I'm hoping 2014 is the year of awareness.
We can become aware that we
can vote with our money and shop at stores that actually care about
their employees (fair wages and benefits), where their products come
from (fair trade), and how safe the products are for us.
We can become
aware that we are beautiful regardless of how ugly the media, fashion
world, and diet companies want us to feel for their own greed, and we
can vote with our money again and say enough of this body/mental
image abuse.
We can become aware that the food we put into our mouths
can make us healthy or make us sick, it is our choice.
We can be aware
that our differences on the outside are less than 1% of our DNA and that
our more than 99% similarities are what matters most.
We can become
aware that if our country (our world) is truly to be free, as long as
the choices of others do not hurt us personally where we can continue to
live our own lives as we wish, it is freedom that allows other people
to choose their own direction for happiness, just as this same freedom
allows us to choose our own direction for happiness. Call it a "No
Judgement Day."
We can become aware that our actions on this earth can
either harm or nurture the earth. Many of us have felt the wrath of
global weirding this year.
We can become aware that spending all the
resources on war is only going to produce more war and bankrupt
countries and the people of countries. What you focus on is what you
get. Let's focus on peace.
Our resources, time, money, energy,
thoughts, actions, can be spent making the world a better place for all,
not just for the few that want to control all.
Yes, I'm hoping 2014 is
the year of awareness, and that we become aware that we have the power
to do something to create a positive outcome (instead of all the 2013
crap we went through).
Happy New Year!
Monday, December 30, 2013
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Heightening awareness
I am encouraged to see the heightened awareness that is happening. I can't wait to see more!
We can no longer stay asleep to what is happening behind the scenes. There are shiny looking corporations that are treating their employees badly and forcing their suppliers to work overseas. There are governments that do not have the best interests for their people and instead cater to their own greed of power and money. There are decisions being made everyday that are supporting this careless behavior, but it is getting better.
Why does it take a disaster to wake us up to human kindness again? Can't we function this way everyday in every day life?
This means that we take more care in where we purchase from and who we back for a government seat.
With awareness, the hypocrisy will stop. All the shiny objects that have been diverting our attention will be seen for what they really are, a big front that was paid for by big money, instead of doing the right thing in the first place.
I definitely see a shift happening when certain generations take over or start companies on the right foot and remain steady on their course. Allowing employees to share in the wealth and buying from companies that supply American and/or Fair Trade jobs.
So, how can you heighten your awareness? Keep your eyes open and start researching before you buy, and then purchase from companies and elect officials that truly care about others (instead of just themselves).
I don't care what side of the fence you are on politically. Humans are in trouble everywhere when we do not love thy neighbor and help our fellow man. We can turn this around whenever we want to. It's our choice!
-SDF
We can no longer stay asleep to what is happening behind the scenes. There are shiny looking corporations that are treating their employees badly and forcing their suppliers to work overseas. There are governments that do not have the best interests for their people and instead cater to their own greed of power and money. There are decisions being made everyday that are supporting this careless behavior, but it is getting better.
Why does it take a disaster to wake us up to human kindness again? Can't we function this way everyday in every day life?
This means that we take more care in where we purchase from and who we back for a government seat.
With awareness, the hypocrisy will stop. All the shiny objects that have been diverting our attention will be seen for what they really are, a big front that was paid for by big money, instead of doing the right thing in the first place.
I definitely see a shift happening when certain generations take over or start companies on the right foot and remain steady on their course. Allowing employees to share in the wealth and buying from companies that supply American and/or Fair Trade jobs.
So, how can you heighten your awareness? Keep your eyes open and start researching before you buy, and then purchase from companies and elect officials that truly care about others (instead of just themselves).
I don't care what side of the fence you are on politically. Humans are in trouble everywhere when we do not love thy neighbor and help our fellow man. We can turn this around whenever we want to. It's our choice!
-SDF
Monday, July 22, 2013
The power to change
This morning someone said to me something that I interpreted as mean. They said, "You think you have the power to change people, but you don't!"
I instantly became upset. This statement hit me to the core. I always thought my mission, my life's purpose was to be a change agent, someone that helps people change for the better.
At first my thought was if I don't have the power than why am I alive? I should just die.
I had to take time out to think about this. I have created my life to be in a position that is available to help people and an industry change to what I feel would be a more positive path.
