The month of March holds special memories for me. It was the month I got my driver's license. It was (and is) the last month of the first quarter of the year. It is also the month when I feel that inner tingle which signifies an anticipation, hope for the emergence of spring.
I have always felt that once I make it through January, February and March, I deserve to look forward to April & May, hence warmer weather and welcoming of spring. Although, living in Michigan, making it through March doesn't necessarily mean we're through with snow, as to which we rugged Michiganders can attest. It just means that the bulk of winter's windy wiles are behind us and we can soon embrace better weather.
For me March also punctuates life and death. It was the month my firstborn, Andrew, was born; and the month both my father and father-in-law died. This March 3rd will be the 20th anniversary of my father's death and on March 13th, the 7th anniversary of my father-in-law's death.
Nothing ever prepares you for the loss of a parent. Even when death is imminent, acceptance has been met, and the arrangements have been made, the actual loss and its effect on your soul can't be described, only felt by those of us who are left behind.
Watching my father's chest rattle as he took his last breath on that cold, windy March evening was the most profound experience of my life. Both my sister and I held our collective breaths as he took his last one. I knew the exact moment he passed from this life to the eternal mysterious one as I touched his cold hand and watched his skin turn almost translucent.
But the single most powerful memory happened moments before he took his last breath...it was when I saw him smile. It was then that I knew he was going to a better place, a place where he would no longer suffer and finally be at peace.
Twenty years later and I still miss my dad. I miss his wacky humor, his funny smile, his lame jokes and his creative mind. When I hold my beautiful granddaughter close, I wonder if my dad watches us; or if he laughs at the way my grandson giggles at his older sister when she tickles him.
Somehow I sense his spirit and feel his presence guiding me through the hardest times. It's at those times I dream of him and he comforts me, always. It's at those times when I realize he'll always be a part of me the same as I will be a part of my children and grandchildren.
After all is said and done, the most valuable legacy we leave behind, is love.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
Why Supply & Demand Determines Value
What is the best determination of value? Many years ago as a real estate agent, I was taught that a home's value is determined by the price someone is willing to pay for it. In today's dismal real estate market, that's bad news for sellers and great news for buyers.
But, does that mean that suddenly your home (car, boat, rv, jewelry, etc.) has lost its original value? It all depends on how you personally define value. In fact, the less someone is willing to pay for something, the more valuable it becomes to us, and the more sense it makes to keep it.
If I'm confusing the issue, let's look at it this way. Unemployment has grown to a frightening level. People who have devoted years to their jobs are losing them left and right. And the common question they ask themselves is, "What do I do now?" Years ago if you lost your job, you'd just send out some resumes, get interviewed and get another job. That's no longer the case.
Back to supply and demand. Too many people out of work and not enough jobs available for everybody. Employers know this. It gives them license to implement elaborate screening techniques to "weed out" the undesirables; those less qualified to meet their unrealistic job requirements that a few years ago would not have been an issue.
Unemployment does not discriminate to just those without formal education. It's rapidly becoming an epidemic. It seems that every day I hear of yet someone else I know losing their job. And the sad part is it may not change anytime soon.
My question is this: does an unemployed person lose their original value? Does unemployment automatically erase the skills and experience a person has worked so hard to achieve? It would seem so, because what potential employers are willing to pay is directly affected by supply and demand of people applying for those positions.
The most obvious solution to this dilemma is to lower the unemployment rate by creating jobs and shifting the balance of supply and demand in favor of the workforce. Offer training and use the transferable skills people have and apply them to the newly created jobs. Get people back to work and stop outsourcing their jobs.
My thoughts on economic stimulus or tax refund checks: No matter how great a discount we are offered, or how low the interest rate is, these tactics simply won't entice us to buy (thus, boost the economy) unless we have a weekly check to pay for them.
But, does that mean that suddenly your home (car, boat, rv, jewelry, etc.) has lost its original value? It all depends on how you personally define value. In fact, the less someone is willing to pay for something, the more valuable it becomes to us, and the more sense it makes to keep it.
If I'm confusing the issue, let's look at it this way. Unemployment has grown to a frightening level. People who have devoted years to their jobs are losing them left and right. And the common question they ask themselves is, "What do I do now?" Years ago if you lost your job, you'd just send out some resumes, get interviewed and get another job. That's no longer the case.
