Inspirational Spark: Stories of Hope

Adrienne Lyle Wins Her Debut Appearance In Grand Prix Special At World Dressage Masters

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

At the World Dressage Masters Palm Beach presented by International Polo Club Palm Beach, Adrienne Lyle of the United States bested the international field to win the Grand Prix Special at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center on Saturday afternoon. The 26 year old Idaho-based rider scored 73.244% riding Wizard, a 13 year old Oldenburg gelding owned by Peggy and Parry Thomas.

“My horse handled everything beautifully. I’m really excited and happy,” said Lyle, who placed fourth in Friday’s WDM Nürnberger Grand Prix, and was eligible to compete in the Grand Prix Freestyle, though she opted to ride in the Grand Prix Special instead. “As much as I would have liked to ride in the freestyle, I need a Grand Prix Special qualifying score for the Olympic Selection Trials,” she explained.

Also choosing to compete in the Grand Prix Special with impressive results was Heather Blitz of the United States, who placed second with her nine year old Danish Warmblood gelding Paragon. Fewer than three months ago, Blitz and Paragon had won team gold and individual silver at the Pan American Games in Guadalajara, Mexico, which are at Prix St. Georges and Intermediaire I level, not Grand Prix.

“Who would have thought that just a few months ago I was in the small tour?” she said. “Now I am not only in the Grand Prix, but scoring over 70 in the Masters.” Blitz and Paragon received 72.044% for their Grand Prix Special test, which was their first in a CDI. Third place went to fellow American Todd Flettrich and Cherry Knoll Farm’s Otto, who received a score of 69.933%. The five member FEI Ground Jury consisted of Jayne Ayers (USA), Stephen Clarke (GBR), Wim Ernes (NED), Liselotte Fore (USA), and Isabelle Judet (FRA).

The audience for the Grand Prix Special was similarly impressive to the previous day’s Grand Prix, which may have set records for attendance in North American Dressage. “We had probably 1,500 people today,” said WDM co-founder and CEO Anthony Kies. “I think the turn-out is fantastic, and tonight we will see a sold out house.”

The grand finale of 2012 WDM Palm Beach is the Exquis Grand Prix Freestyle on Saturday evening, where eight of the world’s top ranked horses and riders will compete for a share of the €70,000 Euros in prize money for that class. A total of €100,000 ($130,000) at each WDM competition makes the WDM presented by Axel Johnson Group the richest dressage series in the world.

Live streaming video will continue to bring WDM Palm Beach action to fans around the world on Saturday evening. In addition to their broadcast at www.internationalpoloclub.com, IPC Palm Beach has created a smartphone application that will be available at the Jim Brandon Center. The application will provide live stream video of the competition, as well as up-to-the-minute information about the competitors and results. USEF Network’s live streaming coverage can be found at www.usefnetwork.com. Eurosport will also broadcast a feature about the WDM Palm Beach on the February 22nd episode of Wednesday Selection.

Results WDM Palm Beach Grand Prix Special presented by IPC Palm Beach

1. Adrienne Lyle (USA) Wizard – 73.244%
2. Heather Blitz (USA) Paragon – 72.044%
3. Todd Flettrich (USA) Otto – 69.933%
4. Pierre St. Jacques (USA) Lucky Tiger – 66.742%
5. Per Sandgaard (SWE) Lomumba Havdal – 64.889%
6. Victoria Winter (CAN) Proton – 63.889%
7. James Koford (USA) Pharaoh – 63.089%
8. Yvonne Losos de Muñiz (DOM) Liebling II – 62.911 %

Full results of the WDM Palm Beach can be found at www.WorldDressageMasters.com.

World Dressage Masters Palm Beach Fast Facts:

What: North America’s only World Dressage Masters event, part of the richest dressage series in the world. Up to twenty of the world’s top dressage stars will compete for €100,000 (US$130,000) in prize money at the WDM Palm Beach.

When: January 26 – 28, 2012

Competition schedule:

Friday January 27:
WDM Nürnberger Grand Prix

Saturday January 28:
2 pm to 4:30 – WDM Grand Prix Special
7:30 pm to 10:30 – WDM Exquis Grand Prix Freestyle

Where: Jim Brandon Equestrian Center – Okeeheelee Park South, 7500 Forest Hill Blvd,
West Palm Beach, FL 33413

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New Grand Prix Record Set At World Dressage Masters Palm Beach, Steffen Peters & Ravel

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

American Steffen Peters took a step toward defending his 2011 World Dressage Masters Palm Beach title by winning the WDM Palm Beach Nürnberger Grand Prix test with a record-shattering score of 81.383%. Not only is that a personal best result in a CDI Grand Prix for Peters and Akiko Yamazaki’s 14 year old KWPN gelding, it is also the highest score ever attained in a WDM Palm Beach Grand Prix.

“I started to have the feeling I got from Ravel tonight in the last couple of weeks,” said Peters after his decisive victory over the international field of 16 competitors. “I had this feeling at a show two weeks ago in California, but I had to risk it a bit more here. Ravel feels even stronger than last year and more supple. It was a blast to ride.”

Finishing in second place behind Peters was Great Britain’s Charlotte Dujardin riding Valegro, a ten year old KWPN gelding co-owned by Carl Hester and Roly Luard. Dujardin’s score of 78.468% was nearly three points behind Peters, but it was a full five percentage points higher than the third placed pair, Tinne Vilhelmson-Silfven of Sweden on Antonia Ax:son Johnson’s 13 year old Rheinlander gelding Favourit, with a score of 73.255%.

The WDM Palm Beach presented by International Polo Club Palm Beach is Dujardin’s North American debut. For Peters and Vilhelmson-Silfven, their placings in the Grand Prix are identical to the 2011 WDM Palm Beach on the same horses, though the scores are higher than a year ago. “I think we had so many good horses in this class,” said FEI five star dressage judge Gary Rockwell, president of the ground jury.

The 2012 WDM Palm Beach Grand Prix has also set records for spectators, with well over a thousand people in the stands and at ringside VIP tables on Friday afternoon. For the first time ever, USEF Network live streamed the entire competition in High Definition not only for the web, but also for smart phones. People from all over the world – from Canada to Germany to Japan – logged in on computers and mobile devices to watch the event.

“I was really pleased with the number of spectators who came today,” said Noreen O’Sullivan of Wellington Classic Dressage, which is the Official Show Producer of the WDM Palm Beach. “It’s a wonderful statement about the state of our sport.” A completely full Jim Brandon Equestrian Center is expected for Saturday afternoon’s sold out Grand Prix Special and the evening Grand Prix Freestyle. Eight pairs from the Grand Prix, including the top three from the Grand Prix, have opted to enter the Freestyle, while the remaining eight will compete in the Grand Prix Special.

Live streaming video will continue to bring WDM Palm Beach action to fans around the world on Saturday. In addition to their broadcast at www.internationalpoloclub.com, IPC Palm Beach has created a smartphone application that will be available at the Jim Brandon Center. The application will provide live stream video of the competition, as well as up-to-the-minute information about the competitors and results. USEF Network’s live streaming coverage can be found at www.usefnetwork.com. Eurosport will also broadcast a feature about the WDM Palm Beach on the February 22nd episode of Wednesday Selection.

The World Dressage Masters presented by Axel Johnson Group is the most prestigious dressage series in the world, and with €400,000 in prize money awarded at 2011 WDM events, also the richest. The field at the 2012 WDM Palm Beach represents some of the world’s top ranked and most successful horses and riders.

Results WDM Palm Beach Nürnberger Grand Prix
Steffen Peters (USA) Ravel – 81.383%
Charlotte Dujardin (GBR) Valegro – 78.468%
Tinne Vilhelmson-Silfven (SWE) Favourit – 73.255%
Adrienne Lyle (USA) Wizard – 72.149%
Anja Plönzke (GER) Le Mont D’Or – 71.404%
5.(tie) Ashley Holzer (CAN) Breaking Dawn – 71.404%
7. Heather Blitz (USA) Paragon – 71.000%
8. Carl Hester (GBR) Wie Atlantico De Ymas – 69.979%

Full results of the WDM Palm Beach Nürnberger Grand Prix, as well as a detailed schedule of competitor times for Saturday’s Grand Prix Special and the Exquis Grand Prix Freestyle can be found at www.WorldDressageMasters.com.

World Dressage Masters Palm Beach Fast Facts:

When: January 26 – 28, 2012

Competition schedule:

*Gates open at 11:00 am each day for WDM Palm Beach ticket holders only. Tickets will not be available for purchase at the gate. Ticket holders are encouraged to arrive for Saturday evening’s Grand Prix Freestyle at 5:30 pm.

Friday January 27:
2 pm to 5 – WDM Nürnberger Grand Prix

Saturday January 28:
2 pm to 4:30 – WDM Grand Prix Special
7:30 pm to 10:30 – WDM Exquis Grand Prix Freestyle

Where: Jim Brandon Equestrian Center – Okeeheelee Park South, 7500 Forest Hill Blvd,
West Palm Beach, FL 33413

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The Top 2 Ways To Turning Your Passions Into Multiple Streams of Income

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

In Making a Living Without a Job, Barbara J. Winter described the idea of Multiple Profit Centers: "I think of creating profit centers," she wrote, "as being akin to what a juggler does when spinning plates on top of sticks. The juggler walks out on the stage with ten sticks and ten plates but doesn't begin spinning them all at once. Methodically, he or she positions the first plate on a stick and gets it into motion. Once done, the juggler moves on to the next, then the next, and so forth. Eventually, all ten of the plates are spinning away, each with its own momentum"

Creating multiple streams of income is key to sustain and secure your message. When one of the streams faces a hard time, others lift you up.

When it comes to creating multiple streams of income (or multiple profit centers as Barbara likes to call), people are divided into two groups:

1. Dominant Passion:

Those are people who have one dominant passion and would like to spend the rest of their lives pursuing that single passion.

Around this dominant passion may revolve several streams of income.

I belong to this category. I'm extremely passionate about the field of success and motivation. Now, I've three major streams of income: speaking, life purpose coaching and motivational information products … and I'm always looking out for more.

2. Passion Mix:

When you have several passions, which I call the passion mix, you can turn each one of them into a stand alone stream of income.

Think of Sir Richard Branson!

Beside success & motivation, I have a strong passion for Chess. I've not considered creating a profit center around it yet. However, if I do, I will belong to this category of people pursuing different unrelated passions.

The secret to making the idea of "multiple streams of income" successful is to follow the juggler example.

Start with one plate, get it into motion and then move on to another plate.

Don't start everything all at once.

You've to focus all your efforts on starting and building momentum for your first business idea. Then, when it acquires the momentum that makes it stable enough, you move on to build your next business idea or stream of income.

Now, what possible streams of income can you create around your passions? Let's continue the discussion in the comments section below.

Mohamed Tohami is a bestselling author and the creator of "The P.A.S. Technique: The World's Easiest Way To Find Your Passion and Purpose In Life". If you want to set your heart & soul free from the prison of the paycheck and discover how to proudly follow your passion, give a visit to his Transformational Motivation blog now.

