Spending Time With Friends

When we find that we're taking ourselves too serious, spend some time with close friends. They have the ability to make us look at life a little differently, less intensely. Being with people who care about us and have our best interest in mind gives us a chance to relax and be ourselves. We don't have to hide behind societal expectations, because true friends expect nothing from us. They see us for who we are and love us in spite of that. We are truly blessed to have these angels in our lives. Today, let your friends bring joy and laughter into your life. Acknowledge that they are an important part of your life and appreciate how they balance your life.

Somehow everything seems okay when I'm with my friends...

(The ducks at Kawainui Swamp love to take pictures.

They actually stay still while I'm clicking away.

Or it could be because of the lady that brings food for them in the morning.)

Turning The Lights On

When life seems a little dark and we're having difficulty finding our way, look for the light that burns so bright. There is always someone close by who will show us the way. It may be those who we love and care for, but it also may be a stranger who we've never met before. Those who carry the torch bring hope to a better future. Know that there is always light beyond the darkness. Today, let the universe illuminate your spirit. Ask and you will receive all that you are meant to have to continue on your journey. 

There is always a welcoming light if you look for it...

(Molokai in the evening light. I wish I was there.)

Why?

There are so many questions that we ask that are left unanswered. It is human nature to ask why things happen when they don't make sense. All we want to do is to understand the world we live in. There is no room for anger, for who do we place the blame on for things that can't be explained. At times falling to despair because life seems so unfair. Know that there are things in life that we will never have answers to. We can only be there to support those who need us when their world seems to have suddenly ended. Today, be present for those living in pain. There are no need for words in these moments when we seek only quiet solace. Although you may want to do more, still yourself and draw upon your inner strength to help those that come to you. Know that

Let me walk alone until the pain no longer weighs so heavily on me...

(D - My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family

during this difficult time.) 

Time To Rest

When our body, mind, and spirit are telling us to rest, we need to listen. It begins as a soft whisper to slow down. Don't move so fast, rest for awhile. But if we aren't able to hear these messages, they will help us to help ourselves. By then we have no choice in the matter. We are built to survive. It's a matter of self preservation. Today, listen to see if you're getting any of these messages. If you are, take time out to rest. Trust your body, mind, and spirit to know what is best for you. There is always time for everything. Today is a day of rest.

  Coming home to peace and serenity makes it easier to rest...

Acknowledging Your Successes

         

For some of us our lives become so goal oriented that we don't stop to appreciate the journey. Our objective is to complete the task successfully, so when we accomplish what we set out to do it's like putting a period at the end of the sentence. We're proud of what we've done, but we're soon working on our next project. We've learned how to strive for excellence, but aren't so good at taking the time to tell ourselves what a good job we're doing. It's important that we hear words of appreciation from ourselves because it's an acknowledgement of the strength that lay within us. Today, celebrate your successes. Take a moment to tell yourself what a great job you're doing and how much you are loved by those around you. By nurturing your spirit, you will be at peace no matter where you are. 

Take the time to celebrate when you get to the top of the mountain...

(S - Your smile is contagious! It makes my day.

B - Congratulations on your promotion,

you deserve all the good fortune that comes your way!)

            

Moving To The Beat Of Your Heart

Sometimes in life, we get a feeling that something is just not right and we can't quite put our finger on it. It's not a "Something is going to happen" feeling, just a vague "I'm not really sure" kind of feeling. When life becomes a blur and the days blend into each other, we find ourselves floundering. It's times like these, that we need to step aside and sit on the sidelines for awhile in order to gather our waning energy. Sometimes being quiet in the moment and simplifying our life is the best thing to do so we can begin living again. Today, have a peaceful day. By moving to the beat of your heart, you will find peace.  No more, no less.

If we slow down, we are able to see so many beautiful things...

(I always thought the hibiscus flower was beautiful, 

but getting a close up to the flower's center was amazing.

It's art!)

What Is Your Passion?

Why do we give ourselves grief over not knowing what our passion is? Many of us miss out on life trying to find it. Where does the belief that in order to live a fulfilled life we need to be passionate about what we do? There is a time and place for everything. Life is filled with so many different emotions that makes us who we are. Know that by being present in life, we naturally fall into our passion. Today, be honest with yourself. Are you living a life you were meant to or are you who others want you to be.  It is difficult to be passionate about a life that is not truly yours. Know that by living a life of truth, you will find your calling. 

