Have you ever received a card on a special occasion that came with promises of time to be spent together at a later date? Something like…this card gives you one picnic in the park on a sunny day, or this gift is for dinner out at the place of your choice. Maybe you were lucky enough to receive a homemade coupon book filled with promises for back rubs, date nights or car washes. Well, I received just that card for Christmas last year from my son. Dearest Mother it starts, you get the gift of my time. To give you some background, my son is 24 and lives with the love of his life. He has three jobs and he is volunteer search and rescue member. When I opened the card, I had that brief worry that this promise would be lost in time due to the business of life. But this week I got that all important text with a message that read…"make yourself free tomorrow". Well, you could imagine my delight, could it be my heartfelt Christmas promise was coming true? A trip to Clear Creek Hotsprings with wine & cheese, the card said, complete with scenic stops and snacks…START THE CAR! The next day my son and I jumped into his 4 x 4 and hit the logging roads of East Harrison for our 14.8 mile off road adventure! Many of life's most cherished moments and experiences are created through the gift of time and this day was filled. His promise of time gave me one on one with the boy I watched grow into a man. Uninterrupted time to talk, listen, laugh and share, creating memories I will keep forever...priceless! Sometimes our lives get so busy, and time just flies by before we realize how long it has been since we have really connected with family or friends. If you are an empty nester like me, you may hope each day that you will hear from your kids. It’s no lie that I grab my phone each morning to check to see if I have a message from my daughter who is currently living in Japan and is awake when I am asleep! Something, anything just to get a glimpse into her every day. Spending time with loved ones is crucial for nurturing and maintaining healthy relationships. Quality time allows for bonding, deeper connection, and understanding between individuals. Time cannot be bought or replaced, sharing it is an invaluable gift. When you give the promise of your time, it means you value, appreciate and care for that person. I feel so very blessed that my son and I had this day together and that he made this promise to me. This is your reminder to prioritize relationships and remember it's not about the amount of time spent, but rather the quality and intention behind it. Even short, sincere moments of connection can have a significant impact. Is there someone in your life that you have yet to fill your promise of time? Is there anyone who would feel immense joy if you gave them the gift of your time? Thank you for taking the time to read this story, I hope it brings you value in creating the beautiful life you deserve.

Where do I even start? I took a hobby and built it into a successful and thriving business that fed my soul, and many others for 17 years. Last year I took an epic adventure in New Zealand with my husband and kids. We rented a Range Rover Defender with two roof top tents and hit the glorious roads of the South Island. Our daughter and her partner had created a 16-day road trip itinerary that took us from Queenstown down to Invercargill, the southernmost city on the South Island to Kaikoura. The five of us lived side by side (literally), all while experiencing places high in the air like Fox Glacier and low underground in the Clifden Caves. We swam in the Tasman Sea and explored the miracles of Milford Sound. We stood on the famous spherical Moeraki Boulders and my daughter taught me how to surf. I could go on as it truly was a trip of a lifetime. Life is such an incredible gift and upon returning home I just knew deep in my soul that I wanted more out of my life. As blessed as I am to go to work every day doing what I loved, I felt a sort of calling. Fast forward a few months and I am staring 55 in the face. In the 1980’s the concept of “Freedom 55” was born, does anyone remember? The goal was to retire and be financially set at the age of 55. Well for me, Freedom 55 means something totally different. I want to be free to see what else is out there for me to explore. I stepped out of my comfort zone, closed my business and stepped into freedom. Freedom is a powerful word with many meanings. Freedom can lead you away from yourself or to yourself. I am finding you need to have some real strength within you to control freedom. I made this huge decision in my life, and I don’t want to waste it, but I will be honest with you, I don’t always feel worthy of this freedom. I am currently reading Jamie Kern Lima’s book Worthy and this morning I turned the page to Chapter 19 titled Transformations. In this chapter she talks about the journey of transformation of the caterpillar to the butterfly…. metamorphosis. She explained something I did not know that during metamorphosis the caterpillar completely dissolves into liquid inside the cocoon. It eventually develops and transforms. Its wings take shape, and it emerges through the cocoon. It emerges from the cocoon with wet wings, unable to fly. It's tremendously vulnerable and it does what it needs to survive. If it makes it through, and its wings dry and it spreads them and they start to flap, it can fly away to its future. I think I am going through a transformation in life. I remember turning 50 and my husband and I were empty nesters. I remember thinking I was going to write a book called “WTF Happens after 50”! Today maybe my book should be called “Freedom 55 or Midlife Crisis”? In the book From Strength to Strength by Arthur Brooks, chapter 7 is titled Starting your Vanaprastha. He talks about the ancient Indian teaching that a proper life must be lived in four stages- these are the ashramas. Ideally, ashramas last twenty-five years each. I had never heard of this before but found it very interesting and reassuring that what I am going through and maybe you too, is normal. I am entering into the third stage of life, the Vanaprastha, which comes from Sanskrit words meaning “retiring” and “into the forest”. This is the stage you begin to pull back from your old personal duties, step away from your four walls and enter into the forest or garden of life. Realizing your own mortality, it is time to look inward, to have faith and to connect with the world around you. This is how I interpret it anyway. It is a transformation similar to the butterfly, not easy but worth it. When life gets you down and things get difficult remember that so often our greatest victories come after our most difficult seasons of transformation, and you are worthy of the journey.

