Tomorrow's Wishes

Finding Your Passion and living it

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Fri, 12 Apr 2019 19:14:00 +0000

So I just recently finished this amazing free coaching series, 5 Rules to Create The Life You Want with Jay Shetty Wow! He can motivate you! It took place over 7 days and I filled almost an entire notebook up with meaningful tips, motivational sayings, and solid advice.

I thought I would share some of the things he said about each rule. Some of them are common sense things, but man, sometimes you just need to hear those things out loud.

Rule number one...

He started the series off talking about making peace with your past. I am so guilty of this. Constantly beating myself up over things I no longer have control of. We need to learn form our past, remember the good things, and move on. Yes, yes, easier said than done. However, if you lay down that anchor, you will never go anywhere, it will keep you right where you are as the rest of the world goes on around you.

You must feel, deal, and heal. So true. Remember what you did, deal with the emotion or outcome of it, and heal from it. Learn, grow, and put it behind you. For every one negative person in your past that brings you down, have three people around you that lift you up. Fill yourself up with the present, don't live in the past.

One of the things I have always said to my own kids was look where you are going, not where you have been. I think it honestly started because my son would always walk into things while he was running away giggling. Regardless, it is true. If we are constantly looking back, we are going to miss what is waiting right in front of us. Good or bad, it's gonna hit you, so you might as well see it coming.

Rule number two...

Another profound thing Shetty said was If you don't master your priorities, you will end up living someone else's. WOW! That is SO true!

If you are not busy working on your own plans, then you are working on someone else's. Now, this doesn't mean that you have to quit your job, or stop helping others, it just means, you need to take time for YOU. Set your priorities, carve out time for your plans, your passions, your goals. Don't live someone else's life...live YOURS.

Take some time to really look at where you spend your time. Are you spending your time on urgent and important things? Or are you spending your time on non urgent and not important things? In other words, at the end of the day, do you look at your to do list and say "Wow, I got a lot done, but how come I don't see any evidence of that?" You never get anywhere this way.

I also learned that I am NOT multitasking when I am doing several things at once. Actually, the majority of us aren't! We are throwing a bunch of balls in the air and juggling, but nothing is getting done. We need to focus on one thing at a time. Prioritize, make a task list the night before and stick to it. We can certainly work on everything, but, spend more of your time tackling the urgent and important items. One task at a time.

It's important to remember that when you are prioritizing and making your to do or task list, you need to carve out time for self improvement, your own goals, and your own passions. Pick one thing that you want to accomplish for YOU and take BIG steps toward that and tiny steps toward some of those other areas you want to improve. Never try changing everything at the same time, it will never happen, you will get discouraged.

Shetty talks about learning when we are the most productive. Look at when you go to bed and when you wake up, look at your day, when are you the most productive? Is it in the morning, mid morning, afternoon, evening? When are you the most creative? Carve out time for YOUR goals and passions during your most productive and creative time.

Rule number three...

One of the most profound things he said was when he was talking about unlocking your potential. Focusing on your potential instead of your limitations. He said that we are being told a lie over and over again...

You can't be everything you want, but you can be everything you are.

What? I have told my own kids that. You can do anything you set your mind to right?!

But when he put it into perspective...

You can be everything you are.

If you do not have the skills to be a pro football player you won't be a pro football player. If you are a fish that is told you can climb a tree, and you spend your whole life trying, you will end up feeling like a failure.

In other words, find where your skill sets are, what your gifts and talents are, and go for it! Sure, if you want to try being a pro football player...do it...but don't be afraid to fail. If you have never failed you have never tried anything new. You will never please everyone, so it is you that you need to be at peace with.

Because the people that believe they can change the world are the ones that do. - Steve Jobs

Know who you are, are you a risk taker, outgoing, reserved? Own it. Don't try being something that you are not. Don't worry about what other people think, you go out and do YOU! Realize where your gifts and talents are and work on improving those and being everything that you are!

Live your truth.

Rule number four...

Some of the most successful people have daily practices.

Think about it...

When you are hungry you eat. When you are dirty you shower. When you are tired you sleep. Well, we must also feed and clean our minds. For me this is mediation. I use it to calm anxiety, motivate me, keep me on track. We need to surround ourselves with positive thoughts, positive people, and positive energy. Take out the clutter in our minds and focus on daily practices that will help improve and nourish our minds. Even if the task is hard and makes you nervous.

Eat a live frog first thing in the morning and nothing worse will happen to you that day.- Mark Twain

I really like this saying. Whaaat? No you don't actually eat a frog. It just means, tackle your hardest or most unnerving task at the beginning of the day, start off with something challenging to set the pace. Maybe you are not good at public speaking but you have to give a public speech. Get it over with. I know that I always feel better after accomplishing a daunting task, so this one hit home to me.

It's also important to feed and clean our minds to continue to grow. Read books, turn off the television, schedule your day the night before (you set your alarm clock the night before), use your time wisely, meal prep, anything that can help you improve your day and your well being.

Invest in YOU, go all in for YOU! Don't follow your passion, invest in your passion. Take classes that align with your passion, invest in coaching, find a community of like minded individuals, and be consistent!

Surround yourself with people that will encourage you, build you up, and help you grow physically, mentally, emotionally, financially, and spiritually.

I loved this one...If you don't sacrifice for what you want; what you want becomes the sacrifice.

MIND. BLOWN.

Take complete responsibility and action in your life.

And finally, rule number five...

One of the last things he talked about was people and relationships. Powerful relationships can transform your life but toxic relationships can destroy your life.

I have always told my kids It's not what you know,it's who you know. You can read it in a book, but instead surround yourself with people that are living it. Learn from them, grow from them, and network. You can have a whole posse of friends and still be lonely. Find those one or two or three friends that will be there for you no matter what, that challenge you to be all that you are, who push you to reach your limits, and that encourage you and lift you up along the way.

He also talked about being a better listener. Wow, I am so guilty of this! Recognize what type of listener you are.

Are you listening to them while thinking about all that you have to do?

Are you listening to them and thinking about what they are saying and how it is going to relate to you and how you will respond?

Are you listening to them fully?

Are you listening to them fully and watching their body language?

Relationships are two way streets. Surround yourself with relationships that will help you grow and at the same time be that same person for them. Recognize the value in relationships and don't take that for granted. Know that we are all in this together, you can not do it alone.

Remember, you can be more than one thing, but you can't be good at everything. Focus on what you are good at, your gifts and talents, and grow in those areas.

If you have a chance, check out some of Jay Shetty's podcasts, he really is amazing. I hope I was able to pass along to you some of the wonderful information he shared during his free coaching series. Again, a lot of it is common sense, but sometimes we just need a good kick in the pants to get us motivated again.

Bottom line, find your passion, INVEST IN YOU, LIVE YOUR PASSION, and HELP OTHERS along the way.

Animals are good for our soul

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Fri, 12 Apr 2019 16:14:00 +0000

For those of you that know me, you know I love animals. My social media feed has gone from family pics to animal pics. Yes, I still love my kids! But, unlike my kids, the animals are much more patient with my picture taking madness.

Ever since we adopted our beautiful cremello mare Roxy (See my blog posts She Picked Me for her story), our love of animals has grown.

We moved to the country and now I have an endless supply of willing subjects to take pictures of.

Horses...

Chickens and ducks...

Cats and dogs...

Bunnies...

And even the an occasional critter that decides to visit.

Sure they can be sassy at times...

This is our Rooster Richard...we call him Dick for short. He drew first blood...oh it's on!

Sometimes they take great pictures for me...

Sometimes, well, I feel like they are laughing at me...

But all the time they are touching my soul.

When I look into their eyes I see unconditional love and kindness. They bring such joy to our lives.

They touch our lives...and those that come and visit...

I highly recommend it!

Thank you for stopping by!

Rolling into the Season

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Sat, 19 Jan 2019 19:46:00 +0000

Oh I love me a good DIY craft! Especially one that I can pamper myself with or give away as gifts.

One of my favorite things to make are these essential oil roller bottle blends. They smell soooo Ah-Mazing!

I'm not an essential oil nut, maybe an obsession perhaps, but I do enjoy making my own lip balms, roller bottle blends, rooms sprays and other fun stuff. BONUS: read through to the end for an awesome DIY lip balm recipe!

Today I thought I would share a few of my favorite roller bottle blends with you.

For all of the recipes you will simply add in your essential oils, fill with carrier oil, cap, and your done! Super simple!

Please take note: after you put in your drops and you are adding your carrier oil, remember to leave room for the roller ball cap. I usually fill up to the bottom of the threading on the bottle, so just where the bottle starts to get smaller. You don't want your precious oils to get squeezed out and wasted when you put on the roller ball.

Relax roller bottle blend

15 drops Lavender

10 drops Cedarwood

Fill with carrier oil

I use this blend every night or when I just need to wind down and relax a bit.

I also love Lavender and Chamomile together and have a pillow mist that I use every night.

Headache be Gone! roller bottle blend

10 drops Peppermint

5 drops Panaway

5 drops Lavender

10 ml roller bottle

Fill with carrier Oil

You can also use Frankincense and Copiaba in place of the Panaway.

My Scent roller bottle blend

This is a perfume blend and it smells Ah-Mazing! Seriously, every time I wear this people always say, "Ohhhh, I love your scent! What is that?!" You can see where I got the name.

