Main

June 22, 2008

What have you done today to make you feel proud?


“I look into the window of my mind
Reflections of the fears I know I've left behind
I step out of the ordinary
I can feel my soul ascending
I am on my way
Can't stop me now
And you can do the same”
 
 
I wanted to share with you a little of Heather Small’s “Proud.” Everyday, we face challenges. And, everyday we have a choice - we can succumb to our fears and the labels that others try to place on us, or we can go boldly forward. There are plenty of people who are more than happy to tell us we can’t. It is up to you to decide you can!!

So I ask you, “What have you done today to make you feel proud?”

Look around. The answers are there.

  • Have you decided not to let others define you?
    Be proud of your convictions.
  • Have you decided to step off the diet rollercoaster to seek healthier, sustainable choices?
    Be proud of your choices.
  • Have you decided to celebrate the beauty that is you?
    Be proud of who you are.
  • Have you decided to face your fears and doubts and leave them behind?
    Be proud of your strength.
  • Have you stopped living for tomorrow and embraced today?
    Be proud of your courage.

Be proud of every step you take to decide your destiny. And embrace everyday as a chance to make yourself proud. Step out of the ordinary.

What have you done today to make you feel proud?

Posted by BearatHome at 03:04 PM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

May 11, 2008

Happy Mother's Day . . .

From all of us at Bear at Home, we take our hats off to all the moms out there . . .

We know how hard you work - cooking, cleaning, holding down careers - all the while you manage one of the most important jobs is the world . . . Motherhood.

From scabby knees to the measles, to puppies and goldfish, soccer and carpooling, homework and bed time stories, baths and washing behind the ears - the list never ends - nor do your days. You're the coach, the teacher, the confidant, but most importantly you're the mom!

May your world be filled with tears and laughter, pride and joy. May there be quiet moments and time to breath. Some days are dark, some are sad - but no matter - for there is a little soul looking up at you, trusting you and unconditionally loving you.

Children are fragile little creatures that break easily. Remember words can be harsh. Be patient, be gentle, be honest and you will be the world to those little folks. Love them, protect them, be firm with them when necessary - and you will be amazed at the remarkable men and women that will blossom in front of your eyes.

You have an awesome responsibility, which at times can seem overwhelming - but remember everyday is another chance to be a parent, a friend, a mentor - and most importantly - a mother.

Happy Mother's Day

Posted by BearatHome at 02:59 PM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

May 06, 2008

Happy No Diet Day . . .

International No Diet Day (INDD) is an annual celebration of body acceptance and diversity. It is observed on May 6 each year.

Dieting represents a huge money maker to the industry, despite is high failure rate. Only 5 to 10 percent of us succeed, but we all contribute to the staggering $40 billion in revenue amassed by the weight-loss industry annually. By the year 2006, revenues are estimated to top $48 billion.

According to Bankrate’s “10 things the Diet Companies Don’t Want You to Know”: All three of the largest national weight loss chains -- Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig and LA Weight Loss -- continue to make millions in revenue. In 2003, Weight Watchers' revenue was approximately $943 million, while Jenny Craig saw $280 million and LA Weight Loss climbed from revenues of $105 million in 2001 to $250 million and counting in 2003.

According to the Marketdata's John LaRosa, costs of these programs vary regionally (franchises have latitude in what they charge) and individually. On average, joining Jenny Craig will set you back between $199 and $299 initially, plus $70 per week to buy its meals. Weight Watchers charges $29 to join and between $8 and $12 per week for meetings. LA Weight Loss sells a year's program in advance and averages $575 for a full year's service. Costs could go higher, depending on how many of the company's bars and supplements you buy. Marketdata Enterprises, Inc., is an independent Tampa-based market research firm.

There is big money in making you feel bad about yourself. Advertisers have a vested interest in selling you an unobtainable ideal. Since, you can never actually reach you goal, you keep buying. Beyond the financial costs are dieting are the true costs to your health and self-esteem. One of every 11 commercials has a direct message about beauty (this isn't counting the indirect ones).