The last race I ran was 5 years ago and in 2021 I was unable to walk due to a popping sound in my knee while hiking. It was discovered that I had degenerative meniscus. I will never forget how helpless I felt or forget the promises I made myself while sitting on the couch day after day waiting for doctor’s appointments and later physiotherapy. I think we all make promises to ourselves about making changes when faced with a difficult challenge. Why do we wait to have something taken away before we realize its great value? It was back in October 2023 that I announced my “Day One”. Twelve days after the store had closed, I set myself up to take action on creating the next chapter of my life. What I knew for sure was that I needed to get moving and to take action, so I bought myself some new runners and set a goal to get outdoors every day in preparation for a 5km run in Fort Langley that would take place the following February. What an opportunity to overcome the limitations in my mind about my knee and my mental wellbeing. Goals provide a sense of direction and purpose in life. They give you something to strive for, helping you focus your time, energy, and resources on activities that align with your values and aspirations. Can I just share with you that had I not had a purpose every day, I may have started feeling sorry for myself. How easily that inner critic can turn up the volume. Step by step, and day by day, Summit and I would explore parks and trails, evolving from walks to power walks, and eventually, from one hesitant minute of jogging to an empowering 20 minutes. The journey was a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, proving that progress is born not from giant leaps, but from consistent, determined steps forward. This story celebrates the transformative power of goal setting. It's a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can reclaim our sense of direction, purpose, and happiness. Goals are not just destinations; they are the milestones that mark our journey towards a beautiful life. So, if you find yourself at the starting line of change, remember that every step you take is a victory, and with unwavering determination, you can overcome any challenge. Today is your day one – take that first step, and know that a brighter, more fulfilling future awaits. You've got this, your finish line awaits, and the world is cheering you on! I'm curious to know if there's something specific, you're looking forward to achieving or improving in your life. Care to share? Send me an email, Summit and I are here to cheer you on!

