My assignment today is to “take the time to focus on yourself. Appreciate and give thanks for your unique personality, skills and talents.”

Here we go:

I’m thankful that I know who I am and am true to myself.  I’m thankful for the confidence in who I am and that I don’t feel like I need to be anyone else.

I appreciate the mom that I am, the wife that I am, the friend that I am, but above all that I appreciate who I am.  I know that being a mom, wife, and friend are just labels that we put upon ourselves, and above that, above the ego is me, and I love me.

I’m grateful that I’m laid back and easy going.  I’m thankful that I’m productive and efficient.  I can multitask like nobody’s business (you should see what all I’ve got going on right this moment ) or I can focus on one thing and be completely present for it.

I’m so thankful that I’m healthy and strong.

I’m thankful that I live life in the present moment as best I can, and that I have developed a great sense of awareness.  I appreciate that I’m aware of my thoughts and of my feelings and can change them if I’m not liking the way I feel.

I’m so, so grateful that I have a positive perspective.  I love that I see life through rose colored glasses, and that it’s always sunny and 70 in Katland.

I appreciate my sense of humor (even if I am the only one laughing…those who know me well know that I crack myself up all the time), my wit, my creativity, my passions (that I know what my passions are!), and my ability to let go.

Thank you, Me.  Love, Me

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Day 10 & 11 of the 21 day gratitude challenge – yes, I skipped a day.  I guess I was just completely present and lost track of a day…or I was too tired last night to write   Either way, I was grateful for my busy day!

Okay so day 10’s assignment was to pick one of my five senses to focus on and take note of how many gifts come to me via that single port.  I chose (drum roll) my sense of taste because I, of course, love to eat!  I could have gone the route of tasting processed chemical laden food, but instead I chose to focus on real food.  Food that comes from a plant or an animal.

Real food is so incredibly good.  I’m so grateful to be able to taste, and to be able to differentiate between foods.  I made a pineapple salsa yesterday and OMG…so good.  All that was in it was pineapple, cilantro & red pepper flakes, but the combination of the sweet and spicy was so delicious.  I put it over shrimp.  Wow, I’m so thankful that I am able to put food in my mouth (can use my arms and hands and can chew, rather than being fed through a tube) and can taste it.  There are so many great foods that are natural.  I’m not only grateful that I can taste it, but that the universe provides it!  We can live a wonderful, healthy life by what nature provides us.  We don’t need processed food to live, and for that I feel a great sense of appreciation.

I’m so thankful that I can taste things and decide whether I like it or not.  I have a choice.  If I decide that I like the way something tastes, I can have more, and I can completely enjoy it.

I love that I have choices and can taste different flavors, that mother nature provides us with everything we need, and that I can enjoy it.  Our sense of taste is so awesome, and I’m so grateful for it!

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Day 11 is to see the world through the eyes of a child, and to think about the things I take for granted on a daily basis.  Then, to express gratitude for everything down to the basic necessities that sustain my current life.  This one is easy because I have 2 kids under 4 and I think about this a lot.  I think about being brought into this world knowing nothing.  Now, let me back peddle a little…I believe babies know a lot.  I think they are way more connected to their sense of Self then we will ever be.  But, I’m talking about not knowing what things are, not knowing how to speak, and experiencing life for the first time.

This really goes back to the 5 senses.  It’s incredible to see a child’s face the first time he tastes a banana, strawberry yogurt, or a piece of candy.  I love to watch the excitement in my children when they see something for the first time.  This past Christmas when Max, my 4 year old, started to understand Santa…just priceless the look on his face when he saw what Santa had brought him.  I’m so thankful to have been able to experience that through his eyes!  I’m also so thankful to have been able to provide as many toys as we did.

Miles, my 2 year old, got a little plastic harmonica for his birthday.  When he heard the sound it made, he completely fell in love with it.  I’m grateful to be able to hear beautiful music, the croak of a frog, the ocean waves crashing in, my children’s laughter, and Miles trying to play that harmonica.

It’s really cute.  Max has just now began to notice that some things stink.  It used to never bother him.  I’d ask “doesn’t that stink?” and I don’t think he really knew what I was talking about.  Now, if he even thinks Miles has a dirty diaper he covers his nose.  I even had him tell me that I smelled good after spraying on perfume.  Our sense of smell is really cool.  I’m thankful that I can smell good food cooking, that I can smell a great candle, and that I can smell something to know if it’s still good or not.

