Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Happy Break Fond Farewell

I've decided to cut back on blogging in the new year. I have a lot of projects on the go and having four active blogs is just too time-consuming right now.

So, when the .com domain runs out here at Happy Break, within the next month, it will revert back to:

www.takeahappybreak.blogspot.com

as I'm not going to renew the domain registration for another year.

I don't want to delete the archives though so I decided to go this route instead.

I loved the idea of a Happy Break blog when I started this blog a couple of years ago. I hope it's brought smiles and good energy to many readers, during the time I've been blogging here. I know many of  the archive posts are still being read on a regular basis and I'm glad for that.

I wish you all a wonderful, prosperous and productive 2013 and hope to see you at my other three blogs in the future. Those, I'm keeping active for now. :<)

Hugs, G

Sunday, December 16, 2012

The Message Still Rings True...



My holiday tribute to Charlie Brown.
 
This time of year, we get out our well-worn, much-watched VHS tape of Merry Christmas, Charlie Brown and give it another play.
 
A timeless message that still rings true. :<)
 
 
Here's a bit more about the history of Charlie Brown 's Christmas and the original post.  
 
 
 

Thursday, December 6, 2012

First Doggie Tours the White House at Christmas


I guarantee this will make you smile!
                                               

Bo: First Doggie, touring the White House at Christmas  scroll down a bit and then click on Bo Ho Ho at that page.

How cute is that?

Mr. Cheddar thinks they should have a cat but that's another story. ;<)

Happy Holidays!

Friday, November 16, 2012

I'm Taking a Happy Break!


 
 
I'm taking a break from blogging here for now as I am on my own special Happy Break!
 
I had some wonderful news in October and now I am following-up with a couple of projects that are taking up most of my time these days. All good stuff!
 
Some of you already know what I am referring too. :<)
 
 
In the meantime, I wish you lots of happy days, happy breaks and great surprises.
 
 
Dreams... can come true.


Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Life After Coffee and Corrie Street

  
 
 
 
 
I've recently given up two of my long-time habits/fixes/vices...
 
 
Regular coffee and Coronation Street AKA Corrie Street (a British soap opera for those who aren't aware of this very popular TV show).
 
 
When it came to coffee, I've been drinking java since high school and often several cups in a day. It was something I never thought I'd give up, I LOVED coffee, big time.
 
As I blogged about here, I had a recent health scare ending up at the Emergency department one morning with a racing heart. It was attributed back to a cup of regular coffee I had on an empty stomach, first thing in the morning; something I don't usually do. That was enough to convince me that the Cup o Joe has gotta go!!!
 
What was it like to give up coffee?
 
 Well, I did have about 4 days of withdrawal symptoms (click to read more about those) including a WHOPPER of a headache that I've read since in the equivalent of a migraine. Apparently, coffee shrinks the brain and when we don't have it after imbibing on a regular basis, a headache (big time) is likely to occur.
 
 I also had brain fog, lack of concentration, tiredness, nausea...but it all past and now I actually feel a lot better and more energetic without regular coffee.
 
I haven't given up decaf coffee or a bit of chocolate now and then though. Here's a chart that shows just how much caffeine is in a variety of foods. A big difference, when it comes to regular brewed coffee and decaf. I'll take the latter now any day: organic and water processed of course.
 
As far as Corrie St. again that's been an addiction since high school but recently I realized this was the last TV show I was still watching and I was bored watching it now, so why bother. The plot lines in recent years have gone from bad to worse, many that I found stupid, some plain offensive. I don't miss it, and have gained back 2.5 hours I wasted on it every week. But again, it was something I never thought I'd give up.
 
Isn't it funny how we can adapt and change our minds about things we thought  we "couldn't live without" if necessary. Or just because we've thought it through, about really needing/wanting something so much.
 
 
Life After Coffee and Corrie St. is just fine!! :<)
 
Photo courtesy of Flickr

Saturday, October 27, 2012

Warming the Soul: My Version of Black Bean Soup







Brrrr....it's a chilly one, here today in Interior BC.
 
 
I just posted this recipe for my version of Black Bean Soup over at my cooking blog and thought I'd share it here too. I'm making this for supper tonight along with Cornbread Scones.
 
When it comes to " "nurturing" and "warming the soul" is there anything better (especially on a cold day) than a big, steaming bowl of... oh, so satisfying soup? Right up at the top of my list!!! ;<)
 
 
 
What's on the menu at your place this weekend?
 
