A Life You Love — Margaux Joy DeNador

Review: Shift Happens! How to Live an Inspired Life… Starting Right Now! – Robert Holden, Ph.D.

 

 

My curiosity about "Shift Happens!" started while listening to Robert Holden's keynote speech at the 2011 Pasadena "I CAN DO IT!" conference.

My friend, Linda, bought his CDs for "Shift Happens!" We enjoyed listening to some of Robert's stories on our way home from the conference. What we found is that listening to Robert Holden reading "Shift Happens!" with a friend is fun. We liked being able to stop the CD and talk about what he said and what his stories caused us to remember from our own life experiences. CDs rock!

Because we only heard two of the CDs on our way back, I was curious to hear the rest of them. I also became curious to read the book. Because of my curiosity I asked Hay House if I could review both the book and the CDs. I am happy that they sent me both to review!

What I love about listening to the CDs of "Shift Happens!" is the combination of Robert Holden's gentle-sounding English voice and his creative way of making his points with plays on words and inspiring stories.

The text on the back of the book says: Shift Happens! is a book about "more" – more happiness, more success, more love, more peace, more prosperity, and more being the real you.

In this book Robert Holden shares ways to let go of fears, struggle, and trying to do it all by yourself. He also discusses other blocks to happiness. The book is powerful, creative, and can help transform the way you think about yourself and your life.

I like Robert Holden's sense of humor and his creative use of words.

I like his voice – he has a gentle sounding English voice. I found it enjoyable to listen to him tell his stories while driving my car.

I like both the book and the CDs.  

I like the CDs because I can listen to the stories while I am doing errands or driving to or from work. I also like hearing the way Robert Holden adds his feelings to the book by reading it. I've always loved to hear my favorite authors read their books. Listening to them speaking on the CDs makes it easy to re-listen during times when I want some entertainment. I like listening in my car and also while I walk or spend time on our elliptical machine exercising.

The book gave me a chance to read what I had heard in the car and allowed me to highlight key points that I most want to remember. I also like seeing the words written and to be able to read a sentence or paragraph over if I want to really get what he is saying.

Robert Holden says that he has the following, which is in the book, on his computer as a screensaver reminder to always put love first. I like it and want to remember to do it myself so I want to share it here with you.

FIRST LOVE

First love, then think.
First love, then speak.
First love, then look.
First love, then act.
First love, then choose.
First love, then give.
First love, then live.

There is a prayer that one of Robert Holden's clients wrote about saying "YES" to life. The full prayer can be found on page 180 of his book.

I say "YES" to love today.
I say "YES" to happiness today.
I say "YES" to balance today.
I say "YES" to me today.
I say "YES" to miracles today.
I say "YES" to life today.

One of the things I like about the CDs is that they have numbered each of the "chapters" to help you know where you are in the book. I wish there were "chapter numbers" in the book as well.

Following are a few of my favorite chapter titles in "Shift Happens!"

Happiness is an inner light with no off switch
There are no events, only perceptions
Keep smiling – unless you feel like crying
Be the goal!
Give up your fear of giving
Stop improving your life – and start living!
Fear is yesterday
The world has finished with your past… if you have
Forgiveness gives you wings
Commit to living "happily even after"
Shift happens – when you let go
When you take a step, a bridge appears
Exhaustion means there is a better way
If you are alive, you need help!
Some of the best gifts come badly wrapped
Stay open all hours for miracles
Your happiness is a gift

On the CDs and in the small book of 275 pages there are 55 chapters. The titles above remind me of the stories in each of the chapters. After having read the book and listened to the CDs, the titles are now reminders of the lessons and help me remember them.

The following is from the back cover of the book.

"Shift Happens! is about staying open all hours for miracles. Success, love, and happiness are only ever one thought away at most. One new perception, one fresh thought, one act of surrender, one change of heart, one leap of faith, can change your life forever."

The book is fresh, fun, and inspiring. It's a book I plan to keep handy to read again. I love the idea of reading one of the short essays each day. I am glad to have the CDs to hear while driving as well.

In conclusion, I am glad to have both the book and the CDs of "Shift Happens!" because it is great to listen to the CDs in the car and the book can be read one chapter per day to really savor the messages and put them into practice.

I highly recommend both the book and the CDs of "Shift Happens! How to Live an Inspired Life… Starting Right Now!" 

Review by Margaux Joy DeNador – November 23, 2011  

Following are four ways to order:

Review: 2011 Pasadena I CAN DO IT! Conference

 
When Hay House publishing told me they would like me to review the 2011 "I CAN DO IT!" conference in Pasadena, California, I felt very excited. I loved the idea of being able to share with others what what I enjoyed most and what it felt like to be at such an amazing event.

A treasured friend of mine, Linda Bray, heard I was going to the conference and she decided to get tickets so she could go with me. I met Linda at the 2008 Las Vegas "I CAN DO IT!" during Wayne Dyer's talk. The night I met her we noticed we had signed up for all of the same workshops! We've been friends ever since. This time we signed up for three of the same workshops so we had some time together and time apart. As Linda said, "The positive vibration throughout the conference center was palpable." Being with so many positive people is a wonderful feeling!

Following is a day-by-day description of what I saw, heard, felt, and thought during the 2011 "I CAN DO IT!" conference in Pasadena.

Friday, October 14, 2011

There are optional all-day workshops on Friday. The pre-conference workshops start at 10:00 am and conclude at 4:00 pm. If you decide to go to them you need to get to the conference on Thursday so you can be ready to begin Friday morning.

10:00 am - 4:00 pm - "The Writer's Workshop Intensive" 
Cheryl Richardson & Reid Tracy

I chose this workshop because writing is a passion of mine. I was also curious to compare it with the event called "Movers & Shakers" which I attended in 2010. They now call it "Speak, Write, and Promote… Become a Mover & Shaker." 

The idea of attending a day-long workshop just for writers sounded exciting to me. If it sounds exciting to you, I recommend you sign up for it at the next "I CAN DO IT!."

I arrived early and got a seat in the front row. Louise Hay was a surprise guest and was sitting just three chairs to my left. She did a short talk at the beginning and stayed until it was time for us to break for lunch.

Cheryl Richardson and Reid Tracy shared the stage for the workshop. They each shared their experiences and knowledge with us in a way that was interesting, informative, and enjoyable.