20 drops Abundance

10 drops Lavender

10 ml roller bottle

Fill with carrier oil

Abundance contains: Orange, Frankincense, Patchouli (one of my favs!), Clove, Ginger, Myrrh, Cinnamon Bark, and Spruce. It actually is wonderful just on it's own, but I am a Lavender lover so I use it in a lot of my blends.

Valor roller bottle blend

Valor is another great oil and I use this one in a roller bottle as well. Listen, roller bottle blends are a great way to stretch your oils. They aren't cheap ya'll! So whenever I can, I do.

To me Valor is having strength of mind and spirit, facing your fears with bravery and courage, and being bold by stepping out of your comfort zone.

20-25 drops Valor10 ml roller bottle Fill with carrier oil

OK so I know this post is about roller bottle blends, BUT I also wanted to share my favorite lip balm recipe with you! I mean, it is perfect lip balm weather! Brrr!

Peppermint Lip Balm

Note: I buy most of my ingredients from Amazon, just do a search.

1 tbsp. Shea Butter
1 tbsp. Coconut Oil (I bought organic from our local grocery store)
1 tbsp. Beeswax Pellets (so much easier to work with than the bricks!)
1 tbsp. Sweet Almond Oil
1/4 tsp. Vitamin E Oil
10-15 drops Peppermint essential oil (I used 15)

for these next few items I have included links to help.

Empty lip balm tubes

Lip Balm tube holder (optional)

Disposable pipette droppers (optional)

Combine shea butter, coconut oil, beeswax, and almond oil in a glass measuring cup. Place the glass into a pot with shallow water on the stove and melt. Bringing to a simmer, not a boil. Stirring every 30 seconds. Temp should get to 175 degrees.

Once fully melted remove from heat. Be careful, that glass is hot! I also use plastic disposable droppers to fill tubes, less mess this way. Now, add Vitamin E oil and Peppermint essential oil, mix well and pour immediately into lip balm tubes or small jars.

Let cool and cap! This recipe makes approx. 8-10 lip balm tubes.

Enjoy! And remember to give someone a hug today!

New Year...New YOU!

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Tue, 08 Jan 2019 17:42:00 +0000

Happy New Year! Cheers!

Wow! I still can't believe it is 2019. I mean I remember when I was partying like it was 1999 and unplugging all the computers before midnight. Nah, not really, but I might have partied like it was 1999, just saying.

2018 felt like it flew by! So many things in my journal, so many things STILL in my journal. Projects and great ideas left undone. Still haven't taken our dream trip to Portugal. Still haven't figured out a way to retire and pay off our mortgage before we are too old to celebrate it.

So yeah, January...I'll be another year older and I keep writing some of the same things in my journal year after year. I start to get down on myself.

When I was younger and complaining about not being able to get my ears pierced, or able to drive yet, or not able to get into the bar (to dance of course!), or whatever, my mom would always say, "Terri, stop wishing your life away, the older you get, the faster it goes."

Man was she right! If she was still with us on this beautiful Earth I would hug her right now and tell her she was right, and possibly about that one time that I had a party and we drank my dad's mini liquor bottles. (Sorry Dad!) He's not with us anymore either, that's why I'm owning up to it now.

So now that I'm all grown up, and don't have to sneak the liquor bottles. I still find myself wishing for things. They may have changed slightly. For instance; I wish I am able to live a long and healthy life that allows me to watch my children raise their own kids. I wish we could remodel the kitchen (can you say DOUBLE OVEN! Drool!) I wish I could sky dive without fear of breaking a hip! I wish to be debt free, follow my dreams, and be happy right where I am.

It has kind of come full circle; I've stopped wishing my life away and I am the one telling my kids to stop wishing their lives away. To stop, take a breath, and just be in the moment. Enjoy life, don't let it get the best of you. Focus on being happy right where you are.

(Insert adorable picture of my youngest daughter kissing me)

Geesh, when did I become so wise. I mean that sounded like solid advice right?

So why do we continue to put this pressure on ourselves every year. We make these resolutions, write in our journals, make big plans, only to pass through another year realizing, well, perhaps I had too many things on my to do list last year.

Or life just gets in the way. Taxes go up, mortgage goes up, and your salary doesn't go up. Can't afford the trip, DIY farm table has to wait, vacation? What's that? Super perfect business idea, nope, didn't happen, looked good on paper though. Stepping out in faith....Whoa! I don't know, that's kind scary!

So, you find yourself right where you were.

Sure, you ticked a few things off. One graduated, helped two move, home schooling another, husbands surgery was a success, rekindled friendships, made new friends, had lots of fun....but then right back to focusing on the things that didn't get done.

Well, not in 2019 baby!

In the words of one of the wisest woman that I do not know...

"Be thankful for what you have, you'll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don't have, you will never have enough." -Oprah

I mean I read that on the Internet, so she must have said it. Either way, those are wise words and to sum it up in one word...GRATEFUL. That is going to be my word, my mantra for this year. To be GRATEFUL for what we have, who we are, and where we are right at this very moment.

Instead of beating myself up this year I am going to take a moment to reflect on 2018 and what I accomplished, all the good things that happened in my life, and yes even the bad. I am going to take time to celebrate my accomplishments, learn from my mistakes, grow in love, and then....MOVE ON!

Being GRATEFUL for where I am in this very moment.

When I log onto my banking website they have a picture of an adorable family smiling and enjoying the moment with these words... "Stop stressing about the checkbook and get back to the storybook" I love that!

I mean sure, you need money to get through life, but most of the time worrying about it doesn't actually help. And do we really need some of that stuff we have?

Time to regroup, throw out, purge, organize...one drawer, one closet, one thing at a time.

Focus on one thing you want to do, then do it. Then focus on another, and do it. Before you know it you will have a year filled with accomplishments. No matter how big or how small, they count!

It's a New Year and a new YOU! You are not defined my your past mistakes. So stop trying to do that to yourself! You are a beautiful creation. You are worthy. You are Ah-Mazing!

So let's all stand together, focus on building each other up. Write inspirational quotes on our mirror, fridge, in our cars, wherever! Focus on the positive!

Focus less on strategy and more on listening to your inner Spirit!

I mean, 2018, thanks for the lessons, but 2019, let's do this!

Now go give someone a hug!

GRATEFUL.

What's on Your Fall Bucket List?

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Tue, 23 Oct 2018 18:27:00 +0000

Fall is such a unique season. It is full of life, vibrant colors, and busy wildlife. It is a time of long walks, comfy sweaters, and bonfire nights.

It reminds me of my parents, who are no longer with me.

It reminds me of the possibilities that we have in our life.

Trees release so that they may create new life, they feed the critters, and allow us to admire their beauty. What once was alive, falls into a slumber, only to awaken in a new season.

Fall is constantly popping up new wonders...

Life and decay come together to create magnificent works of art.

It is the start of the holiday season, and gatherings of family and friends.

It is a time to be thankful, a time to make new plans, and the perfect time to reinvent ourselves.

It also reminds me that I have a ton of things on my bucket list, that often I feel like I will never get to. For many reasons, like lack of money, life circumstance, or simply the lack of my own motivation.

Or maybe it's because I think I am supposed to be in a certain place, but in reality, the timing just isn't right for me yet.

Regardless, I like to create bucket lists of small things I can do everyday. To live in the moment, to be happy right where I am, to live in the metaphorical season I am in.

I feel like I am always in transition, hoping to come out of this season with a new understanding of who I am and what my purpose is. It seems to be a never ending search at times. My passions tend to get put to the side and life takes over.

But that's OK.

I realize that I can't force things, that my path isn't always straight, it might even feel like I am repeating the same thing over and over, going in a never ending circle.

But my life is not dictated by me, in His timing I will end up where I was meant to be all along.

Writing things down, like a fall bucket list, helps to take my mind off of what I can't control, and grounds me into the moment I am in.

Until we can learn to enjoy those simple things in life, the small everyday moments, of every season of our lives, we are not truly living.

Maybe, just maybe, we have to be happy right where we are, no matter the circumstance, before we can move forward. It might not be where we want to be or thought we would be, but we need to trust that it is all part of His perfect plan.

What's on your bucket list?

DIY Lip Balm

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Tue, 16 Oct 2018 20:36:00 +0000

DIY LIP BALM

I love this one, it is incredibly smooth and feels amazing on your lips!

I have played around with a lot of different recipes, but by far, I LOVE this one!

Now, you might think that is a lot to make a tube of lip balm, but honey...you can't just make one! You have to share!

What you'll need: (I've tried to include links to most...but you can get everything on Amazon)

1/4 cup Shea Butter
1/4 cup Coconut Oil
1/4 cup Beeswax
8 tbsp.Sweet Almond Oil
4 Drops Vitamin E
20-22 drops essential oils
Empty Lip Balm Tubes

Optional: Lip Balm Tube Holder and Disposable Droppers

This recipe will make 24 lip balm tubes or small cosmetic jars. I prefer it in the tubes myself, but I made a few just to give you an idea.

I have tried to include links to many of the products I purchased, but they are all easily found on Amazon.

