Once upon all the time, something challenging happens, followed by something amazing...




Tuesday, March 30, 2010

In the Middle

Somewhere between here and there, good and bad, right and wrong, open and closed, fear and love lies balance.
Somewhere in the midst of change, lies the old and the new.
Now is always the middle of something... so when things get wobbly, and are leaning too much to one side... now is where balance can be found... right in the middle of it all.

Today's Silver Lining:

"It just takes some time, little girl you're in the middle of the ride.
Everything (everything) will be just fine, everything (everything) will be alright (alright).
Hey, you know they're all the same.  You know you're doing better on your own, so don't buy in.
Live right now.  Yeah, just be yourself.  It doesn't matter if it's good enough for someone else." The Middle- by Jimmy Eat World

Monday, March 29, 2010

What to Think

So many thoughts... so much time to think them.
I drove from Vegas to LA yesterday and had 8 hours in the car to go through many of them.
I have very important ones that I want to remember, those are the ones I always forget.
I have the ones that are so great in the moment, and in the next make no sense.
I have ones that come to me... and ones I have to think.
I have ones that won't go away... and ones I wish wouldn't.
So many thoughts. 
So many reasons for thinking them.
So many places they lead me.
So many opinions of which ones are the right ones.
So much time spent on thoughts and what they mean, and what it means, and what it is,  and if it is, and it is if.... I think so.


Today's Silver Lining:
"Love, I think, I see, you are there again, that place you go when everything on you depends, you hold
your ground, cause we will find a way, to live it all and still have fun, cause it's too much thinking,
it's too much worrying, rest your head aside me now, it's too much thinking, upon your shoulders
rest your worried soul upon me now."  Too Much- by Rusted Root

Saturday, March 27, 2010

Nothing's Gonna Change My World

The more I learn, the less I know... the longer I'm around, the more I live.  I still get affected by sources outside of my world here and there, but lately... I've felt a sense of peace through these ups and downs.  Nothing has changed as far as my plan or life situation, but I just have this faith in now, and whatever now will become later... rather than spending my now wanting later. It's taken me a lot of searching and thinking and feeling to come to the conclusion, (for now), that this is it, there's nothing to figure out... there's no answer because there's no question... and the simple fact that this is, is the proof and the reason.

Then today I was talking to someone who was worried about all these tricky little moments that life is full of, known to some as problems... and they started questioning me about the future... asking me, don't I want a career, family, stability... reminding me these things need to be planned.  Hmmmm...I started thinking, maybe I shouldn't be so happy, maybe I should worry about what to do next, rather than go with my intuition all the time... I mean it just can't be this easy... maybe I had it all wrong.

Then I was walking to my car, and I found a fortune cookie in the parking lot... it was still wrapped so I had to pick it up and open it!!  The fortune inside read: "Trust your intuition. The universe is guiding your life."  Hahahaaaaa... I literally laughed out loud for a good 2 minutes.  So... I guess I needed a little reminder that I'm on the right path for me... but it's nice to know there's something amazing out there leaving me breadcrumbs to follow, just to be sure... Gratitude to my tour guides!  Life is so good!!


Today's Silver Lining:

"Sounds of laughter, shades of earth are ringing, Through my open ears inciting and inviting me, Limitless undying love which shines around me like a, million suns and calls me on and on, Across the universe, Jai guru deva om, Nothing's gonna change my world, Nothing's gonna change my world."  Across the Universe- Written by John Lennon & Paul McCartney




Friday, March 26, 2010

Lost and Found

I was at the gym and they played this great song... I thought this will be my silver lining... the video was great too, the guy was blowing bubbles, splashing in the rain laughing through it all.  It was perfect somehow in that moment at the gym, I felt so in sync with life and the song sealed the deal.

I got home and began to look it up.  The words were something like... well... I forgot... all I remember is something about being open... and doing something or going with the flow, or being here... something like that... but I looked at his name it was... shoot, what was it?  Snam or Shar or Radm or something Pete maybe... 2 words... hmmm, google will know... but what do I search for??

I began searching with the snippets I tried to piece together, and had no luck... BUT the search lead me to a new song... one that was equally as perfect for this moment.  The moment where I am grateful to the mystery song for leading me to a tune for now, and a lovely reminder that each moment is here to lead us to the next, which can be just as amazing if we are able to let go of what was in order to let it be.

So who knows if I'll ever hear that song again... but my search is over, I found where I was lost... now the journey continues.

