I just got back from the beautiful Bruce Peninsula. We were up at my brother’s gorgeous cottage, nestled right by the water.  It was so delightful to wake up to the sounds of nature and soak up all the peace and serenity this incredible property offered. It truly filled my soul.

There are lots of attractions to take in in that area. We had enjoyed The Grotto, The Halfway Log Dump and the Tobermory boat tour last year, so we were on a quest to see what new adventures this area had to offer.

When the suggestion of exploring some local caves came up, I was quite intrigued as it sounded like something certainly interesting and new to try. I figured we would at the very least get some great pictures in these caves to share on social media. So, to my family’s surprise I enthusiastically stated “I’m in!” 

It had rained the night before, but I truly thought nothing of it. I understood we were going to be inside the caves anyway, so it wouldn’t really matter. Would it?

Well here is where the story gets REAL interesting! Yes, there were caves to explore, but to access them you had to navigate some of the most treacherous, rocky, uncleared terrain known to man. Top that off with the fact that it had rained, and it was also incredibly slippery in so many spots.

I was clearly UNPREPARED!  Ironically, I had worn a shirt that said "It's a good day to read a book." Trust me, I was so wishing I had chose that option. This was NOT what I or my family had anticipated. We were already knee deep in the hoopla when we came to the realization that conquering these cave trails would be no easy feat.

At first I decided I would bow out and wait in a cave and let the others go ahead. I am telling ya, I was terrified. The others were not having it. They had an "all for one and one for all and no man (or woman) would be left behind mentality" on this ordeal and I loved them for it.

Through this experience, my husband teased me about the great blog material I was gathering and he was absolutely right. 

You know me by now, and as always, I figured there’s GOT to be a life lesson in this that goes beyond doing your research first before going on any cave adventures!

Here is what I gleaned from my ordeal on the slippery slopes of the cave exploration that you and I can apply to our daily lives.

I was never so glad when my kids called out and said “I see the parking lot!” It was like water in the desert. We did it! We had overcome! It reminded me that we should never lose faith when going through tough times because they are temporary. With a positive attitude, courage, and good people by your side, your test can become your testimony in the end.

So my cave story has a happy ending after all. I was proud of myself and all that was learned on a deeper level that day. 

Until next time,
Dana

Psalms 32:8 ~ I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.

Little Lesson Learned: Don't let the fear of a new experience, overshadow the thrill of completing something amazing.

​Copyright: © 2024, littlelessonslearnedbydana​

Don’t surround yourself with those who are continuing in the behaviours you are trying to avoid. If you are trying to become less critical, don’t hang out with critical people, or if you are attempting to overcome an addiction, don’t associate with people who are actively involved with what you are trying to avoid.  This clearly makes no sense.

​Likewise, if you are trying to stop drinking, don’t hang out in bars, or if you are trying to eat healthier, don’t frequent the junk food aisles of the grocery store. Some people or settings may need to be weeded out of your life permanently for you to become truly successful.  

People who are winning the victory over their “weeds” and avoid relapse recognize their individual triggers and make a conscious effort to change their routines so they can make better and lasting progress in their recoveries.  

​Making changes can be very difficult. The weeds you need to address may have been a part of your life for years. They may even seem comfortable and familiar to you.  They may in your opinion have been a coping mechanism for a period of time.

You may have the desire, but do not even know how or where to begin. You may lack the proper tools. Well, the good news is you are not alone and I am here to help.

Many people want and need to make changes. God’s words says, “He gives us beauty for ashes, and the oil of joy for mourning.” In other words, God specializes in giving us beautiful flowers in our lives instead of those ugly weeds.  

You are so valuable, and you deserve to bloom in all the beauty that was intended for your life. 
​
If those weeds are especially troublesome perhaps you could also benefit from professional help. Please be open to this option if your situation warrants it. Such options could include addictions counselors, pastoral care workers, marriage and family therapists and self-help groups such as AA or NA. This help can really assist you on your journey of positive change.  

