Happy New Year! Welcome 2015!

As I wrote in my blog "Happy New Year!" dated December 31, 2012, I decided to make a "New Year's Jar" instead of a "New Year's Resolution".  The idea is to write down all the wonderful things that happen during the year and put it into the jar.  On New Year's Eve, you open the jar and read about all the fabulous things that went on during the year.  It's a great way to end one year and begin the next.  You're swimming in positive energy and taking that energy right into the new year.  It's an unbelievable  experience and I highly recommend it.  I have and will continue to perform this practice.  It's a very rewarding experience.

I've always felt like I was supposed to be doing something more with my life, ...something different.  On the blog "Wake Up World" I read the following question, "Can you remember who you were before the world told you who you should be?"  That really spoke to me.  I've decided that this year, besides doing the "New Year's Jar", I'm going to explore that question.  It will be interesting to see how this plays out.  I hope to "remember" who I was (or was supposed to be) before the world told me something else.  If I have any "ah ha" moments, I'll be sure to share them with you.

So how about all of you?  How are you going to celebrate the end of one year and the start of a new one?  How ever you decide to celebrate, I wish you peace, love, good health, joy
and magic in the coming year.

Love,  Paula

Teachers In Disguise

The other day as I was talking to my youngest son, I found myself judging a person I knew of, had met, but didn't really know.  Even as I was taking I couldn't believe I was being so critical, but I couldn't stop myself.  Who was I to be judging ANYONE?!!!

The next day I remembered a "teaching" I had received.  The people that show up in your life are a reflection of YOU.  They mirror something about yourself that you either like, or don't like.  Since this person shows up in my life every so often, I realized that I had to look at her and see what it was about her that didn't set well with me.

In my opinion this person is snobby, condescending and kind of full of herself.  W-O-W!  Is that how some people see ME?!!!  I think I'm friendly, outgoing and a pretty nice person over all.  Maybe she sees herself that way as well.  She has friends that probably see her that way, but to "outsiders" she's not quite so friendly.  Maybe it's a protection mechanism.  Do I do that?  Am I closed off to strangers or new people I meet?  What an eye opener.  This is an issue I need to start paying attention to and start working on.  I am so grateful to this person for showing up in my life to teach me how to be a better person.  I have some work to do.

Try to remember my story when someone shows up in your life that makes you uncomfortable.  They can be some of your best teachers.  They can show you things that need improvement in your own life.  Be grateful for them.  They may be "Teachers In Disguise'
.

Love,  Paula

Happy Thanksgiving

This week is Thanksgiving.  It brings to mind many different things for many different people.  You may think of family, friends, food, football, shopping, or any combination of these things.  But this year, lets try to remember the real reason for the holiday.  It is a day specifically set aside to remember to give thanks for all the blessings in our lives.

Every single minute of every single day, we are flooded with gifts for which to be grateful.  We have snow, rain, sunshine, moon, stars, good health, family, air to breathe, trees, flowers, food, and water... just to name a few.  WE ARE BLESSED!!!

Often in my blogs I remind you - as I am reminding myself - to be grateful for all we have.  We should give thanks every day.  But at least for this Thanksgiving, as we are enjoying all we have, please remember to take time out to give thanks.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

Love,  Paula

Grateful

Have I ever mentioned how much I L-O-V-E autumn?!  It is absolutely my favorite time of year.  The days start getting shorter, so obviously the nights start getting longer.  As I mentioned in my blog "Super Moon, Super Evening" dated August 11, 2014, I'd rather moon and star bathe than sun bathe. So longer nights are fine with me. The weather starts cooling down a little and I love that.  The colors are gorgeous!!!  Halloween and Thanksgiving are in the fall.  Then there are the apples, cider, pumpkins, squash, and local concord grapes.  What's not to love?  It's the perfect time of year.

This year has been exceptional.  We've had an incredible autumn.  Where I live, it's usually cold by the beginning of November and the trees are mostly bare.  But this year, the first half of November was breathtaking.  Until a week ago, I was able to go for walks in just a long sleeved shirt and no jacket.  The trees showed off their beautiful reds, golds, oranges and yellows in the sunshine against bright blue skies.  I enjoyed and savored every minute of it.

Now the snow has started.  It's a little earlier than usual, but that's okay.  If we can remember to live fully each and every day with gratitude, we'll have no regrets.  We'll be ready to move on to the next day and look forward to whatever that day may bring... even if it's snow.

We are all so blessed.  Each day is it's own special gift.  Remember to enjoy every moment of every day.  Live fully and be grateful.

Love,  Paula

A Reason, A Season, A Lifetime

I'm the type of person that likes to keep in touch with people.  I'll call, e-mail, Face Time, set up lunch dates, meet to go for walks, all kinds of things like that.  I also enjoy helping people if I can, in any way I can.  Whenever asked, I'll do whatever I can to help someone out.

Sometimes, after I've helped someone, we'll lose touch.  I'll call or e-mail, but for whatever reason, it seems we just can't find time to get together.  Eventually I give up.  I used to feel bad about that.   I couldn't understand why... what happened.  Then I remembered the old saying, "People enter your life for a Reason, a Season, or a Lifetime."  That was it.  That was my answer.

Some people come into your life for a Reason.  It's very specific.  The reason may be to help you with something you're going through or to help you learn something you need to know.  Maybe you are to help them or teach them something.  Most times it's both.  But it's meant to be a relatively short encounter.  Once the "problem" is solved, the relationship will be over - not in an unfriendly way - it will just seem to fade away.

Some people come into your life for a Season.  There is something you need to go through together that will take a little longer.  It may be an experience, a class, an interest of some kind.  You may be in each other's lives for many years.  But once you've gone through what you're supposed to go through  together, it's over.  You may not even realize it at first.  But suddenly it will occur to you that you haven't been in touch with this person in quite awhile.

Some people will come into your life for a Lifetime.  These are your true friends and family.  They're the ones that will be with you throughout your life.  They'll be there to experience everything with you and you with them.

The important thing to remember is that it's all okay.  It's all the way it's supposed to be.  It doesn't make any one of the relationships better or more important than the others.  They're all important. They all serve their purpose.  Be grateful for all the people who have come in and out of your life.  Savour each and every experience and lesson learned.  After all, they're all part of what makes you the amazing person you are today.

Love,  Paula

The Antidote

This is a blog I posted in February 2012.  I was recently talking to a friend about this concept.  She got very excited about it.  It made me think that maybe it was time for me to repost it.  After these many years,  I still feel as strongly about it now as I did then.  And I STILL need your help.  Please read and enjoy.  And if it "speaks" to you, respond with your stories.  Thank you. There's a story about a father and his little boy going shopping together. On the way they get stopped by a train. While sitting there waiting, the father gets upset and impatient. He's annoyed at the disruption in his plan. When the train passes and they're able to continue on their way, the little boy says, "Isn't it great, dad, that we got to see the train together?" They both had the same experience, but a different focus. One perspective brought stress. The other brought joy and wonder.

