ROCKIN OUT WITH FRAC!

The genius behind THE MANDY SHOW intro, my man Fraction.


So last night my producer G-Spot and I went to meet and drop beats with hip hop/neo soul artist and producer, Fraction aka Frac/Papa Frac/Shawn McDaid.

We had a blast and tons of laughs with this guy. He's the bomb. I got in touch with him through Facebook when I put out the word that I was looking for a rapper for THE MANDY SHOW. Within a 1/2 hour I got a message from a FB friend who highly recommended this ginger-haired wordsmith. When I was told that Frac opened for Akon, Karl Wolf and Raekwon, I was intrigued, and when I listened to his beats on itunes I knew I had found my man.

His studio is packed with all things awesome. Records, drums, guitars, keyboards and just enough room for 3 humans. When he offered to move shit out for our upcoming shoot I was like, 'HELL NAW!! LEAVE IT ALL!' It was an inspiring atmosphere with unlimited potential for unparalleled magic. Personally, I think every creative being needs some level of chaos in order to do their best work and I love to keep it real.

Frac played us a beat he created the night prior and G-Spot and I were hooked immediately. She envisioned the corresponding video as the track played out and I of course got my groove on. It's sexy as fuck. We knew we had found something special and we had to claim it as our own.

So I asked, Frac agreed, and the rest is history. Without even trying and before I even had the chance to ask, the intro had been made. Clearly it was meant to be, meant for me and it shall be the best damn thing I've ever collaborated on.

Frac freestyled some lines and we knew we had it. We laughed, we clapped, we smiled and praised the music gods above. This beat had not been accounted for before we entered the room. Perfect. It's as if it had been waiting just for us. Of course. And the whole vibe seemed to be divinely orchestrated. Naturally.

Awesome always attracts awesome, which is why Fraction has officially been hired to do THE MANDY SHOW intro and has also agreed to appear in the video rockin out with the rest of us. Absolutely wicked!

I can't wait till we shoot the show with Frac in 2 weeks time. Our viewers will get to see the whole process of creation, the freestyling, the bass additions, my bangle samples (yes bangles! Frac though they'd sound great in my song:) and my very first experience producing music. It will be an absolute dream come true for me in every way.

Hip hop is one of my greatest loves and dancing is what I was born to do, so to actually conspire with a gifted artist to create an exclusive sound for THE MANDY SHOW is nothing short of amazing. Really, what tops that?

Oh wait. I know. The only thing that can top the experience of co-producing a sexy ass beat is dancing to this sexy ass beat with the man I should have proposed to on the dance floor while I had the chance; my one and only Dancing King, the infamous Mr. Nigel Downer.

nD, HIT ME UP!

It's time for a return to heaven.

ECHO WEEKLY: MANDY STYLE

I am happy to announce that I have just joined the ECHO family as the new columnist for THE CAMBRIDGE BEAT section of this awesome entertainment mag. Next week Mike Cahill will be signing off after 52 weeks of C-Bridge coverage, placing the column in my hands to do what I do best: write about all things awesome.

Stay tuned for my entry into ECHO WEEKLY so you can stay abreast of all the goodies my little city has to offer.

Payce!

KEVEEN'S IDEA OF BOOK PROMOTION

My co-author Keveen Gabet with a copy of our book, The Poet & The Butterfly.

Need I say more?

FIERCE: MY DAUGHTER TOLD ME SO

So here I am looking quite unlike myself. My daughter took this pic with her new camera last week, telling me that I look 'fierce', which, coming from a soon-to-be 15 year old who knows a thing or two about style, is quite the compliment. I decided to upgrade myself New York style for the DIVA GRADUATION I held that night, and the responses I got on Facebook once I posted it made me think I should cop this style a little more often:)

Rock on.

MELTING POT: ROCK AND ROLL SOUL

So I have a new favourite thing and it's a Toronto-based Rock & Roll Soul band with a sound like no other. They go by the name of Melting Pot, and I was lucky enough to get to hang with them yesterday afternoon for an unconvential taping of THE MANDY SHOW.

Here's who welcomed my crew and I with open arms, chocolate on surveillance and Torontonian orange juice. We have:

Nelson Sobral - Guitar & Vocals

Darin Meilleur - Bass & Backup Vocals

Carmelo Galle - Drums, Percussion & Backup Vocals


We had a blast with these guys. They were a treat to interview and an honour to listen to live from the comfort of lead singer Nelson's own home. The interview began in his music room, complete with a stunning painting of Bob Dylan, a thumb wrestling action figure, and a signed copy of Ron Jeremy's book. And here is my confession: before this interview I had never even heard of Ron Jeremy.

When Nelson showed me the book, I had assumed it was music related and said something along the lines of, 'I've never heard his stuff.' Both my producer and Nelson laughed. I didn't get it. So I asked her (on camera), 'You've heard of the guy?'. She laughed even harder and said yes. It was then that Nelson enlightened me, and now I will enlighten you. Ron Jeremy is a famous porn star. Wow. I learn something new every day.

The guy I wish I had never heard of, Ron Jeremy.


After that somewhat unusual experience, we took the magic to the balcony where the group and I played their kickass hit All That You Dream . I was the tambourine girl.

Then we decided to take it to the showers. That's right. With Nelson and Darin in the bathtub, Carmelo on the can and me in the sink with an egg shaker, we created a beautiful rendition of their soulful ballad, Buy You A Lullaby. It was nothing short of awesome.(Check out the original HERE)

Now it was time for photos, Crunch Bars and more face-time with the band, followed by a final song entitled Slippin', which they performed in the stairwell of Nelson's apartment. The sound was extraordinary, the neighbours did NOT complain, and my crew and I were left speechless at the end. Proof that Melting Pot completely rocks.

Thanks for the memories, boys!


Nelson living out his dream to be me.

Good times with new friends. Rock on.

SHAWN MOZEN: KETTLEBELL KING

Yesterday I had the pleasure of meeting and interviewing Shawn Mozen, famed Canadian Kettlebell King of Agatsu Inc. for my newest venture, THE MANDY SHOW.

Having driven all the way from Montreal to meet up with my producer and I in Toronto, Shawn arranged for us to shoot the segment in the very same gym where he shot this old school video. It was awesome.

We learned lots of cool stuff about Kettlebells while we were there (like what a great workout tool it is, providing quicker results than regular forms of exercise), but I hardly paid attention. I was too busy checking out my guest to listen to what he was saying. So what. It was all recorded and I'll relearn it all later. But what I do know for sure is that the Quad Hop is fun to watch, and this is a Kettlebell.



To be quite honest, I was crushin' on Shawn even before we began the interview. It was nothing he said in particular. I think it was just because he existed. There's something about Shawn Mozen that makes you just stare and hang on to his every word, and I don't believe I am the first woman to admit it. I mean, just look at the guy!

WOW.


Therefore, if I had come bearing any level of preparation and professionalism before meeting him in person, it had slipped right on through me as I proceeded to woo my guest on camera (complete with one, okay two ass grabs, a marriage proposal and confirmation of a dinner date to follow the interview). And dare I say I even asked the man if he could be naked?!

'Holding the kettlebell? Sure.' was Shawn's generous response on camera, to which I replied, 'No, just be naked.'

Okay, so we could rightfully rename the show 'Shameless Flirting 101', or 'How NOT to Conduct an Interview', or 'How to Potentially Get Yourself Charged With Sexual Harrassment'.

Thankfully though, this inappropriate behaviour was taken with good humour by our guest, I have not been charged, I enjoyed the best steak dinner of my entire life with the man, and...we are set to be married.*

On the show we agreed on Paris (well, I decided that's where we'd be headed, and like the true gentleman that Shawn is, he obliged), but at dinner we agreed (together) that Italy would be a better choice.

All joking aside, Shawn is the real deal. The man can lift and hold a woman with one hand, and so could many of the people he's trained, if they ever felt the desire.

He can also lift a car. At least that's what he told me last week. After seeing my profile on Facebook I got a message from him stating he was so inspired he actually lifted TWO cars. How could I resist? And who am I to question the man? Of course he did. Shawn Mozen can do anything. Just look at the guy's resume:

1. He is the leading Canadian authority on Kettlebell training and has trained some of Canada's best known trainers and athletes.

2. He has been on Breakfast Television, Off The Record, The Gill Deacon Show, and Miami Ink , as you can see HERE, to get THIS kickass tattoo from AMI!!!!!




3. He travels throughout Canada, the U.S. and Europe to provide top-notch exclusive training to Kettlebell trainers around the world.

4. In addition to his stellar Kettlebell Certification, Shawn is a 3rd Dan Black Belt in Shito Ryu Itosukai Karate, a Blue Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and is a Certified Commando Krav Maga Instructor.

5. He has authored three Kettlebell instructional DVDs (with more being created right now) and has written the only Canadian workbook on the subject.

6. He has a graduate degree in Philosophy from Concordia.

7. He's hot.

8. He's fit as hell.

9. His wit matched my own.

10. He is a true gentleman.


What's not to love?



Smitten with Shawn on THE MANDY SHOW ♥


Coppin' a feel on THE MANDY SHOW


* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

*Mandyland Disclaimer: I am enamoured by all things awesome and therefore I fall in love with something or someone new each day. Yesterday was Shawn's day. My dancing king Nigel had his day. Tim Tebow got a whole week. I propose to men who captivate me. I adore women who challenge me and by the time I publish a post I am already onto the next great thing. In Mandyland, each day comes with a new treat and I fully intend to integrate as many of them as I can into my life. So, please take my passionate declarations as nothing more than my own personal form of worship. If I love it, I want it all in that moment. If it affects me in a beautiful way, I want to share it with anyone who will listen. And that's all there is to it.

*Secret Mandyland Disclaimer: I wrote the above disclaimer because my producer told me to. She's afraid that people might not get the humour and/or beauty of my ephemeral nature and take my statements literally, so it's best to spell it out. Now you know. I'm not the marrying kind.

LET HER BE HOT: THE MANDY SHOW

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And on the eighth day, God created MANDY and said,

'LET HER BE HOT.'



THE MANDY SHOW. COMING SOON. BE THERE.

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MY MOM KICKS ASS

If you've been following my blog, you already know that my mother passed away on Sunday, September 13th of this year. My tribute to her can be read here.

On Friday, September 25th, we celebrated her spirit and her love of dance by getting our groove on at Starlight in uptown Waterloo, which was loads of fun! This event was was mentioned in the obituary I wrote, and as a result, the staff at Starlight, along with the DJ, were awaiting our arrival.

The bartender recognized me from my blog pictures and confided in me that she loved the way I viewed death. Her brother had passed away and she had also felt it was good to celebrate his life instead of mourning his death.

DJ Charless extended a handshake followed by a hug, telling me he thought it was so cool how I'm celebrating my mom. He played 'Spirit in the Sky' in her honour (hence the crazy picture above:) and my crew and I danced like there was ants in our pants!

In addition to the special treatment at Starlight, another exciting thing happened that day. I received an email from Valerie Hill of The KW Record, asking if she could write a feature article on my mother's life. Her interest was peaked when she read the obituary and she felt drawn to the fact that my mom had been a bricklayer. Of course I said YES!

The article came out on Tuesday, October 5th, entitled "She Built Walls and Let Few In" and although it took a very different perspective than I had expected, it complemented my tribute and only added to the story that was my mom's life. It also included a very special picture of mom and I at her wedding in 1984.



The interview with Valerie also resulted in her unearthing an article written by The Record in 1986 about my mom's entry into the bricklaying profession, along with a kick ass photo of her laying bricks! I have typed out the article below, since I only have the original paper copy (Photo courtesy of The KW Record circa 1986).

Enjoy!

(Published on Thursday, December 18 (mom's birthday!), 1986)

FORMER STORE MANAGER ENJOYS BRICKLAYING
by Henry Koch of the KW Record




When it comes to bricklaying, women have exactly the same job opportunities as men at the same rate of pay.

Brian Strickland, the first vice-president of the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftsmen and the top-ranking bricklayers’ union official in Canada, can vouch for that.

So can Eugene George, president of GA Masonry, RR2, Breslau, the largest masonry contractor in North America who employs hundreds of bricklayers from Newfoundland to Alberta and hundreds more from New York state to Kentucky and South Carolina.

If you’re still doubtful, ask Lowana Richardson of 49 Foxridge Drive in the Hespeler section of Cambridge. She’s the first female apprentice bricklayer in GA Masonry’s 40-year history and the living proof.

Strickland believes she’s also the only female unionized bricklayer in Canada. “There are some in the United States, but I know of no others in Canada.” (There are 12,000 unionized bricklayers in Canada and about 130,000 in the United States.)

Lowana, who is in her 30s and married with a 10-year-old daughter, Mandy, was hired by a GA official in July after completing a 20-week pre-apprenticeship course at Conestoga College. Nine male apprentices were also hired by GA.

The hiring official was impressed with her work, “general interest, attendance at classes and attitude.”

Since July she has been laying bricks and concrete blocks at jobsites in the K-W and Toronto areas. At the moment, she is helping to build an office building in Brampton.

Lowana goes to bed at 9pm, gets up at 5am, packs a lunch of meat sandwiches and a thermos of tea and drives to a Hespeler shopping centre where she is picked up by a company van that takes her and five or six male bricklayers to the Brampton jobsite.

When it’s cold, she wears four sweaters, a warm coat with a parka and jeans. She’s on the job at 7:30am, has lunch in a company trailer, quits at 4pm, gets back to Hespeler at 5pm, eats twice as much as she used to when she worked in various capacities at retail stores and “sleeps like a log.”

She is paid the same as male apprentices and will be remunerated the same as journeymen bricklayers after completing 5,600 hours of apprenticeship and two more classroom sessions, one seven weeks and the other eight weeks, at George Brown College, Toronto.

Information on the local pay scale for bricklayers was not available. But Andy Clow, manager of Conestoga College’s Waterloo campus, said journeymen bricklayers in the Toronto area “who work overtime can make more than $50,000 a year.”

A native of Cape Breton Island, N.S., Lowana worked in retailing-from selling to management-in Nova Scotia, Labrador and Ontario.

She rose to district manager of Consumers Distributing in Dartmouth, N.S., and was manager of an office supplies store in London, Ont., before the family moved to Hespeler in March, 1984.

Her husband, Doug, who is also in his 30s, is district sales manager of Consumers Distributing in the Niagra area.

Although she enjoyed retailing, she preferred working outdoors. “I wanted to be successful at whatever I did and had no idea I would be in the construction business.”

She enrolled in the Conestoga College course after finding that bricklayers were in big demand. A number of women enquired about the course, but Lowana was the only female student.

“Maybe there’s a perception by women that it’s heavy, physically demanding work. Any woman can do it,” Clow said. Lowana conceded she was “fortunate to be breaking new ground.”

Eugene George had this to say: “It could be the start of a new era that offers all kinds of opportunities in all the trades, providing that women think it’s the place for them to go.”

The experience in the United States, he said, is that women “don’t last (in construction) because of the physical requirements of the job.”

He pointed out that colour, creed or sex has never been a hiring consideration in GA’s history. “Ability to turn out quality workmanship in schedule is the key requirement. Performance is the name of the game.” If they can meet this requirement, female and male bricklayers are always welcome at his company.

George is always glad to see that Lowana has a positive attitude “and is not afraid to work in the heat of the summer and the cold of the winter.”

The man who hired her said she is “punctual, reliable and working out well.” Of the 10 apprentices he hired in July, four have left for various reasons. “She is one of the six who stuck with it.”

Lowana enjoys her work and has no problems on the jobsite. The portable toilets are equipped with locks. She has been accepted by her male counterparts as “one of the workers.” Some call her “the celebrity.”

Before taking up bricklaying, she “had no idea how things went up.” Now she takes an interest in every building she passes. “Everything in construction is so coordinated. Everything falls into place. It’s a fascinating business.”

Lowana, who is five feet, one inch tall and weighs 120 pounds, is in better shape physically than when she was working in stores. “I’m developing stronger muscles.”

Male spectators at construction sites are surprised to see her. Some stop and ask her why she isn’t at home in the kitchen.

Most are pleasantly surprised and shout “go for it.”

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Rock on, mom. Thanks for being so kick ass.

A TRIBUTE TO MY MOTHER

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LOWANA PAGE RICHARDSON (1953-2009)

* First unionized female bricklayer in North America.
* Devoted Dog Groomer.
* Mother to one awesome human.
* Grandmother to one equally awesome human.
* A stubborn and feisty soul who finally found her peace on September 13, 2009.

Rock on.

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Mom's favourite picture, taken July 11, 2009. This is the day we found out the cancer had spread to her brain, the day we truly came together as a family. The matching outfits were not even planned!


Mom and I on September 1, 2009.


My BFF Mike and I on September 13, 2009 leaving the hospital after 7 days of hard work. I was so friggin happy mom was finally at peace and I could finally return home. Oh glorious sun, I missed you!!!!


Beautiful flowers from mom's side of the family after her death.




♥ MOM'S LAST 7 DAYS ♥


It was one week ago today that my mother left this world to find the peace she had been searching for all her life. Gratefully, I was by her side day and night for the final week of her walk upon this earth, affording us both an incredible gift and a rare opportunity to bond, heal and let go in a way that most are not lucky enough to experience in their own lifetime.

Mom breathed her last breath just a few minutes before 3:00pm on Sunday, September 13, 2009, and after having had an entire week of witnessing the all too quick progression of cancer's attack on her system, I felt more than ready for that final moment. So much so that my best friend and I felt a sense of accomplishment and smiled at one another when we realized she had completed her time with us. I kissed my mom's forehead and congratulated the both of us on her successful transition into the next phase, whatever that may be.

I have to admit that the challenging part was not the death of someone I love, but the daily, hourly, minute by minute uncertainty of when it would come. Mom and I both knew she was dying quickly, so there was no surprise really. It was a matter of finding a way to go through this process as comfortably and peacefully as possible.

Mom had been in the hospital for two weeks already before I received a call on Sunday, Sept 6th letting me know that mom's condition had grown progressively worse overnight. The nurses thought she only had a few hours left to live.

When I walked into her room, I saw a woman I barely recognized from two days prior, a woman who was too incoherent to even know I was there, and all I could do was weep. I was devasted.

Friends came to sit with me, hug me, listen to me and let me cry.

Fearing I was about to lose my mother at any moment, I crawled into her hospital bed and held her hand throughout the night. I did not sleep at all. How could I? My mind was spinning and the tears were falling. I couldn't keep it together because everything was falling apart.

* * * * * * * * *

I thought of all the things that remained undone. The things she had wanted to experience but never would. Things like the slumber party we had planned for the night she'd finally be able to return home, and the one night of dancing she wanted to have with me and all my friends at my favourite place to be, Starlight in uptown Waterloo. I mourned the loss of one last 'I love you', one final conversation, one final hug.

It was the most surreal, emotionally charged and overwhelming night of my life.

I have never felt as powerless as I did that night, watching the minutes pass on the clock, knowing that I had zero control over when my mom would die. I was wishing that there was a way to stop time so that I could at least catch up to the devastating reality I was being faced with, but no such luck. Time did not stop, but I was given something even greater.

* * * * * * * * *

At 5:00 the next morning I got up out of mom's bed so that the nurse could give her some medication. To my utter joy and amazement, mom came to, sat straight up, saw me standing there and immediately reached out her arms to me for a hug.

I have never, ever been happier to see someone in my whole life.

It was now Monday morning and mom was still here with me. We embraced as I cried, and she asked me if she was going to die, to which I replied, 'We're all dying mom.' I'm such a cheeky monkey:)

That day mom ate like a horse and seemed to be back to her old self. The doctor didn't know what to think. How on earth was she still here? Mom's eyes were bright and she was fully there (albiet a bit high;), and she was making jokes with those who came to visit. It had quickly gone from a night of grief to a day of celebration.

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As the days passed many of my friends came to visit, sharing laughter and precious moments with my mom and I. People brought food for me each day so that I could remain by her side, and everyone made sure my daughter had all that she needed while I was away.

By Wednesday morning the doctor said there's no way mom would make it through to the next day, so I again braced myself for the inevitable. But after 3 sleepless nights and 3 emotionally draining days, exhaustion was kicking in. I was truly at my breaking point, and yet, we made it through that night as well.

Thursday came and mom was still here. Now the doctor really didn't know what to say.

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By Friday mom was no longer eating or drinking and could barely communicate. It was suggested by the doctor that we take her off the oxygen to help her pass more quickly and I agreed to this without hesitation. I was told that it wouldn't be long now. Maybe minutes, maybe an hour. Certainly no more than a few.

Twenty-four hours later, mom was still here.

Forty-eight hours later, mom was still here.

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It was now Sunday, the third day of mom not eating or drinking, or relying on oxygen to breath. A full week had passed since I first arrived for my unplanned, week-long hospital room camp out, and by this point the doctors, nurses, my friends and I were more amused than shocked by mom's blatant unwillingness to give in to death.

Her close friend Brian made the comment that watching her die was like having a fight with her: she always had to have the last word. But being that mom and I are equally stubborn, my response to that was, 'Well if she's going for 7, I'll go for 8!' I am my mother's daughter after all :)

On day 7 the doctor wisely stopped suggesting when mom would pass as it was clear that mom was going to be doing things on her own time, even if only to spite us all;) The doctor was amazed at the power of such a little woman, especially since mom had 'enough meds in her to sedate a small elephant' (as the doctor put it).

Even so, just 2 hours before she passed, mom had enough strength and energy to try to escape her bed for about the hundredth time in 5 days while pushing Brian (a 245 pound man) hard enough to make him lose his balance!

Yep, that would be my mother. Feisty, strong and stubborn...and always ready to fight. Gotta love it;)

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♥ THE STORY OF US ♥


On July 11, 2009, when mom found out the cancer had spread to her brain (click here to read about that experience), she finally had the wake up call her soul had been longing for all these years. Things finally began to click for her and her priorities shifted accordingly. She dropped all the anger, bitterness and resentment that she had carried around inside her for most of her life. She actively sought healing with her daughter and granddaughter, which included a heartfelt letter to me in July.

As a result of this, we finally came together and became the kind of family I had longed for all my life. It was a dream come true to have a mom that could encourage, support and commend me. A mom who was happy to be around me. A mom who could tell me how proud she is of the woman I've become, the mother I am to Paige and the work that I do in this world.

I finally had a mom I wanted to spend time with, confide in, and make proud. The icing on the cake was when mom told me that I broke the cycle. I already knew that of course-it was my main goal in life-but to have my mother acknowledge that fact was absolutely incredible.

Two months out of 33 years is certainly not a lot, but it was enough to make up for all that wasn't there beforehand. We had our chance to express, to apologize, to forgive. We made our peace with one another because it was time. And I'm so proud of both of us. So what's not to be happy about?

