Terri Lynn's Happy Talk

Are your thoughts positive? Do you pay attention to what you think? Your thoughts really do matter in creating your life. My own experience has taught me just how powerful thoughts really are. When someone asks you, “How are you?” what is your response? Just that one answer can enhance your life over time. If you respond with, “Alright.” “OK.” or ” I’m Good.” is that positive? Those responses are not positive enough to get you into the positive state of creating, or increasing your happiness level. According to Rhonda Byrne in her book The Power we need to get ourselves  over the 50% positive mark to be able to attract and create the life we desire. Good, OK, and alright are not over the 50% mark, so in a sense, they are negative.

To gain a positive handle on this one FAQ will enhance your life in no time. Try adopting a better response and add some enthusiasm. Something like, “Excellent!” “Fantastic!” with some emphasis. Others: ” I’m great today!” “Happy, happy, happy!” “I feel awesome!” I think you get the idea. When you begin to respond with enthusiasm on a regular basis to this one simple greeting we all use, you will begin to create that feeling in you, and you will also attract more positive experiences.

Once you master that one little change find another uplifting thought to replace a lower vibrational one. One small change each week and you will be soaring above that 50% mark. The higher over that mark the easier to maintain. Thoughts really do matter. That is why I say, “Think Happy Be Happy!” So plant some positive thoughts and pump up the happiness in your life.

What will happen if you decide to be happy…NOW? According to what God tells us through the author, Neale Donald Walsh, in Communion with God, it is the decision to be happy that creates the experience of being happy. What does that really mean? From my own life experience I understand exactly what this means.

We create our life with awareness, or without. When we decide to be happy and really commit ourselves consciously to being happy, we will create the experience of being happy. Sounds too simple to be true. Simple, yes,  but not so easy to execute when the circumstances surrounding you feel like hell. This is where consciousness comes in to play. Our thoughts create our feelings, and our feelings create our experience.

Myself along with many family members and close friends are facing huge challenges such as serious illness, death of a loved one, unemployment, horrible work conditions, financial ruin,  and divorce. So how is happiness possible under these circumstances? Only when the decision to be happy is made and in our consciousness. What we look for in life affects what we see. I understand, first hand, how difficult this  appears. Impossible you might think. But I also understand, from my own experience, just how making the decision to be happy really works.

Only you control your thoughts. During difficult times greater effort must be put on feeding yourself positive thoughts. Focus on something that is good in your life, no matter how small, because what we focus on expands. Keep something in front of you to trigger a happy thought when you need one. Allow yourself to imagine something great that may happen, or how you will feel when this episode is past. Force yourself to think of things that make you feel good. Your feelings are in your control when you make conscious decisions. When you feel good, you are creating a better world.

I am not suggesting you ignore the issue at hand to be happy. If you are sick, you need to take measures to get well, but at the same time find a positive focus. Read or watch funny and uplifting stories. Be grateful for something good in your life and focus on the positive. If you are living or working in a bad situation, place a trigger in front of you; a photo of a happy memory, a positive statement, or anything that will trigger a happy thought. Send love to whatever or whoever is causing a problem. Think thoughts that make you feel good. Imagine how you will feel when this experience passes.

Our inner world creates our outer world. Find a way to be at peace with whatever is happening around you. Happiness is not always laughter and bliss, but happiness does survive with acceptance and peace. In difficult times to live in the moment consciously is our best defense but is often traded for worry over what the future may hold. Peace, happiness, and joy only live in the present moment. This I know for sure.

At this time of reflection and resolutions, I urge you to give some thought to your own happiness. In my opinion, happiness is underrated. When happiness comes first everything feels better, no matter what the circumstances. My wish is health, wealth, and abundance for all, and my hope is that everyone may discover the miracles that happen when you decide to be happy…NOW.

Is it possible to shift into happiness? What we look for in life definitely affects what we see. Are you conscious of what you look for in your day? Are you conscious of your thoughts? My mother taught me a great lesson as a child and I learned to look for all the things that make me happy in my day, and not to look for lack. The lesson my mother taught me as a child, to be optimistic, has shaped my life.

This decision I made to be happy as a child has trained me to look for all the things in my day that bring me happiness and joy. This does not mean that everything in my life is smooth sailing, far from it, but there is always something in my day to put a smile on my face, when I look for happiness.

Often, at the end of a hectic or hard day, I reflect on all the positive happenings, no matter how few, because it makes me feel better. I am not saying to avoid looking at a situation that can be improved upon or changed within, I am saying when all the work is done, I’ve taken responsibility for my actions, make an action plan to change what I am able to change, I then reflect on something positive to make the shift into happiness. To be in a happy state feels so good. When you feel good, good things happen.

Happiness is here now for all of us. All we need to do is look for happiness, and make the shift. The world around us holds all ther is and when we look for lack, we find lack, but look for happiness and happiness you will see. A conscious decision to be happy creates the experience of being happy. Your happiness is your choice. That is why I say, “Shift into happiness.”

