Get Your Wow! Factor

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Sometimes we all need to get away from the day-to-day routine to clear our heads or change our inner dynamic. Whether it is a vacation or a road trip with friends, it’s good to get away from the hectic and sometimes monotonous routine of life. I’ve realized that life is too short and unpredictable to deprive yourself of certain things while thinking that there is always time. The reality is that life is volatile and in today’s world – the life that you now enjoy can all disappear before your eyes in a flash without a moment’s notice. Sometimes it’s due to health, or fortune, circumstance, added and/or unexpected responsibility or maybe some untimely incident—you just never know. That’s why it’s important to live in the moment completely and without regret. I made the decision to explore my world and visit a new destination every year once I can afford it…even if it’s right on my doorstep (figuratively speaking) because this world is just too great not to be marveled at and enjoyed.

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You can do small things to pamper yourself if you are unable to take an official vacation. Such things include a trip to the spa/sauna; a special candlelight dinner, luncheon or picnic with the family, friends or special someone; a trip to the beach, pool or nature resort; a long drive to some far off destination; a weekend get away at a hotel or guest house; a boat ride or cruise, a shopping spree (even if it’s just one item) or a fashion make-over…new hairstyle/makeup or just a new look. These are just a few ideas to add some wow! to your world because you deserve it! Whenever you think you need to escape…take a time-out and you would return to your life refreshed and revived with a different perspective on things. Maybe it’s exactly what you need…but don’t take my word for it…try it yourself!©

 So if you feel like this  --->

And you want to do this --->

                                                              It's time for this

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                                                 Then you'd feel like this!!!!

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Wow!

Have you arrived at your Turning Point?



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Sometimes things happen in our lives to create an awareness and provide an impetus for change. Change is good and sometimes we are fearful or become laidback when things are comfortable. Many times we settle for just “getting by.” I have been reading the book “Rich Woman” by Kim Kiyosaki recently and this was just one of the things this week that led to my “moment of truth” as they say. There was a line in the introduction  which stated that many of us depend on others and stay in certain situations, often settling for just “ok” in life when what we really want is  “Great.” I am by no means content with just getting by, however sometimes hurdles in life prevent us from accelerating at a greater pace. I am quite pleased and proud of my achievements thus far but I believe that there is always room for more growth. It’s natural for some of us to keep wanting and striving for more until we attain that level of fulfillment.

Life is full of possibilities but those that win the race are the ones that are persistent and steadfast in their commitment to their dreams. Some may be allowed a head start due to a number of reasons, which are either hereditary, or due to luck or perhaps being in the right place at the right time –then there are others who progress through unjust means. Life is sometimes unfair but in the end it all goes according to plan. There is an old folks saying: “time is longer than twine” which simply means that time eventually catches up to all of us, regardless of what --so it’s wise to follow the rules and try to do the right thing. Life is such that you never know who is looking on and when you least expect it – the foibles that exist may be discovered and brought to light. The reverse is also true as those deserving may be rewarded based on merit, ability and hard work. We may witness certain negative practices in our work environment that we have grown accustomed to, but due to the comfort level that may exist –it goes unnoticed. However what we don’t realize is that it may be difficult to break out of those habits when the need arises and it may not auger well in other environments where propriety is enforced. It’s good to allow ourselves the opportunity to expand our horizons, so that we can have a greater appreciation for what is accepted in different environments or cultures.

Our future is dependent on our outlook and the choices we make. All of our experiences mould and shape us into stronger and more equipped individuals ready to face anything that comes our way. They have enabled us to rise above our circumstance or any setbacks we encounter. If we have reached that turning point in any aspect of our life (whether it be relationships/family, health, career, sports/hobby or business) we need to set the balls in motion for that change we desire. If we believe in something and we want it badly enough in our mind, in time it will start to take shape and materialize in our life. To those of us that are intent on reaching for the stars: there is hope yet --have faith and be persistent and diligent in your efforts and one day you will join the others who are liberated because they have believed in the dream. ©



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"There are no shortcuts to any place worth going." Beverley Sills

You are Legend

A few hours ago I was viewing the local leg of a Ms. Universe pageant on television and the defining moment came when one of the girls was asked the question: What does a legend mean to you? And as these three girls stood on stage wondering who was going to be the country’s next Ms. Universe representative on the global stage, I asked myself the same question…just to determine if I could answer it without fumbling (lol). And I surprised myself given my fear for impromptu ad lib. After I gave my response (to my at-home audience) I compared it with those in published sources and I realized that I have elaborated much more. So here I am to add my two cents and maybe someday I would receive accolades for adding to the corpus of knowledge J.

