Fortunate Fridays! {Highlights of the week}

Hey, hey!

How was everyone's week?! Its been some time since I've wrote a fortunate Friday's post- not bueno. Pretty much the purpose of these post is to show gratitude for the good things that happen to me during the course of a week and simply for life in general. I am a huge believer in gratitude and the idea that the more you appreciate what you get, the more positive things you attract.

So, my apologies for the Fortunate Friday hiatus. Here is what I've felt thankful for this week:

1. The opportunity to attend my first blogger event and the ability to meet so many wonderful bloggers. I feel like the blogging world can be a bit lonely sometimes. These events are such a great opportunity to meet fellow blogueras (bloggers) and simply have a blast. I don't think I've ever felt more comfortable in a so called "networking environment" of sorts. Everything flew naturally. Not a dull moment.

The Colectiva Latina Crew (some of us):

Me, very focused:

A whole lot of note taking:

...a lot of eating was involved (thanks to Dania for organizing a really nice outing for the Latina Bloggers):

2. My sister and dad returning safe and sound back to the U.S: So, my dad left the country on business and my sister was in Panama with her boyfriend (lucky girl!). They all made it back safe and sound and bearing gifts. What more can I possibly ask for?!

3. A one on one meeting with a blogger-mentor. So, one of my networked blogger companies I am part of paired me up with an experienced blogger. Hope she doesn't mind I tag her here :)- Serena from Thrift Diving (Hi Serena!). Ladies, let me tell you- she was phenomenal! We spoke for quite some time and she gave me sooo many amazing tips for my blog, my business, and how to make everything better. She was a God sent. I'll never forget how much value she provided during that conversation. I thanked her like a million time, and meant it! :)

4, Having my dad in my life: so, as we all know, last Sunday was fathers day and I took to Facebook to express my gratitude for this man. My dad has taught me so much and continues to do so every single day. He was rough with my sister and I growing up but it was all worth it. One of the things I love the most about him is that he never panics-- whenever we share something negative with him. Ie: getting in to a car accident, loosing the phone he bough me when I was a teenager, etc. He always keeps calm and collected. "things happen, is okay' is his signature phrase. I also love the fact that, even though he doesn't tell me directly, I know that he believes in me, my dreams, and my passions and shows me that with actions rather than words. \

5. Strengthening and growing my brand: I cant say much about this as things are still in development but I am just grateful that slowing but surely hard work is paying of. As the saying goes, no one said this would be easy- but they did say it would be worth it.

And that's all folks. Thank you for reading and have a phenomenal weekend <3

What do YOU feel fortunate for this week?

Love,
Mabelle

Mid Week Motivation 8: The idea of seeing life as a book or series of chapters

Hello loves,

Its been a few weeks since I've shared my weekly mid-week motivation series. To be quite honest, I like to post when I have insightful and meaningful things to say not 'just because', which is part of the reason for my little hiatus.

Today's post was inspired by a random thought that came in to my mind the other day as soon as I woke up. It was one of those thoughts that comes unexpectedly but brings such a strong and captivating message. In a nutshell, this is what my 'instinct' (or whatever you may want to call it) said to me:

"Certain parts of my life at this time may not be perfect, however, I do want to see what the next chapter has to bring once I close this one".

I'm usually not the type to talk about a lot of personal things on the blog although I have, from time to time,  shared a bit of personal stuff here and there. In terms of whatever situation may be going through right now, I am in fact looking forward to sharing everything including details, when I'm ready. It may be a post with several parts or just one long post. We shall see. However, I do need time. I'm not where I want to be yet and I feel that the "story" is still writing itself.


So, my loves, the motivational part of this post is to let you know that even if certain things are not perfect, remember that life is a series of ups and downs. I feel like I talk a lot about that on the blog. However, is a lesson that Ive learned over and over again and feel I cannot emphasize that enough.

Remember this amazing quote from back in the days? :-D

Many people going through tough times take drastic measures after lying to themselves thinking that things will never get any better and may choose to do something crazy like end a life or just succumb in to the holes of depression. I am here to tell you that if you can weather this storm, you will see the other side soon enough. It may not be easy and it may take some time but one day the storm will pass and you will see the rewards of your patience.