Look within for happiness. Happiness is not outside you. Meditation is also a great way to reduce stress. Stress can be such a life stealer. Even if the stress does not kill you, it certainly steals much of the enjoyment and pleasures of life. For me, meditation has clearly improved my life in every way. I feel I have more time because I enjoy most everything I do. My mind is clear and more focused. I sleep better, and wake up refreshed with excitement for the new day.

When I began to meditate in February 2008, the first benefit I noticed was more clarity. My mind seemed to have less noise; a calm, singularity of thought. Then emerged a more relaxed state of being which enabled me to enjoy my life with a greater intensity. All of a sudden I began making better and healthier choices with ease.

At first I found quieting my mind difficult. After about eight months I found Centerpointe Research’s Holosync meditation program. This requires a commitment of an hour a day, but guarantees a true, meditative state by inducing brain waves with the use of stereo headphones and Holosync’s sound technology. After some research, I knew this program was for me. I made the commitment of an hour a day, and began the program.

My experience with the Holosync meditation program is a positive one. After three full years with this program I can say my whole life is transformed. An hour a day is a lot of time, I know, but the benefit is so great because I feel I have more time in my day due to greater awareness. Because of using this meditation program I have been able to change my own beliefs, let go of all limiting beliefs, and change the course of my entire life without fear. Imagine that. I amaze myself when I look at some of the changes I made with ease.

Would you like to feel better? Would you like to clear your mind of all the static?  I see meditation as clearing the field of the mind, just like a farmer does before he plants. Meditating clears the mind of all the weeds so your thoughts have a better chance to grow and create the life you desire. I have placed a link on my website (check the link on the right of this page) to the Centerpointe Research Holosync meditation program for you, and Centerpointe is offering you a free demo. Please take advantage of this offer while it lasts. Meditation will definitely enhance your life. Just do it! Look within for happiness.

Is it possible to dance yourself happy?  Can your happiness be just a dance away? An article appearing in”Psychology Today” written by Lane Anderson reports of a study done at the University of Derby. Depressed patients given salsa dancing lessons improved their moods significantly by the end of the nine-week, hip-swiveling therapy.  Researchers cite the endorphin boost of exercise, plus the social interaction and concentration that dancing requires, and the increased self-confidence from learning a new skill.

The same article also reports on a German study of music and partner dancing. Twenty-two tango dancers had lower levels of stress hormones and higher levels of testosterone after dancing with partners, and they felt sexier and more relaxed. Another study at the University of New England shows how partner dancing helps fight depression. Study author Rosa Penniger credits the extreme focus or mindfulness of dance, which interrupts negative thought patterns that contribute to anxiety and depression.

Donna Newman-Bluestein, a dance therapist with the American Dance Therapy Association says, “Dancing lifts the body to an open, optimistic posture.” All of these reports come as no surprise to me. Dancing has been a constant in my life since I was three years old, and I plan to keep dancing as long as my legs will carry me! Dancing is a mind, body, spirit exercise that contributes to a feeling of being fully connected and whole. The element of non-verbal communication frees the body of daily stresses without having to say a word.

If you would like to boost your happiness level just give it a try. No worries if you don’t have a partner just sign up for a group class in your area. Partners in group classes usually rotate so everyone is included. It is also a great way to meet new people. The group classes, in general are reasonably priced. If money is an issue check your area for scheduled dances. Many dances offer a free lesson at the beginning of a dance.

Maybe you are one of those people who have no rhythm. Often I hear someone say that but the truth is you don’t need rhythm. The music has the rhythm! So get your groove on. Even if you just dance behind closed doors by yourself you will feel happier, but getting out social dancing is a real mood elevator.  Age has no bearing.  So spice up your life and get your sexy on!

There are many different styles of dance. Choose one where the music appeals to you. My favorite is the hustle dance because it is danced to fast, fun, upbeat music that ranges from the seventies to today’s top hits. The variety keeps it fresh and exciting to me. There are many other styles of dance I enjoy, but I got hooked on the hustle.  All I can tell you is that I’ve never had a bad night out dancing!

As everything in life there are many different levels of dance. You may choose to keep it at a social level or take it up a notch if you get ‘the fever.’ Oh yes, it can be addicting and you could find yourself in full costume ready for a competition in the very near future. But whatever level you choose to take your dancing to, there is one guarantee,  you will have a smile on your face!

Your happiness is in your hands. Today’s research proves that happy people function better in every way, and that happiness breeds success, not the other way around. Only you can decide what the right choice is for your own happiness but if dancing appeals to you then please, go right ahead, and dance yourself happy!

Plug into the power for happiness. Just as exercise strengthens the body, meditation strengthens our connection to the power of our soul. With physical exercise, when you first begin, you may feel some pain afterwards or have sore muscles. If you continue to exercise routinely that soreness subsides but you still feel the muscles you worked for hours afterwards. The exercise brings an awareness of your body into your consciousness.

