Holiday Shopping For "Him"

Ok, Ladies...are you looking to get the perfect gift for the man in your life? or maybe an unique gift that he would truly appreciate?

So many men are into their 'toys'...fast cars, motorcycles etc...They buy a new toy and instantly start upgrading it or add accessories. You know I am right about that. Even my son does this...

Turbochargerpros.com has a way that your man can get instant gratification by upgrading the horsepower in their vehicle. Whether it is a VW supercharger or an audi turbo...whatever model vehicle they might own, the parts are available at this website.

If you are not sure what part he may need, you can call 800-923-0413 or visit their website around the clock for help purchasing the correct part needed.

What is a 'Cougar'?

Have I been living under a rock? I have been hearing the term 'cougar' a lot lately and at first, had no idea what it even meant. Except of course if one was referring to the animal. haha

I hear this term being used on TV, in blog posts and it's all over the Internet.

The term "cougar" is relatively new I think and is sparking a lot of debate recently as to the exact meaning. It is generally applied to an older woman who dresses seductively in hopes of attracting the attention of a younger man.

I don't think this term is flattering to women, but if the term was being used to describe women as being vital, strong, independent, intelligent, successful... then that's another story.

Anyway, I think if a woman is dressing seductively, it's not only for the attention of younger men. I think it's to attract the attention of the opposite sex regardless of their age. And, maybe it makes her feel good to know she looks good.

Um, Cougar...pouncing on younger men? Does that mean my 84 year old Aunt, married my Uncle over 50 years ago, who is 7 years younger considered a cougar? My Grandmother who after being widowed at age 43, married a man younger than she, a cougar? I just have to chuckle at the thought.

I seem to attract younger men. It certainly is not because I dress seductively. I think it's because I just look younger than I am. Me? a cougar? in those terms associated with the older women / younger man? HA...now I am vital, strong, independent, intelligent, successful...

You can't predict who you fall in love with. If the quality of the relationship is great, you get along well, have friendship, respect, committment and so on, does it really matter the ages of the couple? I know there's a double standard of the older man/younger woman...those men get the thumbs up, but really...Aren't we passed the time of judging couples, passed the negative remarks when seeing older women with a younger men and vice versa?

What are your thoughts about this? I'm just curious...

Dress To Impress

Women always want to look their best when it comes to dressing for work, going to that important meeting or when going on interviews. Men are no different. The men I work with at the engineering firm usually dress in suits. They have meetings with mayors, builders, assemblymen etc...and by the way, what man doesn't look great in a suit?

In conversation with one of my co-workers, he mentioned that he gets his suitsMade to Measureat an unbelievable price at a New York store that delivers fine craftsmanship and quality. He goes to their website, where he makes an appointment to be measured at their store. He picks his own fabric and style and within 2 weeks, he receives his custom made suit.

He has his exact body measurements taken, picks the style of his jacket and pant, then has many choices for fabric depending on the occasion he will wear his suit and the season. You can personalize your suit further, right down to the lining fabric and buttons.

I know the costs for suits off the rack can be expensive and you have to settle on fit in most cases. Why settle when a custom suit is just as affordable? The quality and expert help received from MySuit simply cannot compare to off the rack or going to department stores.

I honestly think my co-worker enjoys the attention he receives through out his buying experience. He feels special and knows he looks great in his suit, which gives him confidence.

If you'd like to feel like a million bucks too, why not make an appointment?

If You Didn't Like Your Friends Partner, Would You End Your Friendship?

Poll results are:

60% said 'Not Sure'
40% said 'NO'

Most of the polls I have hosted here have surprised me in one way or another. I guess surprise isn't the best word to describe my reaction to this poll. I think my feeling is more one of disappointment. I surely thought more of you would NOT even consider ending a friendship because you didn't like your friends partner.

Friendship is something I do not take for granted. I value a true bond of friendship, for a true friend does not come along very often. Many people come and go in our lives. It's said that most people can count on one hand the number of true friends they have in their life. I am speaking of true friends here, not acquaintances.

To me, lifetime friends are built on unconditional love and continued friendship. I believe that some people have lost sight of the meaning of true friendship. As the poll indicated, 60% were not sure if they would end the friendship if they didn't like their friends partner. I wouldn't even consider that and the thought would never enter my mind.

