tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-156933842024-03-12T19:03:35.777-07:00Diamonds in the Sky with LucyPoetry, Ponderings & Photographs <br>
<br>the more i learn, the less i knowKayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.comBlogger837125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-57503929796609567212012-07-02T14:30:00.001-07:002012-07-02T15:08:19.159-07:00Lucy has a new address...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeLfJijnyYIgOyxRqHNk45f98SzYZojHCMBZfN6iP3e6XMhwcKPWzbuklgtPG_YrSDXsDtA72sqB7r80b__kgSJ2HZ_R4Wu1jYIDkeR_3yyUQs9vO4ojBFZhR3O4CfH5RdN63r/s1600/peanutlucy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeLfJijnyYIgOyxRqHNk45f98SzYZojHCMBZfN6iP3e6XMhwcKPWzbuklgtPG_YrSDXsDtA72sqB7r80b__kgSJ2HZ_R4Wu1jYIDkeR_3yyUQs9vO4ojBFZhR3O4CfH5RdN63r/s320/peanutlucy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
After more than eight years at this location, I've decided to combine by blog and website. Now you can find all the "diamonds" scoop at one easy location: <a href="http://www.kaycehughlett.com/">www.kaycehughlett.com</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.diamondsinthesoul.com/blog/"><b>Click here</b> to go directly diamonds in the sky with lucy ~ the blog.</a><br />
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<b style="color: blue;">See you there!!!</b>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-61026552682426819962012-06-29T17:59:00.001-07:002012-06-29T17:59:46.768-07:00Summer Reading Fun!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/1a-5nuA28N4?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe> </div>
<br /><h3 style="color: lime; text-align: center;">
<strong>long summer days</strong> + hot book + <strong>cool coaches</strong> + blog hop =</h3>
<h3 style="color: lime; text-align: center;">
<strong>On the Same Page</strong></h3>
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I am super excited to announce a blogging book club — that will be hosted by five amazing professional coaches including yours truly. We are calling this <a href="http://www.slideshare.net/KaneshaBaynard/on-the-same-page-summer-blog-book-club">"On the Same Page"</a> and this summer, we will tackle <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Flow-P-S-ebook/dp/B000W94FE6/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1340857628&sr=1-1&keywords=flow"><b><i>flow</i></b></a> written by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi. </div>
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<b><i>"It is by being fully involved with every detail of our lives, whether good or bad, that we find happiness, not by trying to look for it directly."</i></b> M. Csikszentmihalyi.</div>
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Each Monday, from July 9 – September 17, one coach will tackle a chapter from <strong><em>Flow</em></strong>. Key points from the chapter will be highlighted. Discussion questions will be posted, and “<strong>YOUwork</strong>” (aka homework) will be provided.</div>
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<a href="http://www.boldlivingtoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/FLOW.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1709" height="115" src="http://www.boldlivingtoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/FLOW.jpg" title="FLOW" width="115" /></a>We hope you will join us and read along. It is absolutely FREE!! You <b>do not have to register</b> for anything. Just <span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Flow-The-Psychology-Optimal-Experience/dp/0061339202/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1340061107&sr=8-1&keywords=Flow" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">purchase</span></a></span> or checkout the book (<em>from your local library</em>), show up here (<em>starting July 9</em>), and lend your voice to the discussion.</div>
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It will be insightful, thought-provoking, and transformative fun.</div>
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<i> </i></div>
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<i>In the meantime, tell me what books are on your current summer
reading list? What summer adventures are you planning? What’s your
favorite snack to take to the pool?</i></div>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-71264075194527543922012-06-25T10:33:00.000-07:002012-06-25T10:33:25.029-07:00Turtle Stepping to the Finish Line<style>
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How we do one thing is how we do everything. Take a moment
to pause, ponder, and consider this. Are you typically a procrastinator or do
you jump straight into the fire? Are you organized to perfection or a chronic
case of disarray? Do you primarily listen to your head or does your body have
the option of weighing in on decision-making? Do you operate from the learned
behavior of others or can you recognize the epiphanies of your own heart? What
works for you? How do you operate in the world? </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish Line Approach</td></tr>
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Throughout my life I have been each and all of the above,
but as I become more aware of my ways of being I see how the initial statement,
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">How we do one thing is how we do
everything,</i> rings true on a relatively consistent basis. Two perfect
examples are the writing of my book, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><a href="http://amzn.to/KIp9Ke">As I Lay Pondering</a>,</i> and the half marathon I completed this past weekend. In each
case, the spark in my heart said, “Go for it!” and set in motion a journey
toward the finish line. In either case, was I prepared? Yes and no. Did I
believe I could achieve the goal? Yes and no. Did I keep putting one foot in
front of the other no matter how challenging, scary, or disheartening things
became? Unequivocally Yes!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turtle Steps @ Green Lake</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Here is where I am reminded of the timeless story of the
tortoise and the hare. My essential way of being holds both characters. I typically leap
quickly into the race (once the spark ignites) and then pause to notice what
I’ve set in motion. If the goal continues to ring true, I turtle step my way
through until the finish. On Saturday, I believed I would finish the race even
though my training routine was a bit underdone (just like my book
writing experience). All along the route, I checked in with my body and noticed
when I was able to push forward and how I needed to occasionally hold back. I
ran on the downhills when things felt easy and smooth, and I muttered under my
breath on the uphills as I systematically put one foot in front of the other.
(To author the book, I kept showing up to the page... even when inspiration or completion seemed a long way off). </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1-ctX-MI2g72nRDDplHdhemekQ9N4OauRVRbTO0e8Lj5zs2bPBVf_t09z5OY2wXIUia-JPhshfixeiKFgycYKfl79_S7e-RkDyzHSC05WK2Vpd2BHCu9nl2aTLIEOClKDLoJV/s1600/IMG_1424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1-ctX-MI2g72nRDDplHdhemekQ9N4OauRVRbTO0e8Lj5zs2bPBVf_t09z5OY2wXIUia-JPhshfixeiKFgycYKfl79_S7e-RkDyzHSC05WK2Vpd2BHCu9nl2aTLIEOClKDLoJV/s200/IMG_1424.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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When I got scared or tired and felt my heart beat with
anxiety, I kept the end result in mind. I felt the exhilaration of crossing the
finish line (or holding a completed manuscript in my hand). I believed
completion was possible. I chose to follow my vision and turned my back on the
naysayers (including my internal critic) who said I couldn’t do “it” without
proper training. I wasn’t fully prepared in either instance, but I was prepared
enough to begin. In the last two miles of the race, I came upon a t-shirt that
read “Courage to Start. Faith to Finish.” It was just what I needed to see me
through those last paces.</div>
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On Saturday, I set out to have fun, hang out with my
daughter and sister, and move my body 13.1 miles without serious injury. I
wanted to break my record of last year, but mainly I focused on my intention: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Have Fun and Finish</i>. I succeeded in both
(and I broke my record by 15 minutes.) It happened one step at a time,
because I've learned that...</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #76a5af; text-align: center;">
<i><b>how I do one thing is how I do everything!</b></i></div>
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<i>Tortoise? Hare? Combo? Other? What’s the “everything” style
that works best for you? </i></div>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-72975662359635712042012-06-18T19:30:00.000-07:002012-06-18T19:30:01.853-07:00Knowing When to Ask for Help<style>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHfF-hLQNtU7edJryMbzgJlyklocTwVCmp0HQz_Uu_VNBxNpXbpi-_NiU-yHEhVLU5FiL8-O3HbkjH_vh9SEI3DZWBwnNlso-c2ThWod9C5MjFsB1D-tccaew67U10gkvYRa1y/s1600/DSCN1185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHfF-hLQNtU7edJryMbzgJlyklocTwVCmp0HQz_Uu_VNBxNpXbpi-_NiU-yHEhVLU5FiL8-O3HbkjH_vh9SEI3DZWBwnNlso-c2ThWod9C5MjFsB1D-tccaew67U10gkvYRa1y/s320/DSCN1185.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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My pondering has taken on a new level of exag- geration these
past weeks as I tap into the thoughts, feelings, and emotions surrounding the
promotional aspects of being a self-published author. As I’ve perused books,
websites, and media expert information, I’ve felt like a seasick sailor in the
midst of a typhoon. Green at the gills and seeking solid land, I’ve deciphered
enough to know that it’s definitely not a positive sign when thinking about
marketing your beloved product results in a tightened chest, violently churning
insides, and a strong impulse to throw up. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim96tbAihcdPYVd2QdGz9NjzLZ8ys-obfILYoAeHvAFpHxyltHNYiGJCAv6HIkwysq3N3OgjOFslz7tc1fwN2xZZZ_9qn85gAqWW64qSzVGWMhERyAgxzGyiLzksMHQiQvF8Se/s1600/ksh_WW-fans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim96tbAihcdPYVd2QdGz9NjzLZ8ys-obfILYoAeHvAFpHxyltHNYiGJCAv6HIkwysq3N3OgjOFslz7tc1fwN2xZZZ_9qn85gAqWW64qSzVGWMhERyAgxzGyiLzksMHQiQvF8Se/s320/ksh_WW-fans.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walla Walla Book Event</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While I can candidly declare that I am competent in a number
of arenas, there is never-the-less a voice in my head (and stomach) that says,
“Leave the marketing to someone else.” There is naught like the mechanics of unsolicited
self-promotion to turn my insides out and make me flee for shelter or cower under
the covers. Please don’t get me wrong... I absolutely adore sharing stories,
connecting with people, speaking on a welcoming stage, or engaging in an
intimate one-on-one conversation. But the thought of walking into one more
independent bookstore and having a clerk stroll away with a sneer on her face
and <b><i>As I Lay Pondering</i></b> held between two fingers as if it were a dirty diaper
turns my skin cold. Seriously... diving into Puget Sound midwinter without a
wetsuit feels more inviting to me. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now, anyone who has known me for even a brief period of time
understands I have little aversion to taking risks. In fact, it joyously tops
my ongoing to do list...</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: red; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Take A Risk Every Day</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilix7_yMJL4y7JQwyyXaNmBw6T7YBvwiCP7Oypajgv9UASUVDR5ibtBjtt7SUauG_RhN0nTd1g_lold9FZkHN8z_PWQo2xEFjMdhB5nIRNFgENh9-qLLOai23AuObCJKwS3-9c/s1600/P1010004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilix7_yMJL4y7JQwyyXaNmBw6T7YBvwiCP7Oypajgv9UASUVDR5ibtBjtt7SUauG_RhN0nTd1g_lold9FZkHN8z_PWQo2xEFjMdhB5nIRNFgENh9-qLLOai23AuObCJKwS3-9c/s320/P1010004.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
...but I have also come to learn there is a laudable difference
between taking risks that propel me forward and <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>those that push my heart begrudgingly into
areas that leave my essential self feeling disturbingly <a href="http://diamondsintheskywithlucy.blogspot.com/2012/01/magic-never-feels-icky.html">icky.</a> Even though I am
a <a href="http://kaycehughlett.squarespace.com/life-coaching/">rockin’ coach</a>, it is rarely wise to practice my skills on my loved ones. I am
typically too invested in the outcome to be objective. Likewise, I’ve
determined that exclusively promoting my own book is akin to being the sole
counselor for my family. I am entirely too close to the subject. Misunderstandings
are inevitable, feelings <i>will</i> get hurt, and unflattering barfing may ensue. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Further down on my list-to-live-by is another premise that I
have a tendency to overlook.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: red; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Know When to Ask for Help!</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4iXeqnaGRBVFnQeSutx-6puv8WDwul4fxUJb5XlsoS1XRxkHwBKz9-ofB7w2p_1fEpcDyivrCCH7W8c3fgnIVnMW4ZJz_gwTDHdBPtNnKKjv9yhRDE4UjxVvJbcc5on1if1nK/s1600/charlie_brown_lucy_football.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4iXeqnaGRBVFnQeSutx-6puv8WDwul4fxUJb5XlsoS1XRxkHwBKz9-ofB7w2p_1fEpcDyivrCCH7W8c3fgnIVnMW4ZJz_gwTDHdBPtNnKKjv9yhRDE4UjxVvJbcc5on1if1nK/s200/charlie_brown_lucy_football.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was raised to be an independent woman and asking for help
can be a challenge. It is both blessing and curse to know myself as competent
in my own right. Navigating this new marketing territory is clearly possible,
but leaves me with a daunting feeling and the declaration, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I don’t wanna! </i>That’s clearly how I feel about taking the next promotional
step(s) alone... <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I don’t wanna!!</i></b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> </i>Therefore...</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s time for me to take a risk, put my independent ego
aside, and ask for help! Today I’m turning this plea over to the Universe. Call
it prayer, intention setting, dream making, wish casting, whatever you like,
but I’m releasing it out into the Great Unknown. And since I’m choosing not to go
it alone, let me ask you this... </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><i>What projects make you turn ‘green at the gills’?
