Inspire Yoga & Nichols for Pennies

Authentic Success

2011-04-10T09:53:00.001-04:00

Authentic Success is a Work in Progress!
Authentic success, what does it mean? Well Webster dictionary describes authentic as, and I quote, "1. Authoritative; 2. worthy of acceptance or belief as conforming to fact or reality, trustworthy; 3. not imaginary, false or imitation."

When I read "Simple Abundance" by Sarah Ban Breathnach, her entry for September 15th rang true and clear for me. It starts "Authentic success is different for each of us. No single definition fits all because we come in all sizes. One afternoon years ago, while wandering through an abandoned cemetery, I discovered a wonderful definition of authentic success inscribed on the headstone of a woman who died in 1820: "The only pain she ever caused was when she left us."

Wow that is powerful, moving and something to strive towards.

For me authentic success is sometimes a mystery and at other times I feel as if I am achieving it. Some high points for me are... prioritizing my time properly so that family and friends are on top...answering "if not now when?" with NOW!... knowing in my soul that I did my best and being okay with it regardless of the outcome...Making peace with my past... recognizing my talents and sharing them and not diminishing them when they are recognized by others... making a difference in the world one smile at a time... sharing laughter often and being okay with my tears and the tears of others... truly listening to someone else without interjecting my opinion...valuing my dreams and working consistently to reach them and dream even more... cultivating the attitude of gratitude... and being blessed with faith.

As I reach the cross roads of my life I understand where I have been, liking where I am now and loving the ideas that tomorrow brings. And as I remain present to what really matters, I am achieving my "Authentic Success".

I will be posting the full reading this week on our new website. www.inspirepenfield.com

Namaste.

Website is up and Running

2011-04-10T08:49:00.002-04:00

We are so excited that our new and improved website is up and running. Thank you all for your patience - we greatly appreciate it! Please check it out www.inspirepenfield.com

Special blog postings will be posted on the new site beginning tomorrow and our photo gallery will be up and running by the end of the week. The photo gallery will give you a chance to see what goes on at the studio from special events to the everyday fun we experience.

As always your presences is greatly appreciated. Each one of you has a special place in our hearts and in helping us create our dream. Thank you with all my heart.
Namaste.

Welocme Terri!

2011-04-05T16:22:00.002-04:00

Spring has sprung and here at Inspire Yoga we have some wonderful changes to let you know about. As you know our new schedule went into effect last Friday and we are thrilled with the response! Beginning tonight, Tuesday April 5th we are welcoming a new teacher to Inspire Yoga, Terri Orr at 5:45 for Mixed Flow. We are also thrilled that Cindy Edington will be treating us to another Power Yoga class with Aroma Therapy at 7:15pm on Tuesdays. Thank you for all your support.

Terri Orr RYT
Terri has been practicing yoga since 1998. She has recently completed her formal Power Yoga training and is now a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) through Yoga Alliance. Terri firmly believes in the power of yoga to heal the mind, body and spirit. She believes in living yoga both on and off the mat. She is a member of the iRocYoga which organizes charity and fund raising events for the Rochester community. Terri is the mother of two daughters and enjoys biking, hiking, reading and studying American Sign Language."

Mixed Flow Yoga
Designed for beginners and intermediate practitioners, this class focuses on alignment, building strength and stamina, and can be a beautiful bridge to the next level. The room temperature is set between 80 to 85 degrees. Bring a towel and water.

About Inspire Yoga
We are located at 1802 Penfield Road just west of the Four Corners.
We can be reached at 249-YOGA (9642).

Spring Has Sprung at Inspire

2011-04-02T07:01:00.000-04:00

Good Morning Everyone!!!!

A gentle reminder:
Spring schedule has started! On Saturdays we are now offering 3 classes.
7:30am Beginner Yoga
8:50am Mixed Yoga Express (40 minute express)
10:00am Power Yoga

A little something for everyone! See you all soon!

"Yesterday is history. Tomorrow a mystery. Today is a gift, that is why it is the present."

Namaste.

First Friday Mixed Flow Class

2011-03-30T18:11:00.000-04:00

New schedule starts this Friday April 1st - no fooling!!!! We have added "First Friday" which is a friday evening 5:30pm class! This week will be a mixed flow taught by Joan. Come on in for a "Happy Hour" that burns calories!
Namaste.

New Schedule Beginning Friday April 1st - No Joking!

2011-03-28T13:10:00.001-04:00

MONDAY 9:30 am, Gentle Yoga (60 min.)
4:30 pm,Yoga for the Stiff Guy or Gal (60 min.)
6 pm, Boot Camp Power Yoga (60 min.)

TUESDAY 9:30 am, Beginner Flow (60 min.)
12:10 pm, Lunch Express Mixed Flow* (40 min.)
5:45 pm, Mixed Flow (60 min.)
7:15 pm, Power Flow Aroma Therapy (60 min.)

WEDNESDAY 9:30 am, Power Flow (60 min.)
4:30 pm, Yoga for the Stiff Guy or Gal (60 min.)
6 pm, Boot Camp Power Yoga (60 min.)

THURSDAY 9:30 am, Gentle Yoga (60 min.)
12:10 pm, Lunch Express Mixed Flow* (40 min.)
5:45 pm, Mixed Flow (60 min.)
7:15 pm, Power Flow Aroma Therapy (60 min.)

FRIDAY 9:30 am, Mixed Flow (60 min.)
5:30 pm, 1st Friday Instructor's Choice** (75 min.)

SATURDAY 7:30 am, Beginner Flow (60 min.)
8:50 am, Mixed Flow Express (40 min.)
10 am, Power Flow (75 min.)
11:30 am, Family Yoga*** (30 min.)

* Lunch Express & Mixed Flow Saturday Express
are each 40 minutes.
** Friday April 1st, May 6th, June 3rd, July 1st, August 5th.
*** Four-class session program - sign-up is required.

The above schedule is effective as of April 1, 2011

Namaste.

New Schedule

2011-03-25T11:46:00.002-04:00

Inspire Yoga is releasing our new spring schedule on Monday March 28. We are adding new classes, a new teacher and a few new times. Thank you for all your input, we greatly appreciate it!

Special Note: Our "FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH" Class series begins next Friday April 1st at 5:30 TO 6:30. A new twist for a "Happy Hour".

Let me leave you with this quote by Dr. Seuss.... "be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind."

Namaste.

Calories Burned

2011-03-22T12:46:00.001-04:00

Did you know...VINYASA YOGA a dynamic form of yoga that connects postures and creates a flow between traditional yoga postures using sun salutations burns 445 calories and hour? So what is stopping you?
Namaste.

40 Days to a Personal Revolution

2011-03-21T08:13:00.001-04:00

40 Days to a Personal Revolution
Are you ready for a whole-life Revolution? Based on the program created and presented by Baron Baptiste, Inspire Yoga will be hosting our first "40 Days to a Personal Revolution" beginning Monday April 25th and concluding Friday June 3rd. This amazing program will transform your practice and your life.

Are you ready to transform your mind, body and spirit? Then get committed! "40 Days to a Personal Revolution" blends daily yoga, meditation, healthier eating and personal reflection that will open the door to transformation. Weekly group meeting will keep you on track and accountable for your progress.

Our program at Inspire Yoga will include, the book "40 Days to a Personal Revolution" by Baron Baptiste, yoga pass for unlimited yoga during the program, and weekly meetings with meditations. The price for the "40 Day" program is $175.00.

You will follow Baron's book as a guide for the 40 days and commit to 4 studio practices a week, one weekly studio meeting with meditation, 2 home practices, daily meditation with journalling for personal reflection, and healthier eating.

REVOLUTION is about radical change, transformation at the root rather than the surface. This is a powerful program and we ask you to show up and give 110% of yourself.

Payment is expected when you sign up for this program. Sign ups will begin Monday March 7th. Books will be handed out during our "Kick Off" meeting Monday April 25th at 7:30 to 8:30pm and we will include a 20 minute practice and 5 minute meditation during that time. Weekly meetings will be held on Wednesdays from 7:30 to 8:30pm. Our conclusion on Friday June 3rd will be a celebration practice beginning at 5:30 to 6:45pm.

The question to ask is... "ARE YOU READY FOR A REVOLUTION?"
Namaste.

What's New?

2011-03-20T08:17:00.002-04:00

Good morning. As I write, the sun is shining, kids still sleeping and coffee is hot - in other words a perfect morning.

We have had tons of fun this past week with all our March Madness celebrations at the studio.

Just a few notes as we begin a new week.
1. Our Website is being redesigned to make it more user friendly. Thank you for your patience while we are under "construction". Meanwhile all updates will be posted here for the time being.

2. Our spring schedule will be posted early next week.

3. We have a new teacher joining our staff - Terri Orr RYT on Tuesday April 5th at 5:45 to 6:45pm.

4. New spring products will be arriving soon. Lots of wonderful ideas for Mother's Day Sunday May 8th.

5. "40 Days to Personal Revolution" sign ups are going on now.

6. "Family Yoga" April session sign ups are going on now.

7. Yoga Journal just released "Yoga for Beginners". This is a wonderful magazine guide for those new to yoga, at Barns and Noble Book Store.

8. Special thanks to the Krista and Lee for having their daughter's party at Inspire Yoga - you all rocked the house and I loved every minute. Also thank you for the wonderful music cd!

9. "The Power" by Rhonda Byrne is a wonderful book. Here is a link to their website. http://thesecret.tv/thepower/

10. Quote for the week: "No love, no friendship can cross the path of our destiny without leaving some mark on it forever."

Namaste

March Madness Donation Class for the YMCA

2011-03-17T13:39:00.002-04:00

This Saturday at Inspire Yoga please join us as we raise money for the YMCA's "Invest in Youth Program". This program at the YMCA helps needy children attend the YMCA's camps and other programs to help them stay active and healthy.

This donation based class will be a Power Class taught by "The Doc" - Lou Papa and Joan Nichols. Please note that the punch cards can not be used for this class. We are excite to see you all!

Date: Saturday March 19th
Time: 9:00am to 10:30am
Location: 1802 Penfield Road, Penfield, New York 14526
Phone: 585 249 9642

What a Weekend!

2011-03-14T09:41:00.006-04:00

Wow what a weekend I have had! It started out on Friday with my son Timmy and his friend going to the Strong Museum of play - we had a blast! Later that evening I went to my friend's home for book club which was very funny since non of us read the book - oops!

Then onto Saturday, I taught the 7:30am Beginner Yoga class at Inspire yoga to a wonderful group of people - you all rock! (Oh yeah, someone left their orange mat on the bench with a white towel). After that Ginny came in to sub so I could go help and teach at the 108 Sun Salutations Challenge. Thank you Ginny!!!!

About the Sun Salutation challenge that was organized by iROC www.irocyoga.com all I can say is WOW!!!!! Here a group of wonderful people - yogis - gathered to help children they have never meet, gain a brighter future. You see iROC helped "Carpenter's Kids" - which provides orphans in Tanzania who have lost parents to HIV/AIDs with the opportunity for an education - iROC raised $1200.00!!!!!! Wow! I was thrilled and honored to be a part of such a wonderful thing!

You see wonderful things - "NEWS" - happen everyday. Most people are good and are willing to help - always remember that even though we are bombarded with "nasty news" 24/7. Goodness does exist! And it is the only investment that never fails.

Well that evening I had date night with my son Timmy at the YMCA - Mother Son Event. We had such a great time and the highlight for me was when we were walking to the car afterwards and he grabbed my hand and said, "Thank you mom - I had a great time, you are a lot fun!" and he held my hand all the way to the car. Little 10 year old boys are perfection!

Sunday I felt a bit out of it with the time change but we cooked, went to a basketball party and watched the "Big Dance" Selection!!! Now I have to work on my brackets before Thursday - I love this time of year!!!!

As always I hope this post finds you all well and smiling!
Namaste.

Monday March 14th

2011-03-14T09:05:00.003-04:00

Good Morning everyone, I hope this finds you well.

We have a change in this morning's schedule:

9:30am will be a Mixed Flow Class and our 11:00am class has been canceled just for today.

Looking forward to seeing everyone throughout the week.

Make it a wonderful day.

Namaste.

MARCH MADNESS

2011-03-13T11:27:00.002-04:00

March Madness had begun at Inspire Yoga and to celebrate we have Two for One Tuesday; St. Patrick's Day; Invest in Youth Donation Class all this week!

1. "Two for One on Tuesdays".
Bring a NEW person to Inspire Yoga Studio on Tuesdays throughout the month of March and pay just for one person. This is a wonderful way to introduce your friends to Yoga or for friends that practice, a wonderful way to introduce your friends to us! The more the merrier.

2. St. Patrick's Day March 17th wear green to class and save some "green"! When you wear green to yoga on St. Patrick's Day this week you pay $7.00.

