Self hypnosis is usually thought of as a person listening to an audio tape, mp3, or other mass-produced media, intended to induce a willingness to absorb suggestions centered around a specific topic such as weight loss, stop smoking, etc. Unfortunately, this kind of hypnosis is generally prepared by someone who has never met the person being hypnotized, often presenting unwanted, even unpleasant imagery and suggestions. For example, if you sunburn easily, that last thing you want to hear about is a slow walk on a sunny beach. In this case, the “self” in self hypnosis simply means that you listen to it by yourself!
A true self hypnosis would necessarily be designed and created by the very person who will ultimately use and benefit from it. Unlike the mass-produced hypnosis, this hypnosis is made for the exact purpose the person wishes, including the precise words and phrases that mean the most to that particular person. The true self hypnosis is thus crafted by the person to suit his or her own needs. The benefits derived could only be accomplished with such a personal, one-of-a-kind hypnosis. In this case, the “self” in self hypnosis really does mean that you are hypnotized by yourself!
Custom Hypnosis Scripts
The form of hypnosis in this discussion entails the use of the spoken word. There are other forms - drug induced, fixation of sensory attention, etc. But for our purpose, let us confine ourselves to the spoken word, which is by far the most popular of modern methods. The hypnosis, therefore, requires the composition of what will be recited to the person, otherwise known as a script. It has been shown in the literature that the choice of words included in the hypnosis script can have a profound effect on its success in conveying the beneficial ideas to the user. Even if it is written using widely accepted grammar, and just the right jargon to reflect society’s opinions on the topic of the hypnosis, this does not guarantee that those words will have any powerful meaning for the person being hypnotized. It must be meaningful to the user, even if to no one else. A fabricated nonsense word fitting no frame of reference to the rest of the world, may be just the thing for the person who made up the word and knows just what it means. This is one of the great advantages of the custom hypnosis script. Particular people, familiar objects, events, routines, etc. peculiar to the person (and possibly no one else) are probably the most effective words to use. Always keep in mind that the aim of the script is to create a supremely meaningful experience for the person from start to finish. Therefore, all elements of the script should be to the taste, vocabulary, and possess a complete resonance with the beliefs of the individual using the hypnosis. As in the sunburn example above, if the imagery is objectionable to the person, it will probably be at that point in the script that the person “turns off” to t hypnosis experience. Likewise, if an objectionable behvioral idea is presented, that idea will either not be acted upon, or may even have some unwanted collateral effect, worsening the sitiuation. However, if the person to be hypnotized can truly say something like, “I wish I could think about this topic using the ideas contained in this hypnosis script.”, we would have every reason to anticipate success. Though there is such a thing as “brainwashing”, forcing the commission of behaviors and accepting concepts against the will of the person, it is not self hypnosis. In self hypnosis, the user must want to be hypnotized, and must want the ideas presented in the hypnosis, as well.
Having extolled the virtues of custom wording in hypnosis, we may now move on to the common elements found in many hypnosis scripts, regardless of wording. They may be termed in this way: stillness of the physical body; the imagination gateway; suggestion ideation; return to ordinary consciousness.
The Hypnosis Script Elements:
Stillness of the Physical Body
Since hypnotic induction depends on the mind concentrating on an “inner reality”, stimulation to the physical body should be at a minimum. Many scripts begin with instructions to relax the various muscles, moving from one group to another. This is called progressive relaxation. However you want to accomplish this “stillness” is your option. The body function of breathing is, of course, one movement that can’t be stopped and so it may be used as part of the relaxation, with instructions for slow and rhythmic breathing. Truly, the simple act of giving one’s self permission to be still and quiet may suffice, and prove quite enjoyable to those who lead generally hectic lives.
The Imagination Gateway
This next portion of the hypnosis script is essential, as it provides the entry point into one’s inner reality. When the person is engrossed in the imagination and dissociated from the surroundings, the person becomes more suggestible. This is the goal of hypnotic induction, to raise the level of suggestibility. Imagination is not limited to the laws of the physical universe. You may imagine any place, anywhere. Usually, though not necessarily, it is a place where you will feel comfortable and want to return to often. As you construct your scenario, be sure to include all of the five senses, plus movement (or the lack of it). Mention them in the context of the place you are creating and as you touch upon them all, you will find that you have created a rather complete experience. Remember, this need not be the relaxing lakeside or stroll on the beach that one might expect, unless you want it to be. It all depends on your own free flowing imagination. This is the ultimate in freedom!