Have a Wonderful  Week!

Saturday, October 20, 2012

A Week of Small Miracles



I've had quite a week here. A week of small miracles....
 
On Tuesday morning, I had a feeling of my heart racing, sweaty palms, nausea....and so I "bit the bullet" so to speak and headed off (with Joe) to the Emergency at our local hospital.
 
Good news, it wasn't a heart attack. The "racing heart" and nausea got traced back to a cup of coffee I'd drunk on an empty stomach, something I don't normally do. I did find out that my heart and lungs are in good shape but I do need to get back to more exercise (which I already know). I'm not one for visiting doctors on a regular basis so it was great to find out in this round about way that my heart is in good condition, blood work good, lungs too.
 
After this scary "episode" I've decided to kick the caffeine habit altogether so I've been suffering through some withdrawal symptoms: headache big time after the first day without caffeine but I think the worst is behind me know. I actually feel better without it! I'm rather proud of myself for taking this step as I've been enjoying coffee for a LONG time and never thought I'd be giving it up. But it is a drug and it is something I can do without.
 
While I was lying in the hospital that day, it struck me what a miracle our bodies are. All the systems that work together to keep us going and try to keep us well. A miracle that's for sure. I was so glad to go home that afternoon but it was a wake-up to once again commit myself to getting fitter, cutting back a bit on calories and showing my body the respect it deserves, in all ways.
 
I also found out about an amazing book called the MindBody Prescription by Dr. John Sarno featured in this clip on the TV program: 20/20 from a few years ago. I've been trying this approach for about a week now for an ongoing ankle issue I've had that flares up, off and on. It really works! The pain in my ankle is almost gone already (amazing but true) and I am able to exercise and walk more freely than I have in a very long time.
 
I've always believed that the connection of our mind and body is key to our health and well-being. But this doctor takes it to a new level, relating so many pain issues back to repressed anger and other emotional issues. All I know is that it's a harmless approach and for me it's working well. For thousands of other people too, based on this report.
 
 
Miracles can happen in the most unexpected ways, can't they? :<)

Thursday, October 11, 2012

Mr. Cheddar, JJ and Ched's missing beret!!!



You might remember this photo and post from a while back, featuring Mr. Cheddar looking oh so handsome in his new knit beret!
 
A beret that only stayed on his head just long enough to take that (rather shakey) photo above!!!
 
 
Anyhow, it seems that another member of the family had "designs" on this hat:
 
 
 
 
 
That's right. JJ the Sock Monkey recently decided that this beret should not go to waste. Also, with the winter coming soon, perhaps JJ felt the need for a bit of headgear for himself. LOL
 
But, lo and behold, shortly after these pics of JJ were taken, Mr. Cheddar promptly went up and knocked the hat off JJ head in protest!!! Go figure. It was soooo funny to watch.
 
You can't have it both ways Ched. I made the hat for you but....if you aren't going to wear it, maybe it's time to learn the joy of sharing!
 
Hope these critters (real and not so real) bring a smile to your day! :<)


Saturday, October 6, 2012

Many Reasons to Be Thankful



It's Thanksgiving weekend here in Canada.
 
 
There is always much to be thankful for, in spite of the challenges that life presents.
 
I am grateful for many good people in my life, good health, living in a free country, free speech, the abilities I have....always so many reasons to be thankful. Sometimes it helps to take a minute and consider them all; especially on those difficult days....
 
 
I wish you a week filled with all kinds of blessings. :<)
 


Monday, October 1, 2012

Rest Awhile...

  
  
 
Rest awhile.
Far from the struggles and strains of life.
Find that place and seal it in your heart.
To pause; retreat to.
Where grace always dwells.
                                         

Rest awhile.
Put back the smile.
Somewhere lost.
Now: softly, silently returned.
                                        

Rest awhile.
Peace:
A beacon in the dark.
Sheltered, nurturing.
Safe and sublime.
 
                                           
Rest awhile.
Treasured moments.
Tranquil dawns.
May your tomorrows.
Outlive life’s storms.
 
***
                                                                           
This one's for you Lorraine. I hope you have a much better week. Hugs, G
 
“Rest Awhile…” © 2008 Geraldine H. Hartman
Photo courtesy of Flickr 

Sunday, September 23, 2012

Let It Go!

when….
 
