Cherished Family, Friends, Blessings & Challenges

Dear Reader,
I wish you all the best as we approach the end of this year and a new beginning in 2010. I am taking time to reflect on my blessings and challenges. My greatest blessings are friends and family, work that I am passionate about, good books and food, and a raised consciousness. My greatest challenges have been making some transitions in this current economic climate and honoring relationship dynamics. I have made some changes now that will inspire and encourage me even more in next year.
With warmest regards,
Marguerite
PS-Sending a special shout out to my cherished sister, sister-friends and dear friends. I wonder if you know Just How Much you helped me with your humor, encouragement, compassion and generosity?

Tribute to Frank McCourt

I participated in a tribute to Frank McCourt, Irish American author, at The Book Stall in Winnetka, IL. Though I had read Angela's Ashes years ago, I read the book again in order to select excerpts to share with the audience. I rarely have the time or energy to read the same book twice, as there are so many book from which to choose, but what I discovered is that I was in a such different place, so reading the book again was a new experience. And there were things that Frank wrote about that really popped in a different way in light of the fact that he is now dead. I appreciate the legacy that Frank McCourt leaves.

Ohad, My Co-author and Friend

It was really exciting to work with Ohad Shilo on this book project. I learned a lot from him about coping with change, never giving up and getting from your present situation to where you want to be. In the course of writing the book, Ohad was transferred because of his job. He and his family moved; these major life transitions could have been an excuse for not completing the tasks, but no, Ohad stayed focused. His actions continued to move us forward. Even if you feel like you are taking baby steps, that is better than taking no action or moving backwards.

Keep the Faith

Feeling overwhemled by changes? Focus on one thing that will help you cope and move forward. Do something each and every day to move you closer to your goal. Spend time with positive people and limit time with negative people; this includes friends and family. To destress, keep photographs handy. These photos might be nature scenes, a home you love, a person or pet, an item that you want. You can bridge the gap between your present circumstances and where you dream of being. Keep the faith.............

Positive Energy, Challenges, Hope and Blessings

These are very challenging times. Surround yourself with people who have positive energy, who make you laugh and who encourage you. Distance yourself from negative and critical people. You are way more than your job. Continue to strive to be compensated fairly. Cut back on expenses while we navigate these tough times. Find your passion. Be of service to others. Embrace serenity. Spend some quiet time with yourself. Perhaps you can do this at home or at your local bookstore or library. Read whatever resonates spiritually for you, in addition to what interests you. Balance solitude with socialization. Participate in a group. Here are some ideas for positive group energy: Toastmasters International, a writers group, or a support group. Continue to have hope. As you read this, I am sending blessings your way.

Coping with Change

Are you experiencing change overload? Rapid fire changes at work, at home, and with the economy? This is a place where you will find:

• enouragement



• helpful tips for coping with change



• validation that you are not alone

We will be discussing the book Leading Change and Navigating Success: Bridging the Gap, by Ohad Shilo and Marguerite O'Connor. If you feel like you have done your best and you are in the struggle of your life, come here and share your concerns.