</i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Are you compelled to disregard the potential warning
signs and push on through? </i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>If yes, consider why.</i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>What does risk taking entail for you? </i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Do you know when (or how) to ask for help?</i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Feel free to practice alongside me by putting
your needs and desires out into the world.</i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<i> Together we can see what happens!</i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Ready. Set. Go!!!</i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="color: red;">Wanted</b><span style="color: red;">:</span></span> Ideal
advocate for <i><a href="http://kaycehughlett.squarespace.com/blog/2012/1/14/as-i-lay-pondering-daily-invitations-to-live-a-transformed-l.html">As I Lay Pondering: daily invitations to live a transformed life</a>. </i>Must be articulate, energetic, and marketing
knowledgeable (or excited and willing to learn). A promoter of passions with excellent
tools and the skills to implement them.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Excited to work together and find perfect ways to extend our
mutual energy and efforts. Reasonably priced and ready to make things happen. Passionate
about my book, work, and what I have to offer the world. We connect seamlessly
and complement each other well. Loves marketing and promotional work, is a
self-starter, and not overbearing. Compassionate, generous, an excellent
listener, and a well-connected connector.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When she/he arrives the weight drops from my shoulders and
the gnawing in my stomach releases. Life moves forward with ease and
satisfaction. It feels effortless... yes, effortless.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Companioning and marketing with ease... that’s what I want!! Okay,
Universe. Ready. Set. Go!!!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-64738590371237345702012-06-13T11:37:00.000-07:002012-06-13T11:37:01.892-07:00This and That...While I really prefer to save this space for "pondering," it occasionally seems appropriate to share a little "what's going on..."<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHB6GrNV9rIrBL1Ldpjm229IzAR6rEfttbHxCf7zkGkAIJ2lemrHZsUWUQanDojudwiz9MRwKCg-SzSvRsT7cLMbs-pc_gcMiPIEk24m0LlAIkQBBoKuCNQIh1m3nOULuryGq-/s1600/yoga+SC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHB6GrNV9rIrBL1Ldpjm229IzAR6rEfttbHxCf7zkGkAIJ2lemrHZsUWUQanDojudwiz9MRwKCg-SzSvRsT7cLMbs-pc_gcMiPIEk24m0LlAIkQBBoKuCNQIh1m3nOULuryGq-/s200/yoga+SC.jpg" width="125" /></a></div>
Seattle Peeps won't want to miss this Friday's (June 15) fun and casual event at <a href="http://www.breathehotyoga.com/Locations">Breathe Hot Yoga (South Lake Union).</a> I will be reading from "As I Lay Pondering" and conversing about my insights into presence, play, and passion.<br />
<br />
4:30 P.M. (Optional) Class SPECIAL DROP-IN RATE $10 (i<span class="text_exposed_show">f you've been curious about hot yoga come try it out!)<br /> <br /> </span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show">6:30 P.M. Festivities Begin with Tasty Treats from Eat Local<br /> 7:00 P.M. Author reading + Q&A<br /> 7:30 P.M. Book signing, mingling, and more!</span><br />
<br />
<div style="color: #3d85c6;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span class="text_exposed_show">BTW - "Pondering" is now portable. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B0072WGOKY">Get your copy on Kindle today</a>!! Just $9.99.</span></b></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFopQadG80BEHBh8JXFBHNfLmqdjcCcVL4myzKLxN5Y0bKpNE1H1rBpSm873xFKG6qIjcJhXxM7VXy9SBkE8wr1FZV6WjAvCy3slyb03l48SRgEa17mxISAN_v-0fQsPfacviv/s1600/Earth+SC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFopQadG80BEHBh8JXFBHNfLmqdjcCcVL4myzKLxN5Y0bKpNE1H1rBpSm873xFKG6qIjcJhXxM7VXy9SBkE8wr1FZV6WjAvCy3slyb03l48SRgEa17mxISAN_v-0fQsPfacviv/s200/Earth+SC.jpg" width="125" /></a></div>
<span class="text_exposed_show"><b>Featured Online Class</b>... </span>Now is the time to kick back and connect
with the Elements and your creativity... Summer Sale for this online
"anytime" class ends Sunday. (Featuring SoulCollage© guided by yours truly.)<br />
<br />
<div class="tlTxFe mbm shareUnit aboveUnitContent" style="color: red;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://abbeyofthearts.com/classes/online-classes/water-wind-earth-fire-e-course/">Water, Wind, Earth, & Fire </a></span><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/MIurARXECH0" width="560"></iframe>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Just for Fun</b>... Take a minute (literally) and view WayPo Goes Wild (video outtakes) created while filming the "official" <a href="http://thewayfinderpost.com/">Wayfinder Post welcome</a>. </span></span></span>Thanks for stopping by!!! </div>
<span class="text_exposed_show"> </span>
<br />
<br />
<br />Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-48789273886652392962012-06-11T11:07:00.000-07:002012-06-11T11:07:08.729-07:00Remembering What You Already Know<style>
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When was the last time you paused and took the time to be
curious and observe children at play? Each person in the world is a teacher and
there is something to be learned from everyone no matter what age or stage of
life. I believe children are our greatest teachers – especially those around
the age of four or five. Robert Fulghum highlighted this notion when he wrote
his poem (and subsequent book) about kindergarten. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: purple; text-align: center;">
<i>“Most of what I really need</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: purple; text-align: center;">
<i>to know about how to live</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: purple; text-align: center;">
<i>and what to do and how to be</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: purple; text-align: center;">
<i>I learned in kindergarten.”</i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbzXjB_aq4c1xcXHtu825UKqzqNyGW8pUwUO0re52LPcmXnJqQfY9xOSLpeltw1-I7EIZjx9RLem5o29MIq5ndiLyjuS2FD6X7e3dB8W7yLqOUwcEVt88-zWnseL9-eKIOtVHf/s1600/sc006064fb_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbzXjB_aq4c1xcXHtu825UKqzqNyGW8pUwUO0re52LPcmXnJqQfY9xOSLpeltw1-I7EIZjx9RLem5o29MIq5ndiLyjuS2FD6X7e3dB8W7yLqOUwcEVt88-zWnseL9-eKIOtVHf/s1600/sc006064fb_2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Everything you need to know about being a fabulous, perfect
YOU is already present in that early stage of life. As a little girl growing up
in Oklahoma, I loved to skip around the block, ride the miniature roller
coaster at my backyard kindergarten, hang out with puppies and kittens, eat ice
cream, take naps, dress in sparkles and have permission to get dirty. I could
ride my bike for hours without exhaustion because I loved it so much. Chalk was
my favorite writing utensil and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Tarzan</i>
and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The Three Stooges</i> brought me
adventure and laughs. Road trips to the California beach and floating for hours
on a raft in the middle of a peaceful lake still resonate. In fact, most of
these things (or at least their essence) are where I find love and joy today. They
are the things I <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">know</i></b> about living my life and being me—both then and now.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVqGDwgGnaN4g_Gdplf2ouR7Ha_9nCP5R-vypqG0qPBjUMBSaDWlDlekT96q-oq8GYhByWyfNrQHoUj9Ci3oxtnIsX-Q_55eSNIYztQB5EWcuNBbWkdJ5zkKjwi-FAqXc88XT1/s1600/4874FDB8B3A54EE1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVqGDwgGnaN4g_Gdplf2ouR7Ha_9nCP5R-vypqG0qPBjUMBSaDWlDlekT96q-oq8GYhByWyfNrQHoUj9Ci3oxtnIsX-Q_55eSNIYztQB5EWcuNBbWkdJ5zkKjwi-FAqXc88XT1/s320/4874FDB8B3A54EE1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Several decades later, I still know it feels delicious to
take a nap on a warm or rainy afternoon and there is sweetness in being gently
awakened by someone I love. Sharing is delightful whether with a friend or
stranger. Seeing a person’s face brighten is worth offering a lick of my ice
cream cone, a seat on the bus, or a kind word. I also know it’s physically impossible
to be angry while skipping. Doing something that elevates my heart rate with excitement
and a touch of trepidation is worth the risk. Coming out on the other side and
saying “I did it!” is one of the best sensations ever. Undertaking something
risky each day brings living into life... and you get to decide what “risky”
looks like for you.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We innately know what’s best for us (although it’s sometimes
forgotten through years of poor habits and trying to follow everyone else’s advice).
Our bodies know what is satisfying and nourishing... whether it’s cookies and
milk after a lingering nap or gluten-free pizza and fresh garden veggies that
comfort the soul. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpdKYOfRiFRJTigFqEb3BREYKvTttB1N-linJbiHVudHBKt0Cx6slupRNqBGOC8GyKdLFytot8sMQpwZuUuUXCawKEMI1VU4Rt0FfXinjqG6OhLjOqyV0_z7iUrWifWH61iZt4/s1600/DF1C4BC68ED94430_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpdKYOfRiFRJTigFqEb3BREYKvTttB1N-linJbiHVudHBKt0Cx6slupRNqBGOC8GyKdLFytot8sMQpwZuUuUXCawKEMI1VU4Rt0FfXinjqG6OhLjOqyV0_z7iUrWifWH61iZt4/s200/DF1C4BC68ED94430_2.jpg" width="156" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
An adult’s knowledge and a child’s wisdom are the perfect
prescription for living life beautifully. Today, imagine what it might be like
to nurture and trust the wisdom you instinctively knew as a healthy child. If
you’re uncertain as to how or where to begin... Start slowly, be gentle with
yourself, and explore... </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><i>Watch children at play.</i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Notice what you love and who makes you smile.
Acknowledge generously. </i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Laugh every day.</i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Skip when angry. (If you find yourself in a
situation where skipping isn’t immediately possible, then imagine doing it. The
results are nearly as effective!) </i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Eat well. Dine when hungry. Stop when full. Ask
what would best nourish you in the moment.</i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Move your body.</i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Claim peaceful moments.</i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> <b>
</b></span></span></span><b>Remember what you already know!</b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-51938658761507035922012-06-09T12:30:00.000-07:002012-06-09T12:30:22.157-07:00Watery Vision<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgrbGMvr_V4zkXLU6zowewFIr2-9ziz2Bb18_6EijwXcwouk_omFqcrpX6Hr_9ER32zmLgeMbBOwkU9bdkB73JZt7kRAv87ivtQlBqwDKfwXg5xknp2kW_biDQexNf_PzK7qq2/s1600/watery+vision.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgrbGMvr_V4zkXLU6zowewFIr2-9ziz2Bb18_6EijwXcwouk_omFqcrpX6Hr_9ER32zmLgeMbBOwkU9bdkB73JZt7kRAv87ivtQlBqwDKfwXg5xknp2kW_biDQexNf_PzK7qq2/s400/watery+vision.jpg" width="306" /></a></div>
<div style="color: purple; text-align: center;">
<i>I hold a song in my hand and touch new birth.</i></div>
<div style="color: purple; text-align: center;">
<i>Watery though my vision may be, it is true.</i></div>
<div style="color: purple; text-align: center;">
<i>Flowing. Flowing. Flowing...</i></div>
<div style="color: purple; text-align: center;">
<i>Light rising through me.</i></div>
<div style="color: purple; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="color: purple; text-align: center;">
<i>Watery though my vision may be, it is true.</i></div>
<div style="color: purple; text-align: center;">
<i>Grounded in love,</i></div>
<div style="color: purple; text-align: center;">
<i>Light rising through me,</i></div>
<div style="color: purple; text-align: center;">
<i>I create. Lead. Inspire.</i></div>
<div style="color: purple; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="color: purple; text-align: center;">
<i>Grounded in love,</i></div>
<div style="color: purple; text-align: center;">
<i>Flowing. Flowing. Flowing...</i></div>
<div style="color: purple; text-align: center;">
<i>I create. Lead. Inspire...</i></div>
<div style="color: purple; text-align: center;">
<i>As I hold a song in my hand and touch new birth.</i></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">© Kayce Stevens Hughlett, March 2012 </span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Collage and words inspired while leading <a href="http://kaycehughlett.squarespace.com/blog/2011/12/8/sign-up-exploring-archetypal-energies-through-expressive-art.html">Exploring Archetypal Energies through the Expressive Arts</a> on the Hood Canal, March 2012.</div>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-72125926567915803652012-06-05T11:37:00.000-07:002012-06-05T11:37:06.453-07:00The Other Side of May... a reflection on grief<style>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;"><i style="color: #674ea7;">“When
the river of the soul takes your weight into itself, you can release that which
has died into the next world so that you may live more fully in this one.”</i> </span>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Language-Emotions-Feelings-Trying/dp/1591797691">Karla McLaren – The Language of Emotions</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYW4Ix-VwXL31D96GezhdtLSIP71QLZyAgGT6ZIs_v24v8gDvmP71xVLRX5zsXfCVekBDLeOUXaGDrtBY6MwwmhH9Ut-XiGYOSChAwFyXds1FdvlVgm7xEqNNZ3KcivG5O_2LA/s1600/IMG_1313.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYW4Ix-VwXL31D96GezhdtLSIP71QLZyAgGT6ZIs_v24v8gDvmP71xVLRX5zsXfCVekBDLeOUXaGDrtBY6MwwmhH9Ut-XiGYOSChAwFyXds1FdvlVgm7xEqNNZ3KcivG5O_2LA/s200/IMG_1313.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If a single month could be a lightening rod for grief-filled
events then May would be my <span style="background-color: white;"></span>designated “rod.” Before you jump into sympathy
mode or start asking yourself what might have happened to me in the past few
weeks, let me assure you that things are well and there were no significant
“strikes” this year. Conversely, it was a period of time where I was able to
dip deeply into the river of my soul and emerge on the other side living
lighter and more fully.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The winter months were filled with countless live-giving
events and boatloads of adventure. By the time mid-April arrived, my body was
in deep need of rest and restoration. It seemed somewhat ironic (or not) that
May was just around the corner and my calendar allowed the spaciousness to sink into relaxation
alongside remnants of previously glossed-over grief.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMCz4W-6Osvk8sUr_1_pCZQwHmbB6bKNhswpK6RUlENAWzUJuULryUPKMLOvNd42pksly3wE2IHxW8JUoaUWkYafdb4ghQ2BguqiafwgXe6R5RoRloh9MBBUdmsDdQAlagEOwm/s1600/412431_10150869174674737_912731234_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMCz4W-6Osvk8sUr_1_pCZQwHmbB6bKNhswpK6RUlENAWzUJuULryUPKMLOvNd42pksly3wE2IHxW8JUoaUWkYafdb4ghQ2BguqiafwgXe6R5RoRloh9MBBUdmsDdQAlagEOwm/s320/412431_10150869174674737_912731234_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teeny Me @ Bandon Beach</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Unresolved grief and heartache form like mist over a morning
pond. Vaporous, we can put our hands through it and almost pretend nothing is there,
but the moisture and residue permeate into our deepest core nonetheless. We
want to push the hurtful feelings away with words like, “I should be over this
by now,” “I’ve already gone through this process once, twice, a hundred times,”
or “I’ve moved past this and don’t/can’t/won’t move backwards again.” This is
the place we often get stuck, because we believe if we acknowledge the pain it
will grow rather than dissipate. There is a difference between fondling the
story—turning a tale over and over in our minds and relishing the attention it
brings us—and necessarily feeling the depth of grief or experience. If we haven’t
allowed ourselves the space to sink fully into grief, then it will continue to
return repeatedly like the morning mist.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSB8q8AO0iwtpLoX_UdFi8JOOz3zxWYp6CJ98eZXprBUfDD8aQDx-lW5kAUJL1d6UVu1Ijr7gEdP1HSyGfNNO-cl4dd3A4p76mSOJxfudwAI6DMdiy20XX9nsY6a9v9SrKpaDi/s1600/IMG_1376.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSB8q8AO0iwtpLoX_UdFi8JOOz3zxWYp6CJ98eZXprBUfDD8aQDx-lW5kAUJL1d6UVu1Ijr7gEdP1HSyGfNNO-cl4dd3A4p76mSOJxfudwAI6DMdiy20XX9nsY6a9v9SrKpaDi/s200/IMG_1376.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
My personal experience was that for multiple years May brought
events of heartbreak and tragedy stacked and piled upon each other. I responded
by attempting to move forward, not slowing down, and pushing through the pain
rather than relinquishing and melting into it. I rarely found the space (or
acknowledged the need) to sink into the slow movement for which my body longed.
