Tonight was a fun night. It was work and fun all wrapped into one. But the best moment of the day was when my oldest friend and I entered the bar where a co-worker was hosting a comedy night. The back bar was filled with people from work and a few that were ex-co-workers of mine. While I thought we were running a wee bit late, we ended up being a bit early. (Who knew, comedians can’t keep track of time apparently!) It was a bit like CHEERS when Norm walked in.
It put the biggest smile on my face! I was happy to be early. This gave us time to wait for the rest of the crowd to arrive, and time to catch up with the crowd that was there. I think my oldest friend even picked up a wee crush while we were mingling before the show!
We had a lot of laughs before the show, but even more during the show. Our table was, by far, the most engaged with the comedians. That too made me smile!
Moments enjoying being welcomed into a crowd.
Moments knowing you are part of the group.
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Monday, April 29, 2013
Moments D370: Hyacinth in Bloom
Today was a vacation day from the office. It was a rainy cool day in Haliburton. Truly a perfect day to continue the packing and moving of my bestie. All the hubbub of the day past gone, we were in the thick of getting her moved.
It was an extremely productive day and the theme of rebirth continued as we packed up her old place and moved a lot of her stuff over to the new place. Both are beautiful spaces, but her new place has a peace about it that isn’t comparable to the old space. This new space felt like home whereas her old space felt like a stepping stone.
When I left, I wasn’t really ready to go, but it was time to get back at a decent hour and get myself ready for a very busy week. On my way home, I passed many a magnolia tree just starting to bloom and as I walked up my walkway the hyacinth in our front garden were in full bloom. I could smell them before I saw them. Amazing.
Spring is here. Rebirth complete on many levels. Back to work and life with a new perspective on many things.
Moments to stop and smell the hyacinth.
Moments understanding more deeply one’s new path.
It was an extremely productive day and the theme of rebirth continued as we packed up her old place and moved a lot of her stuff over to the new place. Both are beautiful spaces, but her new place has a peace about it that isn’t comparable to the old space. This new space felt like home whereas her old space felt like a stepping stone.
When I left, I wasn’t really ready to go, but it was time to get back at a decent hour and get myself ready for a very busy week. On my way home, I passed many a magnolia tree just starting to bloom and as I walked up my walkway the hyacinth in our front garden were in full bloom. I could smell them before I saw them. Amazing.
Spring is here. Rebirth complete on many levels. Back to work and life with a new perspective on many things.
Moments to stop and smell the hyacinth.
Moments understanding more deeply one’s new path.
Sunday, April 28, 2013
Moments D369: Coffee, Beef Jerkey, and Poutine and the universe speaks.
Although I didn’t manage to stay awake to see the sunrise, I didn’t miss much of the night and early morning. Having finally crashed around 4-4:30am, we were up only 3.5 hours later.
At that point the sun was bright, the birds in song and though there was a slight chill in the breeze we were all (well most of us) eager to get outside and enjoy the beauty of the morning. So me, my bestie and my BFF, made ourself coffee and made our way down to the dock. We laughed at some of the stories from the night before, relived the beauty of the bonfire we had and shared new friend stories. And yes, I managed to get my first sunburn of the season!
Eventually the we became hungry girls and we began to pillage what was left of the prepared foods from the night before. For breakfast, we had cheese, buns, crackers, apple pie and coffee (and a banana) for round two of our time out on the dock. Just the three of us. It was then that we started speaking to the universe and it eventually began to speak back to us. (Actually, it was my bestie impersonating the universe’s responses, but it was very apropos!)
Beautiful moments all in themselves, and moments I will cherish for a life time. Later our trine was joined by the boy next door for yet another pot of coffee. Another set of great moments.
And then my BFF had to run, and as she was packing up our amazing new friend, who I will call LWF (for his Lest we Forget tattoo) finally rose from his sleep. Of course, he was in desperate need of coffee. To his shock and horror, we had brewed up and drank all the coffee.
It wasn’t long before we were making a run to West Guilford for coffee.
But, we were in luck as we stopped at the Haliburton restaurant for a cup of java, and then we made our way to West Guilford to stock up. We picked up coffee, bacon, and LWF picked up beef jerky and cheese curds (a good hangover cure? I’m not sure, but it did seem to perk him up!) And then there was this light begging for attention across from the store. The CHIP TRUCK called out to us. And so, my bestie and I enjoyed some of the best fries in the region. (I was very bad with a poutine, she behaved herself with fries only and LWF simply enjoyed his beef jerkey.)
We enjoyed our moment with the food. Sharing stories and getting to know one another just a little bit more. Those moments are always good for my soul for I love to learn about what inspires others.
So today’s moment? Simple. The people, the silly post-party food and just being lazy and enjoying the day as it came to us. The shared stories during the best day of spring Haliburton has seen. A perfect first new day after being reborn. Packing was pushed off to the end of the day as the sun started its decent in the sky.
An amazing day with my besties and new friends.
Moments of pure laziness.
Moments of pure silliness.
At that point the sun was bright, the birds in song and though there was a slight chill in the breeze we were all (well most of us) eager to get outside and enjoy the beauty of the morning. So me, my bestie and my BFF, made ourself coffee and made our way down to the dock. We laughed at some of the stories from the night before, relived the beauty of the bonfire we had and shared new friend stories. And yes, I managed to get my first sunburn of the season!
Eventually the we became hungry girls and we began to pillage what was left of the prepared foods from the night before. For breakfast, we had cheese, buns, crackers, apple pie and coffee (and a banana) for round two of our time out on the dock. Just the three of us. It was then that we started speaking to the universe and it eventually began to speak back to us. (Actually, it was my bestie impersonating the universe’s responses, but it was very apropos!)
Beautiful moments all in themselves, and moments I will cherish for a life time. Later our trine was joined by the boy next door for yet another pot of coffee. Another set of great moments.
And then my BFF had to run, and as she was packing up our amazing new friend, who I will call LWF (for his Lest we Forget tattoo) finally rose from his sleep. Of course, he was in desperate need of coffee. To his shock and horror, we had brewed up and drank all the coffee.
It wasn’t long before we were making a run to West Guilford for coffee.
But, we were in luck as we stopped at the Haliburton restaurant for a cup of java, and then we made our way to West Guilford to stock up. We picked up coffee, bacon, and LWF picked up beef jerky and cheese curds (a good hangover cure? I’m not sure, but it did seem to perk him up!) And then there was this light begging for attention across from the store. The CHIP TRUCK called out to us. And so, my bestie and I enjoyed some of the best fries in the region. (I was very bad with a poutine, she behaved herself with fries only and LWF simply enjoyed his beef jerkey.)
We enjoyed our moment with the food. Sharing stories and getting to know one another just a little bit more. Those moments are always good for my soul for I love to learn about what inspires others.
So today’s moment? Simple. The people, the silly post-party food and just being lazy and enjoying the day as it came to us. The shared stories during the best day of spring Haliburton has seen. A perfect first new day after being reborn. Packing was pushed off to the end of the day as the sun started its decent in the sky.
An amazing day with my besties and new friends.
Moments of pure laziness.
Moments of pure silliness.
Saturday, April 27, 2013
Moments D368: Full Moon Peepers
Today was my bestie’s moving party in Haliburton. It was also significant to her in that it was an anniversary and today she was, in a way, reborn. Talk about fortunate timing given the cleansing energy of the full moon that was also present with us. It was easy to fall into that joy of rebirth and renewal. The end of a chapter for her (for many of us in my circles) and to celebrate the beginning of something new. And so the weekend began with this focus and energy surrounding us.
We spent most of the day slowly getting ready for the party. There was no real urgency. The three of us caught up and laughed and commiserated during the day. It was completely laid back. I think, it was all that good bright energy that the three of had absorbed from the full moon the day before, feeding it back and forth between us. I know I felt the renewed and recharged too. And I was very much looking forward to meeting my bestie’s local friends and co-workers.
Many were invited, but we weren’t sure how many would attend. There was that moment right before the start time of the party that my bestie worried about no one showing. HA. Not so. Not only did the invitees come, they brought friends with them. The more the merrier, right? I met many new people this evening. All such fun beautiful souls.
In the end, the party was a huge success with amazing food, an incredible bonfire, lots of drinks and laughter. But today’s moment isn’t about meeting new friends, it was sharing a very special moment watching the moon and listening to the spring peepers from the cottage dock. This was experiencing spring in all her glory. The chorus of frogs, the stars being washed out by the full moon, the fog drifting over the crackling icy lake. (The sound of the ice moving in the water was nearly as incredible as the frogs singing!)
I wish I would have laid on the dock for many hours to just soak it all in, but the cold and the many drinks before hand meant that I had to bail earlier than I had hoped to. It was, none-the-less, an amazing moment and one that I’m happy to have shared.
And - it was almost as amazing as having an ice cold dip in the lake.
Moments to enjoy your friends’ rebirth.
Moments realizing you are having your own rebirth.
We spent most of the day slowly getting ready for the party. There was no real urgency. The three of us caught up and laughed and commiserated during the day. It was completely laid back. I think, it was all that good bright energy that the three of had absorbed from the full moon the day before, feeding it back and forth between us. I know I felt the renewed and recharged too. And I was very much looking forward to meeting my bestie’s local friends and co-workers.
Many were invited, but we weren’t sure how many would attend. There was that moment right before the start time of the party that my bestie worried about no one showing. HA. Not so. Not only did the invitees come, they brought friends with them. The more the merrier, right? I met many new people this evening. All such fun beautiful souls.
In the end, the party was a huge success with amazing food, an incredible bonfire, lots of drinks and laughter. But today’s moment isn’t about meeting new friends, it was sharing a very special moment watching the moon and listening to the spring peepers from the cottage dock. This was experiencing spring in all her glory. The chorus of frogs, the stars being washed out by the full moon, the fog drifting over the crackling icy lake. (The sound of the ice moving in the water was nearly as incredible as the frogs singing!)
I wish I would have laid on the dock for many hours to just soak it all in, but the cold and the many drinks before hand meant that I had to bail earlier than I had hoped to. It was, none-the-less, an amazing moment and one that I’m happy to have shared.
And - it was almost as amazing as having an ice cold dip in the lake.
Moments to enjoy your friends’ rebirth.
Moments realizing you are having your own rebirth.
Friday, April 26, 2013
Moments D367: Memories
Today I headed to Haliburton after work to spend the weekend with one two of my besties. It is moving weekend!
Today’s moment is about celebrating road trips and that solo time spent pondering life. For me today’s 4+ hour trip seemed centered on memories and where I’ve been and dealt with since the last drive North.
Last time I made this trip, I ended up with a speeding ticket. This time, I took it easy and ignored the annoying drivers. Change is good. Slowing down and enjoying the path along the way is good.
Last time I made this trip, over two months ago, I had just come back from a family trip to Florida. I was also coming off of a cold. Now, I’m as healthy as ever, back into my routine of working out and eating well.
Last time, when I arrived I broke into tears with my girlfriend when she asked me how I was dealing with some of the drama in my life. This time I was greeted with squeals of delight and an evening of laughter ensued.
