tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69749066475852959602024-03-13T09:26:29.275-07:00Renata's ThoughtsA blog about living, loving, spirit, and personal growth. It's about learning to find the inner wisdom through all aspects of life.
Whether it's through metaphor story or humor I hope that you find a part of yourself here. Enjoy.Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-19039780441410770322011-05-21T07:11:00.000-07:002011-05-21T07:11:14.630-07:00Bliss Bakery in Santa Rosa!<a href="http://blissbakerygf.com/">Bliss Bakery - Gluten Free Food For The Masses</a><br />
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There's a new bakery in Santa Rosa, CA called Bliss Bakery. When I heard about a new gluten free, allergy friendly bakery in town I knew I had to try it. My husband and I decided to stop by while cruising around town doing errands just on the off chance that this bakery had some delicious vegan treats left at 4:55pm.<br />
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We pulled up outside of the small bakery, located in little neighborhood in downtown Santa Rosa. When we parked right in front of the door the first thing we noticed was the sign on the door said ''shut'', which we found quaint and dissapointing. However, we were in luck! When we looked inside, a short brunette was motioning for us to come in. We obliged, of course. <br />
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It turned out that she was on her way to Wavy Gravy's birthday party and was very excited to get to the festivities. However, she was as friendly and happy as can be to share her baked goods with us. We took a look around at the small space which still smelled of delicious sweet and savory treats. She had just a few items left from the day, most of which were vegan that she was saving in a pink cake box almost as if she were waiting for us to arrive. One special treat in the box was a toffee cupcake which she quickly broke in half for my husband and I to try. It was delicious! We asked for a few in a box to take with us, with the delicious vanilla icing on top of course.<br />
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All of <a href="http://blissbakerygf.com/">Bliss Bakery's</a> goodies are gluten free, most of the treats are vegan and they serve kombucha on tap. Flying Goat coffee and tea is also served throughout the day to accompany the fantastic food.<br />
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Overall, I was very pleased with my experience and I highly recommend. The staff are very accomodating and seem genuinly happy to share the sweetness. If you're in Santa Rosa, definitely stop by.<br />
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707 . 542 . 6000<br />
463 SEBASTOPOL AVE . SANTA ROSA . IN THE SOUTH A ARTS DISTRICT<br />
OPEN THURSDAY - SATURDAY 10 - 5<br />
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</div>Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-59396801663976956892011-04-24T10:09:00.000-07:002011-04-24T10:09:39.666-07:00spring chicks!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmoqSTJIV1A/TbRZJBKYbKI/AAAAAAAAHxk/SO_UfSSOp0g/s1600/IMG_0549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmoqSTJIV1A/TbRZJBKYbKI/AAAAAAAAHxk/SO_UfSSOp0g/s320/IMG_0549.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z3kx7trKNUU/TbRZK32VsYI/AAAAAAAAHxo/KVi-DkOHvD0/s1600/IMG_0555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z3kx7trKNUU/TbRZK32VsYI/AAAAAAAAHxo/KVi-DkOHvD0/s320/IMG_0555.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j0YPj9DsIF8/TbRZMSWQ8aI/AAAAAAAAHxs/rHtIPej46zI/s1600/IMG_0558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j0YPj9DsIF8/TbRZMSWQ8aI/AAAAAAAAHxs/rHtIPej46zI/s320/IMG_0558.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-6560434011296776362011-03-01T14:25:00.000-08:002011-03-01T14:25:01.304-08:00Oatmeal Whole Wheat Quick BreadI vegan-ized this Oatmeal Whole Wheat Quick Bread from a recipe found here. All I can say is WOW! Moist, full of texture, earthy and oh so delicious. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-AOPtoLobZ34/TW1yLcMln0I/AAAAAAAAHw4/j8KzwJTOLzk/s1600/4501348503_2b9f24bd7e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" l6="true" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-AOPtoLobZ34/TW1yLcMln0I/AAAAAAAAHw4/j8KzwJTOLzk/s320/4501348503_2b9f24bd7e.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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1 cup rolled oats<br />
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1 cup whole wheat flour<br />
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2 teaspoons baking powder<br />
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1 teaspoon salt (I like salt)<br />
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1 ½ Tablespoons agave syrup<br />
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1 Tablespoon vegetable oil<br />
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1 cup soy milk <br />
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1) Preheat oven to 450F (232C). Grind oatmeal in a food processor or blender. <br />
2) In a large bowl, combine oatmeal, flour, baking powder and salt. In a separate bowl, dissolve agave syrup in vegetable oil then stir in the soy milk. Combine both mixtures and stir until a soft dough is formed. Form the dough into a ball and place on a lightly oiled baking sheet.Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-80080265126966836142011-03-01T14:22:00.000-08:002011-03-01T14:22:38.773-08:00Peanut Butter MuffinsOk - this isn't the best picture...but you'll get the idea. DELISH~!<br />
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I have a new found love for this peanut butter muffin recipe which happened by mistake. I was scouring the internet looking for a recipe for peanut butter bread…there aren’t that many. Don’t ask me why I was so fixated on finding a recipe for such a thing, I just get it in my head sometimes and I can’t let it go. I found this recipe and decided to veganize it. And then I realized that I had misplaced my bread pan… So it became a muffin recipe! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-t41OCEgXqyk/TW1xnTDyh_I/AAAAAAAAHw0/9NoE5q7XTRY/s1600/5375683819_4e26e41e91.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" l6="true" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-t41OCEgXqyk/TW1xnTDyh_I/AAAAAAAAHw0/9NoE5q7XTRY/s320/5375683819_4e26e41e91.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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1 Tablespoon ground flax meal (heaping)<br />
3 Tablespoons non-dairy milk (I used Rice Dream Horchata) <br />
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1 ½ cups all-purpose flour <br />
1 cup oats <br />
1 cup sugar <br />
1 Tablespoon baking powder <br />
½ teaspoon salt <br />
¾ cup peanut butter <br />
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1 cup non-dairy milk (I used Rice Dream Horchata) <br />
1 teaspoon vanilla<br />
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1) Heat your oven to 350F (177C) and line your muffin tins. Mix the flax and horchata in a small bowl and let gel up. <br />
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2) Grind the oats in a food processor (I used the Magic Bullet), or use quick cooking oats. In a medium mixing bowl combine the flour, oats, sugar, baking powder and salt. Add the peanut butter and mix until crumbly. <br />
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3) Combine the flax mixture, horchata and vanilla in a separate bowl and then add to the dry ingredients until just moistened. <br />
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4) Fill the muffin tins ¾ full and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool for at least 5 minutes, if you can stand it. Serve with fresh preserves and enjoy the PB&J muffin experience!<br />