3. March Madness Donation Class is this Saturday March 19th 9:00am to 10:30 to support the YMCA's "Invest in Youth Program". Suggested donation is $10 and punch cards may not be used for this class. Joan and Lou will be tag teaming it up during class to give you a powerful yoga experience!

Special Note:
Sign ups have begun for our "40 Days to a Personal Revolution" and for April's "Family Yoga".

New Class Schedule will be out towards the end of March and will begin the first full week of April.

Quote for the Day:
"When the power of love over comes the love of power , the world will know peace." - Jimi Hendrix
Namaste.

40 Days to a Personal Revolution

2011-03-05T11:23:00.003-05:00

Are you ready for a whole-life Revolution? Based on the program created and presented by Baron Baptiste, Inspire Yoga will be hosting our first "40 Days to a Personal Revolution" beginning Monday April 25th and concluding Friday June 3rd. This amazing program will transform your practice and your life.

Are you ready to transform your mind, body and spirit? Then get committed! "40 Days to a Personal Revolution" blends daily yoga, meditation, healthier eating and personal reflection that will open the door to transformation. Weekly group meeting will keep you on track and accountable for your progress.

Our program at Inspire Yoga will include, the book "40 Days to a Personal Revolution" by Baron Baptiste, yoga pass for unlimited yoga during the program, and weekly meetings with meditations. The price for the "40 Day" program is $175.00.

You will follow Baron's book as a guide for the 40 days and commit to 4 studio practices a week, one weekly studio meeting with meditation, 2 home practices, daily meditation with journalling for personal reflection, and healthier eating.

REVOLUTION is about radical change, transformation at the root rather than the surface. This is a powerful program and we ask you to show up and give 110% of yourself.

Payment is expected when you sign up for this program. Sign ups will begin Monday March 7th. Books will be handed out during our "Kick Off" meeting Monday April 25th at 7:30 to 8:30pm and we will include a 20 minute practice and 5 minute meditation during that time. Weekly meetings will be held on Wednesdays from 7:30 to 8:30pm. Our conclusion on Friday June 3rd will be a celebration practice beginning at 5:30 to 6:45pm.

The question to ask is... "ARE YOU READY FOR A REVOLUTION?"
Namaste.

Meditation

2011-03-03T09:09:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I read this meditation from "Journey to the Heart" by Melody Beattie and thought it was just beautiful and wanted to share it with you all. Make today a special day!

March 2, 2011: Value Your Past
Value your past and all the lessons you have learned.

How easy it is to diminish the importance of our past and look on our history with a critical eye. We see the mistakes, we see what we think we should have know, we see what we could have done better. What we forget is that the reason we are able to see so clearly is because of the past and because of what we have learned. Often, it is the very experiences we regret that have created this clear vision.

Value what you've learned in your past. Each lesson has led to the next. Every person and event in each part of your life has been invaluable in shaping and forming you - in creating the person you are today. Each part of your past, each person who has come into your life and shared experiences with you has helped you to open your heart more to life, love, God, others and yourself. Even those experiences you think of as wrong, or mistakes, have been an important and necessary part in creating you. Sometimes, those experiences formed the most important parts of you because they created in you compassion and understanding for others. Often the most painful events of your life are the ones that opened you to your ability to bring healing, help and hope to others. Your past taught you to love - others and yourself. It has helped you become a channel for Divine love and a force for good in this world.

When you look back at your past, look tenderly and gently at all you have been through. Look with the eyes of the soul. See that each experience was necessary to bring you home to your heart.

Namaste.

March Madness at Inspire Yoga

2011-03-02T21:38:00.000-05:00

March Madness is upon us. Lots of wonderful things are happening at Inspire Yoga Studio.

1. This evening Lou Papa starts his Boot Camp Yoga at 6pm.

2. Yoga for the Stiff Guy or Gal has been moved to Wednesdays at 4:30pm with Joan.

3. Family Yoga sign ups for March go until March 4th and sign ups for Family Yoga for April begin March 15th.

4. Joan is helping iRoch with their 108 Sun Salutations Challenge, Saturday March 12th 9:30 to 12:00. www.irocyoga.com

5. Sign ups for our First "40 Days of Yoga" will begin March 15th. Details of the program to be released in our blog March 5th. www.nicholsforpennies.blogspot.com

6. Donation Class for the YMCA's Invest in Youth is here, Saturday March 19th from 9:00 to 10:30am. Inspire Yoga staff will be tag teaming it to give you a fun filled Power practice.

7. Inspire Yoga is happy to help Shepherd Home with their 2011 Black and White Ball. Silent Auction for "Inspire Yoga" products and classes will be held throughout the month. www.shepherdhome.org

8. Inspire Yoga is also happy to help Bethany House through a silent auction of "Inspire Yoga" products and classes. This event is being held March 12th, 6pm "Roll and Stroll" at Midvale Country Club.

9. Smart Water and Dasni Water will be for sale at Inspire Yoga within the week. Smart Water has electrolytes which helps the body stay hydrated, very important when doing heated yoga.

10. New SPRING schedule beginning April 1st will be released March 20th. Suggestions for class times and styles are most welcome. Please send us your ideas by March 10th.

Namaste.

Schedule Change as of March 1st.

2011-02-23T14:58:00.001-05:00

Schedule change as of next Wednesday March 2nd and forward. "Yoga for the Stiff Guy or Gal" is being moved to Wednesdays at 4:30 to 5:30pm and "Boot Camp Yoga" with Lou Papa will be on Wednesdays at 6 to 7pm. If you have any questions please call the studio at 249-9642.
Namaste.

Family Yoga Sign ups

2011-02-18T13:28:00.003-05:00

Here at Inspire Yoga we are starting our sign ups for our March Family Yoga. You have a choice of Fridays (March 4th, 11th, 18th, & 25th) or Saturdays (March 5th, 12th, 19th & 26th) at 11:00 to 11:30am. Four classes for up to four family members for $60 for the session. For More information please call the studio at 249-YOGA (9642).
Namaste.

Schedule for Winter Break Week Feb. 21-26

2011-02-15T07:46:00.000-05:00

Winter Break Schedule February 21st to 26th
Monday: No morning class.
Monday: 6pm to 7pm Power Yoga With Lou

Tuesday: 9:30am Mixed Flow all levels
Tuesday: 7pm to 8pm Mixed Flow all levels

Wednesday: 9:30 am Power Yoga
Wednesday: 6pm to 7pm Yoga for the Stiff Guy - women welcome! - with Lou

Thursday: 9:30am Gentle Yoga
Thursday: 7pm to 8pm Power Yoga with Aroma Therapy - with Cindy

Friday: 9:30am Power Yoga

*Friday: 11:00am to 11:30am Family Yoga - sign up a must/$15.00 per family of up to 4 people/call 249-9642 to reserve your spots/punch cards can not be used for this class.

Saturday: 7:30am Beginner Yoga
Saturday: 9 to 10:15am Power Yoga

*Saturday: 11:00am to 11:30am Family Yoga - sign up a must/$15.00 per family of up to 4 people/call 249-9642 to reserve your spots/punch cards can not be used for this class.
Namaste.

Upcoming Events at Inspire Yoga

2011-01-21T19:35:00.003-05:00

In February we will have three new Programs/events planned to get you all excited for yoga!

1. Family Yoga - Family Yoga is a half hour class offered on Friday mornings at 11:00am to 11:30am and Saturday mornings at 11:00am to 11:30am. The class invites families of all ages to practice together. It is a fun filled half hour with giggles and of course the occasional animal sounds. The price is $60 for 4 classes per family. Sign up at Inspire Yoga - space is limited.

2. Pose Break Down - Pose Break Down is a wonderful opportunity to grow your practice. We will be teaching purpose of pose, correct alignment and how to create your own home practice. This two class series meets on Saturdays February 5th and 12th from 12:00pm to 2:00pm. The price is $75 for the series. Sign up at Inspire Yoga - space is limited.

3. Mother & Daughter Friday Night Yoga and Tea! We have had lots of requests for a mother/daughter night of yoga so here it is!!! Friday February 11th 7:00pm to 8:00pm. Price is $25.00 for both mother and daughter. Hot tea will be served after the class. Sign up at Inspire Yoga - space is limited.

Looking forward to seeing you all at Inspire Yoga - Yoga with heart! www.inspirepenfield.com
Namaste.

Upcoming Modified Schedules

2011-01-08T22:55:00.005-05:00

Monday January 17th is Martin Luther King Day.

Schedule:
Morning - 9:30 to 10:30am Mixed Flow With Joan
Evening - 6:00 to 7:00pm Power Flow with Lou

To be posted is the schedule for February break.

Namaste.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-03T14:47:00.002-05:00

As I kick the New Year off, I am reading a few wonderful books. The one that is getting me back on track after a lovely - cookie filled holiday is called "The Quantum Wellness Cleanse" by Kathy Freston. I have done this cleanse 2 times before and was most successful when I did it with a friend. So at Inspire Yoga Studio here in Penfield, NY we are getting a group together to help each other "Reset" our bodies. First meeting is this Wednesday at 7:30pm.

The wonderful thing about this cleanse is it takes 5 ingredients out of our diets. There is no supplements etc... just good solid nutrition based on plants. The five ingredients that we take out are:
1. Caffeine
2. Alcohol
3. Gluten
4. Animal Products
5. Sugar

A very good point that the author makes is this, "I know that whenever I find myself thinking I couldn't possibly give this or that up , I realize just how much I am owned by it......and I know it's time to let go..."

As we welcome the New Year, it is a perfect time for new beginnings and creating better health habits. Remember our body is our "vehicle" for life, if we don't take care of it who will?

Let me end with a wonderful quote from the movie, "Chocolate":
"Listen, here is what I think. I think we can not go around measuring our goodness by what we don't do. By what we deny ourselves. What we resist and who we exclude. I think we've got to measure goodness by what we embrace, what we create and who we include."

Happy New Year!!!
Namaste.

Looking Back On a Magical Year

2010-12-27T19:28:00.003-05:00

Wow what a ride 2010 has been. No complaints that is for sure. So much has happened since January and I am blessed to have had such a wonderful year.

I have learned a tremendous amount about myself and people and feel the better for those lessons. Some of the lessons were major highs and a few major lows but all in all they balance themselves out.

Highlights of my year are simple things like watching my boys play their favorite sport, helping in school, hanging out with friends, vacationing with family - bummer about the hurricane, but that is life. Fall camping trip, Cooperstown, Howe Caverns, welcoming new family members - Noah and the list goes on and on!

Baron Baptiste's bootcamp was a major high that I feel I am still riding with the opening of my own studio! "Love what you do and do what you love and you will never work a day in your life!" How true these words are to me - and I am so thankful.

This year I have become more grateful. Everyday "cultivating that attitude of gratitude." It is effort but worth it!

What I am truly grateful for? Health, faith, family and friends.

What will 2011 bring? Who knows but I am ready. Maybe I'll do another triathlon, more bootcamp. Change and growth will happen that is for sure, and that is a good thing.

As I say good bye to the old and get ready for the new one thing is for sure, I am rich in love!!!!

Have a beautiful New Year!!!
Namaste.

Schedule for Next Week

2010-12-23T07:14:00.002-05:00

Schedule for next week beginning on Monday December 27th has been modified. We will be holding one class in the morning and one in the evening.

Monday Dec. 27 9:30 to 10:30am Mixed flow; 6 to 7pm Mixed Flow
Tuesday Dec. 28 9:30 to 10:30am Gentle Yoga; 6 to 7pm Power Yoga
Wednesday Dec. 29 9:30 to 10:30am Power Yoga; 6 to 7pm Yoga for the Stiff Guy
Thursday Dec. 30 9:30 to 10:30am Gentle Yoga; 6 to 7pm Power Yoga
Friday Dec. 31 9:30 to 10:30am Power yoga
Saturday NEW YEAR'S DAY 10 to 11:15am Power Hour!!!! Power Yoga!!!

Looking forward to seeing you all!
Namaste.

Remembering the Reason for the Season

2010-12-12T12:23:00.003-05:00

As I begin - I admit a bit late - to get things in order for Christmas I was thinking, "What do I want to teach my children about the season?" Do I want them to feel stressed during this time of year? Do I want them to think only of themselves and their "wants"? Or do I want to teach them balance, kindness, charity, tradition and love? Well I choose the last string of ideas. Now I need to figure out how to do that. Many ideas came rushing in and I thought I would write them down so I can stay on track and remember the reason for the season.

For me this is a beautiful and spiritual time of year. There is so much I love about Christmas and I admit it stems from the wonderful experiences of my youth. Thank you mom and dad for setting it all out properly for us.

Here is what I have learned and what I hope to pass on. That the birth of Christ should remind us to be a bit more patient with others, to smile more frequently even at those that seem real grumpy for I bet they could use it the most and that giving is as much fun if not more fun than receiving.

