Composting intrigues me! I know it sounds funny that this mish-mosh of Earthly goodies runs through my mind all of the time but it does. Now that I have the means and space to make it happen, I'm starting up a composting project with my nephew, Kyle!
(Once again thanks to the Practical Environmentalist for these green goodies!)
Remember, don't take this too seriously! It's simple AND fun!!! Now, go get dirty and help Mama Earth!
xxoo,
Jess
Compost!
Return your organic waste where it belongs: the soil! Rather than sending banana peels, grass clipping, etc. to the municipal dump, start a compost pile instead. The Environmental Defense Fund says that around 18 percent of the waste an average family in the U.S. produces comes from the yard and garden. If you recycle your yard and garden waste, you’ll reduce the amount of energy used to send this waste to the dump. Add your organic kitchen scraps to your yard waste and you’re significantly decreasing your waste.
Compost also makes your plants stronger and healthier, reducing the need for fertilizers and chemical pesticides. Don’t forget that many cities have municipal composting programs for your yard waste. Need more info about the benefits of compost, how to compost, and what to compost? Check out this quick read and easy guide to get composting!!!
Showing posts with label Jess. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jess. Show all posts
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Friday, July 16, 2010
Revitalize Your Soul - Life's Tornado
"It's just life..." That's why my mom has been telling me for years. I always discounted her words, dreaming of a life with a few road blocks but not an annoying series of speed bumps.
Recently, my life has been like a wicked bad tornado - material belongings, friends, hopes and dreams nonsensically churning in the grey clouds. Some things stuck it out and enjoyed the twirl, but many were tossed hundreds of feet away, landing in a tree or on a trailer.
This "it's just life" attitude helped me realize that stuff is stuff and unfortunately friendships come and go. Through this tornado of rough times, I've seen long time friends fly away and new ones that chose to join in the fun of the chaos.
I've lost three cars...four if you count the brakes going out on my in my rental car yesterday. Most of my worldly belongings are roaming the proverbial sky or landed on a roof due to the move, and the tornado is heading to Middleburg tomorrow, so I'll have a whole new set of stuff to jump in.
Typically, my reaction would be that of anger and sadness due to loosing things like my favorite rug, yet another car or that favorite painting a friend made me. But all that is just stuff.
The only pain from this "life tornado" that I'm feeling is the damage that it has had on several of my closest friends...some that have been in my life for more than 15 years. My appologies and canned goods don't seem to help anymore. I choose not to be upset, however, knowing that they, too had something to do with not holding on in the wind.
And like mom says, "It's just life". One minute the sky is cloudless and vibrant blue, and within moments another tornado can just pop up (and probably will). We know that this will happen again and again, so the trick is how to handle it.
Will you see your next tornado as one of nature's glorious creations or a destructive force aimed to scatter you life?
See the beauty in the change; not the pain of the destruction.
It all happens for a reason...
Much love,
Jess
Recently, my life has been like a wicked bad tornado - material belongings, friends, hopes and dreams nonsensically churning in the grey clouds. Some things stuck it out and enjoyed the twirl, but many were tossed hundreds of feet away, landing in a tree or on a trailer.
This "it's just life" attitude helped me realize that stuff is stuff and unfortunately friendships come and go. Through this tornado of rough times, I've seen long time friends fly away and new ones that chose to join in the fun of the chaos.
I've lost three cars...four if you count the brakes going out on my in my rental car yesterday. Most of my worldly belongings are roaming the proverbial sky or landed on a roof due to the move, and the tornado is heading to Middleburg tomorrow, so I'll have a whole new set of stuff to jump in.
Typically, my reaction would be that of anger and sadness due to loosing things like my favorite rug, yet another car or that favorite painting a friend made me. But all that is just stuff.
The only pain from this "life tornado" that I'm feeling is the damage that it has had on several of my closest friends...some that have been in my life for more than 15 years. My appologies and canned goods don't seem to help anymore. I choose not to be upset, however, knowing that they, too had something to do with not holding on in the wind.
And like mom says, "It's just life". One minute the sky is cloudless and vibrant blue, and within moments another tornado can just pop up (and probably will). We know that this will happen again and again, so the trick is how to handle it.
Will you see your next tornado as one of nature's glorious creations or a destructive force aimed to scatter you life?