It is a bit expensive getting all of the ingredients initially, but honestly it will make so much! And you can use a lot of the ingredients for other DIY products. And when you think about what you would pay for one single tube of lip balm in the store...you are saving so much money!And they make great gifts, teacher gifts, family, friends,mail person, bus driver, stocking stuffers, party favors, and you can put on in every room. You can never have too many lip balms!

Pair this with a DIY sugar scrub and homemade soap for a great hostess gift! The gift possibilities are endless!

This really is a super easy recipe.

Melt the Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, and Beeswax together. For this recipe I used Beeswax in a block, so much easier to use the pellets, but I was out, either is fine! I usually start with the beeswax since it takes a bit longer, half way through you can add in the Shea Butter and Coconut Oil. Or throw it all in at once, either is fine!

I like to use a glass measuring cup placed into a pot of shallow water. However, you can melt them in a microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring after each 30 seconds.BUT, I prefer the stove method, I think it makes for a more creamy lip balm, but that is just my opinion.

Next, once it is nearly melted, add in your sweet almond oil and Vitamin E.

Once it is fully melted, remove from the heat.

Add in your essential oils and you are ready to pour! Be sure to start pouring immediately because it starts to firm back up quickly.

For this recipe I used lemon and lime essential oils for half of the recipe and Lavender essential oil for the other half, I also made a few with Peppermint essential oil in the jars.

Just make sure to either pour your melted mixture into separate glass cups before adding your essential oils OR cut the recipe in half and do it twice, or go crazy and make a bunch of smaller batches...you really can't go wrong!

If you need to purchase pure essential oils you can use this link to either purchase retail or join my oily team to receive 24% off of retail. I'll even send you a welcome gift if you sign up with a premium starter kit. Reach out to me for more information!

OK we are almost done!

NOTE: THE GLASS WILL BE HOT SO PLEASE REMEMBER TO USE A POTHOLDER OR GLOVE WHEN HANDLING.

Again, I use the lip balm tube holder and disposable droppers to make my life easier! I find this MUCH easier than trying to hit the little lip balm tube holes.Or trying to get them to stand up while pouring. I mean you can scrape it off and reuse it, but it is much less messy using the holder and disposable droppers. You can also purchase glass droppers.

That's it! Once they firm up, cap each tube and let them sit for about an hour. After that they are ready to use!

Let the gift giving begin! And of course...the soft lips!

I love living the oily farm life. But listen, you don't have to live on a farm to live that kind of life. It's not about having farm fresh eggs (but I highly recommend them...yum!) or about having your own land, it really isn't even about the oils (stay with me) it is about attempting to live a more toxic free life. Living like they used to, farm fresh eggs, home grown veggies (no matter if you grown them or you purchased them at your local farm stand) It's about cooking at home and not eating out all the time, replacing chemical laden products with natural alternatives, taking small steps here and there to "extend our warranty". Bottom line...taking care of YOU.

Who's with me?!

If you are interested in learning more about the essential oils I use Click here to get started!

My Oily Farm Life Obsession

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Fri, 12 Oct 2018 19:22:00 +0000

As you know, a few years ago we moved our family out to the country. Yee Haw! Let me tell you, it has been a life changing experience all around, and that's a good thing. From learning how to put up pasture fencing to raising chickens to growing our own food.

I cook at home all the time now. Honestly, that started because I realized the stores are not that close anymore and we can't even get a pizza delivered. I know! So we make our own. We save money to!

Anyway, we have completely converted from our city selves to country folk, and we love it!

I'm always learning new things. I bake pies, make my own pasta, can our home grown veggies, and grow my own herbs like lavender, rosemary and thyme. Mmmm mmmm! It is very satisfying.

Not long after moving here I was introduced to essential oils, and I never looked back! For the past few years I have been using them and started replacing my everyday items with essential oils. I am obsessed!

It started out as a DIY kind of thing; making my own soaps, sugar scrubs, lip balms, bug spray (MAN! Does the country have some bugs!) pillow mists, and more.

I LOVE me a good DIY especially when they smell AMAZING! And it really is fun.

I made some good ones, and some not so good ones. Laundry soap...FAIL!

Anyway, my point is, once I really started reading up on them, I became more and more interested in how they could help me, my family, and the environment. It became more than just a DIY craft.

Let me explain.

I don't know about you but cleaning products give me a headache! I had tried replacing some of my chemical laden products for store bought "organic" or "chemical free" brands. Nope! You really need to read the labels, they are not all what they say they are. There had to be another way.

So I started there! Replacing my toxic and chemical laden products with natural essential oils. I mean, if the oils were good enough for baby Jesus!

I started researching and asking A LOT of questions, and then I made the switch! I replaced my counter cleaner with an essential oil called Thieves.

GAME CHANGER!!!

At first, since I love DIY I made my own cleaner with it. Then I realized that Young Living did it much better so I started buying the Thieves Household Cleaner. It is super concentrated and last for a very long time! A little goes a long way! I just used an amber colored spray bottle, put in a cap full of Thieves cleaner, added some distilled water, and I was ready to clean!

It works GREAT! And bonus...NO HEADACHES! I am no longer using harsh chemicals to clean my home. I use Thieves on my floors, counters, windows, you name it!

Yaaaas! First step!

Thieves has a whole line of products that can help you replace the toxic chemicals in your home. From cleaning products to personal hygiene.

I even diffuse it during cold and flu season or just to purify the air in our home.

Next I decided to go after the chemical laden room sprays and candles. Say it isn't so! Yes, and trust me you will never look back!

Did you know that most candles are made of paraffin wax and when burned they create highly toxic carcinogens? The same found in diesel fuel fumes!

What?!

Yes!!!

So I ditched the toxic candles and started diffusing essential oils. I am constantly trying out new oils and blends.

When I am stressed...

Stress Away blend

When I need to relax...

Lavender

When I need a mental boost...

Peppermint

The combinations are endless...

Essential oils can also be a more natural alternative for your health as well.

(please see disclaimer at the bottom of this page)

For instance Panaway is my go to for back and neck pain. I use it with a roller ball and dilute it with a carrier oil, think Icy Hot but it is all natural!

I take an allergy pill sometimes, we have a lot of animals, and sometimes I need it. But I try to not take them all the time and one of the oils I use when I can is Breathe Again.

Listen, I love living the oily farm life, but you don't have to live on a farm to live that kind of life. It's not about having chickens and farm fresh eggs (although I highly recommend them, yum!), or owning your own land, or even about the oils. (Stay with me) It is about attempting to live a more toxic free life.

Living like they used to; farm fresh eggs, home grown veggies, whether from your own garden or you get them from the farmers market. It is about cooking at home and not eating out all of the time, replacing chemical laden products with natural alternatives. Taking small steps here and there to "extend our warranty" so to speak.

Bottom line...it is about taking care of YOU!

If you would like to learn more about the oils that I use follow this link Essential Oils

*Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please confirm any information obtained from or through this website with other sources, and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment.

It's all in Your Perspective

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Tue, 11 Sep 2018 18:02:00 +0000

per-spec-tive- a particular attitude toward or a way of regarding something; a point of view.

Life is all about perspective. Optimists, pessimists, we all view things differently, and that's okay!

My family teases me sometimes because I like to take pictures of everything...e v e r y t h i n g ...leaves, bugs, a spiders web, mushrooms...I see beauty everywhere!

Let me ask you...

When you see a field of dandelions, do you see a hundred weeds or a hundred wishes?

When you see a lawn of clover, do you see a menace to your lawn, more work on your plate for the weekend, or a place to look for a lucky four leaf clover?

When you see a ring of mushrooms pop in your yard after the rain, do you see a fungus or a magical mushroom ring?

When you change your perspective, it opens your eyes to see the beauty that is all around you.

Yes, there is beauty in that mushroom ring, trust me, you just have to pause for a moment and open your mind to it.

I knew my husband wouldn't be fond of the mushroom ring in his lawn (however he is the one that told me to take a picture of it, before he mowed it down of course). I did take a picture of course, and when I showed it to our daughter she found it so fascinating. She went from it being just a cool looking mushroom (it opened up to be bigger than my hand!), to a fairy ring, to a door to another dimension (Google is crazy sometimes!) but the joy I got watching her...(sigh)...it's truly in your perspective people!

I will say my husband left it there longer than I thought he would to. ;)

I challenge you to change your perspective.

Take a Chance on YOU

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 17:56:00 +0000

Soooo, it's July. Many of us (well me) start to reflect on what we have accomplished so far this year. What our New Year's resolutions were, what we were going to change, what was on our list, and what is STILL on our list.

Writing in my journal is kind of grounding for me, I have been doing it on and off my whole life. (I tend to write more when I think I am having an epiphany, you know like now.)

It is also where every year I write down that THIS is the year I follow MY dreams.

As I flip through the pages of 2018; I am looking at all of the posts about my family, the funny things that happened, our happy times and our sad times, what the kids have been doing, what we have been doing around the house and barn, the non profit organizations that I've helped, etc.

I have written about the things I wanted, WAIT scratch that, was GOING to accomplish, and I have written down ideas, dreams and quotes.

I always focused on a word or words and doodled it in my journal, words like:

Be Brave, Be Bold, Grow, The Future is Female, BOSS, Don't Fear Change, Have Faith in YOURself! Do What YOU Love, YOU are the only one holding yourself back, Make stuff happen!

