Time

How does it happen. . . like the flip of a light

Those lazy, warm days, are now clearly out of our sight!

The vivid colors of one changing oh so fast

Now all there is, is our memories of the past. . .

Beautiful flowers replaced by pumpkins and ghouls

Then before too long. . . lawns and trees are covered in holiday jewels!

Tis the season for family, shopping and a little ho, ho, ho

There's no place I'd rather be. . . not even in a faraway chateau

Then those long winter days so cloudy and grey

Seem to never end. . . seem to never. . . go away

But then once again, like a flip of the light

Trees start to bud, and smells of the new season are right there in sight

How does it happen. . .I sure don't know why

So enjoy. . . don't just sit back and watch time fly by. . .

Friendships

My friend Michelle and I have been looking at the new books that I ordered for our school. When I listen to Michelle read a story, it is so apparent how much she loves books! It really is contagious! How lucky our students are to have her in their lives. We talk and laugh about how adorable the books are. . . special friendships between a mouse and elephant, a dog and a bear, a dog and a frog . . . just to name a few. So it inspired me to write about friendships. . . a true gift that is priceless!

People pass through are lives but friends, real friends, are always with you

Friends may be family. . . or. . . not

No matter how you are friends, friends share matters of the heart

Friends are honest. . . but never judgmental

Friends pick you up. . . never put you down

Friends hold your hand when you need them to and tell you everything is going to be okay

And you know what? You believe them because they are your friend

Friends listen. . . and know, when that's exactly what you need

Friends cry with you and then wipe your tears away

Friends, how lucky to have them. . . to love them . . .

Yes, people come in and out of our lives, but friends are always with you!

Thank you to all my friends . . . You know who you are!

I you all!

Ocean

Rolling . . . Churning . . . Crashing . . .

Huge white caps glistening in the sunlight

Bringing in . . . then taking back

Black silhouettes bobbing up and down

Waiting . . . looking . . . hoping . . .

For the perfect wave to ride

Giggling "children" young and old

Chasing and being chased

So powerful . . . yet so exhilarating . . .

Taste of Wellness Tour

A friend gave me a belated birthday present which I just have to share! Knowing that I have been trying to get in better shape both physically and mentally she booked "Taste of Wellness Tour in Lincoln Park," a 3 1/2 hour walking tour through Lincoln Park area, which focuses on health, beauty, fitness and wellness. Jessica was our tour guide, a registered nutritionist and founder of the tour. It was just awesome and so very informative!

The tour begins at the Green City Market, an outdoor farmers market located on North and Clark. It was one of the best markets I've been to this summer! It had so many organic fruits and veggies as well as grass fed beef! After touring the market and tasting some of the local (organic) cuisine, we had a 20 minute yoga class right in this beautiful park! The day was absolutely gorgeous with a light breeze off the lake! Next, we walked about 3 miles towards the Halsted and Sheffield area which I found out is considered the "health belt" of Chicago. Throughout this area are numerous shops all dedicated to good health and well being. Some of the highlights were Peeled, a natural fruit and veggie smoothy store. We sampled a few of the more popular smoothies and learned the health benefits of various spices when added to smoothies. Another one of my favorites was Starfruit, a dessert cafe offering frozen treats, parfaits, and more, all made with Lifeway Kefir... the natural non-dairy product with probiotics. All good for a "healthy gut" as Jessica reminded us often during the tour. Trust me the walk is not all about food. Fit-Lincoln Park, a personal training fitness studio was our next stop where we indulged in a 20 minute boot camp which included squats, push-ups, hip raises etc. led by one of the owners who was as sweet as he was tough! Yikes!!!! One of the final destinations was Lululemon, a fitness clothing store for all of us who love to sweat! Great energy in the store with wonderful clothes for all activities.

I highly recommend taking this tour which runs on Wednesdays and Saturdays from June through October. A great way to spend time with friends and even meet others looking to find ways to incorporate good things into our daily lives for better health and wellness!

Enjoy The Ride!

Why do people have such a need

When behind the wheel, they just have to speed?

What happened to the notion of "enjoying the ride"

I mean seriously, think about it, all jokes set aside!

How about savoring the moments and taking it all in

When you get behind the wheel for your next spin

You may be thinking what on earth is there for me to see

When all that's on my mind is getting from point A to B

Change the the mind set . . . appreciate . . . all that is awe-inspiring

You will be amazed how much there is for admiring

A white tail hawk soaring . . . and so "genteel"

So rare in our jungle of concrete and steel

Or how about a flock of birds flying in perfect formation

Guiding each other towards their own destination

Clouds may be clouds but if you let yourself go . . .

You can imagine a mountain top covered with snow

Let your eyes scan the colors of the season

Each one so incredible . . . for its very own reason

Go ahead, give it a try the next time your out

I think you'll agree there's amazement without a doubt!