I came to a conclusion that people do have the power to change other's lives, if we let them. It can be our choice to go with the change or not. Also, not doing anything can allow others to create changes, good and bad. Just look at our political system. People in political power change our lives, sometimes in horrible ways, especially if we remain silent.
I also realize that sometimes people are afraid of change, so they do nothing, only to find that change is happening all around them without their consent. Change will happen. Change is the only constant.
As someone who feels they are here to help bring positive change, I know I may not be able to help people directly, but I can help people indirectly. In this way, we all have the power to help bring about change and help change people's lives in positive ways.
The best scenario is if we choose to change in a positive way and ultimately have the power to see a positive change through, despite any fear we may have to move forward in a new direction.
In the end, that person's statement is true and false. It has to be. Otherwise, we would all be powerless in this world to make a difference.
-SDF
Sunday, June 23, 2013
Education for adults with experience?
I'm finding myself in a situation that is rather uncomfortable. I have the desire to continue my education, but I seem to be a round peg trying to fit into a square hole. I am the adult with years of experience looking for the right Master's degree program.
Currently I have over 20+ years of experiences in the realm of arts administration. I signed up for a qualifying course in an arts administration program, and I was bored. I felt like it was a waste of time and money, and my fellow students kept commenting, "Boy, you really know what you are talking about!"
The course was about perspectives on art. What is art? We had to find good examples such as articles for various views on art and comment about our findings. I do this type of work almost everyday, and have been doing this frequency for about 6 years. If you follow me on Twitter, you know what I mean. I post ARTicles for my fellow colleagues to read and learn from and to start discussions on these types of topics.
The point to this rambling is, there seems to be no educational options for the adult learner who already has experience. If I want the "title," then I either have to waste the time and money or in some cases pay for credits that represent my experience. Yes, there are a few schools that will evaluate your experiences and allow you to pay a certain amount for a certain number of credits. Pay for my experiences which I already paid for through hard work? Seems ridiculous to me!
I have seen a few build your own degrees, which are attractive to me, yet, they are few and far between and many are not online, and some are not offering Masters degrees.
So, what am I to do? I fell upon a few articles for "creating your own private degree." There is a small movement where people design their own "degrees" and find the books, online courses, and continuing education classes to form their own personal degree. Some of these posts even suggest that learning in this fashion could be the wave of the future. After all, when you think about it, the degrees and stamp of approval from institutions are simply creations of people. Couldn't I read the same books and write my own papers and get peer reviewed approval? In this world of social media sharing, many of us are doing this to some extent.
Don't get me wrong, I view education as extremely important and something to value. However, who is to say you are an expert simply based on a program of someone else's creation? Couldn't someone create their own path of learning and becoming equally expert? There are many people in this world that do not have a college education, but they have learned what they needed to know and took this type of education into the real world for real life experiences. Some have built empires, and some have written books. Society values this type of entrepreneurial spirit too!
It has been a constant roller coaster thinking about getting a Master's degree. I do not fit neatly into the box that the majority of educational institutions have designed. I guess I will keep looking for a program that values my experience and allows me to design my own future. If you have any suggestions, please do reply and let me know. And, if the right program is not out there, perhaps designing my own private degree is the way to go.
Thoughts?
-Shoshana
Currently I have over 20+ years of experiences in the realm of arts administration. I signed up for a qualifying course in an arts administration program, and I was bored. I felt like it was a waste of time and money, and my fellow students kept commenting, "Boy, you really know what you are talking about!"
The course was about perspectives on art. What is art? We had to find good examples such as articles for various views on art and comment about our findings. I do this type of work almost everyday, and have been doing this frequency for about 6 years. If you follow me on Twitter, you know what I mean. I post ARTicles for my fellow colleagues to read and learn from and to start discussions on these types of topics.
The point to this rambling is, there seems to be no educational options for the adult learner who already has experience. If I want the "title," then I either have to waste the time and money or in some cases pay for credits that represent my experience. Yes, there are a few schools that will evaluate your experiences and allow you to pay a certain amount for a certain number of credits. Pay for my experiences which I already paid for through hard work? Seems ridiculous to me!
I have seen a few build your own degrees, which are attractive to me, yet, they are few and far between and many are not online, and some are not offering Masters degrees.
