Balance is key...

As we spring clean our lives and set goals, it’s important to retain our balance. Focusing too much on work may lead to imbalance in your diet or exercise. The scales can lean many ways. Focus too much on family and you may lose sense of your own goals and burn yourself out. 

So, where could you use some balance? You CAN control this, ya know? Are your excuses what is holding you back? 

What do you want you want in your life? A dear friend, Avianna, recently started a running journey after many years of believing she would never be a runner. Last Friday, she decided, “I am a runner.” She is now training to run a 5k race in June. And that, my lovelies, is how it’s done! I say again, what do you want in your life? Who do you want to be?


To figure out where you want to go or who you want to be, start with who you are.

I’m a woman...and a Soldier!

I’m a mother. I’m a sister. I’m a Staff Sergeant in the Minnesota National Guard. I’m a photographer and graphic designer. I’m a CrossFitter. 

Who are you? Who do you want to be?

I wanted to become more fit. That goal required better nutrition. How could I make this change. I was doing well with balance, but making time to prepare better meals seemed a little out of reach. I told myself, “STOP! Be present to change the present!”

I came home one night and needed to get some dinner made made quickly, but I was low on ingredients. I was determined to balance my evening so that I could have quality time with Logan. That meant no trip to the grocery store. 

I opened the fridge and got creative. I’m a recipe kind of gal, so this was a stretch for me. I brushed some EVOO onto some portabella mushrooms and put them in the oven for 10 minutes. At the same time I sautéed some sausage, salsa, spinach and green peppers. After those were nice and toasty, I added them into the mushrooms and baked for 5 more minutes. It was quick, healthy and filling.

Step out of your comfort zone! Thank you for sharing the following quote, Grace!

"A ship in harbor is safe,

but that is not what ships are built for." 

~ John A. Shedd

I love anything Mexican, but was challenged due to my recent goal of giving up chips, bread, tortillas and the like. 

So, when I was craving tacos last night, I just changed it up. I took 99% lean ground turkey and cooked it up with taco seasoning. Not impressed yet, are you? Well, I skipped the sour cream, cheese, rice and tortillas! Instead I placed the taco meat, tomatoes, black beans and fresh salsa (no Pace Picante here!) over a bed of romaine lettuce and spinach. 

Not only was it filling, but I felt good afterward. I felt clean. I felt nourished!

Remember that balance is key. That requires you to be present. You must own your day. You must own your life. If you believe and practice this conscious living every day, you’ll be sure to keep smiling! :-)

***By the way, we’re starting a LOVE RUNNERS group here in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. Training schedule will be posted on Facebook. You can join even if you can’t do the run with us. If you live somewhere else, get your shoes on and run with a friend. We will have our first 5k on June 20th. Message me to be invited! 


https://www.facebook.com/events/204722742976372/?context=create

Prioritize your life

All right, lovelies. The sun is shining, flowers are in bloom and it’s time for some spring cleaning. By spring cleaning, I mean cleaning out all of the clutter from your life. Time to dig through those bad habits. This is really something to do all year round, but I’ve found that I’m slacking in some areas after the last year’s challenges. 

So, let’s go and get some transformation rolling!

What are you connecting to that you shouldn't be? Time to chop, chop, chop it out!

It’s easier than you think to disconnect from these space fillers. It’s your life and you need to do work! Get it done!

In order to track your goals, you can use a calendar, planner or whatever. Find a method that is easy. I just use a notebook. This is the same notebook that I use as a journal and also where I write my dreams and affirmations. Find something that works, so that you can get in the habit easily. 

After about a month, your planning and journal time will become a routine. Just you setting and knocking out your goals one by one. You transforming your life and living your purpose!

Visualize it right now. Take the time to close your eyes and focus on those daily, weekly and monthly goals!

And as always, keep in touch and keep smiling!

Stop, look and listen!

Recently, I keep comparing myself to animals. As cliche as it sounds, I’ve been feeling like a butterfly. I was in this cocoon all winter, but it’s slowly opening and I’m learning how to operate these beautiful new wings of mine! I drew this little ditty to illustrate how that would look.

