Day 44. Connection

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

"If you limit your choices to what seems possible or reasonable, you disconnect yourself from what you truly want, and all that is left is a compromise.
-- Robert Fritz

Rick and I just came back from a quiet amble around the neighbourhood. It's so warm out for this time of year, we hardly needed a jacket. We crunched on crispy leaves littering sidewalks and gazed into the sky, picking out the occasional twinkling star as night pressed her shawl around our shoulders. A peaceful way to wrap up a busy day!

So now I'm sitting in my cozily-lit study thinking about this posting and what I'd wanted from the writing conference.
Although I hadn't had time beforehand to think about it, I knew as soon as Jane Kirkpatrick, our keynote speaker, spoke about connection. Yes, that's what I came for.... to connect with other writers, but not in a 'networking' capacity or to find someone who could help me in my writing journey.

No, I wanted the opportunities to reach past the surface and touch people's lives at a deeper level..... to encourage them... to notice and cherish their gifts of creativity. I wanted to get past the preliminary 'what do you write and where do you live' kinds of questions, to the place where we could share something from our hearts, emotions and passions. To be able to see someone's eyes brighten with enthusiasm as she shared a page of her journey with me.

Over the weekend, I had an opportunity to chat and connect with over a dozen individuals. As you can imagine, our encounters were only vignettes, moments in time, but they were special moments, where visions and dreams mingled, and life was shared.

I don't think I would have had the courage to reach out to people so freely if I had not first declared that's what I wanted to do. But when I did, somehow the rest of me was inclined to move into a position so that it could happen.

I hope you're inspired to think about what are your heart's desires. Remember, a desire accomplished is sweet to the soul.

Affirmingly yours,Brenda

Day 43. What Do You Want?

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

"A desire accomplished is sweet to the soul." -- Proverbs 13: 19

I really enjoyed the Writer's Conference this past weekend. I connected with some wonderful people -- all fellow writers -- and I came away feeling more anchored. As if longer roots had developed beneath my seedling dreams to make a difference through my writing.

Our keynote speaker, Jane Kirkpatrick, a well-known author from Oregon, shared her stories with grace, inspiration and good humour. She made us laugh, she made us think, she made us believe in the gifts that are within each of us.

I ask myself, what will I take away from this experience? What will I remember? If you are like me, it takes a few days for the dust to settle, and for the key thoughts to process and crystallize. What I most often remember are the ideas, thoughts, and experiences to which I've connected at a deeper level...something that ends up becoming another stepping stone in my growth and development.

One thing that already beckons at me like a fire hydrant flag poking out from under a snowbank relates to something Jane asked everyone during her first session. It came in a simple question..."What experience do you want to have this weekend? What do you want?"

Maybe some of us blinked at her like those proverbial cows* looking at a new gate, because she ventured several reasons why we might have come. Maybe it was a desire for connection, or the need for nurturing time away. Perhaps we came to gain wisdom, or find inspiration. She wanted us to think about it.

She wanted us to know what we had come for. Our first assignment. As the wheels of our minds started turning, Jane also shared possible barriers that we might encounter, and how we must strive to overcome them. Things like diminishing or comparing our writing abilities and successes; discounting the nurturing that can happen in a place of like-minded people; being critical of the event, speaker or venue; or not being able to receive the inspiration or encouragement coming our way.

Jane stressed that we must have courage to name what we want. Some people may be afraid to say what they truly desire, especially if they are not used to expressing it out loud. Sometimes there's a fear to name what we want, because then we must move to action. And...sometimes the action means we must leave our comfort zone.

Many times in my life, I have experienced the satisfying sweetness of having a desire realized. It feels good. It fills my heart and mind with joy. Tomorrow I'd like to share how beautifully and abundantly my desire for the weekend was met.
I believe it is important to name what we want. How will we know when we get 'it', if we haven't identified the 'it' we want? And...how will we know when it's time to be joyfully satisfied if we don't know when the goal's been reached?

Why not think about it.... what do you want today? This week? The rest of this year? I wish you the courage to name it! And then move to action.

Till next time,

Inspiration-ly yours,
Brenda


* If you've never worked with farm animals, you may not know that cows are very habit-oriented creatures. They don't like change. They know the routine. And so when they are shown what seems to be 'a new gate' they look bewildered and maybe even a little stubborn...they're not going through that, thank you very much!

Day 42. Love Them Anyway.

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

Happy Sunday! Had a busy weekend at the writing conference, so I'm letting Mother Teresa share the text for today's message. Although many of us have probably heard it before, it is still illustrates a vibrant picture of what unconditional love looks like in working clothes.

May your day be blessed and filled with much love! Till tomorrow!

Lovingly yours,
Brenda



LOVE THEM ANYWAY
"People are unreasonable, illogical, and self-centered. Love them anyway.

If you do good, people may accuse you of selfish motives. Do good anyway.

If you are successful, you may win false friends and true enemies. Succeed anyway.

The good you do today may be forgotten tomorrow. Do good anyway.

Honesty and transparency make you vulnerable. Be honest and transparent anyway.

What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight. Build anyway.

People who really want help may attack you if you help them. Help them anyway.

Give the world the best you have and you may get hurt. Give the world your best anyway."

-- Mother Teresa

Day 41. Keeper of the Springs

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

I'm away at a Writer's Conference this weekend. I look forward to the interaction with published authors and fellow scribes, as well as participating in the various workshops. No doubt the event will prove to be just like an Artist's Date...I'll come away inspired and filled up with new ideas and motivation.

Since we're talking about books and writing, I thought I'd share one of my favourites with you. It's entitled Keeper of the Springs by Ingrid Trobisch.

I'd love to chat more about this lovely book, but as time doesn't permit, I'm including the inside cover excerpt instead. If you haven't read the book, I think it will whet your appetite for more.

The beautifully written text, and the lovely illustrations, will draw you in and make you feel at home. Although it was first published in 1997, it's still available to purchase through various venders on-line.

