I'm BACK!!!

Hello!!  Oh how I have missed blogging and you ALL so much!  I have been gone way too long.

This past year has been a FLASH of events, traumas, health issues and enormous stress.  All of which piled up on me to the point of exhaustion.  I needed to take a step back and take care of myself first; then figure out what I wanted to do with the rest of my life.  

One thing lead to another this past year causing me to learn many lessons.  In the end I regained the confidence, strength and self esteem I seemed to have lost a time or two in the past few years.  Finding my direction and voice again has led me to the real path God intended for me all along.

Next week I start a brand new journey in a totally different field.  I am looking forward to a fresh start, new adventures working for a company that helps people with Christian values.  A company that models compassion and respect to their clients and employees in a positive work environment.

Positive environments, respect and reasonable expectations play a major roll in employee morale, health and happiness.  I have learned to both treat myself and others with respect, compassion and appreciation.  

All in all, I learned to take care of myself first.  I learned I can handle more work than I ever imagined.  I learned overwhelming amounts of information and now have the skills that brought me to these new opportunities.

I had so many positives this year too.  I met several great friends who taught me true compassion with their selfless acts of kindness.   I also met amazing people while volunteering this fall; who each taught me by example.  Such as how to enjoy the moments and find the good in everyone; as well as how to handle disappointments with grace and gratitude.  

Today I said goodbye to some of those amazing people and Friday I say 'see you later' to others whom I consider my guardian angels this past year.  This week is bitter sweet, filled with lots of mixed emotions; however I feel in my heart that this is the right decision and that this move will open so many more doors for me. :-)

"When one door closes; another one Opens!"

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!!!

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"Thanksgiving is the holiday of peace, the celebration of work and the simple life... a true folk-festival that speaks the poetry of the turn of the seasons, the beauty of seed-time and harvest, the ripe product of the year - and the deep, deep connection of all these things with God." ~Ray Stannard baker (David Grayson)

www.blingee.com

"Thanksgiving comes to us out of the prehistoric dimness, universal to all ages and all faiths.  At whatever straws we must grasp, there is always a time for gratitude and new beginnings." ~J. Robert Moskin

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL MY FRIENDS!!  

STAY SAFE AND BE HAPPY!!

"Give thanks for unknown blessings already on their way." ~Native American Saying

Prayer of Gratitude, Love and Compassion

What great fortune to have my basic needs and requirements met, to have clean water and food to nourish the body and to be in a place free from war and invasion.

What gratitude and love I have for Life and this precious birth, so I may enquire into the nature of existence.

May I have compassion for the suffering of others, always wishing them the best.

May all beings be free of all tendencies and restrictions of the mind, so that their suffering may end, and the peace and stillness of their true nature can shine unobstructed.

May all beings be peaceful.

May all beings be content.

May all beings be happy.
AMEN
Arunagiri.com

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"All major religious traditions carry basically the same message, that is love, compassion and forgiveness the important thing is they should be part of our daily lives." ~Dalai Lama

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Half Full Friday & Aloha Friday weekly question

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"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow." -Melody Beattie

Half Full Friday is a series of weekly posts that Eye Girl originally started in June 2009.  Now the it is hosted by Sprinkles at Wyldechylde.  We believe that a lot of our happiness is determined by our attitude about the things that happen to us. So by participating, we are deciding to see the glass as half full, instead of half empty. We are choosing to concentrate on the positives, instead of dwelling on the negatives. Our Half Full Friday posts are a way to do just that. They are a list of the things in our life that have brought us happiness over the past week. We are determined to find the something good in every day. Are you?

"Happiness held is the seed; happiness shared is the flower." ~Author Unknown

For the next week, we challenge you to keep a list of at least one thing that brought you happiness each day.

"A happy thought is like a seed that sows positivity for all to reap." ~Miriam Muhammad

This is what I'm Happy for this week:

• I'm happy for the awesome award from 'our' friend, Yvonne @ Welcome to my World of Poetry.  She is the sweetest lady ever!

• I'm happy for numerous & awesome conversations with all 3 of my sons'!  & that they will all be home for Christmas!

• I'm happy for a wonderful & unique Thanksgiving with mom and youngest son!  It was a very nice day! 

