Feeling Good This Season

Hello Again,

I have to share my joy today. I announced to my family and many of my friends last year that this year I wanted no material gifts. If they felt they had to give me something, it should be a charitable contibution of some sort. I also told them that except for a few of the younger folk (niece, nephew, pseudo granddaughter) I'd be doing the same.

The idea came to me last year when I realized that we, the givers and receivers, have made this holiday season the craziness that it is - packed parking lots at malls, credit card debt that is out of sight, etc. I wanted to be part of the solution and no longer part of the problem. By staying away from stores during this busiest time of year would make things simpler and hopefully bring back the feeling of how it used to be.

After making numerous donations to worthy causes appropriate for each person, I have to tell you it is a fantastic feeling. I have still honored each person by thinking of them (it's the thought that counts, isn't it?), but have been able to share financially with those more in need. I personally have more "stuff" than I will ever use. I am desperately trying to divest myself of things. I suspect it is the same for most everyone. So a side benefit is that no one has to either re-gift or figure out what to do with some hoo-hah they were given.

Don't think for a moment that I don't believe in giving gifts to those to whom we are close. I've already done that this year when I saw something that was "just right" for someone.

I wish you all a very happy holiday season - Spiritual Solstice, Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, Joyous Kwanzaa, and Nifty New Year.

Peace,
Judi

Joyful Sounds

I am so happy to be sitting here in my home office with the window open and hearing the sounds of the many songbirds in my area. Which is which I have no idea, but it is just such a joy, in many ways.

First, since working at home, I am no longer totally away from the beauty of nature; these birds singing is just one of those beauties.

Second, not only do they sound great, but they often perch on a tree just outside the window next to the computer where I am typing. Some of these I recognize by sight - cardinals, blue jays, finches, robins.

Third, what a delight that these beautiful sounds fill the ears for many more minutes during the day than the automobiles, airplanes, and power mowers in neighboring yards.

Consider using an old-fashioned push mower when cutting your lawn; you'll save energy, add time to your workout, and allow more of the bird songs to be heard.

I hope you take time to enjoy the bird sounds and songs in your neck of the woods while we have them today; who knows what tomorrow will bring.

Peace and prosperity,
Judi