Cheryl Richardson is a New York Times bestselling author of five books. Reid Tracy is the president and publisher of Hay House and has many New York Times bestselling books and has sold over fifty-three million books in the USA and Canada. What a wealth of experience and information they have and are willing to share!

Cheryl Richardson and Reid Tracy were very honest with us about the writing process and what it takes to get your book published by a publishing company. They also gave us information on self-publishing as an option. They explained the pros and cons of both being published and deciding to self-publish. I took notes all day and am glad to have them to remind me of the various ideas they shared with us. Would I recommend this workshop? YES. If you are a writer – or have always wanted to be one – this workshop will give you inside information from a best-selling author and the CEO of Hay House Publishing.

I met others who love to write and some who wanted to start but have let fears stop them. I found that the questions that were asked helped answer my own questions without me needing to ask.

There will be another of these writer's intensive workshops at the Tampa, Florida, "I CAN DO IT!" The dates for the Tampa conference are November 11-13, 2011. To find out more about "The Writer's Workshop Intensive" please click here.

Friday Night – 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm - Keynote Speaker
Dr. Wayne Dyer

Wayne Dyer was the evening keynote speaker on Friday night. I've seen Dr. Dyer speak at other conferences and also in San Francisco. I've enjoyed every talk of his that I've attended so I was curious to see how it would feel to be hearing him speak again. I was happy to discover that I enjoyed this talk just as much as his previous talks.

Wayne introduced us to a young woman named Sara Sweet who is a stand-up comedian who does "spiritual comedy." Sara and her mom had met Wayne while on Maui. He decided to have her speak during his talk in Pasadena. She was fantastic! She was both funny and inspiring.

The next surprise was that Wayne's beautiful daughter, Skye, came onstage and sang two songs. The second of the songs was "The Leader of the Band" by Dan Fogelberg. Skye sang it to her dad as if they were the only two in the room. It was very touching.

Wayne also had a special guest that he had flown in from Hong Kong. Her name is Anita Moorjani and her story is incredible. I think Wayne said she will be in his next PBS special. We left the auditorium, which held around 2,500 people, after 10 pm. Wayne Dyer went the extra miles for this talk. I am so glad to have been there to see it, hear it, and be inspired by it!

Saturday, October 15, 2011 
8:30 am - 10:00 am - Keynote Speakers
Cheryl Richardson and Louise Hay

Louise Hay has always given the welcome message at the "I CAN DO IT!" conferences before the keynote speaker on Saturday morning. This year, because of her new book "You Can Create an Exceptional Life" written with Cheryl Richardson there was a change of format.

Louise Hay and Cheryl Richardson sat on the stage on either side of a round table with their book on it. They talked, laughed, and told stories of what it was like to write the book together. The two of them looked relaxed and joyful. It felt as if we were observing two young girlfriends enjoying time together. In fact, several times we noticed Louise smiling and swinging her feet – looking like she was in total joy. Cheryl is always an inspiring speaker but she was relaxed, joyful, and having fun. The result was an informal and interesting talk which I wish I had on video. I would love to be able to watch and listen  to it over and over again!

Even though there were around 2,500 people in the auditorium, it felt as if we were sitting in on a private talk with the two of them. 

Louise commented that the "I CAN DO IT!" conferences are like, "A banquet for the mind." Her comment is how I feel about the conferences but they are also a "banquet" for your spirit because they are fun.

Cheryl said that Louise Hay is a master of language. It is one of the things I love about both of them! Cheryl pointed out, as an example, that Louise always tells people to say, "Please remember!" instead of "Don't forget!"

They talked about how you start your day being how you live your day. Louise told us how she starts her day and gave us a few of her morning affirmations. I especially like the one that says, "I have clothes I love to wear. My closet loves me. I love my closet." This affirmation makes me feel inspired to go through my closet and take out any clothes that I no longer wear or love. Both Louise and Cheryl told us that we need to practice, practice, practice the new ways of talking to ourselves while we are going through our morning routine as well as throughout our day.

Louise also told us that she blesses her car and sends love to all of the drivers on the road. Her affirmation for this is, "I'm always surrounded by good driver's." I love this idea, and I loved her idea to send love to all of the other drivers. 

Cheryl told us that she is teaching what she's needed to learn. I could really relate to that statement because that's how I feel – I teach what I really need and want to learn!

There was a wonderful story Cheryl related about how she wanted to get an orchid plant in a store, got distracted by someone needing help finding something, and when she got home there was a package with an orchid as a gift. Then two or three more orchids showed up as gifts. It does show we need to want something but not be too attached to how it will come to us. Cheryl had wanted the orchid but had let go and the orchids came to her!

Cheryl's husband, Michael, had said to her, "Your words heal." She says it made her cry when he said that – and she began to tear up while telling us. Louise reached in her top and pulled out a tissue for Cheryl. Because of Michael's comment, Cheryl says she began to ask herself, "What do I need to do so I can continue to let my words heal?" She also said, "I protect my sensitivity like a lioness," and "I think we are all artists and healers." In my opinion Cheryl and Louise both heal with their words. They both remind us to notice what we say and to say kind and loving things that help us feel good and enjoy life.

My friend Linda asked Louise what she does before going to sleep at night. Louise said that she says the day is over, thanks her bed, releases the day and then she says, "Life loves me. Life loves me. Life loves me." as she drifts off to sleep.

Being there was like having their book come to life. I am so glad to have been able to be there for this inspiring and fun talk. It was one of my favorite parts of this "I CAN DO IT!" conference.

If you would like to read my review of Louise and Cheryl's new book "You Can Create an Exceptional Life" please click here.

10:30 - 12:30 pm - Workshop
"Connecting with the Angels of Health, Happiness, and High Energy" 
Doreen Virtue

During this time there are several workshops and you must choose one. I chose the one with Doreen Virtue. I had never had a workshop with her before and was curious to find out what it would be like. I've got several friends who have taken her workshops. They all love Doreen and recommend her.

Doreen is so popular that this workshop was held in the main auditorium so we were able to just stay in the same seats after the talk by Louise Hay and Cheryl Richardson.

I found Doreen to be very inviting, interesting, and entertaining. She did readings for several people in the audience. It was amazing how each person's reading could inspire me as well. She makes learning about angels fun. I thoroughly enjoyed her workshop.

