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Well, yes. I literally had to go past that internal barrier that said that this was FAR too crazy to be done. Why? Because I was being true to myself. I was saying it was OK to be a person who enjoyed the varied life that the city provided, but I also loved the rustic beauty of the rural lifestyle. I'm still not sure exactly how that fits together, but what else was there? I found myself happy--no--GIDDY on days when I could go the the local city farmer's market. I'd just go to WATCH the farmers vend their wonderful veggies, fruit, flowers, honey. I'd TALK to them like they were my best friends. I probably freaked them out. Below are 8 great ways to live in the spirit of yourself, and your dreams..call them resolutions, call them wishes, call them little trinkets of advice....these are our 8 New Year "dreams" for dreamers.... 1. Remember that even moving everyday muscles are a luxury; there are some unfortunate souls who cannot even do such simple things. Practice stretching daily, if possible. Yoga and pilates are good places to start. If you don't have the time, or budget, you can simply buy DVD's and practice at home. Once you are familiar with the movements, try "transporting" them elsewhere; city rooftops or in the garden are calming and trancending, especially as the sun comes up. 2. Bath and beauty products are a great way to unwind and feel better about yourself. Even better is to find those with organic and natural ingredients. Even better than THAT is to purchase them from small homemade businesses. Not only will you be supporting LOCAL artisans who will appreciate the support, you will be assured that the quality will usually be better because they are not mass produced, and more attention is put into small, controlled batches of product. (PLEASE see our article on "Farmgirl Flair" for some great businesses who practice this). 3. And, speaking of homemade products--extend the practice of giving gifts by utilizing "Handmade" products. Again, there are many talented knitters, sewers, jewelers and artisans who would be greatful for your business. An online community already exists that states: "I took the Handmade Challenge." 4. Or, if you are more ambitious, and looking for new learning experiences this year, why not try crafting, yourself? In larger urban areas, there are workshops and community crafting get-togethers in abundance. In more rural areas, it may be more challenging, but why not start a crafting social, wherever you live? You will meet new friends and learning will be easier and more appealing with people of various skill. There are also online courses that teach everything from knitting to making paper. 5. Give 'til it hurts. This may be the year when we look beyond ourselves, and towards the betterment of ALL of us. Hey, we're all about Random Acts of Kindness and Senseless Beauty. Peruse your local paper or online communities, and you will quickly find ways to volunteer. Schedule time, if you can, for your local Boys and Girls Club, senior citizen's home, or other activity. Maybe you can share the newfound craft skills you've learned! Or, organize a fund-drive and send the collected monies to the charities of your choice. 7. Always make time for yourself. Quiet time is a great time for meditation and reflection. If you're like me, you like to spend it walking amongst nature. Walk a quiet street or, if you have a park, small woods, or other, spend time there. You can also extend kindness by taking a bag with you and, wherever needed, pick up trash that you see along the way. You will be helping nature, as it helps you.
8. Remember, always spread Light wherever you can... Happy New Year!
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When I first began with this magazine, people kept saying "have you LOST your MIND?"
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