OCTOBER '12 Gratitude/Appreciations, WELCOME!!

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10/31/12 8:44 P

www.sparkpeople.com/myspark/messageboard.a
sp?imboard=31&imparent=29233071

Above is link to November '12 Gratitude Thread.

Thank you for sharing!!

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10/31/12 10:50 A

Happy Halloween, indeed ... !!!!

On this last day of October, I am grateful for:

-Good weather, as those dealing with Sandy continue to struggle with the opposite
-Emergency response workers and volunteers (such as Heart to Heart and the American Red Cross) who put their own lives on hold to help others dealing with disaster
-Super lovey-dovey kitties this morning
-My routine getting back to normal after my sabbatical
-Split workouts (twice daily) two days in a row
-Going to lunch today with a co-worker at a new vegan restaurant named "Cafe Gratitude" - isn't that fun and right up my gratitude alley (though I'm not vegan, I just like good food)

Make it an excellent day! See you next month!!

Stephanie

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10/31/12 7:48 A

Happy Halloween

Appreciations this morning include:
-Gorgeous sunrise KJ walk with M invigorating start to active day
-Chatting with my brother as I did lots of Mall walking
-WV friend reporting 18” of snow but is safe and well
-Being out of harm’s way with all the luxuries of home
-Gorgeous weather and awesome drive time with R
-R’s wonderful DDS making long drive well worth the journey
-Finding useful outdoor work to do while taking in splendid sunset
I join Stephanie in sending wellness wishes to GBoomer and all the east coast people

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10/31/12 6:41 A

Today I am grateful for:

~Plenty of sleep
~Being able to mend my own clothes
~Fabric softener
~Cool, clean water
~A fun day to look forward to

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10/30/12 8:46 A

This morning, I am grateful for:

-Being safe in my home with power, water, telephone and other luxuries, as I hope for the safety and comfort of those on the east coast dealing with Sandy (GBoomer, hope you're doing OK)-
-My company closing our NY office
-A great workout day yesterday with two shorter workouts
-Leftovers, making dinner prep easy
-Morning kitty treat time

Make it an excellent day!

Stephanie

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10/30/12 8:28 A

Today I am grateful for:

~My ipod
~A delicious and healthy breakfast
~The chance to catch up on sleep tonight
~Warm, cozy blankets
~Being able to pay the bills
~Online banking
~Friends who care

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10/30/12 8:11 A

Among my many appreciations this morning:
-Listening to ‘Bittersweet’ as I climbed steep hill to wide (and glorious) clear mountain views (indeed more sweet than bitter)
-Taking and ‘planting’ wellness intention crystals at center of labyrinth (to spread joy and blessings everywhere)
-Following guided Magnified Healing Ceremony long and detailed version in sincere intent and feeling time suspension akin to sweat lodge experience...magnificent dimension bliss
-Sunshine on my bare arms and face validating acquired energy and release of back issue/s
-Receiving eBay order within minutes of sending new photo of the back side of shield along with thoughtful thanks (R mailing it immediately)
-Taking time to laugh and do errands w/R and sneak in some studio work too
-Big bright full moon after brilliant sunset

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10/29/12 10:45 P

Today I am grateful for:
~ witnessing my students' major progress in many areas as they prepare for a big event
~ validation from one (accompanist) who hadn't heard them in awhile
~ delicious dinner and wonderful time with friend accompanist after rehearsal
~ third times a charm with my root canal
~ younger daughter calling today
~ more blessings than I could ever list
namaste,
sherrie

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10/29/12 5:00 P

Today, I am grateful for:

-Beautiful, old, majestic pin oak trees
-Having six on our property, providing LOTS of ample opportunity for exercise
-Getting the front yard almost completely raked BY HAND this weekend (as my neighbor across the cul-de-sac who owns every power tool known to mankind hollers that I have a long way to go)
-An AWESOME tennis match yesterday morning; didn't want to even go when I woke up, but once there, my love of tennis, the sunshine and my endorphins kicked in and I played the best I'd played in awhile! As they say, the only way to complete a workout is by starting!!!
-Great phone conversation with my sister last night
-Plans finally in the works (by other local family members) for my mom's surprise 70th birthday party in Los Angeles in less than two weeks

Make it an excellent day!!

Stephanie

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10/29/12 2:02 P

Today I am so happy and grateful that my foot is finally healing and I should soon be able to get back to my full walking routine. I am so grateful for the advice of professionals to lead me on the path of healing.

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10/29/12 9:56 A

Today I am grateful for:

~A good morning workout
~Scrambled eggs
~Literally rolling on the floor laughing with my friends last night
~A fun weekend
~Plenty of sleep

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10/29/12 9:07 A

Appreciations this morning include:
-Distracting back kink nearly gone
-Inversion bed hangs for re-aligning
-Keeping studio momentum going, slow but consistent
-Warmer weather matching ability to get out for walk today
-Full moon (and it’s auspicious time for maximum healing)
-Friends’ empathy and chance for disclosures to R

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10/29/12 6:48 A

I am grateful this morning for:

- an extra day off from school thanks to hurricane Sandy.
- walking to the store with L yesterday.
- good sleep last night through this morning.
- enjoyable reading.
- home sweet home

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10/28/12 10:28 A

Speak from the heart and the truth will be shown.
-- Jean Paul-Alice

Good morning,

So nice to have nice *faces* among us -- WELCOME one-and-all! HAWAII5YEARS, are you a fan of the TV show or do you live/have you lived in Hawaii? I actually did live there about 5 years (Kauai, Mauai, Oahu)!