With meditation, once you get past the initial phase and learn to quiet your mind, you also gain an awareness, just as in physical exercise. Only this awareness is of the power we all have within, and of the energy that connects us all.  Our Soul is going to be here long after we are gone and it only makes sense to tune-in to it’s power while you are alive.

The way I see it is that we are all cells of the same body. Each cell has its own function to do and every cell is important. Whoever and whatever is here belongs. In meditation you get connected with the source of your own power, and over time  become clear and able to see that we all are connected to the same power, which I call God.

Our bodies keep producing new cells all the time as the old ones die off, and over time every cell gets replaced.  Humans keep reproducing life on our planet and eventually every person (or human cell) is replaced. It only makes sense to me if everyone plugged into their own power, and that power connected us all, there would be a more coherent state on the planet. All living for one power, greater than each individual, and living in peace. Everyone happy in their own purpose. Heaven? I believe we are closer than we think.

Each of us is like an electrical appliance that is useless when not connected to the electrical power. But because we have free will to live as we choose, many are not connected to the power because they cannot see past the material world. Most people I know just don’t know the difference meditation, or being plugged in, will make in their life, and therefore don’t make the time to discover the truth!

It makes me want to scream at the top of lungs! Wake up! Tune-in! Because I have taken the time and I do understand the difference meditation makes. It is similar to the difference between being healthy and being sick but in the case with meditation and connecting to the power, most don’t know they are not consciously connected. Everyone is connected to the power or they would not be here but becoming conscious and awakened to the power changes everything for the better.

All there is to know for your own happiness lies within you.  Sending my love to you and hope you take the time to plug into the power; Your power!

Happiness and peace is every one’s own choice, but when you look around yourself do you see heaven? Do you feel inner peace? The world around us reflects back to us what we project, and what we look for in life affects what we see. This universe is one huge container of energy and is in constant change. Everything is contained in this container so whatever you look for you are able to find. When you look for love, you see love. When you look for hate, you see hate. When you look for heaven, you will see heaven. Heaven is here, now, if you choose to look.

Peace on earth is possible. If peace on earth depended on your inner world, would there be peace? Are you ready to let go of all the negative feelings? We are the creators of our world and if we choose to see peace on earth we need to live in peace with our self first. Be the change  you wish to see in the world. To decide to be happy no matter what is a great place to begin. Then go deep within to the silence. Peace lives in the silence of your mind and the stillness of your heart. Once you feel your own peace inside your world will begin to reflect that peace. Heaven is found in happiness.

Life seldom seems that simple. Many people cannot conceive that their own internal world affects their outer world, much less, the world of those around them. We all contribute to the state of the world whether we realize it or not. What are your feelings sending out into the universe? What are you willing to do to gain inner peace/world peace, happiness, and perhaps heaven? Happiness, heaven, and peace are in your hands.

What is happiness? What does happiness mean to you? According to Webster’s dictionary the meaning of happiness is a state of well-being and contentment. To me, happiness doesn’t mean laughing and having fun all the time, although laughter can certainly elevate your state of happiness and is highly recommended. Happiness is really being OK with what is, acceptance, being in peace.

Science has proven that we are born at different levels of happiness, but we can control our level, up or down the scale, by our thoughts and actions. Smiling for instance creates a chemical reaction in the brain that enhances our sense of happiness. Our thoughts are the seeds of energy that create our world. The thoughts we think in turn emerge in our feelings, and our feelings are the language of between ourselves and the energy around us.

As Norman Vincent Peale said,”Change your thoughts and you change your world.” So why are so many people scattered, unhappy, depressed, and searching for something in order to be happy? Happiness is right here now when you look for it.

Having worked diligently to change my thoughts over the years, I know that first step was to become aware of what I was thinking, and then to decide what my new thoughts should be. Becoming aware of my thoughts made all the difference and is how I learned to think happy and became happy. Every thought is a seed.

My intention is to start a conversation about happiness and spread the seeds of happiness around. The more focus on the topic the more energy to expand it. Happiness is contagious and I plan to infest the world but I need your help! My energy alone is not enough.

There is so much negativity in the world, and the best defense against the negativity is to fill up with positives thoughts and feelings. The positive energy is stronger than the negative energy so if you put enough positives in, you become shielded against the negativity around you.

It’s easy to go down the spiral of negative thoughts when unaware. Being aware of my thoughts has given me the power to control how I feel. Feeling good feels better to me than feeling bad, so I choose happy thoughts!

What makes you feel good? Do you have a story to share about changing your thoughts? What gives you joy? Do you have a dream to share? My dream is to write books, poems, songs and  much more with hope to be able to share what I’ve learned about being happy, no matter what. This blog was not part of my plan but having learned that this is the avenue needed to help my dream come alive, I just look at it as planting seeds of happiness to share.