In my pursuit of being true to myself, I recently made a big change by closing my store and stepping out of my comfort zone. This has given me a chance to learn, grow, and to work on the next chapter of my life. This self-reflection has brought to the forefront an internal barrier from my youth... perfectionism. When I was younger, I often felt like I had to meet certain standards that I thought were expected of me. (can anyone relate?) Those standards were unrealistic, but they stuck with me into adulthood. Why do we carry these expectations from our younger selves into our grown-up lives? I think it's because those early experiences had a big impact on how we see ourselves, our self-worth & self-love. To change this, I'm trying to recognize when I'm being too hard on myself and remembering that those old standards weren't realistic. To live in the present and plan for the future. I can acknowledge the little girl I was, but it's time to lean into my true perfectly imperfect authentic self. By sharing what I'm learning, I hope to help others let go of the idea of being perfect. I want to show that it's okay to grow, make mistakes, and not always have everything figured out. This journey is ongoing, but I'm committed to reframing the way I see myself and inspiring others to do the same. Living authentically requires honesty with oneself. It involves acknowledging and accepting one’s strengths, weaknesses and imperfections without judgement. To let go of what no longer serves you and honor your unique path of creating a beautiful life. I think it's time that we all challenge our childhood beliefs and reframe them into something more positive and empowering! Who is with me?

In the last five months, I've been on this journey of closing my store and venturing into the next chapter of my life. For the most part, I would like to think I've been handling it well – incorporating exercise, nature, positive reflections, and writing into my routine. (you know…all the things) But, let's be real, every so often, that feeling of overwhelm creeps in, and it makes me dizzy with emotions. Does anyone else know what I am talking about?? Despite years of writing and journaling about what I'd do if I ever got a chance to start anew, I find myself surrounded by a chaotic mix of ideas on papers and in journals. It's a struggle to find a clear starting point, and the fact that I'm not contributing financially to the household adds an extra layer of stress. I know one thing for sure – I'm creative. I believe there's a solution, and things will eventually fall into place. Today, I want to share some of the ways I deal with this overwhelming ogre, hoping it might resonate with someone else going through a similar journey. Firstly, I remind myself that this overwhelming feeling won't last forever. When it hits hard, I turn to nature and movement, realizing that sometimes the best way to get unstuck is to get moving. Stepping away, taking a walk, and letting my mind breathe offer a fresh perspective. Plus, it makes Summit happy which makes me happy! I close my eyes and focus on my breath, giving my mind a brief break from the stress. There is definitely something to be said about meditation! Tidying up and decluttering my space is my way of regaining some control and mental clarity. Even just seeing the top of my desk can make me feel like I am accomplishing something that matters. Reframing overwhelm as opportunities is tough but crucial, coupled with a deep sense of gratitude for the chances to craft a more beautiful life. Maybe today, I'll shift my perspective and see my stress as gratitude overwhelm, appreciating the blessings of sharing and growing within a community striving for a better life. I'm grateful for the freedom to work on making my life better, to share, and to be of service. As they say, creativity takes courage. Let's be courageous together... how do you personally regain control when feeling overwhelmed? What are the strategies that resonate with you? I would love to hear from you!

Do you want to be happy? As part of living a beautiful life, I am educating myself daily in order to learn and grow. Today I wanted to share these 10 tips, thanks to Ed Mylett on how to “BE HAPPY”! 1) BE you – Being authentically yourself empowers you to take control of your life. It allows you to set boundaries, make choices that align with your values, and live a life that feels meaningful to you. You are enough! 2) BE love – Being more loving not only benefits those around you but also positively impacts your own physical and mental well-being. It creates a ripple effect, fostering a more compassionate and interconnected world, and boy, do we need that! 3) BE truth – Acknowledging and admitting the truth, even when it's uncomfortable, is a key component of personal growth. It allows you to confront challenges and learn from experiences. Honesty is so powerful! 4) BE kind - Acts of kindness, whether big or small, often lead to a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment. Knowing that you've made a positive impact on someone else's life can be deeply rewarding. Kindness can be easily paid forward! 5) BE beautiful - Your uniqueness is your strength. Embrace the qualities that make you different, for they contribute to the richness of your character. You are beautiful! 6) BE moving - Paying attention to your emotions, understanding their triggers, and consciously choosing positive responses can empower you to move in a positive direction. Movement is so powerful! 7) Be growing - The pursuit of growth can lead to an improved quality of life. Whether it's in the realm of career, relationships, or personal development, continuous growth tends to contribute to a more fulfilling and happier life. To live is to grow! 8) Be playful - Holding onto childlike enthusiasm contributes to overall well-being. It adds joy and fulfillment to daily life, promoting a positive mental and emotional state. You can’t help but smile while being silly! 9) Be forgiving - Forgiveness allows individuals to release negative energy associated with past hurts. This release can lead to a more positive and optimistic outlook on life. You deserve the peace of mind! 10) Be courageous - Courage is essential for pursuing dreams and goals. It involves taking risks, setting ambitious aspirations, and overcoming challenges on the path to fulfillment. Make the heart felt decision to believe in yourself! While each person's journey to happiness is as unique as a fingerprint, I hope these gentle reminders inspire you to explore the vast possibilities that align with your authentic self and aid you in creating the beautiful life you deserve. "Happiness is a choice, not a result. Nothing will make you happy until you choose to be happy.” Ralph Marston

