The 10-Minute Miracle

 

Every Monday morning at 8AM Central Time you will find the latest 10-Minute Miracle Mondays video on my @kerrimulhern Instagram and YouTube channel youtube.com/kerrimulhern . Each week you will find a quick guided journey to assist you in manifesting your dreams. It takes only a minute to put Law of Attraction into action. This means that after 60 seconds of focused attention, you begin to draw to you what you are thinking about. 

We are manifesting all the time, but we tend to focus on what we don't want. Fear can take hold or feelings of unworthiness can be the norm. So, instead of experiencing what we truly desire, we unintentionally draw to us what we don't want. Every single one of us is deserving of all we want and more. We are here to live happy, fulfilled lives. We are also here to learn and grow, but that doesn't mean we have to learn through suffering. 

You are creating your life with every thought.  You are a powerful co-creator with the Universe and how you see your life is simply a projection of your thoughts. The Universe is constantly bringing to us what we think about. It's always saying YES. But what are you thinking or saying? If your thoughts or words are "This will never work out," the Universe responds by bringing you things to help fulfill your prophesy. But the good news is that all you need to change this, is a shift in perspective. If you begin talking only about what you really want, the Universe will conspire to make it happen.

As with anything, the more you practice this way of thinking, the easier it gets, and the more it becomes habit. You can write a short list of what you want to bring into your life such as a job, a love interest, healthy weight loss, a new home, you name it. Then place the list on your nightstand. Every night before you go to bed, read over that list. Then go to sleep thinking about what you want, instead of things that might be troubling you. Now, your mind has all of those hours of rest to work on your manifestation within your subconscious mind. 

When you wake in the morning, read over your list again. Shouldn't your day begin with what would make you happy, instead of what you dread? Right before falling asleep and just when you wake up are the best times to work on your manifestations. Your mind is in the most receptive state at those times. 

Here are some additional tips for manifesting:

1. Imagination: Set a timer on your phone for 15 minutes, sit in a quiet, comfortable spot. Close your eyes and picture in your mind what you want. Use your senses. What would having the thing you desire look like, feel like, sound like, taste like? After you have this pictured in your mind, relax and just breath normally. If your mind wanders, focus back on your breath. When the timer is finished, know that you have put your desires into the Universe and you have meditated, which is so healthy for you in mind, body, and soul. 

"Everything that exists right now was once imagined, which means everything that will exist is now being imagined. Use your gift of imagination to create your desires." - Dr.  Wayne W. Dyer. 

2. Act "As If:" From now on, live as if what you want is already here. How would you behave, carry yourself, speak, or dress if what you wanted was here right now? Bring your desire to you faster, by living as if you have it now. Believe it is already here. 

3. Look For Signs: As I mentioned earlier, the Universe is always saying "Yes" to us. Be mindful of signs and synchronicities that match your desires. These signals affirm that you are on the right path. If you think that something is a sign, acknowledge it and more will appear. 

4. Act on Opportunities: You are co-creating with the Universe. This is not the same as asking a genie to grant your wishes. You are responsible for creating the life you want. For example, if you want the job of your dreams, then act on opportunities such as attending a Job Fair that you just happened to notice while you were scrolling online. 

5. Gratitude - Keep a gratitude journal or a running note on your phone and list 3 things a day (you can list more) that you are grateful for. This is a miracle magnet. Note things that are in alignment with what you are manifesting, something about yourself that you are grateful for, and anything else that comes to mind. The more you do this, the more you will find to be grateful for. 

All of the 10-Minute Miracle Mondays are saved on my Instagram page, as well as on my YouTube channel. Keep an eye on this blog too, as I will be posting more tips to manifesting, meditating, and more!

In Gratitude & Love,

Kerri Mulhern
www.kerrimulhern.com

Dr. Holden To The Lobby...Dr. Robert Holden To The Lobby, Please

Over 6 years ago after "losing" a job, felt overwhelmed. I called in to speak with the kind heart of Dr. Robert Holden on his weekly Hay House radio show. I had been listening to his weekly show even since attending his lecture at Hay House I Can Do It! in Austin in 2013.  I had heard him imbue such beautiful words of wisdom to listeners, that I knew he would help ease my distress and point me in the right direction. He gave me invaluable advice, changed my perspective from fear to gratitude, and my life has been better ever since.

