A Life You Love — Margaux Joy DeNador

Welcome to my blog & website!

 

My intention is for my blog and website to be a place where I can share ideas that contribute to living a life of increased creativity and joy — a life of love, laughter, and fun.

If you would like to receive news and updates email me and I'll be happy to add you to my eNewsletter mailing list. For more ways to connect with me, or contact me, click here. 

To read my reviews, click here.

To read my messages about music, click here.

If you would like to get tickets for "I Can Do It!" — or one of the other events I recommend, click here. 

To see inside my book and buy it on amazon, click here.

To join me for my FREE monthly telephone conference calls, click here
for dates & times.

Is there anything you like to improve about your life?
Would you like to have better relationships?
Would you like to improve the quality of your communications?
Would you like to use more of your creativity?
Would you like to feel happier?
Are you happy with how you choose to use your time?
Do you have beliefs that are holding your back?
Do you wish you could find work you love to do?
Are there some dreams you wish could come true?

The Art of Living a Life You Love, can help you decide how you really want to live, what you're here to give, and will help you create — and live — a life you love.

The book is for "young adults" and for people of all ages who want to feel more alive, use more of their creativity, and feel good about how they use their gift of time.

Click here to take a look inside of The Art of Living a Life You Love.

If you have any questions, please email me. 

I wish you ALWAYS a life you love! 

:) Margaux Joy DeNador

PS: If you're on facebook and/or twitter, let's connect!

My facebook page is where I post positive messages, beautiful photos, and inspiring affirmations. You can also see many of my affirmations by following me on twitter.

Margaux Joy DeNador

Call Recording – Gratitude, Appreciation & Love – with Guest Dave Carroll

Tuesday, May 8, 2012, our monthly telegathering call "Feel and Express Your Gratitude, Appreciation, and Love" included an inspiring conversation with my guest Dave Carroll. Our discussion was based on Chapter Twelve of The Art of Living a Life You Love. Chapter Twelve is entitled, "Feel and Express Your Gratitude, Appreciation, and Love."

To hear the recording of the "Feel and Express Your Gratitude, Appreciation, and Love" telegathering call with Dave Carroll, please click on the link below. You will be able to pause and play by clicking on the bar.

Call Recording - Gratitude, Appreciation & Love - 050812

Our guest, Dave Carroll, is a singer, songwriter, and social media innovator from Halifax, Canada. Following his 2009 YouTube music video release called "United Breaks Guitars" about his poor customer service experience with United Airlines, Dave's career blossomed. He is now a highly sought-after performer, content creator, author, keynote speaker and consumer advocate.       

Dave has a wonderful sense of humor as is shown in his music video about United breaking his guitar. Dave's YouTube music video "United Breaks Guitars" has had close to 12,000,000 views! You can watch Dave's video, which is an amusing and non-confrontational way of handling his beloved Taylor guitar being broken, on Dave's website at www.DaveCarrollMusic.com.

To see Dave Carroll's music video click on the image above.

The video also inspired Hay House to publish a book by Dave which was released on May 15, 2012. I was glad to have an advance copy to read before the call. I started to read his book the night it arrived and was enjoying it so much I didn't want to put it down! I like the way he writes — and speaks — about his experience. You will hear more about Dave's video, his story, and his new book by listening to the recording of the call.

Dave's book "United Breaks Guitars… The Power of One Voice in the Age of Social Media" is now available to order on Amazon.com. I highly recommend Dave's book. As you will discover when you read it, one voice does have great power in the age of social media!

During the call, we also talked about how Dave's video helped my husband and son have a good experience with United Airlines taking good care of their guitars. We heard about the video just over a week before we were scheduled to fly to Maui in 2009. We are extremely grateful that both my husband's beautiful Taylor guitar and our son's beloved Ovation guitar arrived on Maui safely and also arrived home safely after our celebration vacation.

The photo below shows the two guitars that my husband and son took with them to Maui. 

 

Dudley & Zander – Playing their Taylor & Ovation guitars on Maui


We are grateful that we had a great experience taking guitars to Maui and we appreciate Dave Carroll's video inspiring United Airlines to take better care of their passengers!

 

Book Review: The Beauty Blueprint by Michelle Phillips

 

After hearing the audio recording of Michelle Phillips’ talk at the Tampa, Florida, “I Can Do It!” conference, I was curious to read her book. The title, "The Beauty Blueprint – 8 Steps to Building the Life and Look of Your Dreams” intrigued me. But when I saw her book's cover with its beautiful colors and artistic use of photography and fonts, I knew I just had to read it!

In the book, Michelle combines what she has learned as a makeup artist and beauty and life coach to help people create a "Beauty Blueprint" that expresses who they are inside. Michelle helps her clients, and the people who read her book, remember what matters most to them. She helps her readers understand the essence of their values in order to express themselves with the colors, clothes, hairstyles, hair color, makeup, and the accessories they choose.

One of my favorite chapters in the book is titled "Dream a Beautiful Future." It starts with a quote by Carl Jung that says, "The dream is the small hidden door in the deepest and most intimate sanctum of the soul." In this chapter, Michelle explains that she has found that many people have a hard time letting themselves dream freely. Perhaps this is because so many of us have been told what limitations we have or how hard it would be to do what we dreamed of doing, being, having, giving, and living. Some of these beliefs we pick up while we are young but as an adult there are plenty of people who are willing to tell us why we can't do something or that something can't be done.

Michelle has a wonderful exercise in this chapter called "Wave Your Magic Wand." This exercise involves using your imagination and waving a magic wand allowing you to imagine your options as unlimited. Michelle teaches us that if it's totally possible, it's not really a dream. It's just something practical for you to do or achieve.  As Michelle says, "It gives your heart permission to come out and play and whispers to us what is hidden deep inside." I loved how this exercise made me feel. It inspired me to dream with no boundaries or limits. It was fun and enlightening. 

Michelle gives an example of the "Beautiful Future" she wrote about in her journal. Her honesty about where she was when she began to allow herself to dream – and how her written dreams began to come true – inspired me.