Remember… your happiness is in your hands.

The question is: Can happiness live in troubled times? My family has been hit hard by the economic crisis the past few years. Three out of the four members of my immediate family have been out of work for more than year. I am now unemployed for over twenty months, so how can happiness survive? When you are out of work for that length of time and see your life savings dwindle, happiness takes a concentrated effort.

I did write a book  during this time and am in the process of publishing which feels great and is very exciting, but doesn’t have the promise of putting food on my table. In my book I speak about the important role that happiness plays in life, and sometimes I feel I am being tested. Every day is a challenge and that challenge gets harder as the time passes.

The questions that run on the tinker tape in my mind are the obvious ones: When will I find employment? What is going to happen to me? Will I lose my home? Where is the money going? How am I going to survive? All these questions are a constant stream and can take over my life with worry if I allow them to take hold. I must say, to combat these thoughts daily is a tough job, but I have to fight these negative seeds  for my own peace of mind. I learned a long time ago that worry is a misuse of my imagination, so therefore, I do my best to stay upbeat and happy. Focus on the positive.

How? To start off I do the “Ten minutes to a happier you” exercise that is on this website for those who registered. This exercise may seem too simple and foolish, just to smile, breathe, and wave your arms around, but let me tell you, doing all those actions at once does quiet my mind. Then I close my eyes and find the silence inside; Peace. Within the peace, I know all will be well.  Some days are easier than others but I know ultimately that the choice is mine; To go down the negative spiral into a hopeless feeling or be happy in the moment and make the best of the day at hand.

Gratitude is always a booster to getting the upper hand in this battle. In the state of gratitude, the negative seeds have no where to settle. Today, I am grateful to have a roof over my head, food on the table, and above all, my good health. Then I take action and make a few calls about employment, I tell myself that good news is only a phone call away. I sit and imagine how great I will feel when I get the good news.

A few months back a job crossed my path that I was certain had my name attached. I interviewed several times and when the position was down to myself and one other candidate I was sure this was the job for me. The location was very close to home, it was a job I knew, a perfect fit in every way. Three weeks went by before the final cut was made; I was cut. What? How can this be?

An hour after I received this news I went to check my emails. I get a daily “Notes from the Universe” from Mike Dooley. This is the message I received:

It’s true, Terri, sometimes when you’ve had a difficult day, or met
difficult people, been let down, disappointed, or heartbroken, it’s easy to
completely forget the most important thing of all… you’re alive.

Without even trying.

Who loves ya?
The Universe

How timely is this message? When I read this message my heart filled with gratitude. Remembering my life back in 1985 when I prayed for death to take me. I could not face the next ten years of pain that my future held, and I wanted to die.  The answer to that prayer was, “No,” and I walked through that pain with God’s help. My mind floods with all the happy and joyful memories I would have missed had my life ended in 1985, which I fully expected. When I think back to those sad, dark days everything else seems easy.

So today I am grateful to be alive. There will be disappointments as well as joys ahead, and my job is to keep a positive frame of mind, do all I can, and think of all the wonderful possibilities that are available for me. I know there are many people facing troubled, trying times as I am, and my wish is that you may find a spark of hope to light your path.

What we look for in life affects what we see. If you look for doom and gloom, you will see  it waiting for you. If you look for all the good around you, you will see the good. Try to imagine all the good possibilities that could be ahead. If nothing else these thoughts help you to feel better and when you feel good there is a much greater chance of good things coming to you. Keep a positive focus.

Today, I look for things to be grateful for. The sun is shining, I am alive and well. A day spent in happiness is never wasted. Whatever your situation, whatever weighs on your heart, I hope you find enough gratitude to lift your spirit. Remember that when the heart and mind are in conflict, the heart wins. The answer to the question: Can happiness live in troubled times? Yes, when you make the choice to be happy.

Can one really imagine happiness into being? Imagination is the most powerful, creative tool we have. How well do you use yours? One of my favorite sayings is that worry is a misuse of your imagination, but what is the best way to use the power of imagination?

Imagine how you will feel at you highest level of being. Imagine what living as your higher self looks like, feels like. Imagine at the start of your day what the best possible outcome for this day could be, then act as if you have already achieved that outcome as you go through your day. To approach each day that way helps keep a good feeling inside and also helps reduce stress.

Imagination is so much fun when not wasted on worrying. Just to think of the many positive possibilities of how things may go right, feels so much better than thinking of all the negatives, but for some reason most of us focus on the negatives, and worry.

Think about a goal you’d like to achieve, then imagine how you will feel after you accomplish that goal. Now there is a good feeling, and a great way to use your imaginative power for something good. You do not need to know how to achieve your goal, only what you will feel like once you have done so.

So take a little break each day and use your imagination for a little mental vacation. Just because we grow up does not mean we have to stop imagining. Imagine whatever it is that makes you feel good. Imagine happiness.

