tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24759084668647994082024-03-14T07:25:17.570-04:00Current WomanFor the woman of today. All in one place.Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.comBlogger67125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-36466342200560506272017-07-01T17:08:00.001-04:002017-07-01T17:08:40.360-04:00150 Reasons Why I Love Canada<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hello my dear friends!<br />
<br />
It would not be Canadian of me if I did not join in on all the celebrations of Canada's 150th birthday! So, I decided to share my list of 150 things I love about Canada. Enjoy!<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF0DT2RJQJ4Lb7TgdLN-YQO0rJTNaAuAsQdP0fq4Ctg6p7_fRKGko1KU5r39uyRS0FNFOXD-lYtCA-uk82r7aobctncF04S6MO5rarqlGRYoqEdoD9GA_BcbrDxhRtVsZEVgLzeW8ETw_b/s1600/Peace+sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="350" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF0DT2RJQJ4Lb7TgdLN-YQO0rJTNaAuAsQdP0fq4Ctg6p7_fRKGko1KU5r39uyRS0FNFOXD-lYtCA-uk82r7aobctncF04S6MO5rarqlGRYoqEdoD9GA_BcbrDxhRtVsZEVgLzeW8ETw_b/s200/Peace+sign.jpg" width="186" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit Pinterest</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
1. Diplomatic<br />
2. Peaceful <br />
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3. Accepting<br />
4. Beautiful<br />
5. Caring<br />
6. Democratic<br />
7. Multicultural<br />
8. Young<br />
9. Open minded<br />
10. Active<br />
11. Tolerant<br />
12. Sympathetic<br />
13. Respectful<br />
14. Supportive<br />
15. Full of opportunities<br />
16. Politically correct<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtmpnUPJ03v7mrXbLC1UmBum4W2Jxq4xSPpRZltJs9IXIk_ob6R4lYauU2NfAskpzPPltfWDjqCvqunPuhTyVEiVK2ACMtfqzU6dJn1A7icg4mpkuN3nPJHKK1KeA1J_o54Bzw3x-hZPhO/s1600/Rockies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="395" data-original-width="651" height="121" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtmpnUPJ03v7mrXbLC1UmBum4W2Jxq4xSPpRZltJs9IXIk_ob6R4lYauU2NfAskpzPPltfWDjqCvqunPuhTyVEiVK2ACMtfqzU6dJn1A7icg4mpkuN3nPJHKK1KeA1J_o54Bzw3x-hZPhO/s200/Rockies.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.nationalgeographicexpeditions.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
17. Creative<br />
18. Innovative<br />
19. Constantly growing<br />
20. Crazy unpredictable weather<br />
21. Loved around the world<br />
22. Lakes<br />
23. Forests<br />
24. Rockies<br />
<br />
25. Prairies<br />
26. Maple Trees<br />
27. Cottage (a little birdie reminded me about this beautiful way to get away from it all!)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirpbfVUczQICh0bSWO0OEOWcs4U5lfGMyW7MP9xBRNUNgcuRQbAOKfUYeBcj5Bh42Uh_rl1bPpnUip9HgrupSwCjr8GlEkqDgjS7kT7iOYcJqoi6_YlY1E5WzMZnExN5G2JrVAvMdXmJQv/s1600/Justin+and+Sophie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1080" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirpbfVUczQICh0bSWO0OEOWcs4U5lfGMyW7MP9xBRNUNgcuRQbAOKfUYeBcj5Bh42Uh_rl1bPpnUip9HgrupSwCjr8GlEkqDgjS7kT7iOYcJqoi6_YlY1E5WzMZnExN5G2JrVAvMdXmJQv/s200/Justin+and+Sophie.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.macleans.ca</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
28. Eh!<br />
29. Canadian Flag<br />
30. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Justin_Trudeau" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Justin Trudeau</span></a> (the hottest PM there is)<br />
31.<span style="color: magenta;"> <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sophie_Gr%C3%A9goire_Trudeau" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Sophie Gregoire Trudeau</span></a></span> (the trend setter)<br />
32. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pierre_Trudeau" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Pierre Trudeau</span></a> (the father of the hottest PM there is)<br />
33. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Margaret_Trudeau" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Margaret Trudeau</span></a> (the mother of the hottest PM there is and I promise we are done with Trudeau name for now)<br />
34. Peter Mansbridge (did you know that he lent his voice to<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwM-ceLiQMU&ab_channel=MonstersandCritics" target="_blank"> <span style="color: magenta;">Peter Moosbridge in Zootopia</span></a>; Happy retirement Peter!)<br />
35. Hockey<br />
36. Blackberry (yes, I used to call it berry as well, just gave it up and already miss it)<br />
37. Zipper<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg86anAswYx7MF_lw96LwAD9Kur20Pc15ypiYTyJalTaRyo0_vV2hNaUPyPrDy-HZWH2Gux559EkcFxXdsjMk7a5iJNX471aH3o9-5Y1NMkyQVurx_L4yv61uIXJ8cdyQ4Q43wKtz4Piipc/s1600/Blackberry.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="250" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg86anAswYx7MF_lw96LwAD9Kur20Pc15ypiYTyJalTaRyo0_vV2hNaUPyPrDy-HZWH2Gux559EkcFxXdsjMk7a5iJNX471aH3o9-5Y1NMkyQVurx_L4yv61uIXJ8cdyQ4Q43wKtz4Piipc/s200/Blackberry.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.blackberry.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
38. Penicillin<br />
39. Wonderbra (a BIG THANK YOU Canada!!!!!)<br />
40. Telephone<br />
41. Light bulb<br />
42. Pacemaker<br />
43. Electric wheelchair<br />
44. Canadarm<br />
45. Java (not coffee people)<br />
46. Alkaline battery<br />
47. Paint roller<br />
48. Radio-voice transmission<br />
49. Instant replay<br />
50. Goalie mask<br />
51. Basketball<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCue5QllPrI4Yjfzmp4vyQbUlnVxnbCAdfB8peSIzN0Vtq0jguOk2WQhkfDPwxrSz3knqFwiMWzuGF04hHOh4OIeVcbEhIA42FbAxyfUYdvso0g5xxApgLKrOSAHsL35MZCcMX1a7I_EaE/s1600/Greenpeace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="581" height="137" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCue5QllPrI4Yjfzmp4vyQbUlnVxnbCAdfB8peSIzN0Vtq0jguOk2WQhkfDPwxrSz3knqFwiMWzuGF04hHOh4OIeVcbEhIA42FbAxyfUYdvso0g5xxApgLKrOSAHsL35MZCcMX1a7I_EaE/s200/Greenpeace.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.goodpitch.org</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
52. Walkie talkie<br />
53. Snowblower<br />
54. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greenpeace" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Greenpeace </span></a>(yes, it was born in Vancouver, Canada)<br />
55. Canadian Tire (it's not just tires!)<br />
56. Tim Hortons<br />
57. Beavertails<br />
58. Poutine<br />
59. Nanaimo bar<br />
60. Montreal smoked meat (although I do not eat this stuff any longer, it was a tasty treat)<br />
61. Maple Syrup (indigenous have created this delicious treat with the help of Mother Nature)<br />
62. Butter tarts (YUMMMMMMMMMM!)<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf7XRYBmbyJX84MKfKizcvjTlAJyJcVq57zptN_TFlvfsTPp7kSmFb3gf6TedYhh_jYqwT6yl4tCl3riC2naXeHxPOjievGYeufhYwvXSA3kJlsvoArlFKnrY97BUKvfBxHjk8MHGM4igy/s1600/Rachel+McAdams.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="125" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf7XRYBmbyJX84MKfKizcvjTlAJyJcVq57zptN_TFlvfsTPp7kSmFb3gf6TedYhh_jYqwT6yl4tCl3riC2naXeHxPOjievGYeufhYwvXSA3kJlsvoArlFKnrY97BUKvfBxHjk8MHGM4igy/s200/Rachel+McAdams.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit Pinterest</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
63. Hawaiian pizza<br />
64. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rick_Hansen" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Rick Hansen</span></a> (amazing human power!)<br />
65. Chris Hadfield (homegrown <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KaOC9danxNo&ab_channel=ChrisHadfield%27sRareEarth" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">"David Bowie in space"</span></a>)<br />
66. <a href="http://www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/astronauts/recruitment/profiles.asp?sidey-jennifer" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Jenny Sidie</span></a> (one of our newest astronauts)<br />
67. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rachel_McAdams" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Rachel McAdams</span></a> (hot Canadian "commodity")<br />
68. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evangeline_Lilly" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Evangeline Lily</span></a><br />
69. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kim_Cattrall" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Kim Cattrall</span></a> (dear Samantha Fox....)<br />
70. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nina_Dobrev" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Nina Dobrev</span></a> (although not born in Canada..... oh forget it, she is our girl!)<br />
71. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linda_Evangelista" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Linda Evangelista</span></a> (my favorite model)<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Wl68Ke20pUEiWq5HFI0xZ78HX9Hyf8kX-tRMmA1AwZxkfZ8u4F20TWK_8gwJOySm-n3nc8VOSPwdBOTHeqgTuNifaX7DFtUiEk0htRt_HQ1NM8wZ8iyxVvZ8x7QxN0hA9q3AXrIB2Mpd/s1600/Linda+Evangelista.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="377" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Wl68Ke20pUEiWq5HFI0xZ78HX9Hyf8kX-tRMmA1AwZxkfZ8u4F20TWK_8gwJOySm-n3nc8VOSPwdBOTHeqgTuNifaX7DFtUiEk0htRt_HQ1NM8wZ8iyxVvZ8x7QxN0hA9q3AXrIB2Mpd/s200/Linda+Evangelista.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit Pinterest</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
72.<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carrie-Anne_Moss" target="_blank"> <span style="color: magenta;">Carrie-Anne Moss</span></a><span style="color: magenta;"> </span>(Matrix girl; perhaps best know as)<br />
73. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandra_Oh" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Sandra Oh</span></a> (Ottawa girl!)<br />
74. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ellen_Page" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Ellen Page</span></a> (Juno herself and X-Men participant)<br />
75. Pamela Anderson (<a href="https://www.peta.org/features/pamela-anderson-shows-animals-same-parts/" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">it's not just about Baywatch</span></a>)<br />
76. Celine Dion (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kvz_gW5C2cY&ab_channel=CelineDionVEVO" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">I Drove All Niiiiiiight</span></a>)<br />
77. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buffy_Sainte-Marie" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Buffy Sainte-Marie</span></a><br />
78. K.D. Lang (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_NpxTWbovE&ab_channel=oneandonlyck" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Hallelujah</span></a>)<br />
79. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alanis_Morissette" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Alanis Morissette</span> </a>(another Ottawa girl!)<br />
80. Shania Twain (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJL4UGSbeFg&ab_channel=ShaniaTwainVEVO" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Man! I Fell Like A Woman!</span></a>)<br />
81. Avril Lavigne (remember skater girl signing about <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TIy3n2b7V9k&ab_channel=AvrilLavigneVEVO" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Sk8tr Boi</span></a>?)<br />
82. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doris_Anderson" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Doris Anderson</span></a><br />
83. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doris_Anderson" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Emily Car</span></a> (Canadian Van Gogh)<br />
84. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenojuak_Ashevak" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Kenojuak Ashevak</span></a><br />
85. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Ann_Shadd" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Mary Ann Shadd Cary</span></a> (although not Canadian, moving here provided her with a great opportunity to help others)<br />
86. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angelina_Napolitano" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Angelina Napolitano</span></a> (first woman to bring domestic abuse as a legal matter to light)<br />
87. <a href="http://www.canadashistory.ca/Explore/Women/Canada-s-Great-Women" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Thanadelthur </span></a> (the great Hudson's Bay Company helper)<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFsDAurVai6JpbddkW1RWa7LkRAs8MGkJuNGqPbt-4PUMZeqrYby_JH-aVQ8zJlRCdJ9DoiysCQA8eYXwMlnLRVGXQnawKVW5LgFxI7-VqgDXMIyYIGe_TorAsAkP6JFhEK2bXzoSRnmxW/s1600/Thanadelthur.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="450" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFsDAurVai6JpbddkW1RWa7LkRAs8MGkJuNGqPbt-4PUMZeqrYby_JH-aVQ8zJlRCdJ9DoiysCQA8eYXwMlnLRVGXQnawKVW5LgFxI7-VqgDXMIyYIGe_TorAsAkP6JFhEK2bXzoSRnmxW/s200/Thanadelthur.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.mhs.mb.ca</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
88.<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caroline_Rhea" target="_blank"> <span style="color: magenta;">Caroline Rhea</span></a> (aunt Hilda)<br />
89. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joni_Mitchell" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Joni Mitchell</span></a><br />
90. Sarah McLachlan (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Td5amPArHlE&ab_channel=kxsantos" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">In the Eyes of an Angel</span></a>)<br />
91. Nelly Furtado (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=roPQ_M3yJTA&ab_channel=NellyFurtadoVEVO" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">I'm Like a Bird</span></a>)<br />
92. Diana Krall (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQuDaIbpA1g&ab_channel=DianaKrallVEVO" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">The Look of Love</span></a>)<br />
93. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hayley_Wickenheiser" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Hayley Wickenheiser</span></a> (amazing hockey girl!)<br />
94. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christine_Sinclair" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Chrstine Sinclair</span></a> (WOW!)<br />
95. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayne_Gretzky" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Wayne Gretzky</span></a> (well, I had to learn how to love him when I moved to Canada)<br />
96. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terry_Fox" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Terry Fox</span> </a>(what a young man!)<br />
97. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Cameron" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">James Cameron</span></a> (The Terminator, Aliens, Try Lies, Titanic, Avatar and who knows what the future holds)<br />
98. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ivan_Reitman" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Ivan Reitman</span></a> (Animal House, Meatballs, Goastbusters, Twins, Kindergarten Cop, Junior, Space Jam; WOW!)<br />
98. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jason_Reitman" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Jason Reitman</span></a> (the son is well known as well: Juno, Up in the Air)<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1YUmVCLwXnKi4SJzp9OwYPt7xfDhVzZWl-gjvpDU1c6b6gSH9hLk2vVeVK7G0vEGpAvrthBb4A4a6G1NlOvZPtLsQScUjj77h_lflyLCb-yKx66gq8GeA7dS3pXSvCOc6sUK7TgH1tJd8/s1600/Ryan+Reynolds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="800" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1YUmVCLwXnKi4SJzp9OwYPt7xfDhVzZWl-gjvpDU1c6b6gSH9hLk2vVeVK7G0vEGpAvrthBb4A4a6G1NlOvZPtLsQScUjj77h_lflyLCb-yKx66gq8GeA7dS3pXSvCOc6sUK7TgH1tJd8/s200/Ryan+Reynolds.jpg" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.gq.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
99. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dan_Aykroyd" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Dan Aykroyd</span></a> (no comments required)<br />
100. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rick_Moranis" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Rick Moranis</span></a> (one funny guy)<br />
101. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ryan_Reynolds" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Ryan Reynolds</span></a> (I am speechless....)<br />
102. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ryan_Gosling" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Ryan Gosling</span></a> (our Justins and Ryans rock!)<br />
103. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Shatner" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">William Shatne</span>r</a> (I don't even know where to begin......)<br />
104. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Carrey" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Jim Carrey</span></a> (there is no one like him!)<br />
105. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_J._Fox" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Michael J Fox</span></a> (what a tremendous character!)<br />
106. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Myers" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Mike Myers</span></a> (okay, he might compare to Jim Carry)<br />
107. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donald_Sutherland" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Donald Sutherland</span></a> (father)<br />
108. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kiefer_Sutherland" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Keifer Sutherland</span></a> (son; could not think of a holy spirit)<br />
109. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keanu_Reeves" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Keanu Reeves</span></a> (our Neo)<br />
110. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matthew_Perry" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Mathew Perry</span></a> (one friendly guy)<br />
111. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Will_Arnett" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Will Arnett</span></a><br />
112.<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seth_Rogen" target="_blank"> <span style="color: magenta;">Seth Rogen</span></a> (I've yet to watch Sausage Party)<br />
113. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seth_Rogen" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Hayden Christensen</span></a> (young Darth Vader)<br />
114. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jason_Priestley" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Jason Preistly</span></a> (for those of you who were not around in '90s look up 90201, Brandon was an all around wonderful young man your parents would like)<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiB9OqF8F7IMwcdfI_KIH4kn9kOEi7DpI9MMOy6qNue8J0f-AKwIXvt9Qy7bFwEaOs2vYMf3G3Q7uYdgXl_3Zu5TGOiDq5A6Xx_deyazUiVnYTCq1qohAnYkClwyenkKbYubrZbU7LQRn9/s1600/Corey+Monthieth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="177" data-original-width="284" height="124" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiB9OqF8F7IMwcdfI_KIH4kn9kOEi7DpI9MMOy6qNue8J0f-AKwIXvt9Qy7bFwEaOs2vYMf3G3Q7uYdgXl_3Zu5TGOiDq5A6Xx_deyazUiVnYTCq1qohAnYkClwyenkKbYubrZbU7LQRn9/s200/Corey+Monthieth.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.stargate.wikia.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
115. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Cera" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Michael Cera</span></a> (another Juno member)<br />
116. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cory_Monteith" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Corey Monteith</span></a> (sad storey)<br />
117. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dwayne_Johnson" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Dwayne Johnson</span></a>, aka The Rock (yes, his Dad is Canadian so it counts)<br />
118.<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joshua_Jackson" target="_blank"> <span style="color: magenta;">Joshua Jackson</span></a> (where is he these days?)<br />
119. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Green" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Tom Green</span></a> (Ottawa boy!)<br />
120. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phil_Hartman" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Phil Hartman</span></a><br />
121. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Foster" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">David Foster</span></a> (see if you can recognize some of these names: Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Madonna, Dona Summer......)<br />
<div>
122. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bryan_Adams" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Brian Adams</span></a> (I received my first cassette of his music when I was leaving for permanent residence in Canada, it was a joke.... I think)</div>
123. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Weeknd" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">The Weeknd</span></a> (had a dream about him last night, we were dating.... is there a message for me? Yes, I am a BIG fan)<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzy6ofQ3cAg00KAI2Nc22SkH_qbvEH6ToB50tgJSAh0HB9ifE6DdeKXmaJlOyT3YG25nvjOpYGmxoN97KNxBTW6t2v1fNKMpXepQw0yijX9HF4_J0oksbXF70zp4VzQrgKGFuQCflue58x/s1600/The+Weeknd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="770" data-original-width="770" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzy6ofQ3cAg00KAI2Nc22SkH_qbvEH6ToB50tgJSAh0HB9ifE6DdeKXmaJlOyT3YG25nvjOpYGmxoN97KNxBTW6t2v1fNKMpXepQw0yijX9HF4_J0oksbXF70zp4VzQrgKGFuQCflue58x/s200/The+Weeknd.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.last.fm</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
124. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drake_(musician)" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Drake</span></a> (BIG fan)<br />
125. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Justin_Bieber" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Justin Bieber</span></a> (one of famous Canadian Justins)<br />
126. Neil Young (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMs3PCDM8Eg&ab_channel=pipis742" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Hey Hey My My</span></a>)<br />
127. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Bubl%C3%A9" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Michael Buble</span></a><br />
128. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Tragically_Hip" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Tragically Hip</span></a><br />
129. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arcade_Fire" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Arcade Fire</span></a><br />
130. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Billy_Talent" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Billy Talent</span></a><br />
132.<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rush_(band)" target="_blank"> <span style="color: magenta;">Rush</span></a><br />
133. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nickelback" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Nickelback</span></a><br />
134. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deadmau5" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">deadmau5</span></a><br />
135. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Sheepdogs" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">The Sheepdogs</span></a><br />
136. Leonard Cohen (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YrLk4vdY28Q&ab_channel=LeonardCohenVEVO" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">original Hallelujah</span></a>)<br />
137.<span style="color: magenta;"> <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gordon_Lightfoot" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Gordon Lightfoot</span></a></span><br />
138. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_Anka" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Paul Anka</span></a><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBakXnMYMZ1KsTeSqoU8-W-DdWLw7VbgHaEDigadRhId_1mRyVqnfmGHWiRVYI_gsu00ybpM51FMoDi8cSmhi7zgjQx5u2GMZp0FhDunw0PPY0ds23PZSl1HJl4yDLurNOgzv8JDN92c-a/s1600/Mukluks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="347" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBakXnMYMZ1KsTeSqoU8-W-DdWLw7VbgHaEDigadRhId_1mRyVqnfmGHWiRVYI_gsu00ybpM51FMoDi8cSmhi7zgjQx5u2GMZp0FhDunw0PPY0ds23PZSl1HJl4yDLurNOgzv8JDN92c-a/s200/Mukluks.jpg" width="173" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.jumaka.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
139. Jeff Healey (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=660a3z7r2_4&ab_channel=ValerioScalzo" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">While My Guitar Gently Weeps</span></a>, not his song but he does is so well)<br />
140. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shawn_Mendes" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Shawn Mendes</span></a><br />
141. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stompin'_Tom_Connors" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Stompin' Tom Connors</span></a> (you did not think I'll forget this guy!!!)<br />
142. Beaver<br />
143. Moose<br />
144. Bears<br />
145. Canada Goose (yes, I know, their poop is not my favorite either)<br />
146. Lynx<br />
147. Wolverine (and no, not Huge Jackman type)<br />
148. Beluga whale<br />
149. Atlantic Puffin<br />
149. Mukluks (I have a special relationship with these)<br />
150. Proud of who we are and what we represent!!!!!!!<br />
<br />
And here it is, my list. You might agree or disagree with some of the above but before you <a href="http://currentwomanblog.blogspot.ca/2017/06/youve-been-judged.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">judge me</span></a>, please remember this is my list.<br />
<br />
A GREAT BIG thank you to WIKI! You are a great source for all I do!<br />
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Happy Canada Day my Canadian friends wherever you are in the world right now! And if you are not Canadian, know that you are always welcomed here. We will open our arms to you as long as you are not hear to threaten all of the things at the top of my list.<br />
<br />
Go and celebrate, and while you at it,<br />
<br />
<b><i>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</i></b></div>
Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-25890852907537341862017-06-22T20:20:00.000-04:002017-06-30T06:02:42.374-04:00You've Been Judged!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hello my dear readers,<br />
<br />
My oh my! Where dose the time go? Yesterday we celebrated a great turn for Mother Earth - Summer Solstice. Although the hot summer days are on their way, the days will start getting shorter. So, let your hair loose, shed off those layers and enjoy summer days just the way you like it! And don't let anyone judge you!<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-C11HBSIsJ4prtU6CZbCOis1hrBywvu-iOTj3EDpQ6WgAQoNzEJvvoEF32Q7cdv-BPzHYCyhpqqcbjZaSYYaSiw-iYbocOyo4jkRwrjMyacNRUtKIV4F7PLxUuqkiKtq2mUfGxIC9H798/s1600/Summer+Solstice.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="276" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-C11HBSIsJ4prtU6CZbCOis1hrBywvu-iOTj3EDpQ6WgAQoNzEJvvoEF32Q7cdv-BPzHYCyhpqqcbjZaSYYaSiw-iYbocOyo4jkRwrjMyacNRUtKIV4F7PLxUuqkiKtq2mUfGxIC9H798/s200/Summer+Solstice.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.awakeningmind.ca</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Speaking of judging, as you might have noticed from the title of this post, our discussion will be about the judgements. It does not matter if it is you who is being judged by someone, or it is you who is being judgemental. We will have a look at both.<br />
<br />
Where shall we start? Well, let's take a trip down memory lane and place yourself in the middle school. You are young, full of energy and wonder and starting to develop opinions about the world, people and yourself.<br />
<br />
Few days from now, there is an opportunity to introduce yourself to the world in the best possible way (in your opinion of course) and you are very excited and putting a lot of time and effort to get ready. Can you guess what the opportunity is? Your first school dance of course! "Not to miss" social occasion that could set a path for your future life. Yes, that important of an event! You have been getting ready for months now: outfit, hair, friends and of course expectations of the event.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="546" data-original-width="720" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_dlHj_MhM1wJPfBKgPn0NYiGxNhP5w8f7ZGZWJA-_bWnajT-sVIrFXryMeSlwCURcbCHoS3GGmj3aRyIVnfaML7JKqaeselUAw6wLTnDxd0yRiDylG56vf3JFcIVrhzwK3RLIRAaxHEKx/s200/First+School+Dance+%2528Napoleon+Dynomite%2529.jpg" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.wingko.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The day is finally here! Your parents dropped you off at school where you reunited with your friends. You look beautiful, feeling fantastic and ready to have a good time. A little food, few cups of fruit punch (remember, you're in middle school), chats and laughs with your friends and of course lots of dancing. You are having a blast! Nothing can spoil the feeling!<br />
<br />
And then something happens, you see a group of your peers looking at you and laughing. Of course, you get curious and now keep looking at this group to see if the stairs and laughs continue. They do. You starting to feel uncomfortable, you are not so sure in yourself anymore and suddenly you stop having fun. Why is this happening? The answer is - You've Been Judged!<br />
<br />
Yes, the awful feeling of judgement. It does not make a difference how little or big. It is uncomfortable, it is hurtful and at times blood churning. It is tough to shake off and it can seep through into all of the areas of your life. All of sudden you start questioning everything you do and then spiral into depression because you think you don't fit and you are useless.<br />
<br />
I am sure that this happened to you more than once. I am not talking about school dance specifically, I am referring to the feeling of being judged. You do not have to be young to feel badly about someone else's negative opinion of you or something that you do. We've all been there more than once. Not fun!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF6oeDor8jpgfWmoNonOOXkPqlPy5qlcOTDNdsfmI71etrOTd8WCXUg60_OXPOGPZ43jEd_QlRvTNIU5Y6EqexcGh-JCYL_ClDMrlt0NuMAfwU4B0g1vIBD-sOdAO4_nYEupYi8XsEM-cO/s1600/Judged.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="300" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF6oeDor8jpgfWmoNonOOXkPqlPy5qlcOTDNdsfmI71etrOTd8WCXUg60_OXPOGPZ43jEd_QlRvTNIU5Y6EqexcGh-JCYL_ClDMrlt0NuMAfwU4B0g1vIBD-sOdAO4_nYEupYi8XsEM-cO/s200/Judged.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.memegenerator.net</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And how about the other side - you being the "judge"? Do you recall how many times you made someone upset, disappointed or mad by your hurtful comments? I won't lie, I've been there and now feel badly. Did I think I was better than the person who was a victim of my words? Did I think my opinion was the right one (well, we know how I feel about this one)? Why did I do that? Why do we have a desire to push our negative energy onto people?<br />
<br />
After the years of experience with people and simple observation of their behavior, I've come to conclusion that our need for judgement is brought by the lack of that something that we judge others for. Yes, I know, clear as mud!<br />
<br />
So, let me explain. in the recent month I was judged. I found out about this from a colleague of mine. It was something rather silly, a pair of form fitting pants. I am still relatively new to the company I work with and some of the people do not know my name. And so, I was remembered as a "girl in tight pants". Hmmm... <br />