Life becomes more beautiful when we weave the threads of contribution and service into our everyday moments. You don't need unlimited resources or boundless time – even small acts of kindness can make a world of difference. I always make a point of holding the door for others. It allows me to smile, connect and feel good about myself. 😊 Contribution is not just about giving financially; it's about giving your time, lending a hand, or simply being present. Similarly, service doesn't mean sacrificing all your energy; it's about finding small ways to bring positivity to someone's day.🌈 The joy of giving is a universal truth – in contributing to others, we find fulfillment beyond personal success. It's not just about what we gain; it's about the connections we build, the growth we experience, and the impact we have on the world.🌏 Consider kindness as a love language. It's not about grand gestures but the simple, everyday acts that express care. Imagine if everyone added a bit more love to the world – the collective impact would be profound. ❤ You don't have to change the world in a day; start by leading with kindness in your daily interactions. A smile, a helping hand, or a kind word can create a ripple effect, making your community and the world a better place. Crafting a beautiful life is not merely an accumulation of personal achievements but a deliberate embrace of opportunities to make a positive impact. So, today’s #dailyriskchallenge is to give yourself the gift of a small act of kindness. Let your actions of contribution and service make the world a little brighter for everyone. ☀

Each morning, my ritual begins with a reflection on gratitude—five things I am thankful for. Following that, I set intentions for the day ahead, contemplating how I want to feel and what accomplishments I hope to achieve. Back when I was running my store, the routine was straightforward; wake up, go to work. Now, with a different reality, finding a purpose has become more of a challenge. It's the quest for something meaningful that we can contribute to, a purpose that enriches our lives. 🙏 However, this morning was different. I awoke feeling an unsettling emptiness, a void where usually positive intentions would flow effortlessly. Negative thoughts began to form, that critical inner voice asking, "Who do you think you are?" It's that internal pessimist we all carry. 😞 Recognizing the potential downward spiral, I took immediate action. Rain gear on, I tuned into an inspiring podcast. Ed Mylett's words resonated deeply: "You were born to do something great with your life. You are enough." Tears welled up, emotions surfacing in response to these affirmations. Yet, hearing is different from believing. Personal growth demands a continuous exploration of oneself. It's about peeling back the layers and nurturing a genuine relationship with oneself. It seems like today is about working on myself, about acknowledging that negative emotion as a cue for personal growth. 🫶 One avenue of my inner work is embracing vulnerability—sharing my daily learnings through these posts. Authenticity and making a difference top my values. By sharing my journey, my hope is that others may find solace or inspiration, realizing they're not alone. It's an ongoing commitment to personal growth—watering the garden of the self and allowing the spirit to bask in the light.🌞 Remember, personal growth is a lifelong journey. Embrace the process, keep learning, and never doubt your worthiness of these efforts.❤ Today’s #dailyriskchallenge is to actively look for opportunities to grow & learn. Feel free to share your findings to help inspire others #community

