Putting the "Happy" Back Into "Happy Holidays"

When Did We Stop Enjoying the Holidays?

Whether we want to admit it or not, the holiday season is upon us. It's not just the Christmas decorations that were next to the Halloween decorations at my local Target that clued me into this fact. If I had any doubt, I just had to look in my mailbox. Along with the catalogs hawking gifts, there are postcards from the postal service encouraging us to take advantage of flat rate boxes to mail packages from home instead of waiting in line at the post office.

This got me wondering. When did we stop enjoying the holidays? When did it become drudgery instead of the "hap-happiest season of all?"

I think we've been duped. I think Martha, mixed with a little competitiveness amongst women, has caused us to have unrealistic expectations of what we "should" do during the holidays. I think we are still trying to replicate the holidays from our childhoods without considering the realities of our adulthoods.

But, I also think we've been conditioned to be stressed out about the holidays. Everywhere you look there are images and articles about how stressful the holidays are for us.

Enough already! This year, I pledge to enjoy myself throughout the holiday season.

Raise your right hand and repeat after me:
"I, (insert your name here), promise to enjoy myself this holiday season. I will only do what I want and have time to do and let other people carry their own holiday baggage. I will use cash to pay for my gifts so that I won't feel guilty about blowing my budget. And, most of all, I will sing holiday music as loudly and as off key as I want to."

Creating Space for the Holidays Tele-retreat

One of the reasons we often feel overwhelmed during this time of year is that we forget that we need to create space for the holidays.

Give the first gift of the holidays to yourself by joining us for this short 3-hour tele-retreat* where we will find ways to create mental, emotional, and physical space in order to put the happy back into the holidays. At the end of this retreat, you will be excited, organized, energized, and eager to belt out a chorus or two of "Happy Holidays" with Andy Williams.

Details:
When: Saturday, December 1st
Time: 8:00-11:00 PACIFIC STANDARD TIME
Cost: $25 before Black Friday; $35 after Nov. 23rd
Special: Know someone who might want to participate, too? Register together and you will each get $5 off the registration fee.

To Register: Send an email to me at julie(at)newprofessormentor.com letting me know you want to participate.

*What is a tele-retreat? Everyone calls in to a conference call at the top of the hour and we talk and share just as if we were sitting in the same room. Then, we hang up and do an assignment. At the designated time, everyone comes back and we share some more. It sounds a little far fetched, but it surprisingly powerful. And the benefit is that you don't have to go anywhere. You call in form wherever you are! You have nothing to lose but lots to gain from giving it a try.

It's time to enjoy the holiday season again

VICTORIA FITTSMILGRIM LEADS LIVING FROM YOUR SOUL RETREAT!

Descending into the Kiva…
What can happen on a Soul Journey into the Dark…


The Living from your Soul Retreat (new name for 2008: Journey with Your Soul) was originally designed as an exploration of ways to engage with your Soul’s voice – using non-linear practices that steer you away from your usual mind chatter and support you connecting with a deeper place inside yourself. We live in a culture that is on hyper speed and I believe that if we don’t slow down and take the time to connect with the depths inside us, we will lose what makes us unique, sacred beings. We’ll also miss out on our True Life. Listening to my own inner voice, I knew that I was seeking a place to hold this retreat that would offer a special environment for making this connection.

Enter Kelly Place. This special inn, located in McElmo Canyon holds many special treats…. Bordering the Canyon of the Ancients and gazing towards Sleeping Ute Mountain, in this temperate valley there are over 100 acres of hiking trails to explore the 25 on-site Anasazi ruins. While this 1000-year-old Native American culture has disappeared, their architecture remains and we can engage our imaginations in discovering the past. We can also engage in bringing to light our own hidden depths in the present.

I gathered this past weekend with 7 women in these special surroundings. We laughed, cried and shared the meaningful stories of our lives. We danced from our hearts to inspirational music and created Soul Collage cards, letting our Soul’s speak to us through visual imagery. But for me, the most powerful experience was our Journey into the traditional Kiva (underground ceremonial chamber in the earth) to hear the Voice of our own Beloved. Climbing down the wooden ladder, into the dark center of the earth can be a daunting experience. We are usually taught to deny or ignore the hidden corners of our life, yet we actually grow smaller living from this fear-driven place. It is this descent, this Journey into the Underworld, that offers us a chance to meet the dark mystery of our life and use it to find the wholeness we seek. As written in this poem of the goddess Inanna’s journey to the underworld by Starhawk, there are sacrifices to be made… vulnerability to expose:

The Descent of Inanna, by Starhawk
The Second Gate

The Second Gate is Fear
When you go down far enough
It arises
Wearing a helmet, armor
Wearing an enemy face
Carrying weapons
It blocks the gate

Fear says
Go back
And you hear what it threatens you with
If you go on

Fear says
Turn around
And you hear what it offers you
If you obey

Fear says
Something you alone can hear
And you know what it is.

