tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22385999562586465982024-02-19T06:07:04.676-05:00Chi&Me2The musings of a woman in transition, with thoughts of career, life, learning, business and hope.PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-74481365119342318302010-08-08T09:51:00.004-04:002010-08-08T12:59:23.728-04:00Summertime and the Living Is Easy<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgolK0Yr0RgdgkNQKps6VBF2nNwcOfJ_uoHb8Nb2i1r8KG0cwaiNqGjltqrfC6W7E6sUzYyLevUCE2KWoHa3JkGC_RKvOdNzi4SProUPkEflnmO4qNvZWAC19u4S-Do3zHaMCHz6pslcNM/s1600/IMG_2331.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503043863856958434" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgolK0Yr0RgdgkNQKps6VBF2nNwcOfJ_uoHb8Nb2i1r8KG0cwaiNqGjltqrfC6W7E6sUzYyLevUCE2KWoHa3JkGC_RKvOdNzi4SProUPkEflnmO4qNvZWAC19u4S-Do3zHaMCHz6pslcNM/s200/IMG_2331.JPG" /></a><br />Where has the summer gone? I know that there's more to come but life has been speeding through 24 hours like a vacationer heading up I95 to Maine. I am not complaining. The weather has been cooperative like no other year in current memory; the garden abundance lush; and so many interesting venues to attend & participate locally no need to travel far. Ideal.<br /><br />I was chatting with my boss about how each Monday morning quickly becomes a Friday. Time isn't marching it's racing. Yet, I am okay with it. I feel as if I am enjoying the moments in between. Not everything is perfect which is another fact with which I am okay. I suspect that living in the moment is a key contributor to this bliss-like living.<br /><br />Simply put ... I decided to enjoy myself fully. Take each day and live it to the max. You don't have to be bungee cord jumping off a bridge into a gorge to live life to the max. Just enjoy a tomato fresh picked from the vine will do. Attend a Shakespeare performance in the park. Take the ferry to Boston for lunch. All is perfect.<br /><br />Life extends a gracious invitation to party every day. You just have to accept.<br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" href="http://addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=xa-4b15d088563e5da6"><img style="BORDER-BOTTOM: 0px; BORDER-LEFT: 0px; BORDER-TOP: 0px; BORDER-RIGHT: 0px" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" height="16" /></a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=xa-4b15d088563e5da6"></script>PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-80243978035799477222010-06-28T05:52:00.003-04:002010-06-28T06:10:33.042-04:00Misty Mornings<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixT4MsShZFX6epL-3LsMAW1_WiQwMAVXzsEjHPw-1JJ_hcTMYy9gRx16WCXE_MO6Tgmn8iCR5kPgLWLG0JivNuDXOkfoGcuPf9faRAxqSj77WhfdmlxqPD9domKGjkxi6zmiW4WHp8PDc/s1600/Foggy+Morning+in+Salem.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487761320557538546" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixT4MsShZFX6epL-3LsMAW1_WiQwMAVXzsEjHPw-1JJ_hcTMYy9gRx16WCXE_MO6Tgmn8iCR5kPgLWLG0JivNuDXOkfoGcuPf9faRAxqSj77WhfdmlxqPD9domKGjkxi6zmiW4WHp8PDc/s200/Foggy+Morning+in+Salem.jpg" /></a>I am definitely not a morning person, but early summer mornings are perfect for thinking. Now having fog introduced to provide clarity seems to fly in the face of reason, but it works. Having a shroud of fog evaporate before your eyes as the sun takes a hold on the sky creates a visual image of the thought process.<br /><br />Life appears softer, less defined and more intriguing with fog. Fog envelopes you like a cold caress. Fog wakes you to the fact that the situation is transitory. Fog gives solid form to thoughts.<br /><br />Fog gives permission to take your time, be extra sure of your surroundings, and cautious of possible outcomes. The more you think, the clearer the morning. And the clearer your thoughts.<br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" href="http://addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=xa-4b15d088563e5da6"><img style="BORDER-BOTTOM: 0px; BORDER-LEFT: 0px; BORDER-TOP: 0px; BORDER-RIGHT: 0px" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" height="16" /></a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=xa-4b15d088563e5da6"></script>PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-41161285709885688792010-06-06T13:37:00.000-04:002010-06-06T13:58:11.268-04:00Reading "tinkers" by Paul HardingI just finished reading "tinkers" by Paul Harding and I admit that I have to read the book again. Not because I didn't get the plot, but due to the beautiful writing and elegant combinations of thoughts and reality. I suspect I may be haunted by this book (in a good way).<br /><br />The scene of a dying man's last thoughts as his family life is revealed through vignettes of his memories is riveting. Each carefully crafted detail etches the life, in most cases, hard life of his past and his father's odd life, and the even stranger life of his father's father.<br /><br />But more than the transitioning of this man into death is the story of his father's life. Spellbinding. Buy the book or get it from the library. No wonder it won a Pulitzer Prize.