Looking at someone like Michelle Phillips, it's easy to think her life has always been perfect, that she always had known what she most wanted, who she was inside, and that she had always just been "lucky."  But her honesty about her mistakes and challenges along with stories she shares about how she became who she is today are inspiring and encourage those reading her book to let themselves remember what matters most to them, and how they most want to live their lives.

I am including, here, an audio recording of my April 10, 2012, interview with Michelle Phillips so you can hear her passion. To listen, just click on the gray bar. If you need to pause it, just click the blue bar and click again when you want to re-start it. The interview was inspiring and fun. It's around 12 minutes in length, so listen when you have time.

Michelle Phillips Interview MJOY DeNador 041012   

 

 
   You can visit Michelle Phillips' website at: www.michellephillips.com

Another favorite chapter of mine is titled, "Look in the Mirror." It begins with a quote that says, "The best mirror is an old friend." Because Michelle is a makeup artist, it would seem the chapter is about looking in a mirror at yourself. But "Look in the Mirror" is actually about the "mirror" of the people in your life.

Michelle says, "Through my work, I've learned that the people around you act as mirrors, reflecting your inner beliefs and emotions. Who have you placed around you, and what are they revealing about your state of mind?"

The people we choose to spend time with have a huge effect on how we feel. The exercise in this chapter, "Check Your Mirrors", is a great reminder to pay attention to who is in your “Circle of Influence”. I totally agree that it is important to surround yourself with people who bring out the best in you.

Years ago I studied fashion color analysis because I love color. But the way they taught us to choose colors for people was ALL based on what they looked like on the outside. Because I am a blonde, I was told that I was never to wear black and that I "should" wear navy blue, light blues, and pinks. But I hate wearing those colors! The colors they chose for me made me feel sick and as if I was wearing someone else's clothes. I wasted money on those clothes and since then have always chosen colors by how I feel when I wear them.

Michelle's book "The Beauty Blueprint" is about aligning your appearance with who you are inside. As Michelle says, clothing and makeup colors must express who we are inside. They must feel right to us for us to feel beautiful and to enjoy wearing them.

Just before the end of the book, Michelle has included the following: "How to Buy Designer Clothes for Much Less," How to Apply Your Makeup Like a Pro," and also answers "Frequently Asked Fashion Questions."

Reading this book reminded me of things I've learned over the years about what it takes to look and feel my best. It also got me to have fun dreaming during the "wave your magic wand" exercise.

Michelle writes in an authentic, likable, sometimes funny, and unique voice – her voice. You'll be able to hear the passion and enthusiasm in her voice if you listen to the recording I've included above.

Am I glad I read this book? YES!! If you would like to build the life and look of your dreams, you'll want to buy this book.

To purchase "The Beauty Blueprint" by Michelle Phillips, click on one of the following links:

Time is a Gift with Leslie Keenan – Call Recording!

Tuesday, April 10, 2012 our monthly telegathering call "Time is a Gift" included an inspiring conversation with my guest Leslie Keenan.

The focus of the call was TIME IS A GIFT. The call was inspirational and fun. I am glad to have a recording of it to post here.

To hear the recording of the hour-long "Time is a Gift" telegathering call, click on the link below. You will be able to pause and play by clicking on the bar.

 Call Recording - Time is a Gift 041012

Our discussion was based on Chapter Eleven of The Art of Living a Life You Love. Chapter Eleven is entitled, "Time is a Gift… Take Time for What Matters Most to You!"

Our guest, Leslie Keenan, is a dynamic presenter, teacher, coach and writer. She has been helping people access their creativity, find the time to do what they most love, and complete their writing projects for over thirty years. Leslie teaches inspiring classes about time and writing, is a wise, kind, and inspiring writing coach and editor, and also has her own book publishing company.   

Leslie Keenan at Book Passage, Corte Madera, California

Leslie is the author of an inspiring book about time. The title is, It's About Time: Finding Magic, Power and Ease in Your Life. You can take a look at Leslie's book by clicking on the link for it. Leslie's book and her time classes are very helpful for writers and anyone else who wants to find time to "show up" for their creative projects! 
 
I met Leslie through Book Passage in Corte Madera, California. After attending her writing classes and her time class, she began to do one-on-one coaching for me while I was writing my book. She was with me from the very first flow writing all the way through the publishing of my book! I highly recommend Leslie, her classes, her coaching, and her time book.  To find out more about Leslie, click on the link for her website, LeslieKeenan.com

Review and Interviews - I Can Do It Ignite!

 

                        San Jose, California – I Can Do It Ignite – Speakers

 

When I heard that Hay House would be having a different format for the "I CAN DO IT!" conference with "Ignite!" in the event name, I became very curious and decided I wanted to attend it.  I've always enjoyed the previous "I CAN DO IT!" conferences but I wondered what it would be like to have so many new authors speak  – for 20 minutes each – one right after the other in this new format.

The event was held March 17-18, 2012, at the San Jose Center for Performing Arts in San Jose, California. 

I must admit that I wondered if I would like this new format. I also wondered if I would enjoy hearing so many new authors. What I discovered was that Hay House made a great choice in hosting this new event.

During this inspiring new event format, inspiring authors Louise Hay, Dr. Wayne Dyer, Cheryl Richardson, Doreen Virtue, and Denise Linn shared the stage with 21 passionate and interesting new Hay House authors. 

                Dr. Wayne Dyer

Dr. Wayne Dyer spoke from 9-12:00 on Saturday, March 17th. The title of Wayne's talk was  Wishes Fulfilled: Master the Art of Manifesting. Wayne was joined by Anita Moorjani, author of "Dying to Be Me." Anita's story is amazing and inspiring. Wayne was also joined by his daughter, Skye Dyer, who sang two songs, "The Greatest Love" by Whitney Houston and "Leader of the Band" by Dan Fogelberg, during his talk. I enjoyed Wayne's talk, hearing Anita Moorjani's story, and hearing Skye sing. It was an enjoyable three hours and seemed to go by very quickly. 

