How To Deal with Anxiety
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Hello Friends! Welcome to Mini Miracles from Minor Moments. This is your host Linda Gullo. This is Podcast # 62 on Anxiety. Clear thinking during stressful moments is not easy for any of us. Therefore it is an excellent topic for today. I have had a wonderful week that included seeing two different friends, who both come from Wisconsin.
One came into Crystal Lake for a visit to catch up on all the neat things happening in her life. She has a child getting married, celebrated a graduation of another, and is on a break from teaching school. She shared with me the joy of seeing old friends and extended family at a recent shower. Her goal was to be hospitable and enjoy the time with others. It was just that with our visit too. We weren’t rushed and it was just marvelous. She is always high energy, clear thinking, and spontaneous. Her passion for painting with water colors is one of her fun projects. She was good to bring me a picture of my dog several years back. She is also good at taking great photos. Several of them will be appearing in the upcoming blogs I write.
The other friend meets me regularly at a midway point and we spend hours collaborating and discussing the important things happening all around. Our lives are parallel in the ages of our children, our professions, our faith journeys and so our conversations are all over the place. It is always great fun to connect with her in person. Our friendship goes back 25 years ago and it is a blessing to me. I must say that phone calls, texts, and emails also help connect us. We are prayer partners too.
Puzzles are meant to relieve stress and anxiety, but they can be frustrating!
My take away from relaxing with friends, is better than any vacation. A few hours away from the routine schedule is so appreciated. Other than being prepared for the day and remembering to bring the important things I want to give them with me, I look forward to new insights and seeing what I can bring to the table for discussion. I always seem to come away with more than I can possibly give to the conversation.
So consider this a small visit with you and me right now. Here are a few take-a-ways that maybe you can use for yourself.
These past few weeks have been very rough on many families in Illinois. I am aware of the suffering and anxiety that the recent rains have caused people so I want to address some of them today and a few ways we can handle stressful situations. Here is one story to share with you that can help.
Last night our dog Rosy, was beginning to pace and pant. I knew a storm was brewing, because of the rumbling in the distance. I went out to the yard with her. It was a dark ominous sky above and the temperature was hot. The air was stifling and oh so still. She quickly returned to me and I praised her for going outside. We walked in together rather slowly
When we went to watch television, I moved one of her beds to my feet and decided to try a new approach tonight to help her deal with the coming storm. The weather reports began breaking in and I think she sensed the tone of the broadcaster.
Whenever the media breaks in for any reason, we as adults lend an ear and often just those reports send goose bumps and anxiety in to shake us up. I listened and thought of all the people who had so choice, but to buck up and watch the levels of water rise on their property.
But wait, there is nothing we can do to control the weather. We can control our thoughts. This too shall pass. We are okay. Just be safe and deal with the consequences of the rain damage, if there is any, after the event happens. We are in control of our emotions and have lived through many things. In the end, we come through well. We make the calls to clean up, to be responsible, and to move forward.
That is true of weather, illnesses, losses, dealing with immature teenagers, car repairs, or other catastrophes. Not everything that causes anxiety is equal, but at the time it is happening, it is present. So step one is to stay in the moment. Don’t try to remedy something that hasn’t happened. Know that you are able to manage things in the moment.
As Christians, we are given plenty of what we need for the day. Tomorrow we will be given plenty to deal with the concerns of what that day brings. The ONE DAY at a TIME comes into play.
So back to Rosy. In the past she would run into her crate and hide, but last night we changed things. I know that one of the best ways for people to deal with things that cause them anxiety is to talk with another person.
Our thoughts become who we are and so if you are anxious you have to change the dialogue in your own head. Reframe your anxiety into a simple phrase, like “this is really just a passing moment, and I will deal with it.” By morning the sun will be up and the sidewalk can be swept dry. I will have more energy after a good night’s sleep.
I noticed she jumped off the seat she shares with me. I saw her head for the crate we refer to as her home. I called Rosy to come sit by me and she did. I began stroking her and telling her it was not bad that the sound would be going away soon. I found myself calming her and in the process recognized the anxiety the weatherman was producing. I muted the television for part of it. She laid herself down and leaned against my leg. I even opened the weather after the rumbling stopped and appreciated the breeze. I continued to tell her how good it was that she was staying with us and she continued to do so all evening. Finally, we urged her downstairs and outside for her last break for the day. I walked outside in my bare feet as the rain still continued to gently fall and talked to her all the whole time. Then I wiped her wet fur down and took her to the kitchen for a treat.
Even the struggles we encounter may end up bringing us blessings and insight. It was the first time, she had not run into her crate. I understand though that we all want to run and hide. We want to isolate ourselves when things go wrong, or just get away from the pain and confusion when things go wrong. We are all here to help one another. So when things start becoming anxious, call or connect with someone who is calm and reassuring. It will help bring momentary comfort back to you and a feeling of being in control of the present moment.
