tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14440184992815512702024-03-07T22:21:28.253-08:00Musings of a DivaThe Gratitude ChroniclesDeaVahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03676244619765601857noreply@blogger.comBlogger18125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1444018499281551270.post-86439396340252808432010-02-26T22:00:00.001-08:002010-02-26T22:00:21.427-08:00AVATARIZE YOURSELF<script type="text/javascript" src="http://widgets.clearspring.com/o/4b01c6c7456da357/4b88b4f3c09a9cd8/4b01c6c7456da357/5940c78f/widget.js"></script>DeaVahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03676244619765601857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1444018499281551270.post-88726075965508949092010-01-02T20:09:00.000-08:002010-01-02T21:12:41.500-08:00The Passing of Another YearAnother year has passed and so starts a new year and a new decade.<br /><br />As I have witnessed the passing of many years (I know, I'm ancient), I have learned that it is best to take life one day at a time. Nothing gets accomplished by getting all worked up over things. Trying to change what you can't control just leaves you frustrated and exhausted.<br /><br />It is what it is. Thanks Dan.<br /><br />I also continue to live the best life I can, work with what I have to work with to the best of my abilities, and strive to leave the world a better place than I found it. I also like the rule of 3....what you do comes back to you, times 3. Good or bad. For me, these things are more important than making resolutions at the beginning of each year just because society says we should.<br /><br /><br />I'm sure everyone has had the 'Any New Year Resolutions?' discussion several times already. That always seems to be the hot topic of conversation right after Christmas. As always, I resolve not to resolve. Many years ago I stopped making resolutions. Mainly because I would start out full of fire and determination, then about two minutes later my fire would sputter out along with my determination. At the end of the year I'd be disappointed in myself, but I knew that nothing would change. So why put myself through that torture year after year? My cousin Jay made a comment on Face book the other day that went something like - why do we need to wait for one specific day each year to decide to make changes? If we want to change something it can be done anytime. And if we won't make the change at anytime during the year, what makes us think we will just because we decide to on New Years day? <br /><br />I couldn't agree more - obviously, duh!<br /><br />That's not to say I don't think people should set goals to accomplish during the year. I just don't think it should wait until the new year, bringing all that pressure with it. The general populous sees it as failure if you don't accomplish a large portion of your resolution list by the end of the year. And, really, most of them are unrealistic. Or the person just isn't ready to deal with certain aspects of their lives at that time. Personally, I feel more comfortable having a wish list for myself. Things I hope to accomplish, stuff I want to work on. If it gets done, great! If not, there's always another day.<br /><br />Somethings I did accomplish in 2009 are;<br />Writing - I have written 12 children's stories and have titles and ideas for at least 15 more.<br />Karaoke - I got my karaoke equipment back.<br />Gratitude Experiment - I participated in a friends 'Gratitude Experiment', and found it extremely successful and helpful.<br /><br />Wishes for the coming year:<br />Writing - I wish to have my stories published. I also wish to finish the stories and at least some of the screen plays I've been working on.<br />Karaoke - I wish to get my own karaoke business going with Amanda and Brandy.<br />Card Company - I wish to get my card company off the ground by having my cards sold in local stores.<br />Organization - I wish to finish getting my house organized. Thanks Jackie.<br />Gratitude Experiment - I wish to continue being openly grateful all year and to inspire others to do the same.<br />Name Change - I wish to drop my last name, so that when I am published and start my professional career I will be known as Cheryl LaRea. Not that I'm ashamed to be a Whitehead....this is just catchier.<br /><br /><br />But most of all, I wish to LiVe! To Enjoy my life, no matter what I'm able to do. Enjoy being with those I love. Enjoy my solitary moments. And Enjoy being me!DeaVahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03676244619765601857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1444018499281551270.post-54925272640477721022009-10-05T20:46:00.000-07:002009-10-05T21:21:58.143-07:00The Gratitude ExperimentThanksgiving is just around the corner. I know, it's scary how time flies when you're.....well you know. Anyway, most people take Thanksgiving Day to think about what they're thankful for, hence the name - go figure. But giving thanks is something that should be done every day.<br /><br />That is why my friend, Bernie, decided to start a "Gratitude Experiment" for the month of October (I think it's very fitting he chose October to start it.....he's smarter than he looks.....