Heartfelt Holidays............

There is a calmness that comes with not rushing...which translates to me
"don't put off what you can do today". As we find ourselves at the beginning of December, it's the perfect time to revisit our notebook of how we want our Holiday to look. What's important to you Dear Readers?

For me, my Holiday list includes, time with family and friends, Acts of Kindness, making snowflakes, mulled cider, peppermint lotion, neighborhood gatherings...

I tend to prefer doing things sooner than later, so I am not rushed... it leaves time for the unexpected that may delay me or create a sudden opportunity. 

In order to make these things happen and enjoy them to the fullest potential of memory making moments they hold, I have to make an effort. In saying that let me explain..the effort comes when I need to organize thoughts and plans to help things run smoothly in my mind and with the follow through. I also need to realize my sons are no longer little and I no longer make all the schedules and decisions. (really working on that one... I know, I know "roots and wings...roots and wings") I need to keep things in perspective as to what really matters and it may be time, to let one or two traditions go. Pang, Ouch!

Visit your list Dear Readers, think about the special touches you can add to your Holiday prep, let go the parts that are unrealistic expectations, look for opportunities that can make a difference for you and others. 

Be in the moment of what you are doing and make amazing Heartfelt Holiday memories of your own.

Kicking Arse In Old Quebec City..................

Kicking fear's F'n Ass in Old Quebec City!

No not fear of germs in the street...... of letting fear hold me back from travelling.

Dear Readers, today I offer to you thoughts of encouragement and empowerment, to ease whatever holds you back in your Life. It doesn't matter if others understand it or not.....if it is crippling and difficult for you, then it is very real! Begin easing the anxiety.......take a breath.....commit to wanting to make it different for You! Start with tiny steps and watch the distance they will take you. Know that it will feel uncomfortable and you'll want the unsettling feelings to stop...the thing is this, those feelings are really the indicator that you are working on something, that once past it, will have the freeing reward of true accomplishment and moving forward! 

Be kind to yourself during the process...Remember positive self talk is much more beneficial than the damage of sabotaging ourselves with negative thoughts.

From experience I can share with you that it isn't an easy process, it doesn't happen quickly, it's never completely gone and it's not easy to navigate, [ready for the big but?]...BUT...stick with it and know the rush of "I did it", while doing your happy dance [or kissing the cobblestone] 

is totally.....Worth It!

You Don't Have To Say Yes...................

On my ongoing quest to reduce stress and increase personal awareness in my Life, I am reminded of the importance of personal evaluation as things come up on a day to day basis.

When pondering the process to achieve such peace, I realize the important role making choices plays.

So my post today Dear Readers is a gentle reminder: before you say YES and take on another task, whether it's to make even more cupcakes for a school event (although Michelle Obama has put a stop to that) or take on more hours at work or join another committee, be sure to consider the effect it has on you and those closest to you. 

Will it tip the scale and put you onto a hamster wheel? Is it a choice that will trigger the ripple effect in a negative way?

Choose to make your ripple effect a positive one...see the power you have! 

Take care of YOU and others will benefit too!

If interested in reading a prior blog post of mine about taking care of yourself. Check out my Oxygen Mask Theory at Finding Oxygen