Woman's Day Magazine June 2011

Here's the cover of the "Woman's Day Magazine" which features the article "Think Like A Man" that I was interviewed for. I was contacted nearly a year ago by the magazine regarding a blog post that I wrote called "The Martha Stewart Complex." I'll repost it later, but it was basically about how I unsuccessfully strived to be a perfect homemaker (I hate that word!) like Martha Stewart. I had just had my first baby and wanted everything to be perfect. Stressful!

The author of the article, Beth Levine, called me about 4 months ago to discuss the article. I have been so excited about reading it. I think the article is amazine, and so true. I'll be blogging about that subject next.

Friday Fun & Photo Shoot

It's Friday and after a very rainy week and short days at school, I am ready for some fun. My daughter, Ellie and I have been watching way too much "America's Next Top Model," and had a hilarious time today taking photos. I'm such a ham. I thought I'd show off one of my favorite necklaces. It is a 2"locket adorned with a happy-apple-green print and a hand-wrapped freshwater pearl. Every time I wear this necklace, I get loads of compliments. It's a steal at just $24.99. Please contact me to place an order.

Follow Your Goose Bumps

I just read an article about David de Rothschild. He built a boat out of plastic water bottles and sailed the globe calling awareness to all of the trash polluting our oceans. That is dedication! While reading the article, I wondered what would propel someone to actually do something like that. I mean really, that is a ton of planning and a boat-load of commitment. It takes serious dedication. Finally, towards the end of the article, David is asked what the best advice is that he ever received. David's answer: "My mum and dad taught me to follow my intuition. I'm a big believer in listening to goose bumps - when you feel them coming on, you know you're onto something good."

"Follow your bliss, do what makes you happy, Just do it!" These are all phrases that go through my mind often, but somehow "listen to your goose bumps" made me smile and struck a chord with me. From now on, those tingly bumps will be little arrows to happiness.

How To Get Your Kids To Do Chores

Today, many kids are overbooked with soccer, piano, karate, Spanish class, homework and more. They don’t have the time to perform the normal chores that were once expected of children. Back in the day, part of being a family was sharing the household jobs. Now, parents are left with picking up after their kids, making their beds and cleaning their rooms.  I think we are robbing our kids from learning about not only responsibility and teamwork, but also how to function in the real world. That first year of college is hard enough, but add to that an 18 year old that has never done laundry or emptied a trash can? Yikes!

It’s true, when children are little, it is easier to just “do it yourself” than teach them how to pick up their toys or make their bed. However, you have to see the big picture. Slowly teaching a three year old how to put away his toys is much easier than trying to teach a hormonal, grumpy teenager how to suddenly clean his room. Additionally, with today’s environmentally conscience cleaning products, children are able to help even more (and kids love using a spray bottle).

Here are jobs that I have my children do (depending on their age):

• Unload the dishwasher or silverware 
• Wash kitchen counter tops (I like them to use Mrs. Meyers products which are environmentally friendly and contain no harsh chemicals or smells).
• Sweep front porch (not a big deal if it’s not done perfectly)
• Wash bathroom sink and counter top
• Wash French door windows (large windows are a little tricky)
• Vacuum
• Wash the dog
• Dust their own room

Often times parents don’t know what kind of chores to give their children. They are unsure what a kid is capable of doing. Chores need to be suitable to a child’s age. For example, when emptying a dishwasher, a four year old can help unload the silverware, while a seven year old can put all of the plates and bowls away, and a 12 year old can unload the glasses and cups. Kids aren’t going to do their chores perfectly, but if you show them how to do it and show them what a job should look like when it’s done correctly, eventually it will be worth your time and energy. Additionally, your child will grow up being more productive and responsible.

Medallion Circle Locket Inspirational Necklace

Loving this necklace! The locket can be customized with your own photo. It really makes a statement and can be worn long or short. Please contact me to purchase paula@alittlegratitude.net

A Rose-colored View

I've used this summer to do jobs around the house that were neglected during the school year. The "honey-do" list has piled up, so that it's a "just get it done now" list. I've used a critical eye to determine what needs my attention most. We've trimmed trees, raked up old grass, planted vegetables, painted rooms, touched up baseboards, organized closets and scrubbed floors. It feels good to check off the jobs as they are completed, but my eye is now trained to see the negative, rather than the positive. I feel focused on what remains to be done, rather than the beauty and good fortune right in front of me.