So, what am I to do? I fell upon a few articles for "creating your own private degree." There is a small movement where people design their own "degrees" and find the books, online courses, and continuing education classes to form their own personal degree. Some of these posts even suggest that learning in this fashion could be the wave of the future. After all, when you think about it, the degrees and stamp of approval from institutions are simply creations of people. Couldn't I read the same books and write my own papers and get peer reviewed approval? In this world of social media sharing, many of us are doing this to some extent.
Don't get me wrong, I view education as extremely important and something to value. However, who is to say you are an expert simply based on a program of someone else's creation? Couldn't someone create their own path of learning and becoming equally expert? There are many people in this world that do not have a college education, but they have learned what they needed to know and took this type of education into the real world for real life experiences. Some have built empires, and some have written books. Society values this type of entrepreneurial spirit too!
It has been a constant roller coaster thinking about getting a Master's degree. I do not fit neatly into the box that the majority of educational institutions have designed. I guess I will keep looking for a program that values my experience and allows me to design my own future. If you have any suggestions, please do reply and let me know. And, if the right program is not out there, perhaps designing my own private degree is the way to go.
Thoughts?
-Shoshana
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Day 29 - 29 Gifts Complete!
Well, it is not all bells, whistles, streamers, etc, but I did finish the 29 Gifts challenge. For the last day, I ended up making dinner when I was going out with my handy dandy crock pot. What a surprise to have dinner ready when he got home!
Today I am listening to Star Trek, The Next Generation. I am a proud TNG fan, and the music for this series was incredible!
Now that the 29 days are over, I am considering a new and different challenge. Perhaps a month of gratitude. Or, maybe a month of movies.
Any suggestions? :O)
Happy gifting and thank you for the company on this special 29 day journey!
Today I am listening to Star Trek, The Next Generation. I am a proud TNG fan, and the music for this series was incredible!Now that the 29 days are over, I am considering a new and different challenge. Perhaps a month of gratitude. Or, maybe a month of movies.
Any suggestions? :O)
Happy gifting and thank you for the company on this special 29 day journey!
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Day 24 - 28 of 29 Gifts, May 18 - 22
Wow, tomorrow is the last day. I will save that to be a post all its own. Here is the next few days for me on my 29 Gifts journey:
Day 23, May 17: I changed my gift to be offering to drive during a hectic time. He needed to relax so I gave him the gift of being able to stare out the window, look at his iPhone and relax after a really tough day.
Day 24, May 18: A morning bike ride! I don't bike ride with him as often as he wants, so this morning, we went on a ride that we both would enjoy. I had a good time too.
Day 25, May 19: Time with my mom and sister on a conference call. It is good to give time to family, especially when so far away. I also gave a book to another book club member that I thought she would enjoy.
Day 26, May 20: This was the one day I gave to myself. A day to myself, retreat like, and much needed, but I also gave my cats tons of my time too.
Day 27, May 21: A donation to the Red Cross to help the people in Oklahoma; I only gave $10, but every little bit helps.
Day 28, May 22: Today I purchased my last punch on one of my coffee cards and then gave it to the person at the counter to give to the next person in line for a free drink.
I am listening to Marcus Roberts Portraits in Blue. This is a fantastic jazz snapshot of Gershwin with touches of his own personality.
Happy Giving, and time to celebrate tomorrow!
Day 23, May 17: I changed my gift to be offering to drive during a hectic time. He needed to relax so I gave him the gift of being able to stare out the window, look at his iPhone and relax after a really tough day.
Day 24, May 18: A morning bike ride! I don't bike ride with him as often as he wants, so this morning, we went on a ride that we both would enjoy. I had a good time too.
Day 25, May 19: Time with my mom and sister on a conference call. It is good to give time to family, especially when so far away. I also gave a book to another book club member that I thought she would enjoy.
Day 26, May 20: This was the one day I gave to myself. A day to myself, retreat like, and much needed, but I also gave my cats tons of my time too.
Day 27, May 21: A donation to the Red Cross to help the people in Oklahoma; I only gave $10, but every little bit helps.
Day 28, May 22: Today I purchased my last punch on one of my coffee cards and then gave it to the person at the counter to give to the next person in line for a free drink.
Happy Giving, and time to celebrate tomorrow!
Friday, May 17, 2013
Day 17 - 23 (May 11-17): Catch up time
I have been missing in action for posting, but I have been continuing to gift for the 29 Gifts month. Here is the complete catch up.
Day 17: Mother's Day Gift received. I sent my mom a gift on Wednesday, but wanted to count it when it was received. Today she called and left a message that she loved her 2 gifts!
