This was not the scheduled post, and if you are a regular reader of Here We Are you know that I stay away from all things political. This article is not a political statement, but it is a suggestion that kindness in all matters will win the day. There is a reason we have... Read more →

I either bought a card with this picture on it to give or received it... Either way, it carries my message at that time and today. I took a picture of it then because I knew I wanted to share it with the Here We Are readers, listeners, viewers, and Better Brighter Easier shoppers.... Read more →

It seems that there is a lot of somethin' somethin' going on in life lately, not just for me but for a lot of people around me. Whether your car gets creamed by a woman with purple hair driving a Hummer (yup, this happened), your house renovation stalls because of a nosey neighbor's interference,... Read more →

"It's Never Too Late" seems like an odd title for a holiday post, but as we close out yet another year, it is a good time to think on all the things we still want to do in life. As we know, each day is a gift, and when one suffers the loss of... Read more →

After the horrific events that took place this week in Las Vegas, like everyone else I find myself speechless and heartbroken. I've been struggling all week to figure out what I can say, write, or do to help. When I looked at the Here We Are editorial calendar for ideas, every item of better,... Read more →

I came across this fun, little diddy on Instagram this winter. I thought I'd repost it for you since it never hurts to revisit a few, fundamental ideas as we reflect on this past winter season and move into a new one... Welcome Spring!! All I need to know about life I learned from... Read more →

Life is short... EAT CAKE! Whatever the "cake" is in your life, devour it with gusto, enjoy it fully, then worry about it later. This Two Word Tuesday is dedicated to my late friend, Sandra, on the first anniversary of her passing. It's hard to believe that it's been a year since I wrote... Read more →

Every year we talk about what we want to do that is new or different, or simply adjusted, to create a more complete, happier life. This year, I propose that you let yourself shine... Allow your light to be brighter, bolder, and more colorful than the rest. Stand with confidence to SHINE and sparkle... Read more →

Chinese fortune cookies are fun, crispy treats that we break open to get a little "gift of wisdom" hidden inside. Some are funny, some don't make sense, and others offer a message we need at the right time. Whether you believe they are fate, fortune, future predictions, or plain old folly, these sweet notions... Read more →

Last summer, I took this picture... I don't remember now if it was a sunrise or a sunset. It seems appropriate with the sentiment of the quote, "Life is made up of two dates connected by a dash... Make the most of your dash." Over the past few weeks, since my friend unexpectedly passed... Read more →

Be patient! No matter what it is that is NOT happening in your life, just wait it out by being patient. Your personal timetable may not be lined up quite right with things beyond your control. Everything takes the time it takes, whether we like it or not. Perhaps you are working hard to... Read more →

Wherever you are, and wherever you go, keep your Eyes Open. As we try to heal from the recent events in Paris, France, and the many other tragic incidents that plague our planet, it is time to be more aware of every thing and every one around you. While we are all saddened, I... Read more →

No matter where you live on this earth, we are all forever touched by the heinous acts that pierced Paris on November 13, 2015, and with it, our hearts. I've been sitting at my desk for a while trying to find the right words for this week's #TwoWordTuesday… The more I search, the simpler... Read more →

"Every day, be full of awareness of the beauty around you. Be full of gratitude for friends and family, for the goodness you find in others, for your health and all you're capable of. Be full of acceptance of yourself and others - without conditions or judging - knowing that differences and changes make... Read more →

Happiness... Ahh, the elusive feeling every person seeks as the answer to their life's search. It's the reason we set goals, make resolutions, wipe the slate clean at the turn of each new year. Ask anyone what they want from life and you are sure to hear, "I just want to be happy." This... Read more →

This is my wish for you: Comfort on difficult days, smiles when sadness intrudes, rainbows to follow the clouds, laughter to kiss your lips, sunsets to warm your heart, hugs when spirits sag, beauty for your eyes to see, friendships so that you can believe, confidence for when you doubt, courage to know yourself,... Read more →

Recently, I was in my car sitting at a red light. While waiting, I glanced over at the sidewalk to see a bright green bench hand-painted with the phrase: Plant Kindness & Gather Love! The light changed to green so I missed the chance to take a picture to share it with the Here... Read more →