<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">hehehe</span>. Love ya Bernie!) The rules of the experiment are simple and primarily pertain to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Facebook</span> use but, I'm sure anyone can join in even if they don't use facebook. He proposed that everyone use their <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">fb</span> status to state what they are grateful for. When ever the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">participant</span> logs on to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">fb</span> they change their status to what they are grateful for at that moment. If they have any complaining or negative statements to make it's <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">ok</span>, but those are done first and followed up by a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">statement</span> of gratitude. At the end of the month everyone who participated should notice a positive difference in their lives.<br /><br />The <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">principle</span> is not a new one. It has long been believed that one attracts what one gives off. If you are negative and always have negative things to say then your life will probably be full of negativity and the same is true on the positive side. It's really not rocket science. But sometimes the most simple concepts are the hardest to grasp. Happiness, contentment, love, and health can't be as easy believing it, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">manifesting</span> it, and being grateful for what we have in the mean time ....... can it?<br /><br />Whether it can or not is up to each individual. No matter what the result is no one is out anything when they stop to count their blessings and be grateful for what they have every day. I'm grateful for the following (which is in no <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">particular</span> order and is just a partial list, obviously it would take forever to make a full list.):<br /><br />-Family<br />-Friends<br />-A home<br />-the ability to get around<br />-the talents I've been blessed with<br />-help when I need it (and when I don't)<br />-Memories<br />-My rotten puppy (<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ok</span> she's not that rotten)<br />-Life<br />-<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_12" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hyle</span> trucks<br />-books<br />-love (past, present, future)<br />-modern technology<br />-new shoes<br />-lime drinks<br />-good secrets<br /><br />Well, as I said there are too many to mention them all here. Perhaps I'll update the list through out the experiment.<br /><br />I'm also grateful to Bernie for suggesting such a wonderful endeavour. In tough times it's vital to remember what we have rather than what we have not. As a terminal optimist I usually see the glass as half full anyway, but sometimes even I need a little reminder that life is a gift.<br /><br />As Travis Tritt said "It's a great day to be alive....."DeaVahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03676244619765601857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1444018499281551270.post-48776860294381473102009-09-17T21:16:00.000-07:002009-09-17T21:36:13.547-07:00Delinquent DivaWow!! I can't believe it's been so long since I've posted. Not that it really matters, it seems I'm the only one who ever reads these ramblings of an old lady. <br /><br />A lot has been going on lately, not really anything to write home about, (or to blog about for that matter). So it seems that I have neglected my musings here. I had fully intended to share some sage wisdom after I had turned another year older. Appearantly I haven't gotten any wiser as I didn't share a thing. <br /><br />So, now that my birthday has come and gone almost two weeks ago now, I have finally paused to jot down a few things that have been tumbling around my head....trust me there is plenty of room for tumbling up there.....hehehe.<br /><br />Just what could someone of my advanced years have learned since my last birthday. Well, there are still a few things I have yet to learn. <br /><br />But what I have learned, or perhaps what has been re-instilled in me is:<br /><br />Don't sweat the small stuff, it usually takes care of it's self.<br />Stand up for what you believe no matter what the cost.<br />Love those you love even if they say they no longer love you. Eventually they realize they really do still love you.<br />Keep hope alive, even when it seem futile.<br />And, that which doesn't kill us makes us stronger.<br /><br />There is still a fair amount of verbal acrobatics bouncing around my brain, but I think this is a good start. Another thing I have learned as I have gotten older is that everything is best in small doses. If you want more later you can always come back for seconds.<br /><br />I'm hoping this year of my life will be a good one, that I'll have what I need. That my family will be near by and happy. And that I'll start to see some success. But what ever comes my way I know it'll be worth it.