This spring, a dream I had for 10 years became a reality. With years of research, years of saying, "One day...", and years of using the product daily, I opened my own Polish Pottery Business! Polish Pottery is not 'polishing' pottery. It is Pottery imported from Poland. It is hand painted, hand stamped stoneware made with a very unique clay found in a small area in Poland. Many military women discover Polish Pottery when stationed in Europe. These women are, in large part, why this pottery is so popular among women in the USA.
'More Polish Pottery' opened in June 2011. The name was inspired by our movers from Germany. When we were packing to move back to the United States, the movers kept commenting on the boxes of pottery they were packing. It wasn't just in my kitchen, but dining room, living room, basement storage, etc.
For so many years, I wanted to share my love of this pottery. During many events at my house, people would comment on the beauty of it! I realized one day this spring, that our new home would be a perfect location for a display room of pottery. I know that my goal was to eventually get the pottery into gift shops throughout Chicagoland as a regional wholesaler while having a retail shop on site. Its very difficult to import and also very difficult for consumers to find this pottery. I wanted to make it more accessible to find! People LOVE Polish Pottery one they try it. With all the guidance, research, and connections I have made since moving back to USA from Europe in 2001, it paid off!
An aspect of dreaming is that it sometimes isn't always the plan you 'think' it may be. Little did I know during this process, that my job that I held for 8 years would be no longer. Homemade Gourmet closed June 30th. I had such mixed emotions. Do I still move forward with my pottery shop? Or, do I hold back and wait and see what happens. It could be a gamble opening a new business in this economy. I realized, that I would be selling myself short of my true potential if I didn't continue moving forward. I have dreamt for this for such a long time!
Yet, when one door closes, another door opens. When Homemade Gourmet closed, they worked out an agreement with Tastefully Simple to offer us the opportunity to join at a special rate as a former HG consultant. I decided to continue in the food industry as a Tastefully Simple Consultant July 1st. In our first month of signing up as a new consultant, I was blessed to have 41 team members who wanted to continue that relationship and learn alongside me! This has been such a whirlwind last month but yet so rewarding! And, after our initial tears of sadness or fears subsided, we have been having so much fun! I have always loved sharing great meals with families and I can continue doing that at Tastefully Simple.
Change is inevitable.
Dreaming is optional.
Yet BELIEVING is the key that dreams can come true. Change can get us to that destination. We may not always see it along the way, but when we look in the rear view mirror, we can see exactly that the experiences and relationships we have built, are the reason of where we are today.
So today, I am the proud owner of 'More Polish Pottery' and Tastefully Simple Team Manager.
Check me out on the web! Become a Facebook friend! I am so humbled when someone gives me feedback or encouragement. It's never easy starting something new.....yet BELIEF that 'the best is yet to come' will be the thing that I am going to wish for my family dreams.
http://www.morepolishpottery.com/
www.tastefullysimple.com/web/bgengler
facebook: More Polish Pottery
Where the Dreams Begin...
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Just Bubbles
This morning, I expected a blustery and cold day when I took Alex down our driveway to wait for the bus. It has been cloudy and rainy in recent weeks and I expected it not to be pleasant. However, I was surprised to walk outside to a warm wind with a hint of humidly attached. I actually thought for a moment, "I should go get his spring jacket. His winter jacket will be too warm."
This was a pleasant surprise as we have been cooped indoors in recent weeks. The kids have been stir crazy. So, when Ellie asked late this morning, "Mommy. Can we go outside and play bubbles?" I thought that this was a PERFECT day to venture outside!
Bubbles, bubbles, everywhere! The wind just took the bubbles off to wherever they desired. The girls were in heaven! Johanna decided to take dandelions and put them in her bubble mixture while Ellie disliked this idea completely. "Johanna, they will turn the bubble water BLACK!" Ellie harped at her twin sister. They spent an hour making up magical stories about bubbles, castles, etc.
Nonetheless, 'just bubbles' inspired me to get dressed and moving myself. Those last seeds that I had been meaning to plant in the greenhouse finally got seeded for a late harvest crop. The girls were already amazed at what green plants were already coming up from a previous planting. They knew exactly how to put the dirt in the pots, add the seeds, and of course fought over who would water the plants. I am really proud of how smart my 4 year old children are.
Katarina also got to play in water puddles when she woke from her nap. We also were able to dodge a few sprinkles and black clouds while we rode our little bikes and played with chalk in the greenhouses.
For a while, I felt like Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz. Swirling black clouds, wind that made it difficult to walk - I could imagine myself in Kansas! The wind living out in the country is SO different then living in town. It gives me an entire different view on watching the weather.
Just Bubbles turned into a magical play day. .
Sometimes, to just live in the moment of our children, we can appreciate life an entirely new way.
Had I not had children, I may not have even ventured out of the house today and missed the beauty that today brought! We had a lot of fun exploring and make believe.
It is nice to know that my children enjoy my company as well. We have so much fun just doing simple stuff - and the inspiration didn't cost much. Just Soap and Water.
This was a pleasant surprise as we have been cooped indoors in recent weeks. The kids have been stir crazy. So, when Ellie asked late this morning, "Mommy. Can we go outside and play bubbles?" I thought that this was a PERFECT day to venture outside!
Bubbles, bubbles, everywhere! The wind just took the bubbles off to wherever they desired. The girls were in heaven! Johanna decided to take dandelions and put them in her bubble mixture while Ellie disliked this idea completely. "Johanna, they will turn the bubble water BLACK!" Ellie harped at her twin sister. They spent an hour making up magical stories about bubbles, castles, etc.