Aren't you excited to read the next chapter of your book of life? I know I am :)

Tell me, can you share any "feel good" rituals you partake in when things may not be going your way?


Love,
Mabelle

Welcome April! (and march goals review)

Hey Loves!

I know today is the second day of April and maybe this post should have gone up yesterday but today is the day. Just wanted to give a quick recap of how March went for me in terms of the goals I had previously set in this post: March Goals. Also, share what I plan to do for the month of April (spoiler alert: some of the march objectives will be transferred over to this month). So here is the recap--

1. Continue working out consistently and making a conscious effort to nourish my body with foods that are going to make me feel and be fabulous inside and out. Is totally okay to splurge from time to time but overall, I want to continue making good choices. 

Did a great job with this one. Although there were some splurges here and there (specially during my friend's wedding last week) I did pretty good overall. I am looking forward to switching up my workout routine a bit and maybe start running outside once again (if the weather finally cooperates). Signing up for some races would be awesome.

2. Make a dentist appointment! and actually go in for a consultation. This is so long overdue I cant even begin to tell you.

Nope. Still have not seen a dentist (yikes!!) I'd also like to schedule a physical and just a comprehensive medical exam. Health is wealth.

3. Continue feeding my mind and "eyes" with inspirational podcast and TV/Online shows. I already have my 'set' shows but if you have any recommendations, please share.

I'll mark this one as accomplished. I was also able to find a couple of new podcasts that feed my passion and I am learning so much. Thank god for all the free resources we have access to!

4. Start de-cluttering my apartment one step at the time. Clean at least one of my closets and/or "messy drawers".

I was able to de-clutter a couple of plastic bins that I have in my room. I did this by necessity when I was packing for my trip and needed to find some items. However, must confess, my drawers and closets remain less organized that I'd like. Lets roll that one over to April.

5. Continue my work in running and growing a profitable business, continue making time to do the things I love. Taking it one step at the time, one project at the time. 

This continues to be a work in progress and I am excited about the progress and will continue to work hard towards my objectives.

For the month of April I've decided to simply target those goals I didn't accomplish in March and continue working and making headway on the objectives that are "ongoing". Lets Do This!

Tell me, any specific goals for this particular month? Are you as excited as I am for a "real spring"? :) Let me know!

Love,
Mabel

Fortunate Fridays {friends, wine, gym and natural beauty, edition}

Good Morning! 

{or afternoon/evening, depending on where you are ;)}

Random though of the day: How awesome would it be wake up in Paris :). One day for sure we will meet again. source

Yet another Friday has arrived. I hope you all had a phenomenal week. As it is the norm each Friday on the blog, I am here to share the top five things that happened this past week which I feel fortunate for.

1. Friday night girl talk {and back to back gym date} with one of my best friends last weekend: 
I've been hanging out with my friend Christina more often the past few months (we went to high school together and pretty much have known each other for over 15 years). Last Friday after work she came over to my apartment and we hung out drinking wine, having some grapes and dark chocolate,  while watching shows off my Roku. We caught up on the week and life events. Always nice to have good friends visiting me.

She ended up sleeping over and the next morning we hit the gym for some cardio (we wanted to make it to a Zumba class but got there too late). On Sunday morning we texted each other and agreed to go work out again. It was pretty awesome. I've been going to the gym by myself for so long that I forgot how truly great it can be to have a gym buddy to keep us accountable and even more motivated than going solo.

2. A spare of the moment 3 mile walk on Monday night (minus getting sick the next day):
I like being open and honest on the blog so I wont lie that on Monday night I was feeling pretty down on myself. As I've mentioned in past posts, I've been going through a phase involving some roller-coaster of emotions. I am well aware that this too shall pass. However, Monday was one of those not so great down evenings (I was okay during the day).