This is what passion is about...

(I loved the way the sun reflected off the glassware.

The colors made each piece so unique and special.

I couldn't decide if I liked the purple or the amber ones the best.)

Laws of Attraction

If someone were to tell us that we would be able to attract whatever we want, we would be the first in line to learn how to do this. In fact, there are many of us who have already bought into the hype of manifesting. If we concentrate hard enough on what we want then we should get it. So why isn't it working.  It seems to work for others, so what are we doing wrong. It's not that we're doing anything wrong, it's about not believing that we deserve what we're asking for. No matter how much we want something, if deep down inside we don't think we deserve to have it, we won't receive it. Instead of getting frustrated or angry that life isn't the way we'd like it to be, step back and reassess the life we are currently living. Know that whether it's good or bad, we are still attracting what we feel deserve. Today, stop talking about what you desire. Just live as if you all ready had these things in your life. If you surround yourself with negativity, that is exactly what you will receive. So live a compassionate life and you will attain your heart's desires.

When we said we desired peace and serenity,
 no one said it couldn't begin in a bathroom...

(Isn't it silly to want something so decadent, but there it is. Serenity and peace starts in a beautiful bathroom looking out into the calm ocean. I love it!)

Getting the Most Out Of Life

There are times when things do not move as quickly as we'd like. It seems as if we have not journeyed along our path for awhile. Although we are doing fine, there is a yearning to do more. When this happens, don't wait for changes to occur, initiate the change you want. Instead of standing by the sidelines, get the most out of life by being an active participant. Life is not for the timid, but the courageous. Today, be brave and do something different. By exploring the unknown, you may find the extraordinary. It is time for you to continue the search for your heart's desire.

Once and awhile we're lucky to see something so special...

(I don't even know what kind of bird this was, but it sure was awfully strange.

It wanted to hang with the ducks, but they kept running away from it.)

All Is Being Revealed

Although this year is turning out to be one of great many challenges. Know that when the dust settles, after all the debris has been kicked up by unexpected winds, all is being revealed. It is at this point that we need to decide whether we do nothing and let things go back to the way they were or do we push up our sleeves and do some serious house cleaning? The choice is up to us if we take on the task or not. Some of us may feel too overwhelmed and may want to take a back seat for a moment. While the rest of us decide how we are going to incorporate what has been revealed into our life plans. Whatever we decide, life will not be the same. Do not have judgement over what has been revealed, for it has always been there under all the debris. We are now only able to see more clearly. Today, think about how the year has gone for you and what has been revealed. Know that you have the strength to overcome any obstacle that comes your way. But understand that at the same time there are others who are in need of your help. They are struggling with what is happening in their lives and need someone to lean on. You can be their angel by giving them your support with quiet compassion. As you find your way, so will they.  

No matter what we're doing,

 it's good to know that someone is always watching our back...

(Although there were dozens of ducks, these two always stuck together.

 It was really cute. BFF)

Moving On

Sometimes in life we lose our sense of direction and need to stop and reassess the situation. When making plans for the future, we can only guess to the best of our ability where we want to go and how we'll go about getting there. But then the unexpected occurs and our plans are no longer realistic, yet we are determined to see them through. Then we wonder why life has suddenly become a struggle. When everything we do seems to be an uphill battle and even then we don't feel as if we've accomplished much. During those times, don't shake your fist to the universe and ask "Why are you doing this to me?, instead find a quiet place and ask yourself, "What do I need to change in order for me to move on?" Today, take a good look at what is going on with your life. If you are living a blissful life, then give thanks that you are where you're supposed to be. If not, be open to changes that need to occur to balance your life again. You don't have to make earth shattering changes, just the realization that something needs to done differently may be enough. Whatever you decide to do, know that the universe still flows compassionately through you. 

Sometimes we need signs to tell us when to move on...

(This was the first time I've seen a Mahalo (Thank you) sign.

It made me smile as I exited. I guess that was the idea.) 