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This is why I choose to celebrate my mom's life and spirit instead of mourning the disintegration of her body. No funeral, just a fabulous dinner and a night of dancing in honour of this feisty creature:) Why not? She may not have been able to complete her list, but there's no reason why I can't take over for her. Let us note that she had wanted a slumber party with me, and she not only got one, she got 7!!!

She wanted dancing, so I brought the party to her in the form of her favourite oldies station on my daughter's borrowed radio. Mom grooved with most of our guests during her last week, wiggling her body and sometimes even singing along.

She wanted to become a CERTIFIED DIVA (a mircale in itself) and had even registered for my September DIVA class (which was scheduled to begin the week I was at the hopsital with her), a class that is meant for those who are ready for the next step, with my role being somewhat of a midwife, helping others to transition from the old to the new as painlessly as possible, with immense love, support and guidance along the way. So I'd say that mom got the most in-depth DIVA experience to date!!! WOOT!!!

She also dreamed of me dedicating a book to her some day, and of her life story being published so that others could know the pain of her depression and the depth of her suffering. I can help with the first part, but I cannot help with the second-not in the way she had envisioned at least.

Instead of focusing on the horrid details of her life (and trust me, I know many of them, and they truly are devastating), I choose to focus on on the beauty of a spirit rising above such pain, and the absolute power inherent in all of us, a power so strong that it allowed this once bitter and angry woman to release it all so that she could make ammends and make the most of her remaining days on earth. Way to go mom! xox

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It is a multi-layered phenomenon, watching and supporting someone you love as they transition from this world to this next, but it doesn't have to be viewed with such sorrow. There is certainly a time for tears, a time for grief, and a time for longing for more, but when all is said and done, you still have those moments you shared, the wisdom you gained and the beauty you created.

After experiencing death first-hand, I truly believe that life and death are equally beautiful, perfectly natural and integral to one another, and am disheartened that our culture views death as something separate, sad, negative and scary. Have we all made ourselves immune to the reality that our bodies will also cease to function some day? Are we that afraid to think about it, talk about it, sit beside it and embrace it? Death is absolutely natural. Why ignore that fact?

I think it's because as humans we naturally fear what we don't understand. And it's no wonder that we (by living in a culture that values youth, external beauty and life at the exclusion of aging, inner beauty and death) have been raised to fear the one thing none of us are exempt from. Death.

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I think that much of the pain we suffer when someone dies, stems from all that remained unsaid, undone, unresolved. So given the fact that mom and I had the chance to resolve things and say what needed to be said, I didn't have that sense of regret, loss or incompleteness that most people would if someone they loved died unexpectedly, without having the chance to make ammends.

I felt a genuine sense of happiness, peace and freedom when I knew my mother had moved on. It was a full circle experience that final week of her life, which is the reason I can feel at peace with our relationship as well as her death.

People have said to me, 'I'm so sorry for your loss', not knowing that I only gained from this experience. What is it that I would have lost exactly? Time with her? We already spent it. More memories together? We had plenty, most of which I'd rather forget. My mother? Are you kidding? She is still here, inside me. Only now we have a fantastic relationship and we never fight:) I love it!

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It wouldn't be true for me to fall into a false nostalgia, thinking only of great moments with mom because to be quite honest, up until July of this year there weren't that many. My intention is not to dishonour her or negate her role in my life. I'm just tellin' it like it is.

Mom did the very best she could with what she had been given. We're all doing the best we can by the light we have to see by. And I truly believe I was meant to be part of that family, that dysfunction, those struggles, in order to gain the strength, wisdom, experience and clarity necessary to effectively help and guide others through their own darkness. In a sense, my mom is the reason I am so good at the work that I do. And that I can be grateful for.

For those of us who have had painful relationships with our parents, we need to give ourselves permission to see and feel things differently than those who came from families that were more in tact. We need to find the gift of the particular family our soul chose to learn from. And we need to leave the victim role behind and use the adversity as it was meant to be used: for our own growth and increased self-awareness.

Not every family is connected, and not every parent-child relationship is a positive one. So what. When the blind is leading the blind, what else can you expect?

Your role is not to judge those who cannot see. Your job is to be the one who can.

In my family, I chose to be awake. Of course it was painful but it was necessary. How else was I going to give my daughter and I the life we deserved? If I simply accepted what I was given, what I was told, what someone else thought I should think, say do or be, then I'd still be where I was, repeating the same things that never worked in the first place.

I rocked the boat and risked it all, but it was more than worth it. When I look at my daughter I see a young lady who is secure in who she is, a being who is happy, centered, compassionate and kind, and a mini me who has the ability to think for herself and the permission to act on her own truth. What could be better than that?

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I am extremely grateful that mom and I were finally able to come together as a family before it was too late, and I feel so honoured to have been her caretaker during her final week of life. People are commending me on my strength, yet I could not have offered mom as much as I did had I not been fully supported by those who love me.

I did not endure that week alone, even when it was only me in the room. I was continually surrounded by a circle of kindred spirits (both friends and family) who offered themselves selflessly to this event. The universe perfectly orchestrated every player so that all of my true needs, as well as my mother's, were taken care of at every moment. Gotta love that too!

Nothing, not even my mom's passing, can reduce or steal the blessed week we shared as her body prepared for death and her soul prepared for its ultimate freedom. I received one of the greatest gifts of my life while living with my mom during her final week, and I wouldn't trade any bit of it.

I believe that there are no mistakes or missed chances. I believe that no matter where you are at any given moment, that that is exactly where you're meant to be. And I believe that whomever is in your life right now, in the room with you right now, in your heart right now, well, that is as it as it's meant to be as well. The universe loves to put people together for everyone's highest good.

Mom and I came together so effortlessly at the end because it was what both of our souls needed in order to be free...from the pain, the resentment, the anger, the past. We let it all go, together, and that is something to celebrate. Hooray for us!

I will end with a short dialogue that mom and I shared before she passed. She did not speak much during her final days, but she managed to say this to me:


Mom: I love peace. Do you love peace?

Me: Yes I do.

Mom: Did you find it?

Me: Yes I did.

Mom: I didn't.

Me: You will.


And she did.


With love and immense gratitude for every moment shared, lived and remembered,

Mandy


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♥ CELEBRATION DETAILS: MAMA'S GROOVE ♥

No, there will not be a funeral. I've never been to one but I imagine they're quite depressing. Instead I welcome you to join me in celebrating my mother's spirit and her love of dancing this Friday, September 25th at Starlight on King Street in uptown Waterloo between 11pm and 2am. We'll be dancing to the sounds of funk, soul, old school and the like, because that's what mom loved to groove to. So let's dance like there's ants in our pants and celebrate the gift of life, the transition of death and the beauty of the human spirit.

Peace.

TIM TEBOW: MY FUTURE HUSBAND

If I ever become the marrying kind I will marry Tim Tebow. Granted I've never met the guy, but I'm not one to quibble over insignificant details.

I recently became aware of Tim Tebow when I read a GQ article called 'Does God Have a Tim Tebow Complex?'. I loved it so much that I googled more of Tim to see what this guy is all about. I was fascinated by what he has already accomplished in his mere 22 years, and am absolutely impressed by his strength of character. He embodies the qualities I most admire in anyone: Faith. Passion. Dedication. Committment. Integrity. Honour.

Here is a compilation of Tim Tebow's awesomeness that I gathered from the GQ article and Wikipedia. It's easy to see why the world is taking notice of this young buck.

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*He plays quarterback for the Florida Gators.

*He was born in the Phillipines on August 14, 1987 to a Christian missionary family and returns each year to preach and help those in need.

*He was home schooled.

*He’s a virgin. That’s right. He’s saving himself for marriage. Maybe I won't mention my daughter when we meet. And I'll delete my post on polyamory and make sure he never gets his hands on a copy of my book. I also won't mention what I really think of marriage-or religion.

*He doesn’t swear and doesn't like when others do. Shit. There goes my engagement ring.

*He is a man of God, a man of his word, a man of honour, a man of integrity. He actually waited for a fan whose camera batteries had died. While the fan got batteries from the car, Tebow not only waited, but did so even after his own friends had left. Not only that, but he gave the fan his phone number so that he could sign the picture after it was developed.

*He won the HEISMAN as a sophomore. He is the first to do so.

*He is going for his THIRD NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP in four years.

*He racked up ninety-seven TDs in the past two seasons.

*He broke Emmitt Smith’s school record for rushing touchdowns. Emmitt Smith, one of the greatest running backs in the history of the NFL.

*He won the Maxwell Award as the nation's top football player.

*He won the Davey O'Brien Award as the nation's best quarterback.

*He won the James E. Sullivan Award as the nation's most outstanding amateur athlete in any sport.

*He was considered one of the nation’s top recruits and was the subject of an ESPN “Faces in Sports” documentary. The segment was titled "Tim Tebow: The Chosen One".

*He takes ownership of himself and his team. And yes, he even apologizes...in public. See here.

*He’s really cute.

*Like really cute.

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Tim Tebow is a role model to so many. Boys want to be him. Men strive to be like him. Ladies dream to marry him. And I just wanna kiss him.

He inspires me to be a better person. So much so that I'm seriously considering kicking my swearing habit. I'm not even sure why. I love to swear. The F word is my favourite. I'm addicted to words-all words, so maybe I take it back. Fuck it.

Rock on Tim Tebow. See you at the wedding.

MY FRAGILE HEART

Today is not a day I feel I can be inspiring, poetic or eloquent, but it is a day I am willing to share with you, in the hopes that my experience and openness might soothe a heart in the future.

Admittedly, things are rough. Mom is nearing 2 weeks in the hospital now and is understandably sick of her stay. She wants to be at home. She's weary from the cancer, from the drugs, and all the sleepless nights. She sleeps sitting up because she's afraid she'll lose her breath while lying down. She has witnessed two deaths since she's been in, which only reminds her of her own immortality. More radiation last week, more chemo this week, to ease her pain and slow down the process. She's tired, lonely and uncomfortable. Who wouldn't be?

On top of that she's angry. None of this is fair, really. She wants to be at home, in her own bed, surrounded by the things she enjoys. She's sick of the food, the sore back, the strangers, the small talk. She's sick of keeping her spirits up, which is the hardest thing to witness. When one loses hope, what's left?

I am told to be strong for her, yet I am also relying on others to be strong for me. I need support to support my mother, and thankfully I am getting lots of it. I do not feel alone, and I know I am cared for, but grief is a solo journey and no one can truly prepare for a loved one's death. It's one thing to do the paperwork and tend to the details, but another thing to wrap your mind and heart around the fact that someone you love and just saw today, will not be here for much longer.

I fear I'm depressing my readers with my posts and status updates on FB (so I delete 1/2 of them minutes after typing them), but I can only do what I've always done-share my truth and trust that my candidness will heal/empower or resonate with another in some way at some time. I've simply never been one to censor myself, and it hurt today to not feel free to share my own frustration with things.

This is my life right now. This is what the universe has bestowed upon me. This is the gift I've been given, and I do not doubt my ability to do what needs to be done.

But it's certainly not easy. The last 2 days have been especially difficult for all of us, as mom's mood has shifted completely. And like most of us do when we're hurt, angry, and afraid, we take it out on those closest to us. Not because we don't care, but because we care very much. She is the one leaving this world in the near future, not us. She is the one stuck in an uncomfortable hospital bed, not us. She is the one relying on others in many ways just to make it through each day and hour, not us.

And it hurts.

And she's angry.

And I get it.

No it's not fun being on the recieving end of someone's frustration. It makes me want to pull away-the exact thing she's most terrified of. I know I don't deserve it, yet I also know this is not who she is. She is more than her pain and I need to find a way to remember this. We are all more than the moments when we are 'off'. We all have them. It's human. And it's okay. Move on.

So this is today's lesson I suppose. It's about acknowledging what's going on in my world, about allowing myself and another to be human, to fall apart, to lose it, and hopefully find a way to return once more to love. It's not easy, but it's life.

I'll end this post with 3 passages from Marianne Williamson's A Return To Love: Reflections On A Course In Miracles, as they helped to remind me tonight that when it is not love, it's a call for love and therefore, love is the only response.

With a fragile heart today,

Mandy


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All negativity derives from fear. When someone is angry, they are afraid. When someone is rude, they are afraid. When someone is manipulative, they are afraid. When someone is cruel, they are afraid. There is no fear that love does not dissolve. There is no negativity that forgiveness does not transform. Darkness is merely the absence of light, and fear is merely the absence of love.

Only love is real. Nothing else actually exists. If a person behaves unlovingly, then, that means that, regardless of their negativity-anger or whatever-their behavior was derived from fear and doesn’t actually exist.

When someone has behaved unlovingly-when they yell at us, or lie about us, or steal from us-they have lost touch with their essence. They have forgotten who they are. But everything that someone does is either ‘love or the call for love’. If someone treats us with love, then of course love is the appropriate response. If they treat us with fear, we are to see their behavior as a call for love.

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Love, love, love.

PAIN, JOY AND SORROW

As some of you might know, my mom was diagnosed with brain cancer last month. I wrote a post about it at the time that you can read here. Well I recently returned home early from a cottage getaway after finding out that mom was in the hospital, where she remains right now. Prognosis is not good. I was an emotional wreck yesterday and I felt like crawling into a hole. My phone was dead for much of the day so I couldn't call the friends I needed, but received immense love and support through my friends on Facebook. God I love FB when I don't hate it;) My inbox was filled with stories and support from those who have gone through this experience before, sharing their wisdom and strength with me so that I could get through the day and not feel so alone. It truly helped me in my time of need and I genuinely felt like the most loved human on the planet.

The universe is spoiling me with love right now.

So, for those of you who may be in a similar situation, facing the inevitable loss of someone you love, here is a passage from Kahlil Gibran's The Prophet, sent to me by a beautiful spirit who has recently entered my life to bring me healing through Reiki. Thanks for sending this my way Danielle.

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From The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran


Pain


And a woman spoke, saying, "Tell us of Pain."

And he said:

Your pain is the breaking of the shell that encloses your understanding.

Even as the stone of the fruit must break, that its heart may stand in the sun, so must you know pain.

And could you keep your heart in wonder at the daily miracles of your life, your pain would not seem less wondrous than your joy;

And you would accept the seasons of your heart, even as you have always accepted the seasons that pass over your fields.

And you would watch with serenity through the winters of your grief.

Much of your pain is self-chosen.

It is the bitter potion by which the physician within you heals your sick self.

Therefore trust the physician, and drink his remedy in silence and tranquillity:

For his hand, though heavy and hard, is guided by the tender hand of the Unseen,

And the cup he brings, though it burn your lips, has been fashioned of the clay which the Potter has moistened with His own sacred tears.


Joy and Sorrow


Then a woman said, "Speak to us of Joy and Sorrow."

And he answered:

Your joy is your sorrow unmasked.

And the selfsame well from which your laughter rises was oftentimes filled with your tears.

And how else can it be?

The deeper that sorrow carves into your being, the more joy you can contain.

Is not the cup that hold your wine the very cup that was burned in the potter's oven?

And is not the lute that soothes your spirit, the very wood that was hollowed with knives?

When you are joyous, look deep into your heart and you shall find it is only that which has given you sorrow that is giving you joy.

When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight.

Some of you say, "Joy is greater than sorrow," and others say, "Nay, sorrow is the greater."

But I say unto you, they are inseparable.

Together they come, and when one sits alone with you at your board, remember that the other is asleep upon your bed.

Verily you are suspended like scales between your sorrow and your joy.

Only when you are empty are you at standstill and balanced.

When the treasure-keeper lifts you to weigh his gold and his silver, needs must your joy or your sorrow rise or fall.

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"The deeper that sorrow carves into your being, the more joy you can contain." Absolutely beautiful.

THE ETHICAL SLUT: POLYAMORY EXPOSED

Now before you get your panties in a knot (or your knickers in a twist), hear me out.

Although monogamy is the expected and accepted form of relating sexually to one another in our mainstream culture, we all know there are countless people who do not practice it or even give a damn about it. I'm not talking about those who cheat on their lovers (I'll leave it to someone else to talk about the dynamic of choosing not to be honest with a partner. I can't relate), I'm talking about the choice to have multiple partners within the context of an open and respectful arrangement that ALL parties are made aware of, so that they are free to choose (or not choose) to engage. Yep, I'm talking about polyamory.

Now I understand why some of you might feel very uncomfortable with such a topic. It threatens our sense of what's 'right', it threatens our idea that there is only one person for everyone, and even considering the idea naturally makes most of us fear the loss of someone special in our lives.

Not only that, but polygamy has certainly gotten a bad rap over the years with news stories about religious sects in which the men had many lovers/wives, but the women did not have the same freedom. I'm not talking about that. Again, I'm talking about a mutual agreement that honours everyone involved, that does not infringe on anyone's rights, that affords equal freedom to all parties, and is based on mutual respect.

So, after receiving letters and emails from readers of my second book The Poet & The Butterfly, many of whom could not comprehend the dynamic that Keveen and I shared, I think it's time for me to shed some light on the situation (you can read the first 3 pages of this book by clicking on the previous link).

Keveen and I shared something rare, beautiful and the envy of countless hearts: a spontaneous love without limits. Our unscripted, ephemeral and passionate exchange was based on granting one another complete freedom, in ALL areas, because for both of us at the time, it was only natural. It was easy to offer one another the freedom we most enjoyed and wanted for ourselves. We were seemingly cut from the same cloth, and found immense pleasure in knowing that a spirit as free as our own, existed somewhere in the world.

It was a whirlwind romance, more poetic than physical, but it left some people wondering how I could be fine knowing how Keveen chose to share himself with others, as opposed to being with only me. I found it interesting that no one asked how he could be fine with my choice to not be with him exclusively. This is the double standard at work. It really blows my mind.

It's culturally expected and accepted that the man should play the field and the woman should be pining for exclusivity, yet this has never been my experience. If anything the reverse it true. I meet many men who desire a monogamous, longterm relationship with that special someone, only to be heartbroken when the object of their affection is unable to reciprocate these feelings.

What I learned from my readers is that Keveen's behaviour is excused ("he's just being French", "he's just being a man"), even admired and sought after (I dare you to find ONE woman who was not smitten with Keveen by the end of the book), while I'm the one being interrogated by well-meaning individuals (especially female readers) who simply can't grasp why, after such an extraordinary love affair, I was not heartbroken afterwards, why I did not follow him back to France, why it was not my goal to 'settle down' with him after the fact (because as you all know, that's EVERY woman's dream, right? To live happily ever after with just one man).

Right.

Some women want this. Some women don't. Some men want to bed many. Some men don't. It's not about what's right or wrong here. It's about personal choice. We can want different things. It's okay. The world won't end if she's shagging 10 guys this month or he's saving his virginity for his one and only. Who cares? It's all good. And it's really none of your business. Take care of yourself and leave others to do the same.

The double standard we all seem to blindly accept in this culture (that a man is King when he scores and a woman is a slut when she does) is something I've never understood. We're all human. We all have needs, and it's our responsibility to find ways to get those needs met in a way that honours each person involved.

I'm certainly not knocking monogamy. I think it's great for those who enjoy and value it. Nor am I promoting polyamory. I think it takes highly developed skills in communication, incredible self-awareness and a willingness to face some very uncomfortable feelings to succeed in such a dynamic, all of which are not recommended for the faint of heart.

What I am doing is asking you to expand your mind, to question the status quo and to be courageous enough to think for yourself. I'm also asking you to do things based on your truth, instead of accepting what you've been told is true, right, acceptable, ethical.

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We each own ourselves...we each have the responsibility of living our lives, determining our individual needs and arranging to get those needs met. If you like yourself, love yourself, and take care of yourself, your other relationships can arrange themselves around you, as perfectly as crystals.

Good relationship skills and high ethics don't mean you get to be with the same partner forever and ever. Relationships change, people grow out of them, people change. They may acquire new desires, new dreams.

(From The Ethical Slut by Dossie Easton & Catherine A. Liszt)

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It's your life. It's your body. It's your heart. It's your mind. What will you do with these gifts?

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POST SCRIPT: If you'd like more mental stimulation on this topic, I suggest you check out the following blogpost Polygamy vs Monogamy by a musician friend of mine, as it looks at the idea of tantric relationships and how they aid in spiritual development. You will also be able to read my comment in response to it.

THE TRUST PROCESS

This awesome note is circulating around FB right now and it is exactly what I needed to read today, so I'm passing it along in case it resonates with you as well. It's written by Fia Crandall, and it is about learning how to trust the universe even (and especially) when we have yet to see the results we're after.


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THE TRUST PROCESS

Change is a part of life, particularly if you have chosen to be on a path of spiritual growth. And even for those of us on this challenging yet rewarding path, change is not always as easy as we would like it to be. If you are faced with a more difficult change in your life right now, this article will help you remember to trust the process. To trust life despite outward appearances and the fearful pictures that can come to mind at a time like this.

Being on the path of spiritual growth usually involves taking responsibility for your life and being the creator of your life. What you actually are is the co-creator of your life and that's where trust comes into play. And this is where change can become a more joyful experience.

On your path of spiritual growth, the path of being the creator of your life, I am sure you have at some point chose to create a new, more joyful and fulfilling reality.

To help illustrate what it means to trust the process, let's say this intention is much, much bigger than what you've been experiencing as reality until now.

In other words, lets say this intention is a big CHANGE for you to go from where you are and how you're feeling now, to where you are going and how you'll feel when you are living that new reality.

The Universe picks up on the energy of that desire, it sees the best possible, most fulfilling and pleasing outcome for you and starts lining things up to make it happen.

And when you set a new intention like that, and when you do your part in helping manifest it, such as visualizing, and taking time to focus on the new life you are creating, you are playing your part in this co-creative process. But what you don't see is the other side of the co-creative process. You don't see all the wonderful and amazing things that begin to happen behind the scenes.

Your intention created a preferred direction for your life. It set up an energy and with each alignment with that energy, it is given more power.

The Universe, the powerful organizing force behind creation, begins to orchestrate the fulfillment of your desire. It begins to set up the potentials of all that needs to take place in order for it to become your reality.

The people you need to meet, the book you need to read, the words you need to hear on the TV, the inner transformation that needs to happen... all of this, perfectly orchestrated by the Universe behind the scenes. This is an absolutely incredible process that we only get to see glimpses of now and then as our desires manifest into physical reality.

As you do your part in this co-creative process, all this is happening behind the scenes.

So what does this have to do with change and trust?

Now imagine that you've been focusing on manifesting your desire for some time, the Universe has been naturally playing it's role to the point where now you start to see things happening in your life.

Suddenly situations are turning upside down, what was once your stable foundation appears to be dissolving right before you.

The natural response... fear. "Oh, no! Things are really getting out of control! What is happening to me? Why are such bad things happening?"

This is where trust comes in.

Remember that wonderful, big new intention you set? This is the Universe shifting and changing what needs to change in order for your intention to be your reality.

Say your intention you've been working on is to make lots and lots of money, then you get fired.

Does this mean bad things are happening, nothing is going right? NO!

