Are You Feeling Overloaded? This May Help!
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Hello Friends! Welcome to Mini Miracles from Minor Moments. This is your Host Linda Gullo. This is Podcast # 66 Today’s Topic is on Being in Overload! You name it —- Overloaded with health issues, financial woes, family stress, relationship problems, business tasks mounting up, website needs updating, or just too much happening at one time can fall right on top of us. We can’t sleep or end of staying up late to get things done. We don’t arm ourselves with eating well, exercising, or relaxing as needed.
And what happens when the roof caves in? Well normally, one runs to get out of the way. But where do you run too if you are in the middle of a tornado, earthquake or fire? Or one of those times in life when things consume you? You can’t run from a love one who is struggling after a bad choice. You need to deal with your own health, no one else can carry that cross for you. The lunches need to be made, the shopping needs to be done, laundry doesn’t do itself, and neither do the tasks like cleaning, taking out the garbage or making appointments. Our minds overwhelmed, our tasks make us feel overloaded with responsibility and we get tuckered out!
Not all things are physical in nature. We can have a million things clouding our minds and taking up our concentration. We get to a point where we don’t know how to prioritize because everything seems equally as important. Being mindful of circumstances can help us sort things out. Being with strong resilient people can help immensely.
I talk from experience when this topic comes up. It has happened to me when I least expected it. Once time was when my children were small. One was 3 and the other an infant. My parents who had major end of life issues were very much in need of my time and my help to care for them. Countless episodes of hospital runs, rescheduling family appointments, trying to balance money, and caring for the children kept me running all over. Trying to keep to a routine was not possible. My husband was trying to help me in anyway he could, but he was also trying to earn money for us. An intense 3 years seemed so insurmountable. Mom died right after thanksgiving and dad followed her in February. Both parents died within 90 days of each other. Being tired and sad was so heavy feeling! I couldn’t pray enough. My car had become a place of constant prayer as I drove to and from the hospitals. When I finally pulled out of this period, normal things seemed so wonderful and lively. So I thought it might be good today to give out a few ideas to help if you are in the midst of feeling overloaded.
- Forget about all you need to do and do just one thing.
- List in writing the things that seem so big to tackle. They are doable and it is a good feeling to mark them off –one by one!
- Don’t compare yourself to anyone. Your list is yours and the needs you have are not the same as for others.
- Ask for help if you can; seek out people &/or services you need. When my mom and dad were so ill and my children were little caused me to tell the pharmacist that I was just getting worn out. Well it turned out that Paul Marsh and his wife Donna were Third Order Franciscans. Their personal mission was to help in any way they could! They did by delivering medications and taking time to talk with my lonely parents. Bless them.
- Don’t let fear stop you from trying new things. If you fail, there will be a good lesson that you can extract information from and use it.
FEELING LOST & OVERLOADED
- If you are in doubt about something, weigh the pros and cons. Pray and then proceed with the best of intentions. If something goes wrong, turn in the opposite direction to help remedy it. ACTION is excellent.
- Don’t isolate yourself during times of overload. A little break like lunch out with a friend can relieve stress.
Another point in time when I felt overloaded with tasks and commitments was written about in Erasing Adversity. It is a book that talks about the silver linings that appeared when the world was crumbling in on our family. People and the smallest minor moments blossomed to help. We need to learn from these moments as they are teaching us compassion, empathy, and how to reach out to others in need.
This week I was with a with a friend who is going through a period of Overwhelming Odds. What we can do for others is to walk through it with them. Listen and try not to have all the answers. It is a difficult time when one is trying to put out fires, clean up the messes from teenagers, or helping during times of sickness. While many things have nothing to do with us, there are things we still need to be responsible for–helping teenagers pay off debts, push them into responsibility or continue to teach them good morals. These times are all temporary. Things will get better.
