I remember standing by the window, watching the big snow flakes fall from a dark sky. Salt Lake was under a blizzard warning as the snow, wind and cold made for miserable conditions. Normally a 'snow day' would have been a welcome reprieve from my hectic life just not today. I was expecting "Kylie" and was scheduled to have a C-section early in the morning at Alta View Hospital.... roughly 25 minutes away... so the decision was made to stay at my in laws at the time who lived directly across the street from the hospital. No sense risking being pregnant until spring.
Kylie Elaine Schmidt made her debut on January 12th, 1989 at 7:30 am. Everything was perfect, Kylie was healthy....... It wasn't long before Griffin and Cori came to see Kylie. At the time they were more excited about the prospects of building snowmen, snowball fights and maybe a snow day or two. Both kids were anxious for Kylie and I to come home... Family and friends took their chances and braved the winter weather and come to see Kylie. I had bought her a pair of pink and white long thermal under ware, teamed with her pink bow she was just gorgeous and stylin. Her features where itty bitty small... her hair was light and seemed to have natural curl.
As she grew it became obvious Kylie would require surgery on her eye to repair a muscle as she started Kindergarten. Kylie was a trooper and would spend the next many years wearing glasses.. (she would tell you goggles) but I assure you... she was always fashionable. Her wild curly hair became one of her staples. One of her best qualities is the kind heart she was blessed with. Kylie is every one's friend. No one is ever excluded..and many times Kylie chose to befriend those with physical limitations. Kylie has been such a joy in our lives. Growing up in Sioux Falls... Kylie had a best friend who lived across the street... Kayla...and Kylie were inseparable and the very best of friends. They attended different schools but always made time to catch up on the day's happenings. Summers were spent at Lewis Park.. playing games..riding bikes, swimming at Laural Oaks, walking up to TCBY yogurt...and of course sleep overs...
It's been 10 years since our move to Arizona...and Kylie has grown up... 22 years later... She is a gorgeous young woman with a future so bright.. I often joke with her..to wear her sunglasses continually. From cheer leading, to playing basketball for Kino Jr. High, running track for Westwood..to spending her first summer out of high school studying abroad in Prague. Kylie has always taken advantage of the opportunities that have come her way no matter how difficult at times.
As I reflect back on the short 22 years... what a privilege I have had... being able to provide a home, love and guidance for her. There are moments so precious that only the heart understands... I have been blessed to be a part of those 'milestone' moments...the 'firsts' that only come along once in a life time... her first school dance, her first basketball game, winning her first student body election, her first day of high school, the boy with the blue hat.. her first prom..finding the perfect dress.. planning the perfect evening, driving, and then driving with friends, braces, graduation, studying abroad, Sun's games.. the laughs (yogurt pants)... the tears (when life happens)... the disagreements (boys)... the distance...the sweet closeness that only a mother and daughter share...Your life has become a grand adventure... I am cheering you on! You have the ability to accomplish anything you desire! Your gifts and talents are many..continue to follow your path... and your dreams will come true!
Kylie, you have encouraged me to take classes and dream again... We have spent time studying, talking about life, relationships and dreams, we have been to see Rascal Flatts, we were both there for Cori when Henli was born, we have had the good fortune to making so many great memories... Kylie you have grown into a beautiful young woman... who takes advantage of the opportunities placed before you (like going to BYU's Homecoming after meeting him in Prague).. yet you stay true to yourself and beliefs, while understanding your priorities and holding fast to your values.
Kylie.. I love to hear you laugh when you say... Mom can you believe I am 22???? The real answer is ... NO Kylie I can't believe 22 years has gone by so quickly... I am so proud of you! You are living your life and enjoying every minute.. You always have something or someone new happening in your life... You make life happen...Your positive energy will continue bring you incredible opportunities..Kylie, your brothers and sisters adore you! Little Miss thinks you are the 'bomb'.... You are loved so many..
I love you Kylie...and I am grateful for the small window of opportunity I have been given to be your mother. You are simply delightful, I understand you have been on loan to me from above... You understand where you came from, why you are here on earth and most importantly where you are going when you leave this life.
On your day... Happy Birthday Yip...May all of your dreams come true!
Most of all... continue to live your life with Intensity and Purpose~
I love you, Mom!
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Friday, December 31, 2010
A Year End Review.... a look back....
As I was listening to Christmas music this morning I started reflecting back on the extraordinary year I have enjoyed. My life is filled with love, prosperity and accomplishment. As I look back... it's been an incredible year.
Kylie turned 21 in January... A huge milestone. We had a party and celebrated 21 years of accomplishment! It's hard to imagine she is working towards completing her college education... She loves life.. and jumps right in.
Ethan turned 18 in March.. A milestone that my children are all grown and continuing to follow their dreams. It's as if in the twinkling of an eye... 29 years has gone by... reaffirming that life is fleeting and precious. We celebrated with gusto with the Kurtz family in San Diego... It was an treasured time at the beach!
I had the great opportunity to connect with Professor Thomas Nazario, who not only teaches Law at the University of San Francisco Law School, he's founded 'The Forgotten International'. Through several emails, phone calls and heart felt conversations he came to Phoenix to meet me and speak at Mesa Community College to encourage each of us to live a meaningful life and get involved within our communities to make a difference. Tom is an extraordinary man and the future opportunities his friendship will afford me are priceless.
After Tom came to speak in April, I was invited to a VIP reception to meet and talk with Dr. Jill Biden, ASU President Michael Crow along with other national and local dignitaries. It was a humbling experience to be selected to represent MCC. Jill Biden is gracious, well educated and passionate about education and affording everyone the opportunity to attend community college. It was an amazing evening and the contacts I made once again will be priceless and I continue my educational pursuits.