One of the most profound things he said to me when I told him I lost my job, was that I "handed it in." It really made me consider my responsibility in the situation, and even if it looked like I was fired, in reality, I lost interest in it. I was more driven by my business Suitable Gifts, then in fully giving my heart to the job I had. I was growing spiritually and was more invested in writing, learning, and growing. It was true, I gave it away. 

So what was next? I headed the words of Dr. Holden amidst my fears. When I didn't know how to get through this, he advised me to repeat the mantra "I am grateful for the guidance that is already here." That made me feel wrapped in spirit, that I was never alone, and could lean into them for help. I would walk 3 miles around my subdivision every day repeating that mantra, and thanking all of spirit, who I knew were there to help me. I would say affirmations of all of the things I wanted to connect to including financial security, health, happiness for me and my family, and a deeper connection to spirit. Because of Dr. Holden, I began a gratitude journal. I listed three things a day I was grateful for. It started out simple, and in such a short time the list grew and miracles started pouring in. To this day, I recommend to my Reiki clients to have a daily spiritual practice including gratitude. This and more is all thanks to Dr. Robert Holden. His gift of advice to me, continues to reach so many more.

Although I thanked him on air, and sent him and his family a gratitude box filled with gifts (and a way too lengthy letter), one summer when they vacationed in San Diego, I felt like it wasn't enough to express how much his advice meant to me. I really wanted to thank him in person. It's funny isn't it, these thoughts can mean so much to the individual to express. I knew it was a need in me, not something Dr. Holden was expecting. 

When I learned that Hay House would be coming to Austin for Hay House Live! this past October, I immediately ordered tickets to see James Van Praagh and Colette Baron-Reid, and booked the hotel they blocked out for us. It wasn't until later that I found out Dr. Holden would also be there for his Coach Camp. Dang it. 

As I knew I would meet Dr. Wayne Dyer in 2013, I also knew I would get a chance to thank Robert Holden in person, even if I wasn't in his class. Manifesting is something you feel and believe. I went back in my mind to how I manifested that chance encounter with Dr. Dyer, I didn't know where I would meet him, but I knew I would. I knew what I would say, I knew how I would feel. And poof, there was Wayne Dyer, in front of me after a serious of unexpected events, just coming off the elevator in my hotel.

So, I felt similar about this, even though I wouldn't be in Dr. Holden's weekend workshop, I would meet him and I would thank him. I didn't quite know what that would completely look like, I'm not psychic, but I am intuitive, and I firmly knew I would meet him.

As the conference drew near, Hay House sent out lots of reminders and information of additional fun things going on during the conference. At the bottom of one of the emails they had a completely different hotel than what I had booked so long ago. Was it possible all of the authors and attendees were staying somewhere else? After a moment of despair, I thought, eh, everything will work out as it's intended to. This is all part of the unfolding. I have learned to let go of outcome and trying to control a situation. I have learned to be at ease no matter how things appear, and I have a deep knowing that things are always working out for my highest good.

I headed up the Friday morning before the event to enjoy a day in Houston. On the drive, I prayed as I always do to God, Jesus and my spiritual team about the upcoming weekend. I prayed for a fun time, feeling calm, happy, joyful, for the workshops to be wonderful along with the people I meet, and of course to meet and thank Dr. Robert Holden. I always end with "this or even better." What is possible can be far better than our imagination can picture. It's fun to leave things open to something even more wonderful.

The day was so much fun, visiting Chloe Dao's (from Project Runway) store and treating myself to some of her beautiful fashions, getting my nails done (it's been ages), buying some fabric from a store across from Chloe's shop for a future skirt, and walking, walking, and walking around a fun shopping center. I originally planned to get to the hotel before the 3pm check in. It was already past 3:30, so I decided to head over. It took me awhile to figure out where the front of the hotel was to valet my car, so I circled the hotel several times until I figured it out. Time was ticking by, but I was going there by myself, and the event didn't even start until the next day, but I felt like I should get myself checked in. I have learned more and more to listen to my inner guidance.