Your journey of positive change begins with the first step. Don’t be afraid to step out in faith. A whole new life awaits you!

So my friend, grab a hat. Go get out your gardening gloves and tools. Prepare to get a little dirty and off you go! Happy "weeding!"

Trust me, when you have the courage to do weeding, you will be amazed at what manifests in your life when all those nasty weeds are a thing of the past. It is a thing of beauty I tell ya! 
 
Right there with you, 
~ Dana 
 
Hebrews 12: 1-2 Therefore since we are surrounded by such a cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders us and the sin that so easily entangles.  And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.  
 
Little Lesson Learned: Personal weeding is a necessary and healthy process so we can truly grow into the healthy, uninhibited people we were meant to be. 
© 2024, 2nd edition, 1st edition, 2014, Weeds of Wisdom,  littlelessonslearnedbydana ​

"To be honest with yourself is to gain knowledge into who you really are."
~ Unknown
​
I remember it so well. I certainly knew better, but I went for it anyways. The last day of school is always very emotional for me but silly me I just HAD to start the “goodbye/ you have meant so much to me” speech with my class. Well, I got about as far as “You have been an amazing class, and I am extremely proud of all of you.” After that the tears started flowing and I could barely continue, especially when I saw some students also crying.  

Well, I did what I had to do then to get by and that was to put my prescription glasses up on my head, so I did not have to witness their sad expressions. This is a little trick I have learned to help me through some difficult and emotional times.  

I first used this handy technique when I had to sing at my high school graduation. As it too was emotional for me, the fact that I could face a sea of blurred, expressionless faces gave me the help I needed to sing with gusto. Somehow the way I saw it is when you can’t really see it, you can endure it.  

Well, I did finally get a hold of myself at school after sending out some emergency texts for prayer and we actually did have a nice last day despite the tears. I was grateful that the year had been so incredible that the emotion was there, as it was a testament to the good times we had had and all the great memories we shared. ​

It is something I will always remember. In she came proud as a peacock, in clunky high heeled shoes way too big for her tiny little feet clickety clacking across the tiled classroom floor. Grinning from ear to ear, she eagerly announced “Mrs. R. I have brought you a birthday present today, and I want everyone here to know I spent TONS of money on it!” I couldn’t help but smile as the first thing that caught my eye was the beat-up Christmas bag was filled with a purple balloon already blown up. Underneath were other interesting treasures that included a McDonald’s Happy Meal toy, a plastic flower, and some shiny bracelets of various sizes. She could hardly contain her excitement, and it was clearly evident. Her kind gesture really touched me. She was beaming as I thanked her repeatedly for her thoughtfulness, and her classmates watched with interest.  

Later, that morning as others scurried off to recess, she curiously lingered behind looking quite sheepish. She then proceeded to ask if she could speak to me “privately.” As we chatted, a confession poured out like water overflowing from a tiny cup. Teary eyed she shared, “I must be honest with you. I didn’t spend a ton of money on your gift I, well I…. found all this stuff in my room and I am so sorry.  I just wanted so badly to give you something.”  

​Our eyes met and hearts connected. I really felt for her. Her generosity reflected truly the best she had.  I thanked her for her honesty and assured her that I found her gift very meaningful. It was truly the best she had and was given with such love. It was so obvious she gave her best, and had even dressed up for the occasion to show up as her best self for someone she dearly loved. ​

The birds are out in full force this beautiful summer. I get a large variety of them in my backyard, and they are quite interesting to observe, I must say. On more than one occasion, though, I have noticed something quite peculiar when it comes to our feathered friends.

Several times when I have been out driving, I have seen many different types of birds walking leisurely across the road. As they act like they own the road and are in no hurry, their cavalier behaviour repeatedly causes me great stress.

As I get closer and closer, my panicked internal dialogue starts.

Am I going to hit them?

Will they actually use the wings they have so obviously been blessed with?