<br /><br />I love Myle Cyrus' song "The Climb". It's so true and I have always felt that it isn't about where you are going or how you get there it's about the journey. The climb is what makes us who we are and what we will be. There's always going to be to be mountains in the way. But moving them won't add character and strength like the time it takes to climb the mountain.DeaVahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03676244619765601857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1444018499281551270.post-86313072998881025222009-01-24T19:48:00.000-08:002009-01-24T20:25:55.178-08:00Step 1: Teaching an "Old Diva" new tricks.....As I stated in my last blog, I'm going to live my life out loud this year (and hopefully for the rest of my life). And I'm starting with learning something new. <br /><br />I have often said if I could be a professional student I would. Now that I'm an adult I have found the joy that can come from learning and exploring new things that I didn't <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">appreciate</span> when I was younger. Of course, as an adult, I now get to choose what I study and what classes I want to take. Perhaps the public school system might want to rethink their archaic practices.....like <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">that'll</span> happen. Anyway, I digress, I was asked if I would consider being one of the first aid officers at work a couple of weeks ago. It would involve general first aid to anyone (customer or employee) in the bank that happens to need it. True, one of the reasons I was asked is because the other girl I work with can't handle the sight of blood or even hearing about it and our other co-worker is elderly and about to retire doesn't feel capable or up to the task. But, what ever the reason, it'll still look good on my record at work and it's a chance to do some extra training.<br /><br />When I was training to be a flight attendant with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">WestJet</span>, we had to go through the first aid training as well. I naturally passed with "flying" colors (a little airline humor there ....<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">hehehe</span>), but it has been about 7 years since then, so although it won't be exactly like starting from scratch I'll still have lots to learn. <br /><br />The other new thing I'm about to learn is Low German....... Why???? you may ask. Well I'll tell you why, there are a lot of Mennonites that bank at the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Scotia</span> bank and I thought it would be helpful to be able to communicate with them and help them feel more welcome and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">accommodated</span> at the bank. Many of them don't speak any English and the one's that do don't speak it very well. I've been in a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">foreign</span> country before and been unable to understand everything that was being said around me. I felt lost and frustrated waiting for someone to fill me in. And by the time I was filled in the conversation had moved on and I was lost again. It was an awful feeling, and I can see the same feeling in my customers as they stand there, smiling that uncomfortable smile, waiting to be told what has been said.<br /><br />These two undertakings begin next week. Monday & Tuesday, I go for first aid training. On Wednesday I start my German classes, which will run until the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">beginning</span> of March (I think). These are just the start of the classes I plan to take this year. So I'll be posting updates on my progress as I go.<br /><br />A lot of people think that once they reach a certain age they are too old to learn anything new, or that they have "done their time". I think that's very sad. I believe that when you stop learning you stop living. Every day and every thing should be a new learning experience. I read an article in the Readers Digest about an 88 year old woman (who had to quite school in 6<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">th</span> grade) that went to University and took night classes. She spoke at their graduation ceremony and announced she couldn't wait for the next classes to begin and she planned to have completed them by the time she was 90.<br /><br />So, it seems you CAN teach old Diva's new tricks. And this Diva is going to keep learning for as long as I can. Let the adventures begin!DeaVahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03676244619765601857noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1444018499281551270.post-40666807817468999942009-01-01T16:02:00.000-08:002009-01-01T16:45:19.450-08:00"Living Out Loud....."January 1 is upon us - boy did the past year fly by - and so begins the dawn of a brand new year filled with endless possibilities. <br /><br />As <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">usual</span> I will not be setting any New Year's Resolutions for myself, I have always felt they put too much pressure on the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">resolvee</span> and when they are not accomplished one tends to feel like a failure. That (to my way of thinking) is no way to live ones life, always worried that they are falling short and not living up to unreal expectations they have imposed upon themselves. Instead I usually write a bit of a wish list..... nothing like one writes at Christmas, filled with the presents they would like to receive, but one with the things I would like to see happen for me during the next year.