Choose

To go on
You must take off your clothes
Lay down the cloak that keeps out the
Cold
And the shield that turns the spear
And the armor that turns the arrow’s
Point
Take off your breastplate and helmet
Fear doesn’t go away
But you walk toward fear
Naked
And the gate opens

Past the Second Gate you dance
Fearless in the open
Your skin one living organThat embraces air

Our bodies sat in the dark kiva, while to the sound of the shamanic drums, our Soul’s took individual journeys accompanied by animal allies visualized earlier that day. My role was a sacred charge, to be still and hold the intention of each woman – to find more self-trust, to be healed, to learn their legacy – as they each experienced what was getting in the way. They opened themselves up risking all the things their egos threatened them with losing. And in that magical cave of Mother Earth, they found their resilience and expanded power. We gathered that evening and ritually shared each of our Journeys, deepening the meaning… singing over our bones. The stories and poems that I heard brought me an overflowing sense of joy. I was surrounded by living Goddesses, as they made themselves the heroines of their Lives.

Here's an excerpt from one woman's story of her time in the Kiva:

"As the days grow cool and shorter, bear begins to run, and I follow him. He runs and runs and runs to the steady beat of the drum. At times he carries me on his back. We cross rocks and rivers, fields and forests. We do not stop, until at long last we reach a cave, the darkness. I am hesitant to enter, I have much fear, but bear assures me it is necessary for survival and he will be with me. It is time to enter the deeper depths of my soul, to crack open the hard layers, to unveil the truths inside. This is the only way, in order to emerge whole and true."

After sharing, each woman committed to an act that would bring alive her Soul’s longings in her life. She committed to stay in the conversation with her Beloved. And I knew that the Journey wasn’t over – there would be more insights as they continued to reflect on our weekend and all the Soulful practices we took part in together.

Are you living your life as the Goddess/God that you are? Are you in conversation with your Beloved? As we enter the more quiet, darker time of the year, perfect for this kind of inner work, how can I support you to step into your life this way? What additional joy and meaning could you find if you took the risk? If you are interested in 1:1 coaching, a bi-monthly women’s group or nourishing retreats, please contact me to find out more.

TRUE LIFE Coach Victoria

Visit my web site at http://www.truelifecoach.net/ The new Retreat schedule for 2008 will be posted online by November 20, 2007.

Or contact me at victoria@truelifecoach.net

ARE YOU LIVING YOUR TRUE LIFE?

New Virtual Retreat Offer

Do you feel like a fish out of water?

Is 2008 your year to leap into the company of Wise Women like yourself?

You can do just that for an entire year without leaving your living room. Let 2008 be your year of transformation (with all the support and inspiration you will need to move your life to the next level).

A very special year long offer designed to assist you to discover Your Passion and Your Purpose. It will connect you virtually with women from around the globe.

Coach Judith is offering two virtual retreats (on the telephone) and 10 months of follow up group coaching. That will be a full year of support and guidance. Designed this way (on the phone and low cost) so everyone who wants to be inspired can take part.

This offer is divided into two parts:

1. January~~full day retreat with 5 follow up months of group coaching. We will be working with Carol McClelland’s Heart Magnet program, designed with exercises to assist you to become clear on what you are drawn to. What you truly love. YOUR PASSION!

2. July~~another full day retreat with 5 follow up months of group coaching. We will be working with Carol McClelland’s Purpose Clarity program. This is designed to assist you to understand what your talents, skills and interests are. Let’s brainstorm ways to discover YOUR PURPOSE!

What is your intention for the New Year 2008? Do you have a goal that you could use support with or do you want to find a goal? If so, then please join this strong group of women who will support each other as they become clear on what they want and how they want to move forward.

For more information click here. and scroll down to
New Virtual Retreat Offer

This retreat is led by: Judith Geiger of Flying Change Coaching, LLC

Coach Juith is certified with the International Coach Federation.

A Kaleidoscope for Self-Care on Retreat

As another Savvy Savory Self-Care Weekend Retreat (see details below) approaches I am thrilled with the opportunity to be in community with women who are hungry for greater self-care in their lives. Too, I love the reminder in my own life that I can jump into something I am passionate about with both feet (planning and facilitating such a magical gathering) and practice my own self-care along the way.

