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Grateful for it all (okay, most!)

Giving Thanks for What Has Come to Fruition… and for the Roadblocks, Too

As the November New Moon settles in, the world around us shifts into a season of gratitude. For many high-powered, high-achieving women (yes, including those of us who’ve navigated the legal world or other relentless professions), this time of year can stir up more than simple thankfulness. It can highlight the gap between what we hoped to accomplish and what actually unfolded. It can illuminate the places where we feel behind, blocked, or off track.

So, here’s a gentle reminder…that every step counts. Every humble reflection counts. Every season—bountiful or barren—has already been shaping you.

And this month, gratitude becomes both a practice and a perspective shift.

Before the mind jumps to the “not yet,” take a breath and acknowledge what has bloomed in 2025 so far.

It may not be the full harvest you envisioned back in January—and that’s okay. The seeds you planted have been taking root in ways you may not see yet. Think of the conversations that led to clarity. Value the unexpected opportunities that nudged you in a new direction. Relish the quiet realizations that shifted your priorities.

Gratitude is not only for the big wins. It’s also for:

  • The small but courageous decisions you made.
  • The boundaries you’ve boldly begun honoring.
  • The moments of rest you allowed yourself.
  • The creative flickers that whispered “try this” and you did.

If you’re reading this, you’ve already survived every challenge thrown your way this year—and you’ve done so with far more grace than you probably give yourself credit for. Give thanks for that.

The November New Moon invites us to see that fruition is not limited to outcomes.
Sometimes it’s found in inner alignment, strengthened resilience, regained presence, or a more compassionate relationship with yourself.

Gratitude for the Roadblocks (Yes, Really)

Gratitude becomes even more powerful—transformational, really—when we extend it to the things that slowed us down.  Roadblocks. Detours. Delays. They’re not always pleasant, but they aren’t signs of failure, either.

Often, they’re signs of protection, integration, or redirection.

Maybe that opportunity didn’t pan out because you needed more information—or because it wasn’t aligned with what’s best for you.

Maybe the delay forced you to reassess your energy levels, your priorities, or your support system.

Maybe the obstacle that felt like a setback is what preserved your sanity, your health, or your sense of professional integrity.

When you practice gratitude for the roadblocks, you reclaim your power. Instead of viewing yourself as “stuck,” you begin to see yourself as someone being repositioned for something better aligned.

This month, consider whispering:
“I trust that what didn’t move wasn’t meant to—yet.”

The New Moon’s Invitation: Gentle Encouragement for the Weeks Ahead

This November New Moon offers an opportunity to:

1. Slow down to get clear.

Instead of sprinting toward year’s end, let this be a moment to re-center. What matters most now? What feels meaningful to nurture, continue, or gently set aside?

2. Choose one thing to be grateful for every morning.

Not in a performative gratitude way, but in a grounding way. Let it be real, simple, and true.

3. Acknowledge the lessons in the challenges.

Don’t force a silver lining. Instead, look for even one small insight. Often, the lesson is: “This path didn’t light me up,” or “I matter, too.”

4. Allow yourself to pivot without guilt.

Grant yourself permission to adjust expectations—for the rest of the year and for yourself. You are not behind. You are right on time.

5. Let your nervous system lead.

If something feels tight, rushed, heavy, or draining, pause. Breathe. Consider whether the task itself needs attention—or whether you need attention.

6. Celebrate the near-wins, the tiny victories, the almost-there moments.

These matter more than you think. They’re indicators of momentum, not failure.

For Your Consideration:

For many, November can feel like a reckoning—a tallying of what we “should have” accomplished. Choose something different.

Choose to honor:

  • the progress you’ve made
  • the clearing you’ve done
  • the truth you’ve spoken
  • the resilience you’ve built
  • the compassion you’ve shown yourself and others

As the nights lengthen and the year winds down, let gratitude soften the edges.
Let it widen your perspective.
Let it remind you that you are, in fact, exactly where you need to be—not because everything is perfect, but because you are present, awake, and evolving.

Okay, your turn:

What are some ways you have gently, steadily, and with a sense of permission, chosen to honor both your progress and your pace?

I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!

© 2025 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.

