Cindy Eubanks * BLOOM

California Central Coast Treasures

2012-01-26T23:50:00.000-08:00

Venture to Morrow Bay

I just returned from a trip to the beautiful Central Coast of California. A good friend of mine from Ohio (Thea Brigham) just moved to Arroyo Grande and she invited me for a visit. Thanks for the great time Thea!!

Saturday we explored the beaches at Pismo and Grover. It was part stormy, part sunny - but beautiful! At Grover Beach there is a Monarch butterfly grove. The butterflies migrate from the Rockies and even as far away as Canada each year to this same area. There are thousands of butterflies grouped together in the trees. During cooler weather (which it was when we visited) the butterflies stay huddled in large groups - but when the sun is out and the temp is above 55 they fly around in the woods. Quite a sight I am sure! There were telescopes set up so we could see into the clusters - and view all the individual butterflies. It was pretty amazing!

We then headed to Santa Barbara to explore all the sights, shop and eat at a few of the many, many wonderful restaurants. It was beautiful, refreshing, and uber cool. We both decided the pressure to be "cool" would be exhausting if you lived there. But maybe "cool" comes with a Santa Barbara address? Who knows. But it was fun and not possible to see it all in a two days. I would love to go back.

As always, when I travel, I look for bead shops, yarn or fabric stores and off-beat galleries. This time I found a very cool place in a very unusual location. On my way to Thea's I stopped off to visit the Santa Inez Mission. To get there I had to go through the little Danish down of Solvang. It is totally Danish in every way - from the architecture, the food and the atmosphere. After visiting the Mission, I took some time to drive around the streets of Solvang. One store caught my eye - it was filled with extremely bright colors - red, pink, orange, yellow - it was called Knit Fit, A Creative Community. I parked on Copenhagen Street and walked to the store. When I opened the door I fell in love! Fabric, yarn, art supplies, papers, felt and more. All in the most beautiful bright colors! It filled my heart with joy! Take a look for yourself.

There is so much more to tell, but I promised I would keep my posts short(er). So you can see the rest of the trip in pictures. It was a full five days!

Thanks again Thea, for showing me such a wonderful time!

In the spirit of adventure and friendship, Cindy

What do you want?

2012-01-14T17:59:00.000-08:00

How can you set an Intention when you don't know what you want?

The past two weeks my Awaken • Emerge • Create Spiritual Discussion Group has been discussing setting Intentions for 2012. When I asked people to share their intentions, one person volunteered. Others has some idea, but others had no idea. The concept for this topic was to help people look to the new year and create plans for a meaningful year. Not just the tired old "resolutions". But what I didn't realize, people are not so clear on what they want. Sure, they can tell you what they don't want, but seeing a clear picture of what they DO want, not so easy. It has challenged me.

The truth is, knowing what you don't want is half way to finding what you do want. But it seems a bit more complex - or so I thought it was. Then I listened to a guided meditation by Deepak Chopra (the link is below). In the mediation he guides you to an understanding of the "infinite organizing power of intention". What I realized from listening to the mediation a couple of times is that intention acts without much effort - we think and intention follows.

I learned three important things:

Ask your heart what you want, not your head.
Ego gets in the way of truly understating what you desire.
Gratitude eliminates ego. Ego cannot co-exist when we are in a state of gratefulness.

But, the most important thing is the knowing that we can harness the infinite organizing power of intention because we are part of the bigger infinite field of possibilities! When we can accept the concept that we are part of everything that is, then an intention becomes a simple process. The power of a thought.

Hope you enjoy this meditation! Just click the link below. Thanks Deepak. Let me know what you think.

http://www.chopra.com/files/newsletter/Jan12/Jan12-Waterfall.html

In the spirit of infinite possibilities, Cindy

Crazy Sexy Diet - Book Review

2012-01-08T08:40:00.000-08:00

Eat your VEGGIES, IGNITE your spark, and LIVE like you mean it!

In 2003, Kris Carr was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. She began an adventure that she captured on video and made into a documentary called "Crazy Sexy Cancer". Since her cancer was very rare (0.01%) and had no known cure, she decided to get healthy and change her diet and life style. She begins to investigate alternative methods of treating the disease. First she embraced the mantra "I am not sick" and then turned her search for health into a uplifting adventure. She is one amazing young woman. She has created the film documentary, two books about her journey "Crazy Sexy Cancer Survivor" and "Crazy Sexy Cancer Tips" and now has written a prevention book for everyone called "Crazy Sexy Diet". Kris has an unstoppable spirit and creative view on everything she does. It is contagious.