I remember going to my Dad’s house every other weekend as a child and when I’d get there I would notice that my clothes smelled like my mom.  That was so comforting to me.  And when I’d get back home (to my mom’s house) and smell that same smell, I knew I was home!  I just love that smells can remind us of things.  The ability to smell is typically a sense that I take for granted, but really it’s such a blessing.  Thank you, Nose!

I’m thankful for textures and that I can feel.  There are lots of touch and feel baby books, and it’s really neat to watch those little fingers feel.  Since I have 2 little ones in my lap when we read books they both want to feel it.  And now it’s a matter of who goes first.  It’s so funny.  They make me want to feel it and to experience the bumpiness, roughness, or smoothness like it’s my first time.

I love and appreciate that our bodies have the capability to feel.  I’m thankful that I know when I feel good and when I don’t.  I love it that I can feel my emotions and that feeling is a guide.  I’m so grateful for this guide because I know that all I have to do is feel good and everything else will fall into place.  Thank you, thank you for this guidance system.

In summary – I’m thankful for pineapple salsa, Santa Claus, harmonicas, my nose, and touch & feel baby books!!

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Today I’m grateful that my youngest son turned 2 years old.  I’m grateful that we had an “intimate” party for him that was SO much fun.  I’m grateful that we were able to buy him lots of gifts, had a fabulous dinner (I made chicken with spinach, pears & feta – yum!), that my mom-in-law joined us, and that we were all together.  I’m grateful that we’re all healthy, happy & enjoying each other.

I’m so grateful to have my children in my life.  They have brought me so much joy.  They mean the world to me, and I’m so grateful that I’m responsible for them.  They have taught me patience, compassion, how to let go and how to be more present.  They show me what’s truly important.  And, they have taught me that love is infinite!!

I can’t thank you enough!  I love you, Max & Miles

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So I didn’t skip out on day 6 of this 21 day gratitude challenge.  The assignment was to call someone and tell them how much you appreciate them.  I did.  I called my mom.  Made me feel good and I know I made her day!  Thanks again, Mom.  I truly appreciate you.

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Today, I’m grateful for family…my family in particular.  My mom drove down yesterday evening to take me to dinner for my birthday.  It was a great surprise.  She’s such an amazing woman with a heart of gold.  She has done so much for me that I can’t even begin to thank her enough.  She is truly an inspiration and I have so much respect for her.  I’m so grateful to have her in my life.  She not only lights up my life, but my kids are wild about their “Bebe” (no, she’s not French).

She stayed the night with us and we had plans to spend the day at a pumpkin patch.  Unfortunately, she had to leave early because my Grandmother was sent to the hospital.  BUT, everything is okay.  In fact, my Grandmother (aka Nanny B) is wondering why she’s even there.  We won’t know until test results come back tomorrow, but I’m so thankful it’s nothing too serious.

Nanny B…I’m so grateful she’s my grandma.  She’s awesome.  She wears my jewelry in the nursing home, and is the self proclaimed Queen Bitch.  She’s an amazing woman and I’ve never met anyone that didn’t just love her to death!

So back to the pumpkin patch…  Ben (yes, I hit the husband lotto), Max (my oh so incredibly sweet son), Miles (my oh so incredibly cute other son), Gaga (my wonderful mother-in-law), and I had a fabulous time at a pumpkin patch today.  It was in Celina, Tx and well worth the small drive.  I’m so thankful to get to spend time with my family and that we get to go out and enjoy stuff like this.  The weather was perfect and so was the company (yes, I even enjoy my mom-in-law!).  I’m thankful we’re all healthy and happy.  I love and appreciate my family so much.

The older I’ve gotten the more I realize how important family is.  I’m so grateful to be really close to them, and that we all stick together no matter what.  Thank you!

(We are family
I got all my sisters with me
We are family
Get up ev’rybody and sing)

Sorry, just had to do it.  It’s taken me extra long to write this because I can’t get this song out of my head!

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I rarely go on a rant.  In fact, I can’t even remember my last one.  BUT – OMG!  So my lovely husband and I went to the movies on Sunday for our 6th wedding anniversary.  We saw The Hangover, which is great.  I loved it.  However, I was disturbed the entire movie & here 2 days later, I’m still disturbed!  We saw a family walk in with 2, yes 2, small girls.  I would say they were probably 6 years old, give or take a year.  I couldn’t believe it.  How is it ever okay for an innocent child to see a rated R movie?