Hey, I am just like every one else ... my attention to a steady, intentional self-care practice ebbs and flows. I walk my talk by embracing fabulous self-care at most every turn, and I admit sometimes I look up to find life swirling around me wondering how I missed the self-care clues. The difference for me now is that I catch it early and can more easily come back to it.

That is some of what we look at while on a self-care retreat together.As a connected community
we support one another in asking powerful questions like ...

• What are the clues (the red flags) that pop up indicating we need to take better care of ourselves?
• What are the barriers that get in the way of practicing great self-care? (like - "That would be selfish")

We go on to create a feast of ideas for yummy self-care and ideas for lots of strong support.

Am I wildly passionate about this? Yes, I say with a big grin on my face. I believe getting really good at taking fabulous care of oneself is life changing - and tons of fun!

Beyond the topic of a self-care retreat ...
Here is a revelation for me that has come from seeing a transformation happen over and over to women (and I imagine men) on retreat ... In truth, the magic begins to happen as soon as a woman says, "Yes, I want to go on retreat!" That act of showing up for oneself and choosing sacred time just for oneself begins moving mountains. Amazing and surprising and wondrous inspirations begin to unfold. Read about any of the incredible retreats shared in this forum and you see what I am talking about!


So, back to The Savvy Savory Self-Care Retreat - I am excited to share the details:

• When and where: November 16 - 18, 2007 at The Bend of Ivy Lodge in the gorgeous western NC mountains.
• Size: Limit - 18 women
• Self-Care Investment: $375 covers lodging, meals and materials

Envision fabulous meals, lots of fun, time to rest and relax and wander the forest ... and exercises, experiences, tools, and support to help participants get real and get excited about enhanced self-care.

Want to learn more? You are invited to check out www.womansfieldguide.com

Questions for Women On Retreating

Have you been on a retreat lately with women you don't know?

What does it feel like to get away from your life and be in a nurturing circle of women?


What holds you back from making the time and spending the money on a personal retreat?

-Coach Helene Van Manen

Retreating with Woman in Recovery

Recently, on a hot day in the Arizona desert, a group of woman headed to the San Pedro River for a day of retreat and to reflect on the idea of Empowered Relationships. These were not just any woman, or an odd mixture of woman attracted to a topic and signing up for a retreat in their free time. This very special group was a strong and courageous bunch, committed to a new life of healing and recovery. Residents of The Renaissance House in Bisbee, AZ they share the common bond of lives gone wrong, finding rock bottom, and working together to rise back up into their power and brilliance. Their ages and backgrounds are varied, but it was obvious they cared about one another and that a sisterhood was forming as they took the steps to turn their lives around.

We started our day next to this tree-a gorgeous and graceful Cottonwood who became a symbol for Empowered Relationships-a strong base, grounded, reaching up into new realms, healthy, alive and growing.

The San Pedro River is a rich riparian eco-system and she is a perfect respite on a hot desert day to retreat, reflect and spend some time going inward. I love taking retreatants there, especially those who wouldn't normally go there on there own. Of course this brings up all sorts of interesting aspects-there was one gal who couldn't sit still during a self noticing time due to the flies and ants-and it is an excellent opportunity to take a step beyond one's comfort level, to discover the message there and to learn more deeply about one's self.

A true retreat coaches dream is when her participants take full advantage of the opportunity before them and dance in the spontaneity and joy of the moment. After a long discussion about the difference between empowered and dis-empowered relationships, including some group coaching for one of the women who wanted to learn how to say no better, we took a walk to the rivers edge. Before we left each of the women picked out an affirmation card, and we walked in silence as they contemplated how the affirmation spoke to them based on our discussions of the day. Finally, the group dropped into a calmer place, and when we arrived at the river one of them sat down, took her shoes off and dipped her toes in the muddy, monsoon water. Another, and then another joined her. Soon, most of the women were sitting at the river's edge. I thought how this was such a metaphor for where they are in their lives right now, on the edge, ready to jump into the muddy waters of a life completely unknown and new to them. Before I knew it a splashing game began and soon 5 women were soaked to the bone, laughing outrageously (actually giggling like a bunch of little girls!), totally being present with play, release, fun and the moment as it presented itself to them. Eventually they settled down, while those less adventurous watched from the sides, and completely immersed in the water they proceeded to recite, very loudly, the Serenity Prayer. This touched my soul, as I have recited that same prayer many times in the arms of Mother Nature during my own healing and recovery process.