Keeper of the Springs

Making Home the Place for Which You're Longing
by Ingrid Trobisch

"Gatekeepers, innkeepers, timekeepers--each understands their task and is devoted to preserving the important things. Using as a metaphor the springs on her Ozark property, Ingrid Trobisch offers time-tested inspiration for tending the spiritual center of house and home.

These springs, an earthen bridge, and a rushing stream are powerful pictures of Ingrid's homekeeping on three continents: in a mud hut in Africa, a Bavarian cottage in Austria, and a hand-hewn rock farmhouse in the American heartland. Come sip lemonade on her front porch, stroke her grandmother's worn patchwork quilt, take in the aroma from a thousand village fires in an Ethiopian wooden pillow. Draw courage and inspiration from Ingrid's joyful reflection as a keeper of Shelter.

Why is it essential that someone become a keeper of the springs of the heart? ..(T)hese pages look beyond hectic days and explore the possibilities for preserving the treasure in your own backyard."

So have a wonderful day. Hope you are inspired to live life more beautifully.

Gracefully yours,
Brenda

Day 40. My Book of Flowers

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland


Many years ago I found a beautiful book at the library entitled "My Book of Flowers", by Her Serene Highness, Princess Grace of Monaco. I haven't thought about the book for a long while, but when I opened my old quote journal in search of something inspiring, I found two excerpts that I had jotted down.

I thought you might enjoy them, so I've included the quotes below.

Browsing on Google, I came across a lovely website on the Princess, so if you'd like to learn more about her, just click on Princess Grace. It's linked to the site.

Aside... I'm finally figuring out how to upload photos on my blog. Here's one I took in my garden...I call it Pretty in Pink.

Till next time!

Gracefully yours,
Brenda

PS. Happy Birthday Mom! Love you!

Quotes from My Book of Flowers by Princess Grace of Monaco(1980)

"When....I took the time to look into the heart of a flower, it opened up a whole new world -- a world where every country walk would be an adventure, where every garden would become an enchanted one, where one could never again be lonely, bored, or indifferent. It was as if a window had been opened to let in the sun. My eyes were waking up...seeing the unbelievable beauty of nature..."

* * * * * * * *

"To create harmony in the home is the woman's right and duty. The home must be the oasis for the family -- husband, children and others close to us. It should be a place where they can find a sense of well-being and strength, replenishment and renewal."

Day 39. It's Busy Today!

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

It's a busy day today and I don't have a lot of time to visit. So I thought I'd leave you with a quote that has always inspired me.

Have a wonderful day!

Busily yours,
Brenda

One ought, everyday at least,

to hear a little song, read a good poem,

see a fine picture and if it were possible,

to speak a few reasonable words.

Johann W. von Goethe

Day 38. Hello Beauteous One!

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

"I can live for two months on a good compliment."

- Mark Twain

I will never forget the time during my early 20's, when I became acquainted with a woman who would often greet me with the salutation, "Hello Beauteous One!" At first I thought she just picked that phrase out of the wind as a cute way to say hi, yet every time we'd meet, she would address me the same way. It was always done with such grace and sincerity that I began to look forward to bumping into her, so I could hear her say those words again.

I've sometimes wondered if she recognized that I needed such a message at that time in my life. As I was growing up, in my heart of hearts, I never felt beautiful. But, as Min kept 'watering' my heart, reinforcing this positive message time after time, I began to blossom under those affirming words.

There is something deep within the feminine heart of each woman that needs to know she's lovely in someone's eyes. Could it be that's why we can obsess about how we look... we want to know, Am I beautiful?

I will never forget the time, not that long ago, when I asked Rick (my husband of 10 years) something about being beautiful. He has always affirmed since we first met that in his eyes, I am beautiful, with or without my Mary Kay makeup. But this particular day, I deliberately made a choice to believe him. The amazing thing was that my heart settled into that knowledge and I haven't obsessed about how I look since. Now that doesn't mean I dress like a slob, I don't, but if the hair-do isn't perfect, or the nose is red from blowing it on a cold day, I rest in the knowledge he still thinks I'm beautiful.

When I chose to believe the message, instead of poo-pooing them as just empty words, it made a difference in how I saw myself. When I accepted the compliment as true, my attitude changed, I became more willing to accept myself, just the way I am. For me, the key has been to believe the compliment when someone offers one to me.

Mark Twain said he could live two months on a good compliment. I, too, flourish on genuine compliments! Min's salutation still resonates with me, even after 30 years!

So for the rest of the week, why not look for ways you can lavishly hand out compliments to the people around you...compliments that you mean, of course.... and then remember to deliberately believe any you receive from friends, spouses, and other people in your life.

It's made my life more beautiful. I hope you find that to be true for yourself as well!

Gracefully yours,Brenda


PS. John Eldredge, author of a little booklet entitled "You Have What It Takes, What Every Father Needs to Know" really gave me an insight into understanding what it is that's in the heart of every girl as she's growing up. He says, "Every girls wants to believe that she is captivating, worth fighting for. She wants to know...Am I lovely?"
NB. The book is listed at Amazon and other sources.

Day 37. Evening Reflections

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

We've been chatting about autumn being our favourite season of the year... which reminds me of the time Nancy Lindemeyer (former Editor in Chief of Victoria magazine, September 1995 issue) wrote regarding a running discussion she had with her son about the seasons; his favourite season being spring, hers the fall.

He'd ask, "How can you like misty mornings and falling leaves instead of clear spring mornings and trees in fresh green?"

She says her answer is always the same -- because she is a romantic, and

"we romantics love rainy days and fall afternoons because they give us time to reflect. In spring I'm too busy observing everything simply to sit back."

Maybe that's why I also like twilight, evening shadows, and cozy sitting rooms aglow with lamp lights. They give us opportunities to be still, to ponder and muse about life and living, to reflect on what's important, and to dream about life's possibilities.