Nonetheless, 'just bubbles' inspired me to get dressed and moving myself. Those last seeds that I had been meaning to plant in the greenhouse finally got seeded for a late harvest crop. The girls were already amazed at what green plants were already coming up from a previous planting. They knew exactly how to put the dirt in the pots, add the seeds, and of course fought over who would water the plants. I am really proud of how smart my 4 year old children are.
Katarina also got to play in water puddles when she woke from her nap. We also were able to dodge a few sprinkles and black clouds while we rode our little bikes and played with chalk in the greenhouses.
For a while, I felt like Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz. Swirling black clouds, wind that made it difficult to walk - I could imagine myself in Kansas! The wind living out in the country is SO different then living in town. It gives me an entire different view on watching the weather.
Just Bubbles turned into a magical play day. .
Sometimes, to just live in the moment of our children, we can appreciate life an entirely new way.
Had I not had children, I may not have even ventured out of the house today and missed the beauty that today brought! We had a lot of fun exploring and make believe.
It is nice to know that my children enjoy my company as well. We have so much fun just doing simple stuff - and the inspiration didn't cost much. Just Soap and Water.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Getting Back on the Horse
I wonder how many times a toddler falls down while learning to walk. How many bumps and bruises they sometimes have - and yet they continue trying. Parents pick them up and say, "Its OK. Let's try it again."
As an adult, do we have a mentor that believes in us and helps us overcome obstacles?
Do we have someone who is willing to give us tough love and yet believe that we can do it?
Sometimes, as adults we forget that sometimes it is the process that gets us where we will be - not the end result. With a mentor, it makes it easy to stay on track!
As parents, we have encouraged our children to clap, roll over, crawl, walk, say mama (or Dada), and many other countless activities. We are continuously encouraging them to reach new levels and expand their skills.
As adults, what do we do to expand our knowledge or skills? What do we do to enhance our quality of life? Or, are we just 'settling'? Too tired? Or perhaps realize that the process may be longer then we are willing to wait? Walking didn't happen overnight for my children. Yet, why should I expect differently of learning something new as an adult?
I purchased a rocking horse for Katarina a few weeks ago. Two weeks ago, she was afraid of it, not wanting to even touch it. After seeing her older siblings try it out and perhaps enjoy it too much (after all it is a toddler toy), she slowly started checking it out. A few days later, she would sit on it but didn't want to rock. Days later, she would walk around it and sit backwards.
Today, she was a wild little cowgirl....rocking back and forth with a big grin on her face!
Now, this skill took time to overcome fear, willingness to fall down, and also perseverance in learning to sit and rock. However, she did it!
Sometimes as adults, we lose sight of our goals. It may be easy to say, "There is always tomorrow."
However, instead of tomorrow - why not '2 more Oh's!' Why not surprise ourselves in expanding our skills and dreams and instead of thinking 'no' we are now thinking 'Oh! This is so exciting! I am on my way to something bigger then I can imagine today." Or, sometimes it could be, "Oh....not so cool. I guess I won't do that again" and try a new technique.
Katarina reminded me today that sometimes we just have to get back on the horse and try try again.
And, perhaps while watching her grin while masterfully rocking on the horse, I could tell in the sparkle in our eyes that she was proud of what she had accomplished. Yet, it was because of encouragement of others that helped her get there.
As an adult in a new season of my life, I am so thankful for all the amazing people that have inspired myself and others to greatness through the years. I am lucky that I have amazing mentors in my life that continue to stretch me and help me grow as a business woman and as a mom. I am ready to take on a new challenge of inspiring and encouraging others. I hope that these lessons learned will be captured in helping others grow and dream big!
Getting back on the horse is not always easy but having the right people around does make it easier and more fun...And, it's nice to be on both sides of being encouraged while also being encouraging. Thank you to all my mentors both past and present who have helped me learn to take the ropes and ride off into the sunset.
As an adult, do we have a mentor that believes in us and helps us overcome obstacles?
Do we have someone who is willing to give us tough love and yet believe that we can do it?
Sometimes, as adults we forget that sometimes it is the process that gets us where we will be - not the end result. With a mentor, it makes it easy to stay on track!
As parents, we have encouraged our children to clap, roll over, crawl, walk, say mama (or Dada), and many other countless activities. We are continuously encouraging them to reach new levels and expand their skills.
As adults, what do we do to expand our knowledge or skills? What do we do to enhance our quality of life? Or, are we just 'settling'? Too tired? Or perhaps realize that the process may be longer then we are willing to wait? Walking didn't happen overnight for my children. Yet, why should I expect differently of learning something new as an adult?
I purchased a rocking horse for Katarina a few weeks ago. Two weeks ago, she was afraid of it, not wanting to even touch it. After seeing her older siblings try it out and perhaps enjoy it too much (after all it is a toddler toy), she slowly started checking it out. A few days later, she would sit on it but didn't want to rock. Days later, she would walk around it and sit backwards.
Today, she was a wild little cowgirl....rocking back and forth with a big grin on her face!
Now, this skill took time to overcome fear, willingness to fall down, and also perseverance in learning to sit and rock. However, she did it!
Sometimes as adults, we lose sight of our goals. It may be easy to say, "There is always tomorrow."
However, instead of tomorrow - why not '2 more Oh's!' Why not surprise ourselves in expanding our skills and dreams and instead of thinking 'no' we are now thinking 'Oh! This is so exciting! I am on my way to something bigger then I can imagine today." Or, sometimes it could be, "Oh....not so cool. I guess I won't do that again" and try a new technique.
Katarina reminded me today that sometimes we just have to get back on the horse and try try again.