So, today get off the diet roller coaster. Stop doing that to your body. Restrictive diets deprive the body of much needed nutrients and the weight tends to come back once you resume normal eating habits.

Instead of dieting, why not vow (and what better day than “No Diet Day” to do so) to eat healthier. Most of our diets could be a little healthier (Ok, mine could be a lot healthier). Eat more green things (and I’m not talking about the moldy donut you found rolling around the backseat), drink more water, and get out there and move.

If you’re not exercising, think about a walk in the park at lunch. Take the dog to the beach or the woods – whatever is nearby (he’ll thank you, too!). Go out and buy yourself a nice pair of walking shoes, and treat yourself to a little fresh air.

Finally, most diet ads are about making us feel bad because we are not supermodels. C’mon, you’re not really buying that are you? Appreciate your body – it has done a lot of wonderful things for you. It is you – uniquely you – embrace it. Find time to pamper it. Be nice to it. Don’t deprive it!! The cliché is that it’s what’s on the insides that counts, well – I can promise you until you start to feel good about you, it won’t matter what shape you’re in.

Stop, think about all you’ve accomplished. What have you done today to make yourself proud? We’ll deal with tomorrow, tomorrow.

Posted by BearatHome at 03:01 PM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

April 24, 2008

The things we do for love . . .

The other day, I went into the boyfriend’s medicine cabinet for a Q-Tip. 

How was I to know what lurked inside?  What I saw would fill my nightmares for weeks . . .

  • A toothbrush, toothpaste, a razor, shaving cream and a hair brush.

How could that be?  Where was all the stuff?  There must be product here somewhere?  Distraught, I confronted him immediately?  “Where is it?” I demanded.  “Huh” was his simple reply.  Oh, don’t play games with me, Mister – no one could live such aesthetic existence! 

There were 5 – count ‘em 5 – items in his grooming repertoire.  That’s just wrong!!  All, I wanted was a Q-Tip - is that really asking so much?

That evening, I went home and opened my own medicine cabinet; three things immediately fell out and spilled all over the sink.   I perused the supplies that keep me the natural beauty that I am -

  • There we tweezers, wax, paste, hair spray, hair gel, hair relaxer, hair curler, pore strips, 7 different moisturizers, 4 toothbrushes in different stages of use - including the one I use to clean the grout behind the sink, four half-used packages of floss from dentists who over the years have held high hopes for improving my dental hygiene, mouthwash, dental picks, the head of a long ago discarded electric toothbrush (hey, I can use it for something), 3 types of toothpaste, whitener, whitener strips, anti-wrinkle crème, line reducer, astringent, toners, Witch Hazel, cotton puffs, cotton swabs, Q-Tips, hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol and matches -- all used for sterilization, Band-Aids, Motrin, Tylenol, Sudafed, Imodium, Afrin, Calcium pills, Nail polish of all colors -- one in a bright shade of green (even I don’t understand that one), bottle of nail polish remover, Tums, a cough drop from the 1992 flu season, Calamine lotion, Pepto-Bismol, a prescription bottle from 1998, emery boards, toe nail clippers, finger nail clippers, a nail brush, three bottles of varying SPF sun protection, bronzer, peroxide (what was I thinking?) spray in highlights, six shades of henna, various soaps and little bottles appropriated from every hotel I’ve stayed at in the last three years,  and a variety of colognes that were meant to allure, but usually simply overwhelmed (remember the 80’s and Polo?) And this is not to mention, the variety of remedies that are tucked away under the sink.

I work hard at keeping every thing this natural!!  I wax, tweeze, pluck, strip, moisturize, tint, blend, blush, powder, tease, straighten, bleach, shave, spray, clip, tuck, lift, pad, etc – all in a day’s work.  And he has the nerve to simply shower and go? 

OMG, I hope he gets jock itch; at least it’ll add something to his medicine cabinet.

Posted by BearatHome at 05:21 PM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

April 17, 2008

Earth Day

In the woodsEarth Day is intended to inspire awareness of and appreciation for the Earth's environment.

Global observance originated by Gaylord Nelson as an environmental teach-in, and since January 1970 also called Earth Day, is celebrated in many countries each year on April 22.

