Archive for the ‘Life Reflections’ Category

Is it just me or is time speeding up? It is one summer in time, 2010 and I could have sworn I just started it; planning out my life according to a healthy balance of work and leisure. Today, I’m feeling more panic that the summer is leaving, it was less than a week ago when I was singing its praises, how quickly my mood changes.

There was the projects I just knew I would finally complete, the trips I was going to take and lots of visits with friends and family. I dreamed about the nothing at all days where I would kick back with no makeup, no need to do my hair, sluffy clothes and lounge with a book or magazine…for hours…stopping only to eat and drink. There were a handful of mornings or afternoons that looked like that, but not enough. I did have some wonderful visits with friends and family but I also feel like some were neglected.

Initially, by my calculations on the calendar I had a full three months at least to take advantage of the majority of each of those things. I was never good at math.

It appears I did not minus the days of work, the appointments, extended office organization, research and writing hours. I neglected to throw in the drudge jobs cleaning up the house and I mistakenly thought it may get done by the cleaning fairy if I was just a tad busy that week. In fact, I did a lot of miscalculation and at times squandered valuable time potentially doing something fun, adventurous or different for the mundane activities that could easily be done in the winter.

I’m thinking next year I will be a bit smarter. Yes, yet another grandiose plan (as if I never learn my lesson) to put into place an organization chart on a wall that lists out for me what my summer could potentially look like if I focused on pure fun. I’m going to work harder over the winter to set aside  some money so that my imaginary maid becomes a reality twice per month and my gardener does the spring and pre-winter clean up. I’m booking in advance my tickets to anywhere but here, so that I will have no excuse but to partake in a whole ton of summer fun and not feel like it got away from me.

Upon reflecting back on my youthful days, 24 hours, stretched over months, gave me plenty of time to have fun, get into trouble and flop on my couch at the end of the work day.  You know how that is though, it probably wasn’t as full as I think it was.  I have a tendency to forget what I did last week let alone days of summer…say like most of 1980’s.

It’s a little bit of selfishness rearing its head that I ask for more summer months. I am thankful for what came my way this year and of course thankful to be alive to reflect on it. It is also that ever present wishful thinking that I could control time better and make the warm summer I love so much just hang out a little longer with me, maybe squeeze out another three months. Don’t you just love that sun on your face and the warm summer breeze?

With all the gifts summer brings I can’t be the only one wishing time didn’t fly by. How was your summer?

Seals & Crofts – Summer Breeze Live 1973

Living on the West coast also known as the Wet coast if anyone knows how to enjoy spring, summer, winter or fall it’s us! Summer just manages to ramp the pleasure up a few notches.

Today, we were having breakfast at a beautiful resort restaurant not too far from where we live. My mother, who had joined us for the weekend, commented on how nice it was to see this very large family gather together to dine. Their summer vacation, possibly a reunion but whatever the reason to gather there was lots of smiles and chatter. Dining out in general changes over these months as we have more evenings out on our patio at home and can often hear neighbours in their back yards doing the exact same thing.

There is also a multitude of bikes, kayaks and canoes strapped on to vehicles destined for the favourite spots. Boats being towed to lakes, rivers and oceans for launch or busy marinas with the vessels coming and going; bound for islands and coves. Hikers hit mountains and paths, runners and walkers out on the streets and tracks. Campers loading the car up and those with more of a need for the creature comforts of home outfit their travel trailers for destinations known or unknown.

It is an amazing time of year and though you get the occasional reminder mother nature still holds the cards as far as weather goes, it’s all good! There are times throughout the year we gather to celebrate for this or that but summer, to me, feels like one big party. You sprinkle in the hours of work with the sole purpose of getting to the next moment to kick the shoes off and place those feet in the sand, on the grass or paddling in the water.

There are projects to be done but at least at the end of the day you can’t beat what summer has to offer food, family and fun!

Every picture tells a story and that can be a good thing or a bad thing depending on how you feel today.