May was a time of celebration as my rigorous spring semester came to a close... However this time our celebration was centered around Ethan and his graduating from High School. We were blessed to have his dad and his family here supporting Ethan. It was a great week end. During the week I had the great privilege to be a part of the MCC team who hosted the Community College Conference on Civic Engagement. An incredible opportunity to meet faculty and administrators from all over the country.
June 21, 2010 we welcomed sweet Henli Grace Albers into this world. There are no words I can share that can express my feelings of being present with Brett and Cori when precious Henli was born. The miracle of birth is simply extraordinary... there are no words but my heart has been enlarged and I fell in love once again.. Between Brett, Cori, Kylie and myself there were many tears of gratitude shed! Our family is so blessed and Henli has been such a joy! The greatest reward is watching your daughter transform into a tender loving new mother... Little Miss not only are you loved beyond measure.... you are being raised by extraordinary parents!
The beginning of September brought a fall semester... more incredible opportunities for me to speak at conferences and present Project HOPE and continue my studies..
September also brought immense joy with the engagement of Griffin and Jackie. Not only am I gaining a beautiful daughter in law, I am gaining new family who are incredible.. Again we has a family have been blessed beyond measure...
I turned 50.. In December... My kids planned a "surprise party" for me. It was the perfect evening filled with the people who I love and enrich my life. They bought me a Tiffany Heart... with "MOM" engraved on the front.. and "We are Honored" on the back... I have been so blessed... I look back over the past 15 years of raising children as a single mom... and smile...I have accomplished much... and raised 4 amazing children who are kind, passionate and accomplished...I am now enjoying the dividends... of raising a "Great Family"!!!!!!!!! My happy dance would not be complete with out thanking Greg.. and especially Ann who has been a wonderful step mother to my children. Ann thank you for your kindness, acceptance and unconditional love... together we have raised an amazing family...
December brought the honor of being chosen the most 'Distinguished' member of our Phi Theta Kappa Chapter, the National Honor Society for Community Colleges. This honor is most precious because I was nominated and chosen from a group of my peers. A special thank you to the officers and their unrelenting support of Project HOPE.
We spent Christmas Eve at Griffin and Jackie's this year... starting a host of new Holiday traditions for our family. I don't recall a better Holiday season. I love the Christmas season. I am so very grateful for my Savior who was born that day in the City of David.. for his constant companionship, love and encouragement. I love the sweet Christmas music that fills my heart.. I love the lights, the baking, the shopping, spending time together with each of my kids, skyping with Cori, Brett and Henli, new friendships and the new opportunities I am blessed with.
As I look back over the past year.... I have come to understand myself and my abilities. This past year has brought new perspectives, greater understanding and wisdom.
As I close out 2010... I would like to share a wish that a sweet woman gave me yesterday... As I was wishing her A Happy New Year... she turned to me and smiled.. I then asked her what she would wish for... she said without hesitation "World Peace".. we smiled together and I said... wouldn't that be something... she then said... actually how about starting with families... Peace within our families would be the greatest gift....I agreed.
I wish each of you A Happy New Year filled with hope, reconciliation and prosperity!
Happy New Year!
Live with Intensity and Purpose!
Carla
Carla
Kylie turned 21 in January... A huge milestone. We had a party and celebrated 21 years of accomplishment! It's hard to imagine she is working towards completing her college education... She loves life.. and jumps right in.
Ethan turned 18 in March.. A milestone that my children are all grown and continuing to follow their dreams. It's as if in the twinkling of an eye... 29 years has gone by... reaffirming that life is fleeting and precious. We celebrated with gusto with the Kurtz family in San Diego... It was an treasured time at the beach!
I had the great opportunity to connect with Professor Thomas Nazario, who not only teaches Law at the University of San Francisco Law School, he's founded 'The Forgotten International'. Through several emails, phone calls and heart felt conversations he came to Phoenix to meet me and speak at Mesa Community College to encourage each of us to live a meaningful life and get involved within our communities to make a difference. Tom is an extraordinary man and the future opportunities his friendship will afford me are priceless.
After Tom came to speak in April, I was invited to a VIP reception to meet and talk with Dr. Jill Biden, ASU President Michael Crow along with other national and local dignitaries. It was a humbling experience to be selected to represent MCC. Jill Biden is gracious, well educated and passionate about education and affording everyone the opportunity to attend community college. It was an amazing evening and the contacts I made once again will be priceless and I continue my educational pursuits.
May was a time of celebration as my rigorous spring semester came to a close... However this time our celebration was centered around Ethan and his graduating from High School. We were blessed to have his dad and his family here supporting Ethan. It was a great week end. During the week I had the great privilege to be a part of the MCC team who hosted the Community College Conference on Civic Engagement. An incredible opportunity to meet faculty and administrators from all over the country.
June 21, 2010 we welcomed sweet Henli Grace Albers into this world. There are no words I can share that can express my feelings of being present with Brett and Cori when precious Henli was born. The miracle of birth is simply extraordinary... there are no words but my heart has been enlarged and I fell in love once again.. Between Brett, Cori, Kylie and myself there were many tears of gratitude shed! Our family is so blessed and Henli has been such a joy! The greatest reward is watching your daughter transform into a tender loving new mother... Little Miss not only are you loved beyond measure.... you are being raised by extraordinary parents!
The beginning of September brought a fall semester... more incredible opportunities for me to speak at conferences and present Project HOPE and continue my studies..