This past October someone tried to break into my home. Notice I said TRIED. My husband is angry. He can't believe that anyone would do such a thing. It's been four months and he's still angry. I was relieved that they didn't get in. I wasn't thrilled at the attempt, but I was appreciative of the outcome. I have no anger or fear. I feel very safe in my house BECAUSE they didn't get in. Again, we had the same experience, but a different focus.

For years I've been hearing people complain about the news. "It's so depressing." "You never hear anything good." "The world is going to hell." If that's all you hear, you may start to believe it. But it doesn't have to be that way.

I believe it's time to change our focus. For example, the news will report there is 10% unemployment. Maybe that's true, but the focus is on UNEMPLOYMENT. Now let's turn that around and say there's 90% employment. 90% is a solid "B." Not a bad grade, right? It's the same news, but now the focus is on employment. Can you see the difference? Let's focus on EMPLOYMENT so we can attract more of that.



Three years ago I had a vision. I envisioned a news source that would only report positive, empowering news stories. Everyone I shared the vision with thought it was a wonderful idea. I wanted to give the idea to Gannon University's communications department. I thought it would be a perfect fit. The Community Access TV Station is practically on their campus. It would give the kids experience looking for stories, writing, directing, being in front of the camera and being behind the camera. And the university would be graduating students trained to look for the positive, not the discordant. I put in a call to the head of the communications department. He didn't get back to me. I called again. He didn't get back to me.

After two months, I decided it wasn't meant to be. So I called Behrend's head of communications. She did get back to me but didn't understand the concept. She also works for a local television station doing the news. She said they already report positive news. And they do... one story, once or twice a week. She didn't quite get it, but I appreciated the courtesy of a call back.

After several setbacks, I let this sit for over a year. But I never let go of the vision. I really feel like this is an idea whose time has come and now I have a format to make it happen. But I need everyone's help.

I have a new tab on my "Love, Paula" blog site. It's called "The Antidote". What I'm asking is:

1. You share your positive, empowering stories
2. You spread the word

My vision is called "The Antidote" because it's the positive antidote to all the negative news being broadcast. It's a place you can go to fill up with positive, affirming news. It's also a place for you to share your stories. When you see or hear of something wonderful going on in your community, post it here!

Now, I know we all have great stories of things family or friends have done for each other. That's not exactly what I'm looking for. Family and friends do things out of love. That's great! But it's what family and friends do. I'm looking for stories that go over and above that.

I'm looking for stories of people helping people they may not even know. People doing good without looking for a reward. It can be something big, or something as simple as noticing someone give up a seat to an elderly person. The entries can be a line or several paragraphs. Share links to positive news stories! Let's change our focus and start looking for all the good things going on around our communities and the world. Let's get started together and see where this goes!

Thanks for your help and support in making my vision happen. We can do it!

Introducing... The Antidote!

Click here to start sharing your stories.

Love, Paula

I'm Perfect In My Imperfection

Do you ever do that thing where you look at yourself in the mirror and all you see are your imperfections?  I think we all do.  I know that most times when I look in the mirror, my eyes are immediately drawn to what I perceive are my imperfections.

The other day as I was meditating, I received a revelation.  The parts of me that I perceived as imperfections are actually "gifts" from my parents and ancestors.

I have what I call pudgy knees.  There's actually fat on the insides of my knees.  As I was meditating it occurred to me that my mother and her cousins all have this same fat.  Now when I look at this "imperfection", it makes me smile and think of my mom.

I've always found fault with my nose.  I felt like it was larger than it needed to be.  Also, I'm the only one in my immediate family that has a bump on my nose.  After some reflection I remembered my grandfather.  Now when I see my nose, I think of my grandfather.

I could go on and on.  My point is, since this revelation I have a whole new outlook.  Each and every one of my perceived imperfections makes me smile.  They remind me of the people I inherited them from.  I've finally come to the realization that I'm perfect in my imperfection.

Love,  Paula

It's All In My Head

I'm sure you've all heard that old saying, "It's all in your head".  When people say that, they're indicating that whatever you're thinking or experiencing isn't real.  It only exists in your head.

I'm 63 years old and in relatively good health.  I have a few minor issues.  First, I have the start of glaucoma which is being kept under control with eye drops.  The second thing is my hearing.  I'll be getting hearing aids soon.  Then there's my teeth.  They've been an issue for years.  I'm told I have soft teeth and it's just something I have to live with.

The other day it occurred to me that all my issues are literally in my head.  I found that interesting and kind of funny.  So... are these things real or did I make them happen because I believed what I was told.  I believed that because of family history, these things were inevitable.  Did I just give up and accept it all?  Is there something I could have done to prevent it?  Is there something I could or should be doing now?

I'm a firm believer in having a positive attitude.  I believe that our thoughts, words and actions are creative.  So if you ask me how I'm doing, I usually answer, "Fabulous!"  And I AM fabulous.  After all... It's All In My Head!!!

Love,  Paula

The Art Of Medicine

Most doctors mindlessly prescribe antibiotics even if they won't help.  It seems to be the automatic "go to".  Doctors feel like they've earned their pay.  Patients feel like they've received some help.  Of course, nothing could be further from the truth.  We know now that by over prescribing antibiotics, "super bugs" have been created.  These "bugs" will find a way to survive any medications that are thrown at them



My daughter-in-law has recently been ill.  She went to the doctor.  He never officially called it the flu, but said there was a "bug" going around and it would probably take about two weeks to get through it. He didn't prescribe any medication because he said that wouldn't do any good.  There was no medicine to help this.  He did suggest however, that she take some echinacea and zinc to help build and support her immune system to help her get well sooner.  I L-O-V-E  THAT!  What doctor does that?!!!



 We should all be doing what my daughter-in-law's doctor suggested to her.  We should all constantly be doing things to help build our immune systems like diet, exercise, good nutrition, and supplements. so that when an illness comes up, our bodies have what they need to naturally fight it off.


Voltaire said, "The art of medicine consists in amusing the patient while nature cures the disease."  Let's stop "amusing" ourselves and instead give our bodies what they need to be healthy and strong so that we can live fuller, happier lives.

Love,  Paula

Be An Original

John Mason said, "You were born an original.  Don't die a copy."

WOW!!!  That says a lot, doesn't it?  I often comment that we're all sheep.  We mindlessly follow what everyone else is doing.  We don't stop and really think about what we're doing.  We just follow the leader.  It's easier that way.  It's certainly easier than being different or unique.  It seems like most of us fear being different.  We fear being who we really are.  What if people don't like us?  What if people think we're weird?  If people don't like or accept us once we've shown who we really are, we feel rejected.  Why open ourselves up to that.  It's SO much easier to simply follow the crowd.

