tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74810665552756479292024-03-05T18:34:51.595-05:00The Why Behindby Erin WestErinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.comBlogger222125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-37438624641724604402016-03-28T21:41:00.000-04:002016-05-09T20:06:25.217-04:00Discipline and the 4 Tasks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Last week I met a woman who talked about her anxiety regarding entering the college program of her choice. She took an exam and expected to hear the results in a week or two. While we were talking, I remembered a commitment I made to myself when I was laid off from a job. It was a difficult period of waiting. I wondered each day whether I should continue to strive for a job that utilized my skills and education or work for work sake. I had to find a way to keep the faith and my spirits up. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So I devised a plan to maintain my sanity. It involved doing 4 things faithfully daily. The days I kept this promise to myself I felt a sense of control and purpose. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here is my list:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1. Do something related to finding employment</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2. Do some form of exercise (walking, Insanity, weight training etc.)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3. Reach out to a friend (call, email, write letters)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4. Organize something (a drawer, the spice rack, the pantry, etc.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Looking back, it was a good time. I put many things in order and made decisions about priorities--spent time with my kids and worked to simplify my life. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So now I find myself thinking of my next 4 disciplines. Not because I am out of sorts or in a time of crisis, but because I recognize it is healthy to practice discipline. Promises to oneself are sometimes the most precious. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here is my new list:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Each day....</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1. Do some form of exercise</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2. Meditate (eat mindfully, pray, body work etc.)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3. Lean into my vision and goals (create vision board, ponder with focus)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4. Connect authentically with another (with patience, attention, intention)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Quite a different list. Speaks to my desire for depth lately. </span>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-30256777915110797112013-01-16T18:10:00.004-05:002013-01-16T18:10:52.430-05:00Mama's Eulogy written by AlannaFound this as I was searching for my passport. Within contains some reflections that I needed to hear as I continue to look for a job.<br />
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From Alanna, my beloved sister (we miss you!):<br />
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"In Mama's eyes, the accomplishments of her life add up to her devotion to us, her four daughters. Mama's gift to the world was how the four of us live our lives today. <br />
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So often during funerals we paint a rosy picture of a person's life, but I don't think that Mama would want us to ignore her challenges. She wasn't perfect, as no one is, but she taught us life's lessons despite the fact that she had a long list of "even thoughs". We generally had what we needed, even though we lived well below the poverty line. Mama created an environment where we could learn, even though she herself had a low level of education. She taught us the inherent value of others, even though she felt unworthy herself. We learned to live by her example, even though some of the lessons were by example of what NOT to do. It took a while for me to come to this perspective, but I believe the four of us were blessed to receive these lessons of our upbringing at her hands. <br />
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Erin learned from Mama to enjoy what she has. Erin is the kind of person who will not settle for less than her best and won't let others settle for less in themselves either. She has spent much of her life working for the betterment of others and teaching people how to see themselves differently than their past would predict. She learned not to let her past define her or limit her future. She spends her energy looking at options and possibilities, instead of obstacles.<br />
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Mama taught Dee Dee how to make good cheesecake and stuffing. Dee Dee also learned a deep sense of caring from Mama......that caring can be as easy as sharing a smile or a few kind words. Whether it was in attending to the details of responsibility or the needs of the heart, Dee Dee had a lot of practice before she grew up and left home. She spends her time in service to others.....interpreting for the deaf, homeschooling her girls, active at church and generally being where her talents and caring are needed most. <br />
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Louie credits Mama with teaching her how to dance and to be resourceful. She also learned to be independent, to work hard for what she wants and that being up against tough odds doesn't mean you have to give up. She had hard lessons that helped her to determine how to raise her own child when the time came. She's done a good job, if Becca is any indication, but the real test will be once Becca has kids---no pressure darlin'...<br />
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As for me, I learned the rules of hospitality and family from Mama. She had internal rules that were expressed in her decisions. Things like, kiss your loved ones before leaving the house, because you don't know for sure that you'll be back. If you want to make a regular meal special, just invite someone over to share it with you. Inviting as many people over for St. Patrick's Day dinner as you do for Thanksgiving dinner is an appropriate expression of dual citizenship. If you really feel close to someone, give them a nickname. Food that looks pretty tastes better. Love God and treasure your sisters, especially the ones that makes you laugh the most. And thoughtfulness in gift giving is as important as the gift itself.<br />