It's 7:30 in the evening as I write today's posting. Dusk is hovering outside my window, the sun has set, leaving a lavender-tinted sky, and my regal bell-shaped desk lamp is filling my study with a sense of golden tranquility.

Already I feel the peace settling around my shoulders, as the burdens and cares seem to slip off in the quietude of this moment.

May you experience your own amber moments as you read this. Blessings of peace to you!

Tranquilly yours,
Brenda


PS. You might enjoy watching to this peaceful Evening Prayer video.

Day 36. Ambiance

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

WHEN I WOKE to find a rainy and overcast morning, I got the urge to watch the wonderful Meg Ryan/Tom Hanks movie, You've Got Mail.

Maybe it's because I remember the scene where Meg's character, Kathleen, is decorating her bookshop with lights and seasonal decorations. It's autumn, and you can feel the contrast of the blustery weather on the outside with the warm cozy ambiance inside. The scene invites you to come in and make yourself at home.

It took me a while to recognize for myself that the ambiance of a given place or experience plays a major role in how well I enjoy it. If it evokes the sense of beauty, festivity, adventure, creativity, coziness, or camaraderie, I feel my emotional and energy levels rising.

I've recognized another interesting aspect...ambiance is also a frame of mind. Which means I have the ability to create my own ambiance if I need to. I do that by envisioning what I want in my mind's eye...for years I called it 'getting into my pretty world'. From that frame of reference, it has positively changed how I feel and how I see what's around me.

For instance, having coffee in a paper cup, sitting on a hard plastic seat in the local mall does not evoke the same ambiance as when I go to a cozy cafe, where people, relaxing in big slouchy chairs, are enjoying their conversations as they drinking lattes from nicely-shaped mugs. But even on those occasions, when I find myself in a less amiable setting, I can still choose to create an ambiance that's fun and a little adventurous.

For many people, rainy, blustery days evoke the emotional 'blahs'. For me? I choose to find the 'romance' in the day. I think of misty days in England and lots of green grass. I think of lamps that cast golden glows in gloomy corners. I think of freshly baked cinnamon buns and homemade soup simmering on the back burner.

And...I think of movies like You've Got Mail!  Somehow its ambiance reaches past the TV screen and stains how I perceive my own environment. A warm contentment washes over me. Maybe that seems strange, but different things stir the imagination for each of us. I wonder what stirs you and creates an ambiance that makes you say, "Ah, this is the life." 
Till next time!

Cozily yours,
Brenda
 

PS. You might also want to check out an interesting article I just found on-line. It's entitled "How to Create An Ambiance in an Apartment".

Day 35. Falling Leaves

GONE LEAF HUNTING!

See you tomorrow!

Autumn-ly yours,
Brenda

Day 34. Getting Organized

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

It must be on my mind these days.... because I keep chatting about cleaning and organizing. When I think about it, I tend to favour autumn cleaning over spring cleaning. Maybe because in spring I want to get outside after the long winter, whereas when summer wanes and autumn falls around us, I love the idea of nestling closer to home.

I found a great website a few years ago; it's created by Maria Gracia (Get Organized Now!). If you want to know something about organizing, this is a site to check out. There are ideas galore and Maria posts a monthly chart which has tips and ideas for each day.

I've included the September chart below for inspiration.

Organizingly yours, 
Brenda



********************** September, 2008



____ September 1 Prepare a back to school kit for kids that includes paper, pens, pencils, markers, glue and other important back to school items.

____ September 2 Go through your medicine cabinet and throw out no longer used or expired medications. Find out about proper disposal methods for your area.

____ September 3 Enjoy the last of the summer days. Spend some time outside enjoying the sun with your loved ones. Fly a kite, throw a Frisbee, enjoy a walk, or play hopscotch or jump rope.

____ September 4 Order, buy or make your Christmas cards now. If you start addressing one or two a day, you will be done well before the Christmas rush.

____ September 5 Launder all blankets, quilts, and heavy sheets in order to prepare for the chilly nights to come.

____ September 6 Wash the outside of the house or windows before the weather gets super cold.

____ September 7 Make a non-perishable donation to a food shelter or women’s shelter in your community.

____ September 8 Clean or replace make up brushes that can be full of cosmetics and oils.

____ September 9 This month is National Preparedness Month. Create a Family Emergency Kit that includes items such as canned foods, bottled water, a can opener, first aid, extra prescriptions, and batteries. Make sure to be prepared for your pets too.

____ September 10 Ensure you have a rake and bags to collect leaves. Start cleaning up debris in your yard.



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____ September 11 ALWAYS REMEMBER (Hang your American Flag out today) Clean and get your leaf blower and snow blower serviced and ready to go.

____ September 12 Dust off and organize one bookshelf in your home.

____ September 13 Weed out any summer clothes that are torn, stained, not worn, or no longer fit. Do not pack them away. Donate them.

____ September 14 Schedule any doctor or dentist appointments that have been forgotten.

____ September 15 Buy or make Halloween costumes for yourself or your kids. Make sure you are prepared with containers to collect candy, batteries, flashlights, face make-up, tights, or any other costume accessories.

____ September 16 Start preparing a gift list for Christmas including sizes, colors, and how much you plan to spend on everyone.

____ September 17 Weed out three file folders, make sure to shred anything with sensitive information.

____ September 18 Clean out your automatic coffee maker. Run white vinegar and water through it. Rinse thoroughly.

____ September 19 Donate three books to a charity, school, or library.

____ September 20 Deep clean your shower until it sparkles.



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____ September 21 Weed out your purse or wallet of any torn or out of date papers, garbage, and discount cards, etc.

____ September 22 Do a paint touch up for any place in your home that needs it. Keep any old paint away from dampness or cold. Make sure you keep a sample of the color for any future touch-ups.

____ September 23 Clean out your oven and the burners.

____ September 24 Empty your email inbox’s. Remember to also empty the trash folders.

____ September 25 Take care of yourself and do something just for you today. Enjoy a cup of tea, a magazine, a bubble bath, a new hair cut, or a manicure.