Creating a beautiful life often comes down to mastering the balance between work and personal time. It's about excelling in your career while also enjoying a fulfilling personal life. During my time at The Passionate Home, work-life balance was a constant priority, especially in the face of challenges like those brought by COVID. I always encouraged my team to seize opportunities for something amazing or travel to wonderful places. We had a supportive culture that allowed each team member the freedom to pursue enriching experiences because, in the end, life is short, and we should make the most of every opportunity. ⏳ While urging my team to maintain a balance in their lives, I realized that I hadn't been extending the same grace to myself. This is something I am focusing on as I plan my next chapter.📖 Work is important, but nothing surpasses the significance of your health, family, and finding a balance that brings out your best self, regardless of the situation. While it's not always easy, the journey to achieve work-life balance is undeniably worth the effort. When I recently asked people what work-life balance meant to them, it sparked insightful conversations. Words like luck, sacrifice, choice, workaholic, and supportive culture emerged. Initiating a similar discussion with someone whose perspective you value might reveal actionable steps toward living a more balanced and ultimately beautiful life for yourself. It's a collective journey we can explore together. ❤

In my mid-50s, after seeing my kids off into the world, I faced a bit of an identity crisis. Letting go of The Passionate Home, a store I'd poured my heart into, felt like a leap into the unknown. But you know what they say about one door closing and another opening.🙏 With no grand plan in sight, I started focusing on something crucial – my health. It dawned on me that I needed to take care of myself to make the most of this new phase. And so, the daily walks began. Picture me, sneakers on, Summit by my side, exploring the world one step at a time.🐶 These walks weren't just about getting fit; they became my sanctuary. The rhythm of my footsteps and the sounds of nature helped me clear my mind and find a sense of peace. I started to notice changes – not just in my body but in how I approached life. Getting stronger led to better choices. I found myself eating healthier, drinking more water & less martinis 😊 and even sleeping like a baby. Who knew a simple walk could have such a ripple effect?🚶‍♀️ But the real game-changer was experiencing that physical and mental health go hand in hand. A healthier body gave me the energy to tackle life's challenges, while a clearer mind helped me make better decisions.🥰 So, here's my invite to anyone feeling a bit lost or curious about what comes next: take care of yourself. Our bodies are like life-long companions, and treating them right can make this chapter, however uncertain, a heck of a lot more enjoyable. This journey isn't just about living longer; it's about savoring every moment & creating a beautiful life. Trust: just take a step, celebrate the little wins, and let the journey unfold. Life's an adventure, and it's never too late to make it a good one. What is one thing you can do today to improve your overall well-being? Sharing your idea may motivate another! 🫶

Loneliness is a universal experience, heightened in many ways by the challenges brought on by the global pandemic. COVID-19's physical separations strained relationships, leading to a diminished sense of intimacy and connection. The stress and uncertainty impacted mental and emotional well-being, testing the resilience of relationships, including the one we have with ourselves. In times of loneliness, meaningful relationships play a crucial role. Having someone to share thoughts and feelings with can alleviate stress, anxiety, and the profound sense of isolation. These connections provide a sense of belonging, elevate happiness, and contribute to an overall improvement in the quality of life. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to share a lifelong, meaningful relationship with my friend Deborah, a bond that has endured since grade one. Deborah is a constant presence, offering unwavering support, a non-judgmental ear, and a foundation of trust. In our friendship, vulnerability is embraced, growth is celebrated, and mutual value is paramount. Fostering meaningful relationships involves a deliberate and ongoing effort. It necessitates open communication, the building of trust, empathy, respect for differences, dedicated quality time, expressions of appreciation, shared experiences, mutual support, a willingness to be vulnerable, continual personal growth, forgiveness, and the ability to let go.🫶 In essence, meaningful relationships are the cornerstone of a beautiful life. They provide the emotional scaffolding needed for support during life's challenges, the joy of shared experiences, and a profound impact on our collective and individual well-being. The narratives of our lives are shaped by the quality of these relationships, adding layers of depth, meaning, and beauty to our existence. Take this as a reminder to take your #dailyriskchallenge...be intentional & reach out to someone today, you both deserve it!