<br />
What was my reaction? First I was rather confused, I could not quite understand why my pants that are part of the business suite I wore, got so much attention. Secondly, I could not understand why was I identified by my pants. Thirdly, I said to my colleague: "I am glad that my popularity is growing that even my pants get a notice!".<br />
<br />
You see things like this do not bother me anymore. I am a very confident person, I know who I am and yes, I work very hard to stay in shape so I can wear form fitting clothes. It makes me feel good and I will not stop doing that.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3HmOC09ZendZQWFeUFaWakCR5-VWhVGnN9MknNvxnaaw1Lbb6ymAB05gyvncshpgJK_AzEad3iAOTcmR6jwLd1FiPt_osEQiBKdudSop1BD-TV4-g3FzoII4Y7W9I7v1_AU4vBqLS5Iwo/s1600/Mean+Girls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="326" data-original-width="584" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3HmOC09ZendZQWFeUFaWakCR5-VWhVGnN9MknNvxnaaw1Lbb6ymAB05gyvncshpgJK_AzEad3iAOTcmR6jwLd1FiPt_osEQiBKdudSop1BD-TV4-g3FzoII4Y7W9I7v1_AU4vBqLS5Iwo/s200/Mean+Girls.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.thoughtcatalog.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I suggested to my colleague that I feel sad for the person who made the comment and then found out that this person was not in the greatest shape and was simply jealous. I also found out that I was not the first victim. Simply sad!<br />
<br />
The interesting outcome of this is that every time I go to the head office, I seriously consider my attire. I do! And it is not like me at all! I am strong, confident and I do not have time or space in my world for such people or their comments. I can happily meet with them and hear what they have to say and perhaps share with them my side of the story. Cowardly behaviour is not welcomed in my life.<br />
<br />
So, why do I still think about this? Well, in my "past life" (before my spiritual awakening and full understanding of myself) I wanted everyone to like me and was willing to do anything for that to take place. So, perhaps that feeling is still somewhat present deep in my soul. Even with the understanding that it is practically impossible, it seem that "the little girl" inside of me still wants to be liked. Work in progress!<br />
<br />
But enough about me (did I just say that?). Let's get back to discussion about judgements. Yes, they are unpleasant and disrupt your life in a negative way. But they are a part of life. I would love to tell you that you will be okay, but it is not up to me. It is in your hands, it is your choice how you react to the situation or if you choose to be judgemental towards someone.<br />
<br />
So next time someone passes judgment on you or you are about to judge someone, think about why this is happening and make a choice. Make a choice how you will react to someone's negative words about you or think about how your negative words might affect someone.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSdDWho05BdL0qn_W5vjYo3cICoyAraBQ_LUvrj0A4zpx1a1fy7Si_M7pQhu5hN-o2nfIbrFKNnSGGwOUk4T3j1Gj3HVSKBQ0CvYvF-z4zziqmQrbfo43iKN3wEkJO3b590fsNgYh9Oqrr/s1600/Judgement+Dalai+Lama.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSdDWho05BdL0qn_W5vjYo3cICoyAraBQ_LUvrj0A4zpx1a1fy7Si_M7pQhu5hN-o2nfIbrFKNnSGGwOUk4T3j1Gj3HVSKBQ0CvYvF-z4zziqmQrbfo43iKN3wEkJO3b590fsNgYh9Oqrr/s200/Judgement+Dalai+Lama.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit Pinterest</td></tr>
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<br />
The secret is to listen to your thoughts and pay attention to your feelings and emotions. It is easier said than done, But try it once and see how it feels. And then try it again. Next thing you know you are free of judgemental feelings and behaviour. And the world becomes a better place for everyone!<br />
<br />
Yes, I am a strong believer that world will be a better place if there was less judgement. But this is a completely different discussion.<br />
<br />
I hope you enjoyed reading this post and it is always my hope that it helped you in some way. Remember, we are here to experience life and have a journey. It is your life and your journey and you are the only one who decides what's best for you. No judgement of others should determine this. And please try to stay away form judging others.<br />
<br />
Enjoy your summer and don't forget to<br />
<br />
<i><b>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</b></i></div>
Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-48820644998908098252017-05-14T21:13:00.001-04:002017-05-14T21:13:35.129-04:00Happy Mother's Day!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hello my lovely readers!<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfG2HTj5m1pKM7XJFu13_FTc-w_2TwpL5dx93RPk12ohFzO-2baDZX957y3Z2TXykO4JZMDaqw7M4HCA8WHKOci_LIQY7Ul1DSOLz_TbSmiOt1Gfn-U1ce-nKXvvHHQ54UFFJpo4uyECFL/s1600/It%2527s+May.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfG2HTj5m1pKM7XJFu13_FTc-w_2TwpL5dx93RPk12ohFzO-2baDZX957y3Z2TXykO4JZMDaqw7M4HCA8WHKOci_LIQY7Ul1DSOLz_TbSmiOt1Gfn-U1ce-nKXvvHHQ54UFFJpo4uyECFL/s200/It%2527s+May.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.pinterest.com</td></tr>
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I am still trying to comprehend how is it the middle of May! What happened to February, March and April? Do you recall them? But I guess we do not have a say in this so let's just enjoy this lovely month and of course today.<br />
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As I am sure most of you know, today was Mother's Day in most countries of the world. It is the day when mothers are appreciated and recognized. A very special day for all the mothers! And I really truly hope so! But you did not think this is it for me, did you? Of course not! So here comes my elaboration. Are you ready?<br />
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If you are reading this post, you most likely have or had a mother (someone had to give a birth to you). And so, you most likely have been involved in celebration of Mother's Day at one time or another: macaroni necklace; crayon drawing of flowers with oddly shaped inscription "For Mom"; real flowers and chocolates bought by your Dad or grandparents to give to your Mom; and finally graduation for treating your Mom to a special brunch or dinner. Does that sound familiar? I am sure it does for most of you.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.eggrollgames.com</td></tr>
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Growing up in Russia, we did not have Mother's Day, women were celebrated on March 8th - International Women's Day. And yes, we did something very similar to above. But most importantly this was the day when mothers and grandmothers were celebrated.<br />
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But here is a question for you, doesn't it feel a little strange that there is only one day a year that we celebrate moms? Why can't we recognize and celebrate things that our Moms do or done for us on a daily basis? It's not that difficult and usually a simple "thank you", "I love you" or a hug can do wonders.<br />
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I am a mother and my son understands now that small things matter. And so I am blessed with "thank you'" and random hugs almost on a daily basis. It feels so wonderful! And I try to remind my mom that I love her very much. We do not see each other very often, Atlantic ocean you see. But we try to connect as often as possible. And so we are blessed with saying "I love you" to one another every time we speak on the phone. It might not be much but we greatly appreciate our sincerity and recognition!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjupeUrziSClCGRDlTJ2NKsnFomK3tlYYkjW2vE8ptguT67fmd1CxGhgn0kqHKODq3wuQHIKf9F4SV5foKXnk1CD1gftolx-IPglAQhhrZrRejbGdOqwPm-jYbEs5iGQ-wJWqydRg3kZ0k8/s1600/It%2527s+the+Little+Things+in+Life.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjupeUrziSClCGRDlTJ2NKsnFomK3tlYYkjW2vE8ptguT67fmd1CxGhgn0kqHKODq3wuQHIKf9F4SV5foKXnk1CD1gftolx-IPglAQhhrZrRejbGdOqwPm-jYbEs5iGQ-wJWqydRg3kZ0k8/s200/It%2527s+the+Little+Things+in+Life.png" width="171" /></a></div>
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So here is a thought, celebrate your Mom more often, little things work wonders. If you are mother yourself, there is nothing wrong with reminding your family about little things that matter. Yes, I am talking about "thank you", hugs, and of course the mother (pun is certainly intended) of them all - "I love you". We are deserving!<br />
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And yes, I recognize that some of you do not have relationship with their mothers. It is sad and I prefer not to discuss this today. Just know one thing, there is always someone in your life that loves and appreciates you.<br />
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Hope all of you had a wonderful day and here is to more little things in your life!<br />
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<i><b>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</b></i></div>
Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-25431684252364295462017-01-30T22:11:00.000-05:002017-01-30T22:13:09.339-05:00Celebrate Yourself!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hello my Dear Readers,<br />
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How is January treating you? Are you keeping up with your resolutions if you made any? Are there new beginnings for some of you (after all, <a href="http://numerology.astrologyclub.org/2017-personal-year/" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">2017 is year 1 according to numerology</span></a>)? How are you feeling overall at the end of the first month of the new year?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit CipArt</td></tr>
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Well, while you are thinking about all of the above, I will bring us to today's subject - celebration of self. I am sure you have done this few times before and have some idea what this post might be about. But as you can imagine, I would like to offer you my interpretation of the meaning.<br />
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For many people celebration coincide with a special event: birthday, graduation, wedding, anniversary, birth of a child, promotion, etc. Really, all of the above could be considered special events in our lives. And they most certainly deserve to be celebrated. So when you look at the life events mentioned, they represent beginning or successful conclusion of something.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEIcd52eEDZ07OOo-F5BuSdXlnSufA_7PfT3qX63kY9l3APLVv4luTCPgsRCvMVv4sU86AG8YCNWbmbHosQRKL64QoAztTPgrqx3aG17DA91IMLHW1g_tNxGowbdN8CrCe_kqyXbZE6Y6k/s1600/Celebration+TIme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="142" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEIcd52eEDZ07OOo-F5BuSdXlnSufA_7PfT3qX63kY9l3APLVv4luTCPgsRCvMVv4sU86AG8YCNWbmbHosQRKL64QoAztTPgrqx3aG17DA91IMLHW1g_tNxGowbdN8CrCe_kqyXbZE6Y6k/s200/Celebration+TIme.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.aanorthaltonerin.org</td></tr>
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For majority of the population in the developed nations, these are the standards of "normal life" and somewhat naturally occurring events. Most of us are expected to complete our education, get married, have children and thus celebrate all of the mentioned. But what happens to people who do not belong to "the norm"? What happens to people who choose different approach to life? And what happens to people who reside outside of the developed nations? Are their lives sad because there are no significant events like above? Are their life events not worth celebrating?<br />
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Absolutely not! These people have the same right to celebrate! And even they might not have the <a href="http://currentwomanblog.blogspot.ca/2015/08/are-you-normal.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">"normal life"</span></a> (you know my view about this topic), there is plenty to celebrate. So let's have a detailed look at the options for "alternative to norm" celebrations.<br />
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We shall start with following, if you are "normal" (and by the way, there is nothing wrong with that) I would like you to put yourself in a shoes of a person who does not have life according to our societal standards. Imagine that you are a 15-year-old girl in central African country, whose parents passed away and now you have to look after two younger siblings. Do you get the picture? Do you think this girl has many celebration worthy events in her life? I will say no. She has a tough life ahead and probably in a complete survival mode. So celebrating anything will not be first thing on her mind.<br />
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But we do not necessarily have to travel that far or be so dramatic, have a look in your "backyard"(watch some news. read a paper or be present in the community). There are plenty of people that unable to attend college or choose not to get married; there are people who work hard to provide for their family just to be stricken with a severe illness and no longer able to support the family; there are happy couples who cannot wait to start a family just to realize that they are unable to have children; there are plenty of young hopefuls anxiously waiting to make it big in athletic world only to be sideline with debilitating injury; there are those that have all the financial freedom but deal with severe depression; and then there are some that no matter how hard they try to get a better life, it just does not seem to work. Do these examples paint few close to home pictures for you?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHDoebyIKzu2YHgLmhIY2a0-p-PDi0ETHlbKXCAZGMkzhKcsA0Yxq0h4rDNegWw87AHbPfLvjrdh4oJhBxXOkWqZW6NqV9yx2WjVODSvnmHjN0QkQ5k4fb4ZFgWXARYz13wYNOaGujtpB8/s1600/Challenges+Ahead.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHDoebyIKzu2YHgLmhIY2a0-p-PDi0ETHlbKXCAZGMkzhKcsA0Yxq0h4rDNegWw87AHbPfLvjrdh4oJhBxXOkWqZW6NqV9yx2WjVODSvnmHjN0QkQ5k4fb4ZFgWXARYz13wYNOaGujtpB8/s200/Challenges+Ahead.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.lifehealthpro.com</td></tr>
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So what about all of these people, what do they have to celebrate? Oh, there is plenty! And one of the first things to celebrate is being you! Yes, celebrating yourself! Does this make sense to you so far?<br />
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Even if it does, let me offer you my opinion (as you know I am happy to share!). And it will be based on my life's experiences since this is what I know best. I had many happy times in my life: graduations, marriage, birth of my son, great jobs, many life accomplishments and lots of fun times. But of course I was also faced with numerous challenges in my life and not necessarily just mine. There was a divorce, depression (my son's, my son's father and mine), failed friendships and relationships, collapsed business partnership that create a huge havoc for me as a single Mom. And then came untimely death (there were four in our family in one year): my mother-in-law, my Dad, my son's father and my grandmother. All of the events seem to follow one another, it felt like a "series of unfortunate events".<br />
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There were times that I felt like everyone turned away from me; there were times that I did not know how I will be able to feed my son; there were many times that I had to give another "no" to my son's request (God bless his heart) for some toy that everyone else had; there were times that I simply could not get out of bed. Yes, I was there, I lived that. And at times I simply did not know if I can go on, I did not know how. And at times I felt like an absolute failure which is not like me at all!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJFTD_2o6xPbYeJqmtaKlZ8ubf4I0n17-67KM1MohsgDkWlKANPkDho0HThsHNUBX4NmCqgDCrg7_suQY23XcJTmJkWv9afohxEDNaGRSwczfhTo2yc3KERAJp3IPW1sUk5jk2gJ7bWkHY/s1600/Necessity+is+the+Mother+of+Invention.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJFTD_2o6xPbYeJqmtaKlZ8ubf4I0n17-67KM1MohsgDkWlKANPkDho0HThsHNUBX4NmCqgDCrg7_suQY23XcJTmJkWv9afohxEDNaGRSwczfhTo2yc3KERAJp3IPW1sUk5jk2gJ7bWkHY/s200/Necessity+is+the+Mother+of+Invention.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.solent-renegades.co.uk</td></tr>
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But I have conquered all, I have found the way. I realized that all of the disappointments and upsets were there to teach me something, this was a school of life. I am a strong believer in expression: "Necessity is the Mother of invention". This expression came very handy many times in my life and helped me to become stronger, more resilient and of course more creative. It helped me to decipher who belonged in my life and who was simply dragging me down (family is more complex of course). It helped me to understand myself better and know what were important things in my life. And most importantly, I've learned that we do not have to wait for big life changing events to celebrate! We need to celebrate every accomplishment no matter how little it might be.<br />
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In the last few years I got deeper in to a path of self-discovery and learned more things about myself. And I believe these are two most important things - self-love and gratitude. Many people (including me in the younger years) mistaken self-love with selfishness. Although dictionary definition do not see the difference between the two, self-love does not mean complete disregard for others. If you ever flew on a plane, during the safety instructions it clearly states to make sure that you put your oxygen mask on first and then help your child. Why? If you are not okay, your child will not be either. That applies to real life as well and I've experienced that first hand. When I was not okay, neither was my son. I quickly learned that self-love was the way to go. Getting there is a whole other story!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsbqNFfNa-8z6WRsddKoq9EjGI2SA88gwL0F_BbL8Tyb0stuhPoDMqTavIAPqJo6wOaJ8pKk7bJ_hegyQsKDyqNoL3flsYehNZ9a_xOPf0NVlYIcbjaTlR9XM4pyCK2JzrYoyXLkM3TMYB/s1600/Celebrate+Self.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsbqNFfNa-8z6WRsddKoq9EjGI2SA88gwL0F_BbL8Tyb0stuhPoDMqTavIAPqJo6wOaJ8pKk7bJ_hegyQsKDyqNoL3flsYehNZ9a_xOPf0NVlYIcbjaTlR9XM4pyCK2JzrYoyXLkM3TMYB/s200/Celebrate+Self.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit </td></tr>
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So back to little celebrations. Think about your life at this point, are there things to celebrate? Having trouble finding any? Let me help you. Did you wake up this morning and was able to see, walk and breathe on your own? If so, celebrate! Did you have food to make breakfast? If so, celebrate! Did you keep the word of something that you promised your child or loved one? If yes, celebrate! Do you get my drift?<br />
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Now, of course I do not mean to have a full blown balloons, orchestra and cake celebration for every little things you do, but be happy with little things. Be glad that you are able to accomplish even the smallest task. There are a lot of people that unable to do even those simple task that we take for granted. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2F5giKYyS5x7t7OEWvk82GEoEWFIVN3PcyNAf56q0h25EEOsKTlpoarjyjFi29dKFMD-2Onb1UhjdODeyUZy5sij0S0AeVushxyMEnXQTfHZC74i-Es5ZhBe4VR0ohrp_WkatbZF_ub_D/s1600/Wheelchair+Celebration.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2F5giKYyS5x7t7OEWvk82GEoEWFIVN3PcyNAf56q0h25EEOsKTlpoarjyjFi29dKFMD-2Onb1UhjdODeyUZy5sij0S0AeVushxyMEnXQTfHZC74i-Es5ZhBe4VR0ohrp_WkatbZF_ub_D/s200/Wheelchair+Celebration.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.pinterest.com</td></tr>
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And for those of you that do struggle with simple every day tasks, celebrate the fact that you are here and figuring out how to live your life despite the challenges; celebrate that you are a great example for those that might have just got into your position and is devastated and scared; celebrate you tenacity and will to live and function in the most "normal" to you way possible.<br />
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I try to celebrate as much as I can and some of my friends love this fact. Some do not quite understand it and that's okay. There are two very important events in a year that require proper celebration in my world - New Year and my birthday. You might ask why. These are the events that signify a start of another year, either calendar or personal. These events give me an opportunity to reflect, make adjustments and create more to celebrate. And as an Aries, I love new beginnings! They are exciting and full of promise for optimistic outcome!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiif_CIxHe6Zxvi7hTO2rF4MG8PRN9hdGiXQ-JurIa1YkDHq8B7XlCzGrAzBggg3Bomcd4uJ6_dgcmpq0yod4XzG4cfoFcEihvSD8qciGiqXCQSSl9EsHL0_UyLag1m898rh-InLgQaoYZS/s1600/Celebrate+Your+Life.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="77" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiif_CIxHe6Zxvi7hTO2rF4MG8PRN9hdGiXQ-JurIa1YkDHq8B7XlCzGrAzBggg3Bomcd4uJ6_dgcmpq0yod4XzG4cfoFcEihvSD8qciGiqXCQSSl9EsHL0_UyLag1m898rh-InLgQaoYZS/s200/Celebrate+Your+Life.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.gauraw.com</td></tr>
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In conclusion, I would like to offer you another thought. Celebration is a positive energy that will bring more positive energy your way. So, if you are looking for more optimism and smiles in your life, celebrate and be grateful. We are all energy and we are all children of the great Universe. Start your day with gratitude of being alive and the rest will follow!<br />
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So go out there and find your own celebrations! Really think about it and you'll be amazed how many things there are to celebrate in your life, even if you are down on your luck. And while you're looking...<br />
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<b><i>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</i></b></div>
Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-15750796522996080022017-01-14T19:26:00.001-05:002017-01-14T19:29:02.269-05:00What's the Name of the Game?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hello, hello, hello!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheNu8SdhGxle3Oop0zK8pfdezayJig_v8rDhX9duGbXFByQ1E2godT9eCuR-PeWaUXKP_SBIjuKZaUT65fty3qdgiidcWBvOrc77fPGYqQThMePE40ohKzitEw4Pwq97hTvezB6Y5_XHqR/s1600/Drought.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="124" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheNu8SdhGxle3Oop0zK8pfdezayJig_v8rDhX9duGbXFByQ1E2godT9eCuR-PeWaUXKP_SBIjuKZaUT65fty3qdgiidcWBvOrc77fPGYqQThMePE40ohKzitEw4Pwq97hTvezB6Y5_XHqR/s200/Drought.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit weatherwizkids.com</td></tr>
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Man, this blog has experienced a long drought.... but this blog and I have learned to accept my ever changing life. All the punches, bumps, curves and surprises, as mean and tough as they might have been, are just a way to try to distract me from my goals and true desires. And guess what, I've played this game many times before and FOCUS is still the name of my game!<br />
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Yes, another year passed by and I am glad it's done, it has been a challenging one. It had tears, fears, battles, disappointments and ended with a death in my already very tiny family. But you know what, it sounds like any other year (with exception of the death of course) and probably just like another year in your life. And really when you look at it from this perspective - it was just another year in my life. That's all it was!<br />
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It was also filled with laughter, great adventures, new experiences,<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit ntwrk.guru</td></tr>
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beautiful surprises, wins, celebrations and a lot of love. These are the things that make a great difference in my life and I choose to FOCUS on them. These are the things that make me happy and strong, they give me energy and let me believe that I am okay, they make my days much brighter and take me to higher highs. These are the things that really matter and they can trump (can't believe I just used this word, wonder how much it will cost me?) any negative experiences or feelings.<br />
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Of course I do not suggest you ignore the negative matters in your life, please respect them since they are your lessons, lessons that help you to enjoy your positive experiences even more. Look at them as your life assignments. Remember school? Well forget it now! It is okay to make mistakes while completing life assignments, it is recommended to make mistakes in life (well, recommended by me). Think, how <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit behance.net</td></tr>
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else could you have learned that grabbing a handle of a cast iron frying pan while it's on a hot stove will burn your hand? Did you make a mistake? Yes you did and you should be proud! Have you learned a lesson? Yes you did (or at least I hope you did)!<br />
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Now let's get back to my game. If you are trying to keep up with my posts (they are so rare after all), you know that there have been many obstacles which keep throwing me back and delaying my goal achievements. And it use to be very difficult for me to deal with them since I am a very competitive person and a sore looser (Remember board games cuz? Sorry!). But after I started my spiritual development journey, I realized that getting upset and frustrated just make matters worse. There is no need to FOCUS on events that have already taken place, especially if these are negative events, there is nothing you can do to change the outcome. However, you can FOCUS on the fact that you were given a great opportunity to learn something and move forward as more experienced individual. And just stay focused on your goal until you arrive to a desired outcome. It's just that simple!<br />
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And trust me - it works! Just the other day, I was working on a document, was very happy with the outcome, just to discover, as I was trying to send it to its destination, that it had not saved . Although I was making sure to save it while working, it was not there, hours of work were gone! At first I got <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.linkedin.com</td></tr>
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mad at the computer (technology loves playing with me), then I was mad with myself and it did not make me feel very good. The negativity was creeping in. Although I respect it, I do not like its visits. So I quickly snapped out of it, contacted the person who was expecting the document, assured this person that the matter will be resolved withing a day and moved on with my day. I realized that The Universe must have had another plan for me. And guess what, the second version of the document was even better and the end result was great. I stayed focused on the goal - the end result. And did not pay much attention to matters that were trying to throw me of the course.<br />
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Staying on track and staying focused could be challenging, especially when there are plenty of contributors to the distractions in our lives: colleagues, kids, relationship issues, work challenges, health upsets, just to name a few. But if you are true to your goal and passionate about it, those contributors <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit proprofs.com</td></tr>
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will not make a difference. All you have to do is to make little adjustments. This can be little adjustments to your goal or the deadline of your goal. Life happens and in some instances we have no control over it. But you have control over the way you react to these disruptions and if your goal is important to you, you will find the best way to FOCUS on it. Just remind yourself why you chose this particular goal. It was most likely to improve yourself or your life in some way. So, it will have a positive outcome! And there you go! Our train has arrived, who is getting off at "Positive Station"?<br />
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In conclusion, I would like to remind you not to get angry, not to fret, and especially not to throw in a towel. Just step back, breathe, re-group and jump right back in! Oh yeah, you are so ready to get back at it and make it even better!!!!!<br />
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So, go get 'em, stay focused and keep your eyes on the prize! I can see it, I can fell it, I can taste it! It is near and now it is here! Seriously, get going...... and while you're at it...<br />
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<i><b>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</b></i></div>
Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-91371090030636992522016-07-23T10:18:00.001-04:002016-07-24T12:41:28.099-04:00The Legend of Panama, Part Two<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Hope you enjoyed <a href="http://currentwomanblog.blogspot.ca/2016/07/the-legend-of-panama-canal-part-one.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Part One of The Legend of Panama</span></a>. You did not have to wait for long and here is Part Two of the interview with "Powerhouse Ilya".</div>
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OD: I could not agree more! But I understand not all was smooth for your family about 6 years ago.<o:p></o:p></div>
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IEM: Yes, there were few challenging years. My middle son, 16 at the time, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma – cancer that starts in the bones. It was extremely disturbing to see my boy sick and not knowing what might happen. Of course I was very fortunate to have a Dad who is a well-known doctor around the world. With his help we were able to explore the best treatments and facilities available at the time. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.ortega.ca</td></tr>
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But that was not the end of our trouble. While my son was going through treatment, my husband was diagnosed with prostate cancer in December of the same year. We were crashed! What do you do? Besides running between two very sick members of your family there was my fourth baby – Canal. I needed to clone myself at that time and not just to get things done but to keep it together. </div>
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That’s were my Canal family came through for me (tears in her eyes)! I had to be away from work for a long period of time and though that there was no other choice but to quit. However, our organization had an option to donate vacation hours. My generous Canal family donated over 1,000 vacation hours to me to spend with my family! With my 850 vacation hours and their generous gift I was able to be away for 7 month and do some work remotely. And that was not the end of the support. The company held prayer groups for my family as well. I am a true believer in God and this was a beautiful confirmation of the power of a prayer. I am forever grateful!</div>