A legend to me is someone who by their life’s work, talent, skills, ability or lifestyle has broken down barriers and transcended race, religion, politics, class, geography and other lines that divide. Someone who does not conform to the status quo, but stands up for what he/she believes, in so doing influencing others in a positive way by creating an awareness of change for the greater benefit of mankind. That person is forever etched in time and becomes a part of history as their message pervades spatial and temporal restrictions. To go further, a legend in my mind has a message to imbue…they are usually eccentric persons that just do not blend in with the crowd…they usually have exceptional ability/talent especially in the arts and it’s quite common for them to die young after they impart their message. With that said, legends do not live an easy life. Their life is somewhat troubled, of course not in all cases, but often rather than not. That’s just my two cents as I say. Many may beg to differ but an opinion is sometimes worth a million to someone who has none.

Since we’re on the topic of legends I just have to say one thing…sparked by a few discussions over a period of time with various persons: Everyone was created equally…one should not have to worry about superficial issues that supposedly separate us (as above) when choosing places to lime (hang out) or dine or go to school or reside or whatever. Most of us live in a free country and pay taxes, we should feel comfortable going anywhere cash and all major debit and credit cards are accepted. Those legends that have gone before us have paved the way for our freedom. We should not let anyone, let alone psychological or cultural barriers prevent us from having a good time anywhere we choose. Comfort is relative. We determine our own comfort level and we owe it to ourselves…we are also entitled to that feeling of overall well-being, enjoyment and satisfaction.

Regardless of your fortune in life or what anyone says, you are a legend within yourself. When we die, someone will think we were a legend unto them. Some people may have made a greater impact within their community and in the wider world, but within our own realm we are our own legends. We have made sacrifices for people in our lives and we have loved and shared our lives with others. Some may have even influenced others by their own example or teachings. For this we are legendary. If you can make an impact on the masses --great – but not all of us can – so you ought to thank God for your abilities and talents. Be happy and content with your own contribution, no matter how small. Someone may thank you for the impact you have made on their life…even if it’s indirectly or years from now. Each day of life should be celebrated--not only on birthdays or in weeping, posthumously.

Live life so that you can be revered as legendary unto your own. ©



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Happy Mother's Day!

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A Mother’s love is unconditional...

She can sense your innermost emotions with just one look and knows you inside out
She has blessed you with the gift of life and her sacrifice and love are priceless gifts that cannot be bought or sold…
When you have walked in her shoes you realize the immensity of this role
You will always have this in common until it is time to pass the torch and the tradition begins again
She is yours to treasure…

Savour each moment and share every emotion




Happy Mother’s Day to all mothers, new moms or those that play that role ©




This day is yours to enjoy!



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Be Spontaneous!

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Sometimes the best things happen when they are unplanned. Spontaneity is the name of the game when you’re looking for a good time. This week had its ups and downs. Last Saturday I was called upon to do some marketing at an expo for the launch of a new issue of a magazine I contribute to...it turned out quite well although it was not planned. Monday became an adventure when what I thought was going to be a trip to the gym became a trip to Häagen-Dazs, (*hangs head in shame*) where I ran into a friend who I got to know better. Unfortunately by Tuesday my sinus acted up again and I was down for a couple days but I’m on the road to recovery once more...the wonders of modern medicine are amazing!! During the downtime in one of my better moments I was able to revitalize a dream that I had shelved for a moment too long. So I decided to catch up on some correspondence with a publisher re: the publication of a collection of my articles.  I even recorded a voicenote which turned out well and surprised even me (because of my congestion) and received an amazing response from my friends and relatives!

Today was the birthday of someone near and dear to me and my plans got foiled, but all was not lost…in the end it turned out well and they enjoyed their day. The moral of this story is that sometimes you don’t know why things turn out a particular way, but there is a bigger plan for each moment of our lives. Only later on may we realize the reason. Each moment can be attributed to the pieces of a puzzle, every one necessary for the overall picture...only when it all comes together shall we understand the importance of each moment. Although initially we may feel some disappointment, the end result may be a blessing in disguise in some cases. If we look at each day as an adventure to behold, being grateful for life when we open our eyes and rise every morning, we would discover the beauty of life and all that it holds for us. You never know who you would meet or what lessons you would learn as the day progresses. With the right mindset your day can be transformed into an amazing adventure! ©

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Happy May 1st!!

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Today is the first day of May and it signals the beginning of a brand new month and an opportunity to start over. To place all your intentions to the Almighty and release, as you watch them come to fruition. It's a time to make plans or see old ones through to the end. We are also approaching the season for weddings and it can also signal a new chapter in your life with that special someone. It's where you can create new memories together and begin with an equal footing as you find a balance, embrace the challenges and visualize a life filled with new discoveries.