____ September 26 Toss any old socks that are missing their mates.

____ September 27 Family movie or game night. Enjoy some quality time with your friends or family.

____ September 28 Clean off one horizontal surface in your house such as your desk, night-table, dining table, end table, or coffee table.

____ September 29 Return one borrowed item.

____ September 30 Recycle all old newspapers and magazines.

by Maria Gracia - Get Organized Now!™
Want to get organized? Get your FREE Get Organized Now!™ Idea-Pak, filled with tips and ideas to help you organize your home, your office and your life, at the Get Organized Now!™ Web site http://www.getorganizednow.com

Day 33. The Clutter Bugs Show Up Too!

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

Remember the Dust Bunny Conference I was telling you about the other day? Well, on closer inspection, it turns out that there's more to that story! It seems the Clutter Bugs showed up at my house the same time, so you can guess what I need to do for a couple of hours today.

Cleaning the house --- my usual first response is not always enthusiastic --- so sometimes I have to remind myself that setting things right in my home is part and parcel of creating a little heaven on earth.

I feel 'ugg' if I only focus on the mess, so I find it very helpful to refocus my thoughts on the beauty and comfort that will come as a result of my efforts. And... if I include something fun in my task as well, like inviting someone to come for coffee later, picking a posy of late-blooming roses or marigolds for the dining room table, or setting out autumnal napkins and decorations, it turns a tedious chore into something more creative and spontaneous.

Fortunately for me, I won't have to include making dinner tonight on today's to-do list. We're going out to celebrate my nephew's 25th birthday. But if you do need to include cooking on your to-do list, you may want to check out a recipe that Ann Vertel (www.AnnVertel.com) just posted: "Crockpot Turkey and Dressing". Looks scrumptious!

On that note, Dear Reader, I best be off. Have a wonderful day! Don't forget to sneak a moment to enjoy something special today.

Domestically yours, 

Brenda

Day 32. Ducks and Rainbow Trout

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

"Certainly it was a lovely autumn morning;
the leaves were fluttering red to the ground."
-- Virginia Woolf, A Room of One's Own

My joy is brimming this morning! Yesterday's outing to the countryside was a feast for the senses ...autumn is falling off trees everywhere and fields are ripe unto harvest.

I met my friend at a lake resort. Resorts in the summer time are usually buzzing with activity and people and noise. But yesterday there was a languid peace hanging over the town and lakefront. Mommas with babies strolling on gravel pathways, young lovers setting up a picnic in the sun, ducks puddling in the water. The lake was calm and still, and it wasn't long before our own thoughts and minds mirrored that same stillness. Our conversation over the afternoon drifted easily as we caught up on two year's worth of living.

If you will recall, I've shared before about the value of taking time to restock our inner wells, filling the pond, as it were, with fresh 'fish'. Even as my joy is overflowing today, I've also noticed my inner pond is teeming with fresh, new zest and creativity. When I got home last night, I could barely put down my pen; thoughts flowed as effortlessly as those ducks in the water and new ideas were jumping out all over like rainbow trout.

We probably all can agree that holidays and rests are good for us. It's not that we don't like or enjoy them, but sometimes it's so easy to put them off, thinking we'll do it when it's more convenient, and when we get all the urgent stuff out of the way.

The day I spent with Betty, hanging out by the lake and later at her home deep in the countryside, made me see again how necessary it is for our health and well-being, as well as our joy and creativity, to plan times away -- an hour, a day, a week -- from our usual activities.

September offers so many beautiful and colourful opportunities, I hope you will have the courage to sneak away and enjoy a tiny respite during your week. I think you'll find yourself pleasantly and creatively surprised!

Blissfully yours,
Brenda

Day 31. Off On A Ramble!

I meant to do my work today
But a brown bird sang in the apple-tree,
And a butterfly flitted across the field, 
And all the leaves were calling me.

And the wind went sighing over the land,
Tossing the grasses to and fro, 
And a rainbow held out its shining hand ~
So what could I do but laugh and go?
--Richard Le Gallienne

It's a gorgeous autumn-y day! The trees in the neighbourhood are absolutely resplendent as they stand like massive bulbs of brilliant sunlight in people's front yards.
 
How can I possibly stay indoors on such a day! Like the author of the poem above, I have to laugh and go out into it. It's a good thing I've actually scheduled a ramble out to the country -- shortly I'm heading down the road south to visit a dear friend I haven't seen in two years!

If you hear the wind sighing through the leaves today, or you catch a flock of fat birds nibbling away at your feeders, why not laugh and let go.... take a moment...go ahead...and enjoy the gifts that have been given to you this day!

Joyfully yours, 
Brenda

Day 30. I Love To Read

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

EVER SINCE I can remember, curling up with a good book has been my all-time favourite activity. If Mom asked me what I'd like for a treat from the city, the reply always came, "A book, please."

Although I have lots of other interests, reading and books have remained a constant passion throughout my life.  Which reminds me of the time when my mom discovered that I was reading and practicing my piano lesson...at same time. She wondered why I was going over and over the same bar, plink, plink, plink, until she looked in the living room. There I was, hands on the keyboard, and eyes glued to the open storybook on the bench beside me, totally engrossed in the current adventure. (Needless to say, she'd always check for books in my hand after that.)

I enjoy a variety of genres, yet I'm most often drawn to the books that stir and motivate me to new heights. They are most often written by people whose messages touch my heart in its yearning for clues to live my life more beautifully, lovingly, and purposefully.

Today I thought I'd share a very short list of books that have spoken to my heart in some way over the years. I hope you will discover nuggets and treasures for your own life, should you decide to read them.

I'm always interested in finding out what other people are reading for inspiration or fun. If you'd like to share a current or past favourite, I'd love to hear from you.

Blissfully yours,
Brenda


Books I've Enjoyed!