<br /><br />For me 2009 started out on an excellent track around mid-summer 2008, when I made a major life changing <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">decision</span> to leave Robert and the abuse and control I had lived under for 5 years. During those years I seemed to have lost my voice -<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">metaphorically</span> speaking - and my <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">enthusiasm</span> and gusto for life dwindled. I had been shuffling about, quietly, in his shadow and it seemed I had all but disappeared. When I left I took a huge step back into the sunshine and began to find myself again. I started doing the things I loved again, got involved with the local theater, my health has improved, and I have a job I love and look forward to going to. I finally took back the control on Christmas Eve when I told him I didn't want to see him again.<br /><br />Now, as I enter 2009, I am going to continue "Living Out Loud" (to quote one of my favorite songs). Standing by in the shadows has never been for me. I was born to be in the spot light, to be in control of my own destiny, and to make my mark on the world. It may not happen tomorrow, but I know it will happen for me because I believe it and I'll never give up.<br /><br />My wish list this year is simple: Live everyday Out Loud.....<br /><br />"I'm tired of living in this bubble So today I'm changing everything Well, my dream's been buried in the rubble It's time to set it free No more keeping quiet this life inside of me <br /><br />I'm gonna start living out loud My soul's been dying To scream and shout And shatter the silence It's a beautiful sound when each moment counts Starting right now, I'm gonna start living out loud Oh, yeah<br /><br />Well, I'm not breaking any new ground And I didn't reinvent the wheel I'm just a (girl) who finally figured out What (she) really needs So I'm turning up the volume of this song inside of me<br /><br />Gonna start living out loud My soul's been dying To scream and shout And shatter the silence It's a beautiful sound when each moment counts Right here, right now I'm gonna start living out loud All my demons, I have fought 'em Inhibitions, I have lost 'em It wasn't easy, but I taught 'em To just get out of my way And now, every breath I'm breathing, The air is so much sweeter Now that my heart has finally found a way To start living out loud My soul's been dying To scream and shout And shatter the silence It's a beautiful sound, when each moment counts Right here, right now I'm gonna start living out loud My soul's been dying To scream and shout And shatter the silence It's a beautiful sound, when each moment counts Right here and now I'm gonna start living out loud Living out loud Living out loud".....(Aaron Lines).<br /><br />I wish the same for everyone, be happy, and make every moment count!!!DeaVahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03676244619765601857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1444018499281551270.post-6377583042626069862008-12-28T21:07:00.000-08:002008-12-28T21:37:11.170-08:00The Ghost of Christmas Past......The whirlwind <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">hustle bustle</span> of another Christmas season has come and gone and now is the time to reflect and prepare for the New Year ahead.<br /><br />This Christmas was rather different for me. I had a bit of a difficult time getting into the Christmas Spirit, I felt like I was dragging.... procrastinating (more than I usually do). Now looking back. a few days later, I think maybe a part of me was trying to hold on to the past. This was the first Christmas in 5 years that I've been single and even though the relationship was very unhealthy a part of me was sad that I am no longer "we". I was bound and determined that things were going to end well and we'd stay friends, but he has seen to it that that is completely impossible. So I kept trying to do all the things I had planned for Christmas; baking, card making, present making, shopping, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">etc</span>, and it never got completely done. As usual I was staying up late and running around last minute trying to do it all. Then I finally decided "it all" wasn't going to get done. I'd do what I could and that would have to do.....and surprisingly it did!!<br /><br />On Christmas Eve I had planned on finishing a couple of things, after work, before heading to Raymond. But my plans got drastically changed. Near the end of my day Robert decided to show up at the bank - at first he was all smiles and everything until I reminded him he was no longer part of my life and would not be coming with me to Raymond (duh!), then he started threatening me. I remained calm and told him to leave, but inside he had rattled me. In retrospect I'm glad this happened. It scared me enough to know that he can turn his emotions on and off like a light switch. It shook me up enough to know that I could never retain any kind of relationship with him because the only thing he wants is complete control. And it made me realize that I am strong enough to make it on my own. <br /><br />So, I went to Raymond for Christmas and had a great time as just me, proud of myself for not giving in and knowing that what is most important are Christmas present and the Christmas' yet to come, being with my family, and most of all being with me.... the real me (someone I happen to like and admire <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">a