Until next week, stay true to yourself. Do something that is fun. Thank you for listening and the kind feedback I have received. Know that you can reach me at linda@delightinliving.com or at 815-459-5161. These podcasts are meant to inspire and motivate you. Please spread the word and ask others to subscribe to Mini Miracles from Minor Moments so we can all grow together. You can find us at the website lindagullo.com or on your Smartphone podcast app.
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.
Every other week, I am joined with a Co Host, Kate Halma. Don’t miss us next week when we discuss Mindfulness.
Check out Amazon. com for Erasing Adversity. Check out twitter.com/DelightinLiving
We are Discussing Memory or the Loss of It?
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Welcome to Mini Miracles from Minor Moments where the smallest moments can create joy in your life.
Hi, I am your Host, Linda Gullo and joining me today as a Co Host is Kate Halma. This is Podcast # 65 and today we are discussing Memory or the Lack of It.
Our sympathy goes out to all the fans of Glen Campbell who died at the age of 81. The news media said he was in stage 6 of Alzheimers. Linda and Kate discuss this loss. They go on to talk about ways to help daily memory and experiences that have touched them.
Linda also refers to Today’s SXM radio Channel 129 with Gus Lloyd who had people calling in with their own experiences about family members who experienced someone with Alzheimer’s. Relying on the experiences families share helps others to deal with the journey of memory losses.
Have a wonderful day and listen in each week. Linda and Kate will be back in two weeks on August 25th. Linda will have a short podcast in between to keep us all up-to-date on the 18th!
A few sources include:
The Wisdom of Dr. Seuss
A Dr. Suess Quote
Check out www.Amazon.com for your copy of How to Survive the Loss of a Love by Melba Colgrove, PhD, Harold H. Bloomfield, MD. and Peter McWilliams.
This book is a great one about losses of all types and some ways to cope. Excellent and easy reading when ones concentration may be lacking due to a loss.
Woman’s World Magazine (8/14/17 issue) on Polyphenols in grape juice
Find Things in Life to Bring You Joy
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Delight in Living, Ltd. is all about helping people find joy and delight in living! Perhaps like so many things in life, we don’t know how good we have it until we have lost that very thing that we took for granted. Welcome to Mini Miracles from Minor Moments where the smallest moments bring Mini Miracles to life! This is Podcast #64 on What Brings You Joy?
Each week seems to roll around faster and faster. This week tended to spin past with more rain. Weather does seem to take center stage these days as people deal with flooding, sink holes, and other weather related issues. I find the apps on my smart phone growing. Three that I currently use are the Doppler Radar, nbc12 weather, and the Weather Channel. How about you? Do you use your phone for weather alerts?
Joy arrived during an afternoon walk, lunch, and conversation in Geneva, Illinois!
Today’s podcast will be covering a variety of thoughts are finding and recognizing JOY! Linda will be discussing a variety of things to lift your spirits.
- Music – Search out music that lifts your mood. Find the instruments that you enjoy listening to while walking, working, or enjoying your favorite hobby.
- Color – Plant flowers, dress in lively colors and textures. Check out the skies & natural earth tones that nature gives to us.
- Fragrance – Check out Pelindaba Lavender in Geneva. It is a new establishment where one can enjoy “The Complete Lavender Experience®.” https://www.pelindabalavender.com/geneva
- Visual sites – take photographs and attend galleries
- References to linorulli.com/catholic-guy-showSirius XM SiriusXM 129 5pm–7pm ET Monday – Friday. http://linorulli.com/catholic-guy-show/
- Delicious Foods and Shopping Check out: https://www.littletraveler.com The Little Traveler is located in downtown Geneva
- Check out https://www.delightinliving.com for Counseling Care & Resources
Just a single step may put you on the Escalator of Success. Enjoy the minor moments of each and every day to discover joy and mini miracles.
This is Your Life
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Welcome to a Spontaneous insight on leading the life you really want! Linda offers a few thoughts about making your life the one that will make you feel energized and purposeful. She references Mel Robbins’ book The 5 Second Rule. Enjoy the Podcast.
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 linda@delightinliving.com 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 linda@delightinliving.com 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 linda@delightinliving.com 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!