This book is about health and disease prevention. She talks about inflammation in our systems causing a multitude of problems, including cancer. Eating healthy, listening to our bodies and putting our health first seems like a broken record. How many times have we read about this type of information, but Kris tells it in a way that is funny, irreverent, clever, and inspiring. Her enthusiasm and contagious spirit call you into this book. And has she done her research! The book is chock full of wisdom and sound advice on nutrition and life style. Watch the video trailer for her book below.

If you want to be healthier in 2012 this is the book for you. I am starting off 2012 with a month long detox from sugar, dairy and processed foods. It has been a week and I feel like a new person - more energy, clearer thinking and less bloated. During this week I ran across this book and started reading it. I was immediately taken in by the message of vitality, health and spiritual wholeness. It is not a diet, but a way of life. I am inspired.

Kris Carr is a messenger. She was diagnosed with a fatal disease that she turned into adventure. She shared it with the world, created guidebooks for others with cancer and now she is reaching out to everyone, advocating prevention with this wonderful book. Many of us ask, "What is my purpose, why am I here?". Kris Carr is living hers in a crazy, sexy life. Her worst day, became the beginning of fulfilling her life purpose. And she's doing it in a big way!

In the spirit of crazy, sexy living, Cindy

An Attitude of Gratitude

2012-01-04T11:13:00.000-08:00

Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life

This morning I woke up with a song in my mind. An old 70's tune by Bill Withers, Lovely Day. Along with that song in my head, I kept hearing the word gratitude. It was a lovely way to wake up!

As I stretched and lay cozy in bed I let the song play in my head and contemplated the word gratitude. It is a state of mind. Gratitude is about seeing what is good in your life, instead of focusing on what's wrong. It is an instantaneous cure for being down in the dumps - just stop and think of all the things to be grateful for. It is an attitude adjuster.

It is well known that what we focus on expands. "Where your attention goes, energy follows", my yoga teacher used to say. If we completely focus on the problems in our lives, than those problems will grow! The more attention you give a negative thought the bigger it gets. Haven't you ever done that! I especially have this problem when I go to bed, the more I think about it the bigger it gets and I can't sleep and then the next day I am exhausted and usually I have forgotten what it was I was thinking about the night before! Crazy! Focusing on the negative is exhausting and very draining!

On the other hand, gratitude is fuel for peace, love and compassion. If you take time to think about what you are grateful for each day, then you feel energized and full of life. What an amazing difference! The same rule applies - "were attention goes, energy follows". Attention to what's good in your life, instead of what's wrong, energies the good and brings you more good! Now that is life affirming!

And all it takes is changing your thoughts! We each have the amazing power to change our thoughts and create an entirely different experience. Change your thoughts, change your life. It is totally under our control.

Gratitude is a simple, efficient way to do that. The more grateful you are, the more you will have to be grateful for. It's true! Give it try. How about making a gratitude list each morning or in the evening before you go to bed (or both!) You will be amazed how your life begins to change. I think I will start making my list today! A great way to start of 2012!

In the spirt of gratitude, Cindy

High Desert Winter Sunset

2011-12-29T20:45:00.000-08:00

Mother Nature Puts on a Show!

Tonight I had to go to the market for a few things. At the check out I could see what looked like a very pretty sunset through the sliding doors. As I wheeled my cart through the doors and the sky came into full view I nearly gasped! The sunset was glorious! The sky was brilliant orange and blue with the bright yellow-gold outlining the mountains. It was breathtaking! I pulled my cart over on the sidewalk and had to take a picture. I got out my iPhone and snapped one.

While I was taking the picture, several people noticed me. A couple said, "oh, nice sunset" with a quick glance to the west, another woman just smiled and then laughed (like I was from another planet seeing a sunset for the first time), and a then a young man with his family pointed at me and said "Look, she's taking a picture of the sky, that's funny". I was taken back, first, that they even noticed me and what I was doing, and second, for their own lack of recognizing the beauty of that moment.

Last night I was at the Awaken • Emerge • Create Spiritual Discussion Group and a few people talked about nature being their connection with God (Source, Universe, etc). I feel that too. When I walked out the market doors and saw that beauty - Mother Nature's show - I had no choice but to stop and be in awe. It felt like a sacred moment.

Now as I am writing this, upon further reflection, I am aware of how most people pay little attention to nature. Most of the folks coming and going from the market tonight were busy and in a hurry. They are caught up in the business of living in the modern world. A world where seeing someone appreciate an amazing sunset seems odd.

Today I am filled with gratitude for making the conscious decision to step out of "modern world" in 2001 and start living a life that is more authentic and allows me time to appreciate nature. Being able to stop and become present, in the current moment, is a gift and true blessing. Today reminded me that I want to be there more often!

