Have A Very Merry Christmas!

Yesterday I finally mastered the art of Mail Chimp...What an accomplishment putting together my self-imposed mailing list! It took a few hours but I did it...after shelving the project in May. 

So now, I will be disseminating mini newsletters with my blogs and updates....Can't wait...The only thing left to do is master the art of personalizing it to include names...(which I thought I did...If you can help, please give me a shout via the contact form to your right or a comment. 

Folks the day we've been waiting for is mere hours away...let's not forget the reason for the season which is the birth of a Saviour. Here's my first 'campaign' via Mail Chimp...what d'you think?

Peace & Love...until tomorrow...

Wishing you and yours peace, love and joy during this Yuletide season. May the spirit of Christmas warm your hearts and stay with you throughout the New Year and beyond. Extending thanks for sharing in all the magical moments of 2014. Bringing good tidings from our home to yours...May all of your nearest and dearest dreams come true. Merry Christmas and Best Wishes for an Abundant New Year 2015.  Peace & Love, Carolyn Photo credit - Scarborough Botanical Gardens, Tobago. Carolyn Correia All rights reserved © 2013.

I'm Gonna Love You Anyway!

Blogger how do I love thee? Let me count the ways...

photo credit - Scarborough Botanical Gardens, Tobago
Carolyn Correia 2013 All rights reserved.

Blogger, wordpress and tumblr all do something great, but it's been 7 years and counting and no matter what anyone says...#Blogger .... Imma love you anyway! 

As they say: if it ain't broken, why fix it right? That's how I feel about you with google analytics at your finger tips, great user interface and all the features you need...why go elsewhere? 

To hell with SEO key words...I know I need to learn, but I love what I do...the most important thing to me is getting what I have to say off my chest. The "hits" will come with time.

One more day for Christmas ...the eve of Christmas Eve and I'm blogging about blogging....

Today my sister and I went out to do errands...mostly my errands and a bit of Christmas shopping. I took a drive by the Botanical Gardens last week and saw the beautiful lights just like Tobago. Thought she needed to see that. I guess I will take my mom and other sister soon. 

As that time nears, we're just doing ordinary things: painting, cooking, making sorrel and ginger beer and trying to keep my Dad's memory alive.  Still have to make ponche de creme and bake the traditional turkey and ham that we picked up tonight. We will not be putting up a tree or any lights this year however. I have to tell you though, it's getting harder. I don't even want to think about the future when the house gets emptier and I have to carry on with my normal life.

For now, I'm savouring the memories and making the most of the moments. Trying to keep busy and "do my do." I still love Christmas and I think it's gonna be okay. Life is made to be enjoyed and lived to the fullest. I know he wouldn't want it any other way. I always told him I wanted to go before him, but he wanted me to live and be happy. "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning." I continue to pray for his eternal life and light.

I've completed my book, so now I have something to look forward to. On to the next! Already thinking of continuing my poetry and publishing an e-book in 2015. I wrote 10 poems in June. The rest will be dedicated to my father's memory.

What is the legacy you leave behind? I hope to leave behind my writing...in the hope it can help generations after me. 

Happy Holidays....See you tomorrow. I'm getting the hang of this blogging every day thing...this is the shortest blog yet ...completed in 15 minutes or less!

Peace & Love.

To Blog or Not to Blog

Why I'm awake at 2 am is anyone's guess. Actually I'm reviewing my second book before I send it off to my editor over the next few days...but yet I should be asleep. A few nights ago I went to bed at 6 am. Then I realized that some of my friends who are also entrepreneurs or just creative kindred spirits are also up at this time.

The reason for my blog: I think I need to take my techy friends' advice and that of fellow authors and bloggers to resume blogging every day. It can't hurt right? Especially since I'm getting ready to launch a new social media campaign as the countdown to the publication of my new book is on. 

For the subscribers who got here by accident (meaning my friends/acquaintances who I subscribed to this list) I will not bombard your inboxes every day unless you really want me to...which you can indicate by way of a response to this blog. 

If you're game and you want to hear from me every day, just reply by saying: "I'm in" or better yet, log in to blogger.com and "follow" or subscribe to my automatic posts. 

If I don't hear from you, I would assume that either: a) You get too much mail as it is and can't keep up, or b) You don't read my blogs anyway! lol...No offence taken. Some of you may already notice that not all of my blogs come to your email.

So I digress. As I continue along my path of healing, I realize that the mind is really something. It's like a garden hose...if you prevent some of the water from spurting, then you control how much you want to get wet. So too with your mind. If you purposely try to block out and filter some of your thoughts, the less you would be affected. 

But be on your guard, this has a way of backfiring as just at the water pressure may build up and unexpectedly let loose...so too can your thoughts and emotions take over when you least expect when doing normal things like driving, watching television or grocery shopping.