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Makes 12-14 Peanut Butter Muffins.Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-39468196665394905332011-03-01T14:20:00.000-08:002011-03-01T14:20:18.385-08:00Zucchini Carrot Muffins with Cinnamon Crumble Top<em>Ok - everyone who has had one of these...loves 'em. Serious folks. </em><br />
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These Zucchini Carrot Muffins are moist and delicious. They are a popular treat among my vegan and non-vegan friends. They seem to be more delectable with fresh zucchini and carrots from the garden. Enjoy! <br />
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Adapted from <a href="http://southernfood.about.com/od/zucchinibread/r/r70819f.htm">here</a>.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TVcWnxSKbtw/TW1w99U2ExI/AAAAAAAAHww/ELabQKuwJ2g/s1600/carrot-zucchini-muffins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" l6="true" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TVcWnxSKbtw/TW1w99U2ExI/AAAAAAAAHww/ELabQKuwJ2g/s1600/carrot-zucchini-muffins.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Muffins<br />
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2/3 cup melted vegan margarine (I use Earth Balance)<br />
2 servings of egg replacer mixed with water (I use Bob's Red Mill)<br />
2/3 cup white sugar<br />
1/2 cup dark brown sugar, packed<br />
2 teaspoons vanilla extract<br />
2 cups all-purpose flour<br />
1/2 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1/2 teaspoon baking powder<br />
1/2 teaspoon salt<br />
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2 teaspoons ground cinnamon<br />
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg<br />
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1 1/2 cups finely shredded unpeeled zucchini<br />
1/2 cup finely shredded carrot <br />
1/2 cup chopped nuts (my favorite are pecans)(optional) <br />
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Cinnamon Crumb Topping*<br />
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1) Grease and flour 12 muffin cups. Heat oven to 375°F (191°C).<br />
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2) In a medium mixing bowl, beat the melted vegan margarine with egg replacer and water, sugars and vanilla extract. <br />
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3) In another medium mixing bowl combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, nutmeg and cinnamon. Add the dry ingredients to the bowl containing the wet ingredients from step 2, stirring until well incorporated. Fold in the shredded zucchini, carrots and nuts. <br />
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4) Fill muffin cups about 3/4 full with the batter. Sprinkle with Cinnamon Crumb Topping (see below) or granulated sugar, if desired.<br />
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5) Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Makes about 12 muffins. <br />
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*Cinnamon Crumb Topping<br />
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2 teaspoons vegan margarine, melted<br />
1 tablespoon brown sugar<br />
1 tablespoon flour<br />
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (or to taste)<br />
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (or to taste) <br />
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1) In a small mixing bowl, add all ingredients together and mix with a fork until crumbly.<br />
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You can view this recipe on <a href="http://www.veganbaking.net/vegan-recipes/breads-and-muffins/zucchini-carrot-muffins-with-cinnamon-crumble-top.html">http://www.veganbaking.net/vegan-recipes/breads-and-muffins/zucchini-carrot-muffins-with-cinnamon-crumble-top.html</a> too :)Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-1063590237611349842011-01-16T15:04:00.000-08:002011-01-16T15:04:38.014-08:00Sunday Cherry SconesRuben loves cherries, and I love baking. So why not marry the two?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/TTN4yAWWuQI/AAAAAAAAHwQ/Mx-LAcAduOU/s1600/CIMG0778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/TTN4yAWWuQI/AAAAAAAAHwQ/Mx-LAcAduOU/s320/CIMG0778.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
I used Isa's scone recipe from Vegan with a Vengeance and added Trader Joe's Morello Cherries and a teaspoon of almond extract.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/TTN47Uu4ouI/AAAAAAAAHwU/IjmNP2VqtFE/s1600/CIMG0774.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/TTN47Uu4ouI/AAAAAAAAHwU/IjmNP2VqtFE/s320/CIMG0774.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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For the icing I used:<br />
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3 C powdered sugar<br />
4 1/2 T morello cherry juice from jar<br />
1/2 t almond extract<br />
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Then I whisked it all together and drizzled on top of scones...a bit messy, but worth it for sure.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/TTN5FcmKGxI/AAAAAAAAHwY/Xr02gipzH2E/s1600/CIMG0772.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/TTN5FcmKGxI/AAAAAAAAHwY/Xr02gipzH2E/s320/CIMG0772.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I just had to share, because it was so fun to make!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/TTN5UgD8YtI/AAAAAAAAHwc/4qj_ebKqznU/s1600/CIMG0782.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/TTN5UgD8YtI/AAAAAAAAHwc/4qj_ebKqznU/s320/CIMG0782.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Happy Martin Luther King, Jr. Day!</div>Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-23152222588798026532010-12-31T06:58:00.000-08:002010-12-31T06:59:53.065-08:00A tool for you...Hello Everyone,<br />
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I know a million and one people are writing about their resolutions this time of year so I thought instead of writing about what mine are going to be, I would give you a <a href="https://docs.google.com/leaf?id=0B2rchDn1UDcOMDVlYzMwZDYtYTM4MS00YTgyLWI2Y2YtNGQ4NzQyODUwNTUx&sort=name&layout=list&num=50">tool </a>to help you figure out yours. Check out this little <a href="https://docs.google.com/leaf?id=0B2rchDn1UDcOMDVlYzMwZDYtYTM4MS00YTgyLWI2Y2YtNGQ4NzQyODUwNTUx&sort=name&layout=list&num=50">worksheet </a>which may provide you with some insight on your accomplishments from this previous year and a few ways to think about 2011 and what it has in store for you.<br />
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You can scroll below, or <a href="https://docs.google.com/leaf?id=0B2rchDn1UDcOMDVlYzMwZDYtYTM4MS00YTgyLWI2Y2YtNGQ4NzQyODUwNTUx&sort=name&layout=list&num=50">DOWNLOAD FROM THIS LINK.</a><br />
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/leaf?id=0B2rchDn1UDcOMDVlYzMwZDYtYTM4MS00YTgyLWI2Y2YtNGQ4NzQyODUwNTUx&sort=name&layout=list&num=50"><iframe frameborder="0" height="560px" src="https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=false&embedded=true&srcid=0B2rchDn1UDcOMDVlYzMwZDYtYTM4MS00YTgyLWI2Y2YtNGQ4NzQyODUwNTUx&hl=en" width="100%"></iframe></a><br />
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Most of all...have fun! That's what New Year's is about right?Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-62290137180579754142010-12-27T14:18:00.000-08:002011-03-01T14:09:50.808-08:00Cookie Success!Hi Everyone! I love these cookies, and I want to share them with you...so please enjoy...<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Cranberry Pecan Oatmeal Cookies</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br />
</span></b></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">These cookies are one of the standards of our Christmas baking celebrations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The crunchy pecans and tart-sweetness of the cranberries really make a complex and well rounded flavor and texture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are really, really delicious!</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/TRkQWgVk9UI/AAAAAAAAHwI/jp2LX-Q5niI/s1600/CIMG0583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/TRkQWgVk9UI/AAAAAAAAHwI/jp2LX-Q5niI/s320/CIMG0583.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 21px;"><b><br />