Thankfully, in every case so far right at the very last minute, they choose to flap their wings and get the heck out of there! I don’t get it. I am always left thinking… Why would they walk when they can fly? Why would they put themselves in harm’s way when they can so easily soar above danger?

I have not quite figured that one out yet, but have often thought how many people, me included, can at times be very similar to these silly birds.

Why do we drag our feet through life when we were destined to soar? Life is meant to be lived well. It was never meant to be something we just tolerate or do well when we are ready.

Years ago, I recall asking my grandfather how some of his friends were doing and he stated, “Not well. They just exist.” It broke my heart because I thought to myself - Excuse me???  Who wants to just exist?” Not me! Why would or should we ever settle for that?

Change can be very scary. We all have doubts and fears. That is so normal.

Is there an area of your life where you feel you are meant for more? That is a question only you can answer. I just want you to feel that you are worthy of truly living your best life in all aspects.

Your wings are ready and waiting for you to use them.

The Bible says in John 10:10, “I have come that they may have life and have it to the full!” This is my desire for you.

Don’t be like the bird who was designed for so much more, but chose to walk through life oblivious of the wings at his side. What a tragedy!

Keep moving forward. Don’t let this world or discouragement take the wind out of your sails. Every day is a fresh start and a new chance.

Spread those wings and fly my friend and I’ll be the proud one on the ground cheering you on.

Until next time,
~ Dana

Isaiah 40:31: Those whose hope is in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles.

​Little Lesson Learned: Flying through life gives you such a better view. Won’t you give it a try?
 
​​© 2024, 2nd edition, 1st edition, 2021 littlelessonslearnedbydana 
​(Dana Romualdi) 

So the new year  is already in full swing and resolutions have been made. I figure at this point people are either rocking their resolutions or have completely fallen off the wagon. Why is that you may wonder? My opinion is those who fail have very good intentions, yet they often do not have an effective plan in place. They say if you "fail to plan, you plan to fail." I have been on a year long journey of profound change in many life areas and have learn some very successful strategies from some of the best authors, coaches, mentors and motivators. I have studied the ways of the successful and have decided to model their best practices in my own life. Success leaves clues as they say and it is so very true.  Implementing these changes daily  has put me in a much better place than I was a year ago that is certain.  With pleasure I share these five life changing tips that will transform your life  for the better if you choose to implement them.

Amazing Action One: Develop a Growth Mindset
Develop a positive, growth mindset. You will never change your life if you have a negative perception of yourself and the changes you want to make. You can be your own best friend or your own worst enemy. What does it matter if you have an army of people behind you, yet you yourself do not believe you can change? A growth mindset says: " I am not there YET but I am on my way. I CAN change,  but it will take time." A fixed mindset says:  "Nothing I will ever do will change my circumstances. I do not have what it takes to be successful, so therefore I will not even try. " The fixed mindset philosophy is very untrue, yet  people believe it is true. This thinking therefore keeps people stuck in their old, destructive, unproductive habits. You have the power to say at any time this is not how your story is going to end. Choose to embrace change and look at it as an adventure, rather than an ordeal and you are already on your way. While you are on your journey also, don't compare yourself to others. Everyone has his or her own unique journey and it doesn't  matter how fast you get there, but rather that you are headed in the right direction.