Like crop-generating fields, we can continue “producing” for numerous years
until all the nutrients (life/spirit) are leached from our soil and there is
nothing left to give. Just as the fields need to lie fallow to regenerate, so
do we. This May became the month for me to rest, relax, restore and unplug...
to lie fallow.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKxhVOe2F0WpvvM2OVtbj4j5ohOKiAPTHMkC2ytrTrI6mEN2DaNr0JfiZLYwDWN9MtowTMTupXyz-8Zg0QmHkOhTfdIGxoQMHl5wBsu0P1KhJDgRX_gydA4am6fkRtYuCl4kpu/s1600/IMG_1498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKxhVOe2F0WpvvM2OVtbj4j5ohOKiAPTHMkC2ytrTrI6mEN2DaNr0JfiZLYwDWN9MtowTMTupXyz-8Zg0QmHkOhTfdIGxoQMHl5wBsu0P1KhJDgRX_gydA4am6fkRtYuCl4kpu/s320/IMG_1498.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turtle Steps</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In hindsight, I realized that most of the month was spent
living on the water... Maui, the Oregon Coast, Lakebay. There I stood watching and
playing with the tides as I felt my past and present connect to the deep river
of my soul. Grounding, resting, watching, letting go... my spirit was washed
like baptism as I named, felt, and honored the waves of longstanding grief. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today, I find myself on the other side of May. The past is
still the past—where loved ones have moved on and my heart bears the scars of
breakage, but I arise cleansed, refreshed, and more clear after having dipped
deeply into the river of soul rather than continuing to paddle madly on the surface
of a stagnant pond.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Ponder this...</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span>What is lingering in your life that must be
mourned? What do you carry that needs to be released completely?</i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span>Notice if statements like </i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">'I should be over this,' 'I’ve already gone through this once,' or 'I don’t
want to go backwards'</i><i> arise in your mind indicating a resistance to
fully accepting or honoring loss and profound transitions.</i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span>Consider how and where you can make space to
sink into the river of the soul.</i></div>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-87297260933307743882012-05-28T15:14:00.000-07:002012-05-28T15:14:12.800-07:00In support of The Wayfinder PostFor additional reading from intelligent, humorous, and insightful writers, check out the brilliant <a href="http://www.thewayfinderpost.com/">Wayfinder Post</a> (where yours truly is a featured author as well as video participant)... Happy Wayfinding!!<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/sV6EymVDsTI" width="560"></iframe>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-90499434049039952872012-05-24T14:49:00.000-07:002012-05-24T14:49:40.385-07:00Two Seals and a Gift<style>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxLm0U6ClpTkypPAP5e9LUMe7NcB4IKZpxvWGdOKyc0zYd9TL7D7I1zqzCvx9c4YLjGeiPz70fR_tpw_NqP5AuaGAguYu9yNvUsGhcYHDvwyP36ENk56usYTCvfjp5Q5Fu7J8Y/s1600/IMG_1274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxLm0U6ClpTkypPAP5e9LUMe7NcB4IKZpxvWGdOKyc0zYd9TL7D7I1zqzCvx9c4YLjGeiPz70fR_tpw_NqP5AuaGAguYu9yNvUsGhcYHDvwyP36ENk56usYTCvfjp5Q5Fu7J8Y/s320/IMG_1274.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bandon, OR Beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Nature offers an amazing gift of bringing us back to center
when life feels out of balance. One of my favorite ways to explore just about
anything is through the use of metaphor. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">How
is this like that?</i> While visiting the Oregon coast, my questions emerged
something like this: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">How is the baby seal
who strives to climb atop a slippery rock like my current situation? How is the
beach covered in fog similar to my brain that refuses to clear? What of the
sun that remains concealed from sight? Are my dreams hiding in plain view or
are they just over the horizon?</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One evening while beach combing, I paused to watch a group of
sea lions gathered in the swelling tide. Eyes trained on the youngest pup, I
was mesmerized by his struggle to climb atop the slippery embankment where his
mother perched precariously. My maternal instincts were tugged by his unfruitful tenacity,
and part of me wanted to wade into the icy surf and boost him onto the oblong pillar. Fortunately
my sanity prevailed. After all, if he, an able-bodied water creature, couldn’t
do it on his own, what benefit would I, a moderate swimmer at best, be to him? Nonetheless,
our natural instincts are often to reach toward those we momentarily consider less
capable—children, clients, co-workers, strangers—while setting aside our own care
and safety in the midst.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMSPQM0MCYo-u-BTVHygW-mfwQaV1EBQd5EIcqC6s7rzSH_bckM1w5Rn5rZvdNKrt4gYM_t_3HmMzKEoWLufs0YMJ6vvutyHwdgzPEhZT3FQTGJkF5VO36f3jwpTEuTtQlWV2o/s1600/IMG_1276.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMSPQM0MCYo-u-BTVHygW-mfwQaV1EBQd5EIcqC6s7rzSH_bckM1w5Rn5rZvdNKrt4gYM_t_3HmMzKEoWLufs0YMJ6vvutyHwdgzPEhZT3FQTGJkF5VO36f3jwpTEuTtQlWV2o/s320/IMG_1276.jpg" width="272" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby Reaches Mama (momentarily)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As I continued to observe the scene before me, I focused on the mother who lay upon the craggy peak—her pose precarious, like a crescent
moon tilted on its side and loosely balanced on a rocking pebble. She appeared neither
concerned about her shaky state or that of her offspring diligently attempting
to reach her. Occasionally, she raised her head to look around, but then lay
back to rest. She wisely knew the rhythm of the tide would ultimately ease her
off the rock and into the water, reuniting her and her babe.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Recalling this scene later, I asked the questions: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">How is this like my calling today? Will I
clear my head enough to look around and inquire: What do I need? What next?
What will bring me life, rest, joy, peace, and love?</i> Even though my initial
response was to rescue the striving pup, my deep resonance was not with him...
I have done enough striving for a lifetime. Today I choose to wonder how I can rise
up like the wizened matriarch, peer around, and allow the flow of life to gently
carry me into the sea and off my own precarious perch.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My assessment is not that the mother sea lion is resigned to
her existence, but rather she has learned the rhythms of her life and chooses
to go with them rather than struggle against the raging tides. Her young pup
expends his energy in his own natural (and necessary) process of maturation. Each
are appropriate for their time and stage in life. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSu-dJglMhw8RJIgWWJBzwXytm34P7JW0u8g32SWM1MWZ7WCioORO0cyXe8u-qjUnlTkk05XudUMUVuvYPRJZP2AAuGJskVpjEIp-XONUmt6dhyZp8Vg5340w8OD0o5GcegERh/s1600/IMG_1321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSu-dJglMhw8RJIgWWJBzwXytm34P7JW0u8g32SWM1MWZ7WCioORO0cyXe8u-qjUnlTkk05XudUMUVuvYPRJZP2AAuGJskVpjEIp-XONUmt6dhyZp8Vg5340w8OD0o5GcegERh/s320/IMG_1321.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Curious!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Today I invite you to consider this: Where do you struggle
and strain when letting go might serve you better? What energy needs to be
expended to bring your life (mind, spirit, body) into balance or maturation? <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">How is this like that?</i> Where might
nature guide you today?</div>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-61154136057400247822012-05-17T12:42:00.000-07:002012-05-17T12:42:52.792-07:00Angels in our Midst - Do you believe?<style>
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<b><i>“A Warrior of the Light is never predictable.</i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: orange;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i><span style="color: orange;">She might dance down the street on her way to work, gaze
into the eyes of a complete stranger and speak of love at first sight, or
defend an apparently absurd idea. Warriors of the Light allow themselves days
like these.”</span></i></b> – <span style="font-size: x-small;">Paulo Coelho</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Are you a Warrior of the Light? Someone who’s willing to
dream of angels and step into absurd ideas? Well, I am. This morning I awoke
thinking of angels and other things that some might call “woo woo.” I opened <b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">As I Lay Pondering</i></b>, saw today’s title,
“To Be Known,” and asked myself what it would mean for me to be known right now
in this moment. Hmmm.... </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwN3_TjjouVzoQoeqW_4xc41QD2p4nNiIgt8rrX-X6q6X1OYpcmA-m_522j2vyGO1XmmGkjIZpcTYQaLXN6xumhPi8atBzLpTpQ5F6oAZbrOqisLcb0aMqRXiqpkFM00RXBXHU/s1600/sc01085405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwN3_TjjouVzoQoeqW_4xc41QD2p4nNiIgt8rrX-X6q6X1OYpcmA-m_522j2vyGO1XmmGkjIZpcTYQaLXN6xumhPi8atBzLpTpQ5F6oAZbrOqisLcb0aMqRXiqpkFM00RXBXHU/s200/sc01085405.jpg" width="181" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Norah & the Watchers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Do you believe in angels? I do. They come in all shapes and
forms—furry, human, dreamlike. Arriving in streams of light, laughing children,
and a gentle touch. A stranger who appears and mysteriously vanishes. A
fleeting thought, prickly neck or tingly skin. One of my favorite “angels” that
shows up in both image and imagination is a curly-headed impish girl named
Norah (translated as Compassion). My old golden retriever, Curry, emerges on
occasion. And, of course, my purring companion, Aslan, is an everyday reminder
of otherworldliness in present form. My long-deceased father has appeared on
several occasions through music and nature; meeting me when I most need to hear
him. Real or imagined? Truth or fantasy? What do you believe?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Recently a man perusing my ponderings mentioned to his wife
that he thought I might be a little crazy. So be it. A warrior of the light
dances through the street and people either join in the dance, run the other
way, criticize, or pause and ponder. Which do you choose to do?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjQwvCO0YOvWJoB1Oa-eElJtLJr168bzVevf3hPIh2GxNlVDesL5debHtSTRPI3K3NqmRvjxjXFKlHiGKhfLV45m5B18Xxz4N_FluhzAbqaQM8l64_2PZarCKYGnAUc29ToiGL/s1600/curry-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjQwvCO0YOvWJoB1Oa-eElJtLJr168bzVevf3hPIh2GxNlVDesL5debHtSTRPI3K3NqmRvjxjXFKlHiGKhfLV45m5B18Xxz4N_FluhzAbqaQM8l64_2PZarCKYGnAUc29ToiGL/s200/curry-2.jpg" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Curry Dog</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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There is a place of stillness where everything connects,
disappears and comes into absolute clarity all at the same moment. I think of
the Bible story of Jacob wrestling with God and his dreams of the ladder going
up to heaven while angels ascended and descended. These kinds of stories have
been with us since the beginning of time. The question is... Are we willing to
believe? What happens when we slow down, step into stillness, and listen...
deeply listen? Will God speak? Do angels show up? Is it the result of an
overactive imagination or a mind running wild with thoughts and fantasy? Does
it matter? Will it be any less real if I can’t hold it in my hand or capture it
in a digital photo? Perhaps I am a touch mad, but today my mind returned to a
very real experience I had during a meditative time in Arizona this spring.</div>
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<br /></div>
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When I closed my eyes and the meditation began, our
moderator simply mentioned the word “stage” and I felt the spotlight shine upon
me. I don’t know about you, but I’ve had these longings since I was a little
girl. Do we all dream of being on the stage? Yes. No. Perhaps. I believe our
“stages” simply take on different forms. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">[Pause
and ponder: what your stage might be? You know, the one you see when you close
your eyes.]</i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Check out that Boa!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Moving down the pathway of my mind, golden-haired Norah
greets me with her playfulness and compassion—her is-ness. In her unique way,
she invites me to simply be. Before me on the ground lay an apple that I witnessed
just before the moderator invited us to look up rather than down. There to my
right were grand marble steps leading upward to the stage. A brilliant curtain
crafted of magnificent red—the color and texture of my feather boa—reminds me
there is nothing insignificant about my essential self. She is meant to shine! <span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(I
know this and yet I doubt it in my current mind... not the meditation)</i></span>.
