Recognize significant moments by taking time, through ritual or celebration, and you will deepen your experience, create powerful memories, and reap profound rewards. You will transform moments and experiences that might have been missed, in the quick passage of time, into sacred milestones. -cw

There has been much in the news over this past year about "the little book that could" (Mountain Xpress review), The Woman's Field Guide to Exceptional Living.

I am taking time today to celebrate my first year as a published author. As part of that celebration I'll share some of my favorite features and mentions:

• One just in today! Diva of the Month. I've always wanted to be a Diva! Thanks Lori at Foundation Coaching!

• Mark Victor Hansen's very cool video testimonial

• One of my favorite reviews of the year recently came out by Womenwriters.net. Here is a excerpt:

"Unlike many self-help authors, Woods boasts an impressive pedigree of practical work experience as a life-coach, women’s retreat leader, change facilitator, and personality-analyst. Luckily she’s used that varied experience to create a short self-help book. Yes, you read that correctly. It is short, only 179 pages long, and blissfully free of long-winded case histories and ponderous introductions to basic concepts."

• Comments from women I admire mean so much to me ...

"The Woman’s Field to Exceptional Living is beautiful to look at and a pleasure to hold. The real treat however comes within its pages as Corrie Woods presents nurturing and practical suggestions for stepping out of the ordinary and into your fullest life." – Victoria Moran, author of Creating a Charmed Life

"Corrie Woods’ message—and the positive way she delivers it—not only reminds us that our lives are full of possibility, but also gives us practical tools for stepping into a richer, fuller–and yes, happier–way of being in the world. Wonderful!"  - Abby Seixas, author of Finding the Deep River Within     

"It’s a feel good book that does wonders for the heart." - Dotsie Bregel, founder of The National Association of Baby Boomer Women

• Yes, awards are fun too!

One of my bravest moments of the year came when I stood in front of a camera to share a bit about my book. You can view the video in my archives.

This was a big stretch!

You can always check out the latest at The Book.

Ah, that is the real value of ritual and celebration. You intentionally take time to savor, to make sacred, and to relish. It can support closure or pop the lid on something new. Further, it can create a rich, powerful memory to cherish for a lifetime.- cw

In what ways can you celebrate 2008?

Is your life flat or full? Is your life one-dimensional
or multi-faceted?

Do you see life in black and
white or in technicolor? - cw

2008 has been a year of playing with perspective for me. Am I clearly viewing something or are my filters on high alert? We all view life through filters, but the thicker the filters, the more distance between us and the experience.

Playing with this idea while reflecting back upon some peak moments in 2008 brings the following photos to mind. I won't share the story or the setting, just the image.

I invite you to sit for a spell and soak them up. Without my interpretation, I wonder what comes up for you?

My wish, for you and I both, is that 2009 rolls out  with plenty of beautiful, intriguing, peak moments, and that our vision is crystal clear to appreciate them all as they unfold.

One person, one woman, can light up the world! - cw

A Year of Exceptional Women

What began as a desire to share with my readers news about women doing cool things, has evolved into a stellar line-up of extraordinary women and a web project that shines of collaboration.

I have carefully selected women whose work in the world I admire and who have deep roots and big hearts. Unlike so many projects on the web, there never has been and never will be an affiliate twist to this. What I mean by that is that women do not pay to be featured, and I do not pay for their collaborative efforts. It is all about win/win and enthusiastically supporting each other in fun and flow ways.

This project has given me the opportunity to meet wonderful women, to spread the word about great books, practitioners, and causes, and to play in a bigger sandbox. Very fun and I'm just getting started!

There are currently 28 women featured at Spotlight on Exceptional Women and many more are up and coming. 

I am taking time today to look back over these Exceptional Women pages and to marvel at all the good that is being done in the world by this small collective. Too, I am opening up to new women entering my life who can contribute to, inspire, and touch us in meaningful ways in 2009.

If you have suggestions, get in touch!

One person's belief in my gifts and greatness can set miracles into motion. - cw

2008 has been a year of so many surprises and so many wonders. As I look back, I am struck by the people who have supported me, believed in me, and who, in a variety of ways, have chosen to play with me.

Here is one example:

There is this amazing woman who I have known in some measure for years. She and I experienced life as southern girls/women in Birmingham, Alabama. We've walked unique paths, trail-blazed our way through the world in off-beat and impassioned ways, and we've seen life through the lenses of two different generations.