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There is another organization that deserves a huge praise – Ronald McDonald House! This was our <br />
home for 7 month and help, support and love that we received cannot be described in words. Due to my experience with this wonderful organization I support and promote it in any way possible. This is my #1 charity of choice!</div>
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OD: I am simply stunned! Your life is like a book; perhaps you should right one someday. Now I understand better how such an accomplished individual can be so humble. Your life presented you with few tough lessons. And that is usually where we find our humility.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Well, I think enough tear jerking questions. I’d like to ask you few more questions about your work as one of the members of the executive team. Your position is a big responsibility, especially as a woman executive. Do you feel the pressure to prove that woman can accomplish anything she has passion for and put her mind to? If so, is it pressure from you or others?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">Image credit www.ortega.ca</td></tr>
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IEM: One important item that women need to remember is not to put pressure on them. Yes, this is a big responsibility but by adding pressure you will compromise the purpose. Be confident and replace the pressure with a statement. Yes, make a statement! I made one with the presence of pink hardhat and pink vest. It screams: “I am a woman and I am here to stay!”</div>
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OD: Do you ever feel the sense of responsibility to not disappoint as a woman executive for women in general and especially women of Central and Latin America?<o:p></o:p></div>
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IEM: Interesting question. I always ask myself, how do I “show” as a person? Am I professional, respectful, supportive, nurturing, open minded? I am a natural leader and always make sure that this trait is pronounced in the most positive way possible. No matter if I am dealing with a woman or a man.<o:p></o:p></div>
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It is a powerful feeling to be a woman executive. I don’t focus on disappointing anyone; I focus on the needs of my family, Canal family in this case. And as you know all the families have their highs and lows. But there is no room for disappointments, only lessons to learn. And for us as women it is especially important! We are the ones that bare the children, if you know what I mean.<o:p></o:p></div>
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OD: Very good point! In conclusion, I am sure you will be happy to share few words of wisdom. Could you please provide few ideas of inspiration for my readers?<o:p></o:p></div>
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IEM: It will be my pleasure! Number one thing to remember for any human being especially a<o:p></o:p></div>
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woman is to be authentic. Do not compromise of who you are for anyone! Be the same to everyone and be transparent!<br />
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Another important matter to remember is not to fill obligated to give back. It is not sincere gesture if it’s not from the heart. If you’d like to help someone have a heart desire to do so. Do not do this just to prove something to someone. Take time to learn to be a human, a guide or a mentor. You have something that someone else needs. Education is not just about degrees, it is more about who you are as a person.<o:p></o:p></div>
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OD: Beautiful! So, with the project coming to an end what’s next for the “Powerhouse Ilya”? Any new projects on the horizon? Or perhaps retirement?<o:p></o:p></div>
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IEM: I have not really put too much time thinking about it just yet. The focus at this point is on the successful completion of the Canal expansion and making sure that everything runs smoothly after. That will take time. </div>
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But there is one interesting international opportunity in Turkey. However, that is as far as I go with this statement.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Retirement is not in my cards just yet. But I would love to spend more time at my beach house: snorkeling, laying in a hammock with a good book, do some diving and gardening. Oh yes, I love plants and won few awards for my garden designs (sparkle in her eyes). And of course taking photos, I miss photography! Time will only tell what is next in the cards for me. Remember I am not a planner!</div>
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And here you have it my dear friends, our first international connection and first international woman in spotlight with Current Woman. She is strong, honest, inspiring, fun and humble. A great inspiration for all of us!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Please let me know if you have anyone that you would like to put in spotlight! Someone who inspired you to be a better person.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Looking forward to hear from you and in the meantime,<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><i>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</i></b></div>
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Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-81844486354547191212016-07-22T20:25:00.000-04:002016-07-22T20:25:51.437-04:00The Legend of Panama Canal, Part One<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Hello my dear readers! </div>
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It's been a while and I hope that all is well in your world! Today I would like to share with you an international success story, a story of determination, passion, vision, fight and self-assurance. Here it is! </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.ortega.ca</td></tr>
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As some of the most interesting things in life, this one happened by chance. I met <a href="http://www.ortega.ca/About-Me" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Ima Ortega</span></a><span style="color: magenta;"> </span>(hopefully my future collaborator) at the <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://womeninbusinessconference.ca/" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Women’s Business Conference</span></a> </span>and we hit it off. We discovered few things in common and
after a short conversation and a meeting after, we’ve decided to work on a
piece together. <br />
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Ima comes from<span style="color: magenta;"> <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Panama</span></a> </span>and offered me to interview one of her
childhood friends – <a href="https://www.empowerwomen.org/en/community/stories/2015/6/ilya-espino-de-marotta-a-life-of-challenges" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Ilya Espino de Marotta</span></a>. It might not sound exciting but this
friend is a fascinating woman, she holds a post of Executive VP for Engineering
and Programs Management on the new project with<span style="color: magenta;"> <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_Canal" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Panama Canal</span></a></span>. Of course I
jumped on the opportunity! And so without any further delay I give you “The
Legend of Panama Canal”.<o:p></o:p></div>
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It was a sunny day in late April and Ima and I were
patiently waiting by my laptop to connect to Ilya via Skype. Ima’s excitement
about upcoming “visit” with her friend passed on to me and I felt uplifted to
about to interview a first woman in management in the 100-year history of
<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_Canal" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Panama Canal</span></a>. At last Skype worked and here appeared a beautiful,
confident, passionate and driven woman. She
was ready to answer questions and I was ready to ask them.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.ortega.ca</td></tr>
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OD: Many words have been said, many songs have been sung.
And after all the whirlwind of accomplishments I’d like to get to know Ilya
“unplugged”, “unplugged” from your VP position; Ilya as a woman in a man’s
world; Ilya as a wife and mother; and Ilya as a human being. How about we start with your family background?<o:p></o:p></div>
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IEM: Sure Olga. I grew up in the wonderful family
environment. My Dad is a well-respected Doctor and my Mom is a Speech
Therapist. I was born in Mexico and eventually my family moved back to Panama. I
was always an “A” student, was involved in sports, marching band and many other
activities. So life was always busy and never boring. I loved travelling and taking photographs.
Photos are my passion!<o:p></o:p></div>
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When the time came to make a decision about post-secondary
education, I had no doubt in my mind that I would like to study in US. My
parents however were not that crazy about the idea and tried to bribe me with
BMW to stay in Panama. But it did not work! Sense of adventure was calling my
name! So with my scholarship at hand, I was bound for Taxes. </div>
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degree in <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marine_engineering" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Marine Engineering</span></a> arrived early and since it did not seem enough, I
returned to Panama and enrolled in Master’s program in Economic Engineering. Although
I had to travel 1.5 hours each way to reach school it was a lot of fun and I
even had a chance to continue with my passion of photography. Working with
university newspaper allowed me to fulfill my desire to see the student life
around me through the lens of the camera. </div>
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OD: Ilya, why did you choose <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marine_engineering" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Marine Engineer</span></a> Degree as your
first step of post-secondary education?<o:p></o:p></div>
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IEM: Well, it almost did not happen since my parents were
trying to convince me to get a degree in a more “in demand profession”, degree
that will assure future job security. But my passion for ocean, desire to make
my own way and my sense of “I know what I am doing” took me in the direction we
discussed earlier. I do not regret one thing and have a lot to show for the
choice I made. And my parents are very
proud of me. After all I come from a line of family predecessors that held
positions of 1<sup>st</sup> Prime Minister, ministers and politicians. <o:p></o:p></div>
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OD: It sounds like your family can add another
accomplishment to their “wall of fame”. So, tell me <o:p></o:p><br />
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about the early days at the
Canal. I am sure at the time it was a tough going since this was the man’s
world.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.ortega.ca</td></tr>
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IEM: I started in the shipyard of the Canal in 1985 and yes
this was the man’s game. There were only two girls in the shipyard. But this is
exactly what attracted me – a dream job in the man’s world! I like challenges
and there were always plenty. Dealing with people is more difficult than any
technical challenge. It took a little time for the “boys” to accept me but with
mutual respect and understanding it was soon clear to them that I am here to
stay. And I got to be known as a “Powerhouse Ilya” due to the level of my
desire to learn, engage and grow.</div>
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It did not take long for me to get involved in the work with
the Canal and eventually the group of 80 people that were travelling around the
country to get votes for the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_Canal_expansion_project" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">expansion project of the Canal</span></a>. This was very
exciting time! The vision of expansion had so much potential and endless
opportunities for the country and me. And as a proud Panamanian I was not going
to miss this!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Thus began my years of experience in different
professional positions and climb up the corporate ladder. While in the position of Design Engineer I had
to learn “how to sit”, with Mechanical Engineer came a task of learning “how
to walk”, then Valuation Engineer position provided me with more “schooling”,
and of course Capital Program Coordinator job offered an opportunity to be
part of the Master Plan and be a Public Translator. 20 years and counting! This is
my fourth baby!</div>
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OD: Incredible! You’ve already accomplished tremendous
success with the project and somehow were able to fit a marriage and three
children into your world. As a professional woman and single mom I know it’s
not easy to manage all that you want to accomplish. How do you deal with this?<o:p></o:p></div>
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IEM: It was fun but not easy of course! I am very fortunate
since I have a husband and children that understand my drive and support me in
every way possible. We have a tight knit family and constantly cheer for one
another accomplishments.<o:p></o:p></div>
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It does get challenging at times since my husband likes
planning and controlled environment and I am not a planner at all. But we made
it work! Love conquers all!<o:p></o:p></div>
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And of course I was very fortunate while my kids were
little; for 19 years we were able to have a live-in nanny/housekeeper. It would
have been impossible for us to raise children on our own. Our jobs required
quite a lot of travel and we could not pull our kids out of school and drag
them with us. I am not afraid to admit that I cannot do it all on my own! We
all need some help once in a while and in the process it helps all.<o:p></o:p></div>
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OD: Oh yes, I can relate! It took me a while to learn to ask
for help. But when I did, so much more got accomplished. Now, since I’d like my
readers to get to know your “unplugged life”, do you mind sharing a little bit
more about your family life? <o:p></o:p></div>
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IEM: Not at all! I am very proud of my family! I have a
wonderful husband of 26 years and three <o:p></o:p><br />
beautiful children. We have 5 children
between us; two are from my husband’s first marriage. Our children are all
grown up and study in US. I have two
boys and a girl and all of them are quite accomplished in their own way. My
husband and I are also 6 times grandparents.We love getting our large family together at our beach house: have
visits, discussions, delicious meals and a lot of fun. Dinners are sacred for our family! After all,
the family is where you go after a long and challenging day at work. And they
welcome you with open arms no matter what!<br />
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Well, what do you think so far? There is more to this exciting story and you can come back tomorrow to read the conclusion.<br />
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And of course in the meantime,<br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</b></i></div>
</div>
Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-61325013461189529372016-03-03T22:01:00.000-05:002016-03-03T22:01:07.890-05:00Business of Tease Part Two<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Hello my friends,<br />
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Yes, today is the day when we continue a conversation with the <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://currentwomanblog.blogspot.ca/2016/03/business-of-tease-part-one.html" target="_blank"><i>tease</i> master</a></span> herself, <a href="http://ottawacitizen.com/life/style/tea-time-with-sheena-brady" target="_blank">Sheena Brady</a>. Buckle up, here come the juicy parts....<br />
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<b>OD:</b> I could not agree more and am a huge supporter of passionate people whose idea I see fit my beliefs. Your passion shines through in your products. I love the names that you give to your blends! Could you tell me how you come up with these names?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.teasetea.com</td></tr>
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<b>SB:</b> As a business owner you are in constant competition. It is extremely important to differentiate your business and your products. I focus on the fact that my company offers a modern take on tea and it is reflected in the type of blends and names we give them. Each tea has its own identity and personality. As a girly girl I always loved the idea of clever names given to nail polish lines; this is somewhat similar. Each tea has a purpose and appropriate name - if you look at our on-line store it offers a choice of teas for your every desire or mood. A great example is<span style="color: magenta;"> <a href="http://teasetea.com/collections/romantic-tease/products/romantic-tease-chai-love-you" target="_blank">Chai Love You</a></span> – a combination of rose petals, lavender and dark chocolate. What can be more romantic?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>OD: </b>LOVE IT! It is definitely different! My understanding is that you blend teas yourself. Where do you get the ingredients?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>SB:</b> At this time I deal with tea brokers. As much as I would love to deal directly with the gardens, it is tough for a small business like mine. I am very selective and deal only with brokers who offer ethical tea partnership certification and organic certification and accreditation of sustainable resources. It is important to me that the tea I offer has been grown and harvested without a negative impact on the environment or workers.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>OD: </b>And that is why you are one of my guests. I am a strong believer in sustainable living as well. It is not as complex or scary as some might think. So, you conquered NYC, what’s next for <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://teasetea.com/" target="_blank">TeaseTea</a></span>?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit Sheena Brady</td></tr>
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<b>SB:</b> Great question and not necessarily easy to answer. Our NYC pop-up store just closed after 6 months but we are opening a second location in April or May. It was a risky move but paid off greatly for brand recognition. The main goal is to establish <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://teasetea.com/" target="_blank">TeaseTea</a></span> as a “go-to-on-line-tea-store” worldwide. It’s a big goal that requires few steps. At this time I would like to have more presence in Ottawa. It is rather funny that all of the products are blended and packaged in Ottawa but there is no representation. I am working on it and been very fortunate to have access to media outlets here in Ottawa such as local newspapers, TV and radio programs.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit Sheena Brady</td></tr>
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<b>OD: </b>Understanding your passion for women’s issues, what does your company do to support causes and organizations?<br />
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<b>SB:</b> Celebrating women’s achievements are the pillar of my company. We try to help in any way we can. In September 2015 we started the <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://teasetea.com/blogs/press-releases/70573891-tease-tea-sponsors-women-s-college-hospital-foundation-october-charitea" target="_blank">ChariTEA </a></span>project. The idea behind this initiative is to choose a women’s organization on a monthly basis and support them in any way we can. It can be swag for the gift bags, or gifts for an auction, or a donation of part of the sales proceeds. Giving back is very important to me!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>OD:</b> As a successful business woman could you provide us with some words of inspiration?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>SB: </b>Absolutely! There are plenty of passionate women with great ideas but there is always that fear of failure. So here are two main aspects to consider: <o:p></o:p><br />
<b>1</b>. Go ahead and start your business. Yes it is hardest thing to do but when you take the first step, your passion will drive you! It will all come together when you have a desire and belief!<br />
<b>2.</b> Don't worry about the problems until they happen! This might sound rather irresponsible but it is true. Most of the successful ideas were driven by passion and not fear of what if it does not work. My NYC store did not make business sense on paper but it was a huge success for the the brand! I say better ask for forgiveness than ask for permission. People get stuck on problems and it is the biggest roadblock for most.<span style="font-size: xx-small; text-indent: -18pt;"> </span></div>
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<b>OD: </b>Thank you so much for sharing your life experiences, all of the fascinating facts about tea and messages of inspiration. There is just one more question, your red lipstick? On few occasions that I’ve met you and few photos I've seen, it is permanently on display. Is it your trademark?<br />
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<b>SB: </b>Hahaha! Thank you for noticing! I love lipstick and tend to have several tubes at a time in my purse. Although it might not be the trademark, it has a big presence in the brand. Each package that goes out has a pink lipstick imprint. It’s about details and leaving your mark. This is mine!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>OD:</b> Sheena, it was a pleasure to get to know you and your business better. I look forward to possible future collaborations.<o:p></o:p><br />
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Well, here you have it! You just have had a little bit of a <i>tease</i> of being driven by passion and the wonderful world of tea. It is amazing how life changes direction at times and takes you to places you might never thought you find yourself in!<br />
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Please visit <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://teasetea.com/" target="_blank">TeaseTea</a> </span>and support this wonderful young lady and her business. There are more great things to come for <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://ottawacitizen.com/life/style/tea-time-with-sheena-brady" target="_blank">Sheena</a></span> and <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://teasetea.com/" target="_blank">TeaseTea</a></span>!<br />
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I would also love to hear from you with suggestions of women and women business owners that can be featured in March <b>Current Inspiration</b>. In the meantime....<br />
<br />
<i><b>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</b></i></div>
</div>
Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-19098605837880904342016-03-02T17:31:00.001-05:002016-03-02T17:31:52.990-05:00Business of Tease Part One<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Hello my dear friends,</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaFKea-PdwfHnSJDV2OTm1Hfq9Ho3hmbzJ1SGMKgsGym5TGQV5CQArLa7-PMIdotFeqsQc2knX-8y7o9iY8WcV84eZzkttBLweeL5L1oupxpCfo-nnjgrFr17gLUelCx7u1xC4M2X1JA2m/s1600/International+Women%2527s+Day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaFKea-PdwfHnSJDV2OTm1Hfq9Ho3hmbzJ1SGMKgsGym5TGQV5CQArLa7-PMIdotFeqsQc2knX-8y7o9iY8WcV84eZzkttBLweeL5L1oupxpCfo-nnjgrFr17gLUelCx7u1xC4M2X1JA2m/s200/International+Women%2527s+Day.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.russianfoods.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Today is the second day of the March and I am starting a feature “<b>Current Inspiration</b>” in honor of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Women%27s_Day" target="_blank">International Women's Day</a> on March 8th. This feature will introduce you to a few fascinating women that despite life diversities came out on top! They are a true inspiration and most certainly fit the mold of a Current Woman! <br />
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I am especially
excited about this post and not just because this is the first one but also due
to my love of tea. Yes, as some of you know my day will not go right if there
is no tea in it! So, it is my pleasure
to introduce you to a wonderful young entrepreneur from Ottawa, <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://ottawacitizen.com/life/style/tea-time-with-sheena-brady" target="_blank">Sheena Brady</a></span>,
the owner and founder of <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://teasetea.com/" target="_blank">TeaseTea</a></span>. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This talented young lady caught my attention during one of
the episodes of <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://www.rogerstv.com/show?lid=12&rid=4&sid=68&ref=daytimeottawa" target="_blank">Daytime</a></span> on <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://rogerstv.com/home?lid=14&rid=4" target="_blank">Rogers TV </a></span>and it immediately<i> teased</i> my interest. Our
first encounter however did not take place until December of 2015, during a
final episode of <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://www.rogerstv.com/show?lid=12&rid=4&sid=68&ref=daytimeottawa" target="_blank">Daytime</a></span> with <span style="color: magenta;"><span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://blog.fagstein.com/2015/12/21/derick-fage-bt-montreal/" target="_blank">Derick <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw7W3gBBXKM8Z4iGPIctU_dOxjr2w5_AyDloAa-iN3pR4vSrx_OIcW3A6UaWzGfZQpntF0RKwwAlmsJFm1t4KPUZ4Xx96uvEI0UXatDxABuaMioSDUIqVB6xaR4dlL-oEhm6m9jIvd38IC/s1600/Derick+Last+Show+with+Daytime%252C+Dec.+2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw7W3gBBXKM8Z4iGPIctU_dOxjr2w5_AyDloAa-iN3pR4vSrx_OIcW3A6UaWzGfZQpntF0RKwwAlmsJFm1t4KPUZ4Xx96uvEI0UXatDxABuaMioSDUIqVB6xaR4dlL-oEhm6m9jIvd38IC/s200/Derick+Last+Show+with+Daytime%252C+Dec.+2015.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit Olga Dewar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Fage</a></span> </span>as a host. I was once again <i>teased</i> by the idea of getting better
acquainted with this young lady and her business. And considering my tea
passion this had to happen NOW! So we exchanged contact info and agreed to
talk.<br />
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A few months went by, our busy schedules settled and we had
a chance to chat. It was a very exciting experience and I discovered that we
actually have quite a few things in common. So, without any further delay, here
is the interview with <a href="http://ottawacitizen.com/life/style/tea-time-with-sheena-brady" target="_blank">Sheena Brady</a>.</div>
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<b>OD:</b> Sheena, it is such a pleasure to finally connect with
you! I hope to learn more about you and your wonderful business and share it
with my readers and everyone I know. To set the tone of our conversation I
would like you to tell me a little about yourself, something that has not been
written already. Tell me a little about your family background and upbringing.<o:p></o:p><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDWxsrKSxhDiMXB7hEgQivtVFUi1zO4BKTUDR21dLPSwVv_N6GKzwi30uyuI87DuNYkvyiT7X2q8oVRhX5mWXTSTCbbwB6ZVIkz7tLWPro__CN80p97z_9OlFUuwA-vkfzX2fkncCkcclX/s1600/Sheena+Brady.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDWxsrKSxhDiMXB7hEgQivtVFUi1zO4BKTUDR21dLPSwVv_N6GKzwi30uyuI87DuNYkvyiT7X2q8oVRhX5mWXTSTCbbwB6ZVIkz7tLWPro__CN80p97z_9OlFUuwA-vkfzX2fkncCkcclX/s200/Sheena+Brady.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit <br />www.algonquincollege.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>SB:</b> Olga, thank you for arranging this interview. I am very excited to talk about my passion<b>, </b><span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://teasetea.com/" target="_blank">TeaseTea </a></span>and how it all came together. But
as per your request, let’s start from the beginning!<br />
<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
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I was born in Ottawa,
Ontario and raised in a single parent household. Due to the family dynamic, I have
lived all over Ontario and by the time I was eighteen I had attended three
different High Schools. Some might think that this type of environment would
guarantee a troubled youth, but I will let people decide on this one… I think I
turned out just fine!<b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>OD:</b> That’s very interesting Sheena. I see your upbringing as
a character builder and now it explains a few things about you. I recently read
an article in <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://ottawacitizen.com/life/food/worldwide-job-opportunities-for-graduates-of-hospitality-program?__lsa=c2a4-c8dc" target="_blank">The Ottawa Citizen</a></span> about the success stories of the graduates of <a href="http://www.algonquincollege.com/hospitalityandtourism/program/hospitality-management-hotel-and-restaurant/grad-success-stories/" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Hospitality Management Hotel and Restaurant program at Algonquin College</span></a>. What brought you to this particular program?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKK5dDZ08FE0NcGQaTSUfWVXmIPCgJpHYxFZEAvTVY6K9oFM_m0iKqqk5iF7sNoRtq1T72-k2hNJCrJrUzKMZGteNDLJajH6Sgy_I07IoJ9-OkVjjtmd0oVA4LsnjmH6hBGnQpLWQxonaw/s1600/Allgonquin+College.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKK5dDZ08FE0NcGQaTSUfWVXmIPCgJpHYxFZEAvTVY6K9oFM_m0iKqqk5iF7sNoRtq1T72-k2hNJCrJrUzKMZGteNDLJajH6Sgy_I07IoJ9-OkVjjtmd0oVA4LsnjmH6hBGnQpLWQxonaw/s200/Allgonquin+College.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit<br />www.algonquincollege.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>SB:</b> Funny you ask. This was not the original plan. Graduating from high school at an early age of
17, I already knew that I had an entrepreneurial spirit. The only reasonable next step was to learn about running a business and
head off to College. I decided to join the ranks of students at <a href="http://www.algonquincollege.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Algonquin College</span></a> and Major in Business
Administration. Unfortunately,
after one year I felt out of place
and somewhat lost; I decided to leave the program in search of
what I felt was missing.<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
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I wasn’t sure what to
do next other than get a job while I was figuring things out. Restaurant
work was something I’ve been exposed to since I was 15 and was the most logical choice. I did not regret it as I really enjoyed working with people
and the industry itself. It paid
off! After few months, seeing my passionate approach to the work, one very
influential figure in my life offered a lifetime opportunity for a 19 year old.