Another thing I learned is that doing the right thing even though it is not popular (THINK ABOUT MARY AND WHAT SHE DID), and it can involve sacrifice and it will always take faith, courage and love. Those are beautiful gifts that we all should work on and pass to our children. In doing so, it will build character and peace.

So how do we go about doing this? Through example. Keep things in perspective, strive for excellence, not perfection - this is the balancing act I listed. Be mindful of the gifts we give children - what do the toys or games really teach and how do they reflect the spirit of the season? Make room for what is truly important, for me that is quality time, not quantity in gifts. I believe we should carve out a bit of "me time" and that even though we are busy we should strive to never be to busy for a cup of coffee with a friend or milk and cookies with a child.

This year is very different for me as I balance home life, a brand new business - yoga studio, my existing art jewelry business, "me time" and friend time. It should be an interesting season and a fun journey as I remind myself that it is the journey not the destination that counts.

Namaste.

Mother = Faith

2010-12-08T09:21:00.002-05:00

There are so many words I can use to describe my mother Shirley. The best one now is "Angel" since it encompasses all she was, what she still means to me and her spirit that surrounds me still - I truly am blessed.

On the 4th year of my mom's passing I wanted to share with you all a reading from "Journey to the Heart" by Melody Beattie. For me this embodies what my mom taught me.

"Remember Faith"
"There is a church in New Mexico where the ground is said to be holy, sacred, healing. As I sat in a pew in that church, I was amazed at the numbers that flocked there. I watched one man carry his sick wife, a woman so ill she couldn't walk or stand by herself. They came to pray, to touch the holy ground. They came for a miracle. I sat, watching and listening, in awe of the tremendous power of faith.

Many things in life test us, strain us, deplete us, and sometimes leave us without hope. Yet, there is a place in us where the ground is sacred and holy. That place in us is called faith.

Remember faith. It's important. Without it, life is dull, useless, and joyless. We may have moments when we say, "what's the use? Nothing will help." we may go through times when we're angry at God and don't want to believe anymore. But faith has the power to transform us. Faith can instill joy, bring peace and restore a sense of acceptance and fulfillment in our lives.

Faith is a simple place, but it is also a place of profound power. Faith can turn our lives around. Faith may not bring the miracle we want, but it will always bring the miracle we need. Cultivate faith, touch it, hold it in your hand.

In the back of the church in New Mexico where the ground is said to be holy, visitors are invited to take some of the dirt with them. I scooped up a portion, just a tiny bit, placed it in a small plastic bag and put it in my car.

Faith... You don't need much, a little bit goes a very long, long way."

Make it a happy day./
Namaste.

Five Priceless Gifts From Yoga to you.

2010-12-04T11:58:00.002-05:00

My friends at Dancing Mind Yoga shared this on facebook today and thought it was wonderful. It was written by Erica Rodefer from Yoga Journal. Enjoy and start doing yoga!!!!!

Black Friday. Cyber Monday. Tired Tuesday? (I made that one up.) For me, this time of year brings back memories of the most thoughtful gifts I've ever received and the gifts gone wrong. I'm already feeling the pressure and anxiety--the hunt for the perfect, most thoughtful, most cherished holiday gift is on. As I begin to make my holiday list and check it twice, I am reminded that the most meaningful gifts I've ever received were not the cutting edge electronics or even a hand-knitted scarf, but lessons learned that reveal something about ourselves and where we come from. Stories about family history, passing down great grandma's famous cookie recipe, or a secret shared between friends--those are the gifts you really remember 10 years later.

It's the same with yoga. It's true that the time we spend on our mats can eventually help us to attain impressive poses or a slimmer, more toned body. But it's the lessons we learn about ourselves in the process that change the way we view, and interact in, the world.

1. Strength. Physical strength is definitely a gift that helps me in my daily life. But it's the mental strength--the discipline--that I will be able to lean on even as my body ages and I can no longer hold myself in advanced postures.

2. Awareness. Thanks to my yoga practice, I am more skilled at noticing the physical signs of stress. I notice when my breath gets shallow and muscles get tense. And knowing is half the battle.

3. Confidence. There are many yoga poses that make me feel like I can conquer the world. If I could teach myself to stand on my hands, something that seemed SO impossible a couple of years ago, there are bound to be other seemingly impossible challenges today that I can conquer tomorrow.

4. Training for Difficult Life Situations. Even when my mind and my muscles are screaming to get out of a pose, I know I can stay there for just a few more breaths. That's what gives me the strength to keep going in uncomfortable situations in life, too.

5. Rest. This might be the most important gift I've gotten from yoga. It's OK to rest. There's never a reason to feel guilty if your body or your mind is asking for a break, take it! There's wisdom in knowing and respecting your limits.

What priceless gifts have you gotten from your yoga practice over the years?

Erica Rodefer is a writer and yoga enthusiast in Charleston, SC. Visit her blog, Spoiledyogi.com, follow her on Twitter, or like her on Facebook.

Our Annual Christmas Tea

2010-12-03T07:53:00.002-05:00

Hello Everyone!!!

It is that time of year for my 4th Annual Christmas Tea!!!

Where: Inspire Yoga Studio located at 1802 Penfield Road behind the Dunkin Donuts

When: Saturday December 11th from 12 to 5pm – Open house come anytime!!!

What: Our 4th Annual Christmas Tea art show and Sale

Why: to help 2 local charities; to support our local female artists; and most of all to enjoy each other and the holiday season!!!!!

This year I am hosting the Tea at my new yoga studio called “Inspire Yoga” www.inspirepenfield.com

We have changed a few things this year to make it more festive and to give back to the community.

First: We will be raffling yoga gear, yoga classes, gift certificates and artwork for our local artists. Sponsors include Lululemon, Solia Boutique and Inspire Yoga to name a few. The charities we will be helping are: Bethany House (shelter for battered women and children) and Shepherd Home (a hospice here in Penfield). 100% of the money will go to these charities.

Second: Artists Lorraine Staunch www.staunchart.com and Jen Born www.psenjoyyourlife.com and myself www.nicholsforpennies.etsy.com will have our artwork for show and sale. Christine Knoblauch www.christineknoblauch.com will have her sculptured hearts for show and sale and Pistachio Press’s Rachel will have her letterpress work available www.pistachiopress.com and last but not least jewelry artist Michele Darin www.micheledarinjewelry.com will also have her work there too!!!

Third: To see our new studio and see old and meet new friends!

Looking forward to seeing you all there!!!

Namaste.

Home Away From Home

2010-11-21T11:46:00.002-05:00

Home away from Home is just what "Inspire Yoga" studio is for me and many of our students. We have been open since November 6th and what a wonderful 2 weeks it has been Everyday someone new enters and begins their journey into yoga - how exciting. I have heard often in these 2 weeks how students love the look and feel of the studio. I have also heard them refer to it feeling like home which made my heart sing! Yeah!!!!

This week is our holiday kick off. On Thanksgiving morning we are hosting a donation only class to raise money for the YMCA's Invest in Youth program. This is a program that gives back to the community and helps needy children attend summer camp. Suggested donation is $10. Please note that the punch will not be able to be used for this special class. Come early and relax before the class starts. Class will be from 9:15-10:30am.

Holiday decorations will be up and lit on Friday November 26th.

December 11th 12:00pm to 5pm is our Annual Christmas Tea and Art show & Sale with a raffle to benefit Shepherd Home and Bethany House. Lorraine Staunch the wonderful artist, who painted our studio, will be there with more of her breath taking work. Along with Lorraine, Michele Da Rin from Syracuse will be there with her gorgeous and fashionable jewelry. Other artists will be represented. All of the artists are local and women. This is a wonderful time to stop by, say hi, enjoy some Christmas music, eat some wonderful treats from "Upper Crust" the brand new bakery in Penfield, shop USA (Rochester & Syracuse) handmade work, and help those in need this holiday!

Items that will be raffled will include yoga items from Inspire's boutique, artists work, Private classes, 10 pack punch card and LULULEMON items for the new store located in Pittsford! Tickets will be sold that day and at St. Joseph's church the weekend before! Come one and all!!!

Stay tuned for more exciting events!
Namaste!

Below is a photo of the entrance to our studio from Rt. 441 - Penfield Road. Great location and plenty of parking!

Inspire's Grand Opening!

2010-11-11T08:16:00.008-05:00

I will be loading more this afternoon, stay tuned!

kathryn budig yoga

2010-11-03T11:16:00.000-04:00

Inspire Yoga We Are Getting There!

2010-10-29T17:28:00.011-04:00

At the beginning it was a deli. Then I saw the potential for something wonderful. Here in a photo essay is our dream come true - "Inspire Yoga" - Yoga with heart. In the beautiful words from Walt Disney, "If you can dream it you can do it!" And in the fantastic words of Baron Baptiste "Dream BIG!"

Inspire Yoga opens its doors Saturday November 6th at 10am. This is a wonderful day to open since it is also our 17th wedding anniversary that day!

Namaste!

Two Weeks From Today We Open

2010-10-23T09:18:00.003-04:00

Inspire Yoga Studio is opening its doors to the public on Saturday November 6th at 10am to 5pm. Please join us for one of the free classes that day. The schedule is listed below, other wise stop in and say hello, look around, pick up a schedule, enjoy some refreshments, check out our yoga special that will be offered and look around our small boutique of yoga related items.

Schedule:
10:30am to 11:45am Power Yoga with Joan
12:30pm to1:00pm Mommy & Me with Joan
2:00pm to 3:00pm Power Yoga with Lou
3:30pm to 4:00pm Gentle Yoga with Joan

Special that will be offered throughout November: Purchase 5 classes for $50 ($10 per class is a 33% savings). This a great way to sample yoga if you are new to it or a beautiful way to continue your practice. Remember the holidays are coming and this makes a wonderful gift for anyone on your list.

Please visit our website www.inspirepenfield.com to read about our schedule, class descriptions and instructor bios.

Photos will be posted of the studio from start to finish this week.

Remember, "Be the change you wish to see in the world"
Namaste.

This ones for you Lynn

2010-10-18T11:15:00.002-04:00

After class a week or so ago my friend Lynn, who was in yoga class that evening, loved this reading. Thank you for your patience - you rock!

"One of the greatest gifts you can give yourself or anyone else is inspiration. Inspiration to get in touch with your dreams. Inspiration to seek out your deepest passions. Inspiration to make a difference in the world, a difference that only you can make. This is not about success; it's about significance. It's not about making a living; it's about making a life. It's not about fame; it's about contribution and service. Instead of asking, "What can I get from life?", watch what happens when you ask, "What can I give to life?"

Have a beautiful day!
Namaste.

Change is in the Air Here in Penfield

2010-09-27T10:23:00.003-04:00

Wow - I love Mondays!!! I just wanted to announce that I am now the proud owner of "Inspire Yoga - yoga with heart" a new yoga studio getting ready to open its door on November 6st, 2010!!!! The lease has been signed, the LLC in place and construction - remodeling is under way as we speak.

The "before" photos are coming. Lots of cool changes are in store for this old deli. I will be posting regularly.

I wanted to thank all those who believe in me and what I am doing - you are the wind in my sails!!!! And I wanted to thank my husband for all his love, kindness, support and believing that I can do it!!! Michael you are priceless to me and always have been. And to my kids who think this is just "Cool" you two rock!!!!

Stay tuned for all the neat happenings as we create "Inspire Yoga - yoga with heart".
Namaste.

Rain Must Fall That is How We Grow

2010-09-23T20:53:00.003-04:00

In every life some rain must fall, it is necessary, that is how we grow. As you can tell last week was challenging for me, many lessons learned and I emerged stronger. The lessons continue to be taught in the most unexpected ways. Kindnesses shown by the people you least expect, notes from friends that encourage, and of course the unexpected smiles that can brighten the cloudiest days. This is truly a gift from God. These gifts are the bright lights of our lives that we sometime don't truly understand until the lights have dimmed for what ever reason. My yoga practice this week has been less physical and more mental as I have become more present in my life. I have taken back my energy for the greater good and have chosen to spend that precious energy on those I love! All in all a good week and a lesson well learned!!!
Namaste.

Bump in the Road

2010-09-14T10:49:00.004-04:00

I was just reminded of something that I needed to remember. First that we do live in a beautiful universe and there are bumps in the road.

This past weekend I hit a bump in the road. I became aware that people aren't always what they seem. This is a hard lesson for me since I tend to trust everyone. It is a gift I give freely. I give trust rather than making people earn it over time. Have I been burned in the past, yes, did I get burned again, yes. What will I do about it? Learn. What have I learned? That people's character, no matter what they say, will show through eventually in their actions; that being a bit guarded is sometimes necessary; that karma is full circle; that true friends will always have your back; and that life is still good!!!!!!

This “bump in the road” also taught me that I have great ideas!!!

This “bump in the road” has continued to enrich my love and relationship with my husband - who can see people's true character better than I - and has helps me put things in perspective.