Recently, a conversation with one of my dear friends made me think about how many of us can open up our photo albums and take a long walk down memory lane. We are transported back to special occasions; milestone birthdays, weddings, parties and travel. There is also the photos of people who have shared each of those experiences with us. Relationships immortalized on film including our intimate partners — but what happens when you no longer want to be reminded of that person?

My friends solution: a cleansing, a purge of any reminders, she just got rid of the pictures. Though, not quite sure how she will feel down the road about that decision, right now it feels pretty good. A way to alleviate some of the pain associated with viewing the photos.

She wouldn’t be the first to throw out what was once  precious mementos; each of us may have chosen at one time or another to do the same. It is quicker to trash the reminders than mend a broken heart. There is a sense of gratification too. If you have tried it, you know that initially there is a real feeling of power, a taking care of business and regaining  control.

It can be difficult  to talk about a person or situation but it can also be cathartic. To have the memories floating around inside our head is something we can’t change; short of having amnesia which I don’t think any of us are going to put on our wish list. 

Photos, however, are disposable. A simple toss in the garbage, a tear or cut around the offending person and we believe we have instantly helped our current situation. Unfortunately, I’m not convinced it works that well.

I regret the removal of pictures from my life, I only did it once with a handful but it was enough for me to have some regret. Pictures can be my link to days gone by that were fabulously great, moderately memorable or served as a reminder of challenges I have overcome. I don’t want to pull pictures out to relive the experience and people as if I’m missing something now. It is just that every picture tells a story and that story is about me. The photos chronicled all the people who shared with me an experience that can never be duplicated and most often they were the same people who taught me something I needed to learn.

Everyone has the right to do what they wish with their possessions; photos are no different. So, there is no final judgment here just a chance to explore how our feelings can collide with what was once a treasure. I just can’t help but wonder if the removal of a picture or pictures really has any real influence on closing that chapter of our life.

Great Song – One of my favorites!

Every Picture Tells A Story – Rod Stewart

Today we went and explored the Ladner Village Market. During the summer twice per month over 100 vendors come to Ladner to share their products. First, I have to say if you haven’t been to the Ladner/Tsawwassen area before it is worth the time, a great Sunday drive. What we enjoyed at the market was the variety of goods, not all standard crafts, plants or even meat but unique items.

We found beautiful pottery that caught our eye, Choi’s Pottery which had us marveling at all the everyday items that can be turned into stunning pieces of art. We were given a list of the pattern and symbolism that can be found on the pottery which made us identify with it even more. My husband really likes cranes and blue herons, the crane’s symbolism was Long Life and Good Health.

River Run Cottages has a little side business going on and they had barrels that were just right for the garden, including one creation that was a water feature. We have seen barrels used before as part of people’s landscape or for practical purposes to catch the rain from the down spouts but these were well priced and right there. No searching for who is selling barrels.

We bought organic meat from (sorry no website) Spokin Lake Meats Ltd., fresh farm meat with none of the antibiotics and God knows what else that is laced into our food. They were busy, friendly and sold out of a few items but it is worth a try. We have been looking for organic meat suppliers and when we find one we try what they have to offer. I have to say, organic does hold flavor better and for some reason the food digest better too.

I took a moment to have an artist by the name of Pauline Basi paint a beautiful henna tattoo on my wrist.  The design scrolls slightly up my arm and down to my hand. I have always loved Mehndi since I was a child. I watched a slide show of a wedding that family friends had attended in which the brides’ hands and feet were adorned with the art. I never forgot the image and when I come across the opportunity to get it done I’m excited. What I did not know is how talented this woman is beyond the art she placed on each persons body. Her website is magnificent, so calming and I was immediately drawn into her gallery. One more incredible surprise that comes from the day.

Whether it is beautifully designed jewelery, pottery, art, perfumes or preserves, food, plants, crafts or clothing it was all there. Creative people all coming together to sell what they believe each of us needs. Whether we need or just want, markets such as this make shopping fun and festive; with lively music and lots of eye stopping moments.