 
*life deals yet another 22
 
*dark days of despair become the norm
 
*sunshine has left the sky; silver linings hard to find
 
*no one seems to notice when you do the “right” thing
 
*the bills arrive on time; THE cheque doesn’t
 
*when a friend betrays a confidence
 
*a family member let’s us down
 
*when someone else gets the promotion
 
*dinner is a disaster, in spite of best efforts
 
*another “winner” chosen for the contest
 
*when someone you care about is hurt for no reason
 
*the newspaper stuns with a front page of doom/gloom
 
*the bank account seems to have dwindled overnight
 
*the will to try just once more is just not there…
 
 
 
LET IT GO!
 
 
*a perfect 21 is also in that deck
 
*it is always darkest before the dawn
 
*the sun always shines, who needs a lining! 
 
*YOU always knows you’ve done the “right” thing
 
*the bills can wait one more day, the cheque IS in the mail
 
*maybe they weren’t that good of a friend after all
 
*forgive and forget is easier than bearing a grudge
 
*the job might not be the best for you upon closer scrutiny
 
*be thankful for food on the table and a second chance
 
*another contest is out there and it is YOURS
 
*to be sensitive to those in need is a gift. give it, often
 
*what about the “feel good” stories. they are there too.
 
*feel blessed to have a bank account with any money in it
 
*the best way to begin, is to begin; inspiration will follow
 
***
 
This is a poem I wrote a few years ago.
 
I was thinking about it again this past week and thought that the phrase: "let it go" would be a good thought/mantra to share. Sometimes, that's all we can do, isn't it?
 
Here's the link to the original post with reader's comments.
 
Have a wonderful week. :<)

Sunday, September 16, 2012

Word of the Week: Greatness!

 
 
 
"The greatness comes not when things go always good for you. But the greatness comes when you're really tested, when you take some knocks, some disappointments, when sadness comes. Because only if you've been in the deepest valley can you ever know how magnificent it is to be on the highest mountain."
 
-Richard Milhouse Nixon
 
 

"Think like a queen. A queen is not afraid to fail. Failure is another steppingstone to greatness."

-Oprah Winfrey
 
 
"Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but really great people make you feel that you too, can become great.
 
-Mark Twain 
 
 
***
 
 
 
I can't think of anything that inspires me more to consider life's endless possibilities and opportunities, than gazing at a beautiful sky.
 
 Greatness.
 
What an encompassing and beautiful ideal to aspire too.
 
We all have the potential to be great. Even if it applies to only one talent, skill, gift... isn't it worth aspiring too? 
 
I hope these quotes will inspire you to explore and discover your own path to greatness, this week and every week.
 
 ***

And some new posts at my other blogs:
 
 
 
 
My Real Life Reviews: Sea Glass Hearts (book review)
 
 

Sunday, September 9, 2012

Word of the Week: Catch-Up!

 
 
 
 
 
I'm planning for a catch-up week that might stretch to more like a month. LOL 
 
My desk "pile" (overflowing into a box now...) has gotten a bit "unruly" as of late. LOL In particular, a backlog of books and also some products to review, over at: My Real Life Reviews .
 
I'm also waiting on several book reviews pending for my two new poetry books and more review copies coming in the mail right now, so I know how frustrating it can be to wait. My apologies to anyone who's sent me a book that I haven't reviewed yet. It is NOT forgotten.
 
I'm also working on my novel. Still going great but every time I think I'm almost done, the plot "takes off" in another direction! I'll take it though. So much better than the blank screen/page/mind syndrome. ;<) We've all been there, right?
 
I have a gazillion projects on the go but I know so well that focusing and finishing one at a time, is always the best course of action, if at all possible. Or alternately, having a goal of a portion to complete, on any given day. That works too, especially for larger projects.
 
So, it's catch-up week here. I hope I've inspired you to work on your own pile of projects too. It's soooo satisfying to get them completed!
 
Happy Week, G :<)

Sunday, September 2, 2012

Word of the Week: Talisman

 
 
Do you believe in talismans?
 
  
This gorgeous "sachet" type talisman above was made for me by a friend who is a good (white)witch. It contains various herbs and plants believed to ward off evil.
 
