Unexpected situations that assault our sensibilities is one form, as my daughter experienced last Saturday while celebrating her birthday with friends upon discovering that her new purse, wallet and jacket had been stolen.  Undoubtedly, at the moment of discovery, the stress response kicked in with the realization of what it all meant and everything she now had to do–reporting stolen credit cards, thinking about all the scheduled credit card payments that would have to be updated, changing locks, “doing time” at the DMV to get another license, replacing keys and the countless items stashed away in a purse. 

Then this morning, I received news that a friend’s car had been broken into for the seventh time in less than a year, and two days back-to-back!  For sure criminal assaults take their tolls in many ways, robbing us of our stuff, not to mention our serenity, but more commonly, we’re increasingly assaulted with feelings of too many responsibilities, competing priorities, unexpected events, interrupted plans, or any number of self-imposed expectations that breed chronic stress, all with the potential for creating a  noticeable toll upon our health.

In Stress in America™ survey released yesterday, attention is drawn to the serious physical and emotional implications of stress and the inextricable link between the mind and body. It measures the attitudes and perceptions of stress among the general public and identifies leading sources of stress, common behaviors used to manage it and the impact of it on our lives. The report reveals a troubling picture of how stress is impacting the health of Americans, especially noted, caregivers and people living with a chronic illness such as obesity or depression. It is well-documented that chronic stress is a major driver of chronic illness, leading to a a deteriorating quality of life and a negative health destiny. www.stressinamerica.org

When cortisol is secreted into the bloodstream in response to stress, changes occur and overtime with prolonged levels of cortisol in the bloodstream (like those associated with chronic stress) have negative effects:

• Impaired cognitive performance
• Suppressed thyroid function
• Blood sugar imbalances such as hyperglycemia
• Decreased bone density
• Decrease in muscle tissue
• Higher blood pressure
• Lowered immunity
• Reduced inflammatory responses in the body
• Increased abdominal fat which studies have linked to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, cancer and dementia

Because stress is so deleterious to optimum health, implementing ways to manage it is vital. Exercise, therapy, connecting with others, talking, muscle relaxation, laughing, healthy eating and adequate sleep are important strategies. Well-nourished bodies are also better prepared to cope with stress. Multiple research studies have demonstrated that including adaptogenic herbs enhances the body’s resistance to stress, improving both physical and mental performance. http://bit.ly/weyo12.

Download more strategies “Save your Sanity through Life’s Stresses, Strains & Changes” at http://sandrastrauss.com/site/ We may not be able to stop life’s stressful events from occurring, but we can take action in both preparation and management of its impact by implementing proven strategies for both mind and body.

1. Direct Your Own Destiny
2. Believe in Yourself
3. Find Reasons to Smile
4. Embrace the Journey
5. Have Faith
6. Conquer New Heights
7. Follow Your Heart
8. Explore New Horizons
9. Dare to Dream
10. Let Laughter Happen
11. Share the Joy
12. Write Yourself a Happy Ending

I love this list and upon reviewing it more closely, recognized how in tune it is with our Guts, Grace & Gusto Guidelines featured in Dancing through Life with Guts, Grace & Gusto which I wrap my presentation talking points around.  These are vital to navigating the twists, turns and transitions encountered on our journeys. We’re all dancing along a tangled path of competing priorities, multiple challenges, squeezed by limitations of time and energy, meeting unexpected detours, collecting lessons for the heart along the way.  We need reminders to get us back on track, because our best intentions can get derailed at times.

For the New Year, what do you want? Are you on track with your heart’s desires? You have the power within you to put a new spin on your life, to dance to a new rhythm in keeping with the music in your heart. It’s about tapping your guts to create the gusto of what’s calling you to bring forth, perhaps though not as gracefully as you might desire. Creating change is often untidy and not a graceful process. Yet, vital to take even the tiniest step in the direction of your dreams, or your gusto, your life force is in jeopardy.

So if you’re looking for some inspiration, read aloud the above recommendations coupled with the GGG Guidelines that follow and get ready for lighting up a happy or even happier heart in the New Year.

• Know your true worth and ability to manifest abundance.
• Seize your destiny. What you do today makes a difference tomorrow.
• Listen to your heart. Feed your spirit.
• Live boldly with intention.
• Let go of perfection. Say good-bye to guilt.
• Expect the unexpected. Visualize desired outcomes.
• Meet life’s challenges with courage, faith and wisdom.
• Cultivate nourishing relationships. Build a supportive network.
• Let your life be a work of art that showcases your gifts and passions.
• Create daily moments of delight.