The opportunity to work with a population of women determined to change the course of their lives in the midst of learning all over again how to be empowered, healthy and strong is truly a blessing. It is my passion to support others on this journey, to be a guide as they discover their authentic selves, as they re-learn the call of their soul, as they bring forth their shiny spirits that have been hiding far to long and blossom into new beings. I hope the women of the Renaissance House got as much out of the day as I did!

(To learn more about the Renaissance House, a non-profit dedicated to the recovery of homeless and drug dependent women, visit http://renaissance-house.org/)

River Retreat with Helene Van Manen creates fun!

How fun to find places in rocks and crevices where
one can squeeze into and bask in being with other women on retreat! Pictured here are Retreat Coaches who joined me on the Lower Gunnison River in Colorado early August to learn hands on the fine art of leading outdoor adventures.

Inner Peace

SYMPTOMS OF INNER PEACE

Be on the lookout for symptoms of Inner Peace. The hearts of a great many have already been exposed to Inner Peace and it is possible that people everywhere could come down with it in epidemic proportions. This could, pose a serious threat to what has, up to now, been fairly stable conditions of conflict in the world.

Some signs and symptoms of Inner Peace

A tendency to think and act spontaneously rather than on fears based on past experience
An unmistakeable ability to enjoy each moment
A loss of interest in judging other people
A loss of interest in interpreting the actions of others
A loss of interest in conflict
A loss of the ability to worry (This is a very serious symptom)
Frequent, overwhelming episodes of appreciation
Contented feelings of connectedness with others and nature
Frequent attacks of smiling
An increasing tendency to let things happen rather than make them happen
An increased susceptibility to the love extended by others as well as the uncontrollable urge to love them back


Author Unknown

You Are Amazing

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond imagination. It is our light more than our darkness which scares us. We ask ourselves – who are we to be brilliant, beautiful, talented, and fabulous. But honestly, who are you to not be so? You are a child of God, small games do not work in this world. For those around us to feel peace, it is not example to make ourselves small. We were born to express the glory of god that lives in us. It is not in some of us, it is in all of us. While we allow our light to shine, we unconsciously give permission for others to do the same. When we liberate ourselves from our own fears, simply our presence may liberate others.”- Maryanne Williamson

If you're a women in transition this retreat camp is for you!!

"Feel the quickening, there's no turning back. Let now be the time to birth the amazing woman you are at this exquisite time in your life."

Are you in a major life transition?

Are you wondering what your next steps are?

Do you need some help manifesting your dreams?

Are you ready to embrace your authentic self and live your dreams?

What if you had the opportunity to be with other women on the same path, supporting one another in obtaining clarity of vision, movement into manifestation, rejuvenation of spirit and connection to your authentic self?? Would you want to be there?

Now is the time! Join us for a very special ARTrageous Camp, just outside of Seattle, WA in the seasonal transition time of autumn. This 4 day intensive, women's only camp is designed to help you connect with your passion, define your purpose and live the life you have always wanted to create. If not now, then when??

ARTrageous "Women In Transition" Camp

Get your WiT's about you!!

Sept 20-23rd, 2007

Ronald, WA

Life transitions are defined in many ways. Sometimes it is about career, sometimes it's our relationships. Sometimes it's the unsuspecting twists of fate that set us on the journey of transition and transformation. Often transition, especially when we don't expect it, can be unsettling and challenging. ARTrageous Camps strives to provide a safe and supportive container that allows you to really explore what is asking to be called forth from the depths of your creative genius and authentic self. Using the platform of creativity we explore movement, improv, music, word, ceremony and various other experiential modalities to deepen our connection to the muse within that knows the answers to our biggest questions. In a play shop environment, where "you can't get it wrong", you are encouraged to offer your wildest dreams and obtain skills and resources to turn your dreams into reality. Personalized coaching and feedback grounds the experience for you on your unique path.

This 4 day intensive takes place in a natural retreat setting, allowing time for integration and relaxation, while we contemplate the question : "How do your gifts and bliss intersect with the world's need??" Do you know what your bliss is? Do you know what your gifts are? Come to this very special camp and discover for yourself the pathway to gentle transitions and great awakenings. Learn to live your life as Art and connect with your deepest passion.

"What do you choose to do with your one precious life? "

Register today. Camp is limited to 7 participants! Will you be one?

Early bird special ends Sat July 21st.

http://www.artrageouscamp.com/camps_seattle.htm

VICTORIA FITTSMILGRIM LEADS RIVER RAFTING RETREAT!