After a good cry I somehow had the motivation to take myself for a nice walk. I made sure a few of my favorite podcast were on my phone and off I went. I have to tell you my mood changed drastically after that walk! I felt so much better and so much more optimistic. I was so incredibly proud of myself that instead of eating everything in sight inside my apartment and going deeper in to the deeps of sadness; I turned it around and did something positive for myself. So incredibly grateful for this. (oh yeah, I ended up catching a bit of a cold, or allergies?, the next day. thankfully I have a kick ass immune system and Im almost back to normal. Definitely learned my lesson.)

3. Getting 90% of my packing completed a week before my trip:
I have news regarding next week which I plan to share with you guys on Sunday. However, something I feel so relieved about is taking the initiative to sort my stuff, find my luggage, purchase things I needed, and run a few related errands way before my trip. Leaving things for the last minute always makes me so anxious and upset. I am so incredibly glad I took it upon myself to do things differently this time around!

4. Finally getting my eyebrows done!
Nothing much to say about this other than the fact that it was wayyyyy over-due! I barely ever wear makeup. I love the natural look. However, I was feeling really unattractive lately with my [overly-overdue for a threading-eyebrows] so glad I finally took care of that. I feel and look so much better! Thank god for low-maintenance beauty :)

5. Being able to keep up my healthy living habits and reaching new 'personally-set' milestones
Sometimes when I am not feeling so great about certain thing(s) in my life I use food to numb my emotions and right after that working out also takes a backseat. However, I am not sure why but for some reason my habits are changing drastically (for the better).

Instead of wanting to eat my life away as a recovering emotional eater, I find joy and solace in physical activity and healthy eating. To be fair, I think it also has to do with the fact that for the past several months I have been able to keep up a healthier lifestyle and I have been able to keep those habits going in good and not so good times. I've come a long way.

...I'll leave you with an awesome quote I came across while reading my digital edition of Oprah Magazine as I worked out at the gym this week:

I take my Ipad to the gym and its such a great motivator! I usually do mostly cardio at the gym-- a combination of speed walking and running on the treadmill plus the elliptical. I like to read stuff off my ipad during my speed walks. Makes me want to keep going and going. I like to do my strength training work at home. 

..And that's all folks. Thank you for reading. 

Any plans for this Friday evening or the weekend?

Love,

Mabelle

Manifesting True Success with Oprah and Deepak

Hello my loves,

Hope you all had a great Thursday. I had a long day and just finished eating some dinner:

*Brown rice, grilled turkey burger with mushrooms & peppers, side of vegetables*

Ready to sit back and relax for the rest of the evening. Maybe watch some television and do some light reading.

Anyways, just here to share that this Monday I plan to join yet another one of Oprah's and Deepak's 21-day meditation programs and my goal is to actually get through the entire thing. As per the email I received, this is what this particular series will be focusing on:

***

Dear Friend,

True success is something you live, not an end state you arrive at. In Manifesting True Success, you’ll learn to embody authentic, lasting success, as you discover how to:

• open yourself up to the infinite opportunities that exist in the here and now
• find freshness, excitement, and meaning in each day
• give your daily activities direction and purpose
• let go of past conditioning to start making successful decisions
• expand your awareness to make success as effortless and natural as possible

***

I have to be honest in that I've joined some of the programs in the past and would miss several of the sessions, would have to catch up several sessions at the time (with didn't necessarily feel like meditation), or would simply miss the entire thing. I want to do better this time around.

I do recall the messages being quite amazing and insightful. Here is the best part: is completely free! There may still be time to sign up. Check it out here.

I am here announcing this to my dear readers so you all can keep me accountable. I'm not saying I'll be discussing each and every one of the sessions here in the blog. However, may do a weekly recap or something like that. We'll see. Wish me luck :-)

Tell me, have you completed any of Oprah's meditation classes in the past? If not, you're welcome to join me :)

Mid- Week Motivation 4: The Present

Hello Lovelies,

Happy hump day! Here I am again with yet another {mid-week motivation} post with the purpose of providing a bit of a positive boost to your week.

After a whole lot of brainstorming, I decided to feature one of my favorite inspirational books today. And here you have it:

 The Present

I read this listened to the audio version of this book several years ago. I loved it so much I actually transferred the entire audio in to my "IPod" (remember those?). I recently found my old IPod again and was pleasantly surprise to find the book in my playlist. I've been listening to the chapters every chance I get and is as great as I remember it.