Echoes of the Night

Each day as the sun sinks slowly down in the sky

There's one sound of summer that begins to amplify

The quiet of the day almost magically transforms

Into music . . . into song . . . as if trees are to perform

What is this chatter that takes over the night?

Is it when they wake . . . is it time for them to reunite?

Is there a message . . . for us all to hear

In those echoes, that fill the night just before it will disappear?

We can only imagine, as this too is nature at its best

A short time when we can forget about all the rest!

MY ABC's Of Life

Attitude, always choose a positive one . . . Be a caring and loyal friend . . . Count my blessings and be thankful each day for all I have . . . Dig deep for strength when needed (it's in there) . . . Enjoy the precious time with family and friends . . . Family and friends, I have the best and how lucky am I! . . . Get lemons, make lemonade no other choice . . . Hope, dream and strive for the best in me . . . Inspire, my blog that I love! . . . Just listen, because that's what someone else may need . . . Kindness, oh how it goes a long way . . . Look at the glass half full always . . . Mindful of others and their feelings . . . Notice the little things everyday . . . Open to new adventures . . . Putting myself first is sometimes hard to do, but so important sometimes . . . Quit whining if you can't change it . . . Reach out to help family and friends . . . Sometimes just need to suck it up!!! . . . Tell the young people in your life how truly special they are as often as possible . . . Understand and except that life isn't always what you thought it would be . . . Value the people in my life, not the things . . . Why, why, why, may never know or understand . . . X-static to be with whole family soon to celebrate with J . . . Yoga, great for the mind and body . . . Zzzz be sure to rest so that always your best! . . .

Celebrations

photo © 2010 Will Clayton | more info (via: Wylio)

Birthdays . . . it seems as we get older we hear us say things like,

"Oh it's no big deal anymore", I'm trying to forget about them", even "Don't remind me" . . .

The questions I ponder are, why is it we only have huge celebrations when we are young?

And at what age do we decide that we don't want anymore birthdays?

Maybe we have things backwards . . . Maybe, just maybe we should be saving the huge celebrations just when we decide we don't want anymore birthdays . . .

I know, I know, I too use to be one of those people, I guess it's because we don't want to think about getting older and what that all means . . .

Financial issues, health problems, or just not being able to do the things we have always been able to do . . .

Well, I just had a birthday, and trust me when I say, I DID want to celebrate, and that's exactly what I did with the very special people in my life

It was a day long celebration which began with mani's and pedi's and ending at Ravina on a picture perfect night! It was a perfect birthday, with people I adore and am blessed to have in my life!

So what is my message or my words of inspiration today?

We must never, ever want to stop celebrating that we are here . . . because it sure beats the alternative!photo © 2010 Rachel Kramer | more info (via: Wylio)

Sunset

photo © 2010 Julia Taylor | more info (via: Wylio)

Driving into the sunset. . . sounds like such a cliche

Yet when you see it, really see it, the colors streaming in the sky just blow me away

The hues of yellow, oranges and reds diffusing from behind clouds so wispy white

Just mesmerizes me as the day transforms slowly to twilight

And so the day will end, just as it began, the sun floating low in the sky

So peaceful, so quiet, a time to reflect, on another day gone by . . .

Chocolate Lovers Rejoice!

So it's been 2 weeks or more since I have indulged in chocolate. We've always been told it's a dieter's pitfall, so stay far far away if you want to drop some pounds. In my journey to get healthier I've banned this delicious even decadent treat for the good of the cause. I miss it so that it almost feels like an addiction . . . Wondering when my willpower will fail me and when I will give in to the Chocolate Gods just like that . . . Sound the trumpets . . . I see an article about chocolate and how there is mounting evidence that it is not so bad for us after all, in fact, it actually has some health benefits! Read excerpts from the article written by Rebecca Pratt and you be the judge. . .

But, whether you’re the giver or receiver, just how sinful is chocolate? The Aztecs and their neighbors, the Mayans, believed chocolate transmitted knowledge and power to those who consumed it. While there’s no evidence to support that idea, there is mounting evidence showing some health benefits to eating it in moderation. Studies have found that dark chocolate helps prevent heart disease and cancer, and has also been shown to improve mood by boosting the brain chemical serotonin. Some even consider chocolate an effective, claiming that a chunk of chocolate before meals diminishes your appetite.

Chocolate contains a wide assortment of vitamins and minerals that the body needs, including potassium, sodium, iron, fluorine and vitamins A, B1, C, D, and E. In fact, researchers at Harvard University believe chocolate may help people live longer! A study tracking older men found that those who ate chocolate lived almost a year longer than those who didn't.

Researchers believe this has something to do with the fact that chocolate contains flavonoids (compounds that may lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer while slowing the aging process) and stearic acid, a heart-friendly fatty acid that doesn’t promote cholesterol increases.

