Thanksgiving Blessings

It's about that time again for us here in my humble abode. I really didn't feel like doing the whole "big dinner" this year. Kind of thought I would take the holiday's slow and easy. I'm usually the one that pulls all the family together and organizes a day full of fun, warmth, laughter and a whole lot of good old home made food. Now that my sons are all grown up and have lives of their own...except for the part that none of them have met or married...hint- hint ...ha; I seem to be 'it' for the cooking! I suppose I do feel good about that part. And if your wondering, yes, I did teach them how to cook. They just love my cooking~
So I conceded~  ooooooooooook then!!! (I say with a deep breath and a smile)
So once again, I will pull out the antique china that I inherited from my beautiful colorful grandmother Spangle that passed when I was 16. I still hold her in my heart. ( Grandma, if you hear me, thanks for all the love and joy you took showing me how to keep a neat home and fill the house with wonderful smells of good learned home cooking-I love you dearly- tell my sister I love her too-'till we meet again in the hereafter-we will be a unique light in heaven! Ha!)
I will make my homemade cinnamon rolls ( my other gma's recipe) that my family loves so much each holiday. I will distribute them, warm and tasty the evening before. I will bake pies and other deserts the night before. I will chop and slice anything that's needing, to prep for the morning before. I will do what I can so I have minimal things to do on thanksgiving day....Because...spending as much time with the ones I love, family and friends is what I am most thankful for. I do not want to become so busy that the day passes me by.
When my day is done and all have gone home... I will collapse on my bed...exhausted, happy, glad the work is done, the dishes washed and put away and counters wiped..  and I am left with a new sweet memory in my head. Happy I gave my loved ones a warm memory and happy tummy's.
I do these things because I have a love in my heart for those close to me. There is nothing more important to me than love. I love the people in my life hard, and I hope, deeply, they will show love for me too. It's the best gift I have or ever will get!!!!
It's also important to do things for others in your life too. Do it with a good heart. Do it without needing to be recognized or thanked.. Turn what your doing away from 'yourself' and make it totally about 'them'.  Those are truly Treasures to be had that can never be taken away.

My youngest son reminded me of one of the things I did quite a few years ago. Two of my young sons and I were spending a fun day in downtown Portland. Something we did ever so often. ( I still do) There was a homeless lady sitting up against the wall with no shoes on. I asked her what size she wore and went into a shoe store close by and bought her a pair for her feet. She was thankful-she was sweet. I could afford it and I couldn't let someone go without a basic need. I didn't do it for anyone but her. That's it. No big deal!! And we went along with our day. It was a good day with my kids. I had forgotten this over the years. To me, it was just a simple kindness. Many good people subscribe to this way of life. My youngest son, in conversing with me a few days ago brought it up. He said, "mom, what you did was so amazing to me, it just inspired me so much to be a good and caring person"~ And he is a beautiful young man-a glorious work in progress-as we all are. It dawned on me, that when I was outwardly kind-empathetic, happy and giving, when the situation is put in front of me..my kids were watching and learning how to make this world a little more sweeter. That, I found out, was a perfect blessing- my treasure- I had not been aware of until then. 
How many blessings have you shared with others? I bet many more than your aware of.
Smile
Be glad
If your alone this holiday and feeling sad. Don't be. I'm here. Leave me a pm., or a comment. Everyone matters.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING~

PEACE~

Baby it's Cold Outside! It's Full Fall Time~

 

What does one do when cabin fever sets in? On my day off I was mentally twisting in my home, feeling a bit melancholy, kind of blue. We had just gone through a two day storm as we tend to get here in the off season. I had not gone on a regular walk/run in such a long time. I knew the answer to my feeling 'blah' was to bolt out the door with my Ipod blaring my mood enhancing music in through my mutant ninja turtle earbuds! Yep, you heard that right! Stepping outside of my front door I felt the chill in the air. Although it stopped raining, the ground was wet and the fog was lingering in dotted areas. I set off...crossing Hwy 101 into the neighborhood where many take walks in the summertime. But now- oooh like the old song says, "baby it's cold outside" !

 

I walked and sprinted through my normal rounds, through the neighborhood, I decided to extend my exercising to my second route. ( I have a few routes I go on to mix it up-to not get bored) I found that there were areas on my path that were a bit flooded over. Instead of getting discouraged or frustrated enough to turn around and head back; I squatted down and kept silent. I immersed my sense of vision, hearing and smell to my surroundings. I breathed in the damp woodsy aromas permeating the moss covered brush and trees. I heard the running.. the trickling of the water that rushed over the asphalt covered path- down into the muddy grass and over the hillside into a small creek that runs parallel to the path. Many tiny birds were singing...chirping to each other, possibly taking about the strange human crouching on the walkway being still... who knows...right?!