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.blpbooks.org/books/tinkers.html">http://www.blpbooks.org/books/tinkers.html</a><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" href="http://addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=xa-4b15d088563e5da6"><img style="BORDER-BOTTOM: 0px; BORDER-LEFT: 0px; BORDER-TOP: 0px; BORDER-RIGHT: 0px" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" height="16" /></a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=xa-4b15d088563e5da6"></script>PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-73373981644825421702010-05-31T20:47:00.000-04:002010-05-31T21:07:04.032-04:00Come Together To Remember<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSQUomoNFcTsqJzmo2nLYcNz0j8xNixxnU2x6V2gTd2NDqI_WiTnPr9JobW7mTa8XHQ49F7WEmyUlrmqAqYulkali2RiDyM3qj1y_kZ2S7xqv3a7h_fdkx8CIT5NsjStInj285lA8Lov4/s1600/Woman-Soldier.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477603312368828946" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSQUomoNFcTsqJzmo2nLYcNz0j8xNixxnU2x6V2gTd2NDqI_WiTnPr9JobW7mTa8XHQ49F7WEmyUlrmqAqYulkali2RiDyM3qj1y_kZ2S7xqv3a7h_fdkx8CIT5NsjStInj285lA8Lov4/s200/Woman-Soldier.jpg" /></a><br />The Exchange Club of Greater Newburyport is sponsoring a "Field of Honor" to commemorate the military and first responders who have died keeping us safe. The "Field of Honor" will be row upon row of flags, each a tribute by a relative, friend or group in remembrance of a fallen hero.<br /><br />The dedication of this "Field of Honor" is Saturday, September 11'th at the Bartlet Mall in Newburyport, MA . Help volunteer by getting involved with one of our committees to make this a time to come together and remember.<br /><br />To learn more about how you can participate as a sponsor or purchase a flag in memory of someone, please see our website<br /><br /><a href="http://colonialflagfoundation.org/staticpages/index.php/newburyport">http://colonialflagfoundation.org/staticpages/index.php/newburyport</a><br /><br />Or contact me at fieldofhonor@gmail.com<br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" href="http://addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=xa-4b15d088563e5da6"><img style="BORDER-BOTTOM: 0px; BORDER-LEFT: 0px; BORDER-TOP: 0px; BORDER-RIGHT: 0px" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" height="16" /></a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=xa-4b15d088563e5da6"></script>PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-24094747537424284862010-05-30T18:42:00.000-04:002010-05-31T20:46:46.759-04:00Memorial Day<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM2TlCmdpnSMNfZ5yGn3fgF5qtkAikAs4_Hn3fd8cEh3bdsWvYyy6OO9O68P9IO4OpWp7CGlFW0lIU5X5gdxVZl8Ybt2tE4dFSQURZeZTr0KEeZSqmp68znE1JQzdGgRfhJq3lNGyXZts/s1600/IMG_1367.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM2TlCmdpnSMNfZ5yGn3fgF5qtkAikAs4_Hn3fd8cEh3bdsWvYyy6OO9O68P9IO4OpWp7CGlFW0lIU5X5gdxVZl8Ybt2tE4dFSQURZeZTr0KEeZSqmp68znE1JQzdGgRfhJq3lNGyXZts/s200/IMG_1367.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477599630059219218" /></a><br />I was certain that this weekend would be perfect ... weather, alone time, and gardening. While digging up one of the garden beds, I thought how I was now digging dirt that was my mother's. <br /><br />Let me explain. I live back at my childhood home and I can recall my mother's tenacious tending of this section of the garden. Her section was relegated to roses,asters and dahlias. The other gardens were the vegetable ones and tended by her father.<br /><br />It was all nicely divvied up and she worked the soil, lavished hours upon her roses and deadheaded the flowering asters and dahlias (the ones not selected for the indoor arrangement). This activity was repeated year after year starting with the Memorial Day weekend.<br /><br />There's a certain sense of completion to my contribution this weekend.<br /><!-- AddThis Button BEGIN --><br /><a class="addthis_button" href="http://addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=xa-4b15d088563e5da6"><img src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" style="border:0"/></a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=xa-4b15d088563e5da6"></script><br /><!-- AddThis Button END -->PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-90692074154066480362010-02-14T12:49:00.000-05:002010-02-14T14:32:31.119-05:00Fear - Motivator or Inhibitor<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOy8ruLDnmxL_kIqmoTdMhhO9t_WmbCwo_naxtyPoUNspwa9AJ2RE3IqrWlqrZZtId7jraqiJsJ4HTcjyhDIpk0CuI3uJVOq7MXWXPA4Sf4XSPudeRy-Msbg5F2wfMIWEunuHZ0Gf746E/s1600-h/darth_vader_sith_lords_3.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 161px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOy8ruLDnmxL_kIqmoTdMhhO9t_WmbCwo_naxtyPoUNspwa9AJ2RE3IqrWlqrZZtId7jraqiJsJ4HTcjyhDIpk0CuI3uJVOq7MXWXPA4Sf4XSPudeRy-Msbg5F2wfMIWEunuHZ0Gf746E/s200/darth_vader_sith_lords_3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438183166367518978" /></a><br />Fear is a funny kind of emotion. It can cause us to behave in ways that are most unflattering. It can also cause us to change our lives, careers and goals in a good way. Some folks will immediately change a lifestyle that has caused a heart attack, yet others won't feel the need.<br /><br />What is fear about? In the ancient days, when we were cave dwellers, the sense of fear truly was valuable especially where survival was concerned. As of late, I haven't been motivated to check out the backyard for things stalking me as a food source, so where does the constructive fear enter my life?<br /><br />Am I afraid of changing the status quo because it will mean something will change? Change happens anyway, even if I try to avoid it. Am I afraid of becoming successful or more so? What will happen then? Lose friends, family, a way of being? If I am unsuccessful, will I lose friends, family, a way of being?