If you haven’t seen The Hangover, it’s a movie about a BACHELOR PARTY IN VEGAS…HELLO???

Do people really think the “f” word, nudity, sex & violence are okay for children?  I guess so because my sister witnessed the exact same thing this past weekend.  WHAT?

I know I can’t control what other people do.  I just feel so sorry for these kids.  Children are so innocent, so full of life, so confident, and so spiritually connected.  And then life happens.  For some, they learn how “bad” they are.  They learn disrespect and how to stress.  They’re taught they’re not good enough, and that they don’t matter.  They’re stripped of their innocence, and some are even taught the “f” bomb!

And now, those kids are going to be in class with my kids.   Am I going to have to have the birds & bees talk at age 5?

Since I can’t control what other people do (including other kids), the only thing I can do is be the best mom I can for my kids.  To me, that means being the best person that I can be.  I see children (including my own) watching every move their parents make, so being a role model is SO important.  I want my kids to see my confidence.  I want my kids to see how calm & happy I am.  I want them to watch me interact with other people and see how I react (or don’t react) to situations that arise.  I want them to see how grateful I am for the things we have, and I want to be connected to my true self and take action based on inspiration.  I want to be honest, to love, and to give.  I want my children to see me exercising and eating healthy.  Basically, I just want them to see me staying true to myself, and staying connected to a higher power than myself.  If I am completely aware of me (I am aware of my behavior, my thinking, and just how I’m being) then my kids will do & be the same.  They will be the best people that they are!

I just hope & pray that when my children get into school and are around these other kids that are cussing, disrespecting, and have bad behavior that they stay true to themselves.  That they treat everyone with respect and have compassion, but at the same time know right from wrong.  That they stay full of love and light!

Okay, I’m done ranting and feel much better!  Now, if you haven’t seen The Hangover, go see it immediately…just make sure you get a babysitter!

Love, Kat

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Since getting a new laptop, I’ve fallen in love with the internet again!  I’m finding that it has opened my eyes to so much creativity.  I’ve been in a blogosphere and haven’t emerged (sorry hubby and sons — there’s so much to see in this blog world that I may not be out for a while…a long while!).

I’m seeing creativity from handmade things, to amazing writings, to enlightening ideas.  I’m so INSPIRED!  So, I thought I’d list several (if I can narrow it down) of my favorite blogs &/or blogs that have opened my eyes.  These are in no order!

Tip Junkie

Stem Parties

We Heart This

Hostess with the Mostess

Created by Mom

Mom Made That

Etsy Item of the Day

Thoughtfully Simple

Share Yoga

Spirit Jump

The SITS Girls

The Secret Resource

Then I found Twitter…. OMG!  I’m following a ton of amazing, positive people that are inspiring as well.

What inspires you??

What inspires me now is my kids!  Gotta run~

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My little Miles Everett (19 months) and big boy Maximus Henry (3 1/2 years) are the loves of my life.  I’m so fortunate to have great kids, and an amazing husband.  Here’s my top 10 reasons why I absolutely love being their mom (in no particular order)!

10.  That feeling when my children only want their Mommy.

9.  That relief when my children only want their Daddy!

8.  When I see their smiling faces the first thing in the morning, I know it’s going to be a great day!

7.  I’m completely, hysterically funny.

6.  I get to explain things like who I’m talking to on the phone and what they said…because Max just needs to know!

5.  Being around the pure, joyful, light energy that small children radiate.

4.  Because it’s the most important job I’ll ever have.

3.  Because they help to keep me grounded, and I know that nothing else matters besides the well-being of my family.

2.  Kids are so genuine, honest, and true to themselves; and I have the opportunity to teach them to stay that way.

1.  It’s a love like no other, and to have that kind of love in my heart is just priceless.

Thank you, Boys!  I love you~

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Through the greatness of Facebook I reconnected with a friend from high school.  In 2003, Peggy Hudson, wrote this beautiful note.  She just recently shared it with her FB friends and I was fortunate enough to be one of them.

