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A Note from AndreaSpring Bonnets Off to All the Mothers! Congratulations to the new mothers. Linnea, a colleague from my recently departed corporate communications job, with third child Garrett Edward born last month. And to my dear friend Deborah with new Golden puppy, Frances. Thanks to the “unexpected” mothers who nurture me as I move through my life. Kristen, who is not only a mother of four, but teaching me yoga poses and renewed appreciation for effort and patience. And Jennifer, who insists that I “birth” my own creations no matter how scary or distant the completion may seem. And, of course, gratitude to my “real” mothers. Mary Ellen taught me to love good books, find “play” in the world around me, and to honor one’s word with commitment and persistence. And Mary, my husband’s 88 year old mother, demonstrates daily the rewards of living a life occupied with numerous good friends, devotion to being helpful, and time for fun every day. Daisy chains, skipping down the street, fresh-baked oatmeal cookies, tightly tucked sheets, a push on a high swing, and a “Sweat Dreams” kiss on the brow to each of you. With support and enthusiasm,
Teleconferences, Workshops, and ProgramsMothers Enjoy 20% Discount on Personal CoachingAre you missing the once familiar sounding board, guide post and ongoing support, as you honor what is true in your heart and soul? Sign up before May 31, 2007 to enjoy this limited discount on personal life or business coaching. Good until the end of May 2007, I’ll extend a 20% discount on all personal coaching packages (get launched, one month, quarter, or annual pricing) to all women who can prove they serve in the capacity of “mother” to some other living being. Keep in mind that I am “mom” to three canines, so just a little imagination could save you a bundle. Discount is calculated at check-out. Feature ArticleWhat Would Mother Do?Most of us are touched by mothers as we move through our days; pity that we rarely take the time to consider and appreciate the skills of motherhood outside of the annual May recognition. I don’t always think of the women in my life in their exalted maternal role. I’m usually more aware of their other fine gifts as I regularly benefit from their humor, experience, and unique take on life. But mothers are ever-present in my life. Mothers are the first to teach us to value relationships. Mine explained why I should forgive Carol for pulling my hair so hard at age 6, and why it’s important to write “thank-you” notes. Even now, when in-person visits with my mother are infrequent, I “hear” her guide me in situations with others that generate stress, conflict, or concern. So, using the holiday as a guide for improving the relationships in our lives, thank you “MOTHER”! M is for… Monitor how your relationships are working and don’t take them for granted. You never really know what another person is thinking and feeling, but paying close attention—being truly present—and asking questions will inform the current state of your union. Taking the pulse of your bond from time to time can keep small slights or oversights from blossoming into resentments and distance. O is for… Focus on the “Other” in the relationship. Maybe you don’t feel as if you are being heard or that your needs are being met. Mmmm… are you listening? Do you really hear what the other person has to say? Try spending one conversation exploring what the other half of your relationship is up to; what are your companion’s goals, dreams, difficulties? T is for… Take a breather. Time may not heal all wounds, but it is the right salve for softening hurts and providing perspective. Take the time you need to process thoughts and feelings, before blurting them all over the dining room table. H is for… Honoring your differences. When you feel as if the other person simply won’t get it, try to give space to the idea that not seeing things in just the same way may be okay. It could be even better than okay. Does your partner have a point of view that might help you move past your own blind spots or provide a path to move you forward? E is for… Enjoy what does work in your relationship. It is quite rare to find the one true soul mate who fulfills our every need and completely understands all of our desires. Beyond taking responsibility for your own good mood and fortune, celebrate the truly miraculous wonder of friendship and kinship. R is for… Remember the good times. Much of our best and closest relationships is moored in ongoing trust and shared experience. We’re able to jump right into the thick of it with ties we see infrequently, because of deep knowing and acceptance. Stay in touch with those who aren’t part of your regular swirl of your activities. The events of our lives bind us and produce memories to be cherished. Nurture your relationships, just as our mothers counseled. You want those memories to be sweet. © 2007 Andrea R. Williams WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEB SITE? You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Andrea Williams, personal and small business success coach, is the creator of the Fearless, Fabulous Project, a 12-week, step-by-step discovery and rejuvenation process to help you gain clarity and commitment about what is most important to you. If you're ready to pump your life with more fun & fulfillment, check out Andrea's coaching programs and FREE resources now at www.FearlessFabulousLife.com, and sign up for "Fearless, Fabulous Female," her free ezine on personal reinvention at midlife. Andrea's BookshelfA Story of Missed Motherhood: the Ginger TreeI remember when I was a teenager, my mother gave or lent to me a copy of the “The Ginger Tree” by Oswald Wynd. Long before I learned first-hand about choices and their consequences—the sometimes accompanying heartbreak, disappointment and loss—this book impressed upon me the importance of trusting my own heart and mind. The powerful story of adventure and devastation clung to my memory as I went off to college, and probably influenced my decision to study Chinese and Japanese history and world religions during my first year. I cherished the novels I read about these foreign cultures and marveled at the many differences between East and West. “The Ginger Tree” is still a powerful read, as it celebrates the strength and determination of women (and mothers) even when they can’t be with or choose to leave their children. Perhaps, for me, it’s because the story underscores the simple truth of what my mother once said to me during one of my angst-ridden moments: “Andrea, if you weren’t living this life, you’d simply be living another.” Right. Relax, and enjoy the ride. Fearless Quote“Women know the way to rear up children (to be just), About AndreaPersonal and small business development coach Andrea Williams is creator of the Fearless, Fabulous Project, a 12-week, step-by-step discovery and rejuvenation process. Coaching female boomers, creatives and entre/solopreneurs, Andrea reaches core issues quickly, promotes others’ inspirations/aspirations, and provides unswerving support for life improvement… today! Andrea also offers teleclasses, workshops, coaching, and other resources to help individuals and groups achieve greater self-awareness, success, and satisfaction. Learn more now at www.FearlessFabulousLife.com. Nuts & BoltsFeel free to pass this ezine along to friends and colleagues. However, please keep it intact and send in its entirety. You are receiving this email from Andrea Williams because you participated in one of Andrea's workshops or classes, or you are a colleague, friend, or relative. We periodically send notes of information and opportunity, in addition to our weekly Fearless, Fabulous Females ezine. We hate SP^M as much as you do, so if you have received this email in error, please accept our sincere apologies. To no longer receive our emails, click to unsubscribe below. |
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This is my very favorite picture of me with my mother, circa 1970.