Making The Time

There are times in life that we want to do it all. So we find ourselves rushing around determined to complete everything that we set out to do. But at the end day, what have we truly accomplished. We try to do so many things that our days soon become blurred.  Are we creating a life that is fulfilling our heart's desire or overextending ourselves because we feel we're obligated to continue the life that we already have. Today, treasure your moments. Your time is valuable so use it wisely.  It's so easy to let life slip by, so slow down and fill your time with everlasting memories.

 Some people may say that the islands are too slow,

 but I find that it's a perfect place to find peace within my heart...

What Is Your Worth

During our life we are measured not by our words, but by our actions. There are few who will remember what we say, but they will remember what we have done. Are we living a life that is reflective of who we truly are? At the end of the day, can we say that we are living a life of compassion. Today, do more and talk less. Know that by being genuine, everything else will follow through. Let the universe see who shines from within.

Sometimes you have to be different to achieve your dreams...

(S - you are one of the most funniest people I know,

 but you are also one of the most special)

Wanting More Out Of Life

What would happen if we let the universe direct our lives? Sometimes we settle for a lifestyle that is safe rather than venture out towards the unknown. We tell ourselves that we are okay with the life we lead because thinking outside of our comfort zone is too scary. But what if for one moment we could actually live a life that we desire. What would that look like? Let the universe create what we feel we can only dream about. Today, think about what you are settling for.  You don't have to do anything, but open yourself to the possibility that you can have your heart's desire.

 As the sun sets and I walk along the water, 

I feel as if anything is possible ... 

(This beautiful beach is on Molokai, where everyone greets you with a smile)

The Light At The End Of The Tunnel

Even if we can't see it at the moment, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. When we are going through a difficult period, it seems as if we are frozen in time and nothing will ever be the same. But nothing remains static. Everything has a time and place in our lives. Although this may not be what we'd want to hear because we can't see through our tears, life does move on. We are not meant to stay in the same place forever. In our quest to live a fulfilled life, the universe moves us gently along our path. Sometimes we need a bit more nudging, but we are not meant to be despondent forever. Know that our heart eventually heals all. Today, look for your light at the end of the tunnel. It will guide you through difficult times and bring you to where you need to be. Release the controls to the universe and see what life brings you.

 I think I'll just stand here for awhile...

(While taking my walk, I saw this funny looking bird. All the time I was there it didn't move at all. It was the strangest thing. Even a bunch of ducks passing by didn't scare it. Maybe it'll still be there when I go back... I wonder if it's dead.)

Living Life Without Regrets

It's human nature to have regrets about yesterday. Looking back hindsight we feel as if we could have and should have made better decisions. But like most of us, we do what we think is right at the time. Most of our regrets come from feeling guilty about something that we hadn't done. When we explore this a little more, we find that we regret not having the opportunity to go back and correcting our mistakes. Know that the universe is compassionate and by acknowledging your regrets and forgiving yourself for past mistakes we can continue on our journey with the resolve that we will not make the same mistakes. Today, reflect upon your regrets. You are not able to go back and fix what has occurred, but what will you do from now to make sure this doesn't occur again. Regrets are only opportunities for us to improve upon who we are as compassionate beings. Begin by being honest with yourself and you will have no regrets. 

 Animals have no regrets, because they are always true to who they are...

(Yesterday, we made the difficult decision to release Roxie back to the universe. She brought our family joy, laughter, and unconditional love which will never be forgotten. Thank you S, B, R, and Q for be supporting each other during this time. I love you all!)

Living A Life Without Expectations

Living a life based on expectations creates a lifetime of disappointment. We become disillusioned when all is not what we expect it to be.  How can life be as we'd want when we don't have control over the events that take place or the people around us. It's the feeling of hope that lies within us that would like things to turn out for the best, but that may not always be the way it was meant to be. Know that in time everything returns to it's natural state. Today, live a life of peace and serenity by releasing all your expectations. The universal energy flows through you and opens your eyes to what is real if you let it. Create a life based on what you know to be true not what you hope it will be.

If we live a fulfilled life there would be no need for unmet expectations...

