Life is about BALANCE.

There are going to be times in life, when you wonder how the heck you got to where you are. You are going to wonder how you “survived” through all of the struggles.

When it seems like there are too many changes in your life that need balance – a different career, a new relationship, a family, a big move, whatever it is – just remember to pause.

and breathe.

Some things are not easy to adjust to, but you see, you make it work. The “bad” things that happen in your life? Those are the things that actually help you to become stronger. The “bad” people – the ones who betrayed you or upset you, whether verbally, mentally, emotionally, or physically – they are the ones who you learn from.

Try to “balance” everything around you, and manage what is going on. You may not realize it in that moment – whether you are “blinded” or “fearful” of what may happen – but in time, it will all come together and make sense.

Find your true self, and don’t worry so much about what needs to get done, who needs to be seen, or the places you have to/need to go.

Live in the moment!

Your life isn’t about pleasing others. It is about balancing what you have, right in front of you, to make it work for you, successful for you, and happy for you!! AND. Your family!!!!

So, find the time for yourself, and peace within, to accept what life has given you. Find patience, and don’t be so hard on yourself!

“Let's untangle our mind, and set it free...”

What is a real friend?

You meet the people who smile in front of your face and get along only because they have to.

You meet the people who pretend to be someone they are not, but then their true colours come out during a time when you question a situation, or even a time when you need them the most – to just listen.

You meet the people who call you their friend, but then they only call you or text you when it's convenient for them – when they need something.

We are introduced to these types of people many times – throughout our childhood and also into adulthood. You would think as adults, we have learned how to “recognize” and “react” to the different types of friends, but you find yourself trapped over and over, only making you more hurt and angry. As hard as you try, that friendship that was once a part of your happiness, is now a part of your past and a part of the root to your anxiety, your self-confidence, and your love for yourself. Why? Why do we allow these “friends” to have such control over our emotions and our feelings? Is it because we yearn for acceptance? What is it that triggers these emotions, really?

You start doubting yourself. You start to ask yourself, “what is wrong with me?” You start feeling guilty and neglected all at the same time, when you're only trying to “fit” in.

It is when we become adults, when most of us “have” what we need in our lives, and that is when we realize just how sick and tired we are of being taken advantage of and re-living the “high school” drama. We become disgusted by the amount of “fake” people out in this world – the liars, the manipulators, the backstabbers, the cheaters, the thieves. The ones who play you for a fool. The ones who think they can play you like a puppet on a string, but then, the puppet on a string actually turns into a rollercoaster ride – faster and more scary – and you're wondering when in hell it is going to STOP!

They say you shouldn't be friends with your children. I say why not? Just because I'm their parent? I will be both. Why? Because I trust them. I love them. I would do anything for them.

My husband, he is my best friend. Why? Because I trust him. I love him. I would do anything for him.

The same goes for my family, and (not even a handful) a few I call my real friends, and let's be honest here – those are mostly new friendships that share the same interests and values in life, as I do now.

In my opinion – friendships are based a lot on trust, kindness, and compassion. Friendships can't form if there is not that connection. And if that trust is broken, even once, then how can that friendship continue? How can that friendship even exist?

We can forgive, as much as it hurts, but can it really ever be forgotten? We acknowledge the fact that we've been hurt, and maybe we are part to blame for the reactions we have, allowing our mouth to open before letting our mind think the thoughts out first. But, if a situation has been repeated over and over, and there has been no understanding, then of course a reaction is going to be an explosive one! Of course there's going to be tears and a burst of frustration, perhaps even leading to resentment. As hard as you try to hold it all in, so that no one is hurt emotionally, it happens. And all persons involved are left feeling betrayed, hurt, angry.

My point is – we can only be silent for so long. We can only try to hide our emotions for so long in order to try to sustain a healthy relationship with “friends” that we want to. But, at the end of the day, we need to voice our opinions and stick up for our beliefs. And if the connection or the same values aren't there, then we have to learn to “let it go”. We have to let it go for our own mental health, or it is going to seriously cause damage to our emotional well-being.

We need to surround ourselves with the people who bring out the best in us. The ones who make us laugh, sing, and dance. The ones who are supportive when times get tough. And if they aren't there for you during the touch times, then are they really your friends? If they are only calling you when they need something, are they really your friends? Are they really your friends if they don't understand that times get busy, and sometimes you just don't have enough energy and can't be at their beck and call over a simple text message or visit?