I was in that situation many years ago, but chose to accept my friends decision. After all, she was the one living with this person. She fell in love with him. It wasn't my choice, but hers. Just because I didn't like my friends partner, it didn't change the person she was nor did it change our friendship. In respecting my friend and our friendship, I was cordial and respectful to him. Wouldn't I want the same in return if the situation was reversed? True friendship involves freedom of choice...

I believe true friendship is based on loyalty, forgiveness, honesty, and dedication. Friends often share likes and dislikes, interests, pursuits, and passion. Friends share a sense of caring and concern. Friends make no judgments and accept differences and want each other to grow and develop.

Yes, I do believe friends and people come into our lives for a reason, a season or lifetime, but lifetime friends should be cherished, not easily cast aside, especially in this world that can be phony and temporary.

******
People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person.

When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend and they are.

They are there for the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end. Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away. Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand. What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.

Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow or learn. They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy. Believe it; it is real; but only for a season.

LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons, things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life. It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.

******
"Portrait of a Friend"

I can't give solutions to all of life's problems, doubts,
or fears. But I can listen to you, and together we will
search for answers.

I can't change your past with all it's heartache and pain,
nor the future with its untold stories.
But I can be there now when you need me to care.

I can't keep your feet from stumbling.
I can only offer my hand that you may grasp it and not fall.

Your joys, triumphs, successes, and happiness are not mine;
Yet I can share in your laughter.

Your decisions in life are not mine to make, nor to judge;
I can only support you, encourage you,
and help you when you ask.

I can't prevent you from falling away from friendship,
from your values, from me.
I can only pray for you, talk to you and wait for you.

I can't give you boundaries which I have determined for you,
But I can give you the room to change, room to grow,
room to be yourself.

I can't keep your heart from breaking and hurting,
But I can cry with you and help you pick up the pieces
and put them back in place.

I can't tell you who you are.
I can only love you and be your friend.
--Unknown

Why Men Won't Go To The Doctors?

Here's yet another mystery that I have yet to solve where men are concerned. My humorous post on why men don't ask for directions was written about a few months ago and I had gotten many replies as to why they behave in that manner.

Now, I want to hear your take on why men will not go to the doctor. It seems along with myself, many women complain that the men in their lives refuse to see a doctor, even when they are experiencing symptoms or feel ill.

Is it because they will feel weak, less manly if they go to the doctors? Do they not want to know if something is wrong?

I can't even get my son to get his yearly exam for two health issues. I get the 'eye roll' and the 'shoulder shrug'.

There are a few men I work with that obviously have a health issue, but will not go or go back to the doctors to receive treatment. It boggles my mind.

I understand that we all are fearful sometimes of what the doctor may say, but isn't it best to find out and take care of an illness before it is too late?

Us women take preventative care and in most cases, I believe it saves lives. I know we hate to take time out of our busy schedules to make an appointment, but...we do it. What women likes to go have their breasts painfully squashed during a mammogram or go see their Gynecologist? Um, they are not pleasant visits...

Men you are no different. You are not indestructible. Taking preventative care is important for you as well.

Men's Health magazine posted a guideline to follow. On my blog, Mind Body & Soul, I posted their recommendation. If you men aren't interested, Women...go take a look and see if you can't get the man in your life to take care of himself.

Believe it or not, we women want you around for a long, long time...

Why Do Men Clip Their Nails at Work?

I had written about a pet peeve of mine a long time ago, but another popped up and I just have to ask WHY?...why do men clip their nails while at work? WHY?

This action is the most annoying while you're trying to concentrate on a project or talk to someone on the phone. All you hear is...clip...clip...clip and just when you think the person is done, it starts again clip...clip...clip. silence for a few more minutes and yet again...clip...clip...clip It seems the sound just gets louder and then echos throughout the office.

The sound of a metal nail clipper... that clicking sound is enough to drive you insane. Like nails on a blackboard. And where are they putting the clippings? Hopefully in the trash can, but who knows.

Am I alone in thinking that grooming should be done at home?

Men Not Asking For Help

How many of us women know a man who refuses to ask for directions? I know it's a long running joke, but I find it to be so true. Don't you?