1,000 Marbles, A Little Something About Precious Time, by Jeffrey Davis

This one makes you stop and take notice. If you knew you only had 1,000 Saturdays left to live, would you spend them as you do right now? Or change what you do? Let Jeffrey Davis inspire you to get on with doing what makes your life more meaningful and fulfilling.


A Short Course in Kindness, a little book on the importance of love and the relative unimportance of just about everything else, by Margot Silk Forrest

Ms. Forrest says her mission in life is to 'add love to the world--to change the world, one heart at a time." She shares some lovely stories and ideas on living life more kindly.





The Generosity Factor (TM), Discover the Joy of Giving Your Time, Talent, and Treasure, by Ken Blanchard and S. Truett Cathy

Based on the teaching 'it is more blessed to give than receive', this little story reveals five key principles, including the recognition that wealth is not just about treasures in the bank. The information may not be new, but its allegorical presentation shines a new light on the definition of success.


The Shack, by William P. Young

I loved this book. Although it starts out with a tragedy, if you stick with it, the story takes you on one amazing journey, which leaves you marveling at God's love and healing in the midst of a world that is filled with so much sadness.

Day 29. Dust Bunny Conferences

I'VE BEEN BUSY dusting this morning. You see, while I was away at an inspirational Women's Conference this past weekend, it appears that the local Dust Bunnies Society used my house as its venue for their own meeting place. As the sun streams into my living room, I can see that a good time must have been had by all -- very visible signs of their presence are in every corner!

I'm reminded of Dorothy Cannell's musings on spring cleaning in her mystery novel entitled The Spring Cleaning Murders:

"Oh, the joy of routing woodworm from the back-bedroom bureau! (What a recharging of the female batteries at discovering enough dirt under the sofa to plant pansies!)"

I can relate...I, too, feel a great satisfaction in discovering layers of dust and erasing them with a stealthy swipe of the hand. The thicker the layer, the more recharged and satisfied I feel!

There's a certain beauty in getting rid of the excess clutter, putting things back in their places, and adding a gleam of polish to furniture pieces. For me, bringing order out of chaos in my cupboards, closets and corners plays a key role in making my life more beautiful...I'm happier when things are in place, and I find I'm more creative and energetic too.

On that note, I'm off to round up more dusty bunnies....it seems they used every room in the house!

Cheerily yours,
Brenda

FIVE 'BEAUTY' TIPS FOR YOUR HOME:

1. A place for everything, and everything in its place.
2. Keep only what you believe to be beautiful or useful.
3. Don't spend dollar time on penny jobs.
4. Don't wait for 3-hour slots to clean; look for the 5- and 10-minute time spots too.
5. Clean one at a time -- one drawer, one shelf, one cupboard, one set of files, one bathroom.

Day 28. Prayer of Peace

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

For many people, Sunday is often a day of rest and relaxation, and for some, including myself, it's a time to reflect on God and our relationship with Him. So when I was thinking on what to write today, the thought of sharing a prayer with you kept going through my mind.

I have always loved the beautiful prayer by St. Francis of Assisi. Although it's almost 800 years old, its inspirational message continues to echo in my heart as I, too, long to be an instrument of peace and love in a world that hurts so much.

May the prayer inspire you. May you enjoy blessings of peace, joy and rest today!

Prayerfully yours,
Brenda

PRAYER OF PEACE

Lord, make me an instrument of Thy peace;
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master,
grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
to be understood, as to understand;
to be loved, as to love;
for it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

Amen.

--St. Francis of Assisi (1181-1226)

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Day 27. Getting Stuck?

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

Ever get stuck in a snowbank? Or get bogged down on an idea that seemed clear until you started to develop it? Both can leave you feeling cold and shivery, one from the temperature and the other from the niggling fear that you'll never be able to make this idea flow or make sense to anyone, even yourself.

Well... today I've been feeling a little stuck. Since it's too early for snow yet (even for Alberta), I must be feeling the shivery little anxiety that my thoughts are bogged down and I'm not sure how to 'unstick' them.
I've been plowing along these past 27 days, writing and pouring my thoughts into a posting for each new day. Yesterday everything was flowing well, yet now it seems sluggish. How quickly it happens. Fortunately, I know what to do! It's time to take my own advice (or rather Julia Cameron's) and head out for an Artist's Date. Time for some new light...a new sensory experience that will melt some of the icicles and get the ideas flowing again.
If you've been putting your all into a project these past weeks and suddenly you feel a little stuck in where to head next, may I suggest that you also plan your own Artist's Date.

Till next time then!

Gracefully yours,
Brenda

Speaking of advice, I'll leave you with a fun quote Oscar Wilde once said about advice: "I always pass on good advice. It is the only thing to do with it. It is never of any use to oneself."

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Day 26. Just This Once!

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

Have you ever used the phrase just this once? As in...just this once I'll have fries with my meal; just this once I'll skip my weekly success meeting; just this once, I'll leave my purse in the car. Often we hear the phrase used when someone is choosing to compromise something like a decision, attitude or promise.

Now, what if we take that same phrase and use it in a new, more positive way. What if we want to cut down on the coffee, and we say, Just this once I won't have a second cup. Of if we want to cut down on our snacks, just this once I say no to a second chocolate chip cookie.

Looking at it this way has really helped me. It's not a forever decision. 'Just this once' doesn't commit me to a new pattern for life, so I have no reason to feel overwhelmed. Yet when I continue to make that choice several times in a row, it's not long before I'm on a path to a new habit. Personally, I've been able to make some significant changes, over time, without feeling defeated before I begin.

To say no to coffee or chocolate bars forever -- no, I can't do it, believe me I've tried -- but I've found I am more willing and well able to say no 'just this once'.

I'll never forget an incident that happened to a colleague years ago. She went into the school to pick up her young son, and decided since she was going to be gone for just a minute, she'd leave her purse in the car. When she came back, the car was broken into, and yes, the purse was gone! Talk about the rigamarole of trying to cancel credit cards and get new ID, she worked on it for weeks.