Day 18: 1 hour of uncomplicated conversation with my mom. Despite having an interesting, complicated time in my life right now, I decided not to talk about me and spent the hour focused completely on her and shooting the breeze about anything and everything. We laughed and had a great time. Cherish the moments!
Day 19: Email to a friend in need. I found out that my friend is still having thoughts about his wife having cancer, even though she is in remission. I sent a message acknowledging how he feels and letting him know that it is okay to own his feelings and to cherish each moment with her. We never know when someone will be taken from us. The gift of the present moment is all that matters.
Day 20: A few more promotional posts to help others.
Day 21: Gift to my sister for a coffee gift card. She is having a challenging time and mentioned that she is not sure she can even afford the luxury of her morning cup of coffee she so enjoys each morning. I hope the 5 coffees on me will help a bit to lift her spirits.
Day 22: Compromise for television night. We both wanted to watch something, so I gave the gift of compromise instead of simply leaving or being stubborn. We had a nice evening together.
I also gave the gift of letting someone go ahead of me in line at the grocery store. He was an unassuming man. He was only buying milk. He was very surprised and had a great smile.
Day 23: Today I am going to go to my favorite coffee shop and get the last punch in my coffee card, and then, I will give the gift of my one free coffee after 10 purchases to someone else. If I see a friend, I will give it to them. If not, I will tell the person to gift the next person in line. I hope they will be okay with transferring the card to someone else.
I am listening to a CD I recently purchased. I am getting into World Music via the lable Real World, which is Peter Gabriel's label. Shelia Chandra's The Zen Kiss is the CD of the moment. It is all vocal chants and/or prayers and/or stories. Exactly what I need to listen to today.
Day 17: Mother's Day Gift received. I sent my mom a gift on Wednesday, but wanted to count it when it was received. Today she called and left a message that she loved her 2 gifts!
Day 18: 1 hour of uncomplicated conversation with my mom. Despite having an interesting, complicated time in my life right now, I decided not to talk about me and spent the hour focused completely on her and shooting the breeze about anything and everything. We laughed and had a great time. Cherish the moments!
Day 19: Email to a friend in need. I found out that my friend is still having thoughts about his wife having cancer, even though she is in remission. I sent a message acknowledging how he feels and letting him know that it is okay to own his feelings and to cherish each moment with her. We never know when someone will be taken from us. The gift of the present moment is all that matters.
Day 20: A few more promotional posts to help others.
Day 21: Gift to my sister for a coffee gift card. She is having a challenging time and mentioned that she is not sure she can even afford the luxury of her morning cup of coffee she so enjoys each morning. I hope the 5 coffees on me will help a bit to lift her spirits.
Day 22: Compromise for television night. We both wanted to watch something, so I gave the gift of compromise instead of simply leaving or being stubborn. We had a nice evening together.
I also gave the gift of letting someone go ahead of me in line at the grocery store. He was an unassuming man. He was only buying milk. He was very surprised and had a great smile.
Day 23: Today I am going to go to my favorite coffee shop and get the last punch in my coffee card, and then, I will give the gift of my one free coffee after 10 purchases to someone else. If I see a friend, I will give it to them. If not, I will tell the person to gift the next person in line. I hope they will be okay with transferring the card to someone else.
I am listening to a CD I recently purchased. I am getting into World Music via the lable Real World, which is Peter Gabriel's label. Shelia Chandra's The Zen Kiss is the CD of the moment. It is all vocal chants and/or prayers and/or stories. Exactly what I need to listen to today.
Friday, May 10, 2013
Day 15 & 16 of 29 Gifts - May 9 & 10: Promotional Information & Breakfast
Yesterday and today, I ended up sending out a bunch of informational posts and tweets for various causes and events. Two of the events I was invited to, but I am not able to attend. I wanted to at least show appreciation for their thoughtful invite.
I am still listening to The Chicago Principal. So many wonderful concertos!
Happy gifting and Fabulous Friday and weekend to you!
This morning I got up early and made breakfast. This is a big gift since I am rarely up before him during the week. Eggs, toast and coffee were made before he came downstairs. You should have seen the surprised look on his face.
I am receiving during this process and thought I would notate here.
- A colleague called me out of the blue to give me some needed advice.
- I received a free dumping fee (yes, a free dump) at the waste disposal depot when they forgot to weigh us at the station.