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Its funny how life can turn on you. For each of those gifts that we received from Mama we were able to offer them back to her in her last years. Erin concerned herself with Mama's quality of life.....and even at the end would not settle for seeing Mama give up. Dee Dee was able to offer Mama the care and comfort she needed; whether it was in making sure that her fridge was stocked, or taking her to doctor appointments or making sure that Mama felt loved. Louie was the emergency resource, there to call the squad or there when storms came or when the lights went out to attend to Mama's oxygen needs. I did my best to live by Mama's rules as we lived together these last few months, to help her feel welcome and to reassure her that we gained as much from the experience as she did. <br />
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In the end, she lasted much longer than anyone expected. She lived her dream of returning to Ireland one last time. She looked back on her life & her four daughters, having no regrets. She died exactly how she wanted to and was happy to know that she would be seeing her mother in heaven. <br />
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We love you Mama, and we're glad your suffering is finished. Amen"Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-1342771989382309332012-04-05T09:30:00.000-04:002012-04-05T09:31:37.703-04:00Apathy at it's Best<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As the presidental election approaches and the weight of the failing economy bears down, I reflect upon how apathetic I feel within the political realm. I am losing faith that we have the ability to actually look at issues and work together to solve problems. I think corruption and greed is rampant. I don't trust that our leaders, republican or democrat, are really trying to make things better. Worse yet, I think any true attempts to problem solve may be riddled with so much compromise that integrity is lost. <br />
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So much of what I have held dear regarding our Land of the Free has turned out to be false. Motives for our fights, reasons we approve one bill and not another.....seem steeped in rationalites often unrelated to the true or intitial intent. Even more depressing is the fact that I don't know enough and even when I seek information out, there is a good chance it may not be accurate. So much that happens in Washington is the opposite of transparent. <br />
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I am a believer of learning what you can and making the most intelligent choice. I just don't like the choices. Even if I was charged with leading our nation.....I find myself at a loss for how to fix what is broken. I am concerned that the culture of our government is broken to a level that cannot be repaired without major change. <br />
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I don't say this to disparage our current leader Barack Obama. I think many of his ideals could have worked with support. Investment in the argument and polarity between parties makes true progress impossible. <br />
<br />Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-78157871564675778722012-03-04T20:43:00.000-05:002012-03-04T20:47:25.815-05:00I'm Like Gold to My Kids<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Took Alea and Kye out to dinner to Panera Bread tonight. We were engaged in lively discussion and topics were many and all over the place. Kye talked about watching an episode of Phineas and Ferb (<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bVXIluqSP08">awesome show</a>) where they went to Hawaii and asked if we could go there this summer. I laughed saying that trip would probably be a ways off financially for us this year. Alea piped up and said she was planning on living there. I looked at her surprised. She said, "Well Mom, I AM going to be a marine biologist and that is the best place for it!" <br />
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I said jokingly, "But I will miss you!" Kye piped up, "I can visit my sister in Hawaii!" thrilled at the prospect. Alea said I could visit her but I may be too old by then. (She did a role play like I could not see or recognize anyone) Did she really just go there? "You are 46 Mom!" (Why is it that everything always sounds like she is yelling at me?). Kye said, "Yeah, Mom you are like older than gold." Gold? That is pretty old. He also added that at least I am not as old as Yoda. Then we had a great debate about how old that is. Seems it is a debate in the real world too.<br />
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I then said, "Well I look pretty good for being THAT old, and wise too......so best to listen to your old Mother when she talks (wink)." Big smiles all around. <br />
<br />Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-55022418731571095152012-01-09T13:39:00.000-05:002012-01-09T13:39:11.320-05:00InvincibilityDriving about, as I often do, with my kids in tow--from this place to that we were listening to this song (No Such Thing) on the radio by John Mayer:<br />
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Towards the end, the performer sings, "I am invincible.....as long as I am alive." I thought to myself and exclaimed later that he would not be invincible if he were dead....so this is a silly statement. <br />
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Two minutes later, Kye, my 8 year (almost 9 year old) pipes up, "Well Mom, if you are dead, you are invincible--you can't be killed again", quite matter-of-factly. <br />
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With all my wisdom and amazing powers, I could not find a reason to refute his logic. Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-53936116171486774112011-09-14T19:08:00.001-04:002011-09-14T19:14:01.732-04:00Lazy Bum!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I asked 8 yr old Kye to put his dinner dish in the kitchen. He said, "But Mom, I got a severe case of laziness!" <br />
