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So what does the name tee2i mean?

Well it's shorthand for the independence index. This blog takes independence seriously. There's no problem, in principle, with a country being part of a confederation or partnership, the UK is part of NATO. But the EU is a failing confederation and our independence is threatened by continued membership. But there's more to politics than the EU. Neither is politics all about leaning left or rightward on any issue, it's far more subtle than that. It's all down to the quality of life so let's aim high. It's our right to do so.

The lethal state

How to get away with murder

In whom we trust?In whom we trust?
It was one of those ironic moments, on the BBC Radio 4 Today programme, John Humphrys interviewed Mike Farrar, the chief executive of the NHS Confederation on the subject of the Mid Staffordshire Hospital Trust. So one failing organisation up against another. The exact death toll stemming from the breakdown in care at Mid Staffs may never be known, it could be over 1000 lives. And on the other side we have the BBC, employer of Jimmy Savile, although a serial hospital botherer and visitor Savile was not, as far as we know, lethal. Even so, this is hardly a platform upon which to build is it?

Humphrys, in Olympian terms gold, silver and bronze, was very much at the latter level. This was the setting used to interview the inept but now very wealthy George Entwhistle, the ex-head of the BBC. Bronze mode is what a boy might expect from the Deputy Headmaster having been caught doing something anti-social in the school library. So with Humphrys on a low setting Farrar had it easy he ran rings around Humphrys, he was brilliant.

And the reason for this? Well Farrar was well trained in the public servant's art of talking but not saying anything. Also Farrar's penny whistle reedy voice blandly cheeped and wailed while Humphrys sounded more like a bassoonist demonstrating his take on a complex musical score.

Pro-EU propaganda

Not as good as a game show!

Call my Bluff, in the 1970sCall my Bluff, in the 1970s
Some years ago there was a TV show called, Call my Bluff. The format was as per most game shows but the intention was for one team to try and fool the other with false definitions of unusual words. The show ended in 2005 and simply would not work now. Today we have become so used to our politicians simply dishing out lies and bullshit that there's no longer any attempt to bluff. It's just blatant rubbish.

So life imitates art, again. The quality of the debate concerning the UK's continued membership of the EU is dire. Older people may be able to remember the last referendum held on this subject and perhaps the original debate on the merits of entry. Naturally any comparison between then and now is shaped by the many years that have passed. But what is notable now is the substitution of propaganda for debate, it's also very low grade propaganda too.

Over at EU Referendum Richard North has looked at FUD tactics: fear, uncertainty and doubt. The FUD tactic is well established but how good is it? In the link from North two of the cases are from the left wing press but all sections of the press seem to be having a go.

The EU - getting it wrong

Nick Cohen: a practical example in journalism.

Nick Cohen, who gets out a lot! Nick Cohen, who gets out a lot!
Nick Cohen is normally a sensitive chap. Keen on civil liberties he, like other journalists at the Spectator, wrote in support of Paul Chambers the young man taken through the courts for making a joke on Twitter. This blog also supported Chambers, see HERE. Perhaps we still have a sort-of-reasonable press despite what Leveson, who did seem rather confused, thinks about it. For Cohen's subject, and this is in the Spectator, is the Labour party. I mean would the Guardian ever contemplate giving a regular slot to Richard North to write about the EU? Diversity is what some talk about but others do! Like a lot of his ilk, the Labour loving journalist, Cohen assumes rights for his party that are absurd.

Cameron and Obama, two very disappointing men

Ignoring the facts, ignoring the public

Tears of joy Mr President? Tears of joy Mr President?
We start with Barack Obama. Kicking the can down the road and the fiscal cliff. It all sounds so dramatic don't you think? Perhaps we have to forgive those who ramp these things up. For dithering and living beyond your means sounds so boring, not the sort of thing you would expect from the USA and their President. Funny how it goes but when Spain began its descent into financial chaos it was Barack Obama who in 2010 rang up Prime Minister Zapatero to offer words of advice and encouragement. Rumour has it Obama handed out a bit of a ticking off too.

Time moves on and Don José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero lost the 2011 Spanish elections but Obama secured a second term as the President of the USA. We don't know if Zapatero or any other leader rang him to reciprocate with words of advice but I think we can imagine the reaction had they done so. For Obama is so typical of his nation at its worst, they like dishing it out but not getting it back. As time moves on Obama is looking ever more Hollywood than White House. Ronald Reagan was a better and more convincing actor too!

The arrogance of Obama was at first a shock but now seems commonplace. Taking people for granted is what he does. Also they say that history will be a harsh judge of Zapatero.

It's the world we live in - part 2

More on the public services

Rambo to the rescue? Rambo to the rescue?

Part 1 was posted before the results of the PCC elections. But even then it was obvious things where not going well, the results show the predicted low-turnout was true with many districts only just into double figures. Naturally a brave face was put on by the promoters of this idea, however, it will take a long time for the idea of elected local officials to recover from this set back. But that, as we suggested, is what some people wanted. The awful Sir Ian Blair is pleased, the former head of the Metropolitan Police, now wasting public money in the House of Lords spoke against the idea. And proved, if proof where needed, that the police force needs reforming.

However, the cherry on the cake was Blair's fellow traveller and equally awful, John Prescott, did not get elected as Hull PCC. This was despite, or even perhaps because ex-PM Tony Blair, 'helped' Prescott in Hull. As usual Blair confirmed our opinions of him, in the case of the statement about Prescott that he has 'lost none of his old magic' was nothing to do with Prescott but all about himself. As might be expected marmalade John, 'thick cut' fell for it, one might even feel sorry for him! However, the name Bliar was so apt for the ex-PM, then and now.

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You Are My Penguin

You Are My Penguin

Regular price $14.95 Sale

- Printed on both sides

- 11 oz and 15 oz sizes available

- Microwave and dishwasher safe

- High quality ceramic mug made to last

Any of my designs can be customized to fit your needs. Just message me with your requirements :)

Thank you

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Create multidrawings

Last updated March 12, 2019 by Tekla User Assistance tekla.documentation@trimble.com

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Create multidrawings

Create multidrawings

You can create multidrawings of selected parts and of selected drawings. You can also create empty multidrawings and copy or link views in them from other drawings.

If you create multidrawings from existing drawings, you can choose to include their individual drawing layouts. If you want to have separate lists, tables, and call-offs for each part or assembly, you should include the individual drawing layouts. You can also include lists and tables for all parts or assemblies in the multidrawingdrawing that gathers together several drawings on one sheet

The individual drawings in a multidrawing may be of any drawing type.

Before creating a multidrawing, check the original assembly or single-part drawingdrawing that shows fabrication information for one part and that is generally used at the workshop

, and clean it up, if necessary. Do not modify the multidrawing object that links to the original drawing.

Before you start, you can set XS_MULTIDRAWING_REMOVE_VIEW_LABEL_GAP to TRUE in the Drawing Properties category of the Advanced Options dialog box to remove extra space between drawing viewview that includes selected model objects or an area in the model, that is represented in a drawing

A drawing view is a container for model and drawing objects.

A drawing can include several drawing views, which usually are two-dimensional views, plane views, to the model.

Examples of drawing views in Tekla Structures include main views, section views, single-part views, and 3D views.

labels and drawing views.

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Telecom services for home, office and on-the-road

With immediate effect, Télésonique offers a migration path to Swisscom® Fixed-line customers. The migration is transparent to the customer, and is free of charge. No installation or change of phone devices needed.

Customers will benefit from Télésonique’s Half-Price offer. All phone calls nationally and internationally will be discounted at 50% off Swisscom calling rates.

Moreover, customer have the option to add internet access of 10/1 Mbits/s for only 24.- Fr./month. Modem and activation fees are waived for the first 10’000 customers. Télésonique offers the customer one single invoice for all services; phone-line, calls, internet and mobile.

Télésonique SA entered the Swiss telecom market upon liberalisation in 1998, as one of the first alternative providers to the incumbent Swisscom. Télésonique has been a driving force in the telecom industry liberalisation and market education ever since. In addition to fixed network services, Télésonique also offers mobile, internet, VoIP  as well discounted offers for mobile devices like iPhone, iPad, dual-SIM Samsung smart phone and Galaxy Tab.

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Tennessee Mountain Stories

Tennessee Folklore in Weather Prediction

From Harry Lane’s Tennessee Memories

Among the interesting humor stories associated with weather in this area is the folklore of weather prediction.  There seem to be uncommonly many weather prognosticators in the Cumberland Plateau area, of whom the best known may be Mrs. Hellen Lane of Crab Orchard.  Many observers might readily ascribe this lore to ignorance and superstition, but there is little doubt that some folk wisom is derived from keen observation of nature.  Perhaps the long-range prognostication is not god, but it has been shown that close study of nature can often produce short-term weather forecasts with reasonable accuracy.  For example, there is an old belief that when Lookout Mountain (a continuation of Walden Ridge, part of the Cumberland Plateau) “has its’ cap on,” it will rain in about six hours.  Experience has shown that when the sky “lowers,” that is, when the cloud ceiling decreases, rain commonly follows in a short time; so this piece of folk wisdom is a reasonable prediction.

Another example of weather-forecast wisdom sometimes set forth by Tennessee prognosticators is that swallows and bats will fly closer to the ground before a rain.  This seems to be true, since these birds (and mammals, as bats are!) have sensitive inner-ear mechanisms, and a sudden drop in air pressure preceding a rain may cause them to seek the somewhat higher pressure that is found near ground level.