Grateful for so much, including~~

~ VERY (too) tasty from-scratch German's Chocolate Cake that I baked for last night's birthday festivities -- didn't have much, but with 3 C sugar, 7 eggs, and 1.5 C butter it wouldn't take much!!!

~ enjoying the company of a diverse group of woman celebrating life, and particularly enjoying the friend I carpooled with for the hour's journey to and from the party

~ the good mood of my housemate this morning, after two days of a dark cloud shrouding him

~ sleepling peacefully last night

~ the warmth and comfort of flannel sheets as the colder weather finally arrives

Blessed be,
xox
Maha

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10/28/12 10:11 A

This is the first time I have seen this thread. I'm happy to add to it
I am grateful for:
Stepping on my scale 1/1/12 thanks to my Goodreads group and taking the first step towards a healthier lifestyle.
My Hubby, who has made it his mission to buy me every fitness item I have asked for without complaining about price
My family, who compliment me and help to keep me motivated
My friends, who motivate me.
SparkPeople, everyone here has been helpful and supportive and that means so very much.
Myself, for actually doing the things I need to do to lose weight and get fit.

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10/28/12 10:01 A

This morning, I am grateful for:

-Being able to go back to sleep when waking early
-Sunshine streaming through my window
-Playful morning kitten time
-Lots of fun with good friends last night
-Tennis game this morning

Make it an excellent day!

Stephanie

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10/28/12 9:54 A

I am grateful for my family, my health, my cats, my job, and the pretty fall colors.

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10/28/12 9:53 A

Grateful for
- electricity, heat and running water. With hurricane Sandy coming I hope it continues...we were without all of those for 10 days with storm Alfred last year.
- a quiet morning enjoying a cup of coffee by the window before my son wakes up and the craziness of the day begins

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10/28/12 9:45 A

Grateful today for:
-finally finishing the major part of Rs Halloween costume (just the jacket left to do) and her excitement over it
-finishing a knit fingerless mitts for a Christmas gift for my sister
-a fun night out with women from church the other night
-a spree with the thrift store personal shopper today
-dark-eyed juncos (birds) outside my window inspiring a poem

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10/28/12 8:30 A

Appreciations this morning include:
-Kangoo Jump walk to galleries in beautiful blue sky day
-Double date for breakfast this morning
-Plentiful blissful night of sleep
-Happy exchanges with docent of the day
-Art in all it's diverse expansive and uplifting expression

Edited by: REBCCA at: 10/28/2012 (08:48)

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10/28/12 8:14 A

Today I am grateful for:

~A healthy breakfast
~Creativity
~Good friends
~Heat
~A paycheck
~Confidence

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10/27/12 6:58 P

today I am grateful that I got several things marked off my to-do list. Only one more thing tonight than my list is finished.

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10/27/12 6:37 P

Today I am grateful for:
~ a heated home
~ soup
~ layers of warm clothing
~ tea
~ getting a good chunk of a project done that I had been putting off too long
~ more blessings than I could ever list
namaste,
sherrie

current weight: 175.0

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10/27/12 11:35 A

This morning, I am grateful for:

-Second night of solid sleep in a row - yay!!
-Resolving a personal struggle this morning by realizing that I have to take care of me
-My amazing partner and the supportive, loving relationship we share
-Good friends
-Our yard that is covered with TONS of pin oak leaves; it really is kind of pretty, though I need to start another attack today!!
-Getting through a tough week at work well

Make it an excellent day!

Stephanie

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10/27/12 8:59 A

Today I am grateful for:

~The opportunities available to me
~Windows
~Water
~My ability to wake up early
~A crisp morning walk
~Friends
~Good music

current weight: 160.0

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10/27/12 7:36 A

My appreciations this morning include:
-Magical pyramid room dinner date w/R
-Studio time feeling like refuge from cold day
-Sharing ‘Boardwalk Empire’ viewings w/R
-Call from client followed by web and eBay orders
-Easily wrapping and mailing orders
-Weather warming enough to get out for walk today (something I really miss)
Stephanie!

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10/26/12 5:24 P

Today, I am grateful for:

-Adorable kids in many cute Halloween costumes at the office for the company-sponsored "Trick or Treat," though I wish it could be something more healthy than sugar
-A solid night of sleep; hadn't happened in a few days so much-needed
-A friend making a last-minute large donation to sponsor me for the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk in the morning
-Handling last-minute work crises with grace
-Taking the stairs at work
-The way my "very active" 30-day sabbatical caused a BIG change in my body and helped me lose some extra pounds; I'm now close to goal and it has been a long, long time!

Make it an excellent day!

Stephanie

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10/26/12 4:07 P

We are the facilitators of our own creative evolution.
-- Bill Hicks

Good afternoon,

Grateful today for~~

~ my resilience

~ my self esteem

~ birthday party tomorrow

~ another pound down, slow-but-sure

~ phone call from dear friend in Ecuador this morning

Blessed be,
xox
Maha

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10/26/12 3:14 P

I am grateful for my husband, children, grandchildren, dogs and cats.