Suggestion Ideation
Once you are thoroughly surrounded by your imagined place, it is time to give yourself the ideas you want/need. Though the whole thing takes place within your own mind, we can still call these ideas suggestions because you will hear them spoken to you, even if they are of your own invention. There has been much written about how to word a suggestion - keep it positive and direct, etc. In this case, all it has to be is meaningful to you. It doesn’t matter if you use negativity, double negatives, or negative numbers, so long as it makes good sense to you. Suggestions may be thought of as falling into one of two categories: philosophical and behavioral. The philosophical variety would consist of those ideas that form the reasoning behind something that we do or feel, the why. For example, a stop smoking hypnosis may delve into the rationale for quitting - my family is important to me and needs me to be healthy; It is better to live a long life than a short one, etc. The behvioral suggestions would give direct instruction regarding what to feel, or what to do. To continue the smoking example - cigarettes taste like burning garbage and are abhorrent to me.
It may seem unecessary, even artificial to categorize ideas in this way. If it seems so to you, then it is unecessary. In truth, it is best to write any suggestion that you desire.
There is one more type of suggestion worth mentioning. On occasion, it may be useful to trigger some sort of behavior or emotion at the mention of a particular word, or the sight of a particular person, thing, or even imagining a particular symbol.. For example, to combat anxiety, the suggestion might be, “when I say the word ‘playful’ to myself I will instantly regain my composure and will calmly face the challenges before me.” Picturing a symbolic object or person may also be very effective for this purpose. Symbols in themselves have a powerfully hypnotic connection to non-conscious thinking. For more about the non-conscious, please see the article, “What’s Hard to Find, but Always With You?” at http://www.hypnosoft.com.
Closing Your Hypnosis Script
After making the suggestions, it is time to wind down the hypnosis and return to ordinary thinking. You may want to extend the pleasure of relaxation, giving yourself some time to rest. If the hypnosis is to be used just before sleep, you may wish to give yourself instructions on how you want to fall asleep and what time you want to awaken. For other types of hypnosis, you will want to give the instruction to awaken. Many scripts use backward counting to give the mind a chance to prepare for the return. For example, “you will hear counting, moving backward from three to one. When you reach one, you will awaken and return to your ordinary thinking. Three…two…one. You are awake.”
Recording Your Hypnosis Script
When your script is complete, you will want to record it on a cassette tape, computer file, or other medium. Some people like to have music playing in the backgound. Many do not, finding it a distraction. Also, some people like to look at something hypnotic while listening to their hypnosis. Such pictures are available at http://www.geocities.com/hypnosis_self_hypnosis.
About the Author
The work of Richard A. Blumenthal, MS, NCC has been published in such esteemed journals as Medical Hypnoanalysis, The International Journal of Psychosomatics, The Journal of Human Behavior and Learning, and The British Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis. Mr. Blumenthal is the originator of Rational Suggestion Therapy, and the inventor of HypnoSoft Self Hypnosis Software, located at http://www.hypnosoft.com, for which he was awarded a United States patent.
rbtw@optonline.net
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480 words
“10 Tips to a Happy Relationship!”
It’s not working. Your relationship with your partner
is not the same. What can you do?
These days more than 50% of all marriages fail for some
reason. Usually the marriages are because of too much
criticism over money or the children.
Often when people break off their relationship, something
is missing. The “spark” has gone out of the
partnership/commitment.
People who have been married a long time made a decision
to love their partner and work at their commitment.
Perhaps these 10 tips will help you spruce up and lighten
up your relationship.
1. Lighten up! Yes, don’t get so serious all the time and
break the tension. Poke fun at yourself and your partner.
2. No Arguments. You two may be different in your opinions
in areas like politics and religion, avoid those topics.
Talk about things you enjoy and have in common.