And, perhaps while watching her grin while masterfully rocking on the horse, I could tell in the sparkle in our eyes that she was proud of what she had accomplished. Yet, it was because of encouragement of others that helped her get there.
As an adult in a new season of my life, I am so thankful for all the amazing people that have inspired myself and others to greatness through the years. I am lucky that I have amazing mentors in my life that continue to stretch me and help me grow as a business woman and as a mom. I am ready to take on a new challenge of inspiring and encouraging others. I hope that these lessons learned will be captured in helping others grow and dream big!
Getting back on the horse is not always easy but having the right people around does make it easier and more fun...And, it's nice to be on both sides of being encouraged while also being encouraging. Thank you to all my mentors both past and present who have helped me learn to take the ropes and ride off into the sunset.
Monday, April 11, 2011
The Art of Discovery
Spring is finally here! With that comes time for the kids to start exploring. We have lots of yard work between burning overgrown grasses, cleaning out greenhouses, mowing, pulling weeds, and preparing for a new garden. However, we are having fun DISCOVERING all these new things!
The kids have turned 'work' into fun opportunities. They carry piles of grass for us and happily are wiling to work. We hope this strong work ethic continues into the teenager years. We turn a simple task into something fun! Why not make a thatch roof or a tee pee out of gigantic 15 foot reed-like grasses? Isn't that what EVERYONE does each spring?
There have been many discoveries along the way. A hidden 'path' that was overgrown by tall grasses. A beautiful hosta popping its head out of the ground. A kid size shovel that was left behind. Two utility knives hidden in the grasses (probably to cut twine, etc). A place we can hang a flagpole. A waterfall that we can plug in! Golf balls in the yard...and many many other things.
When we decide to turn 'work' into discovery, it becomes more fun. Instead of pressuring ourselves to think of doing a task to accomplish XYZ, we are now allowing ourselves to include creativity into finding a means to an end result. And, many times include JOY into the activity.
I cannot express enough how happy we have been since moving out to our new home. I was singing the Sound of Music at the top of my lungs one day while running through the prairies (yes! I must have looked like a lunatic). However, the feeling of complete freedom and ability to dream freely is AMAZING! Each day - I wake up to my own 'Swiss Alps' out my bedroom window. Its an amazing view.
Each day has new possibilities.
Each day we have the choice to make it what we desire.
Each day we can choose what we will uncover that day, who we will include, and who we want to become.
The art of discovery is an exciting way to live.
What will we discover today just by allowing ourselves to explore that possibility?
The kids have turned 'work' into fun opportunities. They carry piles of grass for us and happily are wiling to work. We hope this strong work ethic continues into the teenager years. We turn a simple task into something fun! Why not make a thatch roof or a tee pee out of gigantic 15 foot reed-like grasses? Isn't that what EVERYONE does each spring?
There have been many discoveries along the way. A hidden 'path' that was overgrown by tall grasses. A beautiful hosta popping its head out of the ground. A kid size shovel that was left behind. Two utility knives hidden in the grasses (probably to cut twine, etc). A place we can hang a flagpole. A waterfall that we can plug in! Golf balls in the yard...and many many other things.
When we decide to turn 'work' into discovery, it becomes more fun. Instead of pressuring ourselves to think of doing a task to accomplish XYZ, we are now allowing ourselves to include creativity into finding a means to an end result. And, many times include JOY into the activity.
I cannot express enough how happy we have been since moving out to our new home. I was singing the Sound of Music at the top of my lungs one day while running through the prairies (yes! I must have looked like a lunatic). However, the feeling of complete freedom and ability to dream freely is AMAZING! Each day - I wake up to my own 'Swiss Alps' out my bedroom window. Its an amazing view.
Each day has new possibilities.
Each day we have the choice to make it what we desire.
Each day we can choose what we will uncover that day, who we will include, and who we want to become.
The art of discovery is an exciting way to live.
What will we discover today just by allowing ourselves to explore that possibility?
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Planting the Seeds to Success
Today, I was able to explore a little bit of our newly acquired land. Due to the coldness of weather and moving, I haven't had a chance to really walk outside. This was my first outing by myself.
With our property came some greenhouses and a second garage. I decided to take a quick exploration. I knew that there were potting buckets and items in the garage but really never took into account what there was. With springtime weather coming forward, I wanted to start creating a plan of what I would be doing with these items this year. Use them, sell them, or recyle them (among a million other gardening things).
What I thought was a pile of 500 or so buckets....amounted to well over 10,000. Now, I truly do not know how many there are but when there is a package that says 6000 buckets (and it looks pretty full) and many other opened cases that say 350 enclosed - I KNOW that there are more pots then I could ever imagine filling.
There is also potting station in the garage with some bags of dirt. Some of the dirt was already in buckets waiting for the plants. Other bags of dirt unopened.
In one of the greenhouses were dead hostas/grasses that were put in buckets with descriptions attached to them. These must not had sold prior to them closing. Although these items will not come back alive - the descriptions give me a dream and a hope of what to look for this springtime in the vast areas of my yard.
I thought about how dreams sometimes are created and some of the work has been cultivated. However, with dreams, they can also be shattered when something happens that was not planned.
Lessons of the Day:
I know that gardening has never been a passion of mine. However, those empty buckets symbolized more then a need to garden (as I am still not sure that is my ultimate calling)....it gave me thoughts to fill those buckets. Fill those buckets with dreams - one seed at a time.
I need to have a bucket list in life. Because that bucket list will create the path that I will ultimately follow. Without that long-term strategic plan, how would I know which direction to follow?
The seeds that I need to fill those buckets are action steps. Action steps that ultimately allign that strategic plan. Seeds grow into plants. They in turn multiply and subdivide into additional plants that can be offsprings to new homes and families.