September also brought immense joy with the engagement of Griffin and Jackie. Not only am I gaining a beautiful daughter in law, I am gaining new family who are incredible.. Again we has a family have been blessed beyond measure...
I turned 50.. In December... My kids planned a "surprise party" for me. It was the perfect evening filled with the people who I love and enrich my life. They bought me a Tiffany Heart... with "MOM" engraved on the front.. and "We are Honored" on the back... I have been so blessed... I look back over the past 15 years of raising children as a single mom... and smile...I have accomplished much... and raised 4 amazing children who are kind, passionate and accomplished...I am now enjoying the dividends... of raising a "Great Family"!!!!!!!!! My happy dance would not be complete with out thanking Greg.. and especially Ann who has been a wonderful step mother to my children. Ann thank you for your kindness, acceptance and unconditional love... together we have raised an amazing family...
December brought the honor of being chosen the most 'Distinguished' member of our Phi Theta Kappa Chapter, the National Honor Society for Community Colleges. This honor is most precious because I was nominated and chosen from a group of my peers. A special thank you to the officers and their unrelenting support of Project HOPE.
We spent Christmas Eve at Griffin and Jackie's this year... starting a host of new Holiday traditions for our family. I don't recall a better Holiday season. I love the Christmas season. I am so very grateful for my Savior who was born that day in the City of David.. for his constant companionship, love and encouragement. I love the sweet Christmas music that fills my heart.. I love the lights, the baking, the shopping, spending time together with each of my kids, skyping with Cori, Brett and Henli, new friendships and the new opportunities I am blessed with.
As I look back over the past year.... I have come to understand myself and my abilities. This past year has brought new perspectives, greater understanding and wisdom.
As I close out 2010... I would like to share a wish that a sweet woman gave me yesterday... As I was wishing her A Happy New Year... she turned to me and smiled.. I then asked her what she would wish for... she said without hesitation "World Peace".. we smiled together and I said... wouldn't that be something... she then said... actually how about starting with families... Peace within our families would be the greatest gift....I agreed.
I wish each of you A Happy New Year filled with hope, reconciliation and prosperity!
Happy New Year!
Live with Intensity and Purpose!
Carla
Carla
Monday, November 29, 2010
Conservative or Liberal and Pregnant at 14....
I've had the great opportunity of coordinating Project H.O.P.E (Healthy Outcomes through Prevention and Education)through the Center for Service Learning at Mesa Community College. Project H.O.P.E is a grant project awarded to MCC to educate college students about healthy relationships, sex, family planning and most crucial about 'staying in school' completing your college education. Being raised in the LDS Church I thought I had a deep and meaningful understanding of service. It's not uncommon to give a hand when someone is in need. Most of my service has revolved around helping others move, clean, watching kids, dogs, picking up mail, delivering a meal, telephone calls to check in with those who are sick, new mom's or new to the neighborhood. I have also felt the call to civic duty... However today brought a whole new perspective of the importance of community service.
This morning our Project H.O.P.E team; Heather, Liz, Tiffany, Sheila and myself were invited to present at Compadre High School in Tempe. Compadre is a non traditional high school serving high school students at risk. Prior to our presentation we had the opportunity to tour the on site daycare facilities. We were talking to a parenting class of young mothers 14-17 years old. I spent most of my time in the newborn nursery holding a gorgeous little lady named Larissa. Larissa was easy to pick out of the crowd, she was fussy and crying. As I bent down to pick her up, I could feel her little rock hard tummy while she struggled to pull her legs up. She had a tummy ache, her premature birth and low birth weight are contributors to her delicate digestive system. At 6 weeks she has a full head of black hair, beautiful brown eyes, sparkly little pink earrings and a tiny features.
I couldn't help but think of my own little grand daughter and how precious she is. I thought back on a long conversation my daughter Cori and I had about placing Henli in daycare as Cori would have to return to work. I remember Cori's anxiety about leaving Henli and in trying to decide on the right daycare provider. As Miss Larissa's cry grew louder, my thoughts turned to her and her 15 year old mother. I felt absolutely sick.... I asked myself... how in the world does a 14 year old girl find herself pregnant and not know it? And better yet how did her parents not know? She literally went 7 months with NO prenatal care. She didn't think having unprotected sex could equal having a baby. She and the baby daddy didn't stay together.
Well dear friends... the question I ask you is... Have we failed our children? Each of us has a story to tell about the 'talk' or lack of the 'talk' we experienced as youth. Did your parents talk to you about sex? Well if your parents couldn't talk to you about sex, I would bet you struggled to talk to your own kids. How can you teach your kids about sex, when the very topic was off limits to you? This is a huge problem in our culture.... Kids having babies... and grandparents raising them...
The next question I hear all the time is.... Don't they teach Sex Ed in schools?????? Well if you live in Arizona the answer is NO.... in Arizona our children are taught abstinence if anything at all..... Yet statistically Arizona holds the title of 3rd highest teen birth rate in the nation... Impressive???
Where is the disconnect? Parents feel it is their sacred right to discuss such matters as pro-creation and family values at home... Yet this is not happening in most homes.... Educators feel a great sense of frustration as they are teaching our sexually active and in many cases pregnant students that abstinence is the only sure way to ovoid an unplanned pregnancy or worse an uninvited sexually transmitted disease...