History of Earth Day - Learn all about how Earth Day was started

Organizer's Guide - What can you do to help celebrate Earth Day in your community?

Earth Day 2008 Calendar - Find events in your community

Posted by BearatHome at 01:50 PM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

April 01, 2008

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month

National Sexual Violence Resource Center

 

Sexual Assualt AwarenessSexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) raises awareness of sexual violence and its prevention through special events while highlighting sexual violence as a major public health issue and reinforces the need for prevention efforts.

Women’s organized protests against violence began in the late 1970s in England, with Take Back the Night marches. These women-only protests emerged in direct response to the violence that women encountered as they walked the streets at night. These activities became more coordinated and soon developed into a movement that extended to the United States and, by 1978, the first Take Back the Night events in the U.S. were held in San Francisco and New York City. Over time, sexual assault awareness activities expanded to include the issue of sexual violence against men and men’s participation in ending sexual violence.

2008 SAAM Campaign

Prevent Sexual Violence… in our workplaces.
 
The Sexual Assault Awareness Month theme for 2008 is Prevent Sexual Violence... in our workplaces. Designed to help employers recognize the vital role workplace culture plays in the prevention of sexual violence, this theme promotes a healthy work environment. We wish you a very successful 2008 SAAM campaign!

Please visit the links below for more information.

SAAM Day of Action

Featured Event

Community Activities

2008 Palm Card

Posted by BearatHome at 12:56 PM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

March 29, 2008

SPF - 30

When I was little, my mother brought me a sombrero from Mexico. She was trying to keep me from self-combusting - like they do in the vampire movies when sunlight strikes. You see, I was a little, pasty Irish kid living in NYC. After her trip to Mexico, I was a little, pasty Irish kid wearing a sombrero. "Well, you just don't see that everyday!" As I grew older, the sombrero and I parted ways.

When the Sombrero failed, my mother tried to get me to put on zinc oxide. "Like the lifeguards," she would tell me. Remember zinc oxide? That white gooey stuff that had a slightly fishy smell to it and attracted sand into every pore. Great stuff! Thanks, Mom!

Some things we never learn. The other day I left the house to go to a BBQ without sunscreen. I figured it was slightly overcast, how bad could it be? (Apparently, I slept through 9th grade earth science and the fact that clouds don't protect you from UV rays). It was a fun BBQ, and a few beers later I am as pink as a lobster. You could roast marshmallows off my face. Ugh, I never learn.

If I had a nickel for every sun burn that I've had over the years, I'd have enough to buy sunscreen!! Take it from me, put on some sunscreen. Today, it's light weight, non-greasy and should be a part of your daily routine. Yes, I am channeling my mother.

When buying sunscreens look for a label with an SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, of 15 or greater. The SPF acts like a multiplying factor. If you would normally be OK in the sun for 10 minutes and you apply an SPF 10 sunscreen, you will be OK in the sun for 100 minutes. Remember, to apply the sunscreen 30 or so minutes in advance in order for the sunscreen to work, and bring some extra along in case you need to reapply.

All of us a Bear at Home wish the best of summers. Wear a hat, put on some sunscreen and go outside and play!! OMG - I do sound like my mother!!

Posted by BearatHome at 03:05 PM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

March 08, 2008

International Women's Day

As International Women’s Day approaches on March 8, it’s time to reflect on the advances made by women. Women have more opportunities for education and stronger legal rights in many countries; but many still suffer oppression around the world. It is important to remember the struggle is far from over and women still face challenges with regard to health care, family planning and economic opportunities.

The theme for activities to celebrate International Women’s Day for 2008 is '100 years of active women in paid and unpaid work'. This recognises the countless contributions that women in NSW have made towards improving workplaces and working conditions, as well as their tireless volunteering work which has contributed to the growth of more vibrant and robust communities.

According to a study released in October 2005 - “After surveying Fortune 500 companies, not one had a woman among any of their top-five compensated officers,” said Nat Ehrlich, survey specialist for the office of survey research at Michigan State University’s Institute for Public Policy and Social Research.