Still another piece of weather lore that has validity is the saying that when katydids say “Kate,” they announce the nearness of frost.  It has been demonstrated that the katydid call slackens from “Kate-ee-did-n’t” at 87° F to “Kate” at 58°F, to muteness at 55°F or below.  It follows that the gradual cooling of air in autumn will eventually silence these insects as frost approaches.  The same thing is true of the chirps of crickets.

As for the presumed associations between other natural phenomena and weather events, the writer can claim no proofs for the accuracy of studies involving wooly worms, spider webs, the number of fogs in August, and many other such “keys!” Society would be poorer, however, without such colorful weather folklore.


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Created in the spirit of sustainability, permaculture and environmental responsibility in order to offer conscious travel experiences in the most exotic destinations around the world.
We travel, we change ourselves, we change others, we grow together.

April 29th to May 8th 2019

March 22 - March 31, 2020

  • Cayley, California, 2018

    “ I went to Brazil May 2018 and the experience was amazing. Ari and Ryan took care of everything. Everyone was so open and kind. Food was incredible, and I'm not vegan; accommodations were just rustic enough to feel like an adventure, without actually having to forgo comforts. Swimming under a waterfall was one of the most incredible experiences of my life. I got to experience a piece of the culture. My only critique was that I definitely recommend more Maracatu! ”
  • Jeffrey, Maryland, 2018

    “ I went on the Terra Retreat to Brazil in May and it was one of the greatest experiences of my life so far. Ari did a fantastic job of curating the entire experience from the lodging, the hikes, plan{e}t medicine ceremonies and morning yoga, everything was perfect. Not to mention, the food was off the charts amazing(If you went just to eat you'd be happy you did). Throughout the retreat I was given space to expand into a more full expression of my truest self and that in of itself is absolutely priceless. Ari is dedicated to making sure that all of the participants' needs and desires are met and she is absolutely one of the most generous and loving souls I have ever been in contact with. If you feel even slightly called to it, I can say for sure that this is a space you can put your fullest trust into and upon returning home you will find you have gotten much more out of it than you ever could have put in. Take the leap! “
  • Austin, Connecticut, 2018

    “ Ari really sets the bar high when it comes to yoga retreats. Truth be told it was actually allot more than just a “yoga retreat” Each day was jam packed with so much fun and adventure. Not to mention 3 nights of ayahuasca/ kambo ceremonies , needless to say our scheduled rest days were much appreciated. All in all my time in Brazil was something special I will cherish the rest of my life. Super grateful to have gotten to meet all the amazing people who participated in the retreat. By the end of the 10 days we had become like a little family which made an already awesome trip even better. To Ari, thanks again for everything! best of luck with your future Terra Retreats and I hope to participate in one again soon! “


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Celebrating Four Years Blogging with WordPress

“Blogs are whatever we make them. Defining ‘Blog’ is a fool’s errand.”

Michael Conniff

Four years with WP

Mmm … I think you are stuck with me WordPress because I’m not sure what I would do without you now!  Thanks for having me aboard.

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Supermarket Shopping in Stilettos

I often wonder how I come across to fellow shoppers when I'm stomping around the supermarket in my super comfy dog-walking loafers and a face like thunder?   You cannot escape supermarket shopping, however much you hate doing it. They provide everything we need to keep ourselves alive, although, maybe not the freshly baked doughnuts.... Continue Reading →

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Phishing – Make sure you don’t take the bait!

Unfortunately today’s world is a place where it seems that you need to be on the lookout and wary of anyone or anything that seems a little different or unexpected. The reason for this to be the case is the countless number of scams that are becoming more common place. The main goal of these scams – attempt to gain access to either personal information (for identity theft purposes) or financial benefit. One of the most successful methods that scammers use is ‘phishing’.

Phishing has cost many Australian businesses. Be aware of the threat and protect your critical data!

What is Phishing?

Phishing is an attempt to gain access to personal or sensitive information from someone. The types of information that are of interest to the party performing the scam includes but not exclusive to usernames, passwords, financial details (such as bank account or credit card numbers).

The actual name of phishing is intentionally the same as fishing in a sense. The scammer casts a net or sets bait in the hopes of catching a victim – just as a fisherman does when attempting to catch a fish.

How does the whole process start?

The main ways that this is implemented is through fake e-mails and websites designed to deceive the user. These forms of communications usually appear to be from a legitimate source or trusted company that the user may have dealings with.

Malicious links contained within e-mails or websites Mimicked types of sites and e-mails can appear to come from legitimate sources such as social media sites (such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn), financial organisations (banks or online payment companies like PayPal) or even government organisations (particularly taxation based departments).

Overall; phishing comes under the umbrella of social engineering. There are three highly popular techniques of phishing:

Spear: This is basically a direct targeted attack on a particular individual; gaining access to and using personal information about the person they target to increase the likelihood of success.

Cloning: This is where a legitimate e-mail is spoofed exactly; however the attachment or links within the e-mail have been replaced by tainted links or contents of the document. Aimed to lean on the user’s social trust since the source appears legitimate.

Whaling: Similar to spear phishing above; whaling is when the target is high-profiled. This means that the target could be an executive level employee or some type of ‘celebrity’ with publicly documented information about them being available (current news stories, etc.)

Why is it so popular?

As with anything that has a potential financial windfall at the end of it; phishing is popular due to how easy it is to scale. Having the ability to be able to connect many potential victims with the use of one scam.

In the information security industry; it’s widely recognised that the main weakness in any IT security system is the human element. All it takes is one unsuspecting user, employee or contractor not paying attention for a phishing attack to become successful.

Some 2019 Australian Phishing Statistics

The Australian Government encourages the public to report any potential scams which they may come across through their ScamWatch system. This could include phone, text message or online scamming.

Based on their current figures up to the beginning of April 2019; the Australian Government has had over 6400 phishing scams reported (second most of all types of scams) – with around 1.6% (or 100 individual reports) confirmed as having caused financial losses of close to AU$300,000 (with over $25 million lost across all scam types).

The other interesting statistics that comes from this is that the age demographics are all about even (other than a spike in the 65+ age bracket) with over 95% of reported scam attempts have come from the three most popular catagories:

  • Phone call
  • E-mail
  • Text Messages

With those types of financial gains being made; there isn’t any reason for scammers to stop doing what they’re doing.

How to avoid taking the bait…AKA User Training

End users are the weak link that phishing scams rely on to be successful. Training your users effectively to stop this!

Your IT department; or IT service provider will have methods to prevent and protect from cyber security threats. Some of these include:

  1. Ensuring that Anti-virus is installed on all desktops, servers and devices.
  2. A firewall of some form is between the local network and the Internet.
  3. Running regular updates on operating systems and software packages to close potential security flaws.
  4. Implementing a spam filter on company e-mail servers and e-mail clients.

While these will go a long way in preventing cyber threats from being able to get into the network – none are 100% assured to catch everything. This is where user training is important. Things that are important to cover include:

  • What to look for/identifying a potential scam.
  • How to deal with the potential scam entry point (e-mail, phone call, etc.)
  • Understanding the potential risks of falling for a phishing scam.

It may be part of your IT departments requirements to train staff on this type of thing; or you could opt to bring in an outside company that specialises in staff training around cyber security to do this.

Real Life Phishing Attack Examples

There are a number of real life examples of phishing that can be mentioned.

2018 Soccer World Cup Tickets and Accommodation

In the lead up to the soccer world cup in Russia during June 2018; there were a number of e-mail scams going around claiming that people had won tickets to matches held during the tournament. To go along with this; accommodation in Russia during the time period was also a popular topic that scammers used to hook their targets with.

Sextortion E-mails (Scare Scam)

A newer style of phishing technique is sending a random e-mail claiming to have hacked your personal computer (be it a desktop or laptop). Then they’ve made a recording from the webcam associated with the computer they gained access to and caught you watching adult content in compromising positions.

Should you not pay; then the video will be shared with all your contacts (where the scare scam comes in).

An example of these types of e-mails can be found on Spiceworks; an IT professionals community and forum.

The best methods to undertake to prevent this from even being plausible is by covering any webcam or video recording device that you have connected to your devices; and to close off microphone ports or install micblocking software. It’s also best to implement some form of Two Factor Authentication (2FA) to prevent unauthorised access to your systems or network (even if they get a username and password).

Fake Financial Institution E-mails

If you search for ‘bank phishing scams’ then you’ll see that each of the large Australian banks all provide information about the latest scams where their branding is associated. These include NAB, Commonwealth Bank, Westpac and ANZ.

The best thing to do if you receive a banking type communication you’re not expecting is to delete the e-mail and contact that institution directly for clarification. The most important thing to remember:

Covering your business with Cyber Security

Test My Backups is focused on providing small to medium businesses affordable data protection and business continuity systems and techniques. This is to ensure that should any business fall victim to data loss or cyber attack; that they’re not left having to count the cost of IT system downtime or contribute to the already large sums collected from Australian businesses through Cyber Scams.

If you found this article to be informative; share and follow our social media accounts. Should this have raised any questions around your businesses resilience to cyber attack – list them below and join the conversation!


