S’More . . . HOT Fun in the Summertime July 15, 2011
Posted by nrhatch in Art & Photography, Food & Drink.comments closed
Nothing like a roaring campfire . . .
To get things heated up . . .
Please, sir, may I have S’More?
Toasted Marshmallows + Graham Crackers + Chocolate = Sticky Sweet Smiles
Aah . . . that’s better!
Related posts: Weekly Photo Challenge ~ Hot (WP Prompt) * A River of Stones ~ Fire (Early Bird) * HOT (Hugmamma)
The Eye of the Beholder July 15, 2011
Posted by nrhatch in Art & Photography, Gratitude, Mindfulness, Nature.comments closed
Nature does not ask, “what do they want me to be?” . . . it’s glory lies in its authenticity.
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. We see the world behind our eyes.
We can embrace the beauty and wonder of life ~ watching an eagle in flight or the silent flutter of butterflies, absorbing the night sky on a cloudless night, pondering the perfection of a single grain of sand ~ or not.
When we remain mindful of ordinary miracles, we begin to see, touch, taste, and feel the flow of life as it dances around us.
When we tune in to the moment, we catch life’s little gems as they fly by ~ happy to be alive.
Life becomes less a chore, and more an exciting endeavor, when we enter the flow of life with a song of gratitude in our heart and a smile on our lips.
Life is full of magical moments, sweet surprises, and adventures around every bend in the road . . . but we miss them when we don’t keep our ears, eyes, and hearts open.
Nature speaks with many voices. Listen with your ears, eyes, and heart.
Celebrate the joy and beauty of nature . . . the unexpected mysteries of life!
No rules. Just write!
Related posts: Weekend Theme ~ Beauty (View from the Side) * Beauty in 10 Ordinary Things (Mirth & Motivation) * Beauty, Disease and A Sore Loser (The Only Cin)
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Artwork available at Roderick MacIver Arts. The beauty of Rod’s art lies in his ability NOT to control all aspects of the water ~ he allows it latitude to do its thing while he does his. The result speaks for itself.
Stress: Learn To Let It Go July 15, 2011
Posted by nrhatch in Health & Wellness, Meditation, Mindfulness, Nature.comments closed
Simple pleasures are life’s treasures . . . if they don’t escape our notice.
To maximize enjoyment of the “little things in life,” we need to stay in the moment and savor them, without getting distracted by minor annoyances ~ a rude comment, an inept waiter, or our own negative reaction to life and the stress it tosses our way.
Stress impacts our physical, mental, and emotional well-being, clouds our awareness of the “good” in life, and may lead to more serious conditions:
* heart disease, cancer, headaches
* sleep disorders, backaches, fatigue
* anxiety, irritability, depression
* high blood pressure, digestive problems
We can’t eliminate stress from our lives, but we can learn to sidestep it. Here are a few tips and techniques:
* Daily exercise ~ aerobic exercise helps to release frustrations while producing endorphins which fight stress.
* Relaxation techniques ~ yoga, meditation, creative visualization, deep breathing, and listening to music help melt stress away.
* Getting enough sleep ~ lack of sleep leads to fatigue and a reduced ability to cope with minor annoyances.
* Strong relationships ~ connecting with friends, neighbors, co-workers, and family members can help us share the load when times are tough.
* Changing our focus ~ when life gets us down, it’s important to look around for the positives. Keeping a Gratitude Journal is a natural mood elevator.
Stress is an inevitable part of life, caused by “good things” (marriage, moving, a promotion) and “bad” things (death of a loved one, debt, divorce).
When we learn to let it go . . . we more easily flow through life, with increased clarity and coping skills.
Quote: A quiet mind, like the surface of a still pond, provides a more accurate reflection.
No rules. Just write!
Related posts: Beginner’s Yoga 1~2~3 * 10 Happiness Boosters * 13 Tips to Stay Healthy & Happy * Walk Off Some Weight * Get Out!!! * Meditation 101 * Creative Visualization * The ABC’s of Happiness * More ABC’s of Happiness * Exercise, Exercise, Exercise
Spirit Lights The Way 