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I give the kid points for creativity. Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-32848109397320955772011-09-05T23:54:00.000-04:002011-09-05T23:54:29.049-04:00Universe Requests<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Thought I would put out a list of desires here and into the universe. If you are able to assist me with any item, I will gladly accept your kind offer. Below are things that have been accumulating in my "to do" or "wish I had" thoughts:</div>
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<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Help with quilting. The quilt I am working on is mostly applique--has a desert/woodland scene with a coyote. I am hoping to finish this quilt by December. The picture we are trying to recreate is from a book entitled, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Girl-Who-Loved-Coyotes/dp/0688139817">The Girl Who Loved Coyotes</a>. It is beautiful and the task can be a nice relaxing one. Join me in the fun.</li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Perennials--would like some to fill in my garden. It will motivate me to clear the flower beds of weeds. Got any that you need to split this Fall?</li>
<li>Book recommendations--would like mostly non-fiction options. ~Also want to read the third book in the Hunger Games series--got a copy I can borrow?</li>
<li>My son would love a fish eye lens for his video camera (you know it is the best way to film skateboarders) for his birthday. It is a pricey item. If you know a good place to get such things let me know!</li>
<li>Looking for a couple other families to have a dinner swap with. The concept is that you cook for the number of families in the circle and swap items. If there are 4 families, you walk away with four (4) dinners, prepared and ready to freeze or eat for the week. I am thinking of doing this 1 x per month. </li>
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I am sure there are more desires to share, but they do not come to mind yet. Hoping this posting finds you well and that you too can benefit from the universe. <br />
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<br />Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-51496986155588201002011-01-31T22:37:00.000-05:002011-01-31T22:37:29.294-05:00Pantry Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Ok, are ready! It is time to eat everything in the pantry.... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">No, not all at once! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We endeavor to actually eat what is already in our pantry and not go grocery shopping until we do. For one month (and more if this goes well), we plan to get creative. We have some interesting things in the pantry. Take a look below:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhksDjO6ogZXaeoQWviTDseDy_ABHT_CoJF4WYtTNOoqJfNlB7UOPjSCMAU36Rf9tV_6TFnAYrfwahqzw3K4Ajg9HC9t3sQSjDtE51MrDMON65K4MrDe6HSO8efF8_NZPcbLWWQwcve2Gcy/s1600/January+2011+191.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhksDjO6ogZXaeoQWviTDseDy_ABHT_CoJF4WYtTNOoqJfNlB7UOPjSCMAU36Rf9tV_6TFnAYrfwahqzw3K4Ajg9HC9t3sQSjDtE51MrDMON65K4MrDe6HSO8efF8_NZPcbLWWQwcve2Gcy/s320/January+2011+191.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUexRZya_OsfM-aKuzZho89-G68xo0fH8wptyFWuVCY0WwnjDvKWfR4cQnkUMZxLcwx6teyvSYKD94XQUYkg7Eys2QoqaKMIDjqdfNHyVUc2oc8dWPRZ2C-gzJ5IHGKXGU7HvvHVXQ6KH1/s1600/January+2011+192.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUexRZya_OsfM-aKuzZho89-G68xo0fH8wptyFWuVCY0WwnjDvKWfR4cQnkUMZxLcwx6teyvSYKD94XQUYkg7Eys2QoqaKMIDjqdfNHyVUc2oc8dWPRZ2C-gzJ5IHGKXGU7HvvHVXQ6KH1/s320/January+2011+192.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>We will need to go to the grocery for things like milk, eggs, and things that may compliment a specific recipe. Most recently when I did the pantry inventory, I ventured to use some unique items including, apple cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, wheat germ and adobe seasoning. All of which have not see the light of day for some time now. <br />
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You may be wondering how we used these interesting items (glad you asked ;-): stir- fried orange chicken, broccoli cheese strudel and adobe rice with sausage--yum!<br />
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So why embark on this adventure? I suppose because we can. So many times I look in the cupboard and say we have nothing to eat. It is time to prove myself wrong. There are some interesting things in there and with a little planning, we can make some tasty stuff. <br />
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With busy schedules and hunger in the belly as soon as we hit the door of the house after a long day, it is often hard to "see" the possibilities in the fridge and cupboard. By taking a little time, doing an inventory and planning recipe, I think we will be ahead both in the pocketbook and in the stress department. I find that my life goes much smoother when there is a plan in place. Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-24990547649404915332011-01-16T20:55:00.002-05:002011-01-20T13:12:02.767-05:00Garbage In, Garbage Out--no more<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>So, yesterday, Kye got out of the car to go to school and I said, "Your dad will be picking you up today." He looked at me with dismay and said in a very whiny, blame induced voice, "You always say stuff that I already know!". And then he was off...traveling up the sidewalk, entering the school. <br />
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This small but significant interaction gave me a window into my world. And, if you can hang in there, I will share with you one of the major dilemmas I have and continue to work on.<br />
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Some back thoughts about this situation is that I realized that Kye was tired. He did not get enough sleep. He was downright grumpy. And, that probably had nothing to do with me. It is a blessing to "know" these kind of things-- otherwise I could spend significant time wondering if I am somehow ruining his life by "telling him stuff".<br />
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Let's face it, there are times when people blame you when you are not to blame. The trickiest thing is not getting locked into a desire to hear them out or fall into an endless examination of your conscious. <br />