I thought it would be great to share her writing with you.  Enjoy~

It’s a beautiful day! It’s inherent for me to notice the beauty all around
me. Sometimes my mind refuses to operate with my soul. That’s when I must
re-mind myself. It’s fascinating to me the control the mind can have over
the mind. Or is that some other aspect of myself that can execute authority
over mind? What is really operating here? And if we’re all connected to
each other & everything – universal energy – what is that driving force? We
categorize into “individuals” – & say I’m like you or I’m not like you -
when in “reality” we are all connected. I think most of us usually forget
this. We see each other as separate entities. Yet we all take up space on
this planet. We are like the cells of Mother Earth – moving about – part of
the life force. How come there is hate? Why would we want to hate what is
connected to us? If we remember the connection, will we learn to love one
another? My hope is that we would.

My heart becomes heavy when I hear of sadness in our world – when I hear the
hurt in my patients’ voices – when I feel disconnected from others. The connection is vital to my survival. Sure, one could exist without it – yet
a failure to thrive would be evident. We need each other. Most of us just want to be acknowledged – appreciated for who we are – & love seems rather simple. So … why is it so hard to give? Why is it sometimes difficult to receive? What blocks people from opening their hearts & being love?

I think most of it centers around fear … fear of being vulnerable … fear of
being hurt … fear of being rejected.

So … most people want to be loved & respected. & most people fear being
hurt & rejected.

What would happen if all of us loved & respected ourselves & others?

Peace! Joy! Love!

So simple: an open heart of love!

And FEAR gets in the way – creating chaos & havoc. Is fear really necessary? I mean, seriously? If we extended more love, don’t we think we could create a more beautiful world? Fear does not seem the way – love does.

It seems imperative to me that we all need love – the song was not amiss – what the world needs now is love.

One huge beating heart! Pumping life in all of us. Just like in our individual bodies. We must keep it healthy in order to live & survive & thrive. We will become sick & infected if we do not take care of ourselves. Fear is a toxin. Our immune system is becoming more & more depleted. We need to renew ourselves – replenish ourselves. & LOVE seems like the tonic.
That magical elixir that can restore our balance. We need the equilibrium restored. How can we move forward if we have become weakened? We need our strength. We cannot function if we have no genuine power. We will be deficient & unable to give our best. We will experience the feelings of illness because we are not tending to each other. Mother Earth needs our
nurture & we need to nurture her & each other.

And it can begin. It is possible. All we need to do is re-member (we are all members) that with love anything is possible. Anything! We can create a better world. A better place for all beings – a better place for our children.

I am willing to make my contribution to the whole. I am willing to be a part of the magic. I am willing to touch the divine. I am willing to extend the mysterious energy of love.

My eyes are open. & when I look through eyes of love with a hint of compassion, I see clearly. The light helps us to see. And the light is available to all of us every single day. We must take advantage of this light. It’s as simple as flipping a switch – or igniting a flame. The fire is a part of our system. Without the light, all becomes dark – we cannot see – & this can induce fear – fear of the unknown – the unseen. We just have to remember that night can befall us yet the sun will always rise – it never permanently sets – in reality, the sun never fades. It is always burning brightly. And even when we feel it is dark, Mother Moon lights Father Sky & reminds us we are never, ever alone. We can always see if we just open our eyes – open our hearts – open our minds to this marvelous universe.

The light is here – it is there – it is everywhere. Before life – after death. And now – if we remember.

~ by peggy hudson
(written april 28, 2003 after the start of the iraq war –
thought it was just as timely for today)

Wow…how we’ve grown up!

Thank you, Peggy.  You and your words are beautiful.

Peggy and I would love to hear your comments!

          

I’ve got this great little book called “The Secret Daily Teachings”.  Everyday I open to the daily teaching for that day and see what it has to say.  Here’s today’s:

Here is something you can do that is one of the most powerful uses of the law of attraction.  This exercise is thirty days of an avalanche of giving.

Every day for thirty consecutive days, give.  Give joy, smiles, warm words, love, appreciation, and compliments to everyone you meet, including strangers, friends, and family.  Speak from your heart, giving the very best of you in every moment of your day, and make it your mission to make every single person’s day better with kind thoughts and words.

As you give the best of you, you will be staggered by the speed that it comes back to you.

So from today, April 20th until May 20th, I will be giving – giving smiles, compliments, love, a helping hand, basically whatever I can give in any given moment.

I would love to have you join me.  If you’re up for the challenge, please post a comment &/or send me an email.  I think it’ll be fun to do this together, and help each other out.  And, I know the rewards will be awesome!

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