3. Time For Each Other. Set up specific times when you can
get together. It doesn’t matter what you do; shopping,
errands, movie, events. Put it on your calendar and make
sure you keep the appointment.
4. Start Over. Remember when you first met? What sparked
the relationship? Were you doing new and exciting things
together? Well, do it again.
5. Forgive Each Other. Before you forgive your partner,
forgive yourself. Everyone makes mistakes and everyone
deserves another chance. Get over it and get on with your
lives.
6. Touch. Your body loves to be touched. Do it for your
partner; play with their hair, rub their hand, a soft kiss,
a pat on the leg, back rubs, foot rubs. But do it in an
affectionate way, not sexual.
7. Some space. Being together all the time may be cramping
you and your partner’s style. Spend some time apart. Let
him go hunting/fishing, while you go to the library or a
concert.
8. Predictable. Same ole, same ole. Day after day. Bored?
A creative a habit? Or you get into a habit/schedule, break
it! Do something on the spur of the moment. Surprise your
partner and do it together.
9. Secret Getaway. Plan a trip or a place, where the two
of you can be alone. Take your time and enjoy each other.
Take it slow and make it romantic.
10. Communicate. A lot of times when relationships are having
problems, the talk stops. Here is where you need to learn to
listen to each other. Each of you should be able to just talk
about anything and everything. Don’t make any judgments.
Listen. Let down your guard, no yelling or arguing. Just
talk to each other.
Hopefully these tips will get you on your way to improving your
relationships.
Kathy Thompson is a writer, speaker, coach, who can help you
succeed in business and life with products, programs, and profiles.
Her “Links for Lovers” can help you improve your relationships
now. http://www.faceuptoit-youcan.com/11links.html
Contact Kathy at; coaching4u@faceuptoit-youcan.com
About the Author
With a B. S. in
Business Communications Kathy Thompsonnd has taught her programs around the country.
She writes and speaks about Health, Personal
Communications.
Kathy’s goal is to help you be all you can
be and reach your potential.
There are a few points about shyness in children which will help you better understand the best approach in dealing with your child. You will need to identify the nature of your child’s shyness. Children are shy in different ways for different reasons. Understanding the nature of your child’s shyness will help you develop a program geared towards your child’s specific needs. Here are some tips to help you get started.
1. First of all, are you sure your child really is shy? Some children like to size up a situation before they jump in. Caution should not be misunderstood as shyness.
2. You’ll need to find out the type of situations that make your child shy. Some children are shy only when they are in a group. Others become shy when asked to make a presentation in front of the class at school. Try to identify the specific skills your child needs to be more at ease in social situations which make them to be shy.
3. Don’t call your child “shy”. Studies have shown that often a child will grow to fit a label. Parental pressure on the shy child can cause anxiety and insecurity, leading to a worse problem with shyness. Don’t push your child to achieve above his or her individual level. If you have to use the word ’shy’ to describe your child always pair it with something positive, e.g. “John is a little shy around people but he is a brilliant pianist!”
4. Never compare your shy child with other children in a negative way. And never allow anyone else to hurt your child in this way.
5. Take your child’s ideas seriously. By lessening the importance of a child’s concerns you lessen the child.
6. Help your child identify talents and hobbies that make him or her feel special.
7. Seek out activities that offer an opportunity for growth and increased interaction with other children of his or her age. Encourage your child to get involved in activities with others. Don’t allow too many isolating activities, like watching TV.
8. Never push your child to do things he or she would find unbearable. Rather, make suggestions, but realize your child may not be ready. Be patient.
9. You need not handle your shy child with kid gloves, but be aware of how he feels and show that you understand.
10. Seek qualified professional help if necessary.
Being shy doesn’t have to mean that something is wrong with your child. It simply means that your child is uncomfortable in social situations. You can start your search for help by reading books, talking with other parents of shy children, taking classes, searching for information on the web or by speaking with your pastor. But if your child needs immediate help it’s best to consult a qualified child counsellor. You can read some more articles about parenting at:
http://www.baby-shop.org.uk/guide/
Copyright © 2005, Bridget Mwape writes for the
Baby Shop UK:
http://www.baby-shop.org.uk/ which features baby information including articles and discounts on baby products, gifts and advice from other parents. This article may be republished as long as all the above links are active and clickable and this author box (byline) is not edited.