The program said this workshop would be about "Connecting with the Angels of Health, Happiness, and High Energy." During the talk, Doreen showed us amazing "Energy Graphs" of positive and negative words from her new book "Angel Words." Doreen looks like a beautiful blonde angel. I greatly enjoyed her workshop and am glad I chose to go to it.

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There is a break for lunch from 12:30 - 2:30 pm.

During this time you can also buy books by the authors and have them signed. The book signings were upstairs this year so you had to leave the main area to have your books signed. This was one thing that I felt could have been better. In the past, the book signings have been in the same room where you buy the books. I prefer that open feeling to the way it was at this event.

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2:30 - 4:30 pm - Workshop
"The Honeymoon Effect"
Bruce H. Lipton, PhD.

During this time there were more workshops. I chose to go to one called "The Honeymoon Effect - The Science of Creating Heaven on Earth." Bruce H. Lipton, PhD. is an internationally recognized leader in bridging science and spirit. He is also known for groundbreaking stem-cell research at Stanford University. I had heard Bruce speak at two previous conferences about "The Biology of Belief" and was very curious to hear what he had to say about "The Honeymoon Effect."

I had gotten to the talk early enough to be sitting near the front. While I was waiting for the talk to begin, the woman on my left was asked if she would be willing to trade places so Bruce's mom could sit in her chair. During the talk my friend Linda was to my right and Bruce's mom was to my left. I enjoyed meeting her! 

Bruce showed a number of PowerPoint slides to illustrate what he was saying. He speaks very quickly and jams an incredible amount of information into a two-hour talk. My friend Linda teased him that they pay all of the other speakers by the number of words but because it was him, they pay him a flat rate. It seems to me that his workshop would be better if it was longer and allowed him to speak more slowly, pause more to let us absorb what he's saying, and also give us more time to ask questions.

I enjoyed learning about "harmonic resonance" and was interested to hear what he had to say about our conscious and subconscious minds. Bruce told us that our conscious mind is NOT time bound but our subconscious mind is totally time bound. It is always in the NOW. So when we pay attention in the NOW we are in control but if we allow our conscious mind to wander back in time or forward in time our subconscious mind takes over. Hearing this helped me understand why we hear it said that "Our point of power is in our present moments."

He also talked about an article titled "A Wandering Mind is an Unhappy Mind." I've found that when I allow my mind to wander it sometimes wanders into worry. By focusing on what is happening NOW, I am able to enjoy the moment and to appreciate what is happening – what I see, hear, and feel. I've found myself thinking of this part of Bruce's talk many times, and it always reminds me to pay attention to my present moments.


5:00 - 6:30 pm- Keynote Speaker
Gregg Braden

Gregg Braden was the evening keynote speaker on Saturday. Gregg is a New York Times bestselling author and is internationally renowned as a pioneer in bridging science and spirituality. The program described this as a "compelling, multi-media intensive." I've heard Gregg speak twice before and found this talk to be very similar to the others. He does have interesting things to say, and I am glad to have heard – and seen – his talk about what he has discovered about science and spirituality. One thing that was new was that he had his wife play guitar and sing us a song. During the song, Gregg played a wooden wind instrument. Gregg looked very happy and looked like he was having fun including the music. I have to say it was my favorite part of his keynote speech.

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Saturday night Linda and I decided to have an early dinner and get some extra sleep. Every time I've attended the "I CAN DO IT!" conference, I've been kept busy for three days in a row . Friday, Saturday, and Sunday are all full days if you choose to do the optional all-day Friday workshop and attend the Friday night keynote speech. I've found that I enjoy life most when I am well-rested so I am glad we made it an early night!

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Sunday, October 16, 2011
8:30 - 10:00 am - Keynote Speaker
Dr. Christiane Northrup, M.D.

Dr. Christiane Northrup, M.D. was the morning keynote speaker on Sunday. I had seen her talk at another conference and was looking forward to hearing what she had to say. Dr. Northrup was inspiring, entertaining, and funny. I greatly enjoyed her stories, use of humor, and how she uses pauses for dramatic effect. One of the reasons I was excited to attend the conference was to learn from the speakers. Dr. Northrup is outstanding. She is fun to watch and to hear.

During her talk she invited her daughter, Kate, onstage and had Kate lead us all in  dance movements and moving our bodies. During this part she also had Nancy Levin, the event director for Hay House, join them on the stage. It was great fun watching the three of them dance. It got even better when Wayne Dyer joined them for the rest of the dance.

Dr. Northrup told a story about her cat, Buddy, that made me think of our cat and how much we love him. She had her cat for twelve years. We've had ours for less than a year but because of how we feel about our cat, Bender, I could really relate to how Dr. Northrup felt about hers.

While listening to the stories Dr. Northrup told about her mom, I could feel my mom with me. I had met two mothers and their daughters during the conference, and they were there with me. My friend Linda wasn't feeling well and decided not to attend the keynote speech at the last minute so I had an empty seat to my right. I was able to imagine my mom sitting there with me – and that made me feel good.

Dr. Northrup ended her talk with an inspiring "Divine Love" meditation. In it she talked about the healing energy of love and said that we are Divine Love. She also talked about the heart's energy field and aligning our hearts. One of my favorite parts is where she talked about a "golden orb of Divine Love" during the meditation.

Her talk left me feeling inspired, happy, and fully entertained. I highly recommend experiencing Dr. Northrup speaking in person!


10:00 - 12:30 pm - Workshop
"The Power of Your Spirit"
Sonia Choquette

For my 10:00 - 12:30 pm workshop I chose Sonia Choquette's "The Power of Your Spirit." The workshop was based on the book I reviewed by Sonia with the same title.

I've been in workshops with Sonia several other times and because I've enjoyed each one I decided to spend the time with her again.

One of the things I love about Sonia's workshops is that they are FUN. Sonia is playful, light-hearted, and loves music. There is always music, singing, and dancing during her workshops. I've also noticed that I always meet people I enjoy in her workshops. I would love to stay in touch with the two women I met during her workshop – one was sitting on my left and the other on my right. We got a chance to talk when Sonia had us break off in groups to talk.

I went to the workshop with high expectations and got what I expected and more – two hours of being inspired, playful, singing, dancing, talking to the people next to me, and having fun. Sonia is still one of my favorite teachers. I highly recommend attending her workshops and reading her books!

If you would like to read my review of Sonia's book "The Power of Your Spirit," please click here.  