In the spirit of nature's magic, Cindy

2012 is Just Around the Corner!

2011-12-28T01:03:00.000-08:00

Resolutions or Intentions - What's Your Plan?

In just a few short days it will be January 1, 2012. A fresh new year. Time to start thinking about whether or not to make some resolutions, or . . . are New Years' Resolutions a thing of the past? How many times have we made a resolution and then let if fall by the way side by February or March. I know I have!

Over the past few years I have stopped making resolutions, and have chosen to set "intentions" instead. It may seem like semantics, but it really is different. What makes it different? My belief is that a "resolution" is more like a goal. It is setting some ambition out in front of yourself and then you strive to achieve it. Where as, an "intention" is internally motivated from a deeper desire. The intention is created based on heart felt desires and then energy is stimulated and the law of attraction begins its process of manifestation.

"Intention is a very powerful force in nature." -Dr. Amit Goswami, Quantum Physicist

The process of setting intentions begins with taking some time to daydream. It requires finding some quiet space to be alone, uninterrupted, then daydreaming about how you would like your life to be. This isn't about reality - it is about using your imagination and exploring your dreams. Play out a variety of scenarios that get you excited! When we were kids we could do this with ease! As we grow into adulthood we become focused on "reality" and forget how to daydream altogether. But it really is a necessary skill!

"Reality is merely an illusion, although a very persistent one." - Albert Einstein

Once you take some time to daydream. Then begin to focus on some part of the dream that you can really imagine possible. Get as clear as you can - write is down and describe it in detail. Lynne McTaggart, in her book, The Intention Experiment, suggests once you have an idea take the following steps.

Create your intention - write it down and make it specific.
Mentally rehearse every moment of it with all your senses.
Visualize, in vivid detail, your intention as established fact.
Move aside - surrender to the power of the universe and let go of the outcome.

Once you create that intention and can visualize it in detail then it is just a matter of time before it becomes real.

With four days left in 2011 I hope you take some time to imagine the life your heart and soul desires and you create an intention for 2012! Let me know if you do - I love to support people in manifesting their best life!

In the spirit of possibilities, Cindy

Riverside Festival of Lights

2011-12-21T23:24:00.000-08:00

The Mission Inn

What a sight to see! The Festival of Lights in downtown Riverside, California! The Mission Inn, a historical hotel dating from the late 1800's is the hub of the festival. It is covered with over 3.6 million lights and it is spectacular!

We strolled the streets and downtown mall, explored inside and around the Mission Inn and enjoyed the shops and tasted a few holiday treats on our trip there Tuesday. The weather was perfect and there were crowds of people, which made it all seem more festive. It is truly an opportunity to experience the holiday spirit in action! You can't leave there without taking some of the energy with you!

Along the downtown mall all the store windows are filled with glittering lights and fanciful decorations. Loads of bling! One even has an up-side-down tree! There are outdoor cafes and booths with cupcakes (Casey's was a winner of Cupcake Wars on Food Network), hot chocolate, caramel corn and salt water taffy. There is even a reindeer to feed, live music and a skating rink with skaters galore! It was really quite fun! If you live anywhere near, you really should go! Here are some pictures of our evening adventure.

In the spirit of the Festival of Lights, Cindy

Creative Spirits Rising

2011-12-17T00:06:00.000-08:00

Charged with Creative Energy

Yesterday I had the pleasure (and opportunity) to met a group of artist's and have conversations that filled my heart with joy. What matters deeply to me is engaging with people on a soul centered - heart level and that's exactly what happened.

Last month I met Chandra of 2UrbanChikz and bought some of her art and jewelry. I knew right away that she was different, and I mean that in a very good way. She was creating her art and business from a place inside herself that was real and filled with passion. I was immediately attracted to her. A couple of weeks later I went to an art class she taught and made some fun encaustic (beeswax) art. Over the next few weeks I kept bumping into her and knew that the Universe had a hand in all this.

Yesterday I meet her at Starbucks to tell her about some of my plans for 2012, particularly my workshop on creating a heart centered business plan. She loved some of my ideas and we shared thoughts and stories. Then she invited me over that night to meet some of her fellow artist's friends at a Holiday Boutique she was having at her house. Of course I went!

She introduced me to some amazing women! I was lucky enough to talk to them individually and hear their stories about their creative process and the struggles they had following their passion. It was moving to learn how they each have faced obstacles, yet still honored their creativity by making time for it in their lives. It was very clear to me how much they all wanted to live their lives from that creative place inside where they all feel the most authentic. I was charged with energy and knew I had found some of my "people"!