They say a lot of people are doing stay vacations and local day trips to fill their summer and today showed us we don’t have to go far to have a great time. We got to know more stores in the area for future trips which can only help out local businesses after summer ends. Great idea Ladner, keep it up!

Living in the best country in the world!

Freedom for all its people

Beautiful scenery

Diversity abounds

Adventure surrounds us

Caring  Global Partner

Interesting History

Complex issues

Simple needs

Hockey nation

Best restaurants/food

Healthy living

Resources for the world

No matter where I travel in the world, as beautiful as cities are to visit, nothing compares to home. We are a lucky people in so many ways. Despite the challenges that face us all, this country continues to lead in a way that makes me proud to be Canadian! Especially living in Vancouver, BC!!!

Just a moment I’m thinking…

It seems odd that I, of all people, would have to be discussing the importance of trusting your intuition. I come from a long line of highly intuitive women. It should be something I respect by now but apparently I may come from intuitive stock but I can’t always claim to trust and honor it.

Some time back I had a really strong intuition that an opportunity that was coming my way was not the right path to take. For reason that were part practical, part supportive and part investigative I chose to ignore the feeling in the pit of my stomach and went for it. It was a professional decision that I regret in some ways but in others it served as a wonderful lesson. Characteristic of most lessons, it confirmed what I already know but failed to take seriously.

In conjunction with all the bells going off loudly, came the first day I stepped into my role. There in front of me was the same desk I had seen fourteen years earlier in a whole other setting, the same lack of preparedness for my arrival and the inevitable laxidasical attitude. Instead of being able to do my job, I first had to tackle that lack of items necessary to start. It was a flashback that I didn’t enjoy but I weighed in thinking “All these years later I’m sure I can make this work.”

I was wrong again. It seemed my role was not clearly defined and often I became confused as to just what my purpose truly was. The title certainly didn’t match the day to day activities and I was getting a distinct feeling of being restricted, maybe not fully trusted to do my job. After hitting the level I have professionally and enjoying the partnerships established with wonderful people and organizations, it was foreign to feel so confined. I observed things I did not know could exist in the context of our work and ethically felt uncomfortable. It was also clear that though my intention was to do the best I could, my best was not required.  This was the wrong place for me to be and I should have trusted that little voice in my head; that feeling in the pit of my stomach and the deja vu that happened weekly.

So, why don’t we trust our intuition? It obviously has been implanted in us for survival reasons. It, more often than not, is completely accurate. It doesn’t require you to do anything prior, other than to have a thought or a movement that would warrant its very fervent arrival. It is a built in mechanism to aid us but still we question its validity. The only saving grace to all of this is that it never gives up trying to get our attention.

I can tell you right now, I’m apologizing to my little inner voice. I will trust it, honor it and know that it only has my best interest at heart.

HAVE YOU LEARNED TO TRUST YOUR INTUITION? (If not, I highly recommend you trust your built in, free alarm system)

Yes, at this point some of you are going down the path of “This woman is an Iron Maiden fan?” Yes, I am! Along with my devoted heavy metal husband.

We just attended last nights sold out show in Vancouver and enjoyed it immensely. For those that are scratching their heads still trying to figure out what the draw may be to this band well I guess you have to be appreciative of superb musicianship and outstanding vocals.

There is different types of metal and without going into detail about that diversity, suffice-to-say there are bands who train and obtain a level that is untouchable. Iron Maiden is one of those bands. With legions of fans worldwide and generations past now bringing their children, it has become a family of sorts. Beyond the music they produce is the bands genuine appreciation of all the people that support them.

Even my mother, a trained classical singer enjoys watching the DVD’s with her beloved son-in-law. Bruce Dickinson, the singer, is really in a class unto himself. His mastery of vocal range and theatrics is really a treat to watch and now in his early 50’s you see no signs of him slowing down. A singer, a commercial airline pilot and fencer, he is a man that doesn’t do anything halfway. The other band members Steve Harris (bassist),  Nicko McBrain (drummer), and guitarist Dave Murray, Adrian Smith and Janick Gers; bring their high energy, precision and unparalleled performance to the stage and leave nothing behind.