Everyone has their life to live and their responsibilities. People make choices in order to live a fulfilling life. Friends come and go, and I believe we meet people for a reason. There is no need for high school drama. There is no need for putting people down.

This world has gotten to the point where technology has taken over. If you're a real friend, and need to discuss serious real-life issues – you will pick up the phone instead of texting. Or you will make the effort to chat face to face. Texting becomes so confusing and seriously, can be taken the wrong way.

If you have that friend – stand by them. Cherish them. Treat them as you would want to be treated.

Don't lie. Don't talk behind their backs. Be positive, and just. be. a. friend. Be that REAL friend. That's all.

“Let's untangle our mind, and set it free...”

Subscribers – below is a poem I wrote entitled “No Longer A Fool”. And a little information on how this article came about ...

“She’s standing still, all alone,

As she questions her own fate.

She knows that there is love,

As long as she can wait.

Time and time again,

She’s been hurt and torn apart.

But now, as she still stands,

She will protect her heart.”

- Sandra Scala

I wrote this piece of writing a while back, because my mind wanders and when I write, I think of not only myself (and my past), but other paths that I have crossed.

I know there are a lot of people who don’t have someone they can experience and share their everyday lives with, whether by choice or for some other reason. But for those people who have been hurt over and over, and are too scared to open their hearts for fear of being hurt again – whether emotionally, mentally, physically, verbally, or even sexually – this poem is for you – because you can still stand, while standing still.

You can still find it deep within, to find yourself and find love again (if that’s what you want). Don’t lose hope …

Whether you have been cheated on, lied to, or abused – as hard as it is, try to put the pain and hurt aside, and open up to someone you trust. Find it within yourself to get help, or help someone you may know who is going through a hard time. Every small act of kindness goes a long way…

When “trapped” in an abusive relationship, it’s hard to clear the mind and find the right path…causing you to think less and less of yourself. It becomes a habit…a habit that you do NOT want.

There is no need for any type of abuse in any relationship. A relationship is built on love, compassion, trust, and kindness, as well as communication and compromise. I am not an expert in love, but I am a woman who knows how I want to be treated, and how I want my daughters to be treated, as well as respect, love, and appreciation. I think any parent hopes this for their children…

I hope anyone who is going through this type of time in their lives, finds the courage and the strength to let go and move on … respect yourself and what you deserve…you've got this ❤️

“Let's untangle our mind, and set it free...”

Here is a picture of the frame:

And this here, is a quote from one of my favourite songs:

Did you ever know that you're my hero, and everything I would like to be? I can fly higher than an eagle, for you are the wind beneath my wings.

- Bette Midler, The Wind Beneath My Wings

This song, means a lot to me. So much so that I sang it to my sister for her wedding, while my uncle played his guitar. It was a surprise, and surprises are mostly, always the best!!

Just like in this picture here – an unplanned visit, just yesterday!! And we even wore the same colour shirt!! 😉😂

I have always looked up to Josie (for my followers who don't know – she's my twin). She is not only so beautiful, but one of the strongest persons I know. She has always been there for me through my rough times, and she hasn't left my side. Our bond is a bond that can never be broken!

Love you and thank you, Jos, for being my hero. ❤️

I wish all my followers a beautiful, blessed weekend (in Canada, it is Thanksgiving)!

Make sure you let the people in your life know just how much you appreciate them and love them!

“Let's untangle our mind, and set it free...”

Such a beautiful song and video, by Bette Midler ...

The Wind Beneath My Wings:

https://youtu.be/0iAzMRKFX3c

And for my subscribers ...a little more about my sister below!

Today, I will share my video I posted on Cinnamon!

Make a Difference. BE the Difference!

My video was done with the help of my three girls, where we try to spread awareness re: bullying and disabilities. With my children, I have seen too much judgement and bullying – it's not nice. Especially as a parent, you worry about the well-being of your children.

Every day, children are being bullied because of their differences – whether it is physical, mental, or emotional. Every day, children are affected by a “rude” comment, a stare, or even a laugh from another. It affects these children emotionally and mentally. We as adults, need to promote awareness to children on how it feels to be the person being scrutinized. Children should actually want to go where they feel comfortable and accepted by others, and are eager to learn! We have to make aware that judgement at first glance is not acceptable, and that everyone is equal and unique!

The way we act, the way we speak, and the way we look at other people are all choices we make in today's society. Everyone is unique in their own special way, and our society need to help change their perception towards bullying and disabilities.

Turn the negative into positive and be the better person!