This “bump in the road” has brought me to tears and I felt cleansed afterward. I released my sadness and am moveing on lighter.

This “bump in the road” gave me clarity.

I could go on and on about how this “bump in the road” has effected my life positively but it all comes down to this, it was put there by God to help me slow down, observe others and their motives, and for this I am grateful.

Let me leave you with a smile and these two quotes:
1. "If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it then change how you think about it."
2. "Takers may eat better, but givers sleep better."
Namaste.

Wow Lots to Tell

2010-09-10T12:44:00.010-04:00

Wow, lots to share since I last wrote. I will quickly recap our summer in less than 1,000 words! It was GREAT!!! We went to Cooperstown, Howe Caverns, Outer Banks, camped in the backyard, read lots of great book, did tons of yoga, and the list just keeps on going!

The kids went back to school and I have been preparing for my art show this weekend at the Memorial Art Gallery here in Rochester, NY. I am very excited and have completed over 100 new pieces. I am exhausted and thrilled at the same time!

Here are some photos from the summer and new work. I will write soon!
Namaste.

Just in the Mood to Write

2010-07-26T07:57:00.003-04:00

Wow lots has happened over the last two weeks. For starters I taught religion school for 5th graders at our church St. Joseph's in Penfield. At times it truly was a practice in patience but all in all I loved it! I was whipped everyday I came home, so I let the laundry pile up and took an hour nap on most days. That helped refresh me so I could do the lesson plans for the next day, get the kids where they needed to go and to teach more yoga. Each day we would get there at 8:15am to set up and the kids would get there at 8:45and leave at 12:00. By the time we cleaned up and headed home it was generally 12:30. Note I teach yoga at 6am and am usually up by 5am! Nick was my helper which was wonderful and my son Timmy said it was the best religion school ever. Hearing those words made all the work and effort worth it - and I would do it all over again for him.

Speaking of Timmy he turned 10 last week - it doesn't seem possible. He was thrilled as everyone came over to celebrate. We had 27 for dinner that evening!!!! Mike and I gave him a tent which he was thrilled to receive! We were suppose to have a camp out over on Saturday but the heavens opened up and it poured all day and we were not able to get the tent up. Timmy took it all in stride and we went out to an awesome Mexican restaurant called "The Blue Cactus"!!! When we got home we gave Timmy his last present which was a scrape book I made for him of his first decade - he said it was the best present - wow I am on a roll - Timmy is good for the ego! Ha Ha!!!

Now onto Monday - which I love Mondays, they are like mornings when everything is possible and fresh! This week we hope to hear some great news about something we have been working towards - so please pass your prayers and positive thoughts this way! When it is a go I will tell you all about it! Meanwhile I have lots of laundry to catch up on along with grocery shopping so you know what I am up to now!!!

Make it a positive and peaceful week!
Namaste.

I Believe....

2010-07-13T06:56:00.002-04:00

As I was sitting here waiting for my decaf coffee to brew I started thumbing though the book "All I Really Need to Know I learned In Kindergarten" by Robert Fulghum. I was looking for something to share with the children I am teaching over at St. Joseph's summer religion program. I have often found thoughts in this book very inspiring and was hoping I would find one that will complement my lesson for today. And it just so happens that I was lucky and did. Here is what I found!

"I believe that imagination is stronger than knowledge. That myth is more potent than history. That dreams are more powerful than facts. That hope always triumphs over experience. That laughter is the only cure for grief. And I believe that love is stronger than death!"

Here is to another gift from God - today! Must be going - my coffee is ready!
Namaste.

Toy Story, What a Tear Jerker

2010-07-10T07:28:00.006-04:00

Well last night the four of us went to see "Toy Story 3" - Timmy picked out the movie. What I wasn't prepared for was how much of a tear jerker it was and I had no tissues!

The movie brought back beautiful memories of our own boys when they were little guys and how they played with their toys. Some favorites included Buzz Lightyear, Woody and of course all the characters from Thomas the Tank engine. When they played you could see their wonderful imaginations at work. It was such an innocent time of life and there was great beauty in it as I witnessed it.

What the movie illustrated so perfectly was how quickly time passes and that being there for one another is truly the top priority. In other words staying present is key!

After the movie we all came home and hung out in the family room and just talked. No TV just the 4 of us talking and then of course a wrestling/tickling match broke out between the boys which is typical and I have to admit quite funny. Then everything seem to settle again and we found ourselves in the middle of the floor hugging as we had a major pill up on top of Mike.

This truly was one of my favorite evenings ever spent as a family. For that moment we were all truly present and appreciating each other in the simplest ways!

Namaste.

Note: The photo I used was taken over 3 years ago and illustrates how the wrestling/tickling matches begin with the two of them screwing around. How they crack me up!

Authentic Success is a Work in Progress!

2010-07-07T22:40:00.003-04:00

Authentic success, what does it mean? Well Webster dictionary describes authentic as, and I quote, "1. Authoritative; 2. worthy of acceptance or belief as conforming to fact or reality, trustworthy; 3. not imaginary, false or imitation."

When I read "Simple Abundance" by Sarah Ban Breathnach, her entry for September 15th rang true and clear for me. It starts "Authentic success is different for each of us. No single definition fits all because we come in all sizes. One afternoon years ago, while wandering through an abandoned cemetery, I discovered a wonderful definition of authentic success inscribed on the headstone of a woman who died in 1820: "The only pain she ever caused was when she left us."

Wow that is powerful, moving and something to strive towards.

For me authentic success is sometimes a mystery and at other times I feel as if I am achieving it. Some high points for me are... prioritizing my time properly so that family and friends are on top...answering "if not now when?" with NOW!... knowing in my soul that I did my best and being okay with it regardless of the outcome...Making peace with my past... recognizing my talents and sharing them and not diminishing them when they are recognized by others... making a difference in the world one smile at a time... sharing laughter often and being okay with my tears and the tears of others... truly listening to someone else without interjecting my opinion...valuing my dreams and working consistently to reach them and dream even more... cultivating the attitude of gratitude... and being blessed with faith.

As I reach the cross roads of my life I understand where I have been, liking where I am now and loving the ideas that tomorrow brings. And as I remain present to what really matters, I am achieving my "Authentic Success".
Namaste.

What Does a Great Life Look Like?

2010-07-05T07:30:00.003-04:00

Ask a hundred people what a great life looks like and you'll probably get a hundred different answers - But certain answers will make virtually everyone's list.

Most people would agree, for example, that a great life includes something worth living for, maybe even worth dying for. A portion of a great life would be devoted to something BIGGER, greater, grander than yourself. Something that inspires you, energizes you, pulls you forward. Something that responds to your unique Talent or Touch and ultimately, makes a difference in the world around you.

A great life would naturally bring more meaning, purpose, love, peace, laughter, wonder and adventure to your days. And, at the end of your journey you would look back on a life of significance, rather than of regret - knowing in your heart that you left the world a better place than you found it. Knowing that you made a difference in the lives of others. Knowing that you got something wonderful out of it and you gave something wonderful back.

A great life, of course is not something we leave to chance, it is something we create!

This is a reading that I found in Starbucks and the author is unknown to me. I use this at the end of my yoga classes from time to time and I love it! Enjoy your day!
Namaste.

Food for Thought

2010-06-30T08:20:00.001-04:00

"What impacts children the most is the unrealized dreams of their parents" - Carl Young.

Life is a Blessing!

2010-06-28T09:50:00.006-04:00

This past weekend my son Timmy and I drove to Rhode Island to welcome our new little cousin Noah. My cousin Christina just got back from Kazahkstan where she adopted Noah. He is a dream. Very sweet, personable and loves to blow kisses and give hugs. May God bless you all now and forever!!!!

My newest cousin Noah. Welcome sweetheart!!! We love you!!! Christina he is beautiful!

Mother and child after a long day!

Noah and Mommy (my cousin Christina) having fun on Newport beach! Noah's first time!

My cousin Tommy with Noah - A beautiful and watchful Uncle!!!

Me holding Noah infront of my uncle's retirement home with my cousins Mia and Tommy and my Uncle Tom.
Namaste.

Right Where I need to Be

2010-06-22T11:39:00.004-04:00

As I was reading from my daily meditation book, "Journey to the Heart" by Melody Beattie today - catching up from the missed meditation from yesterday, I had an "aha" moment that I thought I'd share.

Last evening I was lucky enough to spend with a group of amazing women that are my dear friends from high school. Each have strength that moves me to be a better person. Their courage and kindness are truly gifts from above. And their straight talk is based on their love - priceless.

As we picked up from when we were last together, not skipping a beat, sharing all our "news", they helped me realize that people and experiences cross our journey's path to teach us needed lessons and get us to the next level in life. I shared my Baron Baptiste Bootcamp experience and opened my heart. They reminded me to live in the present and to see what a gift it truly is and to release my ego and use my energy to move forward and fulfill a dream. Like I said their straight talk is priceless.

Here is yesterday's meditation:
"You are right were you need to be - on your path, guided, in just the right place for you today.
Many times on my journey I stopped short, convinced I would never find the place I was trying to find, only to discover that it was right in front of me all the time. I had gone there instinctively. Gone right where I needed to go, right where I was heading.
There is a part of us that knows where we need to be and understands where we really want to go. There's a place in us that has the map, even if our eyes and conscious mind can't see it, can't figure it out, or aren't certain it's there.
If you's spinning in circles, feeling lost and confused, trying to figure out where you need to be and not all that certain where you're going, stop. Breathe deeply. Look around. You are right where you need to be. Maybe you've been there all along."

So here is to the power of friendship, listening and trusting our hearts!
Namaste.

New Work for End of School Year Celebration!

2010-06-21T13:12:00.006-04:00

I wanted to share a few photos of the completed bracelet that I made for Miss Durr’s end of year gift using the children’s signatures. I added foil from chocolate wrappers and cut out words from an 1890’s prayer book that describe Miss Durr. Here are a few examples: Love, grace, patient, kind etc… Finally I added cut out hearts and a hidden house to the collages. The final steps included sandwiching the artwork between two piece of cut glass, wrapping each charm with copper tape then melting the silver solder and attaching a jump ring and miniature clasp to hook onto the sterling silver chain. Then I made a heart of fine silver and attached that to the end of the chain.

Miss Durr has taught these 4th graders for the last two years and has had a beautiful impact on their lives and we are grateful to her and all her hard work!!!
Namaste.

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-20T21:32:00.002-04:00

Now I look into your eyes and see my husband, the love of my life and a father whose heart embraces his family in a way that simply amazes me. Happy Father's Day to my wonderful husband, my partner and my very best friend. I love you!
Namaste.

One of my Favorite Readings

2010-06-18T14:02:00.002-04:00

Every time I read this in class someone always asks me to post it so here it is again. Enjoy and let it guide you!

Ready or not, some day it will all come to an end. There will be no more sunrises, no minutes, hours or days. All the things you have collected, whether treasured or forgotten, will pass on to someone else. Your wealth, fame, and temporal power will shrivel to irrelevance. It will not matter what you owned or what you owed. Your grudges, resentments, frustrations and jealousies will finally disappear, so to your hopes and ambitions. The wins and losses that once seemed so important will fade away. It won’t matter whether you were beautiful or brilliant. Even your skin color will be irrelevant.

So what will matter? How will the value of our days be measured?

What will matter is not what we bought but what we built.
Not what we got but what we gave.
What will matter is not our success but our significance.
Not what we learned but what we taught.
What will matter is every act of integrity, compassion and valor that encouraged others to do the same.

What will matter is not our competence but our character.
Not how many people we know but how many will feel a lasting loss when we are gone.
What will matter is not our memories but the memories of those who loved us.
What will matter is how long we will be remembered by whom and for what.

Living a life that matters doesn’t happen by accident.
It is not a matter of circumstance but of choice.

Choose a life that matters.

Make today a beautiful day - it is within your power!
Namaste.

A Week in Photos

2010-06-15T19:52:00.006-04:00

Namaste.

What has this Training meant to me?

2010-06-14T21:34:00.005-04:00

What has this training meant for me is a loaded question to be sure. Baron Baptiste's training for me has meant a break through into awareness. Awareness of my habits; awareness of what is possible once I let my true self out; awareness as to how much I live in the past and future and how little I live in the present; and how much I was concerned to look good and be good enough for others.

I believe change is possible and I will start by taking responsibility for my words and actions. I do see and love the person I am - pros and cons. Change takes effort and understanding and being able to let things go and not creating stories around life events. Life happens to us all - "Let it Be."

As Baron said in one of his lectures "Giving something up is a health Secret." What will I give up? I am giving up self doubt. This is leading to indifference to my thoughts which is quieting my mind. Once this is accomplished it will give me freedom and space within my mind. Also I am talking straight and getting my point across without exaggerations.

This training has been a journey into awareness and has helped me drop some of my many masks of self doubt and has made me feel happier and lighter in my life. It has been an "I" opening experience.
Namaste.