The book has no "ground breaking" realizations. It is actually a very concise reminder of something most of us have probably heard of several times over: Living in the present moment makes us happier people. When we live in the present (focus on the task at hand, one moment at the time) we allow ourselves to ease any anxieties caused by the past or the future. We simply live in the moment that we are planted and we take it a moment at the time.

I've personally tried this strategy in my life several times and I have to admit that it is true and it works. I am not saying that focusing on the present is easy by any means. I think that as humans we have a tendency to replay the past over and over again (specially if its negative, why is that?!) or feel anxious and worried about the future. We all do it! However, if we make a conscious effort to just stay in the moment, its eye-opening how all regrets, worries, or anxieties 'magically' disappear from our minds. However, as I said, it has to be a conscious effort. We have to train our minds to stay in the moment. I promise you, it becomes easier over time.

Although the book focuses on "The Gift of the Present" {meaning, the present moment} it does make reference to the past and the future and provides strategies on how we can use both to make our lives better. One of my favorite chapters focuses around this very concept. Here are some of my favorite highlights:

• Living in the present means tuning out distractions and paying attention to whats important now. You create your own present by what you give your attention to today.

• Its hard to let go of the past if you have not learned from it. As soon as you learn and let go you improve the present.

• Anytime you are unhappy in the present or feeling less successful, it is time to learn from the past or plan for the future.

• Look at what happened in the past, learn something from it, use what you learned to improve the present.

• You may not be able to change the past but you can learn from it. If  the same situation arises you'll do things differently and enjoy a happier and successful present.

• No one can predict or control the future but the more you plan for what you want to see happen, the less anxious you are in the present, and the more the future is known to you.

• Beginning today: Think about what a wonderful future would look like, create a realistic plan to make it happen, put your plan in to action in the present.

I encourage you to check out the book. You can click on the link above (Amazon affiliate link) or simply borrow it from your local library for free! I truly believe this is a book you'll enjoy and may become a bookshelf favorite.

Spencer Johnson is one of my favorite authors when it comes to motivational literature. I've also read "Who moved my cheese" long time ago, another great book.

And that's all folks. Thank you for reading. Have a phenomenal Wednesday.

Tell me, what does living in the present mean to you? Have you read this book?

Love, 

Mabelle

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Fortunate Fridays {A mother's Love} Edition

Good day my loves!

Another Friday is upon us. Here I am to share the awesome things that happened this week, which I feel fortunate for.

As I've  previously mentioned, nobody's life is perfect but these posts give me the opportunity to remember to count my blessings and be grateful for the good things that happen in my life. And guess what, we can always decide that our lives are "perfect" based on our own definition of the word.

One thing is for sure, being grateful always brings positivism in to my life one way or another. So, I recommend you try it, even if its for one day, and see how you feel.

This week I feel fortunate for:

#1 My mothers health-- My mom had some issues with her arm this week and we were worried because she was in a lot of pain and in tears for days. Thankfully she was examined and she is okay other than having a 'frozen shoulder' (bursitis) which is currently being treated. I love my mom so much it made me sad to see her in so much pain. However, I am INCREDIBLY grateful and feel very fortunate that this is something that is being treated and she'll be back to her normal self in no time.

#2 A flexible schedule which I allowed me to accompany my mom to doctor's appointments- This is self explanatory but my flexible schedule came in at the absolute perfect time as I was able to help my mom through all her appointments as well as some chores around the house.

#3 My car- I may drive a 1997 Lexus but is my car and it takes me where I need to go safely and with no issues. That is all I need. I bought my car in a lump sum back in 2006 and its been one of the best investments I've ever made. I may "upgrade" at some point in the future but I am forever grateful for my wheels.

#4 The spontaneous decision to go pamper myself and get a manicure (its been a while)- I cant remember the last time I had my nails done. Today I went to the mall to get some pants for this weekend and wasnt able to find the pants. I was a bit bummed out but then came accross the nail spot and said to myself "why not?". I picked some "chocolate" flavor by Etsy and loved the color. Has to be one of my all time faves. Hope I am able to find it again next time I feel like having chocolate nails ;). Just because I felt like treating myself. Thankful for the ability to do so. The best $12 bucks I've spent in a while (including tip).