I checked in and went up to my room on the third floor. I threw my bags on the coffee table, took some pics of my pretty room and decided to take a peek outside my curtains. It was overlooking the lobby and a central area with a bar, tables and chairs, a perfect place to hang out. Oh my goodness, there he was! Yes, there was Dr. Robert Holden walking in the center of my view with arms outstretched to hug fellow Hay House author Nancy Levin. As I picked my jaw up off the floor, I smiled thinking about how fast this manifested, and how every moment in the day led to this. I grabbed my phone, my room key, and my poor heart pounding out of my chest, and I rushed out of the room to the elevator. Breathe, breathe, breathe, I told myself as I headed down to the lobby. Would he still be there? Relax, relax, relax, if this is how I'm supposed to meet him, he will be there.

Yes, that was how I was supposed to meet him!!! I gently (as gently as I could) interrupted his reunion with Nancy Levin and asked if I could speak with him for a moment. All I rehearsed came flying out of my mouth in a hurried garble. I actually needed to stop myself and breathe, I was so overwhelmed that he was standing right in front of me. Admittedly, all I wanted to say was spoken much smoother, and I was really quite charming, when I had previously rehearsed this in my mind. In person, it took on a life of it's own...oh dear, it was quite messy. But Dr. Holden was so kind, so welcoming, He was as wonderful as I knew he would be. If you have heard him on Hay House Radio, read his books, attended his lectures, or worked one of his courses, you know his is filled with love. He doesn't just teach love, he is love. And that was who I met, love incarnate.

He was so gracious to take a picture with me, and his assistant was kind enough to take it. It's funny, I was trying to say everything as quick as I could so I wouldn't take up too much of his time, but when I looked back on my photos, only 6 minutes had passed from the time I took the picture in my hotel room, until this one was taken. Time felt slowed down during all of this, it was amazing!

If I had kept shopping, things wouldn't have unfolded this way. If I hadn't circled my hotel so many times, none of this would have happened like this. If I had gotten to the hotel less than a half hour later, I would have been in the midst of a flurry of travelers who just came back to the hotel after one of the playoff games with the Astros, and I wouldn't have met Dr. Holden in that way. That is why I know to trust when something doesn't go as planned, or I get stuck in traffic, or something unexpectedly gets cancelled, I know in my heart that things are working out for my best interest. Because of the lessons Dr. Holden taught me, I understand that any seeming obstacle or difficulty has blessings in it. This fills me with a joy, rather than a frustration trying to make everything work out exactly how I think it should be.

The rest of the weekend was filled with seeing Dr. Holden everywhere. And it really made me smile, because it felt like an over the top nod from the Universe. You want to see Robert Holden, Kerri? Oh you are going to see him alright! It kind of makes me wonder what Dr. Holden was aligning with energetically himself, to conjure me all over the place that weekend. He has probably done some serious course correction since (I'm snorting with laughter right now!).

On Saturday morning, I was seated in a room waiting for the first lecture, when a lady sat next to me. She mentioned she forgot her book on her nightstand for James Van Praagh to sign. I thought back to the previous events I had gone to, and how much fun it was to get in the book line, have a moment with your spiritual hero, and have a signed book to take home. There's magic in that signature, a connection to that author. I got up to go buy her a book before the lecture began, and walked down the hallway to where the the books and vendors were camped out. As I got to the end of the hallway, walking perpendicular to me, was Dr. Holden and his assistant. We all shared a smile of acknowledgement and paused our momentum. I said "You really need to stop following me around like this, it's getting embarrassing." We all laughed, they walked to their classroom location and I went to get the book for my new friend. It was that timing thing again, I hadn't intended to leave my seat in James Van Praagh's room, but I did. And I thank the Universe again for that sweet moment.

I didn't bring a book to the hotel lobby when I saw Dr. Holden, I really just wanted to thank him, but I brought one of his books to the venue to get signed over the weekend, and bought a few more at the book stand too. When I was at James Van Praagh's lecture, I thought about when I would see Robert Holden again, maybe I would have enough time after, and he would have a book signing too. No pressure, just a wish to the Universe that some time during the weekend this would happen. Wish, imagine, feel, let it go. 

So after the lecture, and James' book signing, I asked one of the Hay House VIP coordinators where Dr. Holden was having his class. I walked towards the room and the door was closed, and some students were outside of the classroom. They had books to be signed too, so I decided to hang out with them! Soon he appeared and sat down to sign some books. I took pictures for the person in front of me, and they took pictures for me. It was all perfect, and we got to chat and laugh for a little longer. Honestly, it was just so cool!!!