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The World Dressage Masters In Palm Beach Coming Up! Are You Ready?

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

World class dressage comes to West Palm Beach, Florida!

The World Dressage Masters Palm Beach presented by International Polo Club Palm Beach will be officially under way at 12:30 pm on Thursday, January 26th, when 15 of the world’s top international dressage horses are presented at the FEI horse inspection. The Jim Brandon Equestrian Center is, for the second consecutive year, the venue for this unique and exciting event, which is organized by Wellington Classic Dressage.

“The International Polo Club team has come into the Jim Brandon Center and created an environment that rivals that of any international equestrian venue anywhere in the world,” said Mason Phelps Jr. of Phelps Media Group.

The World Dressage Masters presented by Axel Johnson Group is the world’s richest dressage series and the only series that holds the highest classification of FEI dressage competition, at the five star level. In the coming days, 17 of the world’s top ranked horses and riders from Europe and North America will compete for €100,000 ($130,000) at the only WDM event to take place outside of Europe. IPC Palm Beach became the presenting sponsor just a few weeks before the 2011 WDM Palm Beach after the previous sponsor cancelled its support. The 2011 WDM Palm Beach was a spectacular, sold out event, but the 2012 WDM is expected to exceed even last year’s success.

WDM Managing Director John van de Laar arrived at the Jim Brandon Center from Europe on the morning of January 25th, as final touches were being made at the venue. “I’m very impressed with what’s been done,” he said. “It’s beautiful, and the only thing left to imagine is that it will be packed on Saturday evening.” Van de Laar is delighted with the results achieved by IPC and IPC Catering at the Jim Brandon Center. “I’m very happy with the improvements we can see compared to last year, when it was organized at the last minute,” he said.

An even better spectator experience than last year is further guaranteed by the world class field of horses and riders that have been attracted to the WDM Palm Beach. Defending 2011 Champions, American Steffen Peters and Ravel, will face stiff rivalry from Europe and North America in Friday’s Grand Prix and again on Saturday night, when the top eight placed pairs from the Grand Prix will face off before a sold out audience in the Grand Prix Freestyle.

“I think people are starting to realize how important our event is for this part of the world,” said van de Laar. “You can see it in the field of competitors. I’m very happy with that.” Every year, more dressage riders flock to South Florida with their horses to enjoy an unbeatable climate and densely packed competition schedule. The WDM Palm Beach is, without a doubt, the dressage event of the season, and the most prestigious competition of the year in the United States.

The 2012 WDM Palm Beach is completely sold out, but for those who are unable to attend in person there will be several online video options. IPC Palm Beach will live stream the WDM Palm Beach competition at www.internationalpoloclub.com. IPC will also provide a smartphone application that will be available to people at the Jim Brandon Center. The application will have live stream video, as well as up-to-the-minute information about the competitors and results. USEF Network will also provide live streaming coverage at www.usefnetwork.com. Eurosport will broadcast a feature on the WDM Palm Beach on the February 22nd episode of Wednesday Selection.

World Dressage Masters Palm Beach Fast Facts:

What: North America’s only CDI5*, and part of the richest dressage series in the world. Up to twenty of the world’s top dressage stars will compete for 100,000 Euros in prize money at the WDM Palm Beach.

When: January 26 – 28, 2012

Competition schedule:

Thursday January 26:
12:30 pm – CDI 5* (WDM) Horse Inspection
2 pm to 5 – CDI 3* Grand Prix (top two horses to receive invitations to CDI5*)

Friday January 27:
2 pm to 5 – CDI5* Grand Prix

Saturday January 28:
2 pm to 4:30 – CDI5* Grand Prix Special
7:30 pm to 10:30 – CDI5* Grand Prix Freestyle

Who:
Confirmed entries for WDM Palm Beach presented by IPC Palm Beach:

Jacqueline Brooks (CAN) – Gran Gesto
Charlotte Dujardin (GBR) – Valegro
Todd Flettrich (USA) – Otto
Carl Hester (GBR) – Wie Atlantico
Adrienne Lyle (USA) – Wizard
Ashley Holzer (CAN) – Pop Art
Tina Konyot (USA) – Calecto V
Yvonne Losos de Muñiz (DOM) – Dondolo Las Marismas
Steffen Peters (USA) – Ravel
Anja Plönzke (GER) – Le Mont d’Or
Pierre St. Jacques (USA) – Lucky Tiger
Per Sandgaard (SWE) – Lomumba Havdal
Minna Telde (SWE) – Deinhardt
Tinne Vilhelmsson-Silfven (SWE) – Favourit
Victoria Winter (CAN) – Proton

2011 WDM Palm Beach Champion shares the podium with Tinne Vilhelmson-Silfven of Sweden and Tina Konyot of the US – photo credit Sue Stickle for Phelps Media Group

Great Britain’s Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro, European contenders for the WDM Palm Beach title – photo credit Leslie Bliss

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The Acorn Analogy Helps Build Self-Esteem

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

"One important concept, that helps you have a healthy sense of self-acceptance and self-esteem, is the knowledge that you are perfect, right now, just the way you are. This is true regardless of your problems, early childhood issues, body, I.Q., mistakes, etc. Consider a new definition of perfection which includes all of your imperfections...."

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How To Use Experiences from your Love Life to Forward your Career

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

Everyone has up's and down's in their love lives, most commonly there are "those relationships" you'd rather forget, but should you forget them entirely? Why not use negative experiences from your love life to prevent you from making similar mistakes in your career? At least you'll have something to show from those lousy relationships!

Although using a one-night-stand in your work environment isn't recommended, there are some popular relationship problems which can be likened common career complaints. You can learn from these mistakes to resolve pressing issues in your career.

The Stale Marriage

Much like a weathered marriage, you've hit that point in your career where you generally feel BORED. You may feel that there's no opportunity for progression within the company you work for and getting out of bed to go to work has become more challenging than the role itself. You feel you can't just quit because you have financial outgoings and a family you need to support but the job is making you miserable.

In this situation you have 3 options: to stick it out and remain miserable and unfulfilled but financially sound; try relationship counselling to mend the damage or file for a divorce.

If you're constantly miserable you're not helping anyone; yourself or your family. It can also have effects on your health such as depression and fatigue. Taking no action means things will only get worse.

Trying "relationship counselling" with your boss is a viable option. Speak to your boss and say how you feel your skills would be better utilised in a higher role with more responsibilities. If you work for an organisation which values its employees then they should be open to negotiation (providing you've proved your worth), if not then maybe you should consider whether a job elsewhere would be more fulfilling and gain you more respect.

If the counselling really hasn't worked then it's time to file for a divorce. Your health and happiness is more important than the money your job brings – you have to take a few risks in life to be successful. To avoid putting a financial strain on your family, continue your employment in your current role until you've been accepted for another position elsewhere.

The Comparative Couple

This situation is similar to when you compare your relationship to other friends' or family member's relationships, common thoughts are "why's my relationship not as passionate as theirs?", "why don't we do things as a couple like them?" This can also happen in your career if one of your friends or family members gets a new job, jealousy can rear its ugly head and occupy your mind.

This can be a dangerous situation to be in as you may begin to question your career or feel dubious about your job. The first thing to consider is why you are feeling jealous of other people's jobs. Perhaps there's more of an underlying issue; are you feeling undervalued at work? Do you need more feedback on your development from superiors?

The key here is to address you own issues and forget about your friend's passion for their new job. Focus on what drove you to apply for your current job in the first place. Perhaps you're feeling complacent in your role and need a new challenge, talk to your boss about the possibility of taking on new responsibilities that will challenge you. You'll soon forget about your friend's career as you buzz off your new accomplishments.

The Honeymoon Period

When you first start a new job you're filled with excitement; meeting new people, learning new skills and taking on new challenges can all be exhilarating. Much like newlyweds however, this honeymoon period has to come to an end as normality sets in. For some people this isn't a problem, for others it can cause them to come down with a crash and feel bored, stressed and even miserable.

As routine begins to set in you have to accept that certain aspects of the daily grind will begin to irritate you – the same commute will bore the life out of you and your colleagues will irritate you beyond belief but that will probably happen with every job and usually wanes with time! If you really feel like you're not fitting in after a considerable amount of time then maybe you could ask for a transfer or look for a new job elsewhere.

When it comes to relationships there's plenty to be learned from bad experiences. Rather than dwelling on them and feeling filled with regret, you may as well use them to build on in the future. Prevent the same mistakes from happening in your career as well as your love life!

This was a guest post written by Stephanie Staszko who writes career building tips and advice for Blue Octopus. They can help you to find a job if your current one's driving you stir crazy.

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London 2012 Prep, Gold Coast Dressage Opener CPEDI3* Begins The International Para-Equestrian Competition

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

As the sun rose over the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center in Wellington, FL the Gold Coast Dressage Opener CPEDI3* commenced. Twenty-three para-equestrian dressage riders from seven countries vied for top scores under F.E.I. judges Carlos Lopes (POR), Hanneke Gerritsen (NED), and Marc Urban (BEL). For two weekends, beginning with the Gold Coast Dressage Opener CPEDI3* and ending with the Wellington Classic Sunshine Challenge CPEDI3*, para-equestrian dressage riders have the opportunity to earn their qualifying scores and increase their international rankings before the 2012 London Paralympics. For each country the next two weekends will mark the closeout of the team rankings before London. Dueling for the top positions in Friday’s Team Test were Canada and the United States. Competition will continue Saturday with the Individual Test, and end Sunday with the Freestyle competition followed by the awards ceremony

The first of four para-equestrians representing the United States was rider Mary Jordan (Grade IV) of Wells, ME aboard Sebastian, para-equestrian Dale Dedrick (Grade II) from Ann Arbor, MI on Bonifatius, Rebecca Hart (Grade II) of Erie, PA aboard Lord Ludger and Jonathan Wentz (Grade Ib), NTEC Richter Scale from Richardson,TX led by Chef d’Equipe Missy Ransehousen.. The United States team set the pace with the first ride of the day from Mary Jordan beginning at 8:30 a.m. on her team horse Sebastian. She noted, “Sebastian went pretty well today. I had a morning ride at a beautiful facility, on a great horse. However, I am looking to produce even more out of him.”

Mary has kept a tight schedule since December when she headed to Melbourne, Australia. “I went from Australia, to having Christmas, and then shipped both horses, Sebastian and P. Sparrow Socks to Florida,” commented Mary. “It definitely took a lot of work to get down here but it was worth it. There is no substitute for becoming seasoned, the more experience we get and the more competitive mileage we gain at this level will continue to help us grow as individuals and as a team.”

Jonathan put forward two steady tests aboard team horse NTEC Richter Scale and Bavarian Warmblood NTEC Jabriel. “Our goal was to use Richter as the safe choice for the team and he played it safe and executed a nice test,” noted Jonathan. “Even on a bad day Richter is still consistent.”