</b></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal">Makes about 48 cookies</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">2 C all purpose flour</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">1 t baking soda</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">½ t baking powder</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">½ t salt</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">1 C (2 sticks) Earth Balance, room temp</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">1 C granulated white sugar</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">1 C packed brown sugar</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">2 flax eggs (2 ½ T flax meal 6 T water)</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">1-3 t vanilla</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">1-2 pinch cinnamon (or ½ t? ish)</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">1 pinch nutmeg</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">2 C oats</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">1 C dried cranberries</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">1 C chopped pecans</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">Heat oven to 400 degrees.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">Mix flax and water in a separate dish and let gel up.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">Combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt and spices.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">Beat Earth Balance in a bowl until softened (but not liquidy).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beat in flax eggs until well combined.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">Beat in vanilla.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">Beat in sugar.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">Mix in flour with rubber spatula.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">Mix on low for 5 seconds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Batter will be thick.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">Stir in oats, cranberries and pecans.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">Drop by the rounded tablespoon onto parchment cookie sheet, roll into balls and place 2-inches apart. (Try to keep the dough cool in between baking sessions, I keep mine in the fridge)</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">Cook 11 minutes, until golden brown.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">Cool cookies on sheets for 1-2 minutes then transfer to cookie racks and cool completely (or eat while hot!)</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div>Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-64568148659449383092010-11-14T06:05:00.000-08:002010-11-14T06:06:45.919-08:00Relational AwarenessRelational Awareness is a class that Ruben and I just completed with an esteemed colleague, <a href="http://donnablethen.blogspot.com/2010/10/relational-awareness-seminar-november.html">Donna Blethen</a>. We will be doing more of them as a series, and I look forward to additional people attending. It was really a great class! Here is the flyer for the class from yesterday to give you a sneak peak about what future classes may contain. Let me know if you have any questions!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/TN_scRcSa4I/AAAAAAAAHvc/S53ZwXZ80NU/s1600/Relational+Awareness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/TN_scRcSa4I/AAAAAAAAHvc/S53ZwXZ80NU/s320/Relational+Awareness.jpg" width="261" /></a></div>Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-86075621527411605592010-10-05T10:19:00.000-07:002010-10-05T10:19:21.868-07:00Thirty Things<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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<div style="background-color: transparent; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">As I turned 30 years old this weekend I realized that it might be a good idea to think about the culmination of these years. What does it mean to begin living in my thirties? Does it mean anything? What I came up with is pretty simple. Thirty things that I know, think, feel and love...right here for the world to see. It may be interesting to you, it may not be...but I thought I would share with anyone willing to read. </span></span></span></div><div style="background-color: transparent; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Thirty Things for Thirty Years</span></span></u></span></div><div style="background-color: transparent; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">1. I am so grateful for finding my soul mate. If you know me, you know my story...and it is truly magical.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">2. Grandparents are a treasure I wish all people were able to enjoy. I have learned so much from my beloved grand-generation. Without their love, support and wisdom I would not be where I am today. I am truly grateful for every moment I am able to share with them. And, even though I do not spend nearly enough time with each of them, I feel them close to my heart at all times.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">3. Siblings are Spectacular. I never knew being a sibling could be so rewarding. I feel so blessed to have such amazing sisters and brothers. They have taught me so much about compassion, love, growth and connectedness. I have learned that while I may be drastically different in many respects...it doesn't matter. What holds us together is stronger than our beliefs, behaviors and idiosyncrasies.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">4. Being kind to myself is harder than I thought it would be. It might sound funny, but I can be nicer to other people than I can be to myself. I'm still learning the art of kindness and love when directed inward. The nice thing about learning this art is that when I am able to act loving toward myself it creates a more authentic connection with those that I know and love.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">5. I have to live with myself. Advice comes from every direction...but I get to wake up to this fair headed mug every morning, so what I do needs to count for me and no one else.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">6. Forcing and manipulating people into doing what you want are two sides to the same coin. I see many people flipping back and forth...using scare tactics, guilt and worry to manipulate people into acting certain ways. If that doesn't work, they'll often try brute force. Either method is useless for creating a better world, and noticing that I was guilty of this behavior was the first step in stopping the cycle.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">7. Killing is complex. Period. No matter what your belief system is, there are no clear answers on the life-death cycle. I've learned to listen to my conscious, (see #5).</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">8. Solitude is golden.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">9. Everyone likes to communicate differently. If you want to get in touch with me, it probably won’t be by phone. As I learn more and more about who I am, it becomes increasingly clear that I am most easily reached by electronic communication. I find it easier to communicate, respond and interact through the ethers of the interweb.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">10. Snoozing during the day is the best! And I love doing it with those I love the most. Come on over any day and plop down to a relaxing show on the Tele and some popcorn, you won’t hear me complain.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">11. I love to bake! Actually, I love the product of delicious baked goods, and baking them is how I get from point A to point B. Vegan baking has become somewhat of a hobby of mine, and I love surprising folks who don’t believe that vegan treats can be yummy.