Following Dr. Dyer's talk we had a lunch break from 12:00-1:30 pm. Next there were ten inspiring new authors doing 20-minute talks. The speakers after his talk, along with their speech titles, were as follows: Gabrielle Bernstein, Spirit Junkie - Access Untapped Inspiration and Become a Magnet for Miracles; Nancy Levin, Writing for My Life; Dave Carroll, The Power of One Voice In The Age of Social Media; Agapi Stassinopulus, Unbinding the Heart: Creating Your Own Portable Paradise; Jessica Ortner, The One Hour Apprentice; Kate Northrup, Money: A Love Story; Nick Ortner, Use EFT to Clear Patterns of Self-Sabotage Forever; Michael Chase, A Revolution of the Heart: Igniting the Power of Kindness Within; Denise Linn, Past Life Hyper-Time: Release Limitations and Activate Your Spiritual  Path; Kris Carr, From Illness to Activist. 

            Doreen Virtue

There was a dinner break from 5:30 - 7:00 and then we were back in the auditorium to enjoy hearing Doreen Virtue from 7:00 - 8:30 pm. The title of Doreen's talk was Healing, Help, and Guidance from Your Angels. Doreen looked like a beautiful blonde mermaid angel. I am glad to have attended her talk. I left feeling uplifted, encouraged, and happy.
 

After the first day I was feeling inspired, energized, happy, and tired all at the same time! Luckily I had decided to stay at the Hilton Hotel with the others who were attending the event so it was an easy walk across the street to get back to our hotel rooms. I was so glad to have come to the event and was excited to see Louise Hay and Cheryl Richardson speaking together first thing the next morning!

     Cheryl Richardson & Louise Hay

Sunday, March 18th our morning began with Louise Hay and Cheryl Richardson speaking together from 9-10:30 am. The title of their talk was, Holding Steady in Times of Change. When I heard them speak together at the Pasadena I CAN DO IT! in October and also watched and listened to them on the live video stream from the Tampa, Florida I CAN DO IT! in November 2011 the talks were focused on their book You Can Create an Exceptional Life. This talk had a focus we can all relate to – feeling better about all of the changes that are going on in our lives.  Louise and Cheryl are so much fun together! Hearing them speak and watching them interact with each other and the audience was fun!

Louise and Cheryl were followed by a break, three inspiring speakers, a lunch break, and then ten more inspiring speakers all doing 20-minute talks. The Sunday afternoon speakers and their speech titles were as follows:

Michael Eisen, Empowered YOUth; Sarah De Anna, The Healthy Secrets to Becoming Model Skinny; Michelle Phillips, Finding Your True Beauty; Barbara Carrellas, Ecstasy is Necessary; Lissa Rankin M.D., Diagnose The REAL Reason You're Sick; Louann Brizendine, M.D., The Love Brain; Danielle LaPorte, The Strategy of Desire; Alisa Vitti, The FLO Living Method: Your Body as Your Partner to Health, Power, and Global Change; Latham Thomas, Ready, Set, GLOW! A Journey into Abundant Living, Spiritual Fitness, and Healthy Lifestyle; Tom Shadyac, What's Wrong with Our World and What We Can Do About It; Meggan Watterson, REVEAL Your Soul-Voice; and Congressman Tim Ryan, A Mindful Nation. The closing keynote speaker on Sunday was Kris Carr. The title of her speech was Crazy Sexy Life: Live Like You Mean It. The event concluded Sunday at 6:00 pm.

Before leaving to drive home, I saw Louise Hay talking with some people in the lobby of the hotel. I wanted to tell Louise how much I enjoyed the time I spent watching and listening to her and Cheryl Richarson. I also wanted to tell her how much I enjoyed this new kind of "I CAN DO IT" conference. Louise looked me in the eyes and said, "Did you hear all of the speakers?" My answer was yes I heard all of them. Louise gave me a big smile, with a twinkle in her eyes, and said, "I did too!"  

The Hay House "I Can Do It!" conferences are a chance to observe some of the most inspiring speakers I've ever encountered all in one place. It is also wonderful to be there in person and meet some of my favorite authors and speakers – to be able to talk with them, hug them, and get to know them. As an author and speaker myself, I find these conferences inspiring and a great learning experience as a speaker as well. Being a Hay House author and speaker would definitely be a dream come true! Every speaker I've met that is part of the Hay House family was someone I would love to know as a friend. Every speaker I met was inspiring, passionate, and kind.

I also love being at these events in person because of the people I meet while there. During this event I met several new people and two of the women I spent the most time with were authors and gave me copies of their books and I gave them mine. Being with so many like-minded and like-hearted people in one place is a wonderful feeling!

I enjoyed this conference, I am glad I decided to attend it, and I highly recommend it!

For information and to purchase tickets for I CAN DO IT! events planned for 2012, click on this link.   

Following are ALL of the authors that spoke at the "I CAN DO IT Ignite!" in San Jose, California. You can click on the names below to read about each of the authors who spoke at this event.

Louise L. Hay Dr. Wayne W. Dyer Anita Moorjani Cheryl Richardson Doreen Virtue Kris Carr Tom Shadyac Denise Linn Tim Ryan Gabrielle Bernstein Nick Ortner Barbara Carrellas Agapi Stassinopoulos Dave Carroll Latham Thomas Meggan Watterson Jessica Ortner Louann Brizendine, M.D. Danielle LaPorte Michael Eisen Lissa Rankin, M.D. Sarah DeAnna Kate Northrup Nancy Levin Michael J. Chase Michelle Phillips Alisa Vitti

Interviewing some of the new Hay House authors, who spoke at the "I CAN DO IT Ignite!" in San Jose, California, was inspiring and fun!

You'll find recordings of the interviews below. To listen to the interviews, click on the gray audio bar for the speaker you want to hear. You can click to play and to pause the recordings so you can listen to them as time permits. Each of the following interviews is just over 10 minutes in length.

 

Dave Carroll Interview - MJoyDeNador 022212

Dave is a singer-songwriter and social media innovator from Halifax, Canada.

Following his 2009 YouTube music video release called United Breaks Guitars, about his poor customer service experience with United Airlines, Dave's career blossomed and he is now a highly-sought-after performer, content creator, author, keynote speaker and consumer advocate.

To see Dave Carroll's video, United Breaks Guitars, which has had over 11,500,000 views, and to hear his solo album "Perfect Blue" which has a wonderful song titled "NOW" as well as a bonus track of the song from the video, visit his website:
www.davecarrollmusic.com

Michael Eisen Interview - MJoy DeNador 022912

Michael Eisen is a passionate, authentic, and charismatic inspirational speaker, author and social entrepreneur.

