Last week, with everything going on, I missed an appointment with my CFA. Terrible of me. So very unlike me, but, so it seems, a new side of me as I let things become less structured. (I've been told I'm too scheduled and structured....letting loose, for me, means missing appointments apparently!)
And so, today was our rescheduled moment. I was determined to make sure my CFA knew that I was appreciative of her time and that I didn't mean any disrespect. I offered to pick up a coffee for her, but she politely declined.
So I arrived early and with with a tiny pot of purple flowers.
She couldn't say no to flowers, right?
Sure enough, it was something that certainly brought a smile to her face. And one to mine for bringing her a smile.
What a delightful moment. What a wonderful way to start the week.
Moments sharing a tiny bit of love to show some respect and appreciation.
Moments knowing that a small gift will bring many days of smiles ahead.
Showing posts with label appreciation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label appreciation. Show all posts
Monday, April 7, 2014
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Moments D673: More random hugs
Well, it happened again today. What can I say. It's been a rough start to the week and my energy isn't what it typically is.
Mid-day, my co-worker walked up to my desk, took one look at my harried face, walked behind me and then enveloped me into a hug. Then he told me to stand up.
And he gave me a bigger hug.
Just what I needed actually. It certainly made the rest of the day go by a little easier.
I have really wonderful, caring co-workers. For that I am thankful.
Moments appreciating a random, needed hug.
Moments appreciating your co-workers.
Mid-day, my co-worker walked up to my desk, took one look at my harried face, walked behind me and then enveloped me into a hug. Then he told me to stand up.
And he gave me a bigger hug.
Just what I needed actually. It certainly made the rest of the day go by a little easier.
I have really wonderful, caring co-workers. For that I am thankful.
Moments appreciating a random, needed hug.
Moments appreciating your co-workers.
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Moments D653: Snow day!
Today a snow storm passed through Toronto. It wasn't a blizzard, but a lot of snow dropped this morning. Driving was slow. TTC was slower. Sidewalks were not yet cleared. Many complained. Most grumbled.
For me, I smiled. I love a pretty snowfall and today's snowfall was big fluffy flakes. A lot of them. It was like being inside a snow globe.
Sure, the drive to work was slow. But sometimes slow is better. During the slow drive, I had time to appreciate the snow dusting the barren trees, the kids all bundled up and tromping through the snow-filled sidewalks and the white sparkly blanket being laid over the city. It was simply beautiful.
And then the best part of my day, today's moment, happened. I received an email from my professor: class was cancelled tonight!
WOOT! Snow day! I haven't had a snow day in years!
So, instead of making my way to class after work, I made my way home. I turned off my work/school brain and focused on this bonus time with my love. It was just the two of us. Picking up groceries, making dinner enjoying a movie and having a very deep conversation. All moments that I wouldn't have had, had there not been a snow day.
Grateful for the snow.For its beauty.
For the forced slowdown.
For the time gained with my love.
Moments deeply enjoying winter.
Moments deeply appreciating bonus quality time because of winter.
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
Moments D526: Photos & Reflections
First Happy October! I don't know what it is, but I've always loved October. Perhaps it's the smell of autumn in the air, or watching the trees slowly shifting in colours and waiting for that final explosion of colour. It could be the excitement of finding just the right costume for my favourite holiday of the year, or the joy of carving a jack-o-lantern. I don't know, but I've loved October.
Today's moment came to me as I sorted through and shared out my Tough Mudder photos. There were so many incredible photos. My support team on site did an amazing job of capturing those special moments. I found myself amazed at the love and support that I have around me.
At every obstacle, there was someone taking photos. And, as in life, at every obstacle I've come against, I've had love and support.
Today's moment - pausing and appreciating my support system.
Moments reflecting upon life and obstacles conquered.
Moments appreciating that none of it was done alone.
Today's moment came to me as I sorted through and shared out my Tough Mudder photos. There were so many incredible photos. My support team on site did an amazing job of capturing those special moments. I found myself amazed at the love and support that I have around me.