<br /><br />Am I operating with my own fear or do I borrow it from other sources like TV news, government press releases, talk radio, my family, friends, or business associates?<br /><br />As a way of being, fear isn't healthy. It saps your will, strength and peace. So why give it so much power? Because we prefer to think the worst instead of the best. We are on the verge of death, destruction and mayhem or so we think ourselves into believing. Or we could enjoy that we are on our path, experiencing life, and manifesting our dreams. Or not.<br /><br /><!-- AddThis Button BEGIN --><br /><a class="addthis_button" href="http://addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=xa-4b15d088563e5da6"><img src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" style="border:0"/></a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=xa-4b15d088563e5da6"></script><br /><!-- AddThis Button END -->PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-45239395426380673272010-01-31T11:26:00.000-05:002010-01-31T11:56:36.769-05:00The Sting of Winter<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNtC_deCIvUOWvl4eLMjcXbtUeJRfAadU2AFjQGk0Nlu6vo3HC_LRxuQPkj8xgkNDNa60mMMDfwn_UEXQbaM_3u0HnHn4VeV4ip_WS_APQHpVDlFuZo_vVj0XP6EF6h9EvjzYq2spStJc/s1600-h/January+Crane%27s+Beach.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNtC_deCIvUOWvl4eLMjcXbtUeJRfAadU2AFjQGk0Nlu6vo3HC_LRxuQPkj8xgkNDNa60mMMDfwn_UEXQbaM_3u0HnHn4VeV4ip_WS_APQHpVDlFuZo_vVj0XP6EF6h9EvjzYq2spStJc/s200/January+Crane%27s+Beach.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5432948861937816994" /></a><br />If you have read any of my postings, you will know that winter is a tough time of year for a "summer" person. I am counting the minutes of daylight, planning the summer garden, looking for that perfect pair of flip flops. Two weekends ago, the January thaw gripped the NE and I headed out to Crane's Beach in Ipswich for a ritual walk and wonder.<br /><br />This past week has been a different landscape, cold ... no that is incorrect, absolutely frigid is better. I hunker down into layers of wool, fleece and other wind stopping fibers. I feel like that kid in a snowsuit who cannot bend her arms because of all the bulky clothes. I insulate.<br /><br />On the other side of the story, I have completed my taxes and am purging all the paperwork that mysteriously congealed around my workstation. I do believe that paper reproduces when we are not looking. And, I am organizing my work area for optimal production. Sort of clearing the decks for something new and wonderful to enter my world.<br /><br />This notion goes with my actions toward an uncomplicated life. Getting rid of anything not serving a purpose or delight for me. I am not a hoarder but I did keep things that, perhaps, did not add value to my life. It can all go now because I am taking action on my New Year's intention. It's been 31 days and I am still engaged in making the changes I truly want for myself.<br /><br />What about you? Where are you in your New Year's intentions?<br /><br /><!-- AddThis Button BEGIN --><br /><a class="addthis_button" href="http://addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=xa-4b15d088563e5da6"><img src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" style="border:0"/></a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=xa-4b15d088563e5da6"></script><br /><!-- AddThis Button END -->PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-36872098992089414362010-01-09T16:08:00.001-05:002010-01-09T16:45:06.773-05:00Resolve to Change<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYw1bnwjEtCLTP0U3RFSOUdin6_iiLSSmy1Ak-hkhYuNdyvrLyiYBcEvjTCKVm_HgZCxODdYUeww06HTS4SyWkxSICIRTs1eQek_gm8BGtq2YF_zuvHpkII6_WQkvgq17OxptR0ns-6eQ/s1600-h/Times+Square.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 90px; height: 120px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYw1bnwjEtCLTP0U3RFSOUdin6_iiLSSmy1Ak-hkhYuNdyvrLyiYBcEvjTCKVm_HgZCxODdYUeww06HTS4SyWkxSICIRTs1eQek_gm8BGtq2YF_zuvHpkII6_WQkvgq17OxptR0ns-6eQ/s320/Times+Square.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424855384917194946" /></a><br />Now that we have officially made it into the next year, I have taken some action on a few ideas, committed to some fundamental life changes, and embraced this new landscape of winter. It's what you do for the new year but this particular year is different. How so? I am committed to making some serious changes in my life.<br /><br />First change ... laugh a lot. Every. Single. Day. Find the joy in living.<br /><br />Second change, I like being involved with people who like to do stuff. I mean physically involved with doing something. I sit behind a desk for the better part of the day and it makes me anxious to get outside, head to the gym, or just take some breaks for my mental agility. While this may involve tasks like weeding the garden, rearranging the closets, what I am really talking about is getting some exercise. I used to ride horses and now I am riding the elliptical.<br /><br />Third change, express myself in what I think, write and wear. I have been a little too dull on the wardrobe piece. I think the stats on the contents of any closet is that you wear only 20% of what is available. I have some great pieces of jewelry which don't seem to get worn too often. Time to mix it up.<br /><br />Fourth change, keep learning and expanding my knowledge base. It keeps me mentally motivated.<br /><br />So what have you planned for this year?