In the wake of closing my store, life has taken on a whole new rhythm. It feels like I'm on a quest for meaning, a search that has become pivotal for my mental well-being. I've come to realize that daily doses of personal fulfillment are crucial for feeling good about myself, maintaining a positive attitude, and staying open to new opportunities. Each morning, I want to wake up with a childlike enthusiasm, excited about the possibilities that the day might unfold.🌞 One significant change has been my newfound dedication to reading. No longer skimming through pages in haste, I devour every word, immersing myself in the stories and knowledge within the pages. As a surprising turn, I taught myself to knit, even crafting a special scarf for my mom during the holiday season. It's incredible how engaging in creative pursuits can bring a sense of accomplishment and joy.😊 Perhaps the most unexpected transformation has been my embrace of yoga. I used to claim a dislike for it, but in reality, my struggle lay in sitting still and calming the racing thoughts in my mind. (tell me I'm not alone here) Through patience and practice, I've discovered the profound value of breathing. Focusing on each breath has become a daily ritual that not only brings stillness to my mind but also fills my cup for the entire day. The brevity of these sessions is surprisingly powerful, leaving me centered, proud and ready to tackle whatever comes my way.🧘‍♀️ Embrace the journey to personal fulfillment! Take a moment today to reflect on what truly brings you joy and purpose. Whether it's trying a new hobby, setting a personal goal, or simply practicing mindfulness, take that first step. (you can do it!) Share your experiences, support one another, and let's create a community where each unique journey is celebrated. Remember, the path to fulfillment is yours to explore—let's embark on this journey together!"❤🙏🥂

My daily risk challenge... Here I am, celebrating my 50th birthday in September 2018, soaking up the sun on Venice Beach. What an unforgettable trip it was! I vividly recall the moment I decided to capture that picture in my swimsuit, a special purchase from my friend Sonya at Forever Yours Lingerie. Initially, I convinced myself it was for her, but deep down, I knew it was a personal milestone. Reflecting on that day, I remember the discomfort, the fear of judgment lingering in my mind as I hesitated to be seen in a bathing suit. Yet, I summoned the courage, asked my husband to take the photo, and bravely shared it on my Instagram. It marked the beginning of my daily challenge, a commitment to push my boundaries, boost my confidence, and foster personal growth. Now, as I stand five years later, those insecurities still linger. It's disheartening that the need to hide persists. Yet, with the dawn of 2024, I welcome a fresh start and embark on a new Daily Risk Challenge. If at first, you don't succeed, try, try again. Here's to overcoming insecurities, embracing vulnerability, and fostering self-love in the year ahead! Taking a daily risk promotes personal growth, helps overcome fears, improves creativity, adaptability and aids in building resilience. It's important to note that not all risks need to be large or dramatic. Taking a daily risk could involve something as simple as expressing an opinion, trying a new activity, or initiating a conversation with someone new. The key is to approach each day with an open mind, a willingness to step outside of familiar routines, and an acceptance of the uncertainty that comes with taking risks. Anyone want to join the challenge? What could you do today?

Your biggest risk is to give all of yourself. I heard this quote this morning and it really made me think about where I am in my life. Closing my business of 17 years marked the beginning of a new chapter. In this transitional phase, I've turned to various sources for guidance, diving into books and podcasts on goal setting, mindset, and more.📖 However, the quote made me ponder if the answers I seek are within me rather than in the external world. Authenticity is my top value, and I've realized that I haven't always lived in line with it, often letting others' opinions shape my self-worth. As I navigate this new journey, I'm considering taking the biggest risk of all – embracing my true self. It's a simple yet profound step that might lead to a more fulfilling and authentic life in this next chapter. 🫶 When did you last take a moment to focus on and invest time in reflecting on your values and core beliefs? Today may be the day and if you feel like sharing your number one value, please do!