Be grateful also helps. We can’t be feeling overwhelmed if we are focusing on being gratefuI. I was appreciative of the break in the rumbling thunder last night. I was pleased we had a dry home and a dry towel to use on Rosy. I realized she needed a little TLC; it didn’t hurt her to receive it or me to give it.
I was glad to not have a particularly early morning so we could relax a little more before going to bed. Having walked a lot during the day had helped me stay in balance too. Moving regularly whether in a formal or informal state of exercise keeps us level. I was gently tired, so when I finally went to sleep it was good.
Which takes me to the next simple idea. Engage in something that will keep you mind active. Read if that helps. Last night I began crocheting a smaller project. I had to focus just enough. Rosy knows I do this to relax and I think it helped her too.
I also got up a few times during the storm just to move. I knew she’d follow me. So we went into the laundry room to wrap a few gifts. We put a few things away, and went back to our spot.
When one is anxious, our breathing is out of wack. Like the dog, we start to breathe rapidly or unevenly if we cry. Focus on your thinking and why you are not in control. It may take a few minutes to restructure your thoughts. What are the priorities? Are you in a safe place or do you need to move yourself or family? It may be to a different location, to get help, go to a basement, or call a friend. Call you do something to remedy the situation? Is there an action to take?
I recall flooding in the community I lived in as a child. One of the biggest concerns was the power going out. It was what kept the pumps going.
As a teenager, we were woken by a loud series of crashing sounds and bright lights flashing around our home lighting up everything. We had a yard, where overhead power lines snapped. They were arching and swaying wildly sending out flames.
The worst thing would have been to leave the house. My father had the presence to remind us to stay put. A nearby train had derailed and cows and pigs were roaming the area. It was funny, but the inclination was to run out and help corral the animals to safety. I think the fire department came out as a precaution; the power station had to shut off all the power lines for repair before any of us could go outside. The first priority was safety. Thankfully no homes, animals, or people were injured. Initially even my dad said he thought the end of the world was happening. We did not recognize what was happening. Was there anxiety? Yes you bet. Again thinking things through and prioritizing helped calm everyone.
Having the right mindset, a powerful sense of self confidence and people to support us helps us stay focused and healthy. Name your fears and move them aside. Believe you have the conviction to follow through to Delight in Living.
Anxiety isn’t all bad as long as you keep it in its place. Anxiety may be a warning. Maybe it is to see a doctor about a physical problem. Or to call about some broken pipe, or odd gas smell. Maybe you are out of doors during a storm and it tells you to run inside. Just think clearly my friends!
Until next week, stay true to yourself. Thank you for listening and for the kind feedback I have received. Know you can reach me at [email protected] or call our number 815-459-5161. These podcasts are to inspire and help you. They are done for fun and as a service. Please spread the word and have people subscribe to Mini Miracles from Minor Moments on their phones or by listening through our website www.lindagullo.com
Drop me a line to sign up for counseling care or coaching help. Recognize the good people around you, the small joys that carry you forward, and the laughable moments. Look for those Mini Miracles from Minor Moments that are all around you waiting to be recognized.
Bye for now and remember, “Just one single step may put you on the escalator of success!”
The above dialogue is not exact. Please listen to the podcast. Enjoy it!
Are You Enjoying Books?
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Intro: This is Mini Miracles from Minor Moments with Linda Gullo and I welcome you to Podcast #61 on Topic of Reading Books
As a child living in Brookfield, Illinois, our family lived close to the Public Library. I began walking there early on, and that is where my love of books began. I had a special shopping bag my mother had made for me to carry the books in and at home it hung on the doorknob of my bedroom. Ironically, I still have that bag and feel attached to it! I would be there daily; checking out all kinds of books that looked exciting. Some were picture books and others written with words. The best part was all the neat bookmarks that you could have FREE with your books. I think the local schools and groups donated them. Each was so different and I recall having a collection of them. The kids section was in the lower level and sometimes is was damp down there, so we’d be allowed to sit in the sunny upper study room. When I was ten, we moved from there and we didn’t have a library nearby anymore. I felt a loss of friendship and began drawing and looking to our local grade school for books. Thankfully that helped.
Books are the friends that don’t talk back to us. They empower us to do the things that come naturally and help us engage with people who are able to express themselves in writing.
What encouraged me to talk about books today was the frequent rains and flooding that are taking over certain areas. I do hope people have plenty to read during these times of stress and when they are locked into their areas by rising waters.
As for me, I don’t feel locked in when books are available. My money has always been spent on books. I no longer go to the library since I am out the boundaries for our local one, but as I write this there are 3 different books that I want to share with you and the impact they have on me.