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Abundant with possibility

Abundant with possibility

August is a threshold month. We find ourselves no longer in the full bloom of summer, not yet fully immersed in the crisp call of autumn. It is a space that could be thought of as the in-between—a time of somewhat longer shadows, more subtle mornings, with little hints of change on the horizon.

And isn’t that what much of our professional and personal lives are, too? A series of in-between spaces: transitions, pauses, and waiting rooms of the soul.

This August, may you embrace—not resist—the in-between.

Welcoming the In-Between

Career professionals are often conditioned to measure life by achievements: promotions earned, goals completed, deadlines met. Yet the truth is, much of life is lived in the liminal spaces—the stretches between what was and what will be.

These are not wasted intervals. They are fertile ground.

Think of August itself: the gardens ripen, but harvests have not yet fully taken their course. The air still holds summer’s warmth, but autumn whispers its approach. In the same way, the in-between offers ripening—quiet preparation for what comes next.

Instead of rushing to the finish line or clinging to what’s fading, what if we leaned into the mystery of the middle? What if we trusted the in-between?

For mid-career women, the in-between often shows up as:

  • Transitions at work: shifting roles, changing teams, or stepping into leadership.
  • Inner realignment: realizing old definitions of success no longer fit, yet not fully knowing what the new version will be.
  • Seasons of recalibration: caring for family, health, or personal projects alongside professional growth.

These are not detours. They are part of the path.

Sinking in with ease into the in-between doesn’t mean losing momentum—it means honoring the recalibration that ensures the next step is aligned and focused, not forced.

Here’s a brief but powerful way to honor the in-between space you find yourself in.

  1. Find stillness. Sit comfortably. Place your hands gently on your lap, palms up. Close your eyes.
  2. Breathe deeply. Inhale through the nose for a count of four, exhale through the mouth for a count of six. Do this three times.
  3. Visualize. Imagine yourself standing at a bridge. Behind you is what has been—perhaps a project, a role, or even an identity. Ahead of you is what has not yet arrived. Beneath your feet is the bridge—the in-between.
  4. Illuminate. Picture a soft lantern in your hand. As you stand on the bridge, lift it and allow the glow to illuminate the path just enough for the next step—not the whole journey, just the step you need right now.
  5. Affirm. Whisper to yourself: “I am safe in the in-between. I trust the timing of my life.”

When you’re ready, open your eyes. Carry the calm and clarity forward into your day.

For Your Consideration:

August reminds us that beauty exists in transitions. The sunsets lengthen, the cicadas sing, and we realize: life’s richness isn’t only in beginnings and endings—it’s in the becoming.

This month, give yourself permission to honor the spaces that don’t yet have a name. Trust that even in the uncertainty, light is present. You don’t need to know the whole map. You only need to carry the lantern that lights the step you’re on.

The in-between is not empty. Rather, it is abundant with possibilities.

Okay, your turn:

Where in your life or career are you in an in-between space right now? How do you tend to respond to the unknown—by pushing forward, or by embracing the stillness? What gifts might be waiting for you if you chose to relax in the “not yet” instead of anxiously rushing ahead?

I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!

© 2025 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.

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Sunny solstice vibes and strong resilience

As we bask in the afterglow of the summer solstice — the peak day of the year for abundant daylight — we enjoy the powerful light from the year’s high noon.

This time of year offers more than seasonal beauty — it offers a mirror. Take a moment to ask: Where am I standing in full light, and where might I be dimming my shine to survive the pace or politics of my profession?

Let’s shine that light on our career’s longevity. Shall we give it a wellness check? Career resilience isn’t about staying invincible — it’s about staying rooted. This is especially so in a changing world where industries shift, expectations escalate, and depletion threatens to set in.

This Solstice, let’s explore what it means to sustain both our ambition and our wellbeing.

At mid-career, it’s common to reach a quiet crossroads. You’ve built the skills. You’ve collected the titles. And yet… there’s a subtle tug, asking whether success as it’s been defined still fits who you’re becoming.

The Solstice offers a metaphor and a message: Things that have grown in shadow can now be seen. That may be in the form of patterns you’ve tolerated. Or, narratives you’ve accepted. Or, boundaries that have been bent or broken. All can come up for review.

Resilience doesn’t mean bouncing back to status quo. It means honoring your own evolution.

So instead of powering through, this season calls you to burrow inward — into clarity, into alignment, into a deeper level of self-respect.

