Education (+) Confidence (+) Hope equals Peace. That’s our mission as educators, isn’t it? Yes, yes it is. With love, to all of you, for all you do to add a little more peace to the planet…thank you. xoxo~L.
Credit: This image is available via GottaTeachEmAll on etsy
The Zen of Writing:
Let go of fear of rejection.
Write Everyday. Get Feedback. When not Writing–READ. Read everyday. Full list:
“White hot and passionate is the only thing to be.” Roald Dahl
Wishing you all the best for a 2014 that is filled with family, friendship, laughter, and new opportunities.
Thank you so much for supporting this blog for the past 6 months. It has truly been a labor of love. I have been so fortunate to have visitors from 47 countries and I appreciate each and every visitor here. I’ve also enjoyed reading your posts, and learning and growing from all of you!
I’m looking forward to a new year chock full o’ possibilities and opportunities to share and connect with all of you.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!~
xo~Lisa
Zen: To be at Peace.
10 to Zen. What can you Let Go Of to find your Zen? Here are 10 suggestions from Buddha Heart. For best results, please repeat #10 multiple times a day. Add a dose of sunshine and smiles and you just might mix up the recipe for a Peaceful Life.
I’m not a practitioner of Zen, but this list resonated with me, and I found myself reflecting on its lessons:
#10 is easy for me. I have kids and they keep me laughing. #6…well, that is a work in progress. I tend to think I come from a long line of worriers, and that I’m moving in the right direction on that one. The worry monster still creeps in from time to time.
Let’s be honest, #1 is challenging in a world of social media and facebook posts. We know who traveled to what tropical paradise as it happens, and it usually happens when we are at home with a pile of dirty laundry. It’s the new normal. Shrug that off. Let go of comparing.
My personal recipe: I aim to live by all of these, and I assure you I don’t always succeed. I probably fail multiple times a day, in fact. But I am really guided by #2 & #3. Those lessons have led me to my own little slice of Zen, on those days when I do find it. In my life, each day is a fresh start for being at peace. Sometimes, what I need to be happy with is a peaceful afternoon, a peaceful hour, or a peaceful moment. Just one little moment in those 24 hours when I exhale, look around, and say:
“Life is Beautiful.”
That’s my Zen. Being aware of the good stuff. A smile from my daughter. A hug from my son. The sunshine on my patio. Simplicity. Harmony. Nature. Letting Go.
How about you, do any of these resonate with you, challenge you, or help you stay sane? Let me know, I’d love to hear your personal recipe for living a peaceful life.
xo, Lisa
8 Great Reads While Waiting for the Next Wimpy Kid to Come Out
These suggestions come from Scholastic Book Publishers and are kid-tested and (this) mother approved! 🙂 You can click the link to read a brief synopsis of each title. The books listed generally appeal to all kids, but especially reluctant readers, and of course, Wimpy Kid fans–young and old!
Wise Words on Things to Give Up–
This is important: Be Nice to Yourself! 
Sunday is a good day for a little reflection, a little relaxation, and a whole lot of being nice to yourself. Smile. Breathe. Take a minute to recharge and get ready for the week ahead. Remember, studies show that the brain on positive is over 30% more effective than on stressed, or even neutral.
How to get and stay positive: Be Nice…to YOU! Take some time to do at least one thing each day that is just for you. Even if that one thing is only 5 minutes in your day!
Have a great week. xo~Lisa
I’m reading The Book Thief. How about you? What are you reading?
College Ready 