The first one is by Mel Robbins, who I recently rediscovered. Her first book that has been on my shelf is Stop Saying You’re Fine. It was aimed at getting through depression. As a counselor who is concerned with helping people suffering from depression, I bought it back in 2013 to read. It addressed issues that Mel, who is educated as an Attorney, was addressing for herself. She is upfront and authentic in talking about her struggles with feeling insecure, anxious, and unhappy. Here is a marvelous woman with a loving husband and children, who had so much going for herself and still expected more. In the way any one of us who is an achiever could relate to her. She took herself into a different place and helps others to do the same.
So fast forward to now when I have been reading The 5 Second Rule. I am one over 8 million people who are making her rich by reading this book. I love it and keep rereading sections. I am a sales woman for her. She teaches us to not procrastinate and encourages us to become self starters. I feel recharged to say the least. Having read the book and taken her courses has help escalate me to a new horizon.
The next book is by Alexandra Stoddard. I first began reading Daring to be Yourself many years ago and just continued reading her writings. I attended one of her presentation at a Creative Arts series at the Woodstock Opera house and fell in love with her thinking. She believes in values and putting yourself in the center of good things that are transforming. She helped me blossom with interior designing elements when I was younger and still have a love for the beautiful things like flowers, music, color, and life giving resources all around us. Choosing Happiness, which I am currently reading is similar in format with her other books. It is written in blue ink with colorful pink sidebars. Just heavenly to indulge in and enjoy without feeling guilty. It is great summertime reading. I actually read it and stop to pray as I do. It helps to relax me.
Finally the 3rd book that I am digesting is Finding Your One Word. I am reading this slowly as it asks many questions and has one doing introspective work. I am not sure I can boil my personal motto down to one word but I am trying to focus more so who knows. In sharing this with a friend, she tells me that she selects a word to focus on for each year. I am thinking I may do that quarterly. It is by Evan Carmichael and aimed at helping to create a healthy business. This one I will also be working on for awhile to glean out as much insight as possible.
At my daughter’s home, she is reading a book from 1945 about our country to her daughter who is 6 years old. It is a good way to learn some history about the USA. Of course, the child sees this as way back in the day. Pretty funny.
Reading is something to encourage early and although not every one of us likes reading, it is a great companion to many or us.
Signing off until next week. Take just one step, it may put you on the Escalator of Success!
Books Resources: The 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins
Choosing Happiness by Alexandra Stoddard
The Secret to Success Lies in Just One Word
Random Thoughts
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Hello Friends, this is Linda Gullo of Mini Miracles from Minor Moments. This is Podcast number 60 and it is on a variety of random thoughts that I wanted to share with you. To begin with, this week seems so short due to July 4th landing on a Tuesday. I was genuinely surprised to find many people working in the area where I have my office this past Monday. I came in to clean up some loose ends and got quite a bit done. Now here it is on Friday, and I am mindful of all that has been accomplished. I hope your Holiday was a refreshing and safe one for all of you listening.
I am trying to step this Podcast to the next level. In the next few weeks you will be surprised with a few new changes that are happening behind the scenes. We will be on for a good 30 minutes sharing a different topic every week. The variety should lend itself to things that you or your family members are addressing each and every day. In that way, we can bring you some inspiration and resources. Podcasting is a fun thing for me and hopefully you’ll find it fun to subscribe to. As you do, please pass on the site to others.
The first topic today is about how much our society has changed in the last 20 years and where we are going. LOL, I am not sure, but I do know the our smallest children are busy using the I Pad. Earlier today I was listening to someone on the radio who had an 18 month child that loved the I Pad. I can imagine that quite easily, since I have smaller, as well as, older Grandchildren who are glued to their digital tablets.
Let’s face it, these tablets allow us to play games and get instant feedback. They provide kids who are alone a means of something to do. I even love the thing. I can get onto Hooked On Words and waste time in an outer dimension. For me, it is an escape from reality for short periods of time, usually in the evening. For children, it is good because it keeps the kids off mom or dad’s phone. Kids love to press keys and be independent. Now I can hear some of you saying that it hurts their eyes… well one of the sites that I have listed on the blog here even addressed that issue. I do believe the I pads can be good, but not at the exclusion of reading good old fashioned books that one checks out at the Library. Reading is still something we all need and should be encouraging our youth to learn. These digital pads have come down in price over the years and are small enough to slip into a purse or briefcase. They are able to keep us connected to others and that is always a good thing in my mind. IT however, can also isolate us if we let it. Each person and family needs to take ownership of their own habits.
Next topic is about books. I remember going to the Woodstock Opera House many years ago. It was a Thursday morning Creative Arts program and the guest was Alexander Stoddard. A stately and well dressed lady in red took the stage sitting comfortably next to a small table. She grabbed my attention by her confidence and love for flowers, colors, and style. Soon I was hooked on her books.
Being a young mom at the time, I was inspired by her love of making her environment beautiful. She authored many books on living with a creative spirit. It encouraged me to spray paint things to match our home and to refinish furniture. I love decorating! For years I would buy her writings and give them as gifts. She truly inspired me to see more of what I liked was what others enjoyed as well.
