way we can do that is to make the decision to look for things to appreciate, no matter what. As we begin to focus on the good and the brighter side of things, the law of attraction responds by sending back to us the exact photocopy of our new thoughts. And good things begin to appear. And then more good things, and then more . . . . . . .

The Secret Daily Teachings

-Rhonda Byrne

That's the way it is . . . .

"When you want it the most there's no easy way out. When you're ready to go and your hearts left in doubt, don't give up on your faith....love comes to those who believe it, and that's the way it is!"

-Celine Dion

Sharing a 'feel good video' with you today.

Happy Monday!!

How 'bout a hug? . . . .

The New York Times has reported that in the United States "the hug has become the favorite social greeting when teenagers meet or part these days." I'm smiling just thinking about that! I'm a hugger, so that just warms my heart to know that hugs are on the rise. Most humans enjoy contact, although I do know that it is very uncomfortable for some. A hug can be the ultimate sign of trust, so some like to reserve hugging for family, friends or lovers. By hugging someone, you remind them that you care about them and support them. Personally, I think it is a wonderful way to express affection. I do, however, pay close attention to the receiver's responsiveness. It only takes a second to determine if they are receptive to hugging or not. I believe you don't have to smother them, but giving someone a meaningful squeeze shows that you appreciate them, and can help foster closer relationships.

"A hug is a handshake from the heart."

-Author unknown

"Pick the day. Enjoy it - to the hilt. The day as it comes. People as they come... The past, I think, has helped me appreciate the present - and I don't want to spoil any of it by fretting about the future."

-Audrey Hepburn

Making connections . . . .

My biggest joy over the past several months has been making connections with new people. I understand that it can be difficult for some to do that, for whatever reason. Call it lack of social confidence, fear of rejection, or worse...fear of being judged. How can you ever make an honest, genuine connection if you are judging another person while they are talking? To begin with, there is no way you can truly hear what they are saying if you are in the midst of judging them. If you are picking them apart in your mind while they are speaking, you are sabotaging the possibility of a new friendship. Take the time to listen to others, and I mean REALLY listen. Give them the benefit of the doubt for a change. Learn to put your own thoughts aside for a moment, and be attentive to their words and emotions. When you make it a habit to stand up for people's positive qualities, you strengthen your own capabilities. We can begin to develop lasting, gratifying relationships if we listen with an open heart and a genuine interest. Granted, it may not always work out, but you can at least walk away knowing you gave it your best shot.

"Friends are those rare people who ask how you are and then wait for the answer."

-Author Unknown

The book that asks the questions . . .

I pulled an older book off of my shelf the other day that made me smile. This book encourages you to ask yourself soul-searching questions, in a light-hearted way. The author states in the beginning of the book that there is no right way to answer these questions. They are not meant to be another "should" on your to-do list. It's not about life-sweeping changes, mission statements or finally getting it all together. It's about modestly listening and following the guidance you receive from your inner voice, and to take your time doing it.

Example...

Question #1 What is the one thing I need more of in my life right now?

Silence

Time with my children

Moving by body

Energy

Time alone

Peaceful work environment

Rest

Creativity

Relaxed daily routine

Money

Healthy food

Time with my partner or close friend

Health

Fresh air

Fill in the blank______________

"Openhearted wisdom for every woman who wants to live and love and laugh more fully."

National Day of Encouragement . . .

If someone listens, or stretches out a hand, or whispers a word of encouragement, or attempts to understand a lonely person, extraordinary things begin to happen.

-Loretta Girzartis

Step away from the calendar . . . .

What happened to spontaneity? At what point did you lose the right to do something in your day just because you feel like it at the moment? I have a group of girlfriends who have tried over the past several years to schedule get-togethers such as lunch, a girls night out, a little shopping, or just hang out together so we can reconnect. We pull out our calendars, and inevitably someone has something that prevents us from setting a date. Sometimes it's painful trying to find a date that works for all 4 of us. Recently, we have found that some of our best times together have been when it was spontaneous. It may not always work out, but when it does, the rewards are so great. It's freeing! Because of our routines we sometimes forget that life is an ongoing adventure, just waiting for us to enjoy the ride!

Put time to good use . . . .

Don't let the fear of the time it will take to accomplish something stand in the way of your doing it. The time will pass anyway; we might just as well put that passing time to the best possible use.