While I have the memories of months ago, they do not own me. As I was driving, thinking of the past, of my present and where I’m heading in the future, I realized this. Memories do not own me, nor will they haunt me. I own them. I choose to have them pass through my mind or not. I am in control.
That realization really helped when a poignant song came over the airwaves and stirred my soul. It’s okay to have sad and upsetting memories, but they do not own me. I own them. I thanked the universe for the moment, and for the reminder that I’m in control.
Moments of memories.
Moments finding ever more strength and depth of self.
Today’s moment is about celebrating road trips and that solo time spent pondering life. For me today’s 4+ hour trip seemed centered on memories and where I’ve been and dealt with since the last drive North.
Last time I made this trip, I ended up with a speeding ticket. This time, I took it easy and ignored the annoying drivers. Change is good. Slowing down and enjoying the path along the way is good.
Last time I made this trip, over two months ago, I had just come back from a family trip to Florida. I was also coming off of a cold. Now, I’m as healthy as ever, back into my routine of working out and eating well.
Last time, when I arrived I broke into tears with my girlfriend when she asked me how I was dealing with some of the drama in my life. This time I was greeted with squeals of delight and an evening of laughter ensued.
While I have the memories of months ago, they do not own me. As I was driving, thinking of the past, of my present and where I’m heading in the future, I realized this. Memories do not own me, nor will they haunt me. I own them. I choose to have them pass through my mind or not. I am in control.
That realization really helped when a poignant song came over the airwaves and stirred my soul. It’s okay to have sad and upsetting memories, but they do not own me. I own them. I thanked the universe for the moment, and for the reminder that I’m in control.
Moments of memories.
Moments finding ever more strength and depth of self.
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Moments D366: Full moon , Partial Eclipse
Today was the full moon. Not only was out a full moon, it was partially eclipsed today. Its significance I shared via a link earlier today.
I was happily surprised with the cleansing energies of this full moon. It was exactly what I needed. I took the time to be present when the moon became full. I shared that moment with my best friends…also old souls. Together and apart we soaked in those recharging energies. This amazing, centering energy will surely wash away the destructive forces that have been in my life. This means I will be able to continue to shine… For others , with others and most importantly for myself.
This flashlight is recharged and ready to shine.
Moments with a beautiful moon.
Moments with beautiful people and energy to share.
Happy Full Moon and Lunar Eclipse in Scorpio April 25th 2013!
Wow - I had goosebumps reading this.
April 25th 2013 is going to be very *potent*. We have a Lunar Eclipse (the first of three) and a FULL MOON in SCORPIO, the sign of transformation and rebirth. Here are the Astral Insights for this powerful Full Moon & Eclipse!
“It’s a Full Moon and (partial) Lunar eclipse in Scorpio…Scorpio, ruled by Pluto, is about stripping away artifice, what’s false, corrupted and diseased…”
“In these days before the eclipse, we can tune in deeply, and be alert to points of tension…Eclipses can sometimes be destabilizing in some way. But breaking apart could be the very thing that leads to true healing, inner treasure or solid footing.”
“…Pluto shines light in the darkness, even where we’re afraid to look. There could be catharsis as pent up emotions are released, secrets revealed or corruption exposed.”
April 25th 2013 is going to be very *potent*. We have a Lunar Eclipse (the first of three) and a FULL MOON in SCORPIO, the sign of transformation and rebirth. Here are the Astral Insights for this powerful Full Moon & Eclipse!
“It’s a Full Moon and (partial) Lunar eclipse in Scorpio…Scorpio, ruled by Pluto, is about stripping away artifice, what’s false, corrupted and diseased…”
“In these days before the eclipse, we can tune in deeply, and be alert to points of tension…Eclipses can sometimes be destabilizing in some way. But breaking apart could be the very thing that leads to true healing, inner treasure or solid footing.”
“…Pluto shines light in the darkness, even where we’re afraid to look. There could be catharsis as pent up emotions are released, secrets revealed or corruption exposed.”
Moments D365: A year, a moment unto itself
Wow. It’s been a year. I can’t believe it’s been a year. How did that happen? Really. It flew by.
I committed to doing this blog a year ago today. I promised to take the time to pay attention to my days and understand what was happening within me and around me. Being this aware has paid off. It’s been a year of unravelling an old life, an old self and rebuilding both. It hasn’t been an easy year by any means, but years of growth and change never really are. Challenges are to be (or should be) expected. The question isn’t why change is difficult (it just is), the questions are: Do you have the strength to weather the storms and do you have the support system to help you dig deeper and find the strength when you feel yourself failing?
I’m not one to typically sing my own praises, but today you will have to put up with it! This is, after all, my year anniversary blog post and frankly, I think, I deserve a small pat on the back. Given the challenges I’ve overcome in the past year, personally (as a friend, as a lover, as a sister, as a daughter, as an ex-wife), professionally (as a student, as a colleague, as a co-worker, as a boss), I think I’ve done a bang up job of weathering the storms that hit me this past year. But as I noted above, I certainly didn’t weather them alone. I am grateful for my incredible support system and for all that they’ve done to reinforce me. Their biggest challenge? Reminding me that I am a good person. That it is okay and necessary, from time to time, to be selfish and take care of me first.
I believe I also managed to slow down enough to really enjoy the rainbows and sunshine that followed the storms and not just wallow in the post-storm blues. And finally, I know, through all these moments I’ve collected this past year, from the amazing moments of awe to the dark soul draining moments, through each of them, I have grown as an individual and I see the world around me in a different light. This in and of itself is a glorious moment. Life is all about growth and seeing the world with new eyes as often as you can.
So, what have I really learned in pausing to find daily moments each day this past year? A ton. It’s hard to collect my thoughts to put them into understandable words for you. The biggest surprise: The act of pausing to find a special moment every day never really became a burden as I had anticipated it would. There were times I couldn’t post to the blog right away, and it wasn’t always easy to to find a special, positive moment, but they was always something to share. Those moments were always there. And in this moment, as I celebrate this milestone, I’m grateful that they were.
So bigger picture. What was the point. What did I learn?
I've learned is that I'm not defined by these moments. Together, sure, they make a whole and they do, on some level flavour who I am and how I see and interact with the world. However, as individual moments, they do not define me. This is something that I find quite enlightening. Maybe I shouldn't, but I do. There are two reasons for this.
The first reason is that I have always believed that moments defined me. (good or bad moments) A complete turnaround in my philosophy and to reach a realization such as this, always shakes me to the core! That is exactly what has happened here. I now see this life puzzle from exactly the opposite direction and this past year, and its journey has gifted me this insight.
What I have realized over this past year is that sometimes I need to be selfish in order to take care of me first when others are not willing or able to do so. That selfish moment does not define me as selfish overall. When I need to be assertive with my beliefs and expectations, when I feel the need to fight for what’s right for both myself and others, this does not define me as ruthless as some have labelled me. It’s simply a moment where I fight for what I think is just and fair and I do my best to challenge the status quo with respect. And finally, I can not define myself as cold and uncaring for taking moments to shelve the ever present deluge of emotion I carry within. I can be professional. I can centre myself and focus at the task at hand. I can put my emotions aside (as much as I can! Those closest to me can always see through my veil), so that I am better able to find the truths through logic and find the best steps forward. These moments do not define me as lacking emotion or empathy for others.
Finally, I think it’s enlightening because I have always struggled with two specific weaknesses that work against me and my well being sometimes. The first is the my desire to be liked by everyone. The second is the fact that I care when someone doesn't like me. (What have I done wrong, how can I fix it, etc.) I've always known it’s a bad combination for my strong personality and for the most part I hide my pains from these two weaknesses fairly well. I figured this is just who I am and how it was to be.
Until I had a recent, and timely, conversation about it. Last night in fact. (Truly, the universe couldn't have timed it more perfectly; the universe does tend to have a good sense of timing for me sometimes!). After all, it’s my anniversary post and I've been pondering these things for days now. As this very dear soul shared his insights to this “problem” of mine I felt like a bolt of lightening had crashed through me. It was that light bulb moment. That “ah HA!” moment.
I was beating myself up for caring about what others thought of me, suggesting that I shouldn’t care at all and that would fix my issue with being afraid of not being liked. However, his view on this matter was surprising, but it was simple. I should care. He explained that the real question is how much should I care. This was the moment of lightening striking for me. As it crashed through me in that moment, I felt the AH HA! happen in my brain. The pieces clicked together and it all made sense. The moments do not define me nor do others define me within those moments if I don’t allow them to.
He is absolutely correct. *I* like me. That’s step number one. Step number two: who is the person making claims against me? How well do they know me? What is their mind set? Are they sharing from the kindness and love from their hearts or are they using their observations as a tool for manipulation (for one reason or another). All very good questions to ask when dealing with someone who doesn’t like you. Each of those pieces matter, and like moments, they do not have much weight on their own. The whole is greater than the sum of the parts. The big picture must be seen to determine how much I should care about someone else’s opinion of me.
Huh. Pretty perfect timing to tie into my anniversary post. Don’t you think? (Thank you universe and thank you very dear soul.)
Sure, we all have a dark side, I am not perfect nor have I ever claimed to be. I’m human. I am emotional. I crack and I break. But even on those darkest of days I was able (and easily so) to find something special and positive to share in my blog. Those moments mean a lot to me because it only proves to me, after a year of realizing that I am a light to many, I know that I can be a light to myself. That I can, as much as possible, choose to live in the light, in love and in trust. Happiness is truly only a thought away.
Today’s moment: respecting the moments as individual slices of my life. They do not define, but they do flavour who I am.
Happy Anniversary blog. Who knew you’d be so rewarding.
And a final note: Thank you to my followers reading along with me. Regardless if you are a stranger or a friend, I thank you for taking the time and sharing your energy with me over this journey.
Be well, and live in light and love always.
I’m not one to typically sing my own praises, but today you will have to put up with it! This is, after all, my year anniversary blog post and frankly, I think, I deserve a small pat on the back. Given the challenges I’ve overcome in the past year, personally (as a friend, as a lover, as a sister, as a daughter, as an ex-wife), professionally (as a student, as a colleague, as a co-worker, as a boss), I think I’ve done a bang up job of weathering the storms that hit me this past year. But as I noted above, I certainly didn’t weather them alone. I am grateful for my incredible support system and for all that they’ve done to reinforce me. Their biggest challenge? Reminding me that I am a good person. That it is okay and necessary, from time to time, to be selfish and take care of me first.
I believe I also managed to slow down enough to really enjoy the rainbows and sunshine that followed the storms and not just wallow in the post-storm blues. And finally, I know, through all these moments I’ve collected this past year, from the amazing moments of awe to the dark soul draining moments, through each of them, I have grown as an individual and I see the world around me in a different light. This in and of itself is a glorious moment. Life is all about growth and seeing the world with new eyes as often as you can.
So, what have I really learned in pausing to find daily moments each day this past year? A ton. It’s hard to collect my thoughts to put them into understandable words for you. The biggest surprise: The act of pausing to find a special moment every day never really became a burden as I had anticipated it would. There were times I couldn’t post to the blog right away, and it wasn’t always easy to to find a special, positive moment, but they was always something to share. Those moments were always there. And in this moment, as I celebrate this milestone, I’m grateful that they were.