In January I will be teaching a 6 week class - yet to be named - on creating a heart centered business plan. I hope that some of these women will be joining me. (Actually, right now I know two are for sure!) Past experience tells me that some new relationships are on the horizon - ones based on a deep level of shared passions and awakening! Can't wait to get started!

If you want to find out more about the upcoming workshop follow me on Facebook and "Like" my BLOOM: Awaken • Emerge • Create page!

In the spirit of building creative community, Cindy

Before & After Art Work

2011-12-11T20:25:00.001-08:00

RELAX . . .

This week I decided to liven up the color in my bathroom. At Target I found some bright green and blue towels on sale, and a cute dragonfly towel hanger. I hung it all up and realized I needed some art work above it on the wall.

Years ago I bought a vintage framed picture, with an old village painted on it. There was something about it I liked - maybe the fleur-de-lis pattern on each corner. What ever it was I just couldn't leave it behind. (I paid $1.50 at Village Thrift!) It traveled cross country with us from Ohio and has been gathering dust in the hall closet. I decided this was the time to use it.

I painted over the farm village scene with bright green and used white on the outside frame. I then found images of nature in magazines and gathered up a few. Next I made paper patterns of the letters R E L A X and used them to cut out the magazine images. With the help of a little Mod Podge, (decoupage solution), a row of blue painted dots and a coat of bees wax - I have a new painting for the bathroom.

At last the old frame has a new home! It looks good and reminds me to take it easy! It is a joy to make recycled art projects. One of my favorite things!

In the spirit of recycling, Cindy

Peanut Butter Pecan Turtles

2011-12-08T19:38:00.001-08:00

Yummy!

Last week my Mom made some very yummy candy - Peanut Butter Turtles. If you love chocolate and peanut butter then you'll want to make these. She said they were pretty simple to make and they turn out very cute and do look like chubby turtles. Here's a pic of one of hers and the recipe. Enjoy!

Peanut Butter Turtle Candies

Ingredients

72 pecan halves (about 1-3/4 cups)
1/4 cup peanut butter
2 tablespoons butter, softened
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
5 ounces milk chocolate candy coating, coarsely chopped
2 teaspoons shortening

Directions

On waxed paper-lined pans, arrange pecan halves in clusters of three.
In a small bowl, beat peanut butter and butter until blended; gradually beat in confectioners' sugar. In a microwave, melt candy coating and shortening; stir until smooth.
Spoon 1/4 teaspoon melted chocolate into the center of each pecan cluster. Place teaspoonfuls of peanut butter mixture into the center of each cluster; press down slightly. Spoon remaining melted chocolate over tops. Chill for 10 minutes or until set. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Yield: 2 dozen.

This recipe comes from A Taste of Home.

In the spirit of holiday baking, Cindy

Good Vibrations!

2011-12-07T23:11:00.001-08:00

Vibration and the Law of Attraction

It is a simple fact that what you focus on intensifies. I remember years ago when I first found out I was pregnant, everywhere I turned I saw things that had to do with babies. Suddenly, in every isle of the grocery store there was a baby in a cart or some item on a shelf for babies. This was the same store I was in the previous week, and I never noticed babies, or baby stuff. Another example people relate to is the thing that happens when you buy a new car. You love the new car and are so excited. You start driving around and everywhere you look you see a car like yours. You never really noticed them before, but now you see them at every stop light. This is the the law of attraction at work - where your attention goes, energy follows - and like things start showing up in your life.

Michael Losier, a teacher of the Law of Attraction, has a phrase he uses to describe this phenomenon; “You don’t get what you want, you get what you vibrate”. That’s what energy does, it vibrates. So when you activate an energy - like I did when I found out I was pregnant - that energy (as a vibration) goes out in the air and finds a similar vibration. That’s how it works - like energies connect.

So stop for a minute and think about your life. What is it that you have been focusing on? If you have been thinking about how much you hate your job, than you will attract more things to hate about your job. If you are constantly worrying about money, than you will attract more money issues to worry about. If you are trying to lose weight and all you think about is being fat and how you want to lose weight, you won’t attract losing weight, instead you will be creating more ways to stay fat. What is it that you have been thinking about that isn’t fitting with the true life you want to live?

Change you thoughts, change your life.

Just around the corner is a brand new year, 2012! A great time to start fresh and begin thinking new thoughts, ones that send out the vibrations you want to attract. All it takes is one step at a time. First, identify the thinking that is creating what you don’t want. Next, for a few days or even a couple of weeks, pay attention to your thoughts. Notice the thoughts that are creating that unwanted vibration. Once you have that awareness, you can develop thoughts that are in alignment with what you really desire and replace the old thoughts with the new ones. It is also good to develop a mantra to repeat when your mind goes off on the negative patterns again. I used the mantra “Abundance” to stop worrying about money. When ever I started worrying about money, I would stop, take a few deep breaths and begin repeating silently “abundance, abundance, abundance. . .” Within seconds the negative thoughts were gone, I felt calmer and I was re-programing my mind with a new thought “abundance”!