It means you need to leave your job in order to create this new intention.

The Universe gives you exactly what you need. Always. It is only us that forget that and get into the fear mode. But we don't need to.

If you find yourself in a time of immense change, look back and see what you've been focusing on manifesting.

How might this change you're going through, be bringing you closer to it?

And how about you surrender to the wisdom of the Universe? To surrender control and to choose to trust life, to trust the process you are in.

Remember the Universe is in charge of the "how". These big, crazy changes that can happen are all the Universe moving forward with it's "how".

And you know what? You most likely would not have chosen this how with your logical mind. You say, "I would have done this or that."

But what I've come to learn on this path is that whatever "how" I would have come up with, and whatever situations I would have picked to match my desire, are far, far less fulfilling and joyful, less spectacular and amazing than what the Universe has ever given me.

So why not trust? Trust the Divinity that IS wisdom, that sees the bigger picture of your life and is working for you. This love that is the other half of the co-creative process.

And when you start to see some crazy things happening in your life and change is at your door, you can know what is really going on.

You are being taken to the life you have been dreaming of. You can remember it is your job to be willing to take the actions you're being called to take. Remember that you actually created this and that it is a good thing. Maybe you didn't create the "how", but you chose the desire of your heart. And the Universe lovingly and carefully created the "how" that is in front of you for you to take. Trust life.

Especially on this path of spiritual growth and creating your most fulfilling life. Resisting life will only cause pain and unnecessary stress.

Trust life. Trust the Universe. Know that you can't see it all right now, you don't see the big picture but the Universe does. Trust in this incredible process and these times of change can be truly joyful and ease-filled.

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What an incredible reminder to us all! I LOVE IT!!!!

A RETURN TO LOVE

I'd like to introduce you to one of my favourite books of all-time, A Return To Love: Reflections on a Course in Miracles by Marianne Williamson. After 5 years my book is faded, dog-eared, scribbled in and is still my go-to book for all things spiritual.

Marianne has a gift for outlining the many ways we can transform our lives and our hearts, simply by changing our perception from fear to love. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is struggling in any way, as well as to those who would like to be gently reminded that peace is something you give to yourself; it has absolutely nothing to do with your circumstances or those around you.

I will leave you with an excerpt from her chapter on Relationships, as it beautifully encapsulates the idea that often our greatest teachers are the ones who push our buttons the most :) We might hate it (or them) but it really is for our highest good ;)


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From A Return to Love:

Just because someone has a lot to teach us, doesn’t mean we like them. People who have the most to teach us are often the ones who reflect back to us our own capacity to love, those who consciously or unconsciously challenge our fearful positions. They show us our walls. Our walls are our wounds-the places where we feel we can’t love any more, can’t connect any more deeply, can’t forgive past a certain point. We are in each other’s lives in order to help us see where we most need healing, and in order to help us heal.

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So next time someone gets on your nerves, don't react. Simply go within for a while. Pay attention to the emotions that are welling up inside, and realize that it's ALL inside YOU. They did not create it. YOU did. Therefore, you have the power to face it, transmute it and move on. Now THAT'S power!

THE DREAM LIST

As promised in my post THE BITCH LIST, I am going to tell you about its counterpart, THE DREAM LIST.

The title is self-explanatory. It’s a list of all your dreams, big and small, contained on a piece of paper for easy reference. As with THE BITCH LIST, I keep my DREAM LIST on my fridge so that I am regularly reminded of where I’m headed. Out of sight; out of mind, as they say. So I like to keep it handy.


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THE DREAM LIST is about imagining your life without any limits. It’s your time to play, to dream, to return to a place in your heart where absolutely anything is possible. The time before someone squashed your dreams, before life took its toll, before society conditioned you to simply accept what you’re given.

THE DREAM LIST is the urging of your authentic self. It is your roadmap to the things that will make your heart sing and move your soul to dance. It is your lifeline to what really matters to you, when the busyness of life tempts you to forget what you were put on this earth for.

THE DREAM LIST is permission to be more than the titles you’ve been given. You are more than a mother, a father, a child, an employee, an artist, a partner or friend. You are beyond anything anyone has ever seen and you are capable of things you cannot even imagine yet! That’s why it is essential to free your mind, at least for an hour, so that you can tap into that part of yourself that is longing to be born, freed, celebrated and nurtured. Of course you can take pride in your various ‘roles’ in your world, but also know that these do not define you. They do not complete you. Your spirit is so much more than can be measured or named.

THE DREAM LIST is unlimited. Imagine having all the money, time, people, things, energy, motivation and/or other resources you could ever need or want. Now, imagine what you could do, be, create with all of these things, and write them down!!! Life is a buffet, filled with countless extraordinary gifts and experiences that we have yet to claim, simply because we cannot see HOW we will achieve these things. We don’t bother asking because we honestly believe our dreams are too big, it’s too late and/or we don’t have enough of this or that. Our deepest desires may seem so far away, even impossible, but I’m here to tell you that it is absolutely impossible to desire a thing that is not meant for you. Your yearning is your direction. It will take you to the place you need to be. Claim it, and let the universe figure out the quickest and easiest way to deliver your dreams to you.

THE DREAM LIST is your gift to this world. We need more happy and fulfilled humans on this planet, so do your part. It is also a gift to your children, if you have any or plan to some day. Carl Jung once wrote that the greatest burden we could ever lay on a child is the unlived life of the parent. I agree. The more fulfilled I am, the better I am as a parent. The less work my daughter will need to do when she grows up. I take care of my life (which includes all the junk as well) so that my child can be free to tend to hers. I believe I owe it to the world, my child and myself to follow my dreams and live the kind of life I’ve always dreamed of. If I don’t do it, who will? I’m the only me I’ve got.

THE DREAM LIST might ruffle a few feathers. So I suggest you keep it to yourself. Or, if you do want to share it, be very, very wise about whom you choose to share it with. Many dreams have been aborted because they were shared prematurely. You cannot afford this risk. We all would like to believe that those closest to us will be supportive of our heart’s desire, but unless those closest to you are already living the life of their dreams and are sharing a similar path with you, you run the risk of receiving their criticism, mockery, or even anger towards your new outlook, and you risk believing, yet again, that it would be wiser (and easier) to settle for less than the life you deserve.

Some people will not get excited about the fact that you are finally reclaiming the dreams you’ve neglected for years, and this is why:

1. Your courage to do what they cannot do is a threat. If they are not happy in their own lives, how can they be happy for you? It hurts to see another move to levels we fear to tread ourselves. Envy breeds contempt. But know this: envy is also a signpost along the way. We envy things we wished we had, and already have, but have yet to develop. Therefore, you may as well say thank you for any slack you receive from others, because it’s not personal, it’s about them, not you, and it only means you’re actually doing something pretty awesome to have gotten such a strong response.

2. When you change the people around you will have to change as well, and generally, people hate change and will do or say anything to get things back to the way they were. So maybe consider these questions: Who is invested in your unhappiness? Who benefits by you refusing to do the things that bring you joy? Who will mourn for your unlived dreams? Who will hand them to you on a silver platter? What are you waiting for?

You deserve to be happy, even if those around you are not. Being happy and at peace is our natural state, so if you don’t feel these things, it’s up to you to do the work necessary to realign yourself.

THE DREAM LIST is not set in stone. It can change from day to day, week to week, year to year. It grows right along with you. New things inspire us and are therefore added to the list. Old things no longer motivate us so they are taken off the list. We cross the things off that we have already achieved, and we celebrate each new victory along the way.

THE DREAM LIST works. A few years ago I came across a class handout I filled in when I was in grade school. It asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. And you know what I wrote? Almost 25 years ago? God. I wanted to be God when I grew up. And almost 25 years later, I still feel right on track ;)

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So now it’s time to get to work. It’s time to do your part and reconnect with the vibrant child within that grew up wanting to be president, to rule the world, to have 100 babies or 30 pink unicorns. It’s time to want what you want without shame, guilt or apology. Make it your goal to write down 100 things you want to do before your time is up, and do something small every day that will take you closer to any one of them. Be the inspiration of those around you.

Rock on.

RED WINE & POPCORN

Today I had the pleasure of spending a few glorious and inspired hours with fellow author, Laurie Soper. I first met Laurie in 2006 after my first book (Wake Up! This is Your Life) was released, and shortly after I got my hands on a copy of her thought-provoking book, Red Wine & Popcorn: Doing Business Like A Bohemian.

I could not put this book down! It is not only informative and cutting edge, but it is also witty and personal. I consider it my business Bible if you will, as her view of the world and business is SOOOO unconventional and forward-thinking. She shakes up any ideas you have about how to make money, how to start and thrive in business, and even squashes age-old beliefs about savings and investments. I love her outlook, I love her spirit and I really love her ability to put into words the way I think, live and conduct my own business.

Laurie challenges the way you think, both in her book and in person, and she is the go-to gal for inspiration and direction in business. I urge you to check her out and I leave you with an excerpt from Red Wine & Popcorn:


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Making A Loving

If you're just starting out, you might think your success, or even your niche, depends on your level of expertise. Think again.

Yes, you should be among the best in your field. You should be confident nobody provides a better product than you do, nobody can replace you by providing a better service. But how do you gain and retain, the best clients?

If you think it comes down to expertise, think again. It comes down to building relationships with people. It comes down to being yourself. It comes down to engaging with your clients with integrity and verve, so they enjoy your company and miss you when you're not around, so they're always happy to see you.

Yes, I have a radical view of true professionalism. I call it making a loving. In a way, when you share yourself, you are loving someone. Yes, in very real ways, I am loving my clients. As Kahlil Gibran writes, work is love made visible.

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And to that I say, HELL YEAH!!!!!!!

THE BITCH LIST

The BITCH LIST is my newest creation. I welcome you to join the fun :)

While teaching my LEVEL 2 DIVA CLASS this week, I asked the ladies to write down every single thing they could think of in their life as it is right now, that is unfinished, irritating or overwhelming. Things they wished were different. Things they keep putting off. Things they complain about. Things that are holding them back. Things that if completed, removed or changed, would make them walk a bit taller, feel a bit lighter, and gain a sense of control in their lives.

None of us had any difficulties filling that list, especially me! By the following day I completed my list and had written 60 things. My BITCH LIST was loooooong!!!!

Things like: make a dental appt. for my kid, find a way to follow my dancing dream, clean the basement, get the washing machine fixed, resolve things with an ex, pick up the remains from last night’s raccoon visit, pay my library fine, return emails, learn to manage my time and home better, pay off my credit card, spend more time with mom, get my Mac fixed, etc. The list goes on and on and on…

And in writing out my BITCH LIST I realized these things:

1. It’s better to have it on paper than in your head. Things seem more manageable when it can all be contained within a list. Before writing this list, all 60 things were floating around in my head on a daily basis anyways, leaving me feeling overwhelmed and scattered. Where do I even begin???!!! But now that it’s on paper, I begin with one thing a day. That’s manageable, and it makes me feel more in control of my life.

2. THE BITCH LIST will never be empty. I could do this again next year and though the items may have changed, the list will still get filled. The essence of life is change and the nature of living requires having situations to deal with. We can never tidy up every loose end because there will always be more ends to tidy up within the hour/day/week.

3. It’s great to show off your BITCH LIST. I keep this list handy (mine is on my fridge) so I can refer to it daily and as mentioned above, tackle one item per day or week and cross it off in RED for added effect! Then I can feel good knowing that I’m actively working towards changing the things in my life that are causing me grief.

4. A BITCH LIST is fun to share with friends. I shared this idea with my friend Kristy and she immediately wrote her own BITCH LIST. Not only that, she decided to help me do some of the things on my list and by the end of her visit I had scratched off 5 things!!!!!! WOOOT!!!

5. THE BITCH LIST is NOT about focusing on the negative. It’s about getting real with ourselves and being willing to face our lives and do what needs to be done.

6. THE BITCH LIST offers immense freedom to focus on what really matters in life. When our minds are not consumed with this unending list, we can relax and focus on the things that make us feel awesome. We know what we need to do and we know it will get done…eventually, but in the meantime, we’re gonna have some fun!

7. THE BITCH LIST just sounds cool. That’s more than reason enough to try it.

8. THE BITCH LIST works. It invokes immediate change, and the resources necessary to manifest it. (See #4)

9. THE BITCH LIST is quick and easy. As if you couldn’t come up with 10 things in the next 5 minutes that you’d like to scratch off your list by tomorrow :)

10. THE BITCH LIST goes hand in hand with the Dream List, which I will share with you in an upcoming post.


But for now, it's time to git'r done.

SELF-RELIANCE BREEDS WEALTH

This morning I was reading through what's been deemed 'the best-selling success book in history', and what most consider to be the 'money Bible' of both the 20th and 21st century: Napoleon Hill's Think & Grow Rich.

It is nearly impossible to share only one of his ideas here, as the book is laced with immense wisdom and direction for anyone wanting to overcome their fears and rise above their circumstances. This book is not simply about creating financial wealth, it's about creating abundance in all aspects of one's life. It's about learning how to master one's inner world in order to create a prosperous outer one, and its about getting clear on your direction so that you can move steadily towards it.

In the chapter entitled DECISION, Hill illustrates the importance of thinking for yourself, and not allowing the opinions of others to sway your inner knowing and take you off course. He states that you can't accumulate wealth until you learn how to think for yourself. Being able to make your own decisions, therefore, is essential to your financial success. Here's an excerpt from Think & Grow Rich:

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The majority of people who fail to accumulate the money they need are, generally, easily influenced by the opinions of others. They permit gossip, rumors, other people’s opinions, and the news reporters to do their thinking for them. Opinions are the cheapest commodities on earth. Everyone has a flock of opinions they are ready to tell anyone who will listen. If you are too influenced by other people’s opinions when you reach decisions, you will not succeed in any undertaking, much less that of transmuting your own desire into money.

Keep your own counsel. Rely on yourself to reach your own decisions, and follow through on your decisions.

Close friends and relatives, while not meaning to do so, often handicap one through ‘opinions’ and sometimes through ridicule, thinking they are being humorous. Thousands of men and women carry inferiority complexes with them all through life because some well-meaning but ignorant person destroyed their confidence through opinions or ridicule.

You have a brain and mind of your own. Use it, and reach your own decisions. If you need facts or information from others to help you reach your decisions, acquire the facts or information you need quietly, without disclosing your purpose.

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I encourage you to get your hands on a copy of this book. It's filled with many sound ideas that have inspired and enlightened countless people to create wealth in their lives. I also suggest you read the book The One-Minute Millionaire (2 previous posts are dedicated to this fabulous spiritually-centered guide to creating abundance in all areas) for additional inspiration and guidance.

SPIRITUAL PARTNERSHIPS

As I compiled my previous post, I came across a great passage on Gary Zukav's site and found a fantastic description of what a spiritually-centered relationship looks like. I loved it so much so I had to share it. He expresses universal truths so eloquently. Here is the passage:

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A spiritual partnership is a partnership between equals for the purpose of spiritual growth. Spiritual partners use spirituality information from their inner sources, such as their emotions and intuition. They also learn to choose their intentions consciously and how to develop trust in the Universe. Spiritual partnership is a new relationship dynamic in the human experience. It exists for a new multisensory humanity that is being born – a humanity that is not confined to the limitations of what can be seen, heard, touched, tasted, and smelled. You are likely a candidate for creating spiritual partnerships, or you would not be drawn to these words.

Spiritual partnerships are not exclusively for couples in marriage or relationships; they can be created in families, between friends, in the workplace, on sports teams, at school – anywhere two or more individuals decide to create a relationship as equals in order to grow spiritually. For example, among co-workers, even if one is the boss, another is the manager, and others are hourly employees, the commitment of each is to his or her own spiritual growth, although co-workers of different job levels have different responsibilities in the workplace. Their intention to grow spiritually with every interaction rather than blame or judge each other when reactions occur becomes the defining point of their relationship.

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Click HERE to read and learn about the guidelines for creating and maintaining a spiritual partnership with those in your life. As mentioned above, this isn't just for couples. This information and sacred dynamic is for anyone who wants to grow spiritually with another, whether in a family, business or friendship.

TRUE POWER

For many years now, Gary Zukav (author of The Dancing Wu Li Masters, The Seat of the Soul, The Heart of the Soul, to name a few) has been enlightening others on the delicate intricacies of how a soul comes into alignment with itself through the challenges of the personality. We may feel that our addictions, behaviours, needs and insecurities are what hold us back from living an authenic life as a truly empowered being, but this is not the case.

In his book, The Seat of the Soul, Zukav reminds us that it is preceisely those things (our addictions, fears, etc) that are our portals to the realm of spirit. Everything on the physical plane has the potential to take us to the spiritual one; we just need to find a way to remain awake within the illusion. We can do this best by paying attention to our feelings, as they are the greatest indicator of whether or not we are living in love or fear.

In the chapter entitled POWER, Zukav outlines the difference between an empowered and disempowered state of being, and the results of both. Here is an excerpt:


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You are only as powerful as that for which you stand. Do you stand for more money in the bank and a bigger house? Do you stand for an attractive mate? Do you stand for imposing your way of thinking upon others? These are the stands of the personality seeking to satisfy its wants. Do you stand for perfection, for the beauty and compassion of each soul? Do you stand for the power of love and the clarity of wisdom? Do you stand for forgiveness and humbleness? These are the stands of the personality that has aligned itself with its soul. This is the position of a truly powerful personality.

By remaining in your power you do not become a static energy system, one that hoards energy to itself. You become a stable energy system, capable of conscious acts of focus and attention. You become a magnet for those who are illuminated and those who want to be. At issue is the manner in which energy flows from you. When energy leaves you in any way except in strength and trust, it cannot bring back anything to you but pain and discomfort. An authentically empowered human being, therefore, is a human being that does not release its energy except in love and trust.

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So what do you stand for? And how are you releasing your energy today? You get to decide. What will you choose?

CHANGE DEMONS

I recently read The First 30 Days: Your Guide to Any Change by Ariane de Bonoisin, and found it was filled with many great exercises and insights that I have already started implementing into the LEVEL 2 DIVA CLASS, as well as into my own life.

In the book she talks about the 6 Change Demons: fear, doubt, impatience, blame, guilt, and shame, their importance and what they all have in common. Here is an excerpt from chapter 4 (Change Demons) of The First 30 Days:


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We all have a change we would love to make, and many of us are going through a change right now. Yet we still find it difficult to move forward with courage and optimism because we’re held hostage by negative emotions. These disempowering emotions can wreak havoc on our self-esteem, destroying our hope, making it difficult to take action, and keeping us stuck in the past or unable to see future opportunities. But we are not alone: everyone feels these emotions to some extent.

But here’s the good news: these change demons-as I call them-exist to guide us, show us whether we are heading in the right direction. Any discomfort is there to serve us. Instead of dodging, ignoring, or hiding from these emotions, welcome them, and thank them for showing you the way through change.

The change demons (fear, doubt, impatience, blame, guilt, and shame) have a lot in common:

• They help you figure out how you don’t want to feel-and correspondingly, how you do want to feel.

• They are temporary.

• They exist to get you back in alignment with your higher self-the calmer, wiser version of yourself, the part of you that is connected and clear.

• They require you to recognize how you’re feeling and to pick preferable emotions to take their place.

• They each come with a twin emotion that will help you feel better.

• The change demons are an essential part of what I call the change GPS.


The change demons help us navigate through change by alerting us if we are off course and encouraging us to choose a different emotion to help us get to where we want to go. A GPS only asks us two questions: Where are you now? Where do you want to go? Or, in emotional terms: What are you feeling now? What do you want to feel instead? A navigational GPS system needs you to be very specific about where you want to go, and so does the change GPS. Know where you want to end up, and make the destination clear.


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Fantastic! I love it!

LYKKE LI!! TONIGHT! TONIGHT! TONIGHT!

Tonight I am off to see one of my favourite artists, the Swedish goddess, Lykke Li. I am mesmerized by her sound and her beauty, and admire her soulful artistry. She is a reminder to me of what it looks like to keep one's soul intact, despite the crazy world we live in. She has turned down record deals, a dream most artists live to achieve, so that she could do things in her own way and not 'sell out' as she put it. Her Youtube videos are creative. Her look is unique. Her sound is ethereal and I can't wait to see her live tonight!

Post Script: What a fantastic concert!!!!! Lykke friggin rocks live, naturally. She is a sight to behold and her energy and passion is infectious. I danced the night away at The Sound Academy in Toronto (used to be The Docks) to the sounds of her amazing voice and yet another Swedish group, Miike Snow (see pic above), who opened for her. They were stellar as well, and I'm already crushin' on the bearded lead singer. Nice. Check out their song Sylvia, which they recently performed on Jimmy Kimmel. Rock on.

CADILLAC RECORDS

Love this movie. Love the soundtrack. Love Eamonn Walker's performance as Howlin' Wolf. Take a listen here. The movie (based on the true story of the rise of Chess Records) includes a stellar cast: Adrien Brody (Leonard Chess), Jeffrey Wright (Muddy Waters), Mos Def (Chuck Berry), Cedric the Entertainer (Willie Dixon), Gabrielle Union (Muddy's wife), Columbus Short (Little Walter), Beyonce Knowles (Etta James), and of course, the master himself, Eamonn Walker as Howlin' Wolf.

BLACK

Another image from the one and only, Heather Guy.

KLEERUP

Andreas Kleerup is a Swedish record producer, drummer and member of the group The Meat Boys (from Stockholm, Sweden). He has collaborated with notables such as Lykee Li (Until We Bleed), Cyndi Lauper (Lay Me Down) and Robyn (With Every Heartbeat) and is one of my newest addictions. Take a listen here.

SOMETHING TO REMEMBER

The following passage was sent to me by a fellow DIVA. I think it's a great reminder that life's challenges are the gifts that make us who we are and take us to the heights we strive to achieve.

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Be Thankful For...
by Author Unknown


Be thankful that you don't already have everything you desire,
If you did, what would there be to look forward to?

Be thankful when you don't know something
For it gives you the opportunity to learn.

Be thankful for the difficult times.
During those times you grow.

Be thankful for your limitations
Because they give you opportunities for improvement.

Be thankful for each new challenge
Because it will build your strength and character.

Be thankful for your mistakes
They will teach you valuable lessons.

Be thankful when you're tired and weary
Because it means you've made a difference.

It is easy to be thankful for the good things.
A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are
also thankful for the setbacks.

GRATITUDE can turn a negative into a positive.
Find a way to be thankful for your troubles
and they can become your blessings.

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Wonderful! And this message completely coincides with today's Note From the Universe: "So few recognize that when one's life encounters turbulence, choppy waters, or setbacks, it's always a sign that things are about to get wildly better than they've ever been before." This is awesome news! Bring it on, baby!

ORANGE MODEL MANAGEMENT INC.