What is also interesting is the historical elements to the songs. Many lyrics reference time in history, poets or individuals so that the listener is in essence learning while rocking. It wasn’t until after I met my husband that I truly appreciated that fact as well as the multiple layers that go into the songs themselves. Follow the guitars and watch as each musician adds in their unique piece, creating a tapestry that is masterful. (click on the song below and follow it through to see what I mean)

We have seen this band several times together and my husband has followed them since his youth. All in all I guess you can’t judge a person or a band without giving them a chance. If you have wanted to expand your musical tastes than I suggest you listen to Iron Maiden or just rent a DVD. See how millions around the world flock to watch these great musicians and a phenomenal singer bring metal to the highest rank it can be.

One song in the show Blood Brothers was dedicated to their friend and mentor Ronnie James Dio who lost his fight with cancer not so long ago. The stadium rose to honor this classy, heavy metal singer and it was appropriate that Iron Maiden reminded us to do so.

After what amounts to a few solid of weeks of letting my brain get jacked up on career development, twisted around world news and having it scroll down to do lists and contacts, I decided this afternoon it was Brain Break time.

My morning started out straight from shower to business; meetings and calls scheduled. Then it came to me, it is time to stop! My productive morning was complete and it was time to take off the business suit. For a few hours I resisted the temptation to think wholeheartedly about anything. Instead in the middle of the day I grabbed the blanket, picked up a book and began to read. Not for learning or research, just for pleasure and humor. I resisted directing my day and took no responsibility for what would get done and when.

We all have some control over what are days look like. Plenty of time is allocated, a full 24 hours. It is the strangest thing when one gets to the point where that pesky need to sleep gets in the way and 7 days in a week is just not enough. I’m sure if there had been a way to extend hours or days somebody would have tried to implement it. I’m guilty of such thoughts… “How can I squeeze out more?” I ask myself.

To give my brain a break, was a gift. I know it has a huge responsibility to keep my body going on top of everything else I lump in. Just taking time to go with the moments, sit and not think of anything major, just let it flow was important for me to try. Checking to see if I could still press pause and not feel guilty that I did so.

Pleasantly surprised I did just that, paused. Accepted only what I was willing to and discarded the rest. God knows, everything is filed somewhere. So maybe tomorrow I will check my brain mail but today I gave it a break.

What works for you? How do you give your brain a break?

Blogging is something I enjoy immensely! I’m sure many of you who have taken up this interest will relate to the following:

There are ideas flowing in my head constantly, news stories catching my attention, people to feature, interviews to conduct, organizations for readers to be introduced to, requests and referrals for topics…but it can be hard to keep up.

Instead of beating myself up for wearing all my hats and not being able to follow up individually on some of my posts, today I’m doing a BLOG MASH UP. A “WHERE ARE WE NOW?” montage.

IS GRAFFITI ART? (January 2010) After writing that post I was directed by a reader “Dante” to check out a really cool link. It is wild to watch, interesting and a true representation of the talent associated with graffiti artists. Check this out! How to draw graffiti characters Now, I want to revisit this again at a later date and incorporate the suggestions Dante shared. Until then, if you have an opinion share it and after checking out the video were you equally wowed? (I can only draw stick people so this impresses me considerably)

GOVERNMENT PENSION FOR SERIAL KILLERS (March 2010) This post got me going. I was angry to hear about this and I, like 50,000 other Canadians, signed a petition to bring forth change. Well, for once it didn’t die by a media frenzy that slowly fizzled out. No, instead it culminated into Bill C-31 titled ‘Eliminating Entitlements for Prisoners.’  We should commend those agencies, like the Canadian Taxpayers Association and Government leaders, who were willing to bring this to fruition. With the hope that our voices will be further heard, get in touch with the other party leaders via email and ask for their support! If we can’t get one of them to support this bill, it will be killed. (no pun intended) Prisoners like Clifford Olson will continue to receive pensions in addition to our paying for their health care, education, meals and porn.