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10/26/12 1:19 P

Today I am grateful for:
~ Taking time to post my gratitude
~ Getting up early this morning
~ Learning
~ Fresh water
~ Getting through the funk
~ more blessings than I could ever list
namaste,
sherrie

current weight: 175.0

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10/26/12 9:50 A

My appreciations and gratitudes this morning include:
-A great night’s sleep in cozy fluffy bed (adding blanket rocked)
-R taking me on errands and surveying the frosting on everything in the white wonderland
-Studio time flowing in relaxed ease
-Thank you note on certificate project from happy recipient
-Voting done and mailed
-Taking no news as good news

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10/26/12 9:27 A

Today I am grateful for:

~Warm, cozy sweaters
~A good night's rest
~A great morning workout
~A trip to the library yesterday
~Positive feedback from my job interview
~Time to get crafty
~Freedom to make choices

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10/26/12 5:04 A

I am grateful this morning for:

- finishing an 8 week "meditation experiment" today and what I've learned from it.
- the excitement of Frankenstorm.
- figuring out a work misunderstanding on my part yesterday in time not to make mistakes.
- yesterday's run.
- sharing time with L.

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10/25/12 11:58 A

I am grateful for sunshine and blue skies.

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10/25/12 11:34 A

This morning, my gratitudes include, but are by no means limited to:

-Very active day yesterday (not the norm for our department outings, it's usually totally food related, so I was pleased), followed by raking and bagging
-The six beautiful, big, OLD oak trees on my property that I have decided are worth the rake and bag efforts every year because they're so majestic (it's all in our attitudes, isn't it?)
-Rainbow chard, yum!
-Making an issue "right" before it went any more "wrong"
-Middle of the night cuddly kitty
-Making a different plan this fall with the yard, compare and contrast to the way I did it last year to see which works best

Make it an excellent day!!!

Stephanie

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10/25/12 8:47 A

My appreciations this morning include:
-Taking advantage of the temperate morning weather for dawn KJ walk yesterday
-Having very loyal 96 pound dog with me when cloud cover caused sky to stay dark (a little spooky) for that walk
-Check and ink arrived for doing certificate job which got done and mailed
-Completing yard and garden clearing in under two hours (ready for snow)
-Harvesting and making root veggie medley out of last of the beets
-Having lovely chat with lady at dance store where I found skirt for Halloween costume
-Free schedule allowing time to get supplementing sleep
-White sage, sweet grass, candles and bells

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10/25/12 7:15 A

I am grateful this morning for:

~Beautiful weather this week
~A great night's sleep
~Finding the motivation to wake up early
~Short homework assignments
~A good Pilates class yesterday
~Getting to bed early last night

current weight: 160.0

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10/25/12 5:27 A

I am grateful this morning for:

- getting together with my mother for dinner yesterday.
- nice interactions with Y and HM at work yesterday.
- Good weather.
- experiencing more and more flow at work.
- dropping by to visit T on the way to work yesterday.

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10/24/12 3:35 P

All the colors in my world, yellow, orange and red leaves; baby blue bootee colored sky; angry dark blue waves daubed with white creamy crests, another mid blue with black stripes on the bluejay sitting on the dark black telephone line The cotton ball white clouds skittering across the sky, the amazing array of green hues in the different types of softwood trees. The curled up brown of the ferns and alders.
the three different shades of brown in the eyes of my three dogs from light tan brown to rich deep chocolate brown to a medium coffee brown.

All these colors and I have sight to see them.

How blessed I am.

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10/24/12 10:54 A

This morning, I am grateful for:

-A good job with a great company
-Excitement building over surprising my mother for her 70th birthday party and seeing my family
-Getting overdue tennis matches scheduled for this week
-Work projects flowing along this week, despite it taking me a few days to get back into the groove
-My comfortable home and life
-My partner and my kitties

Make it an excellent day!

Stephanie

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10/24/12 10:23 A

Today I am grateful for:

~Laughter
~Beautiful weather
~Plenty of rest
~A relaxing week
~Doing well in my classes

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10/24/12 9:48 A

Today I am grateful for: God's love and grace
My family
My job
SparkPeople

Thank you for making me reflect upon my blessings!

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10/24/12 9:30 A

Love is so exquisitely elusive. It cannot be bought, cannot be badgered, cannot be hijacked. It is available only in one rare form: as the natural response of a healthy mind and healthy heart.
-- Eknath Easwaran, Words to Live By

Good morning,

So much to be thankful for~~

~ the Teachings of Eknath Easwaran

~ love of friends

~ a big upright freezer that I bought for $50 from a friend several years ago, defrosting now, that continues to provide an important service in preserving food

~ a delicious organic banana to start the day

~ a day of chores ahead to begin fall university break

~ an appointment tomorrow with an eye doc recommended by a friend

Blessed be,
xox
Maha

current weight: 145.6

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SparkPoints: (218,856)
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10/24/12 7:09 A

Among my appreciations and gratitudes this morning:
-Using sky app to identify Rigel in the sunrise sky (it was the last star shining/visible)
-K clinging close even though I am out of biscuits
-Driving w/R to shop at Mall while he had dentist appointment w/expansive views along the way
-Still time to harvest beets that I did not get to yesterday
-Picking basket full of perfect apples
-Studio time with breaks for doing all laundry

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10/24/12 5:22 A

I am grateful this morning for:

- compassionate thoughts.
- Y's recommendation letter.
- walk with L yesterday evening.
- strength training.
- peanut butter.