2018 is the year for YOU!

Yup, it's July! J...U...L...Y people, and I still am not doing what I truly want to be doing! WT(blank)! Ugh, I am not getting any younger!

So, why, oh why do I have such a hard time with this? I mean I am always willing to help others with their plans and help motivate them to achieve their goals. Yet, here I am still typing away on this blog. (That most likely nobody outside of my family and maybe, I mean maybe, a few friends are reading.) AHHHHHH!

I put things on my calendar, IN INK, 'cause if it is written in ink it will happen, right. (You know they make these awesome white-out rollers!) I seem to keep pushing off anything that involves ME.

Somehow, every year, I let the world define me. I conform to what I feel I need to do, not what I truly want to do. In turn, I miss out on what I feel, deep inside, that I should be doing.

It's nothing fantastical, just focusing on my passions, taking pictures, writing, sharing my love for animals and our Life on Lost Creek Ranch (Yet another blog, no one reads) and using that to help others in some way.

I promote other peoples dreams, businesses, and lives, yet...I get stuck when it comes to my own.

2018 was supposed to be THE YEAR FOR ME...The year I made my inner dream come true. Well, other than actually hitting the big five O. I am still in the same boat I was in 2017. And I might add a few pounds heavier, I mean I DO love those evening milkshakes!

Yes, I have helped some very worthy non-profits with their missions, but I have a mission to...dang it! I keep saying that I'm am not going to take on anything that I really do not want to do, I am going to learn to say no, and I am going to follow my heart and take a chance on ME.

Maybe I feel like that is selfish? I don't know.

I like to do things for others though, make other people happy, help them accomplish their goals and their calling, but I have a hard time receiving that for myself. I can't seem to take the first step onto the path I feel deep inside my being that is meant for me.

God will lead me. I keep thinking that everything will lineup just right and I will know when to step onto that path. I will get a sign. Well, let me tell you, I've had plenty of signs, and He has led me to that path time and time again. I have stood at the beginning, maybe even lifted my foot to take the first step, but then...I swing myself around and go down a path in the opposite direction.

Maybe it is a fear of rejection...what if nobody likes my writing? What if they think my pictures suck? Maybe it is the fear that what I want to do really won't make a difference? Even though people keep telling me to move forward, maybe I'm not really good enough?

Yikes! It's scary putting yourself out there and failing (or tripping, I do that a lot). But if you never take a chance at failing, you'll never know what you are truly capable of or what is waiting down that path that is meant for you.

Yesterday my desktop motivation calendar kind of hit home...

"Don't wait until the time feels right. Don't wait until you feel ready. You will wait forever."

That is an incredibly true statement. We are in charge of our destiny and if we (OK I) keep waiting for the time to be perfect, for everything to line up just right, it will never happen.

So, yes, I might still be writing for a non existent audience and sharing pictures to my very limited social media following. But maybe, just maybe, this will motivate someone else to start living THEIR dream!

And, if it does motivate you, the one person reading this, could you please come get me, I think I need a kick in the arse (that's the British word for buttocks)!

Make what's left of 2018 the year you go out and take a chance on YOU! You're not getting any younger either! Just saying.

Remember...

We think in pictures...if you wish to change what you think, change the picture. - Aristotle

Perspective

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Tue, 01 May 2018 17:22:00 +0000

Perspective.
per·spec·tive /pərˈspektiv/A particular attitude toward or a way of regarding something; a point of view.

Today as I was walking through our property admiring all that is coming to life this Spring; I happened upon a batch of wildflowers that popped up in our flower beds.

They weren't there last year,or the year before, they just kind of showed up. They were speckled throughout the garden bed, weaving in between the ornamental grasses, and spilling over unto the lawn like a gentle flowing brook. They were beautiful.

Sure, they may be wildflowers, some may even call them weeds, but I felt blessed that they popped up where they did.

As I smiled, and of course, took a picture, I thought to myself; I guess it is all in your perspective isn't it?

I mean, I see them as a beautiful addition to the garden, yet others might see them as a weed that popped up and now they have a another chore added to their to do list.

As we go through life, each of us will see things in a different perspective. I guess you could say I am more of a glass half full, instead of a glass half empty, kind of gal.

I see the beauty that is all around me; in a wildflower, a smile, a simple kind word or action. Or, even in how a leaf managed to land on a freshly poured driveway and left behind a beautiful impression in the concrete as it dried.

I think it's kind of cool that even though the leaf may be gone, I can still enjoy it.

Perspective.

Everyday I am grateful for the little things in life...green grass, the chirp of a songbird, a roof over my head, food on my table, a wonderful family... SO MANY BLESSINGS! When I am feeling overwhelmed with tasks, I remember, I am grateful for BEING ALIVE and able to do those tasks.

So, I challenge you today, and everyday, to see the tasks that you have to do, not as tasks, but as blessings. Remember, YOU ARE ALIVE and able to do those tasks!

Change your perspective.

I challenge you to stop and truly take in your surroundings. It might be a cool cloud formation, rows of newly planted flowers outside your office, a cool pattern in the sidewalk, or the way the rain beads off of your window. Maybe someone paid for your coffee, opened the door for you, or smiled when you needed it the most. There are times when you may have to look harder to find it, but it is there. There is BEAUTY EVERYWHERE and always something to be GRATEFUL for.

Too often we go through life with our heads down, looking at our smart phones, consumed with what is going on in our own lives and on our metaphorical plates; that we can't be bothered to look up at what is going on around us.

Well, I say LOOK UP!

I challenge you to make eye contact with every person you cross paths with, say hello, give them a compliment, or just smile. That smile could be the one thing that keeps them going. Even in the most desperate times, you can find beauty, hope, and kindness in something as simple as a smile.

Be the person that takes the first step, be grateful, hold open the door, say hello, volunteer...just be kind...and watch the kindness spread like wildflowers!

Find Your Inner Super Hero

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Wed, 14 Feb 2018 19:41:00 +0000

Mean girls, Bullies...ugh! Just saying it out loud makes me want to scream and go into mama bear mode. Ahhhh!!!

So...I thought I would talk about that today.

But first, let's talk about what a friend is.

A friend is someone who is there for you in your happiest hours, and in your darkest hours, when you are doing well, and when you are down and even broke. You may fight, but you make up. Friends tell you the truth, call you out when you need to be, and have your back when you need it. They don't talk about you they talk to you. They laugh with you, they cry with you. You are there for each other, unconditionally.

So now let's talk about the opposite...bullies...girl, boy, mom, dad, husband, wife, boss, co-worker, total stranger...it doesn't matter, mean is mean, a bully is a bully.

I went through it, each of my three kids has gone, or is going through it, and it breaks my heart to see it happening to them or anyone else. I feel like people are only getting meaner. Why?! Why must you make fun of what someone is wearing, what they look like, what friends they choose to have, what hobbies they are into? They make fun of you if you are too tall, too short, too thin, too wide. They make fun of you if you happen to have your own voice, or if their views are different from yours.

Ugh! I get so frustrated!

We try to raise our children to be individuals. To be leaders not followers, in other words, to be their own person and to follow their hearts. To not let others steal their joy or to try and lead them down a path that is not their own. To have a voice for those that have none. To step in when someone needs help and to stand up for what they believe in. To be kind, to give back, and to love unconditionally.

Yet, it seems that many times, this only makes them a target.

Maybe that's why sometimes I prefer animals over people. You could be having a good day or a bad day, and they are there for you, no judgment, just unconditional love.

No one should be made fun of for sticking up for another, for walking away from mean kids, for wanting to be their own person, for having a hobby that isn't what someone else thinks is "cool". They shouldn't be kicked, mocked, pushed around, or teased. No one!

But, it happens everyday to so many kids. If you don't join them, you become a target.

As a parent you feel useless. I see it so much on social media, parents talking about how their kid is being bullied, they come home crying, never getting invited to the birthday party, or getting invited so that they can be made fun of, being harassed and unfortunately some kids even committing suicide...and it is happening more and more. These are nice kids that don't deserve to be treated this way.

Maybe some people are just born mean, but more often than not, it is a behavior that is learned. Yes, lets address the elephant in the room. To all of those parents out there condoning this behavior by either not addressing the fact that your kid is a complete brat, by encouraging this behavior, or let's be real, by trying to live through your kids...well congratu-frickin-lations...

(clap - clap - clap)

You have raised a mean kid, a bully. You must be so proud. The cycle continues.

Ahhhh! Deep breath in.....and out...

Now mind you I am NOT perfect, I tend to have no filter (obviously), I wear my heart on my sleeve and I say what is on my mind (maybe to a fault). I make no excuses, what you see is what you get.

I still have friends from when I was younger. However, some of my deepest friendships came later in life and have lasted 35+ years and are still going strong. Through kids, life's challenges, moves, you name it...our friendship is rooted and true. True friends are hard to come by these days, especially when you are an adolescent kid just trying to get through school.

It doesn't matter how many friends you have, what matters is having true friends. If you go through life and can count on one hand how many true friends you have...you are blessed. Therefore...I am truly blessed.

To all of those kids out there being bullied...don't let them steal your joy...you have the strength to overcome. Don't be the victim and don't turn into the bully. Be the super hero that is inside of you and know that you are not alone. God made you the way you are, and you are indeed amazing! This is just a short time in your life, it will mold you into the person you were meant to be. Take what life is giving you and use it as a step. Be the solution, make a difference.