#5 My Love for cooking- I love making healthy and delicious meals for myself and whomever guest comes to my house. I find so much joy in preparing foods. I'd say my favorite meals to make are breakfast and then dinner. Lunch I usually grab something quick (still yummy, just quick because Im in the middle of the workday). Below is an example of a couple of things I had for dinner this week. If you follow me on Twitter I share a lot of the foods I make on there.

And that's all ladies and gents. Thank you for reading. Hope you ALL have a fabulous weekend.

Tell me, what is your favorite go-to dinner dish?

Love,

Mabelle

Mid Week Motivation 3: Vision Boards

Check out Mid Week Motivation 2 if you missed it.

Hello my loves,

Breakfast this morning: GF waffles, eggs, cafe

Good morning and happy hump day.

MWM series continues today with yet another tip to help you accomplish your dreams and make your life fabulous. Today I talk about my obsession with vision boards and I'd like to let you in a little secret: they do work!

Some people may be a little skeptical about sitting down with a bunch of magazine, glue, and white board ready to cut out appealing pictures, with the hope that those images may one day come true. "Vision-Boarding" (I think I just made that up) goes well beyond arts and crafts and is actually a HUGE stress reliever and a great way to lifts your spirits, envision a great life, and create the future.

I made my first vision boards back in 2011 and I still have them to this day. I can tell you that most of the items (symbolizing personal plans and dreams) did come true. 

After going through some tough times last year, I started making vision boards as a hobby. I'd grab my "materials" in the evening after a long day of work and start dreaming away. It became such a "feel good" project that I made several boards and they are all plastered all over my apartment.

I am telling you, one by one, the images I posted are manifesting themselves one way or another. I don't know what it is about envisioning positive things and putting them right in front of you that triggers manifestation.

Still skeptical? You don't have to take my word for it ladies and gents! Try it for yourself. If you are new at this, try making one during a relaxing evening when you are simply watching your favorite shows, listening to music, or just relaxing around the house. Grab some old magazines, glue and some cardboard. This is literally all you need:

• Glue stick (or any glue you have will do)
• Stack of old magazines with inspirational images (ie: Oprah, Health Mag, Shape, Glamour, Fitness)
• White board (you can find them at 99 cent stores usually 2 for $1)

Cut out inspirational images of things you'd like to see happen in your life. Put it up somewhere where you'll get to glance at it often and prepare for greatness.

If you have done this before, I'm sure you'd agree with me that this is quite magical.

...and even if you feel this may be too much work (trust me, it isn't and is so worth it) just putting up things around your place that inspire you and put a smile on your face should be enough. Here are some additional examples from around my apartment:

As always, would love to hear from you: feel free to share your vision board experiences below. Or, if you've never made one before, tell me why.

Love,

Mabelle 

March Goals!

Hello my loves,

Happy Monday. Another month has begun.

Breakfast: 2 boiled eggs, mini multigrain pancakes, cafe w/ soy milk. 

A new month represents a blank slate where absolutely anything can happen:

Besides my posts on 2015 objectives released back in January, I haven't really talked about month-to-month goals. However, I was inspired by other bloggers whom shared what they wish to accomplish in the next 31 days. So, here is my list:

1. Continue working out consistently and making a conscious effort to nourish my body with foods that are going to make me feel and be fabulous inside and out. Is totally okay to splurge from time to time but overall, I want to continue making good choices. 

2. Make a dentist appointment! and actually go in for a consultation. This is so long overdue I cant even begin to tell you.

3. Continue feeding my mind and "eyes" with inspirational podcast and TV/Online shows. I already have my 'set' shows but if you have any recommendations, please share.

4. Start decluttering my apartment one step at the time. Clean at least one of my closets and/or "messy drawers".

5. Continue my work in running and growing a profitable business, continue making time to do the things I love. Taking it one step at the time, one project at the time. 

Hope you all have a fabulous Monday! Lets do it. 

What are YOUR plans for this month? 