Here We Are ending a year that, for many, has been more than forgettable. May any sour experiences you or your loved ones tasted in 2012 be washed away with the sweetness of only good things in 2013... Here's to love, health, understanding, compassion, clarity, hope, achievement, friendship, and the reward of your dreams... Read more →

At this time of year, I usually write a "Happy Holidays" article. This year, in light of the recent evil that took place in Newtown, Connecticut, it doesn't feel right. I, like so many of the broken-hearted, search for answers, pray for the families, demand significant change in the gun laws, and hope that... Read more →

At this time of year, everyone is talking about "gratitude." Like so much in our media-centric society, it seems a bit overused; especially at Thanksgiving. With all the craziness going on in the world, it might be a bit hard to muster right now. Try thinking in terms of how lucky you are -... Read more →

Hurricane Sandy blew in showing everyone unexpected, eye-opening revelations about life, property, and the value of simplicity. While the lesson may be different for each of us, the unifying message is that the collective spirit is greater than any one individual. Light supports our endeavors, and more importantly, our wellness. Whether it's in your... Read more →

One must also accept that one has "uncreative moments." The more honestly one can accept that, the quicker these moments will pass. ~ Etty Hillesum Sorry that I've been out of pocket lately; fast-spinning balls have been bouncing all around me and I had to play a little hookie... I'm back and I look... Read more →

Like a ladybug landing on the sweet spot of a daisy... Summer is the time for simplicity. Slow down and sync up with what makes you happy! Let yourself be silently drawn by the stronger pull of what you really love. ~ Rumi Read more →

Last week, a society, a country, a culture, viewed the worst humanity has to offer. In a few terrifying moments, a creature of evil exposed his darkness in the glow of the silver screen, forever marring the lives of those anticipating an exciting, temporary diversion from real life. During a summer tradition, the blockbuster... Read more →

No matter what it is you want, time is of the essence. Ask yourself, "Who, what, where, when, why, and how?" Answer these questions once and for all, and remember... You can have anything you want if you want it desperately enough. You must want it with an inner exuberance that erupts through the... Read more →

Life's circumstances are not always what you may wish them to be. The pattern of life does not necessarily go as you plan. Beyond any understanding, you may at times be led in different directions that you never imagined, dreamed, or designed. (via positive-thoughts.typepad.com) via billvanloan.typepad.com This weekend, a relative of mine was hit... Read more →

Today is the official start of the holiday season, beginning with Hanukkah, followed by Christmas, which kicks off Kwanzaa. Whatever holiday you celebrate, in addition to health and happiness, I wish for you a gift similar to the one I received this morning. During an early morning phone call, a regular reader of Here... Read more →

If you are feeling a bit like everything you do these days takes extra time and effort, you are not alone. Perhaps it's the change of seasons, too many to-do's on your list, or the wild energy after the crazy weather patterns of late... Whatever the reason, the ABC's to living life more fully... Read more →

A quick, but important reminder... The previous minute as well as the next one are not as important as the present moment. ~ Gregory Zeorlin, Artist If you don't know Gregory and his artwork, you will. Allow me to introduce you to his talent, poetry, and imaginative work. Gregory Zeorlin is an artist who... Read more →

Having trouble achieving your dreams? You must begin the process of Think It, See It, Believe It, Be It. This isn't mumbo jumbo; many who have reached out and grabbed what they wanted began this way. The simple truth is that thoughts become things... think about the Eiffel Tower, aviation, and the Internet, to... Read more →

I wanted to share this with the Here We Are readers... Hope it makes you smile! Last summer, I encountered a little creature who was determined to get things done on a hot, sunny day. Even though she appeared very annoyed by me and my pesky camera, she stuck to her agenda of moving... Read more →

A weekend reminder... With all the crazy, heartbreaking events - both man-made and natural - happening around the globe, try to have fun. This doesn't mean to ignore or downplay the tragedies that have spun the world upside down... But do remember how lucky you are and enjoy yourself whenever you can, because things... Read more →

At its core, Here We Are is about the value of "time" in all its meaning and intangibility. As the devastating earthquake that ravaged Japan today ripples its energy across the world, one's appreciation for life, love, and each moment is shaken awake with clarity. Along with thoughts and prayers, I offer the wise... Read more →