 I have it on the back of our front door, along with: a rosary, cross, (very) small totem ...covering all the bases, so to speak. ;<)
 
This lovely talisman is also an ongoing reminder of my friend's concern and support, while I was going through a very difficult time. That kind of friendship is a gift and a treasure. Her thoughtfulness in making this personal and unique gift for me meant so much.
 
 
 


This is my writing talisman.
 
 I wear it when I'm working on creative writing projects. Another gift. I love the symbolism of the sun, the light, shining....all good.

Some writers wear hats, a certain T-shirt etc... I like my sun necklace.
 
 
I'm also sharing an archive haiku/haiga over at My Poetic Path today, featuring the theme: talisman. Hope you'll stop by to see that too.
 
 
 
I wish you a week filled with wonders of all kinds, including luck and good fortune.
 
 
Don't forget your talisman! ;<)
 
 
 
 

Talisman:

an object held to act as a charm to avert evil and bring good fortune
 
- something producing apparently magical or miraculous effects
 
Definition courtesy of Merriam Webster.com
 
 

 


Sunday, August 26, 2012

A LOL with Mr. Cheddar and His New Pal !!



Mr. Cheddar and his new pal JJ !!
 
 
Feel free to leave a caption if one comes to mind.
 
 
For me, it's: RIDE THE CHAMPION!
 
Remember those mechanical horses they use to have at malls and grocery stores? Maybe they still do! I loved riding the Champion. Looks like JJ does too.
 
I don't know if the Chedster is all that amused though. ;<)
 
 
Wishing you a happy week with LOTS of LOL's.

Sunday, August 19, 2012

Word of the Week: Focus


FOCUS

 
It's so easy to get distracted, isn't it?

To have our thoughts go in all different directions, instead of being focused on one thing at a time. This is an issue I am constantly working on.

But I know how important it is to be focused. In theory at least. ;<)

If we are going to do our best work on any kind of project or task, we can't also be mulling over: what to make for supper, whether the plants need watering, filing nails at the same time...the list goes on and on.

 I have also been making an effort recently not to get signed up for too many "extras" online, that take up time and often in rather trivial ways including: too many newsletters, email alerts...lots of distractions. I'm also not a fan of Facebook or Twitter anymore. I know a lot of people just love these social media sites but for me, they were just more ways to waste precious time.

On the other hand, I don't consider blogging a waste of time, at all. I find it energizing and stimulating. Writing posts and visiting my (many) fav blogs. These pursuits add to my day, in a positive and productive way. Within reason for blogging time, of course!!! LOL 

I have a number of wonderful and diverse creative projects on the go right now that I am really excited about. I'm swamped, but in a good way! But in order to proceed with all of them productively, I need to have a plan each day what I'll be working on.

 Focusing...instead of randomly trying to work on several tasks and getting diverted and distracted along the way.

Multi-tasking appears to be productive but apparently it isn't. That's been proven again and again. I blogged about multi-tasking vs chunking  previously here.

I hope you find this word/mantra for the week helpful with your own creative pursuits.


WISHING YOU A HAPPY AND PRODUCTIVE WEEK!  :<)

Sunday, August 12, 2012

Word of the Week: Open




OPEN

 
Being open to new ideas, suggestions, opinions...I think it's so important.

 Something that I've noted in my own life, again and again. When I had a belief, opinion, sometimes a misconception... about a particular topic, then did a complete "360" after talking to someone or reading an alternate opinion. Sometimes right away and sometimes, it took some time.

 
Being open keeps us "in the loop" vibrant, young at heart. Not that it isn't good to have personal beliefs that don't change and are part of who we are. But there are so many things that aren't "written in stone". That might at some time, be good to take another look at. Listen with an open heart.

 
Nothing is more beautiful than a flower, just opening it's beauty to the world.

Here's to being open and as fresh as a blooming flower, throughout life.

Makes things interesting too, don't you think? :<)

 
Wishing You a Wonderful Week! 

Sunday, August 5, 2012

Word of the Week: Evolve



I'm participating over at One Single Impression today. The prompt this week is shortcut.

I loved the prompt and wrote a haiku for it.

One of the words I used in my haiku was: evolve. Another word I love.

You can see my One Single Impression post here.

As I said in my haiku, we really do evolve "all in good time" I think. There are no shortcuts.

When we try to rush things, strain against the supposed "obstacles" that come up along the way, it rarely seems to work. Struggling to speed things up, in terms of where we think we should be heading and what we should be doing.