Your man can be driving the car and you're sitting there full well knowing that you're not heading in the right direction, but still...he continues driving as if he knows exactly where he's going. Meanwhile, you're getting quite impatient, maybe even running late to where ever it is your going, but do you dare suggest for him to stop and ask for directions?

While I was in the hospital, I came across a simular situation that made me burst outloud with laughter. At this poor man's expense I was so amused, but I needed that spot of light.

My doctor told me I had to walk the halls, so my mom came with me. Here I was looking all splendid in my hospital garb, attached to my IV pole, but we set out for a bit of exercise.

As we were walking, we came behind a man holding the hand of his 5 yr old daughter. They were obviously looking for a patients room. As we walked by each room, the man peered in. Not finding who he was looking for, he kept walking.

The hospital hall goes in a circle, so we were completing our first round. The man and the little girl still in front of us. We then hear...Daddy, where is she? I don't know, we'll find her...the Dad says.

Ok, by now my mom and I are snickering. This man passed the nurses station not only once, but twice! He just wouldn't stop and ask the nurses for help in finding who he was looking for.

As we made our third way around, I couldn't believe this man was still walking, peering in the rooms, looking for a patient. The little girl then said...we did this before Daddy, where is she?

By now, my mom and I looked at eachother and couldn't keep the laughter from escaping. My Mom then said excuse me to the man and suggested he ask at the nurses station for help. He looked at her like she had suggested something out of this world! It was just too funny.

Why is it that a man cannot ask for help or directions? It just amazes me...

Have you experienced such a situation where your man just wouldn't give in and ask for help? What did you do?

Before I Was a Mom

Before I was a Mom~
I never tripped over toys or forgot words to a lullaby.
I didn't worry whether or not my plants were poisonous.
I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom~
I had never been puked on.
Pooped on.
Chewed on.
Peed on.
I had complete control of my mind and my thoughts.
I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom~
I never held down a screaming child so doctors could do tests Or give shots.
I never looked into teary eyes and cried.
I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.
I never sat up late hours at night watching a
baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom~
I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put him down.
I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt.
I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much.
I never knew that I could love someone so much.
I never knew I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom~
I didn't know the feeling of having my heart outside my body.
I didn't know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby.
I didn't know that bond between a mother and her child.
I didn't know that something so small could make me feel so important and happy.

Before I was a Mom~
I had never gotten up in the middle of the night every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay.
I had never known the warmth, the joy, the love, the heartache,
the wonderment or the satisfaction of being a Mom.

I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much, before I was a Mom.


I believe this holds true for...Before I Was a Dad also...Isn't it just amazing how a bond is formed immediately with your newborn? How you feel this tremendous amount of love as soon as you look into your babies eyes...it's just an awesome feeling

Show Love Everyday

February seems to be the month of 'love'. There is so much hype over Valentines Day. All the card creators and candy manufactures making a bundle. But,...

Why do we need one day to feel we are loved or show our love? I think we should be showing love to all the people in our lives on a day to day basis.

If you happen to be in a relationship, there are so many ways to be romantic. Writing a love letter, a poem, creating a romantic dinner, setting aside one night as 'date night'. If you find you can't be creative and need some help, you can take a peek at Romanceforeveryone.com for additional romantic ideas and lessons on how to be romantic. From love letters to creating a romantic scene using rose petals. For the men, there are tips on romancing your woman and how to write a love note. Believe me, she will love receiving a love letter.

When I met my guy (just so happens it was on February 24), we met a few days later for our first date. As it came time to say goodnight, we each walked out, hand and hand and said our goodbyes. I found myself missing him already as I was driving home. Time just went by too quickly and it was a great date!
I couldn't just say I miss you. He'd think I was crazy, but I decided on writing a text to say how much I enjoyed the date and how much I looked forward to seeing him again. As I hit the send button, I received a text from him. He was saying almost the exact same thing! I still have his text and read it from time to time as a reminder of our first date. It brings a warm smile to my face. We still use texting to this day, just to let the other know we're thinking of each other or set the stage for a romantic night. I find it makes me smile and I carry it throughout the day.

Sometimes it's the little things that mean the most. Romance is for everyone and can easily be brought into a relationship with just a little effort to make that certain someone feel special. It doesn't matter if you're newly dating, in a serious relationship or married. I think it's important to keep up with the little touches to make someone feel they matter and are cared about.