*Note: The photo above is of "Hard Core" the small group I was part of during this training. Each one touched my heart and I am forever changed by their insight, straight talk and eye to eye contact!

What a Week!!!!!

2010-06-13T10:21:00.005-04:00

I am back! I just spent the last week at "Baron Baptiste's Bootcamp for Yoga Teachers Level One" and wow - what a week. I am not sure even how to start describing my experience, so much soul searching and finding were done. Putting it all into words seems beyond me at this point. But what I can say is the people I meet, the stories I heard, the tears I witnessed are now part of who I am. Yoga for me has been transformational for a while, but this training seemed to have sent me into orbit. At times I was very confused and by the end I felt grateful that I found peace.

As I go back over my journal in next few days and weeks I am sure I will be writing more about my experience. Right now I feel exhausted yet energized - I know it doesn't make sense however it is true.

Let me leave you with a poem my mom wrote out for my graduation years ago that was recently found. It is by William Robert Lawerence.

"May you dedicate yourself not only to strive for the goals you have set, but to meet them and set even more. Not only to hold to the dreams you have had but to dream greater dreams than before... Not only to enjoy this land and its wealth but to make it a better place to live... And not only to take what you can from this life but to love and generously give."

Namaste.

*The photo above I took at Menla Mountain Retreat Center. The Tibetan bells are by the entrance to the Yoga Center.

Busy, Busy , Busy!!!!

2010-06-03T17:39:00.003-04:00

Wow does this time of year fly by or what? Between baseball in full swing (no pun intended), end of the school activities and the normal running around I feel like I am moving at lightening speed with my head spinning like crazy. I need to remind myself that all that truly needs to get done will and the rest will just have to wait! And then of course I need to remember to "BREATHE!!!" (Isn't that funny coming from a yoga teacher?)

It is a fun time of year, remembering all the cool things that the kids did in school, how they have grown , what they have learned etc.., and planning for the summer. Sure there are still tests to get through, concerts to go to, and projects to finish but really you see lots more smiles this time of year!!! I bet the sun has something to do with it too.

As for me I am about to go to my first "Baron Baptiste Bootcamp for Yoga Teachers" starting this Saturday. I am thrilled and a bit nervous but all good energy I can assure you. I believe this series of classes will get me to the next level in teaching and my personal practice.

Things are falling into place so this experience is possible for me and above all I must thank my husband. His support is priceless. The boys have been excited for me too since I was excepted into this program back in January or February - I am having one of my hormonal brain freezes. And I know I am leaving them all in good hands.

Well I am off to watch another baseball game again, I have lost count as to which one this is so far for the week. Oh well go Penfield!!!!

Namaste.

My Mother is Still Teaching Me!

2010-05-27T13:52:00.002-04:00

As I get older things are different that I never expected. I have always heard other women complain about their body's changing but I never thought much about it. I felt I eat right and exercise so I should be okay. Well as usually with me I am eating those words! I do, do all the right things but nature is taking over to some extent. I was feeling down and becoming very nit picky about different aspects of my body and getting a little down.

The other day, as I was cleaning and getting ready for my friends to come over for our bi-weekly breakfast club I came across a folder of my mother's. (Now for those who may not know this my mom passed away from leukemia 3 years ago and I was one of her main caretakers.) Well the folder I found was her notes dated before she was diagnosed with her cancer. These notes were written in her own hand, notes for her doctor because she wasn't feeling well and wanted to know what was going on. They were very detailed and as you can imagine brought tears to my eyes.

My mom is still teaching me to be grateful every step of the way and these notes reminded me how blessed I am and that health is the greatest gift of all. So even though my body is changing as I get deeper into my 40's, it is healthy and strong and really what could be greater than that?
Namaste.

They Say it's My Birthday!!!

2010-05-21T22:09:00.003-04:00

Timmy, Nick and I on my Birthday! What a beautiful day! I started my day out at 5:00 as usual for a Friday. Today I actually broke the 10 minute mile. I did 1 mile is 9minutes and 50 seconds, I was thrilled! Now I will need to work on sustaining it! Maybe that will be next year goal! After I ran I taught yoga, got the kids off to school, walked the dog then I took a heated yoga class at my favorite studio - "Breathe" here in Pittsford, NY. After cleaning up I volunteered at Timmy's class for their "Write-O-Thon", what a blast!!!! after grocery shopping, I started to watch "Leap Year" my favorite movie at the moment but I fell asleep. When I woke up we all decided to go to "Aladin's" for dinner then when we got home the boys put on a "French Horn" concert for Mike and I. It was wonderful! All in all a beautiful day.
Namaste.

Let the Beauty of What You Love Be What You Do

2010-05-07T09:38:00.002-04:00

My morning started out at 5am as usual on a Friday. I ran 3 miles on the "ProCor" machine which should be named "The Kick you Butt" machine, then I taught yoga for an hour, and all along I was thinking "How lucky am I?", and I mean that sincerely.

Fast forward...I got my boys off to school, kissed my husband as he went off to work, walked the dog, chatted with some neighbors I saw along the way and am now enjoying a steamy cup of coffee. As I was writing my "To Do List" which includes errands that need to get done and artwork I have to finish for clients, I had a small "Aha" moment as I got side tracked - daydreaming - about what I'd love to do today.

My "Aha" moment was pure gratitude - I am doing what I love. Then I saw this quote and thought I need to share it with you, "Let the Beauty of What You Love Be What You Do" by Jalal ad-Din Rumi.

"Aha" moments for me are small and tend to build upon each other. Nothing major by themselves but added together can make quite an impression on the soul. Some people may have huge life changing "Aha" moments but that is not me so far. I used to be saddened that I hadn't experienced that but now I am glad they come when they do and keep me appreciating all that I have.

As we all head into this "Mother's Day" weekend let me wish you all joy, happiness and to remember, "You're only limited by your imagination" - Marcia Ceppos. So dream BIG and remember that the small things in life bring great comfort.

Namaste.

Opening Day!

2010-05-05T20:36:00.002-04:00

Opening Day in Penfield, NY was this past Saturday. We had so much fun! The weather was amazing, the kids were electric and the friendships awesome! All in all a blessed day!
Namaste.

Need Your Help

2010-05-03T22:27:00.002-04:00

Happy Monday everyone. I have a huge favor to ask-here it goes. As you may know I have been organizing "Donation Yoga" classes with the hope of helping Haiti. 100% of the money raised has been given to the Red Cross here in Rochester for this cause. This Saturday I will be hosting another donation class and need your help. Please come and also pass this information on to all your friends. Together we can make a difference.

Date: Saturday May 8th.
Time: 11:15am-12:30pm
Where: Eastside YMCA here in Penfiled, NY - 341-4000
Donation: $10
Teacher: Me!!!
Reason: Because I care
Who can attend?: Everyone - members and non-members
Please pay it forward!!!!!!!

Let's be the change we wish to see in the world.
Namaste.

Gearing Up For Mother's Day

2010-05-02T21:51:00.002-04:00

As I continue to create new work in time for Mother's Day I wanted to put out a quick reminder of where you may find and purchase my work.

In Rochester, NY: "Craft Company #6" has a large selection. They are located at 785 University Ave.; Phone number is 473-3413; Website is http://shop-handmade.craftcompany.com/Joan-Nichols-Jewelry.html

In Penfield, NY: "Wendy at Work" also has a great selection. They are located at 1867 Penfield Road; Phone number is 249-9777; Website is http://www.wendyatwork.com/

Feel free to contact me through my blog by commenting or you may go to my ETSY site which is www.nicholsforpennies.etsy.com

Thank you for stopping by and more new creations will be posted early this week, along with the next of the "Four Agreements".

Make it a peaceful day - it is your choice!
Namaste.

The Mastery of Love

2010-04-23T21:37:00.002-04:00

As I am reading "The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz I am also enjoying the "Mastery of Love" cards that he has published. Love and self respect are key components to sticking with the "The Four Agreements". The first agreement is to speak impeccably and understand that your word is like a sword and has two sides. It can be used to create drama, chaos, and a living hell. Or it can be used to create love, beauty and life! We choose our words depending on how we are feeling at a particular moment. Practice responding after a few breaths rather than reacting automatically. This will take time to master but is truly worth the effort.

Here are two quotes by Don Miguel Ruiz that I find help me with my mind set to speak impeccably:

"Love and accept yourself just the way you are. You are what you are; you don't need to pretend to be something else. When you pretend to be what you are not, you are always going to fail."

"Accept others the way they are. You cannot change other people. To try to change them to fit what you want them to be is like trying to change a dog into a cat or a cat into a horse. They are what they are; you are what you are."

I find when I read and reread these words I find comfort and understanding of myself and those around me. It also helps me stay on track and helps me to choose my "words" better.

Namaste.

Spring=New Life and My Annual Reading of the Four Agreements

2010-04-18T07:40:00.006-04:00

When I think of spring I think of a time of new life, new beginnings and rebirth. I have many rituals that I do during the spring that seems to help me get back on track. My rituals are few and simple. Number one is spring cleaning the house and purging things that we no longer use. Number two is spring cleaning the body I will usually start this with a simple fast and eating foods that clean and keep the body feeling alive, mainly a vegan diet. And last but not least I will spring clean my mind. This sounds like the easiest but for me it is the hardest.

Since I have recently rediscovered the power of meditation and its place in my life, I will continue to use that tool to help me keep my mind open and calm. A few years ago I read, for the first time, "The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz and had a life changing experience. Ever since then I reread that book every spring. It is funny how I need to be reminded of those simple yet powerful agreements at this time of year.

In my next few posting I will write about the each of the four agreements and how my spring cleaning for my body, mind, soul and home are going. Meanwhile start your own "Spring Cleaning" and look upon this time as a rebirth and discover the person you are truly meant to be.

Make it a peaceful day!
Namaste.

*The photo above way taken on my way to work in the morning 5:15am by the vineyards near my home.

My New Work - "Wearable Shabby Chic!"

2010-04-11T21:21:00.003-04:00

As usual things have been busy around here as I have been burning the midnight oil creating my Spring line of "Wearable Shabby Chic". I have been up late creating new molds, and new fine silver pendants and charms from some great new antiques that I have found. Then I have been collaging for my "Treasured Lockets" and soldering away!! The final step in this processes is assembly. I have been taking the fine silver pieces that I created and wiring them with my "Treasured Lockets" to 1890-1900's antiques and chains to finish the look. The "Bling" comes from 1950's vintage earrings that I have been refurbishing and giving new life - and let's face it, that is what spring is all about - new life.
Namaste.

Christ has Risen, Truly He Has Risen!!!!

2010-04-06T21:59:00.003-04:00

Yeah!!!! I successfully finished my journey of "40 Days to a Personal Revolution" with Baron Baptiste. Wow!!!! The last few weeks were time consuming that is why I didn't post as often as I would have liked to, so I am making it all up now!

Let me start by being honest about the last week. I was to do an hour and a half practice each day, along with a half an hour meditation. The truth of it was I did an hour practice each day and 20 minute meditation each day.

Since I am being honest let me fully spill the beans. You may or may have not wondered why I did this journey. Yes as stated before I wanted to try something new that I have never tried before plus I knew I need to find some way of changing deep inside, since I wasn't liking the person I was becoming. This journey did both.

I have many qualities that I am grateful for and others that I know I needed to change. Being judgemental was the major one along with finding purpose to life. I have now learned that every person has their own history which makes them the person they are today. I believe the majority of people are truly good in this world even though we may not see eye to eye 100% of the time. That is when patience, understanding and compassion are needed. We may have friends that like to "One up" us or people/friends who like to purposely leave us out.

It is hard some days to remain positive and friendly under those circumstances. However as we grow we realize it truly is them and their need for some kind of power and/or acceptance of themselves that drives that behavior. Even though my feelings have been hurt from time to time, and I get pissed, I have learned during these 40 days to just let it go and change my thought patterns.

Did you know that we think the same thoughts every day? I never really thought about it but as I was reading the books by Baron Baptiste I had that "Aha" moment - for often than not! And if we are truly going to break through to the next level that those thought patterns need to change. That is where my meditation helped. By the way I still am meditating everyday, 15 minutes every morning seems to fit me perfectly at this stage, and I can commit to that and not feel burdened or as if I am neglecting my responsibilities.

I also learned that we can pretty much explain and justify all our behaviors even the negative ones quite convincingly. We do this through our need to be right at any cost. When we practice humility then the need to be right isn't as important any longer. Interesting huh?

Well I have learned a tremendous amount and lit the fires to discover more about who I am. I can tell you quite honestly that I truly love the person I am and becoming through practice. More about my journey to come in the next few days.

Have a peaceful evening.
Namaste.

Yoga for Hait

2010-04-01T15:03:00.005-04:00

Here are the photos that Paloma Capanna so kindly took of our class on Saturday March 20th, 2010 at the Eastside YMCA on rt. 250 in Penfield, NY. Please see more of Paloma's work at http://www.flickr.com/photos/palomas35mm/4454570960/in/set-72157623670950352.