After positively transforming his own life at the age of 19 and overcoming challenges with stress, anxiety, depression and sickness, he is now driven to share with other young people the principles, strategies, and practices that empowered him to start living a happier and healthier life.

Michael created the Youth Wellness Network at the age of 25, in order to provide support programs and resources for young people. Michael also has a book coming out soon.

To find out more about Michael and his Youth Wellness Network, click on the link for his webiste: www.youthwellnessnetwork.ca

 

Michelle Phillips Interview MJoyDeNador 041012

Michelle Phillips is an author, speaker, television personality, celebrity make-up artist, and life coach.

Michelle's mission is to help women cultivate their beauty from the inside out, and change the way they see themselves forever. Michelle blends her beauty expertise with tools for self-improvement to help women bring out best in themselves and live a happier and healthier life.

To find out more about Michelle, and her book "The Beauty Blueprint - 8 Steps to Building the Life and Look of Your Dreams," please visit her website at: www.MichellePhillips.com

 

 

 

Live Your Dreams with Robert Berry – Call Recording!

Tuesday, March 6, 2012 our monthly telegathering call "Live Your Dreams" included an inspiring conversation with my guest Robert Berry.

 

The focus of the call was LIVING YOUR DREAMS. The call was fun and very inspiring. I am glad to have a recording of it to share!

 

To hear the recording of the hour-long "Live Your Dreams" telegathering call, click on the link below.

 

Call Recording - Live Your Dreams 030612

 

Our discussion was based on Chapter Ten of The Art of Living a Life You Love. Chapter Ten is entitled, "Live Your Dreams... And Love Your Life!"  

 

Robert Berry is living his dreams. Robert is a Grammy nominated recording artist, song writer, producer and performing musician. He was featured on an album titled "3" with Keith Emerson & Carl Palmer; he has toured with Ambrosia; and has a long running project - Alliance - with members of Boston, Sammy Hagar, and Night Ranger. Robert is also a talented, experienced, and in demand record producer.

 

 

Robert is not only living his dreams but helps make music dreams come true for many people - including my husband, Dudley DeNador, and our son Zander DeNador. To find out more about Robert, see some videos, and listen to samples of his music, click on the link for his website, www.RobertBerry.com.

Speech – Live Your Music!

 

Live Your Music Speech - Margaux Joy DeNador
Click here to listen to the speech!

 

I feel inspired to share the audio AND the written version of my speech "LIVE YOUR MUSIC!" 

Being in the International Speech Contest at Toastmasters 1441 in Mill Valley, California on February 15, 2012, was a wonderful experience.

I highly recommend Toastmasters. If you're curious about it, and feel inspired to try going to a Toastmasters meeting, please do it!

To hear – or download – my speech, please click on the audio download link above the "LIVE YOUR MUSIC!" graphic.

Speech: Live Your Music! — Margaux Joy DeNador

What do you dream of doing?
What does your heart desire?
What “music” do you hear “calling” you?

Madam Toastmaster, Fellow Toastmasters, and Welcome Guests…

DON’T think of a purple elephant!
When I said, "Don't think of a purple elephant!" I'll bet you saw a purple elephant!

For many years I’ve heard inspiring author and speaker Dr. Wayne Dyer say, “Don’t Die with Your Music Still in you!”

While I understand what Dr. Dyer means, it has always bothered me to hear “Don’t Die – with your music still in you.”

Our minds tend to ignore the word “don’t” and because this is true, what we hear (even if it is subconsciously) is: “Die with your music still in you.”     

Instead of…
Get your music out while you’re still alive!

I began to wonder how we might say it without the word “DON’T”…

What I came up with is:

LIVE YOUR MUSIC!

Hearing “LIVE YOUR MUSIC!” – and seeing the words “LIVE YOUR MUSIC!” – reminds ME to live the “music” I hear calling ME – NOW, while I’m still alive!

Living your music is a journey that makes your life more enjoyable.

I remember hearing inspirational speaker Mark Victor Hansen talk about dreams on an audio program of his titled, “Dreams Don’t Have Deadlines.”

After listening to his audio program, I realized that what is actually true is that “DREAMS HAVE DIVINE TIMING” — they come true when the time is right.

Dreams come true when they are meant to… when we’re ready, when all of the people involved are ready, and when the Universe is ready – that is when dreams come true!

Dreams are something you feel “called” to do.

They are NOT “practical”

They DON’T have deadlines.

But they ARE what make YOU feel fully alive.

They ARE what “call” you forward and give you joy as you move toward them.

Dreams ARE like BIG beautiful mountains that YOU feel inspired to “climb.”

What if… what you feel INSPIRED to do, that also “seems like a waste of time” or “seems impractical or nearly impossible” — is what you are supposed to do?

I’ll give you some examples of Heart's Desires & Dreams of mine:

To Be a Mom
I am a Mom and I love being a Mom! 

To enjoy writing my first book and have it published
Writing and publishing my first book was a journey of joy!

To enjoy speaking to people about my book
Toastmasters is helping me to do it!

To sing vocal tracks for songs at Soundtek Studios
I sang at the recording studio for my first time last December!

To write a book titled: LIVE YOUR MUSIC!
I am starting to interview people for this book…
I am at the bottom of this “big, beautiful mountain” and I intend to enjoy the entire journey of this dream!

To be on Dancing with the Stars
This dream is still in the “out-of-sight” category because to do it I would have to be a “star” to dance in the contest or sing a song while the dancers dance to it – but it would be awesome and fun!!!

 

Imagine yourself at a celebration of your 90^th birthday…

Who would you love to have there?
What stories would you like people to  about you?
What stories would you like to tell?

 

Remember: Goals have “deadlines” – Dreams Have Divine Timing!

Create an on-going list of dreams… It can be as long as you want!

Take out a sheet of paper, “Wave Your Magic Wand” and write down every dream that would be on the list if someone could wave a magic wand and they would ALL come true!

Dare to dream – because as you move toward your dream – or Heart’s Desire – you’ll become more of who you are here to be!