I will continue to encourage my kids to be the wonderfully, unique, kind and adventurous individuals that they are. No matter how old they are (because bullies aren't just adolescents) I will be there to wipe their tears, hug them, (may even go into full mama bear mode from time to time), I will offer words of encouragement and I will let them know that this to shall pass.

And through it all, I will tell them to find their inner super hero and wear that cape with pride! Be kind, love unconditionally, and just keep being YOU!

#NoBulliesAllowed #BeKind #LoveUnconditionally

New Beginnings (January 2018)

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Wed, 14 Feb 2018 15:32:00 +0000

We woke up in 2018 with no electricity, as a lot of people did in our area. They were quick to get it back on, and on such a cold day I am truly thankful.

As I sit here in my warm home, under my comfy blanket, writing in my journal and sipping yummy coffee out of my shiny new mug that was gifted to me, I have to pause...

I am extremely blessed and grateful for so many things that I take for granted like...

The men and women who were out in the bitter cold getting the electricity back on in our community.

Being able to sit in a warm home on such a cold day.

Having coffee to drink, food in my fridge, clothes to wear, a bed to sleep in.

Having a family to share life with.

Being able to breathe fresh air, to feel the warmth of the sun (OK maybe not today), to share a meal with my family, to have a voice and to hear others, to see the joy and the hurt in our world, to truly live...

It is the people that surround me, the simple things, and those little moments that I am truly grateful for.

A new year is a new beginning!

For me it is a year to focus on growing spiritually and personally. A year filled with gratitude, love, renewal, kindness, stepping out in faith, bold moments, following my spirit, taking ownership, living in the moment, finding joy in all I do, and most importantly... making a difference being the best ME I can be.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! May your 2018 be filled with love, kindness, and gratitude. Step out in faith and be the best YOU.

Here's to new beginnings, possibility, and adventure.

The old life is gone...
A new life has begun!
2 Corinthians 5:17

Leave the Door Open

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Thu, 09 Nov 2017 17:34:00 +0000

Over the years I have met a lot of people, made a lot of friends and lost touch with just as many. Often you wonder what happened...why didn't we keep in touch, why where they here for such a short time, or why did they have to move away? While others, are there with you through thick and thin and you may not understand how you know, but you just know they will always be there.

There are so many reasons for people coming and going in our lives. People come into our lives for a reason, a season, or a lifetime.

When they enter your life for a reason, they may be there to fill a need you have at the time. They could be there for you physically, mentally, or spiritually. Often these could be unintentional meetings or chance encounters. You may not even know the reason yourself. Once they have filled the need, they move on. Depending on the relationship, this could be hard to accept or a welcoming change.

Some enter our lives for a season, or as I like to call them, chapters. Some chapters are better than others. It could be a real page turner that leaves you sad when the chapter ends, one of those suspenseful chapters that you just never know which way it will go, or a traumatizing chapter that builds character, strength and perhaps tests your abilities to overcome. Once the season or chapter is over they either leave you feeling fulfilled, wanting more, sad, or perhaps glad the season or chapter has ended.

Then you have those that enter and are there for a lifetime. Some you may see on a regular basis, some once a month, some years may pass, but you pick up right where you left off. They would be there in an instant should you call, they understand all that you have been through, they tell you the truth whether it is ugly or beautiful. Or...they just know too much at this point so they have to remain in your life. ;) They are there at your darkest to help pick you back up and help you through. They are there at your best when you are shining your brightest to congratulate you and cheer you on. And undoubtedly, they will be there again when you fall back down. They enter into your life at all different times, but no matter when they enter, they stay with you throughout.

Regardless, if they enter your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime, it is those friendships, meetings, and chance encounters that make up the chapters in our individual books of life. Everyone's life is different, unique, and wonderfully written. Every book holds many chapters and some are better than others, but they are our chapters.

You do not have to let everyone into the most private parts of your life. But remember, that as you go through life, embrace each chapter, all the happy, sad, funny, exciting, stressful and wondrous chapters that are yours. Welcome new friendships, live your life embracing the possibilities, and always leave the door open.

Living in the Here and Now...10 Minutes at a Time

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Mon, 06 Nov 2017 19:28:00 +0000

Centering thoughts...Inner peace...Living in the here an now.

Namaste.

Oh yea, much easier said than done!

With everyday life going past us in a high speed blur of appointments, work, kids, family life, the unexpected, stress, priorities, financial burdens, you name it. Multi-tasking!

Deep breath in...and out... Whooooo!

OK, so how do we prioritize? Separate what's truly important? Focus on the here and now?

I have no flipping idea!

I recently started a mediation course and what I am learning is that I am spending way too much time worrying about "stuff". It's supposed to be a 20 minute course once a day, for 21 days, I get through 10 minutes!

Living in the here and now...I don't have time for "that!"

I just found myself doing 4 days in one because I got an email saying they missed me. Ugh! So, I rushed through it, took notes, breezed through so I could get caught up, skipped over the actual meditation part and then sat back and went...wait...that's not how I was supposed to do that!

But I was in such a hurry to get back to my "tasks" for the day, I just couldn't take time for me.

How is that relaxing? How am I tuning into my inner self? How am I living in the here and now?

I'm NOT!

It's like sometimes I'm going through my day tuned into the wrong radio station, or somewhere in between where it's all fuzzy. I need to find my station and tune myself in.

OK...Pause...

Ommmmm

So, what do we do? How do we tune into the here and now? It's not that easy.

I cannot tell you how many times one of my kids is trying to talk to me and I have unconsciously tuned them out. Not because I don't want to hear what they have to say, but because I'm not really "with them" right then and there. I'm on that fuzzy station again, you know that loud annoying voice in our heads.

Earth to mom! Did you even here what I just said?

Ummmm yes...no...OK can you just repeat it?

I'm either in the past beating myself up for the mistakes I've made along the way or thinking about the future and how I can't control what is going to happen in my life. Focusing on my past mistakes or worrying about the unknown, it's not a great place to be. It shouldn't be that hard to tune in and focus on the here and now. So why is it?

Everyday tasks, listening to that noisy voice that is non stop in our heads, not our inner spirit. We are filled with self doubt and anxiety of what we can't control. It pulls us away from what is truly important...living for today, this moment...right here!

It's time to yell it from the mountain tops...I'm living in the moment from here on out! I'm tuning in folks!

Part of the meditation series I'm doing, although I haven't truly committed to the meditation part yet, is listening to some inspiring words prior to taking the time to meditate.

My excuse, "I don't have enough time to do that." When, actually, time is all we really have. It's just how we choose to use it. Whether or not time controls us or we take control of time and become in sync with it.

Starting out taking just 10 minutes a day to do something for you, something centering, something to get you grounded in the here and now. Let the outside world melt away and focus on your inner peace.

For me, I need to start a routine, maybe 10 minutes in the morning with no distractions or interruptions, not on my phone, just being in the moment. Maybe that will lead to me taking the time to actually "meditate" during my meditation series and take the full 20 minutes. I mean come on, 20 minutes, for me, that's not being greedy or selfish, but I tend to feel that way sometimes.

What naturally tunes you in? What gets you grounded?

For me it's several things.

Nature...

When I am meandering around our property, taking a walk in the park, or enjoying a quiet moment outdoors, everything else melts away and I am able to focus and enjoy the moment.

Now, I might pause to take a lot of pictures, but that centers me. The unfinished tasks, the unpaid bill I was worrying about, the unknown future, just doesn't seem as important anymore. I just don't do this often enough.

Animals....

Two words...unconditional love.When I'm having a hard day, I always know going out to the barn to visit the horses, taking the dogs out for a game of catch, just sitting with a cat in my lap for a few minutes....they just melt my anxiety away.

However, often, I don't just enjoy the moment, I find a task to go along with it. Shovel stalls instead of just enjoying the beautiful creature in front of me. Pick weeds in between ball throws with the dog. Constantly multi-tasking, constantly distracted...squirrel!

My family...

They keep me grounded...they complete me, they make me laugh, they bring me joy, they make my heart full, and I am my happiest when we are all together. But with lives going in so many different directions, it is not always easy getting the quality time with them (or alone time with my husband) that I crave. But I treasure the moments we do get.

I am a constant work in progress, just ask my family. But as the years go by, the older I get, I am realizing more and more that I am in control of a lot more than I think.

I just need to train myself (and my husband!) to take more time, even 10 minutes, focusing on being in the moment, living in the here and now. Not multi-tasking. Tiny steps toward inner peace.

It's learning to say no to all the stuff that is taking up our precious days, hours, and minutes. Those things that are not truly what you are being called to do. Listening to our inner spirit not the noisy voice in our heads telling us to do this or do that, bringing up old hurts, or making us focus on the future that we can't control.

Putting time back on our side and leading a fulfilled life based on our inner spirit and not the outer world. Finding what grounds us and not being controlled by time but being in sync with it.

Wow, that sounds incredibly hard when I see it written out, but I'm going to take it 10 minutes at a time (20 once I start the actual meditating part!) and make a conscious effort to truly, live in the here and now.

Who's with me?!