<br /><br /><!-- AddThis Button BEGIN --><br /><a class="addthis_button" href="http://addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=xa-4b15d088563e5da6"><img src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" style="border:0"/></a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=xa-4b15d088563e5da6"></script><br /><!-- AddThis Button END -->PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-79156082053393080632009-12-01T20:39:00.000-05:002009-12-01T21:33:42.394-05:00Show Me the Beef!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAAwtg8TSpwQ9ux5qEEe222xY111GaWr5hpaL2LEJKsax1i3Ffym5sI4fSOpnEPbEut7nSmVMZrqjAjLhS0JQyW8Pg2uqd4OT1TqSYodpEEWnc0wQKXecp3QdHMB-DZ0WQLQqRjE1pLAk/s1600/Sm.hamburger66c.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 173px; height: 254px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAAwtg8TSpwQ9ux5qEEe222xY111GaWr5hpaL2LEJKsax1i3Ffym5sI4fSOpnEPbEut7nSmVMZrqjAjLhS0JQyW8Pg2uqd4OT1TqSYodpEEWnc0wQKXecp3QdHMB-DZ0WQLQqRjE1pLAk/s320/Sm.hamburger66c.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410456795566972290" /></a><br />Over the course of nine months, I have made an investment in learning about Social Media. Some hands on (I have a twitter account @tishpiper and Tweet for other concerns) and done some Facebook for a non-profit and chocolate company. Yet I have this nagging feeling that I am just plain too old to get it or, for that matter, be able to successfully engage with the new media. That nagging stems from some Tweetups and the general age group involved with SM.<br /><br />But wait ... I have to admit that I learned how to use a slide rule before calculators were readily available, yet I still think I am viable in today's world of nanotechnology, device deluge and apps for this and that. Good technology is intuitive and I still possess the ability to think. <br /><br />So what's the problem? Is the technology of today only understandable by those under 35 years of age? Or are we "older" folks are just getting aced out because of preconceived notions by youth and business that breeds "New is the only good"?<br /><br />In one Social Media presentation, the speaker had a slide with "No Rules" as the basis for engagement and then gave example after example of how to play by the new rules. Even at my advanced age, I thought how ridiculous.<br /><br />Really, you have to play the game better and with those who have more savvy and experience before I toss in my towel. Show me the beef! (For those old enough to remember.)<br /><br /><!-- AddThis Button BEGIN --><br /><a class="addthis_button" href="http://addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=xa-4b15d088563e5da6"><img src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" style="border:0"/></a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=xa-4b15d088563e5da6"></script><br /><!-- AddThis Button END -->PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-80088465588991042592009-11-10T20:14:00.000-05:002009-11-10T20:45:47.490-05:00Room For One<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGfeh9MrLhrbkxYpMKhw1FPsOApqs6OsGJaGd5_0YInCtAleRtFzfG5qtmtBgA0dDjJG_JKAV4m-P9oJSFl90DteUNSpAGSksRXL0rNGjxbG31UWeUgcTXm-MS9iWPwuBLF2yF7Ea-V_4/s1600-h/trashcar.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 181px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGfeh9MrLhrbkxYpMKhw1FPsOApqs6OsGJaGd5_0YInCtAleRtFzfG5qtmtBgA0dDjJG_JKAV4m-P9oJSFl90DteUNSpAGSksRXL0rNGjxbG31UWeUgcTXm-MS9iWPwuBLF2yF7Ea-V_4/s200/trashcar.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402654855646117298" /></a><br />Last weekend, I saw the most amazing thing while I was stopped in traffic. A guy in a navy blue, four door sedan of undetermined origin pulled up along side my car and I just glanced in his direction. The car was filled with empty plastic bags!<br /><br />I mean the entire car with the exception of the driver's seat was filled with plastic shopping bags ... the kind you get in a grocery store kind of plastic. The bags reached over the back seat and spilled onto the back deck. There were some bottles of generic Ginger Ale loose in the mess, but the bags were compressed enough to stay in place. Sunlight was glinting off the bags nestled half way up the door windows.<br /><br />And, to add to this vision of chaos, there were stacks of newspapers on the dashboard. Only six inches or so ... the guy could still see through the windshield. The newspapers were yellowed with age.<br /><br />Now, some people's cars are like traveling toilets but this car was the epitome of personal trash collection. What would have to be present in this man's life to surround him with the remains of food shopping excursions?<br /><br />I had just ordered "Zen to Done: The Ultimate Simple Productivity System" by Leo Babauta and "Unclutter Your Life in One Week" by Erin R. Doland, David Allen. If ever there was a reminder to purge my life of the unnecessary, that car certainly sealed the deal with me.<br /><br /></p><p></p><p><!-- AddThis Button BEGIN --></p><p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=xa-4ab7a1b776bbc15e"><img src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" style="border:0" /></a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4ab7a1b776bbc15e"></script></p><p><!