The next day I visited Dr. Holden's classroom one last time, and gave him some kindness tags for his children. It has one of my favorite quotes by Lao Tzu. The full quote is "Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love." 

Dr. Holden gave me a big hug, I thanked him again, told him I loved him, and I left for my lecture with Colette Baron-Reid. For me, it felt like coming full circle. I first saw him six years ago in Austin, a few months later I had the job "loss" and his words and kindness changed my life, then six years later I was able to say thank you face to face. There are people who come into your life and make such a profound difference, and being able to say so in person, is such a gift. I am truly grateful. "All this, or even better," it was definitely even better!


Here's some fab books & courses from Dr. Robert Holden:

Books: *NEW - Finding Love Everywhere - Click here
Loveability - Click here
Holy Shift! - Click here
Shift Happens! - Click here

Courses: Shift Happens Online Course: www.hayhouse.com/shift-happens-saying-yes-to-the-next-step-in-your-life-online-course
Loving Yourself Online Course: www.hayhouse.com/loving-yourself-online-video-course

Website: https://www.robertholden.com/


In Gratitude & Love,

Kerri Mulhern
www.suitablegifts.com

Healing Hands

After my Reiki I certification, I went through 21 days of Reiki. Every morning before I got out of bed, I did Reiki on myself along with chakra balancing. It was a great way to practice and to experience Reiki fully. I found that things that normally would have annoyed me didn't. This included the salsa jar I opened that exploded all over myself, the kitchen counter, the walls, and the towels. It made me laugh instead of scream! 

I noticed synchronicities and lessons became more vivid and obvious. I am one who notices the signs the universe is providing us with, and Reiki helped them be more clear, and sometimes just so over the top. It was wonderful!

Reiki does wonders for anxiety, as does meditation. It has become a beautiful addition to my daily self care. It helps on so many levels of healing, but I have been so grateful for how much it calms me. 

I spent the two months in between my Reiki I and Reiki II classes healing myself, giving Reiki to my houseplants, and my sweet cat Scar. I really wasn't feeling confident yet to work on other people, I wanted the Reiki II class before I started that, as I knew I would be learning more about healing, symbols, and would have another attunement. But I did find one person to at least practice a little bit on. They were helping me as a kindness, wasn't a believer in this form of healing at all. But I appreciated the help because at least I could practice and feel better about working on people in the Reiki II class. 

When I worked on this person I felt nervous at first honestly. But as I continued up her body, I felt more and more relaxed. It seemed like she was too! When I got up to her head and finished, I started to remove my hands. With her eyes still closed, she waved her hands repeatedly towards her head and asked me to put them back! She kept saying "I need to get back, I need to get back." I was stunned. Reiki doesn't make you psychic, so it's not that I can tell what the person is feeling or thinking. I can feel heat in my hands, tingling, and I'm sure as I continue to use Reiki, my intuition and senses will become more pronounced and active. I could tell something was happening, but I didn't know what. 

Afterwards, the person told me that she could see a valley and in the middle was a blue light shaped like an hourglass. She just wanted to get to the light to see what it was. I could feel it was a spiritual experience, and this was when I truly felt the power of Reiki. I have healing hands! I don't mean this from an egoic level. Reiki is flowing through me, I'm not doing the healing, Reiki is. I'm a conduit for healing, a grateful conduit. My teacher Kim told us that even if someone doesn't believe in Reiki, it works anyway. And this certainly proved it! And it was something I needed as much as she did. I really needed to know if Reiki would flow through me. It was a gift for both of us, and I am grateful to my friend who let me practice, to Reiki, and to my teacher Kim.

Reiki can heal on all levels, emotionally, spiritually, physically and mentally. There doesn't need to be a dramatic event such as my friend had. As a matter of fact, some people don't feel anything at all during Reiki, but it still is healing. It does not replace a doctor, a needed surgery, or medication, but it can certainly compliment them. It is tapping into universal life force energy that is available and is in all of us. and all around us. It is love.

I am so grateful that my spiritual journey has led me to this path of healing. I'll be sharing my Reiki II experience in my next blog. I am grateful to you all for sharing this with me too.