So, this good news has inspired me . . .

photo © 2008 Lindsey T | more info (via: Wylio)

Chocolate . . . Chocolate . . . Chocolate . . .

You've been though of as the bad boy for such a long long time

That when we reached for you most often, we felt like it was a crime

We always seem to want you when problems big or teeny

Make us think the only answer is to shake up a martini!

Chocolate . . . Chocolate . . . Chocolate . . .

What is it that makes us want you sometimes morning, noon and night

And just the anticipation of having you brings us smiles of delight

The moment that luscious square passes slowly over our lips

We know that whatever the issue, we'll be able to come to grips

Chocolate . . . Chocolate . . . Chocolate . . .

I'm so happy that I can share, the good news that is out

That we can indulge in moderation and never ever again freak out!

One research went so far to say chocolate increases our sense of well being

With vitamins and minerals, heck it's almost a form of healing!

So to all the chocolate lovers out there and you know who you are

No more gazing at this delicacy and wishing from afar

Go ahead indulge, but remember dark is better and moderation key

Cause after all it certainly isn't as healthy as cup of green tea

Pairing it with fruits, like bananas, apples and berries

May even cure your desire for that scoop of Ben and Jerry's

And now you have it, chocolate isn't the bad boy that we've been told

Allow yourself this simple pleasure, just don't let it be uncontrolled!

One of Life's Indulgences

If you want a real treat, an incredible self spoiler go to a spa

It's not just about the massage or facial but the whole experience from the moment you walk through the door

It is one of my most guilty pleasures . . .

photo © 2008 Martin Pettitt | more info (via: Wylio)

Picture this . . . soft candles, dimmed lights, gentle water fountains, and comfy chairs

Taking hold of your body and mind and impelling you to throw away any cares

The seduction occurs slowly as soon as you walk through the door

Awaking your senses . . . then begging for more

The soft robe and slippers surely help to set the mood

But remember, just whispers, so as not to be rude

As you wait for your service there's waters and teas

And the fragrance of florals and eucalyptus trees

You notice your breathing softens and all thoughts become few

As this tranquil paradise captures and takes over you

The hush and sense of peace that engulfs your whole being

Is by far an addiction and oh so so freeing

So grab your best gal pals, don't think or resist

If not today or tomorrow . . . most definitely at the top of your bucket list!

photo © 2009 Dennis Wong | more info (via: Wylio)

Why I Write . . .

photo © 2008 Alexander | more info (via: Wylio)

Why do I write?

I started after my friend inspired me . . . and she continues to inspire me

I write . . .

Because I too want to inspire, encourage and if nothing else make others smile

I write . . .

Because it gets me to think . .

My thoughts, become words--- which can make me feel a bit uneasy sometimes, yet at the same time very soulful

I write . . .

Because it opens my eyes and ears . . .

Awakening my senses to all that inspires me to write more

I write . . .

Because it reminds me to believe . . .

To be grateful for so much and to always focus on the positive-

especially when I feel the most tested

I write . . .

To laugh and be a bit silly . . .

Because laughter is the best medicine and it's free!

I write . . .

Because I love to and it really brings me pleasure

So, I will continue to write and write and . . .

Ahh. . . Summer. . . my favorite season of them all

Not just because I'm out of school but, it can be a time to renew. . . set some goals. . .

Almost like New Year's in June!

This summer I have made a few goals for myself . . .

Get in better shape and hopefully lose a few pounds- okay who am I kidding more than just a few,

Get outside and clean up the yard, plant flowers and enjoy the beauty,

Get inside the closets and well. . . reduce and reorganize

I'm happy to say, so far I'm doing well on all counts so here is how I inspired me!

I've been talking to myself since the beginning of June

I needed some changes, a focus and I knew that I just can't presume

To get stronger, to eat healthier, to clean up and clean out

Doesn't just happen, especially since I've been in such a drought!

So I started my break doing all the right things

Knowing full well that I'll be happy for what it all brings

Each day is packed full with cleaning and moving

And I'm happy to say that things are improving

Although there are days that my muscles are aching

I will not give up let there be no mistaking

This plan of mine will work only in pairs

Good food choices are a must when eating my 3 squares

So for all those who need some encouragement or motivation

The first step is self talk and identification

Set some goals, and know what you want so you can focus

And above all remember it takes more than a magic wand and some hocus pocus!

photo © 2009 New Ruffian Photography | more info (via: Wylio)

The "It"

The other day I was given a hug and was told it was Cancer Survivor Day. She herself was a cancer survivor for over 30 years. I had not heard of this day but it got me thinking. . .

There are all sorts of survivors aren't there? People of all ages who have survived something, why isn't there a day set aside for them?

As I began to put my thoughts down I did not want my words to be sad or sorrowful. . . rather, I want to inspire, encourage, acknowledge that whatever the "it" is, if you fight and move forward you too are a survivor.