The real need is for us as parents, educators and legislator's to find a middle ground and start working together. Parents could use some coaching on how and when to start the dialog about sex... educators need to have the resources available to teach medically accurate information and the latitude to open up dialog with their students... Legislator's when will you take a hard look at the numbers? Teen pregnancy and skyrocketing birth rates have to be paid for... as a tax payer I expect more from you! I am living in an age of instantaneous communication..Internet, texting, GPS... yet when it comes to education our children about sex,contraception and family values we are living in the STONE AGE....
It's time to take a proactive stand in teaching our children, early about healthy relationships, encouraging good self esteem, sexual relationships, contraception, family planning and getting a good education. If our children are truly our greatest natural resource... and the future leaders of tomorrow.... then we need to get our act together as adults to ensure the success of our children today!
There is no conservative or liberal stand on protecting our children.... just proactive or reactive....
It's time to talk....
This morning our Project H.O.P.E team; Heather, Liz, Tiffany, Sheila and myself were invited to present at Compadre High School in Tempe. Compadre is a non traditional high school serving high school students at risk. Prior to our presentation we had the opportunity to tour the on site daycare facilities. We were talking to a parenting class of young mothers 14-17 years old. I spent most of my time in the newborn nursery holding a gorgeous little lady named Larissa. Larissa was easy to pick out of the crowd, she was fussy and crying. As I bent down to pick her up, I could feel her little rock hard tummy while she struggled to pull her legs up. She had a tummy ache, her premature birth and low birth weight are contributors to her delicate digestive system. At 6 weeks she has a full head of black hair, beautiful brown eyes, sparkly little pink earrings and a tiny features.
I couldn't help but think of my own little grand daughter and how precious she is. I thought back on a long conversation my daughter Cori and I had about placing Henli in daycare as Cori would have to return to work. I remember Cori's anxiety about leaving Henli and in trying to decide on the right daycare provider. As Miss Larissa's cry grew louder, my thoughts turned to her and her 15 year old mother. I felt absolutely sick.... I asked myself... how in the world does a 14 year old girl find herself pregnant and not know it? And better yet how did her parents not know? She literally went 7 months with NO prenatal care. She didn't think having unprotected sex could equal having a baby. She and the baby daddy didn't stay together.
Well dear friends... the question I ask you is... Have we failed our children? Each of us has a story to tell about the 'talk' or lack of the 'talk' we experienced as youth. Did your parents talk to you about sex? Well if your parents couldn't talk to you about sex, I would bet you struggled to talk to your own kids. How can you teach your kids about sex, when the very topic was off limits to you? This is a huge problem in our culture.... Kids having babies... and grandparents raising them...
The next question I hear all the time is.... Don't they teach Sex Ed in schools?????? Well if you live in Arizona the answer is NO.... in Arizona our children are taught abstinence if anything at all..... Yet statistically Arizona holds the title of 3rd highest teen birth rate in the nation... Impressive???
Where is the disconnect? Parents feel it is their sacred right to discuss such matters as pro-creation and family values at home... Yet this is not happening in most homes.... Educators feel a great sense of frustration as they are teaching our sexually active and in many cases pregnant students that abstinence is the only sure way to ovoid an unplanned pregnancy or worse an uninvited sexually transmitted disease...
The real need is for us as parents, educators and legislator's to find a middle ground and start working together. Parents could use some coaching on how and when to start the dialog about sex... educators need to have the resources available to teach medically accurate information and the latitude to open up dialog with their students... Legislator's when will you take a hard look at the numbers? Teen pregnancy and skyrocketing birth rates have to be paid for... as a tax payer I expect more from you! I am living in an age of instantaneous communication..Internet, texting, GPS... yet when it comes to education our children about sex,contraception and family values we are living in the STONE AGE....
It's time to take a proactive stand in teaching our children, early about healthy relationships, encouraging good self esteem, sexual relationships, contraception, family planning and getting a good education. If our children are truly our greatest natural resource... and the future leaders of tomorrow.... then we need to get our act together as adults to ensure the success of our children today!
There is no conservative or liberal stand on protecting our children.... just proactive or reactive....
It's time to talk....
Thursday, November 25, 2010
The art of 'Thanksgiving'
Thursday, November 25, 2010... Thanksgiving...
This morning as the house was still, I am listening to Christmas music, sipping on a delicious cup of Earl Gray tea... with a hint of cream. One of my favorite things... enjoying a few solitary minutes reflecting on my many blessings, prior to engaging in the hectic game of life. A week ago I cooked a turkey for our department luncheon... as I left campus to run home, carve the turkey and return... I remember feeling so grateful for my warm sweater and heated seats as a very chilly north wind blew right through me. While waiting at a busy intersection listening to Christmas music I couldn't help notice a man standing in the center of the street, trying to get across before the turning signal turned green.. he was holding a tattered bag, his clothing was dirty and filled with holes. There was no question the arrival of cold weather had caught him off guard... yet I couldn't help but think... He probably doesn't have a winter coat, sweater, gloves... or a family at home waiting for him to return. I knew life was hard for this man.
I felt a pit in the middle of my stomach... My thoughts turned to how hard life can be for all of us at times. What happens in the lives of so many that they are out on the streets? Hard times, illness, homelessness, poverty, divorce, addictions, no family, few friends, loneliness, depression, unemployment and death.. As I drove home I decided to rekindle my relationship with my gratitude journal throughout this holiday season. In light of the problems around me... I turned my focus to the blessings of life. I was overwhelmed as I started taking an inventory.....