In Gratitude & Love,

Kerri Mulhern
www.suitablegifts.com

Book Review: Gleam by Tracey Grace

Gleam by Tracey Grace is not the typical book I read. It's fiction and I have immersed myself so much into spirituality and self help books, that I forgot how delightful it is to read a really great novel. The unexpected bonus in Gleam is that it's bathed in a spiritual essence that flows throughout this beautiful book. It shows the reality in facing a difficult situation, while implementing spiritual solutions. Life is a bit messy and Tracey Grace gives us a glimpse of this reality with humor, determination and triumph! 

I so enjoyed this book. I didn't have learn to fix myself, I didn't have to remember tips, techniques, healing remedies, or mantras. But I did get to see this through the eyes of another. Gleam is a delightful escape into the main character Clementine's journey towards loving herself and finding her purpose. The novel begins with Clementine separating from her long term partner and maneuvering through this new life in the best way possible for herself and her children. She is learning to live a life she wasn't expecting, but does so with honesty, hilarity and an openness to try new things. 

Clementine is such a relatable character and you can't help rooting for her during her trials and travails, as she learns about who she really is. It is fascinating to watch her evolve emotionally, physically, spiritually, and yes even sexually! She knows she needs to shake things up in her life to find her "gleam," and boy does she ever!

Gleam shows with raw honesty, what it really looks like to read law of attraction and positive affirmation books, take a yoga class, learn to meditate, and so on, while you are going through your life. It's not an instant transformation. When you are knocked down by unexpected circumstances in your life, sometimes you just don't want to say another "I am happy and whole," because you just don't feel that way. But, you can see in Gleam how it does seep in, it becomes a part of her. You can see how Clementine became so in tune with herself that she becomes her true self. 


For me personally, this book allowed me to give myself a break in more ways than one. It allowed me to take a breath and enjoy reading just for reading itself. It was pure joy getting lost in a story, its characters, and not with the purpose of improving myself. It's kind of funny that I was truly present, yet was doing so in a moment of escape in a great book! Another break for me in following Clementine's journey was that I realized that I don't have to be perfect in my own spiritual journey. Every time I have felt like I "failed," such as getting cross with someone, or not living up to what I feel the teachings are trying to show me, I end up feeling unworthy and a charlatan. Sometimes it makes me feel like giving up on my spiritual journey. But after reading Gleam, I can see in Clementine, the normality of going through life events, falling and getting back up again, being human, getting upset, angry, sad, all of it. Life isn't linear, and the falling down is part of the journey. Gleam has also inspired me to shake things up in my own life, to try new things and enjoy life more. Through reading this book, I've found my gleam as well, and for that I'm truly grateful. 

To buy Gleam: Click here
Follow Tracey Grace on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/traceygraceauthor/


In Gratitude & Love,


Kerri Mulhern
www.suitablegifts.com

Magic And Deepak Chopra

Oh the joy of being able to see one of your spiritual heroes in person! The first time I met Deepak Chopra was in 2015 and I was so looking forward to seeing him again. 

As I always do, I prayed in my car on the drive to the venue. I expressed my gratitude and prayed for a sense of calm and peace when I would met Deepak at the meet and greet. I asked for a lovely evening and to remain fully present. I do this to practice gratitude, to remember my spirit, and acknowledge the fact that I (and all of us) are always supported by the universe. When I am in this state of recognition, magical things always happen too. I don't expect anything, other than knowing that all will be well, and that is more than enough. The truth is, the magic is always there for all of us, but living in a state of gratitude makes you more aware of it.

I arrived at the Tobin Center early, and parked in a small lot that I've used before. I got out and saw half of the lot closed off. There was a police officer there, so I asked if I could park where I was. He said no, they were using it for valet service that evening, but I could park right across the street. He pointed to a spot in front of a construction sign, just behind a row of parking meters, and before a fire hydrant. He said I would be plenty of feet away from the hydrant. I walked back to my car and saw a butterfly at my feet. Butterflies are always a beautiful sign for me, I always thing of Dr. Wayne Dyer, and I know good things are to come. Magic.

The kind officer didn't know my rudimentary parking skills, and when I drove to the spot across from where he was standing, I chickened out and drove around the corner. I came back around, and while he was standing in the street. I rolled down my window and smiled "I got scared," I laughed. "I saw that!" He smiled and assured me again that it was fine to park there. So over to the same spot I went, grateful and trusting in the universe. A free parking spot for the night...magic!

