Hang on to your hat with Halle Berry's new movie, The Call, because you may need it to cover your eyes during this thriller! If you are a woman, this film contains content that is sure to scare you silly, but it will make you more aware of your surroundings (and possibly more prepared if faced with a similar situation). You will also come away with a new respect for all 911 operators. While I don't want to give away too much of the story, the movie starts with Halle's character, a 911 operator, receiving an emergency call from a teenage girl being pursued by a serial killer, played masterfully by Michael Eklund. The frightening and sadly realistic plot, while a bit uneven, and sometimes predictable, does hold its own in terms of keeping the audience on the edge of their seat from start to finish. This is mostly due to the director, Brad Anderson, seamlessly weaving the moment to moment interactions between Halle's character and each 911 caller. We are right there with her for most of the twists and turns, especially during the nail-biting, "real time," drama that unfolds. Abigail Breslin, of Little Miss Sunshine fame, does a great job as a kidnap victim. This young actress brings us from teenage innocence through survivalist mentality. I was excited to see Micheal Imperioli in... Continue reading

Who you are often depends on how you see things and people around you. A shift in perspective is often all you need to open your eyes to your best life. It's not about "looks," it's about seeing someone's warm heart, their decency, kindness, humor, and all that makes them special... When you recognize these things you see their beauty; acknowledge it and it will radiate back to you! Continue reading

All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt. Charles M. Schulz Continue reading

Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson We have all heard the lesson, "Patience is a virtue." This may be true, but practicing patience is not always the easiest thing. If you think of life as experiences occurring in moment to moment increments, the need to rush something lifts leaving behind peace in those moments. When patience is required, allow yourself to be a tortoise and not a hare. Continue reading

Here We Are ending a year that, for many, has been more than forgettable. May any sour experiences you or your loved ones tasted in 2012 be washed away with the sweetness of only good things in 2013... Here's to love, health, understanding, compassion, clarity, hope, achievement, friendship, and the reward of your dreams coming true. Thank you for your continued support of HWA. I am excited to share with you the better, brighter, easier philosophy in the New Year. ~ Luci Continue reading

At this time of year, I usually write a "Happy Holidays" article. This year, in light of the recent evil that took place in Newtown, Connecticut, it doesn't feel right. I, like so many of the broken-hearted, search for answers, pray for the families, demand significant change in the gun laws, and hope that the loss of twenty beautiful, smiling souls impacts our society in a lasting, positive way. So I say to you dear readers, enjoy the special moments not just this holiday season but every day. Notice with all your heart the smallest of things, like a smile, a hug, or a kind word. String them together like lights on a tree and perhaps that glow will fill you with hope, happiness, and inner peace. ~ Luci Cease, every joy, to glimmer on my mind, But leave --- oh! leave the light of Hope behind. ~ Thomas Campbell, Scottish poet (1777-1844) Continue reading

Recently, I was about to leave a meeting at a colleague's office when I noticed this Post-It note hanging on the side of her printer. While I have heard this sentiment in the past, it had been a while and it reminded me just how important time is to the people in your life. With all the traditional gift giving during the holiday season, I hope this helps remind you, too, that the gift of time is worth more than anything that could ever be wrapped in a box. ~ Luci Continue reading

Announcement, Update, Reminders ANNOUNCEMENT On Prancer, On Vixen: Oh what a ride it has been for so many here in the northeastern USA after Hurricane Sandy! But like the wind and rain, the holiday season will not be held back. No matter what you believe in or celebrate, it's the time of the year when we receive gifts of gratitude, mindful behavior, and generosity which appear in ways that are unpredictable, simple, and welcome. My holiday wish for you, dear Here We Are readers and listeners, is that you experience moments that open your heart, make you smile, and uplift your senses. With all the hustle and bustle of life, coupled with the holiday season, remember to take time to slow down and enjoy every thing that comes your way. ~ Luci UPDATE On Comet, On Cupid: Thank you to all the pet owners who entered the HWA raffle for a free, 30-minute session with Animal Intuitive, Susan Ragazzo. The winner is Emily S (your winning confirmation email will be sent to you soon with details). Congrats & enjoy! And thank you to Susan for her generosity toward the HWA readers. Check out Susan Ragazzo's website, guest HWA article on Animal Communication, or her recent interview on the HWA Talk Show to learn more about her practice and how it can help you. REMINDERS On... Continue reading

The source of this story is unknown, but thank you to whomever created it. For all the sisters and friends who share the every day stuff of life with each other, I hope it brings a smile to you today! ~ Luci Continue reading

At this time of year, everyone is talking about "gratitude." Like so much in our media-centric society, it seems a bit overused; especially at Thanksgiving. With all the craziness going on in the world, it might be a bit hard to muster right now. Try thinking in terms of how lucky you are - in this moment, in your life - every day. Even if things are not exactly how you would like them to be, acknowledging the good things like your home, friends, family, free time, job, kids, health = feeling lucky. Lucky you, enjoy! "If we are lucky, we can give in and rest without feeling guilty. We can stop doing and concentrate on being." ~ Kathleen Norris Continue reading