After years of modelling for friends and independent photographers, I decided to take the plunge and see if I could get paid to look pretty :) Well, I'm happy to say that last week I was offered a one year contract with Orange Model Management Inc. in Toronto and I am more than excited about the possibilities, new experiences and loads of fun I'll be sure to have!

I found the above image on their Facebook Fan Page. Orange Model Management Models are featured in this issue of Fashion China, one of the leading fashion Magazines in China. I think this cover is pretty funky, so I decided to add it here.

LYKKE LI ROCKS!

Lucky me! I just scored 2 tickets for the August 9th Lykke Li concert at The Sound Academy in Toronto! If you aren't familiar with the other-wordly sound of this phenomenal indie artist, take a look and a listen! This is one of my faves, Little Bit (official video) and her performing it live. Can't wait for the show! WOOOOOOOT!!!!!!

WORTH THE READ

Written By Regina Brett, 90 years old, of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland , Ohio

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To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most-requested column I've ever written. My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone....
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
26.. Frame every so-called disaster with these words, 'In five years, will this matter?'
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood.
38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
42. The best is yet to come.
43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
44. Yield.
45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.


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Have a great day!

:)

CAIA KOOPMAN

OOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!! I just LOVE this artist! Check her out!

THE AWAKENING

The following piece has been spreading like wildfire through Facebook and I want to share it here because I think it contains many, many valuable insights, and eloquently puts to words what many of us have experienced in the past, are experiencing in the present, or will no doubt experience in the future.

It is entitled The Awakening and was written by Sonny Carroll.

Enjoy!

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There comes a time in your life when you finally get it ... When in the midst of all your fears and insanity you stop dead in your tracks and somewhere the voice inside your head cries out "ENOUGH! Enough fighting and crying or struggling to hold on." And, like a child quieting down after a blind tantrum, your sobs begin to subside, you shudder once or twice, you blink back your tears and through a mantle of wet lashes you begin to look at the world from a new perspective.

..........This is your awakening.

You realize that it is time to stop hoping and waiting for something or someone to change, or for happiness safety and security to come galloping over the next horizon. You come to terms with the fact that there aren't always fairytale endings (or beginnings for that matter) and that any guarantee of "happily ever after" must begin with you. Then a sense of serenity is born of acceptance.

So you begin making your way through the "reality of today" rather than holding out for the "promise of tomorrow." You realize that much of who you are and the way you navigate through life is, in great part, a result of all the social conditioning you've received over the course of a lifetime. And you begin to sift through all the nonsense you were taught about :

- how you should look and how much you should weigh,
- what you should wear and where you should shop,
- where you should live or what type of car you should drive,
- who you should sleep with and how you should behave,
- who you should marry and why you should stay,
- the importance of bearing children or what you owe your family,

Slowly you begin to open up to new worlds and different points of view. And you begin re-assessing and re-defining who you are and what you really believe in. And you begin to discard the doctrines you have outgrown, or should never have practiced to begin with.

You accept the fact that you are not perfect ,and that not everyone will love appreciate or approve of who or what you are... and that's OK... they are entitled to their own views and opinions. And, you come to terms with the fact that you will never be a size 5 or a "perfect 10".... Or a perfect human being for that matter... and you stop trying to compete with the image inside your head or agonizing over how you compare. And, you take a long look at yourself in the mirror and you make a promise to give yourself the same unconditional love and support you give so freely to others. Then a sense of confidence is born of self-approval.

And, you stop maneuvering through life merely as a "consumer" hungry for your next fix, a new dress, another pair of shoes or looks of approval and admiration from family, friends or even strangers who pass by. Then you discover that it is truly in "giving" that we receive, and that the joy and abundance you seek grows out of the giving. And you recognize the importance of "creating" and "contributing" rather than "obtaining" and "accumulating."

And you give thanks for the simple things you've been blessed with, things that millions of people upon the earth can only dream about - a full refrigerator, clean running water, a soft warm bed, the freedom of choice and the opportunity to pursue your own dreams.

And you begin to love and to care for yourself. You stop engaging in self-destructive behaviors, including participating in dysfunctional relationships. You begin eating a balanced diet, drinking more water and exercising. And because you've learned that fatigue drains the spirit and creates doubt and fear, you give yourself permission to rest. And just as food is fuel for the body, laughter is fuel for the spirit and so you make it a point to create time for play.

Then you learn about love and relationships - how to love, how much to give in love, when to stop giving, and when to walk away. And you allow only the hands of a lover who truly loves and respects you to glorify you with his touch. You learn that people don't always say what they mean or mean what they say, intentionally or unintentionally, and that not everyone will always come through... and interestingly enough, it's not always about you. So, you stop lashing out and pointing fingers or looking to place blame for the things that were done to you or weren't done for you. And you learn to keep your Ego in check and to acknowledge and redirect the destructive emotions it spawns - anger, jealousy and resentment.

You learn how to say "I was wrong" and to forgive people for their own human frailties. You learn to build bridges instead of walls and about the healing power of love as it is expressed through a kind word, a warm smile or a friendly gesture. And, at the same time, you eliminate any relationships that are hurtful or fail to uplift and edify you. You stop working so hard at smoothing things over and setting your needs aside. You learn that feelings of entitlement are perfectly OK and that it is your right to want or expect certain things. And you learn the importance of communicating your needs with confidence and grace. You learn that the only cross to bear is the one you choose to carry and that eventually martyrs are burned at the stake. Then you learn to distinguish between guilt, and responsibility and the importance of setting boundaries and learning to Say NO. You learn that you don't know all the answers, it's not your job to save the world and that sometimes you just need to Let Go.

Moreover, you learn to look at people as they really are and not as you would want them to be, and you are careful not to project your neediness or insecurities onto a relationship. You learn that you will not be more beautiful, more intelligent, more lovable or important because of the man on your arm or the child that bears your name. You learn that just as people grow and change, so it is with love and relationships, and that that not everyone can always love you the way you would want them to. So you stop appraising your worth by the measure of love you are given. And suddenly you realize that it's wrong to demand that someone live their life or sacrifice their dreams just to serve your needs, ease your insecurities, or meet "your" standards and expectations. You learn that the only love worth giving and receiving is the love that is given freely without conditions or limitations. And you learn what it means to love. So you stop trying to control people, situations and outcomes. You learn that "alone" does not mean "lonely" and you begin to discover the joy of spending time "with yourself" and "on yourself." Then you discover the greatest and most fulfilling love you will ever know - Self Love. And so it comes to pass that, through understanding, your heart heals; and now all new things are possible.

Moving along, you begin to avoid Toxic people and conversations. And you stop wasting time and energy rehashing your situation with family and friends. You learn that talk doesn't change things and that unrequited wishes can only serve to keep you trapped in the past. So you stop lamenting over what could or should have been and you make a decision to leave the past behind. Then you begin to invest your time and energy to affect positive change. You take a personal inventory of all your strengths and weaknesses and the areas you need to improve in order to move ahead, you set your goals and map out a plan of action to see things through.

You learn that life isn't always fair and you don't always get what you think you deserve, and you stop personalizing every loss or disappointment. You learn to accept that sometimes bad things happen to good people and that these things are not an act of God... but merely a random act of fate.

And you stop looking for guarantees, because you've learned that the only thing you can really count on is the unexpected and that whatever happens, you'll learn to deal with it. And you learn that the only thing you must truly fear is the great robber baron of all time - FEAR itself. So you learn to step right into and through your fears, because to give into fear is to give away the right to live life on your terms. You learn that much of life truly is a self-fulfilling prophesy and you learn to go after what you want and not to squander your life living under a cloud of indecision or feelings of impending doom.

Then, you learn about money... the personal power and independence it brings and the options it creates. And you recognize the necessity to create your own personal wealth. Slowly, you begin to take responsibility for yourself by yourself and you make yourself a promise to never betray yourself and to never ever settle for less than your heart's desire. And a sense of power is born of self-reliance. And you live with honor and integrity because you know that these principles are not the outdated ideals of a by-gone era but the mortar that holds together the foundation upon which you must build your life. And you make it a point to keep smiling, to keep trusting and to stay open to every wonderful opportunity and exciting possibility. Then you hang a wind chime outside your window to remind yourself what beauty there is in Simplicity.

Finally, with courage in your heart you take a stand, you TAKE a deep breath and you begin to design the life you want to live as best as you can.

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Wonderful!

THE GIFT OF CANCER: INCREASED LOVE

"We spend precious hours fearing the inevitable. It would be wise to use that time adoring our families, cherishing our friends, and living our lives." ~Maya Angelou


On July 11th (when this picture was taken, just 2 weeks ago), I found out that mom has brain cancer. A year ago she was diagnosed with lung cancer, and had the cancerous lung removed this past April after a series of chemotherapy sessions. Sadly, the cancer has spread and the prognosis is not good. The doctors have suggested she has a mere few months to live.

As you can imagine, the news was devastating and we have shed many tears since then, both together and apart. We have also bonded in a way we never could before, which we are both very grateful for. My mom is happy for the first time in her life, and has been spreading love like you wouldn't believe. She is determined to leave this world happy, at peace, and without regrets. Her priorities include tidying up loose ends (paperwork), dealing with any unfinished business (people), and loving her daughter and granddaughter as much as she is able before the time comes.

It has been an emotional time, as you can imagine, but we are getting through it with the help, support and love of those in our lives. So I'd like to thank everyone who has called, written their love on FB, shared their own stories of family members who are currently dealing with cancer, or have died from it, those who have offered their help by taking me to visit mom, lightening her load, and simply listening and caring as I shared and cried.

Mom feels ready to go at any time now that the most important things are taken care of. She has never really feared death, but she did worry about those things she felt she did not accomplish in life, which at the end of your days, becomes painfully important, yet quite irrelevant. The only thing that actually matters in the end is LOVE and this moment. We can't go back but we can be here now. So mom and I consider each day and hour a bonus, something all of us would be wise to do, whether we are sick or not. Death can come at any time, for any of us. May as well live while keeping that knowing close.

It's not the length of life, but the depth of life as they say, and together mom and I are living even more deeply than before. It's been a beautiful experience sharing so much love, so many tears, and countless new moments with the woman who brought me into this world.

I feel grateful that I have always lived in a way that has allowed me to focus on what's truly important in life, but now more than ever I am reminded that all we truly have are moments, and the best way to spend those moments is by sharing love with one another and by sharing our gifts with the world.

When my time comes I won't care about the dishes I left undone, the grey hairs that crept in or the amount of money in my bank account. I will be grateful for the precious hours I spent in love, making love, in awe of life itself. I will remember my Divas, and the beauty of each woman as we grew and discovered and laughed together. I will remember the emails I received from my readers, who felt inspired by my book and my blog, who looked at things a new way or felt reaffirmed when they were about to give up. I'll remember my daughter's grade 8 graduation, when I witnessed the most beautiful girl in the world take the stage, and how I finally could acknowledge to myself that I played a significant role in the balanced, secure and compassionate human she has become.

I will remember the times I laughed till it hurt, like when a cocktail umbrella got lodged in my nose at Dawn's wedding last week :) I'll remember the times I loved so deeply that it brought me to tears. Keveen can attest to that. I'll remember my kitties, the warmth of the sun, my favourite quote and the man of my dreams. I'll remember my friends, and will hopefully be surrounded by them before I go. But even if I'm not, they'll remain in my heart, and if you are one of them reading this right now, know that you have helped shape the person I have become, and that I am so very grateful for your presence in my life.

At the end of my days I won't be counting the number of books I sold, or the number of GODS & DIVAS that came through my doors. I won't be wasting a moment on shit that doesn't matter. I'll be grateful for the lives I have touched while living and sharing my own experiences, and I'll be smiling, maybe crying, but I'll be ready. Because even at 33, I feel I've lived well enough to go out without regrets. I've loved so many and I've stayed true to myself, even when it was easier not to. I wasn't afraid to live or to feel, and this is what I am most proud of.

So if you're reading this right now, tell them you love them, heal old wounds, and remove yourself from things and people that do not add to your life. Laugh, dance and enjoy a good meal. Find out what makes you awesome and let the world have a piece of it. Share the things that inspire you. Make love and lots of it. Fall in love, a hundred times each day. Try again. Cry. Feel the anger so you can move towards peace. Write that letter. Take a nap. Take a walk, and bring a friend. Do whatever the heck you feel like doing, just because you can. Do it for me if you can't do it for you :) Just live and make mistakes like the rest of us. It's what you were born to do.

With all my love during a time when love is the only answer,

Mandy xo

TODDER

First, I'd like to congratulate my dear friend and Certified GOD, Master Todd Donald, on his recent appearance on the cover of ECHO WEEKLY magazine, celebrating the year anniversary of I.R.I.S. with his beautiful co-artist, Carrie! Second, I'd like to invite you to explore Todd's musical talents and tastes through his new TODDER site :) Todd is a gifted musician with a huge heart, stellar humour and the most gorgeous eyes in the world :) Love you babe. xo

ROBE

Here is another beautiful creation from my beloved friend and gifted photographer, Heather Guy. I love the peaceful feeling it exudes. It is from our most recent photoshoot. Thanks so much sweetie! xo

DAD'S KICKASS TATTOO!

At the end of June my Dad and Linda (his lady of 25 years) came for a visit from Calgary. Since I rarely get to see them this was a very special treat, made even more special by the surprise he had for all his girls. Without any of us knowing, Dad got the above tattoo right before setting off to Ontario. When I saw it I cried, as did Linda, and he followed suit. It was a precious moment for the three of us, to say the least. The initials are for his 3 girls (Melanie, Tina and myself), and of course the name of his lady :) It's pretty much the coolest thing I've ever seen, and I felt like the luckiest girl in the world that day :) Love ya Dad! xo

THE GIFT OF DOUBT & CONFUSION

As with every post, this week's message coincides with something that I am presently experiencing. And today that would be doubt and confusion.

I'm in a liminal phase right now, caught between the old (that no longer fits) and the new (that has yet to manifest). I feel out of sorts, like my foundation has crumbled beneath my feet and I don't know where to stand.

I've been here before, many times, and I always make it to the other side unscathed, but being in limbo never feels great to me, and I often spend this time in the pits, with too many thoughts in my head as I try to sort it out and find a way back to the balance I once knew. An impossible feat though, since change is inevitable and living requires constant readjustments to our surroundings.

Thankfully, a friend of mine shared a quote with me today that reminded me of where I was and what was going on. Just reading it helped me get through the rest of the day :)

"Doubt is the greatest gift. It's the space between two certainties. Any change on its way from one place of stability to the next one, passes through a period of doubt. Your old perspective has to disintegrate, and doubt comes in for a visit - even if only for a moment, before the new perspective takes root. Doubt is your greatest gift, because from doubt you can go anywhere."

I love this! These words made me feel like it's time to celebrate, that something beautiful is about to be born, that I am only moments away from my newest reincarnation, and that everything will indeed be okay! Phew!

And here are a few more quotes from my collection, that echo this message:

"Everytime we move to a deeper level of understanding, there is a period of confusion...but each difficult time is rewarded by a real expansion and deepening of awareness." ~Pema Chodron

"Chaos and confusion and uncertainty are the ingredients, the recipe for the emergence of clarity and intuition and order and knowledge and wisdom." ~Deepak Chopra

"For me, doubt means don't. Don't move. Don't answer. Don't rush forward." ~Oprah

Awesome stuff! And for me, doubt means it's time to chillax, because I'm about to become even MORE awesome ;)

WOOT WOOT!

FREEDOM NOW OR NOT AT ALL

Happy Friday my fellow Kings & Queens!

Today's passage is for those of you who believe you cannot be free (and therefore happy) right now, in this very moment, thinking that something needs to be different (whether it's you or a circumstance in your life) before you are able to experience what you most long for.

In my line of work I meet many dissatisfied men and women who feel blocked and unable to experience lasting happiness, who struggle to move forward in their lives for any number of reasons (I'm sure I've heard them all:), which is why they come to me.

Whether it's because of something that has happened in the past, or something that has yet to happen, or because it's 'too late', there's not enough of this or that (money, time, resources), they are too.../not enough...'(you can fill in the blanks) or because someone else is limiting their freedom to be/do/have what they want, most people reject happiness NOW not knowing that happiness, peace and freedom is 100% NOT dependent on ANY of the things they mention.

Interestingly enough, my goal as a spiritual guide is to listen to and acknowledge the person's current reality, while paying it no mind and redirecting the person back to themselves and back to the present moment. I'm of the mindset that were we all centered in that (our source, our truth, ourselves) we'd no doubt be free of our addictions, fears, limiting beliefs, and pain. So, I guess it could be said that the gift I give others is the gift of themselves.

Sadly, most people are out of touch with themselves, disconnected from others and have temporarily forgotten what truly matters in life. My job is simply to bring a person back into alignment, to offer a space for the rediscovery of what was left behind, but what can never be lost.

You are timeless, magnificent, pure and good, regardless of what has happened, what another has said, or what you falsely believe;)

In truth then, being a DIVA/GOD is about being who you are. That's it. Nothing fancy, no smoke and mirrors, no need to 'improve' who you are by nature, just the willingness and courage to pay attention to yourself as you are in this moment. I believe that life is our greatest teacher and that we are the books we were born to study, so therefore, regardless of what day it is, what challenge we are facing, who we are surrounded by and what country we find ourselves in, we ALL have equal potential in transforming our pain into peace.

Every single person in the world (no matter what they've suffered, no matter what their age, beliefs, circumstances), has just as much power as you do to wake up to this moment, and just as much freedom not to.

It's your life my friend, and you get to decide how to live it.

Pretty wicked if you ask me:)

Mandy :)


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The following is an excerpt from 'The Power of Now' by Eckhart Tolle:

True salvation is a state of freedom-from fear, from suffering, from a perceived state of lack and insufficiency and therefore from all wanting, needing, grasping, and clinging. It is freedom from compulsive thinking, from negativity, and above all from past and future as a psychological need. Your mind is telling you that you cannot get there from here. Something needs to happen, you need to become this or that before you can be free and fulfilled. It is saying, in fact, that you need time-that you need to find, sort out, do, achieve, acquire, become, or understand something before you can be free or complete.

You see time as the means to salvation, whereas in truth it is the greatest obstacle to salvation. You think you can’t get there from where and who you are at this moment because you are not yet complete or good enough, but the truth is that here and now is the only point from where you CAN get there. You “get” there by realizing you ARE there already. You find God the moment you realize that you don’t need to seek God. So there is no ‘only’ way to salvation: any condition can be used, but no particular condition is needed. However, there is only one point of access: the Now. There can be no salvation away from this moment. There is nothing you can ever do or attain that will get you closer to salvation than it is at this moment.

You cannot do this in the future. You do it now or not at all.

REVIEWS & READER COMMENTS NOW ON FACEBOOK!

Now you can read the many reviews and reader comments for my second book, The Poet & The Butterfly (ECHO January Book of the Month) right on Facebook! Click here to enter the world of poetry and passion through a compilation I just created!

GOD & DIVA PICS NOW ON FACEBOOK!

HOORAY! Both GOD & DIVA pictures and testimonials can now be seen and read on Facebook! Click here to to enter the world enhabited by the Divine, and check back regularly for new pictures and testimonals from future Graduate GODS (Gentlemen of Divinity) & DIVAS (Divine Individuals Who Value Authenticity)! WOOT WOOT! Above image is of the Divine Miss Melanie Monaghan, Certified DIVA and Mistress of the Dreamworld! DIVA Melanie has facilitated the Dream Interpretation component of each DIVA course ever since I began way back in 2007. Melanie is a gifted Intuitive Healer who provides the following healing services: Personalized Dream Interpretation, Tarot Readings, Psychic Readings, Tea Leaf Readings, Totem Animal Readings, Astrology Readings and Reiki. Melanie is absolutely amazing at what she does, which is why she's my right-hand lady in Divaland :)

AMAZON GODDESS

Just a little over a week ago I had a photoshoot with the brilliant and super talented photographer, Heather Guy, who also did the beautiful author pic (entitled 'Sassy') that is on the back cover of my book, The Poet & The Butterfly, and other great shots you can find on the left hand column of my blog. For our May 2009 shoot, Heather and I were attempting to achieve the look of an Amazon Goddess, and I'm happy to say that we both feel quite pleased with the result :) I love this shot (and yes, it's a hair extension clip that I bought at 'Trade Secrets' a few years back) and the inner power, strength and solidity it displays, not to mention the fact that it's sexy as hell! Heather is a pure genius with a fantastic eye and the ability to capure through images what I often portray through words. Heather also does shots for my Graduate Divas, just because she's so awesome! Thanks for everything Heather! YOU ROCK! xo

BASSEM

I'd like to announce the new and redesigned wedding photography company of my dear friend and Divine fella, the magnificent Bassem Wahba! Previously called GK Photography, Bassem has branched out with a new and higher-end company simply called BASSEM. Absolutely perfect! Even more perfect is that he launched on the same day that he graduated from my class as a Certified GOD (Gentleman of Divinity) on Thursday, May 28, 2009, so we had two great things to celebrate that night! Congratulations Bassem, from all of us! We look forward to many more breath-taking images as you grow and expand as a photographer! Love you sweetie! xo

THE GODS OF MAY 2009

Here is a picture of the most kick-ass crew in existence; the Graduates of my May 2009 Diva Class for Men while we celebrated our divinity at The Keg Steakhouse on May 28! GOD Joe, GOD Todd, KING Nate (he's special:) and GOD Bassem were the second class to graduate the new class for men, which has been going swimmingly! Divine men ROCK! And we can all thank Anthony Arthur (one of the first Certified GODS and the GORGEOUS male model on my Diva Class blogsite) for coming up with the acronym GOD: Gentleman of Divinity. What a brillaint name! Now we've got GODS and DIVAS transforming their lives and making the world a better place in the process! WOOT FREAKIN' WOOT!!!

I HEART RUMI. I HEART ME.

By God, when you see your own beauty, you will be the idol of yourself. ~Rumi

I adore Rumi, the mystical poet and treasured devotee of Love. The above is one of my favourite lines of his, as it encapsulates the very thing I teach in my DIVA Classes; the art of loving yourself.

I truly believe that when you genuinely have a healthy dose of love, respect and appreciation for yourself, all things in your life naturally fall into place. It is my belief that the core of any problem we face in life (be it our health, finances, relationships or career) is the underlying belief that we are not worthy, that we don't deserve abundance and prosperity, that we don't deserve to feel good.

If we truly loved ourselves we would never abuse our bodies, we wouldn't constantly criticize ourselves, we would never allow someone to mistreat us and we would certainly not live in chaos or work in a job we hate. Think of how vastly different your life would be if you actually thought and believed, 'I love and approve of myself exactly as I am.' It's incredible to think about, isn't it?

Louise L. Hay (a renowned speaker and writer in Metaphysics and author of the bestselling book, You Can Heal Your Life) says that this thought alone is the greatest and most important thought you'll ever think, and she suggests you repeat it to yourself hundreds of times each day till it becomes natural. Why not? Most of us repeat the same negative thoughts in our head for hours, days, weeks and even years! So why not switch it up and see what happens?