Posts: 133
10/23/12 10:57 P

Grateful today for:
-getting a lot done
-working out even though I was tempted to take a rest day (it helped my sore muscles to do some moderate walk aerobics!)
-lunch with hubby and his being so grateful for me making him a sandwich
-my step dad getting out of the hospital quickly and being ok
-my mom getting a much needed break and spending time with her siblings

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10/23/12 10:40 A

My appreciations this morning include:
-Receiving order and using it as opportunity to take KJ walk (to post office) yesterday
-KJ walk w/M to experience the splendid sunrise this morning, clouds lit from gold to lavender
-Making apple surprise for breakfast with apples picked off that tree, squirrels/birds have not found
-Streak of acceptable hours of sleep and rest
-Date w/R soon
-Time to finish harvest of beets before soon to come snow

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10/23/12 9:02 A

This morning, I am grateful for:

-The beautiful fall changing of the leaves
-My drive to work being one of the best parkways for seeing such beauty of colors
-A friends' offer to drop her check to me for the American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk this coming Saturday that she is sponsoring me on
-A decent first day back to work after 30 days off, albeit an adjustment
-Listening to my body last night when it was tired and going to bed early

Make it an excellent day!

Stephanie

Pounds lost: 2.5

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Posts: 947
10/23/12 8:24 A

Today I am thankful for:

~The sound of rain on the roof
~A good night's sleep
~Sweet smelling candles
~The internet and freedom of speech/the press
~The New York Times
~Toothpaste
~A sweet gift from a friend

current weight: 160.0

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10/23/12 8:04 A

it is a serious thing
just to be alive
on this fresh morning
in this broken world.
-- Mary Oliver, from Red Bird

Good morning,

Here to proclaim~~

~ great to be alive and here with you GBoomer, Rebecca, Stephanie, Sherrie, et al

~ a two-hr. bike ride yesterday feeling very good, after my hesitation to do it

~ the compassion of an attorney friend, who committed 9am-4:30pm Sat. to helping with immigrant concerns and questions (I was there only from noon on)

~ satisfied about a choice to put the scale away for awhile and continue on my journey toward mindful, intuitive eating

~ tea with the attorney friend yesterday...so busy that I rarely see her, so this was a special treat

Blessed be,
xox
Maha

current weight: 145.6

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10/23/12 5:31 A

Thanks, friends!

This morning I am grateful for:

- cool little "Sworkit" app I just downloaded and used this morning.
- more support from my supervisor, H.
- hanging with colleagues yesterday afternoon.
- my students doing soooo well. I must have at least something to do with it.
- another great run yesterday.
- remaining relatively cool and relaxed in the face of someone's "stuff".

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10/22/12 9:13 P

I am so very thankful for my daughter who is going through some heavy trials but still has a smile on her face. Her positive attitude helps me to be positive.

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10/22/12 2:13 P

Today, I am grateful for:

-GBoomer, who reminded me of my own Sparkversary. I remembered it before and now after. 10/19 was my 7th anniversary. Guess I need to go claim my trophy!!! :-)
-I LOVE SPARKPEOPLE and all that it has allowed me to do
-I also bow in gratitude to each of you for sharing in this amazing gratitude practice, with a special "shoutout" to Rebecca who keeps us going month after month, year after year - it has truly changed my life in so many ways - thank you!!!
-My wonderful job that gave me the opportunity of 30 days to relax, unwind, disconnect with work and rejuvenate; I'm happy to be back here today and that is also amazing!
-Losing weight on my 30-day sabbatical, which gives me lots of clues as to what I've done; some are uncontrollable, such as I DO have to work, and I can't hike for 3-4 hours every day, but other things I can now change in my plan to keep forward motion
-Active vacations; love, Love, LOVE them!!!

Make it an excellent day!

Stephanie

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10/22/12 12:28 P

Today I am grateful for:
I can jog
My husband loves to jog with me and is proud of me
I have wonderful kids
I have the support of spark people
I have great friends
My life is more balanced these days than it's ever been
I am learning new things every day

current weight: 275.0

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Posts: 133
10/22/12 9:57 A

Congrats GBOOMER!

Grateful today for:
-feeling energetic
-being able to go to creative writing group this afternoon
-finding a perfect pattern for knit booties with pompoms that will fit my 12 yr old with size 11 feet
-feeling more motivated to exercise by changing my ticker to track fitness minutes
-making good progress in my French refresher course

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Posts: 947
10/22/12 9:55 A

Today I am grateful for:

~My shower
~Plenty of sleep
~An eventful weekend
~My mom and dad
~Nice weather
~Comfortable clothes

current weight: 160.0

169 164.25 159.5 154.75

150

SparkPoints: (218,856)
Fitness Minutes: (128,887)
Posts: 18,763
10/22/12 9:51 A

My appreciations this morning include:
-Seeing yesterday’s sunrise on invigorating bike ride
-Sunday traditional outing w/R including hawk watching and Mexican food
-Photographing and processing 18 new shields for eBay
-Beautiful outdoor breaks to pick beets, clear gardens and admire Autumn colors
-Happy healthy harmony at home
GBoomer congratulations on you anniversary and Thank You for being here, it makes me smile every morning

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Posts: 4,827
10/22/12 5:48 A

I am grateful this morning for:

- a relaxed and inspired solo neighborhood walk yesterday evening.
- finishing my essay for graduate school application.
- good planning work for the week ahead yesterday.
- enjoyable reading.
- the eggplant dish that L made yesterday.