Thank you all for your support. Our next class will be Saturday April 10th from 11:00am to 12:30pm. Suggested donation is $10. Hope to see you there!
Namaste.

In the Zone

2010-03-29T18:42:00.002-04:00

I am in the zone thank God. What I am referring to is my creative zone. I feel as if I have stumbled onto something fun and cool! As you know I love vintage and antique metal, paper etc.. and I love the the idea of recycling and giving old objects that were once loved new life. So what I have been doing is collecting all sorts of neat things and then combining them with wire, gemstones, pearls, my "Treasured Lockets" and metal that I have created from my molds to create one of a kind wearable art. Here is my latest creation that I just love. I posted it on ETSY so take a look there too. Let me know what you think. Since I work in my studio by myself it is great when other people help critique my work. Thanks for stopping by!
Namaste.

The Closing of Week Five

2010-03-27T08:59:00.002-04:00

Wow another week just flew by. As I sit down to write with my steaming cup of decaf. coffee I am reflecting on how my "40 Days to a Personal Revolution" is coming along and what it has meant to me.

I have learned a tremendous amount about myself - both positive and negative traits have come to my attention. The positive traits that I have been rediscovering have helped me to become less sensitive to people's words and more assured as to who I am and my goodness. The negative traits that have surfaced have been humbling and have provided me a beautiful place to start to change from. For a person to change a person must see where the change is needed. Meditation has been a blessing for me in helping me figure that out. Even though I have a non-stop busy brain, I have had moments of stillness as I have continued to practice.

In reading both books by Baron Baptiste I have elevated my personal yoga practice to a level I never thought to achieve. Yes I have become more flexible and all of that but more importantly it has taught me to stay with the discomfort (not pain)and discover what kind of a person I am. I am learning I am a person that will stick with it when I have the urge to give up. This is monumental for me especially in chair pose which I normally just avoid all together.I have learned that in reaching your "Edge" that is when the pose really begins and breakthroughs are possible. Here is an idea I have taught and now I am doing on a regular basis. When you think you can no longer hold on give yourself the gift of two more slow breaths and see were you go.

Well speaking about teaching I must be on my way to the YMCA to do just that. Make it a peaceful day for yourself and those around you - it is within your power!

Namaste.

Wearable Art for the Spring

2010-03-24T08:06:00.005-04:00

Here is the newest pieces in my "Wearable Art" line. I have combined antiques, vintage religious metals, my own charms that I created out of bronze and silver, with pearls and gemstones. I hope you enjoys my new work!Namaste.

This piece is called "Not Alone" and combines a 1940's miraculous metal, antique pin that I converted to a pendent, fresh water pearls, fine silver tags that I created with the title of the piece and butterfly. As with all my work each piece has a story, it own history, is original, one of kind and looks great with a t-shirt and jeans or dressed up for a night on the town.

Time Flies

2010-03-22T07:36:00.002-04:00

I am amazed how time flies. It seems as if last week just started and in a blink of the eye it is over.

Well let me recap my week for you. Yes I am still doing the “40 Days to a Personal Revolution”. And Yes I did yoga everyday. Meditation I have to admit I missed one day. That day seems to go extraordinarily fast. The funny thing about that day is I felt unsettled and it wasn’t until I was going to bed that I realized I missed my meditation. What was cool about missing that day was I learned how meditation is really helping me feel more centered as I move throughout my day.

Last week I did the 3 day fruit “Fast”. I was very successful while I did it. But I have to admit that coming off the “Fast” I did not gorge myself but I didn’t follow the recommended diet to come back off of the “Fast”. So I am going to try again this week and follow the recommended path for this. I’ll let you know how it goes.

What did last week teach me aside from the importance of meditation? Well I learned how important it is to relax and as silly as it sounds how hard it is to do just that in our society. I also learned that if life seems to be to overwhelming and you are in over your head, unconditionally surrender everything over to God like Moses did at the Red Sea.

As my week five starts it is all about centering. The yoga practice now will be 1 hour and 15 minutes each day and the meditation is now 25 minutes. As I have noticed with each mediation time increase I find the first part of the week hard and by the end I am doing it with grace.

Here is to another week of learning!
Namaste.

Onto Week Four!

2010-03-15T21:44:00.002-04:00

Well I have made it through 23 days - past the half way point. This week is all about restoration. The physical practice now increases to 1 hour a day and the meditation is up to 20 minutes. In addition to that I am on a 3 day fruit only fast which started today and I made it! Yeah! This week I will be posting a couple of readings I have been using in class, additional information about my 40 Days, information about the Haiti donation class and information that will help our NY libraries.

Make it a peaceful evening!
Namaste.

If you Love Someone, Hurry up and Show it!

2010-03-13T17:50:00.006-05:00

Here is another reading that I read in yoga class this past week and have gotten a requests for copies. I thought it would be a great one to share with everyone! I hope you all enjoy it. I found it in a book called "How Many People Does It Take To Make A Difference?" that my dear friend Christine found at Starbucks!

"If you love someone, hurry up and show it.
If you have family or friends to forgive, forgive them now.
If you have childhood memories worth savoring or childhood friends worth calling, call them now.
If you your mother/father/sister/brother that are still living, start a fresh new relationship with them now.
If someone already died before you could tell them what you wanted to tell them...Go ahead and tell them now.
If there are children (or nieces or nephews) in your life, give them the positive experiences that you may have missed as a child - and do it now!
If you have a dream that is calling you to new heights, follow it now.
If you have special talents, gifts, abilities or energies to give, give them now.
If there's a cause in your community worth standing for or a battle worth fighting for - fight it now.
If you can help make someone else's dream come true, help it come true now.
If there is some kindness you can show to the people around you, show it now.
There are only so many tomorrows. We are not living in eternity. We have only this moment, sparkling like a star in our hand and melting like a snowflake."

The two author's of the above are Rosie Zadra and Marie Beyon Ray I believe.

Make it a peaceful day by choice!
Namaste.

What will Matter

2010-03-12T09:45:00.001-05:00

I know I have posted this before but it is a popular reading I do in Yoga class from time to time. It is a good reminder for all of us on how we should spend our time here on earth. Every time I read this someone asks for it... So Stuart, this ones for you. I am glad you made it to class. Hope to see you next week too!

Ready or not, some day it will all come to an end. There will be no more sunrises, no minutes, hours or days. All the things you have collected, whether treasured or forgotten, will pass on to someone else. Your wealth, fame, and temporal power will shrivel to irrelevance. It will not matter what you owned or what you owed. Your grudges, resentments, frustrations and jealousies will finally disappear, so to your hopes and ambitions. The wins and losses that once seemed so important will fade away. It won’t matter whether you were beautiful or brilliant. Even your skin color will be irrelevant.

So what will matter? How will the value of our days be measured?

What will matter is not what we bought but what we built.
Not what we got but what we gave.
What will matter is not our success but our significance.
Not what we learned but what we taught.
What will matter is every act of integrity, compassion and valor that encouraged others to do the same.

What will matter is not our competence but our character.
Not how many people we know but how many will feel a lasting loss when we are gone.
What will matter is not our memories but the memories of those who loved us.
What will matter is how long we will be remembered by whom and for what.

Living a life that matters doesn’t happen by accident.
It is not a matter of circumstance but of choice.

Choose a life that matters.

Make today a beautiful day - it is within your power!
Namaste.

I've Completed 50% of My 40 Days

2010-03-12T09:23:00.002-05:00

I had a break through this morning during meditation. This week the theme has been "Equanimity", which means evenness of mind especially under stress; right disposition; balance. If you know me you will know I am always busy doing something; Everything from being a wife and parent and everything that implies, to artist, to yoga teacher, to volunteer and the list goes on and on....

Anyway I finally figured out this morning that staying still, or better yet not having anything "Due" causes me stress. I have always known I am a stress eater but could never figure it out. You see the busier I was eating wasn't a problem. But when things slowed down I would eat everything even when I wasn't hungry. Sure I would blame it on PMS, hormones, or maybe it might have been blamed on something I was obsessing over. The fact of the matter sitting still was hard and to avoid being uncomfortable with myself I masked it with food. This is what I was able to uncover and learn about myself this morning during my meditation.

This bit of knowledge is embarrassing for me to admit. It feels like failure but on the other hand I am as human as the next person and I need to take my own advice and let it go. Admitting it is the first step in fixing it I do believe.

So here is to sitting still and being comfortable with that. And funny as it sounds, this yoga teacher needs to learn to relax!

Have a peaceful day and enjoy.
Namaste.

Week Three: Equanimity

2010-03-07T16:02:00.003-05:00

I am beginning the third week of my Lenten practice "40 Days to a Personal Revolution" by Baron Baptiste. The theme for this week is "Equanimity" which is the art of meeting life as it meets you - calmly, without drama or fuss. This is the way out of frustration and into the light.

Over the past two weeks I have noticed small changes taking place within my mind. Becoming more alert to areas of my life where improvement is needed has been the biggest change I have noticed. It is making me see life differently and taking responsibility for my actions and choices: helping me stop the "Blame Game"; making me mindful of judging others and myself with the hopes of stopping that behavior in the near future.

In the book "40 Days to a Personal Revolution" by Baron Baptiste, he writes about one of Buddha's lessons. "Buddha taught that throughout our lives, we should expect to encounter four specific joys and their opposites: pleasure and pain, gain and loss, praise and blame, and fame and disrepute. The world conditions us to seek unchanging pleasure, gain, praise and fame. The problem is that things don't always work out that way. When we experience pain, loss, blame and disrepute, we take it personally, as if something is deeply wrong with us. Equanimity releases us from unrealistic expectations about what life should be and allows us to stay centered amid the inevitable highs and lows."

I found the above excerpt from Baron's book to be very powerful and I understand it, it makes complete sense. Where I struggles is with the "HOW?" Hopefully by the end of this week I will have more insight into that!

Week three my yoga practice is now 45 minutes and my meditation is 15 minutes. I had the same experience that I had last week when I upped my meditation from 5 minutes to 10 minutes as I did this morning when I upped my 10 minutes to 15 minutes - my mind was wondering a lot. However,I should congratulate myself on staying put, breathing through it and not moving to change the uncomfortable feelings. I believe I am on the right path. By the end of last week I was able to just be, and what a blessing that was when I simply let go. I pray I can do it again!

This week I will be listing new poses (asanas) that I am including with this weeks practice and will be listing the next 4 and final laws of transformation. I know it will be a good week of learning.

Make it a peaceful day!
Namaste.

To Do List Finished!

2010-03-04T21:47:00.002-05:00

Have you ever had a day when everything on your "To Do List" actually got done? Well had such a day, today! Maybe it was because I meditated twice today.

I started my day with my normal morning meditation - still a bit scattered but I am able to connect to my breath when I start going to far away with my thoughts, so I am learning. Then I did a second one before I started on my art in the early afternoon. I felt very clear the majority of the day and had a good rhythm going.

My yoga practice came later in the day. I was supposed to teach children yoga this afternoon but there was a mix up with the schedule and they didn't need me to sub after all. I took advantage of the time and practiced with the kids just the same. It was a slow but nice pace. My body has been a bit sore from all the yoga I have been doing and this seem to fit my body just right!

Today has been an exciting day for me too because I tried a new medium called bronze clay in my artwork. I will let you all know how it turns out after I fire it on Saturday - it should be dry by then. I felt courageous as I tried it and boy was it fun.

Well I must be off to bed since I need to get up so early. Sleep well.
Namaste.

Today Has Been Great So Far and it is not Even 9am!

2010-03-03T08:35:00.003-05:00

Good morning everyone!!!! It has been a great so far and it is not even 9am!!!!I got up at 4:45am, went to the YMCA and ran for 30 minutes on the Pro-core machine which totally kicked my butt, then did a short but intense yoga practice, then taught yoga to a wonderful group of early morning risers like myself!!! Came home got my older son off to middle school, showered and am about to drive my younger son to elementary school because he has a huge project to bring in plus his French horn so I thought I would help!

I believe my great day started when I was brushing my teeth at 4:50am and all I could think was how lucky I am to be where I am in life, and in the world. What a blessing that I am completely thankful for!!! I am almost giddy from that thought. Maybe it has been my meditations or my yoga practice kicking in, but what ever it is I love it!!!! It could also be the weather - it is bright and at the end of the 6-7am yoga class we could see the sky light up which we haven't seen all winter!!!

Well my little one is ready for his day so off we go! Choose to make it a peaceful day, it is up to you!
Namaste.