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">12. Time is relative. Some “times” seem fast, other “times” seem slow. It’s all perspective, and having control over my reality can be a lot of fun, when I remember to use it.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">13. Sometimes I have this nagging feeling that I’m getting too old for ‘this’ or ‘that’. But then I remember all of those amazing individuals who accomplished great things in the later years of their lives and I am encouraged to follow my dreams.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">14. My best friends in the world are those that I need not say anything to. We can sit and enjoy each other’s presence without words, without small talk and without insincere emotions. We are real, honest and if time passes between our meetings we pick up right where we left off.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">15. Coffee is delicious.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">16. When I retire, I’d like to own and run Churro cart.. I have so many fond memories of eating Churros with my Grandpa, and I want to be able to contribute to those great memories for someone else. (and...they’re super yummy)</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">17. In my darkest moments, I still know everything will be alright. I can thank my Grandmother Carol for this belief. She taught me that no matter what, everything and everyone will be alright and taken care of.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">18. I enjoy being a little eccentric. And, I think everyone IS a little eccentric when they’re allowed to fully express themselves. My Nana taught me this. She is brilliant, strong, determined, sweet, sensitive, funny and unique. She does things because of her convictions and not because someone else told her to do it. I can only hope to inherit some of these qualities.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">19. Learning never ends. Formal schooling aside, I will never cease learning. Everyday I am fortunate enough to have a spark of realization, a download of new knowledge or a moment of insight. I look forward to these.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">20. Never underestimate the power of Listening. I still find myself wanting to add my input to most everything. However, when I can just listen to the other person and soak it in…this is when the best moments develop.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">21. My life did not end when I turned 21. I had a mini-breakdown when I reached the age of 21, realizing that I hadn’t accomplished all that I had hoped to by that age. I understand now that I was exactly where I was supposed to be at the perfect time. Just like every other moment in my life.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">22. If I don’t like something another person is doing and if I find their behavior annoying, irritating, or bothersome. I can almost guarantee you that I am guilty of EXACTLY what they are doing. It’s a great reminder that my work here is not complete, and we are all doing the best we can.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">23. I still don’t know what I want to do with my life. But I do know that if I keep chugging along, doing things that bring something positive to my life, other’s lives, and the world, then I’m on the right path. It’s not about ‘doing’ something with my life…it’s about ‘being’ in my life and spreading the goodness.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">24. Pets, and the animals in our lives, are a direct reflection of us and what is happening within our lives, internally and externally. They offer us a mirror to our souls with their gifts of unconditional love. If you do not have pets, your environment will act similarly as a reflection. All you need to do is take a look around to get a good idea of what is happening with you, your spirit and your life.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">25. Everyone is psychic, everyone is intuitive and we are all connected. I have no doubts or qualms about this, at all.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">26. The soul never dies. This point has been made obvious and apparent to me again recently, and it is such a great reminder during any difficult times. Our souls are everlasting, always alive and inextinguishable.</span></span></span></div><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">27.</span></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Without my Mom I would never have learned the following</span></span></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 72pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">a. </span></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">One should be cautious of those who do not like animals or who mistreat their pets. </span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">b. </span></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">One should always add a bit of pickle juice when preparing potato salad.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">c. </span></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Don’t fill up on snacks before dinner.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 72pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">d. </span></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Diversity is beautiful. People (and probably aliens) come in all shapes, sizes, colors, genders, religious, sexual orientations and ethnicities. Love and treat everyone equally.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">28.</span></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Humor is essential in daily life. Without laughing my life would be dull, boring and unmoving. If you can make me laugh, we’ll be good friends...</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">29.</span></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Music speaks to my heart and soul. A good piece of music will lift my spirits, give me goose bumps and make me weep. It is so important for a balanced life.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">30.</span></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">God is all there is. Love is all there is. Is, is all there is.</span></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">And of course, there are more than thirty things to write about. But, these are the things that came to me when I asked. Maybe one day when I turn 60 I can look back at this list and say to myself, “Wow, you were so young and knew nothing.” or perhaps I say “Wow, you were so wise beyond your years.” Haha! I think I like the second one better. I’ll stick with that.</span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></span></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Happy October 2010 Everyone!</span></span></span></div><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></div>Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-34099130203366617702010-08-11T11:58:00.000-07:002010-08-11T11:58:18.649-07:00React, Respond<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 10.0pt;">Just let it go, Renata.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s what I kept telling myself for the last two days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But for some reason there’s still another lesson to learn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So what is it?<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 10.0pt;">For the last two days I feel as if I’ve been in a spiritual growth spurt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While I’m learning and ‘knowing’ a lot, it hasn’t been painless to say the least.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve been triggered left and right by those I know and love, as well as perfect strangers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, of course, the common denominator is me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And, what in heaven’s name am I trying to teach myself?