Make the most of EVERY moment...

Inspired Thought...
Life is full of moments that, at first glance, may seem small and trivial, but really hold great meaning. For example, in the eyes of parents of newborns, a first smile, hiccup, yawn, or word is cause for celebration. Meanwhile, others do all of these things several times a day, and many hardly give these things a second glance. But in spite of all this, believe it or not, it is these small, yet special, moments that are most memorable. Today, I am encouraging you to make the most of these "bite-sized moments", to give that smile a second glance, and celebrate in the gifts, of all shapes and sizes, that God has blessed us with.

Inspired Action...
Every night, I always start my bedtime prayer with a list of things that happened within that day that I am grateful for. I have even gone so far as to thank God for the friendly cashier that helped me at the grocery store, or the wave I received from the neighbor next door. Here are a few "bite-sized moments" that you can thank God for:

• waking up to a beautiful sunrise
• sharing a hug with a loved one
• warm, sweet hazelnut lattes
• taking a walk over lunch break
• receiving a smile from a passerby
• a basket full of beans picked fresh from the garden
• reading with your child

Inspired Living...
Once you have learned to recognize the beauty of "bite-sized moments", it's time to start creating some small, but special, moments for others. One of my favorite "bite-sized moments" to share with someone is a smile. I remember reading a quote somewhere that stated, "You're only as beautiful as your smile." Don't be afraid to share something as beautiful as a smile with a loved one or even a complete stranger. Your smile may mean more to them than you know.

Using your imagination can reduce stress

The other day I tried the most refreshing thing, something I probably hadn't done in a while, and that was having what I call an "imagination session". I think of imagination as a beautiful state of mind where there are no stresses, worries, and problems, simply all too sweet perfection. My imagination is the one thing that allows me to let go of my current situation and picture myself in a happy, peaceful environment. Here are some of my favorite things to imagine:

• Running through a field of flowers surrounded with clear blue sky
• Sitting in a sunny corner of the library with a good book
• Sleeping under the stars, listening to crickets
• Swinging beneath the branches of a tall oak tree
• Having a picnic on the beach, then looking for seashells

Once you have chosen what you would like to imagine, find a quiet place to close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Then, think about what sights you would be seeing, things you would be hearing, etc. in that environment. If you'd like you can even think up a story about what happens while you're there and the things that you'll be doing. Taking just five minutes a day to have an "imagination session" will help you to reduce stress and to give your brain a rest. Give it a try! Using your imagination is a tool that people of all ages can use, not just children.