These Guidelines are illustrated in our book with stories of women making choices to tap their talents, experience more supportive relationships, fulfill a fantasy, express their unlimited potential that yield gifts of greater clarity, purpose, passion, love and joy–the fruits of going for the gusto. May you create the happiest New Year with a heart that dances to the music in your soul. For some New Year inspiration to fire up your intention, enjoy the dance of change. http://sandrastrauss.com/site/products/

Do you know someone who”s been affected by this debilitating condition? Those chances are increasing with as many as one million Americans now living with Parkinson’s Disease (PD), and about 60,000 Americans diagnosed with it annually. Research studies reveal convincing evidence of its link to environmental exposure in our increasing toxic world.

My dad was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease  when he was 59, so it became a very personal research project as to its cause, managing symptoms and prognosis.  My fast moving, quick-witted, and animated dad was ultimately transformed–slowed down, sometimes unable to move or speak,and many of his characteristic facial expressions disappeared, among other heart-breaking symptoms.   When my dad was diagnosed in the 70′s, PD didn’t have the same visibility as it does today due to the public awareness generated by actor, Michael J. Fox who was stricken with PD in his mid-thirties.

A new study led by researchers at The Parkinson’s Institute, published Nov. 14 in the journal Annals of Neurology reports “Our study confirms that common environmental contaminants may increase the risk of developing [Parkinson's], which has considerable public health implications,” according to Dr. Samuel Goldman and his colleagues. This study indicates that exposure to the industrial solvent trichloroethylene (TCE) appears to greatly increase the risk of PD, a sixfold increased risk of Parkinson’s disease. Exposure to two other solvents perchloroethylene (PERC) and carbon tetrachloride (CCI4) also boost the chances of developing the neurodegenerative disorder. All three solvents linked to Parkinson’s are used extensively worldwide.  TCE is a common agent in paints, adhesives, carpet cleaners and dry-cleaning solutions. In the U.S., millions of pounds of TCE are released into the environment each year. While this study focused on job-related exposure, the solvents are common in soil, groundwater and the air in the United States. For example, TCE is detected in up to 30 percent of the nation’s drinking water supplies, according to the researchers.

“Our findings, as well as prior case reports, suggest a lag time of up to 40 years between TCE exposure and onset of [Parkinson's], providing a critical window of opportunity to potentially slow the disease process before clinical symptoms appear,” reports Goldman.

The toxic invasion of  thousands of chemicals in our world today, which are largely untested, especially for long-term consequences, enter our bodies and contribute to our “body burden.” This term refers to the mounting accumulation of chemicals in our bodies, whether inhaled, ingested or absorbed through skin. Some toxins can be excreted, but many cannot. Additionally, some people are genetically compromised in their ability to process them from their bodies, estimated to be about one in four today. These toxic agents lodge into body tissues and continue to accumulate, not manifesting symptoms for decades, as the Parkinson’s Institute research revealed.

With mounting exposure to thousands of chemicals and toxic agents, is it any wonder millions of people are experiencing complex and chronic health issues which rob their vitality? In my role as a wellness coach, I am working with more people who are awakening to 21st century realities–that our food, water and air now contain a toxic stew that is hazardous to our health. This is what has fired up my desire to reach people through my Smart Choices for Wellness presentations offering health-enhancing strategies, including detoxification recommendations for living in today’s toxic times. http://bit.ly/vsjojS

What a sight last Wednesday night to see throngs of people purchasing tickets for an Environmental Working Group event featuring author and food activist, Michael Pollan, who’s definitely concerned about what’s happening to American food, or as he referenced now appearing as “edible foodlike substances, which are no longer the products of nature but of food science.

Pollan walked on stage, carrying two grocery bags filled with a sampling from today’s supermarket. Pulling out item after item, he referenced failed nutrition policies, increasing nutritional deficiencies and how the food industry has changed what America eats and the correlations to increasing obesity, cancers and other health issues. In the past three decades since government has been doling out dietary advice, millions of Americans are now sicker and fatter.