Back to supply and demand. Too many people out of work and not enough jobs available for everybody. Employers know this. It gives them license to implement elaborate screening techniques to "weed out" the undesirables; those less qualified to meet their unrealistic job requirements that a few years ago would not have been an issue.
Unemployment does not discriminate to just those without formal education. It's rapidly becoming an epidemic. It seems that every day I hear of yet someone else I know losing their job. And the sad part is it may not change anytime soon.
My question is this: does an unemployed person lose their original value? Does unemployment automatically erase the skills and experience a person has worked so hard to achieve? It would seem so, because what potential employers are willing to pay is directly affected by supply and demand of people applying for those positions.
The most obvious solution to this dilemma is to lower the unemployment rate by creating jobs and shifting the balance of supply and demand in favor of the workforce. Offer training and use the transferable skills people have and apply them to the newly created jobs. Get people back to work and stop outsourcing their jobs.
My thoughts on economic stimulus or tax refund checks: No matter how great a discount we are offered, or how low the interest rate is, these tactics simply won't entice us to buy (thus, boost the economy) unless we have a weekly check to pay for them.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Moving Forward With Change
Life is all about change. Change is not only necessary, it is inevitable. It's been said that the only thing that never changes, is change itself. The more we fight change, the tougher its impact on us. Therefore, it's to our advantage to adapt to, if not embrace, change.
Every minute of every day brings about subtle changes in our world. While each day is a duplicate of the previous day, at the same time it is a brand new day, the ultimate paradox, isn't it? The sun rises over the horizon, scattering the twilight as the last vestiges of nighttime vanish and a new day begins. We don't question it; we expect it.
As humans we rely on the cues of nature to prompt us forward in our lives. And at times it's though we are moving at warp speed into an unknown, uncharted territory of tomorrow's mysteries, while we ponder yesterday's regrets.
But all we truly have is today, right now, this minute. Tomorrow is promised to no one, so it's important to live each day as if it's our last and let the regrets go. Stop telling yourself that "someday (this) and someday (that)." Instead, look ahead, not behind you. Move forward and ride the coattails of change; and learn to embrace it. You never know just where it may lead.
Every minute of every day brings about subtle changes in our world. While each day is a duplicate of the previous day, at the same time it is a brand new day, the ultimate paradox, isn't it? The sun rises over the horizon, scattering the twilight as the last vestiges of nighttime vanish and a new day begins. We don't question it; we expect it.
As humans we rely on the cues of nature to prompt us forward in our lives. And at times it's though we are moving at warp speed into an unknown, uncharted territory of tomorrow's mysteries, while we ponder yesterday's regrets.
But all we truly have is today, right now, this minute. Tomorrow is promised to no one, so it's important to live each day as if it's our last and let the regrets go. Stop telling yourself that "someday (this) and someday (that)." Instead, look ahead, not behind you. Move forward and ride the coattails of change; and learn to embrace it. You never know just where it may lead.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Spring Tease
Today the temperature reached 58 degrees. It was one of those mid-winter "bonus" days that tease you into thinking spring has arrived...but don't don the light jackets just yet. It's still winter, despite the deceptively warmer temperatures we've been enjoying for a few days. Had this day arrived in April, I'd allow myself to be more optimistic, but in February it's just a little bonus.
But then again, it's hard not to fantasize about the warm summer sunshine on my face...imagine a cool ice tea with lots of lemon as I sit under my umbrella on the deck and read a compelling novel.
This summer Jim and I especially look forward to taking our 2-1/2 year old granddaughter, Mackenzee, on her first camping trip. We will definitely enjoy watching Mackenzee explore and learn about the "Great Outdoors." She is already looking forward to going camping in Papa's "Twaylor."
The promise of spring is always a time to anticipate, followed by the glorious sunshine days of summer. It's difficult not to want to rush time along to get out of the winter doldrums, but then again, I don't want to wish my life away. I've learned that it's too short and precious, so I want to enjoy every minute of it while I continue to discover all that life has to offer.
But then again, it's hard not to fantasize about the warm summer sunshine on my face...imagine a cool ice tea with lots of lemon as I sit under my umbrella on the deck and read a compelling novel.
This summer Jim and I especially look forward to taking our 2-1/2 year old granddaughter, Mackenzee, on her first camping trip. We will definitely enjoy watching Mackenzee explore and learn about the "Great Outdoors." She is already looking forward to going camping in Papa's "Twaylor."
