“If you want your life to be more rewarding, you have to change the way you think.” (Oprah Winfrey, Television Host, Producer, and Philanthropist, 1954 - )

So, once again, Bleu is a few days behind the curve. With a vow in January to do better about regular blog entries and keeping up with other such “day-to-day” tasks, we’ve found ourselves at March 1 wondering what the heck happened to the month of February. Shorter in days in comparison to the other 11 months of the year, it still tends to be quite a busy one.

There were multiple events and a plethora of meetings. There were also travels from one end of the state to the next. Additionally, there were chores…just the every day, nothing too exciting, is this what life is really all about chores that sometimes plague us all. 

So, with all of the hectic happenings and the lack of time to get done any of the things on our new year’s “to do” list, it would be easy to feel a little down or at least a bit ineffective. Still, given our resolution to be more “in the moment”, we’ve decided it of greater benefit to look differently at the month past and find the minor victories…the successes…the rewards amongst all of the chaos.

The aforementioned events and meetings? All involved some truly amazing individuals. Friends and strangers alike were brought together in a multitude of settings to accomplish both the seemingly insignificant (i.e., should we serve red or white wine with the given dinner menu) and the profound (i.e., how can we create the most memorable experience for attendees so that they will help us reach a fundraising goal that exceeds half a million dollars).  

The aforementioned travels? They were most definitely memorable! So much so, in fact, that our main mode of transportation has now been lovingly labeled the “crazy train”…and only with the best of intentions in mind. Amongst the long hours and many miles logged were moments of humor and, quite honestly, pure magic amongst “just us girls”. These included discussing matters from one end of the “seriousness spectrum” to the next…searching for rest stops along the way when the laughter and the tears got the best of us. There were also moments spent anxiously awaiting food in late night drive thrus, as well as looking for “mascara time” in front of mirrors when sharing an “oh, too small”, hotel room bathroom. (Some of the best, weren’t they, my female travel companions?)

And, in celebration of us making an effort to recognize our small rewards, why don’t YOU also take time in the month that lies ahead to…

FEEL well, by…buying wine with a screw-top cap so you don’t have to drink the whole bottle in one sitting…unless, of course, you’re sharing it with friends and making some magical memories of your own. In that case, buy the best bottle you can find and savor every last drop. Be sure to use your finest crystal goblets, too. Every moment that includes good wine and good friends should be considered a “special occassion”.

THINK well, by…taking a few moments to get a jump on the upcoming season. Start thinking about what specific items you will need to put in storage, or perhaps just a little more “out of the way”, to make room for the things that are more conducive to the warmer months. After all, spring break is just around the corner; so, sunscreen and flip flops will be much more important that that heavy wool sweater and winter scarf.

LIVE well, by…selecting an afternoon to declare a pajama day. Stay in them as long as possible and just putter around the house. Make a vow on this one day to NOT do anything that might be considered work or even close to “chore like”. Rent the sappy, romantic movies that you’ve been dying to see so you can join in the “meaningful conversation” the next time you’re with your girlfriends. Or, at least buy every gossip magazine that the store has to offer so as to catch up on “current events”. Also stock up on your very favorite foods and the most delicious drinks. After all, taking the day off is an event all unto itself.

“Time is limited.  So, I better wake up every morning fresh and know that I have just one chance to live this particular day right and to string my days together into a life of action and purpose.” (Lance Armstrong; American Cylclist, Seven Time Winner of the Tour de France, and Cancer Survivor; 1971 - )

Today is January 21…which, theoretically, is at least twenty days too late to be stating new year’s resolutions.  Nonetheless, Bleu is determined to put them “out there” in the universe so as to be held to a higher standard…more accountable…and less likely to slack off as the year continues to move forward.  Additionally, we’re making a committment to continue to share our thoughts, ideas, and suggestions for embracing the simple yet glorious nature of  “life”…even as the tediousness of the day-to-day taunts and tries to impede progress.

All that being said, we’re going to begin with three basic catergories…FEEL well, THINK well, LIVE well.  And, please keep in mind that not all of these, or perhaps even none of them, will be original or inspiring.  They will hopefully, however, still serve to spark a smile and perhaps even a glimmer of motivation to act…to move forward…to tranform…to learn…to grow. 

So, this month, why don’t you…  

FEEL well, by…baking something from scratch.  For once, try not to worry so much about calories and fat content.  Instead, think about making something with love…something that will fill the air with the the smells of childhood and stir a memory of special times.  Share the treat with your family and friends.  They’re certain to love it!

THINK well, by…purging your closet.  If you haven’t worn it in a year, you’re not going to.  Donate all of the discarded items to a worthy cause.  You’ll feel free…and more purposeful…guaranteed!

LIVE well, by…starting a journal.  Record your thoughts, your wishes, your dreams.  Then take a few moments to reflect.  You’re sure to discover things about yourself you may have neglected…or even forgotten completely.