International Women's Day is an occasion marked by women's groups around the world. This date is also commemorated at the United Nations and is designated in many countries as a national holiday. Among other relevant historic events, it commemorates the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire (New York, 1911), where over 140 women lost their lives.

Until all women are fully represented regardless of size or color, at senior leadership levels of public, professional and economic life, women do not have equal rights nor an equal voice.

Check out http://www.internationalwomensday.com/default.asp

Posted by BearatHome at 03:33 PM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

February 25, 2008

“Nothing to Fear but Fear Itself”

I was recently reminded of the old The Franklin D. Roosevelt adage while watching an episode of “Wonderfalls.”  At one point the main character, Jaye is questioning her once heavy neighbor, “Fat Pat.”

“I’m Fat Pat.  That’s who’ll I will always be.  I tried to turn off my “fatdar”, but I can’t.  Every time I go outside, I wonder, does that restaurant have a booth big enough?  Does the theater have retractable armrests?  What time does the market close ‘cause if I go when its busy, somebody might look in my cart.  And turnstiles?  Why would you do that to a person?”

Wonderfalls is a cute sitcom, but Pat’s pain rang true.  I personally remember going to the beach in a sweatshirt.  Not because I was chilly in the 90 degree heat, but because just a t-shirt would reveal my stomach.  How many things did I pass on, because of my own insecurities about my size? 

People can say really mean, hurtful things, but they don’t hold a candle to how harshly we often judge ourselves!  These negative self-scripts that you have either given yourself or that were given to you prevent you from living a productive, healthy, and growth-enhancing life. 

There are no easy answers to changing year’s worth of self-doubt.  It’s about taking the first steps.  DO SOMETHING!  Forcing ourselves to do something – anything – can change our focus so that we forget to be afraid.

What has fear prevented you from doing?  Fear makes us afraid to meet new people, so we are lonely.  It makes us afraid to explore the world, so we are disconnected.  So get out there, it’s a great big, wonderful world waiting for you.  Isn’t time you started living fully?

Posted by BearatHome at 06:36 PM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

February 20, 2008

Time is money, honey . . .

The other day, I was working late on a project and my dog came in and dropped his ball in my lap. "Not now, buddy - I'm working,” I said pushing him away. A few moments later he tried again. This time I looked up and saw a wagging tail begging for my attention. Hey, I am not made of stone.

For years, my work schedule prevented me from having a dog. Now that I do, I'm telling him to wait. Wait till when? There will always be projects, customers, demands, etc. Life doesn't wait. Cherish your time and the time of others – it is not renewable.

We've all heard the Pearl Bailey adage, "time is money, honey." How are you spending it? Remember you have life outside the office - I’m not suggesting you ignore obligations – however, sometime we all need to just go play outside.

Liza and I have been known to slip out on a sunny day to take the dogs to the beach. Could we have used this time to solicit new customers? Develop a new campaign? File that mound of paperwork? Absolutely! But when we look back on this venture, I want to remember the dogs, the customers and our friends – not the filing.

At Bear at Home - we believe in living life fully. We believe it's important to occassionally take time to care about you. That means finding balance. That means exploring a hobby. That means calling in sick on a sunny day and just playing hooky. . .

We promise we won't tell anyone . . .

Posted by BearatHome at 02:54 PM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

February 15, 2008

The morning after . . .

Many of us consider the success of Valentine's Day to be dependent upon having a significant other. And while that is the obvious intent of the greeting card companies - maybe we need to start a little closer to home. Maybe, we need to check in with our feelings about numero uno.

You are unique and beautiful. There is but one you. It's easy to find flaws when we look at ourselves - I could be thinner; I could be more successful, etc. That continuous loop that runs in our heads reminding us of all of our insecurities. It is time to change the tape (it's probably an eight track anyway!).

The new iPod version is about what an amazing creature you are. Change the dialogue - what about all the amazing things you accomplish every day? Maybe, it is raising a daughter who doesn't judge her worth by the scale. Maybe, it is raising a son who respects women. Maybe, it is accepting yourself and finding beauty in the simple things that encompass your world – like the first buds of spring.