At every obstacle, there was someone taking photos. And, as in life, at every obstacle I've come against, I've had love and support.
Today's moment - pausing and appreciating my support system.
Moments reflecting upon life and obstacles conquered.
Moments appreciating that none of it was done alone.
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Moments D238: Kindness & Appreciation
This morning it was tough to get out of bed. I didn’t sleep well and I still had two things on my “to do” list from last night that I needed to get done this morning. (Ah, the joys of a creeping deadline!) But early in the day, it was already a two-special-moment kinda day!
Kindness:
Once I was moving and focused on getting things done things seemed to settle in a bit. I stopped at Tim’s for a couple of gift certificates (finishing my Christmas list - YES!). I felt badly for the gentleman behind me as he was waiting for the cashier & I to process the 5 cards I bought. I turned to him to apologize for the wait and he gave me a big ‘ol smile and said “Take your time. The longer the better. I’m in no rush.”
He was an older gentleman. He had a twinkle of kindness in his eye. He’ll never know just how much I needed to have that kindness shared with me, nor how that took the stress away from me (for running late to work, for holding him up etc.).
Appreciation:
Once I reached work, I received a Christmas card from a fellow employee that literally brought tears to my eyes. Now this is a man that I look up to. He’s brilliant. He’s been in the advertising industry for nearly as long as I’ve been on the earth. He’s a fountain of knowledge and laughter. His words were simple, but they touched me deeply. I impress him and he appreciates me. I was literally stunned. I re-read the card three times before I collected myself and went to his office to give him a hug.
Moments of random kindness.
Moments of hard work paying of.
Kindness:
Once I was moving and focused on getting things done things seemed to settle in a bit. I stopped at Tim’s for a couple of gift certificates (finishing my Christmas list - YES!). I felt badly for the gentleman behind me as he was waiting for the cashier & I to process the 5 cards I bought. I turned to him to apologize for the wait and he gave me a big ‘ol smile and said “Take your time. The longer the better. I’m in no rush.”
He was an older gentleman. He had a twinkle of kindness in his eye. He’ll never know just how much I needed to have that kindness shared with me, nor how that took the stress away from me (for running late to work, for holding him up etc.).
Appreciation:
Once I reached work, I received a Christmas card from a fellow employee that literally brought tears to my eyes. Now this is a man that I look up to. He’s brilliant. He’s been in the advertising industry for nearly as long as I’ve been on the earth. He’s a fountain of knowledge and laughter. His words were simple, but they touched me deeply. I impress him and he appreciates me. I was literally stunned. I re-read the card three times before I collected myself and went to his office to give him a hug.
Moments of random kindness.
Moments of hard work paying of.
Monday, July 30, 2012
Moments D97: Bruises & Burritos
Today was a busy productive day, but, on a personal level, it was challenging for me as I struggled to find my balance most of the day. If you know me, you know I am a worrier and I try to be aware of scenarios that I may find myself in, on any given day, before said scenarios happen. I call it planning. Others call it excessive worrying or caring too much.
With the emotional bruises I received over the past little while, it has taken me a bit to bounce back. I am extremely fortunate to be surrounded by such support, love and positive energy. I’ve had many reach out to me to reassure me. I am thankful. I am taken aback by the energy. I am humbled to know that I have a voice and one that some want to hear. Thank you for your support and your positive light.
I know I can’t be all things to all people. But, I’m not going to lie - that frustrates me. I work hard every day to, at least, be something to everyone I connect with. I suppose this perspective on life only adds to the bruising!
So back to the point. Today’s moment is two fold: appreciation of those who love and support me. And BURRITOS! Yes, that’s right. End a bummer of a day with a food that I love. Why not right? So I’m going to give a little shout out to my favourite burrito place in the big smoke. CHINO LOCOS! If you have a chance to try them DO! Their burritos never fail to make me smile.
Moments of favourite foods.
Moments with dear friends.
Moments of appreciation & humbleness.