It does not matter how slowly you go, as long as you do not stop.

- Confucius

You will get to your goal. Slowly, but surely.

Believe in yourself! ❤️

“Let's untangle our mind, and set it free...”

(Photo by Wolfgang Hasselmann on Unsplash)

Today is World Mental Health Day, and ...

Even though you may feel overwhelmed.

Even though it may be hard to breathe.

Even though it may be a battle you feel like you just.can't.win.

You are special...

We really need to focus on Suicide Prevention, and here, I want to share 10 facts according to the World Health Organization:

1. Mental, neurological and substance use disorders make up 10% of the global burden of disease and 30% of non-fatal disease burden.
2. Around 1 in 5 of the world's children and adolescents have a mental disorder.
3. Depression is one of the leading causes of disability, affecting 264 million people.
4. About half of mental disorders begin before the age of 14.
5. Almost 800 000 people die by suicide every year; 1 person dies from suicide every 40 seconds. Suicide is the second leading cause of death in individuals aged 15-29 years.
6. Around 1 in 9 people in settings affected by conflict have a moderate or severe mental disorder.
7. People with severe mental disorders die 10 to 20 years earlier than the general population.
8. Rates of mental health workers vary from below 2 per 100 000 population in low-income countries to over 70 per 100 000 in high-income countries.
9. Less than half of the 139 countries that have mental health policies and plans report having these aligned with human rights conventions.
10. The global economy loses about US$ 1 trillion per year in productivity due to depression and anxiety.

We need to look at these numbers and think of how we can help prevent the rise of future numbers. We need to come together and support each other – be kind, be compassionate, offer support.

Today, please think about those people who are suffering in silence.

The ones who think that they are worthless and have nothing to live for. The ones who think that nobody cares for them.

Think about the people who are just too. damn. scared to reach out to someone.

Some people get so overwhelmed with emotion, leading to anxiety and depression, maybe even turning to drugs and/or self-harm – and it can be as simple as things going “wrong” in their day, issues in a relationship/friendship, a loss, a sickness…we can't just shut these people out, for they are lost...

If you know someone, try to reach out to them – let them know that they are not alone. Let them know that they are cared for, and loved. Sometimes, that’s all they need to hear.

Please remember – as hurt, as angry, as sad someone may feel – there is a light at the end of the tunnel. It's okay to have emotions, but if “life” feels like it is getting out of hand, please reach out for help.

If it's medication that will help, then that's OKAY too...don't let judgement from other people steer you away from what you or a doctor may feel is best for you.

It takes time to heal – and you CAN heal, in time.

Give yourself a chance. Give life a chance.

Share this for all the people suffering in silence.

Let us help them by letting them know that they are not alone, and to keep moving forward. one day at a time. ❤️

“Let's untangle our mind, and set it free...”

Success is not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.

- Winston Churchill

This quote stands true for anything in life. You must find the courage to continue – pick up and try again if you fail because at the end of the day, it's not the end of the world. Give yourself a chance. If something doesn't work out for you, that's OKAY. You can always try something new. Where there's a will, there's a way! And that means COURAGE and believing in yourself to keep moving forward!!

Today, I am sharing an article on behalf of my husband, where he explains in detail the difference between legal and illegal streaming, as well as the pros and cons of owning a video store!

Article by Mark Loeffler:

“I often get asked how a video store could still be in business in today’s internet environment with so many streaming options, both legal and illegal. Short answer is, it’s not easy. However, I do see the viability of a video store becoming stronger in the near future! Let me explain…

First, let’s tackle the illegal streaming options – these are “pirate” websites from which you can download and/or stream just about any movie or tv show you are looking for. Some people access these sites through their computer, but most access them through “the box”, a little black box which is sort of like a mini-computer onto which you can upload “apps” to search the internet for what you are looking for. The box itself is not illegal; however, use of the apps and the act of streaming/downloading the content and watching it in your home is illegal. The simple fact is you are watching copyrighted content without paying for it. I’ve had people say “It’s so easy and the content is on the internet, so it must be legal” – well, sorry, but it is not. The IP’s (internet providers – Rogers, Eastlink, Bell, etc.) are currently ramping up efforts to identify and stop the illegal streaming of copyrighted material. They are just awaiting the green light from the CRTC (Canadian Radio and Telecommunications Commission). Once this happens, the IP’s will send a message to anyone streaming copyrighted material and request you to stop, and if you don’t, they will be able to cut off your internet access. They are already doing this in the case of downloading of copyrighted material. In short, very soon you will not be able to use those boxes for illegal streaming no matter how hard you try.