Circle of Life

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Mon, 09 Oct 2017 18:25:00 +0000

Fall is one of my favorite seasons. As I walked around the property this morning, the sun was just peaking through the trees, the morning fog was still present here and there, and the dew was glistening on the grass. I was savoring the changing of the season. I found myself reaching down picking up different colored leaves as I walked.

As I made my way back, I stopped in front of the barn and started arranging the leaves in a circle on the wooden planks. I smiled and thought what a beautiful representation of a circle of life...

(Cue the off key singing) 🎵 "In the circle of life..." 🎵

We live in the country, it's OK, no one heard me. Yes, yes, now the Lion King song will be stuck in your head all day to...sorry!

Bear with me though, take a moment and read the lyrics below before reading on.

Circle of Life

From the day we arrive on the planet
And blinking, step into the Sun
There's more to be seen than can ever be seen
More to do than can ever be done

Some say eat or be eaten
Some say live and let live
But all are agreed as they join the stampede
You should never take more than you give

In the circle of life
It's the wheel of fortune
It's the leap of faith
It's the band of hope
Till we find our place
On the path unwinding

In the circle, the circle of life

Some of us fall by the wayside
And some of us soar to the stars
And some of us sail through our troubles
And some have to live with the scars

There's far too much to take in here
More to find than can ever be found
But the Sun rolling high through the sapphire sky
Keeps great and small on the endless round

In the circle of life
It's the wheel of fortune
It's the leap of faith
It's the band of hope
Till we find our place
On the path unwinding
In the circle, the circle of life

It's the wheel of fortune
It's the leap of faith
It's the band of hope
Till we find our place
On the path unwinding
In the circle, the circle of life

On the path unwinding
In the circle, the circle of life

Songwriters: Elton John / Tim Rice

I have always loved that song. The Lion King is a favorite in our house. Our son still loves to hold up our little dog above his head, like Rafiki did to baby Simba on Pride Rock, mumbling something completely incoherent that makes us laugh every time...and he's 25!

I guess my point to this post is that we all step into this world and find ourselves as a single leaf on a collective circle of life. We trudge through, some finding our place right away, soaring to the top; others make mistake after mistake, feeling as though we are never getting any closer to our purpose. There will be some that fall and pick themselves up, and others whom are overtaken by their surroundings. Some that figure it all out right away, and some that are still trying to figure it all out.

Faith and hope are always being spoken, patience is always being tried. We look for acceptance, we look for growth, we often fight change. We search for redemption, forgiveness, and renewal. Sometimes we feel crowded and sometimes we feel utterly alone.

Bottom line, we all make mistakes, but growth comes from mistakes, and change is inevitable.

As you go through your circle of life, remember that you are not alone. Embrace the season that you are in. Enjoy the simple ordinary things in life. Stop and make a leaf circle, sing out loud, dance goofy, give out more hugs, be kind, smile, help someone, follow your dreams, never stop searching for your purpose, and love every minute of life.

Remember, it is never too late to start over and change can be good.

Some things may be out of our control, and while we are responsible for our own leaf, we are also in this beautiful circle of life together. How awesome is that?!

Come on...sing it with me! 🎵 "In the circle of life..." 🎵

Don't Put All Your Eggs in One Basket

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Tue, 12 Sep 2017 16:43:00 +0000

You've heard the idioms before...

Actions speak louder than words

A penny for your thoughts

Ball is in your court

Every cloud has a silver lining

Not playing with a full deck
(Oh yeah we all know a few of those!)

Watch where your going not where you've been
(Wait, I said that to my kids when they walked into something.)

Anyway, last week while out at the chicken coop gathering eggs, I looked down at my basket and chuckled. My mom's words I had heard so many times while growing up echoed in my head...

Don't put all of your eggs in one basket...

Ha! I couldn't possibly carry all of these at once! (No worries, I'm usually the only one that gets my jokes.) I stood here looking at this basket full of eggs, grinning and it made me think...

Sometimes, you just have to go all in don't ya? I mean, sure be diversified with investing your hard earned cash, don't rely on one single stream of income, don't tie up all of your money in your house, blah, blah, blah, being an adult is so boring sometimes.

But if you never go all in, never put all of your eggs in one basket and just go for it...you'll never know! Wow, I was walking back to the house feeling empowered! Ready for an adventure!

I did mention in my last post about feeling the big 50 quickly approaching and the empty nest looming over me in the not so distant future.

So we went to the RV show over the weekend...of course!

What if we just sold it all?! Maybe buy a small house (not a tiny house, I'm not that far along yet!) and bought an RV and just traveled around the United States!? I have always envied those people, they pack up their lives in a couple of backpacks, and trek out into the unknown. Those adventures always look so amazing!

I mean, sure, it is like Facebook and Instagram amazing, but it must be all sunshine and roses right, social media like never lies about that stuff. So why can't we do that? I mean, really, why not?

Oh wait, because my husband reminded me on the way home, after the high of seeing all the cool RV's wore off, that we don't always do so good in cramped spaces. Being confined in an RV together would most likely end in divorce or someone getting "left behind" and not making it back from the adventure.

And you know, there are a few of those "things" I have grown so attached to; the chair I fall asleep in every night, two closets (sorry Sam!), my fall boots! I mean, yes I need all of them! The five drawers in the bathroom filled with necessities, boxes and boxes of pictures that I am going to put into a scrap book....one day...some day...OK probably never. Boxes of undeveloped film dating back from like when I was 20! (I'm waiting on a coupon of course.)

Just in case you thought i was exaggerating....this is one bin!

Then there is the stuff my husband, our daughter, and the older two have to keep. I have stuff from all three of the kids in the basement, safely tucked into boxes they will probably never open.

How many times have I gone through the same boxes in the basement, hoping to get rid of, sell, donate and cut it all down by half only to walk to my trash can with a single bag of garbage and a deflated feeling of accomplishment. Or moved the same unused stuff from house to house. It all has sentimental value!

Ahhhh so much stuff! We are a few boxes short of being hoarders.

I couldn't possibly pack up everything into an RV anyway, who am I kidding?

Not to mention all of the animals meandering through our property. Who would we get to feed our small zoo?

But it would be an amazing adventure. Right?! Heck, we would probably make a great reality show. What all not to do when confined in a small RV trekking across America on some hair brained adventure you decided to do during a mid life crisis. Holy crap! That's it, I'm having a mid life crisis! How's that for Facebook life vs.reality folks!

Perhaps it's best if I stick to collecting literal eggs in my basket and keep everything else the way it is for right now. Someday, I will take the leap, Steven and I will get rid of the "stuff", put all of our eggs in one basket, and trek off on an adventure. Most likely once the empty nest arrives...just not today.

Can you believe all of this came from collecting eggs out at the chicken coop? Think twice before getting chickens my friends...think twice!

Empty Nest

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Fri, 08 Sep 2017 15:59:00 +0000

Walking around the property this morning I came across this tiny nest that must have fallen from the tree above.

So much care was taken to weave it...colorful twine, fur for warmth, it was a perfect little home. But here it laid on the ground...empty.

Time goes by incredibly fast, too fast. I guess I am starting to feel the "empty nest" creeping up on me in our own home. Yes we still have one at home and yes she's only 12, but she is quickly growing into a beautiful young lady before our eyes. One day she will leave us with an empty nest. ((Sigh))

(However, based on the completely unreasonable dating rules we have set for her, that shouldn't be until she's 30.)

Oh how I wish my mom was still with me, to hug her once more and to tell her that she was right and that I finally get it. All of those milestones I just couldn't wait to reach; "I wish I was 10, 13, 16, 18, 21..." Those have quickly turned into, "Wait, what happened to 30?...40?..."

Now as I look at this empty nest laying on the ground, I think ahead to the ever so quickly approaching chapter 50 in my life. How did it fly by so quickly?

It's a gentle reminder, a reminder that I am blessed with another chapter. And also a reminder that tomorrow's wishes, those things you always wanted to do, the places you said you would always go...it's time...time to do it all. Time to start on that bucket list!

Let me tell ya, I plan on making the second half of my life book a page turner full of family, friends, new adventures, and lots of laughter! Bring it on!

Creature Comforts

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Thu, 06 Jul 2017 21:40:00 +0000

We have gotten pretty attached to our "creature comforts" around our ranch. Oh sure, the home we live in is great, but it's the creatures that live here and visit that I'm referring to.

In our family, it doesn't take much for an animal to win over our hearts. Basically we meet them or they walk onto our property and we are hooked. That is certainly apparent from the growing number of these furry and feathery souls occupying our barn and home right now.

From our beautiful horses...

Tessa giving Roxy a flower makeover

Snuggling with Tanner

Our herd...Half Shy, Roxy, Rocket, and Tanner

Rocket, Roxy, Tanner, and Half Shy

Our energetic dogs...

Gracie playing in the water

Z and Gracie taking a break on our hike

Nina and Nikki

To our spoiled rotten barn cats...and I do use the word "barn cats" very loosely - they are great mousers, but do love their creature comforts.

Max and Lulu snuggling on Dad's chair

Max eyeing a bird in the tree

Lulu (And now I know why my plant wasn't growing)

And of course, you can't forget our chickens...

Our dear friend Kathy with a few of our chickens from our flock - they love the attention

and our bunnies...

Our rescued rabbit Prince, who is pushing 10 pounds now!