He continued, “I am looking forward to the rest of this weekend and especially next week’s CPEDI3*. Saturday’s individual test ramps up even more, the turns become tighter, and each test presents a new set of challenges. For me it’s about keeping steady and working hard, and those goals come easy with my trainer Kai Handt, his assistant Coach Happy Comly, and of course owners Julia Handt and Rachel Zent.”

For rider Dale Dedrick and Bonifatius a score of 69.318% would capture the top score for the United States. “It was one of those tests that was quite even,” smiled Dale. “I like to ride a steady test on the first day because Erik is a horse than can get enthusiastic and sometimes he will volunteer a little more than necessary. Since we rode a test that was balanced and correct I now know he is listening. Saturday will be about going deep in the corners, making sure the transitions are correct, and perfecting the details. For the team I know we have a great group of people that top riders that will perform their best this weekend.”

Rounding out the United States team was top rider Rebecca Hart aboard Lord Ludger. “I was quite happy with him,” said Rebecca. “There was a lot of outside stimuli and he handled it beautifully. I enjoyed the team test competition today and I also enjoyed riding my relatively new mount Hugh Knows.” Hugh Knows was a prior event horse owned by Jacklyn Mars. Rebecca is planning to continue to grow with both horses as they make their way to selection trials this summer.

Representing the Canadian team at the Gold Coast Dressage Opener CPEDI3* was Madison Lawson on McGuire (Grade IV), Lauren Barwick aboard Off To Paris (Grade II), Ashley Gowanlock and Ferdonia 2 (Grade Ib), and Jody Schloss on Inspector Rebus (Grade Ia).

With Canada and the United States dueling for the top placing, Chef d’Equipe of Canada, Elizabeth Quigg , was very happy with the team’s results. She noted, “The team went as well as expected and we are hoping to maintain that through the next six months. We brought a lot of people down to Florida so they could get more experience with the two shows back to back. It is also a good opportunity to assess everybody from the winter but we have a long way to go till August.”

Jody Schloss responded, “I am looking forward to the next week as well. We all ride really hard and I think are marks showed that.”

Excelling in Grade IV with a winning score of 68.75% James Dwyer of Ireland and his trusty gelding Orlando. James remarked, “I was overall pretty happy with my ride today. There are a few little things here and there that we need to work on but overall all he was really good and I couldn’t have asked for more.”

Like many of the para-equestrian dressage competitors James will stay through the two weeks of competition. After a short break he will head to Europe with Orlando where he will show in France, Belgium, and Germany in preparation for the 2012 Selection Trials.

As the weekend continues riders from the United States, Canada, Ireland, Finland, Bermuda, Japan, and Mexico will compete in Saturday’s Individual competition followed by Sunday’s Freestyle and awards ceremony.

Results: Placing, Name, Name of Horse, Total Score

Grade 1a
1.    Jody Schloss, Inspector Rebus, 67.157
2.    Lorrietta Oakleaf, Niekele fon Busenitz, 63.529
3.    Robyn Andrews, Fancianna, 62.745
4.    Kim Decker, Dasher’s Destiny, 62.157
5.    Alexander Mitchell, Guiness Maskell, 61.863
6.    Robyn Andrews, Ravallo Son, 61.471
7.    NTEC Manchada, Mina Chinju 56.275

Grade 1b
1.    Ashley Gownlock, Fredonia 2, 70.985
2.    Jonathan Wentz, NTEC Jabriel, 69.381
3.    Jonathan Wentz, NTEC Richter Scale, 66.212
4.    Jaana Kivimaki, Sarona, 63.636
5.    Katja Karjalainen, Hidden Creek Jones, 63.409

Grade II
1.    Lauren Barwick, Off to Paris, 71.667
2.    Dale Dedrick, Bonifatius, 69.318
3.    Rebecca Hart, Lord Ludger, 69.048
4.    Rebecca Hart, Hugh Knows, 65.714
5.    Fernanda Otheguy, Sarona, 64.921
6.    Elizabeth Pigott, Whitney’s Willow, 63.651
7.    Margret McIntosh, Idalgo, 61.905
8.    Charlotte Bathon, Sportsfield Twist, 57.460

Grade III
1. Eleanor Brimmer, Carino H, 57.531

Grade IV
1.    James Dwyer, Orlando, 68.750
2.    Lynne Pool, Vasco E, 64.427
3.    Lynee Pool, Fisbee, 63.958
4.    Madison Lawson, McGuire, 63.958
5.    Mary Jordan, Sebastian, 63.333
6.    Mary Jordan, P Sparrow Socks, 62.135

For more information about the Gold Coast Dressage Opener please visit www.gcdafl.org or contact Noreen O’Sullivan (561) 714-9026.

Photo Credit: 2012 Gold Coast Dressage Association Festival CPEDI3* in Wellington, FL at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center. Photo © Lindsay Y McCall for the United States Para-Equestrian Association.

About United States Para-Equestrian Association:

The USPEA is a network of riders, judges, national federation board members, and equestrian enthusiasts. The association gives athletes the ability to get involved and expand their knowledge and experience in the Para-Equestrian sport. The USPEA encourages para-athletes to participate in all disciplines under the para-equestrian umbrella.

The USPEA is a recognized affiliate of the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) which serves as the National Governing Body for the equestrian sport. This relationship between the USPEA and USEF is to encourage para-equestrian competitors, leisure riders, coaches, fans and enthusiasts to network and get involved with the entire equestrian sport.

Ultimately the goal of the USPEA is to foster growth in the para-equestrian discipline. From growth in the number of participants to growth as a team, and growth in the experience and knowledge of all involved. From local horse shows to international Olympic Games, the USPEA will provide para-equestrians the knowledge of what they need to succeed. The USPEA connects with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI), the United States Dressage Federation (USDF), and USEF which provides Para-Equestrians the top equestrian resources.

In June 2010, the USPEA earned its 501 (c)(3) status which has encouraged supporters to help supply funding to the Para-Equestrian Team as a recognized affiliate of the United States Equestrian Federation(USEF).

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3 Ways to Perfect Your Work-Life Balance

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

Whether you have just started in the world of work or a seasoned professional, establishing a successful work-life balance can prove difficult challenge. Having a good work life balance is a huge factor in your general happiness and well being. We all feel pressured to work and worry about work and we are all pressured to be out with friends or family every night. Pressure comes from all around you and before you know it you are stressed at work and not going out.

The outcome is that you will be unhappy and this will affect not just you but your friends and family. Achieving balance will mean you will be happy with your life as a whole and enjoy work and appreciate the time you have when it comes. So with that in mind, here are the three ways that can help you find your work life balance and feel better as a result.

1)Know your boundaries

An important life skill, knowing your boundaries is a instinct that you learn as you age and that you learn to trust. Knowing your limits is a highly respectable trait, one which many wish they listen to. Your body will tell you when something is wrong and listening to these signals is a sure way to helping a work life balance. When I first started work I was always meeting up with my friends after work to chat and have a couple of drinks, it normally resulted in me coming home late and although i always had a great time, I also remember being absolutely shattered everyday for work. Simply put, there was no balance. When your body says you are tired or ill or out of sync, know when to go home and relax. Only going out a few nights a week, will mean that you get a regular routine of sleep, which will help you feel refreshed at work. Also not partying ever night will save you money, this will mean you can buy that item that you always wanted or go to that place you have dreamed of. It is important to plan in advance, not weeks in advance, not even days, but just make sure you set out when you meet up, what you are going to do and when you will be heading home. This leads us onto the next point.

2) Always make time for yourself

We all love those days where we stay in bed and do nothing. Physically and psychologically having time to yourself, where you can reflect, unwind and relax, can be hugely beneficial. Sometimes a busy week can take its toll on the body and mind. A day to relax in front of the TV can do a world of good and allow you to charge your batteries for whatever the future may bring. Knowing that you are the priority means that you will take time to appreciate what you like doing and as a result you will be more independent and less susceptible to peer pressure. This is a huge step to having a work life balance as you will be able to say no and as a result gain more self respect. It would not be wise just to stick to things that you like and never go out, having new experiences is a great part of life, making time for yourself is simply a step to help you manage your time better.

3) Learn to switch off

Once you step out of the office, work has finished, relax and forget about any work issues or deadlines, taking your problems home with you or to work is always going to end badly. It is your time and you should do what you want with it. This does not mean that everyone ends up with two contrasting lives. Simply that taking a fresh look at life and putting things into perspective can mean huge things for your general well being. You could start to worry less and be more enthusiastic about life. Knowing that there is more to life than just work will liberate many people and help them achieve true happiness. I never lose sleep over work now, I turn up to work fresh and enthusiastic and I still go out a couple of times a week with friends and family. As a result, I feel I have achieved my perfect work life balance and I am happier for it.

Everyone should take a step back and ask themselves do I have a good work life balance? Is work affecting you motivation to socialise or is partying all night affecting your work. Either way a balance has to eventually occur and everyone will have a different level, but most importantly it is what works for you and at the end of the day, what makes you happy.

Bio: Written by Tom Tolladay, an event's organiser for www.chillisauce.co.uk. Tom has also written for sports website caughtoffside and is a contributor for the International Institute of Event Management. You can contact Tom on his blog www.eventsuppliers.co.uk

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How Your Friends Can Help You Reach Your Goals

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

Whatever your plans are for the coming year, your friends can help.

You might be reluctant to let them. Perhaps you feel that accepting help will lessen your own achievement – or you’re worried that your friends might laugh at your goals and ambitions. You might think that asking for help is futile: the people you know might not possess the skills or knowledge that would be valuable to you.

The truth is, no-one achieves much if they work entirely alone. And by allowing others to help, you not only increase your chances of success, you also reinforce your relationship with them.

Even if your friends can’t offer advice about your new venture, they can still support you. Here are three key ways in which friends (and family, and co-workers) can help you reach your goals.

#1: Encouragement

Friends don’t need to share your goals in order to be encouraging. Your best friend might not know much about nutrition and exercise, but he can cheer you on when you’re trying to lose weight. Your sister may have no interest in writing a novel herself, but she can ask you how yours is going.

Some friends are naturally encouraging; make sure you let them know about your plans and your progress. They’ll probably be delighted for you, and keen to find out how you’re getting on.

If you’ve got a strong friendship group online, perhaps on Twitter or Facebook, that’s a great place to turn for encouragement and for accountability. You might want to post your weekly weight loss or your weekly word count or some other meaningful metric related to your goal.

#2: Practical Support

Although encouragement can be a huge boost to your motivation, it often isn’t enough to get you to your goal. Practical support is invaluable, and may well make the difference between success and failure.

This type of support might help free up time: your friend could babysits your kids on a Thursday night so you can go to Weight Watchers, or your spouse takes care of the chores so you can study. It could also involve resources: a co-worker lends you a useful book, or your friend gives you some exercise equipment that they no longer want.

#3: Advice

This final type of help is directly related to your goal. Good advice can save you lots of time, money and energy. If you’re lucky enough to have a friend or family member who’s pursued a similar goal, or who has expertise in this area, don’t be afraid to ask them for advice.

