tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17354671101529155552024-03-13T16:28:07.940-04:00Life is a SunsetChelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.comBlogger573125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-87682320979857900482014-05-28T08:46:00.000-04:002015-11-17T22:42:54.153-05:00Blogging/Life Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Whoa! It has certainly been a while! I'm just stopping in for a little update and to let you all know where I've been blogging, in case you didn't see the previous update. I've been putting my heart and soul into coaching and creating new packages that will help you and others start living life full out.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The majority of my time will be spent on my website, <a href="http://chelseadinen.com/">chelseadinen.com</a> [and then click on the 'blog' link on the menu] so please go find me on <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/12048215" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a> now so that you can follow along with all of my new posts. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you've been reading Life is a Sunset for a while, then you know all the ups and downs I've been through in the past three years. Between the end of a very serious relationship, the sudden death of my mom, and three cross-country moves, life hit pretty hard and changed the way I see and do everything.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Over time, my inbox has been flooded with emails from women in emotionally/mentally/physically abusive relationships who want to get out and seek guidance. I have also received a ton of emails about my <a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2013/05/my-single-girls-guide-to-moving-cross.html" target="_blank">Single Girls' Guide to Moving Cross Country</a> from other totally awesome and courageous girls who are ready to hit the road and need a couple extra pointers and some added reassurance that what they're doing will be the greatest decision of their life! Lastly, I was touched by countless emails from other people who had lost a parent and were seeking support.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As I would sit, reading these emails, getting to know these beautiful souls, connecting with them through email and eventually through other forms of social media, I knew this is what I needed and wanted to do for life. There's something especially powerful about connecting with people on their journey forward. Their journey into wholeness, fulfillment, bliss, self-awareness, and purpose that just makes you come even more alive.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So, if working with someone to help you achieve your biggest dreams, or to find out your purpose, work on letting go, stop caring what everyone else things and instead define what YOU really want, etc. is something that's been on your mind, I invite you to head on over to <a href="http://chelseadinen.com/work-with-me" target="_blank">my services page</a> to check out all the different coaching packages I offer. I'm offering email coaching for a limited time too so be sure to jump on that!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The reason I coach is because I know all the sh*t life can hand us. I've been there. Multiple times. But I figured out how to turn every single one of those dark days into something so much bigger. I learned how to live on purpose. I learned what it meant to feel blissfully alive while living in alignment with my truth. And I want to be able to share that wisdom with others.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Head on over to <a href="http://chelseadinen.com/">chelseadinen.com</a> and shoot me a quick email [ <a href="mailto:hello@chelseadinen.com">hello@chelseadinen.com</a> ] to let me know what life looks like for you right now. What hang ups are you having? What are you overcoming? And also let me know if you want to work together! Much love to all of you and thank you so much for your continued support!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Follow my new blog on <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/chelsea-dinen-12048215" target="_blank">Bloglovin'</a></span></div>
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Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-75485530152928781552014-04-07T08:43:00.000-04:002014-05-24T15:51:10.436-04:00So What IS a Life Coach?<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When I talk to people about what I do, I often get the question: "So, what IS a life coach?" Let me start off first by telling you what a life coach is not.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A life coach is not a therapist.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Or a psychiatrist.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Or a parent.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As a life coach, I hold a sacred space for you. A place where there is no judgment, no critique, no worry that you're not doing something "right." The truth is, there is no "right" or "wrong" way, as long as you're doing what best serves you. As your coach, I help you dig deeper into who you are, who you were created to be, how to live a life in harmony with all the wonderful gifts and talents that were given to you. I help you break away from all the fears and limiting beliefs that have been programmed into all of us and make radical shifts toward a life of deep, true, unending fulfillment.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666;"><br /><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our sessions together are relaxing, fluid, and deeply connected. It's a place for us to meet, by telephone, a few times a month to check in, check-up, reconnect with your true self, and make forward movement along this journey of life. After most sessions, you'll leave with an inquiry or commitment. This could be reading a few pages of a book that I think will really blow your mind, writing that chapter of your book you've been putting off, or maybe even ripping up your to-list (for all of my fellow over-doers out there :) It'll be something regarding what ever it is we're talking about during that session that will get you moving closer toward that goal.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The process of working with a life coach is truly life-changing. I can say that because I've had my life changed by my own coach! It's a meaningful, intimate, unique relationship. And there just aren't many better feelings than seeing your life change before your eyes! Even better than that... you feel the change. You feel it within your soul.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Through our time together, I'll remind you of your truth. The beautiful truth of who you are. I'll help bring you back in tune and in sync with your true self along with your gifts, talents, and life purpose. I'll help you cut the crap, release what is toxic, break through the blocks, and truly start living life full out.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you've been thinking of working with a life coach, if you've been feeling the push, feeling the pull within your soul -- now is the time to act. I am here to help you blow your own damn mind, my friend. I've stumbled, fallen, gotten back up, fallen harder, and been at points of almost giving up for good. But here I am today. Happier, more fulfilled, and conquering all of my wildest dreams. I've seen a lot of life already. A lot of tragedies but also a lot of successes. And I want other people, like you, to know the abundance that this life holds for you. Don't settle. Don't settle for a career, a relationship, a city, a friendship, don't settle for anything. Value your dreams. Challenge yourself… everyday.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Take the initiative now to never settle for living a mediocre life. Get out of your comfort zone. Do the work today. Make the choice to stop avoiding your "shit" and instead, deal with it. Face up to it. There are so many wonderful, beautiful ways we can live an even more fulfilling life than we are today. What are you waiting for?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>I am currently accepting a few more clients to work with! Send me an email today and let's not waste another precious day. Let's work together!</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Shoot me an email at <a href="mailto:hello@chelseadinen.com">hello@chelseadinen.com</a> or pop on over to my website <a href="http://chelseadinen.com/">chelseadinen.com</a> if you want to explore further. You can check out my different coaching packages <a href="http://chelseadinen.com/work-with-me" target="_blank">here</a>. I am so ecstatic for those of you who are feeling that push. It's scary as hell, I know, but the tools you'll gain from our sessions will propel you into deep fulfillment for years to come. Imagine how empowering it's going to feel to one day look back and see how far you've come!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I believe in you. Stop putting yourself on the back burner. You've got this!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Let me know if you have any questions and I'll talk to you soon!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Photography by <a href="http://www.photobyjp.com/" target="_blank">J. Poling</a></span></div>
Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-12617671476450163232014-03-24T08:31:00.000-04:002014-03-24T08:31:00.595-04:00Scenes from the Holidays | Thanksgiving<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Life has been moving so quickly lately. I realized I never even wrote about the holiday season so today, let's take a step back in time. As much as I love the West Coast, it was definitely nice to be back on the East Coast with family for the holidays. My grandma lives up on the Jersey Shore where my dad was born and raised so we made plans to go visit her and my uncle on Thanksgiving. It was a beautiful, beautiful day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While my uncle was getting everything ready for Thanksgiving dinner, my dad, my grandma, and I ventured over to the perfect looking out point where I used to go when I was younger. On the crisp, sunny Fall day, we looked out at Manhattan's new skyline. The new One World Trade Center (on the left) stands tall above the Big Apple and it was so lovely to be standing there, a couple weeks after returning back from California.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We drove around the Shore, taking a drive down the beach my dad frequented as a kid. It was so sad to see how destroyed the area still was after Hurricane Sandy. Gas stations were still wiped out. Houses sat abandoned, their siding torn apart, windows missing. Beach clubs were still being rebuilt. You could feel the effect as you drove along the beach. It was still there in the air as lives were forever changed along with so much history.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When we got back to my grandma's house, I had some time to sit with her and talk. My grandma just turned 91 in January so her memory can sometimes be a little in and out. I explained to her how I had just moved back to the East Coast and that my dad and I (and my cat, Stella) had come up to visit for the day. Although I had to remind her a couple times, she would smile that beautiful smile of hers that gave me so much comfort.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I talked with her as we went through her wedding album and I saw pictures of her and my grandpa (who passed away when I was in high school.) She told me stories about her five children and the trouble my dad and uncle would cause :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was so wonderful to have that time with her. Especially since I don't have that time with my mother anymore and never met my other grandmother. It was just the two of us girls. Talking about family and careers and life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then, my dad took me out to the garage where I knew I'd find his old surfboards. His surfboards that are now worth a heck of a lot of money but don't worry - he'll never sell these bad boys. I just want him to fix them up and put them on display. My dad and his love for surfing are the reason I have always loved all things surf-related too. It's in my blood.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Eventually, the four of us sat down for dinner and had a couple glasses of wine. It was such a special feeling to have a glass of wine with my 90-year-old grandmother.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My great-grandparents immigrated to the U.S. from Poland so my grandma grew up in a Polish Catholic household. We sat and spoke some Polish for old times' sake and broke the bread.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was sitting there in the dining room where I had dinner with both of my parents, my brother, and both of my grandparents when I was a little nine-year-old, on her way to New York for acting. The same dining room where I had spent Thanksgiving with my aunt and cousins when they were visiting from Australia. The same dining room where my father ate every meal growing up. And although it was a small meal, and there were only four of us around the table, I was just happy and blessed to be there.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was a wonderful trip and a wonderful Thanksgiving. I look forward to going back again soon.</span><br />