Are you happy? You can read a thousand books, go to seminars, watch DVD’s, and listen to CD’s but the real question is: What are you willing to do? Change is not at all hard. Change is a constant in life, however, change is the one thing most of us resist the most. Why? Because we love the way things are? I think not.

The truth is, it is just as easy to do the things that will improve your life as it is not to do them. So why is it then that it takes us so long to figure that out? We all have what it takes to be whatever it is we desire, and putting your happiness first will get you to that desire faster.

When you tune into the power within you, the power of the Universe is yours. You can be or have whatever your heart desires if you believe and tune into your own power. To decide to be happy now, no matter what the circumstances, will bring you to your goal faster. What do you do daily to raise your happiness level? The power to control your own happiness is in your hands. So, decide to be happy now!

All happiness to you!

According to RealAge doctors, Dr. Roizen and Dr. Oz, training your brain to be happier has a huge payoff. You will be better able to cope with stress or pain and to fight colds, flu, heart disease, and even cancer. Plus you’ll be happier!

Here are  the 7 ways to train your brain to be happier, according to the YOU docs:

1) Talk nice to yourself

2) Connect with others

3) Keep a gratitude journal

4) Don’t sit around…physical activity is a real booster

5) Meditate

6) Help others

7) Go outside and spend time with Mother Nature

These are all simple steps with a large impact. I can say I do all these things on a regular basis and they really do work. Only you have the power to control your own happiness level…a smile helps too!

See the entire article here:http://www.realage.com/health-tips/happiness-boosts-heart-health?eid=1010648

Why does happiness have to wait? With all the busy schedules of today’s society it is easy to let happiness slip to a back burner. There is so much to do. The kids have to come first…or is it the job, school? Whatever it is you are putting before your own happiness, STOP!

A happy mom or dad is a better parent. Science proves that happy employees are better at everything, and a happy student will do better with less stress and effort. So, the question remains, why wait?

Now I am not suggesting you discard all responsibilities and go play all day. The children need to be taken care of as well as whatever job you need to do. What I am saying is that you need to plan the time necessary to feed your own body, mind, and soul. That is how true happiness is attained. And there are times when it is impossible. A new born in a household disrupts the sleep pattern, no doubt, and other things at times get in our way. But in the normal course of living putting happiness first will enhance everything.

Just the change of a few habits to reduce the stress in your life will help. Once a few small steps are taken it opens the door for more. When you get into the habit of happiness first, feelings rise to create a snowball effect, and happiness gets easier to maintain. All it takes on your part is the decision to put happiness first.

We all know what it takes. Just fill in the blank…I should________.  Then commit yourself to do it. If you really don’t know the answer try this exercise. Breathe deep for a few long breaths, close your eyes and relax. Once relaxed, keep deep breathing while asking yourself the question on the inhale,”I should____?”  then let the answer  flow  through your thoughts on the exhale. If you did not get an answer, try a few more times…the answer will come.

Making your own happiness wait is the same as making your body starve, over time the spirit will weaken in everything you do, deflate you in a sense. So it only makes sense to make the time for your happiness, and be the best you can be. Happiness builds the immune system plus reduces the effect of stress on the body. Happiness shields you in a sense. Your own happiness cannot wait!

Follow your heart and grab your happiness… you were born to be happy.

I finally received a replacement for my computer, after many frustrating months of dis-function; A lemon, so to say. I must give kudos to The GeekSquad manager, Jeff Rodgers, at the BestBuy store in Wilmington DE for the excellent customer service.  Jeff  is fantastic in dealing with customer problems. I appreciate all he has done over the past months to ease my pain of dealing with a brand new computer that did not function properly. Jeff did everything in his power to minimize my down time, and that means a lot to me. Thanks Jeff.

The Geek Squad offers a new plan called Tech Support. I must say this is a big help to people like me. I can call the Geek Squad Tech Support any time 24/7. This service provides around-the-clock troubleshooting and diagnostics to virus removal  to installing software and memory. I’ve already had the opportunity to use this service a few times, and I now have the confidence of the Geek Squad team behind me. This service takes the stress out of any computer issues I may run in to. I love it!

So I give my appreciation to Jeff Rodgers and the Geek Squad team for all their great service.

My happiness level is over the top this week. On Monday, I sent out a book proposal for the very first time. This accomplishment feels so good. I sent the proposal in for a writer’s contest. No matter if I win or not, I am proud to have come this far in a few short months. Of course I’d be thrilled to win, who wouldn’t? But my goal to be a writer is not going to end should I not win.

My goal to be a writer is set in the Divine navigation system and I will keep following the directions until I arrive. Just to finish the book proposal on time, create a website, and start a blog since February amazes me. There have been a few obstacles over these past months, that at first, seemed too big for me to overcome. Each time I encountered one of these obstacles I sent up a little prayer, and the answers came. It is magical what can be accomplished with faith.