I see she is still is writing a newsletter and has a few books. Choosing Happiness is one I have just ordered from Amazon. Keeping our offices, homes, and cars comfortable and personal is a fun thing to do. It allows us to be efficient and happy at the same time. Her writings helped me learn what worked well for me. It was almost therapeutic for me. As a counselor, I like to see opportunities for people to grow and to figure out their own destiny. So it is my recommendation this week.
Next topic involves a cartoon picture of our dog Petey. It is one of a series that I had drawn for my writings many years ago. I used this as a photo for the Podcast/blog today, because it made me laugh at the idea of a dog studying.
But in fact, they do study! They try very hard to please us as their Masters and follow their instincts to protect us. They eat what smells good. They play with whatever toys we provide for them, and adapt pretty well to changes. Dogs can learn new tricks, and become our best friends.
The classroom for many of our pets is our home. They learn what is permissible and what behavior is condoned.
It becomes obvious to us too, as adults, that not all learning takes place in the classroom. We are magnificent creatures. God has given us 5 senses that enable us to expand our minds. We are able to hear recordings of voices, symphonies, or lectures. For many of us TED talks help us grow. Experts in various fields speak passionately about their topics and we are the proud recipients who benefit. Next is our ability to taste.
Further learning takes places as we taste foods from other cultures and recipes from other homelands. We smell the morning coffee or the aroma of a croissant. We see videos, films, live plays, and hear concerts at nearby community or church settings. We have the ability to move from city to city, across the world, and overseas. A century ago we were still using horseback, trains, and boats to move us around. The improvements to move us about that came with airplanes made travel more available and speedier. We’ve come a long way baby.
New chances to expand our minds develop daily through Webinars. Since I am a lifelong learner, these are so much fun to me. I don’t have to travel far to take in new material. And finally we feel the leather of the chairs we sit in or the plush new fabrics of textiles that make up our clothes, pillows, and blankets.
Continuing education units are available all through the year with local workshops from the local hospitals, industry sites, and professional resources. So even as adults we get to keep learning.
Well I hope you have a wonderful weekend. Many of you are coming off of vacations, ease gently back into routines. Enjoy the month of July as it unfolds, and please continue to keep in touch with us. Feel free to visit www.lindagullo.com listen to our podcasts there or click on Mini Miracles from Minor Moments on your phone apps. You can also email me at [email protected] thanks, and remember that one step may put you on the escalator of success! Bye for now.
www.alexandrastoddard.com/newsletter.asp
British kids start using iPads and tablets at the age of TWO
http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/british-kids-start-using-ipads
http://www.pbs.org/parents/childrenandmedia/article-when-introduce-child-smartphone-tablet.html
www.ted.com/talks
How to Be Happier & Advance! STEP Outside Your Comfort Zone
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Welcome to Mini Miracles from Minor Moments where our lives bloom in small ways from seemingly insignificant moments.
This is Linda Gullo and every week I bring to you a few thoughts to help you navigate through life. I want you to love life and live it with joy and a feeling of fulfillment.
How to Be Happier & Advance! STEP Outside Your Comfort Zone
Today’s message is about stepping outside of your comfort zone. Are you comfortable with stepping outside of your comfort zone? The practical side often locks us into what we feel is safe and easy. Think about your approach to seeing a new doctor, traveling to a new place, trying a new job, or learning a new profession.
Do you approach life with fear and trepidation? or joy and confidence? Where does your confidence come from? Do the people around you help or hinder you? Are you empowered from a deep faith? Are you secure in your own talents and education?
So much of how we approach life begins in the early years with our parents or care givers. We may start out adventuresome and get stymied along the way. Our genetic makeup certainly chimes in as to how we react. As adults we are often set in our ways and don’t branch out into new territories unless we are pushed. Some people feel they can go the road alone; they do not feel a community around them is a big help at all!
I watch a dog that resides across the street from us. He is a small Shepherd who sits under the trees and looks like a statue. He keeps an eye on the squirrels above. He will keep watch fearlessly, as if it is his duty. Sometimes I wonder if that is his only purpose.
Unlike this dog, we are not all that patient. We do not get so focused. We don’t see things clearly. As a result we procrastinate and go for long periods of time trying to find clarity in our decisions.
We have a “dogs life” of leisure. Our needs for shelter, food, and family insurance cause us to hesitate so we don’t jeopardize our income. So often we have jobs that we don’t like, but we feel locked into them.
Opportunities for growth are like stepping stones. As children we progress one grade at a time. Each year the curriculum pushes us further until school no longer is our guide! Then it is up to us to find hobbies, meet new people, and explore the world of opportunities.
Pathways of traveling or jobs may lead us to new and exciting places. Sometimes our way is smooth and easy to navigate. At other times a divorce, loss of money or illness seems to take away our stepping stones. There appear to be no bridges to carry us over the hurdles.