How do you show that special someone in your life they are loved? Share some romantic ideas.

A Male's Perspective on "It's A Male Thing"

My post "It's a Male Thing" was about why when a male is looking for something, they look...and look...and they look, but still can not find what they're looking for?

Back in Septemeber Willard Barth viewed that post and left a comment giving us what could be the answer...

Below is his comment on this post:

Willard Barth has left a new comment on your post "It's A Male Thing....": {:~) Well from a male perspective, this actually happens for both sexes.

The human brain is one of the most powerful "supercomputers" on the planet. The challenge is that it doesn't come with a user's manual. It is suggested that we take in over 10 Billion bytes of information per second. As an adaptive process, we have become what some term "deletion machines" meaning that we only pay attention to what we choose to focus on (consciously, or unconsciously). Our subconscious mind therefore, simply follows the directions we give it as to what to focus on.

With that said, when someone cannot find something that is right in front of them, what has usually happened, is that they have already chosen to believe, before they even started looking that they were not going to find it. The mind literally creates a scotoma (blind spot) which prevents them from seeing what they are looking for.

September 9, 2007 4:52 PM

So there you have it...a professional opinion on why we can't seem to find what we are looking for and most times, it right in front of our faces.

What do you thnk?

The Morning After

So...I'm feeling good today. Something happened that took me completely by surprise. Usually I would have been nervous, but last night I just went with the flow. Didn't over think things as I normally would.

Are you curious?

Of course a man is involved. Do you believe in fate? or is it Destiny? According to Wikipedia, Destiny and Fate can be interchangable.

Destiny may be envisaged as fore-ordained by the Divine or by human will. Destiny may be seen as a fixed sequence of events that is inevitable and unchangeable, or that individuals choose their own destiny by choosing different paths throughout their life.
Although the words are used interchangeably in many cases, fate and destiny can be distinguished. Modern usage defines fate as a power or agency that predetermines and orders the course of events. Fate defines events as ordered or "meant to be".

It all started months ago, meeting someone and an instant connection was felt. Feeling like we've known each other already. He told me it felt like being 'home'.

The few times spent together we found many coincidences, had many people in common. The term small world comes to mind. Each time we are together, our world gets smaller and smaller.
For one reason or another, he stepped away from my world, but always keeping in touch. He came back briefly and the feelings were the same. But, as he did earlier, stepped away again. I have tried telling him to let me go, but he won't. He continues to always be there or around. Circumstances always bringing us back towards each other. Both being invited to parties by different people, him playing on a softball league with friends of mine that he didn't even know I knew.

Why does this keep happening? I can't move forward because my feelings are huge for this man. I've gone on dates, but it isn't "him"...then just when I meet someone new or asked on a date...he'll call. It's like he has this sense about me and what I'm doing.

Well, my surprise was spending a lot of time together last night, lasting into the wee hours of the morning. We are supposed to go to a party together today. I guess I will just feel good and enjoy the time we spend together.

What is meant to be... will be....

Health Tips for Men

Ladies: Do you have a man in your life that doesn't like to go to the doctors...not even for a check-up or physical?

My son who suffers from Crohn's Disease refuses to go for check ups. At his age, I can't physically drag him there, but I try and encourage him for his own physical well being to go. So far, I haven't been successful and it just drives me crazy. He needs to get tests done (should be on a regular basis) to make sure there isn't damage to his colon or intestines.

Stats say that men are less likely to visit a doctor than women. Men suffer from heart disease and strokes in greater numbers. Prostate cancer checks should be taken seriously.

Like women, men need to know their risk factors for disease, take necessary steps to prevent aliments and seek treatment when required. Men also need to exercise, maintain a healthy weight, make sure vaccinations are up to date and have regular health screenings.

A man should ask their doctor about the tests needed and what age you should have them. You need a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise a day to reap health benefits. Everyone needs to eat lean meats, grains, fruits and vegetables to get the vitamins, minerals, protein and fiber in their diet. Have your cholesterol checked very five years beginning as early as age 20.

So men... pay attention to your bodies as well !