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What is difficult for me is that I take people's criticism as a gift and in their giving, it suggests that I am approachable and that I can grow from their gift. Truth be told though, we need to not take all criticism as a golden nugget. In fact, sometimes it suits us best to barely let the "feedback" filter in. <br />
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I am reading a book called, <u>The Law of the Garbage Truck </u>by David J. Pollay. This book talks about the garbage trucks we encounter in our lives--people dumping on us, what we can do about them and how not to become one. <br />
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Here are the commitments he suggests:<br />
1. Do let garbage trucks pass you by.<br />
2. Do let your own garbage trucks pass you by.<br />
3. Do avoid becoming someone else's garbage truck.<br />
4. Do help the garbage trucks you can.<br />
5. Do honor our no garbage trucks! Pledge.<br />
6. Do live in the gratitude cycle and live free of the garbage cycle.<br />
7. Do declare your life a no garbage trucks! Zone.<br />
8. Do declare your work a no garbage trucks! Zone.<br />
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You can take the pledge or learn more about garbage trucks <a href="http://bewareofgarbagetrucks.com/wordpress/the-law-of-the-garbage-truck/">here</a>.<br />
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From this point I am hoping to define, early on, whether some one's attitude or feedback is worth my energy reserves.Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-8448090250306309772011-01-11T23:39:00.000-05:002011-01-11T23:39:16.359-05:00Kill the Idea<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQZ7VCdiU4nZmUKGUC3JdkqUQOT3WRX_9_kzFUWg3BwtmwYi7if" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQZ7VCdiU4nZmUKGUC3JdkqUQOT3WRX_9_kzFUWg3BwtmwYi7if" /></a></div>Fr. Bay, pastor at Sts. Augustine Gabriel, during a homily shared that he was imprisoned in Vietnam for attempting to escape the country. He desired to escape in order to become a priest. For some reason, he was not permitted to do this in his native country. <br />
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He attempted escape many times and was imprisoned many times. Over time, he began to lose heart for his goal. <br />
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During this time he would pray, "God, please make a way for this, or kill the idea in me". <br />
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This seems like a practical and poignant prayer. I can relate.Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-64084784994208234952011-01-02T22:10:00.000-05:002011-01-02T22:10:21.614-05:00Eyes Wide Open<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.drg-photography.com/2010/12/10/a-tree-on-a-hill/"><img border="0" height="213" n4="true" src="http://www.drg-photography.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/A-tree-on-a-hill.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>This is my year. My year to face the truth, live in the present and take each day with eyes wide open. I may not know how to go quite about it yet, but I am determined. I know that focus is one thing that can aid me in the process.<br />
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I have had this thought before when thinking about my diet. I have known for many years that to deny myself anything is just to increase my desire for that very thing. So, in the past, I have thought to curb my sugar intake or stop eating unhealthy foods to no avail. Instead, I have successfully fooled myself by deciding to infuse my diet with vegetables and fruits. Lo' and behold, I have experienced positive effects. Likewise, I have a feeling that I can apply this same principal to other areas of my life. They say that your thoughts <a href="http://ezinearticles.com/?What-Are-You-Thinking-About?-Thoughts-Lead-to-Actions,-Be-Careful&id=5573855">will lead you</a> to your reality. <br />
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Now, what to think about? And how to think about it? <br />
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I want to fill my world with positive thoughts--good memories, gratitude, ideas, inspiration, motivation, excitement, possibilities, shared promises, intellectual banter, dreams, acknowledgement of my senses etc. I want to chose my thoughts rather than be victim to them. <br />
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There is also research suggesting that your thoughts can rework your brain as shared in this <a href="http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=7131130">npr tidbit</a>. And, truth be told, my brain needs reworking.Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-80559385718980693882010-09-29T13:41:00.002-04:002010-09-29T13:54:26.226-04:00Drive In, Eat Good<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxtxSYyIp1P7LLiuvUZHveKRKXP4LxXCh5KfrEHvDN_VnAtLbvgtneuJEnQ6zUjHXDSN1KtnIOIqwJlajiAYs3_byDU2axlocdzC8TRKiaa34U_KM0QrqncZ7A8hnLj4Yf7jARGn-8dyvQ/s1600/Fall+2010+019.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522392580812819474" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxtxSYyIp1P7LLiuvUZHveKRKXP4LxXCh5KfrEHvDN_VnAtLbvgtneuJEnQ6zUjHXDSN1KtnIOIqwJlajiAYs3_byDU2axlocdzC8TRKiaa34U_KM0QrqncZ7A8hnLj4Yf7jARGn-8dyvQ/s400/Fall+2010+019.jpg" /></a> Went to Dan's Drive In on Saturday after <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Alea's</span> game (she did great) The food was delicious and the atmosphere was whimsical. What impressed me was they knew how to make eggs b<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">enedict</span> proper and even asked me if I wanted my egg poached soft, medium or hard--now that is what I am talking about!!<br /><br />I love diners. There are usually kind waiters/waitresses, good home cooking and interesting motifs. I have passed by this one on S. High Street many times and have not had the chance to stop. Glad we did!Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-32460211923737391192010-09-28T17:00:00.004-04:002010-09-28T17:16:53.809-04:00I told Kye to go downstairs and find his bathing suit so we can go to the Y tonight. <br />After a while he resurfaced from the dungeon and proclaimed,<br /><br />"So......... Mom, I not a very good looker, you are way better at it--maybe you can find my suit". <br /><br />I am not sure how much faith I have that he really tried. He did however find a game he wanted to play. So now he is playing tanagrams on the family room floor.