See the beauty in the change; not the pain of the destruction.
It all happens for a reason...
Much love,
Jess
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
We've Got the Whole World in Our Hands! - Simple Environmental Solutions #2
We all know that Mother Earth is in peril. With each day that pases, she's tread on more and more...with some of us leaving debris and waste with each step.
It's time to tighten up and do something. There are so many easy-peasy ways to make this land beautified and healthy. Start small...one step at a time. :)
This weekly series will give you tid-bits each week of how you can do your part!
(Thanks to the Practical Environmentalist for supplying some of this info!)
Love and light,
Jess
2. Lower Your Thermostats!
That’s right, thermostats, plural! Most people have their heater, hot water heater, and refrigerator thermostats set at unnecessary temperatures.
Try this out for a few months: Set your heater at 68 degrees F or lower in the winter and 78 degrees F or higher in the summer. Programmable home thermostats are an even better way to heat and cool your home responsibly.
Next, adjust the temperature on your hot water heater to 140-degrees F or lower if possible. Most people keep the temperature on the hot water heater much higher than they really need. Try it out!
And finally, make sure to use the energy-saving settings on your refrigerator. Better yet, try switching to a more modern, energy saving frig. Look for new refrigerators with the Energy Star label.
What’s with all this Energy Star Business? Check out the U.S. government’s Energy Star program homepage to find out more about how you could be saving money on energy costs and help the environment at the same time. It’s win-win, baby!
It's time to tighten up and do something. There are so many easy-peasy ways to make this land beautified and healthy. Start small...one step at a time. :)
This weekly series will give you tid-bits each week of how you can do your part!
(Thanks to the Practical Environmentalist for supplying some of this info!)
Love and light,
Jess
2. Lower Your Thermostats!
That’s right, thermostats, plural! Most people have their heater, hot water heater, and refrigerator thermostats set at unnecessary temperatures.
Try this out for a few months: Set your heater at 68 degrees F or lower in the winter and 78 degrees F or higher in the summer. Programmable home thermostats are an even better way to heat and cool your home responsibly.
Next, adjust the temperature on your hot water heater to 140-degrees F or lower if possible. Most people keep the temperature on the hot water heater much higher than they really need. Try it out!
And finally, make sure to use the energy-saving settings on your refrigerator. Better yet, try switching to a more modern, energy saving frig. Look for new refrigerators with the Energy Star label.
What’s with all this Energy Star Business? Check out the U.S. government’s Energy Star program homepage to find out more about how you could be saving money on energy costs and help the environment at the same time. It’s win-win, baby!
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
We've Got the Whole World in Our Hands - Simple Environmental Solutions #1
We all know that Mother Earth is in peril. With each day that pases, she's tread on more and more...with some of us leaving debris and waste with each step.
It's time to tighten up and do something. There are so many easy-peasy ways to make this land beautified and healthy.
This weekly series will give you tid-bits each week of how you can do your part!
(Thanks to the Practical Environmentalist for supplying some of this info!)
Simple Solution #1:
1. Prevent energy leaks at home.
Check this out: Did you know that heating and cooling can make up to 50 percent of your energy bill each month? If you heat and cool your home more efficiently by fixing leaks, you’ll save money and reduce your impact on the environment.
Plugging up those energy leaks is simple. Insulating your home will keep your house warmer in the winter and help to cool things off in the summer. Sealing all your ducts can help as well. This Energy Star website will help with simple techniques for improving your homes efficiency.
Weatherizing your home is also critical. Want to learn how to weatherize to prevent energy leaks? Read more at this U.S. Department of Energy website!
Love, love, LOVE our Mother!!
Peace and light,
Jess
It's time to tighten up and do something. There are so many easy-peasy ways to make this land beautified and healthy.
This weekly series will give you tid-bits each week of how you can do your part!
(Thanks to the Practical Environmentalist for supplying some of this info!)
Simple Solution #1:
1. Prevent energy leaks at home.
Check this out: Did you know that heating and cooling can make up to 50 percent of your energy bill each month? If you heat and cool your home more efficiently by fixing leaks, you’ll save money and reduce your impact on the environment.
Plugging up those energy leaks is simple. Insulating your home will keep your house warmer in the winter and help to cool things off in the summer. Sealing all your ducts can help as well. This Energy Star website will help with simple techniques for improving your homes efficiency.