Having a Bad Day? Your Friends Will Pull You Thru

Have you ever had one of the days...the kind you just seem out of sorts. You wake up with worry on your mind, you ran late for work and along the way, get stuck in traffic. You finally arrive at work to find the phone already ringing, you spill your tea (or coffee) Then to top it off, your hormones take over and you feel bloated to the hilt...geez... it seems the whole day will be off kilter.

I so had one of those days on Monday. The mood was gloomy and I was quiet. Since I wasn't my usual chatty, smiley self, everyone in the office noticed and asked "what's wrong?" I have to admit, it felt good to have many people asking if everything was okay, but...the more I tried pushing the nagging negative thoughts away and switch gears, someone would ask and I'd take a step backwards.

BUT, it all changed when I arrived home to find a message from Marzie.


I simple message only saying she had something for me. Considering the day I had, I didn't know what to expect.
Well, let me tell you... when I saw how she thought of me, it brought my hormonal self into a misty eyed, smiley person once again. That's it...not the people at work asking what's wrong... a simple award for being nice.

An Internet friend, someone I haven't physically met. I just mentioned the power of Internet friends in my prior post.

Just when you lest expect something good, it shows up. Marzie, this couldn't have come at a better time and I thank you so much.
I wasn't able to show my appreciation on this blog on Monday because a more pressing post needed to be published. I figured I'd wait until Tuesday night to express my gratitude to Marzie and give out my own awards.

Come Tuesday, I received another surprise. My dear Zubli presented the same award to me. Lo and behold, an Internet friend who has been with me since day one. Someone I ran to first when I received sad news. I knew his empowering attitude would help me through the night. His words and support did help.

All that comes to mind at this very moment is: My Cup Runnth Over !

According to the originator of the Nice Matters award it is intended for

“those that are just nice people, good blog friends, and those that inspire good feelings and inspiration! Those that care about others, that are there to lend support, or those that are just a positive influence in our blogging world!”

I'd like to pass on awards to the following people:


A worn out women's journey


angie's organic reviews


Looking Beyond the Cracked Window


make money with Kassper


Jeanine's Bits and Pieces


Personal Development


Life to Success


Journey with Water Learner


Virtual Entrepreneur


Cell tech Hub

Thank you all for touching me with your friendship, your kindness, support, help, visits and for being the people you are. You make this world a better place.

Do Women Like To Fight?

I've come across an interesting question and answer page in Men's Health magazine. The questions are answered by a women. I've been reading this magazine a lot lately. The men in the office are always leaving them around.

One question caught my eye...."Why do women always want to fight?" hmmmm...

Well, if I am to be totally honest, I know what that question is all about. Have you ever wanted to talk with your significant other and felt you were being tuned out? or needed to be reassured about something, only to find you're not being paid attention or listened to? The woman wanting to feel closer by communicating, but the man is not allowing your words to sink in?

I have experienced that and the truth be told, I guess I wanted to start some kind of exchange because I wasn't getting 'any' reaction at all...maybe not a healthy way, but just didn't know how to go about it.

I remember one friend of mine actually wanting to have a 'talk', but started an argument with her boyfriend which in turn, ended their relationship. In reality that isn't what she wanted at all...she was feeling insecure and wanted to bond by communicating, but her boyfriend wasn't listening or talking back. Due to that, she felt he wasn't passionate about the relationship.Her idea might have been to start this argument to get some kind of emotion, some reassurance from her boyfriend, maybe to feel he was invested in the relationship.

Do women crave emotional exchanges? We do know most men avoid any kind of confrontation, so if he engages, does it mean he cares?

I'm thinking if men gave us 100% of their attention when we ask to talk, maybe they'll be less arguments.

Do you agree or disagree?

source: men's health

SELF ESTEEM: Don't Let Anyone Take It Away ~ PART II

It's easy to lose your self-esteem, just remember
" misery loves company ". There are so many people living a fake life. Out in the open these people appear to be happy and content, but behind closed doors they're monsters and vampires waiting to eat and suck the life right out of you ! They come in the form of friends, spouses, family members and significant others.

The irony about self-esteem is that it can only be affected negatively or positively by people who are close to us or that we care for dearly. We rarely consider any personal comment from a stranger or acquaintance much less take to heart. But, when someone we love, respect, or admire says something personal we take it to heart and allow it to affect us !!