Many years ago when I started taking Reiki, it was different.  Where I live, not many people knew about Reiki.  My husband supported the fact that I was a Reiki Practitioner and he loved what Reiki could do... but he didn't really want me to tell anyone what I did.  He was afraid that people would think I was strange, different.   A lot of the Reiki Practitioners that I knew felt the same way.  This is what we do, but nobody else needs to know about it.  My feeling was, if we don't tell people, how are we going to be able to help anyone?  And I am all about helping people if I can.  So of course, I didn't keep what I was doing a secret.  I dared to be different in a world that doesn't easily accept different.

Many years have passed and now Reiki is better known and more accepted.  People are more open to this and many other types of healing modalities.  But if these things weren't ever talked about, we'd be no further ahead now than we were before.  That goes for any new idea.

I believe we ALL have gifts to offer the world.  They come in many different forms.  Please dare to talk about them.  Dare to share them.  Don't be a copy... be an ORIGINAL!!!

Love,  Paula

If You Want To Learn Something, Teach It!

As the title says, "If you want to learn something, teach it."  I've heard and read this many times throughout my life.  I never really understood it.  If you don't know something, how can you teach it?  REALLY!!!  You mean during all those years spent in classrooms, the teachers didn't know what they were teaching us... they just wanted to learn it?  It didn't make any sense to me at all.  I didn't get it.

I want you all to know that I'm learning as I go along.  Though in this blog I'm not exactly "teaching", it gives me the opportunity to explore and express ideas that pop into my head.  As I question and look for answers, I'm learning.  Once I've done that, I blog about it and share my thoughts, ideas, and what I've learned with all of you.  It's kind of like teaching.

Blogging has really helped me.  I think I FINALLY get it.  You can have a general knowledge about something and have a genuine curiosity about it.  As you do research and discuss things with other people, you're "teaching" and "learning" all at the same time.  So.......... If you want to learn something, Teach It!

Love,  Paula

Resolve!

Have you ever had the feeling that you were invisible?  I have.  I've felt like that a lot.  I have been introduced to people -- often more than once - and the next time I see them, they act like they have no idea who I am.  I'm talking not a glimmer of recognition.  Some people will recognize me if I'm with my husband.  But those same people won't recognize me if I'm by myself.  So if I don't see that "glimmer" of recognition, I often don't even bother reintroducing myself or speaking.  I decided that I'm just one of those people that blends.  That's been the way I've looked at things for years.

These days though, I strive to see things from as many perspectives as possible.  I try to put myself in other people's positions and see me as they might see me.  You know what I've figured out?  Most people are going through the same thing.  Maybe they thought I didn't recognize them.  Maybe they were just as insecure and lacking in confidence as I was.

I always saw everyone as somehow better than me.  They were smarter, wiser, more educated, more experienced, further along on their spiritual path.  It occurred to me that if I felt that way about them, they could feel that way about me.  Interesting!

So now I've resolved to change my outlook and response.  I'm working on seeing myself as equal.  We all have different gifts.  One isn't better or more valued than another.  They are all important in their own way.  It's like that analogy of the puzzle.  There are big pieces and sometimes very small pieces.  But the puzzle isn't complete until ALL the pieces are put together.  They're ALL important.

I've also resolved to work on understanding people.  If they don't acknowledge me, maybe it's not about me at all.  Maybe it's their lack of self confidence.  So now I'll talk to them - at least a smile and a "hi".  The response has been great so far.  It's made my world a friendlier place to live and I like that.

Love,  Paula

Super Moon, Super Evening

The other night there was a Super Moon.  A Super Moon is when the moon is as close as it can get to the Earth.  It's so beautiful and intense.  We're also in the midst of a meteor shower.  I am fortunate where I live to have clear skies the last couple of evenings.  I L-O-V-E this stuff!!!!!  I would rather moon bathe and star bathe than sun bathe.  Don't get me wrong, I enjoy a sunny day.  But a moonlit and starlit night... there's nothing like it!  In the evening there is less noise and less distraction.  It's like the night air  absorbs all the sounds.  Peace, calm, and serenity just envelope you, and all cares and concerns seem to float away.

Luna was gorgeous.  She was full, bright, and beautiful.  I sat out on the patio absorbing as much of her beauty and energy as I could.  As I was looking at that incredible moon, I was gifted with seeing four meteors.

There is so much beauty, magic and wonder all around us. We are fortunate to exist on this amazing planet at the fantastic time.  I am filled with gratitude.  I hope you all had the opportunity to see this incredible show.  It's free and it's there for everyone. Please do yourself a favor and take the time to notice all the gifts that surround you every day.  It just takes an extra few minutes and it's so worth it.
 

Love,  Paula

Reconnection

Has anyone out there found themselves reconnecting with long lost family or friends recently?  I'd be interested to know if it's something that's happening to everyone at this particular time or just me.  I've had several reconnections recently.  Here's my story:

I have two cousins named Dave;  one from my dad's side of the family, and one from my mom's side of the family.  I (and most of my extended family) had lost touch with both of them.  One of them I probably hadn't seen, heard from or heard about in almost 50 years.  The other one I hadn't been in touch with in 30 to 35 years.   It's been amazing that in the last year, through interesting circumstances, I've had the opportunity to reconnect with both of them.

The Dave from my dad's side of the family sent flowers when my brother passed away.  I don't even know how he found out since he has lived in another state for a V-E-R-Y long time.  The funeral director gave me his address so I could send him a thank you card.  We've been keeping in touch ever since.  I'm enjoying getting to know him again.  He's got a great sense of humor.

I very recently reconnected with the Dave from my mom's side of the family.  When I was visiting my son in LA, we were watching that reality show about the pawn shop in Los Vegas.  While watching, someone came in with a bullet from WWII that was made into something... I can't remember what.  It reminded me that I was in possession of a WWII bullet that was made into a lighter by one of my uncles.  When he returned from the war, he gave that bullet lighter to my parents.  My mom gave it to me about 30 years ago.  While watching the "pawn" show it occurred to me that my cousin might like this lighter since his dad made it.  I got his number from our mutual aunt and called him.  He was thrilled to get that artifact and we are now reconnected.

Also within this last year, I have reconnected with the two girls - women - that I used to babysit from 1962 through 1968.  How wonderful to find them again and see what amazing women they've become.
I'm enjoying getting to know them as adults.  We've become friends.

I don't know what, if anything, will come from these reconnections.  I don't know if it means anything. I don't know how long it will last.  But for right now I'm loving the fact that my family has expanded to include these wonderful people.