- A free plant was gifted to me at my favorite plant nursery.
- Someone today offered me free tickets to a concert.
- My mom called me at the moment I could use an ear.
- I received virtual hugs when I needed them (although I asked for a hug).
- As well as the many gifts my honey and the cats give me each day!
I am still listening to The Chicago Principal. So many wonderful concertos!
Happy gifting and Fabulous Friday and weekend to you!
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Day 12, 13, 14 of 29 Gifts - May 6 -8: Full attention, quiet time and book gifts
I am a little behind in my posting, so please forgive as I catch up. On May 6, Day 12, I gave my cat my full attention. It is so easy for us to not give our pets our full attention. We pet them while reading a book or watching television. We are almost always thinking about other things when we feed them or walk them.
I have a cat that is 18 years old this year. I definitely want to cherish the moments with her now before she leaves me for the rainbow bridge. So, I stopped doing what I was doing and gave her my complete attention. She has one of the best kitty smiles, and she enjoyed our time together by sharing her best purrs. It was time worth spent and a gift to me as well as to her!
On May 7, my honey came home a little frazzled. I decided to let him have the big TV and gave him some quiet time to himself yesterday. He definitely was more cheerful later in the evening having that time to himself.
Today, I am mailing a book that I found for one of my college friends. I found this book at a thrift store that reminded me so much of him, I had to buy it. Thank goodness for Facebook since I was able to reconnect with him after many years. He sent me his address, and I am happy to mail out his surprise, fun gift. It's not something huge, but I know it will make him smile.
As I write this, I am listening to The Chicago Principal: First chair soloists play famous concertos, specifically Schumann's Konzertstuck in F Major for Four Horns and Orchestra. I adore this piece. Very rich horn sound!
Happy gifting and Wonderful Wednesday to you!
I have a cat that is 18 years old this year. I definitely want to cherish the moments with her now before she leaves me for the rainbow bridge. So, I stopped doing what I was doing and gave her my complete attention. She has one of the best kitty smiles, and she enjoyed our time together by sharing her best purrs. It was time worth spent and a gift to me as well as to her!
On May 7, my honey came home a little frazzled. I decided to let him have the big TV and gave him some quiet time to himself yesterday. He definitely was more cheerful later in the evening having that time to himself.
Today, I am mailing a book that I found for one of my college friends. I found this book at a thrift store that reminded me so much of him, I had to buy it. Thank goodness for Facebook since I was able to reconnect with him after many years. He sent me his address, and I am happy to mail out his surprise, fun gift. It's not something huge, but I know it will make him smile.
Happy gifting and Wonderful Wednesday to you!
Monday, May 6, 2013
Day 10 & 11 of 29 Gifts - May 4 & 5: Tea and spree
I hope you had a nice weekend! Over the weekend for Day 10, I bought our group leader's pot of tea at our tea meetup. I did not tell him I was going to do this, so it was a surprise. Another member of the group helped me to make this possible (since I had to sneak in line ahead of her to do this).
For Day 11, I did the shopping at Target that neither one of us wanted to do. A little gift to him so he could stay home and watch his NASCAR race. I'm glad I could free up his time so he could relax on the weekend.
I ended up listening to the radio this weekend as I gardened and drove around to do my errands, so no CDs to report.
Today, I am not sure what I want to do. Stay tuned for a later post to catch up.
For Day 11, I did the shopping at Target that neither one of us wanted to do. A little gift to him so he could stay home and watch his NASCAR race. I'm glad I could free up his time so he could relax on the weekend.
I ended up listening to the radio this weekend as I gardened and drove around to do my errands, so no CDs to report.
Today, I am not sure what I want to do. Stay tuned for a later post to catch up.
Friday, May 3, 2013
Day 9 - May 3: Volunteer Time
I had a little time this morning and volunteered for a local nonprofit for almost 4 hours. I know this organization needs all the help it can get, so I was glad I could help on a project they wouldn't be able to get into. I probably will add some more hours later.
I am listening to Yo-Yo Ma and Bobby McFerrin's Hush. What a great collaboration! The music varies: folk, jazz, classical, new music. On some of these tracks McFerrin sounds like a woodwind. Incredible!
Happy Gifting and have a Fabulous Friday!
Happy Gifting and have a Fabulous Friday!