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P1010785Welcome to tgolden.com a place that keeps track of the activities and resources offered byTom Golden, LCSW. You can scroll down and see the various posts or use the top navbar to check out each individual page. Resources include Tom’s original web site for the bereaved webhealing.com. Built in 1995 it was the first interactive web site helping those who were bereaved. There is a page for Tom’s private practice in Gaithersburg Md and also a page about his online consultations.
Tom’s new video site which houses hours of engaging vids on healing from loss has a page that also includes his books. There is also a page focusing on Tom’s speaking which offers a free 20 minute video on the basics of healing through the masculine side.

I hope you find this resource helpful.  Please do offer your feedback. We’d love to hear it.

What say thee?


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Joe Doering Strengthens Kathrein’s Executive Board

ROSENHEIM, Germany, Jan. 8, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Kathrein, leading international specialist for reliable, high-quality communication technologies, is reinforcing their board of directors on 1st March 2015. Joe Doering will be switching from Swisslog Holding AG to the Rosenheim based family-owned company where he will be in charge of Sales and Marketing. One of his most important tasks will involve setting up the company’s new international sales structure.

Thanks to the new organisation, Kathrein is going to intensify the contact to customers and address the regional market demands even better. "We are thrilled to have gained a professional as extraordinarily experienced and skilled as Joe Doering," stated Anton Kathrein, CEO of the Kathrein Group. "His extensive knowledge will optimally enhance the skills of our executive board. Our leadership team is now complete." The members of the board will continue to share responsibility for sales and marketing issues until Mr. Doering starts on March 1st.

Joe Doering (44) has a wealth of experience in the fields of communications technology, sales and marketing. During a period of ten years, the graduate engineer held various high-profile positions at the Siemens AG. He functioned as Head of Strategy at Siemens Communications as well as Head of Central Sales at the Siemens land-line unit ICN. At Nokia Siemens Networks (NSN), he was in charge of promoting business in regional markets. Mr. Doering’s last position was on the board of directors at Swisslog AG, being responsible for Warehouse & Distribution Solutions.

"I am really looking forward to taking on interesting new tasks at Kathrein," said Mr. Doering. "Joining a leading international specialist for communication technology is an exciting challenge. I hope to add my personal experience so that Kathrein can continue to write their success story, expand their presence in international markets and remain the first choice for customers as a renowned, highly-qualified solution and system provider."

About Kathrein

Kathrein is a leading international specialist for reliable, high-quality communication technologies. They are an innovation and technology leader in today’s connected world. Their products and solutions enable people all over the world to communicate, access information and use media, whether at home, at the office or on the road. From mobile communications, signal processing systems and optimised data transmission in buildings, to fibre optic and cable networks and satellite reception technology, to radio and TV transmission and data reception in cars. As a hidden champion and family-owned enterprise, we have been working on the technologies of tomorrow since 1919. We take pride in our dedicated employees and our passion for customers and quality. You will find more information about Kathrein on

Kathrein press contact
Gisela Bauer-Stieber
Anton Kathrein Str. 1-3
83022 Rosenheim
Telephone: +49(0)8031-184-826
Fax: +49(0)8031-184-649

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My Three Words for 2019

It’s that time of year again….when we resolve to do lots of new things.  When we decide we need to make changes in our lives, in our businesses and in our careers. But on the whole, new year’s resolutions simply don’t work, because they’re not specific and because we don’t really commit to them.  Which means in very little time, often even within a few short weeks, they’ve been forgotten, or quietly dropped!

And this is why, for the third year running I’ve done something different.  I’ve chosen three words to act as my compass for the year (see My 2018 Three Words, and request my ‘Three Words for 2017’ pdf if you’d like more background info).

Not just any old words, however!

My three words have personal meaning to me and will help guide me (daily when necessary), in the right direction, helping me achieve the lifestyle and business results I truly want.

Using three, rather than one word, has been a huge help these past few years.  Not only in terms of better results, but also in keeping my goals tangible and at the forefront of my mind.  And even more importantly, being a touchstone - an easy connection to how I wanted to be living my life and showing up in the world.

My Approach

I add my three new words to my daily productivity planner, as a constant reminder of my focus and intention for the year.  Allowing me to check in at the start of every working day, and at certain points throughout the day.  And helping keep the words (and what’s most important to me) front and centre, grounding me in the specific work that needs to be done, both internally in terms of mindset and state, and externally by way of actions

My Process

As always I start with a review of the previous year, to let go of what no longer serves me and to appreciate all the achievements, learning and positives from 2018.  I also write my Success Letter (a future-dated letter to myself) to get into a joyful feeling and positive frame of mind, before I set my three words and establish my goals for the coming year.

This year was slightly different, in that my three words came to me in December, as I was journalling.  That said, I did take a little time to consider whether these three words in particular would help influence my choice of actions in a positive way.  Whether they’d encourage me to make decisions in line with my goals and intentions, and also whether they’d be likely to guide me towards the kind of life I want to live and towards the results I want to experience over the next 12 months.  And they passed the test!

My Three Words for 2019

Simple -  As someone who loves simplicity, and who is attracted to serene, clutter-free environments, I recognise that I have a tendency to overcomplicate.  I start with simple thoughts or concepts, and in the exploration or communicating of it, it can be easy to lose that essence of simplicity. Can you relate?  ‘Simple’ is a reminder to bring myself back to the point, to not lose focus on what’s important, and to help myself and others keep the main thing the main thing!  And let the rest go…

Authentic - This has a deeper meaning for me now.  In my business, it means being completely unconcerned with appearances; trusting that those I can help best will be drawn to me when I’m fully myself, sharing my message from my heart, using my intuition and inner wisdom, and interacting with everyone from a place of service.  It’s about keeping me connected to myself, about focusing inward to be of better service to others, and about demonstrating authenticity and alignment with and for my clients and community.

Playful - Play was one of my three words a few years ago, and this variation is a reminder to me to be more playful in life generally.   To make playfulness an enquiry on a regular basis, to lighten up, smile and laugh even more. To offer a different perspective on problems and challenges.  Because I always want my work and life journey to be enjoyable. And because joy is infectious!

These three words work together too…

Authentic and Playful remind me of who I want to be and how I want to act.  Simple brings me back to why.  And it also reminds me of what I need to focus on today and every day.

So those are my three words for 2019.  What about you?  What three words will you chose that have real meaning to you, and will act as your guideposts for the year ahead?  I’d love to know...


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Wedeman exhibits dimensions of wellness 1

Megan Palumbo & Danielle HoganCo-editor-in-chief & 1851 staff

“Re ection” by Dianne Freeman displayed how she reconnected with a past lover and ignited a part of her she previously denied. Photo by Danielle Hogan

This month, the Wedeman Gallery in Yamawaki featured “Wellness: Art for Physical and Emotional Healing.” This exhibit featured artists from Unbound Visual Art based in Allston-Brighton. Artists featured in this exhibit live and create in the Greater Boston area including Newton, Chestnut Hill, Brookline, and Cambridge.

The art reflects different interpretations of wellness. According to the National Wellness Institute, there are six dimensions of wellness: emotional, spiritual, intellectual, social, physical, and occupational. The artists depicted various concepts of wellness for themselves such as nature, nutritious food, anxiety, and others.

Executive Director of Unbound Arts, Inc. John Quatrale curated the gallery. “We want people to think about the various aspects in their own life. What aspects of wellness are they good at, which ones are they not so good at, and this gives them a reminder ‘oh yeah I have to get outside more’ or ‘I need to have more relationship.’ But you can also just look at it for its beauty,” he said.

“Reflection, a Self-portrait” by Dianne Freeman created a memoir through art. According to Quatrale, Freeman was homeless for many years, but holds an art education. The piece tells the story of how she reconnected with a past lover “who stirred in me part of my womanhood I had been denying.”

“Wellness” puts the meaning behind a picture holds a thousand words. Each piece holds a unique understanding of the aspects of wellness through art. “I think [wellness] is more important than happiness, when you get right down to it. Wellness will create happiness,” Quatrale said.

This was a brilliant exhibit to schedule for this time of year as the days grow shorter and colder. Students are drowning in the midst of mid-semester activities and the Wedeman Gallery provides a  visual “Wellness” space for students. The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday 1-4 p.m.

“Reactions” provokes thoughts Reply

By Pavel Zlatin – 1851 Staff

Brianna Tepper’s “Reactions” was displayed in the Wedeman Art Gallery from November 4-8 and featured pieces from emerging artists in the area. Photo courtesy of Vladimir Zimakov

On Saturday, November 4, Brianna Tepper’s exhibit titled “Reactions” opened at the Wedeman Art Gallery. The artist’s reception featured various performers who shared their poems, songs, and stories with the audience.  More…

PHOTOS: Le Lam debuts at Wedeman Gallery Reply

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Photos by Jeniffer Bispo – Staff Photographer

On Sunday, September 20 Wedeman gallery held the opening reception for “Le Lam: Sketches from the South”. Artist Le Lam’s work reveals what everyday life was like in Vietnam from 1965 to 1974 in the form of portraits and battlefield scenes. This is the artist’s first showing in the United States and will remain in the gallery until Saturday, October 3.


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10 Fall Fundraising Ideas to Gather Loved Ones Around

10 Fall Fundraising Ideas to Gather Loved Ones Around

Fall is the time for gathering. Be it around a fire, dinner table, or football field, fall has a way of bringing us together to celebrate abundance.