While items are now packaged with health claims, they’re often anything but healthy. The more we worry and obsess about nutrition, the less healthy we’re becoming. With two-thirds of Americans now overweight, and one third clinically obese, and estimates projecting an entire nation of overweight citizens by 2040 based on current trends, our 21^st century Western diet, typically loaded with sugar, salt, chemicals and non-nutritive substances, has led Americans down the road to more illness and obesity.

While Pollan recommends to “Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants,” another problem arises—which he didn’t include in his presentation, but one which is now well-known, the nutritional content of many whole foods is decreasing, in some cases significantly. The overuse of agrichemicals has severely depleted our soils. The microorganisms essential to retaining vital minerals in soil are adversely affected by agrichemicals which means plants cannot uptake the needed nutrients from the soil. Therefore, while the rainbow of fruits, vegetables and grains offer whole food options, they’re not packing the same nutritional punch.

Additionally, many are now loaded with fungicides, pesticides and herbicides linked to debilitating health conditions. As the Environmental Working Group has documented, some of the most popular conventionally grown produce items now contain between 47 and 67 pesticides per serving, they’ve dubbed as the Dirty Dozen! Pesticide use in the U.S. is about 30 times higher than it was in 1945.

During my Smart Choices for Wellness presentations, I’m hearing more people voice increasing concern about their health with frequent complaints about low energy, weight, digestive issues, and feeling their bodies are out of balance. Additionally, they’re frustrated and concerned about the availability of truly nutritious and healthful foods and their ability to sort out all the hype. Those doing their due diligence are often confused by misleading health claims.

Eating real food is indeed vital, and now even more importantly, knowing where it’s being sourced as well as how it’s processed is important. For instance, whey protein is an excellent source of protein, but varies widely as to its nutritional composition and how it’s processed. For instance, organic whey is sourced from cows that graze on grass in pesticide-free fields in New Zealand, not given antibiotics, steroids or hormones, a common practice from those in the U.S. and other countries and are cold-processed to retain their nutrient dense quality. Non-organic whey powders are sourced from cows given hormones, steroids and antibiotics, as well as processed at high temperatures which destroy enzymes. Testing has revealed some of the non-organic whey powders also contain heavy metals such as lead and arsenic.

The bottomline is people are often trying to do the right things, but confused as to what constitutes sound nutritional advice, and compounded in sorting out the nutritional claims of thousands of items in today’s supermarkets and online. Selecting real food is important for supporting a vibrant health destiny. In our fast food nation, whether dining in or out, don’t rush the process of exploring what you’re getting in your food selections, and how you’re feeling and meeting your health goals.

I’ve coached many who have transformed their weight, energy, mood, sleep, and many health issues by changing what they eat. In today’s toxic world, with many foods often nutritionally bankrupt, you can’t take for granted that what you’re eating is actually good for you. Especially if you’re dealing with weight issues, wonder where your gusto went, or just don’t feel good, consider what you’re eating and drinking as a possible link. What you eat or drink over time does indeed have considerable impact upon your health destiny.

It’s Tuesday, September 11, 2001. I look out the window and see a gorgeous day. I turn on the TV and our world is in chaos. Fifteen miles down the road, thousands have lost their lives, families have lost fathers, sons, daughters and mothers, husbands and wives. Many children now in school will learn too soon they have lost a mommy or daddy. We too, may have lost friends in this unexplained tragedy and wait for any news.

How can we sort out the chaos and what comes from such terror and tragedy? This is a life-as-you-know-it-shattering event. What we believed to be safe no longer is. This event will shape millions of lives in immeasurable ways. We won’t ever think the same, perspectives on life are jolted into a new reality along with our priorities. Things that seemed so important and pressing just a few hours ago, really don’t matter now.

America is reeling from the unfathomable. The tallest buildings in the world just collapsed into rubble. Multiple jetliners hijacked off airport runways and became vehicles of destruction and devastation. Our nation’s defense center is in flames.

We haven’t heard the stories yet of the lives lost or those that almost perished but were miraculously spared. Those stories will come in time and break open our hearts.Thousands walked out of their homes this morning, believing it to be just another day. Some stopped for their morning mocha. Some kissed their lovers goodbye. Some didn’t. Some dropped their kids at daycare. Some fought traffic snarls and rushed to their desks to tackle their priorities. An hour or so later, all work stood still as the world watched and wondered why.

What will we do about this? How will we change? What is this all about? Why was this necessary for the world to witness? Some of the answers will come. Some will likely forever be questions.