What I know for Sure Sundays III: Commitment & Consistency

Hello everyone!

Can you believe March is here? I realized it this morning when I took a quick glance at my Ipad and the date on the screen indicated the # "1"--  took me half a second to realize "its march 1st". This means spring is almost here. One of the things I am looking forward to is nicer weather so I can start running outside again, something I haven't done in quite some time. Mother nature has been a little tough on NYC this winter.

But anyways, here we are again with another edition of "What I Know For Sure Sundays". If you missed the other two posts, check them out here, #1 and here, #2.

Today I want to talk about the power of commitment and consistency. In all my life accomplishments there's always been a common theme. And this is what I know for sure:

"I've realized that when things get challenging as we work towards our goals; keeping a mentality of commitment & consistency is what allows us to keep going and push through".

We all face challenges in our lives when we are on our way to accomplishing our goals. Things may start out okay and easy to handle but many times they may start getting difficult and complicated. There will always be opportunities for us to get discouraged and take our eyes off the prize. However, if you make a deal with yourself from the very beginning to stay committed and consistent, you will get through the difficult times a lot easier than if you give yourself a chance to give up at the first sign of trouble.

From reaching my fitness goals, to passing super difficult classes in college and grad school, to accomplishing other life goals-  I've had many opportunities to throw in the towel either because I wouldn't see the results I wanted soon enough, or because I felt that despite my efforts I wasn't getting anywhere. In the times where I kept pushing through and remained committed and consistent despite my doubts, I eventually saw the light at the end of the tunnel and everything eventually fell in to place.

The mind is a powerful thing--- it can drag you to desperation and anxiety or it can motivate you to push through and thrive. So, during difficult times, I'd choose the latter and kept my eyes on the prize NO MATTER WHAT. Eventually, I'd see my way through.

Hence-- word to the wise: don't give yourself the opportunity to give up when things get difficult. Remember commitment and consistency are the key ingredients to get to where you want to go. It's worked for incredibly successful people in this world, its worked for me, and I'm sure it works for all human kind.

Tell me, do you have an example of a time in your life when it would have been easier to give up and you didn't? What did you learn from that experience?

What I know for Sure Sundays II: On the Topic of Happiness

Hello my beautiful followers,

Happy Sunday! As I do every Sunday, I start my day with a delicious breakfast, some reading, and then grab some tea to enjoy another episode of Super Soul Sunday (one of my favorite shows). I should be getting reading to head to church but wanted to leave you guys with today's 'what I know for sure Sundays' post. If you missed the first one from last weekend, you can check it out here.

The other day I was taking a shower after the gym and the following thought popped in to my head:

"I want to be the sole creator of my happiness. Anything else should be icing on the cake". 

Wouldn't you agree that often times we give the power of our happiness to others? I've read (and heard)  countless times that if we depend on outside forces to determine weather or not we will be happy- that is grounds for inevitable disappointment. Why? Because we don't have the power to control others. As the saying goes: "Each head is their own world". Thankfully, we have 100% power over ourselves and that is fabulous. 

I believe this quote (one of my favorites) may put things in to perspective:

"...The remarkable thing is we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past...we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude...I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it. And so it is with you...we are in charge of our attitudes.” 

― Charles R. Swindoll

So, remember this:

"....Tie your happiness to goals not people or objects" 

With that said, this is what I know for sure:

"We are the sole creators {and destroyers} of our happiness. Everything else is icing on the cake".

Tell me, would you agree with this? Why or why not? Would love to hear your thoughts!

Mid Week Motivation 1: Five Steps to a better life

Good morning sunshines,

Happy "hump day". My workday started pretty much at the crack of dawn and I was able to enjoy this delicious breakfast.

-Organic oatmeal made w/ almond milk. Toppings: Sliced almonds, PB, Cinnamon

-Cafe w/ soy milk.

So, there is this super motivational guy I've been following for years now (probably since 2011). His name is Martin Llorens and he is incredibly awesome. His content is all in Spanish so I apologize to all non-Spanish speaking followers. You can check him out on You Tube, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook.