If you’re starting up your own business, for instance, and you have a cousin who did something similar five years ago, ask them what they wish they’d known then. People will usually be very happy to talk about their experiences and to share their knowledge.

Your Wider Network

Unless your friendship circles revolve around a shared set of goals or hobbies, you’ll probably find that you have some plans that no-one seems to be able to help with. Perhaps you’re keen to go to grad school, but none of your friends and family can offer any practical support or advice, or you want to learn the guitar but don’t know where to begin.

Start to look beyond your own circle, towards friends of friends. Although you might not know anyone who can help, your friend might have a relative or a contact who can lend a hand. Tell everyone what sort of information or support you’re looking for, and ask if they know anyone who can help.

You might feel nervous about approaching friends of friends. A great way is through a short, friendly email. Be specific about how they can help. You might write something like:

“John Smith suggested that I get in touch with you. I’m starting up my own small business as a graphic designer and I’m struggling to set my rates. Would you recommend charging by the project or by the hour? Do you have any tips for giving accurate quotations? Thanks so much.”

One of the best ways to achieve your goals faster is to let others help you. Who could you turn to today for encouragement, practical support or advice?

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Best of Horsey Crib Bedding for the Little Cowboy

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

Have I mentioned that we’re having a little cowboy? Oops, I didn’t think so. I’m currently at 26 weeks, and at our 20-week Ultrasound (the one and only I get!), we saw not only an active, healthy little baby, but that …

It’s a boy!

Now that the official stuff is over, please lament with me that I couldn’t convince my husband to let me go with a cowboy-themed nursery. Granted, it had nothing to do with the cowboys or the ponies at all all – and everything to do with the fact that he just didn’t want any kind of theme, period. Fortunately I generally agreed with him and didn’t have any interest myself is the typical overly-done themed nursery bedding and decor. But some of these little cowboy sets still captured my heart!

I saw this cowboy bedding from Montana Silversmiths several years ago while visiting my sister in Oklahoma. I might have fought a little harder for this one, if it hadn’t been discontinued.

The JoJo Designs Wild West Collection is one of my favorites, and is the only one carried by BabiesRUs where we did our registry. I like the simple horsey motif with the stars, paisley, and cow prints.

This is the CoCoLa Round Em Up baby bedding. It has a little more of the babyish style to it if that’s your thing – and a nice mix of neutral colors.

I particularly love the cactus on the Bananafish Round Up baby bedding. The pony is pretty cute too.

I like the balance of colors in this one, and particularly the cow and wire prints on the diaper stacker. This is the Boutique Horse Western Cowboy bedding from Geeny. (if you didn’t notice, this is the same pony from the CoCoLa set above)

And last but not least, here’s the not-at-all-horsey but completely perfect nursery bedding we picked out:

It’s the Skip Hop Treetop Friends crib bedding. We love the colors, the simple and understated design, and the lovely detailing. Just what we had in mind! And we can use it again in a few years if we need something appropriate for a little cowgirl too.

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Rainy and Windy Days...

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

We have had both rain and 60 MPH winds the past few days...

Here are some pics of the days, enjoy!

A cute close up of mini wanderer Baja...
Storm clouds over Okay Corral...
Okay Corral...
Okay Corral...
Big Pasture...
Big Pasture...
Assisted Living...Sun rays over the Barn...
The Blind Girls...
Austin and Stetson in their Duplex...
Roy, Lark and Hawkeye in the Duplex...
Little Vacation Village...
Cowboy wandering by the Hospice...
Gummie Saloon...
Yep and Graffitti, Gummie Saloon...
Big Pasture...
Reebok gets a drink in Big Pasture...
On Saturday, the 50-60 MPH winds knocked down two of our old shelters in Assisted Living. Thankfully, no horses were hurt but it was very scary for all of us trying to get the shelters picked up and stored safely. The wind can pick the very heavy shelters right up and into the air!
The second shelter...
The commotion got the boarder horses all riled up in their adjoining pasture!
Alydar, one of our goats, found shelter from the wind and blowing dirt in one of Assisted Living's feeders...The next morning, the dog office and the Cherry Pie's patio was completely buried in blown dirt!

Some of our hardworking volunteers cleaned it up...

On Sunday, we were able to use the new big tractor to lay some donated sod...

Derby, exhausted by the last few day's activities, took a nap on the new sod...

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How to Stay Productive in Troubled Times

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

Distressful situations are a fact of life- a human predicament that seems hell-bent on blocking our attempts towards personal nirvana and impairing our ability to function. Though it may be unpleasant to have to stop and collect yourself in response to a personal difficulty, there may be times when you may not even have that "luxury."

If you find yourself in an usually stressful or painful situation, yet still need to maintain some level of performance in either your personal or professional life, then keep the following four tips in mind:

1. Give yourself some slack! The very first step towards staying productive when difficulty strikes is accepting the fact that you will likely not be at your peak performance. To the best of your ability, you need to lower the bar. Otherwise, the stress of having to continue producing and performing, can just add to and prolong your hardship, not to mention sap away the strength and energy you need to cope with the situation.

2. Limit the quick pick-me-ups. When stress is high, people tend to reach for quick and easy pick-me-up’s, such as alcohol, junk food, and even antidepressant medication. This happens even though most people are aware of the negative consequences of binging on alcohol and junk foods, and the negative side effects of taking antidepressant medication over the long-term have been well-documented. While these kinds of crutches can be helpful since they provide a temporary "breather" from all the gloom and doom, they need to be used with moderation. If not, then the "side-effects" will far out-weigh any short-term benefits, disrupting your natural ability to cope and stay productive.

3. Your support system is key. The biggest and most effective tool you can have to help you deal with adversity is the network of people you choose to surround yourself with. This network can include close friends, family, mentors, a life coach, and where necessary a qualified professional, such as a psychologist. Not only can these people offer physical assistance and clarity, but they can be a source of inspiration, emotional support, and a place from which you can draw the strength to keeping going.

4. Maintain your physical balance. If you want to give yourself the best chances of staying productive then make an effort to eat and sleep properly and get some exercise. Though this may seem self-evident, often a person’s physical needs are the first to be sacrificed when difficulty strikes and this only adds to the problem. Not only should you try your best to maintain your normal, daily routine, but you should make an effort to avoid exorbitant amounts of junk food, caffeine, alcohol and refined sugars that are low in nutritional value and high in calories.

In short, though a distressful situation may slow you down, with a little care and some common sense, it doesn’t have to completely stop you in your tracks.

Gary Barzel is the manager of business development for Fastupfront. Fastupfront offers business loan alternatives for existing businesses in need of working capital.

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The Remedy For Boredom

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

No matter the time of year, or who we are, boredom can hit us when we least expect it, and we find ourselves bored with work, relationships . . . even life.

Sometimes boredom sneaks up on us; other times it signals its intention from way off in the distance. Either way, boredom is something that leaves us uninterested and unengaged with the things we're doing.

Life Is An Adventure

When I was a kid, I'd say, "I'm bored. I haven't got anything to do." What I was really saying was this: "I don't have anything fun to do." As kids, we still dream. We pick activities that spark our imagination and curiosity. We learn at an early age that the remedy to boredom is adventure and exploring the unknown.

As leaders, however, we spend very little energy on adventure and a great deal of time avoiding the unknown. Sadly, many of us no longer have the passion that comes with dreams, either.

John Lennon said, "Life is what happens when you're busy making other plans. The indulgence of following our dreams can be difficult, if not impossible, when there are house payments, children, pets, family, and a career. However, without a certain amount of passion in our lives, we become bored.

Leaders who are bored have lost the meaning of what they are doing in life.

Let me share a few secrets

As an FBI counterintelligence agent who exposed spies and recruited them to work for the U.S. Government, my first step in any investigation was to identify the target. This was more than just finding out name, rank, and serial number. Identifying the target meant digging beneath the surface to uncover the answer to my most important question: what were their dreams and goals? Once I had unlocked this secret, I knew how to move forward with the rest.

Leaders who are not pursuing their dreams and goals have no purpose in life and end up feeling bored and unfulfilled.

When we're bored, we don't take as much interest in our life—this makes us unfocused and vulnerable to the suggestions of others. It becomes a downward spiral because, instead of having a mission or life purpose of our own, we became more dependent upon the suggestions of others. As a counterintelligence agent, I studied how to exploit this vulnerability.

Don't become bored with your own life. Here are three suggestions to give you life direction:

1. Find your passion.

Be curious about yourself! You are the most interesting person you know so dig down and find out all there is to discover. It will be the best adventure of your life.

When the FBI sets out to identify a target, one of our first courses of action is to set up surveillance. Observing movements can tell investigators a lot about the personality of the target. In the same way, you can conduct surveillance on yourself. Write in a journal what you've observed. A personal surveillance will help you find the answers to the following questions:

What do you truly love?

What were your favorite hobbies and past-times as a child??

What do you want to accomplish in life?

What are the obstacles stopping you?

What are your dreams?

What brings you pleasure?

What are the achievements, people, and events that move you?

What activities excite you so much that you don't notice the time pass away?

Ask people who know you best to describe your greatest strengths and weaknesses. How do others perceive you? What do people love about you?

2. Write Your Mission Statement

Your life is worth setting noble goals for. Start with writing a personal mission statement. Keep your mission statement clear and concise. Ask yourself:

What is my calling?

What is my aim?

What inspires me the most?

What activity or service touches my core values and urges me on?

3. Establish Your Goals

What is your dream? If you don't have a dream, how can it come true? A goal is a dream set to paper. Don't just think it—ink it!

Here are some recommendations on how to set your goals:

Balance life – setting goals in only one area of life like rowing with one oar—you go round and round in one direction. If you concentrate all of your creativity and energy in one area of your life, you're destined to be one-dimensional! Consider setting goals in these areas of life:

Spiritual

Family

Relationships

Career

Health

Financial

Educational

Adventure

Travel

Be specific – when you walk into a restaurant, you don't just say, "Bring me food!" Instead, you're very specific. Use the same strategy with your goals.

Think Big – most people don't aim too high and miss; instead, they aim too low and hit.

If a person is not following their dreams and passions, life becomes mundane and colorless. It no longer has meaning or purpose. We get bored when we're not living up to our full potential. Life is too short to accept anything less than a passion-filled, exciting life. Do not be an old person who thinks about all the things they wish they had done, said, or experienced.

There is something inside of you that's screaming to get out. Deep inside, you know what you want to do. You just need to find a way to let the answers out. The remedy for boredom—follow your dreams; they know the way . . .

What area of your life do you feel boredom? How does what you're doing now fulfill your dreams? What is your remedy for boredom?

I hope to hear from you soon!

About LaRae Quy: I was an FBI agent, both a counterintelligence and undercover agent, for 25years. I exposed foreign spies and recruited them to work for the U.S.Government. After retiring from the FBI, I pursued graduate studies at SanFrancisco Theological Seminary. Now I empower others to seek out a deepermeaning for their lives and the way to achieve that goal via my blog Your Best Adventure.