Today's Silver Lining:

"I’m gonna fly in a silver winged space rocket, I’m gonna pick out the stars and put them in my pocket, I’m gonna bring those stars back down, So I can spread celestial light around, I’m gonna do it all some day."  I'm Gonna Do It All- by Karine Polwart

Thursday, March 25, 2010

Feeling Your Food

When I was in India, I got used to eating with my hands.  I preferred it, because I liked to feel my food... what I didn't realize was how much I had been already feeling my food in my mood.  They say you are what you eat, and if that's true... which I think it is... most people are probably not what they've been told.  While they eat what they are told is light, and enriched with vitamins... they somehow still feel sluggish and heavy... and in reality are eating more high fructose corn syrup and unnecessary additives than they realize.  High fructose corn syrup = bad mood... among other things... but you don't have to take my word for it, here's a great article on the effects of this cheap corn bi product:
http://www.princeton.edu/main/news/archive/S26/91/22K07/
It's easy in this modern age of convenience to forget that for thousands of years everything we needed to survive was provided by the earth, with no need to be processed by a factory... However real food now is somehow a revolution... and often hard to find, yet drugs and sugar are everywhere... makes ya wonder!

I've been eating mostly raw, organic, whole foods... and I can feel the difference.  I feel more alive, aware and connected... I feel my food!!  I've kind of been experimenting with eating the food I want to feel, and it's pretty amazing how terrific this stuff works...  as the saying goes, "as within, so without."  Yes, it seems a bit pricey at first, but think of all the money you'll save on Starbucks, extra snacks, and even medicine since your immune system will be working so great!!  Plus, once you have everything, it is about the cost of a Starbucks a day, and a much better investment for your body!!  You can try for yourself, and I have a great smoothie recipe that's tasty AND will leave you feeling great... just like everything in it!!  I love it in the mornings and it keeps me full and energized, with a big smile on my way out the door : )

Rise and Shining Smoothie (energy and mood enhancing)

*1 apple- they weren't kidding when they said an apple a day keeps the doctor away... this favorite of teachers is packed full of antioxidants including vitamin C and quercetin, which boost the body's immune defences. Pectin, the soluble fiber found in apples, helps relieve constipation and lowers levels of bad cholesterol... an apple is also a better source of energy in the morning than a cup of coffee!

*1 cup coconut water- this amazing liquid has the five essential electrolytes your body needs to keep nerves firing, muscles moving and to help manage stress...it has more potassium than a banana, and keeps kidneys clean and improves alkaline balance... not to mention it hydrates you quickly so you feel refreshed... plus anything tropical always makes me feel a little exotic: )

*1/2 cup almond milk- There's protein, fiber, B vitamins, calcium, zinc and iron... not to mention a dose of vitamin E to protect our skin and keep a healthy glow... it also contains no cholesterol or lactose to weigh you down.

*1 banana- so we know there's potassium, but also fiber, vitamin C and they contain all the 8 amino-acids our body cannot produce itself... if you're still not a fan, go for half!!

*1 tablespoon bee pollen- where do I begin... this has been called the perfect food... it contains more than 96 different nutrients, including every single nutrient that is needed to sustain human life!! Plus, it is made up of 40% protein and combines 22 amino acids, vitamin C, B-complex and folic acid, polyunsaturated fatty acids, enzymes, and carotene... in addition, it reliefs discomfort from PMS, prevents prostate problems,  boosts the immune system, detoxifies your body, alleviates allergies, improves endurance, strength and mental clarity, promotes weight loss: the rate at which your body burns fat, reduces cravings, regulates your mood and helps control stress in your life... Need I say more?!

*1 handful of walnuts- this nut has the perfect combo of omega 3 and 6 which is essential for them to be the most beneficial for you.  These omega's help with mood, brain function, lowering cholesterol and pain and inflammation... so basically, they help you feel good.

*1 cup frozen strawberries- these pretty red berries have the ability to remove harmful toxins in the blood... also recommended for sluggish liver, gout, rheumatism, constipation, high blood pressure, catarrh and even skin cancer... plus they add a nice texture and flavor to boot!

*3 tablespoons hemp powder (you can find this at your local health food store or order below) - Hemp seeds are praised for having the highest quality of protein and it's all natural and easy to digest. Hempseeds are the only seeds that don't need to be germinized for better absorption...their fats are a vegan alternative to fish oils which boost our immune systems, improve our memory, and make us feel warmer in cold climates... which I sure could've used in Chicago : )

*1 small handful of Cacao Nibs-  Cacao has more antioxidant flavonoids than any food tested so far, which help reduce blood clotting, improve circulation, help regulate heartbeat and blood pressure, lower LDL cholesterol, and reduce the risk of stroke and heart attacks... it also increases neurotransmitters in our brains, which promotes positive outlook, facilitates rejuvenation and simply helps us feel good. Also, substances found in cacao are known to help reduce appetite, which help you make it to lunch without dipping in the candy jar: )

Just blend and feel your food turn into a good mood : )  Play around with the ingredients as you like, and feel free to add other great boosters such as: maca, goji berries, raw honey, lucuma, camu camu, yacon, chia or whatever else you find as you explore what you want to feel in your food!  Prepare to be amazed...Cheers!!

Here's some of the things I use in case you can't find them nearby : )









 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Today's Silver Lining:

"Meet me in the crowd, People, people, Throw your love around, Love me, love me, Take it into town,
Happy, happy, put it in the ground, where the flowers grow... Gold and silver shine."  Shiny Happy People- by R.E.M.