<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 10.0pt;">Well, without getting uber-specific about what has been happening I can tell you these things have come to the surface for me.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 10.0pt;">Feelings of anger, irritation, rage and disbelief.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 10.0pt;">Having the desire or need to “prove my position”.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 10.0pt;">Wanting to react with sarcasm, snide comments and rudeness.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 10.0pt;">Confusion about why people feel, act and behave in certain ways.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 10.0pt;">Not understanding the motives of those whom I thought I knew.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 10.0pt;">I usually consider myself the type of person that can see all sides to a situation. While I may not agree with every side, I can understand why one would have a belief or act in certain ways.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, with some of the pressing issues that are occurring presently, I’m at a loss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just don’t understand why people believe the things they do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On top of that, I’m saddened by the shock that some of these people are the closest to me, and I can’t understand them.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 10.0pt;">Part of me wants to rant and rave about how ridiculous they are and how their beliefs are destroying the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, that won’t do any good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And, it certainly is not the way I want to respond.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 10.0pt;">The biggest lesson thus far over the last two days, is that I’m learning how much more adept I have become at responding to a situation rather than reacting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would say that for most of my life I have reacted to any given stimulus, without taking all of the variables into consideration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now, I feel much more comfortable letting something sit with me for awhile, even if it is uncomfortable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And, asking myself; how do you REALLY want to respond to this?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What type of person are you, and how would that person respond to this situation? <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 10.0pt;">So for now, I’m sitting, in an uncomfortable and receptive position, waiting for the perfect response to an imperfect situation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-73085619507848125232010-03-18T12:52:00.001-07:002010-03-18T12:52:47.199-07:00om of the dayIf you haven't yet checked out my newest "baby" I encourage you to go there now...<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.omoftheday.com/">www.omoftheday.com</a><br />
<br />
Love & Peace!Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-6068832173470141532010-02-10T07:54:00.000-08:002010-02-10T07:54:46.693-08:00God’s got a Sixth Sense of Humor.What does the sixth sense mean to you? <br />
<br />
This morning in the car my hubby was singing this Depeche Mode song and one of the lines is: I think that God has a sick sense of humor. Well, it made me think about God having a sixth sense of humor. And, if it is God…why wouldn’t it be a sixth sense of humor. I mean, isn’t the sixth sense all about extra sensory perception? And, isn’t that part of the definition of God? Limitless, boundless, all knowing and pervasive. If so, it occurs to me that God might have a sense of humor, and if there were such a sense of humor to be had…I’m SURE it would be extra sensory, perhaps even seventh sensory or eighth! I wonder what that would be like. <br />
<br />
And of course, if you bring into the equation that we are all a part of this all-knowing force, perhaps it eludes to the notion that we too, have a sixth sense of humor.<br />
<br />
I thought it was ponder-ific anyway, and I thought I would share.<br />
<br />
Here’s to another beautiful, wonderful day, full of sixth sensory humor!Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-48833345622412869092010-01-31T11:01:00.001-08:002010-01-31T11:07:08.332-08:00Sweet Sunday!Sometimes there’s nothing better than making something delicious and nutritious to share with those I love. This morning I woke up and had an urge to make something yummy…and this is what came of it. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/S2XTvClFchI/AAAAAAAAHoM/aqZs5ztfxNM/s1600-h/CIMG7889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/S2XTvClFchI/AAAAAAAAHoM/aqZs5ztfxNM/s320/CIMG7889.JPG" /></a></div><br />
I’m not sure what to call them yet, but they are crispy, gooey, crunchy and tasty! Rice puffs, nuts, seeds, almond butter and brown rice syrup all mixed together (oh yeah, a touch of vanilla too!). Kind of like a sticky treat to enjoy with a hot cuppa coffee. Scrumptious Sunday Sweets…that sounds good to me.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/S2XUg_1PAXI/AAAAAAAAHoU/R70Bu4VCoUg/s1600-h/CIMG7897.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/S2XUg_1PAXI/AAAAAAAAHoU/R70Bu4VCoUg/s320/CIMG7897.JPG" /></a></div>Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-87659091597544986322010-01-11T01:11:00.000-08:002010-01-11T07:39:40.200-08:00Happy 111 Everyone!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/S0tGBCkHqLI/AAAAAAAAHoE/4A6S1bPmuoc/s1600-h/111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/S0tGBCkHqLI/AAAAAAAAHoE/4A6S1bPmuoc/s320/111.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>January 11th, 1/11, I like 111, it’s a great number. Three ones make 3 which is all about communication and self-expression. The number 1 is about individuality, determination and independence. So my questions for the day then, are; How will you express your own creativity today? How will you stand out as unique and independent, and share with the world your inner gems of perception? What do you know to be true and how can you communicate it to the world around you?<br />
<br />
One way to try this hat on today would be to think about something that you do, say or think that is your very own. It could be anything from how you enjoy making your cup of coffee in the morning to your ritual for falling asleep at night. Anything that is uniquely yours. Think of this thing, and share it with one person today. If possible, show them in a distinct way that is significant to you. <br />
<br />
In this process of sharing something personal, you will notice a part of you opening up that you may not have been aware of before. Give it a nod and a smile, and realize that no matter what it is that you shared, you shared a part of yourself with the humanity and have connected with others around you in a more personal way. If needed, rinse and repeat.Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-1601086673654217212009-12-19T21:43:00.000-08:002009-12-19T21:44:01.031-08:00Barking at a knot. I really want to know what some of your favorite expressions and phrases are. <br />
<br />
My Nana drove us to the airport yesterday, so we had a nice hour to spend talking about the world, our family and life in general. It was during the car ride that I realized I hardly know any sayings that my Nana uses in normal conversation. (And apparently these are common things that people used to say.)<br />
<br />
So, I'd like to know what some of the prized and best known ones are, that have been used in your family. <br />
<br />
Some of the ones that were new to me were:<br />
<br />
* "Cut one's teeth" meaning to getone's first experience by doing (although I have to admit the visual I got for this one was quite interesting)<br />
* "Barking at a knot" meaning that your efforts were as useless as a dog barking at a knot.<br />
<br />