So bigger picture. What was the point. What did I learn?
I've learned is that I'm not defined by these moments. Together, sure, they make a whole and they do, on some level flavour who I am and how I see and interact with the world. However, as individual moments, they do not define me. This is something that I find quite enlightening. Maybe I shouldn't, but I do. There are two reasons for this.
The first reason is that I have always believed that moments defined me. (good or bad moments) A complete turnaround in my philosophy and to reach a realization such as this, always shakes me to the core! That is exactly what has happened here. I now see this life puzzle from exactly the opposite direction and this past year, and its journey has gifted me this insight.
What I have realized over this past year is that sometimes I need to be selfish in order to take care of me first when others are not willing or able to do so. That selfish moment does not define me as selfish overall. When I need to be assertive with my beliefs and expectations, when I feel the need to fight for what’s right for both myself and others, this does not define me as ruthless as some have labelled me. It’s simply a moment where I fight for what I think is just and fair and I do my best to challenge the status quo with respect. And finally, I can not define myself as cold and uncaring for taking moments to shelve the ever present deluge of emotion I carry within. I can be professional. I can centre myself and focus at the task at hand. I can put my emotions aside (as much as I can! Those closest to me can always see through my veil), so that I am better able to find the truths through logic and find the best steps forward. These moments do not define me as lacking emotion or empathy for others.
Finally, I think it’s enlightening because I have always struggled with two specific weaknesses that work against me and my well being sometimes. The first is the my desire to be liked by everyone. The second is the fact that I care when someone doesn't like me. (What have I done wrong, how can I fix it, etc.) I've always known it’s a bad combination for my strong personality and for the most part I hide my pains from these two weaknesses fairly well. I figured this is just who I am and how it was to be.
Until I had a recent, and timely, conversation about it. Last night in fact. (Truly, the universe couldn't have timed it more perfectly; the universe does tend to have a good sense of timing for me sometimes!). After all, it’s my anniversary post and I've been pondering these things for days now. As this very dear soul shared his insights to this “problem” of mine I felt like a bolt of lightening had crashed through me. It was that light bulb moment. That “ah HA!” moment.
I was beating myself up for caring about what others thought of me, suggesting that I shouldn’t care at all and that would fix my issue with being afraid of not being liked. However, his view on this matter was surprising, but it was simple. I should care. He explained that the real question is how much should I care. This was the moment of lightening striking for me. As it crashed through me in that moment, I felt the AH HA! happen in my brain. The pieces clicked together and it all made sense. The moments do not define me nor do others define me within those moments if I don’t allow them to.
He is absolutely correct. *I* like me. That’s step number one. Step number two: who is the person making claims against me? How well do they know me? What is their mind set? Are they sharing from the kindness and love from their hearts or are they using their observations as a tool for manipulation (for one reason or another). All very good questions to ask when dealing with someone who doesn’t like you. Each of those pieces matter, and like moments, they do not have much weight on their own. The whole is greater than the sum of the parts. The big picture must be seen to determine how much I should care about someone else’s opinion of me.
Huh. Pretty perfect timing to tie into my anniversary post. Don’t you think? (Thank you universe and thank you very dear soul.)
Sure, we all have a dark side, I am not perfect nor have I ever claimed to be. I’m human. I am emotional. I crack and I break. But even on those darkest of days I was able (and easily so) to find something special and positive to share in my blog. Those moments mean a lot to me because it only proves to me, after a year of realizing that I am a light to many, I know that I can be a light to myself. That I can, as much as possible, choose to live in the light, in love and in trust. Happiness is truly only a thought away.
Today’s moment: respecting the moments as individual slices of my life. They do not define, but they do flavour who I am.
Happy Anniversary blog. Who knew you’d be so rewarding.
And a final note: Thank you to my followers reading along with me. Regardless if you are a stranger or a friend, I thank you for taking the time and sharing your energy with me over this journey.
Be well, and live in light and love always.
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Moments D364: Support Systems
Today’s moment is pausing to appreciate the support systems we have. For whatever reason, today was a day where I gave support to more than one friend, and I was in receipt of the same from more than one friend. It only seemed fitting to focus on this as the moment of the day. Too often those we love most are not celebrated enough. So today I stop to celebrate them in their struggles and thank them in helping me through mine. For me, it’s a reminder of what goes around. Give love, and receive it. Give support and accept it when you need it.
The moments of support today were many. I’ll try to be concise lest my words run away on me!
Moment one of support out: My dear friend was patient with me and my questions and then proceeded to remind me of things I should already know. Honestly, things I already know but keep pushing aside because of fear or this need to do what’s right. What’s right isn’t always what’s best. She was firm and loving and non-judgmental. I love her dearly for this support.
Moment one of support in: Midday a dear friend was in crisis mode over her job. We spent the time talking through options and trying to find a path that she was most comfortable with given the situation. I think we succeeded. I was happy to be a pillar for her. She’s always been there for me.
Moment two of support out: As I arrived home, I received a text from another girlfriend that I’ve been friends with for over a decade. She had a call from her doctor’s office about strangeness in her recent mammogram. She asked that I send her all my love and light for her appointment tomorrow morning. I happily obliged.
Moment two of support in: Another friend shared supportive words with me in hope they would fill me with hope for brighter days. The words are touching and given my journey this past year, it hits close to the core. But the words are also enlightening, and they do fill me with hope for brighter days and the possibility of really, truly being loved. For this reason, I close my post on support with these words. The quote, for which I can’t find an author:
Moments appreciating my support system.
Moments knowing I too am a support system.
What goes around…..
The moments of support today were many. I’ll try to be concise lest my words run away on me!
Moment one of support out: My dear friend was patient with me and my questions and then proceeded to remind me of things I should already know. Honestly, things I already know but keep pushing aside because of fear or this need to do what’s right. What’s right isn’t always what’s best. She was firm and loving and non-judgmental. I love her dearly for this support.
Moment one of support in: Midday a dear friend was in crisis mode over her job. We spent the time talking through options and trying to find a path that she was most comfortable with given the situation. I think we succeeded. I was happy to be a pillar for her. She’s always been there for me.
Moment two of support out: As I arrived home, I received a text from another girlfriend that I’ve been friends with for over a decade. She had a call from her doctor’s office about strangeness in her recent mammogram. She asked that I send her all my love and light for her appointment tomorrow morning. I happily obliged.
Moment two of support in: Another friend shared supportive words with me in hope they would fill me with hope for brighter days. The words are touching and given my journey this past year, it hits close to the core. But the words are also enlightening, and they do fill me with hope for brighter days and the possibility of really, truly being loved. For this reason, I close my post on support with these words. The quote, for which I can’t find an author:
The greatest irony of life is loving the right person at the wrong time, having the wrong person when the time is right and finding out you love someone after that person walks out from your life.
Sometimes you think you’re already over a person but when you see them smile at you, you’ll suddenly realize that you’re just pretending to be over them just to ease the pain of knowing that they will never be yours again.
For some, they think that letting go is one way of expressing how much you love the person.
Most relationships tend to fail not because the absence of love; love is always present. It’s just that one was being loved too much and the other was being loved too little.
As we all know, the heart is the center of the body, but it beats on the left. Maybe that’s the reason why the heart is not always right. Most often we fall in love with the person we think we love only to discover that for them, we are just for past times, while the one who truly loves us remains either a friend or a stranger.
Here’s a piece of advice: let go when you’re hurting too much, give up when love isn’t enough and move on when things are not like before. There is someone out there who will love you even more, surely then, you will know true love.
Moments appreciating my support system.
Moments knowing I too am a support system.
What goes around…..
Monday, April 22, 2013
D363b: Earth Day
Happy Earth Day.
~RANT~
Glad you are celebrating the earth and her pains today. What are you doing the rest of the 364 days of the year to ease the pain?
Reminder milestones are great, but in this case, highly ineffective if we’re not doing something everyday to help dear mother earth.
~END RANT~
Carry on.
~RANT~
Glad you are celebrating the earth and her pains today. What are you doing the rest of the 364 days of the year to ease the pain?
Reminder milestones are great, but in this case, highly ineffective if we’re not doing something everyday to help dear mother earth.
~END RANT~
Carry on.
Moments D363: Returning words
I have always found it amusing when words you’ve shared with others find their way back to you. Sometimes this is good and light hearted and other times it may be something more intense and deep. It happens from time to time to me and light hearted or intense, I always love those moments. It’s like something you created has really stuck with someone and they are sharing it back. Today I had one of those moments happen. Not only was it light hearted, the returning words brought a smile and a laugh to both me, the recipient of the words, and to my colleague who shared them.
Not too long ago I was negotiating a campaign with a respected colleague. At one point he asked me to do something I simply couldn’t do. My response: ”Not going to happen” along with a big ‘ol smile. We laughed he told me I was a tough negotiator, we laughed some more and then we found a solution.
Today, weeks later, we are about to launch the campaign and during our final approvals of the campaign I asked my colleague on the phone for something I knew wasn’t likely to happen. His response: ”Not going to happen….but I’m saying that with a smile”. We laughed and commiserated over how one’s words can come back to haunt you sometimes.
Honestly, I’m okay with my words being shared back to me. First of all, I try not to never share words that take things from people, I try to share words that give. I believe there can be light heartedness and words that lift and support the other person even in the most challenging conversations. Because of this awareness, I really don’t mind when my word come back to me. Most of the time it just brings a smile to my face and a warmth to my heart.
So today’s moment, celebrating a smile and a laugh through the phone with words reflected back to me.
Moments with words returning to you.
Moments enjoying laughter with a colleague.
Not too long ago I was negotiating a campaign with a respected colleague. At one point he asked me to do something I simply couldn’t do. My response: ”Not going to happen” along with a big ‘ol smile. We laughed he told me I was a tough negotiator, we laughed some more and then we found a solution.
Today, weeks later, we are about to launch the campaign and during our final approvals of the campaign I asked my colleague on the phone for something I knew wasn’t likely to happen. His response: ”Not going to happen….but I’m saying that with a smile”. We laughed and commiserated over how one’s words can come back to haunt you sometimes.
Honestly, I’m okay with my words being shared back to me. First of all, I try not to never share words that take things from people, I try to share words that give. I believe there can be light heartedness and words that lift and support the other person even in the most challenging conversations. Because of this awareness, I really don’t mind when my word come back to me. Most of the time it just brings a smile to my face and a warmth to my heart.
So today’s moment, celebrating a smile and a laugh through the phone with words reflected back to me.
Moments with words returning to you.
Moments enjoying laughter with a colleague.
Sunday, April 21, 2013
Moments D362: Kale Chips
Today my day started earlier than normal for a weekend. I thought I might sleep in, but it was about 5:30-6am when I woke. But, today was the first day in many weeks (dare I say months?) that I didn't have an agenda for the day. Nowhere to be, nowhere to go. No real errands that had to get done. I had nothing pushing or pulling me. And so, I lounged in bed. I read, and later I pulled out my laptop and watched the final episode of a bad (I can’t even share the name I'm so embarrassed by it!!) reality show. And then at 9:30am, I finally shook myself out of bed.
