It's a wonderful life! Merry Christmas ... :)

George Bailey:
Merry Christmas, movie house! Merry Christmas, Emporium!
Merry Christmas, you wonderful old Building and Loan!

PS: Life is wonderful (and then some) ...Wishing you a very blessed and special Christmas season! :)

"Live Inspired" by Michelle Sedas (You could win a copy of this wonderful book!)

What does living an inspired life mean to you? This question made me sit down and really reflect on what an inspired life looks like. And what it means to LIVE it.

You might be wondering what caused me to have this question in the first place. So, I’ll tell you. A friend of mine named Michelle Sedas just recently released a book titled: “Live Inspired.” And she graciously sent me a copy to enjoy.

This book is a compilation of people’s thoughts and feelings on what it means to live an inspired life. The collection of responses really helped me appreciate more fully the gift of life and the moments we have to live, love, laugh and learn!

Below are a few excerpts from the book –

{Awaken}

“Lift your head when you go outside and remember that if you can feel the sun on your face or the rain gets you wet or you are cold, then you are alive … and that’s a great feeling!”
~Sherrie Carroll

{Listen}

“Living inspired is a call to rise above the mundane. It’s going forward and reaching out. It’s having ears to hear what is being said in the heavenlies and grabbing hold of it for today.”
~Eve Kline Evans

I like how Michelle blends the pictures and quotes on each page to create a beautiful collection of art and inspiration. It is also a workbook (with space to write) so as you read the pages, you can jot down thoughts and impressions of your own as you journey to what living inspired means to you.

Feel free to visit Michelle online via her website at: http://www.michellesedas.com/

Read my interview with Michelle at Book Beginnings ...

ENTER TO WIN!!

PS: If you would like a chance to win a copy of LIVE Inspired … simply leave a comment and I’ll draw a winner from all the responses.

Live inspired to me means – To love what I do with the people I love and make a difference along the way!

What does live inspired mean to you?!

Barnes and Noble 12/12/09 at 11:00 AM

Will you be doing some Christmas shopping out at the mall on Saturday (12/12/09)? If so, join us for Christmas songs (you can sing along) with a mix of "Wiggle" tunes for the kids.

Where: Barnes and Noble
1321 N Columbia Center Blvd - Kennewick, WA
Why?!: To celebrate the season! :)
What time?: 11:00 AM
Who is singing?:
Tory Christensen - The Singing Superman!

Join the fun ... Bring your wiggle moves and singing voice!
See you there! Tis the season to sing, and wiggle and be happy.

Look up ...

Ever notice how life seems to speed up as you get older? Remember as a kid how it seemed forever for Christmas to finally arrive? And now – as soon as you finally get things tucked away from last year’s Christmas it’s time to pull it out again. … Time really does fly.

It’s easy to get caught up in the day to day things and forget that each day matters. The people we meet, the places we go, the new things we learn add up over time and with time become our life.

I was driving my children to school today and at one particular spot of the drive, I looked up and saw something I had never noticed before. It was an address sign beside a medical center that we pass every day. I thought to myself: Has that always been there... What a beautiful sign it simply makes the entire building look better. And then I laughed out loud. I drive by that sign at least 6 times a day and have for the past year and have never noticed it before.

Why? As I reflected on that simple and sometimes not so simple question I realized we don’t look up and notice things when we get caught in time flying by. Right in that moment, I decided I need to take a break every now and again from the warp speed of time and slow down to enjoy the scenery and signs of life along the way. Sometimes we get so focused on the end result that we forget to enjoy the journey along the way.

I don’t know about you but at this Christmas season ...
I’m going to slow down and look up!

A COLD December Monday ...

It's cold out today (this am it was 12 degrees) ... And as I dashed out the door to run kids to school I thought about how fun it would be to just curl up with a good book in front of the fire and get lost in it's pages and plot.

Alas, that was not to be on this day ... perhaps tomorrow or next year?! :)

When I do get a 'curl up by the fire and read day' what books would you recommend I grab and get 'lost' in?!

Great book site:
www.BookBeginnings.com

This little moment matters.

When we recognize and appreciate the little moments in life,

we find ourselves living with more creativity, productivity and possibility.

Today ... appreciate and celebrate the possibility in your life.

New CD by my Singing Superman!

"Superman Can" CD release party today!

Hastings
2:00 PM

1425 George Washington Way
Richland, WA

Feel free to wear your favorite superhero t-shirt

Tory will be signing CDs after the performance!

PS: Fun for the entire family - see you there! :)

A dream you dream together ...