It was a six-month position as a bartender at a brand new resort in
Turks and Caicos to teach locals the ways of North American <b><o:p></o:p></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh48CFOr8imqlpUmgEG6uNKeNgcHoMkza9nTlJthzbb1OwdHul13gKGxTNBRbo7e588KtpG-v6xxR7CEtPHg5aVhRLujyHMRMng61W7AGdrbuNmpYP4xvDsWQdEkGb-UNmeT5br2lM_FjDF/s1600/Sheena+Brady+Restaurant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh48CFOr8imqlpUmgEG6uNKeNgcHoMkza9nTlJthzbb1OwdHul13gKGxTNBRbo7e588KtpG-v6xxR7CEtPHg5aVhRLujyHMRMng61W7AGdrbuNmpYP4xvDsWQdEkGb-UNmeT5br2lM_FjDF/s200/Sheena+Brady+Restaurant.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit<br />www.ottawacitizen.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
hospitality.
However, after just two months, the
General Manager had left and I was
offered that position! A little fearful as
I lacked experience I did not lack enthusiasm and the best way to learn is
by going in headfirst. So, I decided take on the challenge. This
is when it was suggested to me that I should look into the Hospitality program at Algonquin College. I did just that and the program opened many
doors for me and my future.</div>
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<b>OD:</b> Very interesting since I am a graduate of <a href="http://www.algonquincollege.com/" target="_blank">Algonquin College</a> Business Administration program with major in Marketing. So I
understand the impact college programs make on your future development. Now, I believe we had enough teasers for the
readers, let’s talk about the birth of your passion for tea.<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglSQSkKTFODJJOYE0U9aAl7vbavhatqlOjiGZLMdxdHTmSAIXdCmc9wIXnxur3P1AcJZaF6QOYTq-Ak3kL1kLExJ5gujbXgWHgrraNY_ZWkmHt2BJtwKPILcEyCfbgNeByPPRLDk9Po-Kl/s1600/Shangri-La+Toronto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglSQSkKTFODJJOYE0U9aAl7vbavhatqlOjiGZLMdxdHTmSAIXdCmc9wIXnxur3P1AcJZaF6QOYTq-Ak3kL1kLExJ5gujbXgWHgrraNY_ZWkmHt2BJtwKPILcEyCfbgNeByPPRLDk9Po-Kl/s200/Shangri-La+Toronto.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit<br />www.shangri-la.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>SB:</b> With pleasure! After graduating, I was very fortunate
to end up in New York City. What
started as a graduation trip turned into a longer stay including a job offer in the industry that had been so good to me
in the past. It was an
incredible time in my life with exposure to BIG NYC culture of high-end dining
and hospitality. That experience took me to the West coast of the USA to the sunny state of California in
beautiful San Francisco. During this time, my love for wine helped me obtain the prestigious status of wine sommelier. In turn, this accolade brought me back to
Canada to join a very exciting and prestigious program at the<span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://www.shangri-la.com/toronto/shangrila/" target="_blank"> Shangri-La hotel</a></span> in Toronto. Although I would not
be joining their team as a wine sommelier, I was offered an opportunity to
explore the world of tea and introduce tea, its ceremonies and its service to
staff and guests.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8md-MiWMdy5iYynac1_2D5EEE-BeteXQrShU2046t05kPCqxfEsQBbybvr-ZSEeuJcQ2aO4s_6-v8MDyKoWS5cV4ZbBO9cyLqvst_hKucJy8itYSnRv-wvgPpuxrj2ueZE4TLfYu7xqkh/s1600/Tea+Association+of+Canada.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="93" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8md-MiWMdy5iYynac1_2D5EEE-BeteXQrShU2046t05kPCqxfEsQBbybvr-ZSEeuJcQ2aO4s_6-v8MDyKoWS5cV4ZbBO9cyLqvst_hKucJy8itYSnRv-wvgPpuxrj2ueZE4TLfYu7xqkh/s200/Tea+Association+of+Canada.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit<br />www.coffeeandteaindustry.blogspot.com</td></tr>
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My first reaction was
a bit fearful, as I knew nothing about tea or how to gain a better
understanding. However, after further
investigation I discovered how much there is to learn about tea and how much
similarity there is between the world of
wine and the world of tea. Did you know that no matter what type of tea it
is, black, green or white, it all comes from the same leaf and the difference
is climate, soil and harvesting method? And so I discovered my new passion!
Next came my 8-month journey with the <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://www.tea.ca/about-us/" target="_blank">Tea Association of Canada</a></span> to become a certified Tea Sommelier. This is when I also discovered
how underrated this beverage is in the North American hospitality industry since tea is considered to be a
respected gesture of hospitality around the world.</div>
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<o:p></o:p><b>OD:</b> Amazing how one passion can lead to understanding
another! So what about the birth of your business? How did you come up with
idea of your own teas?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>SB:</b> While at <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://www.shangri-la.com/toronto/shangrila/" target="_blank">Shangri-La</a></span> I developed a real love for tea and
as a creative person started experimenting with my own tea blends. This helped me gain a better understanding of
tea culture and offer more education
to staff and guests. It was a huge success experimenting on my family and friends in late 2013. Having this
passion become so overwhelming affirmed my belief that I needed to part ways
with the <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://www.shangri-la.com/toronto/shangrila/" target="_blank">Shangri-La</a></span> hotel and begin a new journey starting my own tea boutique
appreciating everything the hotel had done for me.<o:p></o:p><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnTgKQDnd0uyJE6sobl91j3YgV8czo7tm-Mw5f6fPcyCupneuf5Ff50LdAuM8SMyYGG5FScKoyms6jOQHgQbglQvzP8KZv_t4kjPiy8VeJTiP0pkivQtY3MrTbqJkb3S9Gb-fbo5vjD3P9/s1600/City+Of+Ottawa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="92" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnTgKQDnd0uyJE6sobl91j3YgV8czo7tm-Mw5f6fPcyCupneuf5Ff50LdAuM8SMyYGG5FScKoyms6jOQHgQbglQvzP8KZv_t4kjPiy8VeJTiP0pkivQtY3MrTbqJkb3S9Gb-fbo5vjD3P9/s200/City+Of+Ottawa.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.queensu.ca</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
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In early 2014 my
tea business was growing so I
decided to come back to my hometown
of Ottawa and give this company very serious consideration as a full
time business. It was not a small endeavor and some people were questioning my
decision. But when you are so passionate about something and believe in the
idea very strongly, it would be a shame not to give it all you have.....<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
To be continued.....<br />
<br />
So? What do you think? Has this part got you even more curious? I hope so, since there is more to <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://ottawacitizen.com/life/style/tea-time-with-sheena-brady" target="_blank">Sheena</a></span> and <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://teasetea.com/" target="_blank">TeaseTea</a></span> and you can come back tomorrow to continue learning.<br />
<br />
In the meantime, keep up the great job of being you and staying healthy and happy! And...<br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</b></i></div>
</div>
Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-23152786785127705372016-01-11T09:05:00.001-05:002016-01-22T21:34:33.361-05:00Are You Still Breathing?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hello my dear friends,<br />
<br />
How are you doing so far? Have you survived the first week of 2016? Are you still breathing? Is my question a little surprising? Really?<br />
<br />
Well okay, let me explain. Two big celebrations of 2015 are under the belt (Russia is just getting to the second one, Old New Year on January 13th). And with those two "big ones" come with a lot of responsibilities. Here is the short list:<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDI3NwIjD1aeeATxzfPKUbWMxIWQP9Cy8kPHcwaZ4d1QM6Yv_3JOUEa1Z1iGhM6A_if8raLvPBzGcdwknFG5XzYZ3aHgx0lSSm1x_-l2ekwDtUy_62U4Bxh8frR0c4jp3qzUnMvA5Tdnj2/s1600/What+to+Eat+for+Holidays.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDI3NwIjD1aeeATxzfPKUbWMxIWQP9Cy8kPHcwaZ4d1QM6Yv_3JOUEa1Z1iGhM6A_if8raLvPBzGcdwknFG5XzYZ3aHgx0lSSm1x_-l2ekwDtUy_62U4Bxh8frR0c4jp3qzUnMvA5Tdnj2/s200/What+to+Eat+for+Holidays.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.pinterest.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
- Planning of what to cook<br />
- Planning of where to eat<br />
- Planning of who to invite<br />
- Planning of who to visit<br />
- Planning of what to give as presents<br />
- Planning of what to wear<br />
- Shopping for food to cook<br />
- Shopping for decorations and dinning accessories<br />
- Shopping for something nice to wear<br />
- Shopping for presents<br />
- Decorating<br />
- Wrapping the presents<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioCliGRfYyr3pMU61muJJg8LrIVlTaeEy8bAwS_PsgWrhv_KSJf4O_jhjYw2jO9O1JSN3-QfXcFAVFxcujjeZ5XwhGRwAXhiKX8wbTPMwD06oOdXyPu-yvYGNOisQBIHpub-65fpalZ8OL/s1600/Opening+Presents.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="125" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioCliGRfYyr3pMU61muJJg8LrIVlTaeEy8bAwS_PsgWrhv_KSJf4O_jhjYw2jO9O1JSN3-QfXcFAVFxcujjeZ5XwhGRwAXhiKX8wbTPMwD06oOdXyPu-yvYGNOisQBIHpub-65fpalZ8OL/s200/Opening+Presents.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.telegraph.co.uk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
- Cooking<br />
- Eating<br />
- Visiting <br />
- Opening presents<br />
- Dressing up<br />
- Undressing<br />
- Making resolutions and setting goals<br />
- Cleaning up<br />
<br />
Phew! I am tired just looking at this short list. And then comes the week after, when you are expected to pick up and get back to reality or <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://currentwomanblog.blogspot.ca/2015/08/are-you-normal.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">"normal"</span></a> </span>life (whatever your view is) with new resolutions and goals to achieve. Are you still breathing?<br />
<br />
Holidays could be <a href="http://currentwomanblog.blogspot.ca/2015/12/are-holidays-stressing-you-out-part-one.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">stressful</span></a>, tiring and <a href="http://currentwomanblog.blogspot.ca/2015/12/are-holidays-stressing-you-out-part-two.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">overwhelming</span></a> and it takes time to recover. And when the new year starts, most of us are expecting the new beginning, fresh start, new or better you. The enthusiasm is the highest in the first week. And some of us do not make it past the first week with our new commitments. Are you still breathing?<br />
<br />
I hope you are since I want the best for you. So, here are few points for you to consider:<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfZbMO55lel0Np5SzBaQyEvu2K8d3m7iPIzwKeDmGhieSP-Ino_1nF46f03V3lAGozbISa2NZCiL-BRh-eBWIgZO4jce95IhHEGHojca8eLnI3a5LVd9nfvJczpW-JwUNtWoZlRCedEVR9/s1600/Keeping+Up+With+Resolutions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="105" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfZbMO55lel0Np5SzBaQyEvu2K8d3m7iPIzwKeDmGhieSP-Ino_1nF46f03V3lAGozbISa2NZCiL-BRh-eBWIgZO4jce95IhHEGHojca8eLnI3a5LVd9nfvJczpW-JwUNtWoZlRCedEVR9/s200/Keeping+Up+With+Resolutions.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.hercampus.com</td></tr>
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<b>1. </b>Take it easy with goal and resolution accomplishments early in the year. The year is just getting started and so are you. You need a week or two of getting used to routine again.<br />
<b>2.</b> Make adjustments to your <a href="http://currentwomanblog.blogspot.ca/2015/12/back-to-basics.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">resolutions and goals</span></a> as required. We all want to be the champions of our commitments. But we also have to be smart about the way of accomplishing them.<br />
<b>3.</b> Do not give up!!! Even if things are not going as planned, do not give up! See point <b>1</b> and point <b>2</b>.<br />
<br />
So, are you back to your normal breathing? Perfect! Keep at it and remember, you have a whole year ahead of you!<br />
<br />
That is all I wanted to discuss today. Just a little boost to your ego and you after a first week in a new reality. Did I forget something else? Oh yes, here are few more additions to our original list above. With all the business of the two "big ones", we often forget what the holidyas are all about. Here is a little reminder :<br />
<br />
- Spending time with the family<br />
- Having good time<br />
- Enjoying the company you visit or who visits you<br />
- Sharing special moments<br />
- Resting<br />
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So focus more on these! Now, I am done! Hope this will be a little pick up for the second week of your new year. Keep up the great work and remember,<br />
<br />
<b><i>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</i></b></div>
Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-56302525937481497722015-12-29T11:59:00.000-05:002015-12-29T11:59:02.150-05:00Back to Basics<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hello my dear friends!<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiitflJDVUaSbAht2H8VqfOqv36m4nNYsgr4ClaY1BGHd67YvpyozYujngUtGby2vnQxnSl3Ds0S-PnCyE16V_yfYA24OsYLh6J7DZXzgYUABnpOJsaC4pTeQ-XCT7g8UBEmT-IWEeHA0cj/s1600/Time+Flies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiitflJDVUaSbAht2H8VqfOqv36m4nNYsgr4ClaY1BGHd67YvpyozYujngUtGby2vnQxnSl3Ds0S-PnCyE16V_yfYA24OsYLh6J7DZXzgYUABnpOJsaC4pTeQ-XCT7g8UBEmT-IWEeHA0cj/s200/Time+Flies.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.soiamthatguy.com</td></tr>
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My, my, my! How fast does the time fly! It's been sporadic writing for the blog in the last couple of months... and I had some <a href="http://currentwomanblog.blogspot.ca/2015/08/let-it-go-part-one.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">letting go</span></a> to do! And after a rather successful few sessions it's time to get "back to basics". You had a short introduction to <a href="http://currentwomanblog.blogspot.ca/2015/01/the-meaning-of-january-1st.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">the concept</span></a> early in the year and we will get to more details shortly. But for now I have few questions for you.<br />
<br />
As we approach the end of 2015 it is typical to think about closing the old year off and start preparing for the new one ahead. Are you one of the people that makes resolutions, or list of things to accomplish in the new year, or you simply raise the glass to welcome the start of the new year and just take one day at a time? Well, I've done all of the above in the past and at this point leaning more towards the last two. Resolutions are great and exciting but at times lack the purpose, at least in my case.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUY4Vp_YcgyQrLU-s2sT4OULfiqfCGkfufIGFsliZUG5FsDXhVnF6kbIyWRLbPtpo4-OryzfG0l6IVRWgxlX46zv__C5GOoSMiuJYPn9chzBXUj4HvPEK438TZjkGIpd0UJLm5a7XuQTwO/s1600/Back+to+Basics.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="105" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUY4Vp_YcgyQrLU-s2sT4OULfiqfCGkfufIGFsliZUG5FsDXhVnF6kbIyWRLbPtpo4-OryzfG0l6IVRWgxlX46zv__C5GOoSMiuJYPn9chzBXUj4HvPEK438TZjkGIpd0UJLm5a7XuQTwO/s200/Back+to+Basics.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.actioncoach.com</td></tr>
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And this is the time when I would like to extend my introduction of the concept of going "back to basics" to you and why sometimes it is required for all of us. This might sound like a very simple statement and it really is. It might be presented in many different ways but the meaning does not change. The meaning is to start over. In my case, it sounds a little different - starting all over... again!<br />
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Yes, this is not my first re-start and I have a feeling will not be the last one. When you are at my age it sounds scary since the shake up is needed in all aspects of my life: personal, physical, spiritual and business. I'd like to look at it as a rise of the Phoenix! And I am extremely excited about the opportunities ahead!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicT_LxidW2SFZhSQHSN0QDjA8nwRhKtBLx172d2pEDT2SQzSofkbyqCLs7Cn46FyfLxe3aeTwJYvrNRcx4AfjOL1LBJYZG-l8uCQN0A-5If54f5rs4kaY6ge-Jl_2aieY6rGCPBML5T_EX/s1600/Re-Start+Button.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicT_LxidW2SFZhSQHSN0QDjA8nwRhKtBLx172d2pEDT2SQzSofkbyqCLs7Cn46FyfLxe3aeTwJYvrNRcx4AfjOL1LBJYZG-l8uCQN0A-5If54f5rs4kaY6ge-Jl_2aieY6rGCPBML5T_EX/s200/Re-Start+Button.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.prweb.com</td></tr>
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Thus this sounds like a perfect opportunity to tell you more about my approach to going "back to basics" but it will have to wait. All in good time...<br />
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But you did not think I will leave you just with that, did you? Of course not! You know me well enough! Instead of talking about me (I can't believe I just said that), we will discuss the scenarios when "back to basics" approach might be required and discover the steps to take in order to push the "re-start button". Let's get to it!<br />
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We will open by exploring the re-start of your physical being. It seems the most appropriate since a lot of people will be committing to more healthier lifestyle and gym membership numbers will increase immensely in the first month of the new year. But before jumping onto that wagon ask yourself following questions:<br />
<br />
<b>1. What is the purpose of your commitment?</b><br />
<b>2. How much time will your commitment require?</b><br />
<b>3. Are you prepared to dedicate that time?</b><br />
<b>4. Are you prepared to make adjustments as required?</b><br />
<b>5. Do you have a time frame for completion?</b><br />
<b>6. What is the end result expectation?</b><br />
<b>7. Are you being realistic?</b><br />
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Pretty clear, isn't it? Trust me, I have been there few times myself: making a new year resolution only to get disappointed few month into the year because life got in the way. And being a former "control freak" it was all or nothing.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWQe73INeZHFRtrXTMCGabln3W_XdMIe_ICEJ_5RAv9c6kP9R9w1ir3w5Zr0u3TKCDoVNacLd54Rjconnquhp1zICqNbh9ooHC51w_PN4Q2E2NsKyOVYdwbkuYRQsY2BHSmTuCzvBnScsb/s1600/Love+Life+Commitment.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWQe73INeZHFRtrXTMCGabln3W_XdMIe_ICEJ_5RAv9c6kP9R9w1ir3w5Zr0u3TKCDoVNacLd54Rjconnquhp1zICqNbh9ooHC51w_PN4Q2E2NsKyOVYdwbkuYRQsY2BHSmTuCzvBnScsb/s200/Love+Life+Commitment.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.allwishes4you.com</td></tr>
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Now, let's have a look at your personal life expectations for the new year. It can involve your family life with children or without, your love life - either you're single or not, and of course your extended family relations. What are the questions to ask yourself here? To be honest, I suggest to look at the ones above. This might be a different aspect of life but the approach should be the same. If you are about to make a commitment to something in your personal life, it is still a commitment that will require time, consideration, adjustment and the end result expectation.<br />
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As a matter of fact the same approach will apply to the other two aspects of our lives - spiritual and business/work. They are all commitments that make up our lives and develop us as human beings. Does this make sense?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFacQ8xxqGxYzVBQnXfLiKSl2tlPak_OB5twYEDuPs0I29YTHNlTBrIdr09oaZvf_WoJXNzvLjJXyRjPDd8P8XEv6Bb7XkpZtW6IIGLfFZxdFuiQATGK1M2O_Bs-5CUYmIAHwPBVfuOrw5/s1600/Coming+Soon.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFacQ8xxqGxYzVBQnXfLiKSl2tlPak_OB5twYEDuPs0I29YTHNlTBrIdr09oaZvf_WoJXNzvLjJXyRjPDd8P8XEv6Bb7XkpZtW6IIGLfFZxdFuiQATGK1M2O_Bs-5CUYmIAHwPBVfuOrw5/s200/Coming+Soon.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.hardens.com</td></tr>
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So, where does the concept of going "back to basics" come in?" you may ask. Look at the list of questions above? Do they sound complex to you? Do they remind you of a new start, new project, new page in your life? Try to remember yourself as a child wanting to learn, experience and be more like grown up? You started at the base and by asking these questions or being asked these questions by a grown up, you stuck to your commitments and accomplished them.<br />
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I hear you, as adults we have more responsibilities and at times it is difficult to see the commitment through. I know, life gets in the way! That is why I had to re-start so many times! But don't make it complicated! Review the questions above again. Do you see the one about adjustments? Yes, you can do that! Actually I recommend you do it in-order to stay true to your commitment. Either it's time, result or approach, if adjustment is required go for it!<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiJaySV3NNkNsdlrgXMUmB6BvCXV1ZviF7UPQVhJODslOysG80fKE7vi9WjwsSiwEZnGc2K4bf5uUFR7bkX-Mit6oH5vtiSmI4eq2hi-oWkK7j0VXIFLNSSOznAmNpiox7g3Mm0wTVPqlt/s1600/Be+Honest+With+Yourself.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiJaySV3NNkNsdlrgXMUmB6BvCXV1ZviF7UPQVhJODslOysG80fKE7vi9WjwsSiwEZnGc2K4bf5uUFR7bkX-Mit6oH5vtiSmI4eq2hi-oWkK7j0VXIFLNSSOznAmNpiox7g3Mm0wTVPqlt/s200/Be+Honest+With+Yourself.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit <br />www.xoxotrishelle.blogspot.com</td></tr>
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There is one <b>VERY IMPORTANT</b> thing to remember - <b>BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF</b>! We all want the best outcome for ourselves and our commitments. But we are not in control of external factors of our lives and that is okay. If that happens, scrap your original plan and make a new one or make adjustments. Go "back to basics" and an honest end result is guaranteed!<br />
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Here is just a small example of my approach. The winter has finally arrived in Ottawa! Big snow storm with hauling winds, windchill of - 21C and up to 25 cm of snow expected. Well, it really messed up my few hours of work commitment outdoors today. But I am not going to give up. Instead of heading out at 8 am, I am waiting for the weather to calm down a little and adjusted my plans for the day (if you see me walking in your neighbourhood, say hello to your neighbour!). "Back to basics"!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFxxqfllkod6exEFVpMtGAlP-VgIhRGKzIAg5IykBpfg3tYtWTJK9_QGMdvAdnfDu5seHpss6i7VihSPeu_G2kDpAWWB8wKR2ksH84knJUt7tKg_sg7TaplQvhSzkcvl-O2oeiIdghRhba/s1600/Moving+On.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFxxqfllkod6exEFVpMtGAlP-VgIhRGKzIAg5IykBpfg3tYtWTJK9_QGMdvAdnfDu5seHpss6i7VihSPeu_G2kDpAWWB8wKR2ksH84knJUt7tKg_sg7TaplQvhSzkcvl-O2oeiIdghRhba/s200/Moving+On.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.austinmccann.com</td></tr>
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Another item to remember is to please, please, please <a href="http://currentwomanblog.blogspot.ca/2015/08/let-it-go-part-two.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">don't get stuck in the past</span></a>. It is gone, there is nothing you can do about it and you most certainly cannot change it. Learn a lesson and <a href="http://currentwomanblog.blogspot.ca/2015/09/let-it-go-part-three.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">let it go</span></a>! Move on and go "back to basics"!<br />
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Hopefully this post helps you to understand the concept of going "back to basics" better and perhaps even helps you to look at some of your complex commitments in the different more basic light. I know for myself, we as adults make things quite complicated at times, so this concept certainly helps me. To end this conversation I would like to sum up "back to basics" approach:<br />
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<b>1. Make a meaningful commitment.</b><br />
<b>2. Do not make things complicated.</b><br />
<b>3. Make adjustments as required.</b><br />
<b>4. Let go of the past approach if it failed.</b><br />
<b>5. Be realistic.</b><br />
<b>6. Be honest with yourself.</b><br />
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That's it, that's all! Very basic! Imagine yourself as a kid as you endure on a new adventure - time of innocence, time of "I can do anything" and time when nothing stood in your way! And go for it! I know you can do it!!!<br />
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Thank you for stopping by! Enjoy your day and the rest of 2015! Have fun, stay safe, healthy and grateful! And remember,<br />
<br />
<b><i>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</i></b></div>
Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-58221148249987750092015-12-22T17:00:00.000-05:002015-12-22T12:25:39.261-05:00Are Holidays Stressing You Out? Part Two<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hello my dear friends,<br />
<br />
Today is the day when I will share with you the tips that help me to avoid holiday stress. As the discussion started yesterday, perhaps you need a little reminder how we ended the first installment. Well, the best way is to visit <a href="http://currentwomanblog.blogspot.ca/2015/12/are-holidays-stressing-you-out-part-one.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Part One</span></a>. This will definitely help you to follow my thoughts.<br />
<br />
So let's begin! I will follow the pattern I created in <a href="http://currentwomanblog.blogspot.ca/2015/12/are-holidays-stressing-you-out-part-one.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Part One</span></a> post and hope you can follow with me:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhiGuU16sWwCaG6n__ukUO-uvClg2O85cde8ybmkENANcA9YSV-VsjSl9iOIJ5IcGEkya-5fRcrT4L0uvNg7wWHi87eEYWGTMuWXr1_hW8fwhw6_Xm2gwUmCSW0gxLRS0pdMg8p5hlUj9M/s1600/Christmas+Travel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhiGuU16sWwCaG6n__ukUO-uvClg2O85cde8ybmkENANcA9YSV-VsjSl9iOIJ5IcGEkya-5fRcrT4L0uvNg7wWHi87eEYWGTMuWXr1_hW8fwhw6_Xm2gwUmCSW0gxLRS0pdMg8p5hlUj9M/s200/Christmas+Travel.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.rsvpeventsonline.com</td></tr>