I decided at that time never to leave my car unlocked or my purse in the front seat. So often over the years I've been tempted, but I'm always reminded...don't do it, because you never know when 'just this once' will cost you.

Don't talk on your cellphone just this once either. I heard yesterday that a friend of a friend got hit turning onto a highway, and apparently she was on her cellphone at the time. I don't know if she talked regularly, or just this once, but either way it's cost her and her family of four. Now the car is totalled and she's in the hospital with serious injuries.

Habits, good or bad, happen one choice at a time. I want to make choices that bring me closer to experiencing my life more beautifully, with less hassles, and good health. On that note, just this once, today I'm going to exercise and go for a 30 minute walk around my neighbourhood.

Gracefully yours,
Brenda
PS. So readers, do you develop positive habits...or deal with bad ones?

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Day 25. We Still Love Blogging!

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

It's time for a mini-success celebration! I have arrived at Day 25, which means I'm a quarter of the way to my goal to write 100 postings in 100 days.

I never realized how much impact creating this blog would have on the rest of my writing life. I can't seem to stay away from the computer. Not only am I posting blogs every day, but I've corresponded with other bloggers, written an essay and submitted it to my favourite magazine, entered other writing contests, and have dusted off dreams of writing a book or two (before, as my mother says, she's too old to read them).

The best part is my continued enthusiasm and commitment to write every single day! The practice that many of my favourite authors have said is a must to be a success at writing.

When Ann Vertel (www.unitcoach.com) asked me to share my blog address with her three weeks ago, I had only a couple of rough drafts and my profile started. I had "met" Ann in cyberspace a while back when I signed up for her weekly e-newsletter regarding motivational coaching. As fellow bloggers, we'd been in touch on occasion. Now she was asking for my blog address.

Well, I couldn't send it with so little content in it...so I went to town and wrote and designed like mad (learning as I went, as this was all new to me). By the end of the day I sent Ann my address and I've never looked back. So Ann, I owe you a huge thank you...your motivational gift was even working in that simple request!

This blog has been the catalyst of getting me out of the 'one of these days' mindset to doing something in the present, from feeling like the Dead Sea (where water only flows in) to feeling like a gently flowing river, where water that has refreshed my soul is now flowing out to refresh and encourage someone else!

Joyfully on a roll,Brenda

P.S. I checked to find out how many hits this blog has had in three weeks, and I was amazed to find it was well over 1100. I don't know what an average might be for a new blog, but I was happy to think that readers and fellow bloggers have visited that many times. So thanks everyone...you all add warmth and encouragement to my day!

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Day 24. Are You Present?

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

Women have become queens at multitasking. For years, it's been touted as a good way to 'manage' your time. Although we've mastered the ability to juggle numerous tasks simultaneously, I've come to realize that there is a downside to it all.

While I may be getting lots done, I've become aware that most times I am not completely present to any one activity. Half here, half there. 
Living in the present is being totally aware of your activity with all your senses. It's enjoying the moment in the moment. It's also being aware of what you are thinking about, and how you are feeling. Your whole being is present.

I have on occasion browsed through my mail or a catalogue while chatting on the phone, only to realize that in zoning out for a few seconds, I've missed part of the conversation. It's a little hard to respond with heart-felt enthusiasm or empathy when I don't really know what's been said.

My friend, Leila, once commented, "When we don't give full regard to the moment, it's cheating the hearts of two people." It's true. Both come away with less. 
When I realized that, I decided to make a change, even if I get less done in a day. In my desire to walk in kindness towards people wherever I go, I've been working at developing the heart skill of 'being present' to the moment, to be with the person in spirit as well as body.

Even in the grocery store, I want to leave a fragrance of kindness by noticing the whole person, not just the hands packing my purchases. I try to make eye contact and smile at some point during the transaction. It makes me feel connected, and I often see a smile on the cashier's face too as I'm leaving.

I am reminded of Mother Teresa's words, "Don't worry about numbers. Help one person at a time, and help the one nearest you." To me, that also means being present to the one that's in my presence. When you are talking to me, I want to listen with my whole heart, not just with my properly-smiling face. I don't want to be thinking about the meeting I have with someone else in 15 minutes. It's choosing to love the one nearest me right now.
 
"Love begins at home, and it is not how much we do...but how much love we put in that action." I like this thought, also by Mother Teresa. It's not about how much we get done, it's about how much love we've put into it.

So here's to being present today...it's a more beautiful way to live!

Gracefully yours,
Brenda

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Day 23. Warm Fuzzies at the Vet

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

I took Miss Kitty to the vet yesterday morning. With Kitty having been diagnosed with hyperthyroid, and requiring medication, you'll appreciate how we've been stressing about getting the little white pill down one furry escape artist. Fortunately the medication can also be administered in a cream and rubbed on ear tips, so while she's not thrilled, Miss Kitty's struggle isn't quite so fierce anymore.

So there we were at the clinic, Kitty not being impressed to be there yet again, especially when the big dog in the waiting room realized there was a nice little kitty in the carrier. Oh my! Such a to-do with loud barking! We sorted that out by putting Missy and carrier in the other room.

That's when I noticed the owner of the big dog had a little toddler with him -- maybe a granddaughter. Her conversation started with 'puppy goes bowwow' and from there we were friends. Together we examined all the pet toys on display as she pointed with her finger and asked with her eyes what were they named.

The time came for her to leave with the man and his dog... and if she didn't run over to me and wrap her little arms around my knees in a big hug. Then her tiny, beautiful face looked up at me, lips all puckered to plant a kiss on my cheek!

Now I've received warm furry welcomes from friendly pets in vet waiting rooms, but yesterday my special treat came wrapped up in a spontaneous hug from a sweet little girl dressed in pink.

I just love how God seems to dream up the neatest ways to add special moments to our days. You never know what warm fuzzies you'll encounter at the vet...or anywhere for that matter. Best be on the lookout for them.