With everyone already getting together to give thanks and share some love, this season is a perfect time for your organization to host a themed fundraising event. Get your creative juices flowing with our list of fun fall fundraising ideas.

1. Harvest Dinner

Organize a dinner featuring local chefs and businesses. For example, serve a sample of beverages from a local brewery or liven things up with a local musician. Sell tickets for a seat at the table and attract sponsors by offering to promote their brand on event paraphernalia and on your donation and registration pages.

The Emilio Nares Foundation does a great job of promoting these perks to potential sponsors. On their Harvest for Hope event page, they outline exactly what sponsors will receive in exchange for their different donation sizes.

2. Pumpkin Carving Contest

intricately carved pumpkin

Nothing says “fall” quite like pumpkin carving!

Donations can come in the form of a registration fee to enter the contest. Then, either partner with local farmers for pumpkins or ask guests to “BYOP (Bring Your Own Pumpkin).”

On top of registration fees, the GUTS pumpkin-carving competition raises money every year to support the Make-A-Wish Foundation through a silent auction and food, drink, and merchandise sales. They also receive donations outside of the event, asking those who can’t attend to make a donation online.

3. Halloween or Thanksgiving Foot Races

A well-organized run/walk could be your most successful event of the year. Raise money for your organization with a “spook-tacular” 5K or a turkey trot (a well-established Thanksgiving day tradition for those of us not on kitchen duty). Ask participants to come in costume or bring a canned food item.

You can even organize a virtual 5K with an online fundraising platform. Virtual 5Ks ask participants to register to run a certain distance on their own, often in exchange for a T-shirt or finisher’s medal. This is a great way to scale the impact of a physical event and give runners the option to participate no matter where they are.

4. Grape Stomp or Winery Tour

‘Tis the season to stain your feet purple! Pair up with a nearby winery and sell tickets for both a tasting and entry into a grape stomping competition.

According to the Sonoma County Harvest Fair, where they host the annual World Championship Grape Stomp, the contest consists of teams of two. While one team member uses their feet to squish grapes in a barrel, the other assists the flow of the juice into a jug by cleaning skins away from the screen and pushing juice to the pipe. The first team to fill the jug is the winner. This event is great for participants and onlookers alike.

Empower participants to leverage their network for donations and ask stompers to fundraise a minimum amount for entry.

5. House Party

people wearing masks at roulette table

A house party can be a great way to interact with your supporters face-to-face and humanize the work of your organization. Host a costume party, casino night, haunted house, or a fall foods potluck. Sell tickets, snacks, and refreshments for a donation. Attendees can even donate to enter an apple bobbing or best dressed competition.

6. Pie Eating Contest

Everyone loves pie!

Appeal to a local bakery for donated pies, and offer publicity for their business in your communications, pamphlets, and online event page. Recruit a volunteer MC to amp up the theatrics and ask participants for a minimum gift amount to enter.

7. Giant Pumpkin Regatta

Believe it or not, you can have contestants race in giant, hollowed-out pumpkins on a body of water for a prize. We’re not kidding!

The organization Navigate hosted a Giant Pumpkin Regatta where organizations paid to have representatives race enormous pumpkin boats on Lake Champlain. In addition to the pumpkin race, they also hosted a festival with crafts, activities, and concessions to fuel their athletic participants.

8. Harvest Festival

ferris wheel

If you want to host a bigger fundraiser and attract large pools of supporters, a Harvest Festival can be a great way to raise awareness and gifts for your cause. Sell tickets for admission and booth space to vendors. Ask for sponsorships in exchange for brand promotion on event T-shirts, merchandise, or even within the festival name.

If your city already puts on a festival, reach out to the festival officials to form a partnership, or rent a booth and design an activity related to your cause to engage the crowd and ask for donations.

9. Chili Cook-Off

Sell tickets to both cook-off competitors and attendees who simply want to sample the chili. Appeal to prominent chefs to register for the competition or to sit on a judge panel. Large sponsors could also sit on the panel, or you can ask attendees to cast votes.

The Chili for Charity cook-off awards a number of different titles including a “People’s Choice,” “Best in Show,” and “Judged Chili.” Be sure to fork over a trophy and bragging rights to first place. This is also a great way to ward off the autumn chill!

10. Football Tournament

children playing flag football

With the football season underway, fall is great time to host a football tournament. Ask participants to start a team and recruit friends. Expand your event’s potential by creating multiple divisions.

The Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation offers detailed instructions on their website for hosting your own flag football fundraiser to fight childhood cancer. Offer multiple divisions (i.e. competitive, casual, and junior leagues) and charge each team a registration fee. ALSF recommends no more than $1,000 per team (10 people donating $100/each).

Mix it up: Instead of traditional football, hold a powderpuff tournament with female players and male cheerleaders, or even a quidditch tournament for Harry Potter fans. Don’t forget about your spectators: hot mugs of butterbeer will warm up the crowd.

With the holidays just around the corner, now is the perfect time to think about fall fundraising ideas for your organization. And with 10 great ideas like these, you’re sure to find something that will make your fundraiser a huge success.

Here at Aces Wild, we know fundraisers because we know parties! Our professional consultants, dealers, and entertainers are sure to create an event that’ll break records for your charity or organization. Contact us today to discuss how we can take your event to the next level.

By | 2018-07-10T15:40:33+00:00 August 16th, 2017|Fundraising, Tips & Advice|0 Comments

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Aces Wild Casino Parties is a casino event rental company servicing the Central Florida area with non-stop Vegas style casino entertainment. Services can be used for fundraising events, corporate retreats, teambuilding, networking events, and private functions such as; birthday, bachelor/bachelorette and holiday parties. With answers and guidance to all of your questions Aces Wild Casino Parties will ensure that your event is a complete success. Contact us today to “bring Vegas to your next event”

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The 5 Incredible Things You Need To Know About One Pot Camping Meals

When you comes to hiking and camping, there’s one thing that shouldn’t be absent in your backpack-foods, lots of it. The trips can last for a week or longer, thus, bringing ingredients for your meals can be a burden on its own.

Luckily, there’s a good trick that you can do in order to avoid bringing each and every item in your pantry just to enjoy your camping or hiking trip. The answer is by preparing one pot camping meals that you can easily cook without the needs of utilizing numerous ingredients.

The benefits of hiking include its ability to lower your risk of heart disease, improve your blood sugar levels and blood pressure, boost the density of the bone, strengthen the core area. Moreover, hiking may build strength in the muscles of lower legs, hips, glutes, hamstrings and other parts of the body.

On the other hand, camping is also beneficial and it turned out that it became a favorite activity of individuals who wants to break free from the hustle and bustle of the busy streets and their hectic schedule at work or school.

Camping allows you to spend time near a lot of trees and take more oxygen, get an ample amount of vitamin D from the sun. In additions, enjoying the beautiful scenery, lessen the stress level, and it is a good form of exercise and physical fitness activity that can aid in shredding away excess pounds and fats.

Therefore, if you want to be physically fit and healthy while getting the chance to appreciate the beauty and wonderful views of nature, you can try either camping or hiking, or why not both?

Here are 5 things you need to know about one pot camping meals to have great camping trips.

1. Blessings for Constant Campers and Hikers

Blessings for Constant Campers and Hikers

To tell you frankly, if you want to start your venture in the wonderful world of going out on an adventure and exploring the great outdoors. Whether it is camping or hiking, one pot camping meals can save you from starving.

Many first time campers and hikers tend to over pack and bring too many foods and ingredients thinking that their supplies might not last. They don’t have any other means to purchase and ingredients and restock. Well, whether you admit or not, most probably, you’re also guilty with that, am I right?

One pot camping meals are blessing delivered straight from heaven, kidding aside. If you want to travel light yet prepared, keeping food ingredients on your list of things that you should bring is a must.

It also helps to settle for one pot camping meals because, most of the time, the energy you can get from these are enough to help you enjoy your whole trip or journey.

2. Simplicity and Easily to Cooked

Simplicity and Easily to Cooked

The major advantages of one pot camping meals over the others are the fact that it can be easily cooked, prepared with simplicity, and requires little or no cleanup. Because of these major advantages, professional hikers and campers prefer to bring one pot camping meals.

It is also highly advisable to settle for one pot camping meals instead of the dehydrated ingredients such as meats, fruits, and vegetables since it contains a few vitamins and nutrients that campers and hikers will need.

For the campers and hikers who are fond of energetic and dynamic activities during the trip, the one pot camping meals are the best option.

3. Safety and Nutrition

Safety and Nutrition

Believe it or not, one pot camping meals doesn’t just take pride in being easily cooked and prepared. As a matter of fact, most of the one pot camping meals readily available these days are delicious and can pass the standards of picky eaters.

If you’ve been hesitating to give one pot camping meals a try because it looks boring and plain. Why don’t you try the cheesy asparagus one pot orzo, one pot chicken pilaf, cheesy bacon onion mashers, creamy chicken and mushroom rice, and the red pepper curry chicken and olive couscous?

4. Many Recipes to Try During Adventures

Many Recipes to Try During Adventures

If you’ve been hiking or camping for quite a long time, you are already near the verge of experiencing a lack of interest to eat because of the same old recipes you eat. Well, you’re fortunate because you and your appetite don’t have to suffer anymore.