Is it possible for sophisticated travelers to really enjoy themselves in the land of Mickey Mouse? Absolutely! Walt Disney World has undergone a transformation much like that of Las Vegas, with an abundance of fantastic themed resorts and sumptuous dining choices.
Maybe your image of Disney is of lackluster, motel-style accommodations. Not so! All deluxe property choices are unique and offer that special Disney touch. You’ll find them to be adorned with impressive lobbies, painstakingly landscaped grounds, first-rate restaurants, elaborately themed pools, and gracious accommodations. All offer top-notch recreational facilities and services. In fact, each resort is so marvelous it can be difficult to choose which fantasy you wish to indulge.
Let me tell you about my favorites:
• Disney’s flagship resort, The Grand Floridian, with its red-gabled roofs and Victorian elegance, draws inspiration from the grand Florida seaside “palace hotels” of 19th-century America’s Gilded Age. Just a short monorail ride to the Magic Kingdom, it spreads along the shore of the Seven Seas Lagoon with spectacular views of Cinderella’s Castle and the Wishes fireworks display. Aquatic enticements include a crescent white sand beach dotted with brightly striped, canopied lounge chairs, a large sophisticated pool in the central courtyard, a new beachside Florida springs-style pool, and a classy marina sporting a wide assortment of watercraft. A full service health club and spa, tennis courts, five restaurants, two lounges, and sophisticated shopping round out the list of exceptional offerings.
• A navy blue blazer should be in order for a stay at Disney’s Yacht Club where guests find the sophisticated ambience of a posh Eastern seaboard hotel of the 1880s. Fronting Crescent Lake and a sliver of beach that stretches over to the adjoining Beach Club Resort, it’s just a short stroll to Epcot’s International Gateway entrance and only a boat ride away to Disney-MGM Studios. Best of all is the Yacht Club’s 3-acre mini-water park complex, Stormalong Bay, offering sandy bottom pools, a giant “shipwreck” waterslide, a tidal whirlpool, bubbling hot tubs, a kiddie pool with its own slide next to the beach, and enough length to float lazily in inner tubes to your heart’s content.
• The Animal Kingdom Lodge is a stunning celebration of African wildlife, culture, cuisine, and art. Its authentic architecture and 33 acres of grasslands filled with hundreds of roaming, exotic animals is simply a stroke of genius. The six-story, horseshoe-shaped structure is surrounded by a landscape of golden boulders, tall bamboo, yellow flame trees, pampas grass, copperpod trees, and date palms. In it’s imposing, 5-story, thatched roof lobby are massive chandeliers formed by resplendent Masai shields, a large mud fireplace, and handsome safari-chic seating. From common lookouts as well as from 90% of the guestrooms are wonderful views of playful zebra, lanky giraffe, sprite gazelle, huge ankole cattle, herds of wildebeest, flocks of exotic birds, and more, with over 200 animals in all.
• Last but not least is The Wilderness Lodge, Disney’s dramatic depiction of an early 1900s national park resort. I challenge you to keep your jaw from dropping open on your first encounter with its awesome eight-story lobby of ponderosa pine logs, a massive 82-foot tall fireplace, and authentic 55-foot Pacific Northwest totem poles. Outside is a breathtaking scene of sparkling waterfalls, rushing creeks, and towering pines. The sound of crickets is heard beneath the bridges and along the meandering pathways lined with natural grasses, junipers, and wildflowers. And on the shores of Bay Lake is Wilderness Lodge’s very own erupting geyser surrounded by a steaming expanse of geothermal activity.
What about Disney’s dining choices? Once just a hot dog and hamburger haven, Disney’s reputation for dreadful theme park food is now a thing of the past. Think Pan Roasted Striped Bass with Aromatic Rock Shrimp Lemongrass Risotto, 6-Hour Braised Veal Shank with Orzo Pasta and Soy Glaze, or Cornbread Stuffed Quail with Foie Gras and Sauce Maltaise. Just a mere sampling of the incredible meals to be found at many of the over 270 dining spots on Disney property. In a radical culinary transformation Disney hired top-notch chefs to create exciting menus for some of the highest rated restaurants in the country and first-rate sommeliers to fashion outstanding wine lists.