"The act of releasing a sky lantern into the sky is a metaphor for letting go of worries or troubles and sending positive intentions and wishes into the universe.”🌏 Tonight marks a powerful transition—a moment to let go of the weight of the past, creating space for the brilliance of the future. Release the burdens that tether you, welcoming the freedom to see clearly. As the clock strikes midnight, inhale deeply, exhale slowly. The beauty of the new year awaits, and with each relinquished burden, you draw nearer to the extraordinary journey ahead. With gratitude, seize this chance to start afresh, uncover your inner strength, and embrace the limitless possibles that lay ahead. 🙏 Wishing you a Happy New Year filled with the beauty of growth, resilience, and the joy of creating a beautiful life! ❤🥂

Today was a bit of a personal challenge. I set a goal to run 3km. Strapping on my running shoes, I headed out with Summit, my four-legged motivator. But let me tell you, by the time I hit the end of my street, exhaustion had already set in.🏃‍♀️ Turning the corner, there was this annoying incline that made me slow down even more. I started thinking, "Maybe if I just make it to the park, I can take a breather and stretch a bit." You know, the kind of break that's more like an excuse to rest. Surprisingly, when I got to the park, I thought, "Well, I'm already here; might as well go around it once." Midway through, I did a quick self-check—no knee pain, no foot issues, still breathing. The only problem was that I had dressed like it was the Arctic, and now I was sweating buckets. The temptation to stop and strip off my fleece was real, but the fear of feeling like a quitter kept me going. Skipping the park break, I decided to extend my route, thinking about stopping at the school for a few push-ups (more like an excuse for a break). But, surprise! My legs just wouldn't quit, and I somehow managed to run all the way back home. Perfectly timed, I even waved at the neighbors, pretending like this was just a regular Tuesday run. So, the goal was 3km, but according to my new Fitbit, I hit 3.97km. I was genuinely shocked. Coming into the house, it felt like I had conquered a marathon. The sense of accomplishment was there and I could not wipe the smile off my face.😁 As I caught my breath, I realized that this feeling—this mix of exhaustion and pride—was something I wanted every day. Turns out, you can get that rush of endorphins not just from running but also from exercising, meditating, even having a good laugh. They say it helps with stress, sleep, and your overall mood. (and couldn’t we all use a little of that)🧘‍♀️ So, here's a challenge for you: set a goal today, whether it's running, walking, dancing (turn up KC & the Sunshine Band) or just finding a reason to laugh. Release those endorphins and turn today into a beautiful day! 🥳

The simple things in life are sometimes not so simple... A few years back, a young woman joined our Passionate Home team. In her early thirties and unattached, she seemed to possess a different perspective on life. One evening, as our business day neared its end, we found ourselves engrossed in discussions about our post-work plans. Each of us had a laundry list of chores and errands to tackle—except for the new team member. With a radiant smile, she casually mentioned her intention to head to the park and spend the evening immersed in a good book. I was momentarily taken aback. Reading? In the park? Was she serious? While I had observed others leisurely enjoying books in the park during the daytime, I had dismissed them, assuming they didn't have the demands of a job. The notion of simply sitting on a bench and indulging in a book after a day of work felt alien to me. Reflecting on this encounter now, I am moved to tears by the realization that I had considered the simple act of relishing the printed word in the midst of nature to be an unattainable luxury. Why did I believe I couldn't partake in such a seemingly uncomplicated pleasure? Acknowledging this, there's a lump in my throat as I admit that having "reading in the park" on my bucket list seemed almost trivial. Today, I granted myself that gift. Though it may seem like a small gesture, the experience was nothing short of amazing, and I find myself contemplating a repeat performance. 😁 Thank you, Alyssa, for giving me this gift!🙏 Have you ever longed to do something, only to continually postpone it? Consider this a gentle nudge and a reminder that you are deserving of those moments of beauty and joy. It's time to make room for those aspirations—because you are worthy, and the experience is bound to be beautiful!