The one piece I have not accomplished yet is a large enough following. This one piece almost held me back from entering the contest. In the final week I decided that I had nothing to lose, and I am so grateful I moved forward because it gives me the feeling that I’ve already won, just to have completed the proposal. I am a writer!

Wishing happiness and success to all writers in the Hay House contest. Good luck to all!

Happy 40th Jen!

It was another ladies adventure. This time our travels take us to the Atlantic City Casino for some fun in the sun and evening entertainment, to celebrate our friend Jen’s 40th birthday. These are friends I met through my daughter-in-law Theresa. This group of ladies are Theresa’s extended family and friends, who have become my friends over the years with cruises, picnics, and many parties to celebrate all of life’s events. This year something new is added to our fun as Theresa introduces and becomes the keeper of the birthday hat, which will pass to each of us for some birthday fun, photos, and laughs. 

The birthday hat

There were six of us in all; Theresa, her sister-in-law Eileen, Eileen’s neighbor Joanne, the birthday girl and family friend Jen, Jen’s friend Karen, and of course little ‘ole me. All of us get together regularly for a girl’s night out where we catch up on each other’s lives over dinner and drinks.

Jen and Karen relaxing at the pool

Our day at the beach was not without upset. While sun bathing, a wave came fast with the rising tide and wiped out a few of our bathing blankets. Theresa had a beach bag on her blanket, and her new phone was wiped out with the wave. This put a damper on our beach time so we decided to go to the pool.     

After the pool we go to our rooms for a quick clean up. I share a room with Eileen and Joann. Joann was the first to transform into her beautiful self, then Eileen and I

Jen(Center) from left, Joann, Terri (me), Therresa, Eileen, and Karen.

Jen's birthday dinner

follow her lead. We meet the others who look fabulous as well, and it is off to dinner we go. It was a fun filled night with lots of laughter, good food, and lots of chit-chat. Then off to the casino floor we go. With no luck at the games, we all turn in.

  

 As the night turns into day, the three who shared my room begin the morning chatter. Not to mention names, one of us snores, the other talks in her sleep, while the other person pounds the pillow to let out her frustration. We are a comical group to say the least. We laugh as we tell the others our night-time tale on the way down to breakfast.

These are a few of the people that bless my life, and fill my heart with gratitude for all the happy memories that have been shared over the years. I look forward to many more fun adventures with this group. Many more returns…to be continued.

There is a funny story about the YouTube video on this site. The video came about as part of a contest that I may or may not enter. The contest rules for the video were: 1. Needs to be five minutes long 2. Must get message stated in the first thirty seconds 3. Must tell a story 4. Claim yourself to be an expert  5. Give the audience a challenge. It is the first obstacle that has given the thought, maybe I should choose another path.

So for weeks I work on choosing the words and get the timing right. My friend who shot the video suggests I use my small camera and practice making the video myself. After about ten trial runs on my camera, I am  horrified with the result, and I am ready to quit. Then I take a few days off to collect myself  and get right back in the game. I tell myself, “I can do this”. So practice, practice, practice, and more practice it is. Finally, I feel ready.

Production day arrives and I have everything set up for my friend, the videographer. Furniture is moved, the flowers are set, hair and make-up done…ready. My friend takes one look through her camera lens and said, “No. The lighting is not good here.” She searches the house and finds the perfect spot. After we move the props to the new location, the shoot is ready to begin.

My friend gets some still shots to make sure the setting and lighting are right. She takes some pictures off the wall, moves the flowers around, adjusts the camera lens, and we are ready. The camera light goes on and she gives me a nod. As I begin speaking, maybe fifteen to twenty seconds in, she stops the camera and tells me,I am speaking too fast. She advices me to speak slowly and not to use many arm gestures or I may appear frantic.

Now I begin to panic. All the words that I practiced so diligently would not all fit if I slow down, the timing was perfect the way I had it. Now what? What do I cut? How can this be happening? It is difficult for me to breathe but with my friends professional coaching, I make it through. It was a difficult few hours for both of us and I am so relieved when we finish. My friend who worked the camera did not show it, but she was glad to be done with this task also. The end result was so much better than I could have imagined, and my friend made me look fantastic.

The story does not end there. The video is then placed on YouTube. As people I know view it, I ask for feedback. My niece views the video, makes a scrunchy face, and proceeds to tell me that, “It gets better towards the end.” Well that is not really good because the first thirty seconds are the most important. Then someone else views it and says, “Terri, I worked with you and your energy is not coming across. You need to do it over.” With that thought I panic. No way can I do it again. “You don’t understand how good this video really is, it had the potential of being so much worse.” I reply. She repeated, “Do it again.”

On the phone with my friend, I explain that maybe we should do the video again. With dead silence on the line I can feel her pain. It was anguish for both of us the day we did the video. But we shoot the video again. The second time the lighting is not as good as the first shoot, and I wear a different outfit. The energy comes across much better but I looked ‘normal.’ Had I not seen how good I looked in the first video it would have been a ‘take’, but we need to do it again.