A dream you dream alone is only a dream.
A dream you dream together is reality.
~John Lennon

Moment from today -

Imagine began to play on our drive home from school today via the car radio
and my oldest son said:
"I love this song. I have it on my ipod."

Amazing how art has a way of touching lives and making a difference
to whom ever hears, sees or feels it ...

Halloween 2009

“Other things may change us,
but we start and end with family”
~Anthony Brandt

Halloween at the uptown


Halloween morning - A baby shower for my new niece: Avery Anderson

Halloween night: Scones at Mom's - Ultra YUM!

Halloween night: Football/baseball and cheering from the couch!

Trick-or-treat with Grant and Lilly (my nephew and niece) = a riot!

Halloween afternoon: Yo-Ho-Ho candy for the little pirate please ...

Lauren, Kaleb, Kade and Jack

A Princess named Lauren and her big brother Kade ...

Halloween was extra wonderful this year as we were able to spend time with family and create memories that will last a long, long time. It felt so good to slow down and celebrate life with the people I love... :)

Cheers to the little moments that matter!

You were born to be YOU!

Some people were born to sit by a river. Some get struck by lightning. Some have an ear for music. Some are artists. Some swim. Some know buttons. Some know Shakespeare.
Some are mothers. And some people dance.
~The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

When was the last time you really stopped to appreciate the miracle of YOU? Has it been a while? Sometimes we get so busy and caught up in the ‘day to day’ stuff that we forget to slow down and recognize the beauty and individuality of ourselves and the people around us.

I’m not like you. You’re not like me. Well, at first glance, some would say we are the same. We all have hair, hands, feet, eyes and a heart that beats to keep us living from moment to moment.
But really when it comes right down to it, you and I are unique in our own special ways.

Each of us has gifts and talents that were given specifically to us. I may be compelled to write. You may have a passion to dance. My neighbor may dream of growing the perfect garden. The man across the street may hope to one day climb Mt. Everest. The important thing is to slow down and recognize the little things that make us who we are.

Today, take a moment and appreciate the gift of being YOU.
There is no one else just like you!

And if you happen to bump into someone else whom is not like you ...
slow down and appreciate what it is that makes them who they are.

Slow down and enjoy the 'puddle' moments!

Have you been busy lately? Maybe you’ve been beyond busy – (in case you are wondering) the beyond busy times are the times you don’t have time to slow down and even talk about how busy you are. I believe there are sometimes in our lives that are like that. There are the beyond busy days. And on those days or weeks or sometimes months we find ourselves thinking thoughts like this – Why did I say yes to so many things? How did I get this busy? I never dreamed it possible to have this kind of schedule. And the thoughts go on.

I found myself in one of those beyond busy day thought moments (I was driving) and just before I reached home I saw a beautiful sight that caused me to slow down (almost to a stop).
There on the corner just before my house was an adorable bird splashing and playing in a puddle. I started to laugh and couldn’t believe how much fun the bird was having in that puddle. It was if that creature had just found bird heaven and couldn’t get enough of it.

Thanks to that little moment, I was reminded of the need and importance of finding the ‘puddles’ in our everyday lives that can add so much fun, renewal and energy to our days. The puddles are all around us – we just need to slow down to recognize and enjoy them!
As soon as I reached home, I grabbed a piece of paper and wrote: Slow down and enjoy the ‘puddle’ moments!

Don’t you love the little things around us (like a bird splashing in a puddle) that help remind us to enjoy life and all it has to offer? They are real – just like the busy days and it feels good to know that we can choose to slow down and splash, laugh, dance and even write ourselves a reminder note if we want.

Cheers to the little moments that matter and puddles along the way…

What are YOU excited about right now?

“Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.”
~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

When was the last time you were really excited? Do you remember what it feels like to be excited? I often wonder why so many people live in ‘dull’ down and out mode … There is so much in life to be happy about. This week – live with enthusiasm. Try it – be happy and positive and enjoy the added strength and energy that will come to your life!

"Enthusiasm is contagious. Be a carrier."
~ Susan Rabin

My world is so ALIVE with the sound of music ...

Kaleb on the electric organ - at Grandma's house ...

Kaleb and the trombone ... (This is his first year in the band)!!

Lauren and the piano ... (She just started lessons last week!)

But wait there's more! "Mom, check out the school music room ... we can try out the instruments!!"