If you have the opportunity to reconnect with long lost family or friends, DO IT.  I guarantee that it will  enrich your life.

Love,  Paula

Consider This

Back on June 1st of this year I wrote a blog called "Responsibility".  This blog was about taking responsibility for your own health by being aware of your thoughts, words, actions, feelings, nutrition and so on.  I still believe in and stand by that, but I'd like to add to it.

The fact of the matter is that we're all going to die.  ALL of us, whether we take care of ourselves or not, are going to die from something:  Heart attack, cancer, other serious illness. auto accident, or maybe just go to sleep and not wake up.  Everyone will leave their body behind at some point, no matter what.

Westerners seem to have a negative attitude about death and dying  There's a fear of the unknown.  It's kind of sad because sometimes that fear causes people to "hang on" longer and have to endure more pain than is necessary.  Native Americans and some other cultures seemed to KNOW that their loved ones were just moving on.  They would "pack" things - such as food, drink, money and so forth - to help them on their journey.

I read a channel that posts once a month called "Beacons of Light".  The beings that are channelled are referred to as "The Group".  They talk about Home which I suppose could be interchanged with the word Heaven. The Group says that as we are celebrating a birth here on earth, they are sad because a soul is leaving Home to incarnate on earth.  But when we are mourning a death here on earth, they are celebrating because a soul is coming Home.

Wouldn't it be wonderful if we could celebrate a death?  If we could be sincerely happy for that person because they're no longer suffering?  Wouldn't it be great if we could be excited for them because they're going on a new journey... just like we'd be excited for them if they were going to a new place on vacation?

This may be a difficult concept to grasp, but I ask you to just consider it.  Things certainly won't change over night, but maybe we can start heading in that direction.  I believe it would be healthier for those that are crossing over AND for those left behind.

Love,  Paula

Ministries

I frequently quip that I have a "lunch ministry".  I get together with friends, acquaintances, family and sometimes possible future friends and/or clients while having lunch.  It's a good way to keep in touch if it's friends, family or acquaintances.  In a relaxed and non threatening atmosphere, people are more likely to talk about things that are bothering them or concerning to them.  Sometimes I just have to listen.  They need to get it out.  Sometimes they're looking for guidance, insight, or opinions.

The other night I was out dancing while my husband was singing.  I spent time talking to everyone - people I knew AND people I didn't know.  I invited everyone to come out on the floor and dance.  I wanted everyone to have fun and feel comfortable.  When the evening was over I thought - half kiddingly, "This is my dancing ministry."

NOW I was curious.  What exactly does "ministry" mean?  Besides the obvious definition of having to do with a religious calling, The Free Dictionary says it's "The act of serving.  To attend to the wants and needs of others."  The Merriam-Webster Dictionary says, "A person or thing through which something is accomplished.  To give aid or service."  So my lunches and dancing can actually be considered ministries.

It occurs to me that we can all make anything and everything we do a ministry.  From the smallest comment to the grandest gesture, our words and actions can be considered a ministry if it "serves, aids or is of service" to someone.  In some way or another I guess we're all ministers.  If we can remember that and consciously act accordingly, our lives and the lives of everyone we come in contact with can change for the better forever.

Love,  Paula

Holidays

We recently celebrated the 4th Of July Holiday (Independence Day).  It's quite a day of honoring our forefathers who fought for America to be a free and independent nation.  There are picnics, parades, boating, swimming, and all kinds of gatherings with friends and family.  To top off a wonderful day are fireworks.  LOTS and LOTS of fireworks.  They light up the skies from coast to coast and they're fantastic!!!

This year after boating, taking a walk and having a picnic, my husband, son and I watched neighborhood fireworks for almost two hours.  From my front lawn we could see five different places that were setting off fireworks relatively close by.  To me, it was magical.

When it was over and my son left, my husband and I sat and talked for awhile.  He commented that fireworks  were okay, but they weren't a big deal for him.  "Friends" on facebook were commenting, "Enough already.  It's after 10:00."  I couldn't believe it.  I guess I just assumed that everyone was as excited and impressed with the whole thing as I was.  I could have watched for another two hours.

I  love holidays... ALL the holidays.  I love to decorate.  I love to plan.  I love to cook.  I love to bake.  I love to make it special for everyone... including myself.

When I was growing up, holidays were always fun, exciting, magical.  I guess that part of me just never really grew up.  I hope it never does.

Love,  Paula

"A Year From Now You'll Wish You Started TODAY"

I tend to procrastinate.  I don't procrastinate with everything, but with many things.  I put off weeding the gardens.  I put off housework.  I put off exercise.  I even put off writing this blog.  I've had it in my head for a week but I'm just sitting down to write it on Sunday so it will post on Monday.  I'm always ready to drop everything if an opportunity for fun or relaxation comes along or if someone needs my help.

While driving to work the other day, I passed a sign that read, "A year from now you'll wish you started today."  WOW!!!  What a perfect reminder.  It's a nudge I definitely needed.  I know I should exercise more regularly.  I know I should meditate more regularly.  I know these things will make my life better.  But my philosophy has been, "There's always tomorrow, right?"

Well, that sign has inspired me.  For example, before our vacation I should have weeded the gardens... a job I'm not fond of.  Of course I never seemed to "find time" to do it.  So when we got back from vacation the gardens were over run with weeds.  I spent Friday weeding the vegetable garden.  I spent Saturday weeding the front flower garden and part of the back flower garden.  You know what... weeding isn't bad.  It was kind of fun getting out there and getting my hands in the dirt...AND it was great exercise.  I actually enjoyed it.  And seeing the results - beautiful gardens - was just the icing on the cake.  I even meditated while I was weeding.  I found out that you can get everything done and have fun doing it.

Now understand that having fun and getting some relaxation is not a bad thing.  They're good and necessary things.  But work and exercise are also good and necessary things.  The older and hopefully wiser I get, the more I realize that it's all about balance and harmony.  We need to balance our work with play, solitary time with time with friends and family, giving and receiving.  Balance!  Harmony!

I've made a decision for my life.  I'm going to stop procrastinating and start doing, so a year from now I'll be able to say, "I'm glad I started TODAY"

Love,  Paula

Five Cardinal Rules For Life

The following is something I read on line.  I think I've touched on all of these things in one way or another in various blogs.  But John Tesh put them so concisely and beautifully, that I wanted to share them with all of you.  I think they're words to live by.  Enjoy!

1. Make peace with your past so it won't disturb your present.
2. What other people think of you is none of your business
3. Time Heals almost everything.  Give it time.
4. No one is in charge of your happiness, except you.
5. Don't compare your life to others and don't judge them.  You have no idea what their journey is all about.  

