Friendship

Recently, I met my dear friend for breakfast.  We hadn’t seen each other for awhile.  When she asked what was going on in my life, I shared my journey with her. We laughed and we cried together.  I felt so much better after I was able to share what was on my heart – with another woman.   I just wonder how many women could avoid professional counseling if they had a close friend to talk with – someone that accepted them for who they are.   Ladies, once again, I encourage you to nurture a few soul type friendships.  Have a wonderful day. Linda

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Look Nice Today

Ladies, I would like to stress how important it is to look nice daily. It really doesn’t take much to look fresh.  It can be as simple as moisturizing your skin; applying mascara; adding lip balm; and combing your hair.

I always like to add a little extra touch when I am going shopping; out for coffee; or to friends for dinner. Sometimes, it is as simple as putting on a crisp tapered cotton shirt;  dark blue jeans; and dangling earrings. My husband and I work together in our home and I like to take a few extra minutes every day to look nice for him too. The extra attention you spend on your appearance will make you feel better and will not go unnoticed.  I believe there is truth in the saying ” if you look good you feel good if you feel good you do good”.  Have a wonderful day. Linda

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Deep Breathing and Meditation

The practice of deep breathing and meditation has been instrumental in keeping me healthy lately. With the recent loss of my mom, I’ve found it helpful in grieving. I’ve been diligently practicing both for a few weeks now.  When my yoga teacher stressed the importance of practicing deep breathing and meditation for as little as 10 minutes daily – I decided to give it an honest shot.  After a few weeks of daily practice, I noticed the benefits when I was able to easily dismiss a negative thought. I did not dwell on the thought or allow it to fester – I just let it go.  The act was so surprising to me that I wondered where this new behavior came from.  I realized it was a result of my meditative practice.  So far, deep breathing and meditation has helped me to better control my thoughts. I seem to dwell less on the negative and more on the positive. As a result, I have far more energy as I not exhausted by negative thoughts.  As I continue to meditate and see more benefits, I will share my experience with you.  Here is what I do:

Sometimes I lay flat on the floor with my legs about 8 inches apart and my arms wide open with palms up. Other times, I sit in a chair with my feet flat on the floor and my palms on my thighs.  I close my eyes.  I relax my body into the floor – if I’m lying down.  I deep belly breathe.  I concentrate on my breathing – visualizing it moving through my upper body.  As a thought enters my mind, I gently dismiss it and go back to visualizing my breathing. Sometimes I count to 4 on the inhale and then on the exhale. Other times I put in a relaxation CD, such as Solitudes, in order to keep my mind focused.  I deep breathe and meditate for 10 minutes to 30 minutes daily –sometimes several times a day.

At first meditation may seem boring, so be patient, that will pass with time. There are many books published about meditation. There are also many relaxation CD’s. I have borrowed a few of each from the public library. Find the ones that suite you. Begin to gain control of your mind and keep your body more healthy. Have a wonderful day. Linda

 

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Tapestry of My Life

You know ladies, I just love this poem.   My mom once cross stitched these words, and I really treasure the piece she artfully created.  I hope you find this poem inspiring, I sure do.

Tapestry of My Life

I wonder what the other side will be when I have finished weaving all my thread. I do not know the pattern nor the end of this great piece of work which is for me. I only know that I must weave with care, day by day, the colors that are given me, and make of them a fabric firm and true, which will be of service for my fellow man.

Sometimes those colors are so dark and gray I doubt if there will be one line or trace of beauty there. But all at once there comes a thread of gold or rose so deep that there will always be that one bright spot to cherish or to keep and maybe against it’s ground of darker hue it will be beautiful!

The warp is held in place by the Master’s hand. The Master’s mind made the design for me; if I but weave the shuttle to and fro and blend the colors just the best I know, perhaps when it is finished, He will say, “Tis’ good,” and lay it on the footstool of His feet.

~ Author Unknown

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Mirror and Glass Cleaner – Homemade

I really enjoy cleaning the glass and mirrors in my home weekly. I feel the house looks so much brighter with the added shine.  I also use glass cleaner on fixtures in the bathrooms for a nice sparkle.  I have made my own glass cleaner for many years. It is so simple; convenient; and inexpensive. Here is what you need:

¼ tsp of liquid detergent

3 tablespoons of vinegar

2 cups of water

Mix and pour into spray bottle

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