Best Christmas Story Ever

I had the most wonderful experience watching the Finnish film Christmas Story (Joulutarina) this evening.
It's heartwarming, engaging and engrossing - so touching (bring a box of hankies) and memorable it will stay with me for a long, long time.
This is unlike any other Christmas film I've ever seen;
I am so grateful I saw it.
If you have the chance to see it, I guarantee you'll thank me when you do.
The Seattle Swedish Cultural Center is screening it Friday, January 6, at 2pm (you can come early for lunch) - call them at 206-283-1090 for info.
It's also available at all the usual home rental outlets.
Here's a trailer:

So You Wanna Write?

I'm doing a 3-hour seminar for people who want to write, who are writing, or who want to know what to do with their writing after they've written Thursday, February 9, 2012, 6:30-9:30 at the Seattle Center for Spiritual Living. As a contribution to the community-at-large, it's low cost - $25 - if you enroll before February 5, $35 after.

Here's the official 4-1-1:
Are you still dreaming of writing that book, screenplay, poem? Those articles, blogs, songs? Here’s your opportunity to get inspired, get empowered and get going!
I'm a produced screenwriter, published author, journalist, book narrator and writing coach; I'll present an overview to help you start or refine your work. I'm covering:
•Discovering your authentic voice
•Finding the time, courage and initiative to get started…and keep going
•Understanding what to write; defining your audience
•What to do with your writing when it's ready to send out in the world
Bring a notebook, pens, your writing dreams, aspirations, questions and goals.
Write your question on a 3x5 card and submit it to CP just before the workshop.
This workshop is not for the humor-impaired!
To enroll, go to the CSL website here. or call 206-527-8801.
Please note: I will not be reading the work of those attending

Preventing students from voting in the Presidential election

Republicans across the nation are pushing for laws in individual states that prevent students from voting in the Presidential election next year because they believe students tend to be "liberal."
Congratulations.
The conservative students prevented from voting will - and should be - as upset as their liberal counterparts, being denied their right to register to cast their ballot for whatever candidate they support.
Knowing their Republican brothers and sisters actively worked to stop them from participating in the Presidential election will leave a bitter taste toward their conservative decision-makers. Especially if Obama is re-elected.
How enthusiastic will they be to work for or against a candidate if they are prevented from voting for (or against) anyone.
Silencing any group who legitimately has the right to vote for whomever they wish is not only un-American, it's purposefully obstructing the election process.
Read the New York Times editorial listing the facts of the Republicans' efforts to suppress the voting rights of students here.

Pets

I've decided that all domesticated animals suffer from Stockholm Syndrome...

Creating a new reality

Something I know I have forgotten to do in the past when my life takes a big step up is to stop.
Just stop.
To reflect on fantastic changes, grieve what I have released (so important!), recognize the great stuff and people I take with me from as I melt into my New Normal, and give thanks for all that has transpired to put me in this moment.
This moment is the only reality I know because the past is just a memory, the future only a possibility.
My job is simply to do my best. In all I pursue, all I do, all I learn, all I think, all I feel.
My very best.
No shortcuts, no half-assed, no careless, nothing without a clear intention of excellence.
In this moment.
It seems when I do that, everything else is handled.
I move forward confidently, with blind faith, just like these kittens.
And if you're looking for *really* sage advice, I'll quote my friend Tom Simmons: "Don't scratch your crotch." He, of course, means *in public.*
Have a great day! Make it count!

Why hasn’t anyone written a heartwarming story about the Christmas potato?

..just askin'

"Holiday sales"

After reviewing holiday gift TV commercials, I decided Christmas is about nookie.
Giving to receive.
Nookie.

Groomers prepping pups for the holidays!

I visited Kristi's Grooming in Seattle on a busy get-your-pup ready for the holidays Saturday, taking my Pomeranian Soul Seeker in for his festive bath and trim! It takes between 2-4 hours to groom most dogs. Groomers spend time prepping them (trimming nails, etc) before they bathe dogs, then the pups are dried and put in "I'm ready to get my fur styled" cages. Trimming is an art! Everyone gets along - these folks know how to handle dogs! Happy Holidays!

all photos ©2011 by Collen Patrick