Love,  Paula

Life Is So Good!

My life is so good!  It's interesting, fun and exciting to see what wonderful surprises and opportunities each day is going to present.  The trick is to pay attention so that you don't miss the "gifts" that come your way.

Let me tell you about just one recent day in my life.  A friend of mine was in a bind and asked me if I could cover her store for her for a couple of hours.  It wasn't in my "plan", but I knew she needed help so I said okay.  She felt like I was doing her a favor.  In reality, she did me a favor.  I met some interesting people and had some wonderful conversations.  I may even have another Reiki client because of her.  After I closed the store, I went to visit a hospice patient.  She was a beautiful elderly lady who is actively dying.  An aide told me that she like the song "You Are My Sunshine".  I visited, talked to her, sang "You Are My Sunshine", prayed with her, held her hand and she responded.  She opened her eyes. She squeezed my hand.  She moved her mouth like she was trying to speak.  It was heartwarming, touching, special.  As I was leaving the nursing home, I ran into some people that I knew several years ago.  Two of them were now residence of the nursing home.  We talked and I gave one of them a neck and back massage.  It was a perfect day filled with many gifts for me.

As I mentioned in last week's blog, I had this amazing Reiki client.  I learned so much from her.  She was a wonderful gift.  Last week my family was over to celebrate my husband's birthday.  Time spent with any or all of my family is always a gift.  We're taking a quick trip to visit my youngest son.  We weren't sure if that was going to happen this year.  That is a special gift.

My point is, LIFE IS AMAZING!!!   Pay attention.  Watch how it unfolds.  Be flexible.  You may think your day should go in a certain direction.  Then something comes up to change things.  Go with it.  That's usually where the surprise gifts are hiding.

Love,  Paula

Responsibility

I was recently reminded that we are all responsible for our own lives.  Sometimes it's obvious to us.  Sometimes it's not so obvious.

As I've mentioned several times before, I'm a Reiki Master Teacher.  This means I can administer Reiki treatments.  I can also teach Reiki to others.

I recently had a Reiki client who reminded me about taking responsibility for my OWN health.  The ironic thing is she came to me for help - which hopefully happened - but she has no idea how much she  helped me.  This client gave me permission to share her story.  I will not use her real name though.  I'll call her Mary.

Mary called me one day asking for a Reiki appointment.  I didn't know her so I asked how she got my name.  She told me the name of the person that told her about me.  I didn't know that person either.  I don't really have a "business", you see.  I don't advertise either.  I could go six months or longer without a client.  I feel that if people are supposed to find me, they will.  In the mean time I keep my skills "honed" by volunteering to do Reiki for hospice patients.

Mary and I set up an appointment.  When she got here I found out that she had undergone a double mastectomy.  She is going to have reconstructive surgery so she has expanders implanted in preparation for the surgery.  Her body seems to be rejecting the expanders.  That's why she came to me.

I'm not a medium, but sometimes when I do Reiki I "get" information.  Mary's outer appearance suggests that she's a calm, collected, together individual, but what I "got"was that she had anger issues that were causing her illness.  She immediately understood and started telling me what she was angry about.  We discussed ways to deal with and get rid of the anger.  We then made another appointment for a couple days later.

When she came back, she told me all the work she did to get rid of the anger for that one issue.  Then a different issue popped up.  I told her to continue working with the anger in the same way if that worked for her.  I also gave her other methods to work with if she wanted to try something different.  We then did the Reiki to support the other work that was going on.  Before she left, we set up one more appointment.

When she came back a few days later, she told me how she dealt with that and two more issues that came up between the appointments.  This woman is amazing!  She HEARD what I was saying.  She understood.  She didn't make excuses.  She didn't put the blame on anyone or anything else.  She didn't get upset with me for suggesting that maybe she had something to do with her health issues.  This is a person who is willing to take responsibility for her health.  This is a woman who will heal.  She's getting to the very root of the problem and healing that, so that everything else will follow suit.  SHE IS MY HERO!

Now it's my turn.  I have high cholesterol and I refuse to take statin drugs for it.  First of all, it may help lessen cholesterol, but it has SO MANY side effects - some of which seem worse than the high cholesterol.  Second of all, to me it's like putting a band-aid on a broken leg.  It's treating the symptoms not the cause of the illness.  So I'm working on changing my diet.  I'm working on exercising more frequently.  I'm taking natural supplements.  And I'm trying to get an understanding of any underlying causes.  Mary has been an outstanding example for me.  I hope her story can be a good example for all of you too.

Love,  Paula

Memorial Day

It's Memorial Day.  It's a day set aside to remember our men and women in uniform.  It's a day to show our appreciation for the service and sacrifice that our past and present military have made on our behalf.

It's nice that a day has been set aside for this purpose, but they put their lives on the line every day.  We really should recognize and appreciate their service and sacrifice EVERY SINGLE DAY.  Even if you object to wars they're fighting or places they're deployed, remember that they're there for YOU.

So while you're enjoying your freedom... while you're enjoying a day off work or school, picnics, family and friends, take some time out to remember our men and women in uniform.

Happy Memorial Day!

Love,  Paula

No Regrets

Some relatives of mine recently got together for a visit.  They practically live on opposite sides of the country.  They had a really nice visit and when it was time to say goodbye, they got choked up... they cried.  The realization hit them that they might never see each other again.

After the story was relayed to me, it made me stop and think.  When people live a great distance apart, it's obvious that you may never see them again.  But what about the people that live close by?  What about the people that live with you?

People get in automobile accidents.  People have heart attacks and strokes.  There are random shootings.  There are fires.  There are all kinds of natural disasters.  My point is, you never know when it's going to be the last time you are going to see or talk to a friend or a loved one.  It seems we take so much for granted.  There's never any guarantee.

Let's try to stop taking so much for granted.  Let's savour our time with friends and loved ones.  Let's appreciate the time we have together.  Let's let them know - I mean REALLY KNOW - how much we care about them.  Let's not be afraid to tell the people we love that we love them.  Let's try to live with no regrets.

Love, Paula

Highest and Best Good

I am often asked - as I'm sure all of you are - to pray, send light, send good energy, or send Reiki to people or situations for a specific purpose.  I always feel privileged, honored and humbled by these requests and am more than happy to help out.

Most people have very specific requests:
 "I have a job interview.  Please send some good energy."  "We put in a bid on a house.  Pray that we get it."  You get the idea, people are asking for VERY specific things.  But I think there's a reason for the adage "Be careful what you wish for, you just might get it."  We don't always know what is in our best interest.  That house for example might have all kinds of problems that you wouldn't know about until you've purchased it and are living in it.  Then it's too late.  Or maybe that house would be okay, but there's an even better one out there for you.  The same with the job.  You may think this is THE job, but maybe there is one more suited to you.  You may never know about the other job if you get this one.