The Food Network and BBC Good Food offer numerous one pot camping meals recipes that you can try and enjoy. For instance, the former shares a compilation of simple and classic dishes such as the beef stroganoff, vegetarian chili with butternut squash, skillet chicken lasagna, three-pepper chicken chili, one skillet trout with green beans, mushroom risotto, pan-roasted pork chop with pan gravy among others.

On the other hand, BBC Good Food’s take includes meals that are suitable for campers and hikers of all ages. We fancy their easy recipes for store cupboard corn pancakes, lemon French toast with poached plums, mushroom stroganoff on toast, sticky cider and mustard sausage wheel with box grater salad, marshmallow, and strawberry kebabs, and hot caramel malted milk.

Without a single doubt, you don’t have to worry about the one pot camping meals that you will try because there are numerous recipes that are worth trying.

5. Don’t Require Special Kitchen Tools

Don't Require Special Kitchen Tools

For a trip that will last for at least 4 days, it is burdensome to bring additional kitchen tools and equipment like the Optimus Svea Stove or the Halulite microdualist. When it comes to usage of tools and equipment, one pot cooking meals are truly advantageous since it can be cooked and prepared with a little or less relying on an equipment or two.

One pot camping meals can be cooked using a single pan and it doesn’t require any special or specific kitchen tool or equipment. Aside from that, one pot camping meals can be cooked in a short span of time.

So, it is not a hassle to prepare good meals and dishes while enjoying your outdoor trips and activities, may it be with your friends, colleagues, families, or loved ones. Your meals don’t have to be a problem or burden while you’re enjoying the beauty of nature and the trails.

The one pot camping meals are a really popular trend because it offers different advantages and benefits over the usual meals we prepare for our family and loved ones.

In your next camping or hiking trip, instead of bringing dehydrated meals, check out your pantry and determine which foods or ingredients are suitable to make a meal that can be prepared in an instant without the needs of losing the substance and its deliciousness.

 I would love to try your favorite one pot camping meals on my next outdoor adventure. So, feel free to drop in the comment and share the one pot camping meals recipe that you can be proud of.
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Louise Brown
Hi buddy! I’m Louise. As a lover of the outdoors, crafting a blog about traveling and adventure is a bit of a stretch for me. I truly love to be outside, so getting in front of the computer takes me away from my passion. But, it’s important for me to share what I love so others can get out and appreciate the outdoors, too.
Louise Brown

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Mirror glaze chocolate brownie, caramel and passion fruit gateaux

Brownie Entremet

Come and join us in this hands on and interactive class and learn how to make a beautiful caramel milk chocolate based gateaux, incorporating layers of passion fruit and caramel to create a wonderful combination of textures and flavours.

You will learn how to design a mousse-based cake from the beginning, considering textures, layers and flavour combinations. We have designed this class in such a way that you will be able to replicate the cake both in a home or in a professional environment.

What you will learn:

  • how to make a decadent chocolate brownie base
  • how to make a light and smooth caramel milk chocolate mousse, suitable to be used in cakes
  • how to make a caramel cremeux
  • how to make a passion fruit jelly based insert
  • how to make a shiny glaze
  • how to glaze an gateaux like a professional
  • how to make modern decorations to finish your entremet with style and finesse.

You will leave this class with your own chocolate brownie, caramel and passion fruit gateaux in hand to share with family and friends.

A detailed recipe book is provided as part of the course.

Please ensure to familiarise yourself with our terms & conditions.

Entry Requirements

There are no entry requirements for this course.

Choose your start date

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Be Empowered By Aroma Therapy

Aromatherapy: The use of fragrant botanical oils for physical, psychological and spiritual well-being.

From as early as 4,500 before the common era, essential oils (powerful, concentrated organic compounds extracted steam-distilled or cold-pressed from plant flowers, fruit, resins, roots and bark) have been recognized for their natural healing powers that promote health and well-being. Powers over physical ailments and powers over emotional issues. Their fragrances soothe, heal, and invigorate the mind and body. Aromas act on the deepest parts of the brain and the central nervous system to enhance mood and emotions to relieve depression and anxiety and restore emotional wellness.

Their chemical constituents include antioxidants which encourage radiant health when used correctly. They have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-parasitic properties. With hundreds of vitamins and other compounds, essential oils act as adaptogens which promote homeostasis. Essential oils are non-greasy and require only a few drops to have tremendous effects on emotional well-being, physical health or spiritual mindfulness. They easily penetrate deeply into the skin such that simple topical use with a carrier oil stimulates healing throughout the body as the compounds journey within. Using focused medicinal massage techniques, they stimulate the nervous system to release congestion and re-balance areas of the body affected by stress. With absorption into the bloodstream, these oils ease aches, pains, injuries while enhancing cellular renewal, blood circulation and effective detoxification for deep healing.

It is said that the sense of smell reaches the soul faster than any other sense. After all, scripture tells us that “Life” was breathed into Man. So it stands to reason that inhalation of “prana” leads to an enlivening of the “soul” … even enlightenment! Add to that an exquisite aroma and you gain a recipe for triggering emotional and even physical responses to help transform moods and move through different states of mind.

In the following video, Dr. Josh Axe and Jordan Rubin discuss essential oils nicely:

As you may have learned, many of these essential oils have powerful antibacterial and antiviral properties that surpass pharmaceutical variants in that they do not leave behind nor generate dangerous toxins for the body to deal with eventually. Essential oils are truly gifts to us through Nature.

Check out what Vanderbilt Hospital found when they began incorporating aromatherapy in their emergency room space:

But remember, it is important to use them correctly! There is a lot of unfounded as safe information floating around due to the success of two referral marketing companies whose associated distributors have been leading the way to knowledge about these Gd-given miracles. Unfortunately, their sole interest is to convince as many others as possible to peddle as many oils as possible … even while making claims as to their use that may be false. Always seek the help of a competent, certified authority when you need answers to important questions. As a general rule, though you will find some authorities knowledgeable in the use of essential plant oils internally, it is not the method of use recommended by aromatherapists. Not to say that one should never take an botanical oil internally. Just be sure to be in direct consultation with a responsible, competent authority.

It should be known that there is an effort at this very moment to help raise finishing funds to complete an independent aromatherapy documentary that seeks to deepen dialogues, dispel myths, empower engagement and encourage informed relationships with essential oils and their use in aromatherapy. Watch this preview:

Commonly Used Essential Oils

There are many options to consider, but here are some popular ones:

  • Bergamot is a citrus-scented oil that helps lower stress and anxiety levels.
  • Cedarwood has a woody fragrance. While its scent can help you relax, it can also aid in respiratory problems.
  • Chamomile, often consumed in tea, is known for its calming effects. But this essential oil can also help lift your mood.
  • Eucalyptus has cooling qualities and is used as a natural decongestant for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.
  • Jasmine is a sweet-smelling essential oil used to reduce stress and anxiety, as well as boost libido.
  • Lavender, soothing and calming, is often used for relaxation and to ease insomnia.
  • Lemon not only increases energy and focus, but boosts your immune system and promotes healthy digestion.
  • Peppermint is energizing and refreshing, and it can improve concentration and help relieve headaches and nausea.
  • Rosemary is a stimulating essential oil that can boost mental activity and sharpen your focus. It’s also used to ease pain and cramping.
  • Sandalwood can help release tension and increase your sex drive.
  • Tea tree oil can have an uplifting effect and help calm your mind.

Do you want to know what may be the Top 10 Essential Oils to keep on hand? See this:

By now, you may be thinking that you would like to have some of these gems on hand. Here you will access a very high quality source of 100% certified pure, therapeutic grade essential oils, much less expensive than those in the M.L.M. lineup. Eden’s Garden also has perhaps the most intriguing line of botanical body oils and perfumes that can have men “delirious” with desire after smelling product smart women “sporting” them. Here’s what The Healing Cave Lady had to say:

Obviously, if you want to smell amazing without being toxic to your body, E.G.’s could easily supply you with what you want. Phenomenal perfumes, deodorants, body oils, etcetera could all be found at really good prices. These guys are at the top of the game! Smell good and be therapeutically benefited at the same time. It’s awesome.

How would the following tickle the fancy of your best friend?

Gemstones and perfume come together beautifully in these Perfume Bottle Necklaces! Take the power of aromatherapy on the go!These stunning pieces will allow you to take your favorite fragrances with you anywhere that you go, and will infuse your most beloved perfumes with the power of the gemstone that you receive. Each necklace comes with a dram of Sage Goddess Signature Perfume and a dropper, all ready to infuse you, them or significant others with doses of enchantment and wonder.

Let’s consider too the cleaning aspects of essential plant oil use. Their antimicrobial properties provide adequate replacements. Toxins can hide out in your cleaning supplies, cookware, beauty products and more. While you may be leading an otherwise healthy lifestyle, some toxic household products can derail your health journey. Five are:

  1. Bleach ( Use Lemon Oil, Tea Tree Oil and White Distilled Vinegar instead)
  2. Antibacterial Chemicals (Use Castile soap or Alcohol enhanced with essential oils)
  3. Scented Candles and Air Fresheners (Use Essential Oil Diffusers or Baking Soda infused with Citrus or Tea Tree oils)
  4. Talcum Powder (Use Organic Cornstarch infused with choice essential oils)
  5. Non-Stick Chemicals (Use Stainless Steel or Cast iron with Avocado, Coconut oil or Ghee)

Doc Axe tells more in this video:

The bottom line leaves us with a feeling of promise to the hope that we can achieve and maintain well-being with the right attitude toward being. Good old fashioned olfactory based approaches to enriching our environments can be just what The Good Lord bade.

