In the past one month, I have made 60 Christmas cards and 90 ornaments for my friends and family as Christmas gifts! Each with love, care and conscious thought. And I could have made and distributed more had I not tired, I am sorry to anyone who I have missed. I am blessed to have such an abundance of wonderful people in my life and I realize this, especially during this time of the year when counting my blessings is a part of the tradition. My heart has been so many places, in love with so many faces, and touched by so many hearts. The best gift to give these people, I feel, is something made from my own heart and hands.
I know a lot of people who choose for Christmas to be a financial woe and a stressful or chaotic period. I, on the other hand, have elected to consciously make Christmas a peaceful occasion. Three Christmases of being on my own now (not having gone home to Nfld), here is what my own tradition is looking like: making all my cards, gift-giving only with my immediate family, no credit card use, lots of dinner parties (and parties), Christmas movies, hosting of Christmas dinner with 13+ people invited over, and volunteering on the mornings of Xmas eve and Xmas day. I love the Christmas spirit (when it is happy and unstressed!) and I wish we could jar it up! I especially love the evening walks I’ve been taking as so many homes are decorated with lights! Any lit-up home is a good thing, even if just one string, and no such thing as too tacky!
Grateful holidays to you!
Friday, December 23, 2011
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Free Yourself from Your Ego Armor
Eckhart Tolle, author of A New Earth (one of my favorite books), explains how to break through the shell that separates you from your true self.
Vanity and pride are what most of us tend to think of when we think of ego, but ego is much more than an overinflated sense of self. It can also turn up in feelings of inferiority or self-hatred because ego is any image you have of yourself that gives you a sense of identity—and that identity derives from the things you tell yourself and the things other people have been saying about you that you've decided to accept as truth.
One way to think about ego is as a protective heavy shell, such as the kind some animals have, like a big beetle. This protective shell works like armor to cut you off from other people and the outside world. What I mean by shell is a sense of separation: Here's me and there's the rest of the universe and other people. The ego likes to emphasize the "otherness" of others.
This sense of separation is an intrinsic part of the ego. The ego loves to strengthen itself by complaining—either in thoughts or words—about other people, the situation you find yourself in, something that is happening right now but "shouldn't be," and even about yourself. For example, when you're in a long line at the supermarket, your mind might start complaining how slow the checkout person is, how he should be doing this or doing that, or he failed to do anything at all—including packing the bag of the person ahead of you correctly.
When this happens, the ego has you in its grip. You don't have thoughts; the thoughts have you—and if you want to be free, you have to understand that the voice in your head has created them and irritation and upset you feel is the emotional response to that voice Only in this way can you be present to the truer world around you and see the golden shade in a pound of pears on the scanner, or the delight of a child in line who begs to eat them.The trick, of course, is to work to free ourselves from this armor and from this voice that is dictating reality.
Observe Your Mind
The first foundational step is to become aware of what kind of thoughts you habitually think, especially negative thoughts: irritation, anger, impatience and perhaps even some kind of sadness. You might, for example, complain about yourself, how useless you are. If you start to hear these repetitive thoughts, then you will suddenly realize, "I've been thinking these same thoughts again and again almost every day without really knowing it."
Distinguish Between the Voice of Ego and the Actual Situation
Awareness is the beginning of becoming free of the ego because then you realize that your thoughts—and the negative emotions they produce—are dysfunctional and unnecessary. For example, let's go back to the supermarket line. As you stand waiting, you aren't actually irritated because it's taking a long time to get through to the checkout, which is the situation. You are irritated by what your mind is telling you about the situation—which is that all this waiting is bad and a waste of your time. But you could actually be enjoying that moment if you say, "This is simply what is. There's nothing I can do about it, so why not breathe in deeply and look around and enjoy the world around me?"
Let Go of Limiting Stories
Sometimes the danger is not even pessimistic thought. If, for instance, you have been let go from your job, you might so resist being negative that you say, "It's a great thing that I lost my job!" That kind of willful optimism is not necessary. We hold on to the fairy tale of supposed happiness—that we should be happy. But this keeps you stuck where you are. Instead, try to describe only what is happening, without judgment: I do not have a job. I must look for one.
Bring In Your Awareness
When you see the difference between your voice and the reality of the situation, that's the beginning of awakening. This is often a moment—a flash that sizzles and disappears. Initially you still lose yourself again, and the old thoughts arise, but gradually, you gain awareness, and the dysfunctional thoughts subside. It's a gradual transition, this bringing in of your awareness, because the ego doesn't want to change. It doesn't want to disappear, so it will give you plenty of reasons why you cannot be present.
Lay Down Your Weapons
Your challenge will be to become more aligned internally with the present moment. Fighting with your ego by will just makes it stronger. By declaring war on it, you make an enemy. A simple example: You wake up in the morning, and it's raining and gray, and the mind says, "What a miserable day," and this is not a pleasant thought. You likely feel some emotion: dread, disappointment, unhappiness. You suddenly realize that your judgment of what kind of day it will be is based on a mental habit, an unconscious default. That simple awareness creates space for a new thought to emerge. You can look again out the window without that preconception and just see the sky. It's gray. There's some sunlight filtering through the sky. There are, perhaps, raindrops falling. It's not actually miserable at all. It has a certain beauty. Then suddenly, you're free. You're no longer imposing something on reality, and you're free to enjoy what, previously, you had rejected.
Vanity and pride are what most of us tend to think of when we think of ego, but ego is much more than an overinflated sense of self. It can also turn up in feelings of inferiority or self-hatred because ego is any image you have of yourself that gives you a sense of identity—and that identity derives from the things you tell yourself and the things other people have been saying about you that you've decided to accept as truth.
One way to think about ego is as a protective heavy shell, such as the kind some animals have, like a big beetle. This protective shell works like armor to cut you off from other people and the outside world. What I mean by shell is a sense of separation: Here's me and there's the rest of the universe and other people. The ego likes to emphasize the "otherness" of others.