Oh yeah, also yesterday I suddenly realized that I had crossed my 4th "Sparkversary" date in early October without even thinking about it. It reminds me of how much healthier and fitter I have become over the course of these 4 years. I am grateful for that and for this little community of daily gratitude practitioners who welcome me as a member.

Edited by: GBOOMER at: 10/22/2012 (05:51)

Posts: 133
10/21/12 10:03 P

Grateful today for:
-a great 30 min workout tonight with my daughter
-success in shopping for costume making supplies at the fabric store that only costs half of the ready made one that would never fit my youngest
-time spent knitting today
-my husband really pitching in at home this weekend
-a beautiful warm day

May Minutes: 40

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360

SparkPoints: (42,500)
Fitness Minutes: (21,635)
Posts: 3,242
10/21/12 8:48 P

Today I was just so thankful that I have a home as I thought of the folks who live on the streets in many of the cities around the world.

May Minutes: 1,572

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220

SparkPoints: (40,534)
Fitness Minutes: (29,591)
Posts: 10,018
10/21/12 12:11 P

The world (and I) is (are) evolving from imperfection to perfection. It needs (We need) all love and sympathy; great tenderness and watchfulness are required from each one of us. --Hazrat Inayat Khan

Good morning,

So good to be back in the Gratitude Sphere. During our phone communion the other day, Stephanie shared how she takes care of only SP "basics" when her time is limited -- Fitness & Nutrition Tracking + Gratitudes. I'm going to ease back into SP with that approach, + a VERY occasional blog reading/response (as Steph said she does as well).

Today I am deeply grateful~~

~ the eye seems to be continuing to move back to normalcy AND I'm going to cave in and schedule an eye exam tomorrow (first one in about 4-5 years, since my torn retina)

~ got an assignment due Monday completed yesterday, had a second conversation with the subject of my ethnographic research Friday, and finished the PowerPoint prep in readiness for the assistance of my friend in preparing the slides

~ setting an intention to stay away from ALL processed carbs such as chips, crackers, cookies, etc., etc., ad naseum, other than allowing myself one piece of sprouted whole grain bread daily (two when I need to fix a sandwich for class days) and occasionally two multi-grain Fig Newman's -- YOU ARE ALL MY WITNESS!

~ a wonderful, long phone conversation with Adelaida in Ecuador (and more to come), who has use of her neighbor's Magic Jack and computer while they are away

~ a delicious, nutritious breakfast, getting me going on Premium Fuel for the day ahead!

Blessed be,
xox
Maha

current weight: 145.6

203 184.75 166.5 148.25

130

SparkPoints: (139,349)
Fitness Minutes: (59,505)
Posts: 8,079
10/21/12 10:56 A

This morning, I am grateful for:

-Sunshine streaming through my window this morning on another beautiful day
-A scrumptious dinner out with my partner last night
-A solid night of sleep in my comfortable bed
-Morning treat time with the kitties
-Appreciation for each kittens individual personality, likes and dislikes; they're all wonderful in their own way
-My sister finding two Siamese kittens that are coming home to her Thanksgiving weekend (she lost both of her Siamese in the span of one month)

Make it an excellent day!

Stephanie

Pounds lost: 2.5

0 2.5 5 7.5

10

SparkPoints: (218,856)
Fitness Minutes: (128,887)
Posts: 18,763
10/21/12 8:38 A

My gratitude and appreciations this morning include:
-Perfect weather seducing me outdoors for fun and projects
-Rock art designs cleared as well as the yards and driveway
-Mixed medium magic, validating intentions and mindful attention
-Chauffeuring party goers to and from party and their thanks for that
-Moon aura fully circling crescent waxing moon
-Catching up on news with first ex who called to chat

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Posts: 4,827
10/21/12 7:11 A

Hope your eyes are doing well, Maha!

This morning I am grateful for:

- a good run yesterday morning.
- a nice visit with my mother.
- getting myself an ebook reader so I can read ebooks before bed without the anti-sleep effects of the iPad.
- a good night's sleep with interesting dreams.
- a funny video that a FB friend posted that made me laugh out loud.

Posts: 133
10/20/12 6:30 P

Hoping you feel better soon Maha - we will miss you.

Grateful today for:
-a brisk walk to the repair shop with my husband
-the tire repair only costing $30
-mailing out three gifts and feeling excited for the recipients to get them
-finishing a Christmas gift for my husband early this morning while he was still asleep
-making one of my favorite healthy dinners tonight whole wheat cheeseburger pasta

May Minutes: 40

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360

SparkPoints: (139,349)
Fitness Minutes: (59,505)
Posts: 8,079
10/20/12 10:41 A

This morning, I am grateful for:

-No serious damage when my partner started an oven fire with bread crumbs under the broiler
-Being able to open all windows and doors (after putting the kitties in my office) and it not being so cold out that it froze us out doing so
-A weekend of pampering before returning to work from sabbatical (manicure, pedicure, facial and massage at different places throughout the weekend)
-Groupons and other half-price deals that allowed said pampering to happen!!
-Sunshine streaming through my window this morning while thinking about being grateful

Make it an excellent day!