The bucket list would ultimately be a cultivation of hard work, surrounding myself with positive and enriching people, and creating memories with my family that would spread into a lifetime of dreams achieved.
I have felt so at peace since moving to our new home. Dreams are created and dreams are being visualized one seed at a time.
With our property came some greenhouses and a second garage. I decided to take a quick exploration. I knew that there were potting buckets and items in the garage but really never took into account what there was. With springtime weather coming forward, I wanted to start creating a plan of what I would be doing with these items this year. Use them, sell them, or recyle them (among a million other gardening things).
What I thought was a pile of 500 or so buckets....amounted to well over 10,000. Now, I truly do not know how many there are but when there is a package that says 6000 buckets (and it looks pretty full) and many other opened cases that say 350 enclosed - I KNOW that there are more pots then I could ever imagine filling.
There is also potting station in the garage with some bags of dirt. Some of the dirt was already in buckets waiting for the plants. Other bags of dirt unopened.
In one of the greenhouses were dead hostas/grasses that were put in buckets with descriptions attached to them. These must not had sold prior to them closing. Although these items will not come back alive - the descriptions give me a dream and a hope of what to look for this springtime in the vast areas of my yard.
I thought about how dreams sometimes are created and some of the work has been cultivated. However, with dreams, they can also be shattered when something happens that was not planned.
Lessons of the Day:
I know that gardening has never been a passion of mine. However, those empty buckets symbolized more then a need to garden (as I am still not sure that is my ultimate calling)....it gave me thoughts to fill those buckets. Fill those buckets with dreams - one seed at a time.
I need to have a bucket list in life. Because that bucket list will create the path that I will ultimately follow. Without that long-term strategic plan, how would I know which direction to follow?
The seeds that I need to fill those buckets are action steps. Action steps that ultimately allign that strategic plan. Seeds grow into plants. They in turn multiply and subdivide into additional plants that can be offsprings to new homes and families.
The bucket list would ultimately be a cultivation of hard work, surrounding myself with positive and enriching people, and creating memories with my family that would spread into a lifetime of dreams achieved.
I have felt so at peace since moving to our new home. Dreams are created and dreams are being visualized one seed at a time.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
A 35 year old memento never forgotten
My entire life, up until my wedding day, I had a poem on my wall in my bedroom growing up. Even as a teenager, I kept the pink ribbon, hand-made, typewriter written poem on my wall. I had it in a spare bedroom before we had kids....and then it sat. However, I never forgot it.
As I was unpacking in the new home, I was able to reopen my treasures that had sat in the attic. Now, my kids are enjoying many of them. My son has some of my childhood books now that he is reading. My girls have my pound puppies (even one that lost a nose in a dogfight). I even gave the girls my dollhouse.
However, the poem will ALWAYS be mine. I remember the day that I got married, I looked at the poem and read it. And, today, it still holds meaning, especially as I now have a blog inspired by a home that we now live in.
Here is the Poem:
For Rebecca
Do not hurry through these early years,
Brushing thoughtlessly past the months.
But rather,
Wonder lightly, stopping often
To touch a moment
Or be kissed by a day.
Savor the sleepy sunshine mornings,
And from the warmth of your crib-cocoon
Steal a piece of the peaceful
To treasure in your heart - a penchat for tomorrow.
Laugh freely through your butterfly years
And draw close to your soul
The simple beauty of your world.
Pause to ask your innocent questions,
And impatiently demand the answers.
Blossom slowly in these trust-filled days
For soon enough you will be a woman.
With love from your godparents 2/15/76
As I was unpacking in the new home, I was able to reopen my treasures that had sat in the attic. Now, my kids are enjoying many of them. My son has some of my childhood books now that he is reading. My girls have my pound puppies (even one that lost a nose in a dogfight). I even gave the girls my dollhouse.
However, the poem will ALWAYS be mine. I remember the day that I got married, I looked at the poem and read it. And, today, it still holds meaning, especially as I now have a blog inspired by a home that we now live in.
Here is the Poem:
For Rebecca
Do not hurry through these early years,
Brushing thoughtlessly past the months.
But rather,
Wonder lightly, stopping often
To touch a moment
Or be kissed by a day.
Savor the sleepy sunshine mornings,
And from the warmth of your crib-cocoon
Steal a piece of the peaceful
To treasure in your heart - a penchat for tomorrow.
Laugh freely through your butterfly years
And draw close to your soul
The simple beauty of your world.
Pause to ask your innocent questions,
And impatiently demand the answers.
Blossom slowly in these trust-filled days
For soon enough you will be a woman.
With love from your godparents 2/15/76
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Pushing the Butterfly
Did you know that if someone or something tries to push the butterfly to come out of the cocoon before it is ready to come out, it will die?
The butterfly has to decide, on its own, when to emerge from the cocoon when the time is right.
I love this thought....Surely, there has been many moments in my life that I can apply this thought.
What is something that someone else has wanted for me more then myself? However, despite them saying that we can do it (or that they believe in us), it doesn't happen? Is that because I didn't actually believe myself or take the first intentional step to making it happen? Maybe the dream didn't happen as I didn't invest myself in that dream? Maybe, I didn't tell others. Perhaps, I didn't write it down.
Despite all the cheerleaders in the world, it depends on ME to make the first step to making it happen.
I am sure the cocoon can be lonely, cold and dark. However, the beautiful world awaits me when I am ready. It can even be scary.
However, like Martin Luther King Jr. once said, "Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the entire staircase."
I may not always know exactly where I am going....but knowing that as long as I dream, I WILL eventually fly when I am meant to fly.