Try it and let me know how it works for you!

If you want to learn more about how to change your thoughts and this process, contact me.

In the spirit of energetic vibration, Cindy

Remembering Mary Kapper

2011-12-05T19:46:00.001-08:00

Some people are more than they appear . . . .

About 10 years ago I meet a woman at church. Her name was Mary Kapper. She was small, demure, and looked like a really nice old Grandma. But when we started talking, my opinion changed quickly. Looks can be deceiving. She was a powerhouse, opinionated, feisty, and not afraid to put in time volunteering for a cause she believed in. (And there were many). She had such a peaceful ease about her - between that and her social activism I immediately liked her and we became friends. We weren't the kind of hang out and talk on the phone friends, but we were "glad to see you" kind of friends. She was a mentor and a role model for me.

On November 25th she died at 86 years old. It was so sad to get the news. I went on line to read her obituary and I read an amazing story. I knew she was something special, but I didn't know the half of it.

Mary earned a degree in English Literature in 1947 from St. Joseph's College. She got married and raised 10 children! In the 60's she worked for civil rights causes and women's issues. She helped establish the Akron Women Against Rape in 1974. In 1978 she earned her Master's Degree in Social Work from Case Western University and became a dialysis social worker. Then in 1988 she moved to California and received her Master's Degree in Divinity from Starr King School for Ministry. She became an ordained Unitarian Univeralist Minister in 1989. She was pastor at a church in Minnesota and then Chaplin for Pathways Hospice in Oakland California. In her 70's she returned to Akron, Ohio to retire and be closer to family.

That's when I met Mary. I knew some of her history, but not all. I knew she had 10 children and she was a retired UU Minister but . . . . who knew! As I read her story I was overcome with gratitude for having known this amazing woman. She was a small, unassuming woman who showed her family and all that were lucky enough to know her that anything is possible if you set your mind to it. She was as real as they come and always ready to speak her truth.

Thanks Mary for being an example of faith in action. As a guide for living a full, meaningful and authentic life. And teaching us that anything is possible and age is no boundary.

You will be remembered,

Cindy

High Desert Bloggers Meetup

2011-12-03T18:42:00.001-08:00

Blogging Goals

Today was Blogger Meetup day! I always love to meet with my new blogging friends. Just getting together and sharing ideas and knowledge is so motivating. It reminds me how great the group process is, I love it. Today we discussed each of our individual blogging goals. Since I have been working on my "Right Brain Business Plan", I was prepared and shared it with them. It was my commitment to this group two weeks ago that motivated me to get it done. The feedback was great. They loved the idea of a visual map for the vision I have for my business. It is pretty cool. I will share it with you soon.

It took me a few moments to decide whether to add the picture or not. Some of my old "fat mentality" stuff was coming up and gave me a moment's pause. But I forged ahead, thankfully living outside of my old "fat mentality" and accepting myself just as I am today --sick with a cold, having a bad hair day, hearing a shirt that is too big -- and enjoying myself. That's what's important!

When I envision my goals, about blogging, my business, or about my life, it's what's inside me that I bring to the table. A spirit and an energy that is mine, unique to me. Today I am celebrating that! Also am filled with gratitude for Angie (on my right) for starting this Meetup. It has added a wonderful new dimension to my life.

In case you're interested, the next High Desert Blogger Meetup is Saturday, December 17th, 9:00 am at the new Starbucks at Hwy 18 and Dale Evans Pkwy.

In the spirit of community building,
Cindy

Awaken, Emerge, Create! New Meetup

2011-11-30T16:44:00.001-08:00

Edwene Gaines

Spiritual Discussion Group
Starting December 28th

During the late summer I went to a workshop by Edwene Gaines at Agape International in LA. During her talk she said she was so tired of "seekers". She loved that people were seekers, but when did it end? When did people become "finders" and start sharing what they have learned with other people! Everyone laughed. We all knew that being on a spiritual path was a life long journey. But, I realized what she meant - sometimes you are the student and sometimes you are the teacher. Take your turn.

This line of thinking fell right into alignment with some other revelations I had recently. First and fore most it was time for me to stop trying to FIX myself (which was part of my seeking) and accept that I was perfect just the way I am! Accept that I had done loads of soul searching, learning, healing, growing and evolving and I really understood a lot. It was time for me step into something bigger. I knew I had information to share and recognized that part of my life purpose was helping others awaken to their own greatness (wholeness, divinity, etc.) So move on girl!

