Look for Possibilities

Well, I can't believe it but the Pennwriters conference has been over for a week now. I enjoyed myself and learned from many wonderful, insightful speakers.

One thing I tried to get across to conference attendees, especially newbies, was to take advantage of ALL opportunities and to be open to ALL possibilities. The same can be said for every day living.

• Be open to people and things that come your way unexpectedly. The immediate benefit of a meeting or a piece of information may not be apparent at first.


• Build long-term relationships and store each piece of information for future use.


• Don't overlook the small things and the obvious things and people.


• Learn as much as you can every day from every situation.

Look around today and be open to all that you see, do, hear, and encounter. You never know what precious things await.

Happy Mother's Day and Stress Management Tips

Mother's Day is tomorrow, which should have all of us reflecting on our mothers and the sacrifices they made for us.

Many sons and daughters today have elderly parents to care for as well as their own children. Here are some stress management tips for them and everyone feeling stressed these days:

• Take stock of your activities to be sure you are living a balanced life. If not, make changes. When one area of your life is out of balance, you will not be able to do yourself or anyone else any good.


• Establish priorities and stick to them.


• Start a gratitude journal and make a few entries every day.


• Strike negative words from your vocabulary. Let go of worries.


• Skip the news and read a good book.


• Eat healthy.


• Learn something new--exercise your mind.


• Keep in touch with friends and relatives who add joy and fun to your life. Share with them.


• Meditate.


• Take it one day at a time.


• Keep up your sense of humor. Watch comedies and uplifting movies.


• Enjoy the outdoors. Take walks, work in the garden, tend to the flowers--get in touch with nature. (Take Mom with you.)


• Clean up clutter around your home. Clutter adds stress.


• Create a workable budget and stick to it.