Returning to the dream state, I am invited to leave Norah, my guide, at the
bottom of the staircase. I don’t want to take my journey without Compassion,
but Norah reminds me that she is always with me. All I need do is ask.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieRZWAfUpny-ZSG9t3v7Ak5hrbCdRhnFTr47Ht0vxXKzUN1bGuZbWOFh0DSXC8Y0MippeUlmAYySMejnlG5iUM6SQMkjH14cf0BJqd4W04IKNDf4CWJCrmr12GB-aJP3XgTqXS/s1600/archangel+michael.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieRZWAfUpny-ZSG9t3v7Ak5hrbCdRhnFTr47Ht0vxXKzUN1bGuZbWOFh0DSXC8Y0MippeUlmAYySMejnlG5iUM6SQMkjH14cf0BJqd4W04IKNDf4CWJCrmr12GB-aJP3XgTqXS/s320/archangel+michael.jpg" width="222" /></a></div>
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Moving up the stairway, I see a being with shoulder-length
hair. He glows with strength and light emanating from within. Before I can ask
his name, I know it is the Archangel Michael whose card lay “randomly” on my
chair before our session began. The Angel turns and points to the audience
spread before the stage. It is filled with adoring fans—people asking for my
gifts... <b><span style="font-size: small;">my gifts</span></b>... <b>MY gifts</b>. The people do not clamor. They simply stand before
Michael’s outstretched hands—before me—and wait. They snake around my viewpoint—like
the final scene in “Pay It Forward”—holding lights and waiting. They are honoring
me and know I have the gift to share with them. I am awed and honored
myself. Michael is brilliant before me <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">and</i>
he is part of me. Strength and courage. Like Norah, he will always be with me,
but especially during this time of the journey he is very near. </div>
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<br /></div>
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I sense him over my left shoulder now. His golden wings
gently wrapping around me as I write with my golden muse, Aslan, purring in my
lap. “Be you, my child. The world is waiting.” I feel it now and I heard it
then as he turned back to me and said, “The gift is you.” And in his hands lay
my gift to the world.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTGeU3e4Md3AleUBsW1NlVt7SP8GVcKaaEW5u9-bHuBFKd2F-ZBtn-aHbmSZ2dFff_RqQOYFSIUkKvqkra6DYhtPxBr2NDQv6StYxd3sPErXuoaReB-vcEqbu7eEBe7e5kSI6Z/s1600/IMG_1282.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTGeU3e4Md3AleUBsW1NlVt7SP8GVcKaaEW5u9-bHuBFKd2F-ZBtn-aHbmSZ2dFff_RqQOYFSIUkKvqkra6DYhtPxBr2NDQv6StYxd3sPErXuoaReB-vcEqbu7eEBe7e5kSI6Z/s200/IMG_1282.jpg" width="149" /></a></div>
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In that brief moment, I smelled the apples I had seen earlier.
The fruit of life. Tempting and forbidden. Hmmm. Fear creeps in. I was always
forbidden to shine. Forbidden to taste the fruit of my own knowledge. But here,
the sweet fruit has been broken open before me. I need only inhale—stop, pause,
breathe—and it will find me, surround me, and fill me with its fragrant aroma.
May this fragrance move me into the world with strength and tenderness;
compassion and love; Michael and Norah. There is no room for fear when all is
love.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><i>Truth or fantasy? Real or imagined? Sane or inept? What do you
choose to believe? Where does your mind go when you turn to that deep place of
stillness where everything connects, disappears, and becomes clear in the same
moment?</i></b></div>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-72779062342467044742012-05-15T14:56:00.000-07:002012-05-15T14:56:00.095-07:00On Turning Thirteen...<style>
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<b><i style="color: #0b5394;">“Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart and
try to love the questions themselves.”</i></b> Rainer Maria Rilke</div>
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Inspired by a friend’s request to share my words of wisdom
to her soon-to-be 13-year-old daughter, I decided to share a slightly expanded
version of my letter here. As I began to write to my young friend, I realized
that the message I would have wanted at her age was the same one I need to hear
today. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Learn to</b> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Trust Yourself</b>.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidep29V-dPstZUr5gGIWfUZV_99sFyop0uo5E6Lct1HhF9sASO0wSZn9o28NRStPPz0JGr1kRsWjqn0YrBVS2zK1S7bOK6K04TENH-gKtcdJmpP8JC_4iHzaEX0muetQ_LTKzW/s1600/kayce@13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidep29V-dPstZUr5gGIWfUZV_99sFyop0uo5E6Lct1HhF9sASO0wSZn9o28NRStPPz0JGr1kRsWjqn0YrBVS2zK1S7bOK6K04TENH-gKtcdJmpP8JC_4iHzaEX0muetQ_LTKzW/s320/kayce@13.jpg" width="283" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me @ 13</td></tr>
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While I can’t remember exactly what it’s like to stand on
the threshold of turning 13, I do recall it as a time of exhilaration
and uncertainty with lots of questions. I remember being too afraid to ask the
questions for fear of looking dumb. I’d like to say I was filled with curiosity
about who I would become in the world and what great things I was capable of
doing. I’d also like to tell you that I was brave and didn’t worry about what
everybody else was doing... But, in reality, I was more concerned about how my
hair looked and whether or not I’d blend in with the rest of the kids my age. <i><span style="color: #134f5c;">[Hmmm...
Thirteen or not, how might this still resonate today?] </span></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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What do I wish I had known at 13? As I said earlier, it’s
the wisdom that grounds and motivates me today:<b> Learning to Trust Myself</b>! I grew up thinking
everyone else had the answers to all <b><i>my</i></b> questions. But how could they when they
were <b><i>my </i></b>questions and we each are prone to see things differently? Only I can decide what I like
and what feels right for me <i style="color: #134f5c;">[and the same goes for you]</i>. It’s kind of like
sharing clothes with other people. We come in all shapes, sizes, likes and
dislikes, so it’s important to try on different things to see what makes us
sparkle. That’s how we learn to trust ourselves. <i><span style="color: #134f5c;">[If you are still learning to do this at
your age <span style="font-size: x-small;">(I know I am)</span>, then read on...]</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja8Id70USBgG_tuFKLGRxqEZwsEvnmYJXraFqFySHzPi9V2XLAm3Y2Ss9f-ODRPwNynr7JWofBEvMZxk0PT94RFeDMiXiEKjhl2Q1f3gooUlbGuURtMaFvHsCc9YTDU2z0rAY0/s1600/DSC03430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja8Id70USBgG_tuFKLGRxqEZwsEvnmYJXraFqFySHzPi9V2XLAm3Y2Ss9f-ODRPwNynr7JWofBEvMZxk0PT94RFeDMiXiEKjhl2Q1f3gooUlbGuURtMaFvHsCc9YTDU2z0rAY0/s200/DSC03430.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Ask lots of questions, don’t be afraid to stand out, and explore
boatloads of things to see what makes you a trustworthy You. Taste new foods.
Listen to different music. Watch movies that none of your friends have seen. Learn
a language. Travel to an unexplored destination. Revamp your wardrobe. Throw
out what doesn’t fit. Keep what you love. Be curious and don’t be afraid if you
don’t know the answers (even if the questions are <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Who am I</i> or <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">What do I like</i>?) Keep asking and exploring. </div>
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<br /></div>
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My hunch is that you already have a pretty strong sense of
who you are and what you like <i style="color: #134f5c;">[although it might need a little refreshing]</i>, so
Trust Yourself and you’ll never go wrong... And if things get confusing or you
feel a little lost that’s okay, too. Blend in if you need to. Stand out when that feels good. Ask for help when you don’t know the way. Keep trying things on as
you learn to trust and refine your perfect self! And if it helps... you can
always pretend you’re standing on the threshold of adolescence.</div>
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<b>Ponder this: <i>What words of wisdom would you offer to a 13-year-old?</i></b></div>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-68153164191740554772012-05-10T08:28:00.001-07:002012-05-10T08:28:42.505-07:00LIVE Interview with Book Journey | Blog Talk Radio<a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/book-journeys/2012/05/10/book-journey-with-life-coach-kayce-hughlett#.T6vdx3VAhuA.blogger">Book Journey with Life Coach Kayce Hughlett 05/10 by Book Journeys | Blog Talk Radio</a><br />
<br />
Woohoo! I'm going on the air... Catch it LIVE today @ NOON PST or via recording post-show.Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-56647164726787106432012-05-01T08:42:00.000-07:002012-05-01T08:43:59.900-07:00Two Gifts... just for You!Be transported into the delightful world of lovable swine, Pedrita, as she discovers the magic of following her dreams... perhaps you'll discover your own heart's desire along the way (4.5 minutes).<br />
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<br />
<a href="https://www.shoplocket.com/products/684751b6628#.T6AAs2iEF74.blogger">"As I Lay Pondering" - Book</a>: Mother's Day Special! <b><span style="color: #45818e;">$17.95 (</span></b><span style="color: #45818e;">Use this link & I'll pay the tax...</span><b><span style="color: #45818e;"> </span></b><span style="color: #45818e;">through May 16</span><b><span style="color: #45818e;">)</span></b><br />
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This fresh & innovative daybook is tickling hearts, oxygenating souls, and bringing presence around the globe.<br />
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Filled with inspiration & simple activities to deepen the pathway to presence, it is the ideal companion for any transformational journey. <b style="color: #45818e;">A beautiful gift for any occasion!! </b>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-24825728737044216732012-04-25T12:15:00.000-07:002012-04-25T12:15:16.340-07:00It Takes a Village<style>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkH7rsYtRnNYL5v_E1ZqI5AiwOz8A6FfrVJZeScn4BCVJ5J3XZoNz6Cvhz6Qf5c3s-dprp2llreDnI2imEDPKWt8LLABy-fiDvapSooGWjC2XSe4l8z5RnSBQtcj7n5iIIP3hz/s1600/IMG_1466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkH7rsYtRnNYL5v_E1ZqI5AiwOz8A6FfrVJZeScn4BCVJ5J3XZoNz6Cvhz6Qf5c3s-dprp2llreDnI2imEDPKWt8LLABy-fiDvapSooGWjC2XSe4l8z5RnSBQtcj7n5iIIP3hz/s320/IMG_1466.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Coffee House on Cherry Street, Tulsa Oklahoma (Feb '12)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Have you ever launched a personal aspiration out into the
world? Or embarked upon something you’d planned for a lengthy period of time (a dream
vacation, college selection, or committed relationship)? From personal experience, I’ve found it’s
a lot like sending a child off to their first day of school or standing on the
edge of a minuscule airplane platform preparing to fling yourself into the great unknown. You’ve prepared as
best you can—read all the books, packed the lunch (or parachute or suitcase), gathered
support from friends and family—and now it’s time to let go and see what
happens. Such has been my experience over the last few months as I released my
innermost reflections and introduced <a href="http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B0072WGOKY"><i>As I Lay Pondering: daily invitations to live a transformed life</i></a> into the world.</div>
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Officially published on January 25, 2012, “Pondering” has
made its way into over 350 homes around the world—including Australia, England,
Canada, Hawaii, Alaska, and Florida. It’s a highly respectable sales number for
a first-time, self-published book, but... hey, I have more friends than that on
Facebook and this is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">my</i> baby I’ve
sent off to school which means I want the greatest success possible. Now to be perfectly
clear, my definition of success is not by numbers. It’s about reaching people
who may be touched, inspired, or personally challenged and transformed by its
message. My belief is that “Pondering” is a life-giving book. While I know it’s not for everyone, I also trust there are way more than 350 people out there who will resonate
from this message.<br />
<br />
<i style="color: #e06666;">"Like Mark Nepo and Rachel Naomi Remen, Kayce invites us to learn with
her day by day as she creates a handmade life. Her stories enlighten
while her prompts tickle the heart's ear to listen with more clarity and
self-kindness. A beautiful way to spend a few minutes each day."</i>
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Jennifer-Louden/e/B000AQTOOM"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Jennifer Louden, best-selling author and teacher </span></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1_85gVxVI2iGy0wZ-XATsnXtKKwdWPbNmJGCsquywrP-0vFn6VH7XOPIzwe8T5tvbTNhSgW3TPurX1fROjnHcGMxuj8pgd1BMrIXS9ob9ULTErAeXqiEMRGP1P3GsPf8aQEKD/s1600/ksh_WW-joanie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1_85gVxVI2iGy0wZ-XATsnXtKKwdWPbNmJGCsquywrP-0vFn6VH7XOPIzwe8T5tvbTNhSgW3TPurX1fROjnHcGMxuj8pgd1BMrIXS9ob9ULTErAeXqiEMRGP1P3GsPf8aQEKD/s320/ksh_WW-joanie.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Book signing, Walla Walla, WA (Apr '12)</td></tr>
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The foremost question people ask me these days is “what’s
next?” My answer? Who knows!?! But in this moment, I am sharing these few thoughts. Perhaps you’ve been considering buying your own book. Fabulous! Today is a great day to do it. Maybe there’s someone in your life who could use
a little encouragement and hope each day. <i>As I Lay Pondering</i> makes a beautiful
gift! Think about it. Are you ready to embark on your own dream and would welcome some encouragement? Yes? Go
for it! I’m here to cheer you on.</div>
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The term “it takes a village” has always resonated with me and now more so than ever.