And I think to myself - what a wonderful world of magical sounds! :)

"Begin and Become" by Joe Gigantino

“To fall seven times, to rise eight times…
Life starts from now.”
~ Daruma

Begin… what do you think about when you hear this word? The word “be” is defined as: to come into being. Begin is: to proceed to perform the first or earliest part of some action; commence; start. Most of us think of starting at the beginning (there’s that be word again), or simply starting from scratch. We think of going back to square one.

A friend recently shared when her daughter began medical school a few years ago, she was to choose from hundreds of refrigerator magnets that the preceding medical students left behind for the new students, containing words of wisdom for their new venture. The one she selected was in Japanese, which translated: “To fall seven times, to rise eight times…Life starts from now.” This quote moved her beyond words. It is a quote that we all should live by. You see, a person shouldn't simply give up when pursuing a particular goal or vision for their life, although it may be a long, hard road ahead. Yes, they may fail, one, two, even seven times; but to rise again, that’s when life begins!

Webster defines “become” as: to come into being; to exist or live. Age has no boundaries when you think of “becoming.” We’ve all heard about late bloomers such as Julia Child, who didn’t even publish her first book until she was 49. Colonel Sanders didn’t start his KFC franchise until he was 65. And what about Rodney Dangerfield – he sold aluminum siding for years while he struggled as a writer and comedian. He didn’t get his first big break until he was 42.

So, if you’re reading this thinking you’re too old to ‘begin and become,” there are countless others out there who will prove you wrong! To begin and become…first you need to BELIEVE. There’s another B word. Belief is so important. As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he! Proverbs 23:7 says it so clearly. If you think you can accomplish something, believe it in your heart, and YOU CAN DO IT! We are all on a journey, whether we choose to accept it or believe it. Life is a journey. Wellness is a journey. We never really arrive – we are in continuous motion. We need to stay positive, believe and just BE who we are - who God made us to be. We are all so uniquely created and are not guaranteed any length of time on this earth. I choose to BE myself and BE all I can BE with what God has created me to BE while my clock is still ticking!

How about you? What are you doing with your life? Are you BEING all you can BECOME with what you have been given? Most of us humans live life incomprehensible to what we are really capable of. Haven’t you ever done anything that surprises even you? I have…I believe we all can stretch past our comfort zone and reach that “wow” zone. When we get there, we not only are proud of ourselves, but we set a new benchmark for what’s achievable, and we attain hope for moving past that once distant goal. Today, ask yourself what area of your life you’d like to BEGIN again. There’s still time to BECOME all you are destined to BE! Be hopeful and BELIEVE! My hope for you today is that you choose your day to “Begin” again, and when you set that beginning in motion, there are no boundaries that can contain you from “Becoming” all that you have been designed to be. It’s SO worth it.

About the Author -
Joe Gigantino lives in California with his wife, Christine, and their 3 beautiful children. He is passionate about health, living a life of purpose and is committed to helping YOU get in shape!Feel free to visit his website: http://workout.com/

PS: He shares free workout plans everyday!

***************
I love this article by Joe and totally agree - Unless we begin and believe in what we are doing, we can't BECOME our greatest possibility. What is it you desire to accomplish? Believe in it and BEGIN. Use your little moments to grow, learn and become! Keep taking those steps forward :)

What do you think about when you can’t fall to sleep?

Newport, Oregon - Wax Museum
Johnny Depp (Made of Wax) :)!!

When I can’t sleep, I think about words.
Last night it was S words –

Smile – When we smile our entire soul beams with joy. Smiles are infectious and easy to share. This smile word made me think of the smiles I bumped into during the day and the difference each one made.

Sneakers – Ugh! This is one word I could live without. Please choose to call them tennis shoes instead.

Simplify – When we simplify our lives, we open up the spaces inside ourselves to receive and share more joy. When we simplify, we release stress and sleep better. (Note to self: Simplify)

Slacks – When I hear this word, I think about polyester and the swishing sound it makes. This is not a favorite word of mine. I’d sleep better if people called them pants instead.

Slurpee – Best drink of summer! My favorite flavors are: Wild Cherry and Banana

Stunning – Tried to remember the last time anyone used that word … It’s a sassy word. I think we need to bring it back into style.

Savvy – This word makes me think of a famous Pirate named Jack Sparrow. And when I think of Jack Sparrow, I immediately think – Johnny Depp.

Luckily, my mind stopped at savvy and I found myself walking on a sandy beach in search of a soft bed to crash on for the night … and ahhhh – SLEEP at last.

Cheers to the last little moments of each day and to the stunning simple smiles that stay with us :) (Even if they are made of wax) ...

Seattle and Bellingham - A Trip to Remember!