The list is long and treasured... My children.. Griffin, Jackie, Cori, Brett, Kylie and Ethan, I am so thankful for the opportunity to be a mother and for the special relationships I cherish with each of my kids... My sweet little grand daughter Henli. Henli called me last week to share her new find... She has found her voice and is laughing out loud... Oh my what a feeling it is to hear her laugh... She is such a blessing to each of us. We are all crazy about the divine Miss 'H'. Great friends... Oh my ... have I been blessed with amazing friends that support me, inspire and encourage me every day... good health, the overwhelming feeling of peace and accomplishment in my life, the incredible opportunity to return to school and expand my knowledge, every day is like pulling a new treasure out of the treasure chest..Being afforded the opportunity to coordinate Project HOPE for Mesa Community College. I am grateful for the gift of understanding, wisdom and hard work. I am grateful for the a heart that feels compassion for others. I have been blessed with an amazing sense of humor. I am grateful for my positive outlook on life and determination to accomplish my goals and live my dreams.
I am in awe of the daily intervention of the divine in my life. The magical way my questions and prayers are answered... The incredible people who walk into my life at exactly the right time.. The extraordinary opportunities I have to give back and serve those around me.
We've all heard the old adage...."Is your glass half empty.... or half full"? How do you live your life on a daily basis... Is your life a journey of wonder and thanksgiving.... or a hardship filled with unhappiness? There is an art to living in a state of constant thanksgiving....
My wish for each of you this "Thanksgiving Day 2010" is to cultivate the art of 'thanksgiving' in your daily lives...it all starts with an inventory... Get a head start as the holiday season is upon us. Take the time to feed and nourish your spirit through the art of 'Thanksgiving'
Live with Intensity and Purpose...
Happy Thanksgiving...
Carla
This morning as the house was still, I am listening to Christmas music, sipping on a delicious cup of Earl Gray tea... with a hint of cream. One of my favorite things... enjoying a few solitary minutes reflecting on my many blessings, prior to engaging in the hectic game of life. A week ago I cooked a turkey for our department luncheon... as I left campus to run home, carve the turkey and return... I remember feeling so grateful for my warm sweater and heated seats as a very chilly north wind blew right through me. While waiting at a busy intersection listening to Christmas music I couldn't help notice a man standing in the center of the street, trying to get across before the turning signal turned green.. he was holding a tattered bag, his clothing was dirty and filled with holes. There was no question the arrival of cold weather had caught him off guard... yet I couldn't help but think... He probably doesn't have a winter coat, sweater, gloves... or a family at home waiting for him to return. I knew life was hard for this man.
I felt a pit in the middle of my stomach... My thoughts turned to how hard life can be for all of us at times. What happens in the lives of so many that they are out on the streets? Hard times, illness, homelessness, poverty, divorce, addictions, no family, few friends, loneliness, depression, unemployment and death.. As I drove home I decided to rekindle my relationship with my gratitude journal throughout this holiday season. In light of the problems around me... I turned my focus to the blessings of life. I was overwhelmed as I started taking an inventory.....
The list is long and treasured... My children.. Griffin, Jackie, Cori, Brett, Kylie and Ethan, I am so thankful for the opportunity to be a mother and for the special relationships I cherish with each of my kids... My sweet little grand daughter Henli. Henli called me last week to share her new find... She has found her voice and is laughing out loud... Oh my what a feeling it is to hear her laugh... She is such a blessing to each of us. We are all crazy about the divine Miss 'H'. Great friends... Oh my ... have I been blessed with amazing friends that support me, inspire and encourage me every day... good health, the overwhelming feeling of peace and accomplishment in my life, the incredible opportunity to return to school and expand my knowledge, every day is like pulling a new treasure out of the treasure chest..Being afforded the opportunity to coordinate Project HOPE for Mesa Community College. I am grateful for the gift of understanding, wisdom and hard work. I am grateful for the a heart that feels compassion for others. I have been blessed with an amazing sense of humor. I am grateful for my positive outlook on life and determination to accomplish my goals and live my dreams.
I am in awe of the daily intervention of the divine in my life. The magical way my questions and prayers are answered... The incredible people who walk into my life at exactly the right time.. The extraordinary opportunities I have to give back and serve those around me.
We've all heard the old adage...."Is your glass half empty.... or half full"? How do you live your life on a daily basis... Is your life a journey of wonder and thanksgiving.... or a hardship filled with unhappiness? There is an art to living in a state of constant thanksgiving....
My wish for each of you this "Thanksgiving Day 2010" is to cultivate the art of 'thanksgiving' in your daily lives...it all starts with an inventory... Get a head start as the holiday season is upon us. Take the time to feed and nourish your spirit through the art of 'Thanksgiving'
Live with Intensity and Purpose...
Happy Thanksgiving...
Carla
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Having to be right...
I've thought a lot about what it means to HAVE TO BE RIGHT... I was raised in a family where... you learned early on.... you had to be right.... no matter what the cost.. when I was younger I associated being right.. with being popular.. being powerful, it never occurred to me.. if I was always right, that meant those around me were wrong... a life time of experience later... My experience with "having to be right" has been a powerful lesson in opportunity cost... It doesn't matter who it is.. If you have to be right... you let those around you know they are WRONG... Soon you will be alone... all alone.... it's no picnic to be around someone who makes you feel wrong..
What is the cost you are willing to pay to be right? Are you willing to destroy a relationship with a sibling, friend, spouse, parent or child? What lengths will you go to.. in trying to make your point, letting someone else know how wrong they are and feeling like you have won a one sided conversation?
Let me share my wakening... on the subject of ego, control and forcing conformity on those people in your life... IT DOESN'T WORK...
All you have to do is take a quick inventory on the quality of your relationships with the very people you interact with every day.... Much like the childhood bully... the adult bully is also despised...