<br />Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-56136275555611945282014-03-11T10:34:00.000-04:002014-03-11T10:34:52.339-04:00Investing in Your Dreams<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm a big-time believer in investing in yourself. I've learned, especially at this time in my life, how vital it is for me to be spending my money on my mind, body, and soul rather than just what's in my closet. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm an even bigger believer in investing in your dreams. And I think often times, money can be our biggest "excuse."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But if you're not living your dreams, what are you doing? Now, of course, we're all at different phases of our life. Some of us have families, mortgages, and other various factors that we must take into account. But, chances are, there's still something you can be doing to get yourself closer to that dream.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Don't let your circumstances define you. Defy the odds. Surprise yourself. Surprise everyone else around you by taking those dreams of yours and bringing them to life, despite all that's on your plate. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One of the greatest, most worthwhile ways to invest in yourself is through learning. Invest in classes, training programs, seminars, one-on-one sessions to expand yourself. There is always something else we can be learning, developing, and studying to enhance our wisdom in our own field of dreams.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For me, this past year has been ALL about going big or going home. I stopped waiting for the "perfect moment" after realizing there was no such thing. After distinguishing exactly what my passions and purpose were, I took action and enrolled in a certification program (wow, almost an entire year ago!) Recently, I kept feeling that push for another program. <a href="http://rhhbschool.com/" target="_blank">B-School</a>.</span><br /><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You know when you just feel the push, the pull, the magnetic energy that's bringing you toward something? And you keep saying, "But..." "But..." And then you realize no excuse is good enough to put off your dreams, what pulls at your heart, what ignites your soul... so you do it. You take the plunge. You take the huge, giant, larger than life leap of faith. And the free fall is scary and beautiful all at the same time. That's how it was for me with Marie Forleo's B-School. It was a huge investment. It IS a huge investment. But less than 24 hours after I enrolled, I realized how it was one of the greatest decisions I've ever made. The value that's jam-packed into B-School is out of this world and JUST what I need to get my <a href="http://chelseadinen.com/" target="_blank">life coaching</a> exactly where my heart wants it to be.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yesterday was the first day of class. I was filled with excitement, curiosity, passion, and some serious nerves but as I took part in the B-School Facebook community and then finally sat down to start module one, it felt like Christmas morning. It really did. Knowing that I am starting something that I'm hugely invested in and committed to. I already have some ideas about new content that I'll be offering through my business in the form of fun vlogs, workshops, etc. which I can't wait to share with you later on.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>So here is where you come in:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I want this little part of the Internet and my coaching website to be of value to you and others who stumble upon them. I want to know what topics and questions have been on your mind that you'd like me to talk about. What has been pulling at your heart? What are you curious about? What areas of your life would you like to work on and make better than ever before? <i>Maybe it's letting go of toxic relationships. Finding your purpose. Loving yourself again after a break-up. Learning to let go of what others think and expect out of you. Dreams. Fulfillment. Deepening your spiritual connection. Getting out of your own way. </i>Those are just some ideas! Let me know in the comments below or shoot me an email: <a href="mailto:hello@chelseadinen.com">hello@chelseadinen.com</a> or connect with me through the social links below!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As always, I love hearing from you all and can't wait to see what's been on your hearts lately!</span></div>
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<br /><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">xo</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Join the tribe on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/ChelseaDinenLifeCoach" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.twitter.com/ChelseaDinen" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b></b></span></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/ChelseaDinen" target="_blank">Tweet</a><span style="color: #222222;"> me!</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Follow along on <a href="http://www.instagram.com/ChelseaDinen" target="_blank">Instagram</a>!</b></span></div>
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Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-14444301331187083232014-03-06T11:10:00.000-05:002014-03-06T11:10:22.673-05:00A Letter to Myself One Year Ago<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><span style="color: #666666; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">"If you could go back </span><i style="color: #666666; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">just one year</i></b><span style="color: #666666; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><b>, what would you tell yourself? What advice would you offer about everything you've experienced?"</b> - Journal prompt from <a href="http://sometimessweet.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sometimes Sweet.</a></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm a big-time reflector. I am constantly going back to "where I was one year ago." It keeps me in check. It helps me realize two things:</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Life is short.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. A lot can happen in a year.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One year ago, I was living in San Diego. I had recently started dating a man who was a real breath of fresh air. It was around this time last year when things started to change for me. I started letting go of the fear of falling. I was finally ready to put my heart back out there.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He challenged me. In a good way. And it was at this time that I really started to come into my own. I started saying "yes" to new opportunities and experiences and started saying "no" to people and things that didn't align with where I was in my life. And I was at peace with that. For the first time ever.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I started putting my foot down and started standing up for myself. For my dreams. For what I believed to be right. For my previous pains. For my spiritual practice. For my fears. For my body. For my mind.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">It was a wonderful, scary, beautiful time of my life. So many transitions were taking place. I had no idea which things were going to stick and which would dissipate. I get this gut-wrenching feeling in my stomach when I visualize being there in those moments one year ago. Gut-wrenching in a positive way. It was all so pivotal for me. So exhilarating. Even with all the challenges that come from uprooting your life again and settling down in a new place with new people, I just felt so alive.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">So, looking back... there are some things I'd want to tell my "one year ago" self:</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><i>California is for you. It's the place where you flourish most, where your spirit radiates. Think about the people who you connected with. When you leave San Diego in late October, those people will continue to be a part of you. Remember the lessons they taught you. You will think about them each day. You will miss your memories. Your bonding. Your laughter.</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><i>And my gosh, you will miss the weather. Stop complaining about it being sunny and warm all. the. time. In September, you will be faced with a tough decision. As you find your purpose and decide to take a new route with your career, know that you are making the right choice to leave. And this will continue to be proven to you through the following months. Though you have to trade the palm trees, Pacific Ocean, and wonderful new friends for this opportunity to start a new business, you'll see these people again. And they will be the most supportive, loving, encouraging people during the journey you embark on.</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><i>But, most importantly of all, just remember the way San Diego makes you feel. That feeling never changes. From the second you first visited, to the way you feel one year later just thinking about it. Remember that feeling and carry it with you everyday. That's the feeling of passion. That's the feeling of your soul belonging. That's the feeling that will continue to remind you what it feels like when you're aligned.</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><i>Continue to let that feeling guide you. Be around the people who ignite your spirit. Do the things that ignite your happiness. Serve the people who ignite your purpose. Live in the place that ignites your soul. Never settle. No matter how hard it can be sometimes, you know how your heart wants to live. Follow that.</i></span></span>Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-40185375226225996342014-02-24T08:38:00.000-05:002014-02-24T08:38:11.745-05:00My Life Coaching Launch!<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When you find your true passion and purpose in life, it becomes something that radiates through you everyday as you wake up and each night as you shut your eyes. You feel a constant flow of vibrant energy move through your body and life makes a whole lot more sense. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm here today to share something that's very near and dear to my heart. Something I've been planning for and working toward and praying about for days and weeks and months. I've learned that life is too short to keep waiting for "the perfect moment." There's no such thing. The time is now. If you believe in something and you're passionate about it, your heart and soul know the answer. They'll guide you. And as long as you listen, you can't go wrong.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today is the day. I am officially launching my life coaching services online! I couldn't be more excited to not only share my passion with the world, but to be able to connect with all the beautiful souls that are out there.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>For some of you reading this, you might be feeling that pull right now. The pull toward something bigger. Something different. Something that excites your soul and ignites your spirit.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'd love to join forces with you to explore that pull that you're feeling. To find your purpose. To find yourself. To conquer your fears. To make your dreams a reality. To leave relationships/friendships that no longer serve you. To re-learn to love yourself. To start living life full out.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Join me over on my <a href="http://chelseadinen.com/" target="_blank">life coaching website</a> to learn more about me, my coaching approach, and all the details on how to get started. I am so excited to connect with you! This life is so precious, there is so much we can be doing everyday to change our perspective and live an even fuller life, and I would be honored to lift, support, and give you that extra "you can do it!" along the way.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Also, I would LOVE for you to follow along on my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/ChelseaDinenLifeCoach" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> (and <a href="http://www.twitter.com/ChelseaDinen" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/ChelseaDinen" target="_blank">Instagram</a> if we're not already friends there!) If anything I post resonates with you (or if you think it may resonate with someone you know) I will be super appreciative if you spread the word! I am so grateful for the love and support I've received in these past months on my journey from you all. I look forward now to being a part of YOUR journey :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">xo,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chelsea</span>Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-35324265075729949292014-02-21T08:04:00.000-05:002014-02-21T08:04:00.243-05:00Two Years Without Mom<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Two years. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've often tried but always felt as though I cannot entirely convey the feeling in your soul when your mother has died.