We've trained ourselves for years how to deny ourselves love and it hasn't worked. So let's switch the tape and create a new inner landscape. We all deserve to be happy. It's essentially what we were born to do. Even the Dali Lama said so! As for the picture above, it is from a fun night I had recently with some friends and I just loved how happy I looked in it! I thought, now there's a lady who's enjoying life! Wonderful! I'm right on track then :)

Happy loving!

WILL SMITH KNOWS A THING OR TWO :)

The other day I read an article in the June 2009 issue of Ebony magazine that featured Jada Pinkett-Smith (Will Smith’s wife), a woman I very much admire for her strength, convictions and success (on multiple levels-she’s an actress, dancer, wife, mother and even fronts the rock n’ roll band ‘Wicked Wisdom’), as well as her ability to claim her power as a female.

The article includes Will’s own words about his wife, which I thought were a perfect example of, and testament to, what it means to truly love and honour a woman, not to mention a reminder to all of us how important it is to maintain and nurture all aspects of our being instead of giving our power away to others.

Taken From the article, ‘Jada Pinkett Smith-Unscripted’ in the June 2009 issue of Ebony Magazine:

When he first met her, he says, “I could see the range-from the White House to the ghetto. I could see the untapped resources. I just felt like I was looking from a helicopter shot at a mountain range and I can see the diamond two miles beneath the surface.”

Calling forth the diamond in Jada led Will to a book he calls “my understanding women bible,” (Women Who Run With The Wolves). "There is a Native American story in the book about this old hag. The story was called ‘Singing Over The Bones’ says Will. “And this woman was in this vast wasteland of all these broken bodies and bones. She was singing these bones back to life.”

“What I got from it is the idea that if you kill one part of a woman, you kill the whole, he explains. “The woman was singing over the other dead parts of herself and she was bringing the fullness back to life. She was an old hag because she had tried to kill certain parts of herself, and in killing those parts of herself, she killed the whole-the amount of resentment that comes in with women that try to kill parts of themselves to try to fit in their husbands’ limited view or try to squeeze into their husbands’ limited capacity.”

Will says he has worked hard not to hamper his wife’s spirit or development. “There is no other option if I want the full glory of everything my wife has to offer me emotionally, and spiritually and sexually, and all of that. If I want that then I have to increase my capacity for what I am able to handle from my partner.”

Well said Will !

21 DAYS

That's all it takes to change a habit or create a new one.

3 weeks is all it takes to turn something around, to instill a new way of living, to change your life.

21 days to a new you? You decide.

"Habits make no moral judgments; they can be either good or bad. Both are formed through repitition. If we try something and like the resuts, we repeat the action. You can replace inaction with action, and you can form any habit you choose. Your thoughts are the only thing that you can completely control if you choose to do so. You can control your thoughts to control your habits." (From the book 'Think & Grow Rich' by Napoleon Hill)

Usually when I get excited to make changes I want to do everything at once because a) I'm impatient I want it all now, and b) I don't see why I can't change 5 things at once-I'm a Diva after all;) But this only leads to frustration and failure for me within a matter of days (sometimes hours!). Therefore, taking one thing at a time, one month at a time, will ensure I don't get off track simply because I'm feeling overwhelmed.

One shift, once a month feels managable to me, how about you? That's 12 shifts a year, big OR small. You decide. You CAN have it all you know;)

Mandy :)

THE CONSCIOUS ARMY

One of my Divas sent me this so I thought to pass it on. Enjoy.

“On the surface of the world right now there is war and violence and things seem dark. But calmly and quietly, at the same time, something else is happening, underground an inner revolution is taking place, and certain individuals are being called to a higher light. It is a silent revolution. From the inside out. From the ground up. This is a Global operation. A Spiritual Conspiracy. There are sleeper cells in every nation on the planet.

You won't see us on the T.V. You won't read about us in the newspaper. You won't hear about us on the radio. We don't seek any glory. We don't wear any uniform. We come in all shapes and sizes, colors and styles. Most of us work anonymously. We are quietly working behind the scenes in every country and culture of the world. Cities big and small, mountains and valleys, in farms and villages, tribes and remote islands. You could pass by one of us on the street and not even notice. We go undercover. We remain behind the scenes. It is of no concern to us who takes the final credit. But simply that the work gets done.

Occasionally we spot each other in the street. We give a quiet nod and continue on our way. During the day many of us pretend we have "normal jobs." But behind the false storefront at night is where the real work takes a place. Some call us the Conscious Army. We are slowly creating a new world with the power of our minds and hearts. We follow, with passion and joy. Our orders come from the Central Spiritual Intelligence. We are dropping soft, secret love bombs when no one is looking. Poems ~ Hugs ~ Music ~ Photography ~ Movies ~ Kind words ~ Smiles ~ Meditation and prayer ~ Dance - Art ~ Social activism ~ Websites - Blogs ~ Random acts of kindness...We each express ourselves in our own unique ways with our own unique gifts and talents.

Be the change you want to see in the world. That is the motto that fills our hearts. We know it is the only way real transformation takes place. We know that quietly and humbly we have the power of all the oceans combined. Our work is slow and meticulous. Like the formation of mountains it is not even visible at first glance. And yet with it entire tectonic plates shall be moved in the centuries to come. Love is the new religion of the 21st century. You don't have to be a highly educated person or have any exceptional knowledge to understand it. It comes from the intelligence of the heart. Embedded in the timeless evolutionary pulse of all human beings.

Be the change you want to see in the world. Nobody else can do it for you. We are now recruiting. Perhaps you will join us. Or already have. All are welcome. The door is open.”

~ Author Unknown

SUSAN BOYLE: SINGER EXTRAORDINAIRE!

If this doesn't bring you to tears or make your jaw drop, I don't know what will! Click here to be amazed...

Enjoy, and pass it on.

A LETTER FROM A READER

A few days ago I received a lovely email from a beautiful soul who was given a copy of my book The Poet & The Butterfly on the weekend. Her words moved me so much that I immediately forwarded her letter to Keveen (my co-author) and asked her permission to post her heart on my blog so that others who have felt as she had, could relate to it and also find hope and be reminded of who they really are. Keveen loved the message so much, and Alison (whom you will read about below) was more than happy to share her letter with the world. Yay!!!!

Enjoy!


Hi Mandy!

I was given your book 'The Poet & The Butterfly', yesterday from Barb, as she had met you on Saturday at MeFest. She thinks we have a lot in common, and you are something! Although, I am not a writer ..maybe it’s the spiritual, and the openness we share about life!!

WOW! I could not put it down, and I just finished it! Kudos to you and Keveen!!

I don’t know how to thank you. I laughed, I cried and I am in awe of the awesome gift from God you have been given. It is the most incredible, intimate, amazing book I have read in along time (besides the Bible!)

I can't thank you enough for being able to write how I feel.

I have not loved anyone in a very long time (besides family and friends). I have been on a very rough journey that seems to get better, and then I think no-one will ever want me, and it does not help that I did fall in love years ago, and was truly heart broken for some time. Actually I can’t seem to let anyone close to me.

I will soon be 41, and think I missed out because I have not lived to the fullest, swamped with fears. I think my parents wonder for me, they don’t want me to be alone. My journey and recovery of panic, anxiety, and fears, has also shown and taught them a lot to say the least. But I have learned a lot too, not just my parents. They are wonderful and supportive! I love them so much and thank God for them always.

I think I have kind of given up on the LOVE thing, but you have helped me to realize that it is still inside me...the romance, friendship, passion, all of it.... and the love I truly want to have…I’m crying now. I can't give up. It’s what I have always wanted.

I can’t believe I am writing this to you, but I feel you would understand after seeing that you are so open about life.

I am sure you receive many letters. I just wish I could talk more with you. It feels like my heart is trying to re-open again and maybe I may take a leap of faith in dating again. And find my dream which I have been trying to for years. I hope this makes sense it feels like I could write for awhile! :)

Mandy you are extraordinary! And tell Keveen for his Birthday…"Mange du gateau. Bois de champagne, et celebre cette journee!"

I hope to hear back from you,

Take care, Much love! xo
Bisous!

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What an absolute treat, to recieve something so heartfelt from someone I've yet to meet. Thank you so much Alison, for allowing me to post this, and I will see YOU in my upcoming DIVA CLASS!!!!!!!

All my love,

Mandy xo

FROM ROGERS TO YOUTUBE TO OPRAH!

That's right folks! I have officially entered the world of Youtube and in Mandyland this can only mean one thing: my debut on Oprah is just around the corner! Don't do the math, it won't add up. Just trust me :)

Terry Barna, the host who interviewed me last week on Rogers Daytime, uploaded my segment onto his Youtube account and sent me the link the other night. Admittedly this was my first time watching myself on television as I have avoided doing so for years, but I was curious to see and hear myself live.

It was pure torture, just as I had expected.

But I got through it, accepted that my voice actually does sound like that, and reluctantly accepted the 'expanded' version of myself that was on the screen. I rocked my new dress, laughed and smiled a lot and genuinely had a great time, so all in all, I'm happy with my first view of myself on television. Check it out HERE!

And really folks, I don't imagine Oprah will be content to have me on her show just once. So I better start getting used to the way I look on t.v. and hone my skills here at home before taking my message and my sweet self to Chicago!

Woot woot!

SOMETHING MAGNIFICENT IS COMING!

Today's message is short and sweet. It's a passage from 'The Secret: Daily Teachings', and a reminder that change is ALL GOOD:)

“So often when things change in our lives, we have such a resistance to the change. This is because when people see a big change appearing they are often fearful that it is something bad. But it is important to remember that when something big changes in our lives, it means something better is coming…There cannot be a vacuum in the Universe, and so as something moves out, something must come in and replace it. When change comes, relax, have total faith, and know that the change is ALL GOOD. Something more magnificent is coming to you!”

~The Secret: Daily Teachings

DIVA DOES DAYTIME! Wait...that came out wrong;)

Yesterday I had the pleasure of appearing on Rogers Daytime to promote the first-ever DIVA CLASS FOR MEN as well as the Level 2 and Level 3 DIVA CLASSES. I had a fabulous time being interviewed by Terry and was not surprised when he asked if maybe the men went off to the jungle naked to bang on drums! LMAO!!!! Not quite, but I'm sure the men would love if I participated in such an event;) Alas, we stay indoors, fully clothed, and there are no drums, BUT I do provide dessert, if that's any consolation :)

Since my first DIVA CLASS in 2007, I have been on Rogers Daytime repeatedly to promote my class as well as my books, but I have to say that yesterday's show was my favourite by far. The energy was awesome, the questions were great and I felt like a million bucks in my new dress!

Susan (who normally interviews me) and Terry are fantastic hosts with great wit and good hearts. The show itself is entertaining and informative and I always feel honoured to be a part of it. Both hosts have watched me and my business grow over the years, and their support for my work is unconditional. I consider them family in a way, and always look forward to the hugs at the end:) Terry surprised me on one show when I found out that he had actually read my book The Poet & The Butterfly from start to finish, describing it to me as 'neat', 'brave' and 'cool'. He really dug it, which was a real compliment for me. Terry has only interviewed me twice, once for my book and then yesterday for my DIVA CLASS FOR MEN, but I can honestly say I enjoy his energy as much as Susan's. They have different yet complimentary styles and it is always fun to engage with them on air. Yeah, they pretty much are the greatest hosts on the planet, not that I watch t.v., but if I did, I'd know that would be the case;) Terry and Susan friggin' rock!

MY NEW 'DO'!

I try my hardest not to blog about insignificant things (like what I ate for breakfast or whatever random thought is going through my mind) but I had to brag about my new haircut. Look at it! It's amazing. And while I've cut my own hair for years, I cannot take credit for this masterpiece. Angie from Frenzi (in the Cambridge Centre) is responsible for making me look and feel like a brand new woman!

I haven't sported bangs since I was a child, and did not intend to get them either. It was only in conversation as she finished up the cut I initially asked for, that I asked, 'Can you just look at someone and know whether or not they look good with bangs?', to which she replied, 'I was going to suggest it. I think you'd look great with them!' And boy was she right! I love my new 'do' so friggin' much I can't stop staring at it. It's insane! Ah well. Life is short. May as well spend it in sweet adoration of yourself and others:)

With love and the wish that hair could just stop growing the moment you find the perfect cut,

Mandy xo

DIVINE MEN WANTED!

That's right fellas! Next week I will be launching the FIRST-EVER DIVA CLASS FOR MEN! It's about time we listened, cared and supported you on your own unique journey of self-discovery and awareness, so I have expanded my DIVA EMPIRE to include the other (and often misunderstood) half:)

Come awaken, heal and transform yourself in the DIVA CLASS FOR MEN and change your life forever!

DIVA CLASS LEVEL I

*Healing Stone Check-In

*The Path of Transformation

*Artist’s Pages

*Gratitude List & Intentions

*’The Secret’ in Action

*Creative Collage

*Personalized Dream Interpretation (with Melanie McKay)

Email herhappyhighness@gmail.com to register! You deserve it! And be sure to join DIVA: DIVINE INDIVIDUALS WHO VALUE AUTHENTICITY on Facebook for weekly inspirational messages sent straight to your inbox!

DIVA CLASS DETAILS:

*Classes are one evening a week (7-9pm) for 4 weeks

*Weekend workshops (10am-3pm Sat & Sun) are also available

*Classes are currently offered in Cambridge, Ontario

*Women's Diva Classes are also offered, of course:)

*Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 Diva Classes are offered monthly!

**Above image care of GK Photography.**

30 FACES 30 DAYS

Recently I was asked to participate in a photography project called 30 Faces 30 Days, headed by the magnificent Bassem Wahba of GK Photography. I have been a longtime fan of his work and felt honoured to be part of this series. The purpose of 30 Faces 30 Days is to create different looks while using the exact same lighting and camera for each of the 30 faces. At times, Bassem's goal was to capture a look that was opposite of the subject's personality. Other times, he sought to capture the essence of the individual. Traditionally a gifted wedding photographer, Bassem continually experiements with new methods, ensuring that his creative juices are always primed for his beautiful couples. This man is pure genius and a kind and loving soul.

Enjoy!

YOU ARE AMAZING: A VIDEO

One of my Divas sent me the amazing little video You Are Amazing, and it brought me to tears. Not only that, but it had the same effect on everyone I forwarded it to, including my male friends. Check it out and please pass it on to those you love. We all need to be reminded of just how great and powerful we are. In every moment we have the chance to make the world a brighter place for those around us. And it all starts with a smile :)

Kisses,

Mandy

WHEN YOU HAVE FOUND THE ONE

This is the post I sent out to my DIVA Facebook Group on Valentine's Day. Enjoy:)

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

This time last year my friend Chad and I were scheming to boycott Valentine’s Day while bantering back and forth about our brilliant and devilish plan to paint-ball anyone we saw sucking face in public. Of course we were both single at the time and envious of those who actually had someone hot and delicious to kiss, so we used humour as a way to cope on a day that lets every single person in the world know, beyond any shadow of a doubt, that they are flying solo.

Well, one year later I am still single. On a better day I could write how wonderful this is for whatever reason, but truth be told, I spent last night taking stock of my life and wondering why the hell a great woman like me is still single after all these years. It’s certainly not because there is an absence of willing and available men. It’s that I’ve yet to meet the one who captivates me as much as I seem to captivate him. A few days ago however, I connected with a strikingly beautiful man who completely intrigued me and piqued my interest. Naturally my heart flooded with the idea that he might be The One, even though I am almost certain he is not. DAMMIT!!!!!

So for those of you in the same boat as me, and for those who have already found and are sharing a gorgeous connection with the person of their dreams, here is a passage about what it feels like to meet your true beloved. Let it reaffirm what you already know to be true and/or let it awaken your soul to receive the one meant only for you.


"If you suspect that perhaps the person in front of you is it, close your eyes and ask yourself. You’ll know, you’ll hear the answer. The feeling will be a natural but exciting one. It will feel like a quiet recognition of what you always knew would happen.

The very best guage of whether or not you’ve met the partner you seek is who you become in their presence. Do you like yourself? Do you have interesting things to talk about? Do you bring out the best in each other? Is your creative energy at full tilt?

Sometimes you do hear bells and whistles, and sometimes you can look across the room and get that feeling in your gut that you’re beholding your life’s partner. However it’s just as likely that the recognition of a soul mate will be slow and gradual. You will meet a really wonderful person and find that you want to know more about him/her with each passing day. That’s how you’ll know.

When the soul is ready the mate appears.

Meeting you your soul mate is certainly exhilarating. You feel completely alive and connected and comfortable with yourself…when you do meet The One you will respond to them in ways you didn’t know you had within. Your personality will become richer, your body will feel stronger, and your spirit will seem like it’s flying high.

There is no test to take that will prove that the one standing in front of you is meant to be your mate. But again, get quiet and listen to your inner guidance: the answer will become apparent. And until it does, just enjoy getting to know this new soul. Rather than judging the potential right away or projecting your fantasy onto this person, just quietly be in his/her presence with openness and the intention to see the truth. And with the courage to take a risk, take the leap!"

From 'Expect A Miracle: 7 Spiritual Steps to Finding the Right Relationship' by Kathy Freston

* * * * * * * * * * *

Post Script;)

I received a number of responses to this post (and my plea for the search to end) from my fellow Divas, including the following from a Divalicious gentleman in Brazil:

"YEAH, DAMMIT!!!! Couldn't agree more, LOL. I related to every line you wrote, especially "what is a special man like me doing single?" hehehe ... average finds average faster Mandy... ;) "

And from a beautiful woman (via facebook mobile;) who has already found the man of her dreams:

"Ur soul mate is out there Mandy. I'm sure of it. You are a wonderful, beautiful, amazing and powerful woman. A true superfox! And the fact u put yourself out there when u feel something is even more proof of your foxy- ness. So just think this... Any guy thus far is nowhere near suited to the authentic you! It took me a while too :) I used to feel exactly the same way as u do now and I just started to think that maybe that guy out there for me isn't ready for superfox me yet :) So never fear. Your love awaits. You are amazing and he will be too :) Love u and Happy heart day. I heart you ! "

Awwww...

I heart my Divas:)

xoxox

HE'S JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU

I went to see the movie ‘He’s Just Not That Into You’ on Friday and LOVED it! I read the book a few years ago and fell in love, though I know many women hated it, maybe because they didn’t want to believe it, or it hit too close to home, I don’t know. I personally found it enlightening, liberating and friggin’ hilarious!

The premise of the book is basically that men are pretty clear in communicating their level of interest, or lack of, but women sometimes struggle to read these signs properly and get caught hanging onto a relationship that is leading nowhere.

Greg Behrendt (the author of both ‘He’s Just Not That Into You’ and co-author (along with his wife) of the equally funny ‘It’s Called A Break Up Because It’s Broken’-READ IT!) is my kinda guy, and helps women to empower themselves by seeing the relationship for what it is (or isn't) and get the courage to just move on to something more enriching. He tells it like it is and I love that in anyone:)

Here are a few zingers and warm fuzzies from the book ‘He’s Just Not That Into You’ :

~100% of men polled said that when they broke up with someone, it always meant that they didn’t want to go out with them anymore.

~Men don’t forget how much they like you. So put down the phone.

~He’s just not that into you if he’s having sex with somebody else.

~It doesn’t count unless he says it when he’s sober.

~Shitty relationships make you feel shitty, and that’s not what you were put on this earth for.

~Don’t waste the pretty. You are an excellent, foxy human being worthy of love. You are delicious. Be brave my sweet.

~It’s about the guy who wants you, calls you, makes you feel sexy and desired fully. He wants to see you more and more often because every time he sees you, he likes and then loves you more and more.

~There’s a guy out there who’s going to be really happy that you didn’t get back together with your crappy ex-boyfriend.

I ♥ Greg. He rocks!

YOUR HOUR OF POWER

Many years ago I attended a retreat in Napanee where I got my first introduction to Native spirituality. I had a reading done using Medicine Cards which I found completely fascinating, and upon arriving home I bought my own deck of Sacred Path Cards (a sister deck to the Medicine Cards). In Native spirituality it is believed that all beings/things are deeply connected, and that every facet of life is your teacher, be it a rock, person, plant or animal. Therefore, all of creation is revered for the lessons it provides, if we quiet ourselves long enough to be taught. Medicine and Sacred Path Cards are a great tool to help us find the answers we seek using creation as our guide.

During times of confusion or uncertainty I often pull a card and read the story and lesson behind it to see if it applies to my current situation. It always does. I truly believe in the power of intuition and the brilliance of our souls to bring us to the exact person, place or thing that has the answer we are seeking.

Here is a glimpse of one of the cards I pulled recently, called The Hour of Power. Enjoy its wisdom~


THE HOUR OF POWER

All human beings have their own internal timing. Some are very quick to accomplish a daily task while others are more methodical. Some people have a slow metabolic rate and others have food seemingly run through their bodies. The thought processes of some are lightening quick and others are graced with the patience of examination. These examples of personal timing are some of the things that make us unique and different from one another.

So it is that each person also has an Hour of Power during a day’s cycle. Every person feels more connection with a certain time of day or evening. For some it may be just before sunrise when the world is still and quiet…for others it may be at 3:00 or 4:00 A.M. when the stirrings of life are totally quiet and Entering the Silence is easier.

Once again we need to look at the significance of power. When you feel powerful, you might feels happy, courageous, bold, ready to meet life, full of vitality, able to use your talents, connected to all life-forms, and/or balanced in who and what you are. These are all aspects of wholeness.If you want to find your Hour of Power, notice when you feel at your best and when you feel at your weakest. The times are usually exactly opposite by twelve hours. These are your internal cycles.

For instance, those who feel best at 3:00 A.M. are usually getting a dip in energy at 3:00 P.M. If you have never been up at 3:00 A.M. you may not have noticed how you feel at that hour.The Hour of Power is a ritual of joy. It is a time each day when each individual is filled with the essence of aliveness and pure connection to all Creation [but] due to the lack of Earth-Connection in the modern urban world, many have disconnected from their personal rhythms.

The Hour of Power has no connection to your birth time; it is your internal rhythm.When there has been a growth period, change in consciousness, or healing, the Hour of Power may change. We are constantly evolving and our internal timing will also regulate to our new growth. Then the body’s original Hour of Power can take on a new rhythm or different timing due to its new state of health.

"From ‘Sacred Path Cards: The Discovery of Self Through Native Teachings’ by Jamie Sams

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME...AND OPRAH!

Well today is my 33rd Birthday and I feel fabulous! My current status update on Facebook reads:

Mandy is so much more zippier, zappier, bouncier, magnificent and sparkley at 33 :) I'm so grateful to be alive, happy and loved ♥

And yes, Oprah and I share the same birthday, which is friggin' awesome and as it should be since we both completely rock at doin' our thang ;)

Anyways, I decided to make a list of 33 things that bring me joy, as a way to celebrate my special day, my life and myself! Enjoy!