Ken Griffey Jr. Bobblehead night at Safeco Field - It was a gorgeous night! :) This was a game we'll never forget! 11 innings and an exciting finish - Yes the Mariners WON! Yahooo ...

Feeding the meter in Bellingham - Just before the Wiggle Like a Fish Show!

Checking out the critters at Larrabee State Park in Bellingham, WA ... "Look a baby sea star!"

Make-up at the mall! Lauren looked gorgeous in her dark blue eye shadow and hot pink lipstick - YOU go girl! :)

Kaleb and Kade at the toy shop in Old Fairhaven! Love the look guys ...

Building at the Pacific Science Center - Seattle, WA ...

Our family just returned from an amazing adventure up north. We had a Wiggle Like a Fish show in Bellingham, WA on Friday morning and decided to hit a Mariner game while up that way and take in the sights of Seattle. We had such a wonderful time!

I feel so thankful for the moments we are able to spend together as a family and the memories we create together. I think one of the most wonderful gifts of life is our ability to appreciate the people around us and the time we spend together!

This little moment matters -

Today, take a moment to appreciate the people in your life that give it meaning, value and purpose.For extra fun – tell them you love them and thank them for being a part of your LIFE!

Guest Post by Tanveer Naseer - "Making Life's Little Moments Count"

"Perhaps it’s time we realize we shouldn’t be measuring our life with those large yardsticks, that instead the happiness that fills our lives can often be found in all those little moments that exist in between the big ones." ~ Tanveer Naseer

If you’re like me I’m sure you’ve had days where the size of the To-Do list looks insurmountable, the weather outside is dreary and uninviting and basically, you find yourself without any motivation to get your day going.

On some of these days, when we’re stuck trying to figure out how we’re going to get our momentum back, we receive this unexpected but welcome distraction – an email from a friend thanking us for what seemed to us to be a simple effort, a congratulatory note about some recent work we shared on Facebook or Twitter, or perhaps just one of our friends sharing some humourous anecdote that makes us laugh. On the surface, these gestures are simple and unassuming; however, on those days where we’re facing down a bad case of the blahs, they have the power to make us suddenly bound forth with renewed enthusiasm and verve.

Without question, on those days where we feel uninspired or weary, these simple efforts are a welcome arrival, the emotional equivalent of a caffeine jolt to stir ourselves out of the doldrums. Unfortunately, it seems that it’s only when we’re in the proverbial dump that we truly appreciate what these gestures bring to our lives. In some ways, I suppose that’s because we all tend to measure our lives with rather large yardsticks, holding out for those big events like getting a promotion or the birth of a new child as moments that will bring happiness to our lives. Certainly, those events do bring much joy and excitement, but they’re also an uncommon occurrence.

Maybe that’s why these little moments on days when we’re feeling flat resonate so much – we don’t go out of our way looking for them, we don’t work to attain them; they simply appear as a result of the relationships, the bonds we’ve fostered with others. But just like those big events that mark our lives, these little moments have an effect on us, of making us feel better and motivated to keep going. And naturally, if those we have some sort of connection with can have such an impact on us through such simple gestures, it’s not hard to imagine the same happening to those around us when we give small offerings of our own.

Perhaps it’s time we realize we shouldn’t be measuring our life with those large yardsticks, that instead the happiness that fills our lives can often be found in all those little moments that exist in between the big ones.

Tanveer Naseer is a writer whose work can be seen on his blog at http://www.tanveernaseer.com/. He also writes, directs and produces the internet drama series, "Star Trek: Unity". Tanveer lives in Montreal, Canada with his wife and their beautiful girls.

The Anatomy of a Moment

Sunset on the Oregon Coast - July 2009 ... Breathe it in, soak it up!

Welcome to August! This month, we’ll be exploring, appreciating and mostly celebrating the little moments that make up our lives.

Point to Ponder: Sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in the big stuff and forget about all the little moments that over time add up to LIFE!

Let’s explore for a moment the anatomy of a moment. A moment is right now. A moment occurred the second you woke up and enjoyed the breath of this brand new day. A moment happens every time you choose to acknowledge it and appreciate it. If we don’t recognize the moments – they slip away unnoticed.

Below are 3 simple ways to recognize, appreciate and celebrate the moments that matter –

Focus in the NOW – Look for all the beautiful blessings and lessons that each moment has to offer.

Dwell in the positive and ask yourself the following question – What is truly great about this moment?

Celebrate the moment – Write it down, breathe it in and share it with others.

PS: During this month feel free to post up a moment that matters to you and let me know about it! I’d love to share it here on my blog! We’ll celebrate the moments that matter together!