So the third time is the charm. Wearing the first outfit at my friend’s suggestion, all went well. Then my friend tells me to put on the other outfit and we’ll do it again. Knowing that the last ‘take’ was good, I must have totally relaxed and let go because the fourth video is what you see on the website and out shines the others by far.

Thanks to my friend for her patience!  My happy thought to share with you is the thought that carried me through this obstacle: You can do it. 

In trying times what can be done to maintain a positive outlook? For me, seeing people I care about hurt or have big challenges to overcome, is difficult. As a parent I want to fix whatever my children’s problem may be and spare them their pain. As a friend I wish to help my friends anyway I can, and sometimes there is nothing I can do but pray.

When someone I love is mourning the loss of a loved one, the pain is real, and as much as I’d like to wave my magic wand and remove their pain, it doesn’t work like that. How about when a friend is sick and there is nothing I can do? Or seeing someone I care about go through a difficult time?

We all have to face our own pain. There is no way around pain if we care to live a full life.  Acceptance sounds so easy and yet is very difficult to do in the midst of pain. But it is the resistence to the pain that causes our suffering. But again, much easier said than done.

For me, I do the best I can to express my support for those I love and care about who are in pain. Then I do the best job I can at maintaining my own good feelings because I know the truth is: When you feel good, you feel God. Words Dr. Wayne Dyer speaks of all the time. Dr. Dyer is one of my favorite inspirational authors. Feeling bad does not help the other person and for sure it does not help me.

Sending my love out to all and I’d love to hear your thoughts.

As promised earlier the “Girl’s Weekend” review once I received my computer back. After two new hard drives and a mother board replacement, my three month old computer is just like new! So glad I didn’t let my frustration interfere with our fun.

To the right is our weekend host Barrie, the hostess with the best smile in town! She has a resort home in Longport, New Jersey that she was kind enough to offer for our escape from reality. In years past we used to go for week long jaunts to Mexico but lately it has been hard to get everyone together.

I feel the luckiest of all because I am an extented friend of sorts. My friend Lyn and I have been friends since first grade and this group is her family and friends. Over the years they have become my friends due to Lyn’s connection to these fabulous women and I was blessed enough to tag along. Barrie is Lyn’s niece.

Marilyn used to be Barrie’s neighbor years ago, and Carolyn is her life long friend. Betsy’s daughter is married to Barrie’s brother and there is the connection. I’ve only been hanging with these ladies since 2005 but always look forward to an opportunity to hang with them.

Barrie, other Carolyn, Marilyn, Me, Lyn, Betsy, Carolyn

The photo here was our big night out to dinner at the newest restaurant in town. Barrie’s current neighbor joined us for dinner (the other Carolyn). It was a night to remember for many reasons and I will leave it at that.

The time went by much too fast for me. It was great to jump-start the summer with the morning walks on the boardwalk, I walked, most of this gang are marathon runners, so they ran. After we burned all those calories it was off to the bagel store to pile them right back on! We managed to eat lots of food, drink plenty of cocktails, shop, talk, and watch movies that made some of us cry. What else is girl time about?

My friend Lyn went back to her home in Colorado. Don’t get to see her as much as I’d like these past five years so I cherish the time spent with her last month. Four wonderful days. Thanks Barrie! Hope to see you all again soon.



There is a poem I have that came from a notepad my mother used to keep by the phone for messages. Each page had an Irish saying or poem on it. This is one I cut out and have kept for many years. It is a bit yellowed but I still keep it taped to my refridgerator for the message is a good one.

  REMEMBER

Today I’d like to remember all the men and women who have protected us by serving our country and blessed us with the fabulous life we have here in the USA. Thank you and may God bless you and your families.

Yesterday, after my Saturday morning boot camp workout, which was great thanks to Matt Sgro who volunteers his time for charity, ( See BCWAP post ), I went with my friend Michelle to a local spa. Entering the spa we were greeted by two young women in their early twenties, I’m guessing. The very first thing I noticed was how very sharp looking the young woman who approached us first  was. She was tall and slender with a very feminine look. Her brunette curls were short with a modern flair that framed her face. Stunning look I thought to myself.

The other young woman reminded me of a young Alicia Silverstone, very cute and she appeared to be learning the ropes. Both were very pleasant and attractive young women. The brunette walked my friend back for her service and I went to sit in the waiting area to read. As I watched them walk past me, I noticed the brunette walking down the hall. With her fitted pants and the apron that accented her waste, it was easy to see her slender build had fantastic curves.

When the brunette attendant returned to the front counter the two young ladies were chatting. The conversation of bathing suits came up. It is a diificult task for most women I know to shop for swimsuits, but what these two women said astonished me. The brunette told the blonde that she hated going to the beach because she has been teased in the past that she looks like a boy. She is pointing to her chest as she makes that statement and then she adds that her hair doesn’t help.