33 Things That Bring Me Joy!


1. Reading today's review for my new book, The Poet & The Butterfly in the awesome mag ECHO Weekly ! Michael Cahill described my book as "poignant and poetic, eloquent and erotic, and will keep you warm on a cold winter night." HOLLA!!!!!!!

2. The sun

3. The smell of fresh cut grass

4. The smell of laundry being done (like when you walk by someone’s house)

5. My kitties

6. Making my home beautiful

7. Cold water with lemon

8. Silence

9. Heartfelt conversations with wonderful humans

10. The smell of skunks (I’m not the only one!)

11. Knowing that my books, blogs and classes resonate with others and make a difference

12. Steak (also the burgers at Lily Ruth’s)

13. My freedom

14. Gel pens

15. Pretty journals

16. Simplicity

17. Being cooked for and/or eating people’s leftovers

18. Giving from the heart

19. Words

20. Witnessing on a daily basis, how amazing my daughter is

21. Collecting inspiring and 'off the wall' quotes

22. Dancing at Starlight

23. Love letters

24. Homemade gifts

25. Self-discovery and increasing awareness

26. Colbert (I love arrogance in anyone. The more extreme the better)

27. Aha! Moments. When things finally make sense

28. Writing status updates on Facebook, and getting comments on them

29. Truth, integrity, honour, love

30. Real friends

31. Getting enough sleep

32. Beautiful and captivating images

33. Being Mandy Richardson


So happy birthday to me and all my fellow Aquarians! I hope you have a fabulous day, month and year right along with me!

All my love,

Mandy

FREQUENCY-HOLDERS

The past few weeks have been a time of great wisdom and inner transformation for me, resulting in a rebirth of sorts, and a reconnection to my core, my essence, my way of being in this world.

I learned a lot about life, love and others while Keveen was in town, and I learned even more about myself.

The following passage beautifully encapsulates my personal experience of living, one that seemed only to become even more pronounced as it stood juxtaposed to Keveen’s intense and mesmerizing immersion into everyone around him…and into life itself ;)

Enjoy!

* * * * * * * *

"Some feel a strong urge to create, build, become involved, achieve, make an impact on the world. If they are conscious, those people in whom the outward movement is strong will be highly creative.

Others…lead an outwardly unremarkable and seemingly more passive and relatively uneventful existence. They are more inward looking by nature, and for them the outward movement into form is minimal. They would rather return home than go out. They have no desire to get strongly involved in or change the world. If they have any ambitions, they usually don't go beyond finding something to do that gives them a degree of independence. Some of them find it hard to fit into this world.

Some are lucky enough to find a protective niche where they can lead a relatively sheltered life, a job that provides them with a regular income or a small business of their own...

Some turn to drugs…others eventually become healers or spiritual teachers…teachers of Being.

In past ages, they would probably have been called contemplatives. There is no place for them, it seems, in our contemporary civilization…however, their role is just as vital as that of creators, the doers, the reformers. Their function is to anchor the frequency of the new consciousness on this planet. I call them frequency-holders. They are here to generate consciousness through the activities of daily life, through their interactions with others as well as through ‘just being’.

In this way, they endow the seemingly insignificant with profound meaning. Their task is to bring spacious stillness into this world by being absolutely present in whatever they do, even the simplest task. Their purpose is to do everything in a sacred manner. As each human being is an integral part of the collective human consciousness, they affect the world much more deeply than is visible on the surface of their lives."

From ‘A New Earth’ by Eckhart Tolle

WABI-SABI: THE ART OF IMPERFECTION

If you have never heard of the term Wabi-Sabi, I urge you to learn more about it and embrace this way of experiencing life. To get you started, here's an excerpt from a beautiful article I found online from UTNE Reader on http://www.utne.com/ :

"Wabi-Sabi is the Japanese tradition of celebrating the beauty in what’s flawed or worn. It offers an inspiring new way to look at your home, and your whole life...

[It] is the art of finding beauty in imperfection and profundity in earthiness, of revering authenticity above all. In Japan, the concept is now so deeply ingrained that it’s difficult to explain to Westerners; no direct translation exists.

Broadly, wabi-sabi is everything that today’s sleek, mass-produced, technology-saturated culture isn’t. It’s flea markets, not shopping malls; aged wood, not swank floor coverings; one single morning glory, not a dozen red roses...

Wabi-sabi reminds us that we are all transient beings on this planet—that our bodies, as well as the material world around us, are in the process of returning to dust. Nature’s cycles of growth, decay, and erosion are embodied in frayed edges, rust, liver spots. Through wabi-sabi, we learn to embrace both the glory and the melancholy found in these marks of passing time…

Wabi-sabi is a state of mind, a way of being. It’s the subtle art of being at peace with yourself and your surroundings."

Click here to read the complete article by Robyn Griggs Lawrence.

A REUNION WITH MY POET

I am extending a loving invitation for you to experience and explore a being who has touched my life and heart like no other. His name is Keveen Gabet, an exceptionally hairy and wild French poet, and my beloved co-author of my new book, The Poet & The Butterfly. He is returning to Canada for a few days, specifically to Waterloo and Cambridge, and this will be the first I've seen him in almost two years! Needless to say, I am thrilled! The last time I saw him was to watch a movie at the Princess Twin Cinema, the very place I held the book release for The Poet & The Butterfly, almost two years later!

For those who don't already know the story about The Poet & The Butterfly or why Keveen has been so integral to my develpoment as a woman and my growth as a writer, here's a synopsis:

Keveen and I met in March 2007 on an impromptu trip from Waterloo to Ottawa, through Rideshare on Kijiji. Within days we began an extraordinary online correspondence (he too is a gifted writer) and within the week I knew our dialogue was meant to become a book, I knew it was meant for the world, and not just for he and I.

I asked Keveen for permission to use our words to create art and promote love. And although we had known one another only a week, he agreed to this insane request, and The Poet & The Butterfly was born.

I knew people would love our story because it's universal. I'm sure everyone has fallen in love at some point in their lives, and can relate to the heightened experience and sleepless nights that this phenomenon brings. I felt it was my duty to share what Keveen and I experienced together, because it was a gift that I knew would touch many lives and hearts.

The Poet & The Butterfly isn't your typical love story. Every word is true. It reads exactly as it happened, yet it flows so beautifully that one can't deny that something else was at work, beyond our skills as writers. Keveen and I did not think about what we typed to one another, it just poured through us at a speed that was hard to keep up with. Through loving Keveen I fell in love with the woman who was waiting to be born; my true self. His reception of her, this beloved creature I've grown to love, allowed me to see and embrace my true beauty, beyond my looks and my sexuality; a gift I will treasure for the rest of my life, and a gift that I hope every woman experiences in her own lifetime.

This is why I had to share my story. I wanted every woman to read and feel how loved I was, while accepting the same for themselves.

I put my whole heart and soul on display for the world, so that those who needed it most, could be reminded of their own beauty. So far, it has done just that.

It's no surprise to me then, that this book is taking off and stirring many emotions inside many readers. How could it not be enjoyed? It's real. It's pure. It's brave and it's bold. And those who truly value what's real are always hungering for an authentic experience laced with the currency of life; love, which is exactly what this sweet little book provides. But for those who don't already have a copy of The Poet & The Butterfly, here are a few ways for you to explore its essence...

1. To read the first 3 pages of The Poet & The Butterfly and to read what our readers have to say about this book (5 new comments have been added this past week), click here

2. To listen to the sounds of The Poet & The Butterfly, click here. When you read the story you will understand its significance ;)

3. To experience Keveen, the man who travels the world by foot, bicycle, and longboard, spreading his message of love, click here and also take a look at his beautiful photography and his many unique youtube videos.

Enjoy!

And may you have a week filled with love and warm memories, just like me ;)

Mandy

xoxox

Mandy has grown into the woman she aspired to be, is living the life she's always imagined, and now it is time for love ♥.

This was my Facebook status update from yesterday, and here's the story behind it:

I am feeling quite excited about the possibility of meeting someone very special this year, and after many years of flying relatively solo, I think I'm ready to embrace what the relationship world has to offer. My friend Laura commented on my status with 'FINALLY!', and from an outsider's perspective, I guess it appears I am without something very important, being in my 30's and remaining unattached. I've probably heard it all, from well-meaning friends that simply can't fathom how I'm content being single. But I've always made my own rules, and my life has been pretty interesting because of it.

They wonder why a young, beautiful, intelligent woman such as myself, has no ring on her finger (presuming I'd want that). They assume that I must be lonely. They think I'm not getting any action. They believe my choice to remain unattached has something to do with being a mother, and that when my daughter moves out in say...4 or 5 years, then I'll REALLY be lonely! (and they want me to call them when that time comes;) They wonder if maybe I'm gay. They think I'm too busy. But no one ever assumes that living my life, free of another, was a deliberate choice.

So here is my rebuttal, in case I'm not the only one getting harped on for not buying into the whole 'settling down' thing, in case I'm not the only one who doesn't believe in the 'job first, house second, marriage third, kids fourth' thing, in case I'm not the only one who had the kid first, got the education second, career third and is now considering a relationship...fourth ;)

For starters, I'm not gay. I wish I was though, because women are extraordinary and waaaay better looking than men, but a certain something is missing when it comes to women, and in my personal opinion, there is no substitute ;)

I am not lonely, but I know a number of attached and married people who are. It's quite possible to be naked beside your lover while being oceans apart, and it is just as possible to be oceans apart from your lover, while their entirety resides soley in yours.

I am not sexually deprived, and if you can't figure out how people can get their needs met without being in a conventional relationship, then go ask a friend ;)

I'm not too busy but people assume I am because I accomplish so much. But it's only because I don't waste time on non-essentials. We don't watch television. We don't own a car so I don't spend time traveling like most people, and I keep a pretty quiet life overall. I nap every day. I take a bath at night. I go for at least one great walk daily.

I have time to write for an hour each morning before leaving the bed, and I do my best not to spend more than 12-15 hours/week working outside the home, just so that I remain in tune with my natural rhythms. I live like a bohemian and achieve my goals with a smile. So there is definitely room for a hottie in my life!

As for being a mother, I have this to say (without guilt, shame or apology): my world does not revolve around my child and never will, so when she moves out I'll still be living the same beautiful life as I do now...just with an extra room to have fun in ;) And even if I had never become a mother, my life wouldn't be much different than it is now. I would still work from home, I would still work as little as I had to in order to have the life I wanted, I would still be home most evenings, and I still would have put off entering into a fully committed relationship before achieving my own goals.

And now that I've done the things that were important to me: earned my degree and a diploma, wrote some books, started my own business, raised a happy, well-adjusted, independent child, created a home I feel comfortable in, and built a life that I am proud of, what better time to meet him and fall in love? What better time to share the good life with my beloved?

Why NOT have my shit together first? Why not feel accomplished, confident, self-reliant and fabulous before meeting the beautiful man who is my equal on multiple levels? Doesn't that make more sense than to go into something feeling incomplete in search of completeness with another?

What I know for sure is that I deserve the very best, in all things, especially in a partner. And although I'm surrounded by love everyday, in the form of friendships, family, and life itself, I'm ready for BIG LOVE! The kind that makes my toes curl because it's oooohhhh so good :)

It's 2009 folks. The perfect year to fall in love! GOOOOO TEAM!!!!!!


'So it is perfectly possible for an enlightened person, if the need for the male or female polarity is not met, to feel a sense of lack and incompleteness on the outer level of his or her being, yet at the same time be totally complete, fulfilled, and at peace within.' ~Eckhart Tolle

BOTTOM OF THE NINTH

Deviant artist Pontius Phallus created this Hardcore Caricature of me in honour of both my new book, The Poet & The Butterfly, and my infamous derriere (hence its title, Bottom of the Ninth :) Pont is a gifted and controversial artist and his personalized 'IF' Comics are only a small part of the work he does.

As the story goes, I added Pontius as a friend on Facebook after seeing one of his comics on a friend's newsfeed. I didn't know the guy, but his name, his picture and his work made me want to:) After getting connected he learned that I had written a book and was also intrigued, so we decided to swap art and this is the result. Please check out his site by clicking on his image on the left of the blog.

STOP BEING MEAN TO YOURSELF

There is a common misconception that because I run Diva Classes and blog about personal empowerment, that I am somehow more empowered or further along the path that those I teach and write for. I have always found that a strange assumption, because the truth is, I only teach and write about things that I am personally working through at that time, and if I am teaching and writing about ways to become more empowered, rest assured it’s because I too am searching for ways to honour myself more than I already do.

Were I fully empowered, why would I spend my time talking about it? I wouldn’t. I would simply BE that knowing. So until then, I will continue to share my insights along the path, with the hopes that rediscovering my own truth will help you to embrace your own.

At this moment in time, what do I know for sure? Well, I know that if I truly loved myself exactly as I am, my world would transform completely and immediately. How do I know? Because I have had those moments, when I fell completely in love with her, my true and beautiful self, and the whole world seemed brand new.

In between those moments however, are many moments of self-doubt, self-hate, confusion, insecurity and depression…that thankfully and inevitably lead to more healing and a deeper understanding of my needs and what is required to take better care of myself.

Too often I’ve stayed in relationships or jobs far longer than what was good for me, either because I felt guilty or wrong for having the feelings I had, or because I made ‘their’ truth be more important than my own, or did not trust myself and my own perceptions enough to take action.

2009 is my year to get ‘clean’, to remove myself from the things, people, and places that simply don’t feel good to me, and to do this without guilt. It’s also time to clean out my inner space, beginning with my often harsh and negative thoughts about myself. I need to put the bat down and learn to see myself through the eyes of those who love me.

This year, I plan to take much more loving care of myself. I intend to trust and honour myself a whole lot more, and to do what’s truly best for me without guilt or second-guessing. And I’m wishing the same for you.

* * * * * * * *

Here are some excerpts from a book I read years ago called ‘Stop Being Mean To Yourself’ by Melody Beattie, which beautifully illustrates the importance of listening to and respecting ourselves.

"Many substances, places, people can be toxic to us. Even other people’s self-hatred, their beliefs about themselves or us, can be poisonous. What’s around us and what we absorb into our bodies affects us. If we insist on being around a toxic person or ingesting a substance that’s toxic to us, we can develop an allergic like reaction. Our bodies twist and contort, become out of alignment and balance.

We can become confused, foggy, even sick. Our sense of power diminishes. Toxic substances, toxic people, and toxic beliefs can weaken people, just as the mythical kryptonite weakened superman.

Before I understood this, I had spent much of my life turning on myself instead of backing away from whatever was poisonous. If I try harder, do better, be more, be different, I can handle this, I had thought.

It had taken me a long time to learn that the lesson wasn’t HANDLING toxicity. It was learning to respect what was toxic to me.

I wanted to attribute kind, generous, benevolent motives to many people and sometimes to the wrong people. That belief system didn’t create a world that was nice and kind-it opened a door and let the bad guys in....

We each have so much emotional and spiritual power…It helps everyone when we tell people to stop. We don’t have to settle for one iota less than we deserve, and our birthright is to be whole, complete and intact. What we need to know is not how wrong we’ve been but how wonderful our souls and lives are.”

* * * * * * * *

Here’s to a squeaky clean 2009, filled with all manner of awesomeness!!!!!

Love Mandy:)

A New Year Is Upon Us

The time of new beginnings is just around the corner, so I'd like to share an excerpt from 'A New Earth' by Eckhart Tolle, in which he describes a new kind of goal setting that focuses on feeling and connecting, rather than the outcome.

* * *

"Even though you have a goal, what you are doing in the present moment needs to remain the focal point of your attention; otherwise, you will fall out of alignment with universal purpose. Make sure your vision or goal is not an inflated image of yourself and therefore a concealed form of ego, such as wanting to become a movie star, a famous writer, or a wealthy entrepreneur.

Also make sure your goal is not focused on having this or that, such as a mansion by the sea, your own company, or ten million dollars in the bank. An enlarged image of yourself or a vision of yourself having this or that are all static goals and therefore don't empower you. Instead, make sure your goals are dynamic, that is to say, point toward an activity that you are engaged in and through which you are connected to other human beings as well as to the whole.

Instead of seeing yourself as a famous actor and writer and so on, see yourself inspiring countless people with your work and enriching their lives. Feel how that activity enriches or deepens not only your life but that of countless others. Feel yourself being an opening through which energy flows from the unmanifested Source of all life through you for the benefit of all."

~Eckhart Tolle

* * *

This passage is the inspiration behind my 'new' goal, which surprisingly has nothing to do with Oprah:) I think I may have even kicked her off my list entirely! :):):) OH MY!!!!!

Some of you may recall from past posts that I have always envisioned myself on Oprah-not because I am a huge fan of hers (though I admire all that she has created in her life), but because I have always felt in my heart that my words would inspire millions. And what greater audience to share my words with, than those who tune into Oprah!

But after reading Tolle's words, I began to reevaluate things, and discovered that my ultimate goal isn't necessarily to be on Oprah, but more specifically, to simply use my natural gifts and abilities to inspire as many people as I can, as fast as I can (cuz life is short), through my words, blogs, Diva groups and my life, while creating a beautiful body of work that truly makes a difference.

So thank you for reading my blogs and my books and sharing your thoughts with me.

With all my love and a bunch of warm fuzzies at the end of this great year,

The Diva Extraordinaire,
Mandy

A Handmade Box For Me!

I'd like to thank Chadlen Casarin for the handmade box he made to celebrate the release of my new book, The Poet & The Butterfly. These images simply don't do his work justice, or capture all the intricate details on each side of the box. Chad included the image of a scroll (to represent the poet) and a butterfly, along with the book title, my name, as well as the place and date of the release, using a very thin wire that he shaped to form the words!!!!!!! AMAZING!!! It's truly one of the greatest gifts I've ever received. If you would like Chad to make YOU a personalized box for whatever occassion you can think of, email him at ccasarin@hotmail.com and make his day!

Happy Holidays

To all my friends,

Here's to all your dreams coming true and all your desires coming to light. Here's to love, to those you love, to those who love you and those you are about to meet...and eventually love. Here's to good food, clean air, clean water, and your life. Here's to your favourite song, a tender touch, a shared laugh and a warm bed.

Here's to another day, another chance, another moment to savour life. And here's to you, wonderful you, beautiful you, grand and spectacular you...the one who makes this world a better and brighter place, just by being yourself.

No, I haven't been drinking, but I'm probably high on chocolate, or maybe it's the lingering feeling of hope and happiness after watching Love Actually. Whatever it is, I'm grateful to be alive, grateful to be in love, and grateful that you are part of this world.

With all my love, Mandy
xoxox

All that spirits desire, spirits attain.

~Carl Jung

Your Life Is Your Work of Art

"I like to think of myself as an artist, and my life is my greatest work of art. Every moment is a moment of creation, and each moment of creation contains infinite possibilities. I can do things the way I've always done them, or I can look at all the different alternatives, and try something new and different and potentially more rewarding. Every moment presents a new opportunity and a new decision. What a wonderful game we are playing, and what a magnificent art form..." (From the book, 'Creative Visualization' by Shakti Gawain)

Magnificent indeed!

Griffin & Sabine: An Extraordinary Correspondence

Sabine,

Is it true? Do you think you are my perfect opposite? All I know is that when I conjure you up in my bed at night, the blood races through my body at the speed of light. I've been frightened to tell you about the way you infatuate me sexually in case you rejected me, but now that I see you too are vulnerable, I feel I can tell you.

I want to see you respond to my caress. I want to feel your skin on mine. To smell your sweat and taste the salt on your neck. To forget everything except your presence.

I've never experienced real desire till you arrived-for which I thank and damn you alternately. We must find a way to be together, or I will combust. I doubt that I will ever be able to express to you how much I love you.

~Griffin

(Excerpt from 'The Golden Mean: In Which the Extraordinary Correspondence of Griffin & Sabine Concludes')

************

The Griffin & Sabine trilogy is an experience like no other. Anna, my beloved editor, introduced me to the series after reading The Poet & The Butterfly, and seeing parallels between the two works.

Griffin & Sabine is an artistic feast for the eyes, heart and soul, as it is a correspondence between a man and a woman who have never met, yet fall in love through postcards, letters and art, creating an intense desire to meet and consummate their passionate exchanges, much like in my book, The Poet & The Butterfly: An Intimate Dialogue, except G&S is a work of fiction.

So for those who love to love and be loved, who want to be inspired and have their hearts reawakened, Griffin & Sabine, and The Poet & The Butterfly, are the perfect antidote to life. The Griffin & Sabine series is now a treasured and rare find in most stores, but The Poet & The Butterfly will always reside in my home, ready to be delivered to whatever soul beckons it:)

All my love,
Mandy xo

The Poet & The Butterfly: Now Available To All!

I'd like to send a HUGE thank you to everyone who has already supported my dream and purchased copies of my book, 'The Poet & The Butterfly'. In its first week of sales, the book has earned double of what I make in a month of running my Diva Classes!!! So thank you for loving and buying the book everyone!!!!

If you would like an autographed copy for yourself, or as the perfect CHRISTMAS GIFT for another, you can buy directly from me (tax-free) or at these lovely stores in the K-W area:

Exhibit Cafe (King St. Kit.)
Different Strokes (King St. Wat)
Wordsworth Books (King ST. Wat)
State of the Art/Art Supplies (King St. Wat)
Old Goat Books (King St. Wat)

Book Express (Cambridge Center-Cam)
Red Basil (Main St. Cam)

The Writer's Diet

For the last 10 years I have woken up each morning to write 3 pages longhand, in a spiral notebook, about whatever thoughts are floating around in my head. I do this without stopping, and often without even thinking, and it is a practice I attribute to keeping my creative well flourishing.

Julia Cameron, author of 'The Artist's Way' (a phenomenal 12 week process of unblocking yourself creatively) refers to this tool as 'The Morning Pages', and I recommend it to all my Divas, as well as any creative being I come across, who is ready for a shift and unsure where to begin.

Morning pages are often scattered, angry, fragmenting, hard to read and repetitive. That is the point. You can't complain about the same thing morning after morning, week after week, month after month, without doing something about it.

Julia Cameron's most recent book, 'The Writer's Diet', is based on the idea that we can write ourselves to our natural weight, since 'morning pages' bring to light all the things/people in our lives that we feel powerless towards, which in turn, causes us to overeat while temporarily soothing our pain away.

Here are a few lines from 'The Writer's Diet':

"Writing makes us conscious. Once we are conscious, it is difficult to act out in unconscious ways...In the privacy of our journal, we admit the secrets we have been harboring. Once aired, those secrets lose their power to tyrannize us."

"Morning pages are a sorting process. At first on the page and then in our lives, we begin to get things straight...Morning pages point us in the direction of our growth. They make us intimate with ourselves and that, in turn, allows us to be more authentically intimate with others."