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From 12:30 - 2:30 we had another break for lunch to buy books and have them signed.

I headed over to the ballroom where my next two workshops would be. I ate my lunch while waiting for my 2:30 workshop. I've found that while I am waiting I always meet people I enjoy and that is exactly what happened while I was waiting.

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2:30 - 4:30 pm - Workshop
"Be Your Own Shaman"
Deborah King





For my last workshop of the weekend, I chose Deborah King's workshop based on her book "Be Your Own Shaman." I was curious to see what it was like to be in a workshop with Deborah because I had written a review of her book. In the program it said, "You may not realize it, but everyone's a natural born healer, including you!" It also said that "Deborah is a master healer and teacher whose first book, 'Truth Heals: What You Hide Can Hurt You' became an instant bestseller." I am still curious about her first book. I forgot to look at it while I was at the conference. It was interesting being in the workshop, but I actually enjoyed her book more.

To read my review of Deborah's book "Be Your Own Shaman" please click here.

5:00 - 6:30 pm - Keynote Speaker
Robert Holden, Ph.D.

The closing keynote speaker for the conference was Robert Holden, Ph.D. The title of his talk was "Shift Happens! Taking the Next Step in Your Life." The talk was based on his book of the same title. The book was published in 1999, and Hay House decided to re-publish it just before 2012. I had heard Robert Holden speak at an event a few years ago. I was impressed with how much he has grown as a speaker. He was inspiring, entertaining, and funny. He started his talk by reading an email from a woman who had found his book on a bus. She said that it had been her constant companion and was helping her feel happier. The funny thing is she finally realized that the title said "shift" and she had thought it said "shit happens." While both are true, this book is about "shift" that happens and how to make the best of it.

I found his list of what he calls "Dysfunctional Independence" to be interesting. Can you relate to any of the following items in his list?

You think you're self-made
You suffer from B.M.S. (By My Self)
You are hopeless at asking for help
Your lack of trust holds you back
Your "I strain" exhausts you

Robert Holden's list, above, reminds me to ASK for help more often. Life is so much more enjoyable when you are willing to give and receive help.

Robert Holden uses words in interesting ways. I became curious to read his book, "Shift Happens!" It might be one of my next reviews.   

 
Hay House recorded the entire "I CAN DO IT!" Pasadena event and attendees were able to purchase a USB Flash Drive Wristband with recordings of all of the keynotes and workshops on it. (However the wristband doesn't include the pre-conference all day workshops.) While I've enjoyed some of the recordings of the past conferences, there have been some cases where it would have been much more inspiring to be able to see the speakers and the visual aspects of their talks. Some of the speakers included PowerPoint slides and the visual aspects of their speeches are lost when you only hear the recordings. Listening to the recordings makes more sense if you've been to the live event so you can picture what you saw during it. My husband asked me why Hay House doesn't make videos of the conference. His question made me curious. I am now wondering why there are no videos of at least the keynote speakers.

It would be great to be able to purchase videos on DVDs of the keynote speeches and some of the workshops. I've noticed that for the Tampa, Florida, "I CAN DO IT!" you have the option of watching it as a live streaming video if you can't attend the event in person. They will also be including videos of the keynote speakers on the USB wristbands for the Tampa event.

 


In summary, I have to say that the 2011 "I CAN DO IT!" conference in Pasadena was inspiring, uplifting, and fun. I met people I hope to stay in touch with – Kindred Spirits who shared the experience with me in workshops and/or during the keynote speeches. I was surprised by how much I liked the location for the event at the Pasadena Auditorium and Convention Center. It was different than being in Las Vegas or San Diego but once I just let go of my expectations for where it would be, I decided it was a good choice.

If you've never been to an "I CAN DO IT!" conference, please consider going to one. If you've been to one before, I recommend going again. They are constantly "evolving" and show each of the speaker's expanded knowledge.

To purchase tickets for one of the next "I CAN DO IT!" conferences – please click on one of the following links.

 

If you would like to read more of my reviews, click here. If you would like to connect with me on facebook, please click here.

As always, I wish you a life you love to live!

:) Margaux

 

 

Happy 85th Birthday Louise Hay!!!

 

 

 

   Happy 85th Birthday Louise!!! We love you!!! Margaux & Dudley :)

 

 

Today, October 8, 2011, Louise Hay is celebrating her 85th birthday.

Happy Birthday Louise!!!

 

In honor of this special day, my husband Dudley helped me create the birthday card above for Louise.  I love how it expresses Louise and her joy of living.

 

Following is what I would like to say to Louise on this special day:

 

Louise, thank you for being a bright light shining your love on all who are in your always expanding circle of influence. Thank you for helping us love ourselves, heal our lives, and live with joy. We wish you an 85th birthday full of love, hugs, laughter, joy, and fun!!! 

Louise Hay's books, CDs, and "I Can Do It!" conferences have helped millions of people, including me, to live happier and healthier lives. I am thankful that Louise Hay believed in her dream to publish her books and start Hay House publishing. Louise is a joy guide in my life and the lives of countless people all over our planet. 

If you would like to be as healthy and happy as you can be, I encourage you to read Louise Hay's book, "You Can Heal Your Life." I also encourage you to watch her DVD movie, "You Can Heal Your Life the Movie."

 

Louise Hay wants us all to live a life of love. She wants us to be loving and kind to our own mind. She wants us to learn, grow, and share what we know. I know that Louise would join me in asking you to please give yourself — and everyone in your circle of influence — the gift of unconditional love today and always. Louise is an exceptional woman. I highly recommend her new book written with Cheryl Richardson entitled "You Can Create an Exceptional Life."

 

Today as we celebrate Louise Hay's 85th birthday, let's all be reminded that we can create a life we love, and we can choose to live an exceptional life!

 

Thank you Louise Hay for being such an inspiration to so many people!

 

If you have the opportunity, I believe it will enhance your life if you can attend the  “I Can Do It!” conference in Pasadena, California, and experience Louise Hay speaking on Saturday, October 15, 2011 at 8:30 am. After Louise's welcoming message, Cheryl Richardson will be the keynote speaker.  If possible, please try to experience this dynamic duo. Tickets are still available. If you can make it, it will be a great way to help Louise celebrate her 85th year. I hope to see you there. And again, Happy Birthday Louise!