The butterfly has to decide, on its own, when to emerge from the cocoon when the time is right.
I love this thought....Surely, there has been many moments in my life that I can apply this thought.
What is something that someone else has wanted for me more then myself? However, despite them saying that we can do it (or that they believe in us), it doesn't happen? Is that because I didn't actually believe myself or take the first intentional step to making it happen? Maybe the dream didn't happen as I didn't invest myself in that dream? Maybe, I didn't tell others. Perhaps, I didn't write it down.
Despite all the cheerleaders in the world, it depends on ME to make the first step to making it happen.
I am sure the cocoon can be lonely, cold and dark. However, the beautiful world awaits me when I am ready. It can even be scary.
However, like Martin Luther King Jr. once said, "Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the entire staircase."
I may not always know exactly where I am going....but knowing that as long as I dream, I WILL eventually fly when I am meant to fly.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
The Power of Dreams
It's easy to get depressed if I get caught up in unemployment, friends losing homes, or unexpected expenses that come up.. More recently, there has been hype in the media that gas prices will rise to $5 a gallon this summer. Thinking about these dismal things makes me want to hide in my house, save money, don't buy anything, or don't go anywhere. Basically, if I get wrapped up in the moment, it makes me feel I should not do ANYTHING!
It's easy to get stressed about the 'what if's'. There are so many things we don't have control over and yet it is easy to be bombarded by all the problems and issues in the world. Yet the constant reminders around us can stall us into a better future. We just get caught up in the moment.
It's those that keep dreaming, even when the times are tough, that will see them get across the finish line. Think of a marathon. It's 26 miles of endurance. However, those that have run marathons have told me many of times, "It's all mental." They have a 'belief' that they will finish. I have living proof of my father who barely trained for a marathon and then went on to finish it. He had a dream that it could be done. How - by only running a few miles he ran 26 miles without training. Crazy! It's amazing how the mind works!
A wonderful mentor recently reminded me of my 'little girl dreams'. Little girl dreams are thoughts that we may have dreamt as a little child without any worry in the world. The sky is the limited! Anything is possible! As children we were princesses or dragon slayers. We didn't worry about things!
I hear all the time how parents find such joy in their children. Perhaps that is because the children remind us to dream! We love watching our children and seeing how they view the world and how it is anything we imagine it can be.
DREAMS are the catalyst for change or opportunity. DREAMS are the avenue for the future. DREAMS create vision - that then become goals - and that finish with objective ways to make it a reality.
What do I see into the future? Do I visualize it? Do I see it? Did I write it down on paper? Do I have pictures? Do I tell others? Do I recite it everyday?
My children tell me many stories like:
"One day, I am going to volunteer at the library and also make pizzas.".
Or, "Mommy, I am going to ride a black horse."
Or, "I am going to marry a princess and live in a castle. My brother can live next door to me."
Do I dare tell my children that their dreams are not possible? Absolutely not. I show my daughter the prince who has found her princess and is marrying her this spring. I can also share with my daughter ways that she can start saving money for that horse and perhaps give her a black horse in the meantime to play with.
I can show my son how he can make a difference in others lives by volunteering and working. Furthermore, I can allow him to help in the kitchen and volunteer around the home now (or read books to his sisters).
So, now that I know how powerful creating a dream is: What shall I dream of next?
It's easy to get stressed about the 'what if's'. There are so many things we don't have control over and yet it is easy to be bombarded by all the problems and issues in the world. Yet the constant reminders around us can stall us into a better future. We just get caught up in the moment.
It's those that keep dreaming, even when the times are tough, that will see them get across the finish line. Think of a marathon. It's 26 miles of endurance. However, those that have run marathons have told me many of times, "It's all mental." They have a 'belief' that they will finish. I have living proof of my father who barely trained for a marathon and then went on to finish it. He had a dream that it could be done. How - by only running a few miles he ran 26 miles without training. Crazy! It's amazing how the mind works!
A wonderful mentor recently reminded me of my 'little girl dreams'. Little girl dreams are thoughts that we may have dreamt as a little child without any worry in the world. The sky is the limited! Anything is possible! As children we were princesses or dragon slayers. We didn't worry about things!
I hear all the time how parents find such joy in their children. Perhaps that is because the children remind us to dream! We love watching our children and seeing how they view the world and how it is anything we imagine it can be.
DREAMS are the catalyst for change or opportunity. DREAMS are the avenue for the future. DREAMS create vision - that then become goals - and that finish with objective ways to make it a reality.
What do I see into the future? Do I visualize it? Do I see it? Did I write it down on paper? Do I have pictures? Do I tell others? Do I recite it everyday?
My children tell me many stories like:
"One day, I am going to volunteer at the library and also make pizzas.".
Or, "Mommy, I am going to ride a black horse."
Or, "I am going to marry a princess and live in a castle. My brother can live next door to me."
Do I dare tell my children that their dreams are not possible? Absolutely not. I show my daughter the prince who has found her princess and is marrying her this spring. I can also share with my daughter ways that she can start saving money for that horse and perhaps give her a black horse in the meantime to play with.
I can show my son how he can make a difference in others lives by volunteering and working. Furthermore, I can allow him to help in the kitchen and volunteer around the home now (or read books to his sisters).
So, now that I know how powerful creating a dream is: What shall I dream of next?
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Overcoming Fear
Driving in January is something that I dread. In fact, I sometimes have so much fear that I just stay home. I avoid as much as possible to go outside. My track record these past few years has not been so good. Last year when I was pregnant, I did not work parties that meant driving on those roads. That is the honest truth!