The promise of spring is always a time to anticipate, followed by the glorious sunshine days of summer. It's difficult not to want to rush time along to get out of the winter doldrums, but then again, I don't want to wish my life away. I've learned that it's too short and precious, so I want to enjoy every minute of it while I continue to discover all that life has to offer.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
I Admit It...I'm A Book Junkie
For most people a bookstore is just another store that happens to be filled with books. For me, it's a sanctuary. There's something terribly exciting about being surrounded by all that knowledge. If there's anyplace I can surely get lost in time and space, it's at a bookstore. After a couple of hours of browsing, I'm compelled to quickly make a decision on which book or books to purchase before my husband has to propel me toward the doorway sometime before the bookstore closes its doors and shoves me out on my ears.
For me, a bookstore has always been a welcoming, inviting place to hang out. At first I find myself browsing the new releases and eventually end up in various areas, not necessarily searching for anything specific, but searching nonetheless. I'm simply compelled to look at, and ultimately admire, books. And it's quite amazing how certain books seem to call out to me as if they silently communicate a message they unknowingly sense I need at that time of my life.
The library has much the same effect, minus the smell of freshly brewed Starbuck's coffee. I can spend hours browsing the library's shelves and seldom do I leave with less than 4 or 5 books on several subjects. Funny, I seldom read each book cover to cover, but I always end up with many books. Much like a child in a candy store, I can't make up my mind. I want them all.
They are so much more than bound covers and words between pages! Books have indeed become an integral part of my life, much like my best friends. Since I'm always looking for answers, I'm always looking to expand my knowledge to share with others. Books provide both. Of course, they're also a great escape and an excellent source of entertainment.
My life-long goal has been to be one of the inspiring authors who grace the shelves of the bookstores I frequent. It's not an easy road, to be sure, but a road worth traveling. There's simply something magical that transpires between an author and a reader and my deepest desire is to be among those who make a lasting impression upon my readers and to leave my words behind long after I'm gone. It's a legacy I look forward to.
For me, a bookstore has always been a welcoming, inviting place to hang out. At first I find myself browsing the new releases and eventually end up in various areas, not necessarily searching for anything specific, but searching nonetheless. I'm simply compelled to look at, and ultimately admire, books. And it's quite amazing how certain books seem to call out to me as if they silently communicate a message they unknowingly sense I need at that time of my life.
The library has much the same effect, minus the smell of freshly brewed Starbuck's coffee. I can spend hours browsing the library's shelves and seldom do I leave with less than 4 or 5 books on several subjects. Funny, I seldom read each book cover to cover, but I always end up with many books. Much like a child in a candy store, I can't make up my mind. I want them all.
They are so much more than bound covers and words between pages! Books have indeed become an integral part of my life, much like my best friends. Since I'm always looking for answers, I'm always looking to expand my knowledge to share with others. Books provide both. Of course, they're also a great escape and an excellent source of entertainment.
My life-long goal has been to be one of the inspiring authors who grace the shelves of the bookstores I frequent. It's not an easy road, to be sure, but a road worth traveling. There's simply something magical that transpires between an author and a reader and my deepest desire is to be among those who make a lasting impression upon my readers and to leave my words behind long after I'm gone. It's a legacy I look forward to.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Left Brain vs. Right Brain
When you walk into a room, what do you see? Do your eyes sweep the room, taking everything in at once? Or do you look at each element and pick out the details? Do you study shapes and sizes of objects? Are you fascinated by the textures and colors of nature? Or would you rather figure out the most efficient way to balance your checkbook? How you answer these questions may determine if you are right or left brain dominated.
At times I'm convinced that I'm a left-brain individual. I tend to be analytical, logical and detail-oriented. But then again, I can also be intuitive, impetuous, artistic and creative, all of which are right-brain characteristics. I'd always been interested in this fascinating part of being human. In fact, last year my two hemispheres had their own discussion about it without my knowledge. Here's the dialog of the left and right sides of my brain:
Left brain: "Look what time it is! We've got to get back to work."
Right brain: "Leave me alone. I'm reading."
Left brain: "But I'm bored. Oh, wow! Look at that snow! I bet there's at least six inches on the ground. It'll take us at least an hour to get home. Then we have to make dinner, wash dishes, make lunch for tomorrow, take a shower and..."
Right brain: "Stop distracting me! Can't you tell I'm busy? Get a life, will ya? We've only got 45 minutes left of this hour, thanks to you and your distractions!!"