I have come to admire and adore this woman because of the courageous way she shows up in her life, because of her passion for life-long learning, growing, and evolving, and because she has that special something.

When I first approached Marilyn about my wild idea to write my first book, The Woman's Field Guide to Exceptional Living, she was able to see clearly past the unpolished writer and straight into the heart of a woman passionate about helping others. She said just the right words at just the right time to both encourage me and make me step up to the plate.

That support at a critical moment helped me to move forward rather than to shrink back. It truly set miracles into motion.

I pause today to appreciate the impact of wonderful people in my life, like Marilyn McGuire, and to set my sights on being that kind of person, that kind of miracle-maker, for others in 2009.

The greatest gifts so often come in the gnarliest packages. - cw

In 2008, thanks to fascinating health challenges, I ...

• discovered the healing and inspiring benefits of mandalas

• carved a whole new place in my heart for those who suffer from chronic illnesses

• had my mind blown and my health catapulted to new levels at a magical place called Sanoviv

• learned, yet again, the benefits of sitting still and listening to the language of my body

• was reminded of the beauty that comes when I focus on all that I can do rather than on the few things I cannot

• was powerfully reminded how blessed I am to be surrounded by such loving friends and family

• learned just how strong I am and that I know how to reach for help when I need it

and, in 2008, thanks to fascinating health challenges, I

• played tug-o-war with patience and impatience and patience won out (most of the time)
  

The Circle Within:

Magical artwork and mandalas!

Chris Baschon is an amazing teacher of the art of mandalas and a talented artist. Visit her site to be inspired, order a beautiful piece of artwork, and to learn more about mandalas.

"Reader's Circle seeks to renew the spirit of dialogue that animated the coffeehouses of early modern England and the salons of Enlightenment France.

Are you looking to start or join a book club? Welcome! We're a book club networking site serving the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand with listings for local groups, author events, and phone chats."

Reader's Circle currently has 814 book listings and 189 authros available for over-the-phone visits with groups that have selected their book."

Girlfriend Celebrations - Strengthening Women's Friendships

"Girlfriend relationships are powerful–they give us strength and keep us grounded. But in the daily rush of living, we often become “unplugged” from this source of energy.

GirlfriendCelebrations.com is here to help you reconnect! We created this site as a resource, gathering place, and forum for women interested in forging, honoring, and strengthening female friendships."

Divine Caroline - Fabulous collection of stories, wise words, tips. and reviews.

"We knew early on that we wanted to use a woman's name. It so happens that one of our founders has a dear friend whose name is Caroline. She's a warm, smart, adventurous woman who you'd like instantly. "Caroline" rhymes with Divine - a word that describes every single woman we know who's working to compose a life. So we went with it. But the site isn't about any "one" woman. It's about every woman and the bonds that connect us even though we've never met."

Have you got a great recommendation? Let us know about it!

Imagine finding just the right gifts for all the women in your life – and spending less that $20 per person! Imagine gifts that keep on giving each time you come back to them. And imagine giving gifts that uplift, inspire, nurture and bring put smiles on the faces of your loved ones!

As I approach the holiday season it occurs to me that some of my greatest treasures are books and what a cool gift to give. With this in mind, I came up with my top-ten list of gift books for 2008 (See article at DivineCaroline). The list represents a blend of fun, deep, rich, and playful titles. I’ll be checking off my holiday list with these books. Perhaps there are some gems here to help you with your list. Note: each book is followed by a review from another author worth checking out!

1. Of course, the number one title on my list is The Woman’s Field Guide to Exceptional Living: Practical Steps for Living a Big, Bold, Beautiful Life!. “Corrie Woods offers an irresistible invitation and resourceful guide to living a life boldly, creatively, and happily. She provides a wealth of ideas, practices, and tools that are inspirational, practical, and motivational. This book makes a life-affirming and positive contribution to any reader!” Angeles Arrien, Ph.D., Cultural Anthropologist, author of The Four-Fold Way and Signs of Life.

2. Crones Don’t Whine: Concentrated Wisdom for Juicy Women, Jean Shinoda Bolen, M.D. “This juicy, witty, lovely book, shining with Wise Women candor is the perfect gift for any women over 50. I savored it like a rare, well-ages wine, and I know you will too.”  Susun S Weed, author of New Menopausal Years the Wise Woman Way.

3. The Art of the Moment: Simple Ways to Make Time for Yourself, Veronique Vienne and Erica Lennard. A lovely little book filled with captivating photographs and inspiring words.