To be loved is the most amazing thing in the world - to love oneself . . . well, that's priceless. So with Valentine's Day a memory, start a new tradition - send yourself a card. In the card write 3 things that you appreciate about you. Thank you for being you.

And more importantly, remember you are loved.

Posted by BearatHome at 03:30 PM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

February 14, 2008

Remember your Heart . . .

This Valentine's Day take care of your heart ...

Did you know . . . More women than men have died of heart disease every year in the U.S. since 1984. Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women. One woman dies every minute of heart disease, nearly half a million women each year. To call attention to this critical health issue, the American Heart Association has launched Go Red For Women movement.

Whether it's visiting your healthcare provider, eating a healthier diet, or increasing your exercise - you can do something special to love your heart. Check the Choose to Move program.

Choose To Move is free 12-week physical activity program for women. The program shows women how to Choose To Move... by being physically active, eating healthfully, loving their body, selecting nutritious foods and taking time for themselves.

Happy Valentine's Day

Posted by BearatHome at 03:32 PM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

February 13, 2008

Bitter Ball

Ugh, with Valentine’s Day looming and all your coupled friends planning sweet nothings, are you feeling a little bitter? C’mon – admit it – just a tad?

Good, now relish it. I’m not suggesting wallow in it, but once a year (how about the Day before V-Day?) just let it all out. Think of all the things you can do that your “coupled” friends can’t. Eat cereal on the couch while watching Golden Girls? Let a variety of gases escape your body without apology. Stay up late watching bad Lifetime movies, again.

And, let’s not forget those potential mates. . . OMG – does she ever shut up? Doesn’t he know Aramis died in the 80’s? Don’t forget - 500 feet – it’s in the restraining order! Does he really still live with his mother? And my all time favorite – Dialing Drunk. You know when your ex gets the urge to call you after a pitcher of Margarita’s to express his/her undying love.

So gather a few friends tonight, go out heave a little fun, dish the dirt on all your “married” friends and just cut loose.

Now, don’t you feel better you got that out of your system?

Posted by BearatHome at 03:26 PM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

February 07, 2008

Happy New Year

Chinese New Year starts with the New Moon on February 7th and ends on the full moon 15 days later. This is a very superstitious time of the year. Many believe that whatever you do on the first day of the year will dictate the year's fortune.

In other traditions, by this time in the year, most resolutions - made on December 31 - have been subtly forgotten. However, all hope is not lost, as there's a second chance to start afresh with the celebration of Chinese New Year.

So, you have been granted a second chance. While most of your family and friends have long since forgotten their healthy goals, you have a fresh start. How will you use it? Is this the year you start a new walking program? How about an apple a day?, or orange?, or something green on your plate?

Scientific studies have shown that routinely including fruits and vegetables - which are rich in fiber, antioxifdants, vitamins and minerlas - along with exercise can promote better health and reduce cancer risks.

Although celebrations of the Chinese New Year vary, the underlying message is one of peace and happiness for family members and friends.

Bear at Home wishes you much peace and happiness in the new year. . .

Posted by BearatHome at 02:52 PM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

February 05, 2008

Fat Tuesday

Fat Tuesday is Mardi Gras, the festival New Orleans, Louisiana, is famous for. "Gras" is French for fat and "Mardi" is French for Tuesday.

Fat Tuesday always occurs on the day before Ash Wednesday. The parties and parades will continue until Lent begins at the stroke of midnight on Tuesday.

Mardi Gras is also known as Shrove Tuesday. Shrove Tuesday gets its name from the ritual of shriving that Christians used to undergo in the past. In shriving, a person confesses their sins and receives absolution for them.

Fat Tuesday is something of a "last call" before the expected reflection and abstinence of the Christian Lenten season. Lent is the forty day period leading up to Easter.

Fat Tuesday is about celebrating life. It is all about Living Life Fully . . .


Now, where can I get some beads?

Posted by BearatHome at 03:28 PM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

January 30, 2008

Second Chances

Recently, I was watching David Mamet’s film “State and Main.” One of my favorite lines occurs after the screenwriter Joe discovers that he has been tricked by Ann and that he indeed did not perjure himself. Ann smiles, “I thought you needed to get it out of your system.”