In January 2004, I hit two deer in the month of January on my way home from work. It totaled the car and yet I was fine. I had a difficult time driving in Sugar Grove on the I-88 entrance for quite some time afterwards and was always on the look out for deer.
In January 2007, I off-roaded in the Subaru Outback around the 'S' curve on a road in Big Rock. Never before had my all-wheel drive vehicle decide that curves would bring on a new meaning when it was icy. I landed in the ditch - yet the car was drivable and I made my final 2 miles home. I was 7 months pregnant at the time with the twins.
In January 2008, I was on my way to Plano on Eldemain road to an event when it was 20 below degree windchill. That particular night, the snow was drifting. I had a hard time seeing. I didn't realize that near the Railroad crossing that there was a cement middle in the intersection in the road. Trying to avoid driving over it - I swerved and landed on the Railroad tracks. I pulled out of the tracks. I took a deep breath, got out of my car for a quick assessment and got to my destination. The entire night, I was so worried about having to drive home again that night...but I made it!
Last year - I avoided driving at all on either of those two roads as I was pregnant due with Katarina any day.
So needless to say - ANYTIME I have to drive on Jericho Road or Eldemain Road in the winter, I get a mini panic attic. I pack my car for the 'what-if' and I try to add extra time.
Tonight, after sleet and a little bit of rain, I knew I had to go on BOTH of those roads to my destination. Was I nervous? Yes. Was I wishing I could just crawl in bed. Absolutely.
However, I kept reminding myself what FEAR is.
"False Evidence Appearing Real"
I know I cannot avoid these roads forever. In fact, these roads are a staple to where I live. small town America where it goes miles before stop signs or stoplights. Darrin will tell you that I will call him at work obsessing about weather conditions and driving on two particular areas near where I live.
So, how am I going to overcome this 'fear' of driving in January. I cannot reach my dreams or goals by sitting at home.
How can I turn 'Fear' into a POSITIVE future?
Fear precedes Growth.
If I confront my fear - will I develop skills or learn something new that I would not learn otherwise?
If I focus on what I want versus what I am afraid of - what will I gain? Instead of worrying about the 'what if I end up on the side of the ditch again'. I should say, 'What will I gain from going to that event?'
I also reminded myself that people change when the fear of staying the same is greater then the fear of change. I want more in life! I can't do that by staying at home.
It's mid January and I am am constantly having to say positive thoughts in my head about winter driving. FEAR can paralyze a person from moving forward and reaching new destinations.
I want to be the Driver who gets to control my destination. My new affirmation to myself when driving on those roads will be, "What is something NEW that I will gain today that I would have missed otherwise?"
Tonight, I was gently reminded of a beautiful home that sits right in the middle of the 'S' curve that is on the housing market. Hmmmmm...now, wouldn't that make a nice home for somebody. I am sure that they cannot be fearful living out there?
In January 2004, I hit two deer in the month of January on my way home from work. It totaled the car and yet I was fine. I had a difficult time driving in Sugar Grove on the I-88 entrance for quite some time afterwards and was always on the look out for deer.
In January 2007, I off-roaded in the Subaru Outback around the 'S' curve on a road in Big Rock. Never before had my all-wheel drive vehicle decide that curves would bring on a new meaning when it was icy. I landed in the ditch - yet the car was drivable and I made my final 2 miles home. I was 7 months pregnant at the time with the twins.
In January 2008, I was on my way to Plano on Eldemain road to an event when it was 20 below degree windchill. That particular night, the snow was drifting. I had a hard time seeing. I didn't realize that near the Railroad crossing that there was a cement middle in the intersection in the road. Trying to avoid driving over it - I swerved and landed on the Railroad tracks. I pulled out of the tracks. I took a deep breath, got out of my car for a quick assessment and got to my destination. The entire night, I was so worried about having to drive home again that night...but I made it!
Last year - I avoided driving at all on either of those two roads as I was pregnant due with Katarina any day.
So needless to say - ANYTIME I have to drive on Jericho Road or Eldemain Road in the winter, I get a mini panic attic. I pack my car for the 'what-if' and I try to add extra time.
Tonight, after sleet and a little bit of rain, I knew I had to go on BOTH of those roads to my destination. Was I nervous? Yes. Was I wishing I could just crawl in bed. Absolutely.
However, I kept reminding myself what FEAR is.
"False Evidence Appearing Real"
I know I cannot avoid these roads forever. In fact, these roads are a staple to where I live. small town America where it goes miles before stop signs or stoplights. Darrin will tell you that I will call him at work obsessing about weather conditions and driving on two particular areas near where I live.
So, how am I going to overcome this 'fear' of driving in January. I cannot reach my dreams or goals by sitting at home.
How can I turn 'Fear' into a POSITIVE future?
Fear precedes Growth.
If I confront my fear - will I develop skills or learn something new that I would not learn otherwise?
If I focus on what I want versus what I am afraid of - what will I gain? Instead of worrying about the 'what if I end up on the side of the ditch again'. I should say, 'What will I gain from going to that event?'
I also reminded myself that people change when the fear of staying the same is greater then the fear of change. I want more in life! I can't do that by staying at home.
It's mid January and I am am constantly having to say positive thoughts in my head about winter driving. FEAR can paralyze a person from moving forward and reaching new destinations.
I want to be the Driver who gets to control my destination. My new affirmation to myself when driving on those roads will be, "What is something NEW that I will gain today that I would have missed otherwise?"
Tonight, I was gently reminded of a beautiful home that sits right in the middle of the 'S' curve that is on the housing market. Hmmmmm...now, wouldn't that make a nice home for somebody. I am sure that they cannot be fearful living out there?