 

The keys to dreams coming true:

1.   Decide on a dream or Heart’s Desire

2.   TAKE TIME to “Show Up” for your Dream

3.   Enjoy the journey of your dream —
      Remember that Dreams Have Divine Timing

 

What do you dream of doing?

What does your heart desire?

Are you willing to “show up” for your dream –
even if it may take years for it to come true?

 

Are you willing to be wrong about your limits?

Are you willing to listen to your Heart and “show up” for your dreams?

Are you willing to live your music?

 

What the world needs are people who feel fully alive – people who share their love and shine their light by living the “music” they hear.

Play the edge of your comfort zone.

“Show Up” for your Heart’s Desires and Dreams

Please – LIVE YOUR MUSIC!

 

What do you Dream of doing? What does your Heart Desire?
What "music" do you "hear" calling you?  :) Margaux

Work You Love with Betsy Gutting – Call Recording!

Tuesday, February 7, 2012, our monthly telegathering call "Work You Love" included an inspiring conversation with my guest Betsy Gutting.

 

The focus of this call was WORK YOU LOVE. I am happy to have a recording of the call. To hear the hour-long call, click on the gray bar below.

 

Call Recording – Work You Love 020712

Our discussion was based on Chapter nine of The Art of Living a Life You Love. Chapter nine is entitled, "Work You Love is a Gift of Joy."

 

My guest for this call, Betsy Gutting, is an intuitive life coach. Bestsy helps lawyers and other professionals, CEOs, homemakers, and artists create work and lives they love.

 

As a former practicing lawyer and at-home mom, Betsy has moved successfully through the trepidation and bumps of her own career and personal transitions.

 

                   Betsy Gutting

Betsy also told us that she helps people let go of struggle and and create a magical life. Betsy is a Certified Intuitive Life Coach, a seminar leader, and the creator of an audio CD titled "Guided Meditations for Awakening Your Passion."

I found the following inspring quote on Betsy's website:

"Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it.
Because what the world needs is people who have come alive."
– Howard Thurman

 

What makes you feel most alive? What the world needs, as it says in the quote above, are people who are feeling fully alive. Please answer the question and post your answer below this message!

 

To find out more about Betsy, click on the link for her website: www.BetsyGutting.com

Imagine – Singing at Soundtek Studios!

by Margaux Joy DeNador

As you read my story, I'd like you to think about your story!

Just over seven years ago in December 2004 I walked in the door of a Toastmasters club for my first time. As I entered the room I was feeling both fear and excitement. Last month, in December 2011, I gave a speech at our Toastmasters club about feeling both fear and excitement again as I thought about what I’d be doing for the first time the following week…

While I was growing up I loved to sing. I loved to sing for my family, while riding my horse, and I especially loved to sing while listening to music in my room.

Then, when I was 12 years old, I spent a summer with my Grandmother in Los Gatos, California. While there, I overheard my grandmother telling my mom that I should forget about singing.

Hearing my Grandmother say that made me feel sad but since she sounded so sure she was right, I believed her.

I decided to give up singing!

Looking back on the situation I realize that Grandma didn’t know what was possible. She just knew what she wanted for me. My Grandmother wanted me to be an artist. She wanted me to paint oil paintings like her – that was HER “dream” for me.

Years later, during college as an art major I got a part-time job working in a record store. I loved working in a place where there was music!

While going to college and working in the record store, I met three members of a rock 'n roll band called HUSH. One of them, Robert Berry, became a treasured friend of mine. I loved to watch and listen while he was working in a small recording studio in San Jose. I also loved to watch his band play but every time I watched, I wished I could be up on stage singing!  

In 1982 I got married. My husband, Dudley DeNador, has always loved music. It's his passion. But I found it hard to encourage him to sing because it was something I had always wanted to do. The problem was I still believed that I didn’t have a good enough voice to sing.

In 1993 when our son, Zander, was three years old he inspired me to try singing again. When Zander and I were alone in the car, he loved to sing songs from the Disney movie "Aladdin." Thanks to Zander’s encouragement, I began to sing Jasmine’s part for the song “A Whole New World” and he would sing Aladdin’s part. After practicing with Zander I got brave enough to sing the song with him when we were in the car with Dudley. I was amazed and delighted when Dudley told me that I did a good job!!!

 

Robert Berry - Soundtek Studios, Campbell, California

In 2003 I suggested we ask my friend Robert Berry if he would record some songs Dudley had written. Robert owns a recording studio called Soundtek Studios. At first Robert kept saying it was too far away for us to have him record the songs. But we were persistent and Robert recapitulated and began to record Dudley's songs. During the recording of the first album, our son wrote his first two songs and they are also on it as bonus tracks. The second album, D2, has songs by both Dudley and our son, Zander.

I went to every one of the recording sessions. I loved watching and listening while each track was recorded. Going to Robert’s recording studio to watch, to listen, and every once in awhile make a suggestion for the music or lyrics made me feel joyful and fully alive. I loved being part of the song creation process even in tiny ways.

In 2007, Dudley wrote a song intended for Shakira and Carlos Santana called Sensory Overload, and he needed to have a female singer sing it. His goal at the time was to have it be a new song for Shakira to sing. I REALLY wanted to sing that song! Dudley found a girl that he thought was perfect to sing it, and I got so upset and jealous that I decided to finally try singing lessons. I signed up for private singing lessons with a woman named Lenora Black here in Marin County.  Lenora told me that I am a “coloratura soprano.” I was excited to hear that Lenora believed I could sing! She helped me begin to change my belief about what was possible for me.

The singing lessons helped me learn how to breathe and how to control the flow of air. Lenora said I needed to practice, practice, and practice some more. I was thankful to have a guide to help me sing!

"Life is Music, Music is Life"
soundtekstudios.com

In 2009, I decided that it would be great to have some songs to go with my book, The Art of Living a Life You Love. My idea was to have musical mantras that remind us that we can love our life.  The first song I wrote lyrics for is called “Imagine.”  I asked Dudley to write music for it and he got inspired to do it. 

We sent the music Dudley recorded on our limited version of ProTools recording software to our friend Robert. He added keyboards, bass guitar, drums, and mixed the recording.