This sense of separation is an intrinsic part of the ego. The ego loves to strengthen itself by complaining—either in thoughts or words—about other people, the situation you find yourself in, something that is happening right now but "shouldn't be," and even about yourself. For example, when you're in a long line at the supermarket, your mind might start complaining how slow the checkout person is, how he should be doing this or doing that, or he failed to do anything at all—including packing the bag of the person ahead of you correctly.
When this happens, the ego has you in its grip. You don't have thoughts; the thoughts have you—and if you want to be free, you have to understand that the voice in your head has created them and irritation and upset you feel is the emotional response to that voice Only in this way can you be present to the truer world around you and see the golden shade in a pound of pears on the scanner, or the delight of a child in line who begs to eat them.The trick, of course, is to work to free ourselves from this armor and from this voice that is dictating reality.
Observe Your Mind
The first foundational step is to become aware of what kind of thoughts you habitually think, especially negative thoughts: irritation, anger, impatience and perhaps even some kind of sadness. You might, for example, complain about yourself, how useless you are. If you start to hear these repetitive thoughts, then you will suddenly realize, "I've been thinking these same thoughts again and again almost every day without really knowing it."
Distinguish Between the Voice of Ego and the Actual Situation
Awareness is the beginning of becoming free of the ego because then you realize that your thoughts—and the negative emotions they produce—are dysfunctional and unnecessary. For example, let's go back to the supermarket line. As you stand waiting, you aren't actually irritated because it's taking a long time to get through to the checkout, which is the situation. You are irritated by what your mind is telling you about the situation—which is that all this waiting is bad and a waste of your time. But you could actually be enjoying that moment if you say, "This is simply what is. There's nothing I can do about it, so why not breathe in deeply and look around and enjoy the world around me?"
Let Go of Limiting Stories
Sometimes the danger is not even pessimistic thought. If, for instance, you have been let go from your job, you might so resist being negative that you say, "It's a great thing that I lost my job!" That kind of willful optimism is not necessary. We hold on to the fairy tale of supposed happiness—that we should be happy. But this keeps you stuck where you are. Instead, try to describe only what is happening, without judgment: I do not have a job. I must look for one.
Bring In Your Awareness
When you see the difference between your voice and the reality of the situation, that's the beginning of awakening. This is often a moment—a flash that sizzles and disappears. Initially you still lose yourself again, and the old thoughts arise, but gradually, you gain awareness, and the dysfunctional thoughts subside. It's a gradual transition, this bringing in of your awareness, because the ego doesn't want to change. It doesn't want to disappear, so it will give you plenty of reasons why you cannot be present.
Lay Down Your Weapons
Your challenge will be to become more aligned internally with the present moment. Fighting with your ego by will just makes it stronger. By declaring war on it, you make an enemy. A simple example: You wake up in the morning, and it's raining and gray, and the mind says, "What a miserable day," and this is not a pleasant thought. You likely feel some emotion: dread, disappointment, unhappiness. You suddenly realize that your judgment of what kind of day it will be is based on a mental habit, an unconscious default. That simple awareness creates space for a new thought to emerge. You can look again out the window without that preconception and just see the sky. It's gray. There's some sunlight filtering through the sky. There are, perhaps, raindrops falling. It's not actually miserable at all. It has a certain beauty. Then suddenly, you're free. You're no longer imposing something on reality, and you're free to enjoy what, previously, you had rejected.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Are your days filled with everything you love?
Yesterday, as hungover as I was, was a perfect day. It was yet another day filled with everything I love. I awoke on an air mattress at the community hall which my friends and I had rented for a Halloween party, still in full costume. My heart was beaming with delight as I looked around at the mess we were about to spend the next 3 hours cleaning up. What a great party we threw! The smiles, dancing, laughter and costumes were all equally amazing. It was one of those nights when you’re reminded of how wonderful the people you have in your life are. I’ve accumulated quite the collection of beautiful people in my life, and I am overwhelmingly grateful for this. I believe my friends are my greatest asset.
Arriving home around noon, Logan and I decided a nap was in order. Fed and showered, the two of us crawled into our bed for some afternoon zzz’s. That boyfriend of mine, he really is something special. Not only does he give the best cuddles, he made (and had) the best costume at the party, he also did my full makeup (making me second best!) and, he helped my brother make his. Logan loves Halloween so much and was having such a great time, he even got drunk! He doesn’t do that very often. There have been two occasions this week that have just solidified how much I love this man. Two occasions when I seen him smiling from both his heart, and mouth, and singing: Foo Fighters concert and our Halloween party. He was lit up, thus lighting me up.
After nap time, I realized it was still only early in the afternoon. Time was going slow, the way I like it on my days off. Fisher asked that I take her for a walk as it was a beautiful, sunny, fall day. So, away we went: myself, Dan Mangan, and Fisher. For two hours, we trotted along, splashing colorful leaves around, enjoying sunshine on our faces, and smiling at passersby. It’s very easy for me to find magic in the mundane. I love walking, for this reason. Unlike biking, walking is slow – allowing you to look around, take it all in, stop and smell the roses. What an enchanting world we live in!
Home sweet home again, and with a hungry belly, Logan and I prepared a stir-fry with the abundance of ingredients found in our fridge. Another thing I am quite grateful for. Then, the whole household sat around in the living room and watched an episode of Dexter while munching on delicious, truffle-oil popcorn! In bed again by 9:30pm – quite content with my day of relaxing, happy memories, and peaceful thoughts. I am happy so many of my days are filled with the things I love!