<br /><br />My dilemma is whether to encourage him to look harder or bask in his compliment :-). <br /><br />I think he needs to give it one more try.Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-28617899471549822582010-09-07T22:05:00.003-04:002010-09-07T23:56:00.681-04:00Personal Vision<p>There is a body of thought in the world called the Law of Attraction. I do not believe in it lock stock and barrel, but I believe there are some elements that ring true. One element I would describe as visioning. It is where you express your vision for the future as if it were already true.<br /><br />I wrote the vision for myself on March 26, 2007 within my journal and as I turned to that page today, I realized it is the same for me now. I also recognize that even though I expressed my vision then, I did not take as many steps toward it as I would have liked. I find that I am a bit behind. Of course, there have been many wonderful moments along the way--just not there yet. So, my first action is to place my thoughts here and then take steps, small and large, toward my end goal.<br /> </p><p>Within the Law of Attraction you are coached to write your vision by expressing gratefulness as if it is already present in your life:<br /><br />I am eternally grateful that </p><br /><ul><br /><li>I experience a deep, loving, fun relationship with my children where we can express true connection and love. </li><br /><li>I have a fulfilling career with a sense of purpose, where I use my gifts, and have esteem in my field of choice.</li><br /><li>I am financially stable, have extra money to play with, the ability to travel and make purchases without contributing to debt.</li><br /><li>I have a easy going, fun and loving relationship with an attractive man that leads to a bright and happy future.</li><br /><li>I feel good within my spirit, within my body and I am physically and emotionally healthy.</li></ul><br /><p>These are not in any particular order and in many ways I have elements of each of these in my life currently. I am grateful for each blessing. I believe we are all on a journey and have access to these blessings. I try every day to realize and live in the knowledge that happiness is present at all times. </p><p>My main goal is to make decisions that reflect and align with my goals and purpose in a consistent way so that I can fully experience this happiness. Along the way, I have forgotten my goals or have been distracted and I am sure that may happen again but then, it will just be time to hop on the path again. </p><br /><p>To life well lived! (Imagine that I am raising my glass in a toast :-)</p><br /><p></p><br /><p></p>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-62519349389042899582010-08-26T21:48:00.002-04:002010-08-26T21:55:14.632-04:00Danny &AnnieWatched this video that a coworker turned me on to and it is a reminder what real love is about and what is possible. Never settle.<br /><br /><br /><iframe height="225" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/12562270?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0&color=999999" frameborder="0" width="400"></iframe><br /><p><a href="http://vimeo.com/12562270">Danny & Annie</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/storycorps">StoryCorps</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.</p><br /><br />One of the lines in the video/interview was:<br /><br /><p><em>"Knowledge knowing that you can hug somone without them throwing you down the stairs saying get your hands off me. Being married is like having a color television set--you never whant to go back to black and white. "</em></p>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-74611131250801158832010-06-05T23:16:00.003-04:002010-06-06T00:09:22.192-04:00Facebook Wisdom--Thanks Roopa!<a href="http://www.northernsun.com/images/imagethumb/Destined-Old-Woman-No-Regrets-2x3-Magnet-(2915).jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 236px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 210px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://www.northernsun.com/images/imagethumb/Destined-Old-Woman-No-Regrets-2x3-Magnet-(2915).jpg" /></a><br /><div>My friend Roopa Ravi shared this on her Facebook page:<br /><br />"Life is too short to wake up with regrets. </div><br /><div>So love the people who treat you right. </div><div>Forget about the ones who don't. </div><div><br /></div><div>Believe everything happens for a reason. </div><br /><div>If you get a second chance, grab it with both hands. </div><br /><div>If it changes your life, let it. </div><br /><div>God never said life would be easy, He just promised it would be worth it." </div><div></div><div> </div><div>These words hit me as true and as sage advice. Let's look at each of the phrases.</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><br /><div></div><div></div><span style="color:#ff0000;">Life is too short to wake up with regrets.</span> As each day passes I realize this more and more. Time is precious. Every moment I spend on regrets or negative energy I end up wasting.<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff6600;">So love the people who treat you right.<br />Forget about the ones who don't.<span style="color:#000000;"> I have struggled with this one at times. I have this sickness where I think I can work through issues and help difficult people realize that I am a wonderful human. I say this tongue and cheek, but there is some truth to my need to feel acceptance. As I get older and wiser, I realize that I am wonderful and I have a lot to offer this world. If a person or persons can't see the wonderfulness--I may not be their cup of tea and that is ok. It does not change the fact that I have value and worth. Only I can judge this and I choose to believe it. I also to choose to hang out with people who are capable of love and expression of said love.</span></span><br /><p><span style="color:#ff6600;"><span style="color:#000000;"></span></span></p><p><span style="color:#ff6600;"><span style="color:#000000;"></span></p></span><span style="color:#33cc00;">Believe everything happens for a reason.</span><span style="color:#000000;"> One of my bosses told me that "sh*t" happens and not all things happen for a reason. This explains cancer, or a child getting hurt or numerous other things. I must admit that this rocked my boat a bit when I thought about this. How do we know when things are meant to happen and others that are just happenstance? I tend to put this thought aside and just concentrate on the belief that it is really about what we do with our circumstances. If we run into a bump in the road, do we see the gift within? Do we handle the situation with grace and love? Do we become stronger in the process? I often screw up in this department, but I strive to learn and grow with each opportunity.