Left brain: "Ok. I'll think about something else. I should have gotten gas yesterday. This morning it was 25 cents more. I'd give anything to have the gas prices of 1972. Gosh, I miss 1972. Life was much easier back in '72."
Right brain: "Bob Seger wrote a song about 1972. I miss it too…life was easier. Hey, maybe I should write a book about owning a 1964 Beetle in which the heater never, ever worked and the necessity of always keeping a blanket wrapped around your legs. Hmmmm, winter, car, skating, being a kid. You go ahead and worry. You do it enough for the both of us anyway. I'll just keeping traveling down memory lane. I'd rather go there than back to work anyway."
Forty-five minutes later, left brain goes back upstairs, sits at the desk, and starts working, while right brain is silently planning the next story idea and admiring all the colorful trees on the path down memory lane when suddenly, it sees a bear on a deserted country road while thunder rumbles in the distance…
At times I'm convinced that I'm a left-brain individual. I tend to be analytical, logical and detail-oriented. But then again, I can also be intuitive, impetuous, artistic and creative, all of which are right-brain characteristics. I'd always been interested in this fascinating part of being human. In fact, last year my two hemispheres had their own discussion about it without my knowledge. Here's the dialog of the left and right sides of my brain:
Left brain: "Look what time it is! We've got to get back to work."
Right brain: "Leave me alone. I'm reading."
Left brain: "But I'm bored. Oh, wow! Look at that snow! I bet there's at least six inches on the ground. It'll take us at least an hour to get home. Then we have to make dinner, wash dishes, make lunch for tomorrow, take a shower and..."
Right brain: "Stop distracting me! Can't you tell I'm busy? Get a life, will ya? We've only got 45 minutes left of this hour, thanks to you and your distractions!!"
Left brain: "Ok. I'll think about something else. I should have gotten gas yesterday. This morning it was 25 cents more. I'd give anything to have the gas prices of 1972. Gosh, I miss 1972. Life was much easier back in '72."
Right brain: "Bob Seger wrote a song about 1972. I miss it too…life was easier. Hey, maybe I should write a book about owning a 1964 Beetle in which the heater never, ever worked and the necessity of always keeping a blanket wrapped around your legs. Hmmmm, winter, car, skating, being a kid. You go ahead and worry. You do it enough for the both of us anyway. I'll just keeping traveling down memory lane. I'd rather go there than back to work anyway."
Forty-five minutes later, left brain goes back upstairs, sits at the desk, and starts working, while right brain is silently planning the next story idea and admiring all the colorful trees on the path down memory lane when suddenly, it sees a bear on a deserted country road while thunder rumbles in the distance…
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Dan Miller and 48 Days
Do you love your job? If the answer is YES, then don't bother reading the rest of this post. If the answer is an astounding NO, then please read on.
Last summer while going through a personal career crisis as well as suffering from work-related stress and anxiety, I was searching for some answers and I inevitably found myself standing in front of the "Entrepreneur" section at Barnes & Noble, hoping that something would "grab" me from that shelf. I wasn't even sure what I was looking for when this book seemed to jump out at me. It is called, "48 Days To The Work You Love," by Dan Miller. I'd never heard of Dan Miller, but my friend Debbie had told me about Dave Ramsey and when I saw his name as the foreword writer on this book, it merited retrieval from the shelf. Upon thumbing through the pages, I soon found myself intrigued by what I saw and gladly made the purchase, anxiously returning home to start reading it. Little did I know that book of 224 pages would soon change my life.
Dan's philosophy is that we not only can pursue work we love and fulfill our purpose, it is our obligation to ourselves and our fellow man (woman) to do exactly that. He explains that work should be something we enjoy doing, not hate. I found myself underlining so many things in this book that I had bought a special pen just to keep in the book so I wouldn't have to search for one while reading. Right from the start, Dan explains how vital it is to love what you do. A quote from one of the first few pages says, "You could perform as others expect and get a paycheck, but you are not likely to experience meaning, purpose, peace, or fulfillment in work you loathe." This was an eye-opening statement if I ever read one.