Prince's buddy...Captain Jack

To even the unexpected visitor that will stop by now and then...

We have several turtle saves a year

My husband found this little guy in the garden.

This little goose just wandered onto the property one day, extremely friendly and hungry.
He spent some time with us and off he went. Hoping he comes back for a visit soon.

We get excited to meet each and every animal that has come into our lives. We never take for granted even the littlest of our visitors. We feel blessed to have encountered each and every one of them.

The barn swallow babies struggling to learn how to fly, the occasional salamander on a rainy night, even the unique caterpillars, butterflies, and bugs that drop by.

Fledgling Barn Swallow

Saddle back caterpillar

They build such amazing webs!

We get so many hummingbird visitors each year, and every year some manage to get trapped in our garage..
We have become experts at getting them out. They are always so grateful they usually pause for a photo.

There is always a new creature making it's way on to our ranch and into our hearts. (I could do without the snakes, but...they do eat the barn mice, notice no pictures of those.)

It always so much fun walking the property and encountering a new creature just hanging around.

Fence Post Lizard

Praying Mantis

Having friends and family over to share in our blessings make it all the better. Watching someone interact with our flock of chickens, pet the velvety nose of one of our horses, or get licked by one of our extremely excited labs (or horses) makes our souls happy.

Watching their faces light up is a reminder of what a wonderful, beautiful, and blessed life we have and how much we enjoy sharing it with others.

Rocket is a bit of a lover...

Our barn doors and our hearts are always open to those creatures that want to visit, both animal and human. ;) We will feed them, love them, and miss them when they move on; but we will forever be changed by their presence and grateful for the time we spend with them.

Each and every creature, every person who has stepped foot on our property, has forever etched a place in our hearts and our family.

When God Answers Your prayers

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 18:15:00 +0000

During a sun shower the other day, I tried capturing the beautiful rainbow that appeared in our backyard.

I wasn't able to get my camera going quick enough to capture it at its vivid peak, however if you look ever so closely you can see the faint colors that remain.

As the rainbow started to fade away and the dark skies took over a bit, I went to our front yard to capture the moment thinking it would make a nice contrast against our home.

I just started snapping pictures. When I went back inside to look at how they came out, I was in awe.

Maybe you won't see it, but just above the center of our home, to the right of the very faint remnants of the rainbow is, what I think looks like, an eye looking upward.

Now, I know it's cloud playing tricks on my perception of it, but when you pray for God's direction, His divine guidance in your life, and ask for Him to show you his will...and He not only brings a sun shower to wash away the doubt, but He gives you a rainbow, and to me, a clear picture of what I should be doing...looking upward...to Him.

Wow! God is good!

And for those that can't see it, maybe this will help...

Just because you can't physically see something, touch it, or speak face to face...doesn't mean it isn't there.God loves us, He is always with us, even when our skies are their darkest...He wants us to look to Him.

Have a blessed day!

Spring is in the Air

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Fri, 21 Apr 2017 21:20:00 +0000

Oh what a wonderful time of year. Everything that was once at rest is now alive. The gray and lifeless trees are sprouting new growth. The earth is rejuvenating and cycling back around.

Walking through the property I get subtle hints of sweet fragrances...lavender, hyacinth, and fresh new grass. It awakens my mind from its wintry slumber. My eyes are taking in all of the bright new colors that surround me as I watch the earth slowly come back to life.

I am always left in awe at the beauty all around me and find myself walking, arms outstretched, smile on my face, looking up to the heavens thanking God for all of this wondrous beauty that brings such joy to my spirit.

The trees, the grasses, the flowers, and yes even the weeds.

Dragonflies are making a comeback...

Bees are busy pollinating the flowers 'er weeds...but that's OK! They are doing what God made them to do, and I am thankful for all of those dandelions blowing in the wind.

(Maybe not so much for my husband)

The smell of the earth, the sound of blue birds chirping and building their nests, I can't seem to get enough! Sigh...

May your day be blessed, your spirit be touched, and your eyes be awakened to the beauty that surrounds you. Today is a gift, open it and enjoy it.

Nature is Cool

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Wed, 24 Feb 2016 17:48:00 +0000

My kids have made fun of me (on more than one occasion I might add)... "Mom look there's a leaf...you better take a picture of it!" Well, I usually do.

I am in awe of nature and find beauty all around me. Quite simply...nature is cool!

Whether it is the dew on the fence...

or dew dripping on the wildflowers like diamonds...

I see beauty everywhere I look. Yes even in the water trough.

We set out on a hike one day and I was giddy with excitement at all of the cool mushrooms I found! One more beautiful than the next!

On a frosty morning I find beauty in those little frozen crystals.

Nature even makes the best patterns!

Nature provides beauty in every season...

Spring and summer give way to vibrant colors and lots of interesting creatures.

Fall holds onto the colors as long as it can before its winter nap...

And even in winter, and among all the white snow and barren trees, you find beauty...

Take time to explore your surroundings, you won't be disappointed.

All of the pictures on this post are just from around our property, I feel so blessed to have so much beauty all around me just waiting for me to find it.

Take time to breathe in your surroundings...

Every sunrise and sunset...

Every cloud in the sky...

Even the stormy skies hold beauty...

God gave us a magnificent world, and you do not have to travel far to admire it...

for me and my family...it's our own backyard.

I challenge you to go out today and find out just how cool nature really is!

Life On Lost Creek Ranch

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Mon, 25 Jan 2016 21:03:00 +0000

It's been awhile since I have posted, for many reasons, but the biggest reason is we had been busy searching for our next home, a small ranch that we could live on and finally bring our horses to be with us.

We had always wanted property, and had looked many times over the years. However, when the horses came into our lives, it became an obsession with us to to not just find "some property" but to finally find our "country home".

A place for running around barefoot and free, rolling around on the grass, pausing only to point out the cloud animals drifting by.

A place far enough out so that you can look up at the night sky and see an endless amount of stars. A fun and playful homestead to have cookouts, bonfires, hayrides and country parties.

A wild enough place, not touched by the city, to go trekking through nature and capture all of it's beauty.

A place where my husband and I could grow old together sipping iced tea on a porch swing.

A place to watch as our kids grow up, comeback to visit and bring their friends, and some day bring our grand kids to visit.

A place where our horses could run and we could see them everyday, without driving anywhere, we could see them just by looking out our bedroom window.

Rocket

Half Shy and Roxy

Tanner

Well, after a long (very long, like in several years) and tireless search (just ask our realtor, nothing felt like "the one") we finally found it, our very own "country home".

We would have some work cut out for us...there was a beautiful home on the acreage, but no fenced pastures, no barn...but it had all that we needed to make our home into what we now call...

Lost Creek Ranch.

Tessa enjoying the view from our back porch.

We moved in this summer, and haven't stopped working since. It was a HOT summer! A sweaty, and often times tense environment, of putting in fence posts, pasture fencing and all that goes along with getting a ranch started.

My awesome husband breaking up the rock we kept encountering while digging.
I'll have you know that is a "two man" auger and I was the "other man" working it.
Can you say girl power!?

Roxy always wanting to help.

The barn is finally up...

...but now the stall building has started. It is a slow go since my husband is doing it himself, after work and on the weekends.

He has the back and sides done, we have temporary fronts on while he works on building the stall fronts. Progress is good! Next, electric in the barn!

We are ALL loving every minute of it!

Tessa, Sean and Samantha

Tessa on our trampoline with our dogs;
Gracie, our yellow lab and Nina and Nikki, our Chihuahuas.

In our spare time (aka when not working on the barn, fencing, house or the yard) we try to enjoy our surroundings.

Even if that means from the seat of the tractor or lawn mower...

or...a tree stand.

Even bringing home our first load of hay felt great!

Using our fire pit for the first time.

Songs by the campfire or in the kitchen...

Of course we had to get a few barn cats!

Max and Lorelai

We love to take hikes and explore our new surroundings and on our hikes we admire how cool nature truly is.

And on every hike we discover another reason why this was the perfect place for us and we love it here.

We enjoy working out doors. (and playing)

It has been a true joy watching as the seasons changed from summer...

to fall...

...to winter on the ranch.

Each season bringing us new adventures and wonderful memories that will last us a lifetime.

We are so incredibly blessed to have found our little Lost Creek Ranch and we look forward to all that it and He has in store for us in the years to come.

Embrace What is Inside of You

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Thu, 26 Feb 2015 18:40:00 +0000

I get it, and I have even said it to my own kids on numerous occasions.

"That's it! No more pets!"

Usually this is said after one of the dogs has had an accident in the house or perhaps started eating their way through an envelope of my "mad money".

Just look at those faces though! You can't stay mad long.

Nina

Nikki

Anyway...just to set things up here...when our oldest daughter asked repeatedly over the years for a horse my response was always "No. Horses are expensive, we know nothing about them, you don't know how to ride, what if you fall off, you don't take care of the animals we have now..."

"Oh I will take care of it, I'll clean up after it!" well that goes out the window after about week two. Our last two dogs were a Labrador and a Sheltie, while the "pick up" of two Chihuahua's is much better, the thought of having to scoop the "apples" a horse left behind...heck no!

So, you can imagine my own surprise the day I asked my husband if we could adopt a rescue horse...

