Spirituality...What does it mean to you?

What does spirituality mean to you?

I realize that talking about religion is somewhat taboo, and can surely turn some people off. That is not my objective here. My goal is to bring thoughts to mind that we can share.

After spending the morning at church, shopping for our Thanksgiving celebration and watching Disney's A Christmas Carol with the children, I can't help but think tonight. Most of my thoughts seem to be floating around the Ghost of Christmas to Come. I wonder what changes I need to make to eliminate regret in the future. As parents, we all have regrets. Sometimes it's five minutes after we over-react to a situation; sometimes it's 5 years after we see the result of a parental decision we made. But, as individuals, we continue to learn. There is always room for growth.

Religion is great. Each one is somewhat unique but all follow the concept that we believe in a higher source responsible for this earth, this race and all that is. Our religions set rules for us to follow and if we live within those guidelines we feel we are good people.

Spirituality on the other hand is much deeper. It is not what you have been taught. It is what you believe deep in your soul. In most instances you don't even know why, but you are sure that there is truth there and live according to it. Spirituality is how we are connected.

Let's ponder on that, and please, share your thoughts.

Blessings

Sometimes in life we are presented with opportunities to help others. When we do the feeling it brings is a blessing. The joy of helping someone in need can be overwhelming. I had one of those experiences the other day. It went like this:

I was at the grocery store check-out. There was an elderly man two people ahead of me. He looked very distressed. I heard the clerk tell him how much he owed. He stood there digging in his pockets, only to come up with change. The next thing I saw was the clerk voided some of his items. It broke my heart to see the embarrassment in his eyes. He kept looking at the items, looking in his pockets, looking in his hands at the coins. I stood there watching. He had big hands, working hands. I could see that he had worked hard in his life, with those hands. As the next woman paid for her transaction, the man walked slowly to the exit, looking back at the items he couldn't afford. I could see he needed the items. I continued to watch him as he exited the store and stood there at the exit, not moving.

I knew he needed the items. I told the clerk that I would like to pay for the items the man couldn't afford. I walked over to another clerk to retrieve the items they had placed in a cart, full of other items patrons had to leave behind. I paid for the three items he returned.

I can't explain how it felt. I felt like I was completing a test. A test from above and I succeeded in fulfilling my task. The task of helping someone in need. Someone I didn't know. Someone I knew nothing of. Someone who was also a human being, connected to me in the way we are all connected, as children of God.

I thought long and hard about writing this in my blog. I decided to, so that I could share my blessing. I do not want praise or thanks. I know my Father in heaven smiled when I helped the man, and that is enough for me. I only hope to have the opportunity to help someone again.

So, when you see someone in need. Please think of my story. Life can be a struggle, but together we will survive and giving is a blessing as well as receiving. We all need help sometimes, and when we give it, we have the opportunity to realize how much we have to be grateful for. It would be easy for someone to ignore his need. I witnessed it. BUT, I am glad that I didn't.

Have a great day and God Bless you all.

My Computer Got H1N1...

The Calming Effect of the Ocean

For years now, I have noticed the effect the ocean has on me. My husband and I used to travel down to Cape Cod every Friday when he worked third shift. His days were free and it was a great escape for us.There is something that draws us to Cape Cod and although we no longer go every Friday, we go often.

This was one of those weekends, a spur of the moment thing, except this time we went all the way to Provincetown (or "P" town for those who are familiar to New England). Provincetown, for those of you who don't know, is the curly part of Massachusetts on the map- or the tip. We stayed at a hotel across the street from the ocean. We took full advantage of that by walking the shore in the middle of the night. The stars were crystal clear. The seals were barking but other than that we were completely alone. Enjoying the peace the ocean brings us. It's fascinating really because we don't know why it has the same effect on both of us.

Last night we walked along all of the quaint little shops. The shops and restaurants were all open. We ate, we walked, we laughed and talked and we held hands for two days straight. It sure is nice to get away alone once in a while.

Marvelous Monday

I hope you all had a MARVELOUS MONDAY and I wish you a TERRIFIC TUESDAY so that we can WELCOME WEDNESDAY because THANKFULLY THURSDAY is the day before our FAVORITE........FRIDAY!