4. Creating a Charmed Life: Sensible, Spiritual Secrets Every Busy Woman Should Know, Victoria Moran. “In this book you will be rewarded with dozens of powerful practical strategies that will help you bring out the charmed in your life.” Richard Carlson, Ph.D., author of Slowing Down to the Speed of Life.

5. BOOM Thinking: The Gutsy Guide to Breaking Out of Old Mindsets, Cheri Britton. “Cheri Britton’s book has the power to rock YOUR world with its fun, true, down to earth take in how to reinvent your thinking. Bravo Cheri!” Suzanne Falter-Barnes, author of How Much Joy Can You Stand?

6. Women Empowered: Inspiring Change in the Emerging World, Phil Borges. “A deeply inspirational work. Phil Borges has brought us face to face with heroes 'remote and mostly unknown women' on the edge of a slow but steady transformation, bringing social and economic justice to women and girls worldwide."  Isabelle Allende

7. The Life Organizer: A Woman's Guide to a Mindful Year, Jennifer Louden. "You are not holding in your hands a book. Instead, imagine a set of sacred nesting dolls that you open, one by one, each delighting you more than the last. As you get to the precious one in the center, you find your own heart. It whispers, `welcome home.'" - Dawna Markova, author of I Will Not Die an Unlived Life and co-creator of Random Acts of Kindness.

8. Living Artfully: Create the Life You Imagine, Sandra Magsamen. “Living Artfully is bulging and vibrating with creative illuminations, inspired action-taking and insightful reflections on the art and joy of being splendidly human. Sheer delight!” SARK, author of Sark's New Creative Companion: Ways To Free Your Creative Spirit.

9. Life Is a Verb: 37 Days to Wake Up, Be Mindful, and Live Intentionally, Patti Digh. "Patti’s guide for the last 37 days of life will turn every one of your next 3700 days a fully lived experience. If you had some unsolved fear for death, that would be your season ticket to have a free ride on the train with the author. I have never seen such a simultaneously practical, esthetic and soul-caressing book in my life." - Kichiro Hayashi, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus, Aoyama Gakuin University, Tokyo.

10.  Live Boldly: Cultivate the Qualities That Can Change Your Life, Mary Anne Radmacher. “Once again, Mary Anne has offered her exquisite blend of insight and intention in one phenomenal resource. A book that makes you think, dream, and act differently. This is a brilliant resource that will go on my list of "highly recommended" books for creating purpose and passion in your life.” Deanna Davis, author of The Law of Attraction in Action: A Down-to-Earth Guide to Transforming Your Life.

But wait ... that's not all!  How about...

Finding the Deep River Within, Abby Seixas

Back to the Garden, Patrice Dickey

Stop Being Stopped, Dr Karen Lee Paquette

Live With Intention, Adair Cates

Her Turn to Lead in America, Vickie Donlan

From the Kitchen to the Corner Office, Michelle Yozzo Drake

Money Shy to Money Sure: co-authored by Olivia Mellan & Sherry Christie

The Seasons of Change, Carol McClelland, PhD

Ah, so many fabulous authors and titles out there to choose from!

Oh, and here is a tip: what tops off a great gift book is a special note written inside the cover from you to your loved one!

Today I feel a fresh breeze in the air, a new sense of possibilities and a shaking off of the things that may hold me back. When I awaken to these precious, wide-eyed moments of awe and wonder in my life, I love that I can look around and see other women embracing the same kind of pizzazz attitude.

Nancy Mills, founder of The Spirited Woman, is just such a woman. She is a friend, a colleague, someone I admire tremendously, and a woman I am proud to collaborate with.

This month I am enthusiastically sponsoring

The Spirited Woman Newsletter.

It is a place where fabulous women gather and these are women I want to get to know. Of course, I want them to know about my book too!

Nancy, along with her Spirited Woman Blogger Team, have created one of the fastest growing websites for women and it's no wonder. There is such energy and fun and such a wealth of info coming our way from these dynamic women.

What about you? Are you tuned into your spirited woman side? A great way to nurture that is to visit Nancy's site and subscribe to her newsletter!

You can learn more about Nancy at Spotlight on Exceptional Women

I admit, it's kind of a cool thing when one of the best-selling authors of all time, Mark Victor Hansen, shares praise for my work in the world and my book.

Even better that his video endorsement is published at YouPublish.com, a terrific site that he helped to create and that is transforming the internet.