-- AddThis Button END --></p><div><br /></div><p></p>PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-4318322306234089702009-09-21T15:57:00.000-04:002009-09-24T15:28:55.643-04:00It Doesn't Take Much Or Does It?Saturday, I had an amazing conversation with a fellow NLP 'er and we discussed the various aspects of our lives with respect to the power of personal change. Each of us has had some transitions in life that, in retrospect, have turned out to be hidden pearls. By that I mean, situations that were definitely emotionally and mentally challenging, yet over the course of time have created richer and fuller lives. <div><br /></div><div>The adage, "No pain, no gain" comes to mind.</div><div><br /></div><div>In order to grow and develop, some pulling and parting occurs and can be temporarily devastating for us. The key word is temporarily. We may chose to hang on to that devastation for days, weeks or may make it our permanent condition until we opt for something else. The choice is ours.</div><div><br /></div><div>Some people may object to that notion, that it is our personal choice, and that outside forces have taken our choice away. Something or someone outside of us has created the havoc and we are blameless victims. That thought only works if you chose it. </div><div><br /></div><div>You cannot control anything outside of yourself ... and within yourself you have the reserves to control how you chose to respond to life's dilemmas, problems, and pains. Only if you want to.</div><div><br /></div><div>I suspect that the decision to take charge of our change centers around our ability to embrace it and learn it well. Then move onward.</div>PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-55988716405174528782009-09-19T21:27:00.000-04:002009-09-21T11:57:14.609-04:00September Sun<p></p><p>September has always been an enigma for me. Not quite summer but definitely not autumn. A transition month of epic proportions. After removing the back to school thoughts, this month has a certain glow that distinctly makes it retrospective.<br /><br />My daughter was born in September and that has held moments of total joy for me from the past and with each celebration of her birthday. For the rest of the time, I remember the ripe tomatoes still warm from the sun, the color of roses, the tastes of the herb garden, all slowly passing into the last stages of summer. I am reluctant to let that go each year because the horizon of frost robbing life is expected.<br /><br />Each September, I struggle with the change of weather which relegates the sandals and flip flops into the recesses of the closet and the restrictive leather of a full shoe pinches toes. Linen lets the cool evening air settle into my bones and fleece jackets ward off the chill. I think "Wasn't it just 90 degrees a few weeks ago?" Where has the time gone? That is what <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">transition</span> does for the mind and the soul.<br /><br />You cannot grasp a moment and hold it but only in memory. And, as we move closer to the next season, I will hold onto the moments of summer as long as I can.<br /></p><p></p><p><!-- AddThis Button BEGIN --></p><p><a class="addthis_button" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=xa-4ab7a1b776bbc15e"><img src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" style="border:0" /></a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4ab7a1b776bbc15e"></script></p><p><!-- AddThis Button END --></p><div><br /></div><p></p>PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-60635980774249137132009-07-08T20:55:00.000-04:002009-07-08T21:38:29.094-04:00Six Month Reflection<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm7v9a-r5S88vW-kl-2ZxZMxUfWV6VUpuNN1JRN6fOyDCTL8joTg1_3ztgnYbkkqrTqUkBU1H5l98uJnKMvqH331H1TA6K0E82_8ybMUGQn24G6CrRRreo_5iXkp4jWE9K5djsn6yZKlU/s1600-h/IMG_1383_2.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356267286933100594" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm7v9a-r5S88vW-kl-2ZxZMxUfWV6VUpuNN1JRN6fOyDCTL8joTg1_3ztgnYbkkqrTqUkBU1H5l98uJnKMvqH331H1TA6K0E82_8ybMUGQn24G6CrRRreo_5iXkp4jWE9K5djsn6yZKlU/s320/IMG_1383_2.JPG" /></a><br /><div><div><div>Half the year is over and a good time to reflect on what has passed thus far. My biggest change has been the ability to live in the present moment however it may appear ... meaning a joyous, sad, troubling, or peaceful moment. I realized that I was spending more time resisting the moment instead of embracing it. That's a lot of energy tied up with avoidance.<br /></div><br /><div>When I finally welcomed whatever was happening and what I was feeling, all the stress dissipated and I had a sense of quietness, peaceful acceptance. Someone called it surrender in a conversation last night. I don't like that word surrender because, for me, it means to give up, however, giving up gives a chance for the workings of the universe to prevail. If I orchestrate my life with detail, then I am missing out on a chance for the universe to create one far more powerful, colorful and enjoyable. To surrender to the universe's infinite design, I have a life that is large and not diminished by my narrow vision.</div><br /><div></div><div></div><div>That revelation was tremendous in allowing myself to get unburdened and start living a life that comes with grace and ease. I am still paying bills, working for money, interacting with people and seeing a bigger picture for me. Really marvelous. Yihaaaaaa!</div><br /><div></div><div></div><div>And, I'd like to give thanks to Marilou, Dale and Tom for this one!