Career Resilience, Redefined

Let’s retire the outdated model of career toughness that glorifies overworking and stoicism. True resilience today looks different:

  • It’s fluid, not rigid.
    (You adjust with grace, not grind.)
  • It’s values-led, not ego-driven.
    (You act from alignment, not from fear of falling behind.)
  • It’s sustainable, not sacrificial.
    (You protect your energy while you amplify your excellence.)

You get to honor your ambition and your boundaries. That’s not weak — that’s wisdom.

A Summer Solstice Self-Check

Here’s a quick check-in you can do in five minutes or less:

  1. Step outside into the light. Let the sun touch your skin, even if only for a few brief moments.
  2. Take three grounding breaths. Let each one drop you further into the present.
  3. Ask yourself: What’s one thing I need to say no to right now in order to say yes to myself?
  4. Write that one thing down. Declare it. Practice it.

Sometimes resilience is built in the smallest of refusals — refusing to self-abandon, refusing to over-commit, refusing to cower or shrink.

For Your Consideration:

You’ve already done the hard work of arriving where you are. The question now is how to remain there — and grow — without compromising your authenticity.

The Solstice doesn’t just celebrate the light outside — it honors the light within. Let that guide you forward, bravely, beautifully, and without undue sacrifice.

Okay, your turn:

What does resilience mean to you? Can you recall a moment in your life or career where you really dug down deep and anchored yourself in a way that helped you emerge even stronger than ever?

I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!

© 2025 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.

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Permission granted

The Power of Healthy Permission

After the surge of spring’s bloom and the bustle of early-year momentum, here we are approaching the midway point of the year. View this not as a halt, but a moment to regroup, re-center, and reconnect.

This new moon, what if you granted yourself permission?

Not the reluctant kind that comes with guilt or second-guessing. But full-hearted, grace-filled permission to slow down, take stock, and tend to your inner rhythm.

Think back to the intentions you set earlier this year. Maybe you are nurturing a creative dream, revamping your relationship with sleep, or learning how to better advocate for yourself. Maybe you are still unsure of what is shifting, only that something is.

Wherever you are, May is a natural time to check in—not with judgment, but with curiosity. Let this be your green light to listen to what you need.

There is power in permission. It is not passive—it is intentional. It is a sacred “yes” to your inner intelligence.

So, give yourself permission to rest without apologizing. To say no without explaining. To shift course without proving. To simply be—without the need to fix, finish, or perform.

Recharging is not avoidance.
Regrouping is not weakness.
Reassessing is not failure.

These are acts of radical clarity—

and essential steps on any path

that is rooted in soul truth.

For your consideration:

You do not need to justify realignment. You only need to remember that you are allowed—always—to care for yourself with kindness and clarity.

Let this be your consent form. Not to do more, but to be more present with what feels best in this moment.

And if you are only able to tend to one area right now, let that be enough. If your progress is quiet or nonlinear, let that be enough. If your biggest act of courage this month is relaxing and listening to hear what you need, let that be enough.

This is your month of permission.

Honor it. Embrace it.
And above all, trust it.

Okay, your turn:

When is the last time you cut yourself some slack? Can you do so now, in this very moment? Ease into the day or evening?

I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!

© 2025 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.

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Spring is here!

Spring has sprung!

Spring is a perfect time to reflect on the past few months and chart a course for the future. In this article, we’ll explore the essence of the spring season, review our progress since the start of the year, and outline actionable steps for making meaningful adjustments.

Embracing the Spirit of Spring

Spring symbolizes growth and rejuvenation. As nature awakens, it invites us to break free from the stagnation of winter. The longer days, warmer temperatures, and vibrant colors remind us that every ending carries the promise of a new beginning. Whether you’re tending to a garden or enjoying a hike in the mountains, spring’s energy encourages us to adopt a mindset of renewal and possibility.

Reflecting on the Start of the Year

The first three months of the year often set the tone for what follows. Now is the time to pause and consider the progress you’ve made. Ask yourself:

  • What priorities did you set at the beginning of the year?
    Reflect on your intentions, whether they pertain to personal growth, career objectives, or health and wellness.
  • Where have you succeeded?
    Acknowledge your wins—big or small—and celebrate the milestones that have contributed to your journey.
  • What challenges have you encountered?
    Understanding obstacles is crucial. Were there unexpected setbacks or changes in priorities that made certain goals harder to reach?