Weatherizing your home is also critical. Want to learn how to weatherize to prevent energy leaks? Read more at this U.S. Department of Energy website!
Love, love, LOVE our Mother!!
Peace and light,
Jess
Friday, June 11, 2010
The Science of Sleep
Lately, my lack of sleep has been really getting to me. I mean, I've always had trouble sleeping but with some major changes going on in my life, the bags under my eyes keep building up.
So in my quest for snooze, I've discovered how precious the gift of a good nights sleep really is.
Check it out:
*Studies show that power naps can help kill stress and recharge. Just don't doze for more than 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, your body enters the deep stages of sleep and it's hard to get refreshed.
*It’s impossible to tell if someone is really awake without close medical supervision. People can take cat naps with their eyes open without even being aware of it. (Don't tell your boss!)
*Anything less than five minutes to fall asleep at night means you’re sleep deprived. The ideal is between 10 and 15 minutes, meaning you’re still tired enough to sleep deeply, but not so exhausted you feel sleepy by day.
We all know that sleep is important, but sleep deprivation can lead to additional life stress.
The solution: A healthy lifestyle inside and out.
Have a daily routine.
Work out on a regular basis.
Read or write or stretch prior to bed. Leave the laptop in the office
De-stress each night in a healthy way.
Good luck catching zzzzzzzzs!
Much love,
Jess
So in my quest for snooze, I've discovered how precious the gift of a good nights sleep really is.
Check it out:
*Studies show that power naps can help kill stress and recharge. Just don't doze for more than 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, your body enters the deep stages of sleep and it's hard to get refreshed.
*It’s impossible to tell if someone is really awake without close medical supervision. People can take cat naps with their eyes open without even being aware of it. (Don't tell your boss!)
*Anything less than five minutes to fall asleep at night means you’re sleep deprived. The ideal is between 10 and 15 minutes, meaning you’re still tired enough to sleep deeply, but not so exhausted you feel sleepy by day.
We all know that sleep is important, but sleep deprivation can lead to additional life stress.
The solution: A healthy lifestyle inside and out.
Have a daily routine.
Work out on a regular basis.
Read or write or stretch prior to bed. Leave the laptop in the office
De-stress each night in a healthy way.
Good luck catching zzzzzzzzs!
Much love,
Jess
Friday, January 2, 2009
Revitalize Your Soul - Step Away
Sometimes taking a few days to step away from
a routine.
a job.
the computer.
life...
helps put everything in perspective.
And for the past two weeks that's what I've been doing. And I've laughed so much more.
Maybe I (or we) should step away more often.
Love,
Jess
a routine.
a job.
the computer.
life...
helps put everything in perspective.
And for the past two weeks that's what I've been doing. And I've laughed so much more.
Maybe I (or we) should step away more often.
Love,
Jess
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Revitalize Your Soul - Let the color within you shine
Lately, my light has dimmed.
But in my darkest moment, somehow a spark appeared and pulled me out of what I thought was going to be a never ending hole of despair.
"And then there was Light."
It may sound cheesy, but since the day after my 30th birthday I've felt more alive than I have in the longest time. I'm feeling all of the colors of me resurface into a beautiful being that has so much to offer the world.
At my lowest, I didn't know what to do, how to think or who I was. Thankfully, it didn't take me long to realize that I am a Light Being - full of the colors of the rainbow and beyond.
My hopes are up, my focus is on my well being - no one else's, my businesses are bringing a renewed joy and I am finally getting my body and mind back into shape.
I will never forget my low - the dark period - so I can constantly be more appreciative of the light...of my light...of the colors within me so they will shine like never before.
With so much more than a glimmer of hope,
Jess
But in my darkest moment, somehow a spark appeared and pulled me out of what I thought was going to be a never ending hole of despair.
"And then there was Light."
It may sound cheesy, but since the day after my 30th birthday I've felt more alive than I have in the longest time. I'm feeling all of the colors of me resurface into a beautiful being that has so much to offer the world.
At my lowest, I didn't know what to do, how to think or who I was. Thankfully, it didn't take me long to realize that I am a Light Being - full of the colors of the rainbow and beyond.
My hopes are up, my focus is on my well being - no one else's, my businesses are bringing a renewed joy and I am finally getting my body and mind back into shape.