It was that moment that I decided I was going to get myself back into some kind of routine. The last few months haven’t been good for routine. Too many tasks and not enough time. I’ve been trying to steal time from here and there to get it all done. Truly, the fact that I forgot to update my license plate sticker AND I missed the date on concert tickets a couple of weeks ago only goes to show just how crazy things have been. Now that school is done (for the next two weeks at least) and that my personal life feels more under control in general and that I nearly have things caught up at work, it’s time to set myself some new routines and get back to a few old ones.
So, I vowed to myself today, that I was going to kick up the health and fitness routine once again. (It’s been lagging along with much due to my lack of time!) Today was going to be a day where I picked up groceries for the week (yes I planned my entire week!). The big decision: I was going to juice some very healthy juices and I was going to get a workout in. If you are curious, I did the following: (1) Carrot, Orange (2) Carrot, Beet, Ginger (3) Carrot, Beet, Ginger, Lemon (4) Kale, cucumber, Lemon, Ginger (5) Kale, celery, Lemon, Ginger, apple
And so, I did all of that. I know, not a very “lazy” day, but it was an unstructured day and that’s nearly the same for me. (Besides, later on I was lazy as I played Bioshock2 for a just over an hour as I waited for dinner to cook!)
But the interesting part of my day, my moment today, was the last minute decision to make kale chips. My girlfriend from work was raving about them and I had picked up kale to juice. The kale bunches were on sale, so I actually picked up two while I was out shopping. It wasn’t until I was done juicing (and all my glass bottles filled!) that I realized I had some left over and I was going to try this crazy idea. (Okay - not so crazy since I do love baby kale as a salad base!)
So I tried this recipe and waited for 20 minutes for them to be ready. Wow. I was not disappointed. They were crispy and salty and quite delightful, in fact, I ate the entire baking pan full in short order! I can even imagine them with a hit of cayenne pepper or maybe cumin. So very delightful. So much so, kale may be on my weekly grocery buy now! I wonder if they keep for a couple of days? I’m going to have to try that out - I’ll let you know how it goes! Do give it a try!
Moments enjoying a lazy Sunday.
Moments of surprise with a new recipe.
It was that moment that I decided I was going to get myself back into some kind of routine. The last few months haven’t been good for routine. Too many tasks and not enough time. I’ve been trying to steal time from here and there to get it all done. Truly, the fact that I forgot to update my license plate sticker AND I missed the date on concert tickets a couple of weeks ago only goes to show just how crazy things have been. Now that school is done (for the next two weeks at least) and that my personal life feels more under control in general and that I nearly have things caught up at work, it’s time to set myself some new routines and get back to a few old ones.
So, I vowed to myself today, that I was going to kick up the health and fitness routine once again. (It’s been lagging along with much due to my lack of time!) Today was going to be a day where I picked up groceries for the week (yes I planned my entire week!). The big decision: I was going to juice some very healthy juices and I was going to get a workout in. If you are curious, I did the following: (1) Carrot, Orange (2) Carrot, Beet, Ginger (3) Carrot, Beet, Ginger, Lemon (4) Kale, cucumber, Lemon, Ginger (5) Kale, celery, Lemon, Ginger, apple
And so, I did all of that. I know, not a very “lazy” day, but it was an unstructured day and that’s nearly the same for me. (Besides, later on I was lazy as I played Bioshock2 for a just over an hour as I waited for dinner to cook!)
But the interesting part of my day, my moment today, was the last minute decision to make kale chips. My girlfriend from work was raving about them and I had picked up kale to juice. The kale bunches were on sale, so I actually picked up two while I was out shopping. It wasn’t until I was done juicing (and all my glass bottles filled!) that I realized I had some left over and I was going to try this crazy idea. (Okay - not so crazy since I do love baby kale as a salad base!)
So I tried this recipe and waited for 20 minutes for them to be ready. Wow. I was not disappointed. They were crispy and salty and quite delightful, in fact, I ate the entire baking pan full in short order! I can even imagine them with a hit of cayenne pepper or maybe cumin. So very delightful. So much so, kale may be on my weekly grocery buy now! I wonder if they keep for a couple of days? I’m going to have to try that out - I’ll let you know how it goes! Do give it a try!
Moments enjoying a lazy Sunday.
Moments of surprise with a new recipe.
Saturday, April 20, 2013
Moments D361: Winners, by one point
I work hard. I play hard. I love to feel accomplished and I love to win. That sense of pride, of hard work coming to fruition, that drives me to do my best always.
And yet every now and then I feel a wee bit (just a wee bit) guilty for winning. Here’s today’s moment - we won by a point. I am grateful for that point and it’s fantastic to have the bragging rights…..but…..
Today I was in an indoor beach volleyball tournament. We play 9 matches. We won 7 of our 8 games to make it to the finals. We met up with the team that we split games with earlier on in the day. Our final ended up being another good match up. They were strong and organized, we too were playing smart and digging up most balls. We won the first game by two points. In all honesty, the game could have gone either direction.
Game two: We played hard, but we quickly found ourselves down a few points. We fough back and found ourselves within two of our competition. And then, the whistle blew. Time was up on the courts. The next serve was to be the last serve of the tournament. The entire tournament championship rested upon this last serve. It was our serve. We were down by two. Hmmmm…no pressure there!
We served. They returned. The rally went on for quite a few passes back and forth and in the end, we won that last point. That last point was the deciding factor. We won the first game by two, we lost the second game by one point. The deficit - one point in our favour.
Yikes. That’s one of those situations where I feel guilty for winning! We should have played out the rest of the game (we were early in the second game - it was 14-13 in the end and a game typically goes to 21 points).
The other team was gracious about losing, and we were gracious about winning. Our team had first pick at the prizing (we chose the bags) and the second place team ended up with beach chairs. One of the girls on the second place team was looking to swap out a chair for a bag. I happily complied as I want the chair in the first place. Win/Win.
So, not so bad for a point deficit!
Moments where fate tips in your favour.
Moments knowing it could have easily gone the other way.
And yet every now and then I feel a wee bit (just a wee bit) guilty for winning. Here’s today’s moment - we won by a point. I am grateful for that point and it’s fantastic to have the bragging rights…..but…..
Today I was in an indoor beach volleyball tournament. We play 9 matches. We won 7 of our 8 games to make it to the finals. We met up with the team that we split games with earlier on in the day. Our final ended up being another good match up. They were strong and organized, we too were playing smart and digging up most balls. We won the first game by two points. In all honesty, the game could have gone either direction.
Game two: We played hard, but we quickly found ourselves down a few points. We fough back and found ourselves within two of our competition. And then, the whistle blew. Time was up on the courts. The next serve was to be the last serve of the tournament. The entire tournament championship rested upon this last serve. It was our serve. We were down by two. Hmmmm…no pressure there!
We served. They returned. The rally went on for quite a few passes back and forth and in the end, we won that last point. That last point was the deciding factor. We won the first game by two, we lost the second game by one point. The deficit - one point in our favour.
Yikes. That’s one of those situations where I feel guilty for winning! We should have played out the rest of the game (we were early in the second game - it was 14-13 in the end and a game typically goes to 21 points).
The other team was gracious about losing, and we were gracious about winning. Our team had first pick at the prizing (we chose the bags) and the second place team ended up with beach chairs. One of the girls on the second place team was looking to swap out a chair for a bag. I happily complied as I want the chair in the first place. Win/Win.
So, not so bad for a point deficit!
Moments where fate tips in your favour.
Moments knowing it could have easily gone the other way.
Friday, April 19, 2013
Moments D360: Messages from the Universe
Today was one of those strange days where everything seemed to hit at the same time. From an early morning personal shake up to an overly intense day in the office. It just seemed that every way I turned there was something else coming at me. And with every passing hour there was something else to juggle.
And yet, I juggled it. Even though it was challenging and somewhat chaotic, it was under control. For part of the day, it felt like I wasn’t really me. It was like watching the mad dash from above. And yes, I even found myself cheering myself on. (It was a lot and it helped with all the energy!)
It was a chaotic-shit-flying-keep-up-with-the-requests kind of day. And yet amoungst all the chaos and switching of gears and digging deep within, was this eerie sense of calm. And as I processed through the different steps (both personal and professionally) pieces of the puzzle just fell into place. When that happens, at least in my world, it’s a sign that I’m doing what I should be doing. I’m not fighting the universal energy, I’m working with it. And working with that universal energy things are smooth and calm when they could otherwise be very overwhelming and perhaps a bit paralyzing.
And so, I took to heart the messages from the universe. I hear you. I understand. I don’t particularly like all of the messages, but I hear you. I am paying attention. My eyes are open.
At the end of this challenging day, I spent it with my dear work friend out to celebrate a belated birthday dinner with her. I ended up driving as I was to lazy to do anything else but drive. Of course, that meant finding parking close toPravda where we were going for dinner. (Which, as a side bar, was a DELIGHTFUL place for dinner and/or drinks!) As we were driving, my girlfriend said she was envisioning a parking spot right out front of the bar for us.
So both our amazement, when we drove up, there is was. A small parking spot right in front of the entrance to Pravda. The question then became - can I get my Tink into that spot? With the doorman at Pravda watching, I handily parallel parked my car in one go. The doorman was impressed. I won’t lie. So was I.
Yes - it was just that kind of day. Where everything lined up and made sense.
Moments appreciating the calm in the chaos.
Moments listening to the universe.
And yet, I juggled it. Even though it was challenging and somewhat chaotic, it was under control. For part of the day, it felt like I wasn’t really me. It was like watching the mad dash from above. And yes, I even found myself cheering myself on. (It was a lot and it helped with all the energy!)
It was a chaotic-shit-flying-keep-up-with-the-requests kind of day. And yet amoungst all the chaos and switching of gears and digging deep within, was this eerie sense of calm. And as I processed through the different steps (both personal and professionally) pieces of the puzzle just fell into place. When that happens, at least in my world, it’s a sign that I’m doing what I should be doing. I’m not fighting the universal energy, I’m working with it. And working with that universal energy things are smooth and calm when they could otherwise be very overwhelming and perhaps a bit paralyzing.
And so, I took to heart the messages from the universe. I hear you. I understand. I don’t particularly like all of the messages, but I hear you. I am paying attention. My eyes are open.
At the end of this challenging day, I spent it with my dear work friend out to celebrate a belated birthday dinner with her. I ended up driving as I was to lazy to do anything else but drive. Of course, that meant finding parking close toPravda where we were going for dinner. (Which, as a side bar, was a DELIGHTFUL place for dinner and/or drinks!) As we were driving, my girlfriend said she was envisioning a parking spot right out front of the bar for us.
So both our amazement, when we drove up, there is was. A small parking spot right in front of the entrance to Pravda. The question then became - can I get my Tink into that spot? With the doorman at Pravda watching, I handily parallel parked my car in one go. The doorman was impressed. I won’t lie. So was I.
Yes - it was just that kind of day. Where everything lined up and made sense.
Moments appreciating the calm in the chaos.
Moments listening to the universe.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Moments D359: Daffodils off the highway
On my way to volleyball tonight, while on the phone with my BFF, I couldn’t help but stop my conversation mid-stride. I was slowly creeping along the highway and saw a beautiful patch of yellow and white daffodils between the highway headed North and the highway headed South.