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's true. A part of you dies as well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">An hour into tomorrow, February 22nd, will mark two years since my mom passed into the next life, as we sat by her side, hanging on to every last breath. Two years. I think about her constantly. But it's the hole buried deep within my heart that continues to remain empty that burns. Every second of silence or stillness and that physical burn within me is felt. The void never disappears.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And I've accepted that.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But it's hard never hearing "I love you!" It's hard never getting motherly advice, even when it's unsolicited. It's hard never getting a "mom hug" when I'm going through a rough time. Her voice is but a memory as are her hugs, her spaghetti, and all the little thoughtful gifts that came when you least expected them, reminding you that she cared. Always.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And without those things in life anymore, it changes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I think we all grow up, knowing, as much as we don't like to admit or think about it... that our parents aren't always going to be with us. Some of us lose them younger in life and some of us even get the wonderful blessing of seeing our parents with their great-grandchildren. But life is so, so precious. I can't say this enough. And as dark and "hush hush" as it may be thought of by some, seeing your mother go from being full of life to struggling to take her final breath to laying there lifeless and cold in front of you... it wakes you up for the rest of your life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, wake up now. Stop living life unconsciously. Stop taking part in things like gossiping and lying and settling and waiting. Because one day, whether you want to believe it or not, you'll get the phone call or the prognosis as the doctor stands in front of your family that will alter your life forever. Tell your loved ones how much they mean to you, go to that family dinner, mend broken relationships.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When my mom left for the emergency room that night, I had no idea that she would never be coming back. I had no idea it'd be the last time I'd help her put her jacket on and see her walk out that door. No idea at all. Life happens faster than we can comprehend.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I can't bring her back. Nothing can. But I can live my life now fuller and truer than ever before. In honor of her. In honor of the greatest gift that she could have given me - the precious gift of life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>I love you, Mom.</b></span></div>
Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-87349985231539331972014-02-20T08:24:00.000-05:002015-11-17T22:39:58.798-05:00The Crossroads<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Crossroads. I've had a lot of them. I thought going away to college would have been one of the most major, along with getting my first job in the "real world." However, I was wrong. Very wrong. The last time I took part in these <a href="http://sometimessweet.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sometimes Sweet</a> journal prompts, I was at the beginning of the greatest crossroad of my life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Photography by <a href="http://www.photobyjp.com/" target="_blank">J. Poling</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I had no idea that six months later, my mom's life would come to an abrupt end, leaving my family devastated and leaving me without the one woman who had helped me through it all. The next couple months are all a blur. I continued going back to an unhealthy relationship. I was fragile, unsure, and unsteady. <i>What the hell had just happened?</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Eventually, I started to break away the chains that were holding me down. I was tired of being numb. I was tired of being hurt. I was tired of giving the power away. It was time to take that power back and live the life I was meant to live. Somehow, my mom's death propelled me into manifesting the life I had always wanted... the <i>happiness</i> I had always wanted.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In December of 2012, I moved to San Diego. Something that once had just been a dream, was a reality. It's in San Diego that life really started to take off for me. It's where I found peace, meaning, self-love, and inevitably, it's where I found my purpose. It's a huge landmark of my life that I will always look back on because it symbolizes so much of what life is all about to me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've since moved to the East Coast where I am pursuing my purpose and my passion as a life coach. So, I guess in a sense, this is another crossroad for me. It's another new pathway. One with challenges and speed bumps and a-ha moments. But the greatest thing about this new pathway, is the peace it brings. To know without a doubt that I'm on the path I'm meant to be on.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And I guess that is what the crossroads of our lives are for. We can't always control our circumstances. But we can control the way we react. We can control the meaning we assign to those circumstances. Eventually, they lead us to the exact path we are meant to be on. </span>Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-73985346089732048972014-02-19T08:03:00.000-05:002014-02-19T08:03:00.584-05:00I'm the Kinda Girl Who…<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'M THE KINDA GIRL WHO...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Didn't know what kinda girl she really was until the past two years.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Has forming wrinkles and a deviated septum but loves herself more than when she was a youthful teen.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Listens to Incubus or Pearl Jam at work.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Enjoys doing things alone (shopping, going to the beach, gym, etc.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Prefers to wear Vans over stilettos any day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Believes in falling nine times and getting up ten.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Buys a planner and then hardly writes in it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hates making left-hand turns without a green arrow.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thinks it's super awkward when a guy tries to push your chair in for you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Stands up for animals.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Watches ABC Family instead of Bravo.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Quotes Dane Cook.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Enjoys the adventure of moving to new states alone. (I mean… duh.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Is constantly learning to release her fears.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Loves cats.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Prays to St. Anthony every time she's desperately looking for something.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Is always cold.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wants to empower other women.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Feels emotions deeply.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Misses her mom.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">--</span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's always interesting to make lists like these. Some facts end up being funny and just completely off-the-wall, while others are soulful, deep, and come straight from the heart. I guess I'm a mix of both of those. I'm the kind of girl who is quirky and goofy and marches to the beat of her own drum. But I'm also the kind of girl who is intuitive and deeply spiritual and always learning. I love this gift of life so much and all the beautiful souls that have been put along my path and for those I've yet to meet. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm the kinda girl who has hope at hopeless times, even if it knocks the wind out of my sails (which it always seems to do.) I'm the kinda girl who wants so badly to be a mother one day and share the bond my own mother gave to me. I'm the kinda girl who is always yearning to learn more about the kinda girl I am.</span>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a border="0" href="http://heyhollywoodblog.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1246.photobucket.com/albums/gg602/hritter18/imthekindagirlwhobutton_zps43faa42d.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></span></div>
Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-89569576506044577222014-02-11T11:21:00.001-05:002014-02-11T11:21:58.019-05:00Broken Wing<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am a woman with bruises and scars.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I fall down. A lot. The frequency of falls has slowed down. But I still fall and they still hurt just as badly.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am human. I make mistakes. But I AM human.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But sometimes (all the time) I don't let myself off the hook. I dwell and over-analyze and beat myself up over those mistakes. Because they always seem to be mistakes that were easily avoidable, yes? But then I remember the magic of the Universe and how it's through our trip-ups, shortcomings, and falls that we learn. Whatever lesson is hidden in the tears and the bruises, it's there. I promise you. I promise myself.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm reserved until I get to know you. Until I trust you. And once that sense of comfort is established, I put my heart on the line. And it's at that point that anything goes. I take that leap.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But... I usually over jump. I don't land on my feet. And I spend the next bit of time waiting for my broken wing to heal from that failed flight.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The healing hurts. It's not graceful and it usually includes a lot of self-bullying to the tune of, "You idiot. What were you thinking?" Sometimes the hardest thing to do is forgive yourself.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I know that my heart is tender and that no matter how hard I try to pretend that it's made out of sturdy bricks, it's fragile. Always. It's my heart and I accept it. They say to be with people who love the way that you love. And maybe that's been my problem. Maybe I've looked for the people with the brick hearts. Maybe I've looked for them as a way to make me tell myself I'm not vulnerable. But I am. With this little fragile heart of mine that's seen a lot, felt a lot, been through a lot... I still have this heart. It's my heart and I accept it.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Looking back, I see a bit of a pattern in this thing called life. We're rolling along, making lots of forward progress and movement and feeling great and confident about life when, BAM... disaster strikes. But, we are not our circumstances. We can't allow ourselves to fall victim to those trip-ups and shortcomings. The truth is, if we never try, we'd never know. And we owe it to ourselves to be proud that we had the guts to even make that jump.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We may fall, time after time. We may have to wait as our broken wing heals. But one day, after one of those jumps, those wings will take us on our greatest flight yet. We will soar. And our little, tender heart will continue to beat on.</span></div>
Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-75003116824721344492014-01-23T09:04:00.000-05:002014-01-23T09:04:04.868-05:00Everything Has Changed<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The other night, as I was getting ready for bed, reflecting on a lot of the big changes that are currently taking place and where I am in life right now, I started thinking about change. More specifically, about how much I have changed as a person. It kind of freaked me out for a second. Like, holy sh*t! I used to be that girl?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I looked back at my life three years ago. Three years. Not too long ago but still a significant amount of time has passed since then. And, well, everything about me has changed. Errrrythang.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The state that I live in.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My hair color.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My marital status.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My religion.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My diet.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My lifestyle.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My style.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My happiness.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My thought process.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My friends.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My family.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My career.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My hobbies.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My ability to handle uncertainty.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My confidence.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My self-image.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My life.</span><br /><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yep, now you're understanding why I had a "holy sh*t" moment. Everything in my entire life has changed. And then I discovered why. It's not that I have changed, necessarily; that somehow I just became a magical new person and knew how to be happy and surround myself with awesome people and go after my dreams and not give a flying you-know-what what anybody else thinks. No.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Instead, I did something that sounds really simple but for those of you who've been through it too, you know it's easier said than done... I found myself. Really, truly. I stopped trying to impress "what's his face" and stopped comparing myself to "what's her name" and just took the time to get to know everything about myself. About my soul, my heart, my innate being.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Most importantly, I stopped trying to be what I thought I "should" be... whether by my mom's standards, my "friends'" standards, my former church's standards, society's standards, etc. and I just WAS. I AM. I can finally <b>be</b>. And by truthfully, authentically, organically <i>BEING</i>, life is constantly this exciting, amazing, captivating gift and puzzle and blast all at the same time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>This is the woman I was created to be.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Everything has changed. That's life. We wake up everyday with new opportunities and new choices to make. Those choices and shifts that we consciously make for ourselves and for our lives are what create the changes. And, little by little, on days like the one I just had, we look back and say, "holy sh*t!" Some of those changes are painful and some seem impossible to make, others are easy and natural. But, if those changes remain in harmony with our true self, we'll say that "holy sh*t" with a big grin ;)</span>Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-63748326043365278072014-01-17T07:09:00.000-05:002014-01-17T07:09:00.082-05:00Life Update: Onto State Number Four<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oh, hello. Forget about me? This is for sure the longest I've gone without consistently blogging. And this is the obligatory post where I update you/tell you what I've been up to while I have clearly not been blogging.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The biggest update is: I'm moving (as I mentioned in my last post over a week ago.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What's even better is that I'm moving to (yet) another state! Moving from state-to-state is one of my favorite things to do, didn't ya know?! You're not going to believe me when I say that this time, I'm not moving across the United States as I've done every-flipping-other-time. Nope, I'm moving one state away!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">[the best scene from Wedding Crashers]</span></center>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And here's a little back-tracking for those of you who can't keep up with me. It happens. I forgive you. I moved to San Diego last year and then moved back to the East Coast in November where I did some hopping around for my life coaching business purposes. Yes, I moved all the way out to California with the intention of staying there forever. BUT, once I decided to start life coaching, and found THE most perfect certification program to become a part of (that is based out of Orlando, FL) I realized that the Universe was taking me on a different path!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, back to the East Coast I went, dropped Stella off at my dad's in Northern VA, and ventured to Florida where I met my beautiful Orlando life coaching family. You can read a little about that lovely time of mine <a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-greatest-experience-of-my-life.html" target="_blank">here</a>. Class and coaching continue now from afar (gotta love technology, right?) so I was able to spend some time in NY/NJ before starting work in the DC area (Maryland, to be exact.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As some of you may know by now, I have a love/hate relationship with my home state of Virginia (I almost typed "my home state of Northern Virginia" because, well, Northern VA is not Virginia ;) So, deep down, I knew settling down in Virginia just was not going to happen. Through work and new friends and a whole lot of real estate research, I decided on moving to a lovely up-and-coming city just 5 miles from D.C.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Apparently it's like a "thing" that if you're from Virginia, you don't cross the river and move into MD and if you're from Maryland, you don't cross the river and move into VA. State rivalry, I suppose. Welp, I tend to march to the beat of my own drum and have fallen in love with Maryland! So, I'm doing it!<br /><br />I'll finally be moving into a hi-rise like I've dreamt of! I'll have Metro one block away, shops, town centers, (Trader Joe's AND Whole Foods) parks, restaurants, you name it, bam... right there! I'll have a new city (and state!) to explore, and a new place to make my own and call home!<br /><br />So, this is where my energy has been focused lately. In buying new furniture and decor to make my place as "me" as possible! To getting all furniture ordered, </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">deliveries set-up, </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and move-in arrangements made. I'll try to write periodically and, eventually, once everything is ready to go, I </span><i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">might</i><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> do a home tour :) Here's to change, new opportunities, and moving to new states! Oh, and maybe some new shoes? ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">[<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/162105268/maryland-flag-hand-painted-shoes?ref=shop_home_active_8" target="_blank">ShoesbyKat</a> on Etsy!]</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've always been a sucker for that Maryland flag. I'm 100% ready to become a Marylander! Get ready for posts about my new journey, places I find and love, and some awesome Maryland traditions. Also, Marylanders, what are your recommendations for me? What are some must-sees and must-dos? :)</span><br />
<br />Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-805861130672035082014-01-07T07:36:00.000-05:002014-01-07T07:36:00.197-05:00New Birthday, New Page<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Another year older today. Having a birthday just after all of the holidays is pretty chaotic most years. You have gratitude in November, Christmas blessings in December, followed by a whole lot of reflecting back on what changes to make for the New Year. There's the baking and gifting and familying and friending. Then, bam, it's my birthday. It's never really the New Year that propels me forward. It's my birthday. Turning the page over into a new age is always a huge time of reflection for me. But even more so, it's a huge time of action for me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">photography by <a href="http://www.photobyjp.com/" target="_blank">J. Poling</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A lot of changes have happened in my life since my birthday last year. Last year was a really difficult birthday for me. I had just moved to California by myself, but it was the fact that it was my first birthday since my mom died that made it tough to get through. <a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2013/02/a-laguna-beach-birthday.html" target="_blank">I spent the day in Laguna Beach</a> which brought some lightheartedness to the day as well as a whole lot of sunshine.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That year of my life was the best yet. I accomplished so many life-long dreams and goals I had set for myself and checked many big things off of my bucket list. Through the loss of my mom and the journey of independence I took, I learned how precious life is. I learned to take ownership for the results that I see day-to-day. I learned that only I can know and create the life that fulfills me, serves me, and lifts me higher every single day. So, I continued taking action.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today, as I turn another year older, I feel so blessed to be working toward my passion and life purpose, as a life coach. It makes me glow just to say that. I spend my days working a job that brings me joy and spend evenings going to class to do what, to me, is the greatest blessing - learning the tools of deep life transformation. And now, as I reach this birthday, I will be starting yet another new chapter...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I found myself the most perfect hi-rise condo for where I am right now in life. Or, maybe I should say that it somehow found me. It was one of those things I've had on my "list" and knew it would come about when the time was right. So, at the end of this exciting birthday month of mine, I'll be making that move and writing another new page in my book.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And that will be the beginning of my year that's full of so much potential. I have high hopes and big goals for this year. I'm in different surroundings with different people in a different line of work and I'm happy. So happy. And knowing that this happiness is only going to increase as the days continue… now that's pretty awesome.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm reminded that it's not in the New Year or on our birthday that we should celebrate or set new goals or hold ourselves to a certain standard. That should happen everyday. Make every second count. Don't give up. Don't settle. Don't sell yourself short. Take your wildest dreams and make them a reality. Come on, I dare you :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What dreams are you making a reality this year?</span>Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-44716325485037517882013-12-31T08:01:00.000-05:002013-12-31T08:01:00.240-05:002013: The Best Year Yet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2013 was the best year of my life. What's even crazier is that it followed the absolute worst year of my life. How does that happen? It's pretty phenomenal when I think about it. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When I think about the way life works.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Life, the Universe, God, whatever you want to call it… hands us events and circumstances when we least expect them. Some of these events shape us, some completely change our life, and some leave us never to be the same again. The events that took place last year left scars that will forever remain a part of me. They caused me to change the way I live, the way I think, the way I make decisions, and the way I am.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2013 was the year I learned to say "no" to others. To do only what was true to myself. To honor my being. To stop pretending. To stop chasing. To stop settling.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2013 was the year I learned to say "yes" to myself. To give myself the go-ahead. To encourage myself. To go after my dreams like there was no tomorrow.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I think I may always look back at 2013 in awe, pleasantly surprised by all the beautiful, new moments that found their way into my life in such a short period of time. Proof that life really does unfold naturally, organically, and perfectly the way it is meant to when you live a life in harmony with your true purpose.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">San Diego was the most gorgeous setting I could have asked for during this period of self-reflection. It inspired me, lifted me, and propelled me out into the big, endless, adventurous, exciting world that was always surrounding me, just waiting to be discovered. And as this year comes to a close, I can say with confidence that my time in San Diego is not over ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My journey is still just getting started, despite it being the end of one year and the beginning of another. All of our years are connected. They fluidly roll like the ocean's waves, one into another and so on. And at the end, we have one vast, beautiful body of water to look out to. Each year brings in new sets of waves, new currents, new freshness. Some years are spent surfing the waves and others are spent paddling back out in preparation for a new set that will take us even further.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm ready. Are you?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy New Year! Sending love and wishes for health and happiness to you all!