Watch the Video Endorsement

I've learned a lot from Mark: through his books, his mentorship, and his spark. Too, as I shared with him recently, his words landed in just the right time and just the right way for my daughter years ago.

I'd like to share a bit of the story I shared with Mark:

My daughter spent one year at a special program in Utah as a teenager to help her get through some tough times. Part of the program was designed to help her to reclaim self-esteem and her belief in herself through very hard work.
Part of the program involved listening each day to motivational tapes by the greats and reading books like Chicken Soup for the Soul (by Mark and Jack Canfield). She filled up with words of inspiration and empowerment day in and day out. I thanked God everyday that she was being supported, encouraged and inspired in such ways!
Today she is a beautiful and wise young women looking for ways to help others just as she has been helped. 

Mark's books have made a difference in her life. I know they have in mine, as well. I am so very grateful for that!

Imagine for a moment that standing before you is someone you adore, someone you cherish with all your heart. Perhaps it is your child, or a parent or grandparent. Or it might be a friend who has always been there for you, no matter what.

Pause to close your eyes, take a deep breath, and capture that well-loved face in your mind’s eye. Now, while envisioning that special someone, notice how full and warm your heart feels; notice how grateful you are and the sense of stewardship that flows through you.

When we truly hold someone close to our hearts, we treat them with the greatest respect and consideration, we tune into their wants and needs, we tend to them with loving care, and all the while we feel blessed for the gifts they bring into our lives simply by being who they are.

To these loved ones we freely acknowledge their beauty inside and out, we cheer them on when they stumble, and we truly celebrate their successes. Pleasing and nurturing them and being supportive of them rates high on our priority list. Because we cherish them, all our actions flow from an open, embracing heart and unconditional love.

Now, imagine that the person standing before you, this soul you adore, the loved one you cherish beyond measure . . . is you. Imagine receiving such complete respect, benefiting from that sense of care and stewardship, and feeling such gratitude. What if you were tuned in to your true wants and needs, what if you could smile at the beauty that is you without any “yeah, buts” popping up, and what if you placed you high on your priority list? How might that impact your life, your joy, your world?

When we think in terms of self-care, let’s not put the cart before the horse: love precedes care. Talking about ways to practice self-care is a moot point until we become deeply rooted in self-love. It is from those deep roots that we draw nourishment and sustenance to move into and through our lives in loving, self-tending ways. Ask yourself:in your day-to-day life don’t you take the best care of what you love most? Of course you do: you feel protective and engaged, heart and soul, in finding countless ways to express that love. The more self-love we feel, the easier it will be to take extraordinary care of ourselves.

What gets in the way of self-love? Obviously many things. As women we may find it much easier to love others unconditionally than to love ourselves. Some of us have stories that go like this . . . . Feeling beautiful is easy when your pant size is petite – It’s important to place everyone else’s needs before my own – Anyway, it would be selfish to focus on my own needs and on loving myself – If so and so loves me then I am lovable – I have made too many mistakes and therefore don’t deserve my love – I do love this part of me but I hate that part – I will give myself a break and some attention when I have jumped through every last hoop to prove I am worthy.

And on and on they go. After a lifetime of such confusing messages from our inner voice and the outside world, it’s no wonder self-love gets scooted under the rug and, hiding there, trampled upon.

Rather than letting our self-love collect dust in an unnoticed place, what if we pull it back out into the light and recognize it as sacred ground from which a love-filled, joy-filled life will flow? Sacred ground because without self-love, the foundation on which we craft our relationships with self and others, the very way we live our lives, is on shaky footing at best.

It can be easy for our self-love to hide out, withhold itself – because we do not see ourselves as good enough just as we are. When it comes to self-care, the steps we take may be half-hearted and inconsistent – because we bump into the underlying belief that we are not worthy of such loving attention. In contrast, when we feel self-love, we have a greater capacity to love others, we hold nothing back of ourselves and the gifts we have to share, and we radiate a feel-good energy. Exquisite self-care flows effortlessly from a woman who stands on the sacred ground of self-love.

The paths to greater self-love are many and diverse. They are heart paths and therefore different for each woman. There is no destination to “get to” along the path; the quality of the journey defines it, and you. A great way to set your intention and awareness on greater self-love is to ask, “How is self-love reflected in my life and my way of being today?”.