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Where are the Caterpillars?
We have been searching for a home for 4 years for our growing family. Last fall, we had the opportunity to come across a home that met all our criteria - and then some. When we wandered into the yard, Ellie said, "MOM! Look at the caterpillar." She squealed with delight as she would wiggle between her fingers. Minutes later, I hear, "MOM! Johanna squished the caterpillar!"
Isn't life like that sometimes? Life can be all warm and fuzzy. Everything may just be moving along just fine. Then, a situation can change our mood or our abilities to move forward? It can be squashed, icky, or destroyed by negative thinking or allowing others decide our own fate. Ellie was devastated that Johanna killed 'her friend'.
Johanna squashed not just one caterpillar but three that day. I wasn't sure if she understood how beautiful a creature a caterpillar really is. I think she acted in fear. After a while, she did decide it was 'ok' to touch them and play with them. After analyzing the situation and gradually getting used to them, She realized that they would not harm her.
That day in late October, is such a memory I will never forget. The girls gleefully running around seeing what new adventures await them and creatures they could find. Grasshoppers and caterpillars everywhere!
Today, we went back to that home with the kids to visit. Johanna immediately asked, "Mom. Where are the caterpillars?" This is the same girl that months ago didn't care for caterpillar friends months ago.
I quickly answered that they would be back in the spring. I told them that it was too cold and that they would not be out in the snow. I first thought they would not understand. Perhaps, the girls wouldn't run around the yard because the caterpillars were not there. Perhaps, they would sob or cry? Maybe the girls would mope!
The twins didn't respond in the way that I expected. Instead, Johanna and Ellie started talking about how they would find them in the spring. However, for now they would pretended that they were looking for caterpillars. They decided to create the dream by visualizing they life that they wanted to believe!
Have we sometimes waited for others to give us direction in life? Or, perhaps we say, "Not now, I am too busy. I will do it later." Or, perhaps are we are saying, "I don't feel worthy of this dream."
Children are constant dreamers. As adults, it is easy to forgo what we desire in life because of the everyday responsibilities. However, just imagine what amazing things would await us if we just dreamed and started DOING things as if we have already done them? I call this 'faking it till you make it'. For example: I can give myself a new leadership title by writing it down on paper. I can start acting like I already have that title. I can start adding the responsibilities onto what I do as if I am already an expert at that position. I will see the paper in front of me everyday followed by the actions I do everyday that go along with that new position.
Chances are I will actually EARN that time and chances are I will exceed that title! It would become a reality.
I also can do this same technique if I want to go on a trip. I can put pictures of the location on paper in front of my desk. I can start thinking about the food, excursions, and the money I would need to buy an amazing picture. Then, by working, I would then be on the trip!
Imagine the possibilities if we acted as if we were already in the future! Our dreams can become our reality!
Today, I felt joy in my heart like I did last October. This particular place we visited is a place that we can create dreams. It brings happiness and exploration. I don't have to 'wait' for a feeling - but to just act. And, I can do it anywhere!
So, during a very cold day in January. I also asked myself, 'Where are the caterpillars?'
Or better yet....."Do I have to wait to see the caterpillars before I start playing?"
I can't wait for what is in store for my future!
Isn't life like that sometimes? Life can be all warm and fuzzy. Everything may just be moving along just fine. Then, a situation can change our mood or our abilities to move forward? It can be squashed, icky, or destroyed by negative thinking or allowing others decide our own fate. Ellie was devastated that Johanna killed 'her friend'.
Johanna squashed not just one caterpillar but three that day. I wasn't sure if she understood how beautiful a creature a caterpillar really is. I think she acted in fear. After a while, she did decide it was 'ok' to touch them and play with them. After analyzing the situation and gradually getting used to them, She realized that they would not harm her.
That day in late October, is such a memory I will never forget. The girls gleefully running around seeing what new adventures await them and creatures they could find. Grasshoppers and caterpillars everywhere!
Today, we went back to that home with the kids to visit. Johanna immediately asked, "Mom. Where are the caterpillars?" This is the same girl that months ago didn't care for caterpillar friends months ago.
I quickly answered that they would be back in the spring. I told them that it was too cold and that they would not be out in the snow. I first thought they would not understand. Perhaps, the girls wouldn't run around the yard because the caterpillars were not there. Perhaps, they would sob or cry? Maybe the girls would mope!
The twins didn't respond in the way that I expected. Instead, Johanna and Ellie started talking about how they would find them in the spring. However, for now they would pretended that they were looking for caterpillars. They decided to create the dream by visualizing they life that they wanted to believe!
Have we sometimes waited for others to give us direction in life? Or, perhaps we say, "Not now, I am too busy. I will do it later." Or, perhaps are we are saying, "I don't feel worthy of this dream."
Children are constant dreamers. As adults, it is easy to forgo what we desire in life because of the everyday responsibilities. However, just imagine what amazing things would await us if we just dreamed and started DOING things as if we have already done them? I call this 'faking it till you make it'. For example: I can give myself a new leadership title by writing it down on paper. I can start acting like I already have that title. I can start adding the responsibilities onto what I do as if I am already an expert at that position. I will see the paper in front of me everyday followed by the actions I do everyday that go along with that new position.
Chances are I will actually EARN that time and chances are I will exceed that title! It would become a reality.
I also can do this same technique if I want to go on a trip. I can put pictures of the location on paper in front of my desk. I can start thinking about the food, excursions, and the money I would need to buy an amazing picture. Then, by working, I would then be on the trip!
Imagine the possibilities if we acted as if we were already in the future! Our dreams can become our reality!