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<b>1.</b> If you are staying in town or leaving town - <b>DO NOT STRESS OUT</b>! If you are hosting a party or family diner or heading out to number of parties - <b>DO NOT STRESS OUT</b>! All you have to do is remember couple of little things - no matter what you do, <b>YOU WILL DO YOUR BEST</b> and what is in your control, whatever happens besides that <b>IS NOT IN YOUR CONTROL</b>! This is <b>VERY IMPORTANT</b> to remember! You cannot control outside factors such as weather, traffic and of course other people's behavior! You are just a human, as wonderful as you are!<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXSCle9-gmh5AxgXvejyd5arZFDlNqinx60CeBAhDLBvGbQhO6LeqYuJNv53BwIC7UQZ-uzDhYtzZbkjRIl1Ip7rrr1ed-85V2bsyDKODFa6YOruTKZ1BDlEMN1aFW-UcXqz6aq6hV3Hm/s1600/Christmas+Dinner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXSCle9-gmh5AxgXvejyd5arZFDlNqinx60CeBAhDLBvGbQhO6LeqYuJNv53BwIC7UQZ-uzDhYtzZbkjRIl1Ip7rrr1ed-85V2bsyDKODFa6YOruTKZ1BDlEMN1aFW-UcXqz6aq6hV3Hm/s200/Christmas+Dinner.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit <br />
www.fcchristmasdinnerf.hol.es</td></tr>
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<b>2.</b> If you have special family traditions or special dinner plans - <b>DO NOT STRESS OUT</b>! If you have special plans for dinner your are cooking or contributing to a special dinner, or if you are or you have "special eaters" - <b>DO NOT STRESS OUT</b>! All you have to do is remember couple of little things - <b>YOU WILL DO YOUR ABSOLUTE BEST</b> and the rest is <b>NOT IN YOUR CONTROL</b>!<br />
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<b>3.</b> If you are connecting with people over the holiday season either they are family, friends or special people - <b>DO NOT STRESS OUT</b>! And remember the important factor - they are on your list and it already shows that you care and <b>YOU WILL DO YOUR BEST</b> to visit everyone! But you are just one person and there are just so many days in the holiday season. And sometimes <b>THINGS BEYOND YOUR CONTROL </b>get in the way.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOooXN682M7HSkViHZ2DhIP-FYrPhwNPk3qfUtj6OahcOp_sxhrKfcYkXsZF_Zj-6XPzXwa8WYT8F261p_YTWfb7uJ9vQ5TXhyphenhyphenXk2y_LtC8LJmffAGXEIwVDG-RjHFQRlBTDwiWdrigHGS/s1600/Christmas+Presents.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOooXN682M7HSkViHZ2DhIP-FYrPhwNPk3qfUtj6OahcOp_sxhrKfcYkXsZF_Zj-6XPzXwa8WYT8F261p_YTWfb7uJ9vQ5TXhyphenhyphenXk2y_LtC8LJmffAGXEIwVDG-RjHFQRlBTDwiWdrigHGS/s200/Christmas+Presents.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit<br />
www.anewworldsociety.ning.com</td></tr>
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<b>4.</b> If you have children or large family or special projects and charities that you would like to contribute to - <b>DO NOT STRESS OUT</b>! In this case you are the one <b>IN CONTROL</b> of your spending and yes at times outside factors might ruin your plans (this is my Christmas this year). But once again <b>THIS IS NOT IN YOUR CONTROL</b>! And if you did not get everything everyone wanted, the important part to remember <b>YOU DID YOUR BEST</b>! And the best part is that you can share your time with all of the above (believe me, kids will understand, if they don't.... it's another post).<br />
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<b>5.</b> And now, this is a <b>VERY IMPORTANT</b> - this is "you time". I cannot emphasize enough to make sure you take few hours to yourself before, during and after holidays. With amount of preparations, activities and after-mass it is very easy to get stressed out. So I ask you -<b> DO NOT STRESS OUT! YOU ARE IN CONTROL </b>of "you time" and yes there could be some outside factors that can interfere but unless someone's life is in danger, I suggest that <b>YOU LET THINGS BE</b>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8WlRJEyn7B_d3UpSro3nr2Bk8ak7KZnbNeB1g4itRDxBDKY3GkSQPv8PJS9JwdikYeM5uz_bqBufSIJ0yaiPioLzF1poUfTYIAaj-oEbW4QGNg-XAH4bl7oanjFsWnDWQ15BWigVv5eiD/s1600/What%2527s+In+Your+Control.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="88" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8WlRJEyn7B_d3UpSro3nr2Bk8ak7KZnbNeB1g4itRDxBDKY3GkSQPv8PJS9JwdikYeM5uz_bqBufSIJ0yaiPioLzF1poUfTYIAaj-oEbW4QGNg-XAH4bl7oanjFsWnDWQ15BWigVv5eiD/s200/What%2527s+In+Your+Control.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit<br />
www.empoweringnet.com</td></tr>
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That's it! Those are my tips! Are you disappointed? I hope not! These are very easy to remember and there are only two - <b>DO NOT STRESS OUT</b> and <b>YOU ARE ONLY IN CONTROL OF WHAT YOU YOU CAN DO</b>! Very simple!<br />
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Sure I can expand on how to please everyone and make everyone happy; how to make the best meal and consider everyone; how to find the best dress to the party and throw the best party; how to budget properly to make sure everyone got a great gift, etc., etc., etc.. But I do not want to waste my time right now for two reasons:<br />
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<b>a)</b> There are plenty of articles on-line that can teach you all of the above. You will read them and some of you will try to follow them to the letter. And when it does not work out as suggested you are going to say: "Well, they don't know what they are talking about."<br />
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<b>b)</b> My post is a remind for you - <b>DO NOT STRESS OUT</b>! I understand that it is easier said than done so I ask you to remember only one things that can help you - <b>FOCUS ON THINGS THAT ARE IN YOUR CONTROL</b>! That's it!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlsWmQrXF1mRruKQ_QtpWVLwQu7B5G7s_hI2tPKAKtoGJFZaM34E9QVCInT6b49ID8cQVFPUu_jXtyveAJzBdrqzjWvPhx6O6c-QM356-5Pwyiqo6qtcCXX8_EJDtV330V9G-llLUxqv_c/s1600/Christmas+Grateful.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlsWmQrXF1mRruKQ_QtpWVLwQu7B5G7s_hI2tPKAKtoGJFZaM34E9QVCInT6b49ID8cQVFPUu_jXtyveAJzBdrqzjWvPhx6O6c-QM356-5Pwyiqo6qtcCXX8_EJDtV330V9G-llLUxqv_c/s200/Christmas+Grateful.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.etsy.com</td></tr>
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I am very grateful and consider myself very fortunate to understand that and know that my son is learning this simple concept as well. Yes, I am not perfect and few of these are still on my "not done" list but I am work in progress. My goal is to help people to recognize what's<b> IMPORTANT DURING THIS TIME </b>of the year - <b>TO BE HAPPY</b>! And if you are stressed out I do not believe you or anyone else around you will be. I hope that you help me by sharing this post with your crowd to make sure more people understand this simple concept.<br />
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To conclude this post I would recommend to give yourself time to prepare for holidays. The length of time depends on your personality and the level of control you like to have (just remember outside factors, Plan B might be a good idea). I suggest you take about an hour or two 30 minutes of quiet "you time" in mid or late November (or the year before for some of you, few of my friends, just remember Plan B) and make your plans for the holidays.<br />
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I hope you enjoyed reading my post and hopeful that you take the main idea of this post and work with it! It took me sometime and I believe I am pretty close to perfection, well in my own "perfection way" (we are all different!). Please share it and <b>DO NOT STRESS OUT</b>!<br />
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Thank you for stopping by and remember<br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-79843015432379959402015-12-21T17:00:00.000-05:002015-12-21T17:00:25.578-05:00Are Holidays Stressing You Out? Part One<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hello my dear friends,<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOvKcf4SM5HSPasKgyzTTqDP7FkwCxz93D_kkTEhudPT75pDXxD2GHkYIbk_HPaFx8_QxvU_J37bm-fCWRdgeNFdQYmbHtrewPW9piiYpRjn3fwXPSaCPFNWcxJ-Xv5gM5c2WI0C_2gb7D/s1600/IMG_20151220_173242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOvKcf4SM5HSPasKgyzTTqDP7FkwCxz93D_kkTEhudPT75pDXxD2GHkYIbk_HPaFx8_QxvU_J37bm-fCWRdgeNFdQYmbHtrewPW9piiYpRjn3fwXPSaCPFNWcxJ-Xv5gM5c2WI0C_2gb7D/s200/IMG_20151220_173242.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit Olga Dewar</td></tr>
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It is difficult to believe by looking outside that we are just few days away from Christmas Eve! I am really not sure what to compare this weather of rain, frost and thaw to. And the little snow we got early Saturday morning is gone! Some will agree with me that having mild spring temperatures at the end of December is nice but it will be great to have some snow on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day! We live in Canada after all! Well, all I can do is to put a good word with the main man himself, Santa?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_itkm33U_cGLW47Pd-Qx7G6Ot6OC5HrM8BB0f1FDVpjtlvTPb2afWLujUNYggjibLWzjDomcZnQVL9kzNlBSpRs7H1FMLhkqsIyWbJ6VVMC7r7RfAhP6bGYOsyHY1ToU8yfbUUh4dVzgw/s1600/Christmas+Stress.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_itkm33U_cGLW47Pd-Qx7G6Ot6OC5HrM8BB0f1FDVpjtlvTPb2afWLujUNYggjibLWzjDomcZnQVL9kzNlBSpRs7H1FMLhkqsIyWbJ6VVMC7r7RfAhP6bGYOsyHY1ToU8yfbUUh4dVzgw/s200/Christmas+Stress.jpeg" width="151" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.whatnext.com</td></tr>
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And since during this time of the year we are bombarded with TV and Radio ads and questions from family, friends and others about our readiness for Christmas, I would like to ask you just one question<br />
- are holidays stressing you out?<br />
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Of course I know there will not be one answer to my question and if you know me well, you know that discussion is in-order. Maybe a little one-sided for now but I am sure you'll have something to add. So, let's begin!<br />
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Christmas is my favorite time of the year! I grew up in Russia and during that time we did not celebrate this holiday, New Year was the BIG one! This was the time when we decorated the tree and the house, spent time with family and exchanged presents. It has changed now and Russia celebrates Christmas just like Canada. A little trivia for you - it is celebrated on January 7th. So, I'll be off till the mid-January, but perhaps this is another post... Back to our story now.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Y9U8y4cENelqHGqQ3UqXo75b7Ah8g4dasoBsJ4FCC9RS8ue_tBJMnIVB6q1b3P7zoEQHet7HshPdCXyLo44-Kp-AziJt_NPCD0WQKlp-1eZNRG34InOkI8dA9r9yi397uwxIvFLhyHtM/s1600/Christmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Y9U8y4cENelqHGqQ3UqXo75b7Ah8g4dasoBsJ4FCC9RS8ue_tBJMnIVB6q1b3P7zoEQHet7HshPdCXyLo44-Kp-AziJt_NPCD0WQKlp-1eZNRG34InOkI8dA9r9yi397uwxIvFLhyHtM/s200/Christmas.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.history.com</td></tr>
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I was however introduced to celebration of Christmas in 1995 - my first year in Canada. It was a magical and exciting time: it was my son's and my first Christmas - "Canadian" Christmas. There was a beautiful and fragrant live tree, lots of pretty lights and of course many presents. It was time to learn Christmas and family traditions, try a lot of new food and open lots of presents. It was fun!!!!<br />
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But as years went by, I had a slightly different and confused sense about the celebration. I still loved Christmas time with the tree, the lights and the presents, but I also noticed that there were a lot more grumpy people. They were complaining about the traffic, the lines in the stores, the fact that they could not decide what to wear to the next Christmas party, the fact that they had to visit their in-laws, the fact that they ate too much at the last Christmas party and of course the fact that they spent too much money. And there was only one word to describe all that was happening to them - holidays were stressing them out!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Q9QTyQpZMjBH9u3X3WVvalwSGBjciaooFp1wWB4vGCHFyNWYHBTLNgA6OQF5SU39HO1hxTivcwsftvdneYGbp1SSgEbS1HB4ct-DokYFomTDiO4WuE1QwJRFzbPW21FfWwNUbWy4svM8/s1600/Christmas+Trap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Q9QTyQpZMjBH9u3X3WVvalwSGBjciaooFp1wWB4vGCHFyNWYHBTLNgA6OQF5SU39HO1hxTivcwsftvdneYGbp1SSgEbS1HB4ct-DokYFomTDiO4WuE1QwJRFzbPW21FfWwNUbWy4svM8/s200/Christmas+Trap.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit<br />
www.christmas-specials.wikia.com</td></tr>
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It puzzled me for years! And yes, at some point I fell into that trap as well. But I was lucky enough to realize that this was a wrong approach to the holidays and Christmas spirit. And what I though in the past was a disadvantage for my son and me, now recognized as blessing in disguise.<br />
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You see, since I am not your <a href="http://currentwomanblog.blogspot.ca/2015/08/are-you-normal.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">"normal"</span></a> person, there were many financial struggles over the years. That of course always added some stress during Christmas time. The other fact is our family is very little - it consists of my son and me. Yes, Daniel has his Dad's side of the family of course but it is not that big either. And my family is still in Russia and has been reduced over the years as well. So, I mostly did not have to make many choices but work with what I had.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4vqWFnu8TNmuOt6Y2JNHyO0wgZf-nLJeiY2lhQum4yW98F_kjWNRqgRIi925SZwsmQkXVBNmsyfRQvkzT_banMiayep0obOX6r2jH3xO4jCTSFSlyMVwN-ktGNLlzL8VvaC2yxzpbRc-3/s1600/Christmas+Love.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4vqWFnu8TNmuOt6Y2JNHyO0wgZf-nLJeiY2lhQum4yW98F_kjWNRqgRIi925SZwsmQkXVBNmsyfRQvkzT_banMiayep0obOX6r2jH3xO4jCTSFSlyMVwN-ktGNLlzL8VvaC2yxzpbRc-3/s200/Christmas+Love.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit ayakoj.tunblr.com</td></tr>
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Some might say: "Lucky you!". And you know what, I would agree! Those disadvantages taught me what are the most important aspects of Christmas. To me it is not about getting or giving the biggest and most expensive present, it is not about hitting the hottest parties in the hottest spots wearing hottest attire. To me it is about giving, appreciating what you have and reaching out and spending time with your family and friends! It is about LOVE! And LOVE should not be stressful!<br />
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So, I would like to share few tips on making your Christmas a little less stressful. We are going to start with a list of things to consider before Christmas:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.123rf.com</td></tr>
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1. What are your plans? Are you staying in town or leaving? Are you hosting a party? Are you hosting a family dinner? Are there number of events that you have been invited to?<br />
2. Do you have special family traditions? Do you have special plans for Christmas dinner? Are you cooking Christmas dinner or a contributor to one? Do you have "special eaters" in your dinner party?<br />
3. What people on your list you would like to visit or connect with before, during and just after Christmas? Are they family or friends? Do some need a special visit this year?<br />
4. What are you plans for presents this year? Do you have children? Do you have a large family? Do you have any special projects or charities to consider this year?<br />
5. What are your plans for "you time"?<br />
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I believe those are the most important items to consider. They cover plans, food, people, presents (aka budget) and "you time". If I have forgotten anything I am sure you will quickly remind me. And thank you!<br />
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"Well, this is all wonderful and fantastic," you might say: "but what about your tips for dealing with all of the above?". They are on their way and you can read about them tomorrow.... I believe I've already dropped a lot to consider on you today!<br />
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So for now, I hope you enjoyed reading first installment. Here is my request, please send me other questions or items to consider. If I have not covered them yet, I will do my best to include them in tomorrow's post. In the meantime please share and remember....<br />
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<i><b>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</b></i></div>
Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-56623483977334582062015-09-13T12:40:00.002-04:002015-09-13T12:45:58.415-04:00Let It Go Part Three<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Hello my dear friends,</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-3iopt3Mo35VwvkWs5UvIKtpLQMiVFr0eFgc7NxiW0m1IotIzHD3p7JprAeBK9n9m7ZhA_q1lL_gHwOnxrlh24Y_1qfuXi7J8BuNX0vXKg6xpByRZBZ4fSWQUI8WMVqgoFHMy3DjQhKDu/s1600/New+Moon.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-3iopt3Mo35VwvkWs5UvIKtpLQMiVFr0eFgc7NxiW0m1IotIzHD3p7JprAeBK9n9m7ZhA_q1lL_gHwOnxrlh24Y_1qfuXi7J8BuNX0vXKg6xpByRZBZ4fSWQUI8WMVqgoFHMy3DjQhKDu/s200/New+Moon.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.thedancingyogi.co.uk</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The publication of this post could not have come at a better time! As the <a href="http://www.yasminboland.com/#axzz3lagrGUCi" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">new moon and partial solar eclipse </span></a>upon us, this is a perfect opportunity to continue our Let It Go discussion. And so, as mentioned in <a href="http://currentwomanblog.blogspot.ca/2015/08/let-it-go-part-two.html" style="color: magenta;" target="_blank">Let It Go Part Two</a>,<span style="color: magenta;"> </span>I will elaborate on the tips that have been provided in the last post.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So, I believe I'll jump right into our discussion without my regular prelude. And of course we will start with tip number one:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>1. <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 18.48px;">Always focus on positive! Remember the good times! </span></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 18.48px;">I would like you to read the above and really think what it means to you. It is very easy to do the above if it was a positive experience that you have to let go off (remember that time at the party?). But what if it was a negative experience, where is the positive in this case? Well, if you are letting it go that probably means that you are no longer in that negative situation and now you are in the process of working through the </span></span><span style="line-height: 18.48px;">consequences. You are alive and hopefully healthy and moving on! An example can be a serious illness that you overcome. The positive would be the support and care you received during the time of illness that brought you to today. Remember the good times! </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.48px;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.48px;">2</span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.48px;">. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 18.48px;">Think of the lessons you've learned. All the negative has positive!</span></b></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7GYa72_VeRi0k8bG3CYYAjhPDLo3jLGbWVST6wgcotsnf0NhXN20C0lOvs4qeIjQkrPvEfeWs3CdLPUHur62B6pHa_Pn48nHCShgvarFPYOhRjVmApieEnJuYINcsSVQ7dAKEmmhTLqdP/s1600/Lessons+Learned.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7GYa72_VeRi0k8bG3CYYAjhPDLo3jLGbWVST6wgcotsnf0NhXN20C0lOvs4qeIjQkrPvEfeWs3CdLPUHur62B6pHa_Pn48nHCShgvarFPYOhRjVmApieEnJuYINcsSVQ7dAKEmmhTLqdP/s320/Lessons+Learned.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.youtube.com</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.48px;">Does this even need a more detail explanation? I believe the above sentence says it all. But I will expand a little. Even if you think there is no way that one particular negative experience has absolutely nothing positive to offer, there is a lesson to learn from that experience. And so with that, I will take an example from my own life (and this might apply to many of our children or us). At his second birthday, Daniel's grandmother made him a beautiful cake and it was decorated with some new toys (small cars) and candles. As he sat in the highchair, the group of adults sang Happy Birthday and brought out the cake with lit candles that was placed in front of Daniel. Being a little boy who was fascinated with<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguUZuSY6gM7dxsixagb-8ejGe3cMqaKYrRntIudjKXWSxK-H8sDofY8naRWP5NOykiJdRJE7a5e5eYXLsC_szDzxOj9xIC6xEKXiLvZJWx2iurALJpbMjThejZ2Sy_SJr_537WPXlk_Tmi/s1600/Lessons+Learned+Cat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguUZuSY6gM7dxsixagb-8ejGe3cMqaKYrRntIudjKXWSxK-H8sDofY8naRWP5NOykiJdRJE7a5e5eYXLsC_szDzxOj9xIC6xEKXiLvZJWx2iurALJpbMjThejZ2Sy_SJr_537WPXlk_Tmi/s200/Lessons+Learned+Cat.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.yescapades.com</td></tr>
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cars he automatically reached out to grab one of them and to the horror of all the adults burnt his little hand. The poor little guy started crying and all of the adults were trying to figure out how could this happen. It was not the most pleasant experience for my son or us, his family, and all of us would like to forget that. But we all learned lessons: Daniel learned that if you touch the fire with bare hands you get burned and we, adults, learned that when presenting a cake with lit candles to a very young child, you have to take more control of presentation and placement of "special effects". This is a very simple example but it shows you that all the negative has positive.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 18.48px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>3. Take time to analyze/rest/grieve, but don't get stuck! Life will not wait for you! </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It will be rather cruel if I am to say just forget about it and move on. It is not that easy! We are human beings and no matter how emotionally developed or undeveloped we are, we get <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.seattlecentral.edu</td></tr>
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attached. We get attached to things, people, feelings and sensations. And it is only normal to take time with the act of dis-attachment. So, take your time to analyze, rest or grieve. But try to put a time frame on this process and do few things each day to help you progress towards that deadline. It could be very difficult to do so in case of a death of loved one or someone close to you but it is important to work through this. You have to remind yourself everyday that you are still here and there is a reason for that. Perhaps, you might be the person who has to continue the legacy of the deceased and it will not work so well if you're stuck. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>4. And finally LET IT GO! It is past! You cannot change it!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Once again, I believe the sentence above says it all. The only item I would like to add is for you to watch your "would have" and "should have". Remember, you "might have" and "could have" but for whatever reason you "did not". And at times the decision or outcome was<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.pinterest.com</td></tr>
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not even in your control. So, whatever happened happened. And at this time we do not have a time machine to take us back and fix whatever it is you would like to fix. But also think of the effect it might have on your future life if you had the ability to change things. Think <a href="http://www.backtothefuture.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">"Back to the Future"</span></a>! I know that I would not change a thing in my life. Yes, I have been through a lot but I am very pleased with the person I am today. And I thank my past experiences for that! So, think twice before you start building that time machine. And let go of the "would have" and "should have'. These phrases have a negative ring to them. Focus on "I will" and "I should".</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So how do you feel? Was my elaboration helpful to you to decipher the <a href="http://currentwomanblog.blogspot.ca/2015/08/let-it-go-part-two.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Let It Go tips</span></a>? A penny for your thoughts! </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.elephantjournal.com</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I really hope that this post helped you to continue your journey of clearing your life of things, people, feelings and emotions that are no longer serving good to your human nature. They are in the past. Respect them and let them be. They are just that, your past experiences, that are part of your life. And you can always revisit them for the purpose of sharing your lessons learned but please DO NOT GET STUCK! You already let them go!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Thank you once again for stopping by and your valuable time. And please do not keep me a secret! We are on a constant road to personal growth and development. So let's make room for new experiences! And with new moon upon us make that list of things you desire, it's time for new beginnings! Just watch for that <a href="http://www.almanac.com/content/mercury-retrograde" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Mercury retrograde</span></a>! In the mean time....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</i></b></span></div>
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Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-18686294621419530562015-08-26T19:49:00.001-04:002015-08-27T20:48:26.797-04:00Let It Go Part Two<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hello my dear friends,<br />