For the past two nights I've returned to my room to sleep since that first night of my Dad's passing. I've realized that I am very conscious of his memory when I am alone to myself. With family over, it was easy to avoid the full onslaught of this. I even dreamt the first night that he was trying to tell me something and gave me a great big hug. I wasn't afraid. Although I could not remember what he was saying, I woke up at peace.

Have you lost a loved one? If so, how do you deal with these emotions?

So I've decided I will blog. Are you in?

Peace & Love

Would You Want A Second Chance?

It's one week away from Christmas and my mind is no where near the joyous celebration. Rather I am trying to tie up loose ends and keep my mind occupied. After my last blog, some readers were still confused, so to make things a little clearer...it's been weeks counting since the passing of my dear papa. 

Though I still haven't told many persons verbally, I hope you understand that I just don't have the words and fortitude to rehash and explain, as the memories of the last moments are already swirling thru and thru my head enough as it is. 

He did in fact have the most beautifully awesome service and 'send off' in style. Nothing but the best for my dear papa. And a few days later, we took a boat out and sprinkled his ashes in the ocean. It was only apt that his final resting place was where he lived and worked most of his life. 

The homily complemented my eulogy and what struck me the most is a few things the deacon said. He did not know my dad, but after listening to the eulogy he realized how way off he was in his prepared homily. He then spoke off the top of his head and captured the essence of the man known as my father as if he had known and grown up with him his whole life. 

He began his sermon by wondering aloud what he can do in the remaining years of his life to even measure up to my father. He said listening to all of the things he did, makes him want to go back and make up for some. He admitted that Daddy was after all human and not perfect, but listening to the vivid description of his deeds and what he sacrificed for his family was tantamount to the reflection of God Himself. 

As family members leave our childhood home one by one, I no longer feel the distraction of thoughts I once did and the memories are coming flooding back bit by bit. I no longer weep to myself, but I feel his presence with me...at least in my mind all the time. I often quote him in my everyday speech and constantly give reference to something he would have said or done throughout his life.

Although I knew this day would come, I feel as though he has just gone away and is coming back soon. It did not yet 'hit home' as it does not feel as though he is gone....I expect him to walk through the door at any moment. I feel connected in mind and spirit. I remember him toasting with us at home on Ole Year's, taking pictures and dancing to parang on television just last year..........Such is life. 

He lived a good life and had fully lived. No regrets. No second chances necessary. My recollection of that, along with my golden memories keeps the tears at bay....at least for now.

I must say thanks to all those who called and sent emails and texts, checking on me every day in some instances. I must reproduce this one in particular: 

"You've only lost the ability to see them physically. True love is really never ending...as some songs say and you will always feel that person near you. You did make the best decision (to move back home).... Family and life is more important than anything because they cannot be bought under any circumstances."

Thanks Kai. Bless your heart.

Peace & Love.

I Will Always Remember You

It's been a sad few weeks...So much has happened that it now feels like a dream. Surreal. But it happened. And the memories, good and bad...will live on in time forever as long as memory serves. 

My head is not in the right place to expound on the nature of my grief at the moment. However I would say this much: Life is short and unpredictable. We are all just ephemeral souls drifting through this life. Make the most of the one you have, so that there would be no regrets when all is said and done. 

Live life in such a way that you can confidently say when you have crossed over to eternal life and light, that you have fully lived, learnt, shared and loved. Material things are fleeting. To touch hearts, minds and souls is eternal. This will live on forever.

Tobago - January 2013

I've said this over the years in my writings without fully living and experiencing the range of emotions to bring my statements to life. 

The words which I wrote and spoke were not mine. It was inspired by God and influenced by my life's experiences and upbringing. Now more than ever I am thankful for my parents and what they have taught me and done for my siblings and I. 

Life is such that everybody is unique to internalize and rationalize things in a different way. Not everyone has the mental clarity, neutrality and ability/gift to do so. I am thankful that I can separate the truth from the untruth and extract the positive from almost every negative situation. I am also glad that my purpose is inextricably linked to this rationalization and gift.

You have made my life richer and happier in infinite ways. I hope you knew that at the end. I am grateful and happy beyond words that I made the right decisions and choices this year 2014 in particular to make your life more pleasant and make the most of our time together. I feel super blessed for the time that we shared. 

You said you will be proud of me regardless, but I feel it is my duty to continue to carry on your legacy. You have taught me so much in more ways than one. I will always remember you. The time we shared were indelible memories sealed with love that can never be forgotten.

May your soul RIP and may you sing and dance with your angels in the glorious kingdom (you know what I mean). Be my personal Guardian Angel and watch over me....till we meet again to spend an eternity of peace, love and happiness. I will LOVE YOU FOREVER.

A Glass of Wine Makes It All Better!

Happy 1st December, 2014 all!