Prioritizing

Sorry---> to my faithful droppers.Adjusting to the new schedule caused me to miss a day of dropping.

When prioritizing, yesterday, 'dropping' naturally dropped to the bottom of the bucket. LOL

I'm back today and read all of your comments. Thank you all!

Successful Firsts

We may not all remember the first day we started kindergarten... I sure don't. 

BUT I am sure my mom does. 

There are certain milestones that carve themselves deep in our hearts and I know that this is one of them. Not just because this is the third time I have done this, but because my daughter surprised me. You see, my youngest daughter started kindergarten today. I have been worried for months because she is extremely shy. I don't mean she doesn't like to talk to strangers. I mean, she won't even talk to me around strangers. She kind of hums when there is anyone outside of the immediate family around. My son has figured it all out but I have yet to make sense of her sing-song language, (as wonderful as it is). I was afraid that she wouldn't talk in school... but she did. She knew she had too. She was proud and confident. I saw it in her eyes. As she answered her teacher, she looked at me and smiled. I will never forget that moment for as long as I live.

She needed to start school full time. I can see it now. She is coming out of her shell and stepped to the front of the line. She will do fine and someday I will share these memories with her.

It was a successful first day of school for Jasmine. It was a successful first for me as well. It was the first time I looked at my daughter and knew --without a doubt --that she is going to be fine!

Transforming With the Seasons

Are you a different person with each season?

My fun-loving, energetic, summer persona is giving way to my  calmer, creative and nurturing side. I am reluctant to give up the fun of summer, but find myself welcoming fall because I know I will pick up some of the things I have neglected.This happens to me with each season. Does it happen to everyone?

As soon as the weathers cools, I pull out my crocheting and writing from hiding.This year I pulled out my threads a little early. I work on crafts with the kids.I read about five times faster than the summer months. Instead of upbeat music I am searching for quieter softer tones. I am more content to stay at home, not giving way to  the pulling tide of summer, that lures me outside to absorb the sun.

I will miss the summer me. She is youthful and fun. I feel her stepping aside, making way for the more serious side of me.

I am curious... How does the weather affect you?

My Day Off >>>(from work)

Okay, so, tomorrow is my day off. At least that's what my husband thinks. He has no idea just how jam packed my days-away-from-the-office are.  We women know that a woman's work is just a never- ending list of things that we didn't finish today, but will try to get to tomorrow. 


I'm not angry with my husband, it can be comical. He is great. He does his share and then some. We each have our roles. (But I have secretly hoped that I would get sick so he could see what my day is like as a mom of three.) Seriously, we make a great team. See, he's a work-a-holic; and I'm not.


Don't get me wrong I'm not lazy. My house is spotless- I never have to worry about unexpected guests. I cook for my family and make sure they have clean clothes even if I'm doing laundry at 5:30 am before work. BUT, as you can all see, I have no problem shutting that all off to get on the computer, crochet, read a book, or play a game with the kids. 

People ask me all the time..."How do you do it? Keep the house so clean with small children, cook real meals, etc." My husband and I have taught our children to pick up after themselves and that helps, but the fact that I don't watch much television has the largest impact on all of that. Instead of watching someone else's life- I am living mine. It's strange, in these times, when there is a reality show for just about everything. LOL But I am living my life to the fullest and completely happy with the extra time I have. (Except when someone asks me about a television show or an actor/actress.)



I take time to reflect on my day, and my life. I have to have peace . I am not fueled by the hustle and bustle that could so easily consume me (and has in the past). I have learned to take a deep breath and step back from stressful moments. I haven't always been this way, it took me years to learn, but I am more productive when I am at peace than I ever could've been when I was running on empty.


With the help of  Dr. Dwayne Dyer, author of The Power of Intention; Rhonda Byrnes, the author of TheSecret; and Eckhart Tolle the author of A New Earth; I have learned to live in the now. I have created a calmer me. 


Reading these books has allowed me to grow spiritually without compromising my religious beliefs and that is what makes them useful to all. No matter your religion, you can appreciate these books and their concepts. I encourage anyone seeking inner-peace to try one of these books. 


On that note, tomorrow I will take my three children for last minute school supplies. While I am driving, I will listen to my nature sounds CD. I will pace myself and when I feel like I need a break, we will stop for lunch. I will take a deep breath and admire my children. I will get energized when I stop to breathe, and then we will continue on. 