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Story Time

Every story is different. Each one has it's own rhythm, it's own message...  It goes in and out, up and down, showing us that there’s a definite push and pull to life... I don’t quite understand it or how it works exactly… but I feel it, and am aware of the things coming and going in and out of my life as a result of my shifts in and out of energy. As I move physically and shed old habits , I allow new and unexpected ones to fall right into place with where I am now… ones that grow with me, compliment me, and create me and my story… but it’s not always easy end the last chapter...  or to keep reading the story without wanting to skip ahead... but is anything there, or do we have to keep writing to create what's next?


In the beginning, before the plans are made, the bonds are formed and the tears are shed… it’s easier to keep writing without wanting to pause… maybe after these things have been endured… it’s easier to know what to leave out for the next time… but it's harder in the moment letting go of what was and weaving memories into this page, with no hopes of what will be the same.  I sometimes miss the fun I used to have in chapters long past… the friends I used to have that understood me, and now just know me as what they knew, based on what they now understand from reading ahead... I miss being understood… and understanding… but somehow I don’t… I just know what is written... and words that pose as the truth.

It’s the past that’s hard to let go… but easy to forget as the plot thickens. As you keep reading, you can see where you are, with no clue where that is going… and still go on with confidence that it is exactly where you need to be, because it’s where you are. There’s no turning back, no looking forward, just seeing this all for the first time… with the knowledge from what's been learned... creating as you go, putting the words down as they come and arrive where you are from where you’ve been… there may be times you long for what was or wish for what could be... but all of these pictures are on the pages of wherever your story is now... and since the past reveals no secrets of what's to come and new moments expose themselves day by day, allowing you to interpret them in to words that will continue to fill the blank pages ahead, the ending is always a surprise... and still in your hands.


Today's Silver Lining:
"I am unwritten, can't read my mind, I'm undefined, I'm just beginning, the pen's in my hand, ending unplanned, Staring at the blank page before you, Open up the dirty window, Let the sun illuminate the words that you could not find, Reaching for something in the distance, So close you can almost taste it, Release your inhibitions, Feel the rain on your skin, No one else can feel it for you, Only you can let it in, No one else, no one else, Can speak the words on your lips, Drench yourself in words unspoken, Live your life with arms wide open, Today is where your book begins, The rest is still unwritten." Unwritten- by Natasha Bedingfield

Monday, March 22, 2010

In the Beginning

I'm kind of at an in between right now as far as my answers go.  I'm not sure where to say I live, what to say I do, or my plan for the next few months.  What I do know is while everyone else is worried about where I'm gonna end up... I'm just enjoying the ride.  It's one of those times where things make sense.  Life is good because it is... I have no plans... just days full of amazing experiences. I feel right at home wherever I happen to be at the moment... I am grateful that I can live the way I do... just happy to be alive... learning so much each day... taking it all in with gratitude.

Sometimes we spend so much time planning happy endings, we forget where the story begins.  We never stop for a breath of now or a sigh of thanks...
But... when we do, it all makes sense.  We realize this is a fresh start... this is how it's supposed to be, because it is.  There is no worry of how it's gonna end, there is just how it is now... which is some other beginning's end... and always the start of something...
So let's stop skipping to the end, and begin.



Today's Silver Lining:

I'm walking down broadway, Each foot step is a new love letter, I'm trying to make eye contact, With each and every stranger that I pass, Thinking about the city, It's living proof people need to be together, I'm thinking about how I just want to open up, And give and give and give, And it's ok for you to care, Cause I can feel you in the air, And while you wonder "how's this gonna end?" I only want it to begin."  Begin- by Ben Lee






Sunday, March 21, 2010

Sunny Sunday

Sundays. Love them. Plans. No plans... always full of Sunday magic.
Perfect weather.  Blue sky.
Hike.
Yoga. 
Farmers Market... More yoga.
Hot Tub with a view of the beautiful sunset...  Yummy home cooked dinner. 
Dance Party in the living room.
Beach... Tea.
Gratitude.

The best way to end and begin... and out west, there's a good chance any day can be a sun(ny) day.


Today's Silver Lining: (a favorite from the dance session)

"Now everyone of us was made to suffer, Everyone of us was made to weep, But we've been hurting one another, And now the pain has cut too deep... So take me from the wreckage, Save me from the blast, Lift me up and take me back, Don't let me keep on walking...Walking on broken glass.  Walking on walking on broken glass."  Walking on Broken Glass- by Annie Lennox

Friday, March 19, 2010

Too Easy to be Hard

I'm in LA and it makes things easy to be hard... my easy raw diet seems hard to stick with, my little bubble is hard not to pop, my yoga routine is hard to follow, patterns are hard not to fall back into, traffic is hard to not get stressed out in... it's been a hard day.