Taking this reflective inventory helps in recognizing both achievements and areas that require fine-tuning.

Identifying Areas for Improvement

Spring is not just a season of beauty—it’s also a great opportunity to reframe your strategies. Consider these aspects for adjustment:

  1. Desires for the year:
    Revisit your initial new year’s vision. Are your desires the same, or have they changed? Have they morphed into something even better?
  2. Time Management:
    Evaluate how you’re allocating your time. Are there tasks or commitments that no longer serve your primary objectives? Reducing or eliminating non-essential activities can free up time for pursuits that add real value.
  3. Wellness Practices:
    The journey to success is holistic. Incorporate practices that nurture your mental and physical well-being—regular exercise, mindfulness, and even moments of quiet reflection.
  4. Learning and Growth:
    Have you made time to learn new skills or expand your knowledge? Continuous improvement is key to both personal and professional development.

Action Steps for a Fresh Start

With reflection complete, here are actionable steps to harness the energy of spring and propel yourself forward:

  • Set Specific, Measurable Mile Markers. Define what success looks like for the remainder of the year. Instead of vague resolutions, establish clear targets. For example, if health is a priority, set a goal like “exercise for 30 minutes, five times a week.”
  • Create a Balanced Schedule:
    Use a planner or digital calendar to map out your day-to-day activities. Prioritize tasks that align with your desires and set aside time for self-care and learning.
  • Establish Accountability:
    Share your mile markers with a friend or join a community group that supports your ambitions. Accountability can increase motivation and provide a support network when challenges arise.
  • Practice Mindfulness and Reflection:
    Dedicate a few minutes each day to meditate or journal. Reflect on your progress, challenges, and successes. This habit not only reduces stress but also keeps your desires and intentions in full view.
  • Celebrate Small Wins:
    Recognize the progress you make, no matter how small. Celebrating these milestones reinforces positive behavior and motivates you to keep moving forward.

Why These Action Steps Matter

Implementing these steps is more than just ticking items off a checklist—it’s about creating a sustainable framework for growth.

  • Clarity and Direction: Clear mile markers provide a roadmap, reducing the chance of feeling overwhelmed or lost.
  • Increased Productivity: A structured schedule helps you manage time efficiently, ensuring that your energy is directed towards what truly matters.
  • Emotional Well-being: Regular self-reflection and mindfulness promote a balanced mindset, making it easier to navigate life’s inevitable ups and downs.
  • Community Support: Accountability fosters a sense of connection and encouragement, reminding you that progress is a shared journey.

For your consideration:

Embrace the renewal essence of the spring season. Review your progress since the start of the year. What’s worked so far? What needs more focused attention? Outline actionable steps for making meaningful adjustments. Do it before the end of this weekend.

Okay, your turn:

How’s your progress been so far this year? Have you revisited your theme or vision for this year?

I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!

© 2025 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.

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Fanciful Fusion of Fun and Fragrance

February unfolds as a fascinating mosaic of frosty fun and forward-thinking flair—a month that effortlessly blends the magic of winter with the promise of imminent renewal. With its mix of festive fervor, reflective moments, and a sprinkle of seasonal charm, February invites us to celebrate life in both its jubilant bursts and its quieter, introspective moments of repose.

A Month of Magic and Emergence

As the shortest month on the calendar, February may seem fleeting, but it packs an impressive punch of personality and poetic promise. The crisp, fragrant air carries a unique perfume—a blend of winter’s lingering chill and nature’s subtle prelude to spring. February offers a dual experience: a time to embrace both lively celebrations and the soft whisper of change.

Historical and Cultural Perspectives

February has long held a place in history as a month of both festivity and introspection. Ancient festivals and traditions celebrated this time of year as a period of purification and preparation, setting the stage for the eventual blossoming of spring. Today, these historical threads interweave with modern customs. The month is not only about love and romance but also about cherishing friendships and family bonds.

As you enjoy a frosty day or a festive gathering, consider how the traditions of yesteryear have influenced today’s celebrations, infusing each moment with a sense of purpose and connection.