At the beginning of every year, we are bombarded with the concept of resolutions many of which are about losing weight. Weight-loss advertisers go into heavy rotation this time of year. And, most consumers are all too happy to play along. Looking at the statistics from the last week of December – web traffic at weight loss sites soar – visits to the Jenny Craig site were up 40%, Nutrisystem up 130%. Also of note is SparkPeople, who have gone free, jumped a massive 148%.

And, if you are like most of us, by the third week of January any visions of the new and improved you have fallen by the wayside. So you ate the box of donuts, so you missed going to the gym, again – maybe “you needed to get it out of your system.”

If you’ve pledged to be healthier this year, it’s not too late. So, you hit a few bumps in the road or maybe a Krispy Kreme or two – it’s ok. Becoming healthier is about making sustainable changes. Improving the way you eat, exercising more and loving the body you are in.

The underlying premise of “State and Main” is the concept of a “second chance.” For many, a second chance is a chance to make the same mistake twice. For others, it’s a chance to change courses.

Now’s your second chance to be a healthier you, what are you going to do with it?

Posted by BearatHome at 03:25 PM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

January 25, 2008

Doom and Gloom

Feeling a little down? You’re not alone. According to MSNBC.com, a British psychologist has determined this is the most depressing time of the year. He has derived a calculation that determined January 24th is the worst of the worst.

The model is: [W + (D-d)] x TQ/M x NA

The equation is broken down into seven variables: (W) weather, (D) debt, (d) monthly salary, (T) time since Christmas, (Q) time since failed quit attempt, (M) low motivational levels and (NA) the need to take action.

In my mind, the January Effect is a combination of broken resolutions and a post-holiday letdown.

Ok, so we understand the depressing effect of January 24th. Let’s explore the factors:

Post Holiday – For many of us, holidays are a tough time. Parties, dinners, holiday treats – and the result? Expanding waistlines. We also got to spend quality time with your family. Nice to see mom can still push all our buttons. And, now the Visa bills are showing up. Great!

Resolutions – if you’re like most folks, your resolutions have already been broken. Ugh! Personally, I had planned to get so much done during a traditionally quiet period between Christmas and New Year’s. Guess what? It didn’t happen. I had such high hopes, but it isn't going as planned.

Ok, so we’ve identified why this time of the year is tough – now, what? First of all, realize you are not alone. It’s a tough time of the year!! Secondly, the magic about a new year is you have a fresh slate. You can’t change what happened in 2007, at least not without a little revisionist history. So look forward.

What do you want to accomplish in 2008? Are these goals realistic? What are the plans to achieve them? What changes need to implemented? Struggling? Maybe consider a personal coach or support group. Get outside your routine. Talk to others, and listen to what they have to say. Talk to your friends and ask them what they like about you. You’ll be surprised. You can build on your strengths and work on the challenges.

Oh yeah, and if you are reading this – you’ve survived the most depressing day of the year!

Posted by BearatHome at 03:23 PM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

January 02, 2008

The Best of Intentions

The Best of Intentions

Life has been a bit chaotic as of late - a nasty bout with the flu, conflicting projects, the holidays and life in general – and somewhere along the way December became a blur. Oh dear reader, I had intended to offer you so much. There was the posting about 2007 in review – didn’t quite get there. There was last month’s newsletters – ugh, just didn’t happen. There were the New Year's Eve words of inspiration - uh, well - yea you get the point.

I did however get to spend some quality time in front of the TV. That should be enough to convince anyone to get out of the house. But, in my Nyquil induced stupor I watched lots of Southpark and Golden Girls (don’t ask). And, as the year wore down – I was struck by the number of times I was reminded it was time to begin “making your New Year’s resolutions.”

And these resolutions were often tied to something I could buy. Oh lucky me! There were “miracle” cures to help me lose those unwanted pounds. My favorite is the one that cautions you to only use it if you need to lose 20 or more pounds – because it’s that strong. Oh pleeeze - I think I threw the remote at that one. In addition, there were treadmills, dumbbells, Bowflexes, and countless other gadgets reminiscent of Suzanne Somers’ Thigh Master. Who buys this stuff?

