It Pays To Count Your Blessings

Most of you know I sometimes write inspirational pieces like the series I did on Deepak Chopra. Other times, I write about fashion. I write about both because they truly go hand and hand.

It's hard to look your best when you don't feel your best. Beauty happens from the inside out.

Personally, I'm inspired by a great many things. And, I enjoy sharing my insights into image empowering. One way I might do this is to create a catch phrase. So, since Dr. Robin of Oprah and Friends has already coined the phrase "inspirational minute," I am going to use "empowering minute," which will allow me to share insights that demonstrate what empowers us often the same thing that inspires us.

My First Empowering Minute For You To Use

I have recently been going through some tough times so my husband and I have started reading Dr. Demartini's book Count Your Blessings, The Healing Power Of Gratitude And Love. Last night, we read a chapter called "Be Grateful For Your Broken Heart."

This one was a tough chapter to read and even harder to believe. That is, until I kept reading.

The truth about a broken heart is nothing more then an emotion we feel as a result of a broken illusion of how we thought something should look or feel. As an example, my husband left. I mean left as in left. It broke my heart. More specifically, it broke the illusion I had that we would always be happy (like in the movies) and that we would grow old together. And when he left, that illusion was broken.

"Broken Illusions are blessings. Every shattered illusion reveals a benefit."

Two days later, he returned. We both realized in that moment that both loved each other. What had happened was that we had started to take each other for granted. What breaking the illusion did for us was remind us that every moment is what you make it. What it reminded me was that he is my best friend.

"Experiences of emotional pain are opportunities to learn to love."

Shared experiences are what life is all about. We all want to love and be loved. I know now that my husband loves me more then I ever thought possible, even when I am tough to love. I also learned to love him even more. I am grateful for that. It's something to keep in mind when difficulties come your way, especially in the form of a broken heart.

Wishing you peace, love, and joy in your life ... even when it comes from a broken heart.

Thanksgiving Every Minute

Is it healthy just to reserve a few days out of the year to give thanks?

Life, according to The Secret, suggests that we give thanks everyday. And while some days are harder then others, I know that there are at least three to 10 things that I can be grateful for everyday. Being alive is always a good place to start.

So while I will be celebrating Thanksgiving this year, I might also suggest that we don't just reserve one day or even a few. Be grateful every minute of every day. I know that I am, starting this minute, right now...

I am grateful to you for being a reader, and thank you for your time and comments. I am also grateful that I have this opportunity to wish you peace, love, and joy in your life as well as to all of your loved ones. Happy Thanksgiving.

Staying Young with Dr. Oz

Does dressing right actually keep you feeling young? Dr. Mehmet Oz says yes!

While I did not catch Dr. Oz on Oprah last week, I was told that part of Dr. Oz's anti-aging process includes dressing nice. Apparently, the doctor weighed in: if you look good, you feel good. And that, in turn, helps keep you young. Well, that sounds good to me. I want to help.

Mark your calendar for Jan. 12, 2008. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m, I will be hosting a New Year, New You Image Workshop right here in Las Vegas. It will be a fun, interactive workshop for men and women that teaches how, in 10 minutes or less, you can:

• Attract more business
• Attract better relationships
• Improve your overall personal style

I'll also provide some tips on how to dress and shop for your body type. These tips will help you feel better, which means you'll stay young longer. I'll be mentioning the workshop again, but if you register before Dec. 28, the cost of the workshop is only $25 per person, with friends enjoying half off.($30 otherwise.)

The workshop will be held at The Center-A model for Positive Living, which is located at 6711 W. Alexander in Las Vegas. One lucky person will even receive a free makeover! And the first 20 people to register with get a free gift at the door. So call or e-mail me soon to register.

I know it seems early, but it's important to set your goals early. Don't wait! I already look forward to seeing you there to wish you peace, love, and joy in your life.