To evolve....to continue to learn, grow and improve. 

Wishing you a wonderful week on your life's journey. Namaste!

Sunday, July 29, 2012

Word of the Week: Productivity!



I've been away from blogging for the past month, working on a number of offline projects.

It's been a most productive month! :<) 

I finished up a number of craft projects that have been "in the works" some for a long time including a couple of gifts I sewed. Book orders ready and sent. Proposals I'm working on....

The crafts, I'll  be sharing over at Veggies...in the near future, with photos.

 The weather was for the most part was toooo hot to enjoy much outdoor activity so I wasn't tempted to venture outside all that much. I am not a fan of overly hot weather.

I also completed my haiku poetry book: Haiku Reflections; The Four Seasons, now available for sale over at Amazon. Again, another project I was happy to complete and also happy with the results.

And I've been working through the edits of my novel. Again, going very well. I'm really feeling hopeful and positive about the story I've written. Some knowledgeable (former and new) contacts in the book biz. have "surfaced" recently, so I'm getting some pointers/advice how best to proceed after I'm finished with all the edits and ready to go from there. 

 I was procrastinating on this project, truth be told. After I had finished my first draft, I was excited and at the same time, apprehensive about the next step in the process. But now that I have gotten past that hurdle and have actually started working to finish the book, I am really feeling good about my work.

A long time ago, a man I was involved with shared this quote with me, apparently credited to L. Ron Hubbard, of Scientology "fame". I'm NOT a fan of Scientology but I did like this quote and I never forgot it:

"Production is the Basis of all Morale"

I don't know about the ALL part but being productive is so energizing, when it comes to creative projects. Taking an ordinary or even bad day and turning it around for the better.

Another quote I like:

"Just begin, the inspiration will follow."

This one shared by a famous Canadian painter I had the privilege to interview years ago.

Sometimes, we don't feel like starting. I know that only too well. But the inspiration DOES follow. The best way to begin, is, to begin (my quote) and it's so true.

Best of luck with all your creative pursuits too! When we encourage and support each other, it's even easier to be productive I believe. Positive vibes and energy, love it!!!!

I'll be catching up with all my blog visiting this week.

Happy Week!

Monday, July 2, 2012

Word of the Week: Goodness


I decided to resurrect my "word of the week" posts, to share a word that's been on my mind a lot lately:

goodness.

I tend to be overly sensitive and regularly get "bogged down" when I read or see stories about violence, cruelty, inhumanity....They come to mind, again and again and often stop me from sleeping too. I'm not one of those lucky people that can "hit the pillow" and be out like a light. My mind tends to go into overdrive on many a night and often not with happy, peaceful thoughts.

At the same time, this simple but rather profound thought came to me a while back and it has helped me to cope a bit more when dark thoughts come to mind.

And that good thought is how things in the world seem to balance out and still favor the goodness of people in general. The stories that aren't always front and center. There are lots of them. The inspiring people who do more than their share to "do the right thing" and make a difference for the better, on a regular basis.

Yes, the darkness, the evil is always there. The free will that has gone so far astray for too many people, for whatever reasons.

But the goodness, the light is always shining too and hopefully, still out-weighing, the bad things that happen in this world. Miracles, good deeds, beauty, ethics, truth, intergrity....it's all there. 

 
***
 
 
PS: I'm taking a blog break starting this week, for the rest of July.
Time to get outside and off the computer.

Hope you are having a wonderful summer!

Saturday, June 23, 2012

A Rainy Week Haiku



We've had a week of almost non-stop rain, here in Interior BC and more to come.

I was going through some previous haiku posts over at My Poetic Path this past week and noted this one. Thought it was in keeping with the current weather and forecast too. It's one of my favs actually.

 I remember taking this photo and wondering at the time if it would show up as well in a photo as the reality was. I think it did.

Hope you have a lovely week. :<)

And hope to see some of you over at One Single Impression too.

The prompt this week is: crystal. My suggestion, so I will definitely be there LOL.

Sunday, June 17, 2012

It's a Sunny Sunday!




It's a sunny day, here in Interior BC. I hope it lasts.

What a treat to see the clouds roll away....


  Happy Summer Solstice too! :<(

Thursday, June 14, 2012

A Cool Summer Haiku!




This is especially for those of you who are enduring hot, summer weather right now.