Second, legal streaming options – these are any services you pay for access, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, Crave, CBS All Access, etc. Netflix has had a great run at providing plenty of content for a low monthly fee; however, their great selection is in jeopardy as film studios try other ways to get you to pay for and watch their content. Netflix knows this, that is why they have invested hundreds of millions of dollars in developing their own content, such as Bird Box, Roma and TV shows such as Orange is the New Black. Of course, producing their own content costs money, that is why they have increased their monthly charge 3 times over the last year. They will also be losing all content from Disney (which Disney owns Pixar, Fox studios, Touchstone pictures, ABC, Lucasfilm, Marvel and the list goes on) as Disney will begin their own streaming service later this spring. Apple, Warner Studios and NBC Universal all have plans to have a streaming service available by the end of 2020. As more studios develop their own streaming service you will need to subscribe to multiple services to be able to watch the movies or tv shows you want to watch. Want to watch The Last Kingdom? Netflix. Want to watch Stars Wars or a Marvel movie? Disney. Want to watch Sons of Anarchy? Crave. Want to watch Star Trek? CBS All Access. All of a sudden, you are paying for 10 streaming services to watch the shows and movies you want to watch. Of course, there’s still cable/satellite so you can watch the news and sports, or you could subscribe to the individual leagues (NFL, NHL, MLB) for well over $100/year each (and that doesn’t cover other sports you may want to watch – tennis, golf, Olympics).

Third, there is the excitement (or some would say nostalgia) of going to your local video store and seeing all the movies and tv series available to watch. I often have customers who have not been to the store for a few months who have come back and realized there were many movies they never heard of (because Netflix didn’t suggest it for them) and tv series they didn’t have access to. That is where the staff at a video store can help you find movies and tv series that are of interest to you and that you will enjoy watching.

In conclusion, yes, there are still independent video store operators across the country who are surviving through diversification and are able to conduct business where the “Blockbusters” and “Movie Gallery’s” couldn’t due to massive overheard expenses. So, if you’re fortunate enough to have a video store near you, make a point of checking them out and seeing what they have to offer.

Don’t let us all wish we still had a video store when it becomes viable again in the next year or two. Enjoy your local video store today and laugh at those bigger towns and cities who will be crying for one tomorrow!! “

“Let's untangle our mind, and set it free...”

For coil subscribers – read more below to understand this next paragraph and my meaning behind it...

Life is great if you look at all the possibilities.

Life is great if you look at new ideas.

Always keep your options open, and don't give up!

(Header Image Credit goes to Denise Jans on Unsplash)

They say dogs look like their owners 😲 Looking at this picture below – I think they might be right in my case 😉😂

“Deep in thought” moment, relaxing on the couch today with my Mimi!

Remember – it's not selfish to take a break from your day...sometimes, it's needed!! ❤️

Mimi is a flat coat retriever, and she is my Canine Vision Dog.

Back in June of 2015, I left home for one month to train with her at Lions Foundation of Canada, located in Oakville, Ontario. At the end of the month, we graduated!

Lions Foundation of Canada (please click for their website and info) is a unique national charity that trains Dog Guides in six distinct programs to help Canadians with disabilities. They continue to provide Dog Guides at no cost to qualified applicants with disabilities each year. Dog Guides cost approximately $25,000 to raise and train. Lions Foundation does not receive any government funding and relies solely on donations and fundraising events.

My month away was tough, especially having to leave my girls, only being able to see them for a few hours every Sunday, BUT, I had to bond with this beautiful dog who would be my guide. – who would help me not to trip over curbs – who would help me to stop before bumping into someone – who would guide me through the night – and who would be an extra set of eyes!

Mimi was a chance for me to get my independence back, and have a better future...

I never wanted the change in my vision to be a burden on my girls (or anyone for that matter). I never wanted my girls to feel responsible for me. They were kids, and they had to enjoy their life with family, friends and school, sports, boys ... !! Even though the girls wanted to help (and still do), I didn't feel it was fair to them. I am grateful for their love and their acceptance of my challenges. They are so beautiful and I cherish every moment that I can!

This is what I wrote a while back, when I looked at this picture...

Eyes. So powerful. So persistent.

Yet there’s love; there’s beauty.

There’s reassurance.

Today, so many lives are affected by anxiety.

Affected by fear, and stress.