I had made the decision to leave my job for many reasons, mostly because I knew in my heart it was the right thing to do at the right time. Physically, I was incapable of performing at a level I knew was expected to keep up with the increasing demand of the industry. Mentally I was exhausted and knew if I didn't make a change soon that I'd be in trouble. Spiritually I searched for meaning in my own life and how to make the last half of my life the best. I knew it wasn't going to happen if I kept up the insane pace I had been struggling with. The book was encouraging and informative. Dan wasn't just a life coach, he was a life-saver.
In today's struggling economic climate, the challenge of finding work is harder than ever. Unemployment is reaching frightening proportions. Because of this, finding a job with so many people out of work can be overwhelming, and finding "meaningful" work sounds impossibly daunting. Enter the endless cycle of negative reinforcement. How do you break this cycle?
After reading 48 Days, I believe that not only is it possible to alter the course of our work life, but that the dire straits of a failing economy may actually be the catalyst needed to fuel the creative engine and get the ideas flowing in ways that being in the "comfort zone" and routine of a good economy would never encourage.
Another quote from the book is: "It is often in the midst of change and challenges that we find our own true direction." A wonderfully inspiring statement!
Dan puts "failure" in the right perspective. We can learn to use our failures to bring a higher level of understanding, meaning, purpose, fulfillment and learning to our lives. We have the power to make positive changes if we first identify what our "unique purpose" is on this earth. I am still searching for my life's path, but I feel that since reading Dan Miller's 48 Days book, I now have a compass and road map to get there and I'm about 99% sure that my course involves writing. That's why I started this blog.
SO - whether you are job-seeking, soul-searching or simply need inspiration, please pick up a copy of Dan Miller's "48 Days To The Work You Love." I highly recommend this book as well as "No More Mondays." Both books and so much more are available on Dan's website. If you click on the banner at the bottom of this blog, it will take you directly to Dan's phenomenal website. Sign up for the newsletter and listen to his podcasts! You can download them directly from itunes, as it is explained on the website. Trust me, it'll change your life!
Last summer while going through a personal career crisis as well as suffering from work-related stress and anxiety, I was searching for some answers and I inevitably found myself standing in front of the "Entrepreneur" section at Barnes & Noble, hoping that something would "grab" me from that shelf. I wasn't even sure what I was looking for when this book seemed to jump out at me. It is called, "48 Days To The Work You Love," by Dan Miller. I'd never heard of Dan Miller, but my friend Debbie had told me about Dave Ramsey and when I saw his name as the foreword writer on this book, it merited retrieval from the shelf. Upon thumbing through the pages, I soon found myself intrigued by what I saw and gladly made the purchase, anxiously returning home to start reading it. Little did I know that book of 224 pages would soon change my life.
Dan's philosophy is that we not only can pursue work we love and fulfill our purpose, it is our obligation to ourselves and our fellow man (woman) to do exactly that. He explains that work should be something we enjoy doing, not hate. I found myself underlining so many things in this book that I had bought a special pen just to keep in the book so I wouldn't have to search for one while reading. Right from the start, Dan explains how vital it is to love what you do. A quote from one of the first few pages says, "You could perform as others expect and get a paycheck, but you are not likely to experience meaning, purpose, peace, or fulfillment in work you loathe." This was an eye-opening statement if I ever read one.
I had made the decision to leave my job for many reasons, mostly because I knew in my heart it was the right thing to do at the right time. Physically, I was incapable of performing at a level I knew was expected to keep up with the increasing demand of the industry. Mentally I was exhausted and knew if I didn't make a change soon that I'd be in trouble. Spiritually I searched for meaning in my own life and how to make the last half of my life the best. I knew it wasn't going to happen if I kept up the insane pace I had been struggling with. The book was encouraging and informative. Dan wasn't just a life coach, he was a life-saver.
In today's struggling economic climate, the challenge of finding work is harder than ever. Unemployment is reaching frightening proportions. Because of this, finding a job with so many people out of work can be overwhelming, and finding "meaningful" work sounds impossibly daunting. Enter the endless cycle of negative reinforcement. How do you break this cycle?
After reading 48 Days, I believe that not only is it possible to alter the course of our work life, but that the dire straits of a failing economy may actually be the catalyst needed to fuel the creative engine and get the ideas flowing in ways that being in the "comfort zone" and routine of a good economy would never encourage.
Another quote from the book is: "It is often in the midst of change and challenges that we find our own true direction." A wonderfully inspiring statement!