Thursday, May 2, 2013
Day 8 - May 2: A charm of a gift
I found a gift box and placed the charm carefully in a small plastic bag to put in the box.
She really liked it. I think the color and the spirit of that charm was perfect for her. It was a half moon with eyes closed and smiling. The color was a pink quartz. I hope to see her wearing it soon. She had put it with her little shrine in front of her computer.
I'm still listening to the Kathleen Battle CD today so no new music to report until tomorrow.
Have a wonderful evening!
Day 7 - May 1: Promotional gift
I have been attempting to think of more ways to give without financial ties. I decided to give the gift of one of my talents - promotion.
I am considered to be one of the mavens of the world, meaning I enjoy sharing information, especially if it is for a good cause.
I found out that there were a couple of fundraisers for musicians that could use a little extra boost. One of the campaigns was just getting started and one was for a musician that was wrapping it up.
I have no idea if my extra boost helped, but I did make an effort to get the campaigns out on various social media channels.
This is a task that I normally give freely during my days, and I have never consciously thought about it being a gift to another person. It's just something I do. I am fairly well connected and generally send the information to people that would be interested. I am realizing now that it is a gift I am giving them.
Also, I had a conversation with a colleague, and after I told him about the 29 Gifts program, he piped up to say that our conversation was a gift to him since it was helping him to organize his priorities further. This is another talent of mine, brainstorming, and I enjoy working with people to help them through the thought process for making improvements.
Giving of yourself by using your natural talents is a gift to the world!
While writing this, I am listening to Kathleen Battle at Carnegie Hall. Yes, she is a diva, but her voice is so incredible, and the emotion she elicits is breathtaking.
I will be back later for Day 8 posting. Happy giving until then.
I am considered to be one of the mavens of the world, meaning I enjoy sharing information, especially if it is for a good cause.
I found out that there were a couple of fundraisers for musicians that could use a little extra boost. One of the campaigns was just getting started and one was for a musician that was wrapping it up.
I have no idea if my extra boost helped, but I did make an effort to get the campaigns out on various social media channels.
This is a task that I normally give freely during my days, and I have never consciously thought about it being a gift to another person. It's just something I do. I am fairly well connected and generally send the information to people that would be interested. I am realizing now that it is a gift I am giving them.
Also, I had a conversation with a colleague, and after I told him about the 29 Gifts program, he piped up to say that our conversation was a gift to him since it was helping him to organize his priorities further. This is another talent of mine, brainstorming, and I enjoy working with people to help them through the thought process for making improvements.
Giving of yourself by using your natural talents is a gift to the world!
I will be back later for Day 8 posting. Happy giving until then.
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Day 6 - April 30: Art gift
I bought a few original drawings from an artist a few years ago. One of them I had a feeling I would give to someone that would enjoy it in the future.
Today was the day I gave that original drawing a great home. It was my last meeting with a client. Since my business is changing directions, I would no longer be providing the same services. I wanted to give her something special as a closing gift after working together for about 4 years.
It was a drawing from Boulder, CO artist, Nyla Witmore. Nyla loves to travel, and she uses these drawings to sketch ideas for her landscape paintings. She decided to sell these drawings after receiving great feedback. They are absolutely charming! This particular drawing was of a moment of Champs, Elysees in Paris, France. My client also enjoys traveling and has wonderful memories of France. I thought it was the best home for this drawing!
As I write, I am listening to Sky Cries Mary's This Timeless Turning. I like the ethereal sound of this group. I was introduced to this band by my long-term boyfriend in college. I realize that although the relationship didn't last forever, there were gifts, like discovering new music, that did.
The other gift from this relationship, my cat of 18 years. If it wasn't for him wanting a cat, I may have never come to love cats as much as I love dogs.
I have already decided on my gift for tomorrow. I have something in mind for someone from my past...stay tuned!
Happy gifting and Terrific Tuesday to all!
Today was the day I gave that original drawing a great home. It was my last meeting with a client. Since my business is changing directions, I would no longer be providing the same services. I wanted to give her something special as a closing gift after working together for about 4 years.
It was a drawing from Boulder, CO artist, Nyla Witmore. Nyla loves to travel, and she uses these drawings to sketch ideas for her landscape paintings. She decided to sell these drawings after receiving great feedback. They are absolutely charming! This particular drawing was of a moment of Champs, Elysees in Paris, France. My client also enjoys traveling and has wonderful memories of France. I thought it was the best home for this drawing!