Warmly yours,
Brenda

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Day 22. Is Your 'Should Do' Button Stuck?

My inner critic thinks she's got the scoop on everything and she always thinks my two or three items on a list aren't nearly long enough to be considered a 'real' to do list. Don't you think you should be doing this too? Why are you wasting time on that? You are having way too much fun, it can't be right! You need dis-ci-pline! (huffed out like a drill sergent)


Has this ever happened to you? You wake up refreshed. You're enthused, energized and ready to begin your exciting project -- whatever it may be -- and then something shifts and your motivation level slides down somewhere around your ankles.

As soon as the word "should" shows up anywhere in the vocabulary mix, that's exactly the time when my heart disengages and stops being connected to the project at hand. And...that's also when the day starts to feel heavier, harder, even 'should upon'.

So what are we to do? Here are four ways that help me:

1. I turn a deaf ear to my inner critic. I turn the 'button' off and just quit listening. If guilt shows up, then I know for sure it's something to ignore. For my heart to remain engaged in the activity or relationship, it needs to operate from a love standpoint. Hearts are meant to work out of love, so my heart tends not to function correctly when guilt, shame or should get mixed up in it.

2. I look for the one thing that I am excited about and make sure it's on my list. I've learned that wherever my passion is hanging out at the moment, that's where I need to hang out too.

3. Whenever possible, I short-list the 'to do' list. If I've jotted down 17 things I think should be done, I pare it down to the essentials. What really needs to be done today? (Now we all have those extra-high energy days when 17 things won't phase us, but this is for times when we're trying to boost our sagging motivation.)

4. Sometimes I practice a technique I learned from Mary Kay Ash. It's call the "Six Most Important Things" list. (Others use this tool as well) Each evening put down six items that need to get done the next day, and stick to that list. For me, the trick is to not add more to the list...or I start to bog down.

Turn off the should do button. Live your life out of your heart, out of love for what you're doing, and you'll find yourself enjoying your life with more fun and enthusiasm.

That is what I call living a beautiful life! 

Gracefully yours,

Brenda

Day 21. Sunday Thoughts

2008, Brenda Colleen Leyland


Happy Sunday!

I was thinking about what I would share today, when I got an e-mail from my sister, Kathy. She was forwarding me a quote she found by T.L. Osborn. It fits so perfectly with the theme of this blog that I thought I'd let his words give you the thought for the day:

"Surround yourself with things that bring joy and peace and you'll always be creative. Tranquility produces creativity."

Wishing you a Sunday filled with many moments of tranquility! And creativity!

Peacefully yours,
Brenda

"The Lord bless you, and keep you;
The Lord make His face shine on you,
And be gracious to you;
The Lord lift up His countenance upon you,
And give you peace."'

Numbers 6: 24-26

Day 20. The Golden Rule -- It's Always In Fashion

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

You'll remember if you visited yesterday that I've been thinking 'pink' this week as a result of working on this month's issue of the Mary Kay newsletter. Although it's a gloomy-looking Saturday morning in my backyard, I must admit, inside rosy thoughts are still spilling over into my new day.

Each month I write a short article for the segment "Lead by Example". In it, I highlight a principle or characteristic upon which Mary Kay Ash built her life and company. Everything she did during her lifetime came out of her simple belief in the Golden Rule...do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Or, as we'd say it in our modern vernacular, treat others as you want to be treated.

Mary Kay believed, "If you will truly live by the Golden Rule...in your every action and even in your thoughts, then your life will take on a new meaning and so will the lives of those around you." She felt that 'this way of life brings people, dreams and things into proper perspective, and she made it the framework for all her actions and decisions, even her possessions'.

In my view, Mary Kay was a role model par excellence. She always said, God first, family second, business third. She lived authentically from her heart -- bringing light and hope and beauty to others. That's a dream I have for my own life. Not to build a business in cosmetics, but to be a role model for other women who may struggle to find their own path of beauty and purpose.

As women, we can spend a lot of time wondering about whether or not our wardrobe is in season. Fortunately, we never have to worry when we live by the Golden Rule...it's always in season and it's a beautiful way to make your fashion statement.

When you're getting dressed today, maybe splash an extra dash of it all over...and leave a fragrance of heaven wherever you go.

Fragrantly yours,
Brenda

P.S. I'd love to receive your comments about your own experiences in living the Golden Rule. How do you live it out in your own life? Has it made life more beautiful for you?

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Day 19. Thinking Pink Thoughts Today

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

I'm in the throes of completing this month's issue of the newsletter I write for several Mary Kay directors in my area...so you'll have to forgive me if my mind is filled with many pink thoughts this week. The more I learn about the woman herself -- Mary Kay Ash -- the more I admire her for the vision she had for enriching women's lives, and the more I desire to catch her vision for myself.
Here's an assortment of my favourite quotes by Mary Kay. I hope they will add some pink inspiration for living your own life for others more beautifully today.
Rose-ily yours,
Brenda

On Being Kinder...
"My goal is to live every day as if it were the holidays --
to be kinder, more gentle, more loving than ever before
to everyone I meet.
If you will pledge with me to do this,
then we can indeed change this old world for the better."

On Constructive Action...
"Be careful not to confuse mere activity with action.
You can put in a lot of miles running in place --
but you will stop right where you started.
The secret is constructive action.
(Place) a value on your time and (learn) to balance
and budget your time.
Treat it as if it were gold, which it is."

On Teamwork...
"Teamwork allows each person
to be valued and appreciated by others
while contributing to the Company's success."

On Sharing...
"We are the recipients of countless gifts
from friends of the past.
We remember these friends with gratitude
and try to pass on to others something
of what we have received."


On How To Treat Others...
"I have learned to imagine
an invisible sign around each person's neck
that says, 'Make me feel important!'
I never cease to be amazed
at how positively people react."