Be part of the MOMENTS that MATTER FUN!

{The little boy on the porch was dressed like MAX}

I walked over to a friend’s house tonight and as I walked home I couldn't help but appreciate the amazing wonders that surrounded me.

The moon, the calico cat sitting lazily in the neighbor’s yard, the slight breeze and touches of red and orange in the sunset, and my favorite: the little boy standing in a Halloween costume on the front porch… (He looked like Max from “Where the Wild Things Are” and from the sound of his Mother’s voice inside the house, I think he secretly hoped to escape in and out of weeks and almost over a year to – well you know).

PS: Our little moments have so much to offer. We just have to stop and notice them. In honor of the little moments that matter, I’m declaring August the month to celebrate the little moments that matter.

Stay tuned – In August, I’ll be featuring some amazing guest bloggers, inspirational moments and YOU! Want to be part of the fun? Simply post up the little moments that matter to you and let me know about it! I’ll share them here on my blog! Leave me a comment with a link to your post and I’ll be sure to check it out and share it.

REMEMBER:
It all begins in August – Don’t miss the fun! Decide right now to appreciate the little moments that decorate your days ... because they matter! :)

Love Notes ... They Matter!

(Ohh la la - write a love note on a brown paper bag ...)

Are you like me and when you get a hand written love note, you save it? OH good, I’m not the only one who adores love notes!

I was reading “Life’s Little Instruction Book” today by H. Jackson Brown, Jr. and flipped to the page that simply says: Never waste an opportunity to tell someone you love them.

That is such a beautiful reminder to live in the moment and share how we feel. Words of love have an amazing way of lifting us up and inspiring us to be our best.
So slow down this summer and take a moment or two to say I love you. Say it in a note or sing it in a song… whatever your style.

Let the people around you know how much you love them … :)

Remembering my brother Travis …

My brother Travis on the left ...

The 7th of July is always a time of reflection for me. Many of you may or may not know that when I was 15, my oldest brother, Travis died in a car accident. He was 17 and that event completely rocked my world. Our family (of nine: Mom & Dad and 7 kids) were on vacation in Wyoming and he died en route to doing what he LOVED most – fishing. I must admit that I cried for many years every night before bed trying to make sense of it all. And tonight as I was about to drift off to sleep I couldn’t help but think of him … He died 21 years ago today.

Looking back, I can see that his life and death have impacted my life more than just about anything else. At a very young age I learned the importance of living each day to its fullest. I learned that what we do matters. I learned that time and new days are a gift. I learned that saying goodbye is not easy. I learned that life goes on. I learned that time really does heal hearts and wounds. I learned that memories can carry us for a long time – as long as we cherish them. I learned that what we choose to do each moment eventually turns into a lifetime of moments. I learned that when you lose someone you love – it’s healthy to talk about them and remember them. And finally, I continue to learn that the missing never really goes away.

PS: I wrote this letter to Travis a few years ago. Warning, it’s a tear jerker …

What does FREEDOM mean to you?

Freedom means I can go swimming with my kids ....


Have you ever stopped to think about the meaning of freedom?

Freedom means: I can go to work around the corner or work from my home. I can start my own business. I can attend free concerts at the park. I can choose what to wear today and tomorrow. I can worship how, where and when I want. I can pray out loud and while I am driving. I have a voice and can express it.


Freedom means I can reach and dream. Freedom means I can sleep in peace at night and enjoy another day tomorrow. Freedom means you and I need to stand up for the things we believe in and ensure that we are always free. Freedom means we never forget those who have gone before us to make sure you and I can enjoy living, learning and loving! Freedom means I can become something wonderful with each little moment of life!

Happy 4th of July … Enjoy all the freedoms of this day!

Thoughts - They mold and shift the landscapes of our lives ...

I was thinking about the power of thoughts today and bumped into the below quote:

"Do not underestimate the Power of Thoughts. Just as water has the power to shift and mold earths landscape,your thoughts have the power to shift and mold the landscapes of your life" -Chuck Danes

Beautiful huh?