Fear of what we see. Fear of what we hear.

Fear of what we experience and have experienced.

And the fear of what is yet to come.

It’s almost as if we let ourselves get sucked in because of the negative thoughts and feelings, which are overpowering at times. These negative thoughts whether created by other people, or just our normal every day stresses, are causing us to lose control of our inner selves.

It’s almost as if we are screaming so loud inside, but nothing comes out. Fearful that if something is said, it is the wrong thing. At the wrong time. Towards the wrong person.

At the end of the day, we have to remember to breathe. Breathe in AND out. Reach out to those who love us; those who are close to us...Easier said than done, yes. BUT, it HAS to be done. For your own sake. You need to take control. Before you really lose yourself, and those close to you.

What is it? Your mind is racing like crazy? In every direction?

“Oh my, I have to get this done. Oh geez, why did they say that, why are they doing this?” These thoughts are just going to keep piling and coming on in. They are just thoughts. Control it. Block it. Breathe.

“Stop shaking. Don’t faint. Don’t panic. Stop. I need fresh air. I need to sleep.” More thoughts. Control it. Block it. Breathe.

“Could I have done something different? Could I have changed their ways, or mine?” Again, control the thoughts. Block them. Breathe.

YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

Take a moment and look around. There are people around you who love you, who want to help. When you feel like crying, when you feel so overwhelmed...just stop what you are doing for a second and reach out to your loved ones.

Regain your composure. Your sense of inner peace. And look at your accomplishments in life. It will get better...

Eyes. So powerful. So persistent.

Yet there’s love; there’s beauty.

There’s reassurance.

Just remember, whatever change you need to make in life, if it will make your life easier and more fulfilling, then take the risk. It's okay to feel overwhelmed at times. It's okay to have doubts. But you won't know unless you try. And sometimes, you just have to TRY!!!

“Let's untangle our mind, and set it free...”

Below for Coil Subscribers – check out my pictures and a story of how I got one of my tattoos...

Having limited vision does not define my perception of beauty. Rather, it allows me to appreciate what life has to offer, even through the darkness.

- Sandra Scala

I drew this picture, a few years ago when I shared my story at a church. It is a description to show the comparison of what I see, to what a person with regular vision would see.

Sure, there's so much that I can't see unless I shift my eyes and focus. Sure, it would be nice to see what others can see.

Yes, I went through my phase where I didn't have the energy to do anything or see anyone. And yes, I still do get anxious at times when my mind overthinks.

But I also know that “it's okay not to be okay”.

I know that I am not the only one, and that I can reach out to people I trust. I know that as long as I take a day at a time, that's the best I can do, to appreciate the NOW. And so can you!

Beauty, to me, is about self-love and self-acceptance.

Beauty, to me, is about facing your demons.

Beauty, to me, is about being kind and showing compassion.

Beauty, to me, is about what's on the inside, in your heart.

I know most people feel like they have to meet certain standards, and maybe it's because of something that has happened to them in their past, or maybe it's because of a current situation. But wait right there – it doesn't mean that you can't start fresh. You can find your true beauty within, and you can find a way to happiness. It may take time, but with the right people by your side, your light will shine!

Don't let anyone ever tell you that you're not beautiful, or you're not good enough. Those kind of people need to wake up and smell the coffee, because you are so worth it! ❤️

“Let's untangle our mind, and set it free...”

To read more about my story, subscribe to coil ...

Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius, and it’s better to be absolutely ridiculous than boring

– Marilyn Monroe

Simply put – be YOU – your unique self!

Don’t try to be someone you’re not.

Don’t let anything (whether it’s fear, a sickness, a disability, or even a person) stop you from doing what you want. Don’t let it define who you are, deep within…

Live your life! Love! Learn! Travel!

Seek happiness! Do great things!

Be kind! Be crazy silly! And take the leap!!

Meh – I have issues...but I’m not going to let that stop me from living my life and doing what I think is great, and beautiful, and harmless!

I will continue to be spontaneous in my own way!

I will continue to be who I am and not allow anyone to judge me, for they do not know of all the chapters in my life. But, that’s OK, because each day is a new page, a new chapter…it’s my story, my journey!

This life is a journey to experience, and learn.

To accept changes and make changes when necessary.

This life, is only lived once.

Grasp each moment.

Take an opportunity when it comes!

And never give up!!

Be YOU!

“Let's untangle our mind, and set it free...”

AND....Coil Subscribers – check out (a little about me) and my video below!