Dan puts "failure" in the right perspective. We can learn to use our failures to bring a higher level of understanding, meaning, purpose, fulfillment and learning to our lives. We have the power to make positive changes if we first identify what our "unique purpose" is on this earth. I am still searching for my life's path, but I feel that since reading Dan Miller's 48 Days book, I now have a compass and road map to get there and I'm about 99% sure that my course involves writing. That's why I started this blog.
SO - whether you are job-seeking, soul-searching or simply need inspiration, please pick up a copy of Dan Miller's "48 Days To The Work You Love." I highly recommend this book as well as "No More Mondays." Both books and so much more are available on Dan's website. If you click on the banner at the bottom of this blog, it will take you directly to Dan's phenomenal website. Sign up for the newsletter and listen to his podcasts! You can download them directly from itunes, as it is explained on the website. Trust me, it'll change your life!
Thursday, January 29, 2009
A Journey Worth Taking
Since I left my job last August, I've been on a personal journey, trying to best determine what I wanted to do the rest of my life and make money doing so, while not compromising my health, sanity and happiness. It's been interesting and eye-opening, to say the least.
When I made the decision to leave the DMP (Detroit Media Partnership, aka Detroit News & Free Press), I was full of flash and fire. I had planned on starting my own business as a personal organizer. It seemed like a great idea since I am naturally organized and seem to have a knack for finding "a place for everything." I went so far as to get an LLC, "Got Clutter?" which I thought was an original and funny, yet relevant name for the budding business-to-be. I ordered business cards and told people about my business idea. My idea was well-received by my soon-to-be ex-coworkers, who wished me well on my new career as a personal organizer.
When I first left last August, I just wanted a break. I wanted to take some time off and enjoy the rest of the summer as well as my new grandson, Hunter, who was born July 18th. I enjoyed being a grandma yet again with adorable new baby Hunter, as well as my beautiful angel-baby, Mackenzee, who was turning two years old on August 31st. There was plenty of time to launch my new business venture.
As summer turned to fall, and eventually winter, with the holidays rapidly approaching, I realized that my so-called brilliant idea of becoming a personal organizer was a poor choice. Not because I couldn't pull it off, but because the job would have required bending and lifting and other things that I'm incapable of doing with my back problems, so I gave up the idea of becoming a personal organizer, as much as I liked it initially.
Divine Intervention
Late October I reconnected with a former co-worker and friend, Michelle, who found me through Facebook. Michelle is a web designer who resides in Texas. Her website is: http://www.studio1c.com. Thanks to Michelle, I've learned the basics of web design and continue to learn more and more, getting comfortable with terms like SEO, HTML and internet marketing. I've designed a website for Jim's carpentry business to attract viable customers while continuously increasing our web presence. Please visit: http://www.belliscarpentry.com.
Passion Plays an Important Role
Without passion, the soul is a lonely, empty place. With passion one can perform miracles. This form of passion had been missing from my life, the ability to openly pursue my options, find my life's work and redirect my future onto a path on which I truly belong. I've had to travel down many dead-end roads to find my path, but it was a journey worth taking as I've discovered an internal road map to my destination, combining my skills as an artist, hobbyist and writer.
I've always thrived while creating things with my hands as well as my mind. You could say creating for me is an obsession. I especially love to sew and lately I have been rediscovering just how much I enjoy being in harmony with my Husqvarna.
For the last several months I've been enjoying and using my craft room with a vengeance. In that 9x10 space I feel closer to my real self than I do anyplace else. So it made perfect sense to move my sewing machine and cutting table from their spots in the frigid basement into my warm, cozy craft room. Because of the proximity to the laptop, printer, and other craft items, it is easier to jump in and start a sewing project because everything is accessible. And I don't miss freezing my hands and feet while working in the basement!
Sewing is a seamless (no pun intended) effort in which to use my skills as a designer, artist and writer. I've recently designed my own oven mitt pattern which I'm selling at http://www.createdbyrene.etsy.com. I look forward to designing more patterns to sell.
I need to focus in order to write. Writing is hard work and takes an enormous amount of self-discipline. For a few years I haven't been able to focus on my writing. Writer's block has contributed to mental anguish, as writing is another passion. Reading is another passion, which I do endlessly on various subjects, always learning and enjoying what I discover. Many times I get frustrated with myself because I'd rather be reading than writing, but it's hard to justify one without the other.