TRUE LIFE COACHING offers

BEING IN THE FLOW

IN SOUTHWESTERN COLORADO!

Do you have a wilder side, that thrives on challenges? Can you bring your unique self to blend with the synergy of an outdoor group experience? If so, you would've loved joining my River Rafting Retreat, BEING IN THE FLOW, this past June 20-24. Sixteen women, from around the U.S., came together and floated the Colorado River for 5 days. We were completely self-supporting - because of course, Wild Women are capable, creative and most of all, love to have FUN! I was honored, as Retreat Coach, to lead this extraordinary group, offering tools on Living in Abundance that can be brought to anyone's life - on the river and off.

From delicious meals (see yummy breakfast, at left), to hiking the redrock canyons, to playing in the inflatable duckies (soft kayaks) to gathering for daily Circles to share, listen and learn, to frequent dunking to refresh in the southwestern heat, the group was always ready to give it their all. An amazing synergy developed over the five days we traveled as a single community.

It was exciting to see so many women from completely different backgrounds come together and embrace this adventure experience. There were experienced boat guides as well as women who had never rafted before. We ranged in age from 27 to 59! From D.C. to Colorado, New Mexico to Oregon - city women... mountain women... and of course, river women! Sharing stories, laughs and tears as we built new friendships and learned how to live in abundance while Being in the Flow.

I taught tools I have worked with from the book The Trance of Scarcity (http://tranceofscarcity.com/) by Victoria Castle. By recognizing the State we are in, which includes the Stories and interpretations that we make up, combined with our bodies and how we are experiencing life in them, we notice if we're living with Ease. If not, why not create an upgrade? A place to live from that is aligned with what really matters to you in this moment. Using tools like the Cycle of Abundance you can stay flowing and in the ease of the river always. Learning to be Centered, even when Life has thrown you a curve ball, is a skill that we can all develop more, for the sake of living our True Life.

Our final act of creativity and teamwork was to create a ritual that highlighted what we had learned about ourselves and each other. Each group of 4 women designed a section and together we wove an experience that we won't soon forget. At sunset, in our circle on the beach, dressed for Ceremony, we honored each woman, listening to her and mirroring back what we all saw. I remember laughing and crying and my throat contracting as I witnessed these amazing women... more open and trusting, while revealing their hearts.

We each had a final word or two to describe our State. Mine is Overflowing Chalice. When I see a woman crack open, become more fully who she truly is and step forth to live life from a more expanded place, I do just that: Overflow! What an amazing feeling! It's why I lead retreats and hope that you will join me on one soon. Consider a weekend at a beautiful lodge this fall - southwestern Colorado offers one of the most beautiful environments to step away from your life and take the time to retreat. To hear your inner voice. Find out more at http://www.truelifecoach.net/retreats.htm or email victoria@truelifecoach.net to see what's happening next!

Judith Geiger's Country Retreat

During a recent Country Retreat that I held at my farm the women were asking when they could do it again! One of the women who came to the retreat confined in me yesterday that when she first heard about the retreat she wondered if it would be a waste of her time. She said;
"It turned out to be anything but. The day went so fast that I did not want it to end!"

In the picture above you see eight amazing women who after spending time in nature and letting go of what no longer served them,are eagerly heading up the hill to start a new exercise. Designing beautiful vision boards. These women were so creative that each board not only told a story but they were also visually pleasing! One woman said "I am going to hang mine up in my new kitchen!" What a wonderful reminder of what she wants her future to look like!

Nature worked her magic at this Country Retreat in Central New York even though the sun was a little hard to find that day! These wonderful wise women made their own lights shine!

If you want to learn more about this Country Retreat just check out my blog!

Personal Life Coach and Retreat Leader; Judith Geiger
Flying Change Coaching www.flyingchangecoaching.com

The Savvy Savory Self-Care Retreat

With the heat of summer rolling in I find my thoughts drifting back to early spring wildflowers, an afternoon nap by a crystal clear pond, a stroll beside the Bend of Ivy River in the early morning mist. Springtime in my North Carolina mountains is spectacular and it is the perfect time to rest, to retreat, to renew. That is just what 15 wonderful women gathered together to do a couple months back.

Our intention: To spend a weekend in community exploring and experiencing the importance of self-care.

The stage was set: incredible weather, yummy organic and delicious food catered with loving hands, travelers from as far as Canada and and close by as around the corner, and a common hunger we all shared for time on retreat.