(Thank you S & B for the great pictures and B gifts)

A Day Of No Excuses

How many times do we come up with excuses for our bad behavior? Whether to someone else or to ourselves, we begin to believe what we are saying. Having to apologize after the fact doesn't take away hurt feelings or broken relationships. Telling yourself that what you did was for a good reason, but knowing in your heart that you've done damage. When have we become so comfortable with our bad behaviors that we aren't aware of how they are impacting the way we live our lives. We hide our anger, fears,anxiousness, and insecurities behind our behaviors. Know that the more we live a life hiding from our true feelings, the farther we stray from our path. Today, be honest with who you are. No excuses. No bad behavior. With discernment, you can express yourself without hurting others. Create a life that you were meant to lead.

There is no room for bad behavior when we're having so much fun...

(Getting Papa to understand how the whistle works took some time, but when he got it we couldn't stop him from blowing it all night)

What Role Do You Want To Play

Sometimes when we think that we are alone in our journey, all we need to do is to look around us and see how truly blessed we are.  When the world seems to be moving a little off course, we forget that there is light shining our way. During these times, we take for granted the beauty that surrounds us and the are family and friends who are there to support us. We get caught up in our tragic tale that it is easier to play the victim than the courageous hero. Know that what ever role we choose to play, there are always support in front and in back of the stage that make the production a success. Today, be wise when choosing your role. Know that whatever you choose to be, there will always be others there to help you make your path easier. Give thanks to those who ease your way.

No matter how much I try, it's hard to put this up without help...

(Although the tent was kind of funny looking, having a picnic with family and friends at Kahala Beach was nice!)

Rewriting Our Karma

Sometimes when life doesn't make sense anymore, it's as if our journey is written in stone and nothing can be changed. To explain why things are happening the way they are, we wonder if it's just about karma. What did we do so wrong in the past that our path has been filled with so many challenging life lessons. There is a sense of fatalism that make us feel that we are working out a past debt that needs to be paid back in full or a promise that was made that needs to be kept. Know that we can rewrite our karma. We do not have to carry things from the past, if they prevent us from moving forward and living a life of compassion. We have the power to change all things.  Today, don't let your karma stop you from living your dream life. You know in your heart what you are capable of achieving, don't let it define what you can become. You deserve to create a new karma that will change your life journey.

We don't always realize the unique imprint we leave upon this earth...   

Putting One Foot In Front Of The Other

There are days when all we can do is put one foot in front of the other. Our energy has been expended else where, so in order to continue on our path without stumbling we concentrate on taking one step at a time. Each step feels as if it is heavier than the last. Although our mind is empty of thought, we find it difficult to concentrate on anything else. We understand the importance of caring for ourselves, but when we are weathering a storm that continues to batter us down, all our energy is focused on just surviving another day. Today, let the universe help you through your difficulty times. Know that this to shall pass. You have gone down this path before and will again for it is a part of life's journey. It is how we survive these difficult times that gives us the courage and the strength to help others in their time of need. Know that you lead a blessed life. Look up and see that the universal light continues to shine down on your path to lead you out of the darkness.

I guess there is always a place for us to go when we're feeling lost...

(This was the first time I've ever seen a booth like this.

 And they had a permanent sign so it wasn't a new idea.

The people manning the booth were so nurturing to the kids.

I think every fair should have a planned booth like this one.)

.     

Releasing To The Universe

Although we try to live a compassionate life, there will be times when helping someone just isn't enough. Our own life becomes chaotic in our struggle to make sense of the confusion. It doesn't matter what we try to do to alleviate the problem, the chaos continues because the other person is unwilling to release what gives them comfort. As crazy as that sounds, there are those who are used to living a chaotic life, that they become uneasy if things are going too well. They are always waiting for someone to take away their joy because they feel that they don't deserve it. Although it breaks our heart, at some point, we need to take a step back and let the universe flow in the direction that is the most natural. Knowing that we can continue to be compassionate to the pain of others but that we are not solely responsible for their happiness. Today is a day of quiet reflection. Let the universal energy flow through you and revive your spirit. Release the chaos and embrace the serenity and peace that you deserve in your life.

Sometimes we have to create our own light to shine the way...

(The artist used rice paper to make these beautiful lamps.