My journey of many months has led me to discover many things about myself:
- It's vital for me to work at my own pace, earn a decent living and enjoy what I do
- My work must be creative and include hands-on design blended with writing
- It's important for me to help people achieve their goals and find their passions
- I'm open to new ideas and constantly search to improve older ones
- I must continue to learn and educate myself as I am a lifelong student
- My health is an essential key to my future successes and I must fight for it
- Keeping friendships flourishing and family in harmony is vital to my strength
- Balance is crucial to keeping one's perspective
- A sense of humor is helpful in stressful times
I hope you enjoy my blog as I continue my journey.
Happy trails!
When I made the decision to leave the DMP (Detroit Media Partnership, aka Detroit News & Free Press), I was full of flash and fire. I had planned on starting my own business as a personal organizer. It seemed like a great idea since I am naturally organized and seem to have a knack for finding "a place for everything." I went so far as to get an LLC, "Got Clutter?" which I thought was an original and funny, yet relevant name for the budding business-to-be. I ordered business cards and told people about my business idea. My idea was well-received by my soon-to-be ex-coworkers, who wished me well on my new career as a personal organizer.
When I first left last August, I just wanted a break. I wanted to take some time off and enjoy the rest of the summer as well as my new grandson, Hunter, who was born July 18th. I enjoyed being a grandma yet again with adorable new baby Hunter, as well as my beautiful angel-baby, Mackenzee, who was turning two years old on August 31st. There was plenty of time to launch my new business venture.
As summer turned to fall, and eventually winter, with the holidays rapidly approaching, I realized that my so-called brilliant idea of becoming a personal organizer was a poor choice. Not because I couldn't pull it off, but because the job would have required bending and lifting and other things that I'm incapable of doing with my back problems, so I gave up the idea of becoming a personal organizer, as much as I liked it initially.
Divine Intervention
Late October I reconnected with a former co-worker and friend, Michelle, who found me through Facebook. Michelle is a web designer who resides in Texas. Her website is: http://www.studio1c.com. Thanks to Michelle, I've learned the basics of web design and continue to learn more and more, getting comfortable with terms like SEO, HTML and internet marketing. I've designed a website for Jim's carpentry business to attract viable customers while continuously increasing our web presence. Please visit: http://www.belliscarpentry.com.
Passion Plays an Important Role
Without passion, the soul is a lonely, empty place. With passion one can perform miracles. This form of passion had been missing from my life, the ability to openly pursue my options, find my life's work and redirect my future onto a path on which I truly belong. I've had to travel down many dead-end roads to find my path, but it was a journey worth taking as I've discovered an internal road map to my destination, combining my skills as an artist, hobbyist and writer.
I've always thrived while creating things with my hands as well as my mind. You could say creating for me is an obsession. I especially love to sew and lately I have been rediscovering just how much I enjoy being in harmony with my Husqvarna.
For the last several months I've been enjoying and using my craft room with a vengeance. In that 9x10 space I feel closer to my real self than I do anyplace else. So it made perfect sense to move my sewing machine and cutting table from their spots in the frigid basement into my warm, cozy craft room. Because of the proximity to the laptop, printer, and other craft items, it is easier to jump in and start a sewing project because everything is accessible. And I don't miss freezing my hands and feet while working in the basement!
Sewing is a seamless (no pun intended) effort in which to use my skills as a designer, artist and writer. I've recently designed my own oven mitt pattern which I'm selling at http://www.createdbyrene.etsy.com. I look forward to designing more patterns to sell.
I need to focus in order to write. Writing is hard work and takes an enormous amount of self-discipline. For a few years I haven't been able to focus on my writing. Writer's block has contributed to mental anguish, as writing is another passion. Reading is another passion, which I do endlessly on various subjects, always learning and enjoying what I discover. Many times I get frustrated with myself because I'd rather be reading than writing, but it's hard to justify one without the other.
My journey of many months has led me to discover many things about myself:
- It's vital for me to work at my own pace, earn a decent living and enjoy what I do
- My work must be creative and include hands-on design blended with writing
- It's important for me to help people achieve their goals and find their passions
- I'm open to new ideas and constantly search to improve older ones
- I must continue to learn and educate myself as I am a lifelong student
- My health is an essential key to my future successes and I must fight for it
- Keeping friendships flourishing and family in harmony is vital to my strength
- Balance is crucial to keeping one's perspective
- A sense of humor is helpful in stressful times
I hope you enjoy my blog as I continue my journey.
Happy trails!
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