Ten Down and Thirty to Go

2010-03-02T11:26:00.002-05:00

Ten down and thirty to go refers to my "40 Days to a Personal Revolution." I am a quarter of the way done and I have noticed some small changes already. First I feel calmer in my mind even though I still have busy brain, I feel less scattered. I have noticed that when I am doing crocodile I feel much more powerful and have noticed my body becoming more toned. Last but not least I am understanding how to balance my diet between foods that heat and foods that cool. My body was craving foods that cool but I was clueless!

I am understanding that yoga is more than just an exceptional workout physically but a program that shapes the mind as well as the body and gives you the power to liberate your mind. Something I have always known intellectually but it has been hard for me to put into practice consistently . Now I am learning to do just that, and the healing powers it has is beautiful. The key for me is the morning meditations. It starts me off slower and with purpose.

Here are the next 4 laws of transformation from Baron Baptiste's book, "40 Days to a Personal Revolution".

Law 5: Shift your Vision. In life we run into obstacles that upon first glance look like the fault of others, but a closer examination will often show that the obstacles can be a mirror of our own hidden barriers.

Law 6: Drop what you know. Too often, many of our educators lost sight of the fact the root of the word education is educere, which means "to draw forth from within". As a result, even to this day we are too easily influenced by what other people say. Praise makes us feel good while criticism makes us feel bad. We need to cast out our self-doubt. When we really let go suddenly we open up and there is space for new energy and insight.

Law 7: Relax with what is. Wisdom comes from not losing our cool in turbulent moments. Before we can find peace among nations, we have to find peace inside our own being.

Law 8: Remove the Rocks. Transformation comes not by adding things on but by removing what didn't belong in the first place. We change by peeling away all the toxic layers, emotional debris and beliefs that we have added on over the years. We forget that there is something perfect already within us.

The next 4 laws will come next week. Meanwhile I hope the laws listed above give you good food for thought.

I am off to start creating my spring jewelery line for "Wendy at Work" www.wendyatwork.com and Craft Company #6 www.craftcompany.com . If you have moment check out their websites. Special note: Craft Company #6 is celebrating women artists. All work by women artists is 20% off. Take a peek!

Namaste.

Happy March First!

2010-03-01T09:49:00.002-05:00

Happy March first!!! We are only 20 days away from the beginning of Spring! How wonderful. When I look outside it is hard to believe spring is so close. Over the past few days we got about 20+ inches of snow and it looks beautiful!

Well I have completed 9 days of my "40 Days to a Personal Revolution" and am still going strong. This morning I was up and out of the house by 4:55am. Over to the YMCA and took a one and a half hour spinning class after that I went into the studio and did my half hour yoga practice. I felt very strong in my practice today. Chair/thunderbolt pose is always challenging for me but I did it a few times and held it for 8 breaths each time even though I wanted to come out of it. That is good for me! I also have been back bending more which is always something I avoid. I believe I am overcoming the poses that have held me back and that I am improving. It feels great!

Meditation on the other hand is still difficult. Today's meditation theme seemed to be "What do I have to do today and this week". I am able to quiet my mind for half of the 10 minute time frame. I thought I would be upset that thoughts kept popping up but it really didn't matter so much to me today. It was almost as if I was expecting that. This to will come with practice.

So much to share and so little time to do it. I will be sharing the next 4 laws of transformation tomorrow. Meanwhile choose to have a peaceful day and breathe!

Namaste.

Photos from Mirbeau

2010-02-28T11:42:00.007-05:00

Outside of Mirbeau. Beautiful!!!

The snow was incredible!

Mike at the Inn.

Skaneateles Lake taken from Main Street.

It took us about a half hour to dig our selves out of our parking space the final morning, that is how much it snowed overnight!!!!

All dressed up for our special night out!

One of my favorite shops. It is called Paris Flea. Absolutely beautiful!

Dinner at Rosalie's Cucina - the best Italian food ever!!!!

Mike and I went to Mirbeau in Skaneateles, NY to celebrate our 16th wedding anniversary (which was in November 2009)this past week. It was beautiful, and we felt like we were in France. This snow made it very enchanting and cozy! We both had a wonderful time! It was hard to come back.
Namaste.

Onto Week Two

2010-02-28T10:45:00.002-05:00

Today starts week two of the "40 Days to a Personal Revolution." My practice is now 30 minutes and my meditation is now 10 minutes. I started this morning with the meditation and I have to be honest it was harder than the 5 minutes was. I found my mind wandering constantly and found my mind full of "Chatter" that I wasn't able to quiet this morning. I was getting frustrated but then I reconnected with my breath and calmed down. Very interesting to say the least.

Next, with my hot cup of coffee in hand, I read "Week Two" in the "40 Days to Personal Revolution" book by Baron Baptiste. The mediation section for this week made sense to me after I experienced all the chatter earlier. This week I am to just listen and "label" the constant chatter. For me my labels will say things like... "Mommy's laundry list of things to do" or "Must not Forget..." or "I wish I said this way back then..." This observation of the chatter will help me to recognize patterns that I need to let go of.

In week two I will be balancing my diet even more. The first week I discovered what my body needs and learned about foods, foods that cleanse the body; foods that build the body; I learned what are foods that are more heating and foods that are more cooling. With this knowledge I am beginning to understand how to recognize what my body needs and balance it accordingly. Week two the focus is on fresh food. Incorporating fresh fruits, vegetable, lean meat, fish and whole grains and preparing them simply. I love to cook and eat this way already so I will be challenging myself on avoiding any and all foods that come in a package with the exception of my morning oatmeal and yogurt. This should be interesting! I will avoid orange juice from a package and try my hand at fresh squeezed juices. Maybe I will make homemade pasta with the pasta press my brother-in-law gave me years ago that I still have yet to use. Needless to say it will be an adventure.

Here is the list of poses that I did this morning that I was able to fit within the half hour. They are as follows: Child's pose; Downward facing dog; Rag doll; Sun salute A; Sun salute B; Warrior 2; Triangle; Side plank; Crescent lunge; Twisting chair; Bridge pose; Wheel; Boat pose; Supine twist; Dead bug; Corpse pose. I also did handstand with my husband's help.Each pose was held for 5-10 breaths.

Last on my list for this week are the excavation questions. I found them very thought provoking. Here are the three that I am still pondering. 1. What is my most meaningful creation in life? 2. What is my most courageous act? 3. Whom do I resent and how is that affecting me? I jotted down my ideas but will continue to work on them throughout the week. Great food for thought!!!!

Here's to the next 7 days of self discovery!
Namaste.

Seven for Seven!!!

2010-02-27T17:16:00.002-05:00

Yeah! I made it! Seven days of yoga and seven days of meditation have been completed as I continue my journey towards "40 Days to a Personal Revolution". I feel very good mentally and physically and am ready to up my minutes per day. I will now be meditating for 10 minutes and doing at least 30 minutes of yoga for the next seven days. I am finding a rhythm with my meditation and am beginning to understand clearing of my mind. It doesn't happen for the entire 5 minutes but I am able to do it for part of the time. I find it a very calming part of my day.

More to come in a moment - kids are calling better find out what they need!
Namaste.

Donation Yoga

2010-02-26T22:58:00.002-05:00

Donation Yoga for Haiti tomorrow, Saturday Feb. 27th at 11:15-12:30pm at the Eastside YMCA in Penfield. The cost is $10. Please pay upstairs before the class begins. All the money collected is going to the Red Cross for Hait. I hope to see some of you there for this great cause! Remember you can make a difference!

Updates on day 5 and 6 of my "40 Days to Personal Revolution" to be posted tomorrow! I am still on track with yoga and meditation and feeling great about it.

"Be the change you wish to see in the world!"
Namaste.

Day Four

2010-02-24T08:53:00.003-05:00

Today my day started off at 4:45am as I got up and went over to the YMCA. I did 20 minutes on the elliptical machine then into the studio for my 25 minute practice. I used the same practice that I used yesterday and noticed a difference in my hamstrings during "Parivrtta Krounchasana" (twisting lifted leg pose). It just felt better today as if my body knew what was coming and was ready.

After I did my practice I taught from 6-7am and was able to flow with the class for part of the time. It is a treat as a teacher to be able to flow a little bit with the class and tap into their great energy. I had a few new students this morning and that in and of its self is exciting to me. I hope they enjoyed their first class.

As a teacher it is thrilling to share a first class with a student. You never know how they will take to it and it is fun to see them start their own journey. Sometimes they come back and sometimes they don't, or they don't for a while then you will see them and they will say they needed it. And the coolest thing is when they come back and smile at you. You know they will keep on practicing, when that happens. It is just something you feel.

About my 40 day journey, so far I feel on top of the world. Prior to this adventure I was feeling down, almost lost, which for me felt very foreign, but it was true, that is how I felt. Everything was bothering me, stuff that I would normally be able to brush off I couldn't for some reason. Now I feel as if a soft breeze of change has blown my way giving me direction and the energy that I was lacking.

I find that the meditation at the beginning of the day seems to help me set my mind to the tasks at hand. It is such a pleasure to spend those first few moments of the day just "being still".

Like most people I came to yoga for the physical reasons of healing my body and then wanting to tone it. What I gained over the years and am fully recognizing and appreciating is the healthy dose of mindfulness training that I also get. That has made practicing a pleasure even though it is very challenging. In the words of Baron Baptiste "I believe that this quality is what gives yoga its magical and transformational powers..." How true that has been on my journey.

Make it a peaceful day - you do have the power to do that!
Namaste.
PS You are already so much more that you think you are!!!!!

Day Three

2010-02-23T11:35:00.003-05:00

Today has been a nicely paced day so far. I started with my 5 minutes of silence (meditation) then did the usual routine with the kids in the morning, walked the dog and then got to do my yoga practice once everyone left.

For my practice this morning I used the CD from Baron Baptiste's "The Yoga Bootcamp Box". I did the 20 minute vinyasa flow. I enjoyed being led through the practice and not having to think - truly a treat for a yoga teacher. I noticed my mind really connecting with my body. I am a bit stiff from my run/biking yesterday and this helped release the quads which have been screaming at me. I feel more alert.

I also took time to prepare 2 yoga classes for children that I will be teaching later today. As I was gathering my material, I reread the introduction to "My Daddy is a Pretzel" by Baron Baptiste. It is a very simple book and great for children 3-8 years of age. However the "Introduction" and "Tip" at the back of the book have great ideas that are ageless and important to all. The following paragraph in particular struck me as a parent and yoga teacher. I believe you will agree.

"As every parent understands, children imitate what they see, hear and feel. They naturally look for examples to follow. Although children have an inner compass that points them towards a true north, they do not know the difference between habits that give life and habits that take life away. They simply imitate and do what they see, hear and experience. So it makes a big difference when we adults make efforts to give direction and show what habits lead to a vital, healthy and happy life."

Most children do as they see, not always what they hear. So let's give them a hand and teach them through good examples that they can see and experience.

Have a peaceful day.
Namaste.

Day Two

2010-02-22T09:47:00.002-05:00

The second day I still feel very excited and hopeful for personal growth. I was up and at the YMCA at 5am. I cycled for 65 minutes in class, ran for 25 minute-21/4 miles, then I went to the studio and did a 30 minute yoga practice. Once home I did my 5 minute meditation in between one son leaving for middle school and having to wake up my younger son for elementary school.

I am trying to keep up with my cardio for now. I realize at some point in my 40 days I will have to reduce it as my practices get longer. I still only have 24 hours a day to work with.

Here are the first few laws of transformation written by Baron Baptiste in his book "40 Days to Personal Revolution".

Law 1: Seek the Truth, letting go of the ego and repenting which in it's highest form is self acceptance.

Law 2: Be Willing to Come Apart, we can give up the illusion that everything is okay and that we control anything, that is when the true spiritual work can begin.

Law 3: Step Out of Your Comfort Zone, Jesus taught, life is about letting go of anything and everything that blocks wisdom from shining through.

Law 4: Commit to Growth, remember there are two forces (wolves) living within each person: a pull toward security - preservation of ourselves as we are and a pull towards growth. Whichever we hold as more precious (feed) we cultivate.

As I read and reread the 12 laws of which I told you about the first 4, I will go into more depth as I understand them and apply them to my life and growth. One theme I seem to get is "Faith". We must have the hope or faith that we can do better and then just go for it!

Have a peaceful day.
Namaste.

Got Ready, Got Set and Today I Began

2010-02-21T15:20:00.003-05:00

Today has been a beautiful day in more ways than one. First let me describe outside here in upstate New York on February 21st. The sky is crystal clear and the sun is brilliant. There is no wind and it feels warmer than the 32 degrees reported. A perfect day for a walk and to build a snowman.

I got up naturally at 7:00am did my meditation then went to the YMCA to run and do my yoga practice. It is great getting there so early on a Sunday. It is peaceful and relaxing. After I ran for 3 miles I went in to the studio and did my practice for 35 minutes. I felt great and it was such a pleasure to do savasana with no distractions. When I practice at home my dog Charlie loves to lay on top of me at that point which is sweet but very distracting, needless to say!