Our Location: Paradise at The Bend of Ivy Lodge

We began in circle and ended in circle. It never ceases to amaze and inspire me to see women come together in spirit so quickly and to create bonds that carry forward into their lives in one short weekend.

I am reminded - gather women in a loving space and watch the magic unfold!

In our exploration of self-care we ... defined how we feel when we practice extraordinary self-care ... brainstormed a bounty of new kinds of self-care ... we had heart to heart talks about what gets in our way of taking great care of ourselves and by gosh - we broke those barriers down! ... we experienced self-care in the moment through movement and wonderful food and fresh air and creative activities and wandering in nature.

Most importantly we took time out of busy schedules to gift a weekend of renewal to ourselves.


a smile-filled memory shared by
Corrie Woods, Author, Life Coach, Retreat Leader
www.windrivercoaching.com

Retreats Reduce Stress and Help Us Remember Who We Are

Summer afternoon, summer afternoon;
to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language."
Henry James

This is the view from where I live. My view has many colors of green right now dotted with beautiful purples and white clouds filled with rain.
How can I create an inner landscape that meets my outer one? That is the question I am asking myself these days as I live a retreat lifestyle here in southern Colorado. - Coach Helene Van Manen

Maggie Butler... leading retreats here and there

The 8 Wonderful Wise Women at the first annual Gift of the Sea Retreat. Maine, April, 2007

This past month has been a month of retreats for me, leading women’s retreats on both sides of the Atlantic - in Maine and Ireland. I love the life I continue to create; love how my life intention continues to unfold and be enriched by so many creative, dynamic, reflective women from around the world.

At the end of April I had the privilege of leading 8 women on retreat in Maine. Gift of the Sea was held at the Marie Joseph Spiritual Center in Saco, Maine. Four days prior to the retreat, the southern coast of Maine was battered by a Nor’easter with hurricane winds that left major and heartbreaking destruction behind. Miraculously, by the time Friday arrived, the Coast of Maine was at it’s best: The bluest of skies and an ocean that just sparkled and danced in the sunlight to welcome these 8 women on their weekend journey to find the unique gift the sea was offering to them.

Coach Judith Geiger , a wise and gentle woman, attended this retreat and has already written about it and her experience in this blog. (Thanks, Judith!) I’ll only add that this fabulous group of women ranged in age from early thirties to 60, and resulted in a very richly textured tapestry of wisdom, experience and knowledge. What a pleasure it was to work with this group of unique individuals who shared in common a desire to create a space and time in their busy lives to experience the transformative power of nature, reflect on their lives, think about their heart’s desires. We laughed, walked barefoot on the beach (some at sunrise), journalled, walked an Audobon Trail in silence, did collage work, slept to the sounds of the ocean, sang and played a game or two. Because of the beautiful setting right on the ocean; because of the enthusiastic response of the participants; and because I loved doing this retreat so much....This retreat was the First Annual Gift of the Sea Retreat! Maybe we'll see you next year?

Back here in Dublin last week, I facilitated a one-day retreat for a group of women who attended my January, “2007 – Live Your Best Year” retreat. Last Friday we followed up on intentions they created at that retreat. We also looked at what was working for each of them, what wasn’t (then letting go to make room for another possibility), and shared wisdom from their journeys. With honesty and courage we heard that in spite of (or because of) disappointments and setbacks, all agreed that living their lives with focus and intention, as well as feeling respected and supported, was indeed making 2007 their “Best Year”.

They left energized, supported, encouraged and raring to go on a weekend post-Solstice retreat I will facilitate for them in August. This retreat is the third in a series of four designed to support them through the year as they create their lives with intention. We’ll be in a wonderful setting: a small, but big-enough cottage in the countryside of the Wicklow Mountains where we can walk, rest, collage, reflect and dance in the moonlight.

It’s a wonderful life, really, and I have a grateful heart.

Peace,
Maggie
www.maggiebutler.net

Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life? Mary Oliver

Helene Van Manen retreats at Arches National Park

I have come late spring to these ancient rocks to pause before my summer begins. I take time to listen to what the red landscapes have to tell me about Who I am and what my next steps are. I am many things to many people in my life and when I stop and listen to the land, I re-find that part of me that is constant, real and unshakable. I need unshakable qualities during these times in which I live.