Flavors, Festivals, and Fragrances

Beyond its historical significance, February is a sensory delight. Culinary enthusiasts revel in seasonal treats that are as flavorful as they are fun. Imagine enjoying a feast of comforting, aromatic dishes that perfectly mirror the month’s chilly charm—a veritable festival for your taste buds! Whether it is sipping on a fragrant spiced tea or savoring a hearty stew, each bite and every sip makes for a multisensory experience.

For Your Consideration:

Embracing the Chill and the Change

The gentle frost that decorates the landscapes of February is more than just a seasonal occurrence—it is a metaphor for life’s transient beauty. The chill in the air encourages us to draw closer to warmth, whether through the company of loved ones or the solace of personal reflection. In these cool moments, we find a powerful reminder that every ending, every freezing moment, is merely a prelude to transformation. The promise of spring lies just beyond the horizon, waiting to unfurl in a burst of colorful creativity and natural rebirth.

Reflection and Renewal

February’s dual nature—as both a time of celebration and contemplation—offers a unique opportunity for personal growth. The month gently nudges us to balance our inner lives with the external joys of the season. It invites us to pause, reflect, and prepare for the future with a spirit that is both free and focused. Whether you are reconnecting with old passions or discovering new interests, February serves as a fertile ground for introspection and renewal.

February is more than a mere marker on the calendar; it is a vibrant, multifaceted experience that celebrates life in all its forms. With its blend of festive energy, historical depth, and sensory delights, the month challenges us to find beauty in every moment—be it frosty or fragrant, fast-paced or reflective. As you navigate this marvelous month, let its fun and fanciful spirit inspire you to live with creative joy, embrace new beginnings, and cherish the subtle magic that lies within every fleeting moment.

Some recommendations:

  • Festive Celebrations: Embrace the lingering spirit of February by engaging in events into March that celebrate love, friendship, and creativity. Each festivity, from intimate dinners to grand parties, is an opportunity to revel in a blend of fun and finesse.
  • Fragrant Moments: Take time to notice the subtle, refreshing scents that characterize this time of year. Whether it is the crisp smell of freshly fallen snow or the hint of early spring hidden beneath winter’s surface, these fragrances are nature’s own celebration.
  • Forward-Thinking Flair: Let February inspire you to dream and plan. The month’s reflective quiet is a perfect backdrop for setting goals, embarking on new projects, or simply enjoying moments of mindful introspection.

Okay, your turn:

What would tickle your fancy this time of year? How about trying something new, or some things you’ve already done, but this time combining them into something new? I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!

© 2025 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.

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Welcoming February: Easing Into New Rhythms

As January draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and recalibrate. For many, January begins with a rush of ambition—fresh resolutions, bold plans, and the determination to tackle the year ahead. The initial burst of motivation can start to wane, however, as we juggle life’s demands. And that’s okay.

The end of January marks a natural shift. It’s a gateway into February, a month that invites us to find balance, embrace gentler rhythms, and focus on sustainable growth. If January is about setting the stage, February is about settling into the performance—with grace and ease.

Here’s how to transition smoothly and make the most of this fresh chapter:

Celebrate Your Wins—Big and Small

Before you dive into February, take a moment to recognize everything you’ve accomplished so far. Maybe you started a new habit, learned something new, or simply made it through a challenging day. Each of these is a victory worth celebrating. Write them down, savor them, and remind yourself that progress—no matter how small—is still progress.

Refresh Your Intentions

February is an excellent time to revisit and refine your goals. Instead of sticking rigidly to a resolution, think of it as evolving. Maybe you have discovered better ways to approach your objectives or uncovered new interests that excite you. Adaptation is key to long-term success and satisfaction.

Embrace the Power of Small Steps

In February, shift your focus from grand gestures to small, meaningful actions. Tiny, consistent efforts compound over time and are much easier to sustain. Whether it’s five minutes of meditation, a short walk, or sending a thoughtful text to a loved one, these micro-moments of intention can make a big difference.

Find Joy in the Everyday

February might be the shortest month, but it’s packed with potential for everyday joy. Lean into the little things that bring you happiness: a cozy cup of tea, a good book, a favorite playlist, or even just a moment of quiet. These simple pleasures can help you stay grounded and energized.

Connect and Recharge

Winter can sometimes feel isolating, but February is a great time to reconnect with your community or loved ones. A meaningful conversation or shared laughter can be deeply restorative. At the same time, honor your need for rest and recalibration.