I will never forget my low - the dark period - so I can constantly be more appreciative of the light...of my light...of the colors within me so they will shine like never before.
With so much more than a glimmer of hope,
Jess
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Revitalize Your Soul - In Search of Insperado...
My brain's creative side has suffered a major fart.
And I am in now in search of insperado (aka INSPIRATION!).
This typically doesn't happen to me, but with all of the recent changes in my life, I've been searching, grounding, thinking (perhaps too much) and reaching for inspiration.
Of course Revitalize and our wedding business is inspirational to me, but I'm in search for more...
...more creativity to decorate my new pad.
...more motivation to finish a painting I started.
...more drive to work even harder on our businesses.
I suppose I just need to continue to go with the flow (one of my favorite new phrases) and let inspiration flutter my way. If I believe that it's out there, it will find me....and you. Just try not to look too hard.
In search of insperado (if you can connect this to Tenacious D, you rock),
Jess
And I am in now in search of insperado (aka INSPIRATION!).
This typically doesn't happen to me, but with all of the recent changes in my life, I've been searching, grounding, thinking (perhaps too much) and reaching for inspiration.
Of course Revitalize and our wedding business is inspirational to me, but I'm in search for more...
...more creativity to decorate my new pad.
...more motivation to finish a painting I started.
...more drive to work even harder on our businesses.
I suppose I just need to continue to go with the flow (one of my favorite new phrases) and let inspiration flutter my way. If I believe that it's out there, it will find me....and you. Just try not to look too hard.
In search of insperado (if you can connect this to Tenacious D, you rock),
Jess
Monday, August 18, 2008
Revitalize Your Soul - The Little Things
Today I had to go to the tag office to renew my tag, get a title reprinted and change the address on my license.
To me the tag office is as horrible as the dentist.
Both tend to make you wait to long, only to tell you that you either have more cavities or not enough proof of being you.
Both have tons of strangers that are forced to sit in uncomfortable chairs, waiting for the inevitable.
Both are typically filled with workers that can't stand to be there and let you know it!
And both tend to cost way more than you thought.
For some reason, today was different. And I think my attitude played a major role in my experience...
There was hardly anyone there waiting and when I was waiting, I had a super conversation with some new parents and their glowing toddler, Jada.
When I was called, the woman that helped me, Julia, was really down to earth and took care of everything I needed - no running back to the car and having to get some other paperwork.
And all of the staff there was laughing and having a fun time.
Oddly enough, a trip to the tag office was not hell! Can you believe it? I left feeling nearly uplifted. As I continued to think positively, I noticed that I every light I hit was green on my trek home. I received several nice texts and calls and I just felt great. The fun continued when I got to my new place and had a conversation with one of my nosy neighbors who actually offered for me to chill with her if this storm gets bad.
As soon as I walked up to my door all I could think about was how each of those little things made me happier, therefore making the rest of my day even better!
Perhaps the little things are self created by the positivity that we put out there. The more we give to the universe's glowing light, the more we'll get back.
Whether it's a dentist office or a tag office or whatever task you may dread, enter the situation without preconceived notions and see what happens.
You may be surprised!
Much love,
Jess
To me the tag office is as horrible as the dentist.
Both tend to make you wait to long, only to tell you that you either have more cavities or not enough proof of being you.
Both have tons of strangers that are forced to sit in uncomfortable chairs, waiting for the inevitable.
Both are typically filled with workers that can't stand to be there and let you know it!
And both tend to cost way more than you thought.
For some reason, today was different. And I think my attitude played a major role in my experience...
There was hardly anyone there waiting and when I was waiting, I had a super conversation with some new parents and their glowing toddler, Jada.
When I was called, the woman that helped me, Julia, was really down to earth and took care of everything I needed - no running back to the car and having to get some other paperwork.
And all of the staff there was laughing and having a fun time.
Oddly enough, a trip to the tag office was not hell! Can you believe it? I left feeling nearly uplifted. As I continued to think positively, I noticed that I every light I hit was green on my trek home. I received several nice texts and calls and I just felt great. The fun continued when I got to my new place and had a conversation with one of my nosy neighbors who actually offered for me to chill with her if this storm gets bad.
As soon as I walked up to my door all I could think about was how each of those little things made me happier, therefore making the rest of my day even better!