In Memory of Michael Jackson -

From the 80's - Michael Jackson pins

Why is it that the death of the King of Pop – Michael Jackson shocked the world? I thought about this yesterday as people around the globe voiced their sympathies and condolences. And thought I’d add my thoughts …

His death (like anyone who is dear to us) reminds us that life is fragile and that even the ‘superstars’ at some point must fall for good. I was sitting in the car yesterday with my kids after swimming at the pool. The bag of goggles was left on the table with the big umbrella – We waited while Kaleb ran back to grab them. We turned on the radio as we waited for him to make the goggle grab dash! To my surprise, every station was playing a Michael Jackson song. I stopped on “Bad” and started to tell my kids about what an influence his music had during my childhood years. They laughed as I told them about the moonwalk dance move, the flashy glove and the importance of owning a Michael Jackson button (pin on kind) in the 5th grade. The badge gave you status – everyone wanted one! I think the badge during those years would be equal with the need for an ipod or cell phone? Times have changed! My memories were jolted by a voice on that radio that simply said: “Michael Jackson - Dead at age 50.” I never knew him personally and yet, that news hit me. I turned to my kids and said: “Wow! I can’t believe it. “

His music (like all music from my past) always transports me back to times and places that have come and gone. Music has such a powerful way of taking us back and reminding us of certain moments in our lives. When I heard the news of his death, I realized that his voice and music will always be a part of my life! It’s etched in my memories of growing up. His death (on a global scale) makes us realize that our days are truly gifts and reminds us that we are mortal.

Oh sure, we’ll still have all his old stuff and the memories of where we were when we first heard the song “Thriller” or had the guts to get on the gym dance floor in Jr. high and try the ‘moonwalk’ – those memories stay with us as long as we choose to let them. What we don’t have are new songs to fill with new memories. And that is the part that we tend to dwell on when someone leaves us. We wonder – what if …

What if he lived another 10 years…
What songs would he write and sing?
What dance move would new generations have to try on the hardwood floor of the school gym?

These are questions we’ll never have answered. But what we do have is the realization that life is a precious gift. And we get to choose what we’ll do with every single moment of it.

So today in honor of Michael Jackson and his musical influence – I say to you:

Dance the ‘moonwalk’, sing “Bad” as loud as you can in the shower and if you happen to see an old pin on button of Michael Jackson – remember that at one time in history … those made a person cool!

Everything has a voice ... (except for worms) ~ Kaleb age 5

Photo Moment: Kaleb (age 5) 2003

Back in 2003, my sister Erica had me conduct a little survey with my son, Kaleb who was 5 at the time. The survey was part of an assignment from her Child Development class in college. She sent me the questions and asked me to have him answer them. Easy enough right? I still remember how fun it was to see his little mind work and feel his excitement over each new question.

His answer to question #4 stays with me to this day: Why do birds sing?
Hummmmm - Because they have a voice. Everything has a voice - except for worms.
Birds like to sing - I've been thinking about that.

I was reminded of my son’s response today as I read a blog post by Stephen R.Covey -

(Below is an excerpt)
“I wrote in the 8th Habit that the crucial challenge of our world today is this: to find our voice and inspire others to find theirs. On page 104 I specifically wrote about the effects of the internet in the democratization (finding voice) of our world.

"The Democratization of Information/Expectations
No one manages the internet. It is a sea change of global proportion. For the first time in history the pure voice of the human spirit rings out in millions of unedited conversations unfettered by borders. Real-time information drives expectations and social will, which ultimately drive the political will that impacts every person."

His insights about the value and importance of finding our voice and inspiring others to find theirs really hit a spot with me. So true -Everything has a voice. And every one of us has the right and honor to use it!

So my question to you is …
Do you realize the importance of your voice?
Have you found it? Are you using it? Do you inspire others to find theirs?

Below is the complete survey by my son Kaleb at age 5 in 2003:

1. Where does the sun go at night? In outer space. I know b/c I've seen it in a book. The sun likes it there.

2. Why is the grass green? Because Heavenly Father made it that way. He can turn the grass green. I've thought a lot about that!

3. Why do we have snow? Because when it's winter and it's raining the raindrops of the rain turn into snow.

4. Why do birds sing? Hummmmm - Because they have a voice. Everything has a voice - except for worms. Birds like to sing - I've been thinking about that.

5. How do flies walk on the ceiling? They have sticky feet and they stick to everything.

6. Why do you have freckles? Because angels are kissing me.

7. How did you learn to talk? My Dad taught me - Actually, I don't know.

8. Why do you have a belly button? Because I grew that way. All of us have a belly button.

9. Why are you ticklish? Because I just am.

10. Why do the stars shine? Because the sun is reflecting on them.

11. Where do babies come from? From Mommy's stomach.

PS: No matter your age or station…Your voice matters – Let it be heard!

Just in: A clip from my radio interview on 105.3 FM

A few moments from the Mix Morning Show! :)
Simply push play and listen in ...

PS: It's the Little Moments that Matter

JUST DO IT!