I realized why it's so easy for people here to be hard, to not care about what's going on outside of this hustle and bustle of distractions... I became so exhausted by the willpower it took to overcome all of these obstacles, that by the end of the day, I had forgotten what it felt like to want to do yoga... so I ate chocolate cake and in a zone accidentally stumbled upon my blog which I also forgot about.

I was reading a book called Stick, that talked about this experiment where they tested 2 groups of people with different tasks... some using willpower, some just easy to complete.  The group that had to use willpower in both tasks gave up 57% quicker in the 2nd task than the first who hadn't used any willpower yet... which proves it's an exhaustible resource.

Here it seems it's easy to run out of willpower and patience... you are constantly tested, stressed, and judged to the point where you are so consumed in these functions, you're too exhausted to be in the moment... to listen to you, do what feels good.  You forget things, lose track of time and interest in things quickly, and have no time to let a car in front of you.  Parking is an ordeal, driving 3 miles takes 38 mins, talking to people feels like a chore, how you're dressed turns into a resume... and as things that should be easy become so hard... it becomes easy to give up on dreams in pursuit of survival, it becomes easy to ignore calls and become so consumed in consumption that there is no time for anything else... it becomes easy to be hard.


Today's Silver Lining:

"How can people be so heartless, How can people be so cruel, Easy to be hard, Easy to be cold.  How can people have no feelings, How can they ignore their friends, Easy to be proud, Easy to say no.  And especially people, Who care about strangers, Who care about evil, And social injustice, Do you only, Care about the bleeding crowd?  How about a needing friend?" Easy to Be Hard- by Three Dog Night

Monday, March 15, 2010

Think Happy Thoughts

I have a lot to be grateful for... and my thoughts are responsible for that... it's my thoughts that create my perception, actions, reactions and the light I radiate to others.  When you think happy thoughts, you're happy... it's that simple.  Yes, there are lots of other thoughts out there that you can choose, but the more you pick the happy ones, the more happy ones you'll attract to you.  Your whole world shifts and starts to brighten up when you think happy thoughts, and smiling never hurts either.

Here's a simple energy/breathing technique you can try to see for yourself just much how happy thoughts affect you : ) 

*First sit in a comfortable cross legged position on the floor and take a few deep breaths.
*Now with one hand take your index and middle fingers and place them on your right nostril to close it and then breathe in through your left nostril.  Then close your left nostril and breathe out through your right nostril.
*Reverse nostrils and repeat for a few breaths alternating inhaling through the right and left.
*Now take a few more deep breaths and begin rubbing your hands rapidly together to accumulate heat.
*Separate your hands an inch or two apart so you can feel the energy between them.
*Think of something that's bothering you... a fight you had, a bill you have to pay, a task you don't want to do... notice the energy between your hands.
*Now, think happy thoughts... a person you love, a great song, something that makes you smile... and again notice the energy.
(You should feel the energy deplete with the negative thoughts and expanding with the happy thoughts.)

When your thoughts are happy, your vibration increases and the possibilities are endless!!


Today's Silver Lining:

"When there's a smile in your heart, There's no better time to start, Think of all the joy you'll find, When you leave the world behind, And bid your cares goodbye, You can fly, you can fly, you can fly!"  from Peter Pan




Sunday, March 14, 2010

Did You Have Any FUN Today?

So I've been learning a lot about food lately... what it is, what it isn't, what it does, things that claim to be food... and I've become very passionate about it... kinda like anything I'm into any given moment.  I love watching documentaries about the subject, reading books and articles about it, and shopping for the new things I've found.  I was talking to my dad today, telling him about this film I had watched called, The Beautiful Truth, and what I had learned.  It explored a healing process called the Gerson Therapy which is a natural and effective method of curing cancer.  It showed some of the things that are causing cancer, among other things due to the new way we make food.  Anyways... I loved it and it found it really informative.  So I was talking to my dad about that, a meeting I had gone to about a nutritional supplement and that I was getting ready to go to yoga...  He asked, "Have you had any fun today?"

Well I guess that depends...

Fun: n - A source of enjoyment, amusement, or pleasure.


My answer would be yes... as strange as it is, at this moment learning is fun for me.  I never thought I would say that, but I actually call many things that might not be a source of enjoyment amusement or pleasure to most, fun!! 
 
So, for today, that's what I call fun, now as for tomorrow, I'm thinking pool and yoga...
So... Did you have any fun today??
 
 
Today's Silver Lining:
 

Some boys take a beautiful girl, And hide her away from the rest of the world, I want to be the one to walk in the sun, Oh girls they want to have fun, Oh girls just want to have, That's all they really want, Some fun,
When the working day is done, Girls--they want to have fun, Oh girls just want to have fun."  Girls Just Wanna Have Fun- by Cindy Lauper


Saturday, March 13, 2010

One of the Greatest Lessons I've Learned

Sometimes the best thing to say... is nothing at all!!