It's over a week since 2011 began. How's your New Year's resolution working out for you? If your answer is "not so hot," or you already forgot what it was, it's time to assess your reality in a new, more efficient, and effective way. We can talk about resolutions until hell freezes over. The... Read more →

As we trek into another year, let this proverb guide our way... Happy New Year! Fear less, hope more; Whine less, breathe more; Talk less, say more; Hate less, love more; And all good things are yours. ~ Swedish Proverb Read more →

If we take care of the moments, the years will take care of themselves. ~ Maria Edgeworth, Author, 1767-1849 ❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅❅ To all the readers, friends, and family who are with me throughout the year... May you each receive the gift of wonderful moments this season. ~ Luci Read more →

It's the time of year when the daylight darkens too soon and the weeks fall away like the leaves... It's also a time when we can forget our greater purpose or stray from our mission. As busy women, we can become too busy to live our lives. This sounds odd, but if you are... Read more →

"Use it up, wear it out, make it do or do without!" More great advice from Yvonne Costin, featured woman & business owner for the Here We Are spotlight article WOMB: Woman On a Mission in Business. Read more →

Lately, it seems everyone I encounter is struggling with one thing or another. The trends are: life is getting in their way, they are revisiting old wounds, or change is presenting unexpected difficulties. If you are picking up on this energy in your life, these vital petals of wisdom can shine rays of sunshine... Read more →

Happy Mother's Day to all the Moms, Aunts, & Grandmas making a difference in someones life! Sooner or later we all quote our mothers. ~ Bern Williams Isn't this the truth? Mine is, "Stop complaining and start doing." What's the phrase or quote you hear yourself repeating? Read more →

Shades of Chartreuse: Freshly Green Tips from Here We Are Happiness is a butterfly, which when pursued, is always just beyond your grasp, but which, if you will sit down quietly, may alight upon you. ~ Nathaniel Hawthorne Last week, a good friend gave me a card with this saying simply because she saw... Read more →

As another year has closed behind us, here is a wonderful list for making the most of the days ahead. Avoid Botox Bloom Late Celebrate Dance At Weddings Eat More Chocolate Fall In Love Again Go Grey Hold Hands Inspire Jettison Grudges Kiss Like You Mean It Laugh Mend Fences Nurture Friendships Open Doors... Read more →

Happy 2010! Wishing you the best for a wonderful new year and a prosperous decade ahead! Never put off till tomorrow what you can do today. ~ Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826), 3rd US President, 1801-1809 ********************************************************************************************************** To all the HWA readers and subscribers: Thank you for a wonderful 2009, we look forward to sharing 2010... Read more →

A note from my house to yours... Wishing You A Joyful Holiday Season! ~ Luci May your walls know joy; may every room hold laughter and every window open to great possibility. ~ Mary Anne Radmacher Read more →

This weekend, as you celebrate, remember these words of wisdom... Never eat more than you can lift! ~ Miss Piggy, Muppet & Proud Pig Read more →

Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower. ~ Albert Camus Savor the next thirty-nine days of autumn...Enjoy the orange, burgundy, and yellow leaves as they delicately swirl past your window, breathe the fresh air, bite into a crisp apple, plant your mums. Today, my friend, RayDeen, posted a note on... Read more →

Life is like a piano...what you get out of it depends on how you play it. ~ Unknown What tune is written on the sheet music of your life? Is it happy? Could it be more dynamic? It may be time to rewrite the song and start tapping out the sounds you want to... Read more →

I will not resign myself to the lot of women who bow their heads and become concubines. I wish to ride the waves, tame the tempest, kill the sharks. I have no desire to take abuse. ~ Trieu Thi Trinh, 222 A.D - 248 A.D Trieu Thi Trinh wished for freedom and fought an... Read more →

RISKS To laugh is to risk appearing the fool. To weep is to risk appearing sentimental. To reach out for another is to risk involvement. To expose feelings is to risk exposing your true self. To place your ideas, your dreams, before a crowd is to risk their loss. To love is to risk... Read more →

Remember even though the outside world might be raining, if you keep on smiling - the sun will soon show its face and smile back at you. ~ Anna Lee (1913-2004) Since Here We Are launched in October 2008, readers from over 70 countries have joined us. Wherever you live in the world, weather... Read more →