Today is also International Worker's Day and is celebrated in more than 80 countries around the world as workers mark the legal establishment of the 8- hour work week. Can you imagine what life was like before the Labour movement?!! Neither can I. May 1st is also the Feast of St. Phillip and St. James who became the patron saints of workers. We are grateful for work but even more grateful for life! Life is made to be enjoyed so don't forget to make time for yourself and the ones you love because it can all be taken away in the bat of an eye! ©

Happy May 1st folks!! Make this month count J

"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover."—Mark Twain (1835-1910)

Congratulations to the newlyweds!

Whatever time zone you were in, the world looked on -- many camping out in front of their television sets (if not in person) to catch every moment unfold of yet another British royal wedding. As Prince William exchanged vows with Kate Middleton, time stood still as one threw their mind back to another place and time of that of his parents wedding, imbued with similiarities that took place some three decades ago (1981). As before, every detail was planned and played out perfectly as the crowd gathered in the cool April air to take in the spectactular event. Screams of excitement could be heard as they cheered them on just as they did with Prince Charles and Princess Diana. The fairytale came alive for those present, as they celebrated with the couple on the long, symbolic  journey on horse carriage from Westminster Abbey to Buckingham Palace.  It was a nostalgic and historical moment that has forever etched a special place in our memories and hearts. ©



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As they prepare for their receptions and countless engagements to come as the new Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, congratulations are extended on their matrimony -- may their life together be rich and blissful in all the ways that count. ©

Cheers!

Moments in time...

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Are you living your dream? | Intent.com

Are you living your dream? Intent.com

I am new to this. I'm a bit excited about my first entry. I stumbled upon this amazing website on twitter tonight and decided to sign up. What can I say about myself...I wear many hats but writing is my ultimate passion. I am at a crossroads in my career and in the process of switching fields or even starting up my own business. It’s a slow process that takes time, a bit of luck and courage. I believe that everyone has a gift to share with the world –something unique and intrinsic to them and only them and when they find it, they will find ultimate joy and liberation that will create a chain reaction of happiness for everyone that comes into contact with them. Today you may plant a seed but once we follow our passions steadfastly we will witness a transformation and reap a harvest in time. Although you may not see it now, all of the moments before this one has prepared you for this journey...so buckle up and prepare for the ride of your life!

Are you living your dream?

Beauty is skin deep

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We often hear this statement but what does it really mean? Is it a preconceived notion that “beautiful” people are supposed to also be nice on the inside? Well recently one of my friends told me that everyone is beautiful in their own right. It is also often said that we have been brainwashed to believe that beauty is based on societal or cultural norms/ideologies and certain parameters, and if you don’t fit within this cookie cutter image you don’t belong or aren’t deemed universally beautiful. So many young girls are falling into this trap and destroying themselves to fit into this mould --whether it is to be thin or a certain body type, to have a certain colour hair, eyes or skin. There comes a time when we have to realize that we are perfect just the way we are and were created in the image and likeness of the Creator whose love for us is endless. Ironically when we exhibit kindness and love for ourselves and one another, we also radiate it outwards and attract love and kindness to ourselves. We are indeed diverse, unique and beautiful creatures and you would be surprised to know that there may be many others who may admire something about us and yet others who love us just the way we are.

Love for oneself is based on a feeling that comes from inside when you know yourself inside out and are secure, confident and happy with who you are and consequently the decisions and choices you make in your life. It may be contingent upon what stage you are in your life or your immediate environment, family support, inner circle or upbringing. Circumstances can affect your opinion of yourself to an extent but should not determine it since these things are to some extent material and subject to change. Your physical or emotional "make-up" or genes may perhaps also play a role, but at the end of the day you have to take responsibility for your own life and your own happiness. In order to separate yourself from all of these factors, you must first find your center. Find quiet moments to reflect and meditate on “you.” Get to know yourself and pin point your likes and dislikes. What makes you happy and what makes you mad or sad. What your passions are and the things you want for yourself. What causes you to react a particular way to certain situations and if you are pleased and comfortable with it all and lastly what you need to work on. If someone points out your flaws -- do you get upset or do you take from it what you can and move on? If you are content with who you are and all of your quirks, strengths and weaknesses then you are either very secure (or vain) depending on which angle you look at it from! As human beings we all have things we need to work on but it’s good to recognize it, only then will you know how to fix it and in turn improve your relationships with others. I am by no means perfect and am a work-in-progress. Each day I am learning and growing and with small steps I will be exactly where I need to be in time. ©

It's a beautiful life people...let it unfold within each of us!