These people have been conditioned to see things in a negative manner and basically their self-esteem has been effected at some point in their lives and now ,they want to share in the negative perspective. When you don’t, the arguments start and the PROCESS begins ! Arguments start over the choices you make, the colors you pick, the way you drive, comb your hair, look , feel , sleep, ETC....

NOW, we begin to justify ourselves by defending our positions and choices. This sets up the barriers and then, the lines are drawn - the battle for self-esteem is on !

An interesting point to note : the titles that people have , mom , dad , brother, sister , wife, husband, boy/girl friend , good friend, can put in question and affect what we consider and affect our self--esteem. When our spouses , family members and significant others personally attack us we listen, and consider it BECAUSE the MIND tells us to . We begin to question ourselves by the mere consideration of thinking that what they said might some merit - otherwise why would they have said it? It must be true since she/he loves me ; they wouldn't have said it if it wasn't true. YES they would !

Their motives can't be explained, but this is how they take your self-esteem , your core self ; when they make the negative remark and you consider it and then you act on it - they engaged you in a losing battle ! This is IMPORTANT ! Re - read it and understand it and then commit to memory.

You have options. You don't have to listen to it ; you don't have to consider it ; and you DON'T have to act on it. Remove the titles and then see them only as a voice in the wind without the title and what they say will mean nothing !! And It won't affect you.

Look for PART III on Friday

Learn More about the Author: Lou De Lorca

SELF-ESTEEM: Don't Let Anyone Take It Away

I am honored to have an acquaintance of mine be a guest here at A Circle of Women.

I will be bringing you a 3 post series focusing on Self -Esteem. I believe more women (and men) need to boost their self-esteem and have the confidence to be successful in their lives. To feel great within their own skin...love yourself and not allow ANYONE to take away your self-esteem.

About the author: Lou De Lorca.
He lives in Temecula, California and is a Personal Life Success Coach. Over the last twenty years, he has studied humanities, education, personal improvement, leadership and instruction. He has worked with university research professors and top noted experts in the field of Meta-Cognition, Motivational Psychology, Business Leadership, and Personal Instruction, all of which are the basis for today's successful speakers, trainers and coaches.
He is the author of the Competent Writer and the creator and producer of the "Winning Life" audio series. He is also a professional inspirational speaker, motivational and leadership coach, a school reform expert and a consultant for the California Department of Education.

PART ONE:

Self - esteem is the main component of all that comprises the self - the YOU ! It's the essence of who you are. Self - esteem is the glue that holds everything together-that's why when you lose it you just seem to fall apart. And it's a downward spiral from there.

The study of self- esteem has volumes written about it but much of it is presented in a clinical format that makes it hard for the average person to understand- much less apply it. SIMPLY put self-esteem is basically how one feels about him/her self. Over the years one has encountered words and experiences that etched into our mind and our mind tells us how we feel about or we perceive ourselves; how we are, which eventually leads us to believe what we are capable of doing.

This is why self-esteem is so important . It permeates all aspects of our lives when it's depleted or gone - then our direction , perspectives and images are distorted , or dissolved. When this occurs one becomes or falls into something of the unknown. When someones self-esteem has been negatively affected or depleted a downward spiral occurs and the person becomes a victim and continues to fall until they are no longer the same person that we once knew. These victims fall prey to drug abuse , lethargy, abusive relations , and ultimately WORTHLESSNESS !

I use the term " victim " specifically because that is what people without self-esteem truly become . Anyone with low self-esteem or no self-esteem are candidates to nowhere and fast ! They are no longer the same people , and their sense of worthlessness becomes a self- fulfilling prophesy. It continues to feed itself from there.

Part II will be posted on Wednesday


More on Lou De Lorca

Hope

One of my favorite movies is Hopefloats. I have watched that movie more than a dozen times and I'm sure I'll watch a dozen more. Although the movie starts with a betrayal, it shows if you follow your heart and find yourself amidst the sadness ~ you can find hope again.

A great quote from the movie..."Just give hope a chance to float up and it will"

More Hope Quotes...