Check out The Sage Goddess for 19% New Year savings on her exotic perfumes.

Is Love or Infatuation Fueling Your Actions?

We constantly hear people saying how much they love this and that or how’d they love to . . . But what is love really? A funny thing sometimes and supposed to be fun. But how do we qualify the experience and differentiate it from an illusion . . . from infatuation?

Because while infatuation presents the feelings of love, it is unbridled and uncontrollable. Very intense and usually short-lived since it is not based on reason and is rather blind to the real truths of the matter. Honest, mature love can actually result from infatuation given the right circumstances, such as by incorporating reason and reaching mature perspectives. But most “young minds” simply function on autopilot and don’t give deep thought to how their “vehicle” is being driven. The important aspect is that it drives them . . . sometimes to madness.

This immaturity has relevance to all facets of our emotional being. We tend to get caught up in the natural “slings and swings” of life without thinking before we act. It’s natural, what else can we expect. But let’s take our lives to their limits. Why not be supernatural? Going beyond the boundary of pure instinctual behavior and raising the notch of the ladder to what we can accomplish. Why live a mediocre lifestyle in “primitive” servitude to unbridled energy motions? What if there is a way to rise above the mundane and live more sane? To make sense out of nonsense by adding controls to actions and reactions.

This is the function of taking stock of who you are and how you want to be alive. When it comes to something or someone we want, we have to dig deep rationally and analyse from many different perspectives how the object of our attention actually fits into the equation we formulated for ourselves. Why are we so passionate about it and would life really be better if it was also part and parcel of the baggage we must carry? After all, during the journey to our destinations, we must have the right provisions for the way.

It’s hard for me to say that I love what I do but I do love who I am. That’s why it is so important for me to select what I take into my life with an eye on how my innards move me. Is it true romantic love I experience or infatuation with a fantasy. I take time to think on it, hopefully with intelligence. As I have mentioned before, one of my “secret weapons” is the use of therapeutic essential oils. What these do for me is instill a conscious focus throughout the day, for a few hours at least, on the purpose intended by their use. I smell the fragrance and am reminded of what I desire of it to do to me. On a subconscious level, I imagine being aligned with my desired outcome and however “the universe” manifests its greatness, I hope to be open.

I have been working with many mixtures, but those that I think elicited major breakthroughs in my “be”-ing are called “Awaken” and “Into the Future“. Of course, it may not have been the use of the oils that is doing the trick. But they sure don’t hurt! It could simply be my firm resolve to evoke a change in my being for the better. But I am learning to “love” including them in my daily regimens. Not just the aforementioned oils but a number of others as well just for the fun of it. For those of you who are interested in checking this out for yourselves, consider downloading the free app, Aromatherapeutic Essentials. It will be a tremendous help to those wanting to know more about the world of essential plant oil usage.

In another light, it can be found that people get excited about a new opportunity and feel gung ho and all about it in the beginning, only to let the feeling whimper out and fade away, especially when another opportunity comes along. That’s infatuation at work. What those folk really need is to apply good reasoning and come to the conclusion why to or why not to be involved with their new “fling” or sought after “life partner”. Being faithful and persevering with the “partner” that you find to love and is loving you back has great rewards. Doing so could save a lot of angst, wasted time and money. After all, a viable and enduring partner in the pursuit of life’s pleasures eliminates boredom and provides support and encouragement during times of need. Straying from that only brings sorrows in its wake.

Wisely know what you want and why, then stick to your method in getting it and then maintain having it. This is the way to true honest fulfillment in life with the quality of endurance. Love everlasting, we hope!

That Small Thin Voice of The Soul

Perhaps it can be considered that when we allow ourselves to be in touch with our souls, we step into a realm where our hectic lives disappear. Stopping momentarily to listen to our selves, gives us the opportunity to process the changes that we sense instinctively as those necessary for growth and fulfillment. When you take stock and take charge of where you are heading in life, you can then make sure you are heading in the right direction. The direction you most want to be in. Being is a present state. It is what you are at any given time. Who do you want to be? What does your inner voice tell you? Are you there yet? If not, what are you doing to be who you want to be how you want to be? If you have not yet, it’s time to start thinking about your goals in life.

The more time you give to listening to the inner voice of your soul, the more likely you are to hear the authentic messages you need to be paying attention to. It may take some time to get through all the irrelevant chatter, but if you write down all the things that are important for you to achieve, your subconscious mind will begin to steer you in the right direction. Straight to authentic and happy being.

I have to let you in though on one of my secrets. Well, maybe not so much of a secret, but something not generally considered nor thought about in most circles. The olfactory system, a fascinating, mysterious and complex component of our being related to scent, has a powerful influence on human emotions and the nervous system. Aromatherapy is the form of alternative medicine that uses plant materials and aromatic plant oils for the purpose of altering one’s mood, cognitive, psychological or physical well-being. I have been putting it to the test so to speak, playing around with different therapeutic plant oils. Based on their intended use, I apply these oils as drops on my undershirt (near the shoulders or in the chest area) and allow a sort of olfactory centered mental trance to take over for hours. The scent causes greater conscious focus on the purpose that the scent suggests as a result of its use, there is the subconscious induction that it works.

I must say, but I cannot prove it, that since I started “playing around” with these therapeutic scents, it appears I must be opening psychic channels to the physical fruition of needed events and occurrences! I don’t really know what made what to happen when, but I am finding myself listening to my small thin voice more attentively and hearing its whispers. Then I find out that I’m in fact being more the me I want to be being in the situations which I find myself. It’s really cool! Of course, It may have absolutely nothing to do with the oils at all … then again, there’s nothing wrong with a well-oiled machine!

If you have an interest in finding out for yourself, check out this new app. It reveals a lot and more of what you might want to know about therapeutic plant oils and their many healthful uses. Find out if they help you too! What does your small thin voice say?


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Hardware Stores

I have a lot of love for hardware stores, especially the old style one individually run by small business people which an amazing number still are. Popular mechanics has run this piece about the best hardware stores out there. Including an interview of a kid working in a store up the road from me.

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TMI(Too Much Information)

Rush mentioned this today. The scene is funny, but it illustrates an issue that, as somebody who has worked in a hardware store for ten years part time between contracts,  can be a problem.  Too much information.  You have to be able to read your customer and avoid overloading too much information on to them.

I would never dump that information on a customer.  Never mind that what he’s saying is nonsense.  As far as I know, you don’t typically worry about recoil in a nail gun.  In any case, I would never have sold him(her?) that tool, unless the customer insisted and that case, well I’ve dealt with foolish customers before.  But an important part of selling is being able to read the customer.  What the guy in the video is what my old boss would say was TMI, too much information.  Most customers don’t want an infodump. They just want a solution to their problem.  In this case I would probably assume that this somebody sent out by somebody else to replace a tool and given them the closest match as a quick in and out where I didn’t waste the contractor’s on the other end’s valuable time.  But that wouldn’t have made for good television.

Of course you could always go for the failure to communicate angle.


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“The future depends on what you do today.”
~Mahatma Ghandi

The future depends on what you do today.

I read this quote this morning, and even though I’ve read it before, something about seeing it today literally stopped me in my tracks.

It is so easy to let all the days blend together right now—with littles at home running us ragged, we are lucky if we survive till the end of the day with only a few minor injuries and a house still standing! And yes, I’m joking—but also really not joking!

Motherhood is NO JOKE. And if we don’t purposefully spend time on our personal goals and dreams, time will slip away from us.

And before you tell me that you feel guilty spending time on yourself right now, let me just ask this: What do you want for your children? Do you want them to set goals and follow their passions? Do you want them to live mindful, confident, and positive lives? Do you want them to truly know themselves so that they understand how beautiful and unique it is to follow their dreams? And not simply succumb to the pressure and peers around them?

You are your kids’ first role model.

Kids learn from example. And role models are essential. YOU are their first role model. If they don’t learn these essential skills from you, who will they learn it from?

The days are long, but the years are short right now. And time flies by faster and faster with each one. So let’s not let them slip away. Let’s mindfully approach each and every day. Let’s make a plan for TODAY, because your future depends on it…

We can do this! What is one thing you are going to do today to get you closer to your dream life? First thing off the top of your head…aaaaand….go!

Sign up for your weekly Soul Session!

If you’re needing a little extra inspiration, ladybug, you definitely should sign up for our weekly Soul Session email. In each one there is a short prompt for you—for your body, for your mind, and for your soul. Sometimes it’s a journal exercise, sometimes a work out tip, sometimes positive affirmations…always new, but always short and sweet. Because we are all busy, but it doesn’t take long to put the magic and whimsy and PASSION back in our daily life!

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Wedding Wows: The ultimate bridal beauty prep.

emily&jeff walking

Follow a regimen. Twice a day. Everyday.

This is the single most important thing you can do to get your skin to look its best.

What does an ideal regimen look like?
Cleanser + Toner + Serum + Eye cream + Moisturizer + Treatment (acne, spots, etc) + Sunscreen (in the mornings only).