Arriving home around noon, Logan and I decided a nap was in order. Fed and showered, the two of us crawled into our bed for some afternoon zzz’s. That boyfriend of mine, he really is something special. Not only does he give the best cuddles, he made (and had) the best costume at the party, he also did my full makeup (making me second best!) and, he helped my brother make his. Logan loves Halloween so much and was having such a great time, he even got drunk! He doesn’t do that very often. There have been two occasions this week that have just solidified how much I love this man. Two occasions when I seen him smiling from both his heart, and mouth, and singing: Foo Fighters concert and our Halloween party. He was lit up, thus lighting me up.
After nap time, I realized it was still only early in the afternoon. Time was going slow, the way I like it on my days off. Fisher asked that I take her for a walk as it was a beautiful, sunny, fall day. So, away we went: myself, Dan Mangan, and Fisher. For two hours, we trotted along, splashing colorful leaves around, enjoying sunshine on our faces, and smiling at passersby. It’s very easy for me to find magic in the mundane. I love walking, for this reason. Unlike biking, walking is slow – allowing you to look around, take it all in, stop and smell the roses. What an enchanting world we live in!
Home sweet home again, and with a hungry belly, Logan and I prepared a stir-fry with the abundance of ingredients found in our fridge. Another thing I am quite grateful for. Then, the whole household sat around in the living room and watched an episode of Dexter while munching on delicious, truffle-oil popcorn! In bed again by 9:30pm – quite content with my day of relaxing, happy memories, and peaceful thoughts. I am happy so many of my days are filled with the things I love!
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Dear Jennifer,
Kindred spirit, perhaps I love you so much because I see so much of myself in you! :) Seriously though, you’re a light. You re-energize me – and in a fashion that no one else can. You have the ability to bring out the best in everyone, to make them feel loved, valued, and appreciated, and like their your best friend - the homeless to cab drivers to business execs. You are love Jenny. As I so fabulously put once: I think so often about you and how much I love you and how much you've inspired my life. I think about the amazing experiences I've had WITH you...but then I realize that YOU are the amazing experience. Perhaps KT Tunstall says it best though (don't know if I told you but I think of you everytime I hear this song!):
Her face is a map of the world
Is a map of the world
You can see she's a beautiful girl
She's a beautiful girl
And everything around her is a silver pool of light
The people who surround her feel the benefit of it
It makes you calm
She holds you captivated in her palm
Suddenly I see (Suddenly I see)
This is what I wanna be
Suddenly I see (Suddenly I see)
Why the hell it means so much to me
I feel like walking the world
Like walking the world
You can hear she's a beautiful girl
She's a beautiful girl
She fills up every corner like she's born in black and white
Makes you feel warmer when you're trying to remember
What you heard
She likes to leave you hanging on her word
And she's taller than most
And she's looking at me
I can see her eyes looking from a page in a magazine
Oh she makes me feel like I could be a tower
A big strong tower
She got the power to be
The power to give
The power to see
Carrie
Her face is a map of the world
Is a map of the world
You can see she's a beautiful girl
She's a beautiful girl
And everything around her is a silver pool of light
The people who surround her feel the benefit of it
It makes you calm
She holds you captivated in her palm
Suddenly I see (Suddenly I see)
This is what I wanna be
Suddenly I see (Suddenly I see)
Why the hell it means so much to me
I feel like walking the world
Like walking the world
You can hear she's a beautiful girl
She's a beautiful girl
She fills up every corner like she's born in black and white
Makes you feel warmer when you're trying to remember
What you heard
She likes to leave you hanging on her word
And she's taller than most
And she's looking at me
I can see her eyes looking from a page in a magazine
Oh she makes me feel like I could be a tower
A big strong tower
She got the power to be
The power to give
The power to see
Carrie
Dear Lindsay and Leah (and Terri),
My dearest friends, we’ve been together so many years! Like family, I trust we’ll remain committed to one another for our full lifetime. Like a marriage, without the ring. Isn’t that something? I’m so certain it’s true though – there is nothing that could ever come between us, we’ve stood the test of time. Our friendship is solid and I believe this is because we know each other so deeply – we know each other’s roots, family history, background, and youthful secrets. We’ve been there, and we’ve been there together. I respect you more than you’ll ever know. It was amazing to spend this past weekend with you. You’re very strong women and there is nothing I love more in this world. I’m proud of you. Forever and ever,
Carrie
Carrie
Monday, October 10, 2011
observing the moment
What a nice and relaxing Thanksgiving weekend it’s been. I love when time slows like this and I focus on spending my time reflecting. We can get so caught up with our day-to-day experiences that we forget where we’ve been and what we learned. Reflecting. It’s been a year rich with experience. It overwhelms me to think of all that’s happened, all the places I’ve been, all the people I’ve met, all the friendships that have strengthened, and all the spiritual and personal growth that’s occurred. Growth – when I start on that train of thought, my mind, body and soul just teems with electricity. I have to take a moment to catch my breath because I’ve grown so much.
I’ve decided to change the name of my blog to: observing the moment. I like to slow down and observe the moment and that is when inspiration occurs for me. Gusts of gratitude follow shortly thereafter because I am just so blessed. I am happy to be who I am. I am happy that I can look at, with love, the path I’ve been on and be grateful for each experience. I am happy in this moment knowing all is perfect.
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Meat-free October!
Yesterday marked day-one of my plan to go meat-free for one month! What changed this “I could never be a vegetarian!” girl’s mind? The documentary Forks Over Knives.
The title is significant and explains why I’ll be making this dietary change, but you must watch the flick to fully understand. At first I thought the title described a salad fork conquering a steak knife, but the imagery might actually be referring to diet (a fork) and medicine (a knife, or scalpel). Forks over knives. Food over medicine. Love it! I would rather choose forks over knives any day.
I don’t predict this change in diet will be too difficult for me, but we’ll see. If I like it and feel good at the end of the month, meat-free will become a way of life for me. Now I should clarify, I will not be becoming a full-fledge vegetarian as I will be allowing myself to consume fish. Eggs and dairy will also continue to be a very minute portion of my diet (I hate the thought of limiting myself that much and having too many restrictions!) Gluten free, meat free – here we go!