Stephanie

Pounds lost: 2.5

0 2.5 5 7.5

10

SparkPoints: (139,349)
Fitness Minutes: (59,505)
Posts: 8,079
10/20/12 10:40 A

This morning, I am grateful for:

-No serious damage when my partner started an oven fire with bread crumbs under the broiler
-Being able to open all windows and doors (after putting the kitties in my office) and it not being so cold out that it froze us out doing so
-A weekend of pampering before returning to work from sabbatical (manicure, pedicure, facial and massage at different places throughout the weekend)
-Groupons and other half-price deals that allowed said pampering to happen!!
-Sunshine streaming through my window this morning while thinking about being grateful

Make it an excellent day!

Stephanie

Pounds lost: 2.5

0 2.5 5 7.5

10

SparkPoints: (218,856)
Fitness Minutes: (128,887)
Posts: 18,763
10/20/12 10:21 A

My appreciations this morning include:
-KJ walk w/M this morning to take in the glorious full sky sunrise with alpenglow on the mountains
-Laughing ourselves silly on wonderful dinner date (we were in privacy for this act)
-Clean sheets on freshly fluffed bed
-Order received and sent
-Persimmons

Maha I wish you speedy healing!

490 Maintenance Weeks

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SparkPoints: (40,534)
Fitness Minutes: (29,591)
Posts: 10,018
10/19/12 3:27 P

Good afternoon my gratitudin' friends!

Because of a scary "eye incident" last night which I won't go into sordid detail about, I've decided to limited my computer time to necessary classwork for awhile.

I'll continue giving thanks of course, missing you all the while.

Maha

current weight: 145.6

203 184.75 166.5 148.25

130

Posts: 133
10/19/12 2:59 P

Grateful today for:
-my pastor telling me I had a flat tire and helping me get the spare on even though he had been sleeping outside all night at Cardboard Box City (homelessness fundraiser) with the youth group
-my husband coming home any minute from a week away in TX
-my son offering to get me a new tire
-getting a big task done yesterday that had been hanging over my head for 2 weeks
-coupons and double coupon days the next two weeks

May Minutes: 40

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360

Posts: 2,174
10/19/12 1:48 P

Today I am grateful for:
~ tooth much less painful, being ok without pain medication
~ choosing savory/veggies when sweet/fat was also available
~ resisting the urge to get both
~ all my senses
~ my home
~ my hubby
~ more blessings than I could ever list
namaste,
sherrie

current weight: 175.0

183 176 169 162

155

SparkPoints: (139,349)
Fitness Minutes: (59,505)
Posts: 8,079
10/19/12 10:18 A

This morning, I am grateful for:

-A good night of solid sleep; I don't sleep as well on the road
-Lots of extra play time with my kitties since I've come home and am not yet back at work and I just love their kitty antics
-The amazing benefits of a 30-day sabbatical from work; it certainly showed me that I will be very active whenever I finally retire; I'm just not one to sit around a lot
-My eye doing much better (it had gotten irritated from the sand and/or sun and wind in Arches National Park)
-The opportunity to help a friend
-Another tennis friend with a 90th birthday this weekend; it's just amazing and inspiring to me to see folks still playing tennis at that age

Make it an excellent day!!!

Stephanie

Pounds lost: 2.5

0 2.5 5 7.5

10

SparkPoints: (218,856)
Fitness Minutes: (128,887)
Posts: 18,763
10/19/12 9:10 A

Appreciations this morning include:
-Enjoying the sun’s warmth while clearing away sticks/branches and adding to rock art designs
-Creating shield in keeping w/dream recollection and that special space found when doing studio work
-Wind subsiding in time for soothing bike ride/glide under clear blue sky
-Laptop recovering from what originally looked like a fatal flaw
-R support, love and humorous takes I would otherwise sometimes miss
-Tools available for proactive progress

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Posts: 4,827
10/19/12 7:25 A

I am grateful this morning for:

- a relaxed morning because middle schools don't have class today.
- a great run yesterday.
- the enjoyable Greg Allman autobiography that I'm reading.
- the rainy weather this morning.
- surprises.

Posts: 9,925
10/18/12 2:56 P

...having time to think things through.

SparkPoints: (139,349)
Fitness Minutes: (59,505)
Posts: 8,079
10/18/12 2:38 P

Today, I am grateful for:

-Maha, who introduced me to Isabel Allende and her work; it truly is incredible writing and what a pleasure to be able to present on such a magnificient woman and writer
-Rebecca, who keeps us focused month after month on gratitude (I think I brought your wind home with me driving through Denver)
-A wonderful 2-hour lunch with an old friend breaking up my LONG drive yesterday
-A safe journey from Moab, Utah to Kansas City in one day; it was not planned that way, but when I figured out I could be home by midnight, I just did it, as I was back on I-70, easy driving
-My own comfortable bed and home; there's no place like home (clicking my red slippered heels together here)
-Back to my wonderful chai tea; I couldn't find any made like it on my journey, so I really missed it
-My partner and my kitties; I missed all of them!