We wanted to have our vocals recorded by Robert, at Soundtek Studios, but we had to wait because of the time and cost involved. We knew we would do it as soon as we could.

Seven years ago in December 2004 I walked into my Toastmasters club for the first time. As I entered the room I was feeling both fear and EXCITEMENT.

In November 2011 we booked a “session” to have Robert record our vocal tracks for “Imagine” at his recording studio. The session was scheduled for December 22 just three days before Christmas and my birthday!!!

After scheduling the session I was feeling both fear and EXCITEMENT as I began to imagine singing at the recording studio for the first time!!! But what I’ve learned is that when something is both scary and exciting it is well worth it. I’ve learned to say to myself, “FEEL THE EXCITEMENT… AND DO IT ANYWAY!”

Photos of me singing Imagine at Soundtek Studios 12.22.11

My first ever recording session singing in the vocal booth at Soundtek Studios was an awsome experience. I was feeling lots of fear when I got there and thinking OMG what have I done but then Robert and my husband Dudley talked me through the initial fear. Robert has helped people get over their fears of singing in his studio for years. I had seen him do it, and I knew how kind he can be. Robert helped me move up the emotional scale from fear to hope, to excitement, and then to actually having fun.

It was a great learning experience. It feels so good to do something new and exciting. I want to write and sing more songs!!! (To hear our song Imagine, please click on the link at the end of this message.)

I’ve told you part of my story. Now I'd like you to think about your story.

Is there something you’ve been afraid of doing but have always wanted to do?

Each of us is the star in the story of our own life.

We each get to write the script for the story. If there are any scenes we want to add or re-write, we can do it!! Because you’re still alive, your story is a work in progress and that means there’s time to add some exciting new scenes.

I hope you feel inspired to decide how you want to tell your story!!!

 
If you would like to read the lyrics for Imagine, click here.

To hear our song, IMAGINE, with the vocals recorded 12.22.11 at Soundtek Studios, please click on this link:

IMAGINE  - DeNadors - Click here to hear the song!

PS: To feel fully alive we must be willing to do things that are both scary and EXCITING. I would love to hear what scenes you decide to add to your story! Please post a comment or send me an email about what exciting thing you decide to do.

 

Review: 2011 Tampa, Florida, I CAN DO IT! Conference - Live Stream Video

When Hay House announced that they were going to do live video from the 2011 Tampa, Florida, "I CAN DO IT!" conference it became my heart's desire to watch it and review it. The idea of being able to "electronically attend" parts of the event live – to be able to see and hear it as it was happening – made me extremely curious. Because I've attended the "I CAN DO IT!" conference live, I wondered how different it would feel to watch it on my computer at home.

One of the things I love about being at the conference is being with so many other positive people that are experiencing the same speakers and the feeling of being in the room with them. In a way it's like the difference between going to a movie at a theater versus watching it on your computer. One of the major differences is that at the conference you meet people from all over the world who have traveled to be there.

But there are also interesting aspects of watching live stream video as well. One of the things that was fun was being able to watch in my PJs, fuzzy robe, and slippers. Because I am in California, the time difference meant being ready to watch at 5:30 am on Saturday and Sunday. Since I am a morning person, this was fairly easy for me.

For people who live in California or other areas west of Florida and prefer to get up late on weekends, the live video stream of the event would be a challenge. But if you purchase the live video stream you are able to watch the video as an "on demand" event one time for each keynote speaker or workshop.

Hay House also offered the option to purchase a USB wristband with the live stream videos and all of the audios for the conference. I am looking forward to having the USB wristband with the digital files so I can re-watch my favorite speakers over and over again. I like the idea of being able to hear the audio recordings of speakers I wasn't able to see on the video.

Being able to see and hear the speakers on the live stream video was wonderful. One of the benefits was being able to take "screen shots" of the speakers while they were on stage talking. At the live events taking photos is not allowed so this was one of the really cool things about watching the live video stream of the event. To give you an idea of what it's like to see the video stream, I've chosen a favorite "screen shot" of each speaker's talk and you can see them while reading the rest of this review.

 

Wayne Dyer with his daughter Skye Dyer - Friday 11.11.11

Friday Evening – Keynote Speaker – Wayne Dyer
"Mastering the Art of Manifestation"

Dr. Wayne Dyer's live feed started around 4:45 pm. Unfortunately, I missed the first part of his talk.

He talked about the importance of "living from the end." You make your future dream a present fact by feeling your wish as being fulfilled.

Wayne believes that the last five minutes of the day are super important. During these five minutes, he suggests we feel our wish as fulfilled so our subconscious mind can "marinate" with those thoughts and feelings while we are asleep.

Wayne's talk in Tampa was similar to the one I experienced live in Pasadena but there were some major differences as well. The woman from Hong Kong wasn't at the Tampa conference. Also, the young comedian that was in Pasadena wasn't at this event either. Skye Dyer was at both events and she sang two songs during Wayne's keynote speech.  The first song she sang was "Let it Be" and the second song was "The Leader of the Band" which she sang to her dad. I always enjoy hearing Skye sing! 

There were a few minor glitches with the live stream during this speech. Luckily Wayne's talk is available as on-demand for 90 days and there are also digital files of his talk on the USB band from the conference.

 

Louise Hay and Cheryl Richardson - Saturday 11.12.11

Saturday Morning Keynote Speakers – Louise Hay & Cheryl Richardson
"Spiritual Tools for Living an Exceptional Life"

Seeing and hearing Louise Hay and Cheryl Richardson together again was wonderful. One of the reasons I most wanted to watch the live video stream was to see and hear them together again. They were just as delightful this time as they were at the Pasadena event in October.
 
Louise started out by saying, "I am 85 and very alive!" Louise looked beautiful in her tunic of aqua to green to warm yellow. She has more enthusiasm and energy than many people do when they are 50 or more years younger than Louise is now.

Louise and Cheryl were having so much FUN!!! Because they were having such a good time, it was great FUN watching and listening even though I had seen them do their talk in Pasadena. Both times their conversation with each other and the audience came across as sincere, authentic, spontaneus, playful, and fun-loving. They make a delightful and inspiring team.