Thursday, September 15, 2011
New motto
New motto I have placed on the wall above my desk at work:
Truly experience all things that you do during your day. Try to escape the habitual feelings and thoughts you experience and stay in the present moment. Enjoy each of your actions fully.
Truly experience all things that you do during your day. Try to escape the habitual feelings and thoughts you experience and stay in the present moment. Enjoy each of your actions fully.
dear Universe
Back, in body, on Sunday from a 10-day road-trip with my gorgeous man, I feel I may still be “there” in mind and spirit.
“There” being:
…on the road
…riding my bike down the beautiful trails of Whistler mountain
…sipping on beautiful wines at the Okanagan’s best wineries
…waking up in sleeping bags in the back of the truck
…camping on mountain tops
…cooking up gourmet foods in parking lots
…lying on the beach
…admiring the changing landscapes and forests
…bathing in lakes
…having no access to FB, email, Internet, or news
…driving with no music, just conversation
…looking for Ogopogo
…sitting fireside, enjoying its warmth, next to my best friend
Another dream vacation this was. If I won the lottery, I would simply do trips like this more often. Visiting places I have not been before gives me such a profound sense of pleasure. Even if that place is a restaurant in my own city, or a small town in Spain, or a beach in the Okanagan Valley. While my life is filled with plenty of adventure – I would love more of these trips please, dear Universe.
“There” being:
…on the road
…riding my bike down the beautiful trails of Whistler mountain
…sipping on beautiful wines at the Okanagan’s best wineries
…waking up in sleeping bags in the back of the truck
…camping on mountain tops
…cooking up gourmet foods in parking lots
…lying on the beach
…admiring the changing landscapes and forests
…bathing in lakes
…having no access to FB, email, Internet, or news
…driving with no music, just conversation
…looking for Ogopogo
…sitting fireside, enjoying its warmth, next to my best friend
Another dream vacation this was. If I won the lottery, I would simply do trips like this more often. Visiting places I have not been before gives me such a profound sense of pleasure. Even if that place is a restaurant in my own city, or a small town in Spain, or a beach in the Okanagan Valley. While my life is filled with plenty of adventure – I would love more of these trips please, dear Universe.
Monday, August 22, 2011
My future
While enjoying Fernie’s open-air Sunday market yesterday, after a Saturday spent downhill biking at the resort – I had a dream.
I own a Bed & Breakfast in Fernie. Fortunate financial circumstances came my way so it’s a Pay-What-You-Want B&B. The service, experience and comfort are that of a paramount quality so I am quite successful with this type of business model. I love taking care of my guests! Often, my guests are friends from Calgary – in town for the weekend biking or boarding. Or, friends from Ontario or Newfoundland – here for a week-long mountain getaway. A lot of guests are friends of friends (soon-to-be friends) who were told about our quaint place in the mountains and its fantastic, world-class hospitality. Our guests are free to stay with us, as long as they like – we have lots of space so it’s quite comfortable for everyone. While Logan offers Mountain Biking and Snowboard lessons to our guests, I offer a warm and comfortable setting, home-cooked meals, day hikes, tour guide, arts & crafts, and simply company if someone requests so. Speaking of arts & crafts – I even sell some of my work in my B&B. I have it on display around the house, and I’m just so happy to have that time to be creative. I love that this is my life – that I spend my days taking care of my guests and showing them a good time.
I own a Bed & Breakfast in Fernie. Fortunate financial circumstances came my way so it’s a Pay-What-You-Want B&B. The service, experience and comfort are that of a paramount quality so I am quite successful with this type of business model. I love taking care of my guests! Often, my guests are friends from Calgary – in town for the weekend biking or boarding. Or, friends from Ontario or Newfoundland – here for a week-long mountain getaway. A lot of guests are friends of friends (soon-to-be friends) who were told about our quaint place in the mountains and its fantastic, world-class hospitality. Our guests are free to stay with us, as long as they like – we have lots of space so it’s quite comfortable for everyone. While Logan offers Mountain Biking and Snowboard lessons to our guests, I offer a warm and comfortable setting, home-cooked meals, day hikes, tour guide, arts & crafts, and simply company if someone requests so. Speaking of arts & crafts – I even sell some of my work in my B&B. I have it on display around the house, and I’m just so happy to have that time to be creative. I love that this is my life – that I spend my days taking care of my guests and showing them a good time.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
sprinkling kindness and scattering joy
I’m in a very good place. I feel nothing but joy. As per usual, so much to look forward to, so much to be grateful for. Let me share with you this moment’s gratitude list.
The past two weekends have been the picture of perfect summer experiences. Panorama biking/camping with the boy, the first weekend. Fernie biking/camping with the boy and the brother last weekend. Loved every moment of these two weekends. Every moment.
Tomorrow evening, a very dear friend of mine, Carolyn, will be in town for one night only. She is from Windsor (the one who wrote the quote in the picture below) and has been visiting w/ family in Edmonton for the past week. I love her so much and simply can’t wait to be in her presence, celebrate our friendship and smile about our future. Dinner reservations are made for Mango Shiva, one of my fave restaurants!
Next Tuesday, myself and the colleagues will be gathering together for our first Crafts & Cocktails evening, organized by Me! We will make cards. Cards for each other, and cards for our patients. The objective: sprinkling kindness and scattering joy. Let’s make the world a nicer place, starting right here at Lasik MD!
August/September = lots to celebrate! Mine and Logan’s 4 yr anniversary is quickly approaching, as is my 4 yr anniversary here in Calgary. Also, my 29th birthday and a 10-day holiday (road-trip with my man)!!!