Where are the elevators to raise us up? Where are the escalators to help us move upward? As a child walking a mile to school each day, I’d play games hopping over the grooves, reading the engraved signatures of the cement company, or counting my steps. I knew the path took me to a destination; namely school. I’d often walk with other friends, but when I was alone, I walked fast and with a purpose.
I still do walk with intentionality and a drive. Just ask anyone who walks with me and they will tell you that I leave them several steps behind. I don’t do it purposely, but I have learned that walking clears my mind and refocuses me quickly.
In the last two weeks, I have been taking the Power of You course with Mel Robbins. She is so authentic and fun to follow. I’d love to hear her speak in person. Mel is one of those dynamic speakers and so very relatable. She has done TED talks, and presents herself so well. She has pushed herself through periods of self doubt and fear. It is her journey that she shares with the world.
She wrote the Best selling book called The 5 Second Rule. I have been reading it with enthusiasm and following a closed FACEBOOK group of hers.
Her book The 5 Second Rule has made me aware of some of my own moments when I hesitate to do something, because I am not clear about the direction to take.
Obviously, I am among many people, who hesitate to ruin with an idea. So I took the step of learning and using the 5 second rule and I love how much it has helped me. I hope to replace a few habits and refocus my energy on a few projects.
Life experience, reading books, and knowing people creates pathways to help us. We forge ahead through obstacles like health issues or loss of family members. Our jobs change sometimes or are eliminated without sufficient warning. Instead of seeing that as a blessing, we start to panic. There are the unexpected expenses that come from hikes in taxes, cracked septic fields, broken appliances, or the medical costs. Our attitudes get warped and it is hard to flatten them out to work properly.
The direction of where we step next becomes unknown. There are times when we feel ourselves going in circles. We do the same chores repeatedly, visit the same stores, make the same appointments and feel unappreciated by our bosses and family members. So, who can help you break the cycle of feeling this way?
You can. I can. We can all have everything we want, but we need to use this tool, namely the 5 Second Rule as one approach. Obviously it is not the only way, but trying it can’t hurt. It’s a simple process and worth the effort. Along with gratitude and volunteering some time, we can all share the things that we love, and this book is one of them I’m sharing with you.
Thanks to the windows of opportunity that come along the way, we are able to rebound. Recovery comes along with advancements in careers, money from inheritances, information from the internet, or a professional that can direct us on a new and better track. That passage to another walkway gives us motivation and a new direction. We can become more confident and, as Mel says, “develop a powerful mindset!” I am not paid to promote her book, but you can tell I am enjoying it!
Have a great week of capturing the value of the minor moments in your life. Listen with an open heart to your friends and family. Dose yourself with acceptance and forgive those that have offended you. Take the one step that may put you on the “escalator of success!”
Inspiration May Come from the Past
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Welcome by Jim Haisler
Hi, This is Mini Miracles from Minor Moments, where good things are flooding your way in small pieces and you may not even recognize it! Minor moments make us who we become. I am your host Linda Gullo. This broadcast comes from the town of Crystal Lake, IL , which is near the Wisconsin border and it comes to you on a weekly basis. It is usually a short 10-15 minute episode to brighten your day and to spark a few thoughts.
As Mini Miracles explode all around, I have decided to be doing a blend of individual podcasts along with half hour interviews. Friends and business entrepreneurs will be popping in on a regular fashion to bring on a variety of thoughts and insights to help you.
As I woke up this morning, I could hear the lawn movers in our yard busy at work. Only an hour earlier it had been raining, so I was surprised the lawn care fellows were out there. Rosy lifted her head when I tossed my feet off the side of the bed to stand up.
My thoughts as I was making the bed went back to some 49 years ago when I was about to be married. It was a hot smoldering day in 1968 and we did not have air conditioning. The humidity was uncomfortable. Family was coming in from near and far. My mom and dad were excited. And so was I. Preparation for our 10 am High Mass with the men’s choir singing for us was set in place. Looking back things really went well.
Wow, in so many ways it seems like it just happened yesterday. Many of the people that were so important to me then have now passed on and that presents an empty spot in my heart. In that way it seems like an eternity. So many things happen in the course of a day, a week, a month, or a year—yet 49 of them seems unreal.
Where are you in your life? Are you happily married? Are you dating someone? Are you in the midst of a big career change or a move to another city? Are you under pressure to earn more money? We all go through similar times in our lives when we have to make choices and redefine our pathways.
Loving life and being engaged in it fully takes focus and a sense of direction. It isn’t being on the defensive about your decisions. It isn’t reacting to the latest invitation on email or comparing ourselves to what’s happening on Facebook.
I think too about how different each of us are when it comes to habits. Habits that add up to give us different results. Whether it comes to saving a certain amount out of each paycheck, going to the get gas on the same day or same place each week, or going on an annual vacation, helps us become the person we are.