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5 Ways to Encourage Responsible, Productive Behavior in Your Kids

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

"Today, more than ever before, life must be characterized by a sense of Universal responsibility, not only nation to nation and human to human, but also human to other forms of life." – The Dalai Lama

Responsibility is one of the most important skills your child can learn. It influences all pursuits in life, affecting your child's ability to make friends, to excel in school and to excel in her career.

Most parents understand the importance of being productive and responsible, but are unsure of how to begin teaching this skill to their children.

Children often learn best when they are having fun. Games teach children that life skills don't have to be boring and encourage children to think about problems in unique ways.

Here are 5 ways to make learning responsibility fun:

Timed Competitions

Children love to compete with their siblings and friends, and even the most boring tasks can be turned into a game when you add a competitive edge. Try giving your child a set amount of time in which to complete a task. Announce, "Whoever can get their room clean first wins!" Or try saying, "Whoever can put away the most dishes in 10 minutes gets to go to bed late!" Tasks that your children were previously loathe to complete will suddenly become fun family activities.

Problem Solving Games

Children are creative thinkers who, when given the chance, can come up with unique solutions to problems. They especially love when they can display their knowledge to adults and think of things grown-ups couldn't. Try presenting a family problem to your children. For example, if you're having trouble getting children to participate in your dog’s care, try saying, "Muffy needs to be house-trained. Whoever can come up with the best strategy for potty training the dog can go to bed late for a week!" Your child will suddenly become invested in a task both you and he previously had little interest in.

Reward Systems

Child psychologists have found that rewarding good behavior is much more effective than punishing bad behavior. If there's a particular behavior you'd like for your child to improve, a gold star chart can be the ticket to responsibility. Simply place a chart on the refrigerator and give your child a sticker every time she does the right thing. When the chart is full, she gets a special reward such as a toy, later bedtime, or family outing.

Teaching Parents

Children want, more than almost anything else, to have the same privileges as adults. They love being treated as mature grown-ups and will do just about anything to have their opinions respected. You can use this to your advantage by encouraging your child to teach you something about responsibility. Pose a specific problem to her and ask her to research the solution. Give her lots of crafts supplies and encourage her to put together a presentation to teach the whole family. For example, if your dog needs better dental care, ask your child to figure out how to keep the dog's teeth clean. You may be amazed at the solutions she comes up with, and she'll relish the opportunity to play expert.

Taking Someone Else's Perspective

Empathy is the ability to place yourself in someone else's shoes and predict how he might feel. It encourages responsibility toward others and a healthy respect for rules. This skill must be nurtured in children for them to develop it. Play games with your child that encourage her to adopt alternative perspectives. For example, while driving in the car, ask your child, "What do you think the woman behind us is thinking right now?" When children get into a fight, ask them, "Why do you think your brother is mad at you?" If you are angry at your child, ask her, "What would you do right now if you were the mom?" This not only gives your child the opportunity to think about other people. It also helps you to understand why your child does the things she does.

About the Author

Jane Warren is a freelance writer providing valuable tips and advice for consumers and families. Her numerous articles offer money saving tips and valuable insight on all types of family and pet-related topics.

Photo Credit: Doug Robertson

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Setting Your Mind for a Winter Weight Loss

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

Every single year most people get stuck in the same cycle regarding fitness. As the days grow shorter and colder we exercise less. When you add in holiday laziness and indulgence, along with an over abundance of delicious food, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out why so many of us start adding extra pounds. So should you wait until spring to start losing weight or just look for ways to not add it during the winter?

An ounce of prevention

As Ben Franklin said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” While I doubt he was talking about keeping a trim waistline, the saying is very accurate. It is extremely easy to gain excess weight and fat. Simply add a few extra helpings of dessert each week and watch those pounds add up. But conversely you have to burn 3500 calories of energy to lose a pound of fat. That equals 3 1/2 hours of hard cycling, over 4 hours of step aerobics, or 5 hours of jogging.

Where to start?

Psych yourself up for staying in shape! One of the more overlooked aspects of weight gain and weight loss is the proper mindset. If you aren’t focused on a particular goal then you won’t reach that goal. For staying in shape the easiest way to forge that focus is by placing attention firmly on your abdominals. Far too many people think the all-mighty scale is the best tool. They will agonize over every little pound. But honestly, a scale gives a raw number which does not consider how you actually look. Overwhelmingly when people consider being ‘in-shape’ they think of a trim midsection.

Work out your abdominals every other day. Do it in the morning before breakfast.
Before you get in the shower, take a good look at your stomach. Consider how it is now compared to how you want it to look.
Use your morning visualizations and ab soreness as motivation during the day to eat right and avoid the bad foods.
Always bring a water bottle with you and drink frequently.
Find some sort of easy exercise to do a few times a week and stick to it. The goal is to offset any extra calories you might consume.
Keep a picture with you of the type of shape you want to be in. Use it for motivation when a food craving hits.

Mind over body

People can accomplish any number of goals in life if they have the proper mind set. A focused attention can easily overcome obstacles. By looking at your midsection as a point of focal point and using that as your motivation, you can avoid the roller coaster weight gain most people go through over the winter months. Then when spring arrives you will be ready to hit the ground running for fun instead of spending all of those hours working off excess weight.

Nick Walden is a fellow fitness enthusiast who enjoys a healthy and active lifestyle while developing mind and intelligence.

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How to Take Charge of Your Unhealthy Eating Plan

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Thoroughbred Racing Eclipse Awards 101

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

Growing up, I wore out enough books about great thoroughbred race horses to know that winning the “Horse of the Year” award was the pinnacle for these equine athletes. What I didn’t know about Secretariat winning Horse of the Year in 1972 and 1973 was that he was just the second (and third) horse to win the official Eclipse Awards.

If you didn’t tune in to Horses In the Morning yesterday, hop over and take a listen to their fun version of announcing the Eclipse Awards winners that were released on Monday night. Glenn, Jamie, and our good friend Frankie Lovato - an Eclipse award-winning jockey and founder of Jockey World – shared their picks for each of the Eclipse Awards, and then Jennifer played a sound file of the official announcement for each award.

But just what is the big deal about the annual Eclipse Awards anyways?

History of the Eclipse Awards

Prior to 1971, the Daily Racing Form and the National Thoroughbred Racing Association each had their own yearly awards. “Horse of the Year” awarded to well-known greats like War Admiral, Seabiscuit, Whirlaway, Citation, and Bold Ruler was given by the Daily Racing Form. In 1950, the Thoroughbred Racing Association got in on the action and starting offering awards of their own – but picking all the same winners.

So in 1971, these two organizations along with National Turf Writer’s Association decided to team up and sponsor one set of awards. That year the official Eclipse Awards for thoroughbred racing were born, named after the great racehorse and sire Eclipse. In the mid-18th century Eclipse began racing as a 5-year-old, had 18 undefeated starts, and his foals won 344 races.

Eclipse Awards Categories

The Eclipse Awards recognize horses and people in all facets of thoroughbred racing – from the horses (of course!) to the jockey, trainers, and even the sports writers. While the “Horse of the Year” category is of course the most prestigious, horses can also earn recognition in each of these categories as well:

2-year-old male
2-year-old filly
3-year-old male
3-year-old female
older male
older female
male sprinter
female sprinter
male turf horse
female turf horse
steeplechase horse

The humans involved can win:

outstanding owner
outstanding breeder
outstanding trainer
outstanding jockey
outstanding apprentice jockey (Frankie won this one!)
special award (to honor outstanding achievements in TB racing)

There’s also a whole section of “Media Eclipse Awards” for photography, writing, television, and audio/multi-media/internet.

How are Eclipse Award Winners Selected?

Eclipse Award members are selected by a majority vote by members of the three sponsoring organizations (Daily Racing Form, National Thoroughbred Racing Association, National Turf Writers Association). The only criteria is the horse had to have one start on American soil. Other than that – it’s fair game.

Here’s an interesting (read:funny) article on Forbes by one of the voters on selecting Eclipse Awards winners.

The award winners are announced in a big ceremony (which was streamed live online this year) in the middle of January.

Follow the Eclipse Awards

Additionally, you can easily follow potential Eclipse award winners throughout the year through various channels online. Most major racetracks post their races on YouTube and have blog and article coverage, or you can check out the many sportsbook review websites out there (even if you’re not into gambling, they do tend to have very good coverage of the races and top horses).

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Finally Some Photos!

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

I have been swamped the past few weeks and found it difficult to find the time to post on the blog. Not only do I run Shiloh, and all that entails, but I also run my late husband Tony's business as well. My business partner and I are working hard on licensing Tony's artwork, something that Tony worked for as well. I am continuing the business and it has been taking up alot of time. It is a way that I can honor Tony and his artwork as well as support all of the animals at Shiloh.

I am also scheduled for major back surgery next weds (I had been scheduled for yesterday but it was postponed at the last minute).

So needless to say, my life is very busy (but isn't everyones?).

But, I finally took some photos today at the ranch and here they are! Enjoy!
This morning's Breakfast Club- left to right: Levi, Aztec, Donkey Otie, BLT and Lyfting.
Jerome and Poker waiting for breakfast in our bigger and better Little Vacation Village...
Yep is doing better. We actually moved her into the Gummie Saloon today so she can make friends and live in a herd which is good for her quality of life...
Belmont, Big Pasture...
Cisco, Big Pasture...
Freedom and Stretch, Assisted Living...
Marilyn, Assisted Living...
A shot of Boarder Corner...
More Boarder Corner...
Curly Sherlock, Bungalows...
Fame, Bungalows...
Skeeter enjoys a salt lick...
Volunteer Betsy worked with Sherlock today. He is such a sweet guy, he will really make someone a great riding horse...
Felipe used the big tractor while Diego supervised...

Mamcita and Florecita during Breakfast Club...

Helga spent some time with little Levi...

While Jimmy Dean took a drink...

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5 Positive Coping Methods to Beat the Winter Blues

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

According to recent surveys millions of Americans report being in a bad mood this winter. According to researchers this shift in mood is a result of much more than the woes that come with Holiday depression. In current years, I have been among those millions. Maybe you are, too.

Psychologists call this phenomenon being "seasonally-affected." Many in the scientific community consider it a temporary physiological change in body rhythms and internal chemistry due to more than just mood fluctuations during the Holidays, but giving credit to the lack of sunshine and light during these cold, dark months. After all, light is a source of natural energy for our minds and our bodies. So it goes without saying that the less light we have in our environment, the less likely we are to naturally feel exuberant like we may during the brighter months of the year.

Nonetheless, despite what we call it or what the reason behind it is, people from all walks of life are experiencing the "winter blues" at an ever-increasing rate. The good news is they are finding ways to cope with it. The bad news is their coping methods aren't always effective or positive. We may even be contributing to other unhealthy symptoms and ailments, which may negate emotional well-being in the long-run.