I love my boyfriend. My favorite thing in life is sharing a pillow with him every night. He is the most incredible, genuine, peaceful, loving influence in my life. I never imagined love to be like this, to be so real. I now know why some people call their partner their “rock” – he is my rock. He is my best friend. He lights me up, lifts me higher, levels me out. He always understands, no exception. He truly possesses the most amazing qualities. I feel overwhelmingly blessed to share my life with him. A very profound thank you universe for bringing us together and keeping us so solid.
In October I will spend 4 full days, in Toronto, hanging with my best girls ever! My girl Leah will be wedding dress shopping accompanied by Lindz, her Mama and her Aunt (all arriving from Newfoundland). In addition, I will get to see my girl Jen (from Windsor). I am over-the-moon with this upcoming trip and am so excited I could pee in my pants!
In November I get to see my favorite band of all time, Hey Rosetta! And – another favorite – Dan Mangan! Thank you so much Holly and Ashley for recommending his music. These ladies have amazing taste, in everything.
I can’t make a list like this without acknowledging my health, which serves me so well. I love this vessel, its strength, its energy, its physical and mental performance, its peace of mind. I am so blessed.
The past two weekends have been the picture of perfect summer experiences. Panorama biking/camping with the boy, the first weekend. Fernie biking/camping with the boy and the brother last weekend. Loved every moment of these two weekends. Every moment.
Tomorrow evening, a very dear friend of mine, Carolyn, will be in town for one night only. She is from Windsor (the one who wrote the quote in the picture below) and has been visiting w/ family in Edmonton for the past week. I love her so much and simply can’t wait to be in her presence, celebrate our friendship and smile about our future. Dinner reservations are made for Mango Shiva, one of my fave restaurants!
Next Tuesday, myself and the colleagues will be gathering together for our first Crafts & Cocktails evening, organized by Me! We will make cards. Cards for each other, and cards for our patients. The objective: sprinkling kindness and scattering joy. Let’s make the world a nicer place, starting right here at Lasik MD!
August/September = lots to celebrate! Mine and Logan’s 4 yr anniversary is quickly approaching, as is my 4 yr anniversary here in Calgary. Also, my 29th birthday and a 10-day holiday (road-trip with my man)!!!
I love my boyfriend. My favorite thing in life is sharing a pillow with him every night. He is the most incredible, genuine, peaceful, loving influence in my life. I never imagined love to be like this, to be so real. I now know why some people call their partner their “rock” – he is my rock. He is my best friend. He lights me up, lifts me higher, levels me out. He always understands, no exception. He truly possesses the most amazing qualities. I feel overwhelmingly blessed to share my life with him. A very profound thank you universe for bringing us together and keeping us so solid.
In October I will spend 4 full days, in Toronto, hanging with my best girls ever! My girl Leah will be wedding dress shopping accompanied by Lindz, her Mama and her Aunt (all arriving from Newfoundland). In addition, I will get to see my girl Jen (from Windsor). I am over-the-moon with this upcoming trip and am so excited I could pee in my pants!
In November I get to see my favorite band of all time, Hey Rosetta! And – another favorite – Dan Mangan! Thank you so much Holly and Ashley for recommending his music. These ladies have amazing taste, in everything.
I can’t make a list like this without acknowledging my health, which serves me so well. I love this vessel, its strength, its energy, its physical and mental performance, its peace of mind. I am so blessed.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Wham!! Kabam!!
I’ve been back from my trip for 2 months now, and haven’t written a single blog post in 3. I’ve found this piece of information crossing my mind quite a bit in these past few weeks. Judging myself, I guess, I feel disappointed and wonder what’s taking me so long? No inspiration having occurred? Too busy?
Wham!! Kabam!! Walking home from work one day last week, during a magnificent thunder shower, I get answers.
On the contrary, so many wondrous things have happened, so many new thoughts have sprouted, so much inspiration has occurred – that I simply can’t keep up with it all! Inspired living right here folks, and I am thoroughly enjoying it. I’ve simply been spending a lot of time exercising my powerful mind these past 6 months – and it’s getting me places. Ultimately, I guess you can say I’ve been practicing my belief in the Law of Attraction. For those who are unfamiliar with this belief system, as per Wikipedia: “The Law of Attraction is a metaphysical New Thought belief that "like attracts like", that positive and negative thinking bring about positive and negative physical results, respectively.” This has essentially been my way of life for about 5-6 years now. The simplicity, I adore.
I want a job that I love going to every morning. Done.
I want to travel. Done.
I want to obtain the new CSS position. Done.
I want to make more money. Done.
I want quality relationships at work. Done.
I want to feel good, all the time. Done.
Of course, “the want” has to be filled with passion and believable for you. But, nevertheless, it’s that easy.
So – at work earlier, on the day of the thunderstorm and speaking with Ashley, I tell her the reason why I haven’t been blogging is because I feel the need to backtrack, to write about my trip to Europe and all the amazing thoughts and experiences since. I go on further to tell her how overwhelming that feels and that is why I have felt deterred from blogging. She simply reminds me to let it flow, there are no expectations when writing, it’s just about you and the need to be in the moment, write about what is going on now. Thank you Ashley for your inspiration, which lead to the correction of my writer’s block. I love you bigtime.
Wham!! Kabam!! Walking home from work one day last week, during a magnificent thunder shower, I get answers.
On the contrary, so many wondrous things have happened, so many new thoughts have sprouted, so much inspiration has occurred – that I simply can’t keep up with it all! Inspired living right here folks, and I am thoroughly enjoying it. I’ve simply been spending a lot of time exercising my powerful mind these past 6 months – and it’s getting me places. Ultimately, I guess you can say I’ve been practicing my belief in the Law of Attraction. For those who are unfamiliar with this belief system, as per Wikipedia: “The Law of Attraction is a metaphysical New Thought belief that "like attracts like", that positive and negative thinking bring about positive and negative physical results, respectively.” This has essentially been my way of life for about 5-6 years now. The simplicity, I adore.
I want a job that I love going to every morning. Done.
I want to travel. Done.