Today's Silver Lining:

"It's amazing how you can speak right to my heart, Without saying a word you can light up the dark, Try as I may I could never explain, What I hear when you don't say a thing, The smile on your face lets me know that you need me, There's a truth in your eyes sayin' you'll never leave me, The touch of your hand says you'll catch me if ever I fall, You say it best when you say nothing at all."  When You Say Nothing at All- by Alison Krauss

Friday, March 12, 2010

Getting Up

So, I write in this blog pretty much everyday... today was no exception... but today I had written ALOT!!  I had found a bunch of great quotes throughout the day and put them all in there... I had typed them all from different books and tea bags and magnets... I had spent the day reading and composing this list for myself and it was one of those things I wanted to have to look back at...  It was more than just some random thoughts I had, it was a treasure of other peoples inspiring and profound words. 

I thought it was saved, then my PC (Piece of Crap) shut down and took my blog as it's victim.  It usually saves... it was saved, but for some reason it is gone.  I am so sad right now... I lost all that work... all that time... I just want to throw my computer into the wall and cry... and scream... and just not write anything because I'm so over it...

However, here I am typing, and slowly pulling myself up from this loss and creating something new, because that's what endings are after all... new beginnings.  And as one of the quotes I had found says:
"If at first you don't succeed, try, try again."
And like another put it:
“Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better.” Samuel Beckett

There was also another that reminded me:
"Stubbornly persist, and you will find that the limits of your stubbornness go well beyond the stubbornness of your limits."  Robert Brault
Which brought me to the conclusion that:
"Human beings, by changing the inner attitudes of their minds, can change the outer aspects of their lives." William James
So, while this many not be a smorgasbord of wise sayings to admire, a lengthy or life changing message... it is here in existence... because I chose to get up and start again. 


Today's Silver Lining:

"Whether it's the sunshine, Whether it's the rain, Doesn't make a difference, Till you complain, Whether it's the water comin' in from the roof, Does it piss you off, That you're not waterproof?  Whether you fall, means nothing at all, It's whether you get up, It's whether you get up."  Whether You Fall - by Tracy Bonham

Thursday, March 11, 2010

A Thought about thoughts

"Most people think that they are what their thoughts tell them they are.  One day I noticed that I wasn't breathing- I was being breathed.  Then I also noticed, to my amazement, that I wasn't thinking- that I was actually being thought and that thinking isn't personal.  Do you wake up in the morning and say to yourself, "I think I won't think today"?  It's too late: You're already thinking!  Thoughts just appear.  They come out of nothing and they go back to nothing, like clouds moving across the empty sky.  They come to pass, not to stay.  There is no harm in them until we attach to them as if they were true.
No one has ever been able to control his thinking, although people may tell the story of how they have.  I don't let go of my thoughts- I meet them with understanding.  Then they let go of me.
Thoughts are like the breeze or the leaves on the trees or the raindrops falling.  They appear like that, and through inquiry we can make friends with them.  Would you argue with a raindrop?  Raindrops aren't personal, and neither are thoughts.  Once a painful concept is met with understanding, the next time it appears you may find it interesting.  What used to be the nightmare is now just interesting.  The next time it appears, you may find it funny.  The next time, you may not even notice it.  This is the power of loving what is." from Loving What Is - by Byron Katie
This really made me think, then step back from those thoughts and smile... : )

Today's Silver Lining: ( in honor of going to see 311 on 3-11 day)

"Brainstorm, take me away from the norm, I got to tell you something, This phenomenon, I had to put it in a song, And it goes like, Whoa, amber is the color of your energy, Whoa, shades of gold displayed naturally, You ought to know what brings me here, You glide through my head blind to fear, And I know why, Whoa, amber is the color of your energy, Whoa, shades of gold displayed naturally  You live too far away, Your voice rings like a bell anyway, Don't give up your independence , Unless it feels so right, Nothing good comes easily, Sometimes you gotta fight."  Amber- by 311



Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Dis- disconnected

I haven't had a phone now for a few days.  It was working for spurts, but mostly it's just been dead... and now it's completely broken.  So that means no texts, or calls... in or out... no sense of connection to the outside world.  Then again... the longer I go the more I think I may be too connected through this to all the noise coming in from out there... and too disconnected from with-in.   I rely more on my blackberry than I do on myself... it calls people, texts them, keeps me busy, remembers things, wakes me up, does my math, reminds me when I have things to do... and now I've almost forgotten how to do those things on my own!

Don't get me wrong, I still plan on having a phone, but without one I've definitely had to become more aware again!  I've also filtered out a lot of noise that keeps me distracted from the moment at hand.  It's funny how easy it was to get so attached to these small little go getters.  Now you can't hang out with someone without texting and emailing... it's hard to stay in the now when we have the past and future ringing at our fingertips. 