I have written a couple or more posts on the topic of the lack of balanced coverage of women in sports; including a commentary Squire Barnes Plays of the Year who failed to provide any meaningful representation of women at all. I have to say, I still don’t see a lot of coverage. Recently, the only sport of significance was tennis, with an emphasis on the Williams sisters. (Great athletes) Venus sporting her self designed ‘Victoria Secret’ knockoff on the court gained attention but that isn’t what I’m looking for. Maybe I need to dig deeper, but TV just isn’t giving me updates. Are any women playing sports in the world right now? How are they doing? Are they winning? Losing? Developing a team? Trading players? Retiring? Inducted into a Hall of Fame?… WHAT’s HAPPENING?”

CHRISTOPHER PORTER DOLPHIN DEALER …now that garnered a lot of attention including from Mr. Porter. We have recently had a chance to talk further about his ‘Ex-dolphin dealer’ status and his new campaign ‘Free the Pod.’ Wanting to do our interview justice and truly inform you about Christopher’s viewpoint, along with his present and future plans; I will ask you to stay tuned. He was generous with his time and there is much to cover. Regardless of where you stand on Christopher Porter or captivity you are not going to want to miss it. Very informative and includes some insight from others who are fighting the cause to end dolphin captivity!

My coverage on HUMAN TRAFFICKING continues. It is an issue, that for reasons I have yet to know, is completely a must for me to research, write about and inform others. I cannot let this go. It is a tragic devastating crime which forces us to look deeply at our humanity and our appetite and tolerance for things that fuel the industry. The more I explore the more I know, along with the environment this (trafficking) is where we have truly dropped the ball. I had one young woman living in the United States contact me, as she was writing a paper on this issue. I’m excited for her and applaud her. As difficult as it is to address the complexities of trafficking, it is only by learning and talking that it becomes a cause that we as a society may take seriously. We must change the tide.

There you have it. I feel purged, ready to tackle topics further but until then I have tried to show you where we are now at Esteem Rising.

Hope you have enjoyed this post, if you want to add to any of these topics please comment or email.

I’m continuing my quest to convince Candice Olson to come to the west coast!

As I take my lunch break in my office I have turned on Divine Design,  this is an hour of Candice and I’m glad I took this time to eat my soup and sandwich. 

Readers know from a previous post entitled Candice Olson Divine Designer that I am a HUGE fan of this woman’s work. Right now I’m revisiting the episode where the Big Easy New Orleans style was incorporated into a couples kitchen and to see their reaction was amazing! Next we have a woman from South Africa that wants a space to be creative; a mother who wanted a room of her own. That need for an inspirational space is something I’m certain many of us can relate to and the way this was executed was nothing short of brilliant!

The problem with my obsession is like most home and garden talent featured on TV, few if any of the experts work or reside in Vancouver, BC. Sending letters probably won’t yield much chance of a visit from your favorite designer if you live on the other side of the country. That is not stopping me from trying to figure out how I can convince Candice to make a trip to my house.

I bought the Candice Olson on design book soon after it arrived in the stores. I loved the introduction which began with LIFE IS FUNNY! This is where she shared her own life/education/career transitions. She went from the sciences; psychology, biology, kinesiology, and chemistry to the arts. A four year degree in interior design has proved to be a very wise career choice. The combination of arts and science plus apparently a love of volleyball, which taught the value of teamwork, contributed to the making of a successful business. She claimed in her book “I don’t take myself too seriously” but there is no doubt that she does some seriously great designs! An interesting and fun woman.

There are few people who can make a book about home design into a life inspiring piece. Whether on the pages or the screen her personality and philosophies shine through. I may never meet this woman but what I can take away from watching her is be passionate about what you do, be realistic, surround yourself with talented and caring people both personally and professionally and have fun!

Hey Candice – Wishing you were here!