- musings of a Retreat Coach
the journal of Helene Van Manen May 2, 2007
Arches National Park www.retreatcoaches.com

Living in Full Bloom

Last week I lead a women’s retreat in a beautiful local garden.
The theme was “Living in Full Bloom.” One activity was to stroll through the garden absorbing the environment with all of your senses. When you come upon something that really attracts or excites you, sit down and color it. (Everyone was given their own box of crayons!!!) Then write one or two sentences starting, “I like this ______ because…”
When we joined together as a group, everyone shared their artwork and description. Then I asked them to re-read the same passage but starting with, “I like myself because…”
I introduced the concept of the heart magnet and how what we are attracted to is in some way a reflection of our core being. Each woman was able to say and even own this attractive reflection of herself.
Then I read the following quote from Carol McClelland’s Heart Magnet Workbook: “You are entitled to create a world that allows and encourages you to flourish, thrive, and grow.”
When asked who really believed that statement, they all groaned. Their heart magnets fluttered at the possibility of creating a world that encouraged them to flourish, but the word “entitled” stopped them cold in their tracks.
After much discussion and honest sharing, we settled upon another word that was less threatening. “It is our birthright to create a world that allows and encourages us to flourish, thrive, and grow.” And we took some time journaling in that beautiful garden and bearing witness to the glorious possibilities that can blossom with the proper care and nurturance. It was an inspiring day for all.
That night when reading the spiritual memoir, “Eat, Pray, Love,” by Elizabeth Gilbert, this birthright and heart magnet concept was taken to another level. She quoted her Guru as saying, “God dwells within you, as you.” She went on to offer her understanding, “God dwells within you as yourself, exactly the way you are. God isn’t interested in watching you enact some performance of personality in order to comply with some crackpot notion you have of how a spiritual person looks or behaves.”
To know that you are unique and to encourage that special you to manifest, that is living in full bloom and that is your birthright.
Karin Marcus
Personal Coach / Certified Retreat Leader
“Let the beauty of what you love, be what you do” Rumi
Karin@Steppingoutcoaching.com 610-667-5247
www.SteppingOutCoaching.com

VICTORIA FITTSMILGRIM LEADS RETREAT FOR MOMS

MOTHERS SHARING POWERFUL TIME

GROWING AND NURTURING THEMSELVES

IN THE CANYONS OF SW COLORADO

WITH

RETREAT COACH VICTORIA FITTSMILGRIM

MAY 6, 2007

One thing about being a Retreat Coach Leader - it keeps you on your toes, always needing to stay present and be with what is actually going on... as I learned again last weekend, as I prepared to lead my annual FOR MOMS ONLY RETREAT, a one day event to honor, celebrate and deepen our relationship with ourselves as Mothers. I'd been dreaming my vision of this day for months! I had a wonderful site in temperate McElmo Canyon, home to many Anasazi ruins (the ancient Pueblo people who lived in SW Colorado about 800 years ago), and endless red rock canyons to explore. I had planned a day of activities that blended action and reflection, giving the group time to bond and share their Mother Wisdom and take time to listen to their own inner world. I had prepared a delicious lunch for all of us to share, as we sat in the SUN, in a wonderful grassy meadow, just outside a very unusual 'cave-house'. But as I checked the weather on Friday morning, I saw to my horror that the forecast didn't just call for rain - IT CALLED FOR SNOW, ALL WEEKEND, with temp's around 35 degrees!! (See photo above, with fresh snow on Sleeping Ute Mountain in the background). I was devastated! My vision definately did not include snow on May 6th! But living as I do in the Rockies, I have to remember that anything is possible. I spent the next 24 hours working on creating a new Vision - one that could embrace Snow if need be, along with any other thing that Spirit might throw at me! After all - If Spirit can throw it, I can dance with it!


The snow whipped in and out of Durango, where I live, all Friday and Saturday. Late on Saturday I headed west, the 60 miles out to McElmo. The weather was definately sketchy but I was committed. It was amazing to see how much snow had already fallen (see photo to left, around Mesa Verde Natl Park). Anyway, once I got to the home of my friend Joyce, who hosted this retreat, things started looking up.

Sunday morning all the women arrived and after spending a few
hours in Circle connecting and sharing about our children and our lives
and having a wonderful lunch with fresh berry pies for dessert, we headed out for some sacred time on the land. Everywhere smelled so fresh! The high clouds kept us cool but no precipitation! One of our discoveries was an incredible petroglyph - a huge spiral carved in the ancient rock. We paused to discuss how our lives moved in and out on a spiral path, sometimes deepening, sometimes not - and the role having children played in all of that.

From the sandy wash we moved higher on the trail, topping out at a wonderful view above the whole canyon. We talked about what's possible when we get 'above' our life and can view it from the perspective of the eagle. How much more spacious things feel! How much more possibility there is!