Wishing you abundance and all dreams realized. It's not too late to Make it Count!

I found it useful to create a visual for how you would like your life to turn out. It's not always easy to block out the negative and keep focussed, but if we condition our minds and try to stay positive, the sky is the limit to our aspirations. 

I may not always exude a spirit of perfection....after all...I am human! Nor do I try to be perfect, but I do try to emulate and do introspection and meditation daily. I find that in those quiet moments, the pieces to life's puzzles come together and suddenly all is well with the world again:) I am graciously granted all the blessings I need to be comfortable and attract all the right people and situations. For this I am grateful.

Last week I had to deal with my family member being discharged from the hospital. It was not easy. All the strength that I previously exuded went out the window. Although I did not show it on the outside, I was crumbling on the inside. 

It was hard to see him in this vulnerable way. Previously made plans were shattered in a nanosecond and we were left with the full responsibility for care-giving. 

I did things that I was never trained to do. I overcame my sheer tendencies for squeamishness and daily luxuries I enjoyed like going out, exercise, work, sleeping in and food. 

Suddenly these things mattered little to me in the whole scheme of things. I found the inner strength to remain committed to the task at hand and persevered. I provided comfort and reassurance when me myself needed to be comforted and reassured. I surprised myself and surpassed my own expectations. 

Last night I said goodbye to an awful week and ushered in the month of December on a high note. I went to a meeting this morning and it was as business as usual. I received the magazine in print that I have been working on since June. The fruits of my labour were encouraging and gratifying to say the least. I feel accomplished and proud of my hard work and sleepless nights.

I did my errands, visited former co-workers who seemed so happy and proud of my efforts for the past year. Upon my return home, I executed my daily routine as caregiver. Afterwards I had a glass of wine to celebrate my progress for 2014 and success of the magazine. I feel content.

This month I will complete my second book and you will learn about it here, so stay tuned to this space.

Blessed be the month of December. May it bear abundant fruit, life, joy, peace and love.

Love and blessings always.

Making Your List, Checking It Twice: How To End The Year With A Bang

This article was first published on Elite Daily: Read it here: http://elitedaily.com/life/culture/making-list-checking-twice-end-year-bang/842742/

There’s one more month to go before Christmas and soon, we will be decorating our trees and ushering in a brand new year. But, before we start singing “Auld Lang Syne,” let us rewind and reflect on the past year.

Did you accomplish all of your goals? Did you fall short? Here are some of the items on my checklist that I hope you may find useful:

Did I stay true blue?

It’s important not to get sidetracked or deviate from your original goals, but it’s also important to stay open to the infinite unexpected possibilities that may await you in the future. Similar to a business, we must have some sort of a strategic plan for our lives.

Whether it happens every few years, annually, quarterly or monthly, it’s important to have a game plan. I do it annually and then mentally check back every few months to ensure that I’m on track. That’s my first step toward realizing my goals. 

Although things may not all happen at once, it’s important to have faith in the unknown and relinquish your attachment to the outcome. When we cling to one outcome rigidly, we close ourselves off to other opportunities that may present themselves along the way.

You may walk down the street on your way to the post office with that goal in mind, but you may also meet a friend who could deliver your package directly to its destination. The latter is only a possibility if you are able to engage that person in conversation and remain open.

If you remain rigid and unable to be flexible, you will never know what else is out there. 

Did I commit?

Sometimes, life gets so busy that we forget to follow through with our goals. In order to scratch off achievements on our to-do lists in life, we need to stay organized and dedicated enough to live up to the expectations we set for ourselves.

This past year was my first as an entrepreneur and I learned many things along the way. I executed some things according to plan and monitored them closely, while with other things, I started too late and failed to follow through. But, it’s all part of the exciting learning experience.

I am glad that there are people in my corner who were there to offer support and guidance. It’s important to first have a plan and create a system within your work space to regularly remind yourself what you need to do and when.

Did I set realistic goals and timelines?

Goals are important, but being practical is equally as important. When you rush in too soon or force something, most times, you will end up having to re-do it and in the process, you will expend twice the time and resources. And, you don’t want that!

So, to avoid the risk, do your research and assess your goals adequately. Give yourself breathing room for unexpected delays and setbacks. It’s important not to beat yourself up over the details, as hiccups are natural aspects of life.

You may also find it useful to solicit the help of a friend who is an expert in the requisite area or to get some professional help, like a coach or mentor.

Did I learn from my challenges?

For many years, we may have been doing things the same way, but expecting different results. Life is about learning; if something isn’t working, perhaps you need to change it up and do something different. Perhaps you need to have a backup plan, should things not work out by a particular time.

When you learn from your past, you will be able to chart a better future. I have found it useful and cathartic to blog. Suddenly, my thoughts and concerns focus themselves, as hindsight is often 20/20.