"Once we get used to it, writing is as natural as breathing-and almost as necessary. Moving our pen across the page, we come into focus ourselves. Emotions long avoided become familiar. Perceptions become clearer. Boundaries begin to fall into place."

Whatever you're writing is already swirling in your head so it's best to put it all on the page, a purge if you will, so you can free up your mind with fresh new thoughts and bold new actions. The trick though, is to NOT read what you've written. Just put it away for the full 12 weeks.

Your job is to write 3 pages (without stopping) each morning, sort yourself in the process, and leave it behind. Reading your words will not benefit you in any way until the 12 weeks are complete. If this piques your interest, GET THE BOOK AND DO THE PROGRAM!!!!! You can't go wrong with becoming more aware of what's bubbling underneath the surface;)

Mandy

Ender's Game

Last night I stayed up till the wee hours of the morning reading a brilliant piece of work entitled, 'Ender's Game'. It's science-fiction, a genre I have rarely exposed myself to, but the series came highly recommended and I thought I'd give it a whirl:)

Well, I'm at the library as I write this, and I have the second installment (Ender's Shadow) in my hands to take home. I can't wait to go through another journey with this incredible author!

Anyways, here is a passage from the introduction to 'Ender's Game', by its author, Orson Scott Card. I think it is an extraordinary description of what a book, and true art is meant to be; a collaborative experience between the artist and his/her audience.

Here's what he says about his book:

"The story itself, the true story, is the one that the audience members create in their minds, guided and shaped by my text, but then transformed, elucidated, expanded, edited, and clarified by their own experience, their own hopes and fears...

The story of Ender's Game is not this book, though it has that title emblazoned on it. The story is the one that you and I will construct together in your memory. If the story means anything to you at all, then when you remember it afterward, think of it not as something I created, but rather as something that we made together."

Beautiful.

Isn't that what all the good books, songs, and images become when they strike a chord with us? They become beautiful, and they become part of us, part of our own biography. I think that's what all great art does. It creates a response, an emotion, a memory, and maybe even a new life within us.

So, to all the great creators, thinkers, artists, and beings, I'd like to thank you for sharing your gifts and entering the hearts, minds and homes of every one of us, and for exposing your take on the world, so that we could add your brilliance to our own collection (just like I've added Card to mine).

Happy reading, writing and discovering, my friends!

Love Mandy

Reviews & Comments for 'The Poet & The Butterfly'

From the March 2008 pre-release of The Poet & The Butterfly...


"A modern romance which authentically captures the passion of the transformative merging of two souls. Eloquent, poetic and beautiful."~Melanie McKay (Intuitive Healer)

"Your ability to express this is something I envy. It made me realize how much we hold back. It left me wanting to know what unfolded in your mind, what allowed you to express so much. It is such a profound idea, and very much cutting edge, almost before it's time, but being brought to the forefront to challenge norms and ideals. This is so much something people could really learn from." ~Francis Merle (Writer, Comedian)

"If you love it, set it free" for you must share the love and passion throughout the world. 'The Poet and the Butterfly' is proof that modern day love and romance exists. This book has moved me beyond words. I could feel the passion, almost as if I was living it myself. Mandy Richardson and Keveen Gabet have been blessed with the greatest art of language. Very few can place words together with such passion and belief. I am anxiously awaiting the continuation of the series. This book has an underlying meaning to me that you must live in the now and embrace every moment that is blessed unto you in your life. Do not concentrate on the boundaries which are present. Mandy and Keveen, knowing that it would be short-lived, followed the desire and passion they felt. Turning this into one of the greatest Loves I have ever experienced." ~Carey Friedmann (Certified DIVA)

"To be honest, I wasn't expecting much that would interest me. But just reading some of the beginning letters...very surprising. They're really enchanting to read, so much more forward-and sincere-than how many relationships seem to start. I'm digging the book a lot. It makes me think of my own life, feelings, and outlook on relationships." ~Eshwin Dhir (Illustrator)

"I devoured it in a gulp at 4am. I loved it. I loved the connection by the 'chance' car trip. I was inspired by your acceptance-in-advance that the other would be moving along in the near future. Like stopping yourselves from holding on so that you wouldn't have to let go. That takes a lot of openness and even more bravery. It gives me hope and faith in other people and the future. Thank you SO MUCH for sharing it with me."~Jess Spieker (Student)

"I stayed up until the wee hours reading it last night. It is so beautiful, and it's stirring many emotions and realizations in me...I'm blown away by its passion." ~Anna Fleet (Writer, Editor)

"On page 8...in love already." ~Hilary (Qatalyst Media) 

"Never would I have thought that our words were to be the essence of such a beautiful book. I am honoured to be materially, yet intimately and poetically binded to you." ~Keveen Gabet (Co-author)

The Poet & The Butterfly: An Excerpt & An Invitation

"Your moist door I shall penetrate with no artifice whatsoever, deliver my prayer, and exit with the most religious feeling pervading my soul. 

Love is my religion, your body its temple, your juice its wine, your words its gospel and my departure its Hell. If the angels have no wings to fly, I will crawl to Heaven." 

The poet, Keveen Gabet

This is from my new book 'The Poet & The Butterfly: An Intimate Dialogue', set to be released on Thursday, November 20th, from 7-9pm at The Princess Twin Cinema on King St in uptown Waterloo.

Please join me for this special evening. Signed copies will be sold for $35 (I will pay the tax) and there will be a cash bar. The book will be available in stores following the release.

Feel free to confirm your attendance at the event by joining 'The Poet & The Butterfly: A Soiree' on Facebook.

Thanks so much for your support everyone:)

Love Mandy xoxo

The Down Cycle

"It is not true that the up cycle is good and the down cycle bad, except in the mind’s judgment. Growth is usually considered positive, but nothing can grow forever. If growth, of whatever kind, were to go on and on, it would eventually become monstrous and destructive. Dissolution is needed for new growth to happen. One cannot exist without the other…

Your physical energy is also subject to cycles. It cannot always be at peak. There will be times of low as well as high energy. There will be periods when you are highly active and creative, but there may also be times when everything seems stagnant, when it seems that you are not getting anywhere, not achieving anything. A cycle can last for anything from a few hours to a few years…

Many illnesses are created through fighting against the cycles of low energy, which are vital for regeneration. The compulsion to do…makes it hard or impossible for you to accept the low cycles and allow them to be. Thus, the intelligence of the organism may take over as a self-protective measure and create an illness in order to force you to stop, so that the necessary regeneration can take place."

From ‘The Power of Now’ by Eckhart Tolle

*I dedicate today’s passage to myself and anyone else who is currently experiencing the down cycle;) I don’t care WHAT Eckhart says! It friggin’ sucks! And I wanna get back to doing!!!!!!!!! Hence, this exhaustion that simply won’t go away. 

I’m going back to bed.

Love Mandy

The Secret of Happiness

"The secret of happiness is simple: find out what you truly love to do and then direct all your energy towards doing it. If you study the happiest, healthiest, most satisfied people of our world, you will see that every one of them has found their passion in life, and then spent their days pursuing it. This calling is almost always one that, in some way, serves others. Once you are concentrating your mental power and energy on a pursuit that you love, abundance flows into your life, and all your desires are fulfilled with ease and grace…

Once you find out what your life’s work is, your world will come alive. You will wake up every morning with a limitless reservoir of energy and enthusiasm. All your thoughts will be focused on your definitive objective. You won’t have time to waste time. Valuable mental power will not, therefore, be wasted on trifling thoughts. You will automatically erase the worry habit and become far more effective and productive. Interestingly, you will also have a deep sense of inner harmony, as if you were somehow being guided to realize your mission. It is a wonderful feeling. I love it."

From the book, ‘The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari: A Spiritual Fable About Fulfilling Your Dreams and Reaching Your Destiny’ by Robin S. Sharma

Spread Your Love

My beloved friend and co-author, Keveen Gabet, has come up with a brilliant concept called 'Spread Your Love', a worldwide call to all beings in an effort to make this world a more loving and beautiful place to be.

Keveen has been living this message for years, spreading his love in many parts of the world while changing lives (including my own) in the process. Please, please, please, join his brand new FB group 'SPREAD YOUR LOVE' and follow the link to his new blog www.spreadyourlov.blogspot.com. On it you will find the Spread Your Love Manifesto, as well as great ideas to get you started on your quest to spread your love:):) Like these for instance:

1- Distributing the SYL Manifesto
2- Cooking for people
3- Giving massages
4- Leaving anonymous love letters in town
5- Leaving books with a note
6- Making inspiring videos and posting them on youtube.com and SYL website
7- Paying people´s coffee anonymously
8- Drawing hearts in original places
9- Writing emails to thank people or to praise them
10- Busking for free
11- Helping travellers
12- Hosting travellers (www.couchsurfing.com)
13- Organising SYL nights
14- Preparing treasure hunts
15- Smiling
16- Writing inspirational messages with chalk on the floor
17- Using your talent fo free (hair cutting, tattooeing, portraits, math classes...)
18- Covering hate messages with love messages
19- Praising your friends
20- Playing with children
21- Burning incense in the streets
22- Baking biscuits and distributing them in the street
23- Writing a nice message on each flight of stairs in buildings
24- drawing hearts with chalk on paved streets
24- sticking black paper in the shape of a heart on red lights, so that instead of seeing a forbidding red light, we see a nice loving heart
25- putting many small paper hearts in the place where people get their change (pay phone, candy machine..) so that when they want to get their change, an avalanche of hearts falls on them
26- making people´s dishes
27- planting flowers in public spaces
28- Gettting in touch with us to send a massive amount of letters to someone in need of love / support
29- Spread the message about someone who is trying to create: music, books,photography...

and that's just for starters!!!!!!

So go ahead and get started! Make someone's day, or night, simply by doing what you were put on this earth to do...

LOVE

Lucky Duck

Okay, so admittedly I have love on the brain this weekend and I hope you do too! If you’re looking for it, you need to celebrate because it’s on its way! Yippee!!!! And if you’ve already got it, then celebrate it today! You’re a lucky duck!:):):)

Here's a great passage from the book, ‘Enchanted Love: The Mystical Power of Intimate Relationships’ by Marianne Williamson (Bestselling author of ‘A Return To Love’ and ‘A Woman’s Worth’) to help you do just that-celebrate. So let's get excited about love because we all know there is no greater experience in the world. 

************

“AND THEN, he comes. People had said you might meet in this way or that, but when the day arrived, he just appeared. Funny. He’s not who you would have thought capable of snatching your heart from your chest.

Love is simpler than it appears, in this complicated world of ours. The secret of love is to tell the beloved how wonderful he or she is, constantly and sincerely, at least a million times every day. Give and then give some more and then give a little more than that. To the extent that love has dried up in my life, it was always because I became miserly with my expression of affection. To the extent that love has blossomed in my life, it was always because I expanded my willingness to express the love that often cowers like a child in a corner of my heart. I have learned that everyone has that corner, and the childlike place where we cower within it. When we honestly speak from that place in ourselves, we encounter that place in someone else, and the twp frightened children become two courageous adults, with a very adult capacity to love and to be loved.”

Happy loving, my friends!

From a soon-to-be lucky duck:)
Mandy xo

No More Excuses!

For those of you who have spent even 10 minutes with me, you know I have big dreams. I fully intend to have a bestselling book, be a guest on Oprah, and dance in a Justin Timberlake video, maybe even in the same year. Why not? Don’t think it’s possible? Haha!!! ANYTHING is possible, my friend. Miracles occur and dreams are realized every single moment of every single day!

Just read this excerpt from ‘The One Minute Millionaire: The Enlightened Way To Wealth’ by Mark Victor Hansen for proof that belief in yourself and your dreams is all you need.

'Self-doubt drowns your dreams. Hesitation holds you hostage. Skepticism scares away your success. You wonder, “What will they think? I don’t have a degree or a diploma. I don’t have the qualifications, I don’t have the experience or the credentials.”

Here’s a list of billionaires and multimillionaires who never graduated from college. They didn’t let their lack of degrees or diplomas hold them back.

Bill Gates-Microsoft, Paul Allen-Microsoft, Michael Dell-Dell Computer, Steve Jobs-Apple Computer, Steven Speilberg-Movie Director, Thomas Monaghan-Domino’s Pizza, Jim Jannard-Oakley Sunglasses, Wayne Huizenga-Blockbuster Video, Harry S. Truman-U.S. President, Peter Jennings-ABC News, Walter Cronkite-CBS News, Ralph Lauren-Clothing Designer (Note: This list is more extensive in the book. Highlights are my own.)

Well-known self-publishers include:

James Redfield (The Celestine Prophecy), John Grisham (A Time to Kill), William Blake, Mark Twain, Henry David Thoreau, Virginia Woolf, Walt Whitman, Deepak Chopra, George Bernard Shaw, e.e. cummings, Benjamin Franklin, D.H. Lawrence, Edgar Allan Poe (Note: This list is more extensive in the book) 

The only qualification needed is a burning desire. The only credential required is fearless action. Everything else can be borrowed or bought. You can hire people with multiple degrees and diplomas. You can buy experience from mentors and consultants. You can assemble a team of people who possess all of the money, skills, and experience you lack.' (page 362)

AWESOME!

And I can and WILL be dancing with Justin, hanging with Oprah, and taking a lovely afternoon nap while millions read my bestselling book:)

Happy me!

Looking For Love?

I imagine I am not the only one who dreams of meeting and falling deeply in love with an incredible being who fits like a glove on multiple levels: emotionally, spiritually, sexually, intellectually, and even more. And I am happy to know that some of you have already found your perfect mate. This is awesome and inspiring!

But for those of us who are either wasting our time on the wrong ones, or are anxiously awaiting the right one, this passage goes out to you:)

From the book, 'Expect a Miracle: 7 Spiritual Steps to Finding the Right Relationship' by Kathy Freston,

'To settle on someone because he or she connects well with one or even two aspects of ourselves is a compromise that ultimately cheats the soul of full expression. By the same token, we can’t expect to find a partner until we have fully awakened each of the aspects within ourselves.

This is not about doing, it is about aligning ourselves internally so that we are radiant on every level...

Consider seriously that your imminent relationship is for the good of everybody, and is in fact a gift not only for you, but also for the entire universe. By your willingness to receive love into your life, you are opening the door for everyone involved and connected to you to experience a higher level of love.'

Awesome!!!!!!!

Happy loving, my friends:)

Silence

The following excerpt is from the book ‘Silence: How To Find Inner Peace In A Busy World’ by Christina Feldman. I absolutely LOVE this book, especially now, as I am feeling incredibly drawn to my quiet inner world lately.

'Silence changes us, transforms us, and connects us with what we treasure most deeply. It teaches us to let go of all of our perceived ideas, assumptions, conclusions, and images. In silence we become increasingly mindful of each thought, feeling, sensation and story that ripples through us, and we learn to be awake to our life and ourself. This is magical in itself. 

All the changes we long for in our life begin with a change of heart. 

Instead of meandering endlessly in clouds of habit, we learn to be awake and present. Instead of abandoning ourselves in distraction and busyness, we learn the wisdom of listening. Compassion begins in each moment we are willing to receive the world and ourself without blame or prejudice.

Befriending silence is, in fact, a process of learning to befriend ourselves. The habits of our mind and heart begin to soften and dissolve in the light of affectionate, mindful attention. The attention we cultivate in silence illuminates all the details of our moment-to-moment experience.'

*******

So, here's to a beautiful rainy Sunday morning; the perfect kind of day to get quiet and enjoy the sound and taste of raindrops:)

Happy puddle-jumping!

Mandy

When You Change, Everything Changes

It’s inevitable when you move towards your truth; your authentic power, that some others in your life will not. Since most people do not like change, they naturally resist it, and do whatever they can to try and move things back to where/when they were most comfortable.

But as a spiritual warrior, you cannot risk going back to who you once were because that self no longer fits. You have outgrown it. So quite naturally, you begin to outgrow relationships as well, because they no longer serve your highest good.

Therefore, one of the consequences of daring to become our authentic selves is the risk of losing one (or a few) relationship(s) along the way. Just because we are growing in an exciting new direction, it does not mean that those close to us are ready to do the same. If they are not ready, there will be tension between you until they either catch up to your new level of growth, or until the relationship dissolves.

This phenomenon is what I call ‘the casualty of consciousness’.

This is just the essence of life. People come and go in our lives while others are more of a constant, and all serve us every step of the way.

While we can be grateful for those friends and experiences and all that they taught us along the way, knowing that without each of them we would not be where we are today, we can still move on without guilt or regret, because someday we may even outgrow those who are coming into our life right now.

So, if you are in the process of transformation and are noticing a new shift or tension between you and another, you can either agonize or celebrate. You can try to fix it, or you can trust and embrace it, and take it as proof of your increasing consciousness. Try the latter;)

If they are ready, they will walk through the door that you opened for them and join you in that state. If they are not, you will separate like oil and water. The light is too painful for someone who wants to remain in the darkness. ~Eckhart Tolle 

Don't be surprised if some people drop out of your life. Your friends may not like it when you change because your light will expose the darkness they may still be attached to. When you make changes on the inside, it is only natural that changes will take place in every area of your life…things will find their balance, and harmony will soon be in place. ~Kathy Freston

You must dare to disassociate yourself from those who would delay your journey. Leave, depart, if not physically, then mentally. Go your own way, quietly, undramatically, and venture towards trueness at last. ~Vernon Howard

Happy growing!!

With love,

Mandy  

Your Beautiful Heart

I found this passage on a pretty greeting card recently...

What would you do if you knew you could not fail?
How high would you fly, how deep would you love?
What would you hear if you listened to your beautiful heart...

So I'm dedicating this week's message to you and your beautiful heart~

Have a wonderful day my sweet!

With love,
Mandy

Spiritual Sex: The Tantra Way

Sex is meant to be beautiful, pleasurable, arousing and fun, but did you ever consider it as a great source of spiritual fulfillment as well?

In the simple yet profound book, ‘Spiritual Sex’, Michelle Pauli speaks in depth about tantra; an extraordinary way of living, and a term that often means ‘expansion’: it celebrates the widening of horizons and the heightening of consciousness through immersion in the sensual experience of life (p.18). 

As Pauli describes, ‘Tantra is a radical path that embraces direct life-experience as a liberating force and uses desire, passion, and ecstacy as a tools of enlightenment. Tantrics teach that everyday can be transformed into the divine if we approach all activities, including lovemaking, as an act of worship.'

Pauli reminds us that sexuality is the most powerful creative force we possess, as well as being a source of intense physical pleasure and emotional joy, and that ‘sex is not an obstacle to spiritual progress, but a stepping stone to help us along the path,’: radical thinking for those of us raised in families, cultures, or religions, designed to make us feel guilty, bad or ashamed for this natural human desire. 

The subject of sex can become even more confusing here in the west, since we are inundated on a daily basis with over-sexualized movies, messages and advertisements. Sure sex sells in a culture that doesn’t value what’s most important (true intimacy, natural beauty, spirituality, authenticity) but sex alone does not satisfy (not for long at least). Sex is meant to heal, not harm, and it’s meant to deepen the intimacy that already exists between two people, not replace it. 

The goal is healing…on ALL levels, through intimacy with another.  Therefore, we need to relearn what it means to love, to share, to explore...and we need to do this in relationships that are built on trust, respect, honour and open communication, because this is what we all deserve. We need to be reminded that being our highest and best selves is the most potent aphrodisiac out there, and that our true Beloved would not only celebrate our unique physical beauty, but would treasure our bare soul as well.

In my opinion sex is totally awesome and tons of fun (especially with someone that you truly value and care for), so if you're not having it (sex or tons of fun doing it), you need to try something different (I’m talking paradigms, not positions folks! But heck, try those too! Ever heard of the Kama Sutra? ☺). Fall in love with yourself and learn what YOU like, so that when your next lover comes along, you can be a guide along the path of pleasure. Why not? Life is all about being happy and feeling good, dontcha know?:)

'Tantric couples honor each other as goddess and god-the divine female and male principles-and use lovemaking as a way to channel and transform sexual energy into bliss, thereby liberating the soul.’ (p.32)

Fantastic! Sounds good to me:) One more great reason to jump in the sack;) 

Now go to bed!

Love Mandy

Totally Unique Thoughts

A few months ago I was introduced to the world of TUT (Totally Unique Thoughts), created by Mike Dooley (the bald and hyper guy from The Secret:) When you join his site, you are sent daily 'Notes from the Universe', which are often funny, timely and thought-provoking. Here are 2 of the 5 awesome messages that I received just last week:

The only way to get what you really want, is to know what you really want.

And the only way to know what you really want, is to know yourself.

And the only way to know yourself, is to be yourself.

And the only way to be yourself, is to listen to your heart.

~The Universe

and my personal favourite,

You needn't worry. There is time. You have all the time in the world. You preceded time and you will exist beyond it. Age is irrelevant; more meaningless than a number. Forever, you have FOREVER. 

There is no dream you now have that you will not manifest. There is no challenge you now face that you will not crush and dispose of. There is no point in spending one more second of your awesome, amazing life, thinking anything to the contrary.

Olé, 
~The Universe

So, if you too would like messages like these sent to you 5 days a week, please go to www.tut.com and register. It is free and inspiring, and these daily messages will remind you of how incredibly AWESOME you are!  

Mandy:)

Embracing the Great Way (Tao Te Ching)

In Wayne Dyer's recent book 'Change Your Thoughts-Change Your Life: Living the Wisdom of the Tao', Dyer reinterprets (for the modern age) each of the 81 verses of the ancient and extraordinary text by Lao-tzu, called 'Tao Te Ching' (a commentary on the nature of our existence dictated 500 years before the birth of Jesus).

The 29th verse speaks of living by natural law, and in my opinion, beautifully encapsulates what it means to let go, to live simply and to be at peace with the isness of life.

*************

29th Verse

Do you think you can take over the universe and improve it? I do not think it can be done.

Everything under heaven is a sacred vessel and cannot be controlled. Trying to control only leads to ruin. Trying to grasp, we only lose.

Allow your life to unfold naturally.
Know that it too is a vessel of perfection.
Just as you breathe in and breathe out,
there is a time for being ahead and a time for being behind;
a time for being in motion
and a time for being at rest;
a time for being vigorous
and a time for being exhausted;
a time for being safe
and a time for being in danger.

To the sage
all of life is a movement towards perfection, 
so what need has he 
for the excessive, the extravagant, or the extreme?

***************

Following his own commentary on this verse, Dyer includes the poem by Naomi Long Madgett, entitled 'Woman with Flower', as a way to illustrate this lesson in allowing things to be as they are:

I wouldn't coax the plant if I were you.
Such watchful nurturing may do it harm.
Let the soil rest from so much digging
And wait until it is dry before you water it.
The leaf's inclined to find its own direction;
Give it a chance to seek the sunlight for itself.

