Gratitude List #3: Theme of New Home

Kitchen in my new home

I felt another gratitude list is in order, since my last one a week ago. This one primarily focuses on my future home, my "home-to-be" which I will be moving into shortly. In no particular order:

* Cold symptoms mostly gone thanks to epsom salt baths, hot herbal teas and soups, rest, and a good night's sleep
* My home-to-be which is clean, new, and comfortable
* A bachelor suite so I can downsize even more and save some money as less rent
* Laminate hardwood floor in the kitchen and hallway
* A number of large windows with screens bringing in natural light with a view to greenery and keeping out insects
* Curtains and two thick accordion pull-down blinds on windows
* New cabinetry and modern shelving space to house some of my stuff
* A dishwasher - exact same as the one in my current home with 'eco' features and a large stove to easily put pots on stove top and two cookie sheets in the oven (for Christmas cookies)
* A generous-sized fridge
* A desk area
* An alcove for a bed or temporary storage or ...
* A 'built-in' shelf that lines the alcove and living room to house books
* A bathtub for the occasional soak, e.g., after moving or when ill
* A window and heater in the bathroom and several towel rungs
* A dimmer switch in the living room
* A partially furnished suite including a kitchen table and chairs, and a shelving unit for my second-hand TV (to watch videos); avoid having to buy or lug extra furniture
* A private entrance and security though I expect to feel safe on a neighbourhood watch street and in the area
* Utilities (heat, hydro, hot water), WIFI, and cable included in the rent
* My own washer and dryer so I have chemical-free laundry; soap nuts (acting as a natural detergent and fabric softener combined)
* A place to garden as I desire to grow some cilantro and some flowers; maybe sunflowers too
* A landlord who is approachable and down-to-earth
* Only a landlord, adult daughter, and dog living upstairs
* Close proximity to three bus routes, a park (where I can hug trees), and a mini-strip mall with a small grocery store (that includes organic)
* A couple of friends who live nearby and some people I know who live in the area

The 'Law of Attraction' (or LOA) as I alluded to in some previous posts (http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2011/10/gratitude-is-new-attitude.html) declares that it is important to express gratitude and feel grateful for that which is in your life currently. That way, more of the same is likely to actualize ... Hmmm, that's what happened didn't it, going from my current place - see last week's post (http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2015/03/gratitude-list-2.html) - to my new place.

What’s on your list today and/or this past week? Please share with Laurel Regan, the woman who inspired me to do this as I am too busy this week (http://www.alphabetsalad.com/todays-gratitude-list-march-2015-gratitude-linkup-4/#more-16326).

My next post may be Wednesday, next Sunday or who knows. Time will tell as I am preparing to move, soon. ;)

Gratitude List #2

Part of my living room

I decided that today was and is a good day to write another gratitude list. One felt like it was in order, speaking of which my gratitude list for the day, week, month thus far is in no particular order as follows (concerning my current home):

* My home which is comfortable and relatively spacious
* A bed to sleep on (even if it is a couch bed), warm flannel sheets, and a down duvet to keep me warm
* Laminate hardwood floor replica in the bathroom, kitchen, and bedroom
* Generous-sized windows bringing in natural light with a view to greenery
* A gas fireplace to cozy up to in a small cozy living room on really cold days
* A new and clean dishwasher and stove
* A generous-sized fridge
* An abundance of cupboards and shelving space to house most of my stuff
* A storage area (albeit behind the fridge of all places)
* A 'built-in' shelf that lines my bedroom and living room to house books
* A partially furnished suite to avoid buying or lugging furniture from one place to another, especially as a renter
* A large deck to sit, eat, air dry my laundry, and watch and listen to nature (such as the moon and birds)
* Utilities (heat, hydro, hot water) and WIFI included in my rent
* A great landlord: approachable and easy-going
* My landlord's friendly golden labrador - my favourite dog!
* Access to a washer and dryer
* Close proximity to a covered bus stop, a park (where I get to hug trees), and a small mall (my preferred size) with some major conveniences

The 'Law of Attraction' (or LOA) as I alluded to in some previous posts (http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2011/10/gratitude-is-new-attitude.html) declares that it is important to express gratitude and feel grateful for that which is in your life currently. That way, more of the same is likely to actualize ...

What’s on your list today and/or this past week/month? Please share with me and the woman who inspired me to do this: Laurel Regan.

Gratitude List #1

My Earl Grey tea with heart

Here is my gratitude list for the day, week, month, and year(!) thus far in no particular order.