Today, I felt joy in my heart like I did last October. This particular place we visited is a place that we can create dreams. It brings happiness and exploration. I don't have to 'wait' for a feeling - but to just act. And, I can do it anywhere!
So, during a very cold day in January. I also asked myself, 'Where are the caterpillars?'
Or better yet....."Do I have to wait to see the caterpillars before I start playing?"
I can't wait for what is in store for my future!
Monday, January 3, 2011
Growth!
I hear all the time, "Your kids are growing up. Look how tall they are"!
If you have kids, you know what I mean. This happens especially around the holiday season when friends and distant relatives get together for festivities.
Just the other day, I took a peek into Katarina's crib and saw her. I was amazed! Did she grow overnight? What happened to my baby who could cuddle in my arms. Now, her arms and legs are dangling over 1/2 the crib! Even I am amazed at how quickly a year can go by and my little baby is almost a year old.
Growth comes in many shapes and sizes which can include physical, emotional, and spiritual growth.
Caterpillars, pass through various phases of growth, known as instars. They then shed an outer layer and moult. This happens after every growth stage. The complete butterfly life cycle can take anywhere from a month to a year depending on the species.
In early January, many people make New Years Resolutions hoping to moult and perhaps shed a few extra pounds, eat healthier, save money, or perhaps go to church more often, etc.
Children are constantly entering in and out of the 'instar' stage. How do they moult? They may shed a tear or two when they learn that they cannot always get what they want. However, over time, they will realize that treating others with respect and/or sharing toys. They will grow in confidence and love.
If we look at 'growing' in 2011, what are we willing to shed so we can grow?
We can't keep all the physical and emotional baggage.
What will be an end result for someone who is willing to 'shed' something?
By the time, the last instar phase is reached, development of wings begins to take place on the caterpillar.
I can't wait to see that phase begin!
If you have kids, you know what I mean. This happens especially around the holiday season when friends and distant relatives get together for festivities.
Just the other day, I took a peek into Katarina's crib and saw her. I was amazed! Did she grow overnight? What happened to my baby who could cuddle in my arms. Now, her arms and legs are dangling over 1/2 the crib! Even I am amazed at how quickly a year can go by and my little baby is almost a year old.
Growth comes in many shapes and sizes which can include physical, emotional, and spiritual growth.
Caterpillars, pass through various phases of growth, known as instars. They then shed an outer layer and moult. This happens after every growth stage. The complete butterfly life cycle can take anywhere from a month to a year depending on the species.
In early January, many people make New Years Resolutions hoping to moult and perhaps shed a few extra pounds, eat healthier, save money, or perhaps go to church more often, etc.
Children are constantly entering in and out of the 'instar' stage. How do they moult? They may shed a tear or two when they learn that they cannot always get what they want. However, over time, they will realize that treating others with respect and/or sharing toys. They will grow in confidence and love.
If we look at 'growing' in 2011, what are we willing to shed so we can grow?
We can't keep all the physical and emotional baggage.
What will be an end result for someone who is willing to 'shed' something?
By the time, the last instar phase is reached, development of wings begins to take place on the caterpillar.
I can't wait to see that phase begin!
Sunday, January 2, 2011
The Butterfly Experiment
Some may wonder why I entitled my Blog, "The Butterfly Experiment".
I decided a while back that my theme for 2011 is 'change'.
This goes hand in hand with my blog: Butterfly Experiment.
Have you ever really thought about how caterpillars transform into beautiful butterflies?
Just like butterflies, life is full of transformations. Mine has included balancing a career then having multiple children in a few short years (four kids ages 5 and younger). I have needed to learn how to juggle the duties of mom, wife, business leader, sales person, friend, daughter, etc. It can be exhausting at times!
One night after coming home from a meeting, I had complete peace of mind thinking about butterflies. I wrote the following a few months ago in my car and it shares why I love the thought of butterflies.
I envision seeing my kids giggling with silly caterpillars at a home that fits our needs as a growing family. I see myself as one of those caterpillars.
Winter is upon us now but trasnformations happen every season of the year. Butterflies bring me peace of mind.
As I close this very first blog...I am ready to being a new season of my life and journey.
What will happen during this Butterfly Experiment? Will you join me?
I decided a while back that my theme for 2011 is 'change'.
This goes hand in hand with my blog: Butterfly Experiment.
Have you ever really thought about how caterpillars transform into beautiful butterflies?
Just like butterflies, life is full of transformations. Mine has included balancing a career then having multiple children in a few short years (four kids ages 5 and younger). I have needed to learn how to juggle the duties of mom, wife, business leader, sales person, friend, daughter, etc. It can be exhausting at times!
One night after coming home from a meeting, I had complete peace of mind thinking about butterflies. I wrote the following a few months ago in my car and it shares why I love the thought of butterflies.
I turned the car light on and I started writing.
It is almost 10pm and completely dark outside except the light from my car and the sound of a long freight train in front of me.
What should I write about?
What lessons can I learn while being a caterpillar?
What do I ‘think’ being in a cocoon is like? Can I be patient?
What do I “think’ being a butterfly will feel and look like? Will I celebrate this celebration?
My life is like a caterpillar. I am living in a cocoon in constant transformation. What will life look like once it is time and ready to become a butterfly?
I am on a journey.
I envision seeing my kids giggling with silly caterpillars at a home that fits our needs as a growing family. I see myself as one of those caterpillars.
I think springtime is when butterflies blossom. Would it just be amazing if I can fly by then?
I think transformation is starting to happen. What will I learn along the way?
As I close this very first blog...I am ready to being a new season of my life and journey.
What will happen during this Butterfly Experiment? Will you join me?
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