lot</span>).DeaVahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03676244619765601857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1444018499281551270.post-65455057151137896852008-11-30T00:06:00.000-08:002008-11-30T00:55:39.388-08:00Life, Is But A Fleeting MomentA dear friend of mine passed away on Thursday, very suddenly, from a massive heart attack. She was only 56. Her husband, (one of my very best friends) was left to pick up the pieces and carry on. I had been out of contact with my friends for about 2 1/2 years, due to circumstances somewhat out of my control. Fortunately, I was able to get in touch with them this past summer and make amends. I was also able to go to Calgary and spend a weekend with them during August. It may not seem like much, especially after all that time, but I'm really glad I was able to take that step and rekindle a friendship that was very special and important to me.<br /><br />This has also reconfirmed my belief that life is short and every moment counts. When we don't take the time to remember those who are important to us they may be gone and we won't be able to get that time back.<br /><br />So, stop and smell the roses whenever you can. Don't be in such a hurry to get where you're going, it'll still be there when you get there. Don't sweat the small stuff. Take every opportunity to tell those you care about how you feel. Remember to help those around you and do what you can to leave this world a better place than you found it. And always follow your dreams, no matter how out of reach they may seem.<br /><br />If I had the opportunity to say any final words to Dale, I would have thanked her for her friendship, her unconditional love, her kind and giving spirit. I would have told her what a difference she made in many people's lives. I would have commended her for her bravery in dealing with the illnesses she had and the treatments she endured. <br /><br />I pray that those left behind will be comforted and know that she is now in a better place, free from the pain she dealt with daily. She's been reunited with her parents and she can rest in peace.DeaVahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03676244619765601857noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1444018499281551270.post-24409471453928553352008-11-05T21:34:00.000-08:002008-11-05T21:57:51.274-08:00"Oh, The Weather Outside Is Frightful".....Ok, "frightful" might be a bit strong but it has been yucky out there. Although, it is Nov. 5 and we are just now getting hit with the white stuff, I guess it could be worse. <br /><br />When I got home from work this morning my upstairs neighbors were on their front steps marvelling at the winter wonderland they had woken up to. They just moved here this summer from Australia and this is the first time they had ever seen snow! It was really quite interesting to see it from their point of view. Tuie kept saying how beautiful it was as she held out her hand to catch the falling flakes that were big and fluffy at that point. She and her husband and son had been up early that morning to play in the snow, as evidenced by the miniature snowman sitting in the middle of the front lawn. I scoffed when I heard her gush about how beautiful she thought it was, and I made some comments about how it wasn't too bad now but wait until it gets colder, (they didn't realize that it can and will get much colder.)<br /><br />Then I stopped my disparaging remarks for a moment and looked at the blanket of white that lay cold and frozen over the lawns and trees in the neighborhood. I thought what it must be like for this family in a new country, experiencing things for the first time. And I realized it was beautiful, very beautiful in fact. I'm still not a big fan of snow or cold, but it reminded me that if you try you can always find beauty and wonder in everything around you. You may not like what you see or experience, but you can find a way to appreciate it. <br /><br />I guess it's that eternal, or terminal as some people would say, optimism that has always kept me going. But even sometimes I lose sight of the "glass is half full" mentallity and need a little something (a brick or a brick wall to fall on my head) to remind me that nothing is ever as bad as it seems.DeaVahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03676244619765601857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1444018499281551270.post-801132814542890132008-10-31T01:27:00.000-07:002008-10-31T01:45:11.279-07:00All Hallows NightTwo posts from me in a matter of days is a scary thing, I know. But, with Halloween on our doorstep, I was feeling inspired. I'm glad that Tisha is a regular reader of my blog. It makes me happy that you find your old Auntie's ramblings worth a few moments of your time. I am a bit sad though, that no one else has discovered how entertaining those ramblings can be. At any rate, I'm happy to have one fan (whom I happen to be a big fan of in return).<br /><br />I woke up this morning with the beginnings of a poem in my mind and spent the rest of the day (while I was bored silly at work) writing the rest of it......hope you like it.<br /><br />'Twas All Hallows Night<br />and the air was chill. <br />All the creatures of fright<br />roamed the streets at will.<br /><br />Blood <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">curdling</span> screams<br />rang through the town,<br />as from putrid graves<br />undead rose from the ground.