After getting home and having my decaf coffee I read another "Law of Transformation" and got ready for church. We all went to the 11:00am mass. I love it when the homily and life are in sync with one another.

What have I learned today? I have learned that life is all about choices. We can make up all sorts of excuses as to why we won't better ourselves or situations. The excuse that is used most frequently is "I don't have enough time." We choice not to have enough time by over scheduling ourselves, our children, prioritizing poorly and then wonder why we are so frazzled. We tend to put "things" in front of relationships and we choose to put God last if we even think of him at all. Is it really a wonder why the world is in such a state?

It would be great if we all could choose to take five to ten minutes each morning to just sit and be. When thoughts pop up and they will, acknowledge them and send them on their way and reconnect with the breath. It is easy, painless and doable. It will set your day up beautifully. Let's remember life happens but let's enjoy the ride while we can.

Namaste.

PS I found this photo, thought of the Olympics and thought it would be fun to share especially since the sky that is pictured looks exactly like the sky in NY right now!

Game Plan

2010-02-20T14:52:00.003-05:00

Well tomorrow will start day 1 of 40 for my "40 Days to Personal Revolution". Since Wednesday when Lent started, I took time to read the beginning of the book, the laws of transformation which there are 12 of, and Week One so I know what to expect. I also have been meditating everyday for 5 minutes, doing a 20 minute practice above and beyond my normal yoga practice and I dusted off my journal. Now I can keep track of my progress and I will also have a place to answer the "Excavation Questions" which are at the end of each week.

Each week has 4 main elements to it. First the physical practice, second balancing your diet, third the meditation practice and forth the excavating questions. When done in combination I believe lots can be discovered.

There are many things I like about this book so far. One of my favorite things is all the quotes that Baron includes from the Bible, Jesus and Buddha to name a few of the sources. Here are some samples: From the Bible, "There are no riches greater than a sound body." "Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself. Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections, but instantly set about remedying them - every day begin the task anew." Saint Francis.

I am excited and energized for this new beginning. Where it will take me only God knows.

Have a peaceful day!
Namaste.

Lent... Each Journey Must Start With One Step!

2010-02-19T08:35:00.002-05:00

Lent just started this past Wednesday and I want to do something different and meaningful this year that I have never done before. I have been thinking about this for some time. Now in the past I have always been pretty good with giving something up that I truly enjoy but this year I want to add something rather than take away something. I thought how can I change the world, what can I add to it? I mean really I am just one person, then it hit me, it only takes one person.

I went and purchased Baron Baptiste's book "40 Days to Personal Revolution". To my surprise this book has beautiful insight into our souls and who we are and what we can do with effort. Sure there is a strong yoga element but it is presented as a means to an end. And that end is to create a better, kinder person, the person God wants us to be.

Of course in doing this program I will be doing yoga everyday for 40 days beginning with 20 minutes each day for the first week and then increasing it from there. Along with the the physical yoga practice I will be meditating for 5 minutes each day the first week and increasing it from there. There are other elements to this that I will continue to discover while I am on this journey.

My intention for Lent is to complete this program, grow towards the person I am meant to be and share the process with you. As I have heard it said before, "Anything worth doing is done better when shared." I will be posting my progress as it relates to this journey as often as possible with the hope that this journey I take will inspire at least one person and then I have changed the world for the better.

Oh yeah I still gave up chocolate!
Namaste.

Happy St. Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T21:41:00.004-05:00

Happy St. Valentine's Day!!!!Even though today was filled with going to the boys basketball games (they had 4, 2 each) we all managed to have a relaxing and fun morning before all the chaos. I made a beautiful breakfast for everyone and we all opened our valentines that we made for each other. We had great laughs as we told each other why we loved each other. It was one of those moments you wish you could freeze. Then reality set in and off we went. We ended the day with my father and had dinner at his home. Truly a blessed day!

Namaste.

Authentic Self What does it Mean?

2010-02-11T09:36:00.007-05:00

I have been struggling for some time now trying to figure out this question, "What is our authentic self?" Many times when I feel I have gotten it right, I find that I still have so much more to learn, which is a beautiful lesson in humility and good for my soul. I feel connected to who I am to be in this life during such moments of intense observation of myself.

Witnessing our world from my corner, I see so many wonderful aspects but I also see where we can all improve. That is what I struggle with, the lack of effort, faith and respect that I witness. I see it often in adults and then witness the trickle down effect to children. I struggle with not judging others since I do not walk in their shoes. This is hard for me.

When describing myself I would say I am an optimist and extremely grateful for the many blessing in life. I work on seeing the good in people and it is there for certain!

But answer me this, please, how does one teach a child not to fall prey to peer pressure when adults do constantly, and not pass judgement? As a parent I have been called upon to explain this to my children when they have witnessed it in the adults around them. This is hard especially when the adult behavior does effect them.

Life is so different from when I grew up. I am not sure about you all, but my parents didn't over schedule me, or try to fit me into groups that were not for me, when they said no they meant it for our own good and they always had strong moral courage and that was that. Where has that way of life gone? Is it still out there? Is it out there and hiding? Where has courage to do the right thing gone? Why aren't parents doing their job? If we all stick together we could get through this easier I believe.

This reminds me of a line in a reading that I often read in my yoga classes. It reads like this, "I want to know if you can disappoint another and still be true to yourself."

What is our authentic self and how do we find her?
Namaste.

ONE

2010-01-30T19:59:00.002-05:00

How many people does it take to make a difference? One.
One song can spark a moment
One flower can wake a dream
One tree can start a forest
One bird can herald spring
One smile begins a friendship
One handclasp lifts a soul
One star can guide a ship at sea
One word can frame a goal
One vote can change a nation
One sunbeam lights a room
One candle wipes out darkness
One laugh will conquer gloom
One step must start each journey
One word must start a prayer
One hope will raise our spirits
One touch can show you care
One voice can speak with wisdom
One heart can know what’s true
One life can make a difference
That difference starts with you!
- Author Unknown
Namaste

Custom Order

2010-01-26T20:41:00.004-05:00

I just created this custom "Treasured Locket" for a friend's sister-in-law. I had great fun creating it. I was given her sister-in-law grandmother's writing from an old Christmas gift tag that had both of their names on it and started from there. Her favorite flower is a daisy and I found one on a postcard dated 1909, so I used that along with the 1 cent stamp. They call each other "Bum" which I thought was cute so I added that word by cutting out letters from old postcards. Additional ingredients include my signature chocolate wrapper, hidden house, page from a 1885 prayer book and hearts. It is such an honor to be trusted with someones "Treasures"!

*Special Note: The word "Love" that you see is my grandmother's handwriting. I am paying it forward as best as I can!
Namaste.

New Work in Time For Valentine's Day

2010-01-22T17:16:00.003-05:00

New Item for 2010

2010-01-16T22:30:00.007-05:00

These 17 inch necklaces on black Greek leather were created with original collages that I made from all sort of cool stuff including my grandmother's writing, letter from vintage magazines and postcards dating from 1910-1920. These necklaces sell for $52-56 at Craft Co. #6 in Rochester, NY www.craftcomapny.com

This "Treasured Locket" pin was created using a letter from my grandmother describing the first snow fall in 1965. I added foil from a Hershey kiss, roses from a 1910 postcard and of course hearts and a hidden house. This pin sells for $59.00 at Craft Co. #6 in Rochester, NY www.craftcomapny.com

These "Treasured Locket" heart necklace include an original collage, gemstones, trade beads from the late 1800's, pearls and the clasps are either real Indian head nickles, mercury head dimes or vintage clip on earrings. The price range is $198-218, and can be purchased at the Craft Co. #6 in Rochester, NY www.craftcompany.com

I hope you enjoyed looking at my new creations for St. Valentine's Day. Have a peaceful evening.
Namaste.

Happy New Year

2010-01-11T10:15:00.002-05:00

Once again we have the opportunity to focus on goals, growth and where we want to go throughout 2010. It is that fresh start we have all been craving.

I am putting together ideas of how I would like to shape this new year for myself, family and how I can impact the world positively.

This year I am going to start by simplifing and organizing my home. This will help me create the balance I need. I believe once that is accomplished and maintained the burden of "keeping house" will lessen to a certain degree. And as it does, it will provide me the peace of mind that I and my family need, producing fruits of its own.

Secondly I am going to devote time, energy and effort to grow both of my businesses. As you may or may not be aware I am both an artist and yoga instructor.

My plan for my art is to brand myself and gain a few more national clients and perhaps even create a line of inspirational t-shirts with some of the proceeds going to a worthy cause. As part of this effort a group of women artists that I have been blessed to meet and call friends, have agreed to help each other set and meet goals. We meet on Sundays at various coffee houses. This group will help market and critique each others artwork.

As for my yoga I am going to grow it with more corporate clients and bring yoga to them at their workplace. I teach children and I hope to reach more children this year through yoga too. Last but not least, I am a firm believer that the best teachers are those that commit to being life long students themselves. My prayer is that I get into Baron Baptist's teacher training and continue towards my 500 hour level. (I am already at the 200 hour level).

So here is to the New Year, fresh starts, dreams and practice!!!!!!!
Namaste.

Reason for the Season

2009-12-17T16:24:00.003-05:00

I was sent the below ideas today and thought "Wow someone is thinking!" So I thought I would share it with you all.

1) Simplify. Cut a few things out if you're feeling you don't have enough time, money, etc.

2) Watch your thoughts - we get hung up on thinking "I don't have enough." Switch it to "I have enough time, money, etc. Our thoughts are what drive us crazy - not what is actually happening to us.

3) Don't lose sight of what's important: family, friends, sharing time together - being happy! Be present in the moment and grateful for the friends and family you have.

Let's remember the true reason for the season - Christ's birthday and truly thank God for such an amazing gift given freely to us all!
Namaste

I Love This Quote

2009-12-11T07:30:00.004-05:00

A friend gave me this quote this morning after yoga class and I love it so much I had to share it!

"Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving well-preserved, but to skid in sideways, chocolate in one hand, wine in the other and still screaming, 'Whoo, what a ride'"

Make it an awesome day.
Namaste.

What will Matter

2009-12-08T18:01:00.002-05:00

Ready or not, some day it will all come to an end. There will be no more sunrises, no minutes, hours or days. All the things you have collected, whether treasured or forgotten, will pass on to someone else. Your wealth, fame, and temporal power will shrivel to irrelevance. It will not matter what you owned or what you owed. Your grudges, resentments, frustrations and jealousies will finally disappear, so to your hopes and ambitions. The wins and losses that once seemed so important will fade away. It won’t matter whether you were beautiful or brilliant. Even your skin color will be irrelevant.

So what will matter? How will the value of our days be measured?

What will matter is not what we bought but what we built.
Not what we got but what we gave.
What will matter is not our success but our significance.
Not what we learned but what we taught.
What will matter is every act of integrity, compassion and valor that encouraged others to do the same.

What will matter is not our competence but our character.
Not how many people we know but how many will feel a lasting loss when we are gone.
What will matter is not our memories but the memories of those who loved us.
What will matter is how long we will be remembered by whom and for what.

Living a life that matters doesn’t happen by accident.
It is not a matter of circumstance but of choice.

Choose a life that matters.

Fun Things to do to Keep Your Sanity In December

2009-12-06T21:29:00.002-05:00

This time of year we all get so wrapped up in our list of things to get done before December 25th, that we end up exhausted, sick, tired and missing the true meaning of the season. Now I know there are things we have to get done but this year I am going to make the effort to slow down and savor the season. Here is my list to help me stay on track during this fun and busy time.

1. Remember the reason for the the season and base your priorities on the birth of Jesus and his teachings.
2. Be a tourist in your own city and seek out fun holiday things you have never done before.
3. Make hot coco with real milk and melted chocolate - no Swiss Miss.
4. Cut down your own Christmas tree. Enjoy the fresh air.
5. Bake cookies, let the kids help and take lots of pictures.
6. Set aside 1 hour, once a week - make an appointment with yourself if you have to - and pour a cup of tea and grab your favorite book, set the timer and enjoy.
7. Make it a goal to get to bed once a week at 9pm. You will be amazed at how much energy that will give you.
8. When you decorate play some Christmas music - favorites for me include "Carole of the Bells", "Ave Maria", "Silent Night", and "Charlie Brown Christmas" sound track!
9. Practice Yoga and or workout a few times a week - make that appointment again if you have too. I do and I am there at 5:15am.
10. Practice patience - this time of year we are presented with many opportunities to either blow our stack or we can breathe deeply, smile and remember that we are all trying to get it all done on time.

Make it a peaceful day - it is a choice!
Namaste.

December

2009-12-03T13:18:00.002-05:00

Each week I will be listing fun things to do in preparation for Christmas. This will give us a chance to truly enjoy this beautiful season by showing patience and love to those around us. It will also help us keep on schedule and help us prioritize things better. Here is to a happy and healthy Christmas Season!
Namaste.