Let's hear it...what are you favorites that your grandparents or parents used to say?<br />
<br />
Please comment.Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-36215280590281285982009-12-11T20:57:00.000-08:002009-12-12T13:01:05.074-08:00The Straw...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/SyMiR78bFYI/AAAAAAAAHn4/iNc4zXRGiW4/s1600-h/CIMG7575.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/SyMiR78bFYI/AAAAAAAAHn4/iNc4zXRGiW4/s320/CIMG7575.JPG" /></a><br />
</div>Things are changing so fast. I can see it even more because my sister and nephew have been visiting from out of town. They have been here for just a few short weeks and already I see changes in the little 16 month old. Jake. Oh Jake. He inspires me to look at things in a new way.<br />
<br />
In fact, just the other day Jake was doing the funniest thing. We were sharing a drink with him, a smoothie. And we figured that it would probably be easier for him and cleaner for us to use a straw, which he has had plenty of success with in the past. Well, he began to drink and then stopped, looked at both of us and started to scream. Then he made a sour face, turned back to the smoothie and repeated the odd behavior. <br />
<br />
It went something like this: <br />
<br />
Suck. <br />
Scream. <br />
Sour face. <br />
Suck. <br />
Scream.<br />
Sour Face.<br />
<br />
We couldn’t figure it out, but we started laughing…I decided that he was just thirsty and brought him some water which seemed to satisfy him. And then it occurred to us (a good 20 minutes later) that Jake was having trouble actually sucking the smoothie through the straw. As soon as he was given the smoothie like “grown ups” drink it, he was happy and smiling.<br />
<br />
So what does this teach us? Or rather, what did it teach me?<br />
<br />
You can whine and fuss when you don’t get what you want…but never give up. Eventually, however, doing things like a grown up will get you exactly like you want.<br />
<br />
So I guess I don’t have any more excuses…I have to act like a grown up! At least I get to have smoothies...Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-61360985949144063222009-11-29T13:33:00.000-08:002009-11-29T13:33:28.383-08:00Oh Balls!Of all the things that could get me to post a new blog, it had to be these lovely balls...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/SxLohgW1NiI/AAAAAAAAHl4/hufEP8d5Fjo/s1600/Balls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/SxLohgW1NiI/AAAAAAAAHl4/hufEP8d5Fjo/s320/Balls.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><br />
<br />
What a great way to start off a post! In all reality though, I loved making these delicious Pecan Truffles over the Thanksgiving holiday. It reminded me how much I enjoy cooking with others. How, just having a few moments alone together, creating something full of love and flavor can be so fulfilling and rewarding. There is certainly something to be said about having too many cooks in the kitchen. And, this year...there were just the perfect amount. We really had a splendid time, didn't we family?<br />
<br />
I have had plenty of people ask for the recipe, so here it is:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>Makes 24 truffles</i><br />
<br />
2.5 cups pecans, toasted and finely chopped<br />
1 cup graham cracker crumbs<br />
1 cup dark brown sugar, packed<br />
.5 teaspoon salt<br />
2 tablespoons maple syrup<br />
.25 cup bourbon<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla<br />
7 ounces dark chocolate<br />
<br />
1. In a medium bowl, stir together pecans, graham<br />
cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and salt until well<br />
combined. Add maple syrup, bourbon, and vanilla,<br />
stirring thoroughly. Use your hands to make sure the<br />
mixture becomes fully incorporated.<br />
<br />
2. Freeze mixture for about 20 minutes. Form into walnut-sized balls,<br />
then place on a cookie sheet and freeze for 2 hours.<br />
<br />
3. In the top of a double boiler or in a medium stainless steel<br />
bowl set over a pot of gently simmering water, melt<br />
chocolate. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.<br />
Dip the frozen balls into the melted chocolate, then<br />
place onto prepared baking sheet. Let sit for 15 minutes<br />
or until firm. Or, put them back in the freezer for a yummy frozen treat!<br />
<br />
<br />
I do have a question for you, however. What was your favorite part of Thanksgiving 2009? Or, what is the best part about cooking with loved ones?Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-67258677634362406632009-10-15T07:00:00.000-07:002009-10-19T13:50:26.352-07:00ArtArt.<br />
<br />
Are you ready for a lot of questions?<br />
<br />
What is art to you? This question has come up a lot recently. Mostly, because my lovely husband has been approaching the question and I find myself wondering. What is it? Why do we value, or not value art in our society? Is it just a creative expression? <br />
<br />
This past month I have been exposed to some brilliant artists, and it seems to have opened up a portal in my mind that I was unaware of. Now, I want more.<br />
<br />
I seem to be defining what my aesthetic preferences are lately and I'd love to know what yours are. Who are your favorite artists? Are they painters, sculptures, authors, designers? And why are these people your favorite?<br />
<br />
This picture is of an amazing sculpture artist by the name of <a href="http://www.rhsculptor.com/">Robert Holmes</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/Stdd0xrmv8I/AAAAAAAAHlw/8M_DZKADgus/s1600-h/Robert+Parker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/Stdd0xrmv8I/AAAAAAAAHlw/8M_DZKADgus/s320/Robert+Parker.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-41759790095343457072009-09-15T11:05:00.000-07:002009-09-15T11:05:05.816-07:00Dance Off Moments...An Alternate RealityLast night I started dancing spontaneously to music that I wouldn't normally dance to. And, it was fun. I could have easily enjoyed a life as a dancer. Although, if you ask my mother I'm completely uncoordinated. I don't know about <i>completely</i> uncoordinated, but I'm certainly not trained to do any sort of professional dance. The point is, I just let the moment take me away. <br />
<br />
Luckily, I have a very understanding husband who will often join me in these moments of delight. He doesn't laugh at me when I pull out my funky dance moves on him. He just smiles, and laughs <i>with</i> me as I slide around on the floor in my fuzzy over-sized socks and pajamas. He has taught me a lot about accepting my goofy nature. <br />
<br />
Do you ever let the moment whisk you away to another place? Are you ever inspired to do something totally out of the norm? <br />
<br />
I find that doing these simple acts of pleasure give me a sense of exhilaration and joy in my life. In an otherwise structured and boxed-in society it can be nice to just let loose and let the music carry me to a beautiful alternate reality where I dance, sing and entertain in my own perfect way. <br />
<br />
In this alternate reality I'm also really funny. Especially when I'm doing the Running Man in my kitchen. Or perhaps, the Macarena...to keep in shape, of course (see below).<br />
<br />
What do you do in your 'Other Universe'?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/Sq_Ugo8FFxI/AAAAAAAAHlQ/GYEysGZY4ME/s1600-h/1996_macarena.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/Sq_Ugo8FFxI/AAAAAAAAHlQ/GYEysGZY4ME/s320/1996_macarena.jpg" /></a></div>Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-47558515404396183202009-09-01T17:07:00.000-07:002009-09-15T11:43:32.714-07:00The ZoneOn Sunday I was watched a singer perform a song he had written. <br />
<br />
It seems like the previous sentence is pretty normal, right? But the experience wasn’t. Because when I really observed this singer, I noticed that he was in a whole other “place” than where I was. I don’t mean he was in Kalamazoo and I was in Santa Rosa. I mean figuratively, he was “in” his song. He was completely and fully immersed in his version of the world. He radiated joy for what he was doing, time seemed to stand still for him and he savored every note. His eyes were closed, his body was open and he was experiencing his craft to the fullest. <br />