When I was taking Reiki, one of the things my Reiki Master said that really stuck with me is that we should ask that the Reiki session be for the clients "highest and best good."  Of course I always do that for my Reiki clients.  But eventually it occurred to me that I should do that for all of it; prayers, Reiki, sending light and/or sending good energy.  It's so effective.  It makes so much sense.  Now when I receive any of these requests, I always ask that this prayer, energy, light, or Reiki be for the highest and best good for all involved... and I know it is.

  Love, Paula

"Visit" Dreams

Last week I talked about four different types of dreams.  This week I'd like to talk specifically about visits.

My dad crossed over in 1992.   He "visited" me frequently for about 2-1/2 years afterward.  One time I wasn't even sleeping.  Dad continued to teach me even after death.  We enjoyed being able to still spend time together.  After about 2-1/2 years he apparently moved on because the visits stopped.  I miss seeing him and talking with him, but it's okay.  I know he's doing what he needs to do.  I believe that if I really needed him, he'd be here for me.  But at least for now, we're both doing okay right where we are.

My mother passed away in 2008.  She has visited a few times, but not nearly as much as my dad did.  A little over a month ago though, she came for an interesting visit:

I was in a building that was like a warehouse.  There were long tables with chairs on both sides.  There were beings sitting at those tables.  I saw my brother and a cousin sitting across the table from each other talking.  They both passed away this last year.  I went over and gave my brother a big hug and told him that I loved him.  He laughed while we hugged.  Then I saw my mother a couple of tables away.  I went over to her and it was like everything else in the room disappeared.  We sat, talked and laughed a lot.  We reminisced about our lives together.  After what seemed like hours, I asked her if there was anything I did that really bothered her.  She said no.  Then she said, "Well, when your sisters came to Erie for a visit, you tended to dominate the conversations.  That's about it."  I said, "Yeah, I do talk a lot."  We both had a hardy laugh.  Then she asked me if I had anything else I wanted to say.  I KNEW this was it.  I KNEW she was leaving and I probably wouldn't be seeing her again.  I said, "Just I love you."  As she was leaving I repeated, "Love you, love you, love you, love you, love you."  Then she was gone.

That was the most intense and special visit that I've ever had.  I think to this point she stayed around to make sure we were all okay.  My sister suggested that maybe she was waiting for my brother.  In any case, I know that she has moved on.  As with my dad, I'll miss seeing her and talking with her, but it's okay.  I know she's doing what she needs to do.  I believe that if I really needed her, she'd be here for me.  But at least for  now, we're both doing okay right where we are.

Love,  Paula

Dreams

In my experience, there are four types of dreams:

The first type of dream is what I call the movie dream.  It's the kind where you are not really involved.  You watch what is going on just like you would at a theater - even if you are in it.

The second type of dream is a lucid dream.  This can be like a movie dream except that even though you're sleeping and dreaming, you're aware of what is going on.  You're able to change the dream if you don't like the way it is going.

The third type of dream is the lesson.  Sometimes they are kind of weird, but they're always insightful.  When you wake up, you usually remember most of the dream and you just KNOW there is something important in it.  If you take the time to study the dream, you will probably find out that there is some kind of lesson for you... some sort of message.

The fourth type of dream is what I call a visit.  You are not dreaming ABOUT someone, you're actually visiting WITH them - only in a dream state.  For me, it's always someone who has passed away.  I would imagine that it doesn't have to be someone that has crossed over, but that's always the way it works for me.  So if I write any future blogs about dreams, you'll know what I'm talking about.

How about any of you?  Do you have any other types of dreams?  Share your experiences.  I love this topic and find it really fascinating.

Love,  Paula

Teaching - Learning

I'm going to share something I've observed in life.  No matter how young or old you are, no matter what your education, no matter what your life experiences, you still have something to learn from everyone and everything with whom you come in contact.  Sometimes it's deep, profound learning.  Sometimes it's superficial.  But there's ALWAYS something to be learned.

Also, no matter how young or old you are, no matter what your education, no matter what your life experiences, you still have something to teach everyone and everything with whom you come in contact.  Sometimes it's deep, profound teaching.  Sometimes it's superficial.  But there's ALWAYS something to be taught.

Watching people's reactions to whatever is going on, teaches you something about that person.  Conversely, people learn something about you if they watch your reactions to what's going on around you.  We're ALL constantly learning and teaching, teaching and learning.  It's so interesting.  What a fun way to look at life!

When you're in the grocery line or at the bank or where ever you may be,  watch the people around you.  Observe the looks on their faces.  Notice their body language.  If they look upset, sad, stressed or even happy, see if there is something you can do to make their day a little bit brighter.  Sometimes all it takes is a smile, a laugh or a kind word.  You may make a new friend... or you may never know the change you made in someone's day, attitude or even their life.  You learned from them that they needed uplifted.  You taught them that someone DOES care and that the world isn't such a bad place after all.  And they may have learned from you how to "pay it forward" and do the same for someone else.

Love,  Paula

It's All A Matter Of Perspective

While driving home form work the other day, I saw a woman walking down the street wearing shorts.  It was in the 40s in Erie, Pa. after an extremely cold winter.  This winter we had temperatures as low as -20 degrees with wind chill factors as low as -38 degrees.  So 40 degrees feels REALLY good.

I immediately thought about my son and his girlfriend who live in LA.  They've had 80 degree weather already this year and they certainly haven't had any negative temperatures.  We've "face timed" with them when they've had sweatshirts  and sometimes even blankets on.  We'll ask what the temperature is.  They'll tell us it's really cold... 62 degrees.  To them it IS really cold.  They're used to good weather.  It's LA after all.  For us, that's practically beach weather.. especially after this winter.  It's all a matter of perspective.

I've been going to Weight Watchers and have lost 30 pounds.  I want to lose more, but I think I look pretty darn good.  But for someone meeting me for the first time, I probably look like a heavy woman.  It's all a matter of perspective.

I just turned 63 years old.  Thirty years ago, a 63 year old person was old.  My grandkids probably see me as an old lady.  But I don't feel old.  I feel young, energetic and ready for another 63 years.  It's all a matter of perspective.

I could go on and on with example after example, but my point is we all have different perspectives and different life experiences.  And we only "see" the world from our perspective.  We should try to broaden our perspective and try to be more understanding of other's perspectives.  For example, don't be quick to judge that heavy set woman wearing a short skirt or a two piece bathing suit.  Maybe she was 300 pounds and lost 100 pounds.  To her and her family, she looks like a model.  It's all a matter of perspective.