With the emotional bruises I received over the past little while, it has taken me a bit to bounce back. I am extremely fortunate to be surrounded by such support, love and positive energy. I’ve had many reach out to me to reassure me. I am thankful. I am taken aback by the energy. I am humbled to know that I have a voice and one that some want to hear. Thank you for your support and your positive light.
I know I can’t be all things to all people. But, I’m not going to lie - that frustrates me. I work hard every day to, at least, be something to everyone I connect with. I suppose this perspective on life only adds to the bruising!
So back to the point. Today’s moment is two fold: appreciation of those who love and support me. And BURRITOS! Yes, that’s right. End a bummer of a day with a food that I love. Why not right? So I’m going to give a little shout out to my favourite burrito place in the big smoke. CHINO LOCOS! If you have a chance to try them DO! Their burritos never fail to make me smile.
Moments of favourite foods.
Moments with dear friends.
Moments of appreciation & humbleness.
Friday, June 1, 2012
Moments - D37; Proud Papas
A co-worker today shared this email with me about his daughter's recent promotion. It's beautifully written and brought tears of joy to my eyes. I will share the email exchange in its entirety, though I have changed the names for privacy.
From: Mr. B
Sent: Thursday, May 31, 2012 10:42 AM
To: JP
Subject: FW: Want to be successful? Ask yourself, What Would Kylie Do?
From: Mr. B
Sent: Thursday, May 31, 2012 10:42 AM
To: JP
Subject: FW: Want to be successful? Ask yourself, What Would Kylie Do?
Thanks JP. I’m so proud of her. I hope she one day becomes as smart and as good at what she does as you.
From: Daughter of Mr. B
Sent: Thursday, May 31, 2012 10:33 AM
Subject: FW: Want to be successful? Ask yourself, What Would Kylie Do?
It’s official.
From: Kylie's Boss
Sent: May-31-12 10:27 AM
Subject: Want to be successful? Ask yourself, What Would Kylie Do?
I am happy to announce that Kylie has been promoted to CEO and Chair of the Board effective immediately.
In her time at XXXXX, Kylie has proven to be the most extraordinary human on the face of the planet. Since I started wearing my “What Would Kylie Do?” bracelet I’ve become a better person. You should all wear them. Kylie is my hero.
And for those who have seen her in action, you know that negotiation is the most impressive of Kylie’s amazing skills. (In retrospect, I now regret agreeing to negotiate the content of this note and getting talked into letting Kylie write the first two paragraphs of this email.) Needless to say, the unique skill set and industry knowledge Kylie brings to XXXXX has raised the reputation of our company.
Kylie started at XXXXX as our very first events person and quickly proved her mettle with CT and their hockey program. It was at the NHL Heritage Classic in Calgary in February 2011 where we first saw Kylie in total lockdown mode for an entire week. To visualize this mode, image a hungry lion that has a zebra in its sights. It sees nothing else. It knows exactly what it wants to do. It will not stop until it kills and eats its bloodied prey. That’s Kylie in lockdown mode. If that image grosses you out, imagine a kitten chasing a ball of string. That’s Kylie, too. Either way, you want Kylie in your corner.
And she has been in the corner for some big events – many store launches and classic car road shows, but also for Mark’s and Amex events. She also was a driving force for XXXXX’s Big Day last August, from concept to execution. As we’ve all learned just how amazing Kylie is, the more her role has grown, including to help win new business such as additional projects with ZZZZZZZ. Kylie is never short on ideas, and sells her ideas driven by a sincere desire to create the best events.
And for the record, Kylie really can negotiate down any price and talk people into things they never wanted to do. But people also love working with Kylie, and deeply trust her. I mean, I could have sworn we promoted her to Account Supervisor, Events. But if Kylie says she’s CEO and Chair, then in must be true.
Congratulations your majesty.
BOSS MAN
To: Mr. B
OMG Mr. B.
First of all your compliments make me glow!
Secondly, *I* am so happy for Kylie. It sounds like she is an incredible woman and someone that is appreciated and highly respected by those she works with. In some regard, I’m a wee bit jealous. I long for a day when I am part of a team that works so cohesively and respectfully.