Today, I described myself as a reverse chameleon to a friend. Confused? As I transition into a new phase of my life, I have a vision of what my life will be. So, I’m changing my surrounds to match the new me. Of course, I’m still growing and changing myself and I always will be. But, I’ll just continue to change my surroundings to match my newly manifested path.

This new path is amazing. I shared how I was inspired to meditate during my runs and how it opened up a new level of consciousness that I had issues connecting with before.  

Last time I ran, I focused on envisioning what my soul connection would be like. Not how, who or when, but what!

This time I focused on my financial security and how I will secure it through goals that lead me to serving my higher purpose. 

Once again, not the how. I just focused on what my business would look like. I went through a typical day in my new life. I envisioned running orders to the post office. I pictured the late nights, but also the afternoons that I am free to take Logan to the lake or go for a bike ride. 

Here’s how my run went. I want to preface this video with a bit of a disclaimer. I had a major breakthrough, so as a result I released a few tears. I debated whether or not to record again, but decided that I want this experience to be real. I want you to see me, all of me, good and bad!

Simple, right? Not always. It’s not always easy to stop, look and listen. We hear about a death and promise ourselves to take more time for the special people in our lives. A week later, we’re back in the rush and ushering of daily activities. I do it too. 

But seeing the words, “You’re not a bum,” just gave my flame the extra boost you needed. I needed to know that I have what I need. I have time! I have skills! I have what I need to get this ball rolling. 

The challenge this week is to create an affirmation that frees us of limitations. 

I am limitless. I am light and my light shines love through all that I encounter.

I have more than enough time to do it all. 

Stop and take the time to snuggle, laugh, love or play. 

Imagine yourself wearing rose-colored glasses that resonate love. You see a stranger, a co-worker, neighbor, anyone and you shine love onto them. It can be a kind gesture or a smile.

How about those people that we don’t jive with? I have a co-worker that just doesn’t get it. He attempts to throw me under the bus with my boss and jokes about horribly inappropriate things (sexual assault etc.). 

Make your plan for loving these people. Avianna Castro suggested that I read Dr. Wayne Dyer’s ‘Wishes Fulfilled.’ I purchased the audio book and have made a rule to keep my TV off at night. I fold laundry and listen. I prepare lunches and listen. I clean and listen. I am not a bum...and my actions align with that new path.

In his book, Dr. Dyer challenges you to ask yourself, “Right now, is what I’m about to say or do stemming from my higher or lower self?” 

I would suggest writing this down. Memorize it. Live it. When I have the urge to react in a way that stems from below the belt, I stop. Sometimes, I’m so angry that it’s hard to redirect my path, but somehow after stopping the negativity, I’m able to follow through and emit love through my actions. I still need a lot of work. But, that’s life.

I hope your life is treating you well and filled with lots of smiles!

Just in case you're not smiling right now...

Manifesting on the go

A great soul sister, Malia, posted an awesome idea on Facebook recently. Prior to going on a run, she pulled out one of her daily affirmation cards and then meditated and marinated on that card throughout her run!

Now, first of all, I struggle finding time to meditate. Secondly, once I find the time, I struggle with clearing my mind. Lastly, I love to run, but often get bored if my run is more than two miles. So this idea of manifesting 'on the go' resonated with me.

I didn’t have my cards on me, so I decided to focus on my everyday struggle...finding ‘the one.’ Lately, I’ve been looking at potential mates like I would a pair of shoes. 

Beautiful shoes from AldoShoes.com

“Ooh, I love this shoe. It’s cute and fun, but man, my feet will be hurting by the end of the day.”

“Hmm...this shoe is practical, everyday wear, simple, not a conversation starter, but...*yawn*...I could wear these...maybe...zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.”

Seriously! It was time for a new approach. I needed to focus on the qualities I want to manifest instead of the who and when.

Here’s how my run went. Some of you will be surprised and some of you won’t. hee hee

So, I still struggled with my attention span, but all in all, it was a great run filled with all kinds of marinating! It was my first 5-mile run of the season and I was invigorated and refreshed. I had to hurry and pick my son up, but first jotted down all of the crazy thoughts running through my head. I couldn’t write fast enough.