Here are some of Disney’s best restaurants:
• The California Grill on the 15th floor of Disney’s Contemporary Resort offers an unbeatable panorama of the Magic Kingdom and the Seven Seas Lagoon along with picture-perfect views of the Wishes fireworks. From pristinely fresh sushi to exceptional New American Cuisine to sensational desserts and an outstanding California wine list, this place has it all. Don’t be discouraged if all the coveted window seats are taken; an adjoining observation platform offers a bird’s-eye view of the fireworks extravaganza.
• For top-notch and innovative seafood specialties, head to the Flying Fish at Disney’s Boardwalk where entrees such as Potato Wrapped Florida Red Snapper with a Creamy Leek Fondue are the norm. Contemporary and trendy, yet whimsical, this restaurant will absolutely delight the senses with its festive room of flying fish mobiles, sea blue sparkling mosaic floors, and golden fish scale pillars. Named a 2003 Wine Spectator Restaurant Award winner, it boasts an excellent international list. Don’t forget to save room for the unforgettable desserts, in particular the banana napoleon with warm caramel sauce.
• Fine dining in a sophisticated setting combined with virtually flawless service sets Victoria and Albert’s in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort apart. Here in this AAA Five-Diamond awarded restaurant you’re served a sumptuous seven-course meal on white linen set with Royal Doulton china and sparkling crystal. Those seeking a special evening should book the newly-remodeled, 6-person chef’s table found in a candle-lit alcove in the kitchen, a spot perfect for an up-close, behind-the-scenes look at Disney’s top chef in action.
• Epcot’s Bistro de Paris is a charming Belle poque dining room with an air of exclusivity. Filled with gilded mirrors and crimson banquettes, its billowy white drapes frame windows that overlook the World Showcase Lagoon. Servers with delicious French accents roll out sensational dishes prepared with only the freshest ingredients. After dinner enjoy a dessert of crepes prepared and flamed tableside while lingering over cordials and coffee in anticipation of the Illuminations spectacle.
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge’s premier dining room is the seductive Jiko where floor to ceiling windows look out on a boulder-strewn creek. Twin clay ovens draw the eye to the open kitchen where an eclectic blend of creations prepared with African flair are turned out in exotic presentations. Accompany your meal with a selection from the all South African wine list, the largest in North America. And don’t leave without ordering the incredible dark chocolate filled beggar’s purses served with a honey dipping sauce, one of Disney’s best desserts.
So, for those who think that Walt Disney World is just for kids, think again! It’s a world of fantastic resorts and innovative dining just waiting to be explored. You may never even make it to the parks.
Cara Goldsbury is the author of The Luxury Guide to Walt Disney World: How to Get the Most Out of the Best Disney Has to Offer available at 800-247-6553, www.luxurydisneyguide.com, Amazon.com, or your local bookstore.
Visit her at www.luxurydisneyguide.com.
mailto:info@luxurydisneyguide.com
Cara Goldsbury is the author of “The Luxury Guide to Walt Disney World: How to Get the Most Out of the Best Disney Has to Offer”. A former travel agent and agency owner, she has traveled extensively throughout the world.
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10 Things My Preschooler Taught Me
by Deborah Shelton
1. That no matter how many snails are lined up on your arm,
there’s always room for one more.
2. That chocolate ice cream stains on a white rug can be
considered works of art if you squint hard enough.
3. That tissues are a waste of time, especially if you have
a perfectly good shirt sleeve.
4. That ketchup smeared into television speaker holes, once
dried, actually enhances the sound quality of cartoons.
5. That cold pizza is the fifth major food group.
6. That “butt” and “poop” are two of the funniest and most
underrated words in the English language.
7. That when you’re running late in the morning, every
single sock in the house will have mysteriously disappeared.
8. That the only way to truly appreciate a Scooby-Doo movie
is to watch it twice a day, every day, until the tape turns
to black and white.
9. That your friends are your friends until they wipe a
booger on your neck.
10. That when you’re eating watermelon, clothing is
optional.