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Today is the day to follow through on my promise. Today I will be sharing few tips on how to help you LET IT GO.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9U-MSH3aNXDNpNMskwxzvHWLTptMow9i975t95CN5gyZq1lejVANfe47mHuz_4U6S32JjstVSuajrWbwpbYFfWEVVKT_Pje4id4tIfc4Ox3XTQvIBxsOBAb0meKWPtlwhRQtLh16iGJct/s1600/Giant+Heart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9U-MSH3aNXDNpNMskwxzvHWLTptMow9i975t95CN5gyZq1lejVANfe47mHuz_4U6S32JjstVSuajrWbwpbYFfWEVVKT_Pje4id4tIfc4Ox3XTQvIBxsOBAb0meKWPtlwhRQtLh16iGJct/s200/Giant+Heart.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.davevilk.com</td></tr>
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We will get there shortly but first I would like to say thank you to someone that we lost just over a week ago. We lost a friend, a husband, a fighter for freedom and justice, a life loving man! He was not famous but well known, he was not rich but shared all he had, he was not a superhero but helped many, he was not a big man but he had a giant heart!<br />
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He is missed by many and all are still unable to comprehend the fact that he is no longer here with us, among living. He fought till the last moment. I remember the last time I saw him, his body was frail but his spirit was tough. As I was leaving, I said:"Stay strong!". He raised his arm with a tight fist in the air as if he was a MMA fighter encouraging his cheering fans. He was a fighter till the end!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju-kq-UXE_bU1_wJxHVwvIqXJDaU8Iwk3SVXr51lmXYr_FrpZbK4WmDobDvwt2bURd5Bk7nplhCxhV9fZKKe4nF1lxw3QzOx7SvpVV5ONnJ7O_tNaG6-IGTbAHtWaNHfU75f3XlkcmZGSH/s1600/Freedom+Fighter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju-kq-UXE_bU1_wJxHVwvIqXJDaU8Iwk3SVXr51lmXYr_FrpZbK4WmDobDvwt2bURd5Bk7nplhCxhV9fZKKe4nF1lxw3QzOx7SvpVV5ONnJ7O_tNaG6-IGTbAHtWaNHfU75f3XlkcmZGSH/s200/Freedom+Fighter.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.theguardian.com</td></tr>
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So, I would like to thank this man for being part of our lives, teaching us how to be just, how to live life, how to be generous and most importantly how to be humble. We are forever grateful for the fact that we knew you! Rest in peace!<br />
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It is rather funny, as I am writing this post he is telling me that it's too much praise for him! And yes, I will elaborate on my comment about "hearing voices from beyond". But that will be another post.<br />
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So, back to today's topic - LET IT GO. Although I was not very close to this person and did not know him that long, but I am close to someone who did. He considered him as his brother and this was the closets person he had in Ottawa. This death hit him hard! He is having a tough time LETTING GO.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY4mPgHT9UfimDcpx7aOpH3kLC0RlMjkuBWjyr33LmfI37c-sF9z8l99jiy2lIMPd5Ms9o404qzxhM4L2rnubOnWA8KJipQbTG4of4vGYK2iU9VLfAwrk8tB3e6YUt-ofPawhOahVbuCgL/s1600/Rest+in+Peace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY4mPgHT9UfimDcpx7aOpH3kLC0RlMjkuBWjyr33LmfI37c-sF9z8l99jiy2lIMPd5Ms9o404qzxhM4L2rnubOnWA8KJipQbTG4of4vGYK2iU9VLfAwrk8tB3e6YUt-ofPawhOahVbuCgL/s200/Rest+in+Peace.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.venusbuzz.com</td></tr>
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I understand, it is not easy and I had to deal with untimely death of my Dad (I could not even make it to the funeral) and my son's Dad. Both happened within eight month. This was a hard hit! And I am still feeling it from time to time.<br />
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But enough about death. As mentioned in <a href="http://currentwomanblog.blogspot.ca/2015/08/let-it-go-part-one.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">part one</span></a> there are other aspects of life that require to exercise the LET IT GO concept. And two other great examples will be a loss of a job and breakdown of a relationship. I am sure most of us have been through that grinder!<br />
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I know, I know, you are probably saying:"Can we get to the tips already?". I respect your wishes so here they are:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGqMjrlc6X7UhAWm5g__9Txe5YhoZEr9ai_HL8GCJSnGldh7lH5Frs5KOhmBbgAPyTU8HebMJAMjsZ8NtfUcFOboKXdGuGxGfh1hYB-7WotaXlLR5qrT69f1mLh5e_37OC96QAS9S8GAt9/s1600/Keep+Calm+and+Let+It+Go.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGqMjrlc6X7UhAWm5g__9Txe5YhoZEr9ai_HL8GCJSnGldh7lH5Frs5KOhmBbgAPyTU8HebMJAMjsZ8NtfUcFOboKXdGuGxGfh1hYB-7WotaXlLR5qrT69f1mLh5e_37OC96QAS9S8GAt9/s200/Keep+Calm+and+Let+It+Go.png" width="171" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.keepcalm-o-matic.co.uk</td></tr>
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<b>1. Always focus on positive! Remember the good times! </b><br />
<b>2. Think of the lessons you've learned. All the negative has positive!</b><br />
<b>3. Take time to analyze/rest/grieve, but don't get stuck! Life will not wait for you!</b><br />
<b>4. And finally LET IT GO! It is past! You cannot change it!</b><br />
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Short and sweet and seems simple enough. Yes, it is but it takes time to master. Although I am not ready to call myself a Master just yet, there is a comfort to think that I have helped few people already with these simple tips. Just please remember I am not a professional psychotherapist or a grief counselor.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-rxtwY0JVe-PpKXYcKwnjjhj3AGFUXm6_RIn5A-NMW5DPKacyTgL9Yf5uNIk1ZUtX6azxe0d80-y7fRdoa16ebAZAE2GWJmeGZJHzzuzLUQZlcWKoWhzY_ag92c2bzLlPHig2zu5WvcPC/s1600/To+Be+Continued.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-rxtwY0JVe-PpKXYcKwnjjhj3AGFUXm6_RIn5A-NMW5DPKacyTgL9Yf5uNIk1ZUtX6azxe0d80-y7fRdoa16ebAZAE2GWJmeGZJHzzuzLUQZlcWKoWhzY_ag92c2bzLlPHig2zu5WvcPC/s200/To+Be+Continued.png" width="101" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.worldbypicture.com</td></tr>
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Now, the tips above might require further elaboration and of course it will be my pleasure to do so. However, I also value your time and do not want you to stick around for another hour to hear what I <br />
have to say. Perhaps this can be another topic for discussion. Let's make it LET IT GO Part Three! So, LET IT GO to be continued....<br />
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In the meantime, I would like to thank you for stopping by. I hope you find these tips helpful and if you have any questions and do not want to wait till "elaboration post" please contact me and I will be happy to have a discussion. Also, if you have some of your own tricks that you would like to share, comment away!<br />
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As for now,<br />
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<i><b>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</b></i><br />
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Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-22596078313096830282015-08-19T16:23:00.001-04:002015-08-26T18:04:17.363-04:00Let It Go Part One<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hello my dear friends,<br />
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It's been over a week since my last post and it is amazing how much can happen in just one week. There were happy times and there were sad times but all as equally important in our lives.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhafxZKaD4RQ9F0SF-ndw6uBRFNetMrv4e4NOjr9AjkUAOgzqnnyeCdUX9LSSzM5dT3_QYPPxb09rcFcNph5DxVhfJEGQvk94VCzkyz_4Y83anIE6lSyhTNb74srmEJetf35WZBrvxNHPyC/s1600/Birds+LEt+It+Go.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="81" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhafxZKaD4RQ9F0SF-ndw6uBRFNetMrv4e4NOjr9AjkUAOgzqnnyeCdUX9LSSzM5dT3_QYPPxb09rcFcNph5DxVhfJEGQvk94VCzkyz_4Y83anIE6lSyhTNb74srmEJetf35WZBrvxNHPyC/s200/Birds+LEt+It+Go.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.tattooforaweek.com</td></tr>
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But for the last few month (actually last few years for me) there was one constant whispered by the Universe - LET IT GO! Okay, lately, it has been rather loud and thus the CAPS had to come out.<br />
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Where do I start with explaining all of the above? How about the beginning!<br />
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It is another stunning sunny and hot day! I am very fortunate to sit on the deck, look at the river, hear the wind wrestle tops of the trees, hear a frog, the grasshoppers, watch the hummingbirds enjoy the<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7pXtuBEXvjLvbJK191OKG07GKX6YK9AG1m5E-Igx_eou4kGNZbbLpm8yGJmO8_UbtSvkFqJLbFU4CLAN-GBdRKMcQ31YTBPZCYgMVKLvOL7GJgNQhlquGutk8BqbRX98sVam7ks2g4HQa/s1600/Dock+on+the+Water.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7pXtuBEXvjLvbJK191OKG07GKX6YK9AG1m5E-Igx_eou4kGNZbbLpm8yGJmO8_UbtSvkFqJLbFU4CLAN-GBdRKMcQ31YTBPZCYgMVKLvOL7GJgNQhlquGutk8BqbRX98sVam7ks2g4HQa/s200/Dock+on+the+Water.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.everytrail.com</td></tr>
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sweet nectar and do all of the above as I am writing this post. Yes, I am on vacation (sort off)!<br />
<br />
This morning I had a chance to meditate on the dock while being gently touch by the wind and the sun, relax my body and mind and jump into my beautiful day. It was a great start to the day and future looked very bright!<br />
<br />
However, after having a conversation with a friend, something changed. I got sad, few tears were shed and my mood changed. Of course, my first reaction was to figure out what happened since it is very important for future development. And after taking a little time to think about it I came back with a response - LET IT GO!<br />
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You see, in the last few years I have been exploring my spiritual self and been trying to help others to find or develop theirs. One of the things I learned (and confirmed for myself) that we as humans hold on to certain situations that drag us down, do not help our development and make us sad. We do not <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4AWFg1YWVkJm7RZv23Vf7fukd8SexJg-x6rIq7UXClp44pybIinhmB0Odgry71KD6lg3vWD7Z_A2T2hI6Us59mcGl3adZmDlKx3Or1zby8rw8xc5t1nXEo7qWz-0YctDmZ6Vz81LxtsZB/s1600/Mastering+a+Skill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4AWFg1YWVkJm7RZv23Vf7fukd8SexJg-x6rIq7UXClp44pybIinhmB0Odgry71KD6lg3vWD7Z_A2T2hI6Us59mcGl3adZmDlKx3Or1zby8rw8xc5t1nXEo7qWz-0YctDmZ6Vz81LxtsZB/s200/Mastering+a+Skill.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.bussquotes.com</td></tr>
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have control over most of such situations and so the best solution is to release then or LET THEM GO.<br />
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It seems simple enough but unfortunately it is not. It requires daily reminders and paying attention to your state of mind and listening to your thoughts (you know that little voice in your head?).Even with the time I have spent trying to master this skill I still find myself stuck at times. Today is a prefect example! Did something new came to my life to upset me? Not really! I simply have not really LET IT GO!<br />
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I have not realized the affect that certain matters have on our lives if we keep thinking about them and letting them stick around. You might not think about these matters every single day but they are there, just sitting in the background and watching you go about your day. And they seem to like to bother you at the most inconvenient time.<br />
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Yes, I will share few tricks that I use to make this happen or at least to try to tone the "bother" down <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFVhIUeWn1yr-Rkh5eDyPdrtEUwA5xu47jXLs0rvbe3ht4vz8THMNbE5olJeL_TG6M7eDyxvNiuZZ7tSGH9UEHHyE4-xQ3rpYYqEYIJIb1YBEri2gqH12jZ1XczTJpPCxX45momnPxjko_/s1600/Bother.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFVhIUeWn1yr-Rkh5eDyPdrtEUwA5xu47jXLs0rvbe3ht4vz8THMNbE5olJeL_TG6M7eDyxvNiuZZ7tSGH9UEHHyE4-xQ3rpYYqEYIJIb1YBEri2gqH12jZ1XczTJpPCxX45momnPxjko_/s200/Bother.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.domics.me</td></tr>
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but it will take place in the second part of this post. Solution is on its way but not today. Today, I would like to focus on helping you to discover and understand what those culprits are.<br />
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We all have problems in our lives. It might be money related, work or business related, relationship related, family related or health related. All of us, well most of us, think that we have control over the above. I guess in some instances we do. But all items that I mentioned usually involve outside factors. And guess what, we do not have control over those. We think we do but really think about it:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.setyoarief.blogspot.com</td></tr>
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- Money is usually related to our jobs, businesses or banks. Do we have control over them, not really. There is no longer such thing as job for life. You do not have control over the prices that businesses we deal with charge. And do I even need to explain the bank situation? I think not.<br />
- Work or business are mostly related to our education and ambitions. Yes, there is some control but we do not have any over the decision makers of the job you applied for or the following of your business.<br />
- Relationships are created by two people. Although you might have control over your feelings, emotions and likes, you do not have any control over how the other person feels.<br />
- Family is supposed to be our castle, however we do not choose family and thus have no control over how some family members act or live their lives.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2oqVYNFiUorNzrEhArMubtU5yBzeqTiskgtak1DpZrv0AsoQwVDbBGxM1l5nHmg5yxLtYJDvKrje47b9ZE2kNerMC94nhBiKHiES0ers2DmPQPo7f9MpobcwIvDHaRRVJeDqZ4DS5Fia3/s1600/Crazy+Family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2oqVYNFiUorNzrEhArMubtU5yBzeqTiskgtak1DpZrv0AsoQwVDbBGxM1l5nHmg5yxLtYJDvKrje47b9ZE2kNerMC94nhBiKHiES0ers2DmPQPo7f9MpobcwIvDHaRRVJeDqZ4DS5Fia3/s200/Crazy+Family.jpg" width="192" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.pinterest.com</td></tr>
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- When it comes to health our doctors, governments and media always seems to have an idea what's good and what's bad for us and we try to follow <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://currentwomanblog.blogspot.ca/2015/08/are-you-normal.html" target="_blank">the standard</a>. </span>But sometimes that is just not enough and no medication or drug can help you - no control.<br />
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Yes, I have been working on mastering the LET IT GO and it is work in progress. Like in any development there are ups and downs in this course. And of course I will provide you with some ideas that work for me. But that will be in Let It Go Part Two.<br />
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For now, thank you for visiting, listening and considering... remember,<br />
<br />
<i><b>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman! </b></i></div>
Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-89321344723773191682015-08-10T13:38:00.000-04:002015-08-10T17:49:08.708-04:00Did You Know That You Are in Sales?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hello my dear friends!<br />
<br />
I hope everyone had a great weekend! I certainly was very fortunate to enjoy a lovely hot summer days in Ottawa! While I had some down time, I got together with a new friend and we had a great chat (thanks Kamla!) We chatted about few things including business.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj58xzFM4dlvwjsETiT84GKsCkrLsCOSOY5M4BTxAnyfGR9SPlrE8W0jh0G7yGnweqNls2bNCHg4kW_o4tlm0EarW3B-ttBLCxwVrZhajRp6Cwd3_wACVXzr7Z4FplM7q8n9125NYDeNnNq/s1600/Circle+of+Influence.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj58xzFM4dlvwjsETiT84GKsCkrLsCOSOY5M4BTxAnyfGR9SPlrE8W0jh0G7yGnweqNls2bNCHg4kW_o4tlm0EarW3B-ttBLCxwVrZhajRp6Cwd3_wACVXzr7Z4FplM7q8n9125NYDeNnNq/s200/Circle+of+Influence.jpg" width="199" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit Pinterest</td></tr>
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<br />
You see we are both self-employed and very entrepreneurial. We exchanged few of our experiences and while we were chatting business challenges this one thought crossed my mind. This is not the first time it came about and I believe it is a good time to share it with you.<br />
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There are many types of people in the world and that means there are many different personalities. We will focus on two major groups today. We do not necessarily have to look at the world, we can just look at our circle of influence - family, friends, colleagues, neighbours, etc. And as you know some of us are introverts (my son will be a great example) and some are extroverts (do I really even need to mention this about me?).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisN5FymYjL42dEkyLix5gGd7TtQBBfT18cqZRFj5XEH9zZChmnpPQCbTCoLPLgRypEBqJ02fpzvVAHWrPVxesL6TkZcLR6Fw_wqyGbkzqNB7bVaLo8wsNMrRcce2qBTYtDyUcV6bKoQdux/s1600/Extrovert.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisN5FymYjL42dEkyLix5gGd7TtQBBfT18cqZRFj5XEH9zZChmnpPQCbTCoLPLgRypEBqJ02fpzvVAHWrPVxesL6TkZcLR6Fw_wqyGbkzqNB7bVaLo8wsNMrRcce2qBTYtDyUcV6bKoQdux/s200/Extrovert.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit www.pickthebrain,.com</td></tr>
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So, this brings us closer to the point I am trying to make in this post. Extroverts are simply out there!<br />
Hey look at me! Did you see me jump this high? Why are you not paying attention to me, I am right in your face? Well, you get the idea... we are not really shy! We are the first ones to raise the hand in the classroom, we are the first ones to express our opinion and we are the first ones in line (pretty much any line). Based on the above, we are born to be in sales. <br />
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Now we will explore the other group. They prefer to stay out of spot light, speak mostly when spoken to, and they do not jump on the dance floor as soon as the <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaVFpE3A8raXnw3omTWlywlv0JoSd2hNWEuUpeXlfpkj-koJwiBWh1nQQaTFDoWNiDeKLhM_z_G9kNX09FCQnzCwmNpFkvUyrpQHQbxq6XHruCqlb26s8G0mv6896ktmYMYKC9pzH_noX4/s1600/Introvert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaVFpE3A8raXnw3omTWlywlv0JoSd2hNWEuUpeXlfpkj-koJwiBWh1nQQaTFDoWNiDeKLhM_z_G9kNX09FCQnzCwmNpFkvUyrpQHQbxq6XHruCqlb26s8G0mv6896ktmYMYKC9pzH_noX4/s200/Introvert.jpg" width="129" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit www.reddit.com</td></tr>
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first note of their favorite song is played. All in all, they are a little shy. And yes, sales might not be the best place for this group. As my son likes to respond to my invitation to join me in real estate: ``Sorry Mom, but sales is not for me!``<br />
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But here is the interesting development in the story. I can honestly say that no matter which group you belong to, you are already in sales and have been since early childhood!<br />
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Of course I will elaborate. You see, as mentioned in the third paragraph, we all have circle of influence. So, despite the fact that you might belong to the ``shy group`` you made friends, created a family, got a job, etc. And how did you do that? By selling yourself!<br />
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Yes, you are a real sales person! You were born, went to kindergarten and made friends. Next you went to school and made new friends. Then came the university or college, new friends, relationships, jobs. And you got it all by selling yourself!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfR2PeuHFEaayLMSFMGGPevjFTMg5AxQVon4Z0DT7KnTf19EvwfenvY-Lr6ouTnl_0JLWRMrA3gcOTkta2TwRLB2Iet-WXhmZ-mcywzfq6XhDoN71qfFBu62oQbsvKnVXQY0m55CwwYUvw/s1600/Successful+Sale.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfR2PeuHFEaayLMSFMGGPevjFTMg5AxQVon4Z0DT7KnTf19EvwfenvY-Lr6ouTnl_0JLWRMrA3gcOTkta2TwRLB2Iet-WXhmZ-mcywzfq6XhDoN71qfFBu62oQbsvKnVXQY0m55CwwYUvw/s200/Successful+Sale.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit www.salesforcesearch.com</td></tr>
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Of course you understand that I am talking about selling your personality. You figured out what people were looking for, you figured out what you had to offer and you figured out how to put ask and bid together (I`ll take 100 of that please) to make it work. And it did not make a difference what group you belong to - the ``all eyes on me`` or ``please don`t pick me`` group. Congratulations!<br />
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So, here you are have been selling yourself all your life and I bet you did not even know about it. All I have to say is good for you and you are a great sales person!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-XPQEFBwPocwYF-yZwCPEU9YtbwhXhkQrSgzvOb36ppw-YKQDbLqMKyniLxLUVK_ykpRjvDpVsgkki8NzGEydNudZCciNIkv2ssDdHgb37DJ8NCFE4_GNoRjbxKP2VrS9K1XZJDp5RzPj/s1600/Celebrate+yourself.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-XPQEFBwPocwYF-yZwCPEU9YtbwhXhkQrSgzvOb36ppw-YKQDbLqMKyniLxLUVK_ykpRjvDpVsgkki8NzGEydNudZCciNIkv2ssDdHgb37DJ8NCFE4_GNoRjbxKP2VrS9K1XZJDp5RzPj/s200/Celebrate+yourself.jpg" width="189" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit www.sn50andbetter.com</td></tr>
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In conclusion, next time you are applying for a new job, looking for new friends or relationship, remember that you can make it happen with ease. You have done it before! The trick is to think what <br />
worked in the past and what lessons you`ve learned about yourself or the situation. And just like that you made another sale! Time to celebrate yourself!<br />
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One piece of advice to the rowdy group - tone it down a little, not everyone as enthusiastic as we are. There is an appropriate time for our excitement. And this is coming from the expert of our kind - me!!!! But that is a whole other story, maybe even a book! Okay, I am toning it down now!<br />
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That`s all I wanted to share with you today. Of course you know that I do not mean to offend anyone and all of my posts are filled with love for all. So, it will be great to see if anyone has their own story to share or comments to make. I will be waiting to hear from you. In the meantime,<br />
<br />
<b><i>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</i></b><br />
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Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-69599877014455478682015-08-07T12:01:00.001-04:002015-08-07T12:01:27.637-04:00Are You Normal?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Well hello,<br />
<br />
Your long lost friend is back and has a sack full of new and exciting posts, ideas and news. But all in good time!<br />
<br />
Today I would like to ask you a very important question - do you consider yourself normal?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgptnOYovtgKGrjj47_8n_za-awBeXfTzjeSE4crmiUd3bdbJ9Dy6OlJSt1PSAO-s8bo1BoBLI-QpSYPezOfwXcnTIiK1aFDPH0AOfoKQzKKRSkXG3_zWOKpbPq8dQ9Zvp2SxLLd7Z0Zsy6/s1600/My+Name+is+Normal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgptnOYovtgKGrjj47_8n_za-awBeXfTzjeSE4crmiUd3bdbJ9Dy6OlJSt1PSAO-s8bo1BoBLI-QpSYPezOfwXcnTIiK1aFDPH0AOfoKQzKKRSkXG3_zWOKpbPq8dQ9Zvp2SxLLd7Z0Zsy6/s200/My+Name+is+Normal.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
Okay, right now you are probably thinking:"Is she normal?". To answer your question:"Absolutely!". You already know that there is a twist, so please let me explain.<br />
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Lately there has been a lot of talk in my circle about people being normal or abnormal. I also discovered that it is not only my circle that questions "normality", most of the population does (at least that what it looks like to me). And so, came the idea for this post.<br />
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Let's discuss, shall we. I am sure all of us (yes, I am guilty as well) used the following expressions few times in our lives: <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG_ttZJye-UIaEIM1ZDdmYfy_xjhH8KzZYkxvWcCuZbdb7UdvihlRx1Aj8w_XaxOgPLS1XqBhbr90GP6S2Kc7p9V96gwpNIpYQ3Bw4BuOX7Sov5Ca_zcfOqimOkCrgF-Sd9QiR6bqEBPbf/s1600/Leaving+Normal.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG_ttZJye-UIaEIM1ZDdmYfy_xjhH8KzZYkxvWcCuZbdb7UdvihlRx1Aj8w_XaxOgPLS1XqBhbr90GP6S2Kc7p9V96gwpNIpYQ3Bw4BuOX7Sov5Ca_zcfOqimOkCrgF-Sd9QiR6bqEBPbf/s200/Leaving+Normal.png" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
- This is not normal!<br />
- She/he is not normal!<br />
- Why can't you be normal?<br />
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But have you ever asked yourself - what is normal? Have you ever really thought about it? Well I did and for awhile now.<br />
<br />
My life has been very interesting due to many challenges. And looking back I came to conclusion that the challenges were created due to my desire to be "NORMAL". You might say:"What's wrong with that?". The answer is absolutely nothing. But here is the trick, it was not my "NORMAL".<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMPXpkeXGVfVd9QoTfHC6cKWGn_zAJ6rfX50m0T2S_kIUWHW7tSSWdc0mPUkVGfAYohBS7PgBqsVdNxSU6e3PX8HCs-lQUGv1CE5siAt9FM4h8do37OtPqLk1lV8cdbFgk0I3nNQelp0sG/s1600/Sometimes....+normal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMPXpkeXGVfVd9QoTfHC6cKWGn_zAJ6rfX50m0T2S_kIUWHW7tSSWdc0mPUkVGfAYohBS7PgBqsVdNxSU6e3PX8HCs-lQUGv1CE5siAt9FM4h8do37OtPqLk1lV8cdbFgk0I3nNQelp0sG/s200/Sometimes....+normal.jpg" width="147" /></a><br />
After living on beautiful plant Earth for many years my conclusion is that everyone has their own <br />
"NORMAL". It is your own, unique and beautiful and it is important to embrace it!<br />
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So why do we still use term - this is not normal? Very simple! We live in a society that established "NORMAL" for us all. Don't get me wrong, it is important. We need laws, policies, economic standards, business practices, and such. Otherwise, we will live in anarchy.<br />