It's a technique, he learned in Korea.)

Angels in Disguise

There are times when our life gets so hectic that we don't notice until it's too late. We're so used to being busy and scattered that it soon becomes a way of life.  Running from one place to another, trying to accomplish so much but missing so many important steps. Thinking we can do it all but forgetting to take care of ourselves in the process. Everything we've learned gets thrown out the window. At this point, there doesn't seem to be enough time to do everything we'd like to. But the universe has a way of keeping us on track by sending angels to guide us through these crazy times. They remind us to stop and breathe every once and awhile. Acknowledge and give thanks to these loving angels who are here to support our journey. Today, remember that you do not have to do everything at once. Tomorrow there will always be more cleaning to be done. Take a break between tasks and enjoy your day.

Remember angels come in all different forms.

(S and B: Thank you so much for reminding me to slow down today,

I really needed to hear that. Miss you both!)

Is Anyone Listening?

There are moments in life when we pour our hearts out to the universe. Revealing our true desires, hidden pain, and lifelong fears. It's during these difficult times, when we feel the most vulnerable and have the need to share our deepest insecurities. Having a conversation with the universe seems to be the most natural thing for us to do. Relieving ourselves from the weight that lays heavy within us. Although we may feel better in doing this, we wonder if anyone is listening to us? We may never have an answer to this question, but it's the knowing that we have a way to express ourselves without judgement is a good place to start. Today, take just a minute to share with the universe the things that aren't going so well in your life. End your talk with "I release this and have faith that all will be as it should be". If all is well with you, then give thanks that your life is as it should be. The universe is always listening to you and will continue to flow whether you believe or not.

Being in a peaceful place, helps us to calm our body, mind, and soul...

(It helps me to go to places like this because there is less distractions. It's hard enough to quiet my busy mind when there is chaos around me.)

Adapting To Our Changing World

Our world is changing every day and how we adapt to these changes are very important. Some of us embrace these times with open arms, anxiously awaiting the latest technology. Then there are the rest of us, who have no clue what was the latest "have to buy" gadget that came on the market. We have become so dependent on technology that although they were supposed to simplify our lives, the opposite has occurred. Everything is now at our fingertips, available 24/7. We never have to wait to access our correspondence, the news, literature. It seems the more we acquire, the more we have to have. There doesn't seem to be a time when we don't have a device in our hands. In some social situations, we are on the verge of being rude because we can't put our devices down. But what if the unconceivable occurs and all communication devices stop working for an hour, a day, a week, a month? Do we have a backup plan for the information we have stored in these devices or will our world crash upon us? Technology will continue to advance, but it is up to us as consumers to monitor whether we really "have to have" everything that comes on the market. Today, be aware of how dependent you are on the technology you own, especially your computers and phones. Begin transferring the information you have to a hard copy in case all communications stop. Part of adapting to our changing world, is creating safety plans for new scenarios that didn't exist before.

Once and awhile, it's nice to get back to a simpler way of living...

(Fresh carrots at the Farmer's Market are always the best. I never saw them sold with the tops on before.)

Fighting To Make The World A Better Place

There are those who fight all their lives for reasons only they know of. When one cause ends, another takes it's place. Fighting becomes a natural state of being and to do otherwise would be challenging. We may think we are fighting for what we believe in, but later find that we were only following blindly those who we thought we could trust. We get swept away with the excitement, but upon reflection there was no real passion from within. There are times when we do need to fight for what we believe to be right, but there are other moments in which we need to acknowledge and give thanks for what is good in the world. There will always be conflict somewhere in the world. It is our responsible to choose what part we will play to make the most impact. Today, live peacefully. Observe the needless fighting that is going on around you. See how easily it is to get caught up in another person's drama. When you decide to fight for something, make sure it is something dear to your heart. Continue to live a life that is true for you.
 

Instead of following everyone else, shake the world

by doing something different...

(Voodoo doughnuts in Portland makes the craziest combinations..bacon?)