Louise and Cheryl talked about the affirmations in the "I CAN DO IT!" page-a-day calendar. Louise said the calendars sell out quickly so it's a good idea to order one soon for 2012.

"I love people who are always learning and practicing. Just because you  know it doesn't mean you're practicing it." Louise Hay is so right about this point as well. There is a huge difference in "knowing" something and practicing it. The ideas are simple but they do require practice. 

Because of writing their book, You Can Create an Exceptional Life, they were so much more aware of what they were thinking, what they were saying, and how it was making them feel.

Louise and Cheryl were allowing themselves to be silly and funny. The playful attitude was evident from the joy they projected along with Louise's foot bobbing in glee. I loved being able to watch and listen to them again!!! What an inspiring talk! It was well worth being up early to watch them at 5:30 am!

 

Deborah King - Saturday 11.12.11

Saturday Morning Workshop – Deborah King
"Be Your Own Shaman" 

It was interesting to experience Deborah King on the live video stream and compare it to seeing her live at the Pasadena conference.

She started this talk about her book, Be Your Own Shaman, by telling us she was having a drawing for two iPads, one for the live event and one for people who were watching the live video stream. 

Deborah had been a lawyer with a stressful life and then found out she had cancer. She stepped off the "fast track" and took a look at herself. She had been someone who had been into high speed, high risk sports, promiscuity, anything to keep from feeling her emotions. She realized she needed to get in touch with her emotions. She started with a 12-Step program. She picked AA. She says there isn't one of us that doesn't have some sort of addiction.

Deborah encouraged us to get in touch with our emotions with a journal or even the computer – something where you are using your arms. She said to type or write as fast as you can write or as fast as you can type.

Deborah looked happy and like she was enjoying herself. I actually enjoyed the live video of her workshop more than I did the one live in Pasadena. Why? It just seemed like she was enjoying herself more for this workshop which made it more enjoyable to watch.

 

 

Doreen Virtue - Saturday 11.12.11

Saturday Afternoon Workshop – Doreen Virtue
"Connecting with the Angels of Health, Happiness, and High Energy"

Doreen Virtue came onto the stage to an audience that was excited to be with her. The view of the audience showed them standing up to welcome her. For years I had been curious about Doreen and why she was so popular. Now, after having been in her workshop at the Pasadena, California, "I CAN DO IT!" and watching the live video stream of her workshop in Tampa, Florida, it is easy to understand why.

Doreen looks like an angel, and she talks about angels. Hearing her describe how the angels are messagers and that we all have at least two guardian angels made me even more curious to learn more from her.

Doreen talked about her book, "Angel Words" and made me very curious about it. Doreen's son Grant – who runs her website and records her podcasts – has a computer program that records visuals of sound. He worked with her to create this book.  

One example from the book was about Anna Taylor who is a friend of mine. Doreen showed slides before and after changing what Anna was saying to herself. Once she began to affirm, "I am a talented singer."  Her voice improved, she recorded an album, and began to sing live at a variety of events. Anna is a talented singer. I am glad Doreen encouraged her to affirm it and believe it! 

Doreen reminded us that the angels love to help us but we have to ASK them before they can do it.

Doreen is beautiful, kind, sensitive, and fun. I thoroughly enjoyed both her live workshop in Pasadena and this "live video stream" way of seeing her.

 

Gregg Braden - Saturday 11.12.11

Saturday Evening Keynote Speaker – Gregg Braden  
"Deep Truth: Igniting the Memory of Our Origin, History, Destiny
and Fate"

Gregg Braden combines science and spirituality. He talked quite a bit about the changes in what scientists used to believe versus what is thought to be true now.

This talk was based on his book "Deep Truth" — which I have not read.

Gregg Braden's talk was very similar to his talk in Pasadena with one major difference – in Pasadena he had his wife come onstage to sing and play guitar. I really liked this part at the Pasadena conference and missed seeing it during the Tampa "live video."

Toward the end of his talk, Gregg talked about feeling gratitude, appreciation, and how this is a way we can create coherence. I wish he had spent less time on what he considers to be problems and more time on how we can make a difference. I found it inspiring to know we can make a positive difference by how we choose to think and through expressing our gratitude and appreciation.    

 

Caroline Myss - Sunday 11.13.11

Sunday Morning Keynote Speaker – Caroline Myss
"Exploring the Power and Mystery of Prayer"

Caroline Myss  has been in the field of energy medicine and human consciousness for over 20 years. She has worked as a medical intuitive, and specializes in helping people and providing people with insights into their "energetic" system. In her book, "Defy Gravity," she talks about the relationship between what she calls "seven shadow passions" and "seven inner graces."

Because Caroline is both interesting and sometimes a bit confusing, I am glad to have the on-demand video available for 90 days so I can watch it again later.

I loved it when she asked the audience, "How many of you have a mind that never deceives you?" and then she went on to say,  "You better not raise your hand for that one, or I'll be all over you like a June bug!"

Caroline Myss is funny because she says what she really thinks instead of saying what she thinks we will be happy to hear. She seems to tell it as she feels it –  and I feel I can trust her to tell me what she really thinks, what she really feels, what she has learned, and why she feels that way.

"Every choice that you make sets a cycle in motion." Caroline reminded us that we need to become conscious about the choices we make while we are making them. The key word here is conscious but she's also saying while we are making them – not just after we have made them!

I took notes while she was saying a prayer. I like it and wanted to share it with you here.

Let me feel reverence for my life.
Give me the courage to see you in other people.
Let me see your goodness in other people.
Grant me the grace of understanding.
Grant me the grace to understand why other people are in my life.
Grant me the grace of sharing my gifts.
Grant me the grace to be honest with myself and others.
Grant me the grace of knowledge.
Help me to make wise choices for myself and others.

Caroline ended the prayer by saying, "Let grace heal you and heal the people around you." Caroline got a standing ovation for her talk.

Denise Linn - Sunday 11.13.11

Sunday Afternoon Workshop – Denise Linn
"Past Lives/Present Miracles"

Denise Linn started out with a drum and calling spirit into the room. 