For example, the most widely reported coping methods for beating the winter blues are:

Calling in sick to work in order to escape the "daily grind"
Finding personal leisure time (reading, relaxing)
Stress alleviation techniques (like Yoga or meditation)
Dietary supplements (such as calming herbal remedies or even multi-vitamins)
Sleeping in or sleeping extra (guilty as charged)
Resorting to "comfort" foods (guilty as charged again)
Resorting to drugs or alcohol…

I'm not on anyone's personal ethics committee (at least not to my knowledge) but we can't help but notice the potential harm in some of these coping strategies. Obviously, some of them are positive, such as finding ways to unwind and find stress alleviation naturally, through Yoga, breathing exercises, meditation. Even using quality, wholesome nutritional supplements seems positive and highly beneficial.

But, it's also obvious that some methods – such as drugs, alcohol, and even indulging in comfort foods – are not only negative ways to cope with winter blues and stress, but they always do more harm than good in the long run.

Alas, there is hope. Following are five extremely positive and healthy ways to cope with the blues this winter which others and myself have found incredibly effective and useful:

Make Time for Your Self. I don't just mean to find time for leisure or to do nothing at all when you do find time for your self. This may entail taking time for your own personal development and growth as well. Commit to reading books or finding programs that help you to achieve growth and mastery of your well-being. Take night classes on a subject you've always had an interest in learning but have never taken the time to engage in. Stimulating the mind through learning new information and skills as well as improving your social life never hurts! Putting yourself first means you'll always be able to give your best to everyone else in your life. (Note: If you find that leisure time leaves you thinking more and more about being depressed or in a hopeless mood, this is an especially useful technique. Sometimes doing nothing isn't always the key to having quality time to your self. Life is really about balance, so find out what works for you and stick with it.)
Create and Be Your Own Sunshine. For those who do suffer from the winter blues it may seem like an impossible task for us to be happy or joyful during these months of the year when the world around us is virtually devoid of all light and sunshine. One method for increasing energy and well-being is to create your own sunshine. This means you create your own internal sunshine by illuminating on your positive traits and characteristics, on your unique strengths and value, by stating them in the form of positive affirmations. Affirmations are self-empowering statements that can be used to accentuate our positive qualities and communicate in a more effective way to ourselves. They are used the world over (even by many practicing psychiatrists and therapists) in order to help people with mood or depression issues focus on their own positive competencies, those things about their self which make them feel good, expansive, light and joyful inside. We all can do this. It's merely a matter of saying good things about our self, instead of habitually saying (or thinking) bad things. In doing so, we may create our own sunshine and be happy and joyful by experiencing the internal light we produce. After all, the old saying is right: "True happiness comes from within."
Beat the "I Don't Feel Like It" Syndrome. Listen folks this one is a biggie. How many times have you had the intention to get out of bed early to exercise or begin a new life habit (especially this time of year!) only to find yourself hitting the snooze button over and over again, justifying your reactions by saying "I just don't feel like it"? Suffice it to say, I am no exception. This is what I've come to call the "I Don't Feel Like It" syndrome and it rears its ugly head in more ways than one: "I'm not in the mood," "I know I should eat 'this' healthy food instead of 'that' comfort food, but it doesn't sound good right now." Not being in the mood, not feeling like doing something, etc., basically means we have allowed ourselves to turn on the auto-pilot switch in our minds giving our body's feelings and emotions the power to tell us what to do as well as how and when to do it! Specific phrases such as: "don't feel," "not in the mood," or "doesn't sound good/ does sound good," all indicate we are allowing our body to tell us what choices to make instead of exercising our gift of free will in order to choose our actions based on what we value. The most definite step for overcoming the "I Don't' Feel Like It" Syndrome is to simply ignore and dismiss the emotional trigger that tells you to say in your mind that you don't feel like doing something and consciously choose to do it anyway! Always easier said than done, I know. But a little awareness goes a long way, and with consistent, persistent mindfulness and practice you will eventually be able to overcome the most prevalent "syndrome" in our modern culture that keeps us from experiencing the changes we so desperately desire.
Get Physical. With a nod to Olivia Newton John, modern research is constantly finding new evidence to support that there is a definite mind-body connection and that how we treat our bodies has a direct and noticeable effect on our mood and feelings. For example, a helpful practice in improving mood (especially when you're "not in the mood") is to make the conscious choice to get up and get physical, to exercise and move. Even if all you do is go for a walk, you're going to reap more positive benefits than if you do nothing at all. Exercise also stimulates the release of endorphins and dopamine, two "feely-good" chemicals our brain makes to keep us feeling happy and motivated. The less we exercise, the less we have the "feely-good" chemicals percolating throughout bodies! Also, exercise – especially if it's at a high enough intensity – stimulates a certain part of the nervous system, further aiding in appetite suppression so that those comfort foods don't look quite as appealing anymore. And that makes way for my final positive coping method…
Focus on Food. There's no denying that foods make us feel a very specific way, physically and emotionally. Comfort foods make us feel comfortable, hence their names. So what's the problem with comfort foods then? First and foremost, the majority of comfort food is treacherously unhealthy and leads to imminent weight-gain, an inefficient metabolism, and is generally laden with bad fats, processed carbohydrates, and other chemical additives. 'Nuff said on that.

Second, comfort foods give us the delightful sense of immediate gratification. Basically, we condition our mind and body to accept a manner of eating which causes us to feel good while we are eating and maybe a short time afterward. But we neglect the healthier, mood-enhancing approach which would be to eat in a way that makes us feel good all the time. You see, food affects mood, because mood is the result of different chemical processes in the body and brain. Food has a direct effect on these chemical processes. By choosing foods that contribute to a better mood, we're not only making healthier decisions for weight management and nourishment, but we're gaining control of our feelings, too.

For example, foods high in whole proteins, such as lean meat, eggs, fish, beans, and legumes are known for improving mood and helping us feel better by providing our brain with the amino acids (building blocks) it needs to produce the chemicals and hormones in our bodies which may improve mood naturally and stave off food cravings. (Note: Using dietary or herbal supplements may be a good idea as well. Just talk to your physician about it beforehand or seek the advice of a Registered Dietician)

For 2012, let's make this the year where we finally say goodbye to our winter blues for good. I'm confident that we CAN and WILL defeat negative feelings and emotions, find balance and true happiness all year round, with the right coping strategies in place.

About the Author: Ronnie Brown is a writer and educator of personal growth and development, with a focus on teaching and coaching others in his systems for Dynamic Health and Emotional Mastery. Visit him at http://ronniebrownlifesystems.com/.

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Donât Invest. Give.

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

I was having a chat with my fiancé one night recently, and burst into tears. I was bitter, sad, and angry. Why doesn't anyone help me in return, I asked. Why is it when I am good to people and it feels like the kindness and generosity isn't reciprocated? My fiance, with one eyebrow lifted, looked at me tenderly and said, "Perhaps because you aren't really giving?"

I've always thought of myself as a kind person. When I moved from city to city with my expatriate job, I hosted many friends from Hong Kong, where I grew up, to visit. After all, who doesn't want a free place to stay in when in Paris, Tokyo, London… ? So I would be more than happy to put them up while they traveled.

However, when these people come and board in my guest room, do I realize that they have other friends in the same city. And so, in the five days they stay with me, I see them perhaps only one night for dinner – and they don't even attempt pay for dinner to thank me for letting them stay at my home.

The other four nights they were out with their other friends. Why did they not invite me to join them? Why did they not offer to introduce us sooner when I first arrived in the new city, a stranger to the land, so that I could make some new friends? I tried asking them, they just shrug and smile.

I did not understand why it wasn't reflex for them, for every time I hear that someone is going somewhere I offer to connect them with people I know in that city in case they need some support. I got upset that no one seems to care about my plight.

Then I got angry. I am generous with my contacts. Even over a coffee chat and I learn about your latest venture, immediately I will skim through my address book in my head, and offer to introduce you to people whom I think could help you with your endeavors.

Yet hardly has that happened to me in reverse. Sometimes I even have to ask others whether they could introduce someone to me.

So I am bitter that the favors aren't returned. That despite all my giving, helping, supporting every friend and acquaintance I can, it seems that no one gives back to me in return.

Almost timely. After that little episode with my fiance, I was simply bouncing from website to website, and searching for ebooks on the Internet to read. I came across Eckhart Tolle's book, "A New Earth." Rummaging through the free pages, I came to this line: "Whatever you think the world is withholding from you," writes Tolle, "you are withholding from the world."

Suddenly, the ripples cleared up and I saw a pristine reflection of the reality.

Every time I had given before, was actually not genuine giving. At the back of my mind, I was keeping an invisible tally of favors and acts of kindness I had bestowed on others, making a mental note that some day, I'd cash it back.

I didn’t give, I invested.

As with investments, I expected something in return. And with every investment there's a risk of gain or loss. Therefore, when I didn't receive something back, let alone something in addition, I counted it as loss. That was why I became resentful and sour.

My intentions were therefore, not pure. I was subconsciously calculating, expecting, scheming. I put myself on a high horse, as if I was doing them a good deed, and that made me a better person.

As Tolle wrote so powerfully, I lamented others for withholding from me. Yet, it was I in the first place who reserved from others, not giving fully and wholeheartedly with the best of intentions.

In the end, who became the most upset? I did.

I'm slowly changing that mindset. There is no miraculous way or 10 steps to follow.

Simply, just decide to give without expecting anything in return.

I now invite people to dinner because I enjoy their company and want to get to know them better, not because down the line I want to be invited back. When I find out that my friends decide to spend only 5 hours with me on my wedding weekend, but flit around town to see several other groups of friends – whom they've never introduced – those few days, I am grateful they will fly all the way for my wedding. Let it be. I've done what I can.

But this is just one part of it. Tolle finished the paragraph with, "You are withholding it because deep down you think you are small and that you have nothing to give."

Indeed, it was also my insecurity with myself that I wasn't able to let it all go, and just share my knowledge and resources. I had to make it sound like I was trying really hard to find a contact, or that they might not appreciate it. Consequently, I discounted what I had and rocked my own self-confidence.

It’s a paradox, but very real one. The more we are unsure of ourselves, the more we try to hold on to what we have, thinking we can't lose it or let others benefit from our knowledge. So we withhold always a little for ourselves, and yet blame others and the universe for not giving to us without reservations.

Believe in who you are and what you have. Help others and give your all.

You will feel happier. Trust me on this one.

Give, don't invest.

Raised in Hong Kong and Australia, Noch Noch was a young, overachieving executive for an international corporation, working and living in the world's most premier cities. After seven years of living the life she dreamt of, or so she thought, she suffered a serious episode of stress-related depression that turned her life upside down. As she battles with depression, Noch Noch is on a quest to be the wake up call for others in similar plights. She strives to be true to herself, jotting down her reflections on living with depression and self-awareness at "Be Me. Be Natural." (http://nochnoch.com).

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Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) Sales, Benefit Childrenâs Wish Foundation International With Author Jeff Papows to Sign Books

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

On Saturday January 21st from 4:30 until 6:00, author Jeff Papows,PhD will sign copies of his critically acclaimed book Unbridled Passion: Show Jumping's Greatest Horses and Riders (Acanthus Publishing, 2011) in the Tiki Hut on the grounds of the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, Florida. A portion of the book sale proceeds will be donated to the Children's Wish Foundation International, Inc. The book signing, jointly sponsored by Equestrian Sports Productions, and the 2012 FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival, is being held immediately prior to the Grand Prix event from 4:30 – 6:30 P.M. and will be attended by numerous superstars of the sport. In addition to the author, attendees will have an opportunity to obtain the autographs from many of the elite athletes who are showcased in Papows’ book.