-Earl Nightingale

A love affair . . . .

I am smack dab in the middle of a love affair! . . . with music! I have often told my husband - if I get lost in the music, please don't come looking for me! It's my own little piece of heaven, and it is so good for my well-being. It's such an easy way to carve out a moment of private respite, especially if you share your space with others. To me, it is the ultimate way to pamper myself. My playlist's take me from a relaxing Sunday morning music mix, to ready-to-party music - from power walking, to the perfect mix for a dinner party. Enjoying music makes us feel good! And it promotes health! I credit my walking music for motivating me to keep going, doubling my distance, and is helping me drop those few extra pesky pounds. Compile a list of your favorites, and make it work to your advantage. If you are not in a relationship, and find it too difficult to listen to the love songs, choose to believe that LIFE is serenading you, and begin your love affair today!

(Once I decided on a post about music, I contacted my son, Nick, and asked him to help me out with a photo. He is an actor, loves photography, and has a beautiful girlfriend who is an actress, singer, and dancer. They are both music lovers. I told him what I was looking for in a photograph, and within a few hours he sent me these beautiful photographs of Melissa. It captures the exact image of how I feel when I listen to music. Thank you Nick & Melissa for accommodating me! I love these beautiful images!!)

photo's by Nick Vorderman

Nick Vorderman Photography

See more photo's at Nick's blog. . . Nick Vorderman Photography

Also, please visit Melissa's blog. . . endless city

Crazybusy . . . .

Are you too busy? Always running behind? Is your calendar loaded with more than you can possibly accomplish? Is it driving you crazy? Crazybusy - the modern phenomenon of brain overload - is a national epidemic. Without intending for it to happen, we've plunged ourselves into a mad rush of activity, expecting our brains to keep track of more than they comfortably or effectively can. In fact, brain overload has reached the point where our entire society is suffering from culterally induced ADD. Blackberries, cell phones, and email 24/7 - longer workdays, escalating demands, and higher expectations at home. It all adds us to a state of constant frenzy that is sapping us of creativity, humanity, mental well-being, and the ability to focus on what truly matters.

The best reason to take your time is that this is the only time you'll ever have. You must take it or it will be taken from you. It is telling that the phrase 'taking your time' is synonymous with slowing down. If we want to live life fully and get the most out of the short lives we have, we would do best to slow down. To make the most out of this new world, to avoid feeling overbooked, overstretched, and about to snap, to make modern life become better than life has ever been, a person must learn how to do what matters most first, and to make the most out of each minute that matters. Otherwise, you will bulldoze over life's best moments. You won't notice the little charms that adorn each day, nor will you ever transform the mundane into the extraordinary. The only way to do that is to take your time.

From the book "Crazybusy"

by Edward M. Hallowell, M.D.

Make the most of each moment this weekend!

Happy Labor Day!

The blackboard doesn't exist . . . .

There is no blackboard in the sky on which your purpose is written - your mission in life. So your purpose is what you say it is. Your mission is the mission you give yourself. Your life will be what you create it as, and no one will stand in judgment of it, now or ever. You get to fill the blackboard of your life with whatever you want. If you have filled it in with baggage from the past, wipe it clean. Erase everything from the past that does not serve you, and be grateful it brought you to this place now, and to a new beginning. You have a clean slate, and you can start over - right here, right now.

Find your joy and live it!

-Neale Donald Walsch

The Secret

Decisions, decisions . . . .

We have to make them on a daily basis. Big ones, that could change our life such as moving, changing careers, marriage, divorce, or having children. And easier ones, like whether or not you should take the highway or the scenic route. Ultimately we want to make the right decisions from the beginning. But so often, we end up second-guessing ourselves and either regret our decision, or fret over it - questioning ourselves over & over again. The easy answer is to say "follow your heart", but frankly, the best decisions are made with the heart AND the head. Think it through. Talk to someone you trust, consider all your options, weigh out the pro's and con's by actually writing them down, pray about it, and once you feel you have made a decision, sleep on it. I find it helps to ask myself the question, then answer it as if I was speaking to my best friend - after all, I would want to give her the best advice possible. If you realize that you made a wrong decision, immediately begin working toward making it work to your advantage, or begin to change it. The best part about tomorrow is that it presents you with a clean slate, and an opportunity to begin again.