I think. . . life sometimes throws us the unthinkable, but how we deal with "it" is the true test of who we are and what we are all about.

I think. . . somehow we must find the strength, the courage, and take the steps to move forward, after all, what is the alternative?

I think. . . it's okay to be angry and question

I think. . . we have to be willing to except the "it". . . even through the anger and the questioning

I think. . . being strong is empowering and this is what helps us to move forward

I think. . . I surely don't have all the answers but. . .

I know. . . I will always be a fighter or should I say. . . a SURVIVOR!

photo © 2007 Luz A. Villa | more info (via: Wylio)

Rainbows

photo © 2007 Elizabeth Ellis | more info (via: Wylio)

I've been looking for that rainbow after each and every rain

I haven't seen one for a while although they look the same

Why do I feel so anxious when I look up to the sky

And see no sign of that natural beauty forming oh so high

The weather conditions have been aligning so perfectly as of late

Yet that magical arch of colors just doesn't seem to cooperate

What is this attraction, this almost obsession that I'm feeling

It's not like I believe a rainbow is a miracle for healing

Maybe it's all those stories, you know the ones where we've been told

That a little guy will be waiting with a bucket full of gold. . . .

photo © 2010 Robert Couse-Baker | more info (via: Wylio)

The world, this precious planet we call home, has been experiencing wild, or should I say, devastating weather this year. It seems almost on a daily basis we hear of another town, that's been hit by some sort of catastrophic weather. Cities in rural and urban areas flattened as if they were made of toy sticks. In one short moment, lives are lost, or people who are lucky enough to walk away are left with nothing...I wonder. . .

What or maybe who, is causing this terrible destruction. . .photo © 2008 Mark Evans | more info (via: Wylio)

Mother Nature is this you? Rearing your angry head

It seems we have not listened to what you have said

This "ball of life" we take for granted and consistently misuse

Always thinking it will just be here for us to abuse

We carelessly pollute the waters, air and land

And now I bet you are taking a stand!

How much do our eyes need to see and our hearts need to feel

Before we begin to believe this is so very real

We must know that our children and their children too

Won't have a safe haven to prosper and grow and now I must ask, what are we going to do?

I bet if we start believing we can live on much less

We will begin to see progress and maybe even success

We need to be more educated on what we buy

Read labels and be aware of all the pesticides

Green products, more natural may be the path we should take

I'm no expert but I think something needs to change for goodness sakes

My message is not intended to be doom and gloom

I think sometimes we just need to be aware and not to assume

That this planet, our home needs care and protection

And maybe, just maybe we can be the ones to change the direction. . .

photo © 2006 Melissa Wiese | more info (via: Wylio)

Imagine If. . .

25 Years and a Chicago icon is done! Say what you will about Oprah, but there is no denying she has done amazing things over the last 25 years. Most love her and some don't, but, she has made a huge impact on people of all walks of life around the world. So with this in mind it got me thinking. . .

What kind of impact can everyday people make?

photo © 2007 Jennifer Rotner | more info (via: Wylio)

How often do we we think. . .

I'm just one person, what can I do to make a difference?

How can I impact someone or something?

I'm not rich, famous or have the means to do something amazing

But just imagine if. . .

Each one of us made a conscience effort to do one small thing

For one person or one small cause. . .

Just imagine the number of people that would be impacted each and every day

The "it" could be something simple. . .

A spoken or written word or, no words at all. . .

The giving of yourself, your time, especially when you don't believe you have any to give

Maybe, if we all thought about it for a little while. . .

Well, just imagine the possibilities. . .

Reflection of a School Year

photo © 2003 denise carbonell | more info (via: Wylio)

Michelle asked, how does it feel with school coming to a close

It stirred up my thoughts for the words to compose

This year flew by in a blink of an eye

And soon we will send our children off with a hug and a goodbye

I thinks as teachers we always question, did we do all we could?

Did we give the children all that we should?

In schools today, we teachers know there's so much more

Than just worrying about how the children score.

As teachers, we work through each lesson to ensure they succeed

Yet knowing some days they have some other need

These little people we see on a daily basis

Sometimes just need us teachers to create a comfy oasis

Because for many it's clear, school is the best part of their day

We know this because in June, there's often more tears than hip hip hoorays!

So you see us teachers have many hats to wear

For the children that are placed each day in our care

We work hard for our students nonetheless

So they can grow, prosper and progress

Yes, June is the end of the school year

And us teachers will smile and give out a cheer

We will take the next 2 months to relax, unwind and renew

And in August we'll say, where did the summer go to?

But thoughts of the summer so quickly will shrink

Instead we are consumed with reading, writing and how to get them to think

Then children are back and it's oh so very clear

Why we teachers did chose this amazing career!