Life happens and we can choose our thoughts. We can plan and seek a higher level of learning or engaging in life with our family and friends. We can deny ourselves of pleasures in order to buy a new car or pay for food. Creating healthy boundaries and being responsible is not only necessary, but becomes a necessity to be fully in charge and happy, it is a fun thing to participate in every day.
My friend El Edwards from Wales says, “If you don’t like the view, change it; you are not a tree.” I posted that on my website, because I think it reminds us that we are able to make changes for the better. I don’t know if it is really her quote, but it is one that I credit her here for today. We don’t just stand still or let the wind direct us. We are capable of moving and sharing.
We all learn from our own experiences along the way. We learn to prioritize. That takes years–well into our 20’s before we get our act together. Our daily routines provide a script for us of what we are to do to make ourselves feel good. We check our mail, fill the car with gas, pay our bills, go to store for groceries, and return phones calls. Not all in that order, but you understand. We are called to follow through and no one hands us the list of to-do’s as we get older. No one says, “you have to go to the dentist”. The garbage needs to be taken out. It’s so and so’s birthday and I had better get that card in the mail. Whatever you do, you know is what is expected of you.
Last week’s guest, (Kate Murauskas Halma) talked about her Grandmother’s imprint on life for her. Many of us have had those fabulous people around us as we grow up and it only becomes obvious years later. Who are the people that have touched your life in a productive and loving manner? Maybe it was even a neighbor who remembered your birthday every year?
When I was growing up, my brother was a big influence on me. Although he was 5 years older, he had nice standards, hardy friends, and a sense of humor. His love for hobbies and reading spilled over onto me along the years.
I am enjoying the teachings of Mel Robbins. She wrote a book called the 5 Second Rule. She was made famous on a TED talks and offers a program called the Power of You. I really enjoy her authentic approach to life and follow her. She and several other people I study, call us to Mental Toughness. We need to be intelligent in our decisions, confident in our choices, and keep things in perspective like dealing with difficult people. We must adapt to changes and embrace the blessings given to us. Often we are called to prioritize our time and adapt to shifts of energy and stamina.
If you are life me, setting goals and being consistent in reaching them is ongoing. I do know that when I got married though that it was a lifelong commitment. I knew that I had to be open to changes and some of them were out of my control. Like a job that one can quit or resign from, relationships are valuable and must be made in alignment with our goals, family traditions, and cultural strengths.
The nicest thing about goals is you can start over again. People who have come through divorce can rally around and have great relationships. It is all about learning more about oneself.
Changes happen and probably the best approach is to stay involved; don’t isolate yourself. Follow the news, read often, listen to friends and commercials, but in the process stay true to who you are as a person. Design yourself in a way of being the best version you know how to be.
Enjoy the Summer months as they unfold for you. Get in touch with old friends and make new ones. Live your life with purpose and dignity.
Connect with me at [email protected] with ideas. Thanks and have a Great Day!
Guest Kate Murauskas Halma joins Linda
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Success in business and life is spelled out differently for each of us. In today’s Podcast, Linda welcomes Kate Murauskas Halma on her first visit to Mini Miracles from Minor Moments. Kate shares the beginning of her journey as an entrepreneur and businesswoman in McHenry County. Listen in to hear some of her stories and enjoy the adventure. Here she is with her dog Chance! Now that’s a smiling dog!
New Entrepreneurs
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Welcome to Mini Miracles from Minor Moments where every week Linda brings us a new 10-15 minute theme for self development and insight. Our Podcasts are growing and changing so hopefully you will continue to follow us as we go forward into a new and evolving format to include regular interviews and co-hosts. 
This weeks guest is Angela Pletz who is a local community member of Mini Miracles Cafe, an entrepreneurial group that meets to encourage and go forward into building wonderful businesses. Let’s hear Angela, who will be hopefully returning to us in the near future so we can learn more of her goals and aspirations.
Summer Changes
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Jim Haisler introduces us to the upcoming series beginning next week on Entrepreneurial Women. Recordings are already in the process and will be encouraging to others trying to take the step into developing a business.
Today Linda talks about self care and the things to keep us moving forward this summer. She ends with a reflection on the need for reflection and prayer time. Hope you enjoy this mix of insights for the coming weeks.
The Maze of Resolving Problems
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What you’ll discover in this weeks podcast my offer you some insights about maintaining, growing, and resolving problems!
- Tearing down the chimney.
- Rebuilding a wall.
- Watching kids play in sand
- Addressing issues with coaching
- Overcoming addictions by taking action to create new habits.
Hi, You’re listening to Mini Miracles from Minor Moments with Linda Gullo. This is Podcast # 54. Welcome as we unfold a few stories about rebuilding. Rebuilding things physically and then addressing how to rebuild and renew your own life to the fullest.