{Flashback} It was the summer before my sophomore year in high school when this famous phrase hit the t-shirts and enthusiastic Nike fans of the world. JUST DO IT seemed to ignite the entire planet with passion, determination and enthusiasm!

Brief history of the empowering Nike phrase -
According to Nike company lore, one of the most famous and easily recognized slogans in advertising history was coined at a 1988 meeting of Nike’s ad agency Wieden and Kennedy and a group of Nike employees. Dan Weiden, speaking admiringly of Nike’s can-do attitude, reportedly said, “You Nike guys, you just do it.” The rest, as they say, is (advertising) history. (Read more)

Go ahead, feel the power … say these 3 words out loud (right now) – JUST DO IT! How did that feel? Did you feel the surge of energy sweep through your veins? Me too!

I find many people are happy and excited to wear the t-shirts and say the words but few actually get to the REAL doing! Why is that? Let’s explore for a moment:

First, in order to just do something you have to have a plan of what it is you just want to do!
Second, the plan needs to motivate and excite you. Otherwise, you won’t do anything.
Third, the fear of failing must not stop you!
Fourth, you need a deep belief that what you are doing matters (to you)!
Fifth, you need to BEGIN – Just do it.
Sixth – Every step of the journey is the journey. Believe in the process and who you will become because you dared to DO IT!

Personal CHALK story:
Every year in June, the Uptown Shopping Center holds a Chalk Art Festival in our city. People register and pay for a square/space to draw on the sidewalk. Each participant is entered into their age category and is handed a box of chalk to create their masterpiece. For the past 3 years, I have registered my children and happily sit back and enjoy their art. This year, I decided to JUST DO IT! Why not? Oh it felt good. Something wonderful happens inside of us when we JUST DO IT and LIVE….

The rose. By Wendy :) Chalk Art Festival, 2009

PS: The chalk art story is a simple example but I keep finding that the more we ACT and DO the more we grow and become. Start simple – then keep doing! Each act of action helps us build confidence and momentum to JUST DO the stuff inside of us that is screaming for attention and a chance to THRIVE!

Art by the Christensen Family: Top: Lauren, Rose: Wendy, Panda: Kade

This little moment matters: Write down one thing you will JUST DO today. Now write down why it matters to you. Next, write down what your life would be like if you did it. And finally, JUST DO IT! :)

Checkpoints

Keep Moving Forward ... :) One step at a time!


It was late last night and I was doing dishes … Flipped on the radio in the kitchen and found myself tuned into the Delilah Show. I have not listened to her show for years! The voice on her program grabbed my attention. This lady called in to request that Delilah play a song from her wedding day. Apparently, it was her 5 year anniversary and she needed to hear that song! She went on to explain that life had been challenging over the past 5 years on the relationship and from what I could gather – chronically ill children, lack of work and everyday problems had taken their toll. Delilah wished her luck and played the song.

This little ‘radio moment’ left an impression on my heart. I don’t personally know that lady but I was so glad she decided to call in and ask for a song to help her remember the good times. The words of the song went:

I guess the time was right for us to say We'd take our time and live our lives together day by day We'll make a wish and send it on a prayer We know our dreams can all come trueWith love that we can share ~ Firehouse “Love of a Lifetime”

Don’t you find it amazing how certain checkpoints in life can help us re-focus, re-commit and REMIND us of the amazing journey of life?

You might we asking – what is a checkpoint? A checkpoint to me is anything (moment, person, song, or thing) that reminds us of who we are where we are and the path we’re on. Checkpoints come to us in a variety of ways. They could be from a stranger, an email, a quote, a card, a photo, a smile, a song, a book, answers to a prayer, a plant growing in the garden, or a blog post. The list goes on and on!

Checkpoints are like road signs. Some of them say: Detour, STOP, Food next right, Caution, Slow down, GO, Rest area, and so forth. These checkpoints are available at any point in our journey of life. We just have to pay attention.

Today, pay attention to the checkpoints around you – they are there to help you one moment at a time! Keep a checkpoint journal and jot down the times you bump into something that speaks to your heart. Then take action on the prompting! The checkpoints are there for a reason! Tune in and LIVE …

PS: To the lady from the Delilah show last night … Here’s your song one more time! Happy Anniversary …. Make a wish and send it on a prayer :)!!


{Play}

Dream BIG!

I bumped into this quote earlier this week and just love it! :) Thought you might too ...

If there were ever a time to dare,
to make a difference,
to embark on something worth doing, it is now.

Not for any grand cause, necessarily-but for something that tugs at your heart,
something that's your aspiration,
something that's your dream.