He recently launched a series of videos on YouTube and I absolutely love them. I took some time late last night after my day was over to really listen to a few of the videos and take note. One of the videos really inspired me. So, for this Mid-Week motivation, I respectfully want to share the incredible message: Five ways in which you can lead a more positive, better life. And here is the run-down:

1. Take one minute every morning to imagine an incredible day ahead and a minute each night to think of at least 3 things that happened during the day for which you are grateful for.

2. Every day make sure you take notice of all the positive things you do and say throughout the course of the day. 

3. When negative thoughts come to your mind acknowledge them and then let them go. Make a conscious effort not to dwell on negative thoughts nor feed negative emotions.

4. Accept when people try to help you. Be thankful for it. Understand that you do enough to assist others in your daily life so there is nothing wrong to welcome help in to your life as well.

5. Start creating positive affirmation and positive thoughts. If necessary, play a 'game' with yourself of always finding the positive and 'flipping' any negative thoughts that come in to your mind in to positive thoughts. If necessary, write affirmations and put them inside your wallet; make boards with positive images and place them around your home.

Some of these steps I've already followed for a long time (i.e: making poster boards, and keeping positive affirmations all over my apartment). Others I found interesting and look forward to incorporating in to my life starting today. I've been on this quest lately to transform my body, mind, and spirit in to the best it can possibly be. It is a work in progress and I look forward to getting better and better each day.

Tell me, who do you look to for motivation? Do you follow any coaches or motivational 'gurus'? Share below!

How I feed my body and soul in the mornings for an incredible day

Happy Monday lovelies!

Most of us here in the U.S are enjoying a day off from work thanks to presidents day. However, as someone striving to grow their own business (I include myself in that bunch) there are no real days off. So, if you are working away like me, welcome to the club.

Breakfast this morning: Organic oatmeal made w/ almond milk. Added toppings: Sliced almonds + raisins. Cafe w/ soy milk on the side.

The purpose of this post is to share a little ritual I have for myself which allows me to start days on a positive note and carry on the momentum to the rest of my day.

I want to emphasize that I am aware most of us don't have to time to carry on any rituals. Specially early in the morning when most of us are rushing away to get to work on time and save the world before 9:00 am. What I have been trying to do is wake up earlier on most days (ie: 6 or 7 am) and use about 20-30 minutes of that extra morning time to complete my ritual.

In all honesty, weekdays are not always easy to make this happen so I take full advantage of weekend mornings as well as the days in which I have some time to spare (like today). Without further 'ado, here we go:

• Wake up early (or as early as I can): Set up the coffee maker and brew some coffee (or heat up water for tea, whichever you prefer) while I use the bathroom, brush my teeth, etc.

source

• Read for about 10-15 minutes while enjoying my beverage: I like to start things off with some motivational, "feel good" reading. Sometimes is an excerpt from the bible. However, you can also choose from a motivational book you may already be reading. Or, if you'd like some recommendations; any book by Joel Osteen is phenomenal for spiritual inspiration and motivation. Anything you choose to read make sure it something that makes you feel good and refreshed.

• Have my breakfast while watching some quick motivational videos: For the interest of time, I usually go on YouTube for about 10 more mins or so. Videos can also be from one of your favorite Vloggers or blogger. Whatever you find is visually appealing and makes you motivated and excited. Listen to your instincts. Some recommendations: Hip Hop Preacher, Super Soul Sunday video excerpt, Brian Tracy, Tony Robbins, Potters House, Joel Osteen Ministries . For my Spanish-speaking readers, I love this guy: Martin Llorens

• Practice some quick stretches and start getting ready for my day-- sometimes I hit the gym immediately after my ritual or head to work with a "is going to be a great day" attitude. 

As I mentioned, some of you may feel this is too much for the morning time (trust me, is not). However, if you feel that way-- start off by incorporating one or two of these tips in to your days. Or, simply wait for the weekend or your day off so you'll have more time to "indulge" in these rituals. 

I know for a fact I always feel great when I am able to carry these out. Try it for a week or so and let me know how you feel.

Thanks for reading!

Tell me, do YOU have any feel-good daily or weekly rituals you'd like to share?