A haiku/haiga that's been getting quite a few page views in recent days, over at My Poetic Path. I hope it helps to bring cooling thoughts to mind.

Here in Interior BC it's far from hot. I'm still wearing a sweater this morning. But I have lots on the go so the weather is not a distraction like it would be, if it was a perfect, sunny day. LOL

Happy Thursday. :<)

Saturday, June 9, 2012

BRRRRR.....Baby, It's Cold Outside!


The forecast for Interior BC continues to be rain, rain and more rain.

A predicted HIGH today of only 9C! BRRRRR....

Wowsa. I'm no hot weather fan when it gets to the other end of extreme but I am getting tired of wearing sweaters in June. Speaking of sweaters, I haven't even bothered to take my summer clothes out for this year. If this keeps up, I probably won't have to.

What's your weather been like?

Oh well, a good weekend to stay indoors and get lots of things done online and in the kitchen, etc...and I've got plenty of projects I'm working on!


Happy Weekend, whatever your weather brings. :<)


PS: Monday June 11th. Happened to notice this video on the Weather Network. SNOW in Manitoba!!! I'm wondering if that's headed this way too. Weird weather indeed.

Sunday, June 3, 2012

A Serene Scene and Excellent Book to Recommend





I'm currently finishing my haiku book. I also started re-reading: Haiku Mind by Patricia Donegan recently.

Ms. Donegan brings up a good point in Haiku Mind, reminding the reader to be in the moment, savor the moment...in even the mundane, every day tasks we do each day. Taking out the garbage, she stopped to commune with a butterfly. Enjoying the quiet before beginning a busy day. Just one example from the book that really made me think.

One of the aspects of haiku that I like the most is how a single moment or experience can be expressed/revisited, in only three short lines/ 17 syllables, in the traditional haiku form. It really is a magical form of poetry in my opinion!

Life IS the journey, not the destination. So true. We can miss a lot along the way that can bring us joy, peace....right here, right now; if we are always dwelling on the tomorrows and our plans for the future.


If you haven't read Haiku Mind, it's an excellent book. I reviewed it last year at My Real Life Reviews. You can read the full review here.


Hope you savor a tranquil moment; enjoying this "serene scene" and have a great week!

Saturday, May 26, 2012

Guaranteed to Make You Smile: LiaBug !!



How's this for a cutie?


This is darling Lia, granddaughter of Cathy over at The Voice Within.


Lia is modelling the LadyBug hat I made for her in the photo above. It's a bit big right now; Lia isn't quite a year old and hat is sized for 1-3 year olds. But I think she looks sooooooooooooooo cute, even the way it fits right now.

Stop by Cathy's blog for the link to the pattern page at Etsy too. I made a few adjustments but basically used the pattern.


I'm still limiting my time online due to my recent eye injury. My eye is almost back to normal, yippeee...it was a week ago that it happened, yesterday. Made me appreciate once again, how precious the miracle of sight is.


Have a Wonderful Weekend! :<)

Sunday, May 20, 2012

The Miracle of Sight

I'm taking a few days off from the computer, for the most part.

I managed to jab one of my eyes with a fingernail on Friday morning. My eye is healing but it's still quite red. A very upsetting experience.

I'm trying not to do too much with my eyes for now. Such a weird little accident to happen. I've never done anything like this before. It's made me appreciate in a significant way, the miracle of sight. And how we usually take it for granted, at least I have.

Have a great week.

Monday, May 14, 2012

Yoga for Healing

I recently got back to practising hatha yoga on a regular basis. I am SO glad that I have and for so many reasons.

 I'm now up to 4 sessions a week. I plan to add a creative visualization component to each session in the near future; just waiting for some CD's to arrive for this. I'll be reviewing at least one of these CD's over at My Real Life Reviews too, after I've had a chance to test them out.

I found this wonderful and detailed article about the many benefits of yoga over at HolisticOnline.com recently. The benefits of yoga seem to be limitless.

Personally, after re-starting my yoga poses a few months ago, I've already noted some wonderful and significant results: I sleep better, have better balance and flexibility, an issue with one of my ankles that flares up is getting better, my skin looks smoother....the list goes on and on.

Do you practise yoga? What are some of the benefits you've noted?

It's not surprising that yoga is as popular as it is!

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Finally... Some Sunshine!