The young blonde responds to her with, “You have to be kidding me! You have such great curves! If only I had your curves! My hips are too big and my thighs are really flabby, I dread trying on bathing suits.”  Hearing this conversation made me ask the question, “Why are we not as kind to ourselves as we are to others?”

What will it take for our young women to see the positive in themselves and build on their strengths, instead of tearing themelves apart? Is it a sickness or an obsession with looks? What can be done to change it?  As I walked out of the spa all these questions were spinning in my mind, and I asked myself what can I do? The answer always comes to me to be the change you want to see in the world.

Today in chuch I heard the words that I hear every week. At the end of the Catholic Mass before the final blessing, the same prayer of request is made to God. “Please, look NOT at our sins but on the faith of Your church,” and that reminded me of those two young women and their conversation about the faults they saw in their own bodies.

Look for the positive and you will see it! It took me many years but in 2007 I made the commitment to have positive self-talk. No more anything but I am whole, perfect, and complete. It took me until I was fifty-something to learn to be positive with my inner dialogue and it is my hope that the young women today can get to that place of acceptance much sooner than that!

Jesus taught us to love our neighbor as our self and the thought occurred to me that maybe that is the problem with the world today…many do not love themselves and in turn cannot love each other. My hope and prayer for all in the world is love. When you are full of love for yourself it comes through in all you do.

Just as Lady Gaga sings…she was born this way…so were you! Perfect in every way. So live your life as you and you can’t go wrong! Be kind to you, you deserve it!

The fact is: everything is constant change, and the question is: are you changing for the better or worse? Sounds a little like a marriage vow, doesn’t it? In truth, we are married to our body until death. My plan is to keep changing for the better, and with the help of the team at Peak Potential Wellness Center in Malvern, Pa. it appears I am doing just that. Thanks, Peak Potential! 

Dr. Brian Capaldi and his team work together to provide the best care possible for all who enter the center. To maximize your benefits visit a wellness center before you are in pain, however if you do have back or muscle pain, Peak Potential Wellness Center is the team to trust if you are as fortunate as I am to live close enough to visit. They are knowledgeable, trained and professional in every way.

Chiropractic check-ups have been part of my routine since my teenage years, and Dr. Capaldi is the best I’ve found. He listens and responds to all my concerns as if I were his main concern.  

A healthy visit takes no time at all and keeps my body tuned. When my spine is aligned properly my whole body functions better and in turn, I feel better.  There is one thing I know for sure and  that is …when you feel good…good things happen!

Many people have said to me when I suggest chiropractic tune-ups that it requires too many visits. Is that what you think? Not if you go before you are hurt!! Once you are injured it may require more visits, especially if your spine wasn’t in proper alignment to start. Being pro-active is key.

Before a long automobile trip most people get an allignment of the tires, check fluids and tire pressure so not to have trouble along the way. This is your body and hopefully your life is a long road trip…get your allignment to avoid trouble up ahead! 

The minute you walk into the Peak Potential Wellness Center you know you are in good hands. Always a warm welcome from Lynne Scartozzi or Tricia DeSantis, and on certain days, if you are lucky, you may be greeted by both. These two women make visitors feel like family. The decor is artistically fresh with a beautiful waiting area and plenty of current magazines to suit whatever your interests…not that you will be waiting long.

At  Peak Potential Wellness Center, Jeff Myers CMT, is the massage therapist. He has helped me tremendously to get the kinks out my body from years of wear. If it is a relaxation massage you desire, Jeff can do that perfectly, but if you are brave enough to allow him to dig deep into your muscle and tissue, you may just be as happily surprised as I am now to be feeling younger every day!  Yes, that’s right…younger!

Chiropractic adjustments and massage therapy are two of the many things I do regularly to maintain my ’peak happiness’ state. The Peak Potential Wellness Center’s team are definitely at the top in their field . If you live in the Malvern, Pennsylvania area, stop in to see for yourself.

Peak Potential also staffs a nutritionist, offers physical therapy, physical training and much more. Check out their website here:http://www.peakpotentialcenter.com/

Remember, the marriage to your body is for better or worse… and happiness is your choice!

Boot Camp With A Purpose: Exton, Pa.

Elite Personal Training was the first official site to host this international charity event. Boot Camp With A Purpose is an international charity that encourages all fitness professionals to work together and raise money for charity by doing what you love best.

With over 70 locations including Australia, Canada and the United States they are making a difference one push up at a time!

For more information or to find a BCWAP in your area visit www.bcwap.org or www.trainatelite.com .

Personally, I’ve been to BCWAP in Exton, PA, and Matt Sgro gives a very professional training session. Join him if you dare! Matt also offers a free personal session to get you started if you are a beginner…just say, “Yes, I can!”

A fit body helps makes a happier you! All happiness to you!