<br /><br />The slow creak of a door<br />sliced through the air.<br />But, when I spun 'round<br />no body was there.<br /><br />Then out went the lights<br />with a deafening click.<br />I sank right to my knees,<br />my stomach felt sick.<br /><br />All around me went quiet<br />and I could see only black.<br />I tried, in vain, to scream<br />but there was a hand 'round my neck.<br /><br />Life was about to end<br />of this I was certain,<br />for the next thing I knew<br />I was trapped in a coffin.<br /><br />I kicked and I shouted.<br />"Let me out, let me out!"<br />no one could hear me,<br />it seemed no one was about.<br /><br />This is ti, it's all over.<br />I was about to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">pass out</span> from fright.<br />When someone cried, lifting the lid,<br />"Come join the party, it's Halloween Night!!"<br /><br />Happy HalloweenDeaVahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03676244619765601857noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1444018499281551270.post-16955345261961621212008-10-30T00:52:00.000-07:002008-10-30T01:26:56.738-07:00"God Bless The Broken Road".....Is one of my all time favorite songs, in fact I <em>was</em> planning on using it as wedding march for my wedding (who knows, maybe some day I will).<br /><br />I was reading Tisha's latest blog, empathizing with her feelings of failure and frustration at having to continually change plans despite hard work and best intentions, when this song came to mind. I know, I seem to have a song for every occasion and situation...... what can I tell you, it's my life. Anyway, the thought occurred to me that the message in this song can be applied to all kinds of situations other than finding your one and only.<br /><br />Most of us, at one time or another, have had to take a detour or two on the way to accomplishing a goal or dream. For some of us the entire way has been a series of detours and "Broken Roads" and we are still not where we want to be. But life isn't about the destination, it's about the journey. As long as we continue forward on the journey we are successful. One only fails when one no longer tries. I, myself, have several dreams I have been trying to realize for most of my life, (those of you who know me will know what they are). And a lot of people would say that the chances of having those dreams come true at my age are slim to nil and slim has left town, but I'm just stubborn and optimistic enough to continue to believe and to continue to work at it. Sure some days it's harder than others, but there have been a lot of late bloomers throughout history.<br /><br />So I guess the thought for today would be NEVER GIVE UP. I suppose I could also insert several cliches here, but I won't bore anyone with that. I will however end with a line from the movie Cool Runnings, a truly inspirational movie about never giving up on your dreams and persevering no matter how rough the road becomes...... "Peace be the journey."DeaVahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03676244619765601857noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1444018499281551270.post-82876183540084151932008-09-29T00:01:00.000-07:002008-09-29T00:24:47.594-07:00"Where Does My Heart Beat Now?"I have recently gone through a life altering change. My relationship of 5 years has ended. The past few months have been rather difficult to say the least. I've had to go back to work (despite health problems), I've had to find a place to live, and I've had to wrap my head around the fact that at 41 I am once again single. My family (and his) have been incredibly supportive and helpful, still, even though I know this was the right thing to do it doesn't really take away the sting of a broken heart. <br /><br />When everything you've believed in, worked hard for, and lived for comes crashing down around you it can be difficult to see why it's for the best. <br /><br />Anyone who knows me will attest that music and singing (along with acting and writing) are a huge part of my life, so I've spent the past few months compiling a list of songs that have helped me through this trying time. Some of the songs have caused me to have a good cry, some have made me angry, some have made me laugh, but they have all been very significant to me in some way. The next intended step in my "Music Therapy" is to scrapbook (another of my undying passions) these songs. My list is pretty long so it might take several books to hold it all, but I'm hoping that it will help me get some closure and the insipration to move on. <br /><br />My heart will always be on the look out for a home, but until it finds one I will echo the immortal words of Gloria Gaynor ......."I will survive!"DeaVahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03676244619765601857noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1444018499281551270.post-20553581023728641242008-05-09T22:02:00.000-07:002008-05-09T23:00:49.839-07:00Be Happy, So Long As You Have BreathI've been feeling less than inspired lately and in a general state of yuckyness (is that a word? I don't know but that's how I've been feeling.) So much so that it's been difficult to do much of anything, especially anything creative. I've logged on to my blog several times with full intentions of writing something, anything. It didn't even matter if it wasn't a masterpiece just so long as it had words that at least made a bit of sense. But, I couldn't even muster a simple sentence. Instead I would just log off thinking I'd try later. We all know later never comes.