They were in full bloom and stretching to the sun. They were a beautiful surprise. So much so that I stopped my BFF and exclaimed my joy to her. Of course we both laughed.
Spring is officially here. The daffodils are in full bloom. My heart is smiling.
Moments of surprise.
Moments of small joys.
They were in full bloom and stretching to the sun. They were a beautiful surprise. So much so that I stopped my BFF and exclaimed my joy to her. Of course we both laughed.
Spring is officially here. The daffodils are in full bloom. My heart is smiling.
Moments of surprise.
Moments of small joys.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Moments D358: Cultures in the City
Sometimes I feel very blessed to be living in a city that is so vibrant with culture. On any given day I have the opportunity to see many cultures pass by me (or I them).
In fact, it’s become such a big part of my life, that I really can’t imagine it any other way any more. There have been times when I’ve left the city (and not necessarily to an international or distant destination) and I’ve seen the gap in multi-cultural widen. This makes me more uncomfortable than it would have years ago. I am comforted, on some level, with multiculturalism.
Today on my way to work I saw an incredibly handsome older Japanese man walking on the sidewalk. He wore a grey cotton shirt with grey cotton pants. It wasn’t a jogging suit, but it looked as comfortable as one. He had a long white beard and he was walking slowly but with purpose. He looked like he stepped out of rural Japan, or a Dojo even. He looked as though he hadn’t a worry in the world and he was in no rush to get wherever he was going. He looked pensive and purposeful.
His presence drew my attention over to him. I watched him intently as I slowly drove by in traffic. He wasn’t interested in the cars to his left — he was looking straight ahead - without a waiver.
He was interesting. He made me smile without even knowing it.
I hope this lovely gentleman had a great day, filled with the warm energy he shared with me in that moment.
Moments to appreciate the diversity around you.
Moments pausing to appreciate a passerby.
In fact, it’s become such a big part of my life, that I really can’t imagine it any other way any more. There have been times when I’ve left the city (and not necessarily to an international or distant destination) and I’ve seen the gap in multi-cultural widen. This makes me more uncomfortable than it would have years ago. I am comforted, on some level, with multiculturalism.
Today on my way to work I saw an incredibly handsome older Japanese man walking on the sidewalk. He wore a grey cotton shirt with grey cotton pants. It wasn’t a jogging suit, but it looked as comfortable as one. He had a long white beard and he was walking slowly but with purpose. He looked like he stepped out of rural Japan, or a Dojo even. He looked as though he hadn’t a worry in the world and he was in no rush to get wherever he was going. He looked pensive and purposeful.
His presence drew my attention over to him. I watched him intently as I slowly drove by in traffic. He wasn’t interested in the cars to his left — he was looking straight ahead - without a waiver.
He was interesting. He made me smile without even knowing it.
I hope this lovely gentleman had a great day, filled with the warm energy he shared with me in that moment.
Moments to appreciate the diversity around you.
Moments pausing to appreciate a passerby.
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Moments D357: Connecting
Today I had one of my favourite lunches - a chiropractic/acupuncture appointment. Honestly, it’s the best way to spend my lunch hour.
Now this appointment was scheduled for last week, but it was moved due to my chiropractor having a family emergency. Now I love my chiropractor. She’s an amazing person and we’ve had many a causal conversation about life. My first reaction was “oh no! Please give her my warm thoughts for her family struggles”.
So today, when I arrived on time for my appointment only to find out that she’s running late, I didn’t even bat an eyelash. She offered me a tea and I graciously accepted. It was a nice way to spend 10 minutes waiting.
When we finally were able to start my appointment her first question, of course, was to find out how I have been and what my ailments were. I turned that around. I asked her about her, and if she was okay. She revealed that last week her grandfather had suddenly passed away. We talked about it for a stretch of time. I didn’t press, but it seemed like she wanted to share. It felt like we really connected in that moment. It felt good to give her a moment to share. And before we knew it we were back into the swing of the appointment.
It was a brief moment, but one that warms my heart.
Moments to pause regular life to see the bigger picture.
Moments connecting.
Now this appointment was scheduled for last week, but it was moved due to my chiropractor having a family emergency. Now I love my chiropractor. She’s an amazing person and we’ve had many a causal conversation about life. My first reaction was “oh no! Please give her my warm thoughts for her family struggles”.
So today, when I arrived on time for my appointment only to find out that she’s running late, I didn’t even bat an eyelash. She offered me a tea and I graciously accepted. It was a nice way to spend 10 minutes waiting.
When we finally were able to start my appointment her first question, of course, was to find out how I have been and what my ailments were. I turned that around. I asked her about her, and if she was okay. She revealed that last week her grandfather had suddenly passed away. We talked about it for a stretch of time. I didn’t press, but it seemed like she wanted to share. It felt like we really connected in that moment. It felt good to give her a moment to share. And before we knew it we were back into the swing of the appointment.
It was a brief moment, but one that warms my heart.
Moments to pause regular life to see the bigger picture.
Moments connecting.
Monday, April 15, 2013
Moments D356: Exceptional Customer Service
Yesterday I went to my favourite nail salon in the city. They had a new face amoung them and I had the opportunity to have my nails done by Tommy.
Tommy was very friendly, to the point of entertaining, but unfortunately his services weren’t the best I’ve had there. Part of me didn’t really mind as he was so entertaining. I even let him convince me to put bling on my nails.
Now this really isn’t something that I do. Bling in general. Suddenly I had a whole flower made of bling on my thumb nail. It was gaudy to me.
But, being gracious, I let him finish up his art. I also told him that I was happy with only ONE thumb nail with art, that I didn’t need both of them done. Tommy seemed disappointed and finished up my nails as is. But - they weren’t done very well.
And so, I left the salon disappointed.
This morning, I washed my hair and lost one of my pearls from the flower. {sigh} A day after getting my nails done and they were messy already.
So I made a decision to go back to the salon to have the bling taken off and my nails repainted. It’s not something I’d normally do, but I paid good money yesterday for a service I was disappointed in. It’s not like I wasn’t going to pay for the polish change, I fully intended on doing so.
But when the regular girls saw me return their faces were not only quizzical, they were concerned. One of my favourite girls immediately took me to a table and started to repaint my nails. Fifteen minutes later, with my nails drying, she tells me that I don’t need to pay for the polish change.
That’s great customer service. I’ve been going to this salon for well over a year now (it’s my ME treat). I was impressed by how they stepped up (and I would have been happy with a commiserating smile!)
Before I talked well of the salon and shared my experiences with anyone I could. Now, I’m convinced that I’m one of their biggest fans. I’ll continue to refer my friends to them and of course, I’ll continue visiting on a fairly regular basis.
Moments of disappointment, turning into appreciation.
Tommy was very friendly, to the point of entertaining, but unfortunately his services weren’t the best I’ve had there. Part of me didn’t really mind as he was so entertaining. I even let him convince me to put bling on my nails.
Now this really isn’t something that I do. Bling in general. Suddenly I had a whole flower made of bling on my thumb nail. It was gaudy to me.
But, being gracious, I let him finish up his art. I also told him that I was happy with only ONE thumb nail with art, that I didn’t need both of them done. Tommy seemed disappointed and finished up my nails as is. But - they weren’t done very well.
And so, I left the salon disappointed.
This morning, I washed my hair and lost one of my pearls from the flower. {sigh} A day after getting my nails done and they were messy already.
So I made a decision to go back to the salon to have the bling taken off and my nails repainted. It’s not something I’d normally do, but I paid good money yesterday for a service I was disappointed in. It’s not like I wasn’t going to pay for the polish change, I fully intended on doing so.
But when the regular girls saw me return their faces were not only quizzical, they were concerned. One of my favourite girls immediately took me to a table and started to repaint my nails. Fifteen minutes later, with my nails drying, she tells me that I don’t need to pay for the polish change.
That’s great customer service. I’ve been going to this salon for well over a year now (it’s my ME treat). I was impressed by how they stepped up (and I would have been happy with a commiserating smile!)
Before I talked well of the salon and shared my experiences with anyone I could. Now, I’m convinced that I’m one of their biggest fans. I’ll continue to refer my friends to them and of course, I’ll continue visiting on a fairly regular basis.
Moments of disappointment, turning into appreciation.
Sunday, April 14, 2013
Moments D355: Puttering
Today was a ME day. I’ve been running hard and fast for the last two (plus) weeks. Today is the first day that I can call all my own. I went to bed late with the full expectation of sleeping in and lounging around all day.
BUT - today didn’t end up being that lounging day I envisioned. I’m not sure why, but I think it started with the fact that I wanted to get a manicure. What a better way to start ME day, right? I was up and out to the salon shortly after they opened today. From there, I ran a few errands that I’ve been meaning to do and grabbed a quick lunch out. Now I will have my leather jacket fixed, I have my supplements for the next little while replenished, I returned my empties and I did a little window shopping. Puttering. I didn’t really have a plan, but I puttered. I even hit the Dollar store. I bought the kitten a couple of new toys (laser pointer anyone? Wow. So much fun with the kitten!) and supplies for work. I was in no rush. It was nice not to be in a rush.
Once I returned home, I started to clean up the hurricane that had hit my dining room table and in my office. And the next thing I know, I am chatting with my dearest friend. We chatted while I filed and cleaned up my office. It was perfect. Laid back, slow, and, as always, great to catch up with my girl.
Just as I was ready to play some video games, another friend called. I haven’t talked to her in months. Of course, I took her call. It was really great to hear her voice. Another chunk of time passes. I’m not pressured, I’m not stressed. I’m happy to go with the flow today and just putter.
I didn’t find time for video games, but I did managed to get a lot of things done, slowly, on my quiet, lazy ME day.
After a run for groceries, guacamole making and cracking a beer I was digging into a tasty late dinner. It’s been a good, slow, long day. I look forward to crawling into my bed, but not just yet. One more TV show before I retire. Why not? It’s ME day.
Moments appreciating a slower pace.
Moments puttering instead of racing.
BUT - today didn’t end up being that lounging day I envisioned. I’m not sure why, but I think it started with the fact that I wanted to get a manicure. What a better way to start ME day, right? I was up and out to the salon shortly after they opened today. From there, I ran a few errands that I’ve been meaning to do and grabbed a quick lunch out. Now I will have my leather jacket fixed, I have my supplements for the next little while replenished, I returned my empties and I did a little window shopping. Puttering. I didn’t really have a plan, but I puttered. I even hit the Dollar store. I bought the kitten a couple of new toys (laser pointer anyone? Wow. So much fun with the kitten!) and supplies for work. I was in no rush. It was nice not to be in a rush.
Once I returned home, I started to clean up the hurricane that had hit my dining room table and in my office. And the next thing I know, I am chatting with my dearest friend. We chatted while I filed and cleaned up my office. It was perfect. Laid back, slow, and, as always, great to catch up with my girl.
Just as I was ready to play some video games, another friend called. I haven’t talked to her in months. Of course, I took her call. It was really great to hear her voice. Another chunk of time passes. I’m not pressured, I’m not stressed. I’m happy to go with the flow today and just putter.
I didn’t find time for video games, but I did managed to get a lot of things done, slowly, on my quiet, lazy ME day.