Believing In Ourselves

Sometimes living a life being true to ourselves is difficult when we're not even sure who we are. The foundation we stand on is not as firm as we'd like it to be. When making life decisions, it is easier for us to listen to what others say rather than trusting in ourselves. Our convictions and what we believe in become muddled when we put our faith in those who say they know what is good for us. Standing for what we believe in is challenging. Know that learning who we are takes a lifetime because it is through our experiences and time past does our spirit grow and strengthen in it's resolve that we are unique. Today, listen to the quiet voice within you. It may not always lead you down a familiar path, but trust that it will take you where are meant to be. Believe in yourself.

It's difficult doing what you want to do when it's so different from everyone else...

(This Portland artist builds clocks that come from his dreams)

Turning Dreams Into Reality

There are many of us who spend our lives dreaming about what could be. Dreams give us the opportunity to think outside of the box. There is no fear because our dreams are so incredible that they seem impossible to attain. So we can go beyond our reality and create a life of "what ifs". Anything is possible in the Land of "what ifs". But "what if" the dreams we've created come to pass and we receive what we envision. "What if" we are defining how our life should be in order for us to attain what was always available to us. Our dreams are only goals without a plan. If we put an action plan to our dreams, they turn into goals which can be achieved. Today, take a look at the dreams you've been having. Choose one and take action. Everyday we have the opportunity to create the life we have only dreamed about.

Sometimes life is about getting out of our comfort zones and taking risks...

(Watching this young boy on his board made me cringe everytime he took to the ramps. But he always had a smile on his face, whether he fell or not)

Listen Closely To The Stories We Tell

Many of us are gifted storytellers, weaving tales of sorrow and woe of the future. It’s as if we are seers, who prophesize our own misfortune. In our version of what is to come, we are only pawns having no control over our lives.  There is no wrong in the stories that we repeatedly tell ourselves, for the stories keep us from being hurt and protect ourselves from failure. If we expect the worse, than anything that happens will always be better than our best horror story. But in order to receive all that the universe has planned for us, we will need to learn to tell other kinds of stories. Tales of hope, of courage, of strength, and faith that tomorrow will bring us good fortune. Knowing that experiencing life is better for us than hiding in the darkness telling tales of doom.  Today, tell a story that is truly befitting the life you’d like to live. Encourage those around you to also rewrite their future. Tell a story that spreads the word of compassion and truth.

There are many ways that we share our stories, some of us express ourselves through art...

(This Portland artist uses organic recycled material to share her unique art form)

Seeing The Whole Picture

There are moments that we question the decisions that we make. Athough it may not be often, we wonder how life would be if we chose a different path. We make plans based on our past experiences and what we know to be true. And sometimes there is a "feeling" that we get that leads us to our final decision. We are as sure as we are going to be, until we pause and start with the "what ifs". Of course there are no sure answers to the "what ifs", which makes us even more frustrated. We wish that we could be more sure when making decisions that impact our future. But life is not about making the right decisions, it's about experiencing our journey to the fullest. Even if it's making decisions that have us stumbling on our path. Today, appreciate where you are in the moment. Know that every decision you have made, places you exactly where you are today. Remember that you are a unique person with special purpose in life.

Sometimes we wish we had a better picture of the world, but what we don't realize is that at some point we eventually get to the top where we can see everything so clearly...

(It's been awhile since I've gone to the fair, but going to the Annual Maui Fair was fun) 

A New Year Begins Today

It's time for new beginnings. Once a year on our birth date, we have an opportunity to reflect upon the past year to see if we've accomplished what we set out to do. If the promises that we made to ourselves were kept. It's a time for honesty, because within the truth we find out who we really are. In the coming year, it won't be so much about attaining personal goals but developing a stronger relationship with ourselves. Sometimes in the excitment of the moment, we lose track of what we truly want to accomplish in life. When this happens, it's best to keep things simple. Let the universe lead our way this year. Being open to all things that are possible and opening our arms to the inevitable. Knowing that the universe has a plan much bigger than our own. Trusting that this year will bring new adventures to our front door. Today, know that you are a very special person. There are plans for you to touch many souls, if you continue to trust where your path leads you. You have a wonderful journey ahead of you and it begins at home. You are loved and cared for by all.

The best conversations about life can be had around the kitchen table...

(Being invited for coffee at Auntie Betty and Auntie Katherine's place

was a great way to start my morning)