<br /><br />Not only have I been neglecting my blog, but I've slacked on everything else too; scrapbooking, card making, writing my screenplays and my novel. I recently had major surgery and I had thought that I would get so much writing accomplished while I recuperated. Ha! It's been a month and nothing. I really feel bad that I've wasted so much time and that has made me really unhappy, which in turn leads to feeling uninspired.<br /><br />Today I had the opportunity to audition for a musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (one of my all time faves). People think I'm nuts (you know who you are, and well it's not that far from the truth) because I love to audition almost as much as I love being in a production. Most people get all tense and uptight during an audition, but for me it's another chance to perform. That is when I come alive and I did feel more alive, on that stage with everyone watching. Now I'm feeling like I'm back on the road to inspiration. I'm excited to get something accomplished, hence the long blog. Just doing something even if it seems insignificant is better than nothing. <br /><br />During the drive home I remembered something that I've always known but often push to the back of my mind. I am responsible for my own happiness, for the feelings I allow myself feel (or talk myself into feeling.) And so is everyone else. A lot of times I find I talk myself into feeling down or unhappy or angry - I have a great imagination and I can conjure up all kinds of things to alter my mood - so why don't I talk myself into being happy more often? It's odd but sometimes we would rather spend our time being in a bad mood when it takes so much less energy to be in a good mood, and it's better for us. Go figure.<br /><br />We buy this green tea that has little sayings on tab. Some of them a kind of corny but there are some really good ones. Last night I made a cup and the saying was "Be happy so long as you have breath." To be is a verb, which implies action, so to BE happy means you have to DO something to invoke that feeling. You have to act on it even if you have to act like it. If you're not happy now if you act as if you are chances are you soon will be. So I made up my mind that I am going to try to be happy even if I have to fake it 'til I make. And maybe if I'm happier I'll feel more inspired. Who knows, maybe I'll inspire others along the way. It could happen.DeaVahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03676244619765601857noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1444018499281551270.post-6001848426003839852008-02-25T21:28:00.000-08:002008-02-25T22:32:10.013-08:00All You Need Is LoveLife has been rather hectic the past couple of months. My youngest niece informed us she was getting married and we had six weeks to pull it off. So we worked our tails off, had a few disagreements (not with me, but between her and her sister - who was doing the majority of the work), a lot of sleepless nights, a lot of fun, and last Saturday we had a beautiful wedding.<br /><br />There were some who doubted she should be getting married (again not me) since they had only been dating a couple of months, and they are from very different cultures - he is from Nigeria - but love is love and when it's right, it's right. Love is timeless, love is color blind, love is universal, but love isn't easy. However, anything worth having is worth working hard for.<br /><br />I guess you could say I'm a romantic, a hopeful romantic. I believe that no matter what love conquers all. If you let love guide you can get through anything, whether it's your love life, personal life, family life, or career. I know it sounds very simplistic and idealistic, but it seems to work for me. That's not to say that I walk around with rose colored glasses on or anything, I just believe it's easier to get through the good and the bad when you put the ones you love(including yourself) first.<br /><br />Love is the stuff dreams are made of, and without are dreams what are we?<br /><br />Look at the amount of "love stories" that are produced by Hollywood, and how many people flock to them. We all want to love and to be loved in return. The poor and the rich alike. It's one thing we all have in common. It's a basic need like food, water, air.<br /><br />Sure it was risky for my niece and her new husband to "take the plunge" after such a short courtship, but as I watched them the past six weeks and especially during the wedding I saw the love in their eyes, I saw forever in their eyes. If they remember and hold on to that then forever is definitely within their grasp.<br /><br />When all is said and done, when all the poets have submitted their prose and rhymes, when all the philosophers have weighed in, and the critics have had their say, no one not even Shakespeare himself could have said it any better than John, Paul, George, and Ringo....<br /><br />Truly, "All You Need IS Love."DeaVahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03676244619765601857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1444018499281551270.post-41448410107008443602008-01-07T22:07:00.000-08:002008-01-07T22:34:56.710-08:00Out With The Old, In With The NewAnother year has come and gone and we are all another year older, and hopefully wiser.