Book Review: Louise Hay and Cheryl Richardson "You Can Create an Exceptional Life"

     

As soon as I heard that Louise Hay and Cheryl Richardson were writing a book together, I knew I wanted to review it.

Both of these exceptional women have been my mentors and what I call treasured teachers in my life. They inspire me, encourage me, and remind me to pay attention to my thoughts, my words, and my choices. Each of them, in their own ways, has made a huge contribution to who I am today.

When this book showed up in the mail, on a Friday night, I did a "Happy Dance" and said, "Wahoo!!!" and then I sat down to start reading. I finished half the book the first night, and I finished the second half the next day. Now, I've read it twice all the way through. I enjoyed it both times.

Reading it was especially fun because I felt like I was there with Louise and Cheryl for each of their conversations and that was a joyful feeling. The conversations take place in cities including San Diego, Tampa, Orlando, and New York here in the USA, as well as in Toronto, Vancouver, and London. Some of the conversations even take place with Skype while they are both in their pajamas with no makeup!

I wanted to be part of the conversation. The way it's written I felt like I was there with them.

Louise Hay and Cheryl Richardson have made a huge difference in the lives of people all over our planet – and I am one of them.

         YOU CAN CREATE AN EXCEPTIONAL LIFE
Cheryl Richardson and Louise Hay's new book - and me!
     An inspiring book by two exceptional women!!!

 I first discovered Cheryl in 1999 when I heard her talking about her first book, "Take Time for Your Life." Louise Hay came into my life in a BIG way in 2005 with her book "You Can Heal Your Life" and her "I Can Do It!" conference which I attended because of my Mom's health.

Cheryl said her first thought when considering Reid Tracy's suggestion for her to write a book with Louise Hay was, "That would be a unique opportunity to learn from a woman who has had such a vast impact on my life as well as the lives of millions of others."

The book consists of a series of heart-to-heart conversations about spiritual principles that have shaped their lives.

The book is from Cheryl's point of view, but it highlights the comments made by Louise during each of the conversations. I liked that Cheryl also told us what she was thinking, feeling, and gave examples of how the conversations with Louise Hay were changing how she looked at life and how she talked to herself about life.

Some of the stories were familiar to me from reading Louise and Cheryl's previous books, but there was so much more depth that now I know both of them in ways I never had before.

I love the titles of the chapters:
1. Answer the Phone and Open the Mail
2. Becoming the Creator of an Exceptional Life
3. How You Start Your Day is How You Live Your Day
4. How You Live Your Day is How You Live Your Life
5. Don't Break a Habit – Dissolve it!
6. The Beauty of Wisdom
7. The End of the Movie
 
Themes:
Simplicity – small, simple steps…
Optimism – attention and energy on solutions…
Patience – experiencing the journey…
Trust – opportunities for growth…
Growth – life as a classroom…
Service – encourage and assist…
Action – "show up" and walk through doors…
Faith – keep moving forward…
Magnetism – the ability to attract…

Louise says her question has always been: "How can I help people?"
 
Louise believes, "We are powerful, creative beings who determine our future with every thought we think and every word we speak."

Cheryl's thoughts about what Louise said above: "As I consider Louise's remark, I realize, at its core, this message is one of the most important: In our purest, most positive state of mind, we are powerful creators of our very best lives. When we think good thoughts, we feel good. When we feel good, we make good choices. When we feel good and make good choices, we draw more good experiences into our lives. It really is that simple… and elegant … and true."

 

Our sweet cat, Bender, with "You Can Create an Exceptional Life"

 

What do I love about Louise and Cheryl's new book? The size and the length. It left me wanting more, and yet feeling as if it was perfect just the length it is – to savor the first reading and to read it again and again over time for the reminders and enjoyment.

Why do I recommend it? I found it inspiring, and it was fun to read. I felt as if I was there with Louise and Cheryl in the various cities and countries. Cheryl did a great job of describing where they were and what it felt and looked like to her. I especially enjoyed her description of what it was like to be in Louise's home. She made me feel as if I was there with them. What fun!

I recommend it because whether you know Louise and Cheryl or not it is inspiring. For those who do know their work – and who love them – it is a wonderful feeling to be part of their conversations about love and how to love yourself and your life. I loved hearing their thoughts on how to get the most enjoyment possible from each day.

What would I suggest to make it better? To record it as CDs so we can hear Louise and Cheryl having the conversations!! I love both of their voices and would love to hear them reading it.
  
There are wonderful affirmations throughout the book and in lists at the end as well. One of my favorites, now, is: "Life loves me." I've started to say, "Life loves me. I love life, and I love me!" (over and over) when I am on my way to sleep, as I get up, and when I feel I need some love during the day.  

Cheryl asked Louise how she looks and feels so good at (almost) 85. Louise's answers were as follows:

"Well it comes down to loving yourself, loving your body, and making peace with the aging process. When you love yourself, you care about your body, and you care about what you put into it. You also care about the thoughts you choose to think."

"I have cultivated a mental outlook that allows me to see life from the most positive advantage. This positive, loving, grateful, joyous outlook attracts to me the greatest life – and that's why this is the best decade so far."

What a book!!!

What exceptional women!!!

I am thankful to have them both as mentors, teachers, role models, and I am happy that I'll be seeing them both October 14-16, 2011 in Pasadena at the "I Can Do It!" conference (check it out).

Here are four ways to buy this exceptional and inspiring book:

Celebrate Life! Radio Interview – Sept. 13, 2011

 

I am excited to announce that on Monday, September 13, 2011 I will be interviewed by Jean Robor on her "Celebrate Life!" blog talk radioshow. This will be my second time on her show. The first time was great fun and I am looking forward to being on her show again. The interview will take place from 8:30-8:45 pm (pacific time). Here is a link for  Jean Robor's "Celebrate Life!" blog talk radio show for September 13, 2011.

 

If you miss the live show, which is on September 13, 2011, you can hear it on Jean Robor's blog talk radio show page or download the interview as a MP3 file that you can keep on your computer and also import into iTunes. 

 

Love,

Margaux

Book Review: am I being kind … how asking one simple question can change your life … and your world – by Michael J. Chase

 

 

I decided to review this book because I had seen other people's comments about Michael Chase's talk at the Hay House "Movers & Shakers" in Boston on facebook. I became extremely curious to know more about him, his Kindness Center, and his book "am I being kind" which Hay House published because of his talk at the event.