Is it any wonder that people give up on resolutions shortly after they make them? How many of us have a myriad of products collecting dust in the basement. Oh admit it; you have ‘em! Remember, the stationary cycle with the knob the increased tension? Or was it the Abdominizer? Hey at least that one makes a great sled for the kids!

As I lay in bed coughing my brains out, I pledged 2008 would be a new year and a new me. I will eat better. Dust of the gym membership card. Even get up early and take the dog for a run. Ah, the best of intentions . . .

Yesterday, I managed to eat at both Roundtable Pizza and In and Out Burger. Not exactly off to a good start. Well, at least there is plenty of room for improvement. Yes, it’s a rocky start, but I haven’t given up. I do have a resolution: I give my self permission to Live Life Fully.

Rather than offer my simplistic take on 2008, I defer to a greater mind to guide you - Unitarian Minister William Ellery Channing said it best when he wrote:

To live content with small means, to seek elegance rather than luxury, and refinement rather than fashion, to be worthy, not respectable, and wealthy not rich, to study hard, think quietly, talk gently, act frankly, to listen to stars and birds and babes and sages, with open heart, to bear all cheerfully, do all bravely, await occasions, hurry never--in a word, to let the spiritual, unbidden and unconscious grow up through the common.

Happy New Year!

Posted by BearatHome at 03:21 PM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

December 26, 2007

Off to the Mall?

If you are like most Americans, you’re off to the mall to snap up much promised bargains. But then again, you may have chosen a different path.

I rose early this morning to a very needy canine friend. With recent travels, the flu and the holiday – he has been somewhat neglected. Not neglected like I left him in the garage with a giant bowl of kibble - but neglected none the less. The walks have been shorter; my attention has been elsewhere - usually hunting for some relief to the cough – while he has been the ever silent sentry waiting for a friendly pat on the head.

This morning we ventured off to a favorite woodsy spot. The post holiday crowd was sparse and we tossed a ball in the early morning mist. We sniffed, we peed, and we waded in the creek – generally, a happy dog.

So as 2007 comes to close, my dog and I took time to live in the moment. Yea, I could have gotten to the office earlier or I could have rushed off to the mall to find a great deal, but instead we stopped to attend to much needed dog play time.

For me it’s time with the dog. For you it may be something else. But, I ask you what have you been meaning to do, but have been too busy? I promise work will always be there along with the bills and the mortgage. It’s a quiet week - take time for yourself. Maybe it’s a walk with the dog, an afternoon with a grandchild, or simply an afternoon with a good book. Whatever it is, take a little time this week for you.

Yea, there may be some great bargains at the mall, today. But, when is the last time you saw your breathe in the crisp, early morning winter air?

Posted by BearatHome at 11:07 AM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

November 24, 2007

C'mon in. . .

 Arustic Porch                                                                                                                                                                                                     Every summer, our family went up to the little cabin on the lake.   What it lacked in amenities, it made up for in memories - a spotted owl, mom's potato salad, marshmallows over an open campfire, diving off the dock or just floating down the river in inner tubes.

Bear at Home celebrates the places and products which remind us of a simpler time when craftsmanship guaranteed satisfaction, and service was just good business. We hope these items will grace your home and inspire future generations of memories.

Inside you will find a rustic collection suitable for your new log home, a restored rustic cabin, or anywhere you simply desire a more casual lifestyle.

C'mon in. . .

Posted by BearatHome at 09:12 AM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

September 04, 0078

What would you do?

Imagine that you have no electricity, no gas, no water and no telephone service. Imagine that all the businesses are closed and you are without any kind of emergency services. What will you do until
help arrives?

Do you have a plan? Most of us don't.

Find out how you can prepare yourself and your family for an emergency. You can also learn what to do in response to a specific disaster, like a tsunami, just in case.

The folks over at 72 Hours can help.

Posted by BearatHome at 04:12 PM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)