In the wisdom of Edwene I am venturing forward as a teacher. This is really nothing new to me, teaching. But what is new to me is the motivation behind the teaching. Now I see it from a different perspective, before I was seeking and taught what I desperately needed to learn. Today I am teaching what I have learned from my heart, for the growth of my soul and the fulfillment of my life calling. The urgency is no longer there, but the calling is deep. It is a peaceful, yet exciting place.

To start it off I have set up a new Meetup called AWAKEN EMERGE CREATE! Spiritual Discussion Group. It will meet weekly beginning Wednesday, December 28th at 7:00 pm. To find out more click here. It is free, open to anyone interested in spiritual growth and will be a topic based discussion. A kind of consciousness raising group based on learning to live your best life. That is the CREATE part - learning to create a life that truly matches your authentic spirit. That makes living a joyful experience! I know it's going to be interesting and I can't wait to get started.

So, if you live in the High Desert and want to join me in some great discussions, then please join the Meetup and bring a friend. If you have never heard of Meetup and what to learn more, read my blog entry at High Desert Blogging.

Hope to see you on the December 28th!

In the spirit of sharing,

Cindy

Blooming in November

2011-11-27T23:03:00.001-08:00

BLOOM: Awaken Emerge Create

Over the summer I had an awakening and realized that there was something big missing in my new life in California. Work. I miss my work. Not just having a job, but following my life's purpose kind of work. The work I was doing in Ohio - life coaching, leading workshops, developing classes, and working on my Body Belief workbook. It was an important part of my life. And now, I feel it is more important than ever! I have things to do!

With this new insight, I decided to come up with a plan. Over the last year I kept running into Jennifer Lee, a business coach. And by running into her I mean, finding her website when I was looking up a recipe for crock pot stew, then seeing her book at Borders, or reading a blog that had a link to her site, then randomly viewing her on YouTube. It became clear to me that the Universe was trying to tell me something - so I ordered her book, "The Right Brain Business Plan". Right down my alley, being a right brainer myself (creative type).

For the past few weeks I have been working with Jennifer via her insightful and fun book and I am putting a plan together for my new business called BLOOM: Awaken Emerge Create. The kick off is in January. (However, I am returning to my blogging, starting today!)

So in preparation, I am doing some hard work, looking at what I want to offer and how to promote it in my new environment. Over the weekend I have been doing some exercises from the book. The one I finished today was "Make a Card Deck of Your Values". In this exercise, she suggests focusing on personal values and narrowing them down to 5 to 10, then making a visual collage of each one. It was so much fun and also very telling. I was totally engrossed and realized these values are the truth of who I am in all areas of my life. Here they are, in no particular order of importance: Creativity, Courage, Compassion, Relationships, Health, Spirituality, Peace (world & personal), Knowledge, Organization.

I am off to a good start and look forward to my next step - creating "The Big Vision Collage". I'll be sharing more of my journey soon!

In the spirit of purpose,

Cindy

21 Day No Complaining Challenge

2011-06-16T08:43:00.000-07:00

No Complaining for 21 Days! Can you do it?

On Sunday I went to Agape International Spiritual Center to hear prosperity teacher Edwene Gaines. She was amazing. She reminded me of my grandmother Amy and great-aunt Grace, but with a message that was nothing they would ever speak. She talked about prosperity using stories from her life, which brought them to life for all of us. She was motivating, empowering and gave me an entire new outlook on life. She has a book called "The Four Spiritual Laws of Prosperity" and I highly recommend it. (Although I have only read the first 10 pages! Trust me.)

The other thing she challenged us all to do was to go 21 days with out complaining, judging, or criticizing ourselves or others. Wow, that brought a big laugh from the crowd! But she was serious! She said start the first day and go as long as you can with out complaining and if you catch yourself complaining, start over at day 1. Geez - it could be a long 21 days!

On the drive home I thought about it and realized how much I do complain. Whether out loud or in my own self talk and mind chatter. Just the awareness of it made me want to do something. How would my life be better in 21 days if I stopped complaining, judging and criticizing? It could be transforming. But could I? So I have decided to take the plunge.

Starting today I begin my 21 Day No Complaining Challenge. Anyone out there want to join me??

In the spirit of acceptance, Cindy

Home Again

2011-06-09T15:04:00.000-07:00

Return from the Pacific Northwest

What a great trip we had to Seattle for Bella's 6th BD. She had a party at school and then a party at Sky High, an indoor trampoline place - very cool. Then a girls day out and lunch at her favorite restaurant. Pretty grand celebration for her 6 years. It was wonderful!

Bella 6 years & 1 day old! Hiking at Whidbey Island.