Hurricane Sandy blew in showing everyone unexpected, eye-opening revelations about life, property, and the value of simplicity. While the lesson may be different for each of us, the unifying message is that the collective spirit is greater than any one individual. Light supports our endeavors, and more importantly, our wellness. Whether it's in your heart, your house, your mind, find the light and bask in it (and then share it with someone else). ~ Luci Hope is like electricity. You can't see it, but you can see the light. ~ Author Unknown Continue reading

Listen to Chick Flick Chat, the movie review and discussion show, featuring the classic psychodrama, "Single White Female" and its recent remake, "The Roommate." You can't pick your family, but you can pick your friends... And roommates! These films remind us that you never can tell who might be a closet psycho! They often show up wearing a smile, but beware of the hidden fangs of jealousy, competition, and possessiveness... If you've seen either or both of these films you'll enjoy the comparisons discussed in this CFC of these nightmare tales. Both stories feature the classic female fear fest that can arise from twisted friendships. Boo! Continue reading

The Here We Are Talk Show presents an interview with yoga instructor, Kim Ellner: Yoga For Fitness, Health, Focus, & More. If you've been wondering if yoga might be a way to get in shape, feel relaxed, and have some "me" time, then this HWA show is for you! Whether you've never been on a yoga mat, taken a few classes, or can recite the names of your favorite poses, Kim Ellner shares insight on the many benefits of adding the practice of yoga to your health regimen. Learn how yoga can improve the way you feel in and about your body, while helping you find more focus. Kim, owner of Yoga West, also explains the options this ancient practice offers everyone at all levels. Listen and find a class near you... Don't miss out on benefiting your mind, your body, and your spirit. Namaste! [The claims made about specific products or procedures on or through this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. The reviews and opinions provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. Please consult with a health-care professional before taking or administering any new product or treatment to yourself or anyone else.] Continue reading

Arranging a bowl of flowers in the morning can give a sense of quiet in a crowded day - like writing a poem, or saying a prayer. ~ Anne Morrow Lindbergh Even a single flower in a vase has the power and beauty to make you smile. I learned this happiness tip from my sister-in-law who always has a bud vase holding a fresh flower perched on her kitchen window sill. For years I've noticed various blooms and vase selections, and only recently we talked about how happy it makes her. The simplicity of putting a single flower at the window where so many of us start the day struck me as an easy way to brighten up a "task" area. What I've discovered is that I now look for my flower each morning on the sill, and it always makes me smile... It's also been fun to change them with the changing seasons, bringing the outdoors inside in a special way. I hope you will pull out an old vase and give this a try, too. You'll be surprised by the power of one flower to make you feel joy. Continue reading

Here We Are turns 4 today! In thinking about my experiences in blogging over the last four years, I realize I've learned the most about life. The technical stuff that comes with blogging, like social networking or recording radio shows is just a bunch of wires, buttons, and digital imagery that connects us. While these connections must exist to blog, the relationships that are fostered, discovered, and stretched, happen between people, not machines. In choosing this picture, it hit me that the blogging environment is a lot like a fishbowl. If you are inside, you are always looking out for answers and connections, and if you are outside, you are always looking in for the same. No matter the topic, if you are a regular reader to HWA, you know that I share the lessons that resonate most with me in hopes of helping you; hence the better, brighter, easier motto. Here are 10 important life lessons learned directly or indirectly since launching HWA in October 2008: 1. Finding your "voice" only happens by trusting yourself to speak up 2. Taking a chance is always good no matter how it turns out 3. Being a supportive cheerleader for others comes back in positive ways (even when you least expect it) 4. When you put your name on something, you must be prepared to back it... Continue reading

Announcement, Updates, Reminders ANNOUNCEMENT Pencils Sharpened: September has come and gone... Could thirty days have already passed by? Now that the summer is a memory, and the Fall season is officially here, there is a lot of homework to do. For me, my October assignment is getting back on track with better, brighter, easier Here We Are articles, the HWA Talk Show, and Chick Flick Chat; what is it for you? No pressure, but I'd love for you to share it in the comments section. No matter what slowed you down (or sped you up) in the back-to-school mania, write down your goals and become a goal getter! UPDATES Ask For An Extension: Animal Intuitive, Susan Ragazzo has graciously agreed to extend her giveaway into November. If you are or have been a pet owner, then don't miss your chance to enter to win a 30-minute Animal Communication session (click link to enter - psst, it's FREE!). The raffle continues until mid-November, but since you are here, sign up now! I Got A Rock: Yes, that is my homage to Charlie Brown's Halloween experience... Congrats to Jackie & Frances, the final two HWA readers to each win a Recipe Rock. This concludes the Recipe Rock Giveaway, I hope all six winners are enjoying this handy gadget. REMINDERS Stash A Scarf In Your Backpack: You never... Continue reading

Part 15 of the Here We Are Series - Live Your Life Out Loud Recently, I overheard one woman telling another the following quote: "Selflessness = Invisibility." It's one of those ideas that your mind picks up but it takes a while for it to register. When I finally got it, I realized it was an "AhHa" moment. Then I shared it with a good friend and she had the same response; because this quote is so profound, I am compelled to share it with you, too. If "selfless," by definition, means having, exhibiting, or motivated by no concern for oneself, then why should anyone else care about you or your needs? Interesting concept, startling reality. What are your thoughts? Is it an "AhHa" moment for you, too? Continue reading