</div><br /><div></div><div> </div></div></div>PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-32983115762236714902009-07-06T20:46:00.000-04:002009-07-06T21:55:48.007-04:00The Sounds of Silence ... Maybe Not<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUg4PRvAV3wG0L7wQg2E2ffauGkl3qBncCy6EFmICo0LQcGngaQq1L8KetuONWvb0vt8u0_MIF-aTxUmbYV6u59Ib6OiRP_Oyc6g1U77sArQXofp_I9yryWvZ4NSX1Qb7EFBzonprjDwk/s1600-h/the+scream.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 89px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 126px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355528873238955858" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUg4PRvAV3wG0L7wQg2E2ffauGkl3qBncCy6EFmICo0LQcGngaQq1L8KetuONWvb0vt8u0_MIF-aTxUmbYV6u59Ib6OiRP_Oyc6g1U77sArQXofp_I9yryWvZ4NSX1Qb7EFBzonprjDwk/s320/the+scream.jpg" /></a> It is a perfect summer evening and I am sitting at the keyboard writing and biding time. Why? Salem is a snug little city with history and cramped housing. As each dwelling is situated nearer to its neighboring home than, let's say, an outhouse to the main house, there is a distinct lack of distance and shrubs to deaden a whisper. <div><br /><div></div><div>Now, comes my neighbor with the Hasbro karaoke <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">entertainment</span> center ... dials turned to the number 10 on all output channels. I suspect he fancies himself a late 60's rock star with a nibble at the 70's. The music raises in crescendo and this thin, flat voice rises from the din. Is that <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Freebird</span> I hear?</div><br /><div>I have shut all the windows on that side of the house in the hope of muffling the noise but despite my hermetic attempts, he is still beamed to my ears via the evening air. I don't begrudge his artistic sense, his strained vocal chords or his flat tone but I value my chi. His dog has now begun to yelp. Ah, he (my neighbor not the dog) has moved onto the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">mojo</span> rising refrain of Jim Morrison.</div><br /><div>Wait, there is a lull in this musical <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Tet</span> offensive. Is he done? <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Shhhhh</span>, it's quiet for the moment. Has he blown a fuse, forgotten the lyrics, received a threatening call from a less flexible neighbor? What else can be in store for this magical summer?</div><br /><div></div><div></div></div>PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-41193076555265013122009-07-01T19:07:00.001-04:002009-07-01T19:34:31.507-04:00The Sun Will Shine Tomorrow<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZuh5s7mmN2Pod9tyi4VFa8iBphsEZIIDASEwGPXdfeJeiUvJVdebk-2M6eq_QrCRsgvx2XBcKztWTjsWIUWdtoUSdrIA8UCmOfw1ng6RQkkxLtYvw_1mH9aPXWTCQtxJLmfyoOks1L2U/s1600-h/spaceimages_2056_44443805.gif"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 196px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZuh5s7mmN2Pod9tyi4VFa8iBphsEZIIDASEwGPXdfeJeiUvJVdebk-2M6eq_QrCRsgvx2XBcKztWTjsWIUWdtoUSdrIA8UCmOfw1ng6RQkkxLtYvw_1mH9aPXWTCQtxJLmfyoOks1L2U/s200/spaceimages_2056_44443805.gif" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353637797130861554" /></a><br />It has been a few months while I figured out how to best weave this blog into my business model. And, then I decided I can have both a personal viewpoint and business blog together. Today's bit of fluff is the weather. Now, I live in New England and as the locals say, "If you don't like this weather, wait a few minutes 'cause it will change." They lie.<div><br /></div><div>It has rained <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">continuously</span> for weeks. There was a brief window for the Jimmy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Buffett</span> concert in which fair weather prevailed but that is about it. People are down right depressed, lacking luster and dragging. Where is the sun? We've got global warming and no sun.</div><div><br /></div><div>I don't like to complain but we need some relief here. I head down to the beach all year long but I haven't made it since spring time. Heck, I'd have to wear my fleece at the shoreline to keep warm. By nature, I am a flexible sort of person but I am treading the fine line of snapping like a mime without a street corner. </div><div><br /></div><div>In the recesses of my mind, I know that all I have to do is ride this out ... the sun will shine eventually but right now I'm not betting my bottom dollar.</div>PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-43718382263941763452009-02-23T22:13:00.000-05:002009-02-23T22:19:19.496-05:00A Little Silence Please<span style="font-family:georgia;">In the mainstream of life, it is noisy out here. TV, radio, birds, cars, wind ... just to mention a few auditory distractions. I am aware that silence is not golden; it is non-existent. I will take a little white noise and focus on the nothing of silence. I suppose if I were that interested in silence I would head out into space.</span><br /><br />Learning how to filter out all the noise of life is my intention. Just the sound of me being, whatever that is.PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-14966386056809404532009-02-08T13:37:00.000-05:002009-02-08T13:48:58.380-05:00There Comes A Day<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifMrU9wGyTIwNzK9VaiSRFWOBKPrpc9vgLW_9AbXeZMn88QMIIfjW3YdM66olja9E544-Wez-ybEKhKZKU-qmgrvGU7S6wE4-aexWpF1OBrpnhxYtAP6NQQqSH4r8H_fWdjxPVo29qpGA/s1600-h/IMG_1526.