Don't be quick to judge anyone or anything.  We don't know their story.  We don't know their experience.  We don't know their perspective.  We should try to change OUR perspective.  We should strive to be more inclusive, more loving, more caring. and more compassionate toward others.  We CAN change our world.  It's all a matter of perspective.

Love,  Paula

I'm Back!

After being off for about a month, I'm back.  I was having issues making payment for the blog site via the internet if you can believe that.  I thought I had payed it, but apparently I was wrong.  The "powers that be" are always trying to make things better, but for me it usually makes it worse.  I'm so NOT technologically savvy.  The only thing that made me feel any better was that my son couldn't do it either.  He's pretty good at this kind of thing so I didn't feel completely stupid.

At first I was concerned.  Then I was nervous.  Then I was upset.  But eventually I found my way back to my belief system.  I firmly believe that everything happens for a reason and that all is EXACTLY as it's supposed to be.  I believe there are lessons for us everywhere.  Once I "remembered" all that, I was more at peace:  Maybe I said all I have to say,  Maybe I had no more to offer others with the written word,  Maybe I needed to learn patience,  Maybe my brain just needed a little vacation.  Whatever the reason for this imposed break, I knew it was okay.  It would either get resolved and I'd get back to writing, or it's something I did and now I'm done.  Either way, it was okay.

Obviously it was the first scenario because here I am, writing again.  I want to thank you all for your patience and support.  So here we go again... I'm back!

Love,  Paula

Transition Rooms

I'm reposting this because it's near and dear to my heart.  It's something I feel is really important.  I know it will happen some day, but the sooner the better for all involved.


One of my "missions" in life is having Transition Rooms in all nursing homes. My mother transitioned in October of 2008. I learned a lot during her dying process. The facility she was at did the best they could, but it could have been done so much better.


The whole week before she crossed over, mom was in bed actively dying. She had a roommate who was mobile. Mom's bed was by the door so Rose and her visitors had to pass by her and us to get to their side of the room. Each time they went in and out, they felt the need to say something. When your loved one is dying, your focus is on them. You really don't care about pleasantries. Conversely, I'm sure it was uncomfortable for them to have to walk by us knowing that mom was dying. I'm sure they didn't know what they should or shouldn't do or say.

The night before she passed, my sister and I stayed with mom all night. The staff did the best they could to make us comfortable, but all we had were straight back chairs. We caught little naps by leaning forward and putting our heads on mom's bed. We couldn't talk, watch TV or move around because mom's roommate was trying to sleep. It was very cramped for Sharon, mom and me to be in that small space without disturbing Rose.

The next evening, my mom crossed over. It was at 9:10 PM. For the elderly in nursing homes, that might as well have been 2:00 AM. For them, even 9:10 PM is the middle of the night. My family all came to say their goodbyes. The staff got Rose out of bed and took her to the lounge. They did that to give us some private time which was much appreciated. But it was so unfair to Rose. That was her home after all and she had to leave it in "the middle of the night."

Her children came to my mother's funeral and said that Rose had a hard time going back to her room. She knew mom had died and she didn't want to go back there. They had to give her a sedative.

My goal is for all nursing homes to have Transition Rooms. It would be a private room to which they would transfer the actively dying. The room would either have large recliners or small sofa beds for the comfort of the family. The resident would have peace and quiet. The family would have comfortable private time with their loved one. And the former roommate wouldn't have to watch someone die and be reminded of their imminent fate. It's a win-win-win situation. It would be more compassionate to all involved and help make a difficult time just a little easier.

Nursing homes with all private rooms have a little to learn too. An aunt that I was very close to passed away in May of 2011. She was at a facility that had all private rooms. What they didn't have was a comfortable place for family to spend the night. Again, they did the best they could. But it could be done so much better. I realize that it would be an enormous expense to equip every room with either large recliners or small sofa beds. But they could purchase several, put them on casters, and wheel them into the room of an actively dying resident for the comfort of their family.

I want to believe that these facilities are run by and staffed with compassionate individuals. But maybe by not being on the receiving end of the situation, they don't even realize that there is an issue and how easy it would be to rectify.

I wish I had the opportunity to tell my story and share my ideas with nursing home associations or boards. But at least I can tell it here. Thank you for indulging me.

Love, Paula

Even In The Winter

I've been writing a lot of blogs about snow lately and with good reason.  Where I live - Erie, Pa - is the number one city for snowfall in the United States this year.  We have A LOT of snow.  To go along with that, we have an unusually COLD winter.  Many people are tired of winter, snow, and cold.  But as I've mentioned before, I'm usually a go-with-a-flow kind of person.  Things are what they are, I work around it.  Especially when it comes to things like weather.  I can't change it so I accept it and work with it.  My love of life continues no matter what the weather.

One of the wonderful gifts that comes with snow and cold is the beauty.  When it's very cold out, the snow crystalizes and it just sparkles... especially at night.  The other evening as I was walking to my car
after visiting a friend, the beauty stopped me in my tracks.  It literally took my breath away.  The snow was more beautiful than sparkling diamonds.  I felt like I was in the middle of a Norman Rockwell Christmas card.

Now, don't be a "hater".  Try looking at life with new eyes and a fresh perspective.  Yes, winter can be cold.  Yes, depending on where you live you can experience a lot of snow.  But if you just LOOK, you can and will see beauty all around you... even in snow... even in the winter.

Love, Paula

Worry

Worry is wasted energy.  That's what I always tell people and it's how I strive to live my life.  So often we stress about things we have no control over.  We waste precious moments, days or even weeks of our lives worrying.  While we're busy worrying, we don't actually LIVE these moments.  What a waste!  We've been given this wonderful life to live and experience, and we just let it waste away while we worry.

I read, "Worrying doesn't take away tomorrow's troubles, it takes away today's peace."  Also, "People sacrifice the present for the future.  But life is only available in the present."  These statements are so true.  That's what I often talk about.  It seems to be a recurring theme in my blogs because I believe it's such an important message.  I try to remember to live in the NOW moment.  That's all there really is anyway.  And if you live in the "NOW" moment, there's really no reason to worry, is there?  Think about it.  The past is over.  The future isn't here yet.  ALL THERE IS IS NOW!!!

Being human, sometimes I forget and I start to worry about things.  But as soon as I catch myself doing that, I JUST STOP IT!  It's a choice.  It's always a choice as to how you live your life.  Every moment of every day we make choices about our lives.  You can choose to be happy.  You can choose to live in the "NOW" moment.  You can choose to be worry free.  Oh... it takes practice, but it's worth the effort.   Give it a try.

Love,  Paula

The Seven Wonders Of The World

I'm sure we've all heard of the seven wonders of the world.  But here's something I didn't know.  While looking up "The Seven Wonders of the World" for this blog, I found out there are FOUR different sets of "Wonders":  The Original Seven Wonders, The Seven Wonders of the Modern World, Natural Wonders of the World, and The "New" Seven Wonders of the World.   I had no idea there were so many variations.  I truly thought there were only seven.