Stories of the human spirit always rise above the rubble to reach out. What can we do now to make a difference, to touch a life or heal a heart? In just a matter of hours since the world seemed quite literally to be crashing in everywhere, that spirit went to work—friends and neighbors are already giving blood, organizing prayer vigils and finding ways to reach beyond the reality of this day to do something. This is indeed a time when every “something” matters and makes a difference to someone.

There are many factors working against wellness today and why two-thirds of Americans are overweight, and one-third considered obese. Our world has changed and our bodies barraged by toxins, stress and nutritional deficiencies, which contribute to weight gain, energy drain and many degenerative conditions. Toxins and impurities are surrounded by fat cells which accumulate around the organs, midriff and throughout the body in the form of toxic fat. Whole body nutritional cleansing has proven to be an effective solution for so many seeking weight loss and enhancing their overall health.

In my work in wellness, I’ve  witnessed extraordinary transformations of health when whole body nutritional cleansing is adopted. From doing my due diligence, I recommend Isagenix products because of the quality and purity of ingredients and the results they generate. Nutritional cleansing, with natural compounds scientifically formulated to help support the body’s natural ability to remove toxins and impurities, simultaneously replenish the body with energizing nutrients. People experience wonderful results that support their goals,and often with dramatic results of transformation.

Such dramatic transformations were showcased at Isagenix’s recent annual Celebration, including members of The 100-400 Pound Club and the IsaBody Challenge–people committed to their goals who discover the power of these products to reshape their bodies and their health destinies. This year, Dana B., featured in last September’s blog, continued her journey of success to release 401 pounds! (pictured above) and became the first member of the 400 Pound Club–extraordinary commitment and a life-saving choice! She’s a beacon of hope and continues her commitment to reach more milestones.

Then there’s Jill Birth, the 2011 IsaBody Challenge grand prize winner, who was determined to transform her body and what an accomplishment–releasing half her weight!   What an inspiration for all who are struggling not only with weight, but for anyone who questions their ability to succeed. Here’s Jill’s journey of setting an intention to release the weight she had long struggled to lose.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0x4grRXo7W4&feature=related. Inspiring for all determined to win at weight loss!

Attending the Celebration was exactly that--sharing the joy with those who committed to action, of seeing dramatic transformations result, of hearing their stories of what inspired them to set their intentions and consistently stay focused with unstoppable determination. They're all winners of wellness and greater sense of confidence, health and well-being-- making choices and taking action to achieve their goals with gusto! To learn more about the importance of nutritional cleansing visit: http://www.TheCleansingCoach.com.

Anne has quite a connection to the region. French by birth and fueled by a family tradition of climbing majestic Mont Blanc, she took on the challenge and achieved her mountaintop victory five years ago, contributing her story of her gutsy adventures in Dancing through Life with Guts, Grace & Gusto. While we were in Chamonix, Anne arranged for Sarah and I to meet her multi-talented guide, Lionel Wibault, credited with nearly 2,500 ascents of mountain ranges worldwide. But in addition to his  mountain-climbing prowess, Lionel is an accomplished artist and painter, having his works exhibited at the Louvre, among many other galleries. Artistic genius runs in the family. His father, Marcel Wibault, had 4000 paintings to his credit.

Looking around Lionel’s colorful studio, amidst paintings of mountainscapes, fields of flowers and portraits, I was impressed with his many creative mediums beyond  the canvas. Lionel had intricately carved wooden door panels, painted floral designs in the ceiling, and beautiful calligraphy upon his walls, one which translates as “ Beauty reveals itself to you when you have given your all” and another on his studio door, Bien faire et laisser dire” ( Don’t worry what people say, just do your best).

His creative genius emanates from that philosophy of throwing yourself into whatever is chosen as the medium to express your talent. It’s not about the recognition to be gained in the creative works that manifest, but the process itself of being absorbed into the act of creativity and allowing that experience to bring forth the beauty of expression. A reminder of what we’re all here to do. To put into expression our talents, of whatever mediums inspires us, and allow the best of our abilities to pour forth. Lionel has chosen paint brushes along with pick axes as tools that reflect his creativity. In fact, even the exterior of his house, boldly showcases his multiple talents as artist, painter and guide.

How fortunate Lionel is to be so clear on his calling–of both mountains and art mediums.  Some days he’s trekking up rocky cliffs, with pick axe in hand to guide adventurous souls for their peak experiences, while other days,  he’s sitting at his easel allowing creativity to flow. Surrounded by beauty and inspired by it, Lionel has created a beautiful life and his passions are a blessing to so many.