* A new year and thus a new beginning (http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/12/out-with-old-in-with-new_31.html)
* My birthday this month: treating myself and being treated! ;) (http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2015/01/happy-birthday-to-me-part-1.html)
* A new hair style, a new me! ;)
* The basics: shelter - a roof over my head and warmth; food; clothes
* Tops and sweaters at great discount prices
* Thrift stores...need I say more! ;)
* Donating to clear up space and help others in need
* Recycling and compost programs to help Mother Earth
* Creativity through blogging and writing
* Singing in two fun choirs including two of my favourite songs: Happy (http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/09/world-gratitude-day-part-2.html) and Ode to Joy (http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/12/ode-to-joy.html)
* Blogging communities for support and learning
* Blogging prompts, though even though I have lots of ideas and inspiration to write from, sometimes it's fun to write as part of a challenge and write FUN posts! ;) (http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2015/01/wordy-wednesday-rainbow-connection.html)

(Just a side note, that I have copied and pasted the links above as my links don't seem to be working...not sure if temporary or not.)

I'm sure there is lots more I can list; however, I have left you with enough reading so enjoy! ;)

Now it’s your turn!

What’s on your list this week? Please share with me and the woman who inspired me - finally doing it! - to start this: Laurel Regan.

How to get involved in the Gratitude Linkup

1. Write and post a gratitude list in your own blog.
2. Click the "add your link" button below and share your gratitude post.
3. Click "get the InLinkz code" below and add the linkup code to your post.
4. Visit and comment on some of the posts listed in the Gratitude Linkup.

What's on your gratitude list today? Please feel free to share!

You ... and Me!

I think of a senior I met about two weeks ago while waiting for an appointment with my M.D. He complained and complained, mainly reminiscing about the "good old days" – can anyone relate? ; ) – and possible wars in the Middle East. No wonder he was unhappy! (More about that in a future blog post, likely near the end of December.)

Now I know, as one of my inspired poems (that I wrote a number of years ago) reflect, what I see in others – so-called good and bad – are qualities that I like and admire as well as dislike and detest about myself. (I wish I knew that in my teens!)

Though I have done my share of 'bitching' – sorry but I require at least one (powerful) synonym here – and complaining, I realize it’s usually relatively fruitless. All it does is attract more of the same: think fleas.

Did you notice when you complain, other people (tend to) commiserate around you? That is exactly what I mean. What you think about, talk about, and feel expands or increases in intensity and/or duration or frequency of episodes, whether pain, guilt, sadness, etc. This means that the particular situation or issue worsens if you constantly nag about it.

So, how does one change the situation?

Well, perhaps there is truth in the adage – that (word) just came to me intuitively – “Act enthusiastic and you’ll be enthusiastic,” a phrase Dale Carnegie coined. (I actually won a Dale Carnegie award for “stage impromptu acting” demonstrating that very principle!)

I’ve noticed effects of this principle working in my life for the past month since I’ve become increasingly calm and happy, happier in fact than I’ve been on a consistent basis in a long time. As a result, my life has flowed with ease and grace.

Consequently, I move through life easier too (literally!) – my recent move attested to that (which you can read about in my previous posting) – with a more open and loving heart, rather than a fearful one.

In fact, even the one-day job action in the form of a strike protest last week that I participated in (being a union member of a nonprofit agency) was peaceful. I purposely focused on being happy and peaceful, sending waves (including literal hand wave gestures) of love to people while handing out a leaflet, a decal, and a chocolate heart (to symbolize being “the heart and soul of our community” (in terms of the work we do). How appropriate though I didn’t even think of that at the time! ; )

Through my actions, I consciously chose to remain in a state of love and peace, and even joy. This may have rippled to the other CUPE members who attended along with BCGEU employees and some family members and friends.

Though the photo depicted a different state of my being – the sun was in my eyes – I know my emotional and mental state had a positive impact on the community (to people I encountered as well as colleagues and union members). We all impact each other, especially with the words we speak.

Whether you or I are in an open, expanded state or a closed, contracted space, we each draw to us similar vibrations of people and situations in our lives. If you don’t believe me, experiment. If not on yourself, observe others and notice what occurs.

What have you noticed when you sway either way, towards the light or the dark in the emotional realm?

Happy 20th Anniversary ... and Happy Spring!

Another anniversary. The last one was to celebrate my one-year birth of my blog last July. This time it’s to celebrate my 20th anniversary in Vancouver, today (and the first day of Spring depending on the calendar year)! It also happens to be my favourite season.

Wow! I can’t believe it! How time flies by, especially as you get older! ; )

While working for a relatively large private benefits and consulting company in big T.O. (aka Toronto) in Ontario, Canada, I had posted quite a number of calendar pictures featuring landscapes of BC and Alberta.

I wanted to go out west to witness this beautiful piece of Canadian soil, mainly because I wanted to experience Expo ’86. This as a result of an attractive scenic shot of Vancouver, BC, primarily of downtown with Stanley Park, the surrounding ocean, and the mountains in the distance.

I may have mentioned it to colleagues including my bosses(?) during the recession at the end of and/or beginning of the 21st century when I was laid off (for what I believe was the first time in my life).

Before that occurred however, I bought a return ticket to Vancouver as my plan was to check out the city before I moved there. When finding out that I was to be laid off, it changed my plans accordingly. Instead, I ended up flying one way on a return ticket; first time to do so but feeling I didn’t have much choice as the economy was pretty bad and I wanted a career change anyway.

