NEVER GIVE UP

I recently ran across this quote: "....the only real failure is to never try." --Paula Deen. I'm sure there are many others who have said the same in some way or another. I just happen to run across it from Paula today. I think it's worth hearing over and over again.

Hugs--duchess

I've learned quite a few things about being happy. More importantly, I've learned more about me.

I'm taking a break from watching films. A small break. I'm reading "The Happiness Project" as part of my New Years Resolution. So far (only on chapter 3)

BLESSINGS

A friend of mine works for a hospice company. She loves the work, although it is quite difficult dealing with the end of life so often. She reminds her facebook friends daily to know we are blessed and to take advantage of each day we are given. Her message really touched me today. I want to share it with you:

"My prayers are with the two deaths I accompanied this weekend--one a baby and one an elderly man. Reach out to those around you who are suffering and let them know you care! Never let a day go by that you do not make relationships right. Time passes too quickly and you don't want to live with regret."--Dianne

I so appreciate her messages. She reminds me daily to embrace my blessings and make the most of every day (which she does). We all need a reminder every now and then.

Hugs--
*duchess*

NEW YEAR, NEW DREAMS

I have been encouraged to put together a "vision board" this year. I've never done one before, but I think it will help me focus my thoughts. As a "creative" type, my mind is always going with new ideas but sometimes they never happen. :( That makes me sad. I'm assured that if I put thoughts on 'the board' it will help me make them happen.

I have been cutting away getting ideas on the board. I'm really, really excited to make it happen!

I've been horrible at blogging lately. I think that needs to go on my board--blog more often or something like that....

*duchess*

LOVE THIS!

Saw this on the "Pickles" website:

http://www.pickles.no/cute-gift-bags/

I want to do this first thing this year!! I just picked up some fabric/old sweaters from the thrift shop. I think I'll use those first. :)

*duchess*

FIRST GIFT

Here's a message from a fellow blogger at Whatever:

yes....i am talking about water again.
today is the day where bloggers everywhere are joining together in a campaign to
buy water for christmas.

4500 mothers bury their children EVERY DAY due to contaminated water.
the lack of access to clean water is the leading cause of death in underdeveloped nations.
and it doesn't have to be.

as we get ready to rush through department stores and browse through catalogs searching
for the perfect presents....lets pause for a moment.
let's PAUSE.
today...November 13...lets buy clean water.
clean life saving water.
$10 will provide one person in africa clean water for 10 years.
your money can change and possibly save someone's life.
a real life.

$10
that is 2 starbucks coffees
it's on CD on itunes
it's a pizza
one movie ticket
less than one container of detergent!
$10 can change someone's life.

click the link below to be directed to the secure donation site of the highly recognized, non-profit
charity: water.
click on the yellow donate button.
All donations are tax deductible.
100% of the profit goes directly to clean water solutions in west africa.

http://http//www.charitywater.org/pages/water4christmas/

share this on your blog.
link it...copy it...tell everyone."