• I also got an apology from Sandy @ Words of Wisdom for forgetting my Blog of Note post from Wednesday and posted it today.  Sorry for anyone who visited and couldn't find me.  However all your beautiful comments brought tears and much appreciation.  Love you All!! :-)

"Happiness is a matter of one's most ordinary and everyday mode of consciousness being busy and lively and unconcerned with self." ~Iris Murdoch

It's also "ALOHA FRIDAY" Everyone!!  If you want to join in the fun? Post your own question on your blog and leave your link at the Aloha Friday post at An Island Life. Then you can visit the other participants if you wish...It’s a great way to make new bloggy friends or see what people are thinking about this week and join in a conversation or two if you like.

"Blessed are those that can give without remembering and receive without forgetting." ~  Author Unknown

My question:  What is the craziest thing you ever did to get someone the 'perfect' gift?

My answer:   I camped out ALL night in front of a Target store for the release of the Xbox when it first came out for my middle son's birthday.  There were over 100 people when the store opened and Only 10 X-box units.  I was 3rd in line.  So glad the store handed out the 10 vouchers to us... and sent everyone else away... before unlocking the doors at 6am that morning.  No 'rushing' the store, fighting or injuries. 

This was many years ago.  I made some new friends that night and had a good time.  However, I realize now just how dangerous that was and would never do it today.  I have to add though, that my son was so surprised and very appreciative.  He still remembers that present!

"Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it." -William Arthur Ward

Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!

Love & Hugs!

~ Coreen

Happy Thanksgiving!!

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"Thanksgiving is the holiday of peace, the celebration of work and the simple life... a true folk-festival that speaks the poetry of the turn of the seasons, the beauty of seedtime and harvest, the ripe product of the year - and the deep, deep connection of all these things with God." ~Ray Stannard Baker

THANKSGIVING

T is for the trust the pilgrims had so many years ago

H is for the harvest the settlers learnt to grow

A is for America, the land in which we live

N is for nature and beauty which she gives

K is for kindness, gentle words, thoughtful deeds

S is for smiles, the sunshine everyone needs

G is for gratitude... our blessings big and small

I is for ideas, letting wisdom grow tall

V is for voices, singing, laughing, always caring

I is for Indians, who taught them about sharing

N is for neighbors, across the street, over the sea

G is for giving of myself to make a better me

by Judith.A. Lindberg

"Be thankful for what you have; you'll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don't have, you will never, ever have enough." ~ Oprah Winfrey

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"Let us remember that, as much has been given us, much will be expected from us, and that true homage comes from the heart as well as from the lips, and shows itself in deeds." ~Theodore Roosevelt

We Give Thanks

Our Father in Heaven,

We give thanks for the pleasure

Of gathering together for this occasion.

We give thanks for this food

Prepared by loving hands.

We give thanks for life,

The freedom to enjoy it all

And all other blessings.

As we partake of this food,

We pray for health and strength

To carry on and try to live as You would have us.

This we ask in the name of Christ,

Our Heavenly Father.

by: Harry Jewell

"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them." ~John Fitzgerald Kennedy

Thanksgiving Day.org

"Gratitude is the inward feeling of kindness received. Thankfulness is the natural impulse to express that feeling. Thanksgiving is the following of that impulse." ~ Henry Van Dyke

Every Monday Matters - Write a Letter to a U.S. Military Hero this holiday season!

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 "In war, there are no unwounded soldiers." ~José Narosky

EveryMondayMatter.com

 "Freedom is never free." ~Author Unknown

FACTS

There are over 2.9 million active, reserve, and civilian men and women in the U.S. military.

Hundreds of thousands of American troops are deployed indefinitely in remote parts of the world, including the Middle East, Afghanistan, Africa, the Korean Peninsula and on ships throughout international waters.

U.S. service members are deployed for long periods away from home. They love receiving good wishes and words of appreciation and support, even from total strangers.

Letters are the most requested item by U.S. military men and women.

TAKE ACTION TODAY

Select a soldier you know or one who is related to someone you know.

If you don’t know a soldier, ask a friend, fellow student, co-worker, pastor, or military chaplain to help you make a connection. Make sure they provide proper mailing instructions.

Grab some paper, an envelope, and a pen.

Write a letter from your heart that expresses your gratitude, shows your support, and provides encouragement. Share a little bit about yourself as well as ask questions about the person you’re writing. Avoid such topics as death, killing, and politics.

• Send a free postcard to soldier.
• Send an email to soldier.
• Send mail to an anonymous soldier.
• Donate a book to a soldier. 

Include your e-mail or mailing address in case the recipient wants to write back. You could even include a self-addressed envelope.

Send the letter.

