Holiday Musings + Meaning in the Season

This year, I am purposely taking gift-giving in slow gear, setting the intention to consciously plan how much time, energy, and resources I use to select gifts for those on my gift list. This feels right to me, especially when I purchase items that don't exceed my budget and dispense with ego, which tells me to select gifts that may be received favorably or draw attention to me. Today, I look for gifts that serve a utilitarian as well as a pleasurable function. And if my gift is for a child, a toy that adheres to safety standards and is durable rather than flashy, is of the utmost importance to me.

Vitally Alive to see the World with Gratitude

 I recently had a cataract operation, and am thrilled it was successful. I feel as though I have a new lease on life, especially since one of my great loves, reading, is easier to do. Today, I have a sense of being vitally alive, anxious to see the world and my life and relationships more clearly and with gratitude.

What changes have been going on in your lives and what impact has it had on you?

Quote for the day comes from Thoreau “Only that day dawns to which we are awake.”

Where Does Time Go? Sense Each Second

It seems like just yesterday...the last time I blogged here. I've been occupied by work, play, and introspection. My activities have taken me to the middle of Oct. and I finally have a free moment to blog.

I discovered a blog which is new to me, but which I note has been in existence much longer than mine (at least since 2009). Here's the link for the Original Blogger Tips and Tricks. Many helpful ideas and information. http://www.bloggertipsandtricks.com/

Today my goal is to really see everything that comes into my line of vision. To sense whatever I am doing, to acknowledge my feelings, and live in honor of this one day only.

Quote of the day: "Till I loved I never lived—enough." - Emily Dickinson

In Health & Peace, Nan

On the Anniversary of September 11th

Remembrance

9/11/11

by

Nan

Lift up our country and keep us safe.

Give us grace to remember 9/11 without hate.

Recall and bless each soul that was lost and honor the valiant who defended our nation.

Continue to lead us down a path of healing and hope.

Help us discover ways to live in good will and transcend the past.

Grant us strength to deal with the future.

Protect our citizens from violent inclinations,

yet help us maintain our alertness and preparedness.

Create peace in our hearts, minds, and actions.

Peace, a force that reverberates in others, until it spreads to every corner of the earth.

Snap Judgements, Live in the Here and Now

I recently spoke to a friend about my desire to view all things that are presently taking place as neither good nor bad, just as happenings. I have discovered through past experiences, when I'm able to look at events and other people's actions without judgement, I tend to stay centered and respond appropriately, rather than react. After all, the only one I can control is me. 

Quote for today: "I have lived in this world just long enough to look carefully the second time into things that I am the most certain of the first time." Josh Billings, American humorist