Though some women face barriers to self-love that are much bigger than others, we can all take steps in this moment to move in the direction of greater self-stewardship and self-love. Here are a few simple statements you may choose to weave into your day to promote enhanced self-love:

Get over having to be perfect. Leaving behind a manufactured image of beauty can be an ongoing growth edge. Play there. Stay there. Know that the greater your ability to accept your own flaws and imperfections and to recognize the beauty that is you, the better you’ll be at accepting that and seeing that in others.

If we are stuck on beating ourselves up, whether over a less-than-successful diet or a big mistake on our part, we are restricted in our ability to be loving towards ourselves.

Would you buy yourself flowers, give yourself a hug, ask for help, or give yourself permission to take a nap? Ask this question and then act on it in creative ways.

Of all the things we may want to do for others, words we may want to share, how we show up in the world is the most powerful thing we communicate in our lives.

Though it is easy to get caught up in the whys and hows – how did I get here? Why me? Where did this belief come from?  – it’s far more productive to just shift, just shift into more self-loving words and behaviors. Day by day you’ll feel your roots go deep, feel how solid your footing is, and freely express more and more of who you are. From this place holistic self-care will become the reflection of that self-love. Rather than being one more thing on your to-do list, self-care will be a natural aspect of how you live your life.

What, exactly, is holistic self-care? For many women, when they think about self-care the first thing that comes to mind is a massage or a bubble bath. Both are great, but there is so much more.

Holistic self-care encompasses all areas of our lives and asks from every vantage point, “What would represent the greatest self-care in this situation?” As an example, we might be evaluating our physical environment and feeling choked and cluttered, that our home really does not feel like home, or longing for a special corner where we can be creative. By asking, “What can I do to upgrade the space I live in to reflect exquisite self-care?” we begin to see solutions that transform the space we live in into space we love. And we learn – we know – that by doing so we are enhancing our overall well-being. 

As another example, it can be transformational on other fronts to look through the lens of holistic self-care as we evaluate and craft lifestyle and health choices. What about our relationships, our finances, our work, our spiritual practices – how would we upgrade our lives if we viewed each through the lens of holistic self-care? Ask yourself, “What facets of my life could use some cherishing, loving, nurturing? The possibilities are as diverse as we are.

The practice of holistic self-care gives us a new way of being in the world. Coupled with self-love it provides a rock-solid foundation from which to design and live passion-filled, joy-filled lives.

Free Downloads for Your Listening Pleasure

• Self-Care 2.0 - How to Take Great Care of You in a High-tech World! - A seven minute audio program in which Corrie shares practical tips to help you unplug and breathe a bit deeper. 7 minutes.
  

• Thriving Through Change: Becoming ChangeSavvy in an Ever Changing World. 16 minutes.
  

     Click here to listen...

     Download Free Ebook

• Crafting a Personal Retreat: 20 minutes
  

How about a summary of the gifts the fabulous women featured in Spotlight on Exceptional Women have to give - a summary of great gifts to buy and give, great books to read, great organizations to join, and more? Here you go!

LOS ANGELES – USABookNews.com, the premiere online magazine and review website for mainstream and independent publishing houses, announced the winners and finalists of THE NATIONAL “BEST BOOKS” 2008 AWARDS (NBBA) on October 20, 2008. Awards were presented for titles published in 2008 and late 2007. Jeff Keen, President and CEO of USABookNews.com says of the awards, now in their fifth year, “The 2008 results represent a phenomenal mix of books from a wide array of publishers throughout the United States.

The Woman’s Field Guide to Exceptional Living: Practical Steps for Living a Big, Bold, Beautiful Life! was chosen as a finalist in two categories: Women’s Issues and Self-Help-Motivation. Previous awards and national recognition for this 2008 release by author Corrie Woods include: Finalist National Indie Excellence Awards 2008, Nominee for the Ethan Awards, Indie Bound Notable Pick May 2008, and frequent feature on the Morgan James Publisher top-ten best-seller list. This title represents the first book in The Woman’s Field Guide series.

Over a dozen reviews reflect the merits of this national recognition. Quite fitting is this highlight from the Midwest Book Reviews: "The Woman's Field Guide to Exceptional Living: Practical Steps for Living a Big, Bold, Beautiful Life!" is very highly recommended to women everywhere and for self-help and women's studies community library shelves.

Winners and finalists of The National “Best Books” Awards 2008 traversed the publishing landscape: Simon & Schuster, Tarcher/Penguin, HarperCollins, Hyperion, St. Martin’s Press, McGraw-Hill, John Wiley & Sons, Morgan James Publishing & hundreds of independent titles contributed to this year’s outstanding NBBA competition. Keen adds, “NBBA’s success begins with the enthusiastic participation of authors and publishers and continues with our distinguished panel of industry judges who bring to the table their extensive editorial, PR, marketing, and design expertise."