I will come home and make dinner and do laundry. When my husband comes home I will greet him with a kiss and a smile and that's what causes the confusion. If I had such a busy day, how could I make dinner, after school shopping with the kids and doing errands and not be stressed? He hasn't caught on yet...but I'm working on it. :)



This is how I live my life.
Peace be with you all.

Bright Eyed and Bushy Tailed

This morning I went to the local liquor/convenience store to replenish my tobacco supply. The owner of the store- a beautiful Indian young woman, whom I have become somewhat friendly with, asked me where I get my eyebrows done. I  hadn't done them in a while and knew they didn't look their best, and wondered why she was asking. I answered her anyway, not sure where she was headed. I told her that I get them waxed or  I pluck them. I would say that depends mostly on whether I am going out or not. I get them waxed and maintain them myself. I've never been the high-maintainence type.

I thought she told me that she threaded hers, but between her slight Indian accent and the fact that I had never heard of the threading method, I felt my eyebrows furrow and face contort with confusion  She smiled and said, "Let me take this next customer and I will show you.. She offered to do them for free and if I liked them I could come back and she would charge me $5.00. I agreed. I am glad that I did. She did a fabulous job! It was quick and precise-slightly painful, but no more than waxing.

There are always alternative solutions to learn about and old remedies from other cultures always excite me. Check out the video to learn more!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F37Sl1c7BA0

Here is a phrase to spark conversation --
a perdurable a day, helps you sleep, work and play

Make everything you do meaningful, for life is too short not to.

A Night to Remember

Most of us get caught up in our daily routines and forget to include fun in the mix. My family is no different. We have gotten so comfortable with our daily rituals that we forget to make memories. Last Friday night my husband and I were invited out dancing. We were reluctant to forfeit our Friday night routine. I do laundry after dinner and dishes and my husband mows the lawn and weed wacks. We water the outdoor plants and after about three hours of this, we may have time for a drink before bed.

After a little contemplating, we decided maybe we could use a night out. I am so happy that we did. It was just what we needed. Couples, especially those with children, have to make sure to nurture their relationships. Many marriages fail for the simple fact that they've grown apart, forgetting the energy they put into building the relationship.

My husband and I danced the night away at the Hi Hat in Providence, RI listening to a wonderful band called Chops Turner No Limit Band. They played a mix of top forty and R & B hits for all ages; everything from classics like Barry White and Al Green, to Amy Winehouse.

The HiHat is a great place for couples and singles alike to enjoy fine dining and dancing. The atmosphere was superb-low lighting, intimate round booths, and a generous dance floor. The prices are a little higher than your local bar or average restaurant, but the impeccable service and relaxed atmosphere make it well worth it. If you are over thirty looking for a  night out in the Providence area, I highly recommend the HiHat. Check out their  website for more info www.hihat.com. You will not be dissapointed.

Not Above the Law...But Below the Belt

I don't want to give the wrong impression here, like I think I am above the law but... Yesterday I got pulled over for speeding and received a speeding ticket for the first time. I will admit that I was traveling over the speed limit. I was on a country road near my house that changes speed limits three times before I get off. I didn't realize that I hadn't adjusted my speed through a certain section.

The reason that I am so upset about the ticket is that the officer that pulled me over was hiding on a side street! It made me think of the Dukes of Hazard. He may as well have had branches covering his vehicle. I think it's a low-down dirty trick to hide like that. Unless the driver is FLYING by (and there is never a cop around when that happens) it shouldn't be allowed.

Isn't there some crime he missed out on much more significant than my speeding? Like a robbery or something. Why don't they hang out at the mall or banks to catch real criminals. If they want to do something useful I suggest staking out more serious crimes.I am sure that there are better ways to pull in revenue for the taxpayers of Massachusetts. Of course this is just my opinion...feel free to comment. In fact, I would truly appreciate your thoughts.

Have a great day and be sure to travel with a light foot:)

Karma stings

A few days ago, I shared a comical story with a friend at work about my husband getting stung by a swarm of bees. I gave all the details of his attack and the bee stings that resulted from it. The oohs and the aahs, the hopping and dancing, etc. I will not share the story today because...

