The Small Is Beautiful Manifesto

31 December, 2007

Wrapping up 2007... Here comes 2008!

Well, those of you who have read my blog this year, would realize there was a very stretched and tattered mystik momma on the other end of this monitor. I would say 2007 was the worst year of my life and I never want to repeat it. I do acknowledge there were lessons learned and happy memories made, but I also know they came at high costs to several parts of my life.

Areas that were affected: intimate relationships, family bonds, childhood upsets, personal health, physical living accommodations,finances, job security and potential raises, broken promises, automotive problems, loss of a child, and the list goes on. Truly, the mishaps and sacrifices this year put me over the edge and it took all my strength to hold onto the good things I do have.

I recognize I have many good things. I do have shelter, transportation, food, my health is finally back, my two boys smile every morning and give me a ton of love, and my husband has been a protector and dreamer with me. There are many who do not have these in their life and I recognize I am blessed. I also have many friends who have been able to support me without my asking. They knew exactly what to say and for a person who tries to do it all on her own, what a HUGE support they are to me. I cherish them dearly.

2008 is full of change and promise. I feel the shifting of energy coming. We are ready for it and accept the newness it brings. My husband and I plan on perusing through several magazines with our boys tomorrow to find pictures and words that describe what we want our life to be. We are making our dream board tomorrow as a family to place the power of positive creative thinking center stage in our lives. If we all hold the image in our heads and hearts, our souls and spirit will know what to attract. We truly want to find our place in this world and create a warm hovel to call our own. Something to feel security and love among the laughter and hope.

May 2008 bring you and yours the very best!

28 December, 2007

Reflections

"Frosted window panes"... well you know how the song goes. It is that time of year when we are faced with our families, friends and reflections over the course of the year's events. In spite of all the trials this year, the holidays were fairly calm and pleasant. Nice gifts were exchanged, wonderful meals eaten and the smiles on the boys' faces were priceless. My husband and I really made some memories this year with our boys and that is the best gift of all. Even though, I kept reminding my oldest that the best gift of all is the gift of love in our hearts for others.

So in reflection, I am glad to have had this year of trials and tribulations. The truth blazed its light on many relationships for me and I was able to see the reality before me. Only after an honest look is taken, are we able to really evaluate and move forward. In having said this bit of thanks for the past year, I also must say, that it wasn't easy and I pray I never need another year like this one. This was the toughest year of my life and I really never want to endure something worse than 2007.

The blessings were appreciated and the lessons learned. Let us all move forward into 2008 with greatness as we take the actions needed from the pondering of 2007.

Peace to all!

04 December, 2007

Santa Magic


This past weekend, we took our boys to see Santa. Our location of choice is an outdoor venue under a nice canopy effect with free standing heaters. There are beautiful decorations, tasteful along with other holiday festivities. We have been going to the same place now for the past 3 years and are really pleased with the set up. They allow you to take your own pictures which cuts down on the cost and unwanted sizes, due to picture packages.

They also offer horse drawn buggy rides with local choir groups singing holiday tunes. Tomorrow, there will be a ceremony to light the menorah and additional events to celebrate Hanukkah. We really enjoy this shopping area and feel at ease when there.

This year, we have been prepping the boys with the idea of Santa and what they might like to ask for. We took them to a couple of stores so they could get some ideas and finally they both were able to settle on a drum set for my youngest and a race car track for my oldest. They only ask for one item as they also get a stocking stuffed with little things such as tooth paste, music, trains, track, underwear, socks, chocolate, bubble bath etc. They really enjoy the entire process and I love being able to make the magic happen.

As we approached Santa, he stood up and put out his hands. My youngest, ran right into his arms and gave him the biggest hug with the biggest smile! My oldest was right behind him and they really engaged in the process of visiting with Santa. There was no large line and it was a nice visit. My husband and I were so happy to see the magic of Santa with our children. What a lovely memory. I wish I had the video camera to capture the joy, it was like in the movies.

Here is a snapshot of what I did take. Enjoy and Happy Holidays!!!