The drive up and back was beautiful. We had never driven through Oregon and Washington (or very northern California) so it was a real treat. It was a beautiful time of the year, spring flowers and blossoms were everywhere. Gorgeous! We stopped and visited many sites along the way. Here are a few of my favorites.

I also hit a few garage and estate sales along the way and found some very cool stuff. Looking forward to some new art projects. On the way home I had an inspiration (with the help of a book I bought) about making an art project a day for 365 days. My BD is next week and I think I am going to start! I will keep you posted. Now I have to go take a nap - too much lost sleep in the past 15 days!

In the spirit of adventure and returning to my own bed, (ahhhhhhh)

Cindy

Seattle Bound

2011-05-23T15:07:00.001-07:00

Early tomorrow we are off on vacation to Seattle. We are going to visit our family. Gdaughter Bella is turning 6! (OMG)! And her parents bought a beautiful new house I can't wait too see --and niece Jennifer is having a new home built --so three celebrations and life transitions.

We have decided to drive so we can enjoy the sights along the way. Neither of us have traveled this northern route in many, many years. It should be a beautiful drive.

First stop Grass Valley to check out the Sirvanada Ashram. (I'm thinking of taking a yoga retreat in a couple of months.) Then on to Oregon on Wednesday. I'll post some pics along the way.

In the spirit of adventure, Cindy

--Posted on the go from my iPhone

Blue Ribbon at the County Fair!

2011-05-17T23:00:00.000-07:00

It's time for the San Bernardino County Fair! This year opening day was the busiest in 7 years - record crowds! And I was one of them. There was a good reason - I was checking to see if any of the three art projects I had entered had won any ribbons. Jeff and I scoured the Community Building filled with hundreds of projects --everything from gems to quilts --baked goods to antique collections -- woven plastic to fine jewelry. It is a huge building! Finally we found my stuff. There is the case was my little folded book called "CREATE" and along side it was a blue ribbon! I was thrilled! My second item a necklace called "Apple Valley Memories" didn't win - too much competition, but my third item, a encaustic painting called "Bloom" (inspired by my friend Thea) won an Honorable Mention ribbon. Not too bad over all. I was pleased!

The reason I decided to enter the fair this year was for old time sake. When I was a kid growing up here in the desert I belonged to our local 4-H club. Instead of raising animals I did the homemaking stuff - cooking, sewing and home decorating. Each year we were required to enter our projects into the fair. I made baked goods, clothes, aprons, placemats--all kinds of things. It was a great experience and fun winning ribbons for my work. It gave me a real sense of confidence and pride. And the part I liked most was going to the fair with my Mom and looking at all the booths and seeing all the ribbons. It was a special thing we shared.

So this year I did it to celebrate that memory and I am glad I did! It was so much fun that I think I will do it again next year!

In the spirit of good old times and creating new memories, Cindy

Summer Ayurdedic Eating Workshop "Pitta Time!"

2011-05-15T09:07:00.000-07:00

What fun! Yesterday I attended "Cooking with the Seasons Series - Summer Ayurvedic Eating" at the home of Sirisha Karamchedu. Presenting with her was Ayurveda Specialist Marisa Laursen. We learned how to cook for the hot Pitta season. It was so interesting to watch as Sirisha explained all the ingredients and then loving prepared (as she demonstrated) many dishes for us to share.

It was a real gift. Sirisha knows her stuff and is so sweet! I learned so much from both her and Marisa. Plus ate some very delicious food with a very warm, and loving group of people. Looking forward to the next part of series.

Nothing like seeing all the bright colors of fresh food (displayed so beautifully) along with up close and personal cooking demonstration to get the creative juices flowing! It was inspiring! Plus she had some very cool kitchen tools that got me in the mood to do some shopping!

I'mmmmmm BACK

2011-05-13T20:39:00.000-07:00

Surprise! I am back and ready to start living the creative life. (Well I actually haven't stopped, but I was involved with another blog!) What I love about doing this blog is that it keeps me focused on looking at life in a creative way. With my eyes on the look-out for all things interesting --it makes my life more interesting and feeds my creative spirit! I am so happy to be back!

One fun thing I did while I was away was to visit the Bottle Tree Ranch on old Route 66 in Oro Grande, CA. Amazing place! The cool thing I found out is the guy who makes these great bottle trees used to work with my Dad over 35 years ago. Small world. Enjoy these great works of art!

Follow Me . . .

2010-09-02T19:57:00.000-07:00

The Belief Project has begun and I have a new address for my blog. If you would like to follow me you can click the link to the new blog below and subscribe via email. It is easy to do. Once you get to the new blog, look to the far right, below the green head (like the one here)and you will see a place to fill in your email address. Follow the link and you will be sent a confirmation email. You must respond to the confirmation email to begin getting my new posts! I am looking forward to sharing my journey!