We all have learned ways of moving forward when it comes to making decisions. What is your system for resolving issues? Do you have system in place? Perhaps you do the PRO and CON lists? What you’ll discover in this weeks podcast my offer you some insights about maintaining, growing, and resolving problems!
This week there continues to be a great deal of action happeningat our home. The hedges that create a boundary between the street and a fence to our yard are being trimmed. It takes a couple men several hours to trim the top 20 inches of growth. It is only May and will probably need another clipping during the summer. Well the crew to trim them came earlier in the week and got the street side complete as the rain began to come down. Now several days later the bushes were still in need of being completed, when I saw the men arriving this morning. I was indeed pleased that they were following through. When things need to be completed it seems like another thing on my to do list. I like to follow through and see that goals are accomplished.
Two weeks ago I noticed a change in the family room flooring and called in a builder that I trust for some advice. It was discovered that moisture was between a portion of our lower siding and the foundation. Apparently river rock was too close to the wall. It required removing the rocks and relocating them. One of my older grandkids came to help me do that project! I was pleased that he is strong and was able to carry the rock to another part of our yard.
The builder was also checking out the roof and in the process of seeing where the dampness was coming from, our gutters were cleaned and blown out. On the roof was a carcass of a rabbit that had become a meal for a bird of prey, probably it was an Owl or Hawk that had visited us and decided our roof was a good place to set up his dinner. It was a sloppy eater however, and left parts of its dinner on the roof that needed to be cleaned up as well. So the roof was washed down and the gutters cleaned out well.
Upon further inspection the brick surfaces of our chimney were showing wear and tear over the last 43 years. Yes, you guessed the rest of this story! The chimney needed to be replaced. The name of man who specializes in Masonry work was given to me. He came and found that while the mortar was in place, the integrity of the brick had been giving way. We had the option of waiting a few years or addressing the problem now. We decided now was the time to rebuild the chimney. As you might expect, brick had to be selected to match our home and set up to remove and replace the chimney began. He built an elaborate scaffold to go up and down with concrete and bricks. Fast forward after several days of rain to finally days without rain, and the process began.
The pounding was excessive to break it apart and take the old chimney parts away. Our poor dog, Miss Rosy could not understand who was on our roof or intruding into her space. In an attempt to relieve some of her anxiety I took her to the office for a couple of hours. Several of my neighbors are not around on Wednesdays, so it was quiet. She curled up in her bed next to me and took a snooze. It was a bit quieter when we returned home, but she curled up next to me once more and seemed to recognize that even though there was some activity going on nearby it was much better. Guess we all need to take breaks from stress and go hideout for a few hours.
The man who originally diagnosed the initial issues, returned to cut away a section of insulation and boards underneath the siding. It was then aired out, insulated, and put in plastic barriers to prevent damage to our inside wood flooring. Things have once again come back together at the Gullo homestead.
If you’ve ever watched kids playing in the sand along a beach near water, they become artists. The castles and houses they build are formed with great intent, adding in roads and pools of water. Then swoosch the waves arrive and the creations are instantly destroyed.
I am telling you about the things that are created must often be lost so bigger, better, and more up-to-date options can take their place. Once things are completed or changed out, we accommodate and see them as normal.
I have listened to those who have won over addictions. Addictions are hard to break. It may take numerous attempts to change the habits and patterns that keep people addicted. Often they are aware of their addiction, but believe it isn’t that bad or really necessary to take action. Information means nothing until it is acted upon. Resolutions, work, accountability, and support help us through such transitions.
Resolutions to cleaning up overgrown hedges and replacing old chimney’s may be easier to fix then the more abstract and mental thoughts that plague us. Being creative and building imaginary castles from sand may be the fun times to take our minds off of the everyday stresses. The sounds of splashing water on a beach or the rain pouring over a skylight really are not in our control. We can see them as refreshing or threatening. So the water can destroy our sandcastles, but one can laugh and giggle and begin again or get mad and frustrated. Changing our reaction can be as simple as changing our thought patterns. We can reframe the things that bother us.
But to truly make progress toward developing workable patterns in our lives is important. Take the pianist who has practices the same song over and over again to get the timing and melody just right, we too need to practice. We need to change our habits by repeating new ones. We need to break away from injurious thought like the ones that cause us to keep us addicted to bad behaviors. We need to understand the thoughts we have in our heads are the ones that can lead us into better actions and into better places.
If you have ever watched a duck swimming along in the water what do you see? They seem to glide effortlessly along the surface. They have been doing it since they were tiny ducklings. They have been practicing and learning where it is safe to swim. Like ducks we need to let things roll off our backs, to deal with rain upon our heads, and to be able to swim great lengths. Yes we need to have learned who is safe and where to go for help. Maybe today is a good day to think about your next step in moving ahead. “Just one step may put you on the escalator of success!”