Whether you've been to a "Movers & Shakers" event, are considering going to one, or have no idea what it is – I am convinced that you'll find his story inspiring.

The book, am I being kind, arrived at my home on Friday, May 20, 2011 – which would have been my Mom's 80th Birthday. Because she was a great example of kindness and unconditional love, it felt perfect to have the book come that day. In fact in some ways it feels like it was a gift from my Mom!

When I asked Michael why the title is written with all lowercase letters all except for the "I" — and why there is no question mark — he told me, "The answer is in the book."  His answer made me even more curious to read the book. And yes the answer is in the book.

As Michael says in the book, while many people believe it's too late or impossible to alter their path and make a different decision it's not true. The stories Michael tells in the book are very convincing and remind us all that it's never too late to change!

Michael suggests reading the book slowly to get the most benefit from it. I enjoyed it so much I read it in one weekend. Taking notes for writing this review gave me a chance to re-visit the stories and helped me remember main points he makes in the book.

The first two chapters tell stories about what Michael calls the "art of unkindness" and they help us see the contrast that caused him to have a burning desire to live a life of kindness. The fact that he grew up with a father who was unkind and a grandfather who was even more unkind shows us we can each decide to make the choice to be kind and to live a life of kindness.

 

        Michael J. Chase

One of the stories I loved is about how a turtle crossing the road changed how he felt about kindness and inspired him to live a life of kindness. It was just four months after the turtle epiphany that Michael decided to open The Kindness Center.

Michael Chase's book is a delight to read because of his sense of humor. The title of chapter three is "From Toll House to Hay House." In it he tells the story of how he went from being paid with Toll House cookies to being an author for Hay House.

I greatly enjoyed the chapter titled "Moving & Shaking in Boston." It was interesting to read the day-by-day descriptions of what it was like to be there and how he was feeling from Friday, April 23, 2010, through Sunday, April 25, 2010. I had attended the Movers and Shakers event in San Francisco the month before so I found it interesting to contrast how I was feeling with how he felt while there.

Michael was chosen as one of four people at the "Movers & Shakers" event who got to give a seven minute talk. The days right after the event he got emails from Cheryl Richardson and Reid Tracy. On Wayne Dyer's 70th Birthday, May 10, 2010, Michael received a contract from Hay House to publish his book!

Parts II & III of the book reveal how Michael shifted from a life of misery to now living a life of kindness and inspiration.

In the book Michael will ask you to make choices that can change your world, your relationships, and how you feel about yourself.

You'll want to read the book to find out how one simple question can change your life and also change the lives of those around you. One of the ways you can do this is by creating a daily "To-Be List" before you create your "To-Do List" for the day.

What would I change about the book? The cover could be more colorful and have a graphic or photo but the contents of this book certainly make it worth buying.

Why do I recommend this book? Michael's stories are inspiring and told with a sense of humor. He comes across as authentic, likable and unique. Combining humor with this topic really helps make a lasting impression.

Does being kind help you feel happy? Does being kind help others feel happy? After reading this book, I am convinced the answer is YES for both questions. It is my belief that anyone who reads this book will be inspired to do what they can to help make the world a kinder and happier place. 

Here are links for two ways to buy this book:
Hay House
Amazon

To find out more about upcoming "Speak, Write & Promote… Become a Mover & Shaker" events, and to buy tickets, click on the following link:

Book Review: The Power of Your Spirit: A Guide to Joyful Living — by Sonia Choquette

 

 


Sonia Choquette has been one of my favorite authors for many years. I've always enjoyed her books and the title of this one, The Power of Your Spirit, got me curious especially when combined with the subtitle, "A Guide to Joyful Living."

When the book arrived for me to review, I wondered if Sonia could have done it again? Would I enjoy reading her new book since I've read several books by her? The answers to these questions were "Yes!" and "Yes!"

Sonia is a great storyteller and she weaves in stories that teach us from the examples of what lessons she or the people in the story learn from what has happened in their lives.

She had me curious from the first two paragraphs of the introduction. In them she describes a movie (that I've seen) which is about a tour guide in Greece who has lost her kefi, which is a Greek word for "spirit."

Sonia says, "The film reminded me that the idea of losing your connection to spirit isn't all that unusual." She goes on to say that she encounters many lovely, generous, and caring people who feel lost, disillusioned, and powerless.

In this book, she guides readers through four stages she says we must pass through on the way to reconnecting with our own spirit.

The four stages are:
Awakening
Discovery
Surrender
Flow

For most of us the journey is gradual but she says it's also possible, though rare, to move through all four stages in one dramatic shift.

In "How to Use this Book" Sonia says, "Take time and enjoy the process. Ponder the questions and stories throughout." She also says to be sure to implement the daily practices for at least 40 days.

One thing she repeats through the book is that you must change what you do and not just read books expecting your life to change. She gives an example of a woman who kept reading more books but wasn't putting what she read into practice. It's with a daily practice that we change the frequency of our vibration.

 

             Sonia Choquette

Sonia reminds us that we are all students. Each of us faces challenges and the stories in this book can help us learn through OPE (other people's experience).

In this book, Sonia stresses the importance of how we breathe. Shallow breathing – and even holding our breath – can keep us from feeling connection with our spirit.

"The preamble to our awakening is marked by a growing sense of overwhelm, exhaustion, anxiety, restlessness, impatience, irritation, depression, and complete victimhood. In other words, it's a feeling that life is a struggle, and there's nothing we can do about it."

Throughout the book Sonia has questions for us to answer which are best written in a journal. She also says to invite your spirit — your most authentic self — to answer them.

After answering the questions she guides you to close your eyes and to calmly breathe through your nose in a deep way that feels relaxed and wonderful. In fact, as she says, it can help you feel calm, connected to Source, peaceful, and energized all at the same time. She calls this "connected breathing" and it is a technique she explains in the book. I love how it makes me feel! Sonia suggests you do it for 15 minutes. It is a way of breathing that connects the breaths and connects you with your spirit. I've heard that the word inspire means to breathe in — and it feels inspiring to breathe this way.

Reading about "connected breathing" helped me to realize it's what I do — and feel — when I do my 15 minute meditation each morning. As Sonia says, using a timer allows you to relax. What I realized while reading this part of the book was how good it feels to do this "connected breathing" at other times during the day — or night — any time I notice my breathing has gotten shallow or that I'm feeling tense and find I'm holding my breath.