<br />
Have you ever felt this before?<br />
<br />
Artists have spoken about being in “the zone”. What is “the zone”? And has everyone felt it? The reason I ask this question is because I’ve also heard people say that when they’re in this creative zone it is the closest they have ever felt to God. Now, I don’t know what everyone’s definition of God is, because even within the confines of a single religion it is an extremely personal and unique relationship or experience. So how could I possibly understand what another person’s experience of God truly is? This doesn’t stop me from wondering about our connection to the Divine or Source. Because, knowing that we are always a part of or connected to this Source is a conscious understanding of mine. I get it…we’re connected, all the time.<br />
<br />
So why then, does it feel like we are more connected to this Divinity at some times in our lives than in others? When do you feel connected, or in “the zone”? And how can we maintain a level of connection that allows us to flourish as the creative sparks of light that we really are?<br />
<br />
Just wondering…<br />
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What do you think?Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-50053579391846175202009-08-20T06:00:00.000-07:002009-08-20T10:29:43.545-07:001,2,3,4... I Know What You're Looking For...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/So2H3W0YPFI/AAAAAAAAHkw/8mrt3BiQ8X4/s1600-h/numbers.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 310px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6Onk619rWt8/So2H3W0YPFI/AAAAAAAAHkw/8mrt3BiQ8X4/s320/numbers.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372099315610696786" border="0" /></a><br />Well, maybe I don't know what <span style="font-style: italic;">you </span>are looking for but I know that I'm always looking for something. And when I look, I find. So when I started trying to figure out how intuition and energy are related , a bunch of answers came flying my way.<br /><br />The other day I was discussing how people think of energy. I'm not talking about your local PG&E office, although that is a form of energy too. I'm speaking about the vital essence that we are all created from. Some call it energy, others call it vibration and some folks believe it is pure love. Whatever your association to the substance, I want to know how do you experience it?<br /><br />When I first started becoming interested in the metaphysical world I was very attracted to numerology (I use the word metaphysical because of its etymology: 'meta' meaning beyond, and 'physical' pertaining to our material world). I was fascinated at how accurately numbers could explain things. You see, the theory behind numerology is that everything is made up of numbers, and each number has a certain vibration. Each vibration (or number) has specific implications inherent within it, and when we learn what these implications are, we can learn to see our reality through new eyes.<br /><br />I was very skeptical at first so I started cataloging all the numbers that I could find.<br /><br />I started with people, and created a spreadsheet of my friends and loved ones (I know I'm a little weird). Within this spreadsheet I noticed clear patterns. There were certain people with whom I felt connected or bonded to, and they all had similar number profiles. Others, with whom I did not feel so attached had different number patterns. When I noticed this, I started to give the study of numerology some credence. This led to my love of the numbers. My head started swimming with numbers all day, every day. I began to view the world with a new approach, and I saw my life was full of "hidden" meanings. Everything started to make sense in a completely fresh way. Years later, it still amazes me!<br /><br />The reason I bring up my history with numerology is only to illustrate that this is the way in which I started recognizing how energy can be interpreted. I've never considered myself to be all that "intuitive", so when I realized that THIS was how my intuitive sense came through I was ecstatic. I am aware now that we ALL have intuition, we each access it in our own unique way. Some people feel things, some people see things, others just have a knowing. Whatever it is for you, and however you do it, is perfect.<br /><br />So I'll end with my question from above: How do you experience intuition as it relates to energy? Have you been in touch with your intuition throughout your life, or has it developed over time? And for those of you who have always had strong internal guidance, how do you strengthen it?Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-4950756801546915332009-08-11T15:57:00.000-07:002009-08-11T16:09:54.219-07:00What is inspiration anyway?I’ve been sitting around trying to figure out what inspiration is, and how a person can find it, consistently. I’m discovering that we all experience inspiration in countless ways. So what is the secret?<br /><br />And while we’re on the subject, is inspiration the same as motivation?<br /><br />I don’t think so. Because, I can certainly motivate myself to do things I don’t want to do. Like...cleaning the kitchen or folding the laundry. You know, those mundane chores that seem to be endlessly waiting for my attention. What’s the trick? All I have to do is imagine that the task gets ten times as worse. For example, I visualize the kitchen getting exponentially dirty or the laundry pile growing to an enormous mound. As soon as I do that, it seems easier to do it, now…rather than later when it has become even worse. This is what we call ‘negative motivation’ in NLP. But it is not the same as inspiration.<br /><br />And inspiration is what I’m looking for. Artists seem to find it in the simplest things; like a drop of dew or a flower petal. Parents find it when looking into the eyes of their newborn children. I admit I have found inspiration sporadically throughout my life. However, what I’m seeking is something different, something reliable. Is there a steady source of inspiration out there?<br /><br />So tell me; do you find inspiration in your life? If you do, how? And, is it consistent?Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-43936837171202219562009-08-08T16:21:00.000-07:002009-08-11T15:26:31.867-07:00NLP in the Real World<span style="font-style: italic;">I'm so excited...I just found this writing on an old thumb drive that my husband had. I wrote it when I was interviewing for a position with an Intervention company. While I didn't end up working with the company I did enjoy writing this little diddy about NLP. It was this document that got me my first meeting with them!</span><br /><br /><br />While vacationing this week in Costa Rica, I found myself among a group of healers trained in a variety of modalities. Many of these amazing people were trained in the field of NLP, but there were a few who were a little lost when we would dive into our NLP terminology to describe something we found interesting. I found myself answering the question; what is NLP? As I began to answer, I realized one very important question that I was asking myself: Who is asking? And, I mean this in the most literal sense. Depending on who is asking, and who is answering the definition of NLP will change. The reason for this is simple. There are many answers because NLP can be used in almost every part of the human experience. The very basis on which NLP was created is the notion of modeling successful ways of doing things. Whether that means becoming a superstar athlete, overcoming addictions and phobias, or learning how to be a master communicator, NLP is an invaluable method for creating phenomenal results.