Years ago, I stumbled upon a greeting card that held a message so profound it still echoes in my mind today: "Risk more than others think is safe. Dream more than others think is practical. Care more than others think is wise Desire more than others think is possible… And the universe is yours." Since closing my store, I've been engulfed in the process of reshaping my life, following all the prescribed steps one should take during such a transformative period. Yet, as I delve into my myriad ideas for the next chapter, my inner voice becomes a relentless critic, shouting back all the reasons why my dreams might falter. Am I truly worthy? What if failure becomes my story? How will I be perceived? It's that internal voice, fueled by ingrained limitations, that challenges every step forward. (Ever find yourself in a similar predicament?) I've immersed myself in books, podcasts, and grand visions, but I'm beginning to realize that the impetus to act doesn't solely arise from external inspiration. It emanates from within—the quieter side of ourselves that yearns for growth, craves knowledge, and seeks to be of service. It resides in gratitude, faith, hope, and courage. It's far too effortless to succumb to the boisterous, negative narrative within us. Yet, imagine the possibilities if we'd only still ourselves long enough to discern what else could be achievable. In the midst of this change, I've found solace in understanding that the struggle with self-doubt is universal. The key lies in silencing the negative inner dialogue and amplifying the one urging us towards growth and service. Gratitude, faith, hope, and courage become our allies, guiding us through the maze of uncertainty. Each new day provides a guiding light for ALL of us to move towards living our most authentic & beautiful life.

Have you ever felt lost? In life there are so many decisions, so many paths to take. Do you take the path less traveled, or do you follow the well-worn path? On this morning's walk I was thinking about which way to go so that Summit doesn't get bored! (crazy dog mom!) and it made me think about how lucky I am to have these choices. Having a choice is sometimes easier than making the choice. It made me think about a hike my friend Deborah and I went on in Whistler in 2019. We really had no idea where we were, but we could see paths that led in all directions. The one we took is the one in the photo. It looked like a well-worn dirt road, but you could not see the end. To me it looked like we were going to fall off the end of the earth! Scary or exciting? With every step we took it took us closer to the edge but let me tell you just how beautiful the view was. There was magic all around...breathtaking hidden lakes, beauty as far as the eyes could see. We would have never seen what we did if we had not taken this path. I'm feeling a bit lost right now, so many paths to take but instead of being scared, I am going to close my eyes and visualize what may be beyond what I cannot see. I am choosing to be excited that just maybe it will be as amazing as the views we shared that day. May your path lead you somewhere wonderful!

Hello, Carrie here! It has been 12 days since we closed the store, and it has been a very busy time. The store is empty, and all the inventory left and all the extra supplies are in my house!! To say its FULL in here is an understatement! We donated some of the inventory and some I am selling on Marketplace. I mean who needs 3 printers, 2 microwaves and 6 broomsticks! I am also busy preparing our home for the arrival of our daughter and her partner. They will arrive on Friday from New Zealand and will be staying with us for 5 weeks before they make their next move to Japan! (wow these kids are living an exciting life) If you have been following along you know that Laurel has been living in New Zealand for a few years and I cannot wait to hold her in my arms again! (they will always be our babies). What I really want to share with you is that I bought new runners! 🙂 (thank you Running Room Langley) Today is DAY ONE. If you want to live a certain way of life, you need to take action and that is exactly what I did this morning. The reason I am sharing this with you is because if you are thinking about starting something new, making a change or trying again, maybe we could do it together. Maybe today could be your DAY ONE too! Create the beautiful life you deserve! If you feel comfortable, share your Day One and we can support each other!