</span>Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-80696073233711475062013-12-23T12:46:00.001-05:002013-12-23T12:46:13.284-05:00The Truth About Christmas Without Mom<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you've lost your mother, you may hear a phrase every so often: "I know this time of year is tough for you." Right now, Christmastime is that time of the year. This will be the second Christmas without my mom and I must say, it's much more difficult than last year was.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last year was the first Christmas without my mom alive. I had moved to San Diego and flew back to the East Coast for about a week to spend time with family for what I knew was going to be a tough holiday for us. Although the year of "firsts" is painful, the shock of her death, at least for me, was still very much a factor last year. There was a lot of numbness, as I will still undergoing the different stages of grief. The death of my mother was unexpected and came without much warning. I went from having an argument with my mom one day to sitting by her bedside in the hospital as she took her last breath several days later. We had no idea, none at all, that 2011 would or even <i>could</i> be our last Christmas with her.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So Christmas 2012 was all about it "being the first Christmas without Mom." The numbness still wearing off, coupled with the pressure of trying to make it a good Christmas despite the empty chair at our dinner table, meant the utter pain was not as evident. It was masked. We all tried extra hard to feel the love she created every Christmas.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But this year, this Christmas... I feel double the amount of pain as last year. I'm no longer numb. I could feel the deep, pulsating pain as it started creeping in around Thanksgiving. I could start to sense it in my other family members too. My parents' house went undecorated. The Christmas tree remained unlit. The Spirit of Christmas was nowhere to be found and every time "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" found its way onto the radio, I found myself rolling my eyes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I tried to feel the Magic. I tried to get excited thinking about candy canes and snowflakes and stockings hung up. But, well, there were no candy canes, snowflakes, or stockings this year. My mom was the Spirit of Christmas. She was the one to decorate the house so magically, to dress up the presents with perfect ribbons and bows and to get the family all excited for spending the holiday together. As much as I've tried to keep them going, I've seen the traditions fade away this year. I've felt the pain with every mention of "Christmas." It's a shame, but it's the truth and that's why I'm writing about it here today.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Because I know that there are other people out there, some which I know personally and some that are strangers who are feeling this same pain that I write about. They know deep down, aside from all of the fluff and positive talk that nothing will replace the void that is felt while looking at the empty chair at the table and seeing the bare spot under the tree where her presents once were placed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Part of my heart will forever be hollow all year, but during this time especially. I know that one day, with my own children, my heart will be filled in a different way. But nothing, nothing at all, will ever erase the pain of not having my sweet mom on Christmas.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>She is missed.</i></span></div>
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Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-77728622004096974662013-12-18T08:01:00.000-05:002013-12-18T08:01:08.251-05:0025 Questions To Ask Yourself Before 2014: Part Three<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">Here we are. Part Three of the 25 Questions before 2014! I don't know about you, but I thought the five questions today were the toughest to answer! I had to dig even deeper to find the answers this time. If you're just joining us, hop over to <a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2013/12/25-questions-to-ask-yourself-before-2014.html" target="_blank">this post</a> to check out what it's all about and then feel free to link up your own answers! I am totally digging this time to just reflect :)</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>21. Who do I need to forgive?</b> Thanks to Arielle Ford and her awesome book, The Soulmate Secret, I've done the work to forgive most people who were still, somehow, stuck in my heart. Unfortunately, some recent events brought back a few things for me. Forgiving people who've hurt you, apologized, and then continue to hurt you is often a hard battle to fight. It's usually in those instances that we realize we must put our foot down once and for all. And in that process, we must also forgive ourselves for letting someone bruise us yet again.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666;" /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>22. Where is it time to let go?</b> I had something specific in mind but then I remembered the quote below. This past year, the mantra I've lived by is: "Show up, let go, serve others, and surrender the outcome." It's now my life motto. The phrase I live my life by. Well, the things that we hang onto are just that... things. They're ideas, thoughts, memories, projections, people, etc. And it's only once we let go, <b>truly let go</b>, that love can enter.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica;"><b style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">23. What old habits would I like to release?</b><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"> I want to erase all the conditioning and live a life in harmony with my innate self. Measure myself based only on myself, not on the timelines and social media announcements of others. I know I march by the beat of my own drum and sometimes the constant Facebook feed of engagements, bridal showers, and gender reveals makes me feel like maybe I live on a different planet? And I'm okay with that! I'm tired of being programmed to think that by age _____, I should _____. I've thrown out the timeline. I've got this one life to live (in this body, at least) and I'm doing it my way :) I'm also releasing my habit of sitting on ideas for longer than I should, as I mentioned yesterday because, again, life is precious!</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>24. What new habits would I like to cultivate?</b> Decorating offices and apartments sooner than I've been known to :) Scheduling my day-to-day meetings and activities in my brand spankin' new calendar! Saying "no" more! And saying "yes" more to myself! Cleaning out and organizing everything (purses, bills, files, my phone, etc.) on a consistent basis. And overall, just following through with my own commitments to spend more time writing, brainstorming, reading, and meditating!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>25. How can I be kind to myself?</b> By honoring my true self, always. I think that's really what it all comes down to. That's what the past 24 questions have truly been about. What can we do this next year to honor ourselves in order to live the fullest year yet?</span></span><br /><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">Life is a series of paths, turns, bridges, dead-ends, and detours. The compass we're given is the knowledge of our true self. Our life purpose. Our natural gifts and talents. I know in my heart that through being deeply connected and in tune with our truest, innate self, not only can we conquer all things that are thrown our way, but we can live a life of purpose, of bliss, and of unending potential for bigger and better things. Always. What a journey this is. Thank you to those of you who've participated in this process. These questions have certainly helped wrap up this year for me and help solidify my journey onward.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">If you're not ready to stop the personal reflection and growth, I am taking new coaching clients for 2014! I would LOVE to work with you to help you find that compass of yours if it's lost, help you feel empowered to leave that toxic relationship or just ask for what you want out of life, or... fill in the blank :) The world is your oyster. Never forget that! Shoot me an email at <a href="mailto:chelsea.lifeisasunset@gmail.com">chelsea.lifeisasunset@gmail.com</a> and let me know what's on your mind, what areas you're wanting to make more stellar than ever before, and we'll chat!</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">Peace, love, and light to you all! Here's to the greatest year yet!</span></span>
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<!-- end InLinkz script -->Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-66219480904022122142013-12-17T08:01:00.000-05:002013-12-17T08:01:09.132-05:0025 Questions To Ask Yourself Before 2014: Part Two<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">Yesterday was awesome! I loved reading everyone's answers to the first 10 questions! It's not always easy to get deep with yourself and I think those of you who are doing this work are already light years ahead for the beginning of 2014! Way to go, my friends! Today we're answering questions 11-15! If you're just now joining, <a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2013/12/25-questions-to-ask-yourself-before-2014.html" target="_blank">find all the details here</a> and it's certainly not too late to join in! Ready, go!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>11. When did I feel most creatively inspired?</b> Many times when I was at the beach, in solitude. That is where my greatest writing took place, my jewelry designs were thought out, my clothing designs were imagined, and where my greatest ideas took place.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666;" /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>12. What projects have I completed?</b> Moving cross country. Twice. RAW Showcase for my jewelry business. Started two new jobs (one in which I had my own clothing designs printed & sold by the company I worked for!) and my biggest project of all - my life coaching practice which will constantly be growing and expanding! 'Twas a stellar year!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>13. How have I procrastinated?</b> A lot of this is tied to #16. I've noticed that I hold myself back due to perfectionism. If something means a lot to me, such as a business project I'm working on, I sit on it and sit on it and sit on it before making a final decision. It is quite possibly one of THE biggest faults of mine because it really does prolong the process that much.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666;" /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>14. In what ways can I re-structure my time?</b> <a href="http://www.thedailylove.com/" target="_blank">Mastin Kipp</a> has always stressed the importance of scheduling out your entire day, even all of the mundane activities such as eating a meal. Now that I have classes and clients and commutes thrown into the mix of my previously perfectly-scheduled life, it's time to take Mastin's advice. In 2014, I want to continue being in the best physical/spiritual/mental shape ever and that means being a bit more tedious with my schedule. I need to write-in my time for prayer/reflection, my time for the gym (and getting to/from there) and even time for free writing. I've found it's those personal things that often get put on the back burner and, guess what... it's those personal things that are usually most vital to keep at the top of our list!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666;" /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>15. How have I allowed fear of failure to hold me back?</b> I think "fear of failure" is a bullsh*t term fed to us through worldly conditioning. Knock it off. I'm not scared of it. I don't view "failure" as failing. I view it as grace. When something goes awry, it's either because there is a lesson to be learned or because there is a better plan. Once that is realized, you'll never fear that bullsh*t failure again. You'll welcome that ish and eat it for breakfast! ;)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666;" /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>16. Where has self-doubt taken over?</b> Self-doubt used to take over my entire life. All the inner work I did over the past two years has given me the confidence to stand firmly in the knowledge that I know what's best for me. BUT, I tend to second-guess myself (even when deep down, I know what I believe.) I sit on ideas for much longer than I really ought to, wondering if there is a "more perfect" idea that will come along later or perhaps a "more perfect" time. I have an irrational fear of making the <b>wrong</b> decision and this has prevented me many times from making<i> any</i> decision at all.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666;" /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>17. When have I felt the most alive?</b> The exact moment occurred on a warm, San Diego night in late May. We were leaving the Padres' game (after they won!) Downtown that evening, and I was cruising on the back of my date's bike (wearing a helmet!) I had spent the entire night laughing and gazing at him, in awe of how great it had felt the past couple months to finally be captivated by someone again. As I put on my helmet that night, he gave me the sweetest surprise, and we rode off into the night (Like a fairytale. Literally.) which is when I felt most alive. Cruising through Mission Hills with the breeze on my face as we rode over beautiful bridges and saw the views of the skyline all lit up. I was there, blissfully happy in the city of my dreams.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666;" /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>18. How have I taught others to respect me?</b> By refusing to wait around for people who operate on a "my timeline only" basis. I used to be the girl who'd wait around and reschedule my own schedule all the time for other people. Then, I learned how that gets you nowhere in life other than down a road of disappointment.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666;" /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>19. How can I improve my relationships?</b> I think 2014 is going to be the year of the serious relationship for this girl. I've spent the past two years getting to really know myself, what I need/want in a partner, and have done a lot of personal and professional work and gotten my passion and purpose underway. I'm at a place now where I'm ready, and when the time is right, I'm excited for a primary relationship <3 :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666;" /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>20. Have I been unfair to anyone?</b> Nope. Everyone comes into our life for a reason and they usually leave for a reason too. I've examined what I've tolerated and had to be honest and fair to myself by telling some truths to others about how they've hurt me or by letting them go.</span><br /><br />