"My peeps… who here are my radio peeps… who here has never met me before… who doesn't even know why they are here?" Denise has a warm, inviting personality. I had been curious about her for years and was pleased to find myself liking her from the start. This talk was based on her book, "Past Lives, Present Miracles."

Denise said it was her first time doing live streaming video. It was the first time that Hay House has done the live video stream from an "I CAN DO IT!" conference so it was a first for the speakers and for all of us who were able to watch it live.  
 
One of the first things Denise did was ask us to do the following: "Now focus on yourself… what is remarkable about you… what is your gift to the world… Blessings for the journey… Imagine it radiating out from your body as a wonderful, warm light… Intend this… Imagine this… Step into LOVE…"   

In my notes I wrote, "I love this… WOW… I see why Denise is so popular!!!"
 
"Why not be open to the possibility that it is time for things to shift for you? If your mind says it can't happen in two hours, say thank you mind."   Denise told stories of people who met in her workshops and helped each other heal. (In my opinion one of the big benefits of going to the live workshops is that you meet people there and those people can make a big difference in your life!) 
 
We did a couple of guided meditations during which there were beautiful images on the screen. I enjoyed both of them.

Watching the live video stream made me feel inspired to do a workshop with Denise in person at one of the next "I CAN DO IT!" conferences!

Denise got a standing ovation at the end of her talk. I can see why!

 

Joan Borysenko - Sunday 11.13.11

Sunday Afternoon Workshop – Joan Borysenko
"Fried: Why You Burn Out and How to Revive"

Joan asked if anyone in the audience was feeling "fried" and lots of hands went up. The workshop was based on her book, "Fried: Why You Burn Out and How to Revive" so it attracted people who were feeling "fried" and wanted to know what to do about it.  
 
Joan asked us: "What makes you feel most alive? What drains you? What does your soul long for?" All three questions are worth answering.
 
Joan is beautiful, kind, and gentle, and she seemed to be helping the people in the audience.

She said, "It's important to be compassionate toward yourself."
 
Joan made the following suggestions:
Keep track of what drains you.
Keep track of what revives you.

She also said that we are meant to be in harmony with nature. She believes that if we have more time in nature there would be less ADD for children and adults. She said to appreciate the sky, the flowers, the trees, and being outside.

She reminded us that we can put our attention wherever we like. She had us put our attention on our breath. She talked about "spokes of attention" and says you can withdraw your attention from the outside of the wheel and put your attention back on the "hub" of the wheel. The thing to remember is that we have a choice as to where we focus our attention. 

If you've been feeling "fried" and want to revive, I recommend checking out Joan's book and her workshops!

Marianne Williamson - Sunday 11.13.11

Sunday Afternoon Keynote Speaker – Marianne Williamson
"A Course in Weight Loss"

This was the last of the live video stream for the Tampa "I CAN DO IT!"  conference. It was based on Marianne Williamson's book, and CDs, "A Course in Weight Loss." 

Marianne talked about how she used to have some problems with her weight before she began to study "A Course in Miracles." She says that the excess flesh she was carrying around was like a wall around her to protect herself. The idea is to learn to love yourself and to free yourself from fear by focusing on love.

If we feel we need protection, or feel self-rejection, we will be more likely to eat more than we need to have a lean and healthy body.   

 I've written a review of the book and audio CDs for "A Course in Weight Loss: 21 Spiritual Lessons for Surrendering Your Weight Forever." What I realized while listening to the CDs of the book was that they can be helpful for more than just weight loss. They can also inspire you to let go of other habits by looking at them, yourself, and life in some new ways. To read my review of "A Course in Weight Loss" by Marianne, click on the link above.   

 

In conclusion, I must say that I truly enjoyed watching the Tampa "I CAN DO IT!" Live Stream Video and hope that they continue with this new technology because it allows me to experience live feed of the conferences that I can't attend in person. I did notice that I got the most from the workshops and authors whose books I had read. I do recommend reading the authors' books before either attending the live conferences or watching the live stream video.

Also, I like the idea of being able to buy a USB wristband with all of the workshops on it so I can play them over again because many were so inspiring!

Margaux Joy DeNador

 

The DeNadors' Christmas Song – Merry Christmas!

 

Merry Christmas - DeNadors - Click to hear the song!

          
Happy Holidays!  Montage by Dudley DeNador

 

Four years ago, in December 2007, my husband, son, and I wrote lyrics for our first Christmas song. The song is called "Merry Christmas" and tells the story of how we feel about this beautiful, joyful, and magical time of year.

Following are the lyrics for it, and a link so you can enjoy listening to our song.

I am wishing you a wonderful holiday season filled with love, laughter, hugs, beauty, music, singing, dancing, prosperity, peace, joy, and fun!!!

Love & Joy,

Margaux

***************************************************************

Merry Christmas – The DeNadors' Christmas Song

Merry Christmas, there’s joy’s in the air.  There’s a fire in the fireplace.     It’s that time of year.
Merry Christmas, enjoying good cheer.      Come to the party,      Christmas is near.
 
Beautiful sights, happy sounds, music and laughter all around.
Shiny glass balls, a festival of lights, a tree full of beauty with an angel in flight.

Merry Christmas, there’s joy’s in the air.  There’s a fire in the fireplace.     It’s that time of year.
Merry Christmas, enjoying good cheer.      Come to the party,      Christmas is near.
 
Gifts of silver and gold, red and green.     What’s inside remains to be seen.
There’s frost on the window and the fire is warm. We’re singing together, there’s joy all around.

Musical Bridge:

Snuggled together there’re stories to tell, with the season’s images, we’re under the spell.
The scent of the feast, while good friends are near, relax and enjoy,  all the good cheer.

Chorus & Verse:
Merry Christmas, there’s joy’s in the air.  There’s a fire in the fireplace.     It’s that time of year.
The presents wait patiently,  under the tree… It’s almost time… ‘cause it’s Christmas Eve.

Come to the party… Christmas is here…

Lyrics:  Dudley, Margaux, and Zander DeNador
Music Composition: Dudley DeNador
Vocals: Dudley DeNador
Keyboards & Instrumentation: Robert Berry
Recorded: December 20, 2007 by Robert Berry at Soundtek Studios, Campbell, CA

Merry Christmas - DeNadors - Click here to hear the song!