Pretty is Not Enough.

I saw this posted on Pinterest and something just spoke to me so I thought I'd share it.
It got me thinking how just one small deed done with intention can make such an enormous impact.
It begs the question, how are you a force of beauty?
What are you doing to make a difference?

Forget what you think you know
and believe in your own personal beauty.
You are a force to be reckoned with!

Just Breathe...

Breathe.

Sounds so simple yet can be so challenging at times.  

When we get stressed, mentally or physically, our breathing pattern changes, 

shortens, becomes more shallow. 

Heck, sometimes we even hold our breath without even knowing it!

Today in yoga class, our instructor, Cesar, said something that caught me off guard.  I actually paused what I was doing to take in and digest his words.  In a very gentle voice, Cesar said "The minute you stop breathing, you begin dying".  I actually stopped what I was doing to take in and digest his words.  I thought, "Whoa!  That's a little heavy for me this morning."  The further into my yoga practice I got, the more his words resonated with me.  He was so right!  

The times in my life when I'm the most frustrated, lost, confused...I'm feeling that way because there is a part of me suffering or dying.  When I stop to take a deep breath and get myself more centered, things have a way of becoming more clear.  I notice my heart beat regulating, my shoulders relaxing and focus to return slowly.   That's not to say that taking a deep breath or two will solve the problem, but it does help me to take care, stop dying, to make better choices rather than feel like things are happening to me.  

I encourage you to live a little more today by just breathing through whatever comes your way.  

I know I will.  Namaste!

What's Your Trademark?

Definition:
A trademark, trade mark, or trade-mark is a distinctive sign or indicator used by an individual/business to distinguish its products or services from those of other entities.

We all tell our story every day...and we do it without uttering a single word.  People that feel assured and empowered rarely slouch or drag their feet when they walk.  A woman who exudes self-confidence can light up a room when she walks in the door.  She stands tall and holds her head high.   She owns her style and celebrates her individuality.

What about your style sets you apart and tells your story? 

Community Makeover

I strongly believe in giving back to the communities where we work and live.  Most recently, I've had the honor to participate with the non-profit organization Enchanted Makeovers and I wanted to share a little with you about the organization from the founder herself. The difference they make is truly amazing and we "Love That!"

"My name is Terry Grahl and I am the founder of Enchanted Makeovers, a 100% volunteer, not-for-profit organization based in Michigan whose mission is to transform shelters for women and children into places of peace and possibilities. This model is much more than a series of decorating projects; it is a movement to transform people rebuilding their lives as well as the lives of the volunteers and communities. We are blessed to be celebrating our 5 year anniversary in 2011 and very blessed by the national exposure and awards we have received including People Magazine, MLB, Martha Stewart, Woman's World, Ladies Home Journal and many more. We are excited about our next project which is with Alternative For Girls in Southwest Detroit a shelter for girls ages 15-21. You may have seen them on the NBC special about human trafficking in Detroit.

We have a number of wonderful projects and programs planned that will take place over the next 4-5 months for AFG. In addition to physically transforming the shelter into a whimsical cottage-like haven, there will be programs offered that teach the women and children life skills and coping skills."

Please visit our website to learn more about Enchanted Makeovers at http://www.enchantedmakeovers.org.

Thank you so much."

Terry Grahl Founder and Visionary for Enchanted Makeovers

Striking Out

"Don't let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game." 

Babe Ruth

It's that simple. 

Make the call. 

Take the first step. 

Decide you can & will.