About the Author
Deborah Shelton is the author of The Five Minute Parent:
Fun & Fast Activities for You and Your Little Ones. Visit
The Five Minute Parent for fun rainy-day activities, family
links, and a free email newsletter filled with craft ideas,
guest articles, contests and so much more!
http://www.fiveminuteparent.com
St. Louis, Missouri … Organizers of the 13th Annual Historic Shaw Art Fair are seeking applications from artists worldwide who want to show and sell their work at the juried art exhibition and popular outdoor event that will be held in St. Louis the weekend of October 1-2, 2005.
Painters, sculptors, printmakers and artists in other media may apply through the website http://www.ShawArtFair.com or by calling 314.773.3935 for information and applications. This year’s deadline for postmarked applications is June 3.
The Historic Shaw Art Fair is ranked among the top 25 art fairs in the nation by art industry publications and artists who attend different fairs. In 2004, more than 120 artists from across the United States exhibited and more than 10,000 people attended, many of whom purchased original works of art. Cash prizes totaling more than $6,000 were given to artists whose work was selected by a panel of judges.
The event is hosted along two blocks of Flora Place, a lovely, tree-lined boulevard between the world-famous Missouri Botanical Garden and Grand Boulevard. Food, entertainment, music and children’s activities also are featured. The event is organized by the not-for-profit Shaw Neighborhood Improvement Association (SNIA), which produces the art fair with help from more than 200 local volunteers.
Mary Samuelson, SNIA president, said, “We expect the 2005 Historic Shaw Art Fair to attract a bigger audience than last year due to new additions and changes that we believe will make the fair an even greater event than in the past. Attendance has increased significantly since the fair’s inception in 1993, as more people are aware of the event’s artistic significance and family-friendly entertainment appeal.”
“The Historic Shaw Art Fair rates highly among artists for its hospitality, beautiful setting, hard-working volunteers and good sales,” said Greg Gobberdiel, one of the organizers. “Last year, artists at the Historic Shaw Art Fair exhibited work in painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry, textiles, printmaking, glass, wood and mixed media.”
The not-for-profit SNIA has served Shaw neighborhood residents since 1958. Each year, SNIA donates a portion of revenues generated by the Historic Shaw Art Fair to schools and non-profit organizations that serve the neighborhood.
More than 7,500 people in 3,700 households live in the Shaw neighborhood, which is bounded by Grand Boulevard on the east, Tower Grove Park on the south, the Missouri Botanical Garden on the west and I-44 on the north. SNIA also promotes historic renovation, new construction and business development from offices at 2211 South 39th Street.
For information about the Historic Shaw Art Fair or to discuss sponsorship opportunities, call 314.773.3935 or visit the website www.shawartfair.com.
Media contact: Jeff Dunlap @ PowerlinePR @ 314.721.5505.
* * *
This new book provides you with the essential dating knowledge you need to empower you to make smarter decisions. It teaches you how to manage the risks and uncertainties in a love relationship. The secrets have less to do with luck. Marriage is all predictable. You do not have to fail in your love relationship again. You can learn all the root causes of marital failure, manage all the root causes of those risks, and maximize the odds of achieving your desired marital life. This user-friendly skill is elaborated in this workbook to enable you to build a rock solid foundation for your love relationship. Included also are the 15 self-help success mindsets you need to make your marriage richer, freer, and more sensational. The best GIFT for both the young and old, who desire to have a great love relationship. Priced at only $18; is available online at http://www.SmartSpouses.com
Visit our website for more useful info.
About the Author
Is a construction risk management specialist who did not foresee the looming issues in his relationship before he married. Using the techniques he learned in his professional life, he set out to study and develop a solution that would help people visualize their marital future, and minimize the influence of guesswork in making this lifetime’s most important decision. He believes that the insights in this book will enable you to create a truly successful love relationship
When the snow melts in the Rockies, that doesn’t mean the fun ends. With warm, idyllic weather and a lush landscape literally bursting with life, a whole new world awaits your discovering the summertime, giving you all the more reason to make the mountain West a favorite destination.