I recently read this quote by Jan McKeon, an editor of Better Homes and Gardens Magazine. "Allow time each day to simply enjoy your garden. Don't dwell on the negatives - the weeds, the unfinished tasks, the plants nibbled by rabbits. Instead, focus your eyes on the beauty of details - a newly open flower, dewdrops gleaming in the sun, a butterfly winging from bloom to bloom."  The words remind me to strike a balance in maintaining our house and property, yet find joy in the amazingly tall Cypress trees, the giant pink Dahlias and the home where my children play, create and love.

Working From Home, Playing From Home

The kids are home for summer vacation!
Yippeee! Yahoooo! Horaayyy!
I still have to work... from home, with three kids surrounding me and expecting me to entertain them.
Boo. Hisssss. Cryyyy.

Finding time to work while kids are on summer break is like trying to go for a hike in high heels - frustrating, irritating and you just end up throwing your pumps at something.

I don't want to sit at my computer, typing away while trying to focus as I am interrupted incessantly. Heck, I want to jump on the trampoline, make sand castles on the beach, sit by the pool and watch movies. However, part of me does want to work. I like writing, I like creating, I like meeting with grown ups and discussing interesting things. Yes, I like earning money!

It's all a part of the constant balancing act that confounds us work-from-home moms each day. How to "fit it all in" is the question. Fortunately, my dilemma was kindly answered today by my beautiful friend Mary Kelting. After working diligently this morning, Mary picked me up at home, drove me to the pool, bought me a margarita and brought balance to my day. THAT is what friends are for.

Holly Farrell Artist Nostalgic Paintings

I really love the work painted by Canadian artist Holly Farrell. She takes every day items, that you probably loved at your grandmother's house, and makes them interesting and inviting. Looking at her artwork makes me want a cozy, warm hug from my beloved grandma.

A French Touch Salon Opens In San Luis Obispo

Merci Beaucoup to Patricia for an amazing facial at her new gorgeous salon. While living in France, I discovered that beauty is an integral part of the French culture. Women are expected to take time to care for themselves...it's not considered pampering at all, but more a matter of  pride. The facial treatment I received at A French Touch salon left me not only feeling refreshed and pretty, but also recommitted to taking care of myself. Take care of yourself.

Inspirational Graduation Necklace on Sale

The "Life Is A Journey" necklace and "Dream Big" necklace make the perfect meaningful graduation gift. Both items are 20% off until May 24, 2010. There are a limited number of these necklaces, 

so place your order soon. 

Life Is A Journey Necklace

The word "Journey" hangs with a gray mother of pearl solid unity circle and hand-wrapped freshwater pearl on a 16" black cotton cord. Included tag reads: “Life is a journey, not a destination”

Price: $22.99, on sale for $18.29

Dream Big Necklace

The word "Dream" hangs with agray mother of pearl solid unity circle and hand-wrapped freshwater pearl on a 16" black cotton cord. Included tag reads:.“Follow your bliss.” –J. Campbell

Price: $22.99, on sale for $18.29

Harmony Cellars Now Selling A Little Gratitiude Inspirational Jewelry

I had the pleasure of delevering ten gorgeous necklaces to the beautiful Harmony Cellars Winery yesterday. The winery is in a perfect spot along Hwy. 1 on the California Central Coast. The town of Harmony is located between Cambria and Cayucos and has a population of just 18.

Harmony Cellars Winery produces award-winning wines and offers a scenic destination for wine tasting, shopping and relaxing. Harmony has a beautiful picnic area overlooking rolling hills. My family has enjoyed picnicking there - My husband and I can sip wine, while the kids explore the gorgeous gardens.

Eternity Pearl Necklace For Mom

Happy Mother's Day

"Motherhood: All love begins and ends there."

–Robert Browning

Mom's Eternity Necklace
This necklace represents the eternal bond between mother and child with the gray Mother of Pearl circle surrounding one or two freshwater pearls, one for each child.  Price: $22.99 plus S&H

**Please specify number of pearls when ordering**

    -pearls measure 3.5 mm-4.5 mm
-pendant measures 2"
-black cotton cord measures 16" long
-lobster clasp

Inspirational Necklaces and Wine Charms

Recently mailed a variety of sparkling  wine charms, wine bottle charms and a beautiful necklace to New York. As you can see from the photo, all of my items are packaged and ready to give as a gift.

Quote of the Day by Anne Lamott

"I've heard it said that every day you need half an hour of quiet time for yourself, or your Self, unless you're incredibly busy and stressed, in which case you need an hour. I promise you, it is there. Fight tooth and nail to find time, to make it. It is our true wealth, this moment, this hour, this day."