-eh, it made me smile anyways~

I stepped around the deep part of the water, finding a way to hop around without getting my shoes wet. It was way to chilly to be walking around in wet shoes!!! Brrr. No thank you~
I made my way down those dripping wet stairs, being carful not to slip on the green moss slim that covered parts of them. I made my way to the beach...and to my surprise...I had the whole beach to myself! No one else dared to go out and breath in the salty crisp air as I had. Such a serene feeling it was. So beautiful, so "Namaste"...you honestly cannot stay down in the dumps with all your senses being forced alive like this. The pounding of the waves, white crested tops as they arose from the deep sea- curling and crashing down-pushing the water to the shore. Many seagulls were bathing in the waves...just as calm as can be in all the power of the waters swirling around them. It was a sight to see.
I spent some time just enjoying my music as I put my earbuds back in my ears. I walked bent over in my special spots looking for agates and other pretty rocks. ( I know where all the good places are! Ha!!) Sea treasures~

I spent much more time just sitting on logs and watching the clouds roll by and the gulls play and just not thinking about my life, my stresses my responsibilities...I just meditated on "being where I was in the moment"

 I let myself be calm.

 I let myself be still.

 I let myself be 'ok'.

I needed that-everyone needs that at times.

On my way home, the sun tried to come out-it kept peeking through the billowy clouds. I was feeling a bit more positive about my blessings instead of feeling like burying my head under my pillow in bed to try and make my day go away. I think cloud watching is a good way to 'light up' some of those good old endorphins in your brain. Natures feel-good prescription! God's pharmacy. Brings only wonderful side-effects. The cost is free-just takes a little energy to go outside and look up and around.

 

Even though the Fall season is well under way, (some may be experiencing winter-like weather, some even have a bit of warm weather still, ugh, poor you) I think everyone has rough days to themselves. Force yourself to go out, if you can...soak up some natural environment. Everyone, at least, can go out and look up. there is sky-sky is just about infinite...past it is the universe. Ponder and marvel at that.

Peace be with you, remember to stay warm and healthy.

Paris, France-Part of our Earthly Family

We are so heartbroken for all of those who lost their lives; and the ones who were hurt in Fridays horrific bombings and shootings in Paris. There has been senseless acts of violence in many different places in the world. It brings sadness to us all. I can't even fathom why anyone thinks it's ok to do such evil and destructive things to other human beings. These individuals ( and groups) are cowardly and narcissitic in the most unbelievable corrupt satanistic way! There is no sugar coating this kind of violence.
So this is to our brothers and sisters in Paris, France. I also extend this to all of those who have gone through and some who witnessed acts of terrorism.

There are so many historical, artistic and beautiful things in Paris. I have always wanted the chance to go spend the day at the Louvre. I am an amateur artist myself. I love to draw and especially paint. I love the renaissance era, etc. I have a distinct love for architecture. I find simple and complex beauty in many things. Paris has a foot up on fascinating places to explore~ You know the people have a special appreciation for this kind of existence. I think, considering all that they have gone through in their history, they are a strong, compassionate with a grand love of life-kind of people.

 

 

 

I believe, deep in my heart, that our world is our home.( not just the little bit of land we settle on)

 I believe we are all brothers and sisters, we are all human beings that need love, peace and a caring hand towards each other-NO MATTER where we are located geographically!!!

Unfortunately, there is evil that lurks in our world, and sadly some weak humans gullibly succumb to it's ugly enticements. These people need our prayers in a strong sense...hear me out...

 I feel "They" need to get it in their brains that 'what they "think..." they are doing- is truly horrible and wrong and are deceptively misled!

 Our earth was given to us to take care of. The people of this earth are precious. At times like these, it just makes the rest of us love more, help each other more, and grow an ever increasing compassion for our neighbors, near and far. It brings to light what really matters. Life, Family, Friendships, real loving faith. Faith doesn't hurt, harm or tear apart. It helps, it's charity, love, compassionate, empathetic, happy and full of hope and joy. These are things that don't cost a dime. It takes a "Heart" !!

How wonderful and beautiful are our fellow earthly family member's that strive to live in peace, love and harmony.

I am blessed to be one amongst you.

~PEACE~

...for the love that's all good...

I'm in the Christmas frame of mind-Help!