Don’t skimp on any step. Think of it as a balanced meal for your skin. Every product has an important role to play. By removing one, you’re compromising on the health of your skin.

Stuff I ♥: Here’s a list of my absolute favourite products:
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel (for oily, sensitive and acne-prone skin) and Chanel Mousse Confort Rich Foaming Cream Cleanser (for dry, normal skin).
Toner: I’m simply obsessed with Forest Essentials Facial Toner Pure Rosewater.
Serum: Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair hydrates and repairs, while Skinceuticals CE Ferulic gives you the highest wattage glow!
Eye-cream: Kiehl’s Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado and Clarins Eye Revive Beauty Flash are simply fantastic.
Moisturizer: Forest Essentials Light Hydrating Facial Gel Pure Rosewater is a winner for oily, sensitive and acne-prone skin types, while La Mer is a must-have for dry skin types.
Acne Treatment: Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions Spot Treatment Gel is God sent.
Sunscreen: Both Neutrogena UltraSheer DryTouch Sunblock SPF 50+ and La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL SPF 50+ Dry Touch Gel-Cream Anti-Shine are really, really good.

Invest in high quality products.

Every product you touch to your skin should nourish it. If a product strips your skin or causes it to burn or leaves it red or makes you breakout, drop it immediately. It has no place in your regimen. You want products that love your skin and make it look and feel soft, plump and illuminated.

This doesn’t mean that you have to spend a fortune. If something you’re currently using works for you, then stick to it. But if you think you can do better, then find the best product out there to help you get the best skin you can have.

Steam your face.

If glowing, bright, healthy, flawless skin is what you are after (and come on, who isn’t?) then steaming should be a very important part of your beauty ritual.

This age-old practise does wonders for your skin. How?
1. Steaming improves blood circulation, giving you a warm healthy glow.
2. When you steam your face, you sweat out toxins.
3. By warming up the surface of your skin, you make it more receptive to treatments like masks, serums, acne topical ointments, etc.
4. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, steaming can make it clearer. The steam deep cleans your pores, helping your skin get rid of accumulated dead skin cells, oil and bacteria.
5. Steam softens and loosens blackheads and whiteheads.

When to steam?
Before putting on a mask or serum, after cleansing and exfoliating. Do it twice a week for not more than one minute.

How to steam?
You can simply boil a pot of water and then place your face over the pot, with a towel draped over your head to trap the steam. Or you could soak clean towels in hot water, wring them out and place the hot (make sure not too hot) towel over your face.

Exfoliate your face and body twice a week.

There’s a reason your skin always gets that afterglow everytime you exfoliate. You’re literally removing the dead skin cells that make your skin look dull and uneven. By exfoliating twice a week, you unclog pores, prevent fine lines and speed up the fading of acne scars, spots and other discolorations. Also, whatever products you use after exfoliation are absorbed far better by the skin and are therefore a lot more effective.

But don’t just focus on your face. The rest of you is equally important.
Scrub your entire body using circular motions as it’s more effective in freeing ingrowth hair and getting rid of those pesky bumps.
Spend extra time on drier parts like your elbows, knees and shoulders.
And buff that butt! Many women don’t scrub their bums as often as they should.

Indulge in a good scrub twice a week and your husband won’t be able to keep his hands off you. That’s called the perfect honeymoon 🙂

Take a break with a face mask.

Planning a wedding is stressful. Well, that’s an understatement…!
But if you’re stressed, your skin will be too.
So before it starts acting up, take action and slap on a face mask. It will calm you down too.

The mask you choose depends on what your skin needs at the time.
If it’s dry and dull, a sheet mask drenched in serum will give it that much-needed moisture boost.
If it’s greasy or acne-prone, a clay mask will pull out all the excess oil and deep clean your pores.

Use a mask atleast twice a week during these pre-wedding months to make your skin look more rested and brighter.

Don’t forget your neck and decolletage.

Your neck and cleavage are as much in focus as your face. Especially when you slip on your wedding dress and jewellery. So don’t neglect them even for a second.

Rule of thumb: Whatever goes on your face, also goes on your neck and decollete. Simple.

Start getting regular facials.

The best part about being a bride – you can indulge in some much-needed pampering. And nothing beats a facial.

Apart from being extremely relaxing (and which bride doesn’t need that?), a facial also increases blood circulation, improves collagen production, reduces puffiness and smoothens out fine lines. The professional extraction deep cleans your pores like nothing else can.

Always go to a professional who will tailor the facial to meet your skin’s needs.

Ideally, you should start 6 months before your wedding day, never at the last minute as you could breakout and that’s the last thing you want. Get a facial once a month and have your last pre-wedding facial approximately a week before the wedding. You don’t want to take any chances now.

emily&jeff kiss

Keep your kisser in perfect condition.

That first kiss as man and wife. You will remember it forever. So make sure it’s nothing short of perfect.

To get soft plump kissable lips, gently exfoliate your puckers every night with your toothbrush after you’ve brushed your teeth. Then immediately massage in a lip balm that will seal in the moisture and prevent your lips from chapping.

Stuff I ♥: Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream is just brilliant! I keep it in my bag at all times. The minute I feel my lips drying up, I just pat it on.

Shape your eyebrows.

It’s best to start a few months in advance, so you have enough time to get it right.
Thick eyebrows are the rage right now and you may want to grow yours out. Once they are all thick and ready, it’s time to shape them. Don’t try doing this at home. Go to a professional. They do it all day so they are less likely to make mistakes and can get you the perfect shape. Once you’ve arrived at the shape you love, stick to it till the end.

Tip: To thicken your eyebrows, apply a thin coat of castor oil over them every night. Other oils that also help are olive, almond and coconut. Alternate them for best results.

Lengthen your lashes.

Nothing says romance and femininity quite as well as long, thick eyelashes. To get those gorgeous flutterers, all you need is a cotton earbud and some oil.

At bedtime, soak the earbud in top grade castor or olive oil and coat your lashes. Wash it off in the morning. It’s really that simple. And it works. But give it a month or two to see maximum results.

Plan your hair removal.

If you’re going to be waxing, time it right and get waxed no later than 72 hours before the wedding day. Also make sure you’re a waxing regular and your skin is used to it. You don’t want to try for the first time right before your wedding and end up all red and bumpy.

For the pre-wedding wax, grow out your hair to atleast 1cm or more to get the cleanest wax. The longer the hair, the smoother the results.

Tip: Smooth out any post-waxing redness or bumps with diaper rash cream. It’s magic!

emily - walking

Moisturise every inch of your body.

If you want to glow from head to toe, do this every single day.
Moisturize your whole body within 3 minutes of stepping out of the shower, while your skin is still damp to lock in the moisture. Start from your legs and move upwards. Don’t forget your butt, tummy, breasts and shoulders.

Tip: Take a few minutes to really massage the lotion into your skin. This will improve blood circulation, tone your skin and reduce any puffiness.

Oil your hair.

This is one of the most important steps to grow long, thick, shiny hair.

Everytime you oil your hair, you are giving it an intensive conditioning treatment. This means less dryness, split ends and frizz.

When you massage the oil into your scalp, you’re improving blood circulation, encouraging your hair to grow much faster. And it’s also a great stress buster!

Apply oil once or twice a week. Leave it in your hair for atleast 1 hour before shampooing it off. Choose from either pure olive oil, coconut oil or almond oil – or better still, mix them all up.

Stuff I ♥: I love to alternate between different hair oils to get the most nutrition as each oil has it’s own awesome benefits. So if it’s Kama Ayurveda Extra Virgin Organic Coconut Oil one day, it’s Pahadi Local’s Gutti ka Tel the next, and good old olive oil (from my kitchen) after that.

Cut your hair to grow it.

This actually makes sense. You want long hair that’s healthy, not scraggly.
So make sure you snip all the unhealthy bits. I like to call it the ‘Investment haircut’. It sets the tone for your future hair.

You may have to start with much shorter hair than you’d like, so do this atleast a year to 6 months before your wedding day. Then, get regular trims every 2 months. Stick to one hair stylist so she sticks to the plan and doesn’t take off more than what is necessary.

Pay extra attention to your hands and feet.

Everyone wants to see that gorgeous ring. You’re going to be walking down the aisle in stunning peeptoe shoes. You will be shaking hundreds of hands. You will be dancing all night. Your hands and feet have a lot of work to do. So make sure they get the tender loving care they deserve.

Slather on a thick body butter and rub it into your hands and feet right before sleeping. Wear socks to retain body heat and seal in the moisture overnight. Also massage a few drops of your favourite oil into your cuticles and nails to keep them moisturized.

Get a manicure and pedicure done every 3-4 weeks. Stop applying any nail paint about 2 months before your D-day. Just let your nails breathe and recover from any damage. Get your final mani-pedi done a day or two before the wedding. French manicures are classic and timeless.

Drink at least 15 glasses of water.

Forget the standard 8 glasses. Double it. If you want your skin to glow, fill up on water. Water flushes out the toxins, irrigates your kidneys and throws out the sugar. It clears your skin, keeps it plump and hydrated and reduces the occurance of spots. So keep a bottle of water with you at all times and…chug!

Tip: If your pee is clear, it’s most likely that your complexion is too.

Take supplements.

Fish Oil Capsules are great for your skin and hair. They have Omega-3 fatty acids that keep your skin supple and moisturized, reduce inflammation, acne and many other skin problems. It also lubricates the scalp making hair shinier and and preventing dandruff.