</span><br /><br /><span style="color:#3333ff;">If you get a second chance, grab it with both hands</span>. As I read these words a tear came. I am one of the most fortunate people. Grace has knocked on my door many times. I hope that I recognize when a second chance comes and that I have the courage to grab with both hands.<br /><br /><span style="color:#993399;">If it changes your life, let it. <span style="color:#000000;">Letting go--opening up, trying something new, taking the risk--all takes bravery. It is a power/decision within us. We have the chance to become anew and more of our genuine self in the process. </span></span><br /><p><span style="color:#993399;"><span style="color:#000000;"></span></span></p><p><span style="color:#993399;"><span style="color:#000000;"></span></p></span><span style="color:#cc9933;">God never said life would be easy, He just promised it would be worth it. <span style="color:#000000;">Amen! </span><br /></span>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-64990059650075868322010-04-16T09:13:00.003-04:002010-04-16T09:31:15.392-04:00Gratitude<a href="http://edea360.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/gratitude-rainbowspiral1.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 480px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 480px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://edea360.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/gratitude-rainbowspiral1.jpg" /></a> Reading a book about the science of gratitude. Here is a snippet:<br /><div></div><br /><div>"We have discovered that a person who experiences gratitude is able to cope more effectively with everyday stress, may show increased resilience in the face of trauma-induced stress, and may recover more quickly from illness and benefit from greater physical health. Our research has led us to conclude that experiencing gratitude leads to increased feelings of connectedness, improved relationships, and even altruism. We have also found that when people experience gratitude, they feel more loving, more forgiving, and closer to God. Gratitude, we have found, maximizes the enjoyment of the good--our enjoyment of others, of God, of our lives. Happiness is facilitated when we enjoy what we have been given, when we "want what we have.""</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>~ Robert A. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Emmons</span>, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ph</span>.D</div><br /><div><u>thanks!</u></div><div><u>How the New Science of Gratitude Can Make You Happier</u></div><br /><div><u></u></div><div>I have come to understand that gratitude is a discipline. We have choices in each day; each interaction. We choose how we look at each and what we do with the information obtained through that analysis. Why not focus on what is going right? Why not let others know that the gift they offer matters to us? Why not move from taking things for granted to real acknowledgement?</div><br /><div></div><div>Gratitude has a couple of parts--recognition and acknowledgement. Recognition brings about a self awareness, while acknowledgement is the expression of that knowing. </div><div> </div><div>Also interesting to ponder the last sentence--enjoying what we have been given and wanting what we have. </div>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-70549814234934191272010-03-19T17:25:00.004-04:002010-03-21T20:32:21.053-04:00Play Time<a href="http://ninitalk.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/play20laugh20sing20dance203.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 387px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 364px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://ninitalk.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/play20laugh20sing20dance203.jpg" /></a> <div><div>I had the opportunity to visit with some of Frank's friends from Hiram College. Fun stuff. A few of his friends have children and it was fun to watch them interact together. It is clear that there was a lot of love in the room and I really was impressed how they allowed the kids to express themselves through play. Witnessing this, I reflected on my own playability with my kids.<br /><br />Upon reflection, I realize that I often get so caught up with "what I have to do". I sometimes even forget to play with my kids. I am not sure how this happens but it is also true that growing up I did not play much. I had a lot of responsibilities early on and worries too. So, playing has not been an organic process for me--at least not yet.<br /><br />It is good to have role models who can point the way. Reminders are helpful. I suppose I may need to ask for help from my kids to guide my way--who better to ask than the mouths of babes?<br /><br />I read an article on a website called The <a href="http://www.thecutekid.com/parenting/parents-playing-children.php">Cute Kid</a> that had this to say about play:<br /><br /><strong>"Playtime is valuable time.</strong> Children learn through play. During play children often imitate valuable adult behaviors, stretch their imagination and reinforce creativity, and feel like they have accomplished something. When you play with your child you add to these benefits by making your child feel important and valued.<br /><br />As you play with your child let your child decide what to play. They usually choose an activity that they are interested in. When a child decides what to play it will keep their attention longer. It also increases the child's feelings of self-worth. Because they feel that their parent likes and is interested in the things that they do. You might get bored with the same activity but your child learns through repetition. If you are tired of it add a new dimension to the activity. Turn the tea party into cooking an entire meal. Instead of just pushing around cars build a garage and pretend to fix them. As your child gets older their interests will change as well. They might want to go outside and kick around a ball or play a game. They might want to help you cook in the kitchen or scrapbook together. Whatever your child's interests just make sure that your child chooses the activity not you."