<br />Most people start the new year off with a list of resolutions and good intentions. I used to be one of them. But every year my resolutions and good intentions would only last so long and I would get frustrated with myself. So, a few years ago I resolved not to make any resolutions and finally found something I could stick to. <br /><br />Don't get me wrong, I still have goals and dreams and aspirations. I just don't box myself into the yearly time frame. I believe if you do something every day towards your goals then you are successful. Even if it's the absolute least thing you can do you've still accomplished something. Some days are better than others, make the most of them and do what you can.<br /><br />Even though I don't make resolutions, I still want to better myself and my world around me. And since I have been so sick with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) I have been more commited to trying to live a greener life. We've been using non-toxic cleaning supplies and personal care items for over a year now and we try to buy as many organic products as possible, but there are still many more ways to improve. I posted a blog that I visited today "Living In A Toxic World" hoping that anyone who visits my site will also visit this site and find out more of what they can do to leave a smaller foot print on the world. Another interesting place to visit would be Oprah's web site she did an excellent show last week on green living. Even the smallest things can make a big difference.<br /><br />I hope the New Year is good to us all and that we will have the things we need and want. Mostly I wish health and happiness to those I hold dear. Make the most of the time we have with our loved ones and remember fondly those who are no longer with us.DeaVahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03676244619765601857noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1444018499281551270.post-61727616196732899912008-01-07T22:03:00.000-08:002008-01-07T22:03:34.094-08:00Living In A Toxic World: Toxic Body<a href="http://livinginatoxicworld.blogspot.com/2008/01/toxic-body.html">Living In A Toxic World: Toxic Body</a>DeaVahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03676244619765601857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1444018499281551270.post-52500044615532412752007-12-10T21:22:00.000-08:002007-12-10T22:02:07.342-08:00A Diva By Any Other Name .....<span style="font-family:courier new;">Some of you may be wondering about the whole "Diva" thing. So I thought I'd clarify.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Courier New;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Courier New;">When most people think of a Diva they think about the obnoxious, conceded, "I thought I made it perfectly clear I wanted only green M&M's!" stars of today that term has become synonymous (Yes I've pulled out the $25 words)with. But that is not really what a Diva is all about.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Courier New;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Courier New;">A Diva is a singer who has an eight octave range (OK, maybe it's not as easy to reach all the octaves as it was when I was in my 20's and 30's), has been around for a LONG time, and has the power to really belt out a tune. A Diva also has a certain amount of grace and elegance about her. And, yes, I do qualify on all counts. Be that as it may, please don't think I had the audacity (another $25's) to bestow this title upon myself. Heavens no.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Courier New;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Courier New;">A few years ago, Robert and I regularly attended a friends Karaoke show and eventually helped her with it. When she would introduce me she would call me the "little lady with the big voice" and then somehow she called me Diva (in the best sense of the word) and it just stuck. Now more people know me as Diva than as Cheryl and, I have to say, I wear it proudly.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Courier New;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Courier New;">So the next time you hear someone being called a Diva ask yourself "Are they really a Diva, or are they just a spoiled, self-absorbed, over paid brat giving true Diva's a bad name?" And who knows if you look deep inside, perhaps just perhaps, you may have a little bit of true Diva in you too. </span>DeaVahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03676244619765601857noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1444018499281551270.post-21433370512678604952007-12-09T18:17:00.000-08:002007-12-09T18:25:24.522-08:00Watch that first step ... It's a doosie!Well I've finally done it, I've finally created a blog! Wow! I can't believe it, I feel so 21st century. Any way I assure you that I will have many wonderful things to say over the next while ( I'm sure all will hang on my every word lol) but for now this will have to do.<br />Christmas is coming and as we all rush to get everything done, please pause long enough to think of the true reason for the season.DeaVahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03676244619765601857noreply@blogger.com3