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<a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2013/12/25-question-to-ask-yourself-before-2014.html" style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;" target="_blank">My Part One Answers :)</a></div>
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<!-- end InLinkz script -->Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-85907259066425744802013-12-16T08:00:00.000-05:002013-12-16T08:02:45.645-05:0025 Question To Ask Yourself Before 2014: Part One<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><i>In case you missed it last week, there's an article going around about a new approach to the "New Year's Resolution" thing. Instead, ask yourself these 25 questions before 2014! I've created a fun link-up for all of those who want to take part! We're answering the first 10 questions today. Find the link to the questions at the bottom of the post :)</i></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>1. What am I most proud of this year? </b>Two things and they kind of go hand-in-hand. I'm proud to make my dream of moving to San Diego a reality despite all the nay-sayers throughout my life. In addition, I'm proud of doing the physical, spiritual, and mental work there to get where I am today. It allowed me to dig deeper than I ever have before, really connect with my true and innate self and find my purpose here in life :)</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666;" /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>2. How can I become a better _____________?</b> Life coach! Of course, I believe there are constantly things we can be working on and roles we can continue growing into. However, my role as a life coach will be my main focus in 2014.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666;" /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>3. Where am I feeling stuck?</b> I can't say I feel fully stuck in one area really. Each week, there is a certain thing I may get hung up or stuck on, but it's usually never the same thing at once.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>4. Where do I need to allow myself grace?</b> I'm in another turning point in life. A lot of HUGE, spectacular, exciting new things are underway for my life. I have the tendency to get hung up on many little details, especially when the details are personally very important to me. I know the right thing to do is just to surrender the outcome to the Universe. Always. Easier said than done, right?</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666;" /></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>5. Am I passionate about my career?</b> Yes! For the first time, ever, I am so entirely grateful for the career I have and am continuing to pursue. Working in the self-development/life coaching field is such a blessing. I love connecting with others and helping to lift them into their truest potential!</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>6. What lessons have I learned?</b></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">To surrender the outcome to the Universe.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">"Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we will ever do." - Brene Brown.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">"Perceive obstacles as opportunities and problems as spiritual assignments." - Gabrielle Bernstein.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">AND, to savor the waiting :)</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>7. What did my finances look like? </b></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">About the same as always! 2014 is going to be abundant. I just know it ;)</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>8. How did I spend my free time?</b> At the beach! I've written so many of these blog posts, so many journal entries, schemed up new dreams and bucket list items, and experienced some deeply intuitive moments while lying out on the sand in San Diego. Among all the chaos in the world around me, I could tune it all out and just be.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666;" /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>9. How well did I take care of my body, mind, and soul?</b> Number one explained this a little bit. Let's just say, this was the healthiest year yet and I'm stoked to know that I can only go up now :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666;" /></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><b>10. How have I been open-minded?</b> I moved to a new city full of strangers where I tried new foods, new drinks, new neighborhoods, new music, made new friends, dated new "types" and completely allowed myself to get out of my comfort zone in order to live fully present in those new moments.</span></span></span>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">If you want to link up, the rest of the questions can be found </span><a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2013/12/25-questions-to-ask-yourself-before-2014.html" style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;" target="_blank">in this post</a><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">! Post your answers to questions 11-20 tomorrow and 21-25 on Wednesday! Have fun and link-up below! I can't wait to see everyone's reflections on the past year!</span></span></span><br /><br />
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Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-79231767809040825612013-12-12T10:08:00.000-05:002013-12-12T10:08:05.853-05:0025 Questions To Ask Yourself Before 2014<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oh, my. Do I have a special treat for you today or what? A fellow life coach sent me a link this morning that I just had to pass along. As we near the end of the year and the beginning of a new one, many of us start reflecting back on this year, making goals, and perhaps "resolutions." Well, I invite you to dig a little deeper.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Below, I am going to list 25 questions from <a href="http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-11852/25-questions-to-ask-yourself-before-the-end-of-the-year.html" target="_blank">this awesome article</a>. Find some time where you can be alone to really open up your heart and be honest about your 2013 in review. Sit with these questions and let the answers come to you organically, as they help guide you toward your truest, most fulfilling year yet.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">1. What am I most proud of this year?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">2. How can I become a better _____________?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">3. Where am I feeling stuck?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">4. Where do I need to allow myself grace?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">5. Am I passionate about my career?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">6. What lessons have I learned?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">7. What did my finances look like?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">8. How did I spend my free time?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">9. How well did I take care of my body, mind, and soul?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">10. How have I been open-minded?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">11. When did I feel most creatively inspired?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">12. What projects have I completed?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">13. How have I procrastinated?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">14. In what ways can I re-structure my time?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">15. How have I allowed fear of failure to hold me back?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">16. Where has self-doubt taken over?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">17. When have I felt the most alive?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">18. How have I taught others to respect me?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">19. How can I improve my relationships?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">20. Have I been unfair to anyone?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">21. Who do I need to forgive? (feel free to be vague in your actual post answer)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">22. Where is it time to let go?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">23. What old habits would I like to release?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">24. What new habits would I like to cultivate?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;">25. How can I be kind to myself?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And now, for the best part! I invite you to blog your answers. Or, if you don't blog, journal them! Write them down somewhere, not only to hold yourself accountable, but so that you can reflect back on your answers throughout 2014!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Come back here starting on Monday and link up if you would like! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Monday - Questions 1-10</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tuesday - Questions 11-20</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And Wednesday, wrap it up with Questions 21-25 and any additional thoughts you had during the process!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, my friends, get centered, get focused, and begin this journey into the BEST year of your life. If you link up, I just ask that you either link back to me in your post or use the button below :) Good luck and I can't wait to read what's on your heart!</span><br />