The choice is simple....
You can either choose to 'be right' from an ego perspective...Or you can choose to be happy.. simply loving others for who they are, taking responsibility for your behavior, making restitution when you need to, being grown up enough to realize life is short... and every minute counts... how you choose to spend your minutes is up to you... Having to be right comes at a high price... especially to those who live with you... Being happy is being at peace with those you love and enjoying close relationships with your family.
Where do you fit in?
May your relationships be rewarding and happy....
Live with Intensity and Purpose...
What is the cost you are willing to pay to be right? Are you willing to destroy a relationship with a sibling, friend, spouse, parent or child? What lengths will you go to.. in trying to make your point, letting someone else know how wrong they are and feeling like you have won a one sided conversation?
Let me share my wakening... on the subject of ego, control and forcing conformity on those people in your life... IT DOESN'T WORK...
All you have to do is take a quick inventory on the quality of your relationships with the very people you interact with every day.... Much like the childhood bully... the adult bully is also despised...
The choice is simple....
You can either choose to 'be right' from an ego perspective...Or you can choose to be happy.. simply loving others for who they are, taking responsibility for your behavior, making restitution when you need to, being grown up enough to realize life is short... and every minute counts... how you choose to spend your minutes is up to you... Having to be right comes at a high price... especially to those who live with you... Being happy is being at peace with those you love and enjoying close relationships with your family.
Where do you fit in?
May your relationships be rewarding and happy....
Live with Intensity and Purpose...
Monday, September 13, 2010
3 Wishes...
I am home today.. fighting a nasty head cold... I was thinking how terrible I was feeling when all of a sudden I thought.. What if I was granted 3 wishes today... what would I wish for... Then it dawned on me... Would my wishes be more along the lines of gratitude or pity, inspiration or inconvenience or finally long term joy or short term remedy... Very powerful thoughts.... It's easy when our body is wearing down to become emotional about how every ache and pain is hurting and unpleasant... the unfairness of sickness (and mine is just a common cold). It's easier when I am healthy to take for granted how blessed I really am.
I started thinking about my three wishes... here is what I came up with:
1). Wishing my daily attitude to an attitude of Gratitude! Yes there are going to be peaks and valleys in daily living... yet with that being said... OH MY GOODNESS... let me start by taking an inventory of my blessings: Griffin, Jackie, Cori, Brett, Henil (my sweet little miss), Kylie and Ethan.. Being born of goodly parents who provided the avenues for many of my opportunities today. Having the opportunity to return to school and making the most of my experiences, treasured friends, receiving answers to my prayers, feeling inspiration.. Have the opportunity to live at this time, understanding my contribution as a mother to four of the most amazing children. Being blessed with a great sense of humor and sharing my humor with those around me. Being the change I wish to see in my children, my community and ultimately my world.
2). Wishing Prosperity in the lives of everyone I come in contact with. Prosperity is not just about money... as a matter of fact most people I know who have money are the most unhappy. People who chase after money become consumed with power and materialism often leaving little time to enjoy the real treasures of life. I guess that is why God said... where your heart is...so is your treasure... I love the word Prosperity... Prosperity is the state of flourishing, thriving, success, or good fortune really encompassing happiness and health. What a fabulous state of mind to constantly thrive in... Wishing those around you success in their lives, relationships, raising their children, employment, health and happiness. I really believe prosperity is an eternal principle. The more we seek to be engaged in good works the more prosperity can flow right back into our lives.
3). Wishing for greater Wisdom. As the world continues to change, as problems continue to plague our homes and communities. My wish is for greater wisdom. Wisdom is a deep understanding and realizing of people, things, events or situations, resulting in the ability to choose or act to consistently produce the optimum results with a minimum of time and energy. Can you imagine how different your relationships with others could be if we exercised a greater understanding, without judgment? Wisdom requires a willing heart and mind. Wisdom requires daily practice and patience. Wisdom is respect and tolerance, while accepting people, things, events or situations as they are, and trusting yourself enough to know you have developed greater insight...
Gratitude, Prosperity and Wisdom are my three wishes.
Interestingly enough while I have been blogging.. I have also started feeling better.. I have come to know that when life is moving ahead and all systems are go... I tend to get very casual in expressing my gratitude for all that I have... Today this little exercise has been good for me... creating the clarity for me to embrace all that I have and fill my congested head with joy and bliss.
I always end with Live with Intensity and Purpose... I was asked why...
Our lives are measured by seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, months and years, the older I have become... the faster time passes... Even on the bad days... we have a choice in how we spend our precious time. For many years I was angry and bitter.. When I finally came to a place where I could understand that... 8 years had passed.. 8 years that I could never get back. 8 years that I chose to stay stuck... to me that wasn't living with purpose ... just regret.... When I realized I was the only one that could change what I had created... I felt much like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz... I was wearing my ruby red slippers waiting for everyone else to get me home... Much to my surprise... with hard work, complete honesty, forgiveness and a willingness to try another way... I did find my way back... to a much better life..
I have found living with the intensity of love and the understanding of my personal purpose.. I am alive, vibrant and focused.. and my days are filled with magical experiences and moments.
To you my sweet sister where every you may be today... My wishes for you are may your hearts always been filled with Gratitude, may your lives be blessed with great Prosperity and may your hearts be filled with Wisdom to create your heaven on earth.
My wish for you all... To Live with Intensity and Purpose!