-Anne Lamott

That's What Friends Are For

Last night I went to a friends birthday party. We laughed, we cried, we shared stories, we drank wine and we ate nachos. Today I feel happy, almost giddy, with a positive outlook on life. Why? It's actually scientific. While being with my girlfriends, my brain released the feel-good hormone oxytocin which lowers blood pressure, protects against dementia and ruduces the risk of depression. Not only is girl-time fun, it's actually healthy. So, get out there - even if it's out of your comfort zone. Spend some time with friends, spend some time on yourself. Happy Birthday Erin!

A Little Film About Amy Bakes Cupcakes

Amy Bakes Cupcakes is owned by a friend who makes the most delicious cupcakes baked by hand and made to order. Amy uses quality ingredients like organic chocolate, homemade vanilla extract, and local seasonal fruit and spices. She perfectly describes each cupcake as "a tiny present just for you." Without a doubt, all of Amy's cupcakes are little treasures that are thoughtful, unique and fun.

I love Amy's new short film. It expresses her personality and really makes me want to eat a cupcake! You can view it here:
A Little Film About Amy Bakes Cupcakes

Me Time - For Me

Our lives are busy. Sometimes, I feel that I’ve completed an entire days work - and it’s only 9:00 in the morning! In a world of go-go-go, it’s important to stop-stop-stop. That’s what I did a couple of weekends ago at Replenish Massage & Skin Care in Paso Robles, Ca. Replenish is now selling A Little Gratitude jewelry and it was my pleasure to hand deliver ten beautiful necklaces. Of course, since I was there, I had to indulge in a little pampering.

Heidi, the Esthetician and co-owner has set up the spa beautifully. My shoulders relaxed as soon as I walked thru the door. I loved the zen-ness of the decor. As for my treatments, Heidi did a great job in shaping and waxing my eyebrows perfectly. My facial was divine. I absolutely loved the lemongrass scented hot towels she used to open my pores, the warm rolled towel she placed under my neck and the lip exfoliation that left my lips kissably soft.

Are you in need of Me-Time? As women, we give so much to everyone else. When we take time for ourselves, we are better for it. "Replenish" is the perfect name for a spa because I truly felt I had replenished my energy, soul and spirit after spending a little time on myself.

Ideas for the Greater Good - Last, but not least - Number SEVEN!

This is a continuation of "7 Ideas for the Greater Good." I got these ideas from a brochure that my husband brought home from an event he went to at UC Berkeley. The brochure had been buried on a bulletin board for over two years.
I LOVE THIS ONE:

7. Allow yourself to experience awe and wonder.
When you do, you'll gain a deep sense of unity with the world, and of our common humanity.

These words are so powerful. Last weekend, my family joined two other families on a trip to the snow. We stayed in a beautiful log cabin, ate delicious food and played in the perfectly powdery snow. In our group, was an adorable 4 year old boy. As all the other children were racing down a hill on sleds, this little boy was lying on his back looking up at the sky with his mouth wide open. I noticed him and looked up to see what could be so interesting. It was beautiful! The snow falling gently against the dark grey sky - I was in awe. I would of never looked up, if it wasn't for that little boy. A perfect gift.

Whisked Away For the Afternoon

My friend Aimee called me at 7:50 a.m on Friday just as I was frantically hurrying my kids out the door for school. When I briskly answered the phone, Aimee asked what I was doing for the day. A million things ran through my head. Really A MILLION things. It was my day to do everything that I didn't get done the last two weeks. When she asked me that simple question, I really didn't know where to begin so instead I said "why."

My kind and thoughtful friend had been intending to do something special for my birthday for the past couple of months and today was the day for my something special. The word "not today" was on the tip of my tongue when I took a deep breath and out came "Yes!" I immediately felt my shoulders relax as my brain anticipated some girl time with my friend.

After much shuffling of kids, packaging jewelery and paying bills, I found myself ALONE and driving to San Luis Obispo. I was so happy that I said "yes" to Aimee. I was so glad that Aimee thought of me and asked me to spend time with her. We had a delicious lunch at Palazzo Giuseppe and played with makeup at Sephora. Just writing about our day now, makes me feel more peaceful. Saying "yes" to an opportunity almost always leads me to a good place.

7 Ideas for the Greater Good - Number SIX

This is a continuation of "7 Ideas for the Greater Good." I got these ideas from a brochure that my husband brought home from an event he went to at UC Berkeley. The brochure had been buried on a bulletin board for over two years, and I was so glad to uncover it and reflect on the list again.


6. SLOW DOWN
Savoring good experiences can heighten positive emotions.

Slowing down and being in the present moment is something I strive to do. It can be really hard in this fast paced life, but worth the effort. I like to go for a run (or walk) a few times a week, and I try to focus on my body and the world around me. It takes effort to train your brain, so I concentrate on feeling my feet hit the ground, my lungs fill with air and the quiet that surrounds me. It's bliss.