Did I give back to those in need?

“To whom much is given, much is expected.” This saying rings true for events in both business and personal lives. When we contribute our talents to good causes and return to others what we have received, we often reap the rewards tenfold, as doing so creates a cycle of reciprocity. Also, it feels great to give and great to know that someone else is better as a result.

Make your own checklist and end the year with a clean slate.

Book #2 Update

So I'm back -- 2 blogs in 2 days...Whew! I'm following the advice of someone I met at my networking shindig on Friday--which is to blog everyday. My friend Nigel and another IT pro told me this years ago when I was launching my first book. I did it for a while then went back to my old ways. 

Nigel even gave me the audio book Crush It by Gary V and again I digressed. But Bernadette convinced me to get back on track. I know this is important especially since I'd be launching my new book soon, as my friend advised the first time around. The question now is how to monetize my blog and get more hits among other things.

photo credit - C.K. Correia All rights reserved 2014
Botanical Gardens, Dallas Texas

Speaking of books...I received the second draft for the cover design of my new book last week and was thrilled at the progress...Just a few more changes, then I would be good to go. I have one more chapter to write along with the epilogue, then off it goes to get an affidavits then edited. 

My designer and editor are one of the same person with a plethora of other credits to her name. I'm super excited to be working with her and always so pleased and satisfied after each of our Skype meetings. 

Last night I wrote my bio and book synopsis to be placed on the back cover. I read it for my family during our hospital visit today and everyone loved it. My friend and marketing guru Yohann also shared his excitement and had this to say: "I love it Carolyn...Love your writing style...simple and real...no forced extravagance in your structure and wording." 

Luckily I had professional headshots taken last September 2013, so that's one less thing to worry about. I must send some love to a few friends who I bombarded via email and whatsapp this week while deciding on the best shot for this and the cover design (Ashley...we can still work out your commission when it hits the NY times bestseller list! lol)

I must also say a Big thank you to all those persons who proofread for content way back in the early stages when the vision for this book was not even yet fully formed. Also thanks to the last two kind souls who willingly accepted the challenge despite their demanding schedules. Your efforts are immensely appreciated.

The next few weeks are going to be super busy as I prepare for the new year and tie up loose ends for this one. But first I am going to be still and soak in all that has happened in 2014 and give thanks for my blessings great and small. Like my mother always said to me as a child: "Carolyn, Rome wasn't built in a day." 

When I receive messages, emails and phone calls from friends, acquaintances, associates and some mere strangers telling me I've done a lot and doing great things...it warms my heart because I don't even realize it myself at times. I just keep going, stay open and make the most of opportunities when they come. Their words gives me hope and spurs me on to reach my destination....and I know "I'll get there when I can!"

Fancy this post? Drop me a comment in the box below or subscribe!

Peace & Love

A Night of Networking and Fun!

Last evening I attended Network 4 NetWorth 2 at the President's box at the Queen's Park Oval. The event was hosted by the Nova Committee of the Trinidad & Tobago Chamber of Industry & Commerce of which I am a member of the latter. 

It was an evening of new connections, like-minds, lots of ideas, good conversation, scrumptious hors d'oeuvres and a fully stocked bar. I'm having a hard time deciding which one I enjoyed the most...lol...Just kidding...the purpose of the event was fulfilled and well executed in my opinion. I have no complaints and I can't wait for the next one.

I have attended other networking events in the past and even proposed to host my own at a couple organizations of which I am/was affiliated, so this was a great experience for me. Most if not all of the persons were new to me, so I worked my way around the room trying to get to know a bit more about everyone and also share what I do. Some were even interested in my business and me theirs. 

I did not know what to expect at this particular event, so in lieu of business cards, I printed flyers for my book and business. Each business was supposed to be paired with other companies that can benefit from each other. Though I never met my partners (not sure if they showed up), I am satisfied with the result.

This weekend I will be planting seeds and see what springs root. I am excited and thrilled by the idea of possibly working with so many SME's and inspirational business owners and assisting to bring their dreams to life while exercising my own creative talents. 

I got some advice about blogging in general and others are reviewing my sites and assisting me with info on how to get over the hurdles of placing my audio book online. I met someone whose business involved the delivery of fresh produce to your door...Market Movers Ltd...and you can even order online! Did not even know this existed in Trinidad. Amazing. I met those who are involved in the manufacture of soaps and some who are in the same field as myself. 

I'm excited and can't wait to start putting these ideas into practice and reaching out. Hopefully photos to follow soon!

Cheers~

If you stumbled along my page, you can connect by dropping me a line on the contact form on your right or emailing inspirationescape@gmail.com or get updates via facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ThinkingoutLoudbyCarolynCorreia or twitter @lyncorr. To learn more about what I do, you can also visit http://www.hicomegaconsulting.com/