Vitamin C is another hero. It boosts your skin’s collagen production, making your skin more plump, supple and bright. And it makes your hair thicker and fuller too.

It will take a few weeks to notice a difference so don’t stop if you don’t see immediate results. Keep taking them religiously.

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Review: Compartment No. 6 by Rosa Liksom

I received an advance review copy of this title from Graywolf Press.  This title was published in the original Finnish in 2011 and this English version has been translated by Lola Rogers.  This is my first contribution to Women in Translation Month which is taking place all during the month of August.

My Review:
Compartment No. 6As I first started reading this book I kept wondering why a young Finnish girl would choose to attend university in the Soviet Union during the decade of the 1980’s.  But as the plot progresses it is revealed that the girl, who is never given a name, falls in love with Moscow on a trip with her family.  But the Moscow she sees on her trip as a young high school student is the pristine and official one, created and controlled by the government, and is very different than the one the girl encounters as a university student on her trip across the Soviet Union via the Trans-Siberian railway.  When the girl boards the train she chooses compartment No. 6 because it is quiet and empty but her solitude is soon disrupted by a gruff and garrulous ex-soldier named Vadim.

When the girl boards the train on her way to Mongolia she seems emotionally numb and the sexually explicit and crass stories of her traveling companion don’t appear to penetrate her malaise.  The author cleverly emphasizes the girl’s mental aloofness by blurring certain details that we would expect from a main character.  As I have already mentioned, she is never given a name and is simply referred to as “the girl” and her speech is never directly quoted anywhere in the text.  When Vadim and other characters are speaking, traditional quotations and direct speech are used, but the girl’s thoughts and words are always summed up in the third person.  Vadim tells one tale after another of his sexual conquests, fights and outrageous behavior but the girl is too lost in her own world to have the strong reaction to him that one would expect.

As the bleak landscape of the taiga passes her by, the girl reflects back on her time in Moscow as a student where she lived with her boyfriend, Mitka.  Her memories are scattered and disjointed and it felt as though I was looking through an old photograph album with her and getting the barest details about her relationship.  As she describes her life in Moscow, it appears that she is remembering Mitka with a feeling of bitter sweetness and there is something that has happened with Mitka and his mother that has made her flee Moscow and get as far away from them as possible.  There are vague descriptions of Mitka having a severe breakdown and being in a mental institution and the girl’s subsequent relationship with Mitka’s mother.  There is also an intriguing story of a violent encounter that the girl and Mitka suffer one night in Moscow.  This is another example of the details of the text being blurred and leaving the reader to speculate about the girl’s life in Moscow.

As the girl and Vadim get farther along on their journey, they form an unusual bond of what I would loosely call friendship.  Vadim is a man who likes to be the center of attention and tell outrageous stories and the girl listens to him.  She does flee their compartment when he suggests that they have sex, but she always comes back.  Vadim performs small tasks for the girl like brewing her tea and sharing his meals and arranging for places to stay when the train stops overnight.  Even though Vadim has had a rough life and has a proclivity towards violence, even with his own wife, he is patient and protective of this strange Finnish girl.  The culminating moment in their relationship is when they reach Mongolia and she is having a hard time dealing with her government appointed tour guide.  She seeks out Vadim, cries on his shoulder and he sets about making everything right for her.

The two most interesting aspects of this book are the relationship that develops between the girl and Vadim and the amazingly detailed descriptions of the Soviet landscape from one end of that country to another during the late 1980’s.  Even though it is spring, the forests and landscapes which the train passes are empty, untouched,  snow-covered and bleak.  By contrast, the Soviet towns at which the train makes stops are industrial, dirty, and crowded and in shambles.  The people of these towns are trying to squeeze out an existence in whatever ways they are able.  The shelves of department stores are bare and the people are forced to bargain for their vodka on the black market.  One of the most peculiar descriptions are those of the restaurants they visit which have “closed” signs on the doors but are crowded with people and the girl enters anyway.  This brings us back to the conclusion that nothing is as it seems in this brutal, cold and bizarre place that is the Soviet Union.  The author must have visited this place at some point in order to capture such vivid details in her writing.

For those interested in post-Soviet literature then Liksom’s book is a must-read.  Looking at this strange place through the eyes of a foreigner provides a unique lens for us to get another glimpse at the last days of the Soviet Union before it dissolves into oblivion.

About the Author:
R LiksomRosa Liksom was born in a village of eight houses in Lapland, Finland, where her parents were reindeer breeders and farmers. She spent her youth traveling Europe, living as a squatter and in communes. She paints, makes films, and writes in Helsinki.

Filed under Literature in Translation, Scandanavian Literature, Travel Writing

15 responses to “Review: Compartment No. 6 by Rosa Liksom

  1. My word, the author’s bio sounds like a fiction blurb. Has she written about that?

    Liked by 1 person

  2. buriedinprint

    Graywolf publishes some very good books; whenever I see their name, my first response is “I’d like to read that”. I would be puzzled by the main character’s desire initially, too, but it sounds like a very interesting story all the same. And what a rich time period in which to set the story!

    Liked by 1 person

  3. I recall seeing a couple of reviews of this book a year or so ago around the time of its release in the UK, but then it dropped off my radar for some reason. Thanks for the reminder, a good choice for WIT Month.

    Liked by 1 person

  4. Jonathan

    This went on my TBR pile after reading some reviews when it came out. Your review makes the book look appealing also. I read a collection of short stories by Liksom years ago called One Night Stands when she was labelled as a ‘post-punk’ author—I remember liking those stories but haven’t returned to them since.

    Liked by 1 person

  5. I did review it a couple years ago when it came out in uk I loved the interaction of the two main characters

    Liked by 1 person

  6. Great review Melissa – I’ve heard about this one somewhere else and it sounds right up my street!

    Liked by 1 person

  7. Yes, this was published in 2014 by Serpent’s Tail – it does sound worth picking up. One Night Stands, from the same publisher, was 1993! Dalkey Archive has also published one of her books, Dark Paradise, which sounds interesting.

    Liked by 1 person

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Dear Sis B,

Why God seems to be unfair? What is wrong with me? I grew up without a father. My boyfriend of 5 years just left me without explanation. My second boyfriend who proposed to me backed – out and got hitched with his friend. Is this the price that I have to pay all my life? Why can’t I find happiness in my life?

Ms Anonymous

i-love-my-sister-images-and-wallpaper-26 (1)

Dear Ms Anonymous,

May the peace of Christ be with you.

I usually tell my sisters during 1-to-1 talks that heartbreaks are part of becoming to be a mature person but I can feel deep sadness in your letter. I will try my best to only write comforting words but at the same time lead you to the place where your longing for true happiness can end.

Sister, remember no human being has never ever experienced misery. Since we are living in a fallen world, every one of us will experience suffering before we pass on to the next journey of life going back to our Creator. Since we are living in a fallen world, every single one of us will commit mistake.

If your father and your two boyfriends left you, do not bring curse to yourself for it. I’ve heard many ladies and even I, myself, included, regretted few things they’ve done or said that may have caused for their men to fall – out of love. You can regret and process through what went wrong then move –on. But, that stage of completely moving –on would never come if you would not forgive first. And that forgiveness goes to the very first person that needed it most – YOU.

Forgive yourself first.

Maybe, forgive yourself for not protecting your heart. Maybe, forgive yourself for not valuing yourself. Maybe, forgive yourself for being so jealous. Maybe, forgive yourself for not honoring your body. Maybe, forgive yourself for not valuing the voice within you. Maybe, forgive yourself for not recognizing your weakness and vulnerabilities. Maybe, forgive yourself for not loving you.

Forgive you because that you is the first person who will be your most loyal and staunchest ally to your true and lasting change, to your moving – on.

Forgive you. After that, the grace to forgive God and your earthly father will come naturally.

Your ex-boyfriends may not ask forgiveness but forgiveness is a gift to yourself, so forgive them anyway. Along the way of your journey.

Before I end, I would like to share a bit of my story. It was December 2002, I was going to a Christmas dinner with Singles for Christ – friends and I was so glamed – up but my heart felt so heavy. I decided to drop by at the Our Lady of Penafrancia Church before heading to the venue, to talk to God for my unidentified heaviness of heart. I’ve just signed myself with cross when I felt a soft air against my cheeks. I heard it in my heart ,“I am sorry. I am sorry on his behalf.” I felt that the Lord was saying sorry over a betrayal that happened two years earlier. I was not thinking of that betrayal anymore. I thought I had buried it. I cried instantly in my prayers saying “I forgive him, Lord.” That encounter with God was my turning point of my complete freedom and peace of mind.

Seek the Lord and all these things shall be added unto you, including the happiness that you are longing, Sister.

You asked if heartbreaks are the price you have to pay for all your life. No, Sister, you don’t need to pay. Your heartbreaks are not a payment. Someone has paid for it, two thousand years ago, He paid it at the cross with His life. And He loves you so much.

I will keep you in my prayers. Hugs tight. And keep fighting.

Love and Beauty,

Thank you for allowing me to be with you today.

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For your own “Dear Sis B” letter, send it over at

Posted by:Benia

I am child of the most high - God, a lioness and a princess.

One thought on “Dear Sis B, Why God Seems to be Unfair? What’s wrong with me? #seriesofheartbreak

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