"This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave." ~Elmer Davis

YOU MATTER

Our military protects our nation’s freedom, and, regardless of your political affiliation and whether or not you believe in war, these brave men and women need to know that we appreciate their sacrifices and service. With a simple card or letter, you can brighten the day of a soldier who is overseas ensuring your freedom. Your letter might be the only thing that makes that soldier smile that day.   Remember them especially during the Holidays while you are here 'safe' with family and friends.

"We often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude." ~Cynthia Ozick

LINKS:
Lets Say Thanks.com
USAFNS.com
A Million Thanks.org
Books for Soldiers.com

"Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it." ~William Arthur Ward 

 
What is the Every Monday Matters program?

Monday used to be the least favorite day of the week, but that is changing. EMM is based on the idea that every Monday people can make a difference in their life and the lives of those around them. No matter how big or small the actions, they matter. And not only do people have the power to make change, they have a social responsibility to do so. Not out of guilt, but out of an appreciation for every living thing in the world. Together, each person can make a difference in the world and raise the collective consciousness, thereby creating a legacy worth participating in…one Monday at a time.

For more information about the EMM movement visit: http://www.everymondaymatters.com/
 

10 Ways to Share Your Love, Gratitude and Compassion ~ By Stephanie K. Smith

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Srichinmoypoetry.com ~ poems & quotes

 

"We already have so much abundance. We truly do. We need not search too far. It is within. The reason we fail to recognize this is because we haven't quite mastered the art of being. For abundance to prevail, we must have LOVE, gratitude, acceptance and compassion." ~ John Welwood

 
In honor of Thanksgiving, here are ten ways to spread abundance that will brighten your day – and someone else’s!

1. Write a Thank You (for Being You) Note!

It may be old fashioned in these days of e-mails, texts and Facebook wall posts, but sometimes the best things stem from tradition. Take this opportunity to let someone know that you appreciate them – not for something they’ve given you or done, but for who they are and what they bring to your life.

2. Shake Things Up at Turkey Time
Even if you hate it, and it doesn’t go with the rest of the meal at all, make your loved one’s favorite dish part of your Thanksgiving weekend. Barbecue? Chinese dumplings? Whatever. The fact that it’s not standard holiday fare makes it even more meaningful as an expression of love. The gesture won’t go unnoticed.

3. Donate Something
Whether it’s your time, a few bucks or your favorite holiday snack, give something to your local homeless shelter. You’ll be surprised how good it feels.

4. Offer to Babysit
Have friends or family members who don’t get out much. Offer to babysit so that they can have a second to themselves. It’s a great big thank you for which they’ll be extremely grateful!

5. Mentor Someone
It doesn’t have to be more than a coffee, but if you’re in a position that someone else might like to learn about, give them a little insight into your experiences. This doesn’t have to be professional, it can be life based (like Big Brothers and Big Sisters). Offering guidance to someone who needs it, is a great way to pass on some positive energy.

6. Smile at Strangers
So what if a few people think you’re strange? Most people love being smiled at – it’s a reflection of happiness and who couldn’t use a little more of that?

7. Dedicate a Yoga or Meditation Session
Some people offer up prayers, and it’s great if you do that, too. But the next time you’re meditating or in a yoga class, focus on sending someone you care about (whether you know them or not) a little white light. Afterward, don’t be surprised if they get in touch because they’ve been thinking of you.

8. Release All Ill Will
There’s no point holding grudges, and what better holiday is there for releasing yours in celebration of all that is great in your life? Let go of any bad feelings you have toward anyone. Whether that means you forgive them and forget them or you forgive them and reach out is up to you.

9. Make Amends
Now is a great time to let bygones be just that. If you feel you owe someone an apology, give it now. Even if it’s just in e-mail, the signals it sends (to the person and to the forces at work) open you up for progress.

10. Set Aside a Little Time For Yourself

It may sound crazy as a way to spread good will and gratitude, but above all other things, if you appreciate yourself and the importance of maintaining a sense of balance (after all, it means you’re keeping the universe in check), you’ll give offer others inspiration and may even help them permit themselves to do the same. And what can be better for the world than that?              By Stephanie K. Smith

"If you're going to tally up things in life, tally up what others do for you, rather than what you do for others." ~ Kelley Brignell

 

The Key of Gratitude ~ By Rhonda Byrne

Positive Thoughts.typepad.com

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Every time you feel grateful you are giving love.
Be grateful for everything you have received in your life (past).
Be grateful for everything you are receiving in your life (present).
Be grateful for what you want in your life, as though you have received it (future).
Your gratitude will multiply everything in your life.
Gratitude is the bridge from negative feelings to harnessing the force of love!
To use the power of gratitude, practice it.  When anything good happens to you in your day, give thanks. It doesn't matter how small it is, say thank you.
The more you feel gratitude, the more love you give; and the more love you give, the more you receive.
Every spare second is an opportunity to be grateful and multiply the things you love.