<br /><br />Describing how NLP is integrated into daily life is kind of like describing how the experience of breathing air for the first time as a newborn becomes automatic. Just as breathing becomes a natural, normal function, NLP becomes an unconscious way of living, communicating and experiencing life. When given the time to develop the lungs in the womb, a newborn can breathe and scream as soon as she is born. Her lungs are strong and she does not need to think about how to take her next breath, she just does it. In the same way the newborn can learn to regulate her breath with simplicity, NLP can be incorporated into everyday life.<br /><br />Just the other day my younger sister came to me with what seemed to be a rather serious issue. She plopped down on my bed and began to describe to me why she was in the decision making process of whether or not to break up with her boyfriend. As she began to describe her rather troubling situation my antennae shot up and my sensory acuity skills became alert. I started to realize that I had already unconsciously begun to sense how she was experiencing her situation. I watched her eyes and body; I listened to her tone and words, and started to notice the tiny clues that would assist me in helping her.<br /><br />The first thing I became aware of was that she was completely immersed in her feelings. Her body hunched over, her head was hung low and her voice was low, slow and sad sounding. I know that being associated into a situation can be useful in certain circumstances, but in this situation I needed to pull her out, or dissociate her, so she could see her situation from a new perspective. This is where a pattern interrupt is useful. So, I made her laugh about something completely unrelated to confuse her neurology.<br /><br />The next item on the agenda to accomplish was to establish what she wanted as the outcome. NLP teaches us to create well formed outcomes every time we start a process. And, what exactly is a well formed outcome? I began to ask my sister what her vision of the future would be, and like any 15 year old young lady she replied; “I dunno…” And I responded, “Okay, and if you were to know, what would it look like if things worked out perfectly?” She started to describe the way in which she could see herself working through her issues with her boyfriend, the types of things she would be doing, the things she would be saying and the emotions that she would be feeling. As it turns out, she wasn’t able to completely conceive of how to accomplish each of her goals. This is when knowing how to model becomes paramount in achieving the results we want. (And by modeling, I don’t mean putting on a pair of Mom’s stiletto heals and creating a runway in our hallway.)<br /><br />Modeling is perhaps the most important tool used in NLP. Modeling is the foundation of how NLP was developed. The method for modeling is simply to find a person who does the behavior you want to do, and figure out how they do it. This is why mentoring is so vital to creating healthy individuals. When a person has an ample source of people to look up to, she will have more resources to cope with potential situations that will arise in her life.<br />I had my sister close her eyes and become fully associated as a person who possesses the skills necessary to handle this particular problem. After she was able to get in touch with what it would feel like to actually have her issues resolved successfully and with ease, she knew what she had to do. It was only a few short minutes and she was ready to resolve her conflict. The best part is that she felt empowered to do it herself!<br /><br />Situations such as these present themselves to me on a daily basis. Perhaps the situations are not as acute, and do not always involve family members. However, the fundamental tools are kept in my tool belt that I wear everyday. Before I start any construction project I use my magic rapport building tool to understand the person with whom I am speaking. Then, I pull out my sensory acuity stick in order to calibrate the situation properly. After I assess the project I am about to assume, and the environment in which I will be working in, I put on my builder’s hat and go to work. All of this happens unconsciously and effortlessly, just as one might drive a car and change the radio station while talking on the phone, changing lanes and shaving. Well, perhaps not just like doing all of those things while driving, but you get the gist of it, right?<br /><br /> What I am getting at is simply that once a person learns NLP, it becomes a silent force of positive change that is waiting patiently to emerge day to day. How can one not apply the tools of NLP once shown the value and track record of its use? Unconscious competence is a key term used in NLP to describe the effect of how a skill becomes second nature. When a person is unconsciously competent she can achieve successful results without knowing that she is doing it consciously. This is my well formed outcome for NLP, to be unconsciously competent with its use. Just as I learned how to breathe as a newborn I established the unconscious mechanisms for using NLP in real life, encouraging others to do the same.<br /><br />How do I help others to align their outer circumstances with their internal dreams? By helping people to realize that there are alternate methods of perceiving reality, dealing with crises, handling life’s struggles and manifesting their desires. How will I do that? I will do that by guiding mentors to learn the tools of NLP including rapport building, calibrating, modeling which help these individuals to become unconsciously competent in whatever they desire. I can do this in California or in Costa Rica, with every person that I meet. When this is achieved, it enters the realm of real life and becomes really meaningful.Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6974906647585295960.post-6125271700995058282009-08-06T09:49:00.000-07:002009-08-06T09:52:42.965-07:00Déjà DreamingI’ve been getting the feeling lately like something big is happening. I’m not quite sure what it is yet but I am sensing that it could be a big shift in my life. My creativity has been sky rocketing, my intuition and healing abilities are honing, and my inspiration seems to be blossoming. Also, friends from earlier times in my life when I was growing spiritually at a rapid rate seem to be coming out of the woodwork.<br /><br />The other night at dinner, I had a familiar feeling that I had dreamt about a situation that we were in. And, it wasn’t déjà vu. I’ve had the feeling before. The only way I have been able to describe it is to say that I’ve dreamt it. Which is what it feels like; watching a dream unfold. The funny thing is, the situations usually aren’t anything spectacular. For example, sitting at dinner with a few people from our Yuen seminar isn’t all that profound. Yes, we got some great work done. But, that in and of itself isn’t a great feat in my life. Not that I know of anyway. <br /><br />When I was discussing it with my husband he mentioned the possibility that these experiences could be my way of experiencing Divine Timing. Divine Timing is an interesting concept which I particularly enjoy. It seems to go along with other belief systems that I have. Divine Timing (according to my perception) is the view that before we come into this life we decide certain things that we will do, or experience. Some instances of Divine Timing might be having children or getting married. These occurrences are non-negotiable. No matter what we do in our lives, our Divine Timing WILL happen. We can fight against it, but it won’t be pleasant. So when we realize that we are in alignment with our Divine Timing…it can be a wonderful gift. <br /><br />This déjà-dreaming that happens to me is pretty cool. I think it would be even cooler if it was my subconscious letting me know that I’ve seen this before. That I know this is the right path, and that I’m on it. That I’m right in-step with my Divine Timing.<br /><br />My question for you is: Have you experienced a knowing that you are on the right path? If so, how did it manifest itself for you?Renatahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15015845987005836302noreply@blogger.com0