A complete list of awards, reviews, author interviews, and more for this award-winning title can be found at http://www.womansfieldguide.com/learn-more-about-the-book

Download Press Release

The last BLOG post was a great segue into this one.

Read over it to get caught up!

Though I can't seem to impact the current global financial ... what's the word? Let's say "situation", I can look for places where my dollar feels well invested, where I feel I am contributing to a brighter future, and where I get lots of bang for my buck.

As an enthusiastic member and supporter of The Mountain Park Environmental Center in Beulah, Colorado, I know that every dollar I donate is going to what I like to call, my Green Global Investment Fund.

Dave Van Manen, Executive Director, and his staff, embody green stewardship through a dynamic environmental education program, through land preservation, and through doing a job with best management practices in mind.

These guys (and gals) are my hero's!

The journey they travel to do the work they do, involves tons of fund-raising as a non-profit. Though I am in North Carolina and they are in Colorado, I know that when I donate I am investing in a better world. Too, it gives me a way to say, I can make a difference, in times when I feel powerless on other fronts.

What organizations might you put on your radar and into your Green Global Investment Fund? A few dollars can make such a difference to a cause and to nurture your giving heart!

To learn more about The Mountain Park Environmental Center go to www.hikeandlearn.org. Too, you can listen in on a short interview with Dave to catch the vision.

Here is a little "exceptional living" nudge that I have been giving myself lately that I thought I would share with you ...

We perhaps all have situations in our lives when the words, I can't rule the day. There may be a true, insurmountable obstacle or a perceived barrier that fuels the I can't. Either way, what an energy drain!

I recently found myself bumping up against a lot of I can'ts as they relate to some physical challenges I've been maneuvering. Here are a few ...

I can't go hike ... I can't play tennis ... I can't work out and move my body in the way I want ... I can't ...

Though this all seems a temporary state I am in as I explore healing an injured hip, it has forced me to reevaluate and regroup.

Here is what I know to be true:

When I focus on what I can't do, I land in a negative space, I have less ability to see through to clear air, am less resourceful, and I'm way less fun.

But, but, but my lower-self wants to say, "I can't and it's not fair."

Here is the deal and here is what else I know to be true:

I get to choose whether to focus on what I can't do these days OR to focus on what I can. Clear and simple, my choice.

While I can’t do a regular workout, I can explore new ways to move my body and let my hip lead the way.

While I can’t play tennis, I can do upper body strengthening so that when I am back on the court I’ll be in top shape.

While I can’t hike my favorite NC trails this fall, I can enjoy the outdoors in new ways. (the photo is yesterday's picnic spot!)

And … I can use this time while I am not out and about to write more, express more gratitude, help another out, tend to a loving home environment, explore facets of healing I never knew existed, and so much more.

Honestly, I bumped around awhile in an I can’t dialogue before I realized what was happening and who I was being. It took patience, some self-love, looking to others for inspiration, and settling into the best part of me to get back on an I can track.

I encourage you to notice, next time you hear yourself say I can’t, how that can pull you down and to actively look for the nearest I can!

God is at Eye Level, Jan Phillips

I discovered this book, and more profoundly the work of Jan Phillips, when my book club chose God is at Eye Level as our next book. We took it one chapter at a time and dove in deeply to experience the images, the reflections, and the prompts Jan offers. It's a rich and visually delicious book, a path for a thoughtful inner journey, a call to explore the impact of how we see the world through a camera lens / through our own eyes, and so much more.

You can learn more about this book, Jan's other award-winning books, her workshops, photography ... at JanPhillips.com

Stop Being Stopped, Dr Karen Lee Paquette

This book is part inspired coaching, part story and part holistic science-based recipes for healthy living. All bundled up it provides a road map we all can follow to more vibrant living. Practical, accessible, and very helpful!

Learn more about a woman who walks her talk and offers incredible services at ... TheGoDoctor.com and StopBeingStopped.com

Back to the Garden, Patrice Dickey

Patrice shares facets of her courageous life's journey within a weave of practical and uplifting messages of hope, endurance and possibilities. Her writing is warm, touching, engaging and thought-provoking. This award-winning book deserves a place on every woman's bookshelf.

Learn more about the light this woman is shining on the world at ArtOfChange.org.