After a run for groceries, guacamole making and cracking a beer I was digging into a tasty late dinner. It’s been a good, slow, long day. I look forward to crawling into my bed, but not just yet. One more TV show before I retire. Why not? It’s ME day.
Moments appreciating a slower pace.
Moments puttering instead of racing.
Saturday, April 13, 2013
Moments D354: Mistakes
My exam today went very well. It wasn't easy, but I didn't overly struggle with it. This I am thankful for as that means I have one more course under my belt.
But today's moment isn't about having that sense of accomplishment, though it doesn't stray far from that point.
Right after my exam, I hopped in the car and headed out to my youngest nephew's karate testing for his orange belt. I barely had enough time to get from the university to the dojo. But make it I did. I showed up just moments before the testing started. It was a very large class of white, yellow and orange belts.
The sensei were amazing. They helped warm up the kids and stretch them before preparing them for showing their kata with the rest of the class and the all those who came to watch and support.
The lead sensei had this calm, kind, firm, enlightened energy about him. I liked how he interacted with each of the children. It was with respect and gentleness all at the same time and he connected with each child uniquely. That takes energy. That takes awareness. I was impressed.
What really impressed me was when the kata's began. It was obvious that some of the students were extremely nervous. The sensei always did what he could to make it easier for them. Lightening the mood, counting out the steps and most importantly, he spoke of their mistakes in a way that certainly inspired the children for working a wee bit harder and finding respect, not only for their sensei, but for themselves.
There were two moments during the testing that stood out to me. The first was when a young girl, testing for her yellow belt, realized mid-kata that she started out with the second set of steps. It was clear as day that she realized it mid-kata, but she persevered none the less. She finished the kata. At the end of her display, she looked upset at her performance. Sensei also noticed this moment. Before he let her go back to her peers he asked her about the situation.
"It seemed like you noticed mid-way that you made a mistake. Is that true?"
"Yes sir", she said very quietly.
He asked her to speak up. She repeated herself more loudly and met his eyes.
He then proceeded to praise her, "...the fact that you noticed that you had made a mistake and you finished your kata makes you strong. You didn't give up. You kept going. Life is about mistakes and embracing them and moving forward with them."
I think the entire audience in the dojo was silent and then we clapped. For the young girl and her perseverance and for the insight of the sensei.
The second moment was with an orange belt. He too had struggled with his kata and had some errors while he performed it. He looked defeated at the end of his kata. Sensei immediately picked up on that. Again, before walking this student through his kata a step at a time, Sensei addressed this moment. In this moment, he noted that mistakes and errors are what make us grow. We must always push ourselves harder and not fear making mistakes. Without making mistakes we do not learn and grow, we simply float.
Applicable to Karate. Applicable to life.
Moments appreciating mistakes and the growth they represent.
But today's moment isn't about having that sense of accomplishment, though it doesn't stray far from that point.
Right after my exam, I hopped in the car and headed out to my youngest nephew's karate testing for his orange belt. I barely had enough time to get from the university to the dojo. But make it I did. I showed up just moments before the testing started. It was a very large class of white, yellow and orange belts.
The sensei were amazing. They helped warm up the kids and stretch them before preparing them for showing their kata with the rest of the class and the all those who came to watch and support.
The lead sensei had this calm, kind, firm, enlightened energy about him. I liked how he interacted with each of the children. It was with respect and gentleness all at the same time and he connected with each child uniquely. That takes energy. That takes awareness. I was impressed.
What really impressed me was when the kata's began. It was obvious that some of the students were extremely nervous. The sensei always did what he could to make it easier for them. Lightening the mood, counting out the steps and most importantly, he spoke of their mistakes in a way that certainly inspired the children for working a wee bit harder and finding respect, not only for their sensei, but for themselves.
There were two moments during the testing that stood out to me. The first was when a young girl, testing for her yellow belt, realized mid-kata that she started out with the second set of steps. It was clear as day that she realized it mid-kata, but she persevered none the less. She finished the kata. At the end of her display, she looked upset at her performance. Sensei also noticed this moment. Before he let her go back to her peers he asked her about the situation.
"It seemed like you noticed mid-way that you made a mistake. Is that true?"
"Yes sir", she said very quietly.
He asked her to speak up. She repeated herself more loudly and met his eyes.
He then proceeded to praise her, "...the fact that you noticed that you had made a mistake and you finished your kata makes you strong. You didn't give up. You kept going. Life is about mistakes and embracing them and moving forward with them."
I think the entire audience in the dojo was silent and then we clapped. For the young girl and her perseverance and for the insight of the sensei.
The second moment was with an orange belt. He too had struggled with his kata and had some errors while he performed it. He looked defeated at the end of his kata. Sensei immediately picked up on that. Again, before walking this student through his kata a step at a time, Sensei addressed this moment. In this moment, he noted that mistakes and errors are what make us grow. We must always push ourselves harder and not fear making mistakes. Without making mistakes we do not learn and grow, we simply float.
Applicable to Karate. Applicable to life.
Moments appreciating mistakes and the growth they represent.
Friday, April 12, 2013
Moments D353: Hard work
Today I was home from work studying for my final exam. A fresh snow on the ground melting away, the sky darkened with heavy clouds and winds wildly blustery. Truly a good day (again) to be inside. This made my day (and job as a student to focus) much easier!
Today’s moment was pausing a moment to appreciate my own hard work. Perhaps that sounds strange, but often there are days I push hard and I don’t take the time to stop and appreciate all that I’ve accomplished. Today, I took the time to do so.
Part of today’s realization as I took this moment of pause was a better understanding of self.
I’m an A student. Rarely I’ve had a B+ or (gasp) even one lonely B, but most of my courses have garnered an A+ result. Impressive? No, not really. Not for me at least. I realized that today.
It’s not that I’m not intelligent. I am, but I’m certainly no genius and those grades don’t come without hard work. (I won’t lie, I envy those that seem to just absorb information!) Me. I just work hard. This is a trait that I’m thankful for my parents giving me. It’s served me well over the years. In school, in my career, in relationships (even those failed) and in my health (as I think back to getting into better shape).
In the end I really do believe that my energy is like a simple math equation - it always has to be balanced, no matter whether the energy is coming or going. Energy in = Results Out (And no, there’s no entropy in my system - it’s all useful energy!) In other words, the energy that I put into something (a class, a relationship etc.) I feel I will see the output of that energy in a beneficial format. The more energy I put in (i.e. the harder I work) the better the results. And yes, within obviously physical limitations, I do believe that we can very much accomplish just about anything we set our minds to - with dedication and work.
Add a touch of perseverance and a lot of drive and the results can be surprising sometimes.
Today was one of those days. Hard work, perseverance through the sense of being overwhelmed by the material, and drive to keep going. I studied from 8am thru midnight. A small lunch break. And yes, not only did I get through all the material, I also managed to have a couple of magical moments whereCLICK - the pieces fell together and it was no longer necessary to memorize the information. It had become bigger than a piece of information, it became a process and ingrained in other processes I was familiar with. That CLICKmoment can be elusive. I was grateful to find it after a day of hard work.
I’m ready for this exam. It’s going to be great.
As Thomas Jefferson once said: ”I’m a greater believer in luck, and I find the harder I work, the more I have of it.”
Very, VERY true in my world.
Moments appreciating hard work.
Moments feeling prepared and ready to tackle that 50% final exam.
Today’s moment was pausing a moment to appreciate my own hard work. Perhaps that sounds strange, but often there are days I push hard and I don’t take the time to stop and appreciate all that I’ve accomplished. Today, I took the time to do so.
Part of today’s realization as I took this moment of pause was a better understanding of self.
I’m an A student. Rarely I’ve had a B+ or (gasp) even one lonely B, but most of my courses have garnered an A+ result. Impressive? No, not really. Not for me at least. I realized that today.
It’s not that I’m not intelligent. I am, but I’m certainly no genius and those grades don’t come without hard work. (I won’t lie, I envy those that seem to just absorb information!) Me. I just work hard. This is a trait that I’m thankful for my parents giving me. It’s served me well over the years. In school, in my career, in relationships (even those failed) and in my health (as I think back to getting into better shape).
In the end I really do believe that my energy is like a simple math equation - it always has to be balanced, no matter whether the energy is coming or going. Energy in = Results Out (And no, there’s no entropy in my system - it’s all useful energy!) In other words, the energy that I put into something (a class, a relationship etc.) I feel I will see the output of that energy in a beneficial format. The more energy I put in (i.e. the harder I work) the better the results. And yes, within obviously physical limitations, I do believe that we can very much accomplish just about anything we set our minds to - with dedication and work.
Add a touch of perseverance and a lot of drive and the results can be surprising sometimes.
Today was one of those days. Hard work, perseverance through the sense of being overwhelmed by the material, and drive to keep going. I studied from 8am thru midnight. A small lunch break. And yes, not only did I get through all the material, I also managed to have a couple of magical moments whereCLICK - the pieces fell together and it was no longer necessary to memorize the information. It had become bigger than a piece of information, it became a process and ingrained in other processes I was familiar with. That CLICKmoment can be elusive. I was grateful to find it after a day of hard work.
I’m ready for this exam. It’s going to be great.
As Thomas Jefferson once said: ”I’m a greater believer in luck, and I find the harder I work, the more I have of it.”
Very, VERY true in my world.
Moments appreciating hard work.
Moments feeling prepared and ready to tackle that 50% final exam.
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Moments D352: April Snow Storms bring May.....Flowers?
Today we had a snow storm. Yes - that’s right. A real snow storm. About 2 inches of snow.
Me, being me, I stopped and enjoyed as much of it as possible during the day. It was a soft pretty snowfall. It wasn’t cold like the deep of winter, but obviously cold enough to turn the spring rain into snow.
I know lots of people were complaining about the snow in April. But not me. I know it won’t last long. I’m okay with another couple of days of snow. Before you know it summer will be here and people will be complaining about it being too hot!
Me, being me, I stopped and enjoyed as much of it as possible during the day. It was a soft pretty snowfall. It wasn’t cold like the deep of winter, but obviously cold enough to turn the spring rain into snow.
I know lots of people were complaining about the snow in April. But not me. I know it won’t last long. I’m okay with another couple of days of snow. Before you know it summer will be here and people will be complaining about it being too hot!
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Moments D351: Imperfect
First - let me apologize for being MIA - it’s been a challenging week for me as I found myself behind on my studies and feeling under the weather. But never fear, I did make quick notes to remind me of my special moments over the past few days. All is not lost! I do hope to catch up properly today/tomorrow.
_________________________________________________
Today my BFF & I had our own Ground Hog day . How so? Well, I haven’t been on my game. Yesterday and today only proved that once again. Yesterday, we showed up at the ACC for the MUSE concert. Our tickets WERE FOR TODAY!.
Oh my. I haven’t been so shocked and embarrassed in a long, long time. What an utter failure. Here, in my last week before my 50% final exam, not only did I spend one night out for dinner and then a concert (which didn’t happen yesterday!) I spent TWO. One night, I could justify. A second? I was mortified. Not only had I put my BFF out for two nights, but now I had lost a full study night. Wow. How on earth did this happen? Scheduling. That’s what I do.