Click here The Belief Project Blog

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The Belief Project . . something new

2010-08-31T23:16:00.000-07:00

Something new is happening in my life - The Belief Project! As many of you know I have been working on a program called Body Belief for the past couple of years and in the process of developing, testing and experimenting with the program I became more and more aware of the power of beliefs. I was so intrigued that I started reading books, watching films and videos, listening to Cd's, taking workshops, attending talks and searching the Internet high and low to find out more. What I found was a whole new science devoted to the power of beliefs. The concept of "core beliefs" has been around a long time, but the new science of belief takes a much deeper look into how beliefs control every aspect of our lives - it is fascinating!

Over the years I have been practicing the law of attraction and even doing workshops guiding people in the process. What I have come to realize is that the law works when our "core beliefs" are on board with the desire. But if we have deeply held beliefs that are counter to our minds desires then no matter how hard we practice the principals- it never works. Our beliefs hold the true power.

From all this information gathering, I have come to realize that I have some areas of my life that I stay stuck in due to my own powerful beliefs. These beliefs are running on automatic pilot. The beliefs are held as truths and operate nearly on a cellular level. They have never been truly challenged. Now I believe I have the awareness and tools to take 'em on! There is work to be done!

The Belief Project came about after I watched a film called "No Impact Man". An environmental writer decided to spend a year living the life he wrote about and began his no-impact on the planet journey. It was so inspiring, it made me think. This was a perfect opportunity for me to do the same thing. I could spend a year practicing the concepts I have been reading and learning about. I could begin using the tools I had discovered from the "new belief" teachers. It was time to stop doing research and start doing something - inspired action! And that is what I am going to do. I have developed a new blog and will record my progress over the next year. I am very excited and hope that you will follow me on my new journey.

Tomorrow I will be sending out the link to my new blog with subscription information!

Thanks for your support!

In the spirit of adventure, Cindy

Alive and Well in Sunny SoCal

2010-08-03T18:59:00.000-07:00

Where have I been!! It was June 12th the last time I posted on my blog Can it really be that long?? I am alive and well in Apple Valley, California. (Home of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans.) We moved into our new house on June15h (my birthday). It is wonderful - the right for us! Since then it has been a whirlwind of activities - unpacking, painting, shopping, and trying to find places for things. Plus adjusting to life in a whole new environment - the desert! A huge change from Ohio. The sun shines EVERY day!

We have also been entertaining, using our new fantastic patio and BBQ - that has been fun! (We celebrated my parents wedding anniversary just this past weekend.) Our new backyard is beautiful - a little green oasis in the desert. The yard is what sold us on the house!

However, I am having some difficulty adjusting. Things are so different here. I miss my friends, yoga, my spiritual circle of like minded people, my two favorite coffee shops, the metro parks, lightening bugs, Mustard Seed, Krieger's and of course escaping to Borders. It's hard to believe but I also miss Ohio thunderstorms! There are no replacements for those things here - so I am searching for some thing new. I know I will find exactly what I need - but it will just take time. Believe it or not we are thinking of taking up golf!

My art has taken a back seat in the past couple of months - but I am feeling the need to create. Since I have more free time it is a great opportunity. Plus I have open wall space everywhere - it is just crying out for some art!

My new life allows me a new freedom to explore myself and also opens a world of opportunities. I am still in the exploration process. One thing I know is that I am taking it slow - no more crazy busy life for me. (My new Doc diagnosed me with adrenal fatigue.) Time for me to slow down and find peace from the inside out. It will be a challenge but I am taking it a day at a time. Jeff is my teacher - he knows how to take it easy and never feels pressure or guilt - it used to make me crazy - now I see he has always been my teacher. You know what they say "when the student is ready the teacher will appear". My teacher has been here all the time - I just wasn't ready to be the student! (He's taking a nap as I write this!)

That's it for now. We'll see what comes along next! I'll keep you posted.

In the spirit of adventure, Cindy

Kingman AZ

2010-06-12T22:25:00.001-07:00

Beautiful Arizona! We drove to Kingman today and it was a magnificant day. The sky was the brightest blue I think I have ever seen with pure white puffy clouds - the ones you can just imagine floating on. Truly amazing. It was like watching the nature channel as we drove along the freeway. The clouds took different shapes and the sun shot rays between the clouds - like spot lights on the desert. It was a perfect day.

Tomorrow we arrive in California at my parents house. Monday afternoon we get the keys to our house and Tuesday we move in. I am so excited!

-- Posted on the go from my iPhone.