Carla
I started thinking about my three wishes... here is what I came up with:
1). Wishing my daily attitude to an attitude of Gratitude! Yes there are going to be peaks and valleys in daily living... yet with that being said... OH MY GOODNESS... let me start by taking an inventory of my blessings: Griffin, Jackie, Cori, Brett, Henil (my sweet little miss), Kylie and Ethan.. Being born of goodly parents who provided the avenues for many of my opportunities today. Having the opportunity to return to school and making the most of my experiences, treasured friends, receiving answers to my prayers, feeling inspiration.. Have the opportunity to live at this time, understanding my contribution as a mother to four of the most amazing children. Being blessed with a great sense of humor and sharing my humor with those around me. Being the change I wish to see in my children, my community and ultimately my world.
2). Wishing Prosperity in the lives of everyone I come in contact with. Prosperity is not just about money... as a matter of fact most people I know who have money are the most unhappy. People who chase after money become consumed with power and materialism often leaving little time to enjoy the real treasures of life. I guess that is why God said... where your heart is...so is your treasure... I love the word Prosperity... Prosperity is the state of flourishing, thriving, success, or good fortune really encompassing happiness and health. What a fabulous state of mind to constantly thrive in... Wishing those around you success in their lives, relationships, raising their children, employment, health and happiness. I really believe prosperity is an eternal principle. The more we seek to be engaged in good works the more prosperity can flow right back into our lives.
3). Wishing for greater Wisdom. As the world continues to change, as problems continue to plague our homes and communities. My wish is for greater wisdom. Wisdom is a deep understanding and realizing of people, things, events or situations, resulting in the ability to choose or act to consistently produce the optimum results with a minimum of time and energy. Can you imagine how different your relationships with others could be if we exercised a greater understanding, without judgment? Wisdom requires a willing heart and mind. Wisdom requires daily practice and patience. Wisdom is respect and tolerance, while accepting people, things, events or situations as they are, and trusting yourself enough to know you have developed greater insight...
Gratitude, Prosperity and Wisdom are my three wishes.
Interestingly enough while I have been blogging.. I have also started feeling better.. I have come to know that when life is moving ahead and all systems are go... I tend to get very casual in expressing my gratitude for all that I have... Today this little exercise has been good for me... creating the clarity for me to embrace all that I have and fill my congested head with joy and bliss.
I always end with Live with Intensity and Purpose... I was asked why...
Our lives are measured by seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, months and years, the older I have become... the faster time passes... Even on the bad days... we have a choice in how we spend our precious time. For many years I was angry and bitter.. When I finally came to a place where I could understand that... 8 years had passed.. 8 years that I could never get back. 8 years that I chose to stay stuck... to me that wasn't living with purpose ... just regret.... When I realized I was the only one that could change what I had created... I felt much like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz... I was wearing my ruby red slippers waiting for everyone else to get me home... Much to my surprise... with hard work, complete honesty, forgiveness and a willingness to try another way... I did find my way back... to a much better life..
I have found living with the intensity of love and the understanding of my personal purpose.. I am alive, vibrant and focused.. and my days are filled with magical experiences and moments.
To you my sweet sister where every you may be today... My wishes for you are may your hearts always been filled with Gratitude, may your lives be blessed with great Prosperity and may your hearts be filled with Wisdom to create your heaven on earth.
My wish for you all... To Live with Intensity and Purpose!
Carla
Saturday, September 11, 2010
9 years later........................
I had just returned from a week of training in New York... The date was September 8,2001. I love the city...from Time Square to Battery Park... Grabbing a cab and heading to the Village..shopping, eating, dancing... oh and working. New York is an amazing city that never sleeps. I was staying at the Marriott Financial right in the heart of the financial district... every morning I would walk through the World Trade Center on my way to 26th and Broadway.. just two blocks from Wall Street.
The last night of my stay I was going to meet a friend for dinner at Windows on the World... the restaurant on the top of the World Trade Center... known for it's incredible menu and breath taking view of the city. Around 6:30 that night we decided to stay in, a nasty thunderstorm had detoured us.. I thought next time I'm back I'm going to make that a priority... I knew I was coming back in November... I had spent many a birthday's in New York... meeting up with my dad, seeing old friends, taking in Rockefeller Center, Radio City, shopping and of course watching the ice skaters and taking in the National Christmas tree... all that would have to wait... I had to get home and back to my kids in Arizona....
I've been asked a lot... do you remember where you were on 9/11? the answer is always yes.... I sure do. I was getting ready for work watching TV when the first plane hit... I remember calling my sister and asking her if she was watching the same thing I was.... it was just minutes later the second plane hit... I remember siting down in shock.. one plane could surely be an accident... but two... it never occurred to me that someone would deliberately fly a plane into the World Trade Center.. What was happening? The huge fire balls, the thick black cloud of smoke covering miles, watching the complete chaos of those scrambling to help and those desperate to escape the burning inferno. I quickly called my office... the Phoenix office would be opening as usual... however the markets would remain closed for days. I remember driving to work that morning... my route was right along the glide path for Sky Harbor which is an insanely busy route at all hours of the day... every 90 seconds a plane is taking off and landing... it's not uncommon to see 3 sometimes 4 planes stacked as they wait their turn on final approach... 9/11 Tuesday morning was different... eerily there were no planes taking off or landing.. it was if the whole world had come to a stand still...
My thoughts turned to those people working in the towers, from the financial institutions to the retail shops and restaurants below. Windows on the World was gone.. wiped out.. never to be again. What was happening to them.. I then thought about all of the little shops, eatery's, family businesses, coffee shops that all call the Trade Centers home.... I felt sick and scared...I remember watching President Bush at the elementary school and thinking my country is under siege.