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300497939245207330" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifMrU9wGyTIwNzK9VaiSRFWOBKPrpc9vgLW_9AbXeZMn88QMIIfjW3YdM66olja9E544-Wez-ybEKhKZKU-qmgrvGU7S6wE4-aexWpF1OBrpnhxYtAP6NQQqSH4r8H_fWdjxPVo29qpGA/s200/IMG_1526.JPG" border="0" /></a>There comes a day in winter that hints of spring! A day like today when for a small window, the sun sparkles like gems in the white beach sand and reflects back a warm glow from the melting snow. Although the wind pushes like a hand to your back, you know without a doubt that nature takes one step closer on its circadian journey toward spring.<br /><br /><br /><br />It's a day unparalleled in the winter of discontent.PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-32412460123730403052009-02-05T21:48:00.000-05:002009-02-05T22:27:13.319-05:00The Weather Outside Is Frightful<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGCb_-E7LH9JimmPZxTNPaWzsYLH1m7peLpvjCqspCx3Gg1MEjA5YjEXY62YVsyCPq5mSLpzzzcf7XPKI5ZWqAo2AdFv849Me-FFQ3KOMqZLP7N-Wk0n9sbhK6EWej44e9TJixDHkj3TI/s1600-h/napleswinternight.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGCb_-E7LH9JimmPZxTNPaWzsYLH1m7peLpvjCqspCx3Gg1MEjA5YjEXY62YVsyCPq5mSLpzzzcf7XPKI5ZWqAo2AdFv849Me-FFQ3KOMqZLP7N-Wk0n9sbhK6EWej44e9TJixDHkj3TI/s200/napleswinternight.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299520434950870930" /></a><br /><div>Can this only be the beginning of February? From the amount of snow, sleet, and freezing temperatures, New England has turned tundra-like in landscape. But what does this kind of weather do to people for an extended period of time?</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>We are New Englanders and 10 degrees can take on a balmy aspect when the winds don't blow but they have ... unyielding vents of cold, seeping into layers of sweaters, jackets and hats. Bitter beams of pale yellow sunlight, casting vague earthly shadows ... oh, the memory of scorching asphalt through flip flops. Seeking shade instead of heat huddles.</div><div></div><br /><div>While I personally have not visited a tundra, the intense feeling of being blocked by the elements is evidenced by my perception of a never ending season. And, to add fuel that that non-fire (sorry about mixing metaphors), the economy is also signaling a freezing up of sorts. Getting squeezed into a place of unrestricted fear with no place to run!</div><div></div><br /><div>Ultimately, in times like this, going inward is the only safe haven. And, by doing that gain the grace to press onward with plans, goals and dreams. Moving forward with new ideas and prospects for a better and warmer tomorrow. No one or thing can take that away unless you give permission.</div>PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-25017246993637161342009-01-10T20:13:00.000-05:002009-01-12T23:41:04.402-05:00Ditching The ClutterWith this New Year only days old, I have come to yet another major realization ... time to ditch the clutter. I am talking the things, people and places that no longer have a purpose, place or positive relationship with me. Wow, I feel 10 pounds lighter (and I could use that!).<br /><br />In reading about limitations people place on themselves, the most common is carrying around the past too prominently in their present. If you cannot ditch the past, then it is in your present life and soon to be in your future. That makes me feel <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">claustrophobic</span>, hemmed in, too heavy.<br /><br />And, to follow the Laws of Attraction, you just don't have any space for any new thing, person or place to enter your life. I think I will spring clean my life early this year.PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-15141936415359125382009-01-09T20:38:00.000-05:002009-01-10T08:32:51.126-05:00Minute By Minute<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinKf-M9W7BZYePqSMOF18uRJ0fpULoA-9nIfTJs_PB6N3hJDxZttTrYIdi20gzLkJ_54lYBaYkGDcZfOIIHcBwC_NI4GE0n0CfEF_f_Y5qrHA5PHysb_PTufMPeooarpVsknCzMbThSuY/s1600-h/Newburyport+Street.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5289478187257440274" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 241px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinKf-M9W7BZYePqSMOF18uRJ0fpULoA-9nIfTJs_PB6N3hJDxZttTrYIdi20gzLkJ_54lYBaYkGDcZfOIIHcBwC_NI4GE0n0CfEF_f_Y5qrHA5PHysb_PTufMPeooarpVsknCzMbThSuY/s320/Newburyport+Street.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>As I reminisce back to an old <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Doobie</span> Brothers tune (or at least I think they performed it), daylight is returning minute by minute. I am a definite spring/summer fan but this winning back the daylight is a wonderful challenge. Now, some people may think that I have so little to think or do, but the late afternoon light is a favorite sight. It is visually interesting to me how the slant of light changes as the day presses on through the hours until dusk.<br /><br />I always recognize this change of light first and not the morning side of day. Perhaps, it is because I am a night owl. Or is it the cusp between the light and dark that fascinates me and creates that moment of stillness? What ever is the driving force, the entire process leaves me sated that all is well with nature. </div>PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-82165396874970700932009-01-05T21:57:00.001-05:002009-01-05T22:08:44.193-05:00A Year of Change and More ChangeCan it be that change is taking place at breakneck speed and also at a snail's pace? I am not talking parallel universes here but making the observation that some aspects of my life change dramatically and quickly while others seem to languish on and on!