Make it an excellent day!!!

Stephanie

Pounds lost: 2.5

0 2.5 5 7.5

10

Posts: 133
10/18/12 11:27 A

Grateful today for:
-waking up early even when I didn't need to and being extra productive
-a good weigh in!
-stitches removed and all declared normal
-receiving a touching email asking me to consider being a youth mentor this confirmation season as a result of my contributions to last night's discussion (I'm a quiet person so I think I surprise people when I talk more!)
-figuring out how to miter corners on the quilt binding I am doing after not doing one for a long time

May Minutes: 40

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360

SparkPoints: (218,856)
Fitness Minutes: (128,887)
Posts: 18,763
10/18/12 8:50 A

Wow Maha! Rich content you express beautifully!

Appreciations and gratitude this morning includes:
-Finding happy recipient for my too large/too long designer jeans
-Harvesting perfect apples within easy reach from tree squirrels have not found
-Continued support from close friends
-Making submission for C as promised
-Vow of banishing ‘complaining’ bringing brighter perspectives
-Getting batteries so stationery bike can be utilized on this very windy day

490 Maintenance Weeks

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500

SparkPoints: (40,534)
Fitness Minutes: (29,591)
Posts: 10,018
10/18/12 8:04 A

Reverence the highest, have patience with the lowest. Let this day's performance of the meanest duty be thy religion. Are the stars too distant, pick up the pebble that lies at thy feet, and from it learn the all.
-- Margaret Fuller

Good morning,

Great to be here among you~~

~ thanks for sharing the good news on the interview ELMENOPEO (& love your user name!)

~ finished transcribing my ethnographic interview with a Guatemalan about food and culture

~ got an extra half hour bike ride in because of a chore that had to be completed

~ began organizing material for my oral presentation on Isabel Allende, perhaps the most important Latin American contemporary female writer (and I LOVE her work) and grateful to my girlfriend for the PowerPoint assistance

~ opportunity to volunteer in the Hispanic community Sat. at the library with young people who need help filling out the paper work on Obama's Deferred Action Program

~ grateful for role models whose work resounds through the years, like Margaret Fuller (May 23, 1810 – July 19, 1850) was an American journalist, critic, and women's rights advocate associated with the American transcendentalism movement. She was the first full-time American female book reviewer in journalism. Her book Woman in the Nineteenth Century is considered the first major feminist work in the United States.

Blessed be,
xox
Maha

current weight: 145.6

203 184.75 166.5 148.25

130

SparkPoints: (10,982)
Fitness Minutes: (1,388)
Posts: 845
10/18/12 6:31 A

I am grateful for my prolotheraphy injections in my hip joints today.

May Minutes: 45

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360

Posts: 4,827
10/18/12 6:21 A

I am grateful this morning for:

- a nice family get-together yesterday.
- being helpful to a middle school student over the phone yesterday.
- visit from neighbor's cat yesterday.
- some incredible student learning going on.
- writing a nice thank you card to H and delivering it.

Posts: 133
10/17/12 11:40 P

Grateful today for:
-an interview that went "great"
-spending time working on a gift (sewing)
-a nice long talk with DH tonight
-dinner made at church and eating with friends
-a stimulating discussion on bible study

May Minutes: 40

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360

SparkPoints: (42,500)
Fitness Minutes: (21,635)
Posts: 3,242
10/17/12 9:16 P

Today I was thankful for a sunny day, quiet roads, changing leaves and the strength, ability and motivation to get out for a good walk.

May Minutes: 1,572

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220

Posts: 947
10/17/12 12:56 P

Today I am grateful for:

~Pilates class
~Time to study
~Coffee
~Headphones
~Google

current weight: 160.0

169 164.25 159.5 154.75

150

SparkPoints: (218,856)
Fitness Minutes: (128,887)
Posts: 18,763
10/17/12 7:51 A

Appreciations this morning include:
-Empathizing with psychic friend who came for shield and confirmed her presence at our Open House
-Open window with fresh breeze of morning air
-R taking me on morning errands, Lodo breakfast and sharing the still brilliant Fall golds and crimson colors in wide overlook views with blue mountains contrasting
-Escaping into “Boardwalk Empire” episodes w/R
-Having power (when many near have lost theirs) and no evidence of wind damage
-Adding to my ‘rock art’ yesterday as I took in beautiful warm weather
-Candlelight, sage, sweet grass, offerings and bells easily at hand for medicine circle to set intentions in mindful sincerity
-Starting to understand some hard earned lessons

490 Maintenance Weeks

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Posts: 4,827
10/17/12 4:50 A

I am grateful this morning for:

- parents making it safely to Virginia.
- H finishing the recommendation form for me.
- compliments and smiles from coworkers Y and HM yesterday.
- a creative exercise session yesterday.
- enjoyable reading last night.