He who has hope has everything.
- Arabian Proverb

Hope is a state of mind, not of the world. Hope, in this deep and powerful sense, is not the same as joy that things are going well, or willingness to invest in enterprises that are obviously heading for success, but rather an ability to work for something because it is good.
- Vaclav Havel

For hope is but the dream of those that wake.
- Matthew Prior

Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul.
- Emily Dickenson

If you do not hope, you will not find what is beyond your hopes.
- St. Clement of Alexandra

He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
- Isaiah 40:29-31

Hope is like a bird that senses the dawn and carefully starts to sing while it is still dark.
- Emily Dickenson

Love comes to those who still hope even though they've been disappointed, to those who still believe even though they've been betrayed, to those who still love even though they've been hurt before.
- Anonymous

My Heart

My new friend Earl has many special qualities, but one in particular is that he isn't afraid to express his feelings. Many people, both men and women are often afraid to share their feelings.
Why is that?

I happen to find it extremely attractive in a man when they are in touch with their 'sensitive' side and can share with you what's on their mind. Expression is one way of being closer to another...a way to bond.

I just love what he wrote and hope you enjoy it as well.

Who ever wins that pedestal is going to be one lucky woman!



My Heart

In my heart there is but one pedestal...large enough for only one special person. The woman who stands on this pedestal will have all of my love, all of my attention, all of my fidelity! It's a pedestal that has stood empty for several years now. In a sense, I am proud that I didn't give my love, my heart...that pedestal, away as frivolously as I have in the past! In another sense, loneliness tempers the pride I feel in not being with someone simply for the sake of being with someone! That pedestal might forever stand unoccupied...but I'd rather it stand empty...than have the wrong person standing upon it again!

About Earl

Are You Settling?

Every day, all around me, I see people "settling". Settling for what? They're settling for less. Settling for less than what will truly make them happy. Settling for less than what they truly deserve. Settling for less money because they don't really believe they can make more - or they simply don't want to do what it takes to change their situation. They settle for doing a job they aren't really happy in because they don't really think they can change their situation. They settle in less than fulfilling relationships because at least what they have offers them security, or maybe they just don't think it's possible to have all their heart yearns for.

People settle.

They settle because not settling is scary. It takes them out of their comfort zone. Not settling means they are going to take a risk and possibly lose what they have opted to settle for. So they settle. They decide that they really can't have it all, so they might as well settle for what they can - and pretend they're happy in the midst of it. They're not happy, but they prefer it to hanging out on a limb that might break.

I see it all around me. People settling. It makes me sad when I see one of my friends settle thinking they're not worth more.. And it makes me want to scream. I want to grab them and somehow convince them they are worth so much more than that. They deserve to have it all. They deserve to have what makes them happy. They deserve to not struggle from day to day. They deserve to do something that fills their heart and soul with fulfillment. They deserve to have relationships that make their hearts explode with joy. They deserve to not settle for anything less than what they want.

Each person has to convince themselves and believe they can change what they believe about themselves - and about the world they are creating for themselves.

Are you settling? Be honest. If you are, then only you can change it. Only you can decide to step out of your comfort zone. Only you can opt for the courage that will make you live in the "fear zone". It's in the fear zone that the greatest fulfillment and success is found.

It's in not settling that you learn to truly live!

Do You Have Registered Sexual Offenders Living Near You?

Awareness is your best defense.

Family Watchdog allows you to see where registered sexual offenders live and work around you.
Sexual predators have no physical borders, and are not confined to any given socio-economic group.

Tips to Stay Safe

• Parents:
  Always know where your children are.
  Put your children's emergency identification (name, address, phone number) on their clothes.
  Teach your children your home phone number and to how call 911 if there is an emergency.
  Agree on a specific time when children must return home.
  Contact law enforcement authorities immediately if there is any suspicious or unlawful activity.
  Purchase and watch The Safe Side video with your children.

• Teach Your Children:
  To Always tell you where they are going.
  Never enter any home without getting your parent's permission first.
  Never get into any vehicle, unless your parents know and have said it's OK.
  Always wear reflective clothing at night.
  Never approach any house that is not well lit.
  Remember anything weird that an adult says or does to you and tell your parents immediately.
  Run away from people who offer you candy or other treats or want you to help look for their puppy or kitten.
  Scream, run and fight if anyone tries to grab you or make you to go with them.
  Don't play in areas that you are unfamiliar with.
  Stay on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, always walk facing traffic.

Go to Family Watchdog

Find out if any offenders are living near you. You can search by location
or search by name. This is a free tool