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Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-73417890420061367902013-12-11T08:08:00.000-05:002013-12-11T08:08:00.255-05:00The Best Pants Ever<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've always struggled with finding the "perfect" pants for me… until recently, that is! Now, I should begin by saying that I'm pretty big into brand loyalty. Mainly because I know what I like and once I finally find it, I'm not going anywhere. I wear my favorite boots until the heel wears down, get them repaired several times, and keep wearing them year after year like they were brand new. I'm also the type of person who gets something in every color if I really, really love it that much.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Back to pantalones (pants in Espanol!) I can't tell you how many leggings I've gone through in my life. Why are they all so thinly and cheaply made? Enter LC Lauren Conrad leggings. I bought my first pair (the blue lace pattern, below) over a year ago and keep going back for other colors (when Kohl's puts them on an awesome sale!) They are currently $9.99 and they are the comfiest things ever. They don't dig into my waist and they're a little long on me, how I like them :) Plus, I love that they are thicker than most other leggings I've found.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And then there's Old Navy. Sigh. Thanks to <a href="http://heyhollywoodblog.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Holly</a>, I became obsessed with Old Navy and all of their stellar sales constantly going on a little over a year ago before I moved to San Diego. I frequented every Old Navy in San Diego & SD County and that is where my love for their Rockstar pants began. Pants have always, always, ALWAYS been SUCH a pain for me due to my petite size. I was either getting pants tailored or trying my best to find a short size in several stores at the mall that always ended up falling short (no pun intended.) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Somehow, Old Navy's regular length fit me well (with just a little added length.) I've yet to try their petite sizes but that's next on the list! Old Navy has several different fits of their pants and the Rockstar is my favorite. I'd say it's embarrassing just how many of their colored denim I currently have in my closet, but, well… I'm kind of proud :)</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhToVifHufs2dhH70XMoaKEvCqhgO2AAZrDppCv65PO1QCpDnmt8LvxCG4pH_5KXH_GgYredcvE_q8CcCw3UwjIKMcdFsrgoQQLzrfTZcS3U1Jq3Jp8K834g4QnrgDfxWPbsDly5_H-VZ8/s1600/The+Best+Pants.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhToVifHufs2dhH70XMoaKEvCqhgO2AAZrDppCv65PO1QCpDnmt8LvxCG4pH_5KXH_GgYredcvE_q8CcCw3UwjIKMcdFsrgoQQLzrfTZcS3U1Jq3Jp8K834g4QnrgDfxWPbsDly5_H-VZ8/s1600/The+Best+Pants.png" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.kohls.com/product/prd-1473406/lc-lauren-conrad-lace-leggings.jsp" target="_blank">LC Lauren Conrad Lace Leggings</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.kohls.com/product/prd-1473414/lc-lauren-conrad-solid-leggings.jsp?crosssell=true" target="_blank">LC Lauren Conrad Solid Leggings</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=85732&vid=1&pid=647182082" target="_blank">Old Navy Coated Wash Skinnies</a> (pictured in Ideal Teal)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=85732&vid=1&pid=920714002" target="_blank">Old Navy Color-Wash Jeans</a> (pictured in Garnet)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=85732&vid=1&pid=647155062" target="_blank">Old Navy Printed Skinnies</a> in Olive or Oatmeal</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Boom. I own at least one pair of each of the above pants and can totally vouch for how comfortable and quality they are. I am a frugal shopper and choose not to spend a fortune (or even more than $50) on a pair of pants. I've been on the hunt for pants that work for the amount I want to spend and for my height. As I write this, each pair is on sale!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pants are a personal preference. We each have our own, unique bodies and fits that we prefer. These are what work for me and I just thought I'd share! Lastly, here I am rocking the Old Navy Rockstar Printed Skinnies in Olive on a date night :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">P.S. My most recent LC Lauren Conrad leggings were purchased for… free. Gotta love Kohl's Cash! I also got two "free" vests and a top! Double boom. Old Navy has their Super Cash every so often to keep your eye out for. Love it!</span></div>
Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-1368237421084919102013-12-10T08:04:00.000-05:002013-12-10T08:04:00.537-05:00It's Time to Re-center<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I haven't done much writing lately. Writing, one of my deepest passions, and I've left it last on my list (or left it off entirely) lately. I'm busy, yes. Trying to manage working during the day with class at night along with coaching calls in the evenings. I've been half-assing my social life, trying to figure out if there is any other time to go to the gym other than at 4:30 in the morning, and my health is now suffering because of it.</span><br /><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm seeing a pattern here.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I get a ton on my plate (Let's be honest. When do we ever not have a ton on our plates?) But I let it get a hold on me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The things that are most important to me get put on the back burner while the must-dos take first priority because of commitments to other people, meetings at work, etc.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And I know that's b/s.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One of the first things we talked about the day after I arrived in Florida for my certification program was that taking care of ourselves should always, always be our number one priority. And I think that goes for all people, not just us life coaches. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The example of the oxygen masks dropping down on a plane was mentioned. We are always told to place the mask on ourselves first before helping someone else. You'd think it was common sense but how many times do we let ourselves down because of an obligation with someone else, or to meet a work deadline or because other little events pop their way into our day-to-day life?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I want to re-center myself this week and I invite you to as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Breathe. Relax. Write. And remember to be present.</span>Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-13981531296073793572013-12-09T08:02:00.000-05:002013-12-09T08:02:00.048-05:00Guess I'm a Cat Lady and Other Fun Facts<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">I couldn't pass this opportunity up. My good friend, <a href="http://ashleymcglass.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Ashley</a>, nominated me for this Sunshine Award and, while I don't normally participate in awards (because hey, we're all awesome bloggers) she asked some pretty good questions.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><b>The Rules:</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px;">1. Include the award logo in your post.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px;">2. Link to the person who nominated you</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px;">3. Answer 10 questions about yourself.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px;">4. Nominate 10 bloggers to receive the award. Link the nominees to your post and notify them!</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px;">5. Remember rules are meant to be broken (Ash added this one!)</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><b>1. If you could be an animal, what would it be and why?</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="line-height: 17.98611068725586px;">This is the easiest question anyone could ask me. A cheetah. Duh. In fact, I'm pretty confident that I was a cheetah in a past life. Like, I'm not even kidding. I channel my inner cheetah on a pretty regular basis. And people wonder why I'm a cat lady</span></span><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">…</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><b>2. What is one thing you really want to do but likely won't get to for whatever reasons (financial, emotional, physical)?</b></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Speaking of <strike>cats</strike> animals, I wish I could play the role of foster/rescue mom for dogs and cats! While I know I'll be rescuing again in the future, it would be so wonderful to have the time and resources to have my own little shelter going on. Sigh.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="line-height: 17.98611068725586px;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><b>3. Beatles or Rolling Stones?</b></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Neither? I know, I know... but if I'm going back in time listening to music, it'll probably be Guns N Roses or Tom Petty.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><b>4. What is the best book you've ever read and why?</b></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">This is tough. I read 99% nonfiction self development books. One of my favorites is God Never Blinks by Regina Brett. Also, Eckhart Tolle's "A New Earth" was such a deep read and left me pretty mesmerized and life-changed by the end of it. Talk about gaining a new perspective on how to live! This man is a genius. I prefer this book over the one he's best-known for, by the way (The Power of Now.)</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><b>5. If you could go back to college, what would you study?</b></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Knowing what I know now, I'm torn. I believe education is important as well as being knowledgeable about various subjects. But I can't say all the dollar bills spent to put me through countless credit hours of business calc and chem lab semester after semester were worth it. I wish I took the time to dabble into courses that really DID interest me rather than required b/s "gen eds" as we called them. Every so often, I wish I went to an arts college to study acting :)</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><b>6. Are you a green smoothie drinker? If not, how come you haven't jumped on the health bandwagon?</b></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">I am a green smoothie JUNKIE. I started drinking them over two years ago and thanks to the move to California where vegetables and fruit are pretty plentiful year-round, in addition to the wonderful influences of one of my closest friends (and a smarty pants regarding all things plant-based. Thanks, Ash!) I have re-adopted the straight up vegan lifestyle and can gladly say that green smoothies are my magic elixir. I have (at least one) a day. Religiously. And now my mouth is watering. Time to go drink some juice! (Today it's tomato. Mmm!)</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><b>7. Let's get deep: do you believe in the big g-o-d?</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Breaking the rules because I can and skipping the first two parts of this question that she asked :) I most definitely will say, as I'm sure it's been pretty apparent, that I do believe in a Divine Presence. My spirituality has continued becoming more and more important to me as I've grown, which makes sense, because it's my spirituality that has grown me. I believe that The Universe has a plan and has my back. And being able to surrender to the outcome of The Universe has brought me to where I am today. It is through that letting go, that trust, that I've found bliss and learned to live in the moment :) Mmm, good stuff right there.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="line-height: 17.98611068725586px;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><b>8. Now that that's over, what's your favorite color? season? food? music? sport?</b></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 17.98611068725586px;">Color: Turquoise, teal, jade. If you know me, this is extremely obvious.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 17.98611068725586px;">Season: East Coast - Fall. West Coast - Winter (and Spring) All these years, I thought I was a Summer girl, simply because I love the beach so much. Moving to San Diego (THE beach!) made me appreciate all of the other seasons even more. Having the beach down the road year-round means I could enjoy it in the Springtime before all the out-of-towners took over after Memorial Day.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 17.98611068725586px;">Food: See #6 :) My other favorite foods are carrots with hummus and tomato juice! Mmmm!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 17.98611068725586px;">Music: Indie/Alternative! Some current favorites are Atlas Genius, HAIM, Two Door Cinema Club, Foster the People, AWOLNATION. I could go on and on... Fellow indie music lovers, give me some good ones in the comments below!</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 17.98611068725586px;">Sport: Dance is obviously my personal sport of choice. If we're talking favorite sport to watch... that would be baseball. I really can't believe that's my answer because years ago, I thought baseball was THE most boring sport to watch. Now that I'm a Nationals fan, baseball games are my favorite. Before that, it was NBA for a couple years and then all College Football (Go Vols!) since I was in middle school.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><b>9. Have you ever felt like you were legitimately crazy?</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Uh, yeah. Flashback to my high school/college days. Woof. My life was an emotional rollercoaster and I had no idea how to get off of it. But you know what rocks about looking back on your "crazy" days? Seeing how far you've come. Seeing the changes you consistently make today to continue moving forward, onward, and upward. And just letting all the haters hate ;)</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><b>10. If there could only be ONE kind of house pet for the rest of eternity, and YOU had the power to choose, which would it be: cat or dog?</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Seriously? How do I decide? Since I am currently a cat mom, I have to side with the cats right now. Yep. Fully embracing the cat lady side of me right about meow.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">And now I nominate YOU. Yep, go on. Answer some questions. I'll even give you some:</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">1. What do you fear? I don't mean spiders or </span></span><span style="line-height: 18px;">mayonnaise</span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"> or heights. I mean what do you really, deeply fear?</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. How do you define love?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. What's the greatest restaurant you have ever been to? Tell me a little about it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. As a child, what did you tell people when they asked you, "What do you want to be when you grow up?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. What is your greatest passion in life?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">6. If you had to move to a country other than where you live now, where would you move?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">7. If you could go back and re-live one day, which day would it be and would you do anything differently?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">8. Something someone told you that you have always remembered.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">9. Do you prefer a vacation of just relaxing or a vacation filled with activities?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">10. What is your favorite holiday and why? :)</span><br />