Declutter Your Space

A clear space often leads to a clear mind. Use February to tackle small decluttering projects around your home or workspace. Even organizing one drawer or clearing off your desk can create a sense of accomplishment and make your environment more inviting. Is there something you can discard, or donate?

For your consideration:

February is your opportunity to ease into the year with intention, balance, and joy. It’s a time to honor both your aspirations and your need for rest, to celebrate progress and to embrace change. As the days grow a little longer and the promise of spring approaches, take heart in knowing you’re exactly where you need to be.

Here’s to a fulfilling February filled with small wins, meaningful connections, and a rhythm that feels just right for you.

Okay, your turn:

I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!

© 2025 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.

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A Time of Harvest and Gratitude

August

This month marks a period of transition and abundance as summer starts to wind down and autumn approaches. This month, often seen as the bridge between seasons, carries the themes of harvest, reflection, and preparation for the colder months ahead. Central to these themes is the celebration of Lammas, an ancient festival that marks the first harvest of the year.

The Significance of August

Named after Augustus Caesar, August is historically a time for various agricultural activities, as many crops reach their peak and are ready to be harvested. This month is associated with abundance, fulfillment, and the fruits of labor, both literally and metaphorically.

In the northern hemisphere, August is when communities come together to celebrate the bounty of the earth. Farmers’ markets are packed with fresh produce, and gardens are in full bloom. It is a month that invites us to enjoy the last days of summer and start thinking about the changes that autumn will bring.

The Celebration of Lammas

Lammas, also known as Lughnasadh, is celebrated at the beginning of August and is one of the four major Celtic festivals, alongside Samhain, Imbolc, and Beltane. The word “Lammas” comes from the Old English “hlaf-mas,” meaning “loaf mass,” reflecting the custom of baking bread from the first harvested grain and offering it in thanks.

Historical Roots

Lammas has deep roots in agrarian societies, where the first harvest of grain was a critical time. This festival was an occasion to give thanks for the abundance of the earth, ensure the continuing fertility of the fields, and prepare for the upcoming winter. Communities would gather to share food, stories, and music, reinforcing social bonds and collective gratitude.

Modern Celebrations

Today, Lammas is celebrated by various groups, including those with an interest in ancient traditions. The themes of Lammas remain relevant: gratitude for the harvest, recognition of the cyclical nature of life, and preparation for future challenges.

Common Practices:

  1. Baking Bread: One of the most cherished traditions is baking a loaf of bread from the first grain harvested. This act symbolizes the transformation of the earth’s bounty into sustenance.
  2. Feasting: Lammas feasts often include fresh fruits, vegetables, and other seasonal foods. It is a time to enjoy the abundance of the harvest and to share it with others.
  3. Crafting Corn Dollies: Creating corn dollies from the last sheaf of grain is a traditional craft. These dolls are often kept until the next planting season as a symbol of hope and fertility.
  4. Nature Walks: Connecting with nature through walks or hikes is a common way to celebrate Lammas. Observing the changes in the landscape and gathering wildflowers or herbs can deepen one’s connection to the natural world.
  5. Community Gatherings: Whether through festivals, fairs, or small community events, coming together to celebrate Lammas reinforces the bonds between people and highlights the importance of community support.

Reflections and Intentions

Lammas is a time for reflection on personal growth and achievements. Just as farmers assess their crops, individuals can take stock of their own lives, celebrating successes and learning from challenges. It is a moment to set intentions for the rest of the year, focusing on what needs to be nurtured and what can be released.

Themes of Gratitude and Abundance

The themes of Lammas are universal and timeless. Gratitude for the abundance in our lives, whether it is in the form of food, relationships, or personal accomplishments, is central to the celebration. Recognizing and appreciating what we have harvested in our own lives encourages a positive outlook and a sense of fulfillment.

Preparation for Change

August and Lammas remind us that change is constant and that we must prepare for it. As farmers prepare their fields for the next planting season, we too must prepare for the transitions in our own lives. This preparation can be practical, such as planning for future projects, or emotional, such as letting go of past grievances.

For Your Consideration:

August, with its rich mix of warmth, abundance, and impending change, is beautifully captured in the celebration of Lammas. This festival invites us to pause, give thanks, and prepare for the future.