I want to obtain the new CSS position. Done.
I want to make more money. Done.
I want quality relationships at work. Done.
I want to feel good, all the time. Done.
Of course, “the want” has to be filled with passion and believable for you. But, nevertheless, it’s that easy.
So – at work earlier, on the day of the thunderstorm and speaking with Ashley, I tell her the reason why I haven’t been blogging is because I feel the need to backtrack, to write about my trip to Europe and all the amazing thoughts and experiences since. I go on further to tell her how overwhelming that feels and that is why I have felt deterred from blogging. She simply reminds me to let it flow, there are no expectations when writing, it’s just about you and the need to be in the moment, write about what is going on now. Thank you Ashley for your inspiration, which lead to the correction of my writer’s block. I love you bigtime.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
I lived in Windsor, Ontario for 3 years before I moved to Calgary in September 2007. An old boyfriend brought me there. Thank the blessed universe for that! The magic aka growth that’s unfolded in my life since (meeting the most incredible group of ladies, during those 3 years) has been nothing short of perfect. A blossoming of the soul began during that period. It hasn’t slowed. It is to you, my Windsor beauties, I credit much of this life I live and love. The ideas of synchronicity, fate, and spiritual growth were born with your love and friendship, and for that, I thank you profoundly.
(When I departed ways from my soul-mates in ’07, they threw me a huge going away party. It was one of the most special times of my life. The generosity did not stop there. They presented me with a scrapbook filled with love, cherished memories and words that are tattooed on my heart forever and ever. This photograph is one I took of a page in that scrapbook - a quote a very dear friend found fitting. It makes so much sense.)
Monday, April 18, 2011
Alice in wonderland
Often I feel I’m Alice in Wonderland. During my walks, which I describe as being meditative, I’m frequently overwhelmed by how beautiful everything is. And I mean everything. Either I have the ability to be this present (which I realize, may be a gift), or the rose-colored lenses you can usually find me wearing have kicked into overdrive. I’m infatuated with trees, shrubs, grass – and they’re all leafless, decaying or yellow as it is still very early in the spring and it is Calgary. Yet, I’m just over the top pleased with how amazing these lifeforms are! I observe my feet take steps on the earth before me and am fascinated by the vast array of terrain my soles see. I see our frozen river and imagine the rush of bubbly water flowing below. The air feels cool and crisp and refreshing after a long day spent inside. I smile at people I pass by. They smile back and I just know it’s true. Smile and the world smiles with you. After a long day of making people happy with my work, this is how I like to unwind and let go. Try it.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Spring feelings
What a great time of year! I am so in love with Spring and all that comes with it – sunshine, earth smells, puddles, warm breezes, muddy trails, dry sidewalks, light jackets, and the knowing of an approaching summertime. But even moreso, I love the feelings it brings up in me. Spring has always been my very favorite season mainly due to the renewal I feel within. With this time of year comes a clear, focused mind that’s happy to be alive and thriving!
Spring usually marks a trip for me as well, and in just 5 days I will be embarking on one! My plans are feeling very loose – and, in some moments, I’m telling myself that they’re too loose, I should have more planned, I should have done more research, yadayadayada. I’ve freed myself of that judgment now tho! This is who I am and the way I am doing this trip. We can be so hard on ourselves sometimes hey? We’re our own biggest critic without a doubt. Proceeding in a forward direction, I am going to be A-OK with my free bird travel plans! These free bird travel plans, I’m sure are going to prove delightful:)
A friend of mine told me about couchsurfing.org awhile back and got me really interested in the idea. I spent some time and built a profile for myself, and ended up sending out about 15-20 requests for couches in the Rome and Barcelona area. After not hearing back from anyone for about 10 days I was getting pretty discouraged. While, yes, I could easily just stay in a hostel every night but not really appealing to me a) costs and b) why, when there are so many lovely people out there with free space in their homes. Nevertheless, on Wednesday night I prayed to the couchsurfing gods and voila! Nina, a lovely fairy in an ivy head-wreath appears in my couchsurfng inbox stating: “Ok and Let's go....I'll host you with great pleasure. You are coming Rome for a wonderful week-end. There are a lot of things to do and to see in Rome. I'm going to accept another couch request for that crazy week-end - 2 girls from Poland coming here by hitchhiking. I think it sounds very very good!” I’m so happy to have made a connection and with someone who I hope is as beautiful of a person as her profile and 7 outstanding references make her out to be!
I have a feeling I’m going to have the best of my life! More accurately put: I trust that I will make it the best time:) I am going to try and blog about some of my experiences throughout my journey – maybe not as frequently as my soul-sista Miss Materi – but stay tuned fans!
Much love,
Carrie
Spring usually marks a trip for me as well, and in just 5 days I will be embarking on one! My plans are feeling very loose – and, in some moments, I’m telling myself that they’re too loose, I should have more planned, I should have done more research, yadayadayada. I’ve freed myself of that judgment now tho! This is who I am and the way I am doing this trip. We can be so hard on ourselves sometimes hey? We’re our own biggest critic without a doubt. Proceeding in a forward direction, I am going to be A-OK with my free bird travel plans! These free bird travel plans, I’m sure are going to prove delightful:)
A friend of mine told me about couchsurfing.org awhile back and got me really interested in the idea. I spent some time and built a profile for myself, and ended up sending out about 15-20 requests for couches in the Rome and Barcelona area. After not hearing back from anyone for about 10 days I was getting pretty discouraged. While, yes, I could easily just stay in a hostel every night but not really appealing to me a) costs and b) why, when there are so many lovely people out there with free space in their homes. Nevertheless, on Wednesday night I prayed to the couchsurfing gods and voila! Nina, a lovely fairy in an ivy head-wreath appears in my couchsurfng inbox stating: “Ok and Let's go....I'll host you with great pleasure. You are coming Rome for a wonderful week-end. There are a lot of things to do and to see in Rome. I'm going to accept another couch request for that crazy week-end - 2 girls from Poland coming here by hitchhiking. I think it sounds very very good!” I’m so happy to have made a connection and with someone who I hope is as beautiful of a person as her profile and 7 outstanding references make her out to be!