Day 18. The Gift of Compliment

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

"Everyone wants to be appreciated so if you appreciate someone, don't keep it a secret." -- Mary Kay Ash

Sometimes it's hard for us to accept compliments from other people. Especially when they refer to something we're uncomfortable about for some reason...for example, our hair isn't the way we like it, and now someone says, "Hey, I like your hair today."

It's so easy to respond with, Oh but it's such a mess. Imagine for a moment what we're actually doing when we give such a reply. We're sending the message that our friend must have poor taste or bad judgment. When she gives the compliment, she's saying she noticed something about us she likes. With our moaning response, we may be unintentionally rejecting both the gift and the giver.

We've undoubtedly all experienced a time when our own generous offer was 'thrown back' at us. It doesn't feel right, does it? There's a pause in the air, we feel slighted, and even if we don't take offence, that moment, which could have been so beautiful, has been marred.

It's as important to be a generous receiver as it is to be a generous giver. We need both givers and receivers to make any giving 'transaction' complete. Our mothers taught us to say thank you when we receive a gift. A simple thank you in response to a compliment is also good manners. It's a gracious way to acknowledge the gift and its giver.

Sincere compliments may be free, but they are not cheap. They affirm us, encourage us, and lift us up. The gift of compliment...it's a beautiful way we can all live our lives more beautifully.

On that note, I want to take a few more words to thank my dearest mom for her gift of compliment to me all these years. For years, she's been encouraging me to write, telling me I have a way with words. Ever since I wrote a devotional article called Cantaloupes and Leftovers for a writing contest a few years ago, she's encouraged me time and again to write more. Because she said, if she were to come across an article in a magazine with such a title, it would catch her imagination and she'd have to stop to read it. Thanks Mom!

Have a beautiful day!

Complimentary yours,
Brenda
P.S. Most of us have received compliments. Would you be willing to share with us? I'd love to hear how an affirming compliment influenced your own life... maybe one that changed how you felt or how you perceived yourself when you saw "you" through someone else's eyes.

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Day 17. The September Calendar

2008, by Brenda Colleen Leyland

January is the traditional time for new resolutions, but for those of us who follow the September Calendar, we're celebrating a new year this week. Which partly means that we're gathering up the routines and schedules we threw to the wind back in July, and looking forward to settling into the hopes of a new year with its new projects, new motivation, and new zest.

I've always loved September. I love the fact that autumn and going back to school are intermingled in my memories. I remember standing on the side of the highway, waiting for the school bus, with a bouquet of dahlias clutched tightly in my little hands...they were a present for my new teacher. I enjoyed the hunt for perfect specimens of coloured leaves, and with Mom's help, pressing them between sheets of waxed paper to hang on school windows.

And...as each school year began, I always had a secret hope that this would be the year my pristine unmarred scribblers would stay looking new longer. I never figured out how to keep them from getting dog-eared so quickly.

All these years later, I still have a secret hope every September... but now it's that my new visions and goal lists will stay keener in my mind longer. That they won't look so tattered by Thanksgiving. That my motivation levels will not fade by Christmas.

Thankfully, I have begun to find some tools (my grace notes) that help me along the way. Maybe they will spark something for you too.

1. I plan an Artist's Date. (see my posting from yesterday) When life gets a little bogged down, I look around at my week's events and realize I haven't done anything fun for a while. So I plan a date to re-stock my inner well of inspiration.

2. I don't put down just 'should do' stuff on my list. When you are jotting down your list, try to include something you can look forward to as well. There's nothing worse than staring at a list of should do projects to kill any joy or eagerness to get started on your day.

3. I ask myself, am I doing anything that allows me to be creative in some way? And if you're a writer, for instance, then look for other creative outlets to get the flow moving again. Quilt, scrapbook, read poetry, sing, dance, write a letter in calligraphy, design a card, wrap gifts artistically, bake a fancy dessert, or arrange flowers from your garden.

4. For me, layering my day with various projects, spaces, and people helps keep things interesting for me. Just doing one project all day gets dull...I need variety to keep me sparkling with enthusiasm. (You may want to refer to my posting entitled It's All in the Layering for a closer look at what I mean.)

5. On days when I'm tempted to wake up with an ugg feeling, I remember my affirmation statement that always sets me right....I wake up with vitality and good humour.

6. When I get overwhelmed with that feeling of "there's too much to do", I refer to my guiding star quote by Mother Teresa herself: Don't worry about numbers, help one person at a time, and help the one nearest you. I translate that into every area of my life. When I'm worrying about all I have to do, I remember...don't worry about numbers, work on one project at a time, and do the one thing that needs doing first.

7. Because I'm at home full time now, sometimes I miss the camaraderie of chatting with other people. When I feel a little sluggish in my efforts to get going, I get going...right out the door and into the marketplace. Even going to Staples for paper and a new pen...I chat with the clerk...I smile at other customers...I see something new for my desk... and suddenly I feel connected again. It's sounds funny, but it works for me.

8. I stay in touch with people who motivate me. I have a number of people in my life who do that for me, but I have to give stars to my friend and colleague, Vaun. She's a Director in Mary Kay Cosmetics and she's the one who got me started in writing monthly newsletters for directors in my area. If I ever need a boost in motivation or inspiration, I touch base with Vaun. I'm sure she has enough energy to booster start a whole army of war-weary soliders. 9. I make a note of everything that seems to be pulling on my sleeve (mentally, that is). Putting it on paper helps me see what I have to work on. And that very small action will motivate me to action, because now I can see what I have to do, it's easier to begin.

10. Last but not least, I pray. I believe writing is part of my God-given destiny, so when I feel stymied, stunted, and subjected to pressure, I run to Him. He's the One who promised I could be happy with the work of my hands. (refer to Psalms 128:2) Somehow God always helps me see the bigger picture, and I begin to see again how to make the situation more beautiful, whether for myself or someone else.

On that note, I wish you all a creative, motivating, and beautiful day.

Motivatingly yours,
Brenda  
P.S. I'd love to receive your comments. What's your favourite 'grace note'...the one that you use to keep yourself motivated and creative?

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