  1. Set aside 15 minutes to reflect and journal on what has come into your “harvest” since the start of the year.
  2. Give thanks in humble gratitude for what has come into your life this year, and recognize all the bounty that surrounds you.
  3. Prepare for your future, by celebrating in a practical way that which you would like to continue harvesting – – Some ideas: make an altar; create a bird feeder; collect something of value that you have brought into “3D” and place it in front of you to see daily between now and the next harvest.

Consider how life and love appear all the sweeter when you take stock of all that you have, instead of what may seem to be lacking.

Okay, your turn:

Where in your life do you feel most abundant? Would you like to receive even more in that area? Or, perhaps you would like to harvest a greater abundance in a different area? Which will you choose?

I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!

© 2024 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.

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Embracing the Summer Solstice: Bright Lights and Peak Point Reflections

As the ‘longest’ day of the year, the Summer Solstice is a time of abundant sunlight and warmth, offering a perfect opportunity for reflection and rejuvenation. This annual event, occurring this year on June 20th in the Northern hemisphere, symbolizes not only a peak in daylight but also a peak in our own personal energies and potential.

Strength of the Summer Solstice

The Summer Solstice has been celebrated for centuries across various cultures, marking a time of fertility, growth, and renewal. It is a day when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky, casting the longest shadows and reminding us of the power and vitality of light. This day invites us to soak in the solar energy, embrace the warmth, and ignite our inner fire to pursue passions and goals.

Here are some ways to maximize your experience during the Summer Solstice:

  1. Reconnect with Nature: Spend time outdoors, whether it is hiking, gardening, or simply enjoying a picnic in the park. Nature has a way of grounding us and providing a fresh perspective on life.
  2. Engage in Creative Pursuits: Use the extra daylight to explore creative hobbies such as painting, writing, or playing music. Creativity can be a powerful outlet for expressing your innermost thoughts and feelings.
  3. Practice Mindfulness and Gratitude: Take a moment to reflect on what you are grateful for. Mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga can help you stay present and appreciate the beauty of the moment.
  4. Connect with Loved Ones: Strengthen relationships by spending quality time with family and friends. Host a solstice gathering or a bonfire to celebrate the day together.
  5. Pursue Personal Goals: Reignite your passion for personal projects or set new goals. The solstice is an excellent time to tap into your ambitions and take actionable steps towards achieving them.

For your consideration:

The Summer Solstice is more than a seasonal event; it is a powerful reminder of the light and potential within us. By embracing this time to reconnect with nature, pursue passions, and reflect on your journey, you can bask in the light that burns from above and from within your spirit. I invite you to harness the strength of this potent time to live life to the fullest as you make an inventory and assessment at this energetically highest peak of the year.

Here’s how you can make the most of this reflective period:

  • Review Your Aspirations: Reflect on the aspirations you set at the beginning of the year. What have you accomplished? What needs more attention? Adjust your plans as necessary to stay on track.
  • Evaluate Your Well-being: Consider your physical, emotional, and mental health. Are you taking care of yourself? Identify areas where you might need to focus more energy, such as exercise, diet, or mental health practices.
  • Reflect on What You have Learned: Celebrate your progress, and acknowledge the lessons you’ve learned. Understanding what worked well and what did not can guide you in making better decisions moving forward.
  • Set New Intentions: The halfway point of the year is a great time to set new intentions. What do you want to achieve in the coming months? Write down your intentions and make a plan to pursue them.
  • Recenter Yourself: Strive for a centered life. Ensure that your personal, professional, and social aspects are harmoniously aligned. This fosters overall well-being and sustained success.

Okay, your turn:

What will you be doing this upcoming Solstice? I’ll be noticing the light as it brightens my steps that carry me through the wilderness.

I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!

© 2024 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.

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New growth

New growth

In the quiet hush of dawn

Where shadows flee

and light finds room

There blooms

in nature

a sacred place.

From earth’s deep heart,

a whispering call,

In every bud

in each verdant sprawl

Renewal sings

above it all.

New life appears

Without compare.

The song of birds

in skies above

A chorus of hope

Amongst the doves.

In the garden of our souls,

Let seeds of courage softly unfold

As we set new goals

Arising anew

The vibrant blooms

forever bold.

Okay, your turn:

When you envision growth and renewal, what opportunities does it bring forward for you and in your life?

I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!

© 2024 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.
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