One way I see it manifesting is in how we help each other nurture our
dreams, thus growing stronger villages in the world. Today, I’m sharing my
ongoing dream with you. I hope you’ll consider being a part of my village in
whatever way resonates for you. Send me a note... buy a book... pass along this message... say a prayer... invite me to your town/blog/interview/favorite bookstore... the possibilities are really endless once we start dreaming together!</div>
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And, please don’t forget to let me know how I can help
nurture your dreams! Collaboration? Shall we? Remember... it takes a village!<br />
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<span class="messageBody" style="color: #3366ff; font-style: italic;"><b>As I Lay Pondering: </b>daily invitations to live a transformed life<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="color: #3366ff; font-family: garamond,new york,times,serif;">by Kayce S. Hughlett<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> <span class="Object" id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT47"><a href="http://kaycehughlett.squarespace.com/blog/2011/12/20/announcing-the-perfect-book-to-begin-your-new-year.html" target="_blank">Available here</a></span> </span>and at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B0072WGOKY">Amazon.com</a><span style="font-weight: bold;">. </span></span></div>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-87731524726919378822012-04-13T00:02:00.004-07:002012-04-13T00:02:00.888-07:00Bold Living Today<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNr_-FX-iSZtStP0QUxijp71Pri70CeFXrZFGHe1AzFoxFLULMKZxr7oovw7PRe7rEKWt1Y23eMRjTfQP92fxk7Qm6qtT1dEo58h1t9vBa72ShjCIFmKP0Plx-cLgaOmjXnX3g/s1600/K%2526K_1.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 256px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNr_-FX-iSZtStP0QUxijp71Pri70CeFXrZFGHe1AzFoxFLULMKZxr7oovw7PRe7rEKWt1Y23eMRjTfQP92fxk7Qm6qtT1dEo58h1t9vBa72ShjCIFmKP0Plx-cLgaOmjXnX3g/s320/K%2526K_1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730617919421952546" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Happy Friday the 13th!!</span> It's been a gorgeous few days here in Seattle and I'm excited to wrap up the week with this tidbit of exciting news. Each Friday, a person who is making bold moves, living well, nurturing their creativity, following their passions, and making magic is featured on <a href="http://www.boldlivingtoday.com/blog/">Bold Living Today</a>. It is with great joy and gratitude that I announce today's featured guest... Can you guess? <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">C'est moi!! </span><span style="font-size:85%;">(Need I translate?)</span><br /><br />Bold Living Today creator and passionate living person, <a href="http://www.boldlivingtoday.com/contact/">Kanesha Baynard </a>has this to say:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Today's interview is with Kayce Stevens Hughlett. She is an author, speaker, life coach, soul nurturer - and someone I admire deeply. </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" >(Right back at ya, 'Nesh!)</span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);"> Kayce has the kind of energy and spunk that makes you want to fly and create something stunning - while skipping along eating your ice cream cone. Yes, she's that amazing.<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> </span></span></span><span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">(Wow! It's awesome to receive this kind of love any day...</span></span> <span style="font-size:85%;">Who says Friday the 13th is bad luck?)</span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br /></span><span>Without further adieu, I invite you to pop on over and check out the interview. I had so much fun doing it and hope you'll enjoy reading it, too!</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> <a href="http://www.boldlivingtoday.com/2012/04/13/bold-living-2012-interview-15/">Click here!!</a><br /><br />Hmmmm.... It may be time for skipping and ice cream! Care to join me? ☺</span> <style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Wingdings; panose-1:2 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:2; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;} @font-face {font-family:"Cambria Math"; panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;} @font-face {font-family:Calibri; panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:-1610611985 1073750139 0 0 159 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-unhide:no; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; margin-top:0in; margin-right:0in; margin-bottom:10.0pt; margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} .MsoChpDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; mso-default-props:yes; font-size:11.0pt; mso-ansi-font-size:11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} .MsoPapDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; margin-bottom:10.0pt; line-height:115%;} @page WordSection1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.WordSection1 {page:WordSection1;} --> </style><b><span style="line-height:115%; font-family:Wingdings;mso-ascii-font-family:"Times New Roman";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";mso-hansi-font-family:"Times New Roman";mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-US; mso-bidi-language:AR-SA;mso-char-type:symbol;mso-symbol-font-family:Wingdings;font-size:13.5pt;" ><span style="mso-char-type:symbol;mso-symbol-font-family:Wingdings;" ></span></span></b>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-33436294676897469872012-04-09T12:30:00.008-07:002012-04-09T12:59:21.615-07:00I Believe in You. Do you?<span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 51, 255); font-weight: bold;">“I don’t precisely know what you need to do to take care of yourself. But I know you can figure it out.”</span> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Language-Letting-Go-Meditation/dp/0894866370"><span style="font-size:85%;">Melody Beattie</span></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ1ZVZjPUtgZYfzlsSDlLiwfcdNTo4YyDMvsqQIpeSF4eJg0eOWcUUdm-plEAh9MKsDXW9PtsQq_9Flr5Sp5F51-PoGZQG_B1Ec_2RSsXlJFtODs0SqmnhroGNhzUdRATO12CF/s1600/coach+heart.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 199px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ1ZVZjPUtgZYfzlsSDlLiwfcdNTo4YyDMvsqQIpeSF4eJg0eOWcUUdm-plEAh9MKsDXW9PtsQq_9Flr5Sp5F51-PoGZQG_B1Ec_2RSsXlJFtODs0SqmnhroGNhzUdRATO12CF/s320/coach+heart.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729487289300557858" border="0" /></a>Have I told you lately how much I value and support self-care in the world? Or that I believe living life to the fullest is perhaps the one true mission we have in life? If you can begin to value and accept these two premises, then I promise your life will begin to transform in ways beyond your wildest imagination. Last week after I wrote about <a href="http://diamondsintheskywithlucy.blogspot.com/2012/04/10-lessons-learned-affirmed-while.html">10 Lessons Learned (& Affirmed)</a>, one of my friends and colleagues declared that post “an Essential Self Care Tool in itself.” There it was in a nutshell—my two passions... self-care and living life fully—all rolled up into their own manifesto for daily living.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 204);">1. Follow your heart.</span><br style="color: rgb(102, 102, 204);"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 204);">2. Be open to whatever shows up.</span><br style="color: rgb(102, 102, 204);"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 204);">3. Put on your sassy and Play, Play, Play!</span><br style="color: rgb(102, 102, 204);"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 204);">4. Make essential space for connecting with friends and loved ones – the rest will follow.</span><br style="color: rgb(102, 102, 204);"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 204);">5. We are all teachers and there are lessons to be learned in everything. Pay attention.</span><br style="color: rgb(102, 102, 204);"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 204);">6. Self-care is the best way to restore, rejuvenate, and prepare to offer our gifts (and love) back out to the world.</span><br style="color: rgb(102, 102, 204);"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 204);">7. Re-entry (each day or after time away) can be challenging.</span><br style="color: rgb(102, 102, 204);"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 204);">8. “What’s next?” takes us out of the present moment and launches us into the future. All we have is now.</span><br style="color: rgb(102, 102, 204);"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 204);">9. Have an assembled toolbox of nourishing notions nearby at all times and use it! <span style="font-size:85%;">(I imagine mine is like Mary Poppins carpetbag, filled with magical delights and the perfect thing manifesting at exactly the right moment.)</span></span><br style="color: rgb(102, 102, 204);"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 204);">10. Sometimes it takes a full arsenal (or the whole bag) to feel relief, but with time relief will come.</span><br /><br />Since one of my callings is to spread the message of soul nourishment throughout the world, the Universe has conspired to help me out. Yesterday, Melody Beattie’s thoughts on self-care appeared on my pathway. Here’s what she has to say:<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi16RTL_vBl5suMKc84t_-oc9uCQysmOZYaKP1Ncd1PFNjXBWX8GDcdeQUP4Oi2MQXAkZTWwPr-BhWCB6AqNYMfZT0o7Ogtiy2J9ziH6cE3X2E6xZsjO1s94SbucyOIxCfHmFqB/s1600/IMG_1447.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi16RTL_vBl5suMKc84t_-oc9uCQysmOZYaKP1Ncd1PFNjXBWX8GDcdeQUP4Oi2MQXAkZTWwPr-BhWCB6AqNYMfZT0o7Ogtiy2J9ziH6cE3X2E6xZsjO1s94SbucyOIxCfHmFqB/s320/IMG_1447.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729487064808074930" border="0" /></a>• <span style="font-style: italic;">Rest when you’re tired.</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Take a drink of cold water when you’re thirsty.</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Call a friend when you’re lonely.</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">• Ask God to help when you feel overwhelmed.</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Many of us are afraid the work won’t get done if we rest when we’re tired. The work will get done; it will be done better than work that emerges from tiredness of soul and spirit. Nurtured, nourished people who love themselves and care for themselves, are the delight of the Universe. They are well-timed, efficient, and Divinely led.</span>"<br /><br />I don’t know about you, but I love the feeling of being well-timed, efficient, and Divinely led. How wonderful to know that it can begin with a simple step of showing up and following your own heart! I’d love to know what self-care and soul nourishment look like for you, so please feel free to share in the comment section.<br /><br />If you’re a little iffy on how to define personal self-care or you think it sounds good for everyone, but you... because you don’t have time... I invite you to check out my online course <a href="http://www.diamondsinthesoul.com/blog/2012/3/6/live-it-to-give-it-essential-practices-of-soul-nourishment-s.html"><span style="font-style: italic;">Live it to Give it: essential practices of soul nourishment and self-care</span></a>. Class begins Monday, April 16. There are just a few spots left. Does one have your name on it?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 255);">And Remember... Figure out what soul nourishment practices work for you and the world will express its gratitude in abundance!</span>!</span>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-1152923104667563752012-04-02T19:07:00.009-07:002012-04-02T21:01:31.864-07:0010 Lessons Learned (& Affirmed) While Living LifeHello, Love. I know I’ve been away for a while and I always miss you when I’m gone. Today, I’ve been reflecting on where I’ve been these past few weeks and what I learned (& affirmed) along the way. What bubbled up were 10 Lessons that I'd love to share with you.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0OPSH0bnwDmjgGNU0a0o1V2kSPu-HUlsAS5gUp-gP3aWyzdk-req4qt73PnFwt-HUsdAfkbnSPpw3wriKgOmYm7fIlFEo5n76WPb91qWO4AX3ZC5eAImpziROY4VJbofU73Gi/s1600/IMG_1476.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 239px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0OPSH0bnwDmjgGNU0a0o1V2kSPu-HUlsAS5gUp-gP3aWyzdk-req4qt73PnFwt-HUsdAfkbnSPpw3wriKgOmYm7fIlFEo5n76WPb91qWO4AX3ZC5eAImpziROY4VJbofU73Gi/s320/IMG_1476.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5727009859143192738" border="0" /></a>Since we were last together here, I followed my heart’s calling and sailed high above the Arizona desert, experiencing the peaceful wordlessness of a sunrise hot air balloon ride. There I <a href="http://diamondsintheskywithlucy.blogspot.com/2012/03/come-fly-with-me.html">released floating dreams</a> on behalf of myself and others (you, perhaps?) while sharing in the majestic silence with old and new friends. It was an experience potentially missed if a sprout of fearful discomfort had become overgrown. I’ve discovered the importance of learning to differentiate between fear and exhilaration. Fear holds us back. Exhilaration lifts us higher. When your heart sings YES, you can trust it’s moving in the right direction... even when it seems a little scary. <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Lesson #1 – Follow your heart.</span><br /><br />Following the early morning balloon ride, 300+ of my cohorts gathered in Phoenix where I was able to explore the beauty and dissonance of life together as one big family. While we are all profoundly connected in unnamable ways, we don’t necessarily click with every person in the room (kind of like a real family). Expectations aren’t always met <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">and </span>sometimes they are exceeded when connection greets us in the most unexpected places and ways. <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Lesson # 2 – Be open to whatever shows up.</span><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibKVpijLd8LeEMwNDViFI8qPsgG_-ngBm6jwMtj4wCA9p8qYfZvQj36vnM3atrd0KISwlIAQP_s4Ub-QdXemOTDlUzkvt56E5rNV-_WvCq-Lhy990Im0S5xapb9-bIGQQ9swqM/s1600/301721_10150678075473704_503118703_9126980_1303912499_n.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibKVpijLd8LeEMwNDViFI8qPsgG_-ngBm6jwMtj4wCA9p8qYfZvQj36vnM3atrd0KISwlIAQP_s4Ub-QdXemOTDlUzkvt56E5rNV-_WvCq-Lhy990Im0S5xapb9-bIGQQ9swqM/s320/301721_10150678075473704_503118703_9126980_1303912499_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5727010118609956418" border="0" /></a>A highlight of the time in Phoenix was when my alter ego, “Sassy Girl,” sashayed onto the scene and whooped it up with fellow Sassy Cats during an evening of Cabaret. Our giggles and laughter resounded like a babbling brook after a refreshing spring downpour. Even “grown ups” have an amazing capacity and desire to pull out the over-the-top duds and play dress-up. <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Lesson # 3 – Put on your sassy and play, play, play!</span><br /><br />Upon returning home, I hunkered down and added the final touches to my recent workshop, <a href="http://www.diamondsinthesoul.com/blog/2011/12/8/sign-up-exploring-archetypal-energies-through-expressive-art.html"><span style="font-style: italic;">Exploring Archetypal Energies through the Expressive Arts</span></a>. Simultaneously, I made space for some additional playtime with out-of-town guests and my sweet hubby as we became tourists in our own town. <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Lesson #4 – Make essential space for connecting with friends and loved ones, the rest will follow.</span> <span style="font-size:85%;">(Refer to Lesson #1.</span>)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIOKp6dsTFUEGZZpd7LAv4-4AU5BluVjHIH3cJ6IbljJwakeduYh9dvT9jkh81xvdfAajnYD0f8ylrlVF-0uT0FrZiZn8X4Yy5_mWn9hBjxpwNNyVVx5WcsbZOniMEnrj2kC2C/s1600/IMG_1485.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 211px; height: 283px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIOKp6dsTFUEGZZpd7LAv4-4AU5BluVjHIH3cJ6IbljJwakeduYh9dvT9jkh81xvdfAajnYD0f8ylrlVF-0uT0FrZiZn8X4Yy5_mWn9hBjxpwNNyVVx5WcsbZOniMEnrj2kC2C/s320/IMG_1485.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5727010354446187746" border="0" /></a>Ready or not, off I went to <a href="http://www.saintandrewshouse.org/resources/attractions.htm">St. Andrew’s House</a> on the Hood Canal for a magical time of retreat and awakening. Surrounded by 10 amazing women and my fabulous co-facilitator, <a href="http://abbeyofthearts.com/">Christine</a>, I was reminded of <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Lesson #5 - We are all teachers and there are lessons to be learned in everything.</span> The bonus of being a group facilitator is that I am blessed with learning from the wisdom of other’s life explorations. During our retreat together, we danced, created art, read poetry, got quiet, and dug deep. The mountains peeked through the mist and the sun made a guest appearance as we walked the labyrinth. The moon did her dance alongside 10 royal queens who proudly stepped into their personal sovereignty.