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Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-48130394890059262312013-12-05T08:32:00.000-05:002013-12-05T08:32:09.495-05:00My San Diego Year in Review<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So much can happen in a year. So much. That is one thing I know to be true in this life. Last year on today's date, December 5th, I arrived in San Diego after driving three and a half days from Virginia. One year later, and here I am, homesick for California as I live the gypsy life (Just kidding. Kind of.) bouncing all over the Eastern seaboard while I work on my life coaching certification. A lot has happened since I arrived in San Diego last year. A lot.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Let's take a trip down San Diego Memory lane, shall we? I've picked out a few main events during the past year. Click whatever tickles your fancy and enjoy the ride :)</span><br /><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2012/12/i-made-it.html" target="_blank">I finally made it</a> to my dream city and wrote an <a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2012/12/an-early-moving-reflection.html" target="_blank">early move reflection</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But <a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2013/01/the-days-that-are-harder-than-others.html" target="_blank">some days are harder than others</a>. A lot harder.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Luckily, randomly running into <a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2013/01/our-paths-crossed-unexpectedly.html" target="_blank">this guy</a> put a giddy grin on my face. (GO NATIONALS!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I dated a guy who taught me <a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2013/02/saying-yes.html" target="_blank">one of life's raddest lessons</a>!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I spent my birthday in my favorite little town, <a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2013/02/a-laguna-beach-birthday.html" target="_blank">Laguna Beach</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I grieved my mother's death <a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2013/02/mom.html" target="_blank">after one year</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And gladly <a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2013/03/the-day-i-donated-my-hair.html" target="_blank">chopped my hair off in her honor</a>!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I <a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2013/03/playing-tour-guide.html" target="_blank">played tour guide</a> when someone very dear to me came to visit.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Had my <a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2013/06/my-first-after-sunset-showcase.html" target="_blank">first-ever official show</a> for my jewelry line (that I am not currently selling)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Spent a blogger friend's <a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2013/06/life-lessons-and-birthdays-in-desert.html" target="_blank">birthday in the desert</a> & had a <a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2013/07/check-that-off-bucket-list-palm-springs.html" target="_blank">Palm Springs girls weekend</a>!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Went to the <a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2013/07/check-that-off-bucket-list-us-open.html" target="_blank">US Open of Surfing</a> in Huntington Beach!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I made a <a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2013/10/being-vegan-in-la.html" target="_blank">trip up to Los Angeles</a> to see Dane Cook & eat yummy vegan food!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here's a glimpse into <a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2013/10/my-california-home.html" target="_blank">My California Home</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And lastly, a montage of <a href="http://lifeisasunset.blogspot.com/2013/10/my-san-diego-story-montage.html" target="_blank">My San Diego Story</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was the greatest year of my life thus far and these posts begin to explain just why. Live your dreams, my friends, and be open to all the wonderful opportunities that are out there just waiting for you.</span><br />
Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-21255226238513836212013-12-03T08:44:00.000-05:002013-12-03T08:44:00.085-05:00Step out into the World<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One year ago yesterday was the day I left the East Coast for my new home in San Diego. San Diego was the greatest adventure of my life thus far. It was full of exploring.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Exploring my way through life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I explored places and neighborhoods and foods and drinks, and through all of those things, I met people who have forever changed my life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Quitting my job, packing up, and moving all the way across the continent to a state where I had only a few acquaintances was one of the biggest risks I have ever taken. But it was worth every second. It was worth every night I found myself in tears because of job woes or the baby black widows that took over all of my windows (yep!) It was worth every awkward first date to find out what I really desired in a partner and every hot 90 degree Summer night with no A/C. Everything that happened to me in San Diego, challenged me. Whether it was good or it was bad, it challenged me and tested me and showed me my true self.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was checking more things off my bucket list in a matter of months than I had in most years of my life. I found the true meaning and feeling of happiness. Finally.</span><br /><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3AljgKoctTbFHjus_077ejtexiD28xyyJnX6O4b-tp3HAOJrzt16gLY30t_pcBUaVFLBidjd1By5-5UUYc_hRAOwqEfelLwWZEQj2JI47H2HVfBgi1exGQ27KJJyegjlw6H3JKoT5gnM/s1600/IMG_2263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3AljgKoctTbFHjus_077ejtexiD28xyyJnX6O4b-tp3HAOJrzt16gLY30t_pcBUaVFLBidjd1By5-5UUYc_hRAOwqEfelLwWZEQj2JI47H2HVfBgi1exGQ27KJJyegjlw6H3JKoT5gnM/s640/IMG_2263.JPG" width="600" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But I think you all know those things by now, if you've been reading for a while.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The point of this post is to reach out to those of you who are searching for that fire in your soul. You're longing for it to ignite but need something to set it all on fire. I know you're out there. Shoot, maybe you're reading this and didn't even realize until now that you're still looking for that fire within. Here's my advice to you…</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Go.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Do.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Step out into the world.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What ever it is that's been tugging at your heart (for me, it was moving to San Diego) go and do it! Don't put it off. Life is too short. The time is now to LIVE. What ever it is, no matter how <i>out there</i> it may seem, take the first step now.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The greatest gift you can give yourself is finding and loving yourself. And it's often a lot easier said than done. So, stop caring what other people think. Do this for <b>you</b>. Step outside of your comfort zone. Push your own limits. Because I guarantee you, if you go full throttle and don't look back, you'll blow your own mind.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">:)</span>Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1735467110152915555.post-86862275887818410862013-11-27T10:14:00.000-05:002013-11-27T10:23:22.560-05:002013 Gratitude<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanksgiving is here again. I can't believe it. This will be the second Thanksgiving without my Mom. I'll be spending some time up in New Jersey and New York City and I couldn't be more excited. NYC is magical this time of year. Years ago, I went into the City an hour or so after the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade had ended and the Holiday Spirit was in full swing! It. Was. Lovely. Rockefeller Center decked out for Christmas is definitely one of the most magical sights I've seen!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sigh.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's going to be unseasonably cold, however, and I'm a bit worried as my California-turned-Florida blood has really thinned out! Pray for me :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am full of gratitude this year. Absolutely just full! I've been so spiritually connected this year, I've gotten so in-tune with my true self, core values, and life purpose and it makes a world of difference when seeing this life for all of its beauty!</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">This year, I am grateful for:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>+My family</b> - As simple as that. For the family that was given to me and my beautiful fur face, Stella, that has blessed me for almost 3 years now.</span><br /><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoIpSfxJCPyusnckcyvne87Yhd7bq2Vtyw0PRDSLRx2QieEidcTrXLbMQ0LHLPQ_j6AJHGrbdIfT7aZgVLdc1desCiVrssZfde3armjY5hL4JNEs3E8rOK7lp4xL9PFPBW21jQfQDahR8/s1600/Gratitude.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoIpSfxJCPyusnckcyvne87Yhd7bq2Vtyw0PRDSLRx2QieEidcTrXLbMQ0LHLPQ_j6AJHGrbdIfT7aZgVLdc1desCiVrssZfde3armjY5hL4JNEs3E8rOK7lp4xL9PFPBW21jQfQDahR8/s1600/Gratitude.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>+My Spirit Guide(s)</b> - For the signs they've shown me, the pushes I've needed, and for the comfort in knowing I'm never alone. I know you hear me, Mom :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>+Health</b> - Going vegan/plant-based again earlier this year has been such a wonderful experience. I've been opened up to a new world of nutrition and have never felt healthier!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>+Life Coaching</b> - I still can't believe this is my profession, my line of work. I'm grateful for life coaching, for the dynamic, rich, substantial difference it has personally made in my life, for the wonderful souls I've been introduced to, and for the promise it gives us that we CAN live a life of happiness as we live our TRUEST potential!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>+This beautiful country</b> - I've had the opportunity to travel back and forth by car across this gorgeous land and I consider it such a blessing to have seen so many cultures, terrains, and people! It has opened up my eyes to all that is out there, just in this country I call home. I'm grateful for the people who established this land.</span><br /><br />
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<b style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;">+My Peeps </b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;">- My chosen family. The people who love me because they choose to. The people whose lives I'm a part of and who are a part of mine despite the distance or amount of time that goes by since our last visit. The people who know me, support me, and inspire me. I love you, guys!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>+My life</b> - It may sound cliche but I am so entirely grateful for this life that I have been given. It continues to throw me curve balls all over the place but it's because of those curve balls and all the lessons I've learned that my life has grown better and better. This past year has been the greatest, most enriching year of my life. I developed so many life-changing, meaningful friendships, checked more things off my bucket list than I can even name, and I found my purpose (well, I like to think we met each other halfway!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Wishing all of those who celebrate, a magnificently happy Thanksgiving! And for those who are missing someone at the table this year, my heart goes out to you. I deeply understand how painful the holidays can be when we don't get to share them with all those we love.</i></span>Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14167691214663205067noreply@blogger.com4