My run started out somewhat strong, the first hill came and I was confident. I cruised down it, only to be met by a smaller hill that surprisingly packed a punch. A couple of miles into my run, I had a good pace going, but this little hill was tearing at my knee.

OK, in case you haven’t caught on, there’s a metaphor here. Life is like training for a marathon. You may start an experience (job, relationship etc.) strong. You may feel like your foundation is set in stone, but it’s the little things that can trip you up. 

So, STOP! Breathe. Part of running effectively is keeping your breathing under control.

Enjoy each day! Enjoy each hill. Picture your muscles (heart, mind etc) getting stronger. As I battled that hill, I thanked spirit for the strength and energy to run. I thanked my body for putting up with me even though I don’t drink enough water and love sweets. 

Through each up and down, sometimes you’ll find that the straightaways are the most challenging. You get caught in a rut. Complacency sets in and next thing you know, a month has passed you by. I say again...ENJOY EACH DAY! 

Figure out how to do that. I journal almost every night. Even when I’m tired. Find what works best for you. 

By taking time to enjoy each day, you’ll be able to better appreciate and ‘hear’ the messages that your angels are sending you. 

During my run, two songs came on. ‘L-O-V-E’ by Nat King Cole and ‘Syrup and Honey’ by Duffy.

These were great reminders for me on my L-O-V-E journey. My angels were helping keep me on track. The songs came on at points during my run where my brain had slowed down. I couldn’t help but to smile and say thank you! LOL...no joke. ‘Syrup and Honey’ just came on as I’m typing this. Seeeeeeeeee, open your eyes and see with me!

So, my challenge to you is to find a new way to meditate. While doing the dishes, folding laundry, taking your dog for a walk. Take ten minutes out of your lunch break, find a quiet space and close your eyes. Focus, visualize, manifest!

Then write it all down. Write every last bit of your experience down. I’m telling you, it’s worth it. Then share your experience with me!!! :-)


And, as always, if you're ever wondering what to do, just keep smiling.

Water your own grass!

I’m sure many of you have heard the quote about the grass always being greener on the other side, right?

Today, I was reminded about my last blog post where I talked about enjoying where you are right here, right now...at this very moment. 

Heading home after a dinner where I was surrounded by lovelies, I was considering going to see a movie, but then thought that I didn’t really want to see a bunch of lovey dovey couples watching a Rom Com. I always get cold in theaters. Who was going to help keep me warm? Wah, wah, wah, blah, blah, blah!

Just as I was getting caught in the ‘woe is me’ trap...this amazing thing happened!

This is all common sense, isn’t it? Well, for those moments when we forget, Spirit comes along and fills us with LOVE! 

Then on the ol’ Facebook, a good friend, from my childhood, posted something about watering our own grass, so that it’s just as green as that ‘other’ grass. Being the graphics gopher that I am, I had to pop into Illustrator and make up a pretty!

What messages is Spirit sending you? Are you listening?

Keep smiling!

Perfect timing: An oxymoron or frame of mind?

When I found out that I was pregnant, I first thought, "Am I really ready for this?" I don't mean to offend the parents out there that wait years to raise a child, but is there really a "ready" for such a life-changing event? I mean, you can be the most OCD person on the planet. I had weeks worth of meals stored in my freezer by the time I went into labor, but were we really ready? There's always one more thing to check off the list, right?


Recently, I've found myself trying to swim a 10k, when I only have the capability to swim a 5k (this is an analogy, of course). I found myself discouraged and wondering how I was going to swim that extra 5k. I have the energy and drive, but my "muscles" just wouldn't go any further. Then I became really sick and even more flustered. With work piling up as high as the laundry, I was fed up.


That's when we regroup. Talk to friends. Look at your vision board. Set benchmarks to your goal. Amelia Earhart broke her first world record just two years after her first plane ride, but she first had to learn how to fly...strengthen her flying muscles, so to speak.