Upon leaving his home studio, I noticed the words identifying his chosen crafts carved into his home’s exterior. It made me wonder how many of us are so clear on our form of expression that we could do the same? What words would you choose reflecting your personal expression of creativity? What tools do you use when you are in flow of creative expression? What inspires you? Expressing whatever that is, is what fires up our passion and enriches our lives with beauty and purpose.

Since I also embrace creating life as you most want to live it, I made my own list.  It’s an interesting exercise of what I value, of what feeds my soul. I joyfully cross things off when I do them, and also keep adding to it in anticipation when something else arises.

So, a few years ago, while scanning some travel books, a pastoral scene caught my attention–rows of lavender in France. Ahh! I’ve always been one who stops to smell the roses, and the thought of breathing in the fragrance of a field of lavender sent my stressed out spirit soaring. Well, the epicenter of lavender production is Provence, France and in doing research, scenes of sun-washed hilltop villages, Roman ruins, outdoor cafes, pastoral patchworks of vineyards, olive groves, stately cypress, amber wheat fields, and endless acres of sunflowers and lavender became an irresistible lure.

Last fall, plans were made with two friends, Sarah and Anne, also drawn to Provence’s beauty and charm, to book summer 2011 to stop and smell the lavender in full bloom.

Once there, it exceeded my expectations! Provence was indeed a symphony of sensory delights, as described in some promotional material. The lavender fields were humming from bees taking advantage of the sweet nectar . . . the fragrances from every corner, the color contrasts of purple lavender and yellow sunflowers, the feast of fresh fruits and vegetables, cheeses, and crusty bread purchased daily from outdoor markets, and then ending each day filled with all of its natural wonders, sitting outside underneath a mulberry tree overlooking a vineyard, sharing with friends for hours on end.

Bucket List 2011–pure heaven! “Lavender in full bloom in France” is now crossed off my bucket list, but all those sensory delights will continue to feed my soul. Just scanning that list in anticipation of future adventures is inspiring to keep envisioning what experiences I want to weave into my life’s tapestry. Dancing in fields of flowers just happened to be one that’s rather unexplainable, except I’ve long resonated to nature’s awesome wonders.

It’s an intriguing exercise to create a list of what you’d like to do and see, of what piques your interest, and then seeing that reality come to life with intentional planning. It’s then not just about wishing you could experience something, but creating it with gusto!  I encourage you to share  what’s on your “bucket list” and why it might be calling you to take action.

Life presents us with an ongoing series of situations that can strain relationships. Conflict is a natural part of life, with the potential to arise when you face resistance, pressure, change, or merely interacting with others. It brings up uncomfortable feelings which can threaten well-being. Whenever friction arises from unmet or competing needs, wants, and values, a gap occurs, creating a “connection chasm.”

Our judgments, assumptions, frustrations, annoyances, misunderstandings, expectations, suspicions, opposing perspectives, and more can all spark conflict, an inevitable part of life’s interactions.  When that connection chasm forms, anger, whether mild or wild, can result. Yet anger doesn’t have to eat you up, pollute the atmosphere, or ruin your relationships. In fact, it’s often because they’re not dealt with, that the gap grows wider and you become distressed, drained, and disconnected by them.

When some people are peeved, it’s unmistakable; they let you know their feelings in no uncertain terms, and they “tell it like it is.” At the other end of the spectrum are those who repress, swallow, and stuff their feelings because of the discomfort they produce. Holding back powerful feelings breeds resentment and sabotages authentic relationships, which must be based on emotional integrity.

If you stuff your feelings about something that’s upsetting, you know your reasons for remaining silent–believing some matters just aren’t worth ruining a relationship, making a scene, or rocking the boat (although that boat is already riding over troubled water!) Or you’re uncomfortable with conflict and want to “keep the peace” at any price (except your own), or knowing that by admitting your unhappiness with a person or situation might set the stage for major change and you’re not ready for that, at least not now.  So you bite your lips until they’re raw and stuff it down . . . again.

But the drawbacks of suppressing your anger can add up. Over time, irritations or issues fester, and the pent-up energy from stuffed feelings can make you resentful and bitter. Not speaking your truth in alignment with your needs and values is destructive to emotional integrity and healthy relationships.  And keeping silent on issues that concern you is particularly harmful to long-term relationships. It takes an enormous amount of emotional and physical energy to keep powerful feelings stuffed inside where they silently brew.