<br /><br />My re-entry time has included snuggle time with golden kitty, Aslan, a delicious massage, fine wine and the darkest of delectable chocolates. I am, after all, a widely-proclaimed, <a href="http://www.diamondsinthesoul.com/blog/2012/3/6/live-it-to-give-it-essential-practices-of-soul-nourishment-s.html">self-care practitioner</a>. <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Lesson/Affirmation #6 – Self-care is the best way to restore, rejuvenate and prepare to offer our gifts back out to the world!</span><br /><br />And lest one might think that life is always easy and full of light, <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Lesson #7 arrives: Re-entry can be challenging!</span> Somehow, I often manage to get blind-sided by that one! With all of these glorious adventures and soul nourishment, I was a bit annoyed to find myself overwhelmed and uptight as I looked at my week ahead... not to mention the Big Question: <span style="font-style: italic;">“What’s next for me?”</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Lesson #8 – 'What’s next?' takes us out of the present and into the future.</span> The question <span style="font-style: italic;">What's next?</span> has a powerful ability to pop me into high alert mode if I’m not careful. If it’s too far in the future, <span style="font-style: italic;">What’s next?</span> sends me spinning like a top (and I don’t mean the fun, colorful kind.) So, when the spin feels out-of-control, it’s time to pause and get off. (Easier said than done, I know.) Fortunately, <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Lesson #9 is available. Have a previously assembled tool box nearby at all times and use it!</span> and remember this...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJYeZniwpn0_yo14CJUACLldqm-dE191ICXo-8ORIlTEABeFnfNMtaC1nOfTD4vaw_OhQGOhRwa-dnI2Gf7oi6DRNg1g4carmLeMujPcP3E93_arFBDGklavCSQYo9JfXl3P-Y/s1600/IMG_1484.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJYeZniwpn0_yo14CJUACLldqm-dE191ICXo-8ORIlTEABeFnfNMtaC1nOfTD4vaw_OhQGOhRwa-dnI2Gf7oi6DRNg1g4carmLeMujPcP3E93_arFBDGklavCSQYo9JfXl3P-Y/s320/IMG_1484.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5727012739749505538" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Lesson #10 – Sometimes it takes a full arsenal to pry yourself out of the spinning top, but with</span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"> time, the spinning </span><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">will</span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"> stop!</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">This time my tools included...</span><br />1) Getting quiet... although today the noise increased.<br />2) Get something done (anything)... alas, confronting my to-do list raised the anxiety.<br />3) Distract myself... choose your distractions carefully – email and Facebook kept me spinning this go 'round.<br />4) Bring presence to someone else... helping someone else feel good feels really great! (However, please keep in mind Lesson #6 re: self-care.)<br />5) Name my stuff... “I’m overwhelmed and out of control” (even saying it begins to slow the spin.)<br />6) Take a walk (Move!)... feeling the ground beneath my feet is... well... grounding.<br />7) Witness the beauty everywhere... notice the sun on my face, blooming daffodils, a curious chickadee, warm java, a neighbor’s smile. Ahhhh.<br />8) Come back to the basics... Breathe.<br />9) Write and reflect... (This is my favorite ritual... What’s yours?)<br />10) Share your ritual with someone... Today I'm sharing with you, Love. Yes, You!<br /><br />So that’s where I’ve been and a few things I’ve learned in the last weeks. How about you? I’d love to know where you go when the world spins out of control. What are your favorite life lessons? Do share, pretty please. A person can never have too many tools!Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-36997556482321291262012-03-12T18:39:00.003-07:002012-03-12T19:00:52.487-07:00Is meditation making me “soft?”For the past several weeks, I’ve been practicing my call to a more formal meditation practice and have been engaging with <a href="http://www.susanpiver.com/wordpress/the-open-heart-project/">Susan Piver’s “Open Heart Project.</a>” <span style="font-size:85%;">(It’s fabulous, by the way, and I highly recommend checking it out no matter what your level of experience with meditation practices.)</span> In this week’s post, she speaks about <a href="http://www.susanpiver.com/wordpress/2012/03/12/the-power-of-sorrow/">the power of sorrow</a> and a sense of permeability that allows us to receive input in fresh new ways. As I pondered this “softness” in myself, several instances immediately came to mind...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB3K4q0QSvUCdG9uklHf3-QPXdRMtOMyvxCskpCBVCP8AIQN-2ij5_N49Fkm_eY1XDAd17e-suFYwSbY56-t_QFgkFG6nmTM8-FOkzITbDT349R72l8Eu4oFBOcKHu6X2gDXPt/s1600/sunflower+people.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB3K4q0QSvUCdG9uklHf3-QPXdRMtOMyvxCskpCBVCP8AIQN-2ij5_N49Fkm_eY1XDAd17e-suFYwSbY56-t_QFgkFG6nmTM8-FOkzITbDT349R72l8Eu4oFBOcKHu6X2gDXPt/s320/sunflower+people.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719190711788249906" border="0" /></a>Recently while coaching a brilliant young woman, I heard her utter the words, “I’m not pretty enough” and my heart nearly broke wide open with sorrow. I thought perhaps I would burst into tears in our session because all I notice when I’m in her presence is the sheer beauty of who she is—both inside and out. Rather than fleeing my impulse to hide my tears as she spoke, I breathed more deeply and shared with her my experience. Our mutual acts of courage and tenderness left us both sniffling for several moments as we compassionately connected.<br /><br />Yesterday while walking through Seattle’s Experience Music Project with my visiting 2nd cousin, I felt myself go all soft and mushy as his twelve-year-old, slightly sweaty palms entwined with my own fingers while he guided me through the horror exhibit and led me gleefully into the “scream room.”<br /><br />And, you might as well knock me over with a feather and send in the box of tissues when I receive a compliment or praise on my book, <a href="http://kaycehughlett.squarespace.com/blog/2012/1/14/as-i-lay-pondering-daily-invitations-to-live-a-transformed-l.html"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 204, 255);">As I Lay Pondering</span></a>. I continue to be humbled and thrilled as others reveal how my words are touching their lives and helping shape their days. I can’t imagine my tender emotions ever abating on this topic.<br /><br />I also saw “The Artist” today and found myself with a lump in my throat as tears dripped down the heroine’s cheeks and when “The Dog” repeatedly plead for his master’s well being.<br /><br />I’ve always sniffled at Hallmark commercials and wiped my tear-filled eyes when the princess finds her prince, but something about this new “softness” feels rich and strong. Piver speaks about becoming “both more resilient <span style="font-style: italic;">and</span> more gentle.” Yes. Strong and tender. Bold and humble. Fierce and mild. Open. Willing. Able to meet the world in new ways. Colors are more brilliant. Rain feels like a gentle cloak rather than a suffocating torrent. And if there were an 8th dwarf in Snow White’s crew (and I were it), you could just call me Softie.<br /><br />So, is it meditation that’s making me soft? Hmmm... I’m off to ponder if that’s the case for these feelings or perhaps they are simply the residual effects of an increasingly open heart. Whatever it is, I think I like it.<br /><br />Finally... when and where do you notice tenderness in your life? Would you prefer a little more softness? Or do you hold onto the notion that tenderness is weak? What if you could be both fierce and mild in the same moment... or greet the world with Technicolor vision? Would a few minutes of meditation each day be worth the time? How might you “soften” to this experience? I’d love to know where your pondering takes you!<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" >btw - today's photo scene was so overwhelmingly beautiful to me on a recent walk, i implored my dear husband to stop and snap the shot... just one more example of having an open heart, methinks.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 102, 255);" class="messageBody"><strong>I hope you'll check out... As I Lay Pondering: </strong>daily invitations to live a transformed life<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255); font-family:garamond,new york,times,serif;" >by Kayce S. Hughlett<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> <span class="Object" id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT47"><a href="http://kaycehughlett.squarespace.com/blog/2011/12/20/announcing-the-perfect-book-to-begin-your-new-year.html" target="_blank">Available here</a></span> </span>and at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B0072WGOKY">Amazon.com</a><span style="font-weight: bold;">. Get your copy today!!</span></span>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-74576543665861584212012-03-09T09:19:00.006-08:002012-03-09T10:59:19.532-08:00Come Fly with Me<style><!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Courier New"; panose-1:2 7 3 9 2 2 5 2 4 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:-536859905 -1073711037 9 0 511 0;} @font-face {font-family:Wingdings; panose-1:2 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:2; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;} @font-face {font-family:"MS 明朝"; panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:128; mso-generic-font-family:roman; mso-font-format:other; mso-font-pitch:fixed; mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;} @font-face {font-family:"MS 明朝"; panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:128; mso-generic-font-family:roman; 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text-indent:-.25in; font-family:"Courier New"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @list l0:level3 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:; mso-level-tab-stop:none; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; font-family:Wingdings;} @list l0:level4 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:; mso-level-tab-stop:none; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; font-family:Symbol;} @list l0:level5 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:o; mso-level-tab-stop:none; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; font-family:"Courier New"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @list l0:level6 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:; mso-level-tab-stop:none; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; font-family:Wingdings;} @list l0:level7 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:; mso-level-tab-stop:none; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; font-family:Symbol;} @list l0:level8 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:o; mso-level-tab-stop:none; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; font-family:"Courier New"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @list l0:level9 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:; mso-level-tab-stop:none; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; font-family:Wingdings;} ol {margin-bottom:0in;} ul {margin-bottom:0in;} --</style><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">If you can imagine it, you can live it!</span> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Part of my practice for the year has been increased attention toward a quiet meditation practice. In her book, <span style="font-style: italic;">Comfortable with Uncertainty</span>, Pema Chodron talks about “surprise mind.”<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">You sit down and —wham!—a rather nasty surprise arises. So be it... Then—wow!—a delicious surprise appears. Okay. This part is not to be clung to but compassionately acknowledged... and let go. The surprises are endless.</i></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"> </i></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6p5N04mJqSMed6SSJ812WeAuszPztMq5BSh4cI3xrSTpcVW1y2cm4ucjxqehppg4bZV4WM4YSAjxvcD0pFQ3Bas8UAuHnzaDk78Fnb-5WDafGeTx3x2R1f6ELy-Ae5FQhjc2k/s1600/skydive.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 303px; height: 274px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6p5N04mJqSMed6SSJ812WeAuszPztMq5BSh4cI3xrSTpcVW1y2cm4ucjxqehppg4bZV4WM4YSAjxvcD0pFQ3Bas8UAuHnzaDk78Fnb-5WDafGeTx3x2R1f6ELy-Ae5FQhjc2k/s320/skydive.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5717948290625184498" border="0" /></a><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">I love “surprise mind” (although it does provide some interesting challenges in meditation)! Today’s “surprise” was the birthing of Come Fly with Me. Take a moment. Stop. Breathe. Listen. Pause right now and notice if you can imagine your dreams—yes, yours—spreading out through the world on gossamer wings... reaching and extending through the soft breath of whispering clouds until they permeate the universe. Now imagine this happening at daybreak over the Sonoran desert within a vast silence punctuated only by the generated heat to fill a multi-colored balloon and the delight of playful adults on a bold adventure. Immerse yourself into this landscape and imagine your personal dream rising with the balloon.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Next hear your name being whispered into the crystal blue sky.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Finally witness both dream and name gently released into the world with love, grace, and delight.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Sound good? Can you feel it? Yes? Then you are personally invited to join me as I embark on a magical mystery tour over the Sonoran desert where I will be releasing beauty, love, and OUR dreams into the world. Dorothy of Kansas never made it into her hot air balloon, but I have a reserved spot to climb into mine next week... And, the surprise is that my heart is compelled to take YOU along with me. A few spirited sojourners will physically join me, but since basket space is limited, I have created another way for you to come fly with me and simultaneously support our dreams!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal">Flying with me is simple...</p> <p class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:Symbol;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">·<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span>Between now and Wednesday, March 14 @ Noon Pacific Time, send me a note requesting that I share your dream. If you want to include dream details, please keep them brief as the ride is only one hour.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> <smile> </smile></span>That’s it! No strings attached.</p><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 204, 255); font-weight: bold;" class="MsoNormal">If you feel compelled to join the dream-sharing fun, then read on...</p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfB-d1MYSxYIjhyphenhyphen-xN7E5gijQzO92DXGVTg2YiqCoBMS-3mnCpNasm7LYiEZ-ktbtN6zjrRsphn6jq0SqIr-1H0Q9nDBRkxi3DfpKvul50hxEVk2h9JYGHNYeAQZXigJdX8YT5/s1600/IMG_1424.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 261px; height: 224px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfB-d1MYSxYIjhyphenhyphen-xN7E5gijQzO92DXGVTg2YiqCoBMS-3mnCpNasm7LYiEZ-ktbtN6zjrRsphn6jq0SqIr-1H0Q9nDBRkxi3DfpKvul50hxEVk2h9JYGHNYeAQZXigJdX8YT5/s320/IMG_1424.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5717950352768596450" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:Symbol;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">·<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span>My dream is for my new book <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">As I Lay Pondering: daily invitations to live a transformed life</i></b> to spread around the world and touch countless hearts and lives in meaningful ways.</p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;font-family:Symbol;" ><span style=""><span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></span></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:Symbol;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore"><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 204, 255);">You can select a way (or two) and help spread my dream...</span></p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:Symbol;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">·<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Purchase a copy today (for yourself or someone else).</p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:Symbol;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">·<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>If you already own it, tell 5, 10, 20 + new people about it this week.