<br /><br />2009 is a pivotal year for me. I am making few New Year's resolutions but the two that I have selected are enough for 12 months of work, fun and grace. After a series of years in introspection, it is time to put those thoughts and notions into action. I get a sense that the train is leaving the station this time and I had better get on board.<br /><br />As I take a quick look back at 2008, what a ride but no particular direction. This time, it is different ... I have a mission and I am off to make it a reality. The journey has always been in the map book; I just came across the page.PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-59623312715817075712008-11-25T21:10:00.000-05:002008-11-25T21:26:07.027-05:00Abundance in Times of FearIt has been a while since my last post ... life took a different road and I joined it. But for today, especially with Thanksgiving a few days away, I am reminded that even in times of fear ... of loosing, lacking or unknowing, abundance is right there. Experience has taught me that when you concentrate on maybe loosing a job, funds in the retirement account, or way of living, you get just what you were most frightened of in the first place. And coming from a place of abundance for whatever you have and the people in your life, you can never be powered by fear.<br /><br />There is no doubt that we are living in challenging times yet the interesting facet is how to use this exact time to fuel our dreams, hopes and conscious outcomes. If ever there was a time to dream big, plan big, and bring all that together for the future, that time is now. Small thinking brings small results.<br /><br />This year, I am powered by gratitude for the abundance in my life and the opportunity to grow from this experience.PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-36859307542411389942008-07-29T07:32:00.000-04:002008-07-29T08:03:04.542-04:00RememberingLast Friday, July 25'th, Randy Pausch died. He was the professor who became world known by his Last Lecture posted on <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ji5_MqicxSo">YouTube</a>. I came across his Last Lecture quite by accident and was so moved by his attitude and humor despite the fact that he did not have long to live due to his pancreatic cancer. I really couldn't imagine how he dealt with his disease given that he was young (he died at 47) and had a young family. In one of his interviews, he said that he needed to make sure that his family would be alright when he was gone. If his family should come to the edge of a cliff, he was busy making the safety nets to catch them in his remaining time.<br /><br /><br />How coincidental that he died on the day I posted about the birth day of an influential person in my life. That influential person was born on the 25'th of July, and died from cancer at the age of 47 last year.<br /><br />But life happens and so does death. We are all going to die someday. So, in our remaining time, however long, we can seek out our dreams and make them real or we can just idle our time until THAT day.<br /><br />I am busy dreaming, thank you.PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-74095097439225045572008-07-25T10:31:00.000-04:002009-01-12T23:38:33.228-05:00A Time of CelebrationI haven't written in a while, too much going on or maybe just plain lazy. But today is a special day ... the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">birthday</span> of someone who was very influential in my life. I chose to write today about how life is what we make it. Yes, I said that ... like everyone doesn't know that already. But really, I am not sure we understand the depth of that statement. We are the co-creators of our life, all the good stuff and not so good stuff and everything in between.<br /><br />Since there are no co-incidences in life (and yes I truly believe that!), you have to wonder about life, your life, all your experiences, joys and sorrows. These are all the things you have cleverly placed in your life to move through this journey. Heck, if I had known that earlier, I might have made different selections ... or not.<br /><br />So on this date, I am grateful of all the people and things that have entered into my life for it is that combination of events and happenings that have made me who I am. I think for the better.<br /><br />And, to that effect, many thanks dear friend, for your insight, compassion and outrageous love of life. If I have any lesson in life to learn, it is to appreciate the moment with gusto and be filled with joy.PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2238599956258646598.post-88507490113078471312008-06-20T10:22:00.000-04:002008-06-20T10:29:03.878-04:00Summer SolsticeToday is the first day of summer ... the longest day of daylight hours. Amazing as this marks the solstice, a celebration of life and abundance. And, as we move through our lives in whatever way we choose, I remember those who are not with us physically any more and how their spirit guides us and offers us serenity. A big thanks for another year ... another abundant time ... another period of possibilities.PatZ.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13941886868001666295noreply@blogger.com1