Katherine Bellissimo, of Equestrian Sports Productions, commented, "Mark and I are thrilled to be able to host Jeff and the contributing riders at the book signing as well as the Children's Wish Foundation International. We look forward to working with both groups in their most worthy endeavors in the future, and all the good things Jeff does for the sport."

Linda Dozoretz, Founder and Executive Director of the Children's Wish Foundation International, Inc. will attend the book signing on behalf of her organization. Known as the "Fairy God Mother " to the children whose wishes she grants (and on her business card), Ms. Dozoretz said, "It is difficult to find words to express the joy and gratitude we feel being chosen to be involved with this exciting event. It is an honor to have the support of Equestrian Sports Productions and The FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival to help fulfill the wishes of these unfortunate children. Jeff Papows and the Bellissimo family are the catalysts that will create happiness and memories for children without a tomorrow."

The author, a long-time supporter of the charity, said, "I have seen the impact our sport's inside stories have had on a number of children and families struggling with difficult medical challenges. Our riders' inspiring stories are a great way to occupy the mind of child struggling through difficult times while in treatment or a hospital stay. The generosity shown through the combined efforts of our sponsors to benefit these children and their families is consistent with the integrity and character that is emblematic of our sport. I am proud to be working with Equestrian Sports Productions to introduce this worthy charity to our exhibitors, owners, and spectators."

Copies of Papows’ book will be available for sale throughout the weekend (Jan. 20-22) at the Winter Equestrian Festival Boutique, which is located directly behind the Tiki Hut, from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday and Saturday, Saturday during the night class, and on Sunday from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Books will also be available on site at Hadfields. Copies of the book may also be purchased on the author’s web site at www.UnbridledPassion.net. Material on the Children’s Wish Foundation International will be available in the Festival Boutique. You may also go directly to the Foundations website @ www.Children'sWishFoundationInternational.org

Boston-based publisher Paige Stover Hague, CEO of Acanthus Publishing, will also be present for the book signing. Stover-Hague commented, "Jeff has a very unique voice in the sport. He is by his own admission a moderately talented amateur, but he brings a wealth of business experience offering the reader an informed perspective on the down and dirty aspects of success at the elite level of this sport. His real gift, however, is his ability to convey the sense of patriotism, camaraderie, and the depth of feeling that serves as the backbone of the horse and rider team. This book zeros in on the challenges these Olympic athletes and their equine partners face and reveals the heartfelt emotion and deep connection that can't be seen from the stands. You feel the sense of commitment and drive that it takes to become a champion."

About Unbridled Passion: Show Jumping's Greatest Horses and Riders (Acanthus Publishing, 2011)
Jeff Papows utilizes his own on-course experience coupled with his personal interviews with the riders, owners, support staff, and caregivers who occupy the top ranks of the sport to create an unparalleled glimpse of what it takes to compete at the Grand Prix level. Unbridled Passion presents the stories of 22 horse and rider teams, in all of their peculiarity and intrigue. With a foreword from Olympic team coach George Morris, each chapter of Unbridled Passion presents an up close and personal conversation between author, Jeff Papows, and one of the best contemporary riders in North America. Among the list of showcased riders and revered equestrian partners are McClain Ward and Sapphire, Ian Millar and Big Ben, Margie Engle and Perin, Beezie Madden and Authentic, Candice King and Toronto, and many more Olympic medal-winning teams.

Utilizing over 60 vibrant color photographs throughout the book, Papows captures the essence of the finest moments in the sport's recent history. Working with noted equestrian photographers Gretchen Almy and Tony de Costa, Papows offers the reader both the smell of the barn and the spectacle of the ring. "There are many well-written how-to books in the sport," Papows explains. "but I wanted to create a book that captured the beauty, the hard work, and the physicality of show jumping as well as the deep connection that is formed between rider and horse." Papows has also featured several accomplished amateur riders who are just entering the international world of elite competition. See also www.UnbridledPassion.net.

About Jeff Papows
The author is an amateur rider on the show circuit of North America, and takes great joy in the challenge of competition. Papows is the Chair of the Fidelity Investment Jumper Classic held each September in Hampton Falls, New Hampshire, which is one of the most highly-regarded show jumping events in North America. Jeff Papows is also highly respected as a software industry executive. He has written two widely popular books in the field. He resides in Gloucester, Massachusetts with his wife, Patricia, and he is the proud father of three grown children. His now retired horse Roxett 7 lives at Jeff's Hampton Falls, NH barn with Jeff's other competition horses, and remains his pride and joy. Jeff has been a true ambassador for the sport of show jumping and has helped give it the recognition it deserves. See also www.UnbridledPassion.net.

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48 Hours to a Better Life: The Empowerment Pack is HERE!

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

Get over $1000 of Personal Develop Products (Including The Power of Fear) for just $97 for the next 48 hours only!

Hello 2012!

How are you going to bring in the new year? Like a lamb or a lion?

Do you struggle with your relationships? Your weight? Your health? Your career?

Maybe it’s simply about finding out who you are and what truly makes you happy.

A lot of times these new year’s resolutions ultimately become lofty ambitions that slip further and further away from your grasp – not from lack of want but from lack of direction and a great support system.

That’s why PickTheBrain along with 24 other AMAZING personal development bloggers and experts have teamed up to give you all the help you’ll need for making 2012 your BEST YEAR YET!

So for the next two days you'll be able to get 34 of the top personal development guides, courses, videos and e-books at a 90% discount.

All these products usually cost over 1000 dollars but you'll be able to get this whole package for just 97 dollars.

This Empowerment Pack includes the abridged version of PTB’s own “Power of Fear” Summit – a special version called The Ultimate Blue Print for Courageous Self Growth. You also have many of my own favorites participating like Barrie Davenport (a PTB blogger!), Dirk de Bruin (another PTB blogger!) and Steve Aitchison and products I really want to check out like Katie Tallos "7 Week Life Cleanse" and "True Self" by Jonathan Wells in this bundle.

And as soon as I have sent out this post I am purchasing a copy of my own of this package.

Click here to learn more about this awesome deal and to get your own copy

These products at this price will never be available again.

After Thursday, January 19, at 9:00 am EST (that's 2:00 pm GMT), this offer will be gone for good.

Be well and good luck!

Erin

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5 No-BS Ways to Become Awesome in 5 Minutes

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

You're at college and working two jobs. You have a date in 15 minutes. You're a single parent with a long commute and 5 hours of sleep per day. Or maybe you're just not ready to make a huge time commitment.

Whatever your situation, tools that can turbo-charge your life fast are handy.

The bad news is, long-term change requires time and effort. It's not what a commitment-phobic, time-starved generation wants to hear but it's true.

The good news is, self-improvement techniques and exercises can be very time-efficient. In fact, 5 of my favorites will have you kicking ass and taking names in just 5 short minutes.

1. Double Your Chances with Goal-Setting

In a recent study, subjects who wrote down their goals were 42% more likely to achieve them than the ones who didn't. Keeping a friend updated on specific commitments and progress increased the figure to 78%.

That's right: a pen, a piece of paper and a few minutes are all you need to near-double your chance of success. Take advantage of this: write down some SMART goals and share progress with a support network. It doesn't get any simpler – or more powerful – than this.

2. Stay Positive with a Journal Of Awesomeness

Your innermost thoughts are a self-fulfilling prophecy; believing in yourself is crucial to success. Unfortunately, other people, circumstances and your own mistakes can get you down and perpetuate negative thinking.

Here's how you can stay positive day in, day out.

Get a notebook and write down 3 awesome things you did in the past 24 hours every evening. "Went for a jog instead of watching TV"; "finally talked to that cute barista"; "made a really good presentation."

You'll be amazed at how much better focusing on your positive achievements makes you feel! And once you start reinforcing good choices by writing them down, your subconscious will encourage you to make them more often.

3. Build Rapport Immediately with The Cocoon

Rapport is the feeling of connecting or "being on the same wavelength" with another person. This tool will help you create that level of understanding instantly and without any complicated techniques.

All you need to do is visualize a "cocoon" around yourself and the person you're talking to. Literally imagine a wall or barrier is blocking the two of you from the outside world.

This works on a variety of levels: it "reduces" background chatter, helps you focus on the conversation and promotes a feeling of comfort. If you want to create a deep feeling of connection or comfort, use the cocoon.

4. Prepare For Success with Mental Practice

Successful athletes have been using visualization to hone their skills for a long time. In recent years, the effectiveness of mental practice has become more widely recognized and accepted. Great news for us!

Just close your eyes and imagine yourself performing a task successfully. If you have a presentation coming up in 30 minutes, visualize getting up on that stage and acing that thing. If you're a dancer, execute every move perfectly in your mind.

This is more than just rehearsing in your mind; mental practice builds up your confidence with images of positive outcomes. Confidence and excellence come naturally when you've already practiced being succesful.

5. Samurai Swords of Confidence

A classic technique for managing stage fright is to imagine the audience naked. It works for two main reasons: it's a funny distraction and it makes you feel less threatened. After all, what's a room full of naked people gonna do to you?

This is similar. If you ever feel threatened or need a boost of confidence, visualize a weapon in your hand (I use a katana because, well, they're awesome, but you can use something else).

To practice, close your grip and imagine you're holding a rockin' samurai sword in your hand. Really visualize yourself holding the weapon; give it a weight, a color, focus on how it feels in your hand. Release your grip to make the sword disappear, then repeat the exercise until you can feel the contrast between holding and not holding your "sword of confidence."

Next time you need to feel confident, close your hand around the hilt of your weapon. Trust me – talking to your boss or taking the subway at night is a lot less scary when you've got a samurai sword in your hand!

So there you have it: 5 ways to become awesome in 5 minutes! If you try any of these exercises, please leave a comment and let me know how everything went.

George P.H. helps people figure out relationships, live without limitations and feel awesome over at The Man-Up Blog.

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3 Ways To Be The Architect Of Your Own Life

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

Architects are skilled in planning, design, and oversight. Architecture isn't just limited to the construction of buildings. For example, often visionaries are architects of their generations. When you look at the leaders of yesterday and today, such as Henry Ford, Bill Gates, and Steve Jobs, they are architects of sorts. They planned, designed, and oversaw huge transitions that, in many cases, redefined how we function and process reality on a daily basis. Similarly, we can be the architects of our own lives.

Here are 3 ways to awaken your inner architect!

Architects Create Vision

Vision is key!

Your vision can literally serve as your blueprint for the future. Your ability to walk into the life that you crave depends on the future you see. That's because anything exceptional that you attempt is often birthed with a vision. It's the vision that inspires hope when the struggle gets too hard and when calamity becomes all too familiar. That's why it's important to not bankrupt your future with a limited vision. It's hard to move forward confidently without having a good idea of where you are going. Powerful motivator Zig Ziglar always says if you aim for nothing, you'll hit the mark every time.