Self-Love should ALWAYS comes first

There is one single lesson that the universe has been trying to teach me for a while and after about 30 years of life I think I am finally getting the hang of it...

When it comes to relationships I have been guilty of expecting others to love me when I didnt give myself the love and respect that I deserved. I used to hear the "cliche" saying of "love yourself first" all the time and always thought it was corny and dumb....until I realized it's far from it.

When you love yourself...

1. You dont accept poor treatment from anyone

2. You speak up for yourself

3. You make a conscious effort to treat your body, mind, and spirit with the respect it deserves

4. You walk away from anything and anyone that doesn't make you happy and doesn't add anything to your life

5. When you love yourself you show it by respecting yourself-- in every sense of the word.

This valentines day, whether you have a significant other or not or whether or not you have a hot date planned. I encourage you to think of yourself first. Are you happy? are you in a situation that is adding positivism to your life? are you doing everything in your power to make sure YOU are okay? (before anyone else). You may think that's selfish but, like in airplanes when the oxygen masks come down, unless you give yourself 'oxygen' how can you expect to give it to anyone else?

This morning my actions of self-love included: waking up bright and early and thanking God for yet another day. I then got a workout in:

(Gilad- my favorite work-out person, Jillian Michaels comes second ;)

 ...and made myself some delicious breakfast. 

Not my actual breakfast but close enough. Source

Now I am ready to enjoy my day to the fullest. And bonus: is my sister's bday! :) so, looking forward to time with the family and loved ones <3

Have a great one! And remember to LOVE YOURSELF UNCONDITIONALLY. 

With Love,

Mabelle

Fortunate Fridays! {proud of my friends} Edition

Hey All!

 

Hope everyone had an amazing week! My week had a lot going on but I am glad is finally Friday! I just had a chance to sit down and write this post. I should really consider being a "real" blogger and writing these things up in advance. However, until that happens, here is what I feel fortunate for this week:

 

1. My amazing friends, whom I am so proud of!!!

 

I believe I mentioned on my previous post that I spent last weekend at my friend's lake house up in Syracuse, NY. She bought the house a couple of year ago and I missed her house warming party due to a family thing I had going on during that time. I FINALLY had a chance to go up to see her this past weekend. When I walked in to her gorgeous home (with a gorgeous lake to match) all I could think about how immensely proud I am of her and all she has accomplished over the years. Nothing makes me happier than seeing my friends succeed and see the fruits of their hard work. Congratulations Lejla! and I wish you much more amazing things!

 

I took a gazillion pictures but here are a few:

 



Us on the boat (one piece borrowed from my friend because of course a forgot a bathing suit).

View toward the lake

View of the house from the lake

Osvaldo and I (thanks for driving :)

Lamija and I :)

The girls

 

2. My dad!!! It was my dad's birthday yesterday and I know I've probably said this several times on the blog but I love my dad to the moon and back. He's been such an amazing role model in my life and all good things I have I owe not only to my hard work but to his never-ending support in my life. I am so blessed to have him around and was a little sad I wasn't with him for his birthday. But I hope to make it up to him soon. Love you dad <3

 

 

3. My new found "hobbie"--Running!-- So I am living in a dorm room within GWU for the summer (long story on that one). I am not necessarily ecstatic to have a roommate or to spend every waking moment in a room without a television so, I have this new "thing" where I just go out and run. I like it and I feel my stamina getting better and better. Yayy!

 

4. An amazing lunch (and trying chicken pad thai for the first time)-- One of the executives from my job took the time to take me and another analyst to work and shared so much knowledge with us! I was just listening to him absorbing as much as possible. Its quite the amazing feeling when you have a chance to talk with smart people and take the time to listen, engage and just learn so much from them. Cheers to educational lunches:

 

 

 

 

..and ps: pad thai is delicious...yes. I've been living under a rock this whole time.

 

I'll keep it short today considering is late and I am tired. But, never forget that no matter the challenges we may face in life, there is always something to feel fortunate for.

 

I leave you with some random selfie I took yesterday before work:

 

...and with my favorite "meme" of the week:

Tell Me, How did you spend 4th of July weekend? anything exciting coming up this weekend?