You owe it to yourself to make your days here count.
Have fun.
Dig deep.
Stretch.
Dream big.

~From a Macintosh computer ad, 1991

Pay attention to life and it will pay attention to YOU!

When we pay attention - Life is beautiful.
And when we choose to enjoy the beauty and share it ... Happiness abounds!
(Share it well)

Short story: A couple of months ago, I was outside working in the yard. There was this strange green plant growing happily in the dirt. The vine was fuzzy and looked like a big, overgrown weed. For some reason, I didn't pull it out during my 'weeding rampage'! I remember going in later that night and thinking: I wonder what that plant is - Fiddle-dee-dee weeds weeds weeds ... tomorrow is another day - I'll yank it out in the morning.

In all honesty, I forgot about the funky growing madness in the backyard. And I'm so glad I did because just last weekend (while working out in the yard), this crazy looking yard critter turned into a gorgeous flower!

I looked at it and said (out loud) - "Well, look what you've become! Something amazing indeed ..." And it talked back saying: "Thank you for giving me the time and chance to become something wonderful!"

Moral of the story: Pay attention to the people, the plants, and the moments that make up our days - and give it/them a chance to grow and become their greatest possibility! Often times, at first glance, we judge and 'cut things down' before they ever get a chance to grow and flourish! (Ourselves included) ...

PS: Live THIS moment and the next and the next - choose to become! Pay attention to life and it will pay attention to YOU!

Thursday mornings in Kindergarten ...

A hundred years from now it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove, but the world may be different because I was important in the life of a child....~ Forest Witcraft

I have had the awesome privilege of helping in my daughter’s kindergarten class every Thursday for the past school year. Today was an extra special time in the class! I don’t know if it was because we’ll only have one more time together next week or if it’s because we’re all friends and look forward to our 45 minutes together on Thursdays … Maybe it was a combination of both?

We talked about the letters CH and how together they make the CH sound … the kids drew pictures of cherries, cheese and chocolate. We talked about how much we liked all of those foods and our favorite kinds of chocolate.

Tonight is the Kindergarten musical and all the kids were giddy with excitement for the upcoming performance!

“Miss Wendy, will you be there to watch us?” Many of them asked.
“Yes! I’ll be in the front row – wouldn’t miss it for anything” was my reply!

Our time ended and it was time to line up for recess. One by one the kids hug me and tell me they can’t wait for for the program tonight and our time together again next Thursday…

I was teary as I left the school. Only one more week and its summer – I will truly miss my Thursday mornings in Kindergarten.

{Wednesday Movie Moment}

Two Weeks Notice

... she's rather like the building she loves so much. A little rough around the edges but, when you look closely, absolutely beautiful. And the only one of her kind. And even though I've said cruel things and driven her away, she's become the voice in my head. And I can't seem to drown her out. And I don't want to drown her out. ~George Wade
(Watch the clip by simply clicking on the Two Weeks Notice text above)

Ahhh the power of a love letter ...! :) This one gets me every time.
Don't you love how movies capture our hearts and leave such lasting impressions?
Me too ...

A weekend escape to the mountains...!

{WOW MOMENT}
My husband and I celebrated our 16 year anniversary last weekend - Ohh la la!
It was the perfect trip :) We were surrounded by gorgeous Mountains, flea markets, yummy food and antique shops galore! Special thanks to my romantic guy for the weekend escape!

Loved checking out all the cool vintage shops!
Just had to snap a photo of this huge bowl of lemons. We stopped along the highway to check out a giant flea market - There were food vendors sprinkled throughout the town and it was so fun to get lost in the crowd and busy flow of people!

I fell in love with this antique set of rose china - oh it was gorgeous!

We were driving along the highway and stopped to capture Mt. Rainer on film! I love mountains and find them so inspiring and full of WOW! We were blessed with splendid weather - couldn't believe how perfect it was!!

We made a visit to the Mt. St. Helens monument and looked in awe at the mighty mountain that 29 years ago caused all sorts of havoc in our state! From this sign, there was a great view of Mt. St. Helens :) My photo didn't turn out so well of that mountain but I did get this sign :)!!

Check out that vintage bike - LOVE it. I think old stuff is so charming and romantic ...

Grabbed a peach Italian Soda at the flea market... :) Yum!! PS: Found some cool, old stuff at bargain prices!

Note to self: Take time to spend time with the ones you love! It enriches the relationship, creates lasting memories and most of all - REMINDS us that time together doing the things we LOVE adds value to the journey of life!! :)