There are numerous reasons for lack of vision. Sometimes it's the pain of previous failures that halts our progress. In such cases, we have to remember that missteps bring experience and provide insight; moreover, our survival is a testimony of our resilience. You can experience a do over! Other times we're blinded by complacency with past successes. However, suppose we had stopped with the telegram or the telephone?

Our lives have been so enriched by people who dared to see beyond present circumstances and innovations. These architects changed the future by elevating our visions. According to Seth Godin, they transform our "shared interest into a passionate goal and desire for change." Just because you are not gifted in design doesn't mean that you can't design your life. First, your ability to create the vision for your life necessitates your commitment to learn and look inward.

Second, when you peer into the future, make sure that you are looking with a fresh pair of eyes and perspective. Tired eyes rarely see a bright future.

Third, your vision for your future may benefit from some perspective of the past. History often repeats itself, so ironically, by looking to the past, you can better anticipate the future. Fourth, draw inspiration from what you read, hear, and feel. Then, create the plan that awakens the music inside you. Remember that prosperity and wealth are not beyond your reach. Doing these things consistently will elevate your vision to new levels and give you a sound basis to design an authentic path for your future.

Architects Create Structure

Another interesting aspect of an architect's job is that they create or restore order. During chaos, the gifted architect is perhaps most appreciated. By creating order, the architect can enhance productivity and decrease stress. In contrast, disorder is costly! For example, how many times have you been distressed and your productivity ruined due to losing your cell phone, important file, or flash drive?

Order also encompasses how we live our lives. An orderly life is one that is aligned with your skills and abilities, personality, dreams and passions. It is rare that someone else will create this authentic fit for you. However, by truly knowing yourself and patterning your life accordingly, you can align your actions with your heart.

Where the spirit does not work with the hand there is no art. Leonardo da Vinci

Career coach Dan Miller has great advice regarding structuring your work in this manner. He recommends work where you are strongest 80% of the time, where you are learning 15% of the time, and where you are weak 5% of the time. A practical example is if you know you are soon bored after learning something new, then structure your business (or choose a job) where your desire for new challenges is a strength rather than a weakness. For all of us, there is an environment where we function best; it's where our differences are celebrated instead of merely tolerated. If you aren't already there, then search for or design the environment for yourself.

Architects Oversee Development

Don't die with your music still in you!
After he or she has created the vision and developed order, much of the architect's "hard work" is already complete. Some say 85% of the process centers on the creative aspects, but application is still required. Unexecuted great plans mean that the potential will never be manifested, nor will the design be appreciated in its full glory. For example, before Henry Ford and James Cash Penney could give us Ford Motor Company and JC Penney department stores, respectively, they had to build infrastructure and assemble their teams.
It is the architect's role to oversee the execution of the vision. Overseers know that productivity, or lack thereof, often depends on their recruiting the right talent, incentivizing their participation, and providing adequate resources and direction to bring the vision into fruition.
The personal application is that we must oversee our own development. We must hold ourselves accountable for acting on our visions; otherwise, they may remain pipe dreams. Often this may require enlisting the assistance of others. Perhaps you may hire a bookkeeper for a business or even your household finances to stay on track financially. Alternatively, you could engage a coach to quickly raise your performance to a much higher level. You may choose an accountability partner to call foul when your actions don't match your words. Regardless of the steps you take, the responsibility for the product is yours. You have already been empowered, but it is what you do with that power that is key.

Closing Thoughts

As an architect, you can create beauty from chaos or resurrect a structure to its former glory. It's your blueprint of the future that inspires hope in the face of adversity and order during disarray. It's your seasoned insights that are relied upon to ensure the safety and progress of the project. The personal takeaway is that as the architect of your life, you have substantial power. However, with this power comes great responsibility. It is no longer acceptable to rely on past excuses for lack of achievement. You already have the components and resources needed for greatness, but the key question is: are you ready to produce?

About the Author: I'm Roshawn Watson, and I write at Watson Inc on eliminating debt, investing money, and building wealth. Get my free eBook Your Foundation to Wealth by signing up for my email updates (no spam I promise). Get my RSS feed and connect with me on http://www.twitter.com/roshawnwatson too.

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Excellence: What It Is and How to Achieve It

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

We’re taught that ancient literature is great art, but that it doesn’t have anything to do with living our lives. The truth is that literature which has stood the test of time is great art exactly because it is about living our lives.

The best of these ancient works attempted to answer one question: How should you live your life? And that makes sense. After people move on from the question, how are we going to find food and shelter, they finally have the time to ask, how should we live our lives?

And Homer, western civilization’s most influential writer, gives us his answer to that question. Through his epic poems, the Iliad and the Odyssey, he tells us how he and many of the ancient Greeks thought we should live our lives. By embodying “arête.”

The most common definition of “arête” is “excellence.” And that’s a pretty good definition if we’re looking at “arête” as just a word on a page that needs translation. But we need to dig deeper if we want to find out why Homer thought it answered the question, how should you live your life?

Digging one level deeper, we come across another definition. “Courage.” Again, a good definition if you need to do some translating, but it’s still doesn’t answer our question. So we dig deeper and find “strength,” and now we’re sure we can translate “arête” whenever we come across it. One of our definitions will definitely work.

But if we stop here, Homer, himself, would tell us that we missed the point. So we have to dig even deeper. We have to go on a real archeological dig into the wisdom of ancient times. But it’s worth it because it doesn’t take much longer before we find Homer’s answer to the question, how should we live our lives?

In the Iliad and the Odyssey, Homer’s main characters all embody “arête.” But for each of them, this “arête” is different. That is, each character has their own individual “arête.” They all have individual strengths. And when they focus on those strengths and exercise them, they embody “arête.” So it’s not being excellent at something that reflects this quality. It’s embodying that something.

It turns out that “arête” means excellence only in the sense that you’re embracing your strengths. Embracing what you do well. Whether it leads to actual success or failure is not the quality of “arête.” It often can lead to excellence, but not always.

“Arête” is the act of exercising your strengths. It’s using your mind and your body and your emotions to get as close to realizing your potential as possible. That’s how we should lead our lives. Whether we achieve success or not, we embody “arête” if we do what we should be doing. And that brings us back to courage and strength.

It takes courage to be honest with yourself about what you do well. It’s a moment of truth. The moment when you ask yourself not what you’d like to do well, but what do you do well. And the answer to that question may not be what you’d like.

And that’s tied to the Greek concept of fate. Cold, hard fate. The Christian version is warmer. God has a master plan. But it’s still the same idea. What we do well is what we do well, regardless of what we’d like to do well. “Arête” says embrace it.

This doesn’t mean that now that you’ve found the courage to be honest with yourself, it’s going to be smooth sailing. It’s still not easy to perfect what you do well. This is where strength comes into play. It’s going to take strength of character to do the hard work it takes to embody “arête.” But rest assured that it will be “right” work. The work you were intended to do.

And here are a couple of clarifications that Homer didn’t make. They apply more to modern times than to ancient times. First, when you’re discovering what your strengths are, don't dismiss what others say. “Arête” doesn’t mean that you have all the answers. It doesn’t matter how you come to find you what you do well as long as you find out. And secondly, “arête” doesn’t mean “do you what you love.” It means love what you do. It means accept what you’re meant to do, then live up to your potential by doing your best to excel at it.

Homer wrote the Iliad and the Odyssey to entertain and to teach. But today we look at those epic poems as great works of art and stop there. We find beauty in their prose and we forget the reason those works survive.

I was lucky enough to have read those poems and studied them in college. But it was an intellectual pursuit. I sensed that there was more to those poems, but my teachers never dove into those parts. And I couldn’t figure it out on my own. The idea that the Iliad and the Odyssey could teach me something about how to live my life never occurred to me. It took many years before that I understood the ancient wisdom found in those works and even longer to try it out. Don’t wait as long as I did.

Irving Belateche is a screenwriter, author and speaker. He’s just published the book, “Under An Orange Sun, Some Days Are Blue,” available on Amazon. It’s a work of motivational fiction where both ancient and modern wisdom is tested to see what works and what doesn’t. He’s written screenplays for Paramount, Columbia, Warner Brothers and other studios. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife and son.

www.amazon.com/dp/under-an-orange-sun/0984026509

UnderAnOrangeSun@gmail.com

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Adjusting to Life Without Riding

noreply@blogger.com (RJ) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:05:00 +0000

It has now been 13 weeks – aka a good three months – since I have sat on a horse. I’m pretty sure I’ve gone through the five stages of grief and have finally landed at the end: Acceptance. Unfortunately, I think Ace is somewhere between #3 Bargaining and #4 Depression.

Fortunately, he’s moved beyond the #2 Anger stage, where he undoubtedly spent a few weeks recently.

I think Ace must have thought that aliens abducted me and replaced me with a boring and significantly less demanding version when I suddenly quit riding cold turkey. We went from riding multiple days a week, constantly learning something new, and challenging his brain and body to lovey-dovey grooming sessions and walks around the indoor.

And he started acting out. He was hanging his head out his window and biting other horses who went past - as well as the dogs. And he even tried nibbling on me a few times! He didn’t chomp down, but grabbed my sleeve delicately in his front teeth and pulled as if to say “Who are you and what did you do with my mom?” When I got him out to do groundwork, he gave me his old man grumpy face with annoyed eyes, wrinkled nose, and laid back disinterested ears. Ace was undoubtedly sending me a message.

So one day I decided to get his attention.

I put him in rope halter with 15 foot lead and started working his little hiney from the ground. Instead of the correct but leisurely responses to my cues he’d been offering, I started demanding big and immediate movements. I sent him backing at a speed to rival a reiner. I sent him to the left, stopped him, and immediately sent him around to the right. He had to jump into it and trot. I got him to walk to me, petted him, and sent him back out again.

And in just a few minutes, I had a horse whose entire attention was on me. Head up, ears pointed, interested, and keeping his eyes on me. It was the Ace of old, from our early training days, to whom everything was new and thus life was always challenging.

It was like he was looking at me and saying “Oh! There you are!”

And while he still has a habit of biting the other horse and the dogs, he hasn’t done it to me again. And rather than sticking his head in a corner to pout, he’s happy to see me, and excited to get out of his stall and play.

I don’t think it’s that he really missed working hard (he’s generally a bit lazy by nature) – but I think he missed the me he had come to understand and love. I suppose it’s all about being consistent, whether it’s from the saddle or from the ground.

At 24 weeks pregnant and unable to ride, I’ve discovered that skipping barn nights comes much more easily. Perhaps I’m a little tired, or I threw out my back (like I did this week), or I’m busy getting my life and house in order before it’s taken over by a baby. I suppose it’s good preparation for both Ace and I for when the baby actually comes and my barn time is much more limited.

I’ve got less than 16 weeks until my due date, and probably a few more to recover before I can actually sit in a saddle – but the days when I can ride again are suddenly starting to feel a little closer!

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