Perhaps the little things are self created by the positivity that we put out there. The more we give to the universe's glowing light, the more we'll get back.
Whether it's a dentist office or a tag office or whatever task you may dread, enter the situation without preconceived notions and see what happens.
You may be surprised!
Much love,
Jess
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Revitalize Your Soul – Imagine…
…what you can accomplish if you just set your mind to it.
You can be anything you want:
An astronaut
A singer
A professional wedding designer
A teacher
A clothing designer
A pro-hockey player
A brain surgeon
A vet
An actor on Broadway
A writer
A weatherman OR woman! J
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
What are you doing now?
Something for us all to think about for the upcoming New Year.
We can imagine, but what’s an imagination without an outcome?
Hoping you are who you imagined you would be (or on your way there…),
Jess
You can be anything you want:
An astronaut
A singer
A professional wedding designer
A teacher
A clothing designer
A pro-hockey player
A brain surgeon
A vet
An actor on Broadway
A writer
A weatherman OR woman! J
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
What are you doing now?
Something for us all to think about for the upcoming New Year.
We can imagine, but what’s an imagination without an outcome?
Hoping you are who you imagined you would be (or on your way there…),
Jess
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Revitalize Your Soul – Spread love, not stuff!
During the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, make sure to take a moment for you. You are just as important as any gift you may buy for a loved one or co-worker.
Also, don’t let the pressure of gift giving overwhelm you. The point of giving material gifts is to spread love and joy.
Why don’t you just let your presence around a loved one be the present?
Forget about the malls, the “marts” and spending countless hours in front of a lifeless computer screen looking for that material something that you (and most all of us) think will make those in our lives happy.
Your smile, laughter and love being right next to the important souls in your life will always be the greatest gift of all. (Wait, did I just quote a Whitney Houston song? HA!!)
Spreading love, not stuff,
Jess
Also, don’t let the pressure of gift giving overwhelm you. The point of giving material gifts is to spread love and joy.
Why don’t you just let your presence around a loved one be the present?
Forget about the malls, the “marts” and spending countless hours in front of a lifeless computer screen looking for that material something that you (and most all of us) think will make those in our lives happy.
Your smile, laughter and love being right next to the important souls in your life will always be the greatest gift of all. (Wait, did I just quote a Whitney Houston song? HA!!)
Spreading love, not stuff,
Jess
Friday, December 7, 2007
Never loose touch
Over the past years, I have lost touch slowly with numerous people that are important in my life. With everything that I have going on in my life right now – M&A Creations, Revitalize, my relationship with Adil, my friendships and my day job, I feel like I have let some key relationships slip through the cracks.
One of which is my dad.
My dad and I had not spoken since father’s day this year, and even that conversation was short and to the point (I was at Bonnaroo at the time). Although he only lives in Jacksonville, I never make the effort to go and spend time with just him. With my parents being divorced for years now, I still find it difficult to go home to Jacksonville and not stay with my mom in the comfort zone of the house that I grew up in.
But my dad is part of that comfort, and I often forget that. Growing up, we had an amazing relationship – I shared everything with him (the good and the ugly), and he with me. We’re very similar and could always relate to one another. We used to talk for hours on end about our philosophies on life.
So, on Monday night, my mom called me and asked me for an early Christmas gift – to call my dad. They still are friends and he let her know that he was so sad that we haven’t spoken in such a long time. I then let my ego get in the way – “WHY CAN’T HE CALL ME! HE’S MY DAD!!”
After letting my ego stop controlling me, I decided to give Daddio a ring. Just before I called him, my phone rang. It was my HIM, and I was thrilled and my heart warmed. We talked for hours about everything under the sun. He even told me that he was missing me so badly that he went to the wedding business website just to see what I’ve been up to.
My point in sharing this very personal story with all of you is that we never know how long any of us will be on this Earth. Although our lives can become overwhelming to the point that we brush relationships aside, we cannot expect those special people to always be there when we are ready.
Make sure you connect with those that are important to you. Let them know how much you love and care for them. It’s so much more imperative to tell them while they are here with us, then to lament when they are gone.
With hope that you share your love,
Jess
One of which is my dad.
My dad and I had not spoken since father’s day this year, and even that conversation was short and to the point (I was at Bonnaroo at the time). Although he only lives in Jacksonville, I never make the effort to go and spend time with just him. With my parents being divorced for years now, I still find it difficult to go home to Jacksonville and not stay with my mom in the comfort zone of the house that I grew up in.