I walked around the corner to the entrance of the Tobin Center, and was able to walk into the vestibule to wait until they opened the doors. There was an older woman waiting too, so I said hello and we chatted a bit (I'll call her Lois for this story). Soon her companion, who I'll call Shawn, joined her and we all continued to chat. It was interesting listening to them. Lois was talking about past events she had been to and wanted to know what to expect at this meet and greet. I told her how it went the last time I met him and she seemed surprised that there wasn't more to it. I was pretty happy just to meet him. I have been to smaller meet and greets that are more intimate, but Deepak is widely known, so I consider him visiting our city quite a treat. She was prepared, really prepared. She brought Sharpies, tape, a journal for her friend, and had actually printed photos of Deepak for him to sign. She reached into the folder in her handbag and told me she had extras and gave me one! Magic! 

Shawn mentioned that we shouldn't have Deepak personalize what he signs because it's not as valuable. He planned to sell if afterwards. Admittedly, my eyes rolled in my mind when he said that. They both talked about other events they've gone to and how they couldn't get elbow room where they sat and this time one of them had an end seat. They were contemplating how this would be tonight. I started thinking about my choice of seating, I purposely picked the center of the first row, just to be as close as I could be. It seemed like a great idea! There were aspects of this woman that so reminded me of me, the times when I got so caught up in being in control of how things would be, instead of just enjoying the moment and letting the universe take over. After all, as Deepak's book says: You Are The Universe, so why not expect it all to be great?! I don't mean any of this as a judgement, because in each of them, I saw me. Even Shawn with his interpretation of value. It's not good or bad, and it's all my perception of the evening, theirs would be totally different, as would someone observing the three of us. They both offered a reflection of some aspect of myself, and I appreciated it, and them.

When we were finally allowed into the venue, I walked up to the book table, picked up You Are The Universe, and paid for it straight away, no line. Magic! Then I started to walk towards the door where the meet and greet was. A woman was slightly ahead of me, and she seemed shy and stopped to let me go. I told her to go ahead. We walked down a small, dark hallway and when we reached the end, we were the first in line! Magic! 

Lois and Shawn were soon behind me and Lois was frantically trying to figure out how everyone would take photos of each other, she was organizing and contemplating and organizing some more. I was reminded again of how many times I've tried to make the experience "perfect," but things have been much better when I let it happen. I still picture things in my mind, and honestly, the reality is usually quite close or better. You know that whole law of attraction thing, it really does work. Expect the best always. But, it's ok for me now if it doesn't work out that way, which is a big improvement for me.

I offered to take some photos for the quiet woman in front of me, but as soon as I stepped out to help, there were two people assisting at the event to do that for all of us. It was a really kind gesture, and it made things so much easier to spend a moment to ourselves with Deepak Chopra. The gentleman who took the photos on our cameras was super generous, giving all of us almost a dozen photos each! Magic!

The first time I met Deepak two years ago, I thanked him for introducing my son to meditation through his 21-day meditation series with Oprah Winfrey. I gave him a t-shirt I had made with sanskrit writing for "I am love," and I told him that's what he was. I also asked him for a quick selfie together and he obliged!  This time I approached the table and told him that I had the honor to meet him in 2015, and since I was meeting him again today, that meant we were friends. We both laughed. I thanked him for teaching me to meditate and for being a profound spiritual teacher. I told him that I hoped he had as great an evening as all of us would be having. He was quiet and kind, signed my book and photo, and I left the room grateful for the opportunity. Magic!

I went back to the lobby with plenty of time before the lecture started, so I got a glass of champagne. Well not a glass actually, it was in a plastic cup with a lid...and a straw. Maybe I'm not meant to be classy. I found my initial friends from the vestibule and thanked Lois again for her kind gesture in giving me the photo. 

The theater doors soon opened and I walked to my seat. It was perfect, first row center, so close I could touch the stage with my feet if I extended them. I sat down and said hi to the woman next to me. She was my twin. I smiled to myself as I saw her dressed as I was last time I met Deepak. She had a suit jacket on and a t-shirt from her business, just like I had done. She was really sweet (of course, she's my twin!), and told me that she had thanked Deepak and had given him one of her shirts as I had done previously. I didn't mention any of the similarities to her. I didn't want it to be a "yeah me too" moment, which can sound a bit unbelievable. She was a reiki master and founder of a local monthly spiritual venue that I've been interested in being a vendor at. It was very cool to meet someone that taught reiki as it is on my to-do list to be certified. Best of all, she was very kind and great to chat with, and our goal for the evening was the same - to enjoy the teachings of this brilliant man.