Our office closed early as we all were trying to grasp what had just happened. Watching the steady stream of news... every station was fixed on the same shots of the trade centers... No one every imagined both would come crashing to the ground below. The human toll would be great...Then as the story unfolded with the Pentagon and Flight 93.... who could ever imagine... those dear souls... their families, their children, their parents...
Each of us carry the scars from that day... stories of bravery...sadness, inspiration and mercy filled the airwaves... Loved one's on those planes being able to call home.. in many cases being able to talk to their wives, parents, and children. Stories of chance... someone missing the train, being stuck in traffic, being carried down 60 flights of steps... No matter how you look at 9/11.. our lives profoundly changed that day.
Today there is the remnant of war, hate and mistrust... There is the debate on building the Mosque at ground zero, while a white minster in the south declared he was going to burn the Koran....
It is my hope for our world... that we as parents teach our children love and tolerance... mercy and compassion... patience and forgiveness... The burden of protecting our borders.. starts within the wall of our own homes. If we teach our children love and acceptance.. it's hard to incite war.. If we teach our children tolerance our communities become stronger... if we teach our children to respect others... we invite opportunities of understanding and lay the foundation for peace.
We as parents have the responsibility and opportunities to make all the difference in the communities in which we live. Our children are just an extension of our values...I learned a life changing lesson on 9/11... Never put off what you really want to accomplish in life today.. never put off your dreams... much like my dinner date for Window's on the World... I can never go back... that opportunity was lost.. As I have moved forward in faith.. I have learned to welcome change, seek out new opportunities while embracing the thunderstorms of life while learning to dance in the rain!
9 years later... I earnestly live by.. ~Being The Change
I Wish To See In The World~...
My wish is for continued paths of growth, opportunities to create positive change and a future generation who are more visionary....
Live with Intensity and Purpose...
Carla
The last night of my stay I was going to meet a friend for dinner at Windows on the World... the restaurant on the top of the World Trade Center... known for it's incredible menu and breath taking view of the city. Around 6:30 that night we decided to stay in, a nasty thunderstorm had detoured us.. I thought next time I'm back I'm going to make that a priority... I knew I was coming back in November... I had spent many a birthday's in New York... meeting up with my dad, seeing old friends, taking in Rockefeller Center, Radio City, shopping and of course watching the ice skaters and taking in the National Christmas tree... all that would have to wait... I had to get home and back to my kids in Arizona....
I've been asked a lot... do you remember where you were on 9/11? the answer is always yes.... I sure do. I was getting ready for work watching TV when the first plane hit... I remember calling my sister and asking her if she was watching the same thing I was.... it was just minutes later the second plane hit... I remember siting down in shock.. one plane could surely be an accident... but two... it never occurred to me that someone would deliberately fly a plane into the World Trade Center.. What was happening? The huge fire balls, the thick black cloud of smoke covering miles, watching the complete chaos of those scrambling to help and those desperate to escape the burning inferno. I quickly called my office... the Phoenix office would be opening as usual... however the markets would remain closed for days. I remember driving to work that morning... my route was right along the glide path for Sky Harbor which is an insanely busy route at all hours of the day... every 90 seconds a plane is taking off and landing... it's not uncommon to see 3 sometimes 4 planes stacked as they wait their turn on final approach... 9/11 Tuesday morning was different... eerily there were no planes taking off or landing.. it was if the whole world had come to a stand still...
My thoughts turned to those people working in the towers, from the financial institutions to the retail shops and restaurants below. Windows on the World was gone.. wiped out.. never to be again. What was happening to them.. I then thought about all of the little shops, eatery's, family businesses, coffee shops that all call the Trade Centers home.... I felt sick and scared...I remember watching President Bush at the elementary school and thinking my country is under siege.
Our office closed early as we all were trying to grasp what had just happened. Watching the steady stream of news... every station was fixed on the same shots of the trade centers... No one every imagined both would come crashing to the ground below. The human toll would be great...Then as the story unfolded with the Pentagon and Flight 93.... who could ever imagine... those dear souls... their families, their children, their parents...
Each of us carry the scars from that day... stories of bravery...sadness, inspiration and mercy filled the airwaves... Loved one's on those planes being able to call home.. in many cases being able to talk to their wives, parents, and children. Stories of chance... someone missing the train, being stuck in traffic, being carried down 60 flights of steps... No matter how you look at 9/11.. our lives profoundly changed that day.
Today there is the remnant of war, hate and mistrust... There is the debate on building the Mosque at ground zero, while a white minster in the south declared he was going to burn the Koran....
It is my hope for our world... that we as parents teach our children love and tolerance... mercy and compassion... patience and forgiveness... The burden of protecting our borders.. starts within the wall of our own homes. If we teach our children love and acceptance.. it's hard to incite war.. If we teach our children tolerance our communities become stronger... if we teach our children to respect others... we invite opportunities of understanding and lay the foundation for peace.
We as parents have the responsibility and opportunities to make all the difference in the communities in which we live. Our children are just an extension of our values...I learned a life changing lesson on 9/11... Never put off what you really want to accomplish in life today.. never put off your dreams... much like my dinner date for Window's on the World... I can never go back... that opportunity was lost.. As I have moved forward in faith.. I have learned to welcome change, seek out new opportunities while embracing the thunderstorms of life while learning to dance in the rain!
9 years later... I earnestly live by.. ~Being The Change
I Wish To See In The World~...
My wish is for continued paths of growth, opportunities to create positive change and a future generation who are more visionary....
Live with Intensity and Purpose...
Carla
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