I didn’t even look at the tickets when they arrived in the mail. I didn’t even check my receipt when I bought them. I was convinced that we were going on the 9th. The tickets clearly stated the 10th. Shock and awe.
I won’t lie, I felt more than embarrassment (and my BFF was very gracious about it even though my mistake caused her to juggle her own schedule). I felt ashamed. Ashamed to have failed at this small thing.
When the (AWESOMELY INCREDIBLE) concert was over my BFF and I parted for the evening. She made it clear that it was okay, that it was shocking to her as well, but that it was okay.
As I thought about it on my solo ride on the way home, I realized that it’s okay to be imperfect. I know I strive for perfection, but it’s an impossibility. I know I have high expectations, but it’s okay when things shift. Being imperfect is what life is about. It’s OK. Now, I don’t have to like that knowledge, but it does make me feel less ashamed that I dropped the ball. And believe me, dropping the ball is not a habit I plan on picking up, but I know that it’s okay if it happens once in awhile.
It’s moments like this that make me really appreciate my BFF (and those like her) that have been incredibly supportive over the years. The mistake was taken in stride, love and humour. I couldn’t ask for anything more.
It’s also moments like this that I remember that I’m human. I’m not perfect. And that’s okay.
Moments admitting you are overwhelmed.
Moments where your friends are there for you.
_________________________________________________
Today my BFF & I had our own Ground Hog day . How so? Well, I haven’t been on my game. Yesterday and today only proved that once again. Yesterday, we showed up at the ACC for the MUSE concert. Our tickets WERE FOR TODAY!.
Oh my. I haven’t been so shocked and embarrassed in a long, long time. What an utter failure. Here, in my last week before my 50% final exam, not only did I spend one night out for dinner and then a concert (which didn’t happen yesterday!) I spent TWO. One night, I could justify. A second? I was mortified. Not only had I put my BFF out for two nights, but now I had lost a full study night. Wow. How on earth did this happen? Scheduling. That’s what I do.
I didn’t even look at the tickets when they arrived in the mail. I didn’t even check my receipt when I bought them. I was convinced that we were going on the 9th. The tickets clearly stated the 10th. Shock and awe.
I won’t lie, I felt more than embarrassment (and my BFF was very gracious about it even though my mistake caused her to juggle her own schedule). I felt ashamed. Ashamed to have failed at this small thing.
When the (AWESOMELY INCREDIBLE) concert was over my BFF and I parted for the evening. She made it clear that it was okay, that it was shocking to her as well, but that it was okay.
As I thought about it on my solo ride on the way home, I realized that it’s okay to be imperfect. I know I strive for perfection, but it’s an impossibility. I know I have high expectations, but it’s okay when things shift. Being imperfect is what life is about. It’s OK. Now, I don’t have to like that knowledge, but it does make me feel less ashamed that I dropped the ball. And believe me, dropping the ball is not a habit I plan on picking up, but I know that it’s okay if it happens once in awhile.
It’s moments like this that make me really appreciate my BFF (and those like her) that have been incredibly supportive over the years. The mistake was taken in stride, love and humour. I couldn’t ask for anything more.
It’s also moments like this that I remember that I’m human. I’m not perfect. And that’s okay.
Moments admitting you are overwhelmed.
Moments where your friends are there for you.
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Moments D350: Remembering Perspective
Today was a day where a sense of panic slowly rose to the surface. A day where it was simply, yet painfully obvious that there was not enough time to get all the tasks on my list completed. With a sense of failure looming, I received an email from one of our most respected team mates. I’m going to share it with you verbatim as its words were powerful.
The panic subsided. I paused and thanked the young soldiers for their commitment to their country, its future and my present.
And then I put my head down and went back to work.
Moments to remember those before us.
Moments offering a deeper perspective on what’s important.
Ninety-six years ago today, nearly 4,000 Canadians, most of whom were younger than the youngest of us here, died trying to capture what the Germans referred to as Hill 145. The Canadians, together as a unit for the first time in the war, and where so many others had failed, succeeded in taking what was deemed to be an impregnable position. It was a great battle, a great victory in the Great War and, what many people believed and still believe, is a defining moment of a young country in its quest to becoming great. April 9, 1917, Vimy Ridge. Lest we forget.
The panic subsided. I paused and thanked the young soldiers for their commitment to their country, its future and my present.
And then I put my head down and went back to work.
Moments to remember those before us.
Moments offering a deeper perspective on what’s important.
Monday, April 8, 2013
Moments D349: Black Smoke
On my typical route home from work today, I passed by a neighbourhood cemetery. Now I don’t typically notice the cemetery on my drive home. I know it’s there, I know that in the fall the trees on its grounds were beautiful with colour, but beyond that, I haven’t paid it much attention.
Today as I slowed for the backed up traffic at the stop light, I noticed billowing black smoke coming from the tiny little building on the cemetery grounds. It wasn’t soft and fluffy smoke. This is the type of deep dark black smoke that one expects to see pouring out of a factory chimney, not from a tiny building in the middle of the city with residential homes nearby.
As I idled at the red light, I also noticed that there was a handful of white cars in the cemetery and for the first time in over a year, I read the sign to the entrance of the cemetery - it’s a cemetery cremaotorium. Why I didn’t know this or notice this before surprised me.
And in that moment I paused, gave thanks to the person who has passed on and sent positive energy into the universe for those left behind.
And then the light turned green and I was heading on my way again.
A couple of minutes at a stop light, watching someone be cremated. It was a good reminder of what is important in life.
Moments pondering life and death.
Today as I slowed for the backed up traffic at the stop light, I noticed billowing black smoke coming from the tiny little building on the cemetery grounds. It wasn’t soft and fluffy smoke. This is the type of deep dark black smoke that one expects to see pouring out of a factory chimney, not from a tiny building in the middle of the city with residential homes nearby.
As I idled at the red light, I also noticed that there was a handful of white cars in the cemetery and for the first time in over a year, I read the sign to the entrance of the cemetery - it’s a cemetery cremaotorium. Why I didn’t know this or notice this before surprised me.
And in that moment I paused, gave thanks to the person who has passed on and sent positive energy into the universe for those left behind.
And then the light turned green and I was heading on my way again.
A couple of minutes at a stop light, watching someone be cremated. It was a good reminder of what is important in life.
Moments pondering life and death.
Sunday, April 7, 2013
Moments D348: Whistling winds
Whoa. Another long study day. This reminds me why I hate being the bad, leave it to the end kind of student. (Though I am grateful that I was able to enjoy more time with my family and friends this semester!) These types of days are taxing. Emotionally (am I going to get through it all?), intellectually (can I understand and cram it in?) and physically (sitting this long in one spot for two days in a row?).
Today it’s been a full 13 hour day. I ate breakfast and lunch at my dining room table…which, if you recall from yesterday, is now my oversized desk to study from. Near the end of the day, I think I read the same two pages over three times before the information sank in. I’m slow now and eager to crash into bed. But before I do….I wanted to share today’s moment.
My moment - pausing to listen to the whistling spring winds this afternoon. My windows, which were wide open for a good portion of the morning, needed to be shut to a crack because it became so wildly windy. They were open enough for me to hear the wind play. I could hear the big maple in the front creaking from the forceful wind. I could hear the wind whipping through between the houses as it whistled past my side windows. I paused and imagined myself outside, my hair thrashing around me and in my face. My eyes watering from the cool spring air. I breathed in the breeze as it pushed past the narrow opening of my window. Yes, today the wind caught my attention. It was a lovely distraction. The only one I allowed today.
The whistling winds of a Sunday study day.
Moments away from the desk and breathing in the fresh air.
Moments enjoying the sounds hidden beneath the whistle of a cool spring wind.
Today it’s been a full 13 hour day. I ate breakfast and lunch at my dining room table…which, if you recall from yesterday, is now my oversized desk to study from. Near the end of the day, I think I read the same two pages over three times before the information sank in. I’m slow now and eager to crash into bed. But before I do….I wanted to share today’s moment.
My moment - pausing to listen to the whistling spring winds this afternoon. My windows, which were wide open for a good portion of the morning, needed to be shut to a crack because it became so wildly windy. They were open enough for me to hear the wind play. I could hear the big maple in the front creaking from the forceful wind. I could hear the wind whipping through between the houses as it whistled past my side windows. I paused and imagined myself outside, my hair thrashing around me and in my face. My eyes watering from the cool spring air. I breathed in the breeze as it pushed past the narrow opening of my window. Yes, today the wind caught my attention. It was a lovely distraction. The only one I allowed today.
The whistling winds of a Sunday study day.
Moments away from the desk and breathing in the fresh air.
Moments enjoying the sounds hidden beneath the whistle of a cool spring wind.
Saturday, April 6, 2013
Moments D347: Push ups & Situps
Today was a hardcore study day. A full 12 hours. I barely moved from my dining room table which has been made into a makeshift desk. It’s completely covered with school stuff at the moment. My textbook, my laptop, my paper notebook, pens, pencils, random sticky notes, my trusty eraser and of course, random snack foods. I am surrounded! Truly - it’s a chaotic mess that looks like a hurricane came through. Of course, I know exactly where to find what I'm looking for!
Today’s moment was me deciding to do push ups & situps for my mini breaks during my study day. Yes really. That’s what I did. It was 10 push ups at a time and 20 situps at a time. Need I remind you….it was a long day. I ended up doing many situps and push ups! By the third/fourth round I couldn’t help but giggle at myself - a silly idea? Maybe, but fortunately, it also meant that by the end of the day, not only was my brain taxed and tired, so was my body.
So - I’m all for push ups and situps as a study break. But, that being said, I think tomorrow’s study day will include less physical exertion!
Moments to pause.
Moments of exercise both intellectually and physically.
Today’s moment was me deciding to do push ups & situps for my mini breaks during my study day. Yes really. That’s what I did. It was 10 push ups at a time and 20 situps at a time. Need I remind you….it was a long day. I ended up doing many situps and push ups! By the third/fourth round I couldn’t help but giggle at myself - a silly idea? Maybe, but fortunately, it also meant that by the end of the day, not only was my brain taxed and tired, so was my body.
So - I’m all for push ups and situps as a study break. But, that being said, I think tomorrow’s study day will include less physical exertion!
Moments to pause.
Moments of exercise both intellectually and physically.
Friday, April 5, 2013
Moments D346: Butter
What a day! It was hectic with much excitement, no lunch and in the end a longer day than I expected it to be. (Even pulled over later by an OPP because I need to renew my license sticker! WHOOPS!) But, the day was also one where much was accomplished. These are the kinds of days that I love most. Busy, positive and productive. And today’s moment came from the end of my day as I shared conversation with a work colleague. He was commenting on my ability to communicate and how he appreciated my words. This coming from someone I respect and who publishes a magazine. My words. Really?
So out of curiosity, I asked him - “What is it about my words that you appreciate?” He took a moment before responding and he answered: Butter.
I’m sure there must have been a quizzical look on my face because he quickly added that all his favourite foods have a dab of butter on them. Butter isn’t necessary, but it’s certainly a lovely luxury. My words, have butter. My words have luxury to them.