Yesterday, I WAS ATTACKED BY A SWARM OF BEES as I left work. Leaving work I felt a pain in my leg. I looked down and didn't see anything. Right away I felt the same feeling in a different spot. What the heck! There were several bees stuck to my pants. I started to pull them off in a panic. A man from the next office asked if I needed help. I told him I was being attacked by bees. He informed me of the swarm I had just passed by (better late than never?) As he talked and pointed, I was stung again. He then came to my aid and helped fend off the ruthless insects. I had never been attacked by bees. Stung, yes. But not attacked.

Immediately I knew it was my betrayal of my husband. I did not mean to betray him, of course. After the fact, it seemed harmless and hilarious. (my friend shared my opinion as well)

I learned a valuable lesson yesterday. Do not share someone else's misfortune's- as funny as the story may be- unless you are willing to experience it first-hand. I laughed all the way home from work. I thought of my husband. I thought of my story. Most of all, I thought about how ridiculous I must have looked hopping and bopping, picking off the bees. It was one of those moments you wish someone was there to share the memory with, because no one will ever know how funny it was... the day I got attacked by a swarm of bees!

Good news and Bad news

The great news is that our little friend is back! I hear him pecking away at the window periodically, not as often as before, but enough to know he is still around. I can't believe how happy I am to have the bird back in his domain.

The bad news, of course, is for all of you who may have read my previous post and thought that powerwashing your windows would eliminate the pecking. It seems it's only a temporary solution. But...you may find you miss it when it's gone.

A Sad Day

Waking up to the rain, was depressing after a wonderful long-awaited day of sunshine yesterday. But more than that some the most disturbing thing happened. My husband informed me that the robin's nest was invaded by a predator and all of the birds were devoured. Devastating! He cleaned up the remains so that the children would not find out. I will tell them that the babies are old enough to fly (I just won't tell them that they've flown off to the promise land)

As if that is not depressing enough, Our little friend is no longer tapping at our window. My husband power washed the house with a solution of bleach and water and apparently he doesn't like the smell. So... for all of you that are annoyed by the birds flying into your windows I guess we've found the cure. I, personally, liked his presence but I have seen articles of others who find it a nuisance.

I guess the rain is appropriate after all.

The Robin's Gift of Life

As the days go by, rain or shine, our little friend continues his daring dash at the window-but that is not what I am here to write about today...

A few days ago, my husband found a robin's nest on the fence in our yard. There are three baby birds in it. Newborns, sitting there with their beaks upturned awaiting their mother's deliveries. They are only days old and every time I peek at them it's the same sight- yellow beaks open wide. Still and silent. Other than the faint shivering, you wouldn't know they were alive.

Their mother is never far from them- just go near the nest and you' ll realize that! She comes a squawking protecting her young if you get too close. She lands on the fence with her beak overflowing with food, looks around and then drops the food into the mouths of her babes.

Neither my husband, nor I had ever seen baby birds before. I feel blessed. It's like National Geographic--live. What a marvelous sight, nature at work.

Yesterday, while I was cleaning my pool of all the winter debris, my little friend watched in the distance. I enjoyed the company tremendously! I'm fascinated to see him claim his territory. We bought the land when we bought the house, but it all means squat to him. LOL I love it. That's the way it should be!

"Our little friend" is what we have been referring to our backyard bird as. He has cooled down a bit with the window pecking. He is no longer tapping his beak at the window from dawn to dusk. He is pecking periodically, but has started venturing away from the rhododendron throughout the day. I love watching him explore his surroundings as he takes claim of our land to the other birds in our yard. I will keep you posted.

Is it trying to tell me something?

For about 10 days now a grey catbird has been flapping, pecking and hitting my window. It's the strangest thing! It starts at about 5:30am and continues off and on throughout the day. He perches himself on the rhododendron below the window and flies to and from the window. In fact, I am listening to the melody of his routine as I write.

It's quite fascinating and I have to admit I am intrigued. I can't understand his persistence. What is it that he is trying to accomplish. I am not sure if he is trying to get in or what. He doesn't seem to be phased by our presence. If we stand on the landing in front of him, he continues. If I sit on the porch beside him he continues. I think he is drawn to us or our home.

I watch him everyday and wonder... Is he trying to tell me something?