I have a feeling I’m going to have the best of my life! More accurately put: I trust that I will make it the best time:) I am going to try and blog about some of my experiences throughout my journey – maybe not as frequently as my soul-sista Miss Materi – but stay tuned fans!
Much love,
Carrie
Saturday, March 5, 2011
These days...
I’ve been spending a lot of time lately blissing out. I guess it’s only fair now to share some of that bliss with my fans.
I’ll begin with my quickly approaching trip to Europe. Only 7 weeks to go! I do have quite a bit of planning left but the structure of the trip is feeling pretty well-established. I’ve cut a couple of things out - for example, I won’t be visiting Venice afterall and am even considering cutting south France out as well. Reason being, I don’t want the trip to be about visiting as many places as I can in one month, but rather about getting to know a few places the best I can given the short time. Simply put: quality vs. quantity. I can just predict I’m gonna get to some of these places and not ever want to leave! That said, here is the new structure:
I arrive in Liverpool on April 21st. I will be there until April 30th. On that day, I have a flight booked to Rome, where I plan to spend about 4 days. May 5th - May 9th will be spent in Florence, Pisa and Cinque Terre. Uncertain here if I will take a train through South France, or simply just fly to Barcelona. Regardless, I will spend 5 days in Barcelona, Spain - so approximately May 9th - May 14th. The last 5 days of my trip will be then spent in south Spain, Malaga. My flight back to Calgary (from Malaga, Spain) is on May 19th.
Next topic, happiness. There are lots of things that make me happy. Here are some things that have been keeping me happy.
A couple of weeks ago, my friend Lacey bought me the new Hey Rosetta CD. Anyone who knows me well knows I am a HUGE fan, (and perhaps even their biggest fan!) The new songs are bringing me great joy, and so much joy that I’ve even been brought to tears by a couple of them. Isn’t that amazing – that music can stir the soul like that? Hey Rosetta songs and I – we just really get along. They’re always there for me, they always treat me well. It’s a good relationship.
Last Sunday morning, for the first time in a while, I visited the Centre for Spiritual Living. They had a guest speaker, Sig Taylor, a local relationship counselor who really left an impression on me. So much so that I registered for a 2-part seminar with him. While I feel I’m in a pretty healthy and mature relationship right now, I do believe there is always room for growth and healthier habits. Having already completed half of the seminar, it really would be too much to share right now with you everything I’ve learned but perhaps my next blog post:)
But another positive aspect that this experience has brought is the feeling of inspiration. What Sig Taylor does, how he does it and why he does it, really inspires me. Everyone has interactions, and is in relationships, of all sorts, and they’re all unique. I just feel it would be an interesting career – to study relationships. Reflecting back on my university career, sociology of gender courses were really the only thing that tickled my fancy. Is that a sign that maybe I should take more seriously? Should I, like Sig, head back to school and get me a masters degree in social work and become some sort or relationship therapist? Hmmmmm.
I’m loving being alone these days. It’s actually something I’ve grown fonder and fonder of over the years – but just rarely speak aloud about. I really like my own company and feel time alone is essential to my personal well-being. It’s therapeutic, it’s healthy, it’s perfect, always. And, I feel I’m getting just enough of it too, not too much nor too little, it’s just about right these days.
Alone, I like hiking alongside the river for hours, most times without my ipod, but occasionally with, just being, just enjoying the moment, the scenery, the frozen water, the dried flowers
Alone, I like cleaning my house with Phoenix blasting on the speakers, sippin’ on my hot lemon water that makes me so happy
Alone, I like to play with Fisher and learn from the beauty of her simplicity
Alone, I like to meditate occasionally, especially when the gusts of gratitude just become so overwhelming
Alone, I love to create, create valentines cards with the prettiest, most romantic paper, create Christmas cards or postcards for my friends and family
Alone, it’s just so nice to reflect and soak in the beauty that is now
I’ll begin with my quickly approaching trip to Europe. Only 7 weeks to go! I do have quite a bit of planning left but the structure of the trip is feeling pretty well-established. I’ve cut a couple of things out - for example, I won’t be visiting Venice afterall and am even considering cutting south France out as well. Reason being, I don’t want the trip to be about visiting as many places as I can in one month, but rather about getting to know a few places the best I can given the short time. Simply put: quality vs. quantity. I can just predict I’m gonna get to some of these places and not ever want to leave! That said, here is the new structure:
I arrive in Liverpool on April 21st. I will be there until April 30th. On that day, I have a flight booked to Rome, where I plan to spend about 4 days. May 5th - May 9th will be spent in Florence, Pisa and Cinque Terre. Uncertain here if I will take a train through South France, or simply just fly to Barcelona. Regardless, I will spend 5 days in Barcelona, Spain - so approximately May 9th - May 14th. The last 5 days of my trip will be then spent in south Spain, Malaga. My flight back to Calgary (from Malaga, Spain) is on May 19th.
Next topic, happiness. There are lots of things that make me happy. Here are some things that have been keeping me happy.
A couple of weeks ago, my friend Lacey bought me the new Hey Rosetta CD. Anyone who knows me well knows I am a HUGE fan, (and perhaps even their biggest fan!) The new songs are bringing me great joy, and so much joy that I’ve even been brought to tears by a couple of them. Isn’t that amazing – that music can stir the soul like that? Hey Rosetta songs and I – we just really get along. They’re always there for me, they always treat me well. It’s a good relationship.