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But don't forget that without your "NORMAL" society will not be able to develop. Think about all of the discoveries over the years, think about all of the great novels that were written over many centuries, think about all of the beautiful pieces of art that has been created <br />
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since the beginning of time. Most of the people that made these discoveries or created these masterpieces were not the "NORM". Some were outcasts and considered out of their mind (Michael <br />
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Jackson or Vincent Van Gogh anyone?).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBvTOT4XzfB9GbLQK_3ophJWuCMV65FN3y90SWuzfbp3_r4cU95BYsnhKubv-BOtqKz2AwFGyuZqqiMA60DOWgmPFc896TdVO6CHk14NrnnaSeSR8o68Bdr71u5PKQAsfpLVl3J3wM3UwY/s1600/Normal++Maya+Angelou.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBvTOT4XzfB9GbLQK_3ophJWuCMV65FN3y90SWuzfbp3_r4cU95BYsnhKubv-BOtqKz2AwFGyuZqqiMA60DOWgmPFc896TdVO6CHk14NrnnaSeSR8o68Bdr71u5PKQAsfpLVl3J3wM3UwY/s200/Normal++Maya+Angelou.jpg" width="179" /></a></div>
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What I am trying to say is that although we are expected to live a certain "NORMAL" life, do not forget the "NORMAL" you. You are here for a reason and you are a significant part of the societal development. And in my opinion as long as it does not endanger people around you, you are totally and completely "NORMAL"! And the next time you are about to say:"That's not normal!", please stop and think. You might be offending someone or someone's action; put yourself in that situation.<br />
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In conclusions, I would love to encourage you to celebrate yourself and love the "NORMAL" you!<br />
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Please let me know your thoughts in regards to this subject! In the meantime have a fantastic day and don't forget<br />
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<i><b>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</b></i></div>
Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-29140268808671964252015-01-04T11:10:00.000-05:002015-01-04T11:10:19.554-05:00HELP! I am drowning!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Another day, another frustration, another unresolved issue. Does this sound familiar? Well, if it does not you should read this anyway. It might help someone you know.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0bIZR9PYSOkDQhqtUio_JyuCKVArvwncPKfdo2Aw-toUs-h_-Gf2wSV1-nEYLPo3Nz7FwEOC-LklhFiARtZWOF1-ee_4Jy2hmukMMk0gh3fnmovbEJmalA_tXIn2XIaBLKSZKfmHE7yJV/s1600/Big+White.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0bIZR9PYSOkDQhqtUio_JyuCKVArvwncPKfdo2Aw-toUs-h_-Gf2wSV1-nEYLPo3Nz7FwEOC-LklhFiARtZWOF1-ee_4Jy2hmukMMk0gh3fnmovbEJmalA_tXIn2XIaBLKSZKfmHE7yJV/s1600/Big+White.png" height="149" width="200" /></a>So, what is it this time? I am feeling overwhelmed. There seems to be too much going on and I feel like I am loosing the grip once again. Things to do, items to read, research to conduct, paperwork! And then there is my lovely family that or so precious, supportive and understanding but they need my time and there does not seem to be much. It's been eaten buy a Great White! It all looks like an endless ocean. HELP! I am drowning!<br />
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Not so fast, I know how to swim! I've been there before, many times before. There is help: life ring, boat, orrs, motorboats, submarines....... You get the drift.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ2E_Ke-aUH3wXoofNp7177ucAV9u_JVeyFQpvYBU3PMZrbh4TWmr52Umpls2UvxmO9nAbwcWiN8M6MW5Q0XytdvhtQ9qwPOMimmFk3qpf-FpUv6VI5cA5hHqRSx10UewUUQOVmn3V3zyw/s1600/Girl+Power.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ2E_Ke-aUH3wXoofNp7177ucAV9u_JVeyFQpvYBU3PMZrbh4TWmr52Umpls2UvxmO9nAbwcWiN8M6MW5Q0XytdvhtQ9qwPOMimmFk3qpf-FpUv6VI5cA5hHqRSx10UewUUQOVmn3V3zyw/s1600/Girl+Power.jpg" height="200" width="149" /></a>But seriously, let's discuss this. As women, we carry many, many, many responsibilities (no offence gentlemen, Girl Power). We are expected to be smart, beautiful, loving, maternal, gentle, powerful, courageous, brave, creative and simply amazing. We fought for our rights for many years (still fighting for some) and now most of us enjoy the freedom of being who we are. <br />
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I love being all of the above and more but sometimes it feels like I am drowning in being me. Observation of my life taught me few things and one of them that most of the time I create this drowning situation myself. I am the problem you see. I push myself, I load myself, I frustrate myself, I drown myself. Yup, it's my doing! It does not help to be an Aries, we tend to start many things at the same time with great enthusiasm but not finish them (well, at least these are the Aries that I know, and I know quite a few).<br />
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So, how do I help myself? Is this disease curable? Can I be helped?<br />
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Absolutely! But how? Is there a doctor? Is there a machine? Is there a magical wound? Is there a special swimming instructor? Yes, yes, yes and yes!<br />
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Let's begin the saving process:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_fx41fLdYaiBIKKLcug6xWvbKNY3XzTZrc65gHmh6w2Wm6TqlQVgdljDYRqm8BoFFceAieNGEA8labx7hpyq83YYJW7MRyv41DzvAI04YeDMaAS2RYpjLKFUsNKj-dHT2GUPExL7xX-e0/s1600/Solution.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_fx41fLdYaiBIKKLcug6xWvbKNY3XzTZrc65gHmh6w2Wm6TqlQVgdljDYRqm8BoFFceAieNGEA8labx7hpyq83YYJW7MRyv41DzvAI04YeDMaAS2RYpjLKFUsNKj-dHT2GUPExL7xX-e0/s1600/Solution.jpg" height="156" width="200" /></a>1. Take an hour (tough to find time? how about 30 minutes) out of the day (preferably day off) and try to find a quite place where you can be alone. This will allow you to relax your mind and get in touch with yourself.<br />
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2. Settle your mind and think about where the real issue lies (you are most likely overloaded).<br />
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3. Think about the possible solution and if there is a need for help.<br />
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4. Prioritize, apply the solution and seek help (if needed).<br />
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Sounds simple enough but I know it is not. Been there many times myself and the toughest step is number 1. You might say: "I wish I had an extra hour to sleep, never mind an hour for myself!". But ladies, trust me, it is so important.<br />
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You are oblivious to the fact that most of us have that 30 minutes or an hour in a day. Did you have a chance to see the new episode of "Scandal"? There is your hour! Sure, this is your relaxation time but will it help to make a difference in your life in the next six month? One month? A week?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWkSyOa7g1txeWziPKt02O_py8DcZR5Y0idQnNVTsfw4Bgij-w9VOLOEieThdB16zW8QHGKjuM8nnD_VN3ruMWw6xlSGWrxEHHHUyrU7ZNculaaPpMoT3ArWQPmXic000cWYoeHlwCshJU/s1600/TV+Land.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWkSyOa7g1txeWziPKt02O_py8DcZR5Y0idQnNVTsfw4Bgij-w9VOLOEieThdB16zW8QHGKjuM8nnD_VN3ruMWw6xlSGWrxEHHHUyrU7ZNculaaPpMoT3ArWQPmXic000cWYoeHlwCshJU/s1600/TV+Land.jpg" height="171" width="200" /></a>I am not suggesting taking away your TV time all together. It just a little time away from TV land that can make your life more balanced and peaceful and get you out of the dark waters of "OMG, please throw me a lifejacket!". Does this make sense?<br />
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This might sound like a very simple thing to do. But it really is not. Most of us have a group of friends and colleagues that are up to date with the latest episode and you feel almost obligated to follow. Do not be afraid to be different! I given up TV first time back in late '90 early 2000. It was a super busy time in my life and TV was not helping me to make a difference. And at the same time movie and pizza on Friday nights were very special for my son and I.<br />
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Years went by, I got back into the TV mix and once again things got very messy. Now, I have taken control over my time and what a difference it makes! And with the advance of technology I am not missing a thing about happenings in the world, it is all at my finger tips. <br />
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You see, I also found that with ever changing world structure and constant unrest, watching the news was very depressing. There is so much injustice in the world that it was overwhelming and adding to my already full plate. I want to help but what can I do on the big world scale. And then I figured it out, less outside distractions and more focus on smaller task and finding the way of being helpful to myself and others.<br />
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The result is amazing and I am proud of the fact that just recently several people commented on how much I inspire them. That is the best outcome for me! Sure I am not perfect and my drowning struggles occur once in a while but I can see that the few steps above made a difference in mine and other people lives.<br />
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I hope you try this method and let me know what you think.<br />
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And in the meantime remember <br />
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<strong><em>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</em></strong><br />
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</div>
Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-88873292506236771942015-01-03T09:50:00.000-05:002015-01-03T09:50:30.140-05:00The Battle, Round 1<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I think it is very appropriate to talk about battles right at the beginning of the year. Violence is not my thing so there would not be a discussion about which AK is better, or who started the fight, or who is wrong or right for that matter.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ1XfTsU3RtWNY_8G1_fNGE-adxlrjwvkqlCYSCxWoZ72LzKhtR3NlzwVmWjDbypzcfCSsDaQA5_D13I7fWewZ7Faw43GoGsyRIMKTzF9zPsqxzk0AtQAhbI4WnojEJRjvfKt-N_dGM36X/s1600/Battle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ1XfTsU3RtWNY_8G1_fNGE-adxlrjwvkqlCYSCxWoZ72LzKhtR3NlzwVmWjDbypzcfCSsDaQA5_D13I7fWewZ7Faw43GoGsyRIMKTzF9zPsqxzk0AtQAhbI4WnojEJRjvfKt-N_dGM36X/s1600/Battle.jpg" height="160" width="200" /></a></div>
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The battle we will be discussing today is our internal struggle with who we are vs who are we trying to be vs fitting into a societal standard.<br />
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You might go like: "Say whaaaat?" and of course I will go like: "Here girlfriend, let me tell you all about it." <br />
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Hmmmm....Where should I start? How about my identity: Tomboy vs Girly Girl. Yes, for those who know me well have come to accept the fact that I changed. Growing up I was always looking up to my cousin Misha (I actually consider him my brother since we grew up together and were very close, hi Cuz!). He was year and a half older than me and so experienced everything before me: riding a bike, staying up late, going to school and of course learning English. I wanted to be like him! So it was not a surprize for my parents when I had numerous injuries doing boys things and then wanting boys toys (Doll? No thank you! But I would like that toy gun please!) and not particularly liking to wear a dress. And then came school years and my Mom always knew where to find me when she came back from work - playing soccer or hockey in the yard with boys.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqkwiIjdwZVPjZRX7r1oMBZuJrBlK1JFNzQdOM7_33rDFZ3qiLpdv4RUs7E8ukZ7YlP7CB4dBhp0ni4YiS3zuHibg4ZA2lSFGR-x5xH4zOiEVnFPC2ZzeVcJxv9rOSCr1WrZx7PFYZAHEg/s1600/Little+Black+Dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqkwiIjdwZVPjZRX7r1oMBZuJrBlK1JFNzQdOM7_33rDFZ3qiLpdv4RUs7E8ukZ7YlP7CB4dBhp0ni4YiS3zuHibg4ZA2lSFGR-x5xH4zOiEVnFPC2ZzeVcJxv9rOSCr1WrZx7PFYZAHEg/s1600/Little+Black+Dress.jpg" /></a><br />
Years went by and here we are in 2015! If you ask me now if I want to be like my cousin my answer will be: "Hell NO!!!!!"(no offence Cuz) Sure men do not have to deal with many things women do (women got a short end of the stick in some areas of physiology) but do we have some power! Just think about it: get your hair done, get your nails done, wake up those eyelashes, paint those lips red, push-up bra, stockings, little black dress and four inch heels! Girl I like to be you right now!!!! <br />
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And how about powerful business suites? Angela Merkle and Hillary Clinton - thank you ladies! Did someone say GIRL POWER?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh42xGLlFG8TtigbtVmYap37yVXvzhDMgrerd-LeG_YSqLkErrDmjc1xSmuh8n0jzavDK2kWY19F-8KBts4cdHWsQbqiEXfaV1Ag6RrYeEPXhyphenhyphenFLg3Dj7BHjG1bbmeXBa39gyAzWNesv-Br/s1600/Wonder+Woman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh42xGLlFG8TtigbtVmYap37yVXvzhDMgrerd-LeG_YSqLkErrDmjc1xSmuh8n0jzavDK2kWY19F-8KBts4cdHWsQbqiEXfaV1Ag6RrYeEPXhyphenhyphenFLg3Dj7BHjG1bbmeXBa39gyAzWNesv-Br/s1600/Wonder+Woman.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a>I realize that there is nothing wrong with being feminine. I am still the same courageous person that I was when I guarded the net playing hockey with boys. I am still the same tough person that I was when I was falling out of the trees. I am still the same smart person that I was when I was winning physics competitions in school. And yes I am still the same strong person that I was when I was beating boys in various sports activities. <br />
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It is funny, I did not like to play with dolls when I was little and growing up in Russia did not know anything about Barbie. Now, I collect Barbie dolls (well, not the ones you can play with, they are still in the boxes). There is something very powerful about her! Yes, some ladies might suggest that I fell of the roof and hit my head because her and her life style are very unrealistic.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9b3AU2PClOO1Shkn-_ljihJZFwK-zE_sEfZOLyUEYixpYN_yakTAy02NnG2_Y1r2Oa7elV-3I9GPas3YFmPFeeLxvzv_6QR5gu6W_lQ6DiksGxNr256AvQK1CsVqz9SxEZWOfN382ZYg8/s1600/Barbie's%2BCloset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9b3AU2PClOO1Shkn-_ljihJZFwK-zE_sEfZOLyUEYixpYN_yakTAy02NnG2_Y1r2Oa7elV-3I9GPas3YFmPFeeLxvzv_6QR5gu6W_lQ6DiksGxNr256AvQK1CsVqz9SxEZWOfN382ZYg8/s1600/Barbie's%2BCloset.jpg" height="200" width="156" /></a>But ladies, she is a doll! So, it is all about the presentation! I see drive, ambition, confidence, determination and of course some "Oh my God! Totally!". And we all can use some of the later, it will help us to relax because let's admit, we work damn hard for everything in life! And don't get me started on things we have to put up with! <br />
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How about the dresses? Barbie has her own closet full of clothes! Brilliant! What a great idea for a young girl to learn dressing up! And what about creativity? Fantastic way for a girl to find her style! If I had a daughter I would most certainly buy her a Barbie and introduce the doll in the appropriate way.<br />
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So, who won you ask? Did I kill the Tomboy in me? No, he is alive and well and does come out to play once in awhile. <br />
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What I am trying to say here is that I finally feel that I am in balance with my identity. Society is very quick to place us in one group or the other. But I disagree. We all have different sides to us and I do not see the reason to choose one over the other. Trust yourself and get to know you. And then each personality will come out at the appropriate time.<br />
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With this I confirm that Round 1 is completed and it is a tie. Difficult to believe that highly competitive person like me is not calling a winner but I realize that life is about balance. <br />
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I would love to know your thoughts on this battle and hear about yours.<br />
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Round 2 will not be far behind, so in the meantime remember<br />
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<em><strong>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</strong></em> </div>
Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-55640285297037940462015-01-02T16:42:00.000-05:002015-08-11T12:57:57.373-04:00To Meat or Not to Meat?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hi, <br />
<br />
How is the second day of the new year treating you? Hope your year is starting on a health conscious note! And that brings me to the topic of today's post.<br />
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To meat or not to meat? That is definitely a big question these days.<br />
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In the last few years you probably noticed an increase of people that do not eat meat. Well, yours truly joined the party! <br />
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Yes, I am proud to say that it has been over a year since I have given up animal meat! And there is so much more......<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi79v_K7Ic1q3HLMcfwySXkIVgIytdENmCKdRiwL3LNCdA8Fw44aylwZ2XM2fObBSX2Gq7AuOCApul0WcA54xgnVDuehrcKGsBquJxfBdT9_ozlHOJJW8dsVIA_F-z1GhnTB9AFS8sOTSk8/s1600/Meat+Eater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi79v_K7Ic1q3HLMcfwySXkIVgIytdENmCKdRiwL3LNCdA8Fw44aylwZ2XM2fObBSX2Gq7AuOCApul0WcA54xgnVDuehrcKGsBquJxfBdT9_ozlHOJJW8dsVIA_F-z1GhnTB9AFS8sOTSk8/s1600/Meat+Eater.jpg" width="200" /></a>So, I am sure you are wondering what brought me to this decision. There is not really a very definitive answer. But here are few reasons:<br />
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- Too heavy for digestion<br />
- It is not the "real" meat any longer<br />
- Carbon impact on the environment<br />
- All those cute fuzzy creatures!<br />
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It has been an interesting year without meat. But this is not my first attempt! I have tried it twice before and unfortunately did not last very long. Considering that I grew up in the country that has a lot of respect for meat products this has not been an easy task. Here are just few samples of the meat menu from my Motherland:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYixJiJPGMNpAo66JUPeIPi0CN-Ny01MbMKy68TEJulxi7qWjwV06iiG99Zea3rpJInT9RWXLPrxTCjb4v_-HF6otL8ukQLxDHd98Kjiy19b5Hvla1qW-N7IxqCDj1dvNi62OUnVKjQBhyphenhyphen/s1600/Russian+Table.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYixJiJPGMNpAo66JUPeIPi0CN-Ny01MbMKy68TEJulxi7qWjwV06iiG99Zea3rpJInT9RWXLPrxTCjb4v_-HF6otL8ukQLxDHd98Kjiy19b5Hvla1qW-N7IxqCDj1dvNi62OUnVKjQBhyphenhyphen/s1600/Russian+Table.png" width="200" /></a></div>
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- Pelmeni (yes, here in Canada you will recognise them as pirogies, well, sort of)<br />
- Shashlyk (shish-kebab)<br />
- Belyash' (plain dough stuffed with ground beef and fried, my grandmother made the best!!!!)<br />
- Beef Stroganoff<br />
- And of course don't forget many variations of cold cuts<br />
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Well, it is all behind me now! No cow, no pig, no sheep, no goat, no deer, especially no rabbit!!! Do I miss it? From time to time. Just like this New Year Eve, one of my favorite combinations for this <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczO6eSQWOzn0BgX5P2EUpHiXP76hLyNfnO-JtAgemr3eKPnvUJaNgQ7O5XJx1GGVZ6WmVPV7AuEAXbYR3IC9Qg-PJlW9GiM53PueVALmj8wyx6Q57JRcqxKtsNZIBgY7shQGIA-MXWJZE/s1600/Last+Burger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczO6eSQWOzn0BgX5P2EUpHiXP76hLyNfnO-JtAgemr3eKPnvUJaNgQ7O5XJx1GGVZ6WmVPV7AuEAXbYR3IC9Qg-PJlW9GiM53PueVALmj8wyx6Q57JRcqxKtsNZIBgY7shQGIA-MXWJZE/s1600/Last+Burger.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
holiday is Jamon Serrano (Spanish ham) and fig or melon. Or another used to be favorite - fried Chorizzo (Spanish sausage). And maybe "In-n-Out" burger (this is the place where I had my last encounter with meat and this is me and my last burger).<br />
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Sure, sometimes I feel like I lost a friend, but was it really a friend, I actually think it was more of an acquaintance in the last few years. But what a difference it made for me: my health, my digestion and my overall state of body and mind. And just a sense of accomplishment itself! It is a fantastic feeling! <br />
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Many people ask: "So, are you a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vegetarianism" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">vegetarian</span></a>?" The answer is: "I am not. I am a <a href="http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=pollo-pescetarian" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Pollo-pescetarian</span></a>." Yes, I know it sounds like a religion or a country but there is such a thing. We are the people that eat birds and water creatures. And I enjoy both types tremendously! After all Russia also is well known for its fish products:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh23PA81OzRdrduZCJ67qhlHhvWXHtNd-kJLgJMhla9Tdhn2RGRcGXrPPMneBfzppIypVtH-UuwMnYJ-QbVaGf02jKhxWWPAMb21fRhVPJjRxFaxoRUHiQnZ2zBfey0NPCSJmG4jPjPDkR/s1600/Caviar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="124" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh23PA81OzRdrduZCJ67qhlHhvWXHtNd-kJLgJMhla9Tdhn2RGRcGXrPPMneBfzppIypVtH-UuwMnYJ-QbVaGf02jKhxWWPAMb21fRhVPJjRxFaxoRUHiQnZ2zBfey0NPCSJmG4jPjPDkR/s1600/Caviar.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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- Caviar<br />
- Smoked Salmon (red fish)<br />
- Smoked Beluga (it is actually not Beluga whale)<br />
- Herring<br />
- Shproty (canned sprats in oil)<br />
- And of course Vobla (dried fish that you eat with Russian beer, fantastic combination!)<br />
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Back to "Are you a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vegetarianism" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">vegetarian</span></a>?" part. Becoming one is a big step and I am not sure I am ready yet. And then there is "<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veganism" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">vegan</span></a>", this goes even further. And honestly I am not sure I would like to go there.<br />
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There are many benefits to the lifestyle I chose but I do not push it on anyone. I am happy to share what I have learned and how I feel. But everyone is different and what works for me might not work for another person. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQ8zAopn_gEqSqLOb-pF9e1Y9yBKipmyaHRwLYGkDkah7U7jPcJ00F7lV9HCL0L5OB1B9_Uc3QUlaZx9CRBhAva_Sn6ceM5mSkHt3YG0tKIcqvMhVJPmAS_H46xztLDJ_1qaDyl45IbL0/s1600/Vegetarian.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQ8zAopn_gEqSqLOb-pF9e1Y9yBKipmyaHRwLYGkDkah7U7jPcJ00F7lV9HCL0L5OB1B9_Uc3QUlaZx9CRBhAva_Sn6ceM5mSkHt3YG0tKIcqvMhVJPmAS_H46xztLDJ_1qaDyl45IbL0/s1600/Vegetarian.png" width="144" /></a></div>
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What I promote is a healthy life style and meat is not the greatest helper with that. Unfortunately, I still deal with cooking meat on occasion. My son eats meat and few of his favorite Russian foods are made with meat. One thing I can tell you, cooking meat now is no fun for me. So, my son will have to take the rein of Russian Chef very soon.<br />
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I will be sharing my experiences and menu items with you my readers. I would not consider myself an expert in this area just yet but will be happy to answer any questions. Just do not forget that I am not a trained physician or nutritionist. And if you do get an answer to your question from me, please consult with your doctor or nutritionist first. Remember, we are all different!<br />
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There are so many more things to share about my new lifestyle but I will leave it for other posts. In conclusion, I would like to thank everyone who supported and tried to understand and respect my decision. Yes, I am sorry that I am a pain in the restaurants now but I am not sorry about how I feel and look and of what I have been able to accomplish in the last year and a bit.<br />
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So my dear friends, the question "to meat or not to meat" does not have the same answer for everyone. I will not try to brainwash you with how wonderful it is not to eat meat, it is up to you. But one thing I encourage you to do is to do some research on the effects of eating meat (animal meat) and how it is produced and then decide for yourself. Good luck with your research and decision!<br />
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And do not forget<br />
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<strong><em>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</em></strong><br />
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Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-38213530407346142972015-01-01T14:37:00.001-05:002015-08-11T13:14:18.786-04:00The Meaning of January 1st<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Happy New Year and welcome to a full of potential, promise and clarity 2015!<br />
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What? Is it a little too enthusiastic for January 1st? Is your head hurting from the partying and loud music? Can you not stomach that healthy mushroom and tomato egg whites omelet with avocado that I had this morning? Are you not seeing what I am seeing? <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRxfSvZiUAcxNZBQb-YRFSjkKm8ROnNLDH5p4cYJR-ycgwFYiMeyFsBJFJ77ub9ltKJGF1dF7T0peYgsgnP5oJaqFd_8E3rz84Z1TPfiWBMTDuvOkkFi9138rHWmYklYcYbWEVabkUYrPf/s1600/After+NYE+Party.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRxfSvZiUAcxNZBQb-YRFSjkKm8ROnNLDH5p4cYJR-ycgwFYiMeyFsBJFJ77ub9ltKJGF1dF7T0peYgsgnP5oJaqFd_8E3rz84Z1TPfiWBMTDuvOkkFi9138rHWmYklYcYbWEVabkUYrPf/s1600/After+NYE+Party.png" width="200" /></a></div>