Much growth is stunted by too careful prodding,
Too eager tenderness.
The things we love we have to learn to leave alone.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I just LOVE that last line!!!!! Now we know the origins of the now famous phrase, 'If you love it set it free'~

Letting Go

Recently I was forced to let go of someone I didn't feel altogether ready to release, but what could I do? I could either resist or let go, and I did a bit of both for the days leading up to, and following, the end of a beautiful chapter of my life. 

My goal was complete release and acceptance, and for me, this is a process. It takes time to untangle the webs, the unfulfilled desires and longings, the things you know will never be no matter how hard you tried or how much you wanted it.

And I've discovered that the only sane response is trust; in myself and in life. Trusting that all things happen for a reason, even this, this unexpected event that hurts like a mo' fo':)

So for any of you who are also struggling to release something or someone whom you know needs to be set free, if only for your own well-being, this passage is for you~

******
From 'A Return To Love: Reflections on a Course in Miracles' by Marianne Williamson~

FAITH

'What if we truly believed that there is a God-a beneficent order to things, a force that's holding things together without our conscious control? What if we could see, in our daily lives, the working of that force? What if we believed it loved us somehow, and cared for us, and protected us? What if we believed we could afford to relax?

We can let our lives be directed by the same force that makes flowers grow-or we can do it ourselves.

To trust in the force that moves the universe is faith. Faith isn't blind, it's visionary. Faith is believing that the universe is on our side, and that the universe knows what it's doing. Faith is a psychological awareness of an unfolding for for good, constantly at work in all dimensions. 

Our attempts to direct this force only interferes with it. Our willingness to relax into it allows it to work on our behalf. Without faith, we're frantically trying to control what is not our business to control, and fix what is not in our power to fix. What we're trying to control is much better off without us, and what we're trying to fix can't be fixed by us anyway. Without faith, we're wasting time.'

******

I'd like to not waste any more time:) I'd like to have the courage, faith and trust to know that setting this person free will only make more room in my life for a higher level of awesomeness:)

And I wish the same for you~

Mandy

THIS PHOTOGRAPHER IS BRILLIANT!

Photographer Heather Guy recently asked me to model for an upcoming project of hers. The photoshoot took place in her livingroom surrounded by her 5 cats:) We had a great time playing dress-up and experimenting with lights and colour, and I felt completely comfortable as she is simply a lovely person to be around. If you like what you see and would like to have your own photos done by Heather, she can be reached at flames8282@hotmail.com.

HEY, SUPERFOX!

If you've just been dumped and are completely heart-broken, or if you just need a good laugh, here's the book for you: 'It's Called a Breakup Because It's Broken' by Greg Behrendt and his wife Amiira (Greg is also the co-author of 'He's Just Not That Into You'-another hilarious book I highly recommend:)

Now admittedly I don't recall ever being dumped myself (no need to be jealous ladies, it's only because I have yet to actually stay in a relationship long enough for the inevitable to occur;) but I gained so much insight from this little book, and have compliled some of my favourite quotes and passages from it. I hope you enjoy them!

~Even with all the mayonnaise in the world, you can't make chicken salad out of chicken shit.

~Before you know it, you've concocted some lame excuse to drop by his place, like returning his can opener (he can buy a new one, you know), and you end up naked on the kitchen table.

~Wasting time in a relationship that blows is just that-wasted time. Time that could be spent looking for and meeting the person who's destined to be your perfect match. Ultimately, there's no benefit to hanging on-you're merely procrastinating and delaying the inevitable...So do the both of you a favour and end it...Pull the plug already and come with us on the road to the bigger, brighter future that awaits.

~Let's let him know how you're doing by NOT calling him. Quite honestly, he'll be more intrigued by the fact that you didn't call than if you did. Not keeping the lines of communication open says a lot about somebody. It says they've moved on and are not interested in spending their valuable time on someone who doesn't want to be with them.

~Awesome Thought: Alone also means available for something outstanding.

~If he's so great, you'd still be together.

~The guy doesn't have to be a total asshole for you not to want to spend the rest of your life with him.

~Remember-breakups give you an opportunity to redesign your life.

~Awesome Thought: Your new boyfriend isn't standing outside your ex-boyfriend's apartment building, so you shouldn't be either.

Haha!!!! I love Greg!!! So those are a few of my personal favourites from 'It's Called a Breakup Because It's Broken', a wickedly wonderful book to help women get back to their own power instead of obsessing over men who are clearly not worth the time and energy being devoted to them.

Now I'm just waiting for Greg's next book: 'How to Not Throw It All Away Simply Because He Picked a Bad Movie: A Relationship Survival Guide for Mandy Richardson. Maybe then I can make it to at least a month;)

AN ODE TO DIVA LAURA

I love all my Divas equally but I love Diva Laura the most.

So here is my 'Ode to Diva Laura' in the form of a Top 10 list just to make Diva Laura smile:

Top 10 Reasons I Think Diva Laura is the Shiznat

10. She is a chakra genius. Knows the difference between root and sacral and everything.

9. She helped me realize that I needed to get rid of my lover with the strange name because just the thought of sex with him made me ill.

8. She makes soy candles from scratch, and it's not easy, let me tell you. The wick ALWAYS moves around.

7. She can drink alcohol underwater (ask her how), and she taught her husband to do the same.

6. She has a laminating machine.

5. She makes all the DIVA Membership cards, simply because I can't.

4. She asks me to work for her and then tells me she doesn't need me anymore.

3. On the rare occassion that I do find myself working in her candle shop, I get paid in beeswax.

2. She's fucking hilarious. Just look at her.

And the #1 reason why I think that Diva Laura completely rocks:

1. I got to eat the delicious squares I made for her because I slept in by 3 hours and forgot to bring them by.

3 cheers for Diva Laura!!!

THE GREAT PURGE

I recently removed all 433 'friends' from my Facebook account. I also deleted every 'inbox' AND 'sent' message. 563 wall posts were deleted, as well as all but one of my group memberships.

I felt it was time for a fresh start, sans the interactive aspect of crackbook.

Then came the cell phone. All accumulated text messages, gone. Phone numbers of people I really would rather not hear from..ever, gone. And my 'Succulent Woman' display message was replaced by 'Frickin' Wicked!'. That's right.

Purging IS frickin' wicked, and necessary, because it clears space for even more awesomeness to enter.

So go clean your room.

HIS CHARISMA CAN BE SEEN FROM SPACE

I hate beer.

I hate the smell of it, the look of it and most especially, the taste of it.

I hate pictures of people drinking beer. I hate pictures of people thinking about drinking beer.

I really hate beer.

But if ever there were the slightest chance of me being converted to the insanely popular social custom of beer-drinking, it would be because of one man...the most interesting man in the world (that's right, the guy from the Dos Equis beer ads), and here's why:

The police often question him just because they find him interesting.
His beard alone has experienced more than a lesser man's entire body.
His blood smells like cologne.
He is... the most interesting man in the world.

On every continent in the world, there is a sandwich named after him.
He once punched a magician. That's right, you heard me.
When he orders a salad, he doesn't get the dressing on the side. He gets it right there, on top of the salad. Where it belongs. Where there is no turning back.
He is... the most interesting man in the world.

His charisma can be seen from space.
Even the things his parrot says are insightful.
When it rains, it is because he is sad.
If there were an interesting gland, his would be larger than most men's lower intestines.
He is the most interesting man in the world.

He doesn't believe in using oven mitts... nor potholders.
His cereal never gets soggy. It sits there staying crispy, just for him.
His pillow talk is years ahead of its time.
He is... the most interesting man in the world.

His shirts never wrinkle.
He is left-handed…and right handed.
Even if he forgets to put postage on his mail, it gets there.
He is... the most interesting man in the world.

He once hugged a man in Reno just to watch him…feel uncomfortable.
He is... the most interesting man in the world.

And I would drink Dos Equis, just to be like him.
I would take a picture of myself drinking Dos Equis, while I thought about drinking Dos Equis, just to remind myself of him.
I would wear Dos Equis perfume and chew Dos Eqius gum, every hour of every day, because I want to be interesting too.
I am...the most obsessed fan of the the most interesting man in the world, in the world.

*All excerpts about 'the most intersting man in the world' were found online from various sources. Dos Equis is a Mexican Import which I kept hearing hilarious ads for on the radio. The fact that these commercials have inspired me (an avid hater of beer consumption and all things relating to it) to devote an entire blog entry to this series of beer advertisements, is kind of insane and is also a huge compliment to the brains behind this series.

GO BIG OR GO HOME

I like to dream big. I mean REALLY big. You know, the things most people wouldn't even think about dreaming about, well, those are the things I'm always writing and talking about, the things I have no doubt about achieving in my life.

Of course it can happen. Awesome things always happen. Look around you. Look on t.v. The world is filled with millions of people achieving their dreams every single day, and I intend to be one of them.

Some people think my dreams are quite amusing, others just think I'm insane. You can judge for yourself.

MANDY'S (current) list of BIG DREAMS!

(in no particular order but I can't help but notice a nice and natural flow here):

1. Be on Oprah with my...
2. Best-selling book that will...
3. Make millions so that I can...
4. Have my own show, where I will go on about how much I want to be in a JT video, and then through the powers that be...
5. Justin Timberlake calls my home begging me to be his lover (I say 'Sorry JT, but I'm not that kinda girl') so he asks me if I'll at least be in his next video. I tell him I'll think about it. After a fashionable pause (3.5 seconds) I wholeheartedly agree to actually...
6. BE in a Justin Timberlake video (and for those who may be wondering, yes, I actually CAN dance!) which leads to...
7. Hittin' da club with Missy, Justin and Timbo! That's right.

8. Meet and fall deeply in love with my true Beloved, which will lead to...
9. A live-in cook-awesome! Just kidding. No I'm not.

And last but not least,

10. World domination, DIVA Style.

Yeah that's right.

HER HIGHNESS GOES TO DAYTIME!

So today marked my fourth visit to Rogers Television and I had a blast! I was interviewed for the third time by Susan Cook-Sheerer, a wonderful host and DIVA supporter:)

The first time I was on Rogers however, I was not there to be interviewed about my DIVA Classes. I was brought on stage to model (stand and look pretty). I was a last-minute fill-in without proper modeling training but I didn't care. I just wanted to be in front of the camera looking hot, which is why I practically begged to fill in for the no-show model.

My wish was granted and I was elated!

Until I realized that someone else would be dressing me.

I was NOT a happy camper, to say the least, but being that it was my first gig, I kept my peace. I really didn't want to be THAT girl. You know, the DIVA (and not the good kind), especially when I'm only a fill in and they don't even know my name. So I smiled and tried to think happy thoughts. I tried to be grateful for my first volunteer 'job'. I tried to find something good in this, but then it was time for the jewelry.

I soon felt like a child on the verge of a temper tantrum.

Anyone who knows me, knows I like my bling. I load 'er up each day with silver (I'm NOT a fan of gold) bangles and rings gallore, bold necklaces, big earrings and if there's room, a glitterly watch:)

WELL, I'm given a dainty gold necklace and earring set (Read: Matching-like in the catalogues-definitely not my style) to go with the 'classique' skirt and 'blazer' I'm to wear, on public television. And not surprisingly, my fellow models (all older as I was filling in for a 50+ model) think this get-up is an upgrade.

I desperately want to offer my television audience a disclaimer (if only to appease my own vanity), but like I said, I was a fill-in. And this is what I wanted right?

No. Not at all.

I wanted to be on television, sure, in the spotlight, being seen by everyone, but I now knew I needed it to be on my own terms, in my OWN clothes, promoting MY business, and not someone else's.

So as the universe would have it, I was invited to come back to Rogers just a few short months later, but this time it was to talk about my DIVA CLASSES, and I was happier than a pig in poop!

And was completely ready for my debut as Mandy Richardson, Diva Extraordinaire!

I was beyond thrilled and the interview was AMAZING!!!!!! I looked like a million bucks and felt fantastic. I left the show high as a kite and celebrated myself for the rest of the day.

What I had always envisioned had come to life. I didn't need an upgrade, I just needed to be myself. I didn't need a blazer, I had my 13 year old daughter's purple dress to wear as my top. And I wasn't just another pretty face on the screen, I was the passionate, intelligent and articulate woman I've always been.

Now I am referred to as 'Mandy Richardson, the Diva Extraordinaire' and/or 'Her Happy Highness' on live television, each and every time!

So can I get a freakin' woot?!

Rock on.

THE REAL ROCKY STORY

So last night I was reading more of my new favourite book, THE ONE MINUTE MILLIONAIRE: The Enlightened Way to Wealth, by Mark Victor Hansen and Robert G. Allen, when I came across the story of Sylvester Stallone.

Admittedly I have never even seen a Rocky movie (though I have heard of the series) but I was interested to learn something about it and to see why this actor in particular would be featured in a book such as this. To my surprise, I instantly admired Stallone. As you will soon read and see for yourself, Stallone's ability to honour his own vision of the movie, despite external pressures to set it aside and trade his dream for cash, is incredibly inspiring for anyone who chooses to take the higher (albiet longer) road of authentic living.

So here is Stallone's story, straight from the book, as written by the authors on page 122 of THE ONE MINUTE MILLIONAIRE:

THE REAL ROCKY STORY

In 1974 Sylvester Stallone was a broke, discouraged actor and screenwriter. While attending a boxing match he became inspired by a "nobody" boxer who "went the distance" with the great Mohammed Ali.

He rushed home and in a three-day burst of creative output produced the first draft of the screenplay entitled Rocky.

Down to his last $106, Stallone submitted his screenplay to his agent. A studio offered $20,000 with either Ryan O'Neal or Burt Reynolds playing the lead character. Stallone was excited by the offered but wanted to play the lead himself. He offered to act for free. He was told, "That's not the way it works in Hollywood." Stallone turned down the offer though he desperately needed the money.

Then they offered him $80,000 on the condition that he wouldn't play the lead. He turned them down again.

They told him Robert Redford was interested, in which case they'd pay him $200,000. He turned them down once more.

They upped their offer to $300,000 for his script. He told them that he didn't want to go through his whole life wondering "what if?"

They offered him $333,000. He told them that he'd rather not see the movie made if he couldn't play the lead.

They finally agreed to let him play the lead. He was paid $20,000 for the script plus $340 per week minimum actor's scale. After expenses, agents fees, and taxes, he netted about $6,000 instead of $330,000.

In 1976 Stallone was nominated for an Academy Award as Best Actor. The movie Rocky won three Oscars: Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Film Editing. The Rocky series has since grossed almost $1 billion, making Sylvester Stallone an internatonal movie star!

Follow your gut. Stick to your guns.


Rock on.

THE ONE MINUTE MILLIONAIRE

Yesterday my Business Advisor recommended that I read THE ONE MINUTE MILLIONAIRE: The Enlightened Way to Wealth by Mark Victor Hansen (Coauthor of Chicken Soup for the Soul) and Robert G. Allen, assuring me it is not as capitalistic as the title might suggest.

Feeling intrigued by the concept of an enlightened way of achieving my financial goals, I biked to my local library to get it and returned home completely ready for a paradigm shift.

Four hours later I was STILL reading it, unable to put it down, furiously writing the highlights, my insights and my own million dollar idea. I was transfixed with its contents. I was hungry for all that wisdom. I by-passed the fictional story (this book is a double-read: the pages on the left contain concrete, practical applications to achieve wealth, on the right is a fictional story of a woman needing to come up with a million dollars in 90 days if she is to keep both of her children) and went straight for the guts of the book. I wanted facts and I wanted them quick! I wanted a specific set of steps, a plan to make my own dreams a reality, a way to bring my spirituality in alignment with the process of earning an income.

So it was no accident that this book was now in my hands. The time had come to put my ideas, creativity and passion towards a higher goal, the goal of financial freedom.

What I loved about this book was the premise that 'money isn't everything'. Strange you would think, with a title like THE ONE MINUTE MILLIONAIRE, but the authors sincerely believe it, even stating that money is not even in their top 4, that it's leagues behind their family, their health, their friends and their spiritual values. So then why promote getting rich? Why write a book on becoming a millionaire if money is no big deal?

Because wealth equals freedom; freedom to 'be, do and have whatever you desire as long as it hurts no one and silmultaneously helps others' (p.46). As the authors outlined in 'The Ninth Aha!', financial freedom creates time freedom (you own work, work no longer owns you), relationship freedom (love and time to explore it), spiritual freedom (you can now investigate your spritual beingness), physical freedom (health is the ultimate wealth-time and money to spend on excercise and nutrition) and ultimate freedom (the ability to persue your real genius).(p.46)

Put this way, I began to see that it is truly in my best interest (as well as those whom I love and support) to find an enlightened way to create wealth on ALL levels, in EVERY area of my life. That is why we are here, isn't it? To be happy experience lasting fulfillment. We certainly were not put on this earth to be broke and miserable. I know I wasn't.

Though I am only a third of the way through THE ONE MINUTE MILLIONAIRE, I am incredibly excited about what lies ahead. I have already been reminded (having gotten out of the habit 2 years ago) of the importance of tithing, of sharing 10% of your own wealth with a cause you believe in. Poverty consciousness sees this as absurd, like 'I'm already broke! That's 10% less for me!', but the opposite is true. "Giving money actually expands in the spiritual dimension (100% x10%=1,000%). This is spiritual math. Tithing is a multiplier, not a subtracter." (p.82) Something to thing about.

I have also gotten VERY clear on my goals, because honestly, how can we get to where we want to go if we don't even know where that is? So like the book suggests, I have recorded my TOP 6 GOALS and put them on the wall in front of my desk. The authors also suggest writing these out each day so that you are clear on what is is you truly want. When you can get clear on that much, the Universe will supply you with the resources (people, money, things, ideas-whatever you need) to make your dreams a reality. Try it!

I really can't wait to devour the rest of the book this week. I love reading anything that resonates with my core beliefs and values, and THE ONE MINUTE MILLIONAIRE does just that.

With a new sense of hope and a deeper understanding of the importance of wealth in every area,

Mandy

WOMEN ARE LIKE APPLES

A year or two ago I was sent the following passage online:

"Women are like apples on trees: the best ones are at the top of the tree. Most men don't want to reach for the good ones because they are afraid of falling and getting hurt. Instead, they just get the rotten apples from the ground that aren't as good, but easy...

So the apples at the top think something is wrong with them, when in reality, they're amazing. They just have to wait for the right man to come along. The one who's brave enough to climb all the way to the top of the tree." (Anonymous)

and I loved it! Most women do, because it is so affirming, and true.

How many of us are hungry for a love that has yet to be satisified? How many have wondered why the HECK he's going for HER when it's SO clear that WE have got it ALL going on!? How many believe now, after too many heart aches and breaks and endless disappointments, that true and lasting love is nothing but a dream, or overrated, or not worth it, or 'meant for others but not for me'?

Well, I'm here to say there is hope, you can have it all, and it's a lot closer than you think.

Through no fault of our own, there are many of us who have accepted much less than we deserve in relationships. Many more of us who remain single and unattached because we won't settle for less. 

We know we deserve the best, but it's not like the streets abound with courageous, enlightened and available men (or so we think). So, after months or even years of remaining true to our values, if we're not really scoring on the relationship front we may begin to wonder what is wrong with us, we may begin to wonder whether we should lower our standards, or even worse, we may begin to doubt ourselves altogether!

I think this is incredibly tragic, and completely unacceptable. Ladies, we need a paradigm shift, and now.

We are the lovers we seek. Our true Beloved is already here, inside us. We need only to call him or her forth and the universe will answer our call with the being who is to be our partner, in the perfect way, at the perfect time, for our highest growth.

Until then, it would be wise for us to remember that we are amazing, talented, gorgeous, worthy, lovable and brilliant, with or without a relationship, with or without another person's validation. 

I have met and loved some incredibly beautiful, gifted and interesting princes, but I have yet to meet my King. Am I disheartened? HELL NO! Am I thrilled? HECK YES! To think that I could experience even more than what I have already is incredibly exciting because every time I've fallen in love it has been life-transforming.

Every man I had the pleasure of knowing intimately taught me something about myself that I could not have learned otherwise. I needed exactly what they offered, even if I hated it at the time. Whoever said that growth was comfortable or easy? It can be, but for many of us it's not:) Yet it's fascinating and essential for those who want to live on the razor's edge of life.

Experience has taught me that allowing our sense of self, and especially our sense of self-worth, to be dependent on ANY relationship but the one we have with ourselves is the perfect recipe for disappointment, hurt and resentment. I've done it a million times and then I discovered another way: the path of personal empowerment.

It is the wisdom of knowing that I am responsible for my own happiness. It is the decision to trust how my life is unfolding, in every area. It is the courage to let go of what no longer serves, even when it feels like 'something' is better than 'nothing'. It is the strength to hold out for something greater, because surely it will come.

How do I know this? I just do. I don't doubt my right to be happy and fulfilled on every level.

Simply put, relationships are the mirror we need in order to see ourselves clearly, and if you truly want your King to arrive, you best prepare yourself for his arrival by becoming the Queen HE deserves. 

How do you do that? By focusing on YOUR process, doing your own work, filling up on your own life, treating YOURSELF like the Queen that you are so that when he shows up he'll know what's expected:) 

Treat YOURSELF the way YOU want to be treated. That's the GOLDEN DIVA RULE!

So let's stop settling for less. Let's stop expecting another to make us feel worthy and let's stop being angry at the men who we mistakenly believed did us wrong. Let us instead support one another in becoming the Queens we truly are so that the one who is worthy of us can rise up to meet us, ready to offer the kind of love we truly deserve.

With a heart full of love,

Mandy

A NIGHT OF INTIMACY: THE RELEASE OF THE BUTTERFLY

She was conscious that the things she did

were the things she had always wanted to do.

~Zelda Fitzgerald

Last night marked the release of The Poet & The Butterfly: An Intimate Dialogue and I chose to spend it with those closest to me. Guests included Melissa (the incredible soul responsible for the 'chance' meeting of Keveen and I (Keveen is the amazing man to whom this book is dedicated), Geraldine (my dear friend of many years, and my comedic sidekick in the story), Kristy (my over-zealous partner in editing, who happily took me around town to do all the tedious things that needed to be done for this work to get out into the world) and Melanie (a kindred spirit and intuitive healer, whose support and love fueled my desire to share my heart with the world).

We dined at The Rude Native in uptown Waterloo where I treated myself to a $32 steak, thank you very much, and a slew of vodka & cranberry's:) We had a lovely time chatting, eating, reading, sharing, laughing, loving and hugging. After dinner we went dancing of course, because no night is complete without it, and ended the night (morning) with good ol' grocery shopping at A&P:)

The night was a hit, my book is now out, and now I'm going to take some well-deserved time off to bask in the glory of having turned my dream into a reality.

I am extremely grateful for the love that surrounded me last night and I look forward to more sweet times ahead. I have the greatest friends and the greatest life doing all the things I truly love to do. It doesn't get much better than that.

With love,
Mandy