The thing is... life goes on.  If someone needs to reach you, they will... and vice versa.  All of this stuff we rely on so much, we lived without for thousands of years and life still worked... and the funny thing is, I feel like the easier it gets to be connected... the less connected we become.  Rather than calling to say happy birthday, we write it on facebook... rather than talking, we text... and yes, it is easier and more convenient at times... but it just seems like everything is so easy that nothing seems to hold the value that it used to... and it goes far beyond the way way communicate!!  There is an old saying that I can't seem to remember exactly... but it's something along the lines of, the more effort you put into something the greater it's value.  Now, there's not much value left... we click, type and send all of our conversations from the convenience of wherever we are... we stay "in touch" with more people that we know less about... it's very strange when you think about it.

I have a friend who is always saying how much they love everybody via text and facebook, but they never have time to talk on the phone or even hang out in person... and it seems like I've fallen into that a bit.  This month I've been trying to make more of an effort to actually call people, send them a card on their birthday, invest more real time in my real friends... and spend less cyber time online and with my fingers too busy texting to wave hello to the neighbors... and as it turns out, this disconnection actually started with my phone... and without it, I'm actually feeling like I'm being dis-disconnected.

I'm having to spend more time thinking, remembering...talking to people is more of an effort because I have to find their number and find a phone to call from, so I do more that is important and less that is available... and although it may not seem like a lot... it is slowly making me value things more!  I've realized, the more that becomes available, and the easier it is to access, the less time we spend on what's important... I know I easily become distracted by random people's thoughts that pop up in my cyber life and start to pull me out of the moment and into thoughts of what if!!  People can create an image of themselves that is as glamorous as they'd like and leave out any details they choose... then rather than talking to our friends about what's going on, we talk about what we saw on this facebook page, and become a part of the illusion.  We are able to control too much of our interaction and we spend our time wondering if we should text 'hey' or 'hello', rather than just saying what we feel... our lives are becoming too calculated and less organic. 

Maybe it's time we all took a step back to our roots... used our mouths to speak rather than our fingers, put our phones down long enough to look around at the day... helped people plant a real garden rather than build their imaginary farms on facebook... get back to reality!  So although text messaging, and the cyber communities are nice to have... we need to remember to make time for the real world, with or without our cellphone!


Today's Silver Lining:

.
"I'm tired of postcards, especially the ones with cute dogs and cupids, I'm tired of calling you, missing you, dreaming I've slept with you, Don't get me wrong I still desperately love you, Inside this weary head I just want us to love instead, But I was just thinking and thinking, merely thinking, I think about long distance rates instead of kissing you babe, And time is running me still, If I wait for you longer my affection is stronger, I was just thinking - I was just thinking"  I Was Just Thinking- by Teitur



Monday, March 8, 2010

It Works!!

In tough situations, it's easy to get down and out, to feel stuck and helpless... however, it is possible to let go and have faith that things will work out for the best.  I usually take the easy way, but this time while in a rut, I decided to chin up, set my intention and let go... and wouldn't ya know...
 it worked!!

Now I'm not saying there weren't times I had attempted this and failed... it's hard to have faith when you're hanging on by a thread, but it's times like that you need it most.  Rather than focusing on what's wrong, all that you can't do, how impossible a solution seems... making the switch to what you can do, what's available and knowing that whatever needs to happen will!  It sounds too good to be true, but when you trust and put your faith in whatever it is you believe, you will bring the solution.

Now it may not be the solution you hoped for, but it will be whatever you need to get you to the next step, whatever that may be.  It may also be hard not to stress out and worry, but when you take a step back... you realize that when you get upset about things, it is only pushing the answer away.

So give it a go, try it, go for the smile, sigh and faith... it might take time, it might take strength, it make take a few attempts, but when you let it go and stop trying... it works!



Today's Silver Lining:
"Before this river, Becomes an ocean, Before you throw my heart back on the floor, Oh baby I reconsider, My foolish notion, Well I need someone to hold me, But I'll wait for something more, Yes I've gotta have faith... " Faith - by George Michael


Sunday, March 7, 2010

Do You See What I See

Everyday is full of new things to learn, and old things to remember... while letting go, and letting flow in Venice for the day, there was much to look at... and then see...



We're all a reflection



Stop and smell the roses!!



Read the writing on the wall



Things are looking up



K.I.S.S... Keep It Simple Sweetie!


So, take a look at the big pictures in life!!  Everyday is full of whatever you make out of what you see : )


Today's Silver Lining:
 "I saw the sign and it opened up my eyes, I saw the sign, Life is demanding without understanding, I saw the sign and it opened up my eyes, I saw the sign, No one's gonna drag you up to get into the, light where you belong... But where do you belong?"  The Sign- by Ace of Base


Saturday, March 6, 2010

Zip-a-dee-DO

Sometimes the weather isn't what you were hoping...
Sometimes you don't feel like doing anything...
Sometimes you wanna take the easy way out...
Sometimes you want any way out...
Sometimes things don't turn out how you hoped...
Sometimes you can't see the next step...
Sometimes you're afraid of the next step you see...
Sometimes what you see, is only a part of what is...
Sometimes you have to let go of your expectations...
Sometimes you just have to put the do in your zip-a-dee...