Your job is to love as much as possible every day.

By Rhonda Byrne @ Positive Thoughts

 

"8 to Great" is a Life Changing Experience!

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"Today's Gratitude buys you tomorrows happiness" ~unknown

"8 to Great is a powerful book from cover to cover. MK Mueller has turned ancient wisdom into modern day tools in one of the most original presentations I have ever read." - Mike Dooley, featured in The Secret and author of Infinite Possibilities: The Art of Living Your Dreams
 
I realized after reading '8 to Great' just how life changing the 8 High-Way processes are and why. First off it explains in detail the results of a positive attitude.  How being grateful every day makes us happy no matter what the circumstances at the moment.
 
"Every day may not be good, but there is something good in every day." ~ Author Unknown
 
 I didn't grow up believing in myself.  Then my youngest son didn't have anyone who believed in him, except for me.  So I know how powerful it is to show kids, and adults, how a grateful attitude is the prelude in believing anything is possible.  When they know anything is possible, they know they can believe in themselves and their dreams. 

“Everything is material for the seed of happiness, if you look into it with inquisitiveness and curiosity. The future is completely open, and we are writing it moment to moment. There always is the potential to create an environment of blame -- or one that is conducive to loving-kindness.” - Pema Chodron 

I found out that MK Mueller offered training sessions for people to become Certified trainers.  These trainers are then able to teach and reach more students and adults.  So this summer I became a certified '8 to Great' trainer/presenter for the '8 to Great' program. It was developed from the book '8 to Great' by MK Mueller.
 
Originally the curriculum was created for 6 - 12 grades. Now it is taught not only taught in middle and high schools. It is taught in colleges, YMCA's, community centers, churches, summer camps.. the list is endless. 
 
I would recommend the book and training to anyone.  Both are life changing experiences, just on different levels. The list of ways to share '8 to Great' processes are endless.  Here is the link to: MK Mueller's '8 to Great'.  The website has endless resources and information.  My hope that all children and adults learn to live each day being grateful and happy!

"Training and managing your own mind is the most important skill you could ever own, in terms of both happiness and success."- T. Harv Eker

 

Half Full Friday!

Half Full Friday, Explained and Sponsored by Eye Girl.

Half Full Friday is a series of weekly posts that Eye Girl originally started in June 2009.

I believe that a lot of my happiness is determined by my attitude about the things that happen to me. So, I am deciding to see the glass as half full, instead of half empty. I am choosing to concentrate on the positives, instead of dwelling on the negatives. My Half Full Friday posts are a way to do just that. They are a list of the things in my life that have brought me happiness over the past week.
"Every day may not be good, but there is something good in every day." ~ Author Unknown
I'm determined to find the something good in every day.
Are you?
For the next week, I challenge you to keep a list of at least one thing that brought you happiness each day. On Friday, write your own Half Full Friday post and return to Life As Eye See It to link your post and to see what other bloggers found happiness in during the past week.

Don't forget to grab a Half Full Friday Banner or Button for your blog post if you are going to join in:

This is my first time joining Half Full Friday and here is what I'm Happy for this week:

I am Happy that I am friends with 'Sprinkles' and she shared this "Linky" with me.

I am Happy that I have good friends who cheered me up and supported me this week!

I am Happy that I got tickets to the Motivation Event coming to my area next month!

I am Happy that I heard from all 3 of my sons' this week and they sent 'love' my way!

I am Happy that's it's Friday and I'm not working this weekend!  So I can get a lot more done! :-)

I am Happy that I have 3 amazing Sons who are nice young men!

I am Happy that my flowers outside are blooming and bigger than any other year!  Beautiful!

I am very Happy that I have a new Real Estate Agent who is a real go getter!

I am very Happy that I have enough equity in my house to sell it soon; even in this economy!

I am Happy that I will be in Chicago in 2 short weeks to visit my middle son, Matty!

I am Happy for all the wonderful friends I have; both old, new and coming soon into my life!

I am Happy that I started blogging and writing and made fantastic new blogging friends!

If you would like to participate, go to Life as I See It.  Thank you all for Visiting me today!  Happy Friday!!!!

HUGS,
Coreen
http://velvetoversteel.blogspot.com/2010/05/half-full-friday.html