SparkPoints: (139,349)
Fitness Minutes: (59,505)
Posts: 8,079
10/16/12 8:22 P

Today, I am grateful for:

-Knowing and listening to my body and taking things a bit easier today as I've been hitting the exercise (hiking) pretty hard
-The BEAUTIFUL town of Moab, Utah with its amazing desert land, rock and arches and its own quaint charm in its own way
-Finding a GREAT little restaurant where I purchased both a healthy lunch and bought an incredible spinach salad for my dinner, and can stop there for a veggie burrito on my way out of town in the morning
-My clean and comfortable motel room
-Plans to have lunch with an old friend in Denver tomorrow on my way home
-Spending my ENTIRE trip on blue highways, other than I-70 to and from, intentionally
-The amazing little finds I've had along the way

Make it a good one!

Stephanie

Pounds lost: 2.5

0 2.5 5 7.5

10

Posts: 133
10/16/12 11:07 A

Grateful today for:
-spending time with my son last night teaching him new cooking tricks
-a morning walk with my friend
-leftovers for dinner so I can both save time and money
-my daughter's healthy snacks theme in class which led to tasty homemade applesauce yesterday
-being warm again thanks to the new better furnace

May Minutes: 40

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360

SparkPoints: (72,137)
Fitness Minutes: (61,070)
Posts: 1,084
10/16/12 9:12 A

I am grateful that Sparkpeople made it possible to sync with my Fitbit!! Yippee!!!!!!!!!!

May Minutes: 2,413

0 18.75 37.5 56.25

75

Posts: 947
10/16/12 8:42 A

Today I am grateful for:

~A good night's rest
~My new noodie
~My upcoming pilates class
~My ability to learn
~A healthy body

current weight: 160.0

169 164.25 159.5 154.75

150

SparkPoints: (218,856)
Fitness Minutes: (128,887)
Posts: 18,763
10/16/12 8:35 A

Appreciations this morning include:
-Cleaning up Reiki symbol art and learning about sigils
-Generous gifts from R and his dignity in keeping promises
-Wise counsel from friend/visitor I only see occasionally
-All seven shields fitting into special box for big order received (and sent)
-Chance meeting with lady I have not seen in years, connecting her to outlet for her amazing vocal talents through our overheard conversation
-Fun morning errands and brunch w/R in the beautiful Autumn day

490 Maintenance Weeks

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Posts: 4,827
10/16/12 4:40 A

I am grateful this morning for:

- an invitation from coworker T.
- getting recommendation forms in the hands of HP, Y and HM and their willingness to recommend me.
- email reports of parent's smooth travels.
- yesterday's run, getting it in a little earlier than usual to good effect.
- straight 'A' dictations from YHS class yesterday.

Posts: 858
10/16/12 3:45 A

I passed the scary repeat mammogram!

Pounds lost: 18.0

0 7.25 14.5 21.75

29

SparkPoints: (139,349)
Fitness Minutes: (59,505)
Posts: 8,079
10/15/12 7:21 P

Today, I am eternally grateful for:

-Arches National Park
-Park rangers who learn and share so much about the parks they work in
-A TOTALLY INCREDIBLE 3-hour "strenuous" hike THROUGH Fiery Furnace, an amazing micro look into what many of the rangers call "the heart of Arches National Park"
-The park ranger's recommended read - "Desert Solitude," by Eddy (can't remember first name)
-The Visitor's Center having the book available for purchase
-Supporting U.S. national parks
-Utah; this is my first peek and I'm loving it!!!!

Make it a good one!

Stephanie

Pounds lost: 2.5

0 2.5 5 7.5

10

SparkPoints: (40,534)
Fitness Minutes: (29,591)
Posts: 10,018
10/15/12 5:28 P

Do not try to use what you learn from Buddhism to be a Buddhist; use it to be a better whatever-you-already-are.
--Dalai Lama

Good afternoon,

Here to give thanks~~

~ loved REBCCA's blog, taking the juicy elements to heart

~ my feisty nature, how it "gets me through"

~ lots of good food in the frig and cupboards

~ a training tonight for the DREAM Deferred Action program for immigrants, preparing to working with immigrants on Saturday

~ a beautiful fall day, that I'm enjoying by having the door next to my computer wide open as I study (AND procrastinate!)

Blessed be,
xox
Maha

current weight: 145.6

203 184.75 166.5 148.25

130

Posts: 133
10/15/12 9:09 A

Grateful today for:
-getting a new furnace
-an interview set up for Weds
-all the work my husband did this weekend for me
-taking a break to sew and crochet some to rejuvenate myself last night
-my son driving my husband to the airport so I could sleep more

May Minutes: 40

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360

Posts: 947
10/15/12 9:02 A

Today I am grateful for
~Fall colors
~A new deliciously scented candle
~My rainboots
~A good family lunch yesterday
~My mom
~Coping skills

current weight: 160.0

169 164.25 159.5 154.75

150

SparkPoints: (218,856)
Fitness Minutes: (128,887)
Posts: 18,763
10/15/12 7:09 A

Among my many blessings and gratitudes today:
-Delicious morning date w/R, easy conversations, finding options that work for choices to be made
-Taking longer 90 minute KJ walk to panoramic views on seductive trail
-Soaking in all the amazing and beautiful colors of fall
-Robbie Robertson and the Red Road assembly (music track for walk)
-Buying a swan gourd on my way home to add to Halloween decorations
-Lovely chat w/C about open house and personal news
-Studio meditative and soothing time
-Continuing streak of good sleep

490 Maintenance Weeks

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500