The lecture was wonderful, he was clever, funny, intelligent...he was Deepak Chopra! He talked scientifically and spirituality about living a healthy life. He included information on the benefits of meditation, eating well, getting enough sleep, Earthing and more. He discussed different herbs to lower inflammation in the body such as black pepper, cardamom, cayenne, chamomile, ginger, and turmeric to name a few. He ended the lecture with a beautiful meditation. It was a relaxing way to end a lovely evening.

After the event I walked back to my car, no ticket, all was good! There was no waiting in line to leave, I just drove straight home. Magic! I said a prayer of gratitude for a wonderful night. I arrived at home and excitedly told my husband about the event, grabbed some water and headed up to bed with my book and signed photo tucked inside. After I changed for bed, I looked at the photo and part of the signature was smeared. Gah! The smeared part was transferred to my hand. I must have gotten water from the side of my glass on my hand and hit the photo right where the signature was. My temporary frustration reminded me of Lois and Shawn and the quest for perfection Maybe that was my lesson tonight, to let go even more. It was still all magic. It's kind of clever how the universe pointed that lesson out with a "magic" marker!

In Gratitude & Love,

Kerri Mulhern
www.suitablegifts.com

Kindness And The Cake Fairy

I had just returned from a relaxing weekend at the coast with my family. We unpacked the car and while my husband vacuumed the sand from the trunk, I decided to take my son to the Wendy's around the corner from us to pick up some lunch.

We pulled into the Wendy's parking lot and a white pickup truck pulled ahead of us in the drive-thru lane. There were a couple of cars ahead of us. In less than a minute, the white truck decided he couldn't wait. Because he was so close to the car in front of him, he backed right into my car to get out of the line. I could hear the awful crunching of the front of my car, it sounded like all of the metal was being mangled. I couldn't get out of the way of the mess that was happening, I felt helpless.


The truck pulled out of line, and I did too, expecting that we would both pull over and sort through this accident. Instead, the truck went flying around the parking lot. It was obvious that the driver was trying to get away. I was shocked and angry that someone would do that. It's not normally in me, but I tore after him because I wanted to get the license plate number. I kept repeating the plate number to my son who recorded it on his phone. As the car sped out of the parking lot, and into what is normally a very busy street, I stopped at the edge of the parking lot. I wasn't getting into a road rage scenario over this, or jeopardize my son's safety.  

I turned into the first empty space in the parking lot. I was feeling stunned that someone would actually do that. My son was fine and just as surprised as I was over the whole incident. He was actually a little jazzed about all of the excitement. With dread, I got out of the car to assess the damage. It sounded so awful. I don't get attached to physical things, but I actually really like this car. It's still new and I am trying my best to really take care of her (Jophiel). She's the Kind Car for my Kindness...Pass It On missions, and I try to treat the car with the love that it is being use for. Before I got out, I called my husband, but he was still cleaning out the sand, so didn't hear my initial call.

When I walked to the front of the car, I was so relieved to see that there was only damage to the plastic grill. That sound must have just been the hitch of the truck gnarling that small part of my car. I was still upset, but very thankful that it wasn't worse.

I pulled my phone out to call the police when a car pulled right beside mine. Soon after another car pulled beside that one. Out of the first car emerged a lovely couple. I noticed the magnet on the side of their car immediately and it made me smile, it said "The Cake Fairy." Shelly Leonard (aka The Cake Fairy) and her husband were kind enough to stop. My legs were shaking from pure adrenaline and Shelly asked if I was ok. She was so sweet and caring. Not only did they stop to see if we were alright, Shelly actually got the license plate number for me in case I didn't! I seriously am still so overwhelmed by her kindness to a complete stranger. 

I asked Shelly if she would mind if I took her information just in case the police needed a witness. Without hesitation, she started to give me her number, while her husband popped his head back into their car to pull out her business card. When I saw that, I thought, not only is he being generous and helpful, I could see that he was honoring his wife for this beautiful business she created. That touched me too. Having someone support you in your passion is such a gift, and I was witness to it in that moment.