After a long and very dreary winter and early spring we are finally having some beautiful, sunny days; here in Interior BC.

Joe and I spent part of yesterday down by the lake. It was wonderful to feel the rays of sun and warmth on my face.

I don't think anything says sunny and bright quite like Brown-eyed Susan daisies so I thought I'd share this photo today.


Have a Wonderful Week  :<)

Thursday, May 3, 2012

Back to Lumosity and Loving It!

                     


                            


I wrote this review of Lumosity (brain-training) program, last year at My Real Life Reviews.

In spite of really enjoying the program, I did let my regular sessions lapse along the way.

In the past month, I signed up for a one year membership at Lumosity and I'm so glad I did.

It was interesting to see the back-sliding I had (not too bad but still significant) getting back to the brain exercises there. My previous scores/history were still available to compare. I'm back to progressing now and my scores are happily going up again.

If you've never checked out Lumosity before, it's definitely worth a try. They have free trial (with no obligation or annoying spam!) before you commit to anything. I always appreciate that. And millions of users from around the world in all age groups too.

Brain-training can be fun. :<) 

Let me know if you've given Lumosity a try. I'd love to hear what you think!

Saturday, April 21, 2012

Taking a Moment to Celebrate the Earth

                                           


Our Supreme Mother.
Knows nothing of the word: hesitate.
Moving,shifting,adapting,changing- constantly.
In the eye of a vicious and relentless storm.
Not one of Her making or choosing.
              
She stands:
resolute and alone.
Struggling to survive, to flourish.
As forces beyond Her control,
Chip away at the majesty of our fading blue planet.
She has not failed us.
                 
She will not give up without a fight.
And in return and in reply:
Can we afford to hesitate, any longer?


***

This is a poem I wrote a couple of years ago over at My Poetic Path. I think these words ring truer (and louder so to speak) with each passing year.

The Earth Day site is a great place to read about many ways we can help the Earth, every day. Earth Day, April 22nd is just a good reminder to make it a priority.  

Simple, positive initiatives that add up to big changes; one person at a time.

And aren't those kinds of "revolutions" the best and most lasting of all?

Can we afford to hesitate?

Saturday, April 14, 2012

So, How Was Your Friday the 13th?

I was surprised to see all the hits for this particular post yesterday re: Friday the 13th.

In that post, I had shared an inspiring quote for that date, last year. Over 400 people read that post here yesterday and the visits continue today. My other blogs had extra traffic to Friday the 13th posts too!

I had a regular, ordinary day, yesterday. Nothing oh so wonderful, but nothing bad either LOL.
I am a bit superstitious but not about that particular date.

What are your thoughts on Friday the 13th? Hope you had a wonderful, extra-lucky day yesterday in spite of the date!!!

PS: Mr. Cheddar is now posting his very own haiku poetry over at Veggies, Yarns & Tails!

His first haiku poem was posted today.  


Happy Weekend! :<)

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Mr. Cheddar: Kinda,Sorta...Back on Bug Patrol!

                               


Is that a speck of dirt Meowmie or a BUG???


We've had a few warm days here recently and with it, the appearance of the first bugs/insects of spring.

It should be the time for Mr. Cheddar to spring into action and be on "bug patrol" . The reality the other night, was far from it.


It is a BUG!  Yikes....a big, big bug!!!!



That's better.

 Stay on that side of the bar and we'll get along just fine, OK?





Oh Meowmie, I am not hiding behind my Cat Cave.

I'm just looking for something. Go away with that camera!

***

And that is exactly what happened.

The bug made a jump and Chedster did too. Right behind his Cat Cave, where he stayed until the bug disappeared. Amazing but true. LOL


As any of Mr. Cheddar's fans already know, he like to be considered strong and capable, especially in terms of his bug-catching abilities. But when it comes to BIG BUGS (click to check out some history on that subject) well....let's just say, some things never change.


We love ya Cheddie, even if you are afraid of bugs.

I wouldn't want to eat them either. ;<)


PS: Sorry for the blur...Camera shake unavoidable when it comes to capturing Ched and bug photos!!!

Sunday, April 8, 2012

An Adorable and Oh So Talented 6 Year Old!

Saw this on the CBC News on Friday.

Such a talented little girl and as cute as can be.
And performing at Carnegie Hall this weekend! Impressive.

If you need a smile, click on through. Sure works for me.

Happy Week. :<)
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