Her name is Roxy and she is what helped me to embrace what was inside of me.

(You can read about Roxy in my blog posts: She Picked Me - Part 1 and She Picked Me - Part 2)

Roxy - our beautiful rescue horse at Motherlode Ranch where I spend most of my days

It was that day and a moment in time that I will never forget. Something came alive inside of me.

Let me explain...

I have gone from saying to my own kids, "That's it, no more pets." to "OK so when we move to our own ranch, I want to get Peacocks, a Cow, which of course you can't let me near or I will have it named and doing tricks...chickens and well we need to get a pony for Tessa, Steven, you said you wanted your own horse...." (deep breath)

You could say that I found my inner country girl.

For the record, my definition of a country girl is: someone that doesn't care what others think, is strong, believes anything is possible, believes in themselves, believes in hard work, loves the out doors, animals, believes there is some good in all of us, has faith and is willing to take a huge leap of faith to follow their hearts. Simply put...she is unique and is determined.

For instance...I now drive a truck and can parallel park. (which for those of you that know me and have had to jump out of the passenger seat to parallel park my car for me, this is a huge accomplishment!) I know it sounds trivial but I have a new found confidence. See pic below.

A perfect parallel parking job!

I have connected and bonded with Roxy on a level I never thought possible. I have bonded with all of the animals on the ranch...the horses. dogs, peacocks....It has been an amazing experience.

Rocket, Tanner and Roxy is hiding in the background

Fred the Peacock

Sometimes I feel as if I was the one rescued. She calms me, she makes whatever is going on in my life melt away as soon as I see her. We truly have a special bond.

The only other animal, 'er person, that can do that is my husband. (Maybe my kids when they aren't being sassy.) I cannot thank my husband enough for helping to make all of this happen. His unconditional love and support has brought us to where we are today.

I love this man!

Roxy opened up a closed door in my inner being. I can not explain it any other way.You hear about these special bonds between humans and animals, but it's hard to understand until you experience it yourself. She came into my life at a time when I needed it the most, even if I didn't realize it myself.

Reality is that life gets hectic; we are running place to place with our kids, worrying about bills, college, schedules, our marriage starts to take a back seat to work and the kids, date night practically disappears, you start to lose focus on what truly matters in life. You need something to help pull it all back together again.

For me, Roxy coming into our lives is what helped me embrace my inner self, helped me and my husband find more time to be together and has opened up another exciting chapter in our lives.

My husband and I

My husband and I are now thinking about what "we" want and trying to focus more on "us". That doesn't mean we leave out the kids. Our kids are a part of this experience and our youngest is very much involved with Roxy and all of the animals. And yes, she even shovels stalls!

Tessa and Roxy

Tessa and Baby the chicken

Tessa with Tanner and Rocket

Tessa and Stoliver (short for Stinky Oliver - trust me it's a good name)

Yes the kids have needs and wants, but we have those to. We need more quality time together for one and we have always wanted land, but have put it on the back burner and tended to all of those other needs in our lives.

We have finally had our "ah ha" moment our "epiphany" or whatever you want to call it...we realized that there is no time like the present!

In just the two shorts years in which we have had Roxy in our lives she has given and taught us so much. I feel as though each day is a lesson, a gift. She has opened up my eyes, my heart and my soul.

She has given us strength and taught us that we can do more than we think we can. I never thought I could bridle a horse by myself let alone own, ride and take care of one. It is a massive animal but for some strange reason, I never feared her nor did I ever second guess that we were supposed to be in each others lives. (don't look at my riding form in this pic!)

She helped me through the death of my father. I became his main caretaker, a task I thought I could never live up to. It is trying both mentally and physically, it is scary, you cry a lot, and at times you want to walk way because it is so hard to see your loved one that way. And just when I thought I was going to break down, my husband would give me a hug and tell me to go out and see Roxy.

Of course I would feel guilty leaving my father but I would go see her and the other horses. I would cry, talk to her as I groomed her, we would connect and somehow it melted away and gave me strength to get through. Of course my husband was my rock, but he somehow knew that she could take it off of my mind for awhile.

She has given us her trust; taught us to fully trust our instincts. Even though she is a 1,000 pound plus animal (she's a lady, I can't give away her exact weight) I trust her with my life. She trusts me with hers. I feel deep in my bones that she would never do anything to intentionally hurt me; and we've bonded with all of the horses like this.

Now that doesn't mean I haven't been bitten, stomped or nudged across the barn, but if anything I have become one of the herd. I just bruise a bit easier than they do. I've realized that I can do more than I thought I could that's for sure.

Below is just a few seconds of a "snuggling" session I had with her in her stall. The trust she had in me was humbling. I could have laid with her for hours.

She has given us love; taught us that love crosses over the animal - human line to an extent I never really knew existed. When she is moody I can calm her down. When I am moody, she calms me down. When I am sad, she senses it and moves in for the snuggle.

She has given my husband and I another reason to spend more time together. We enjoy going out to the barn and working with her and the other horses. Helping to build a fence, shoveling stalls, grooming a dirty horse (why did I fall in love with a white horse!) putting out hay, hauling around water buckets...I enjoy it more than I should probably admit. But there is something about working with your hands and doing things you normally would have never thought you could do. It is self gratifying to say the least. My Brooklyn born hubby has embraced his country side (we all have one trust me) and we both enjoy just being out there together. We watch the horses and talk about how we will enjoy it all even more once we find a ranch of our own.

Bath time - Rocket

Bath time - Roxy and Tanner

My husband and our youngest with Rocket

Tanner, Roxy and Rocket

But this is not just about how a rescue horse changed my life and now we want a ranch of our own. It is about finding something that sparked the fire within us.

We all have the strength to accomplish what we set our minds to, we just have to believe in ourselves. Whether it is taking on a new job, taking care of a loved one, trying something that you've always wanted to do or perhaps something you thought you would never do like...adopting a rescue horse.

The point is, we need to be open minded about what is put before us and seize the moment when that spark ignites.

So go out, open up your heart and your mind, consider the possibilities and find something that makes you embrace what is inside of you.

For me...it was a rescue horse named Roxy.

Y'all come back now ya hear!

Wait! What happened to fall?!

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Mon, 17 Nov 2014 00:11:00 +0000

Wait! What just happened?! I blinked and we went from this...

to this...

And yes, she does know that the gloves go on her hands, I believe she was trying to make a statement here. Not quite sure what that statement was...none the less, it is starting to get cold.

Then today...

Our first real snow fall of the season. Yay! Booo! Hisss!

I have mixed emotions obviously. It is quite beautiful, I actually enjoy a good snowfall, I like that part.

Everything is white, quite, still, it's calming.

It's the, what's ahead of us part, I don't like...

The barren trees and frigid temps for the next several months.

Ugh!

Although, I guess for now I will shut up, quit complaining, count my blessings and just enjoy it.

It does make for some great pictures...

Actually, it really was the perfect day...and the best part...I got to spend it with this guy...

23 years ago today I married my best friend, my soul mate...my husband and today we celebrated that love during our first snowfall of the season.

Sigh... I'm blessed.

Now I have to go help this little nugget get out of those wet clothes. You know it's tradition to make a snowman out of the first snowfall of the season.

Doesn't he resemble Olaf?

Warm hugs to everyone!

Beginning a new chapter

noreply@blogger.com (Tomorrow's Wishes) — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 18:05:00 +0000

Autumn

To me, autumn is a wondrous season. It is a time of transition, a time of change and a time to renew myself spiritually.

The beauty that comes with this season is just breathtaking. To watch as the trees transition from green, to yellow, oranges, reds...

It's a lot like our life isn't it? We live in cycles, ever changing, one completely different than the last or the next.

I find myself getting lost in the colors of the season, the idea of change, the new chapters in my life yet to come and all of the possibilities that surround me.

I thank God for all that He has given me, and my family, and for giving us such a beautiful season to live.

However, it can be a bit overwhelming at times. It's hard to focus in on just one thing that I want to change, to do, to accomplish...

There are so many things I have yet to do, that I want to do, where do I start? It can be hard to take that first step.

Seasons change so quickly, just as life moves us forward so quickly.

But if we never take that first step, if we never explore the possibilities or take a chance and venture down an unfamiliar path now and then, we may never know the wonderful things He has in store for us around the bend.

Don't let life pass you by. Open your eyes to the season that surrounds you now. Take time to dream about your life and think of ways to make your wishes and your dreams come true. Step out in faith and take a chance on an unfamiliar path.

I enjoy soul searching, evaluating my life and realizing that I have so much more to offer, to accomplish, to achieve.

Setting it all in motion, taking that first step, looking at what you have to do to get there...that is the hardest part.

But you can do it! Believe in yourself, trust in God, and have faith in Him and in YOU. There is no obstacle you cannot overcome. He will never lead you down a path that doesn't give you strength, or skills or wisdom to conquer what's ahead; and it is never to late to start something new.

After all, we are the authors of our own lives.

Find what inspires you. Overcome your "writers block" those obstacles that are slowing you down. Surround yourself with people that will encourage you and help you write those new chapters in your life. Don't be afraid to separate yourself from the people that pull you down.

Do those things that make your heart sing, your soul breathe and your spirit feel alive. It is a time to write a few new chapters in your life!

Find your inspiration!