Huh. I kinda liked that compliment. It’s a simple analogy, but one that seems to fit well. I know, in business, in relationships, in life, I take the extra time to find the right words. Sure, the days can be hectic and short of time, but people deserve “buttered” words. They deserve that moment of acknowledgement that they are the centre of my attention in that moment. Why not? It doesn’t take that much more effort and I know that people notice. Now, I have an adjective for it. Buttered words.
Moments to show people that you are taking the time with them.
Moments for buttered words.
So out of curiosity, I asked him - “What is it about my words that you appreciate?” He took a moment before responding and he answered: Butter.
I’m sure there must have been a quizzical look on my face because he quickly added that all his favourite foods have a dab of butter on them. Butter isn’t necessary, but it’s certainly a lovely luxury. My words, have butter. My words have luxury to them.
Huh. I kinda liked that compliment. It’s a simple analogy, but one that seems to fit well. I know, in business, in relationships, in life, I take the extra time to find the right words. Sure, the days can be hectic and short of time, but people deserve “buttered” words. They deserve that moment of acknowledgement that they are the centre of my attention in that moment. Why not? It doesn’t take that much more effort and I know that people notice. Now, I have an adjective for it. Buttered words.
Moments to show people that you are taking the time with them.
Moments for buttered words.
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Moments D345: Fresh Energy
Today was a great day. Spring has officially arrived. The morning was crisp and cool, but as the sun crossed the sky, it warmed to 10 degrees out today, bright and sunny. IIt was a breath of fresh energy.
And that seemed to be the way the rest of the day went just this way as well. We had a new team member join us today. She joined us at the height of chaos on our team. We are ramping up to a huge trade show, I’m just about to book a couple spring campaigns, and we’ve lost a member. There is much to do, and fewer and fewer hours left to do it.
She joined our team this morning. We had our weekly production meeting off the top of the day. This lovely girl had the full force of the entire team all at once. Tell me that wasn’t overwhelming! But, I have to say, I’m damn proud of our team. At every turn they were trying to make her comfortable and supportive when she looked overwhelmed. We talked through a lot of projects and timelines. For the first hour of her first day on the job, well, that’s kinda like just diving in!
Fortunately I think this girl is going to really fit in. She is quirky. She is quick and, in the end, I think through all the information we threw at her she enjoyed her first day. Big wins for us all.
Welcome fresh energy. Welcome young dragon - we look forward your forces entwining with ours.
Moments enjoying spring.
Moments taking a breath of fresh air, inside and out.
And that seemed to be the way the rest of the day went just this way as well. We had a new team member join us today. She joined us at the height of chaos on our team. We are ramping up to a huge trade show, I’m just about to book a couple spring campaigns, and we’ve lost a member. There is much to do, and fewer and fewer hours left to do it.
She joined our team this morning. We had our weekly production meeting off the top of the day. This lovely girl had the full force of the entire team all at once. Tell me that wasn’t overwhelming! But, I have to say, I’m damn proud of our team. At every turn they were trying to make her comfortable and supportive when she looked overwhelmed. We talked through a lot of projects and timelines. For the first hour of her first day on the job, well, that’s kinda like just diving in!
Fortunately I think this girl is going to really fit in. She is quirky. She is quick and, in the end, I think through all the information we threw at her she enjoyed her first day. Big wins for us all.
Welcome fresh energy. Welcome young dragon - we look forward your forces entwining with ours.
Moments enjoying spring.
Moments taking a breath of fresh air, inside and out.
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Moments D344: Bonding
Today was a strange day. Productive and quiet at work even though it was the last day for our young bird leaving the team. Full of emotion and chaotic energy later in the day and into the evening. (Funny how the energy can so quickly shift!)
Today’s moment isn’t about our baby bird, no longer green, nor naive to the world of work, being ready to fly. (Though is a special moment to mention as it made for a bitter sweet day. Sweet to see her on such a high. Sweet to know that she will expand her portfolio. Bitter to know her desk will be empty tomorrow.
Instead, I want to focus on the fact that today I was able to have a special, outside-of-work bonding moment with one of the most important member of the team. As we shared a couple of beers, I set up a rule - no shop talk! So there we were just sharing crazy stories and catching up. Even with the rule, we still veered back to work, but every time, we laughed about it! It was a good moment and one I know that was meaningful to us both. I look forward to spending more outside-of-work bonding moments. I think it’s important as it makes our day-to-day job activities that much easier to work through.
Moments connecting with your co-workers
Moments bonding.
Today’s moment isn’t about our baby bird, no longer green, nor naive to the world of work, being ready to fly. (Though is a special moment to mention as it made for a bitter sweet day. Sweet to see her on such a high. Sweet to know that she will expand her portfolio. Bitter to know her desk will be empty tomorrow.
Instead, I want to focus on the fact that today I was able to have a special, outside-of-work bonding moment with one of the most important member of the team. As we shared a couple of beers, I set up a rule - no shop talk! So there we were just sharing crazy stories and catching up. Even with the rule, we still veered back to work, but every time, we laughed about it! It was a good moment and one I know that was meaningful to us both. I look forward to spending more outside-of-work bonding moments. I think it’s important as it makes our day-to-day job activities that much easier to work through.
Moments connecting with your co-workers
Moments bonding.
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
Moments D343: Good News
First, I know it’s a bit lame for today’s moment to be about “good news”. It feels like I'm cheating the point of my blog with this title. Regardless of that small tarnished thought, I couldn't resist. Let me tell you why.
Today was just one of those days where the stars aligned. It felt like, with every action that happened, that good news was the flavour of the day. Plans clicked into place; people heard my words and actioned them; I heard people’s words and actioned them. My class group and I managed to tred our way through a mass of data and words and all agree upon a final write-up and I managed to find the right words in a couple of precarious points in the day. All of which lead to moments of good news.
That being said - it was actually great news to hear to hear words that validated my direction. It was great news to share positive comments with co-workers that very much made their days and it was great news to know that plans I've been working on at work have all started to fall into place. It is also GREAT news that my school group and I are 99% done our assignment (FINALLY!). Maybe I've been remiss to call it only good news - it really was a day of GREAT news. The ebb and flow of such positive energy around me was truly delightful.
So today, I pause and celebrate good news. Good news for me, for my co-workers, and for my fellow students.
Now shaking the hot sauce bottle that didn’t have its lid tightened….not such good news. But I laughed instead of cursing. Yes, I think the positive energy surplus paid off in that particular moment of my day!
Moments knowing that good news can come in batches.
Moments appreciate each and every moment of good news.
Today was just one of those days where the stars aligned. It felt like, with every action that happened, that good news was the flavour of the day. Plans clicked into place; people heard my words and actioned them; I heard people’s words and actioned them. My class group and I managed to tred our way through a mass of data and words and all agree upon a final write-up and I managed to find the right words in a couple of precarious points in the day. All of which lead to moments of good news.
That being said - it was actually great news to hear to hear words that validated my direction. It was great news to share positive comments with co-workers that very much made their days and it was great news to know that plans I've been working on at work have all started to fall into place. It is also GREAT news that my school group and I are 99% done our assignment (FINALLY!). Maybe I've been remiss to call it only good news - it really was a day of GREAT news. The ebb and flow of such positive energy around me was truly delightful.
So today, I pause and celebrate good news. Good news for me, for my co-workers, and for my fellow students.
Now shaking the hot sauce bottle that didn’t have its lid tightened….not such good news. But I laughed instead of cursing. Yes, I think the positive energy surplus paid off in that particular moment of my day!
Moments knowing that good news can come in batches.
Moments appreciate each and every moment of good news.
Monday, April 1, 2013
Moments D342: Supererogation
This word came into my life sometime last year from a friend of mine from work. He was surprised at my consistent drive to always do better and/or more. I needed him to explain the word to me with more words.
It is a philosophical term that labels actions “beyond the call of duty”. Today was one of those days that I would have agreed with my co-worker. I went above and beyond the call of duty.
I've been working on this group assignment for what feels like forever. It was originally due last Tuesday which was then pushed out to Thursday, which was then pushed out to this coming Thursday. Great right? No, not really. There were errors in the data supplied for the case study. My group found those errors. Extra time to work on it, means putting more energy and attention into the project and not on my readings. (After all there is only so much time to go around!) Tonight, I worked hard to pull together the assignment so that I could hopefully spare myself a few hours to slide into my readings. I only have 10 days left before I write my 50% final exam. I'm starting to sweat it. Much to do and time is running out.
But back to tonight and going above and beyond. I spent my night working on one portion of the overall project. This section, in its entirety, is 5 pages deep. It’s thorough; it offers charts and tables and much commentary. I really don't think I needed to go into the depth that I did.
But - it’s a case study that we are working on. I put myself in the fictitious client’s shoes and realized that I would want a lot more detail. And so, I gave it to them. Lots and lots of details and information.
It wasn't until I finally handed over my document to my team mates that I realized my friend from work was right. I have a problem with supererogation. I can’t just do the minimum when I know I can offer more.
It was then that I tried to remember this crazy word. I was inspired with it once again and knew that I would write about it in today's blog. Google failed me when I search for “beyond the call of duty”. And then, surprisingly, my brain kicked in and remembered the word. Isn't that just fitting? I had a good giggle in that moment.
So today’s moment is about supererogation - going beyond the expected and being pleasantly surprised with the results.
I'm also going to tag brain power today as a moment. It’s not very often that my brain supersedes a Google search!
p.s. if you are interested, I found this philosophical article about supererogation….check it out!
It is a philosophical term that labels actions “beyond the call of duty”. Today was one of those days that I would have agreed with my co-worker. I went above and beyond the call of duty.
I've been working on this group assignment for what feels like forever. It was originally due last Tuesday which was then pushed out to Thursday, which was then pushed out to this coming Thursday. Great right? No, not really. There were errors in the data supplied for the case study. My group found those errors. Extra time to work on it, means putting more energy and attention into the project and not on my readings. (After all there is only so much time to go around!) Tonight, I worked hard to pull together the assignment so that I could hopefully spare myself a few hours to slide into my readings. I only have 10 days left before I write my 50% final exam. I'm starting to sweat it. Much to do and time is running out.
But back to tonight and going above and beyond. I spent my night working on one portion of the overall project. This section, in its entirety, is 5 pages deep. It’s thorough; it offers charts and tables and much commentary. I really don't think I needed to go into the depth that I did.
But - it’s a case study that we are working on. I put myself in the fictitious client’s shoes and realized that I would want a lot more detail. And so, I gave it to them. Lots and lots of details and information.
It wasn't until I finally handed over my document to my team mates that I realized my friend from work was right. I have a problem with supererogation. I can’t just do the minimum when I know I can offer more.
It was then that I tried to remember this crazy word. I was inspired with it once again and knew that I would write about it in today's blog. Google failed me when I search for “beyond the call of duty”. And then, surprisingly, my brain kicked in and remembered the word. Isn't that just fitting? I had a good giggle in that moment.
So today’s moment is about supererogation - going beyond the expected and being pleasantly surprised with the results.
I'm also going to tag brain power today as a moment. It’s not very often that my brain supersedes a Google search!
Moments pushing the limits.
Moment to learn a new word!
Moment to learn a new word!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)