The other gift from this relationship, my cat of 18 years. If it wasn't for him wanting a cat, I may have never come to love cats as much as I love dogs.
I have already decided on my gift for tomorrow. I have something in mind for someone from my past...stay tuned!
Happy gifting and Terrific Tuesday to all!
Monday, April 29, 2013
Day 5 - April 29: Stamps for Longhopes Donkey Shelter
For a workout today, I am going on a hike. The 75 degree weather with tons of sunshine is continuing so I have to take advantage of it. Later I will add some weights.
Happy giving to you, and Marvelous Monday to all!
Sunday, April 28, 2013
Day 4 of 29 Gifts: Tree Memorial plus Louis Armstrong
Happy giving and have a great rest of your Sunday!
Saturday, April 27, 2013
Day 3 29 Gifts, a little Stewart Copland, plus workouts
Day 3 of the 29 gifts, and this morning, a giving opportunity fell into my lap. I am not a morning person, but today I decided to get up and make a full breakfast for my sweety. He had a mushroom/spinach/cheddar cheese omelet, half an orange and half a waffle, with coffee. Of course I enjoyed this breakfast with him! The coffee is a favorite of mine, Organic Love Buzz by Equal Exchange. Yum!
The reason I wanted to make breakfast for him is the fact that he gets up early, feeds the cats and makes coffee for us every morning. Since it was Saturday, he could sleep in a bit and then sit back and relax. I am thankful for what he does every morning for me and the cats and was glad I had an easy opportunity to thank him.
I also found out this morning that the gift I gave for the Twtr Symphony did not take since they didn't make their goal. So, I will recycle this particular gift to another musician friend that is fundraising this month, pianist Pierre-Arnaud Dablemont. He is doing a new Beethoven Sonata project that is very interesting. You will get to see some of the behind the scenes work and it will result in not one, but two versions to show the choices a pianist can make for performing repertoire. He also dives into the history of the pieces so his choices are very well thought out and explained.
If you want to give to his campaign, there is only a few days left. Click here!
I might as well post my workouts like I used to here as well. Today I did 30 minutes of hiking up and down my steep driveway. It's almost a 13 degree grade at the top. After that, I did some upper body sculpting using Jillian's No More Trouble Zones and Amy Dixon's Give Me 10 More. Early in the day was time for gardening. Overall, a very satisfying day.
I am attempting to get in shape to do a 14 footer by the end of the season. Happy giving to you, and enjoy this wonderful weekend!
Friday, April 26, 2013
Day 2 of 29 Gifts
This morning I decided to give to my friend Laura who is doing the MS Walk in May. She is attempting to raise $1,000 and is on her way at $730 raised. If you want to give, click here!
I can't believe how many autoimmune diseases there are that still need to be cured. There has to be a way, and I hope they find it soon.
Today as I write, I am listening to another gift CD, the WFMT Party Mix. My mom likes to donate to WFMT and send the special gifts along to me as a gift. It's always about great music and it is for a good cause, so I like the gift combo she is doing.
This CD is very lively with a variety of music. Arrangements galore from Handel to Bernstein to the Beatles. I am grateful for fantastic music.
Now my thoughts are on my next gift. I am finding that many of my friends are having fundraisers right now, yet I need to pace myself on money gifts. I am at the moment on a time off segment in my life so it would be best to find other gift ideas.
I have noticed that if you are open to giving that many opportunities will suddenly appear. Maybe this is what is happening. Can you imagine if we were all open to giving when and where we can? I believe all of us would be in a better place.
Not that I want to get all feisty today, however, the greed in our world is harming more than it is helping. Also, the lack of awareness, or the choice to ignore the realities is making it more difficult to move in a positive direction.
I will wrap this day up by saying once again that we have the power to become aware and find out about the companies we choose to purchase from. When a CEO chooses to make 1700 times their regular employee, there is a problem. Sure, it is their choice, and I hope they will choose to be more fair in the future. In the meantime, we can choose not to purchase from a company that chooses greed over making their employees' wages and healthcare benefits more realistic for living conditions.
We can also learn about the politicians and figure out whether or not they really have the public's interest at heart or their own wallets.
It is a matter of choosing to take a little time to find out the facts. This is where the process of democracy has broken down. We have to care again to do this!
Whatever you choose, have a good day, and I will back for gift 3 tomorrow.
