Running in the rain is not so bad

OK, is it just me or does something change in your perspective once you are actually out in the rain?  Tonight, I went for a run with Sally our flop eared smiler (dog).  It took a while before we got out the door because it was raining outside! Oh-no, not rain, I might melt.  Finally, the skies cleared out a bit and we took a chance and headed out the door. 

Sometime during the run, it started raining again.  Funny thing is, I didn't even notice it started and when I did I only felt refreshed by the rain!  How crazy is that shift in perspective? My expectations of a little water were keeping me from something I love and that refreshes me!! 

I know next time it rains I will probably pause for clearer skies but maybe next time my pause will be slight and my run long! 

Wishing you clear skies and refreshing rain,

        Denise

'If you do not express your own original ideas,

    if you do not listen to your own being,

      you will have betrayed yourself"

                                     Rollo May

Give the cold/flu bug exit directions

  Today I find myself with the ending of a bug of some sorts.  Is it a cold or the flu, I'm not sure which. I do know it comes with some pretty yucky symptoms.  But what I have learned is it is all about the flow.  Yes, I have a bug, the goal here is to let it flow on through and not get stuck. 

   A couple of years ago, I walked the Susan G Koman 60 mile walk for Breast Cancer Support.  The day before the walk I came down with a cold- come to think of it, I think that was my last cold.  Anyway, the first day and first night were a little rough but amazingly by the time the walk was over, two days later, my cold was gone-gone-gone!  I was walking, breathing, drinking tons of water and Gatorade and having a great time!

  Prior to that about 10 years ago, I was walking everyday- at least 15 minutes a day. It was one of those commitments we make to ourselves when we are feeling happy and healthy.  I remember catching a cold then and thinking I still have to walk!  Prior to my walking goal, I would have gone to bed and stayed there- and usually my colds stayed right there with me.  But when I went out for that walk, I felt stronger, healthier and for the first time in a long time a cold was just a little blip on the screen.  No big deal!

  There is something magical that happens from movement, hydration and fresh air. My mom had a similar experience when we were showing cows growing. up.  She went to the fair with a horrendous cold. At night we slept in the back of an old truck that, as you can imagine, had plenty of fresh air. Not exactly the conditions, the you would think were perfect for getting healthy.  But that is what my mom did, her cold quickly eased up. 

   Today, I'm already feeling 10 times better than yesterday, otherwise you would not be hearing from me.  I was even feeling good enough to share my illness insights.   I know there is great healing power in going outside, breathing deeply, and walking/moving/flowing around the neighborhood. Drinking lots of fluids, relaxing and mounds of TLC are also very handy in showing the bug the door.  Sometimes, we get a bug but give that bug the directions on how to leave as quickly and smoothly as possible.  A splash of joy and gratitude never hurt either.  Thankfully, this too shall pass!

    Of course, the essence of this note to you is not to go walk 60 miles or sleep in the back of a truck when you are sick.  The essence is to breath deep, get a little fresh air and move around a bit!

  Wishing all bugs a speedy exit in all our lives,
           Denise

Day of Epiphanies: A simple and lovely day

 How can you not love a day called Epiphany day??  There is a long history to Epiphany Day. If you would like to learn about it by all means check it out. Here is the Wikipedia version http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epiphany_(holiday). 

I celebrate a slightly more playful and looser version of the historical holiday by celebrating the actual meaning of the word Ephiphany along with just a splash of history.

Day of Epiphany reminds me to let go, to enjoy life and give myself time to create. It is about listening and looking for the gift of an epiphany. Epiphany day is a reminder that laying a good foundation is essential but there is also a time to lighten up and let ideas flow in.

During the day, I Make cookies with beans-wishing all who eat get good luck for the new year. I look for and expect an abundance of epiphanies. And finally, we take down our Christmas decorations and pack away until next year.  A simple and lovely day.

What exactly is an epiphany anyway? Here is what Wikipedia has to say:  

Definition:   "An epiphany is an experience of sudden and striking realization. Generally the term is used to describe breakthrough scientific, religious or philosophical discoveries, but it can apply in any situation in which an enlightening realization allows a problem or situation to be understood from a new and deeper perspective."
History:  "The word epiphany originally referred to insight through the divine.[9] Today, this concept is used much more often and without such connotations, but a popular implication remains that the epiphany is supernatural, as the discovery seems to come suddenly from the outside.[9]"  
The Process of Epiphanies:  "Despite its popular image, epiphany is the result of significant work on the part of the discoverer, and is only the satisfying result of a long process.[10] The surprising and fulfilling feeling of epiphany is so surprising because one cannot predict when one's labor will bear fruit, and our subconscious can play a significant part in delivering the solution; and is fulfilling because it is a reward for a long period of effort.[4][10]"
Myth of Epiphanies:  "Epiphanies can be distinguished by a (usually spiritual) vision, as epiphanies are often triggered by irrelevant incidents or objects"

Starting the new year with a holiday such as Epiphany day gives me great joy.  After the past couple of months of holidays so deeply connectly with our family, history and expectations, it is a breath of fresh air to have a little day with nothing to do but listen, bake cookies and put the house back in order.  Maybe, we should find a word to celebrate each month.  Reminding us how precious each day is, to pause to enjoy our lives with a joyful heart and to say thank you.

As always wishing you a healthy and happy day,
     Denise Frakes