Free Resources:

Ebooks by Karly Randolph Pittman of FirstOurselves.org

Heal Your Body Image: An Inspiring, Step-by-Step Guide to Loving Your Body, Losing Weight, and Feeling Beautiful

Overcoming Sugar Addiction: How to Kick Your Sugar Habit, Conquer Food Cravings, Stabilize Your Mood, and Lose Weight

Some days the news headlines are bleak. Some days the contrast between overflowing Walmart parking lots and empty spaces in front of local establishments can leave me feeling dismayed ... despite it all, those feelings never last for long. Around every corner I can find people who inspire me by their words and their work in the world.

Sierra is a woman who fits that bill. Reflecting her passion to be a stay-at-home and to support local businesses and fair trade products she launched The Green Women Merchantile.

Through her business she offers an assortment of gifts for conscious living and conscious parenting.

• Gratitude Gift Baskets
• African Market Baskets
• Children's Music ... and more.
  

To learn more about Sierra and her company, The Green Women Merchantile, and to support a woman making a difference in her community and her world ... go to Spotlight on Exceptional Women.

I LOVE taking time away from my day to day life on retreat. In the past few years I have taken many and each time I have been astounded by the results: renewal, clarity, and centeredness.

The farther I get from my last retreat, the more I forget the benefits. If I slow down though, I notice some tell-tails signs that a retreat would be a great thing:

• I feel restless and unable to focus.
• I find myself out of touch with my creativity.
• I am looking for a breakthrough of some kind that does not present itself easily.
• I hear the call - there is really no other way to say it.

Where do I go on retreat? It depends. I have taken off for some solo camping at one of my favorite spots on the planet - Cumberland Island, I have booked a few nights at a cabin within an hour or so of my home, and most recently I headed to Savannah for four days. The opportunity to spend some quiet time reflecting and kicking off writing of book two in The Woman's Field Guide series popped up when a gracious family member said, "Come on down! The house is all yours!"

As I arrived in the land of live oaks and inter-coastal waters, I immediately settled in to a retreat rhythm. No agenda, no have-to's, and no work to do. I took long strolls under Spanish moss canopies, I wrote as words flowed and honored the process when they paused. I ate light and simple, drank lots of water, wandered at dusk.

It is truly amazing to me the clarity that sparkled in areas of my life I was not expecting and the exhale I felt from some physical challenges that have been up for me. Every retreat I have ever taken has provided its own splendid gifts.

Clients ask me, why take a retreat? It is honest to say that I find it nearly impossible to give language to all the benefits. My response to their question, "In order to answer that question you must take a retreat and find out!"

• SharedReviews

This book is an exhortation to be able to say at the end of life, "If I had my life to live over again, I wouldn't change a thing." The author encourages us to break out of the mundane routine, take some risks, and try something new. She suggests practicing gratitude for the many gifts that life brings our way. She believes that each of us has something of value to offer those around us. But even more significant, she teaches us how to love ourselves.

• National Association of Baby Boomer Women:
  

An organization worth knowing about!
See my member article

• LiveTalkRadio with Homeschool.com
  

Tune in on September 2nd when I will be the guest speaker for Homeschool.com's LiveTalkRadio Show. As a women who traveled the Homeschooling Mom path for many years, I will be sharing insights and tips for practicing great self-care as a homeschool parent. Click here to get the details.

• Women's Art Space, celebrating the words, art, and music of women. A beautiful place to visit !
  

Barbara Alexander - EponaRidge.com

Nancy Hopps - RelaxIntoHealing.com

What do I currently have loaded in my CD player? Relax into Healing, Finding the Peaceful Place Within by Nancy Hopps. Nancy and I met in LA at BookExpo America where she was being honored as a Nautilus Award Winner for her powerful CD series. Each CD is crafted with love and care and I highly recommend this women and her work in the world!

Vicki Donlan - VickiDonlan.com
Listen to interview!

If you are a business owner let me ask you, have you ever thought of putting an exit strategy into your business plan? Most folks do not and ultimately they pay a high price for not taking this into consideration. Vicki Donlan specializes in helping business owners to design vibrant businesses with short-term and long-term profitability in mind. I met her at a recent conference and realized that both her new book and her message on exit strategies offered information my visitors would benefit from.

Totsie Marine - Totsie.com Website Magic!

I often ask clients, "Who is on your team?", because surrounding ourselves with talented and fun people is a facet of exceptional living. Totsie is most definitely an important person on my team! Way before she and her husband became my website gurus, she struck me as a woman I wanted to get to know - great energy, brilliant, warm. I thought, I want some of what she has! As you learn more about her I know you'll agree.

