I wrote because I thought no one could understand what I was feeling, continued...

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I was excited when I received a note from Tracy about her work. As the mother of two teens I'm always grateful to get some insight about what goes on in the teen mind which is what Tracy's book, Inside a Girl's Heart, offers. It is her journey detailed through poetry. Yes, she is a girl and I have boys but I believe the connection is in the difficulty that surfaces as a teen. I also believe in the power of writing. Whether you're working on a novel or you're journaling or writing in a diary, it is an experience that frees you. It helps to process what you are feeling.

Give it a try, at any age, and drop me a note to let me know if it helped you!

Your life, an abstract painting, continued...

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I really do view life as a work of art. It is what you make it and we are all artists when it comes to our individual lives. The article comes from a perspective that your actions depict the characteristics of the painting and that ultimately the artist is God (or whatever higher power you believe). I chose a painting because it takes time to create. Each color must dry before the next is added otherwise they blend and if this isn't your intention it can be devastating to the work. Just as in life, negativity is fluid. Holding onto it can create a heavy weight that will cause emotional and physical pain for you and others. It is an ugly picture!

What type of painting are you creating? Drop me a note and leave me your thoughts.

Seeding itself to nurture thoughts, continued...

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As I'm maturing I find myself writing down these lightbulb moments (as Oprah would say). I work hard to follow through, eventually, with the ones that I really feel a true inside reaction to, right in my core. My Dreamstreet Art & Light of Love products both kind of grabbed me in the moment. I'm still working to develop both lines but I'm happy to say they were created and manifested from a seed of insight!

What thoughts have you ignored? You know, the ones that seem to keep tapping on your door. Choose not to ignore them any longer and take action. It just might turn your world upside and make it better!

She found her way to happiness after abuse

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Michelle Miller is a strong person who has persevered through much pain and suffering. I applaud her for sharing her story as I'm sure it will help many find the courage to leave painful relationships; physically and emotionally. If your partner is abusing you then it is not healthy for you to stay. THIS IS A LIFE OR DEATH CHOICE. Your partner is jeopardizing your well being. You are worthy of a love that encourages you to reach your dreams, a love that supports you during during the worst of times and best of times. Timing is everything when someone is abusive. Please reach out in your community to seek help. There is support out there.

It is my hope that if you know someone suffering abuse, you'll pass Michelle's article to them discretely for encouragement. Let's support each other and work to make the world a better place!

Powers of perception, continued...

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It really is about how you look at the world. You can walk around miserable or in a daze or you can make a choice to try to keep your spirit and those around you uplifted. Why suffer the negativity of conflict. Once you give into it, you'll draw more and more of it into your life and suddenly you'll find yourself walking around under a rain cloud. It is unhealthy and exhausting.

I've been there before and it takes more work to be angry or unhappy in general than to be upbeat. You really can find magic in the smallest of things if you're looking for it. Today, while at my sisters and talking about my unsuccessful attempts for acceptance thus far in the literary agent world (I'm not giving up), I watched several long haired kittens play outside on her deck. They were full of life and it was really blissful to take in their cuteness! This simple little thing made my day.

Find wonder in your world and then tell me about it. Sharing makes it even more special!

Fear of rejection, continued...

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I feel like I’m an official expert in the area of rejection. I think I could wall paper a very large room with all of the emails and letters I receive on a daily basis.

It is never easy to take. Whether I’m applying for a creative job somewhere, reaching out through my business or trying to obtain a literary agent, the rejection letters seem to virtually kick me when I’m down.

Today, I am saying, “To hell with all of them!”

And, guess what? I pushing forward with more energy then I’ve had in the past. I still believe in my passion and I will get to those in the world that feel the same way!

What are you writing off in 2011? Yell out to hell with whatever is kicking you when you’re down, if feels pretty good.

Then drop me a note and share!

Trainers having fun, continued...

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I met Brian Freeman at Bally's Total Fitness in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He is my personal trainer. If you like Bob's style of training on The Biggest Loser, you would like Brian's style. He is considerate but aggressive. He isn't someone who screams in your face and gloats with training power.

Prior to our time together in the gym, I injured my shoulder. Brian was able to still kick my butt during our workout session while, at the same time, being considerate of my injury. He knows what he is talking about and he walks the talk.

It is refreshing to see him once a week. He helps me reach higher and work harder towards my fitness goals. I highly recommend him!