And no matter what the weather... when you zip-a-dee-do-it... you make it a wonderful day!!



Today's Silver Lining:
"Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah Zip-A-Dee-A, My oh my what a wonderful day,Plenty of sunshine headed my way, Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah Zip-A-Dee-A, Mister blue birds on my shoulder, It's the truth, It's actual, Everything is satisfactual, Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah Zip-A-Dee-A, Wonderful feeling, Wonderful Day." Zip-a-dee-do-dah- by The Jackson Five

Thursday, March 4, 2010

Yes, This

As I was driving through the desert fro Vegas to LA, I couldn't help but let my mind begin to wander into the unknown... What am I gonna do now?  How will I do my part to be a part of the solution?  When will I find out what my next step will be?  I was going from problem to problem, and feeling like I was amidst a storm in my mind... but I realized, as with any storm, this too shall pass.


Sometimes I get wrapped up in my own silly stories I make up of things beyond my control, and forget that they are only as important as I make them... and just as these dilemmas will pass, so will the precious moments I spend contemplating them.  This is the present, it is a present, it is whatever you asked God/ the universe/ Santa for by the thoughts you thought and moves you made to bring you here.  


So be grateful for now... because this too shall pass!!




Today's Silver Lining:
"You know you can't keep lettin' it get you down, And you can't keep draggin' that dead weight around.  If there ain't all that much to lug around, Better run like hell when you hit the ground. When the morning comes.  When the morning comes. You can't stop these kids from dancin'. Why would you want to? Especially when you're already gettin' yours. 'Cause if your mind don't move and your knees don't bend, well don't go blamin' the kids again. When the morning comes. When the morning comes. When the morning comes. When the morning comes. When the morning comes. When the morning comes. Let it go, this too shall pass. Let it go, this too shall pass."  Let It Go - by OK Go


Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Being Fear-Less

It isn't hard to see that we live in a very fear based society... don't get me wrong, there's plenty out there these days to be scared of!!  That's part of the reason I started writing this, to help me focus on the good... the change, instead of the problem.  It can sound totally hippie dippie at times, but it is a work in progress and a space to inspire me to do what I can... This is where I try to fear less, and embrace more.

I used to feed into the problem, feel helpless, feel afraid of what would happen... of global warming, of the government, of earthquakes, (of men... haha)!! That is just what fuels these types of things, the fear they inspire... we're all taught to be so afraid of these big bad boogie monsters, that really only exist in our minds. It's good to be aware of what's going on, such as the way the food industry has been manipulating what we eat based on greed rather than health... but we can't be afraid of all the things we hear, we can simply shift our focus to the truth that this presents... that we should be eating real raw food from the earth like we have been for thousands of years.

 I've been watching alot of documentaries over the past few months and I've learned about so many things, some I've known, others I never realized... but for the first time, I've actually made a change.  The fridge, (well my stuff in there anyways), is pretty much all fruits and veggies from whole foods or the farmers market... in fact I haven't been to a regular grocery store in over a month.  I stopped drinking coffee, and going to Starbucks at all... which was tough at first!  I've been going to yoga everyday, recycling, being more aware of what I'm buying and doing in general, smiling at people and things; A LOT... and while this may seem like a small step for mankind... it's a huge leap for my world!!   After all... we are our world... what we fear or feel, creates what we see.

Changing something in your life may not seem monumental... but imagine if everyone started doing one thing out of awareness rather than popular belief.  It doesn't have to be dramatic... but even just replacing one or two processed foods in your diet with things that are whole and organic can start a change that will feel so good... Making an effort to learn more, to go outside of your box and what you've been conditioned to believe and see there are other ways to invest your energy... because the more you invest in things that feel good... the more they are invested in you.  You don't have to listen to what you're supposed to do, (these days going green is becoming trendy, and I'm not sure how green some of these things are)...and you sure don't have to agree with everything I say...  just be aware, listen decide what feels the best for the bigger picture... because you do have to be accountable for what you believe and why.

So much of what we do is driven by fear... we stay at jobs we hate because we are scared that what will make us happy won't pay the bills... we take medications and vaccines because we're afraid natural cures won't work... we don't say what we feel because we're scared of being wrong or judged.  Well... what's scarier, taking a risk at something new, with a chance it may be difficult, or doing things that make us unhappy or unhealthy because they're easy??  

 When we take off the blindfold of fear... it is easy to see love all around us...



Soooooooo... Fear less... Do more!!  Be the change, find love... become fearless!!!




