This is the perfect place to meditate and then read a book. I’d love to have a little nook like this. I love the colors, the idea, and the feeling that this image gives me inside. Here’s to peace!
Each year on my birthday I create a new set of goals. That’s just my thing… I find that it puts my year into perspective and provides a sense of focus. I guess I see my birthday as most people see the NEW YEAR. For the past few days I’ve been really thinking about the things that I set out to do last year when I turned 37. Today on my 38th birthday I am completely amazed! Amazed, you say? Yes, completely. You see, almost every year I do the same thing. I set goals with the highest of expectations and hold myself accountable for the things I want to do in those following 12 months. BUT TODAY, I’m taking a different approach! I actually want to base my “birthday goal list” on the things I DON’T want to do and the things I know for sure I DON’T want to become in the next year. I hope that makes sense.
This past year has revolved around self DISCOVERY and has taught me to pay more attention to the things that really matter. Perhaps, that’s why my approach has shifted. I realize that goals without a purpose are absolutely worthless. I think I’ve always known that but now is when I’m truly paying attention. So thank you 37… you’ve brought clarity to my life and this list is the result of that:
I DON’T want my essence to be changed:
I’d love to stay true to who I am. I’ll promise to enhance the “good” and continue to eliminate the “bad”. I’d love nothing more than to continue to make decisions because it is the right thing to do for Kathy and my family and nothing else. There is power in being YOU, in being genuine, and defending the things that you stand for.
I DON’T want to say I love you unless I really mean it:
I find that people say this just to make another person feel good but the question is: Do you feel good? Are you being sincere? If you truly care about someone you’ll find the appropriate words like…”You are amazing”, “You inspire me”, etc. I want to say the phrase “I love you” with conviction not as a reaction.
I DON’T want to lose sight of a good thing:
I seriously do not want to be so focused on what’s to come that I miss out on the opportunity at hand: This doesn’t mean I will not go for “BIG” it just means I won’t ignore the “SMALL” things.
I DON’T want to and WON’T be discouraged:
I often find myself explaining to people why I am so positive or why I’m constantly posting fabulous quotes. Well…while I’d love to say that my life is perfect, it’s far from it. I have many things to change and resolve just like everyone else. Here’s the thing–> happiness is a choice and it is my reality. I’m married to the love of my life, I have three beautiful healthy children, and the work that I do inspires me daily. So, why not spread hope instead of disdain? My quotes could very much be changing a person’s life if not a few. So, please bear with me because I’m not going to stop.
I DON’T ever want to feel entitled:
I’ve really focused on the actions of some of the people in my life and perhaps that’s why my circle of true friends has gotten smaller (I’m actually ok with that). It amazes me how emotionally impaired some people are. I don’t ever want to be in a position where I forget to say “Thank You”. I want to surround myself with like-minded folks that give back and don’t take things for granted. EVER.
I DON’T want to stop dreaming BIG–>HUGE:
All things are possible when you believe, when you do the hard work, when you take action, but above all when you operate from the heart.
37 I’m grateful for all you brought me and even the things that you didn’t. 38 I welcome you with open ARMS, an open MIND and an open HEART. I’m ready!
It’s been a while since I used Tumblr. What I share here is a bit more personal so it’s the perfect place to share my feelings today. Here goes:
The thought of spending your life with the person you love (and cannot imagine your life without) is probably one of the most heartwarming feelings ever. The reality is that we dream of the “Happily ever-after and the perfect wedding. Everybody yearns that movie-like kind of love. I know I did. When you find it, when it finally comes, you don’t want to let it go! It’s magical! It’s one of the reasons why I do what I do==> TO BE IN THE PRESENCE OF LOVE.
What happens when things don’t go as planned, though? When there is a betrayal of the vows that were once written with such passion and commitment? When the love is gone before you can experience the glory of marriage? When the details that once were so exciting are now a burden to your shattered heart?
As a confidant, a therapist, a friend, and ultimately a WEDDING PLANNER it’s so disheartening to see your client’s life come crashing down and feel that there is absolutely nothing you can do to help. It’s crippling! However, what I can do is say this:
LET GO of the negative thoughts immediately. This is not about your inadequacies. Connect with your loved ones like never before. They will forever be there for you. It’s ok to cry but when you do remember YOU are AMAZING. Don’t rush the healing process… let it take as long as it takes. In the meantime, be kind to yourself (very kind). Whatever you do ==>don’t give up on LOVE. While the pain and humiliation seems unbearable, you have the ability and strength to love again. You will heal. Your heart will once again be whole. Promise.
