Six Things

I just read this interesting article: "Six signs you're in healthy relationships"

In brief, a healthy relationship has these qualities:

1. Loyalty
2.Respect
3. Unconditionally There
4. Trustworthy
5. Genuine Sounding Board
6. Dependability

This author has written another ineresting article about Six Personality Traits to Aquire and Admire

1. Selflessness
2. Tolerance
3. Genuineness
4. Sensitivity
5. Integrity
6. Humility

Hmmmm...why are these traits/qualities so hard to find in our human relationships (and to develop in ourselves!) but they seem to come naturally to....yes, I'm going to say it...DOGS?!

Yet Another Blog, Misc. & Etc.

So, now I technically have 4 blogs. Is this the sign of an addictive personality? Yet, I needed a way to put up my art quickly and separate it from my personal life:

http://dogmafineart.blogspot.com


Lost my voice yesterday which has caused great joy for Erik and great amusement for my students. Hoping I can find it before tonight. Is this a sign I talk too much?

Lost too much weight without trying one bit. Down 22 pounds. I'm actually trying to gain 4 pounds. How is that for crazy? I have no appetite for ice cream, sweets or donuts; my former constant companions. Is it the running and yoga? People think I went on a diet but I didn't. 2010 certainly has given many a sign of positive new beginnings.

Lost a few friends last year, but gained even more this year, and it's only March.

Lost my mind for 6 months last year, but have it back with new found wisdom, strength and energy (hope it lasts).

Found that life is simply crazy and I just need to trust the process...If it doesn't kill you, it only makes you stronger (and a friggin size 2...)

Give a Hug, Get a Hug...That is the Connection

I think our society is suffering from a serious hug deficit. It is well known that hugs and physical affection are good for your health...numerous studies have proven that. Still, our culture just doesn't seem to either have the time or inclination to put hugging into daily practice. Part of being human, in my not so humble opinion, is our immense ability to connect with those around us, nature, animals, etc. But, so many of us struggle with this gift and live in a state of disconnect...worse are those who become disconnected from themselves and are constantly looking for the connection from others...instead of realizing that it starts from within. So, who have you hugged today? Who can you hug?

I realized that I get so many hugs each day I can't even count. Every morning, a group of my students come running to see me and tackle me with hugs and yes, I hug them back. How lucky am I? I give out hugs to friends and family and, of course, dogs. Interestingly, despite my predominant Italian-American upbringing, my family was very non-hugging (probably due to the fact they wanted to assimilate and 'be American')...it seemed once we passed toddlerhood, hugging was an uncomfortable way for my family to express themselves. When I started to consciously express myself with hugs as a young adult, I remember how awkward I felt, but I soon got over that. A hug, a touch on the arm or shoulder are non verbal ways we can communicate caring...and make a connection.

So, how many hugs will you give...and receive...today?