Cheri Britton - BOOM Thinking
Listen to interview!

    Imagine eight women sitting in circle in a comfy living room. Each has come to learn ways to transform their little business into a thriving soul-driven, highly profitable enterprise. This is exactly the setting the day I met Cheri, as I attended her Solopreneur Coaching Program. This woman taking BIG Thinking to a whole new level!

Damaris Pierce - ArtofLife.com

I first learned about Damaris because of her Gratitude Postcard Project and knew this is a woman I wanted to connect with. I am so glad I have! Her artwork is breathtaking and her presence is divine. She is making a difference in the world in beautiful and diverse ways.

Elizabeth Barbour - elizabethbarbour.com

    I have known Elizabeth for sometime and we've played together with a creative endeavor or two. She is someone who folks are drawn to, attracted to, because of her great energy, love of fun, how tuned-in she is and because of the sacred gifts she offers. When she says, "I believe that we can all live inspired lives. " she means it!

Skye and Katie Barkschat - reachfortheskye.org

    Skye and Katie are two women I admire, adore, and whose love and compassion are touching people in ways they could not possibly imagine. Too, their story of survival, courage, and grace is no less than miraculous. They say behind every great woman is a great man. Neil Barkschat, Skye's father, is indeed that! I share their story to honor them, to touch your heart, and to ask for help.

Margie Scott - Artrageous and Outrageous  Listen to Interview!  

    Imagine a camp for grown ups. Now, take that idea and add juicy creativity, amazing people, powerful facilitators and a beautiful setting and you might just get close to imagining an Artrageous Camp. Margie Scott and her co-facilitators have led creativity retreats for years. Reflecting their combined expertise and passions, Artrageous Community Arts Camps are the best of the best. I'd expect nothing less with Margie aboard and this is just one of the many gifts she offers!

Victoria FittsMilgrim - truelifecoach.net
Listen to Interview!

    The first time I came across Victoria's website, I was captivated. The resources were rich, the retreats sounded yummy, and her voice came through so clearly. I did not know, at that time, that I would have the opportunity to get to know Victoria and her work. Now, as kindred members of the Retreat Coaches Network, I've had the privilege to experience her contribution to community, her wisdom, and her creativity. She is a glorious woman you'll want to learn more about!

Olivia Mellan - moneyharmony.com

    I asked Olivia to be a part of our women's collaborative because her words and writing are helping me to transform my relationship with money and because she is just great! Through her work she is touching so many people's lives. I hope you will take time to learn a bit so that her wisdom and heart can touch you and those you love!

Judith A Geiger - Flying Change Coaching
Listen to Interview!

    As a life coach, I am struck by the amazing heart and soul that my favorite coaches embody. We are a diverse lot with a common passion - helping others to tap into their potential, passions, and purpose. Judith Geiger and I met in Colorado at a Retreat Coach Training. Since that first connection we have inspired, supported, and learned from one another. Judith offers a powerful process and powerful insights in support of women identifying their soul's purpose.

Carol McClelland, PhD SeasonsOfChange.com

    Several years ago I was wandering through a bookstore and a book jumped off the shelf and into my hands. It was The Seasons of Change, Using Nature's Wisdom to Grow Through Life's Inevitable Ups and Downs. That book, many other valuable resources she provides, and Carol's training have meant the world to me. Life is defined by change. Through her work, Carol provides wisdom and support, helping people to navigate change in a thoughtful and empowered way.

Ladies of The Southeastern Time for Our Power Conference

    Just imagine ... three amazing women coming together with big hearts, tremendous passion, and sweat equity beyond measure to design, coordinate and host the first ever women's gathering of its kind in the Southeast. These three women blow my mind! and this is an exceptional event I am proud to be a part of and to spotlight.

Helene Van Manen - retreatcoaches.com

    To say I love this woman is an understatement. In all she does, she embodies love, giving, creativity, earth stewardship, and gratitude. She is an empowered women who has designed a world-class coach training program specializing in retreat coach practices and she is a powerful life coach.

Dorothy LaFrinere - Womensselfesteem.com

    I first met Dorothy through the brilliant forum she has crafted: www.womensselfesteem.com. Upon first visit you will wonder ... where to start, and you'll never finish! It is one of the most popular sites on the net focusing on Women's Self-esteem and self-help and it is a real gift!