Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Busy, Busy, Busy!

I have been super busy, so sorry I have been a little checked out for the last month. So, life is good. I am working out every day and eating no sugar, lots of whole grains and lean protein. I have been reading up a storm and feel confident in my ability to meditate, think positively, forgive and dream big! I hope you have all been doing well.

Mantra of the Day:  DREAM BIG and BELIEVE IT!
It's the possibility of having a dream come true that makes life interesting......Before a dream is realized, the Soul of the World tests everything that was learned along the way. It does this not because it is evil, but so that we can, in addition to realizing our dreams master the lessons we have learned as we have moved toward that dream. That's the point at which most people give up.... [At this point] Tell your heart that the fear of suffering is worse than the suffering itself. And that no heart has ever suffered when it goes in search of its dreams, because every second of search is a second's encounter with God and with eternity.
-- Paulo Coelho

I have taken on a new challenge. The Cinderella Pact opened a new network of sisters for me. One of those ladies inspired me to take a chance and expand my current business. Thus far I have found a new venue for my classes, begun studying kinesiology, anatomy and exercise physiology, along with nutrition,  choreography and MATH!! I am busy and happy and very optimistic about the future.
My Aunt Gwen, who has led an amazing life, told me her secret to happiness; Never stop learning. 'I learn something new every year. You know martial arts, yoga, creative writing. Something that keeps my mind active and focuses my energy." There is no time to be depressed or unhappy when you are stretching outside of yourself to be a better you.  Aunt Gwen is a smart lady!

Keeping this short and sweet, I want to say. Believe in yourself. Remember your mind believes everything you tell it so tell it how amazing you are! 

Monday, October 4, 2010

So Simple -- or NOT?

OK, at first the UltraSimple diet seemed very 'simple'. BUT trying to cook for my family and maintain the diet, which meant cooking again for myself, is not simple. I think if you are single, or a couple without kids this diet would be ideal. --- But I can not seem to do both and my family always ends up on top (as they should) so I am moving on.
I am going to try Dr. Oz's diet. --- Talk about yo-yo dieting. I will let you know how it goes!

So on the positive side. I am feeling great! I have been doing a couch to 5k podcast running program that I LOVE! I am also riding the stationary bike and lifting small - 5, 8, 10lb - weights. I can really feel the difference in my body and energy levels after working out. I love it!

As for Cinderella -- I have been working hard to create my own magic. I was inspired, by a friend,  with a great new development in my established  music business. After searching, interviewing, and one very productive brainstorm session with Grandpa Lloyd, it looks like everything is going to come together beautifully! I will have all the final details in 10 days -- send your positive thoughts my way :)

I have another point to raise today.... Some may say, what is all this she is writing? Does she really buy it? More importantly does she live it?
Well, the answers are;
1. This is my effort to improve myself and find true balance in my life - socially, personally, professionally, physically, and spiritually. I have been reading books and researching on the internet. I have tried several types of meditation and focused prayer (and I think I have found the one that suits me best). I am looking within myself and I am learning that I really like what I see.  I am hoping that my experience will help one of you on your path to balance and self awareness.
2. I buy it 100%! I believe that I, like many others, have spent far too much of my life surrendering my power, value and purpose to others. I am committed to, excited about and full of wonder for the journey that is bringing me home to myself.
3. Do I live it? I do my best. I am still learning and that is the point. I will never stop learning. I will never stop discovering or growing. I will never stop becoming more of myself. I am not finished and I hope I never will be. After all -- how boring would that be!?

Mantra of the Day:  I am God's child and therefore God loves me.
I have one personal truth that has consistently guided me throughout my adult life. "I must please only God and myself."  Too much time, effort and self awareness is wasted trying to gain acceptance of those living around us. Family, friends and others have no claim on our lives. I've learned, through much tribulation, that there is one purpose for my life -- my own development and experience. No one has the right to claim an obligation from me in regards to my actions, choices or happiness. My choices and actions certainly have consequences and repercussions, and I am aware of them. I strive to live with ethics and consideration of those around me. But when the cards are on the table I will seek to do that which will constitute my own happiness, without regard for the opinions of others. Truly, I am answerable to my self and my God.



“To seek approval is to have no resting place, no sanctuary. Like all judgment, approval encourages a constant striving. It makes us uncertain of who we are and of our true value. Approval cannot be trusted. It can be withdrawn at any time no matter what our track record has been. It is as nourishing of real growth as cotton candy. Yet many of us spend our lives pursuing it.”
   --- Rachel Naomi Remen