</div><br /><div></div><div>It is interesting to think about my kid's interests. They have fun spirits and I know I can enjoy letting them take the lead, expressing themselves and all the while I can help them increase their sense of self. </div><div></div><br /><div>This is an area of growth for me. I need to find a way to relax and set aside my to do list so I can be fully present with them. After all, what better gift can I give them but my time? </div></div>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-26334518309694994872010-02-06T21:21:00.007-05:002010-02-06T21:41:02.733-05:00Food or Family?<a href="http://winnebago.uwex.edu/images/FamilyLivingPicture.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 402px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 148px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://winnebago.uwex.edu/images/FamilyLivingPicture.jpg" /></a><br /><div>Had a quick heart to heart with Kye a few days ago. He was avoiding going to bed and decided to start a deep conversation. It went a little something like this:</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Kye: "Mom, what is more important work or family?"</div><br /><div>Me: "Family of course!"</div><br /><div>Kye: "I knew you would say that." "What about family or food and water?"</div><br /><div>Me: "hmm" in great pondering.......</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>He interrupts with his own thoughts: "Well, you do need food and water or you die." hmm...."But family is important....." hmm....."You do go to a better place when you die, so I guess family is more important."</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Me: "That is true." "Now it is time for bed--we can think more about this tomorrow."</div><br /><div>Kye: "Ok, Mom. Love you."</div><br /><div>Me: "Love you too, now go to bed!"</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Internal thought as I drink my tea: Then again cheesecake is pretty compelling......nah, just kidding!</div>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-37122881281359572772010-01-23T23:04:00.002-05:002010-01-23T23:58:30.704-05:00<a href="http://blog.iqmatrix.com/mind-map/keys-to-happiness-fulfillment-mind-map"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 353px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://blog.iqmatrix.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/pursuit-of-happiness.jpg" /></a><br /><div>Happy people live secure in the knowledge that the activities that bring them enjoyment in the present will also lead to a fulfilling future.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>~Tal Ben Shahar Ph.D.</div><br /><div>from the book <u>Happier</u></div><br /><div><u></u></div><br /><div>This quote hit me right between the eyes. I read it several times to get the full effect. It is so simple yet it seems like new information to my tired brain. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>This book focuses on the science, philosophy and trends within the pursuit of happiness. It is based on a course that this guy teaches at Harvard. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Some other thoughts to ponder, just 16 pages into the book:</div><br /><div></div><ul><li>Happiness is a continuum and not a destination. </li><br /><li>The real question to ask is, "How can I become happier?"</li><br /><li>Create rituals rather than forcing self discipline.</li><br /><li>Keep a gratitude journal--remember 5 things nightly about your day of which you are grateful for. Studies show that people who do this are more happy.</li></ul><p> </p>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-76269116193826695962010-01-14T21:22:00.006-05:002010-02-06T21:43:36.868-05:00Swap Party!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhclQdrSJ_oBQ_bgbywI0BcQ3pL7pZnbm7cibpNndI9o8SMvzKezQ_jpPHVKehYemmZ7EK08uzswtR4vS18-QXapD4-dz1nUiRGKmsgw5nL8i9ZcERJ434m1vDiOpMM4_3qz-uptqz91tvQ/s1600/Swap+it+like+it%27s+hot+banner+black+n+white.png"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 349px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 152px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhclQdrSJ_oBQ_bgbywI0BcQ3pL7pZnbm7cibpNndI9o8SMvzKezQ_jpPHVKehYemmZ7EK08uzswtR4vS18-QXapD4-dz1nUiRGKmsgw5nL8i9ZcERJ434m1vDiOpMM4_3qz-uptqz91tvQ/s1600/Swap+it+like+it%27s+hot+banner+black+n+white.png" /></a><br /><div>I was at the dentist today, in anticipation of my much awaited root canal and was given a magazine to read. In the Better Homes and Gardens current issue, it suggests hosting a swap party. I think that is a lovely idea. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>So, I propose we spend January going through our prospective junk (I mean treasure) and prepare for a shindig during the dead of February when it is cold and there is a lull in the action.</div><div></div><div></div><div>We can bring our items and swap for other items that are being laid aside.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://recyclingweek.planetark.org/documents/doc-91-swap-rules-bas-2009-fin.pdf">Here</a> are the rules for the swap. One rule is that once you bring an item to the swap it is no longer yours. All left over items will be donated to the <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.columbuscatholicworker.blogspot.com">Columbus Catholic Worker</a> Free Store. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>February 20, 2010 at 3:00 pm. If you are interested, let me know and I will send you along an invitation with particulars. There will be warm drinks and light refreshments provided. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-16536644051583332272010-01-11T18:20:00.005-05:002010-01-11T18:37:28.058-05:00Hiccup Cure--Not!<a href="http://i.ehow.com/images/photos/ididthissolution/000000/95/06/175500/42/52/Mg~~Mzkw_l.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 401px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 219px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://i.ehow.com/images/photos/ididthissolution/000000/95/06/175500/42/52/Mg~~Mzkw_l.jpg" /></a><br /><div>The kids and I were in the grocery store the other day and Alea said she had the hiccups. Being the good mom that I am I tried to scare her hiccups away. I tried a, "Boo" as I turned toward her looking all googly eyed.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>She said, "Mom, your not scary!"