There’s no limit to the activities you can enjoy during the summer in Mountain Resorts. Hike along mountain trails threading through rich green meadows studded with brilliant wild flowers. Feel the rush of whitewater rafting along the River. Discover rugged, untamed territory on a hike. Take in spectacular mountain views from a unique perspective-atop a horse perhaps, or from a hot-air balloon 1,500 feet in the air. If it’s culture you want, a whole season of outdoor concerts, art exhibits, rodeos and festivals means there’s something for everyone, no matter what your taste. What’s more, with the all great discounts to be had for lodging, dining and entertainment, visiting Mountain Resorts in the summer means the whole family can enjoy, even more of this mountain retreat for less than you might think!
So when you start planning your next summer vacation, think about the Mountains in Summer. Covered in white or green, this mountain wonderland will have you returning again and again.
B.J. Baker is an avid outdoor enthusiast who currently resides in The Woodlands, Texas. As a child, BJ accompanied his family on family excursions to Japan, China, South East Asia, Europe and to the Rockies snow skiing. Still traveling the world and instilled with a love for travel and adventure, today BJ is the owner of several travel websites. www.placestosleep.com, www.vacationresorttravel.com, www.advenquest.com, and www.snow-skiing.com.
We’re teaching our kids to be consumers at an early age. Look at the number of superhero and product endorsement Valentines on the store shelves.
We, as parents, are sucked in by the media to believe that we need the latest, greatest gadget or fad for our kids.
Share your love by giving of your time, not your pocketbook. What can you give your kids instead?
Here are 10 simple suggestions:
1. Slip a handmade valentine or a simple note into your child’s lunch box.
2. Take a walk together in the woods or your favorite park.
3. Jot down a line from your favorite poem. Share it with family members.
4. Kiss your kids goodnight.
5. Read a chapter book together.
6. Have family dinnertime together.
7. Turn off the TV. Have a pizza night and rent and watch a movie together.
8. Have a picnic in the park after the soccer game instead of stopping for a fast meal on the way home.
9. Have each family member write down one reason why they appreciate every other family member. Write your reasons on a tag and use ribbon to attach them to a batch of your favorite cookies. Let every family member find his own special cookies.
10. Help your kids write a letter to a family member who lives far away. Write the first few lines of a story and instruct the recipient to write the next, and then return the letter. Your story can continue indefinitely.
This year, instead of store bought Valentines, give the gift of time spent together.
What special Valentine tradition does your family share? Please let us know. Contact us at info@togetherparenting.com
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Rondi Hillstrom Davis and Janell Sewall Oakes are the co-authors of the award-winning book Together: Creating Family Traditions. To check out their website that’s jam packed with family ideas, visit http://togetherparenting.com/. To subscribe to their online newsletter, go to http://togetherparenting.com/.
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Have you ever been to an art museum or exhibition?
I’m blessed to live quite close to some of the best museums in the world. At least a couple of times a year, my wife and I will visit our favorite museums to see new exhibits and cherished pieces of art.
There is a certain joy in great art, I’ve found, and I almost always walk through the museums with a silly grin plastered on my face as I try to take it all in. While I am by no means an art historian, one thing I’ve come to learn is that artwork demands various levels of inspection. You must look at it from many angles, in various lights, in different frames of mind.
There’s something to be gained from examining a noted masterpiece up close, so you can see the brush-strokes or the smooth finger-dimples set in the clay. But you mustn’t stand too close for too long or you lose sight of the whole piece, the “big picture.”
To prevent this, you must step back and take in the entire thing.
Some times you may need to take a few steps back. And maybe even a few to one side. Or maybe you need to walk around it.
You must experiment. Move. Test your perceptions — physical and philosophical — until you come to an understanding of what it is that you are seeing.
Life, like art, is much the same way.
Sometimes what we need is not to examine what we do more carefully, more exactly, but rather the opposite. –Let us step back. See how the pieces fit. How it all mixes together.
We may find that we are much closer to creating our goals than we think.
And we just may learn that a step back is often a step forward.
Jim Allen is a professional life & business coach. For more ideas, subscribe to his free bi-weekly ezine, THE BIG IDEA, by sending a blank email to: SubscribeGA@CoachJim.com
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