Today's Silver Lining:

"I can change the world, With my own two hands, Make a better place, With my own two hands, Make a kinder place, With my own two hands, With my own, With my own two hands.  I can make peace on earth,
With my own two hands, I can clean up the earth, With my own two hands, I can reach out to you, With my own two hands, With my own, With my own two hands, I'm gonna make it a brighter place, I'm gonna make it a safer place, I'm gonna help the human race, With my own, With my own two hands."  With My Own Two Hands - by Ben Harper


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aEnfy9qfdaU

(Here's another one, I couldn't resist, they're both soooooo good!!  I'm FEARLESS... HAHA!!)

"What good is a man, Who won't take a stand, What good is a cynic, With no better plan, I believe in a better way! I believe in a better way! Reality is sharp, It cuts at me like a knife, Everyone i know, Is in the fight of their life,I believe in a better way!  Take your face out of your hands, And clear your eyes, You have a right to your dreams, And don't be denied, I believe in a better way."  Better Way- by Ben Harper


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XOZj1Xyx354

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Steppin Up...

I was looking through some old journals from college, my move to LA and India today, and reading what I wrote... I couldn't believe some of it was me... funny how in each moment things seem so important, and in the next they are so easily forgotten... How those choices that were so tough to make, are now so obvious... ... the little things you used to regret, or tried to avoid, that now make perfect sense.

I found that I seem to go through the same cycles over and over, and though the names may change, I always remain the same.  I still have those moments of doubt, where I question the way I live... the moment to moment decisions, the lack of structure or a plan... and I get to that spot when things aren't quite working out and I'm not sure what to do so I think about giving up faith... and right at that moment is where the magic happens.  It's amazing how when you ask, you receive, when you seek you find, when you knock it is opened unto you... just like many different scriptures say... I can endorse from experience.

I found a poem I had written towards the end of my time in India:

I was waiting for an answer,
Praying for a sign,
I was planning that the stars,
Would all somehow align,
Now I'm left feeling heavy,
With no clue which way to go,
Standing in the middle of a moment,
That I may never know,
Having faith was easy,
It's keeping it that's tough,
Looking for a way to make it,
When there may not be enough,
Can I survive my doubts,
Put my courage to the test,
Find peace in the now,
Before dealing with the rest...
I close my eyes and take a breath,
Give thanks for all I know,
Then continue to walk on,
Allowing the next step to show


Sometimes it's that next step that's so hard to take, the one when you're not quite sure where to step... but when you do, you realize as long as you step, there's always ground underneath your feet... and no matter where you go, you'll always end up there!!


Today's Silver Lining:
"Well I think about all the other ways I could've played, All the other simple moves I could've made, All the other cards that I could've dealt, All the books I didn't read upon my shelf, All the other ways I could've sung my songs, I've realized that none of it went wrong, It was all play, How could it be any other way? Now that the chains are off, I'm free to roam, Everywhere I go, I feel like I'm home, Nothing hides, Everything is shown."  Other Ways - by Trevor Hall



Monday, March 1, 2010

Hahahahahaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!

These days everyone is LOLing, but no one seems to be happy.... People are JKing, while typing with a stern stare into a computer at a desk they despise.... If everyone is really Ling their A's O why do people look at me with a death stare when I smile at them?!  Have we replaced our acts of joy with letters?
 When I was leaving my yoga class tonight I went into what I like to call the CLaSS( clap, laugh, and sigh, smile) Vinyasa Flow, when I saw this out in front of a Bar-B-Que joint:


A Vinyasa flow is a bunch of poses or asanas, done together with the breath so you flow from one to the next.  I now like to find these sequences that flow in my life, and the CLaSS is one of my most frequent (and favorite) ones...

1. Hahahaaaaaaaaaaaaa.... (clapping) A cute plush dancing piggy
2. Hhhhhhhhhhhhmmmmnnnn.... Is this supposed to make people hungry?! (smiling).... Well it made me Laugh Out Loud (LOL for those of you who have forgotten what words look like)



Sometimes in life an outburst of laughter is hiding where you least expect it and right where you need it and there are no letters to replace the feeling of letting yourself flow with it!!  What some people see as food, I see as cute... haha... what some see as boredom others see as joy... it's all how you look at  it, and you can look at it with a smile or a face like you just bit into a lemon.  So don't judge yourself for wanting to actually laugh, just go for it!  The one thing you can do that people can all understand (and benefit from)... is smile... and better yet, it's free, it can be done anywhere, and it's universally understood!  So whether it's at a dancing pig, a silly sign, something immature or even yourself... it's okay to laugh out loud... even if other people look at you like, OMG!! ; )


Today's Silver Lining:


"Here is a little song I wrote , You might want to sing it note for note, Don't worry be happy, In every life we have some trouble, When you worry you make it double, Don't worry, be happy...... Ain't got no place to lay your head, Somebody came and took your bed, Don't worry, be happy, The land lord say your rent is late, He may have to litigate, Don't worry, be happy, Look at me I am happy, Don't worry, be happy, Here I give you my phone number, When you worry call me, I make you happy." Don't Worry Be Happy - by Bobby McFerrin


I dare you not to smile when you watch this... it's tough!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l9K4BKkLaCI