Sonia says, "To surrender to the power of Spirit, you must listen to your heart and admit how you feel, first to yourself and then to others, even if your truth makes you or those around you uncomfortable, angry, or afraid." She goes on to say, "To live in alignment with your Spirit is to live your truth and build your life upon it."

"Live Your Love"
As Sonia points out in this part of the book, none of us knows how long we have on this planet. A powerful thing to do is to make a list of all the things you want to do or experience before you leave this life. I love her suggestion to put the list in a prominent place and plan to do one of them — or at least part of one of them — each day. As she points out we really don't have time to put off our dreams for someone else's demands. I suggest we all take her advice and begin to do the things on our list!

"Go with the Flow"
I found this part of the book a great reminder for me when I begin to want to control life: "Make a habit to relax. Let go. Take a breath and look around. Enjoy the view. Accept life as it unfolds rather than try to force it in a particular way."

"The Ebb"
"The greatest challenge to staying in the flow comes when you encounter 'the ebb,' which is any change, expected or unexpected, that leaves you feeling threatened and insecure because you aren't sure what's coming next." 

Ebbs are part of life and they come when our life shifts.  As Sonia points out, ebbs instigate growth — they invite us to become aware of what's holding us back and they help to move us forward in the direction we're meant to go. They lead us into our next experience of being in the flow.

There is an inspiring quote by Earl Nightingale that Sonia included in the section on the flow: "All you have to do is know where you're going. The answers will come to you of their own accord."

The book ends with an inspiring list of choices we can make as part of our daily practice. Sonia suggests we write the list in our own handwriting on a beautiful piece of paper and read the things on the list out loud daily.

Do I recommend this book? YES.

Here are four ways to purchase, The Power of Your Spirit by Sonia Choquette:

Sonia Choquette will be leading a 2-hour workshop on "The Power of Your Spirit" at the Pasadena, California, and Tampa, Florida, "I CAN DO IT!" conferences. I've signed up for her workshop in Pasadena. I've been to other workshops with Sonia and have enjoyed being with her for them. She is inspiring, playful, and FUN. If you would like to meet Sonia and attend one of her workshops, click here or on one of the links below for more information and to buy your ticket.

 

FREE Monthly Telegathering Calls – The Art of Living a Life You Love

I've scheduled 12 FREE monthly telegathering calls – so we can discuss the topics in the twelve chapters of my book The Art of Living a Life You Love.

I invite you to join me for my monthly calls – whether you have my book or not. Please join us for all of the calls that sound interesting and helpful to you.

Following is the schedule for the monthly telegathering calls.

The call times for the various time zones, the call number, PIN, and a link for some local phone numbers are at the bottom of this message. 

Thursday, June 23, 2011
Chapter 1: A Life You Love Begins in Your Imagination

Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Chapter 2: What You Believe Creates Your Version of Reality

Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Chapter 3: Notice How Your Choices Feel

Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Chapter 4: Asking Great Questions Gets You Great Results

Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Chapter 5: Focus on Learning… And Have More Fun!

Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Chapter 6: Your Communications Control the Quality of Your Life

Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Chapter 7: Pay Attention to Who is in Your Circle of Influence

Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Chapter 8: Enjoy Using Your Gift of Creativity

Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Chapter 9: Work You Love is a Gift of Joy

Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Chapter 10: Live Your Dreams… And Love Your Life!

Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Chapter 11: Time is a Gift… Take Time for What Matters Most to You!

Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Chapter 12: Feel and Express Your Gratitude, Appreciation, and Love

Time of calls:
Pacific: 6-7 pm
Mountain: 7-8 pm
Central: 8-9 pm
Eastern: 9-10 pm

To join me for my monthly telegatherings:
Call (415) 671-4335 PIN 876422 #

Check this link to see if there is a local number for your area: http://instantteleseminar.com/Local/

(For landlines, long distance charges may apply but you can also call in by cell phone or with Skype.)

NOTE:
The PIN number for the call is: 876422 — after entering the PIN number, press the # key.

Each call will be focused on one chapter of my book. We will support each other, share ideas, insights, and encourage each other to take actions that will help us create and live a life we love.

The calls will be recorded so I ask that people keep their comments and questions on the topic as much as possible.

If you would like to purchase a copy of my book from Amazon.com, so you'll get more out of the monthly calls, click here.

If you would like to receive the recordings of the calls, please email me at MargauxJoy@DeNador.com.

I hope you'll join us for the monthly calls!

Love,
Margaux

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Book Review: Be Your Own Shaman — by Deborah King

While looking at books, from Hay House publishing, that I could review next, this book by Deborah King caught my attention. For many years, I've heard the words "energy medicine" and "shaman" and have been curious to know more about them. Because of my curiosity, the title of this book, Be Your Own Shaman: Heal Yourself and Others with 21st Century Energy Medicine, inspired me to want to read it and review it. 

 

Have you ever wondered what energy medicine is and how it can help people heal? I know I've wondered for some time now and this book was able to answer some of my questions.

One of my favorite parts of the book was the introduction because in it I got a chance to know a little about Deborah King, how she defines what it means to be a shaman, and also how she became interested in energy medicine. Deborah King discovered energy medicine when she was diagnosed with cancer in her 20s. She tells how it helped her and why she decided to become a healer herself.

Deborah King says, "One reason I use the term shaman, which can also be defined as a person who acts as an intermediary between the human world and spirit worlds  — between the natural and supernatural — is that it encapsulates the idea that everything in our universe is connected. We are all linked — to each other, to the physical world of our senses, and to the world beyond that we aren't able to see."

There is a quote from Louise Hay on the book's front cover that also contributed to my decision to review this book:

"Be Your Own Shaman is an excellent book. It will take you deep within yourself and allow you to connect with life in a totally different way. Anyone seeking the path of the healer needs to read this book. I loved it."
— Louise L. Hay

Now that I've read the book, I agree with what Louise Hay says – this book does change how we look at life and healing. It really does take you deep within yourself. You'll see what I mean when you read it.

Reading this book also made me curious to read Deborah King's first book, Truth Heals. After taking a look at it online, I've decided I would like to read it as well.

Deborah King

I've decided to take a workshop with Deborah King when I attend the "I CAN DO IT!" conference in Pasadena this October. If you decide to go, perhaps I'll see you there! To get the best price on your ticket you'll want to buy it by 6/23/11. After that the prices go up.