But my dad is part of that comfort, and I often forget that. Growing up, we had an amazing relationship – I shared everything with him (the good and the ugly), and he with me. We’re very similar and could always relate to one another. We used to talk for hours on end about our philosophies on life.
So, on Monday night, my mom called me and asked me for an early Christmas gift – to call my dad. They still are friends and he let her know that he was so sad that we haven’t spoken in such a long time. I then let my ego get in the way – “WHY CAN’T HE CALL ME! HE’S MY DAD!!”
After letting my ego stop controlling me, I decided to give Daddio a ring. Just before I called him, my phone rang. It was my HIM, and I was thrilled and my heart warmed. We talked for hours about everything under the sun. He even told me that he was missing me so badly that he went to the wedding business website just to see what I’ve been up to.
My point in sharing this very personal story with all of you is that we never know how long any of us will be on this Earth. Although our lives can become overwhelming to the point that we brush relationships aside, we cannot expect those special people to always be there when we are ready.
Make sure you connect with those that are important to you. Let them know how much you love and care for them. It’s so much more imperative to tell them while they are here with us, then to lament when they are gone.
With hope that you share your love,
Jess
Friday, November 9, 2007
Allow Mother Earth to Embrace You
Today, Adil and I are leaving for Ocala, where we're going to camp at Juniper Springs. The anticipation of feeling the wind whisping through the beautiful tree branches has me more excited than I can explain. Sounds of birds, falling acorns, and trickling water will sooth my soul.
I've been going through a ton of personal soul searching lately. Something this week has helped me find my spark again. This weekend, being embraced by our dear Mother (and Adil), will only further help me find the real Jessica again. The light shining from the sky in the morning and the light radiating off the burning embers of our camp fire will put my soul at ease.
All of that being said, What Have You Done for HER Lately??
Please take a moment to pick up a peice of trash that you may so easily step over today.
Take home your plasitc water bottles from work if they don't have recycling available.
Learn more about what is really happening to our precious land, and find out what you can do to help.
Dear Mother Earth will be there for me and you, to calm our souls and bring peace to us, but we have to take care of her, so that she will be able to take care of us.
Have a super weekend everyone and enjoy the beautiful weather!!!
Lots of love,
Jess xoxoxo
I've been going through a ton of personal soul searching lately. Something this week has helped me find my spark again. This weekend, being embraced by our dear Mother (and Adil), will only further help me find the real Jessica again. The light shining from the sky in the morning and the light radiating off the burning embers of our camp fire will put my soul at ease.
All of that being said, What Have You Done for HER Lately??
Please take a moment to pick up a peice of trash that you may so easily step over today.
Take home your plasitc water bottles from work if they don't have recycling available.
Learn more about what is really happening to our precious land, and find out what you can do to help.
Dear Mother Earth will be there for me and you, to calm our souls and bring peace to us, but we have to take care of her, so that she will be able to take care of us.
Have a super weekend everyone and enjoy the beautiful weather!!!
Lots of love,
Jess xoxoxo
Monday, October 29, 2007
The Communication Assumption
In many of my friendships and working relationships, I have been exeperiencing miscommunication more often than usual. Reflecting on this, I'm trying to make sure that I am as clear as possible on my side of the conversation...listening with open ears and acting on my promises.
Edwin H. Friedman wrote the following and I am finding it particularly valuable to my life right now.
"The Failure of Syntax"
"The colossal misunderstanding of our time is the assumption that insight will work with people who are unmotivated to change. Communication does not depend on syntax, or eloquence, or rhetoric, or articulation but on the emotional context in which the message is being heard. People can only hear you when they are moving toward you, and they are not likely to when your words are pursuing them. Even the choices words lose their power when they are used to overpower. Attitudes are the real figures of speech."
I guess we could all work more on saying what we mean and doing what we say. Actions are the backbone to words.
Peace,
Jess
Edwin H. Friedman wrote the following and I am finding it particularly valuable to my life right now.
"The Failure of Syntax"
"The colossal misunderstanding of our time is the assumption that insight will work with people who are unmotivated to change. Communication does not depend on syntax, or eloquence, or rhetoric, or articulation but on the emotional context in which the message is being heard. People can only hear you when they are moving toward you, and they are not likely to when your words are pursuing them. Even the choices words lose their power when they are used to overpower. Attitudes are the real figures of speech."