And finally, Mr. B, YOU are an incredible man. You had much to do with Kylie’s personality and drive for success. I only know a slice of you from the work world and that man is pretty damn impressive. I can only imagine that the whole you is ever more so. So be a “bursting-with-pride” papa. You deserve it.
Thank you for sharing such a personal, important moment in your life. It brings tears to my eyes as my heart fills with the shared joy!
From: Daughter of Mr. B
Sent: Thursday, May 31, 2012 10:33 AM
Subject: FW: Want to be successful? Ask yourself, What Would Kylie Do?
It’s official.
From: Kylie's Boss
Sent: May-31-12 10:27 AM
Subject: Want to be successful? Ask yourself, What Would Kylie Do?
I am happy to announce that Kylie has been promoted to CEO and Chair of the Board effective immediately.
In her time at XXXXX, Kylie has proven to be the most extraordinary human on the face of the planet. Since I started wearing my “What Would Kylie Do?” bracelet I’ve become a better person. You should all wear them. Kylie is my hero.
And for those who have seen her in action, you know that negotiation is the most impressive of Kylie’s amazing skills. (In retrospect, I now regret agreeing to negotiate the content of this note and getting talked into letting Kylie write the first two paragraphs of this email.) Needless to say, the unique skill set and industry knowledge Kylie brings to XXXXX has raised the reputation of our company.
Kylie started at XXXXX as our very first events person and quickly proved her mettle with CT and their hockey program. It was at the NHL Heritage Classic in Calgary in February 2011 where we first saw Kylie in total lockdown mode for an entire week. To visualize this mode, image a hungry lion that has a zebra in its sights. It sees nothing else. It knows exactly what it wants to do. It will not stop until it kills and eats its bloodied prey. That’s Kylie in lockdown mode. If that image grosses you out, imagine a kitten chasing a ball of string. That’s Kylie, too. Either way, you want Kylie in your corner.
And she has been in the corner for some big events – many store launches and classic car road shows, but also for Mark’s and Amex events. She also was a driving force for XXXXX’s Big Day last August, from concept to execution. As we’ve all learned just how amazing Kylie is, the more her role has grown, including to help win new business such as additional projects with ZZZZZZZ. Kylie is never short on ideas, and sells her ideas driven by a sincere desire to create the best events.
And for the record, Kylie really can negotiate down any price and talk people into things they never wanted to do. But people also love working with Kylie, and deeply trust her. I mean, I could have sworn we promoted her to Account Supervisor, Events. But if Kylie says she’s CEO and Chair, then in must be true.
Congratulations your majesty.
BOSS MAN
From: JP
Sent: Thursday, May 31, 2012 10:50 AMTo: Mr. B
OMG Mr. B.
First of all your compliments make me glow!
Secondly, *I* am so happy for Kylie. It sounds like she is an incredible woman and someone that is appreciated and highly respected by those she works with. In some regard, I’m a wee bit jealous. I long for a day when I am part of a team that works so cohesively and respectfully.
And finally, Mr. B, YOU are an incredible man. You had much to do with Kylie’s personality and drive for success. I only know a slice of you from the work world and that man is pretty damn impressive. I can only imagine that the whole you is ever more so. So be a “bursting-with-pride” papa. You deserve it.
Thank you for sharing such a personal, important moment in your life. It brings tears to my eyes as my heart fills with the shared joy!
From: Mr. B
Sent: Thursday, May 31, 2012 10:52 AM
To: JP
Sent: Thursday, May 31, 2012 10:52 AM
To: JP
Jen, 30 feet away my eyes, like yours, are filled with tears. You are too generous.
Yes - this is my very special moment today.
Actually, I was quite fortunate today. I had quite a few special moments today. From missing a speeding ticket, to winning a baseball game where I caught the last ball for the out, to revisiting old moments to reveal new smiles.
BUT - none of those special moments trump this moment proud papa. I was so happy to have been included in the joyful moment.
These are the moments that define us as people. Nothing else matters. Just the people around you. (IMHO)
Moments should be shared and celebrated.
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