</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I exclaimed, "I'm not?" Looking dejected.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Kye pipes up, "Well, Mom, you <em>are </em>like a protector, how can <em>you</em> be scary?"</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I like the way the kid thinks!</div>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-1830389970856986402010-01-02T21:58:00.004-05:002010-01-02T22:37:59.240-05:00Challengeizzle!<a href="http://images.boardgamegeek.com/images/pic200936_md.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 496px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 500px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://images.boardgamegeek.com/images/pic200936_md.jpg" /></a><br /><div>Had the family over for our Christmas celebration today. We always get together <u>after </u>the holiday to ensure that each of us will be present. In times past we sometimes found that one of us had to be at the in laws and it would not feel quite right. So we decided to ditch the whole, "have to have Christmas exactly on December 25th" idea. It has worked out beautifully.</div><div><div> </div><div>Today was no exception the food was great, company pleasant and we had a great time.</div><div> </div><div>We tried out a new game called Quelf that I purchased for my niece Becca. Loads of fun. Also very silly and game challenges you to step outside of your comfort zone--not too much, but enough.</div><div> </div><div>Whether it was adding the suffix "izzle" to every statement or pretending you are a pilot doing announcements, there was some fun in it for us all.</div><br /><div>Whilst playing the game, I did come to a realization though. We were almost done, needed to close up shop at 7:00 and had about 9 minutes to go. It was my turn and my instructions were to point up to the sky, announce that my turn was completed and then continue to stare off "into space" until my next turn. I dutifully followed the directions on the card and several folks interacted with me and noticed my gaze was not with the board. My son Quinn was most perplexed and felt he needed to poke me and verbally challenge me to give him eye contact.</div><br /><div>I remained stead fast. I was determined to live up to the challenge.</div><br /><div>Then as three others took turns, I realized that a question was popping in my head. Do I stick it out --tenaciously keeping my commitment to off staring or do I decide to take a penalty and join the group in their revelry?</div><div> </div><div>I decided to spend the following 4 minutes engaged in the activity rather than fulfilling the card requirement. I do not regret my decision. Others noticed I failed my task, but it was a small price to pay for I chose the path.</div><br /><div>This silly little exercise did make me think though. How many times do I stick with something that ultimately will leave me unfulfilled? How often do I let stubbornness or determination get in the way of my true why behind? How much of my life do I live according to "the" rules or my own preconceived rules?</div><div> </div><div>The simple act of taking stock and seeing choices really helped me to recognize a path rather than living blindly. Now there is something to be said for going with the flow or respecting rules. There is a time for everything. This exercise was one of just realizing that we do have choices in each situation and making them consciously can be a really good thing.</div><br /><div>An author whom I like, Seth Godin, has a great little book that gives guidance about this very thing. The name of the book is Dip; A little book that teaches you when to quit (and when to stick). You can take <a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/1591841666?tag2=zoometry-20/permissionmarket#reader_1591841666">a sneak peek here</a>.</div><br /><div>Now, if I can only remember to stop, reflect, and choose.........here's to consciousness!</div></div>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-62921671278181293652009-12-11T23:36:00.001-05:002009-12-11T23:38:56.436-05:00Eternal Sunshine<a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/6/62/Eternal_sunshine_of_the_spotless_mind_ver3.jpg/200px-Eternal_sunshine_of_the_spotless_mind_ver3.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 297px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/6/62/Eternal_sunshine_of_the_spotless_mind_ver3.jpg/200px-Eternal_sunshine_of_the_spotless_mind_ver3.jpg" /></a> <div><div>Watched an interesting movie a couple of nights ago. With a science fiction flair the film explores a relationship between two people who are dysfunctional at best. Within the film you get a sense that relationships can be tumultuous, yet loving and fulfilling in their own way. I suppose all relationships, at least the ones that matter, take work and acceptance of what is brought to the table. We are all so horribly and beautifully imperfect. This movie does a nice job of depicting this.<br /><br />Here is what <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Wikipedia</span> has to say:<br /><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eternal_Sunshine_of_the_Spotless_Mind">Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind - <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Wikipedia</span>, the free encyclopedia</a>: "Emotionally withdrawn Joel <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Barish</span> (Jim <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Carrey</span>) and dysfunctional free spirit Clementine <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kruczynski</span> (Kate <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Winslet</span>) strike up a relationship on a Long Island Rail Road train from <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Montauk</span>. They are inexplicably drawn to each other, despite their radically different personalities."</div><div> </div></div>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7481066555275647929.post-38279688458216265542009-12-08T21:11:00.002-05:002009-12-08T21:18:43.896-05:00Call to PonderThere are seven sins in the world:<br /><br />Wealth without work,<br />Pleasure without conscience,<br />Knowledge without character,<br />Commerce without morality,<br />Science without humanity,<br />Worship without sacrifice,<br />and, politics without principle.<br /><br />Mahatma GandhiErinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14970100007927872296noreply@blogger.com1