</p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:Symbol;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">·<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Invite me to appear as a guest on your blog.</p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:Symbol;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">·<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Feature the book in a Facebook, Twitter or other social media post.<span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span></p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:Symbol;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">·<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Contact your favorite bookstore, gift shop, or newspaper.</p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:Symbol;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">·<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Interview me or recommend me to someone else for an interview. (I have lots to say!)<br /></p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:Symbol;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">·<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Invite me to your locale for a book signing, workshop, or speaking engagement... and help make it happen.</p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:Symbol;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">·<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Spread the word through your own amazingly creative ways!!</p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">... <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 204, 255);">and please, please, please let me know. Your support always fills the wind in my sails!!</span><br /></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><br /></p> <span style="font-family:"Times New Roman";mso-fareast-MS 明朝";mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;mso-ansi-language:EN-US; mso-fareast-language:EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SAfont-family:";font-size:12.0pt;" ><span style="font-size:130%;">Dreams grow and come into reality when we share them with others. This I believe to be true. So, are you ready to Come Fly with Me and watch OUR dreams grow? </span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 102, 255);" class="messageBody"><strong>As I Lay Pondering: </strong>daily invitations to live a transformed life<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255); font-family:garamond,new york,times,serif;" >by Kayce S. Hughlett<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> <span class="Object" id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT47"><a href="http://kaycehughlett.squarespace.com/blog/2011/12/20/announcing-the-perfect-book-to-begin-your-new-year.html" target="_blank">Available here</a></span> </span>and at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B0072WGOKY">Amazon.com</a><span style="font-weight: bold;">. Get your copy today!!</span></span>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-21570528585714293402012-03-03T16:09:00.007-08:002012-03-06T16:47:49.944-08:00Wildly Wonderful Team Encounters<span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">“... it’s wonderful—deeply, wildly wonderful—to meet “strangers” who are up to their ears in the self-same drive to heal humans and the world.” <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Finding-Your-Way-Wild-World/dp/1451624484/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1330820084&sr=8-1"><span style="font-size:85%;">Martha Beck</span></a></span><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG7tQiVYU99xmx51NyLkrsMwTLrex61EXSDYn3vKI7skjbMBkEPvnwGv28kXRI6hrekzugYxpYRTp30yWmauvXka6OF4N-5bIOoJQ7vQaNPOJYVtG61pggxI6LDHvJbaxMUZ0l/s1600/IMG_0810.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 275px; height: 204px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG7tQiVYU99xmx51NyLkrsMwTLrex61EXSDYn3vKI7skjbMBkEPvnwGv28kXRI6hrekzugYxpYRTp30yWmauvXka6OF4N-5bIOoJQ7vQaNPOJYVtG61pggxI6LDHvJbaxMUZ0l/s320/IMG_0810.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5715827617370380882" border="0" /></a>Synchronicity and/or happy coincidences are two of my favorite topics. They spread deeply within my soul from encounters with others in the most unexpected places. Last week while visiting Tulsa, Oklahoma for my <a href="http://diamondsintheskywithlucy.blogspot.com/2012/02/leap-into-life.html">book launch,</a> I had the opportunity to meet nearly 100 people over a few days time. As I think back on the time there, I could get myself all hung up on the fact that “only” 20 arrived for the physical book reading. Or that my “friends” were caught up in busy schedules and didn’t have much time or interest in me or my visit. But as I sink into the overall experience, I realize that exactly the right people showed up at the most opportune times and “strangers” contributed to deep personal encounters and offered instance after instance that left me covered in goose bumps... or as one of my favorite Team members describes: “truth bumps.” (You can learn more about “the Team” in Martha Beck’s new book called <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Finding-Your-Way-Wild-World/dp/1451624484/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1330820084&sr=8-1"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Finding your Way in a Wild New World</span></a>.)<br /><br />Today I'd like to share a few examples of what it looked like for me to meet others on "the Team:"<br /><br />• I met Debbie at a <a href="http://www.cabionline.com/">Cabi </a>party as I overheard her mention a name I recognized and felt drawn to have more conversation with her. For the next several minutes, we huddled together like co-conspirators as we reveled in the things we had in common. She whispered to me after several minutes, “Have you noticed that not all people think like we do?” This came on the heels of our conversation regarding a passion toward living life more fully and authentically. (Check out her passion at <a href="http://happyfirst.com/">happyfirst.com</a>)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj18ckv9HpqqEcc4F-euHnoI0m-uR73kuglv_rzCWfgpdgNOeTOcfaRhmePKF8IG8mU8Dw6VcGP2W0x7cHNtm0SBXHxCHex-EAQKGmSel2_EfYalra6vOPhFiDSALtFplbc4kuz/s1600/IMG_1435.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj18ckv9HpqqEcc4F-euHnoI0m-uR73kuglv_rzCWfgpdgNOeTOcfaRhmePKF8IG8mU8Dw6VcGP2W0x7cHNtm0SBXHxCHex-EAQKGmSel2_EfYalra6vOPhFiDSALtFplbc4kuz/s320/IMG_1435.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5715828050885619618" border="0" /></a>• Shonda arrived at the same event and I felt her presence before I met her. She quietly scooted in and sat down beside me and I could sense she was someone very special. Later my sister-in-law Carol (a bonafide Team member) introduced us and let me know that Shonda would be “working on me” come Monday. She is a fabulous massage therapist and body worker whose healing power moves magically through her hands.<br /><br />• All-business Stephanie served us breakfast and Carol handed her a postcard inviting her to the next evening’s book reading. She returned to the table with a softened appearance and gentle candor as she confessed to a challenging existence and knowledge that this was exactly what she needed.<br /><br />• Martha looked at me through teary eyes when I told her I was an accountant-turned-artist and simply said, “Will you be my counselor?”<br /><br />• Suzzi and I became acquainted after our eyes locked from across the room of the coffee house where I was to read later that night. I felt compelled to go speak to this “stranger” who sat in the corner reading a book. Come to find out, she teaches centering prayer and our personal stories were so overlapped that I could only shake my head in wonder as I walked away from our 5 minute chat. (Suzzi now owns a copy of my book and I’m certain we have not seen the last of each other.)<br /><br />• Dian showed up at The Coffee House on Cherry Street when a friend of hers “randomly” sent her the Facebook invitation to my event. As in the other meetings, our stories had an intertwined aspect and the <a href="http://journalingbootcamp.wordpress.com/2012/02/29/signs-and-synchronicity/">synchronicities</a> continue to grow.<br /><br />• Greg may still be trying to figure out what happened when he opened the cover of my book at a meet-n-greet party and found himself captivated by the words. He thought it a fluke, so opened to another page and again was enthralled. After the third try with similar results, he pulled me aside and spent several minutes quizzing me on how I could get inside his head so completely in just a few short sentences. My hunch is that Greg is a member of the team who is newly arriving. ☺<br /><br />• Amy (another friend of Carol’s) arrived at the restaurant after the reading, because she felt compelled to meet me. As I listened to her story, I knew I’d found another mate.<br /><br />• There were also Deb, Will, Kelly, Renie, Scott, Britt, Jennifer, Anitra, and more...<br /><br />My hunch is that if you visit this site very often then you are a member of the Team! I’d love to hear <span style="font-style: italic;">your</span> stories of synchronicity and “random” encounters. Whaddya say, mates?<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">photos: Me with Martha Beck 5/11; Aslan reads "Finding Your Way"</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 102, 255);" class="messageBody"><strong>MY NEW BOOK: As I Lay Pondering: </strong>daily invitations to live a transformed life<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255); font-family:garamond,new york,times,serif;" >by Kayce S. Hughlett<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> <span class="Object" id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT47"><a href="http://kaycehughlett.squarespace.com/blog/2011/12/20/announcing-the-perfect-book-to-begin-your-new-year.html" target="_blank">Available here</a></span> </span>and at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B0072WGOKY">Amazon.com</a><span style="font-weight: bold;">. Get your copy today!!</span></span>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-62742831781681072272012-02-29T16:49:00.008-08:002012-02-29T17:16:39.478-08:00Leaping into Life<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">"it takes courage to be who you really are”</span><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"> </span>e.e. cummings<br /><br />The above words providentially graced the promotional postcard for my first public book reading last Saturday night in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Wow! It took more courage than I ever dreamed I had to put myself out there and LEAP into a wild new world! It only seems appropriate that on Leap Day I choose to commemorate that magnificent jump into the public limelight.<br /><br />Even now my heart beats quickly and tears form in my jet-lagged eyes as I think of my precious time away. The fullness of the whole experience resonates deeply and I know that for a few moments in time I was a shining star spreading my magic into the world.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi25sehJe_cIFS-I0IAR8vq7umMqDv7Z1QbYLtn-vKmDteepzdRLhHb0ONM5Z19VWijQ4jv1di6PNX7hemedFzh79YsVO7Cwpsdug1CIayHsOYKDJLsA3UW2gLp0bw36D57WWCv/s1600/photo%25283%2529.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 319px; height: 250px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi25sehJe_cIFS-I0IAR8vq7umMqDv7Z1QbYLtn-vKmDteepzdRLhHb0ONM5Z19VWijQ4jv1di6PNX7hemedFzh79YsVO7Cwpsdug1CIayHsOYKDJLsA3UW2gLp0bw36D57WWCv/s320/photo%25283%2529.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714726000920204754" border="0" /></a>Leap Day 2008, I sat solo in a <a href="http://diamondsintheskywithlucy.blogspot.com/2008/02/serene-wild-musings-from-paris-1.html">Paris</a> café (surprising even myself) and this year I recall perching on a bar stool in the spotlight and glow of my own dreams surrounded by a rapt audience (yet one more surprise). Saturday night was amazing – terrifying – exhilarating – complete. It was absolutely perfect with the finest spectators I could imagine. This shy girl who has been known to sprout hives just thinking of speaking in public loved being on that raised stage. Woohoo! As I entered the coffee house and took my place on the platform flashes of failure and stage fright flew through my mind and body. Freeze? Flee? Or become FREE? Those seemed to be my choices... To free myself, I turned to <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 204, 255);">As I Lay Pondering</span> and offered <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Anyone There?</span>—one of my most vulnerable pieces.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Will you read my work? Hold my hand? Laugh at my jokes? Kiss my lips? Notice my hair? Anyone there? Are you paying attention? Do you see me? Is it possible I still carry the look of a 1-year-old standing in her crib, reaching and searching for connection? Anyone there?</span><br /><br />With a deep breath, I read and they were hooked. I was fully present as I slowed myself to the pace of thoughtful words. My pulse began to steady as my heart connected to my soul... and theirs. Courageously I sat all sassy in my red crocheted dress and cowboy boots surrounded by friends, family, and strangers listening to my story, and as the evening magically flowed on, “my” story became “our” story. It was an iconic event.<br /><br />Who could have known I was destined to perch on a coffee house stool in Tulsa Oklahoma and launch a book that touched the heart of everyone in that room... especially my lovely sisters-in-law who became so mesmerized in the moment that they forgot their assigned tasks of photography and time-keeping, as well as my young nephews who sat tucked behind electronics? The friend I had known for over 50 years was to my right and various acquaintances and newfound soul mates filled out the audience. Even the barista offered his accolades when I finished.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7SUSn2BxcBKgNyOuhEhJrLH0uCWf2NzB6ztANEuSGNEJbgQjLhe-mEY6it0o_tVIrVczefCLOJYVoFdu120OLwQna5xVKD5UjIDZflgJBv3TcnHeJuslEnBDjFoqHHYEUnkNT/s1600/Postcard+front.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 247px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7SUSn2BxcBKgNyOuhEhJrLH0uCWf2NzB6ztANEuSGNEJbgQjLhe-mEY6it0o_tVIrVczefCLOJYVoFdu120OLwQna5xVKD5UjIDZflgJBv3TcnHeJuslEnBDjFoqHHYEUnkNT/s320/Postcard+front.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714726734758999634" border="0" /></a>It was a LEAP comprised of steps bigger than anything I could have imagined earlier in my life. <span style="font-weight: bold;">One</span> – that I would (or could) write a book; <span style="font-weight: bold;">Two</span> – that I would develop the nerve to speak in front of a crowd and become thoroughly entranced by the magic of it; and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Three</span> – I would return to the Oklahoma roots I left nearly a quarter-century ago to begin this new phase of my journey! Poet David Whyte writes, <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">“What you can plan is too small for you to live.”</span> How right he is!<br /><br />In this special year of the Leap, what do you plan for yourself? What would you do if you had the courage to be who you really are? What does bravery look like in your life? My personal plan is to strap my parachute on tightly, ‘cuz it feels like this leap is a giant one... and I don’t want to miss a moment of it fearfully flailing away!!!<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 102, 255);" class="messageBody"><strong>MY NEW BOOK: As I Lay Pondering: </strong>daily invitations to live a transformed life<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255); font-family:garamond,new york,times,serif;" >by Kayce S. Hughlett<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> <span class="Object" id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT47"><a href="http://kaycehughlett.squarespace.com/blog/2011/12/20/announcing-the-perfect-book-to-begin-your-new-year.html" target="_blank">Available here</a></span> </span>and at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B0072WGOKY">Amazon.com</a><span style="font-weight: bold;">. Get your copy today!!</span></span>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-48364076780829979292012-02-21T16:32:00.006-08:002012-02-21T16:55:52.527-08:00Daily MosaicThe morning began with a thoughtful reading and a pondering of the line: <span style="font-style: italic;">We are each small stones rolling toward the other to create one vast mosaic.*</span> Oh, it sounded so lovely and connected in the moment. Next I engaged in my morning meditation led by the lovely <a href="http://www.susanpiver.com/">Susan Piver </a>who ended our time together with these words: <span style="font-style: italic;">May you have a day of unspeakable clarity</span>. Ah, stones creating a mosaic... unspeakable clarity... I was set for the day... and then I opened my email.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF9vi-WPjB7_r8_J_f_aUIMuDqyDy_-ztes0yWNCkiz3UJjq-rGmm56HFdc08wIkYEy0G3XV26Oi8r8CHxbsYbLJijtA2nFkKx3k60U3l8GAJKEgvyiOKVwwMoGZ2OUhJHfXXP/s1600/IMG_1270.