I guess we could all work more on saying what we mean and doing what we say. Actions are the backbone to words.
Peace,
Jess
Monday, October 22, 2007
Our first volunteering experience - It warmed our hearts!!!
This past Saturday, Ami and I had the opportunity to take part in a Second Harvest Food Bank event - Corn Gleaning in Zellwood. Gleaning was a new term to us so we weren't quite sure what to expect! It turned out to be an amazing way to help the homeless.
We arrived to the farm early that morning. Armed in our overalls, bandana and straw cap, we grabbed two buckets and jumped in the back of a pick up. From there we were driven through the muddy terrain and into the corn field. Eagerly we jumped off the back and went into the field. Basically, we were picking after the machines had already gone through the field. These "leftovers" are then taken to different homeless shelters within Central Florida.
Ami with her first pick of the day:
Some of the other volunteers. According to Amy (one of the head volunteers from Society of St. Andrew) we picked 12,000 lbs that day!!!:
It was so amazing to see all of the kids that were involved!!! It was very empowering. Lugging those buckets full of corn wasn't an easy task, but anytime the going got tough, we smiled and laughed, knowing what we were doing was so important and helpful.
Me with my bucket:
Working together to help the community is one of the things we are all about. It felt so amazing to be up at such an early hour on a Saturday to help. We left feeling accomplished that by giving our time, we are adding hope to someone's life.
Be on the lookout for our next opportunity to help make our world a better place! Next time we hope to see you there. You'll definately get a big high five from us!
With lots of love,
Jess
We arrived to the farm early that morning. Armed in our overalls, bandana and straw cap, we grabbed two buckets and jumped in the back of a pick up. From there we were driven through the muddy terrain and into the corn field. Eagerly we jumped off the back and went into the field. Basically, we were picking after the machines had already gone through the field. These "leftovers" are then taken to different homeless shelters within Central Florida.
Ami with her first pick of the day:
Some of the other volunteers. According to Amy (one of the head volunteers from Society of St. Andrew) we picked 12,000 lbs that day!!!:
It was so amazing to see all of the kids that were involved!!! It was very empowering. Lugging those buckets full of corn wasn't an easy task, but anytime the going got tough, we smiled and laughed, knowing what we were doing was so important and helpful.
Me with my bucket:
Working together to help the community is one of the things we are all about. It felt so amazing to be up at such an early hour on a Saturday to help. We left feeling accomplished that by giving our time, we are adding hope to someone's life.
Be on the lookout for our next opportunity to help make our world a better place! Next time we hope to see you there. You'll definately get a big high five from us!
With lots of love,
Jess
Monday, October 15, 2007
Live to give
So often I'm so consumed with my own challenges that I don't open my eyes wide enough to see what's happening around me. From large scale issues like the environmnent, to friends in emotional need to the woes of hunger in my neighborhood, nothing seems to be as bad as what I'm going through.
Sort of sad, huh? But we are all like this at times. It is so easy to try to fix you, and turn your shoulder to what's going on around you. It's easy to think the world revolves around you. But really, you revolve around the world. Helping others can honestly end up helping you.
These next few weeks are pretty hectic for me, but when I really break down what I am doing, my heart warms. Volunteering, adopting a Platoon and reaching out to the community are just a few important ways I'll give back. And although I don't feel the best and may want to whine about not having enough time for anything (it's just how I feel sometimes), I will live to give.
All of the positive energy I give will come back to me ten fold. Not only will that energy strenthen my soul, but it will help solve my own challenges.
Hoping you choose to give,
Jess
Sort of sad, huh? But we are all like this at times. It is so easy to try to fix you, and turn your shoulder to what's going on around you. It's easy to think the world revolves around you. But really, you revolve around the world. Helping others can honestly end up helping you.
These next few weeks are pretty hectic for me, but when I really break down what I am doing, my heart warms. Volunteering, adopting a Platoon and reaching out to the community are just a few important ways I'll give back. And although I don't feel the best and may want to whine about not having enough time for anything (it's just how I feel sometimes), I will live to give.
All of the positive energy I give will come back to me ten fold. Not only will that energy strenthen my soul, but it will help solve my own challenges.