Amazing Action Two: Own Your Morning
My morning routine used to be a disaster.  Hitting the snooze button every morning and putting off starting my morning as long as possible was commonplace. What I didn't realise was that by doing this every morning , unconsciously I was telling myself that the new day dawning was unsatisfying,  and must be filled with dread and negativity. It also insinuated that surely nothing worthwhile would occur that day that would be worthy of me waking up to experience.  As a natural consequence of sleeping in, I was then run ragged, running around super stressed with barely enough time to get out the door. They say you either own the morning or the morning owns you. I prefer to own my mornings these days. How I do that is I wake up two hours or more before I have to leave for work. The blessed quiet is so therapeutic. I know it won't last long, so I absolutely savour every minute. The first thing I do after hitting the button to make my coffee is not looking at Facebook, email or returning texts. This will not get me where I need to be. This is responding to others. I need to fill my own cup first.  I cannot give what I don't have.  I need some "me" time.  So how do I do this? First of all I start with gratitude journaling. Every morning I write down five things I am grateful for. This daily habit helps me focus on all I have to be thankful for. Sometimes I write about big things like family or friends and sometimes it is the simple pleasures I highlight like a hot coffee, a warm bath or a good book. Focusing on my blessings puts me in a positive mind frame and starts my day in a very pleasant manner. Next I read my Bible and a personal development book of choice and spend some time connecting with my Heavenly Father in prayer. What a great way to begin each new day. I cannot even start to tell you how this has completely revolutionised my whole day. I cannot control how my day will unfold, but I can certainly control how it starts and realising that has been very liberating.

Amazing Action Three: Start Eating Healthier
My family has completely changed our eating habits this year. Gone are all the processed foods we used to eat. Gone are the frequent drive thru meals we used to grab. We now aim to eat clean most of the time by consuming as many whole foods as possible and limiting the amount of processed foods we eat. We barely eat out and actually prefer to eat at home. Can we have treats and cheats? Absolutely! It is all about balance these days and we try to live our lives by the 80/20 rule. It means we strive to eat healthy 80 percent of the time. Proper portion control has also been a very big part of our new regimen. Knowing what a portion looks like and how much of each food group to consume has been a real eye opener. I challenge you to start limiting your processed foods and start eating more whole foods this year. You will feel more satisfied, have more energy and experience many other great health benefits from a healthier, more wholesome diet.

Amazing Action Four: Start and Stick to An Exercise Plan
I am a Beachbody coach which is an online health and fitness coach. I am often asked in this role what is the best workout program? The answer is very simple actually. The best workout program for you is the one that YOU will do. If you enjoy working out at home like I do, then a Beachbody workout program would be perfect for you. If you enjoy the gym, spin classes, Zumba, running, biking or swimming then faithfully go that direction. The important thing is that you find what you enjoy and stick to it. Regular exercise has such important mental and physical health benefits. If you are trying to lose weight it is so essential too. Half an hour a day is a great way to start. If exercise is foreign to you,  try starting with stretches or a walking schedule. They say the only bad workout is the one you didn't do and that is very true.  Find what works for you and just get moving!

Amazing Action Five:
Find Supportive People to Motivate You and Keep You Accountable
The group experience is so powerful. Oh how liberating it is to see that others too struggle, need support and need to have people with whom to share their success. I run monthly support groups on Facebook where we do just that.  It has been such a key to my success as having others to which you are accountable is so vital for profound change. Before I started coaching and running groups I did an initial post about the fact that I was starting my health and fitness journey. I was terrified. I was nervous. I was so far from where I needed to be, but I knew I had to go public to prove to myself and others that I was all in and serious about changing my life. The outpouring of support was huge and I have never looked back. I continue to openly share my story and encourage others to do the same. Keeping quiet about the highs and lows of the journey can keep you stuck, unmotivated or uninspired. The power of "me too" is a very incredible tool for change. I encourage you to get plugged into a supportive network of people. Join a group or club. Get involved in an online community. Go public about your goals and have loving friends and family help you stay accountable. If you slip in your journey, learn from it. It is a stepping stone not a stumbling block if you view it as such.

So here's to  a new year and a whole new you. Change can be scary, yet so very exciting too. If you would like more info on how to implement these amazing changes, please feel free to contact me at [email protected] or on Facebook. (Dana Lear Romualdi) Good luck everyone. I am in your corner cheering you on!

Until next time,

Dana

Ecclesiastes 3:1 ~  There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the Heavens.

Little Lesson Learned: Changing your life is much easier if you have an effective plan.

​Copyright © 2017 littlelessonslearnedbydana