What also made me decide to move to Vancouver were my parents, my mother in particular as they were planning to move to one of three Canadian cities out west after my father’s retirement.

My mother declared to me upon a visit to my home with my father in tow, “Elly, if I were you, I would move either to Vancouver or Victoria. It’s beautiful out there, the weather’s better” …blah, blah, blah. I still recall that comment vividly.

So I asked my parents questions though what specifically I can only guess as I can’t recall that part of the conversation, probably stuff like the weather, housing, employment, etc.

And interestingly enough, a man who just happened to be visiting his family in Toronto and who was from Vancouver dropped by after my parents visit. I knew him from a few years prior when he visited the church I used to attend. Then I peppered him with lots of questions, some similar to what I had asked my folks to get another perspective.

When he left, I pondered over both his and my parents’ responses and the most fascinating thing occurred. I felt so happy like I had never felt before. I knew in my heart it was the right decision, without a doubt, without question.

It was confirmed when I moved here during the generally rainy spring season: the entire week was sunny and full of beautiful cherry blossoms in the city!

When have you felt the knock of Spirit on your doorstep or your heart? How has it come to you?

Here I Go ... Again!

Photo taken in Roberts Creek, BC

Ok, I'm taking a leap of faith here in a way, rather spilling out my guts about my new situation/dilemma I'm currently dealing with.  I'm moving, again.

Yes, in less than a year, even though ideally I had planned that this was to be a long-term residency, three to five years at least!  After all, who likes to move?  Well, at least I certainly don't.  And of course, I have my reasons to do so this time, though I'm also following Spirit.

So, suffice to say I realize that what I need to learn is (1) the lesson(s) that this move and place brought me so I don't (have to) repeat them again AND (2) to trust, trusting the Universe/God/Spirit (whatever term you prefer to use) that my heart's desires or more importantly what is for my highest and greatest good will be served or manifested.

I know that God/Spirit/Universe including the angels know what I want - and need - for that matter for me to be truly happy, but this time I am looking for my ideal, my ideal home.  I know what I want and I prefer not to settle for less, if possible, as I would like to make my heart happy, make my heart sing, again.

I really, truly would love to live in a place that is home, feels like home. A place of beauty, serenity, inspiration, light. Is that too much to ask for?

So in my search, my quest for my home, I need to remember in each moment to be present (so I don't misplace my cell as I've already done twice in one day recently!) and to have faith.  Trust, faith, belief, hope as I more or less mentioned or alluded to in my last posting.  After all, Spirit guided me to move this time with three indications:  my initial on-and-off thoughts as I dwelled on the possibility (and later perhaps through my intuition), through the spontaneous remark of an 'intuitive' as she calls herself (or 'intuitionist' as I prefer) whose name is Karen McGregor (http://www.divineyou.ca/ and http://www.divineyou.ning.com/), and through my landlord in what she verbally expressed.

By the way, if any of you reading this happen to know someone who has a place in beautiful North Vancouver, feel free to check out my revised ad on Craigs List or Kijiji (under "***IDEAL Tenant ... ").  And in the meantime, I'll take some deep breaths, observe my thinking, and believing, trusting, and having faith in synchronicities and miracles.  (Some prayers and/or meditations wouldn't hurt either!)

p.s.  The above photo symbolizes three aspects to me:  (1) the word 'om' sounding like 'home' (2) me synchronistically picking heart-shaped objects including stones/rocks, etc., and (3) the symbol 'aum' (or 'om') looking in part like the number three, my favourite number.  ; ) 

Happy Dance-s!

I love it when I’m happy! Don’t you? Don’t we all?! Well, do you ever do an 'anchor' (based on neurolinguistic programming) or a happy dance when you are? I do and I did twice - wow! - almost two months ago already!

I discovered via email that I received a praiseworthy comment from my original vision therapist, Roberto Kaplan (www.beyond2020vision.com and www.eyecode.info) on a blog posting that I had written the day before. He wrote a comment that both tickled and humbled me: “You are a natural. I want you to write for me” about Part 2: The Call to Write that I wrote May 31st.

I was extremely happy and excited about his comment as I had wanted to write for him and had even mentioned that to him last year when we reunited after a number of years.

Anyway, it was cool – and IS cool – to receive positive feedback!

As I referred to in that particular posting, Baljit Rayat (www.lotusdestiny.com) - an intuitive ‘soul coach’ as I would call her – informed me or strongly implied that I am a writer and though I didn’t believe that piece of news at first, I am beginning to more so now. That is what that May 31st posting detailed.

The second time I did my happy anchor and my crazy/silly, happy dance was when I received a call from a woman where I volunteer part-time. She informed me that I could work part-time on an as-needed basis when the other woman didn’t show up. This was to be occasional, but that was still good news as I knew that I might be going on strike (with the union employees) at my full-time job.

So, tell me, how do you celebrate or recognize good news when you receive it?