I didn't talk as much with the gentleman in the second car, but he let me know that the truck was a Ford F150 Platinum. I am very grateful to him too. There is such beauty in knowing that there are people who are willing to stop and help just because. It wasn't for a reward or for something for any of them, it was just because that's who they are. There are just incredibly wonderful people in this world. The intention of today's blog isn't about the accident, or the runaway truck, it is really about gratitude for such kindness given. It is easy to focus on the bad, but the more important piece is the goodness.

After they left, the police and my husband arrived and I reported everything necessary. I chatted with Shelly afterwards via text and she continued to be kind and willing to help if needed. Of course I looked up her Facebook page to see all of her incredible creations. You can see the love (and talent!) she puts into what she does from cookies to cupcakes, cake pops, cakes and more. She is able to create a design for any age, occasion or theme including weddings, showers, birthdays, and holidays. She told me "I love what I do and I am so grateful for my customers. The saying, 'You'll never work a day in your life if you do what you love' definitely applies to me. Not only am I passionate about creating cakes, but I'm passionate about my family so my business allows me the freedom to spend my time and energy with them." Well, her passion sure shows! The more I read about what she does and who she is, I can see why she stopped that day. Shelly has a beautiful heart and shares her heart with her family, her cakes, and everyone she meets. She has had serious challenges and profound loss in her life, but chooses to help others including donating a birthday cake monthly to children who are living at the Strong Foundation. 

Thank you Shelly for your kindness and compassion. I wish you continued success in your beautiful business and all the best to you and your family always.

Visit The Cake Fairy on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shellythecakefairy/ or email her at shellythecakefairy@gmail.com .

For curiosity sake, I can tell you after reporting it to police and my insurance company, the reason why the truck rushed off was because it wasn't registered to the driver. It was purchased 8 months ago at an auction from a commercial leasing company. They didn't register the car in their name, the plates were from the original owner, so they couldn't have had insurance either. It doesn't justify leaving the scene of an accident, but it does explain it. 

In Gratitude & Love,

Kerri Mulhern
www.suitablegifts.com

Book Review: Percolate by Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino

I was first introduced to Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino through social media. She is intelligent and beautiful (inside & out) with business savvy and an endless supply of energy. She is also a mom to four sons, and her love for them and her husband is palpable. She is a go-getter as the CEO and Founder of The Best Ever You Network, The Best Ever You Show, Best Main Life, Best Ever You Books, Food Allergy Zone, and top it all off, she is a Hay House author! 

When I was writing my notes for this blog, one of the first descriptions of Elizabeth I jotted down was "perky." It is quite fitting that the name of her book is Percolate! She radiates joy, and after reading her book, and learning about her life, I have an even bigger admiration for her contagious enthusiasm. 

Percolate - Let Your Best Self Filter Through is a 9-step guide to making changes, empowering yourself and living your best life.The coffee theme is cleverly weaved throughout the book, accentuating each chapter. In order to effect positive change in our lives, Elizabeth thoughtfully guides us through self-evaluation of our beliefs, values, and desires. She provides questions to journal, along with positive steps for positive growth and change. Each chapter ends with a "Coffee Break" discussion with Elizabeth and Dr. Katie Eastman. Along with Elizabeth's delicious humor, tales of a hamster, an aardvark, and a platypus, I was completely hooked by the time I reached the section of her book entitled What Would Betty White Do? 

What stands out for me the most, is Elizabeth's authenticity. She walks the talk. This book dives deep into her life, and she truly lives through example. Not everything has been a cup of tea (er, coffee I mean) for her. She writes of several harrowing life-threatening experiences to herself and family that would have fractured most. Yet, no matter what has happened, she chooses to live her best life. And the most beautiful thing is, she wants to share what she learns with everyone. She wants us all to rise and be the best that we can be. 

I highly recommend this book. Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino doesn't just live her best life, she gives it too. This quote, generally attributed to Picasso, rings true for Elizabeth: "The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away." Thank you Elizabeth, for sharing your gift through Percolate and everything you do.

You can find Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino and her work at:
Book: Percolate
Website: http://www.elizabethguarino.com/
The Best Ever You: http://www.besteveryou.com/
Best Maine Life: https://www.bestmainelife.com/
Best Ever You Books: http://www.besteveryoubooks.com/
Food Allergy Zone: https://www.foodallergyzone.com/
The Best Ever You Show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/besteveryou

In Gratitude & Love,

Kerri Mulhern
www.suitablegifts.com