After helping one another down some slickrock, we regrouped at the special cave-house. This cave has a wonderful overhang that protects it from the weather. And the family who owns this land, has built an outer wall, with windows and a door to create a little retreat house! We sat outside, on the 'patio' and I talked about Jean Shinoda Bolen's book "Urgent Message from Mother: Gather the Women, Save the World" and how as mothers we are so connected to the compassion and love necessary to direct the world in a more accepting and peaceful direction. But according to the Tibetan Shambhala Prophecy, that isn't enough - we need to blend our fiery love with the cooling insight that we are all connected and interdependent. Both are required to move us forward - on an inner level and in the physical world we call Earth. After sharing about this, I brought out large sticks and some yarn to make Beauty Prayer Arrows. By wrapping the yarn around the sticks, offering our prayers and intentions for the world, we created powerful ritual objects that hold our desire for change.



We completed our day in a ceremonial circle, in gratitude for so much richness in our lives. Each woman was honored for who she is as a Mother, as well as her powerful presence in the world.

Here's one retreatants comments:

"Many smiles on my face remembering Sunday. You are a magician with what you do. Loved to see the contemplation on faces while you spoke of crossroads and becoming the essence of ourselves." - Joyce K, Cortez, CO

You can find out more about my nourishing weekend retreats of self-discovery: Spa for the Soul Sep 28-30 and Living from Your Soul Oct 26-28 by visiting my web site www.truelifecoach.net If I can support you in living your True Life, via one on one coaching or women's retreats, please let me know. You can email me at victoria@truelifecoach.net.

ARTrageous Camps Michigan Muse-In

Looking for a playful way to connect with your creative spirit in the peak of spring??

Join us for the

ARTrageous Camp Michigan Muse-In

June 8-10th

Mystical Resources

Farmington, MI

(near Ann Arbor)

This playful, lighthearted, and co-created event will support you in:

-exploring and connecting with your intuitive voice

-breaking through barriers around creativity

-honing leadership skills

-replenishing your creative spirit

ARTrageous Camps:

Where the people are the palette and your life is the canvas!
http://www.artrageouscamps.com/

ARTrageous Camp is a magical adventure where you can expand your creative abilities, find your true calling and have a great time doing it. They are designed for adults, to support the process of discovering where your bliss intersects with the world's need. They provide resources, personalized coaching, avenues to healing, support in taking the next step, and the learning of new skills. In a "you can't get it wrong" environment, where you are always at choice and we seek together the "yes, and....." of it all, you can dance on the edge of your brilliance as you explore how to live your beautiful life as Art. Come join us!

ARTrageous Camps were co-founded by Coach Margie Scott, Amberllyn Peabody, and Judith Dolmatch. The original camp was birthed on the Big Island of Hawaii 3 years ago, where an annual camp is held sometime between Jan and March. Camps on the mainland have taken place in Colorado, Oregon, Louisanna, and we are looking forward to going international in 2008 with camps slated to happen in Chile and Canada. The Michigan Muse-In will be our 11th camp in total. We are currently developing a fall 07 program in the Pacific Northwest specifically for entrepreneurs, workshop/retreat facilitator wanna-be's, and members of organizations or groups seeking a more collaborative, co-creative approach. Keep checking the website for more details.

If you are interested in bringing ARTrageous to your community, or special group we offer a hosting incentive program. Check out the website, if what you see inspires you, join us for one of our upcoming camps or contact Coach Margie for information on hosting a camp.

Robin Schepper's Birthday Party Retreat

I am a birthday baby. I like to celebrate my special day because I know how hard it was for my mom to bring me into this world. I have had dinner parties and dancing parties but this year I wanted to integrate my values with my actions. I love nature, I love women and I love going to my favorite place in DC - the Billy Goat Trail along the Potomac River. I lead retreats for my clients along this trail but I decided to become a client for myself. I invited eight of my girlfriends to join me. We climbed over rocks and up cliffs. I asked them what they would be in nature and I shared how I would be the water because it knows no obstacles. I played my favorite coaching game with them that i learned from Coach Helene: Who are you? Who are you not? Who do you think I am? Even though many of the women have known each other for years, just hearing their descriptions of each other brought tears to my eyes. It was the best birthday present I could have ever gotten. So now I know what I will be doing for my next birthday, even if my girlfriends are complaining about their sore legs. - Robin Schepper ~ Wayfinder Coaching and Retreats

robin@wayfinderinc.com
www.wayfinderinc.com