Last Sunday morning, for the first time in a while, I visited the Centre for Spiritual Living. They had a guest speaker, Sig Taylor, a local relationship counselor who really left an impression on me. So much so that I registered for a 2-part seminar with him. While I feel I’m in a pretty healthy and mature relationship right now, I do believe there is always room for growth and healthier habits. Having already completed half of the seminar, it really would be too much to share right now with you everything I’ve learned but perhaps my next blog post:)
But another positive aspect that this experience has brought is the feeling of inspiration. What Sig Taylor does, how he does it and why he does it, really inspires me. Everyone has interactions, and is in relationships, of all sorts, and they’re all unique. I just feel it would be an interesting career – to study relationships. Reflecting back on my university career, sociology of gender courses were really the only thing that tickled my fancy. Is that a sign that maybe I should take more seriously? Should I, like Sig, head back to school and get me a masters degree in social work and become some sort or relationship therapist? Hmmmmm.
I’m loving being alone these days. It’s actually something I’ve grown fonder and fonder of over the years – but just rarely speak aloud about. I really like my own company and feel time alone is essential to my personal well-being. It’s therapeutic, it’s healthy, it’s perfect, always. And, I feel I’m getting just enough of it too, not too much nor too little, it’s just about right these days.
Alone, I like hiking alongside the river for hours, most times without my ipod, but occasionally with, just being, just enjoying the moment, the scenery, the frozen water, the dried flowers
Alone, I like cleaning my house with Phoenix blasting on the speakers, sippin’ on my hot lemon water that makes me so happy
Alone, I like to play with Fisher and learn from the beauty of her simplicity
Alone, I like to meditate occasionally, especially when the gusts of gratitude just become so overwhelming
Alone, I love to create, create valentines cards with the prettiest, most romantic paper, create Christmas cards or postcards for my friends and family
Alone, it’s just so nice to reflect and soak in the beauty that is now
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Well put.
Leo Babauta, creator of Zen Habits, urges his readers to find simplicity in this age of distraction. I couldn’t agree more.
I’m busy but also always seem to have time to goof off online. So how do I free myself from distraction?
Create space in your life. Cancel a few commitments, add space into your schedule, get rid of some to-do items and focus on fewer projects. Make space to breathe, to find solitude, to create. It’s one of the most important things you can do.
What can the world at large do, collectively, to free itself?
Promote minimalism. It’s not a life where you live with as little as possible. It’s a life where the focus isn’t on consuming and spending, but on connecting with others – creating, enriching your life and the lives of others. It’s also a life where we consume less and have less of an impact on the Earth.
I’m busy but also always seem to have time to goof off online. So how do I free myself from distraction?
Create space in your life. Cancel a few commitments, add space into your schedule, get rid of some to-do items and focus on fewer projects. Make space to breathe, to find solitude, to create. It’s one of the most important things you can do.
What can the world at large do, collectively, to free itself?
Promote minimalism. It’s not a life where you live with as little as possible. It’s a life where the focus isn’t on consuming and spending, but on connecting with others – creating, enriching your life and the lives of others. It’s also a life where we consume less and have less of an impact on the Earth.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Love yourself...
Love yourself.
Make peace with who you are
and where you are at this moment in time.
Listen to your heart.
If you can't hear what it's saying in this noisy world,
make time for yourself. Enjoy your own company.
Let your mind wander among the stars.
Try. Take chances. Make mistakes.
Life can be messy and confusing, but it's also full of surprises.
The next rock in your path may be a stepping stone.
Be happy. When you don't have what you want,
want what you have. Make do.
That's a well-kept secret of contentment.
There aren't any shortcuts to tomorrow.
You have to make your own day.
To know where you're going is only part of it.
You need to know where you've been too.
And if you get lost, don't worry.
The people who love you will find you.
Count on it.
Life isn't days and years.
It's what you do with time
and with all the goodness and grace
that's inside of you.
Make a beautiful life...
The kind of life you deserve.
...good 'ol Hallmark just always has a way of getting it right!
Make peace with who you are
and where you are at this moment in time.
Listen to your heart.
If you can't hear what it's saying in this noisy world,
make time for yourself. Enjoy your own company.
Let your mind wander among the stars.
Try. Take chances. Make mistakes.
Life can be messy and confusing, but it's also full of surprises.
The next rock in your path may be a stepping stone.
Be happy. When you don't have what you want,
want what you have. Make do.
That's a well-kept secret of contentment.
There aren't any shortcuts to tomorrow.
You have to make your own day.
To know where you're going is only part of it.
You need to know where you've been too.
And if you get lost, don't worry.
The people who love you will find you.
Count on it.
Life isn't days and years.
It's what you do with time
and with all the goodness and grace
that's inside of you.
Make a beautiful life...
The kind of life you deserve.
...good 'ol Hallmark just always has a way of getting it right!
Friday, January 14, 2011
England, Italy, France and Spain!
Either history’s repeating itself, or I’m a creature of habit, the marking of a new year does tend to see my 12-month plan of action for travel. Here is a piece of that action that I am so delighted to share with you!
On New Year’s Eve, I went and booked myself a one-month excursion to Europe. What better way to ring in a new year than with a flight purchase for a dream vacation! My flight departs Calgary on April 21st and I do not return to homebase until May 20th. I will spend an estimated one week with my family in Liverpool. From Liverpool I will fly to Rome, where you can find me letting the timeless beauty of this ancient city seep into my blood as I explore via foot for 5 days. Then, travelling via rail, I will spend a few days hiking in Cinque Terre and exploring the northern cities of Florence and Venice. From there the south of France will find me basking in its red wine and aroma of fresh bread for a day or two. Coastal Spain is to follow. Barcelona I can hardly wait to see you and your flamenco nightclubs, your sunshine, your architecture, your local threads, and your beaches!! We’re going to get along very nicely I can tell. I will shoot on down to Malaga for the last 5 days of my trip where I will reunite with my lovely Liverpool ladies. Ahhhhhh sweet, sweet perfection!
Monday, January 10, 2011
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)