It's not even December yet-Heaven HELP ME! Hahaha~
 We haven't experienced a first snow ( if you live in a seasonal area), we haven't had Thanksgiving either! But this morning, when I awoke from my Tuesday night slumber...I suddenly got the "Christmas frame of mind"-syndrome!!! I think I am out of my gourd feeling so warm and magically joyous so early. Wanting to smell peppermint and cinnamon coated pinecones...smelling warm baked goods and a fir tree; decorating that tree in my living room. Putting up fun festive decorations...hanging frosted snowflakes from the ceiling over my dining table. And then there is this fat jolly man, who is a made up character of wonderment in our imaginations.....tah-dahhhhh

Announcing, waaaayyyyyy too early in the season,  vintage cardboard Santa Claus! Ha! Or should I say HO!

Well, there he is, in all his pre-holiday glory, in a shop where the Christmas displays and decorations are set up right on cue....November 1st!!!! Ugh~ It seems to come earlier and earlier each year. And usually I get a little annoyed at the rushed holidays. Hmmm.

But something almost magical turned on, deep, deep inside of me over night. And I must admit, I'm really loving it. Thinking about all the lights, sights and smells that come during this winter season. The displays in the neighboring yards and people seem to be a little more happier and kind to each other during this time of year.

 My sister really love the nutcrackers...(as I sit here remembering past times)

I used to take my sons to he nutcracker suite ballet every year in Seattle, Washington. We would get all dressed up, go out to eat at a nice restaurant and go hit the live show-when they were young. They grew up... and out of wanting to go.. (major bummer)but I still have fond happy memories...

I am not really into the gift giving aspect of Christmas (but I still do it for friends and loved ones without over-doing it) I am all about the warm fuzzies~

 The love and the fun~

 The helping others out with a smile-spreading some joy and laughter~

 The remembering of the real reason of the season~

 My main joy-my Savior.

(Whether you believe or not...I do. He poured out so much love on us, why would you turn your back on that??? I don't know...pondering, pondering...)

 Just be full of love-charity during this holiday season.

It's a free gift we can all give, right?! It cost nothing but a small bit of time on our parts.

I challenge you- to see how many people you can cause to smile or giggle out of giving a kind word, or a small kind deed for someone in need, or a funny face or positive type tease. Or just shooting a sweet happy smile towards someone who has a grumpy or sour look on their face...just so you can be the 3 second bright spot in their daunting day.

What do you say? Are you up for the challenge?

Spread the holiday magic around, starting now! Why wait until Christmas...

Peace out~ my rays of earthly happy magic- this winter

Work vs Retirement

Some of you know that I consider myself semi-retired. What that means for me is that I was well enough to let go of the 9-5 typical work days. I did so partly to help take care of my terminally ill sister- partly to work on my own health-last, to pursue my own life work interests. I had money put aside for this, plus I have a healthy retirement set up for myself.
I have been doing home rehabing jobs for flips and helping homeowners with renovations. It is something my father and a few male friends in my life taught me, and I excelled at. A lot of hard work goes into doing house rehabing.. But I love to be creative in many forms. I love to make nice things out of broken down worn stuff.
~And it doesn't hurt having a big ole paycheck in the end!!!!!
 I get tired and achy...but it's a satisfying and good feeling to go to bed at night with. My previous career was more of a brain power type job (social worker) and I did love it. After many years you can get mentally burnt out though-The only drawback for me...
As I was crawling up on my son's roof a couple day's ago, to clean up the branches and debri and clean out the gutters..you see he lives in the woods and the pine needles are fierce.

 Nature, in all it's beauty can make an awful mess for us human inhabitants!..I was deeply thinking that it was time for me to "retire" this part of my 'semi-retirement'. Ha..sounds funny when I say this. I was just thinking that I don't want to fall off the roof...ugh..feel my muscles scream at me as I grow older. I'll save my exercising to my walks/sprints and yoga, etc. ( happy thoughts)
It's time for me to keep exercising my mind and keep it sharp. I will continue to write books and whatever I aspire too. I plan on finding my way back to a social work job (still pondering what that area that will be- thinking helping youth through the court systems) I will probably still inventory/sell , through a city shop- designer clothing. But I do believe I have climbed my last ladder to the rooftop and ripped up my last floor, etc. for profit anyhow~
So...I will say goodbye to that part of my life. It has enriched me greatly and I am blessed because of it.
If you take anything away from this post is- don't be afraid to "retire" something in your life that has run it's course. There are more things to explore..to grow yourself on. Give yourself a well thought out change. It can keep your life happier and more fulfilling.
Something to "ponderize"
Peace out~