Hoping you choose to give,
Jess
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Peace Rally - Downtown Orlando 10/27
United for Peace and Justice is coordinating an eleven city- simultaneous Peace Rally.
At 12:30, meet at Lake Eola with your peaceful and positive vibes. It's important that we voice our thoughts of peace when we actually have a chance.
I'll definately be there, and may be joined by the rest of the Revitalize Crew. Come out! Get involved! It can do nothing but help.
Check out their website for updated info: http://www.oct27.org/orlando
Peace,
Jess
At 12:30, meet at Lake Eola with your peaceful and positive vibes. It's important that we voice our thoughts of peace when we actually have a chance.
I'll definately be there, and may be joined by the rest of the Revitalize Crew. Come out! Get involved! It can do nothing but help.
Check out their website for updated info: http://www.oct27.org/orlando
Peace,
Jess
Friday, October 5, 2007
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
29 and Feelin' Fine
This past Saturday dawned the beginning of the last year of my 20's. With this monumental birthday behind me, I'm 29 and feelin' fine.
It would be really easy for me to fall into the trap of society's expectations of where my life should be now... a house, married, children... the whole nine. But that's not me, and that's not the path which I choose to walk.
Not allowing social expectations to stand in my way, I have decided to continue to live life to my full potential and do what is best for me.
I will continue to grow in all aspects of my being.
I will continue to grow within our wedding design business.
I will continue to become more aware of who I really am!!
This year is going to be another phenomenal one, I can just feel it. Ringing in this birthday last weekend with the amount of friends that I did was such an amazing feeling. Knowing that I have so many special people in my life will help me keep going during those days that are a bit darker.
With my spirits soaring,
Jess
It would be really easy for me to fall into the trap of society's expectations of where my life should be now... a house, married, children... the whole nine. But that's not me, and that's not the path which I choose to walk.
Not allowing social expectations to stand in my way, I have decided to continue to live life to my full potential and do what is best for me.
I will continue to grow in all aspects of my being.
I will continue to grow within our wedding design business.
I will continue to become more aware of who I really am!!
This year is going to be another phenomenal one, I can just feel it. Ringing in this birthday last weekend with the amount of friends that I did was such an amazing feeling. Knowing that I have so many special people in my life will help me keep going during those days that are a bit darker.
With my spirits soaring,
Jess
Friday, September 14, 2007
The World is at Your Fingertips
I just returned from a week long trip to Western Canada. Staying three hours North of Vancouver, my eyes feel wider than ever. This trip made something inside of me tick – it brought a new spark to my soul.
Over the past year and a half, I've decided to live my life differently – to revitalize my mind, my body and my soul. Through my traveling adventures to New Hampshire, two Bonnaroos, a wonderful cruise, an unforgettable road trip for weeks and numerous shorter trips in between, I've realized that the world is at my fingertips.
Something about the mountains, the amazingly fresh air and the old, yet wise trees trees in Canada took this thought to a whole new level. My past travels made me realize that I am never stuck. No job, relationship or responsibility can hold me down. This particular trip cemented this new found belief.
My life is evolving into a beautiful place. My soul is growing exponentially and I will continue to feed it with positivity, love and hope; always knowing that I am constantly creating my own reality.
Life is way to short to think you're stuck.
Do what you want!
Live your dreams!!!!
The only thing that stands in your way is YOU.
Hoping that you choose to live life to the fullest,
Jess
Over the past year and a half, I've decided to live my life differently – to revitalize my mind, my body and my soul. Through my traveling adventures to New Hampshire, two Bonnaroos, a wonderful cruise, an unforgettable road trip for weeks and numerous shorter trips in between, I've realized that the world is at my fingertips.
Something about the mountains, the amazingly fresh air and the old, yet wise trees trees in Canada took this thought to a whole new level. My past travels made me realize that I am never stuck. No job, relationship or responsibility can hold me down. This particular trip cemented this new found belief.
My life is evolving into a beautiful place. My soul is growing exponentially and I will continue to feed it with positivity, love and hope; always knowing that I am constantly creating my own reality.
Life is way to short to think you're stuck.
Do what you want!
Live your dreams!!!!
The only thing that stands in your way is YOU.
Hoping that you choose to live life to the fullest,
Jess
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