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Let's snap out of a "mean girl" mode (that is not me after all) and think about January 1st for a moment. And really think about it! What does it mean to you? <br />
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And while you are thinking, I will share my <span style="color: black;">opinions</span>. By now you should know me a little so don't tell me that I have not warn you. Here they come: <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPKqGubJ-eJsttXgvfIBpD5LufeijplLjRgrfxVHe2cUUQdnn5GdQKECVq3MIVPT-wrQM6UWX3BAl-o79h-eyZiFli3kNd_mUY2RugWcCSV809KwiVRxfQpj97MW7tY9x8DVJ4-QtMc56F/s1600/Back+to+Basics.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPKqGubJ-eJsttXgvfIBpD5LufeijplLjRgrfxVHe2cUUQdnn5GdQKECVq3MIVPT-wrQM6UWX3BAl-o79h-eyZiFli3kNd_mUY2RugWcCSV809KwiVRxfQpj97MW7tY9x8DVJ4-QtMc56F/s1600/Back+to+Basics.png" style="cursor: move;" unselectable="on" width="171" /></a><strong>1. Get back to basics!</strong><br />
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Surprise! I only have one major statement today, that is it! Very simple and very basic! But since we already established a fact that you know me a little, you will of course expect elaboration. <br />
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What does "back to basics" mean to me on this January 1st, 2015? It means a lot: it means that doors are wide open, it means that anything is possible and most importantly it means I found myself. Yes, "basic me" with my intrinsic sense of self, my zest for life and my creative but complex mind. <br />
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As you learned from my <span id="goog_1847363285"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="background-color: white; color: magenta;">previous post</span></strong></a><span id="goog_1847363286"></span>, I lost myself in the last few years. That is one of the reasons that <a href="http://currentwomanblog.blogspot.ca/search?updated-min=2012-01-01T00:00:00-05:00&updated-max=2013-01-01T00:00:00-05:00&max-results=3" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: magenta;">"Current Woman"</span></strong></a> has been silent since 2012. But after many battles, much reflection and soul searching the answer to all became very clear - get back to basics! <br />
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Over the years I have finally learned who I am and pretending or trying to fit in just does not work for me. The biggest lesson I have learned for myself in the last couple of years is not to settle. Yes, there could be many reasons why it has to be done but you loose yourself. And to me it is one of the most painful experiences in life! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfg__E98oSE4dJIUgifk99V8Qkf72UWSg2POh35osW4XY1AbzTuei3hJ6QFG8zB3a2jhMa1Ou5s2oQOIS94wFTGoOKUgDw7PSgqhTlyVYTbWk-ph45LH5tbPIwJj_RhSXI0j5ndqoTuQOz/s1600/Human+Mould.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfg__E98oSE4dJIUgifk99V8Qkf72UWSg2POh35osW4XY1AbzTuei3hJ6QFG8zB3a2jhMa1Ou5s2oQOIS94wFTGoOKUgDw7PSgqhTlyVYTbWk-ph45LH5tbPIwJj_RhSXI0j5ndqoTuQOz/s1600/Human+Mould.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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You see the experiences of the last few years, business and personal, reminded me that I have my own mould. It is mine and no one else can fit it. So, why try to fit into something that is not yours? Does this make sense so far?<br />
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I am a human being first of all. I love people and think we are all wonderful, even those that make me angry (you are forgiven) and make me cry (we were just not a good fit). My wish for everyone is very simple - be kind and happy. But I know that no matter how hard I try, I am unable to make everyone happy. It is not up to me and I have to know when to let it go (even when it comes to the ones closest to you). Yes, some people might get hurt in the process but it is never my intent. <br />
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When it comes to business - basics is your foundation. Never forget that! In a complex world of technology basics still prevail. So, here I am going back, back to the starting position. Ready to roll the dice!<br />
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I can go on and on and on but hope you get the point (besides, there will not be much left for my future posts). To summarize it all I would like you to take 20 - 30 minutes out of your day today and reflect on your life. Are you where you belong? Are you settling? Are you really you?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQafEXVsCx3yqcdZom7bs6mYy5zNId-7U52gbjpnf-QAKnzTOF5W5-lMl2FDbPhweSPb0J3oGMNcOK1qmxkjoIhxYkl9dUYgZWD7sPbF6Ykm5uifuFRmM_XmUFLwIRKOSYSMIEviYYYOIM/s1600/Be+Yourself.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQafEXVsCx3yqcdZom7bs6mYy5zNId-7U52gbjpnf-QAKnzTOF5W5-lMl2FDbPhweSPb0J3oGMNcOK1qmxkjoIhxYkl9dUYgZWD7sPbF6Ykm5uifuFRmM_XmUFLwIRKOSYSMIEviYYYOIM/s1600/Be+Yourself.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Please do not read into this as if I am pushing you to make drastic changes and turn your life upside down (unless this is what you really need). This might not be the answer for you. And maybe all you need are just few adjustments and some tuning up. <br />
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Everyone is different! But the most important part to remember is not to loose yourself! The world is made up of very different people and that is what makes it so beautiful. So, let's keep it that way! You are here for a reason and your life is very important to the world!<br />
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I hope this post helps you to bring some clarity to 2015 and beyond. I also hope that it will help you to remember what a beautiful, wonderful, smart and kind person you are and keep it that way! The world needs you!<br />
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Happy New Year! Let 2015 bring you great happiness, great health, great love and great success!<br />
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And do not forget<br />
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<strong><em>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</em></strong><br />
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<img height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPKqGubJ-eJsttXgvfIBpD5LufeijplLjRgrfxVHe2cUUQdnn5GdQKECVq3MIVPT-wrQM6UWX3BAl-o79h-eyZiFli3kNd_mUY2RugWcCSV809KwiVRxfQpj97MW7tY9x8DVJ4-QtMc56F/s1600/Back+to+Basics.png" style="left: 609px; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 295px;" width="82" /></div>
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Well, here we are! Difficult to believe that there are only few more hours left in 2014! <br />
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Honestly, I cannot wait! No, really! At my age you would think it will be disappointing that another year has passed by.... but this is not the case with 2014. Goodbye and good riddance! <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjla2QP2rS8BpIiAoD6sr_3RSmlUl8jPtW7sk6bXeIIirNzr3iaNSb-M5vrQsxhCjZDgtDKV85yWzCxeN1win2VH3hs5uVamljwSCXQxEEZ2j-ngWdb64oaUrxnHXWjgyw7KbBpEccWEprq/s1600/Ms.+Sunshine.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjla2QP2rS8BpIiAoD6sr_3RSmlUl8jPtW7sk6bXeIIirNzr3iaNSb-M5vrQsxhCjZDgtDKV85yWzCxeN1win2VH3hs5uVamljwSCXQxEEZ2j-ngWdb64oaUrxnHXWjgyw7KbBpEccWEprq/s1600/Ms.+Sunshine.png" width="200" /></a><br />
Okay, okay, okay! I am still the same happy, go lucky, optimistic and super positive Ms. Sunshine. But this year really beat me up! And no it was not the long, cold and super snowy winter of 2014 or "what happen to the summer" summer of 2014. Well, those might have contributed a little bit. These were the very many events that took place in my business and personal life. <br />
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Oh the rollercoaster of life! It is exciting and unpredictable and it is not easy to get off of it. I have a feeling there are many of you that caught that ride. So, pretty sure you know what I am talking about. And let me add that I am not a fan of rollercoasters at all! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip8gj4SFMK1vpxsGepfpX-d1HGhbFfexMjF0uCEXF7G57tN6ehucfTxMII60M24eTXraAY7wbFtPY5MVCHfeUyhMk72p22fmGvJ3k3v3P-mHD9Sqxs6RAhn2qqh9Q1hKavX4DJzT_YmmZ-/s1600/Rollercoaster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip8gj4SFMK1vpxsGepfpX-d1HGhbFfexMjF0uCEXF7G57tN6ehucfTxMII60M24eTXraAY7wbFtPY5MVCHfeUyhMk72p22fmGvJ3k3v3P-mHD9Sqxs6RAhn2qqh9Q1hKavX4DJzT_YmmZ-/s1600/Rollercoaster.jpg" width="200" /></a>I really do not want to bore you with going on and on and on about rollercoaster (I think I am going to be sick!) so let's get to the point. All the fun talk aside, this is life people and it is full of unpredictable events, ups and downs, sharp turns and of course unforgettable experiences! Think about it, where will you be if you got off of this ride? How far are you willing to go?<br />
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For me the ride keeps going on and on. Am I ready to get off of it? Absolutely not! Yes sure this year has been a trying one, but there were so many happy moments and plenty of opportunities to learn new lessons. And for me that what life is all about. Every day, every week, every month and every year I learn more! I learn more about the world, I learn more about my surroundings, I learn more about my business, I learn more about people around me and most importantly I learn more about myself!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO_5Q-pTzfQtUqZD3Kkd6U65lASSmf8boGfM6dbrKGpG4n5FgVM5QmPHhvYNk_Fu1XsqWalZboC3XXuUITqEoJ6A_KTcwfKTqdkzXzY-3MsJkPdRBR_SBJZX2p5cVA0x0rf2_VEyl3_hv-/s1600/Grateful.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO_5Q-pTzfQtUqZD3Kkd6U65lASSmf8boGfM6dbrKGpG4n5FgVM5QmPHhvYNk_Fu1XsqWalZboC3XXuUITqEoJ6A_KTcwfKTqdkzXzY-3MsJkPdRBR_SBJZX2p5cVA0x0rf2_VEyl3_hv-/s1600/Grateful.png" width="200" /></a>So let me finish this post by saying a big THANK YOU to 2014! Yes, it has been one of the toughest years in a while but I made it through and grew wiser, stronger and happier! Yes, happier! I realized that I lost myself somewhere few years ago but 2014 helped me to find myself again!<br />
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I am very grateful to 2014 for all that it brought my way! I am very grateful to 2014 for reminding me of the woman I am! I am very grateful to 2014 for bringing my life back to me!<br />
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It is my hope that you are as grateful to 2014 as I am. You lived and now you are entering a new year and a chance for a new beginning (if you need one). It is super exciting!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ODF7eEYuAN5mh939ajFJFDkVRm7bNrAYO46YoSf_ZBbRCOm-ffsL1VxBapz6UMOLQ6TTYQ1ep4QUUbVcNFXz3ySBtMvROrJHI7FOHyr1Xc0WKmEYrpi9cBmoy5p6gu5iGMcMazdm3BnX/s1600/Toast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ODF7eEYuAN5mh939ajFJFDkVRm7bNrAYO46YoSf_ZBbRCOm-ffsL1VxBapz6UMOLQ6TTYQ1ep4QUUbVcNFXz3ySBtMvROrJHI7FOHyr1Xc0WKmEYrpi9cBmoy5p6gu5iGMcMazdm3BnX/s1600/Toast.jpg" width="200" /></a>So raise your glasses and enjoy the ride! Just don't forget to put the safety belt on!!!! Oh, and there is no such thing as a free ride!<br />
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Have a very Happy New Year! Wish you all great health, great love, great peace and great success in 2015!<br />
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And of course don't forget to <br />
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<strong><em>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</em></strong><br />
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Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-78282896969421065322014-10-16T02:42:00.000-04:002014-10-16T02:42:52.090-04:00Where Does The Time Go<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hi! I cannot believe it has been two years!!!! Where did the time go? What happen? Did you think I simply disappeared? Well, I sort of did..... and I am sorry!<br />
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Two years does not seem like a very long time in the universal age but it is in my world. Many events took place and some have changed my life. <br />
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I promise that this post will not be a detailed program of my last two years but it will be a shame not to mention a few. And here they are:<br />
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- Established myself as a successful Realtor in Ottawa (hard work pays off) <br />
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- Celebrated my son's High School graduation (we are both very pleased that this chapter is over)<br />
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- Visited my family and friends in my Motherland and had an absolute blast (been five years since the last blast visit, I might share a few details)<br />
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- Visited Las Vegas for the first time (OMG! I might elaborate on this one a little as well)<br />
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- Visited Pacific coast of beautiful state of California (okay, this is another OMG that needs few more details)<br />
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- Confirmed with myself that I still have "it" (long story.... we might get to this in one of my future posts)<br />
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- Discovered my spirituality and working on expanding the knowledge and understanding of self and the universe<br />
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- Still looking for a balance in life.... hope that I am very close to finding it<br />
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- And of course I added two more years to my awesome life (it is getting better every day!)<br />
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What do you think? Not a bad list! The only item that is missing - "Kept up with Current Woman". But the good news is that there are quite a few draft posts that need to be completed. So, I was not completely ignoring my "child" ( I am sure you probably have a smirk on your face and thinking - another excuse. That is fine with me!).<br />
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And now let's get to the point of this post - time and the use of it. In the last couple of years I have learned how valuable time is. Don't get me wrong, I always knew the value of time and the fact that you cannot get it back. But I believe that as we get older we realize that it is also important to look back and make sure that you are happy with the way you spent your time. And of course make sure that your are happy moving forward!<br />
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Time and time again we hear or say "I should have...". So why don't you suggest that person to and why don't you? Maybe it was not the right time (here is that time word again). Except it but don't give up the subject or the idea. Catch it at another more favorable time and you will succeed! Just remember, do not wait for the perfect time - it does not exist! Live your life!<br />
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Confused yet? It is okay! It will all make sense at the right time!<br />
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You might not get all of the points that I am trying to bring to your attention in this post. Here are two important points I would like you to take out of this post:<br />
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1. You can wait for time but it will not wait for you.<br />
2. If you don't manage the time, it will manage you.<br />
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It is a fantastic feeling to get back to writing and I hope you enjoy this little rumble. Big shout-out to my girl <a href="http://www.donnamaystylist.com/#!about/c161y">May</a> - thanks for helping me get back on track! And thank you to Alex!<br />
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I would also like to hear your thoughts on your relationship with time. <br />
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And of course don't forget to<br />
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<em><strong>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</strong></em><br />
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Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com0Kanata, Ottawa, ON, Canada45.3088185 -75.898683545.1302665 -76.221407 45.487370500000004 -75.575960000000009tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2475908466864799408.post-11601117006431746672012-09-18T18:04:00.000-04:002012-09-18T18:04:46.850-04:00Celebrity Status<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hi! My name is Olga Dewar and I am a celebrity.<br />
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Seriously! Lately I've been hearing this: "Oh, you're Olga! I see you everywhere!". Even kids point at me on the street. I've arrived! And being an <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/horoscopes/astrology/aries/about"><span style="color: magenta;"><strong>Aries</strong></span></a> this does not hurt my ego. LOL! We'll discuss this later.<br />
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Let's start with an official (well, I think it is) definition of celebrity from <a href="http://www.wikipedia.org/"><span style="color: magenta;"><strong>wiki</strong></span> </a>(I can always count on you):<br />
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"A <b>celebrity</b> is a person who has a prominent profile and commands a great degree of public fascination and influence in day-to-day <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mass_media" title="Mass media"><span style="color: magenta;"><strong>media</strong></span></a>. The term is synonymous with wealth (commonly denoted as a person with <i>fame and fortune</i>), implied with great popular appeal, prominence in a particular field, and is easily recognized by the general public."<br />
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This seems to be pretty self explanatory. But of course I have few things to add.<br />
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Let's start from the beginning. We all know who the celebrities are and know of them (unless of course you live in the deep forest, but then you will not be reading this). There are many different types and sizes (I'm mostly referring to their egos) of celebrities. Should we look at few? Ok, how about these outstanding samples that have changed the world and our lives:<br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2475908466864799408#editor/target=post;postID=3096067243633205171"><span style="color: magenta;"><strong>Oprah Winfrey</strong></span></a>:<br />
- known around the world<br />
- richest African-American of the 20th century<br />
- big personality<br />
- HUGE giver<br />
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<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mariah_Carey"><span style="color: magenta;"><strong>Mariah Carey</strong></span></a>:<br />
- known around the world<br />
- HUGE diva (she is a fellow Aries after all)<br />
- big giver but mostly known for dramas<br />
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<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bill_Gates"><span style="color: magenta;"><strong>Bill Gates</strong></span></a>:<br />
- known around the world (would you actually recognize him on the street)<br />
- do not hear much about him unless you follow his adventures or ventures<br />
- HUGE giver<br />
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I am sure my readers know all three mentioned above. Theses people have a HUGE influence on the world, people around them and people that follow them. This is the ultimate celebrity status! <br />
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My question is what about us, little celebrities. You know, those people that are known in the community due to their work with public. People like local TV personalities, local politicians and yes, local Real Estate Representatives. We do not have the HUGE wealth but have the following and some of us have HUGE personalities.<br />
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What about influence and difference. Could what we do effect our followers? Could what we do inspire people? Could what we do help? Absolutely! But (and this one is BIG but) it all depends on what we do and how we are perceived. <br />
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With the arrival of reality TV and YouTube there are many regular people that became celebrities overnight. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kim_Kardashian"><span style="color: magenta;"><strong>Kim Kardashian</strong></span></a> or <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Here_Comes_Honey_Boo_Boo"><strong><span style="color: magenta;">Honey Boo Boo</span></strong></a> anyone? How did they become celebrities? Sex tape and glitz redneck pageant child. Can this influence anyone? Well, apparently so, since Kim and the family are racking in millions from their expanded businesses and Honey Boo Boo (I still find it hard to believe I know who she is) is a guest on multiple talk shows (even CNN) and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6yqS2IjQFc"><strong><span style="color: magenta;">"appears"</span></strong></a> on SNL (that was soooo good!). <br />
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Yes, they are famous. But what is the message they're sending out? We get our messages through media and these personalities are part of it. So, there has got to be some message?! Could it be Kardashian's ignorance about everything beyond the walls of their fame or Honey Boo Boo's family life style with redneck games and "shopping" in garbage containers? Harsh words? Could not resist in this case.<br />
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We hear stories of the well known people rehearsing acceptance speeches in front of the mirror while they were kids; or living hockey from the young age to be the star of NHL; or as a child, interviewing stuffed animals in your room to become a well-known journalist. <br />
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But these people had it in them from the early age, they were meant to be. And most of them knew that celebrity status comes with a big responsibility of influence and a message. They say a word and people will listen. These people make a positive difference in our lives and lives of many around the world.<br />
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What scares me, is the new reality TV stars' celebrity status. It seems to be the ultimate desire for many to be famous. But in their mind, responsibility does not come with the status. The attitude seems to be - do whatever you can to attract more attention and who cares about the consequences. Well, at least that's how I see it. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH2ec0qeTuHdfGo0IbI9QqWdUim7MQqNcZSFgW-MlxjDetBW7loPSQaGFQP1nET3YMbEac-QdLQQMEisingSatF22-t2F2asJevHr8WRcfH_aBc4AWk3wP3NxJnfyYn-3Rr2rgQSsT6PfJ/s1600/Rainer+and+Atticus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH2ec0qeTuHdfGo0IbI9QqWdUim7MQqNcZSFgW-MlxjDetBW7loPSQaGFQP1nET3YMbEac-QdLQQMEisingSatF22-t2F2asJevHr8WRcfH_aBc4AWk3wP3NxJnfyYn-3Rr2rgQSsT6PfJ/s200/Rainer+and+Atticus.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Yes, there are exemptions, just look at these <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y4jZW8DsJI0"><strong><span style="color: magenta;">"Presidential Candidates".</span></strong></a> They'll be looking for your vote in 2040! Positive message for kids? I think so!<br />
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Now, going back to my Aries comment earlier, here is something you might know about me. As long as I remember myself I wanted to be a star. Superstar if you wish! I remember always being at the front of the crowd and loving to be a center of attention (very typical for a person that was born under the sign of Aries). Even my family encouraged that, they used to put me on a chair when I was 3 and ask me following: "Who is the princess? Who is the beauty?". LOL! You can guess the response. Oh, and any party or birthday celebration always included a concert by one and only, sincerely yours. There was even a time in the Pioneer camp talent show that I sang a whole Opera by myself representing all of the characters (well, I was behind the curtain since I could not split myself in five so all five characters can appear on stage at the same time). What happened to all that talent? Oh, it's still here, just hiding. Waiting for the right opportunity. Hmmmm.....<br />
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Never mind, back to my point! Still, from that time I knew that I had a responsibility to influence, to lead, to inspire by a positive example. It was installed in me by my family. And as I grew older and my ideas became more mature so did the ideas about responsibility. <br />
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Yes, I've accomplished a status of local celebrity. I am proud to say that this status seems to make a difference. People support my ideas and my work. And it feels great!<br />
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Current Woman is part of me, part of my world. It's been with me for a long time and is just starting to spread it's wings. It has BIG plans and hopes to accomplish many things that will change many lives for better. <br />
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So help me to spread the word of positive influence of Celebrity Status. Let's make sure that we, our friends and families, anyone we know understand the difference between celebrity status and their representation. And if you're a celebrity, lead by a positive example!<br />
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Thank you for listening to this rant. These are my opinions as a person and as Current Woman. <br />
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I would love to hear what you have to say about my ideas. Negative or positive, I listen to all!<br />
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In the mean time, take care of yourself and don't forget,<br />
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<em><strong>Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!</strong></em></div>
Olgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13562117846236949023noreply@blogger.com2