Join me in the coming weeks as I interview women entrepreneurs who with minor moments of clarity and insight have begun seeing Mini Miracles explode in their lives.
Until then “Delight in Living” and have a great week! Bye for now.
Overcoming Discouragement & See Mini Miracles Emerge
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Hi, Hope your week has gone well. This is Linda Gullo and I am delighted to be with you. Welcome to Mini Miracles from Minor Moments where a few tiny changes can escalate in your life and create monumental JOYS. Our small daily habits can add up to make us vibrant and alive.
Mini Miracles from Minor Moments is designed to help you find insights about yourself. My plan is to help you like yourself and love life. I think there are so many things we share in common that are often not talked about so today I am tackling one of those topics.
Everyone goes through periods of uncertainty and inaction, but no one tells us how to navigate through them. We flounder and get frustrated. Sometimes we give up, because it is just too overwhelming. Yesterday, I wrote down a series of questions while I was praying about things, I needed to talk to God about these issues and asked for insight on 5 or 6 thoughts. Something was holding me back from taking action or maybe I didn’t even know where to begin. That is when I need to go to the mountain top and discuss it in private with the Lord.
As I was leaving the Chapel, I said to one of the people walking out with me that I didn’t feel like I had resolution to a series of questions I was praying about. Jokingly she said, “Well you know how men are, they sometimes take time to answer.” She then turned to her husband and said, “no offense Dear.”
Well, I wasn’t even giving God the chance to respond! And of course, I didn’t really expect immediate help. None of my issues were with regard to a life and death crisis. I did feel frustrated with my lack of progress in a few areas.
Then this morning, I woke up with some clarity on the matter. I got up hearing our lawn was being cut and began to tackle the day with a good attitude. I was grateful that the storms had passed through and that things seemed to be well. The branches that had been dropped when the trees self pruned that night were being collected and the yard looked so nice when I viewed it awhile later. It was vibrant and green. We are all called to be vibrant too. How can we encourage ourselves to be alive, stand so tall as fresh grass, and be resilient? Where do we get the nutrients that we need–after all we can’t just sprinkle on the things we need like the gardener gives to his or her plants.
It made me think that we need to be independent and strong, but not go it alone. We are stronger when united with other people. We get courage and strength when we are with people who have gone through the journey and gained wisdom. Their insights can provide so much for us. Looking for groups that will give us a chance to shine is just as important. Don’t doubt for a minute that you aren’t brilliant. You too have learned from academia, reading books, and experience. You are meant to share that knowledge with other people as well.
I am convinced that the social media sites are places people go to for connecting with people of power and insight. I know for me, it has lead me to learn about products, great new books to read, and to see how empathetic people are present for one another. Some of social media can be a waste of time to be sure and there are negative media messages, but that is where we are asked to discern and be prudent about what we take in or waste our time looking at!
My love for business has grown enormously in the last 20 years. As a matter of fact my business turned 20 this past January and I haven’t begun celebrating that yet. I just realized that there are many things even small things that are significant that I have failed to celebrate. How does one do that? Maybe you can let me know? I am grateful to be here and doing the work I so love!
I began reading a great article from Andy Andrews blog this morning that had been delivered to my mailbox. (https:www.andyandrews.com/overcome-discouragement) It is on How to Overcome Discouragement and Live the Life You Were Made to Live. I really liked the way he approached taking back a healthier frame of mind when one gets distracted and discouraged. Please read it if you are in such a place. It is very elevating and encouraging.
I have noted its location on lindagullo.com website with the notes from this program. (see above)
I received a small gold pin this week for being part of the American Counseling Association as a member for over 20 years. It was such a timely recognition, in lieu of reading this article. I was really surprised and almost embarrassed that I did not blow my horn and shout with glee that I have built Delight in Living from scratch. And wow, I am so pleased that someone noticed. It is indeed a milestone for me. Thank you to all the people who have come here for guidance and hope. I can really see the value of the little gold stars that we get as children for accomplishing our daily chores or excelling in school. The visual reward is a positive one.
And I did learn a long time ago that when things are good they balance out the times that were less so. I guess that is even a better reason to keep highlighting and celebrating when things are well.
When I started this endeavor I began a file of cards and thank you’s. I did it to have addresses so I could respond to people over the years, but instead it became a highlight to refer back to when things were slow in the office. 
You have potential to do outstanding things and influence others in a wonderful way. Transform your year for yourself and those around you! It is now Mid May and we have over 7 months left to do great things. Pursue your dreams and continually set new goals for yourself. Use time to pray, meditate, and read whenever you find it. Talk things through with a reliable source and hear yourself say what you are thinking. Create a space for self development and take the opportunity to forgive, dance, and live fully. Have a great weekend and enjoy the week ahead as you step forward. Remember that a “single step may put you on the escalator of success!” I will see you next week with some information on the news series of guests. Search out the Mini Miracles and celebrate each one!