I recently emailed a dear friend of mine and had a revelation. It's true that we shouldn't dwell on the past, but why not look back and be thankful for what you've experienced. For one day in the past, you were wishing for what you have today. 


Think about it. List the things you have today that were once a mere wish or thought. Now watch the video! I apologize for it's length, but I'm a one-take sort of gal, otherwise my OCD will kick in and I'll be up all night trying to get the perfect cut!

What's your routine?


As I was emailing this friend, I realized that I need to follow his advice and shift my paradigm (another great reason he's a great friend). In the last year, I felt as though everything in my life had changed. My job, my love, my marriage, my home (more than once), my plans, my hopes, my income, my dreams...you name it. I felt like I had this intricate puzzle, also known as life, all figured out. Well, maybe not ALL figured out, but I had a good grasp on it. Then this pesky person came and just took a hammer to it.

Photo credit: INS, The Telegraph (UK)

Yes, those are Legos! Just little tiny pieces, but as a unit, they can build a house. Yes, that's a legit house made out of legos. Woah, bring it back on track, Dajon. :-)

After completing my email and feeling all "woe is me," I realized that my puzzle (life) ain't no stinkin' legos! MY life is more like the buildings that the 'doozers' build on Fraggle Rock. They always seem to be building something, but it's never really finished. They are happy, cute little boogers, aren't they? If you're asking yourself what I'm talking about, just check this link out.

Photo credit: TheFullWiki.org

The doozers actually have it all figured out! Here's some words from one of their songs titled "All work, all play"!

Aww, the days when great vocabulary was used in theme songs. None of this Elmo's World crap! But, I digress again.


Don't shirk. Don't doze! This is your life! You are here in the perfect place, at the perfect time! Let's be joyful partners here, in this world that we revere!


Hope you're smiling! I know I am!

Celebrate love today!

It’s Valentine’s Day! I’m so excited. No amount of grumpy Army dudes could ruin my day! 

Today has become a money-booster for florists, Hallmark, Taiwanese animal-stuffing workers, Hershey and let’s not forget, jewelers! 

It has also become a sort of Single Awareness Day for those of us who are unattached. But, let’s shift the paradigm!

I decided to do a little research to really figure out what Valentine’s Day is all about! My friend, Google, had this to say: 

“While some believe that Valentine's Day is celebrated in the middle of February to commemorate the anniversary of Valentine's death or burial, others claim that the Christian church may have decided to place St. Valentine's feast day in the middle of February in an effort to "Christianize" the pagan celebration of Lupercalia. Celebrated on February 15, Lupercalia was a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, as well as to the Roman founders Romulus and Remus.”

Yawn, yawn, death or burial, yawn, yawn, pagan celebration, yawnety, yawn, yawn, fertility festival--which makes sense, seeing as how Logan was a Valentine’s baby.

Anyhow, back on track. That didn’t really get me any closer to shifting the paradigm. So, let’s stick to the whole L-O-V-E theme! *singing* All you need is love, LOVE!!! Love is all you need! *singing*

Let’s spread some love. Send your favorite galentine some flowers, even if she is attached. Show her some love!

"The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched- they must be felt with the heart." 

- Helen Keller

Or maybe you have a palentine that could use a call. Pick up the phone. Give the gift of your time! I tried it today. It works. My palentine actually mentioned how happy he was to get a call!

WARNO: Excuse the horrible freeze face below. Video editor...I am not! ha ha ha

Makes sense, right? It doesn’t matter how you celebrate your love. You could be like Logan and just excited to share your Lightning McQueen valentines (that you’re mom had to talk you into sharing, because they’re so cool that you really wanted to keep them all for yourself). Or you might be the couple with the sappy, butterflies-in-the-stomach, cutesy love.

Remember, no matter what your love looks like...

...celebrate it today! 


Oh no! Here comes more! *singing* Ceeeeeeellll-e-brate good times, c’mon! Duh-duh-duh---duh---duh---duh---duh-duh, yahoo!!!” *singing*

Ooh, look at that! Caught cha smiling! Are you still laughing at my ridiculous freeze face...because I am! Whatever you're smiling at, keep it up!