Mental Health

Having good mental health can infer many different aspects. I am about to share a simple 'free' way of natural mental health I practice almost every day. For the person that has a relatively normal day and evening, day after day after day...ugh! Enough of the monotony already...haha.
 Seriously, even when things don't go so smoothly- as life will smack you upside the head at times; you need something to even out the days 'vibe'. You need to flood your senses with beautiful, mostly natural things, sounds and smells. ( smells must be natural-canned sprays do not apply!!) It can be the soft happy loving voice of a child or loved one. Their smiles, a giggle, a happy verbal thought sent your way -in your space. But since I live alone at this point ( although family lives close by if I need a loving person "fix" ) I find my "mental health medicine/therapy" outside.
I find it in the tree's, plants, waters that flow boundlessly around my area. I hear animals making sounds, like the birds singing, the wind blowing, the gurgling of the rain pouring around me at times. I love walking! period. I love seeing new things and new colors as the seasons bring. I love seeing architecture in buildings and homes as I pass. I make up little stories in my mind about what wonderful lives people are living inside. Most of the times I like to think of funny things, because I sure do love to laugh and smile ALOT~
It's really quite fun in my head. Ha! I try to live in the best positive thought structure I can possibly conjure up. The conjuring part comes when I'm grasping at anything to turn a bad situation tolerable. I have been told I'm a really good problem solver, a productive multi-tasker . I guess that's what made me a decent social worker. It was /is one of my blessings in life.

I really like when I get to travel around. Near or far, I love to see things and take in the uniqueness in certain things. Can you smell the woodsy-ness and damp moss up along these rustic stairs. And where do they lead too?

An elaborate treehouse in the deep woods. It almost would make me feel like one of the lost boys from the peter pan movie. It brings out the kids-like qualities in my thinking. How fun would this be to stay here with a few good friends just enjoying the weekend?! Truth or dare anyone??

I love to see wildlife anywhere I go. I especially love owls. They are so interesting to watch. How they move and their eyes are sooo.. hypnotic! ( this is a pic of a rare owl-would love to see one in person)

 

So here's to finding ways to keep your everyday mental health in check. It's all about finding your calm and centeredness. Letting go of what's negative, hurtful and plain exhausting. It's also to give you purpose out of the boredom and depressions of life. We all need a kick to become re-awakened once in a while. We need a reason to know what's real and worth it.

 With my faith- and understanding of my faith, I know "why" I'm here on earth. But sometimes I need to have a reminder and a joy while I am here doing my 'thang'!!!! smile

 

Peace in~and out~

Season Hypnosis

Have you ever noticed that we all transform ourselves every season? We change our thought process to what the weather and calender date is? Its not about putting on a rain coat or grabing an umbrella during a wet summer day. Its more like a changing of the guard. When that day of...lets say "fall" hits; away go our sandals, shorts, etc...and out comes our boots, scarves and hats. Our thoughts go to raking the leaves and stocking up on soups and comfort foods. Time to ready ourselves by hunkering down and buttoning up our homes. There are even specific colors we gravitate towards. No more whites after labor day (that one always baffled me..its kind of ridiculous-right?!) We choose more warm colors, more earthy shades and deep jewel tones. I think we even wear more formal dressy clothing in the fall.
We pretty much 'fall' into a preconceived mind set that allows us to 'flow' gently into each changing season.
 I do love the Autumn "mind set". I know some people who are right there with me!

I have an ever swelling urge to jump into my boots and go outside to walk in the leaves that are slowly changing colors and twirling to the ground...and breath in that cool crisp air. To still feel the sunshine kiss the top of my hair....to feel and smell whisps of woodsy winds woft past my body. I love to fill my home with slow cooking smells of stews or soups and freshly baking breads or pastries. Wrapping my cold hands around a nice cup of hot chocolate topped with whip cream and a dash of cinnamon!
I love to be curled up on my couch in comfy clothes and my favorite owl blanket and a great inspirational book, or maybe a biography. I so enjoy putting up Autumn holiday decorations inside and outside of my home too.
Living on the west coast also includes some amazing wind and rain storms. I am a lover of weather. (now you know my inner geek-ha) The wind blows so hard during these storms -objects go flying..the rain flies sideways. Sometimes the power goes out. I have candles ready that give a warm soft glow. If I have kids over..that means shadow puppets with flashlights and ghost stories or just good deep conversations of wonderful subjects. Its amazing how close you can become to others when electronics are taken out of the mix!!!
So even though we tend to "hypnotically" transfer our thought process to accommodate season to season...try to step back in those times and really drink in all of the impending excietment and see it more as an adventure than a chore while getting things ready.
Enjoy life...let yourself grow to re-love and cherish the simple and fun things in life- can I get an Amen! Fabulous!
Peace out-be warm and happy. SMILE every day~