I can't believe how many autoimmune diseases there are that still need to be cured. There has to be a way, and I hope they find it soon.
Today as I write, I am listening to another gift CD, the WFMT Party Mix. My mom likes to donate to WFMT and send the special gifts along to me as a gift. It's always about great music and it is for a good cause, so I like the gift combo she is doing.
Now my thoughts are on my next gift. I am finding that many of my friends are having fundraisers right now, yet I need to pace myself on money gifts. I am at the moment on a time off segment in my life so it would be best to find other gift ideas.
I have noticed that if you are open to giving that many opportunities will suddenly appear. Maybe this is what is happening. Can you imagine if we were all open to giving when and where we can? I believe all of us would be in a better place.
Not that I want to get all feisty today, however, the greed in our world is harming more than it is helping. Also, the lack of awareness, or the choice to ignore the realities is making it more difficult to move in a positive direction.
I will wrap this day up by saying once again that we have the power to become aware and find out about the companies we choose to purchase from. When a CEO chooses to make 1700 times their regular employee, there is a problem. Sure, it is their choice, and I hope they will choose to be more fair in the future. In the meantime, we can choose not to purchase from a company that chooses greed over making their employees' wages and healthcare benefits more realistic for living conditions.
We can also learn about the politicians and figure out whether or not they really have the public's interest at heart or their own wallets.
It is a matter of choosing to take a little time to find out the facts. This is where the process of democracy has broken down. We have to care again to do this!
Whatever you choose, have a good day, and I will back for gift 3 tomorrow.
Thursday, April 25, 2013
29 Gifts, Twtr Symphony, and the music that goes with all of this....
I have been taking some time off from my business in order to recharge my batteries. I have been reading, listening to lectures, watching movies, and generally playing a great deal of brainless games on my iPad. I came across a book called 29 Gifts - How a Month of Giving Can Change Your Life by Cami Walker.
At first I wasn't sure if this was the right book for me to be reading right now. I am after all a perpetual, natural giver. Sometimes I give too much away and I end up depleting myself, which is why I am in time off mode to regain my energy.
The one rule of the giving is to not give out of obligation or a need to receive. The giving should be free and open without any expectations. In this way, you will not feel like you are depleting yourself.
I realize that in business, giving freebies away is a business building tactic, but if you are not careful, it will feel like an obligation. I'm thinking that perhaps trying this new way of giving may actually give me the positive energy that I need to rebuild myself and my faith in giving again.
So, today I am announcing that I will sign up for this project and give with an open heart and mind. Let's see if my giving will help put back the positive lilt in my step!
Day 1 - April 25, 2013
Today, I decided to give to the
At first I wasn't sure if this was the right book for me to be reading right now. I am after all a perpetual, natural giver. Sometimes I give too much away and I end up depleting myself, which is why I am in time off mode to regain my energy.
The one rule of the giving is to not give out of obligation or a need to receive. The giving should be free and open without any expectations. In this way, you will not feel like you are depleting yourself.
I realize that in business, giving freebies away is a business building tactic, but if you are not careful, it will feel like an obligation. I'm thinking that perhaps trying this new way of giving may actually give me the positive energy that I need to rebuild myself and my faith in giving again.
So, today I am announcing that I will sign up for this project and give with an open heart and mind. Let's see if my giving will help put back the positive lilt in my step!
Day 1 - April 25, 2013
Today, I decided to give to the
TwtrSymphony: Believe in the Power of Music
New Music for a New Audience in a New Way
I know some of the musicians of this project, and I have been impressed by what they have been able to accomplish already. This is a group of musicians that have come together via Twitter and have composed/recorded new music and then have placed this music online for a new audience. It has been a long time since we have seen innovation like this in the classical music industry, and I am excited to see what else they will be able to do once they are financial backed.
Right now their campaign is set for $20,000, and they need as many backers as they can find. If you believe in the power of music and new ways to create and perform music, please consider donating as well! They only have 3 days left!
I have decided that during this campaign, I will write an entry for each day of giving, so you can follow what happens during this process right here on this blog. During my entries, I will listen to a new CD of music. Today I am listening to Side by Side with Itzhak Perlman and Oscar Peterson, two of my favorite musicians of all time! It was a birthday present that I'm finally getting around to listening to, and it is absolutely wonderful! It makes me very happy.
Tune in tomorrow for my next gift. I am not sure what I have in mind, but we shall see.
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