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF9vi-WPjB7_r8_J_f_aUIMuDqyDy_-ztes0yWNCkiz3UJjq-rGmm56HFdc08wIkYEy0G3XV26Oi8r8CHxbsYbLJijtA2nFkKx3k60U3l8GAJKEgvyiOKVwwMoGZ2OUhJHfXXP/s320/IMG_1270.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711751873282843410" border="0" /></a>Greeting me I found a sweet response from a dear friend, the usual spam and inspirational messages, and a note from CreateSpace letting me know that my Kindle-ready format of <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">As I Lay Pondering </span>was ready for preview. Yay! The long-awaited version I had enlisted the professionals to help create. Ready. Set. Drum roll, please. Open file... Gasp. No. Say it isn’t so. Ugh. Boo. Hiss. It looks like an illiterate chimpanzee designed the tablet. (My apologies to the chimpanzee.) Seriously? This is what I jumped through hoops to enroll in, paid good money for, and waited WEEKS to receive? It is no better than the free test copy I uploaded myself before I decided to turn it over to the “experts.” What ever was I thinking? My next question was what were <span style="font-style: italic;">they</span> thinking? – (although I said it in slightly more professional terms.)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirBeNLiw4U4SgxoLZjdUcs5wqn00THqKGrcgXwbDXClUrSK-vDFwxZ3B3BkvTtToTA_wypSvajnDAl0FmXn_VlFeXu4UW-NZxkN_d0fflyRoG5J2NHE9qtiDclAD7GztCKzoGZ/s1600/IMG_1258.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 239px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirBeNLiw4U4SgxoLZjdUcs5wqn00THqKGrcgXwbDXClUrSK-vDFwxZ3B3BkvTtToTA_wypSvajnDAl0FmXn_VlFeXu4UW-NZxkN_d0fflyRoG5J2NHE9qtiDclAD7GztCKzoGZ/s320/IMG_1258.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711757172796197266" border="0" /></a>Their response: “I am sorry to hear that your Kindle Edition is not appearing as you expected.” Seriously? Whatever... Next came rote instructions about how they would be getting back to me along with details of how to contact a person immediately. Trying to stay calm, I followed their instructions verbatim and pressed the button that said, “Call us.” Pressing. No response. Pressing again. Still no response. My beautiful day's mosaic was swiftly turning into a jumbled mess. My “unspeakable clarity” was raging in words I dare not put into print. Name calling. A vicarious temper tantrum. Even an out loud bellow in the car on my way to the dentist. Yes, the dentist. A banner day all around.<br /><br />What was I thinking? <span style="font-style: italic;">Stones rolling toward the other to create one vast mosaic</span>? It feels like a boulder is pressing in on me at top speed and I will soon be flattened like a character in an old school cartoon. My inner dialogue begins... Breathe. <span style="font-style: italic;">Shut up</span>. Breathe. <span style="font-style: italic;">I hate breathing</span>. Relax. <span style="font-style: italic;">Don’t want to</span>. Turn your ugly thoughts around. <span style="font-style: italic;">I don’t wanna!</span> Meditation? <span style="font-style: italic;">Boo hiss</span>. Peace and contentment? <span style="font-style: italic;">Give it to someone else</span>. Knock out the Kindle-version myself? <span style="font-style: italic;">I’d rather knock out the Kindle creator right now!</span><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7XCv1YPvlNEGqYxg-kR8OGR7e-MhyV3JEBBA3Qf0vzAwvxRS9n20tnXLGJItBCKttm1qjfGhWoE_TliPwdr60togR-Ms54IUriY5WlGjYOxJ9nnF2ayhs-GLj_1Dnxzkm03N0/s1600/IMG_1255.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7XCv1YPvlNEGqYxg-kR8OGR7e-MhyV3JEBBA3Qf0vzAwvxRS9n20tnXLGJItBCKttm1qjfGhWoE_TliPwdr60togR-Ms54IUriY5WlGjYOxJ9nnF2ayhs-GLj_1Dnxzkm03N0/s320/IMG_1255.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711752026708536578" border="0" /></a>Several hours elapsed... still no response from Kindle... The day only got more ludicrous, but I will spare you the details for now. Please know, however, I resorted to drastic measures and indulged in sugar cookies (which I did <a href="http://diamondsintheskywithlucy.blogspot.com/2010/06/savor.html">savor)</a> and a tad bit of (necessary) retail therapy in order to move forward. To heck with Polly Positive... Some days a girl just needs to vent!<br /><br />Chuckle chuckle... as I imagine my readers gasping that my positive outlook has been displaced by a computer glitch. <span style="font-style: italic;">You mean you get upset?</span> I can hear them saying.<span style="font-style: italic;"> I had no idea you set up expectations and then got disappointed.</span> Are you kidding? All the time! And then the dialogue begins again between my inner sage and petulant child. Practice. <span style="font-style: italic;">Maybe</span>. Keep rolling. <span style="font-style: italic;">I’ll try</span>. Pondering? <span style="font-style: italic;">It might be worth a go</span>. Vent and rage? <span style="font-style: italic;">Absolutely</span>.<br /><br />Today's mosaic lesson? <span style="font-style: italic;">Being <span style="font-weight: bold;">fully</span> human may just comprise the best stones for unspeakable clarity</span>. Hmmmm. Now what to do about those Kindle people?<br /><br />*<span style="color: rgb(51, 153, 153);font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">from As I Lay Pondering, "Mosaic"</span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">photos from Casa Battlo, Barcelona</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 102, 255);" class="messageBody"><strong>MY NEW BOOK: As I Lay Pondering: </strong>daily invitations to live a transformed life<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255); font-family:garamond,new york,times,serif;" >by Kayce S. Hughlett.</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> <span class="Object" id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT47"><a href="http://kaycehughlett.squarespace.com/blog/2011/12/20/announcing-the-perfect-book-to-begin-your-new-year.html" target="_blank">Available here</a></span> </span>and at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B0072WGOKY">Amazon.com</a><span style="font-weight: bold;">. Get your copy today!!</span></span>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-42810411675588219872012-02-16T09:59:00.001-08:002012-02-16T10:17:21.019-08:00Impermanence<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 153, 153);">“That nothing is static or fixed, that all is fleeting and changing, is the first mark of existence.” </span><a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/comfortable-with-uncertainty-pema-chodron/1102735126?ean=9781590300787&itm=3&usri=pema+chodron"><span style="font-size:85%;">Pema Chodron</span></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgLiHw4iv3h0RYB_SFDmf-IXRIHyaBKBHdmBk2r4_KAGfG4aqaR48WD7CcNcA7s2p9QK_CZa0A9zgSLgM9mj7eBhKfbJCyqOukX1FyKTCnj8TXlqgQmdaWZnJgHO2qikl-g_XG/s1600/IMG_1378.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 239px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgLiHw4iv3h0RYB_SFDmf-IXRIHyaBKBHdmBk2r4_KAGfG4aqaR48WD7CcNcA7s2p9QK_CZa0A9zgSLgM9mj7eBhKfbJCyqOukX1FyKTCnj8TXlqgQmdaWZnJgHO2qikl-g_XG/s320/IMG_1378.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709794861831839522" border="0" /></a>Impermanence. My spirits rose higher than a soaring kite and now have calmed to the rhythm of a gently lapping wave. A friend who used to greet me brightly has faded from my life like vapor in a foggy night. A woman waits at a hospital, checking the status box “married.” Two days later she leaves alone with “widow” stamped on her form. My cat, <a href="http://diamondsintheskywithlucy.blogspot.com/2010/01/gift.html">Aslan</a>, was here purring on my chest and now he’s not. Impermanence. How do we acknowledge that all is fleeting and changing? Do we rage against it and demand it isn’t so? Or embrace it with understanding and awareness? Perhaps we simply hope it will drift away like the cat, quietly seeking another place to rest.<br /><br />Imagine practicing impermanence. Witnessing life in fleeting moments. Loving what is now. <a href="http://diamondsintheskywithlucy.blogspot.com/2012/02/mary-olivers-inspiration.html">Wanting what we get</a>. All these choices build our character and establish the timbre of our lives. Nature teaches us that we cannot catch the wind or hold a ray of sunshine in our hand. One minute the sky is clear and the next clouds have rolled in. Hollywood reminds us, too. Demi Moore reigned on the screen with her beauty and strength. Now she resides in rehab filled with fear and self-doubt. Whitney Houston, the former queen of pop, died in a hotel room the night before the Grammy awards. Life flourishes and then it doesn’t. Reminders all.<br /><br />My pen will eventually run out of ink. My own lungs will ultimately cease to draw air. What does all this mean today? With what am I left? Now. Only now. In this moment I can feel the air cycling through my body. I hear the scratch of the pen across this page. The light fixture next to me buzzes. Outside a child chatters with her father and waits for the bus. The bus arrives and they all depart. A new sound hastens to fill the space. My lungs draw another breath. My hand scratches out a few more words. A truck’s roar enters the near silence... and fades away.<br /><br />Impermanence. Perhaps it is the only permanent thing in life.<br /><br />I’ll be pondering this today. Care to join me?<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 102, 255);" class="messageBody"><strong>MY NEW BOOK: As I Lay Pondering: </strong>daily invitations to live a transformed life<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255); font-family:garamond,new york,times,serif;">by Kayce S. Hughlett.</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> <span class="Object" id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT47"><a href="http://kaycehughlett.squarespace.com/blog/2011/12/20/announcing-the-perfect-book-to-begin-your-new-year.html" target="_blank">Available here</a></span> </span>and at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B0072WGOKY">Amazon.com</a><span style="font-weight: bold;">.</span></span>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15693384.post-79478234437807826302012-02-10T17:19:00.000-08:002012-02-10T17:35:11.073-08:00Mary Oliver's Inspiration<style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"MS 明朝"; mso-font-charset:78; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:-536870145 1791491579 18 0 131231 0;} @font-face {font-family:"Cambria Math"; panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-unhide:no; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;} .MsoChpDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; mso-default-props:yes; font-size:10.0pt; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-fareast-language:JA;} @page WordSection1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.WordSection1 {page:WordSection1;} --> </style> <p style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-style: italic;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh, to love what is lovely, and will not last!</p><p style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-style: italic;" class="MsoNormal">What a task</p> <p style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-style: italic;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-tab-count:2"> </span>to ask</p><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-style: italic;"> </span><p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-style: italic;">of anything, or anyone...”</span><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-style: italic;"> </span><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">Mary Oliver excerpt from <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Snow Geese</i></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz-TFdE40M8oWaxNhtFBrA6HjuRXuQ8osKE78OC6ooKCzZvEswi_RyBMFYhaNYl_QxW-NiCEp8WVdBuhbOhCQem0L0DrIvJSIYlat0HKLhmfMRU8G6F8ZHxmE5NCaUBKNdX4jo/s1600/IMG_0442.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz-TFdE40M8oWaxNhtFBrA6HjuRXuQ8osKE78OC6ooKCzZvEswi_RyBMFYhaNYl_QxW-NiCEp8WVdBuhbOhCQem0L0DrIvJSIYlat0HKLhmfMRU8G6F8ZHxmE5NCaUBKNdX4jo/s320/IMG_0442.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707681961875911810" border="0" /></a>It was an iconic moment that didn’t register on any paparazzi’s meter. But, I was there to record it in my memory. Less than five feet from where I sat poised to hear an inspirational talk, my curiosity and awe were tuned to high gear as I witnessed my two favorite poets in the entire world—Mary Oliver and David Whyte—meet for the first time. Surreal and amazing I watched the creator of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Why I Wake Early</i> nod and clasp hands with the author of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">What to Remember When Waking</i>. It was a dreamlike moment and I invited myself to pause and consider if indeed I might still be sleeping.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Mary Oliver arrived as <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>keynote guest for Seattle University’s Search for Meaning book festival. The jam-packed audience had high expectations for her appearance... certain that she would entertain and enlighten us with her sage wisdom and poetic words. She would inspire. We would connect. Oh, I pause and shake my head when I read those words of “expectation.” They are always a set up for disappointment. We put our heroes on a mountaintop and then dare them to reach the trembling heights. It is a daunting task.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Several weeks earlier, I spent an entire day mesmerized by the charisma and talent of David Whyte and for some comical reason I expected the same level of engagement from Mary Oliver. How audacious of me to make such a comparison! While she is a Pulitzer prize winner and world-renowned author, she is nonetheless a private woman who prefers spending hours in the woods scratching notes out with a pencil over sitting at her typewriter composing or reading to a room full of adoring fans. David Whyte thrives on sharing with corporate environments and regaling his audiences with hair-raising tales and adventures with the late John O’Donohue. He recites poetry (his and others) from memory in multiple languages with ne’er a note nearby.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Ms. Oliver offers deadpan humor and acquires a twinkle in her voice when she speaks of her departed and beloved dog, Percy. She is humble and mumbles to herself while shuffling through misnumbered pages to read her poetry rather than recite it. Her poems are wondrous and she delivered them to us one after another without pause. I found myself wanting more... perhaps a result of left-over comparisons to Whyte who offers the gift of verse repetition which allows his words to sink in and meld deeply into our bones. Mary unceremoniously tossed them into the air and swiftly moved onto the next as if the previous was of slight significance. She left us hanging and desiring more.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOMOWcdgVS1nOqBq8TEs7goweX0XvTQvvN0NTrjtcFJHiEsdS1qM9Dr560u3_ff9PbOv431EJqt-dX4b7bVs5rzx_PQX5rBgiRmiJd_liA4uWUOZlVmgOGNtlWFkQOYRvG7KZ_/s1600/IMG_0439.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOMOWcdgVS1nOqBq8TEs7goweX0XvTQvvN0NTrjtcFJHiEsdS1qM9Dr560u3_ff9PbOv431EJqt-dX4b7bVs5rzx_PQX5rBgiRmiJd_liA4uWUOZlVmgOGNtlWFkQOYRvG7KZ_/s320/IMG_0439.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707683045113696514" border="0" /></a>What did I expect or want? I wanted to be immersed in her words and presence. She offered the words and in the literal sense she was present. Was it my own demanding thoughts that left me wanting more? The practice of Buddhism invites us to consider whether our <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">motives are pure</i> as we encounter others and also to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">want what we get</i>. As I ponder that day’s encounter and my potential disappointment that my hero didn’t quite reach <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">my</i> mountaintop as she shuffled from poem to poem, I realize my motive in observing her wasn’t pure. It was for me and my entertainment. In this way of being, I threatened to miss what was lovely. And as I consider the second premise—to want what we get—I find myself applauding for the humbly, mumbly award-winning woman. Did she inspire? Absolutely! Was it entertaining? No doubt! <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Her</i> way was just not the way I expected. She delivered something even better—a lasting impression that gave me volumes to ponder... much like her poetry. Who could ask for anything more? Well done, Ms. O and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Thank You </i>for being you! You inspire us each to do the same.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">sunrise on Mt. Sinai © KSH 2010</span></span><br /></p>Kayce aka lucyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01479940262271959482noreply@blogger.com0