The Original are:  The Colossus of Rhodes, The Great Pyramids of Giza,  The Hanging Gardens of Babylon, The Lighthouse of Alexandria, The Mausoleum of Halicamassus, The Statue of Zeus at Olympia, and The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus.

The Modern are:  Channel Tunnel, CN Tower, Empire State Building, Golden Gate Bridge, Itaiper Dam, Netherlands North Sea Protection Works.

The Natural are:  The Grand Canyon, The Great Barrier Reef, The Harbor at Rio de Janeiro, Mt. Everest, Pariculin Volcano, Aurora Borealis, and Victoria Falls.

The New are:  Chichen Itza, Mexico - Mayan City, Christ the Redeemer Statue in Brazil, The Great Wall of China, Machu Picchu in Peru, Petra (ancient city), The Roman Colosseum, and The Taj Majal.

Now I'm going to offer another set of seven:  To see, to hear, to touch, to taste, to feel, to laugh and to love.  I don't know where I read this so I can't give credit.  But when I read this, it impacted me.  THESE, in my opinion, are the most important "wonders" that exist.  Without this set of wonders, you couldn't appreciate ANY of the others - or anything else for that matter.  Think about it.  We take so much for granted.

 We have been given much and we need to start noticing and appreciating what we have.  We can see the beauty around us.  We can hear the voices and laughter of our loved ones.  We can give and receive hugs and healing touch.  We can enjoy the taste of chocolate (or whatever your favorite taste is).  We can feel our emotions - good and bad.  We can laugh and love freely... and we should do that often.  These are the things that give meaning to our lives.  They give fullness to our lives.  We need to stop, notice, appreciate, and use these wonderful gifts.


When you give someone a gift, doesn't it make you feel good when you see them using it?  Doesn't it make you feel like giving them more because you know they appreciate your thoughtfulness?  Well, I believe God, Source, the Universe (or whatever you choose to call the all-that-is) would feel and do the same.  So use the gifts you've been given.  Appreciate them.  And just wait and see how many more blessings will come your way.

Love,  Paula

Snow Is My Friend

Snow is my friend.  After almost a week of inactivity, snow got me up, out, and moving again.  Let me
explain:

My husband recently had to undergo some minor surgery.  It was one where he had to stay the night at the hospital.  So leading up to the day of surgery, we spent time getting things ready.  We're both planners... probably to a fault.  We spent much time planning, making lists, and generally getting ourselves and our home ready.  Consequently we were both a little less physically active than usual.  No visits to the gym.  Obviously, the day of surgery was spent in the hospital.  We had to be there by 10 AM so we left the house at 9:30 AM.  I didn't get home until after 7 PM.  The next morning I was at the hospital around 8 AM to bring my husband home.  All went very well, but it threw me off my routine.  It doesn't take much to put me back into a sedentary lifestyle.

It snowed a little the other day.  My son lives across town, but called to offer to clear the snow from our driveway and sidewalks.  We told him not to bother.  We have a truck and if we needed to go out, we'd just crawl over it.  Then it snowed again.  We didn't want our son to have to come across town to shovel us out.  There will probably come a time when we'll need the help.  Fortunately, not yet.  But we sure did appreciate the offer.

My husband and our neighbor take turns helping each other out.  Which ever one is out first snow blows for the other.  I decided to "suit up" and shovel the front and back decks, the steps and the sidewalks leading up to them.  Even though it was only 9 degrees out, I wasn't cold.  It was actually invigorating.  It felt so good to be outside getting some fresh air and exercise.  If it hadn't snowed and if my husband hadn't had surgery and couldn't do it himself, I would probably STILL be sitting around being sedentary.  So... SNOW IS MY FRIEND.

Love,  Paula

I Still Love Where I Live!

This past week the whole country was in an unusual "deep freeze".  Every state in the country registered a temperature below freezing for a least a short time on the same day... even Hawaii.  It was a very unusual weather week for everyone.

Where I live, we had an official temperature of -16 degrees with a wind chill factor of -36 degrees.  Some places were warmer, some colder.  Our news broadcasts were giving suggestions on how to dress for this weather and how to stay safe.  Family and friends were calling and emailing to check on each other and make sure everyone was doing okay.

Since I was raised by the ultimate "boy scout" I try to always be prepared.  My dad's mantra was, "It's better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it".  So at the beginning of winter every year I pack a bag to put in the trunk of my car and keep it there until spring.  In it I pack snow pants, wool sox, hats, gloves, mittens and scarves.  Hopefully I'll never need it, but I'm ready... just in case.

In my previous blog "I Love Where I Live" dated 12/16/13, I talked about the crazy weather here and how much fun the little "surprises" from nature are.  Last Wednesday we had the -16 degree temperature.  By Friday we were in the 50s.  It was snowing on Wednesday.  It rained on Friday and Saturday.  On Sunday it was in the 40s, sunny and almost all the snow was gone.  I can't wait to see what tomorrow's weather will bring.  SURPRISE!!!

I still love where I live!

Love,  Paula

"Most Important Days"

Someone on Facebook posted a quote from Mark Twain.  It went like this; "The two most important days of your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why."  I couldn't believe what I was reading.  It was like he knew me.  It felt good to know I'm not the only one that thinks about these things.  Obviously I've already had the first important day... 62 plus years ago.  But I'm STILL waiting for that second important day.

Sure I'm a wife, a mother, a grandma/nana, a mother-in-law, a daughter, a daughter-in-law. a sister, a sister-in-law, an aunt, a friend and an employee.  Although those things are important, they still don't totally define me.  Sometimes I actually ask people what they perceive I'm "supposed" to be doing with my life.  Most of my friends tell me that I'm a healer.  But what does that mean exactly?  What does that look like?

As I've mentioned in previous blogs, I am a Reiki Master Teacher.  In that capacity yes, I do healing work.  But healing takes place on many levels... spiritual, mental, emotional and physical.  So I believe we ALL do healing work in some way or another all the time:  kind words, hugs, concern, love, caring, understanding, prayers, listening, just being there for someone in their time of need.  These are all healing activities and we all do these things.  So yes, I am a healer.  So are all of you.

So what are my special gifts?  What's my reason for being?  I'm STILL trying to figure that out.  Is it possible that maybe there is more than one reason we are born?  That there are more than two. "most important days" in our lives?  And that maybe our reasons change as we evolve?

I can't answer those questions for myself.  I certainly can't answer them for you.  I guess we all have to find our own answers to those questions.  We have to keep searching so we can celebrate our "most important days".  THEN we can share our gifts with the world.

Love,  Paula