Repressed anger doesn’t go away; it simmers for awhile and usually finds an outlet, sometimes “out of the blue” from the slightest provocation. Its wrath can escalate into verbal abuse, sarcasm, irritability, temper tantrums, overreactions to minor annoyances, or even physical assaults on people or property. It can produce headaches, ulcers, heart disease, hypertension, rashes, digestive disorders, and many other maladies. Over time, repressing feelings deadens the ability to feel much emotion of any kind, including the joy of living.

Speaking your truth enlightens those who may be clueless about what you want and need or what may be missing in the relationship. They also learn about your limits, the boundaries of what you consider acceptable and unacceptable behavior, how a situation affects you, and where they “crossed the line.” When you don’t express your boundaries, others may think their actions were acceptable to you.

By bringing matters out into the open, you provide a platform of sharing. Others may be stuffing their feelings down as well; giving voice to them offers a clearing away of stuffed energy.  Through honest communication, you talk about the issues that are in the way and hopefully breathe life back into the connections.   This dialogue helps to resolve the accumulated tension surrounding a situation, clarifies needs, and shares ways that won’t be disconnecting in the future. Sharing your authentic feelings builds and strengthens integrity, harmony, and healthy relationships.

By seeing conflict as a natural part of life, shows where a relationship needs attention. With this perspective, it can be seen as a change agent for creating and maintaining dynamic, purposeful relationships. However, it might also signal the need for sharing your truth on matters necessary to claim a greater state of well-being in tune with living authentically. By remaining silent, you are stuffing down your truth, not giving voice to who you are and your needs. Then you must decide what is the price of keeping peace if it robs you of your own.

As a metaphor, a storm that twists and tears your life apart as you once knew it, can never be reassembled in the same way.  There’s a natural desire to hang on to the pieces. Just as they’re doing now in Joplin, people sifting through the rubble, to find remnants from the past, of something tangible, representing life before the storm.

When life twists us in new directions–whether through natural disasters or changes in health, relationships, finances, employment and other events, we’re given an opportunity to examine how to re-engineer from the perspective of “what is.”  This means bracing for the arduous task of starting over along with an attitude of acceptance that our life for awhile and perhaps a very long time, will be chaotic, far from the comfort zone of the past.  There’s much to overcome including our own resistance–that’s required for firing up a spirit of resilience to meet all the challenges, but ultimately, that is what’s needed.

Tess Gallagher reminds us, “The past is not only that which happened but also that which could have happened but did not.” So we have to embrace the new reality and not rail against what we have to do to put life back together, if it hadn’t happened. It did. Looking back and wishing your present wasn’t what it is, does nothing to support needed next steps. Moving forward is where you need to focus your energy along with remembering to have patience through the process, often reminding yourself regularly to be patient especially when it’s hard, because it is. Building a new life takes time, an endurance run for the heart.

Taking time to reflect how you want to experience your present as well as how you want your future to look like, is a valuable stress-reducer. That way you’re consciously creating your attitude which is within your control–of setting your intentions, a powerful and productive use of your energy. It’s scary being in uncharted territory, not knowing what’s next, and lots of “what if’s” that rise up  adding to your angst.  Yet,  when you take command by committing to how you will maneuver through all the changes, things fall into place rather than apart.

When my life was in full-blown chaos from the unexpected journey taken in 2004, I remember wailing, “I don’t like my life much right now!” My world had shaken apart, and found myself spinning in so many directions–stressed, confused, with fear thoughts swirling through my head. After a year enmeshed in daily stress, with few moments of joy, a friend shared a reality check, “Sandy, this is your life!” That was my wake-up call to stop resisting and get busy accepting that my life had changed. Not to say, it was all flow from that point forward, but I was determined to focus on gratitude for friends and the support that enveloped me, and to find more things to be happy about, along with creating more moments of joy to lighten the way. One of the gifts from my own journey, led me to present programs on living with gusto, to feel good, in spite of challenging circumstances and to discover that resilient spirit within.

When swept up into chaos, our job is taking personal responsibility to pick up  the scattered shards of what was, see what still fits if at all, or must now be discarded, and consciously re-assemble a life in tune with what is of the highest priority.