Click on the following link to get a ticket for Deborah King's workshop  – or a ticket for all of the "I CAN DO IT!" conference in Pasadena:

 
As Deborah King says:
"I'm sure you have something you want to heal. We all do. Your health, your weight, your finances, a relationship – or even the lack of one. And maybe you not only want to heal the parts of your life that are dysfunctional, but you are also intrigued, as I was, by the idea of being able to help others. The fascinating thing is that these two goals, healing yourself and healing others, are inextricably linked: in the process of learning to facilitate healing in others, you yourself become healed. It's actually impossible for you to study energy medicine without experiencing positive change yourself."

Later in the book, Deborah King says:
"In addition to learning healing techniques, becoming your own shaman is dependent upon your clarity. Once you're clear within yourself, you can be a clear channel for others."

To get this kind of clarity, she suggests the following five practices:

1. Journaling
2. Meditation
3. Prayer
4. Forgiveness
5. Being of service

For each of the five practices there are helpful suggestions and ideas for how to do them. For journaling, she had several suggestions for making it work best for you. The suggestions for journaling remind me of doing my "Morning Pages" so I could really relate to that part.

I agree with what Deborah King said about journaling: "In essence to truly be strong and joyful we have to live in truth. Journal writing helps us do that."

In this book, there is a wonderful Hawaiian clearing technique that is said to activate forgiveness. It is like a prayer, or mantra with the words, "I'm sorry. Forgive me. I love you. Thank you."

Just recently I had heard those words during an interview with Joe Vitale by Lisa Garr. Joe Vitale said you can say the words in any order. (He was talking about you saying it to yourself – as well as to others or God.) Because Joe said you could do it in any order, I tried various ways and it seems true to me as well. For example you could say, "I love you. I'm sorry. Please forgive me. Thank you." But I think I like it best when I say, "I'm sorry. Please forgive me. I love you! Thank you."

It seems to me this book can also help us stay healthy by reminding us of the power of forgiveness – for others and ourselves.

I am glad Hay House sent me a copy of this book to review. I am glad to have read it and have it as part of my personal library.

Whether you know what energy medicine is or not – whether you know what it means to "be a shaman" or not – this book will enlighten you, entertain you, and inspire you. And perhaps it will help you to heal your own life and help people you love as well.

If you're curious about energy medicine – and how to be your own shaman – get a copy of this book!

Here are some links to buy the book:

Book Review: The Angel Therapy Handbook – Doreen Virtue

 

 

I chose to review Doreen Virtue's new book because I was curious to learn more about Angels and to find out what it means to do "Angel Therapy."

Before I begin my review of the book, I would like to tell you a little about how I got interested in Doreen Virtue and the subject of Angels. 

In June 2008, I emailed my schedule for the Las Vegas "I Can Do It!" conference to a treasured friend of mine. He emailed back asking me about Doreen Virtue. It surprised me that he was asking about her — even though she was one of the speakers for the event.  It turned out that he had met a woman named Anna Taylor who had studied with Doreen. As I got to know Anna, I began to ask her questions about Angels. Talking with Anna inspired me to buy a small book by Doreen Virtue called "Angels 101" and reading that book got me curious to learn more about Angels. 

 

 

Before I began reading The Angel Therapy Handbook, I wondered if it would be right for me since I'd never studied with Doreen. But I found myself being fascinated by Doreen's story about how she began to combine her experience as a psychotherapist with what she had learned firsthand about angels. 

What is Angel Therapy?  Here's how Doreen describes it:  "Angel Therapy is a non-denominational spiritual healing method that involves working with a person's guardian angels and archangels, to heal and harmonize every aspect of life."

Angels are a link to Divine Guidance and are available to help when we ask them. The key thing to remember is that they love to help but can only help if we ASK. 

I have to admit that reading the book was fun for me. I enjoyed reading it and began to be more curious about the workshops Doreen teaches. During the past couple of years, I've met more and more people who have studied with her. What they have in common is that they are all kind and loving people that I am glad to have met.

Doreen Virtue has been teaching her Angel Therapy Practitioner Course since 1997 and has helped thousands of people learn skills for spiritual healing. In this book she shares with her readers tools, secrets, and exercises she teaches her students. For those who have studied with her, this is a wonderful reference book. For the rest of us, it is an interesting and entertaining look at her teaching.

 

 
Reading The Angel Therapy Handbook — with Bender

 

On the back cover of the book, Doreen Virtue says, "My life purpose isn't to give angel readings and spiritual healings to clients. It's to teach other people to do these things for themselves and their clients. I always encourage my spiritual-counseling students to teach others — to create an ever-spreading ripple effect that increases the awareness that we all have angels, that we all can communicate with them, and that we all have spiritual gifts we can use to help ourselves and the world." 

This book has great advice for anyone who feels called to speak, teach, or do healing work of any kind.

In the book Doreen talks about a little-known universal law that she says is always in operation: The Law of Action. She goes on to say, "This rule states that as you take any action in the direction of your goal — no matter how seemingly small — the universe will take an even greater step in your direction to meet and support your goal."

Especially during the current economic downturn people often have less work and find themselves with more free time. We can each choose to use that time for some — any — action. We can choose to help others, explore new paths, make new connections, and to stay active. Passivity leads to boredom and self-doubt. Action of any kind helps keep your mind sharp, active, helps you feel good, and moves you toward your desired outcomes. What are some small actions you can take today?

My husband, Dudley, and I enjoyed meeting Doreen when her band, Obsidian, played in San Francisco. Doreen looks like an angel onstage — whether she is speaking or playing guitar with her band. 

Yes, I am glad I decided to review this book. I am also glad that I've begun to learn about angels. What have I learned?

• Angels are non-denominational so they are available to everyone.  
• Angels are with us all of the time — we just need to believe it and tune into them.
• Angels love to help us — but we must ASK them to help.

Do I recommend this book? YES!

If you've studied with Doreen, you'll enjoy having this book as a reminder of what she's taught you. If you are new to her work, I suggest starting with her book Angels 101 so you know the basics of what she teaches. 

If you would like to learn more about angels and "Angel Therapy" get a copy of this book! I feel sure you'll enjoy reading it. 

Here are some ways to purchase a copy of The Angel Therapy Handbook: