So the first performance of our recital is over… and it was FANTASTIC!! Here’s a shot of me and some of my girls:

The costume on the left is what they wear for Jazz (one of my classes).

Here’s a shot of Madd and me after the show:

Everyone worked really hard to make this a fabulous show - and all that hard work really paid off… even when things didn’t seem to be going to plan… or when the path ahead seemed rough - we forged ahead.

And the result was wonderful.

How often do you feel frustrated, or like things aren’t going to plan? When that happens, what do you do? Do you forge ahead, knowing that things will turn out beautifully - or do you stop everything figuring it’s just too hard to move forward?

There are times when I’m in the middle of a challenge and it feels like things will never get better. But when I come through the challenge and look back, the challenge really served to teach me something.

We’ve got our last performance tonight - and tomorrow -we’re resting! But after we’re rested, I’ll definitely be reflecting on the challenges I’ve had this week - and this year so far - and thinking about what they’ve taught me. And maybe next time I face a challenge, I’ll be a little calmer knowing it’ll turn out beautifully

I just caught site of this short little viral movie:

http://www.stservicemovie.com/

Even though it’s geared toward customer service folks, it made me think - and yes - I did cry a little too You know I’m empathic - those movies get me every time LOL!

Anyway.  It made me think about the ways in which I serve - and that I’m here to make a difference. This movie so beautifully highlighted how simple it is to be of service, and that simply the act of caring, can make a huge difference for someone else. As entrepreneurs in businesses that we’re passionate about - we get to serve our clients, live our life purpose, and do fulfilling work all at the same time… WOW!

So - for today’s Authentic Self Post - ask yourself - and feel free to post the answer… it’s a good way to get exposure for your business *hint hint* How am I here to serve? And, what action can I take today that will bring me closer to my clients?

If you’re following my 30 day Authentic Self project, you’re going to notice that it’s been a few days since I’ve posted *ahem*

What can I say? Last week was BUSY! My little one turned SIX! And, it was Halloween. Our week was chock full of celebrations, family stopping by, gifts, learning how to play with gifts… it was a wonderful week! If you’d like to see a couple of photos of the festivities, please check out my slide-show

On top of that - I was putting the finishing touches on this FABULOUS new web site. The template was designed by Michelle at Elemental Muse - please do thank her for me :)  AND - I was finalizing a BRAND NEW service!!

Check out my Business Focus Coaching service.

This begs the question… Authentically - am I an every day blogger? Obviously not! LOL!! So -I’ve been inspired to change the Authentic Self project just slightly. I’m still working it out the exact details… but stay tuned!

In the mean time - as stated above - please let us know how you serve your clients.

Well, Madd is off to school:

I’m doing ok this morning. I had a couple tears when she got on the bus - but none that anyone else noticed. I had my big emotional release a couple of weeks ago.

Here is a shot of Madd and I waiting at the bus stop:

I can’t wait until she comes home - I’m so excited to hear about her first day!

We had a mini-vacation this past weekend at a GREAT family amusement park near Danville, PA. Knoebels is a must do if you’re near the area. The prices are awesome and it was PERFECT for kids. You can’t believe how beautiful this park is - it’s tucked in the mountains of central PA - you don’t even know there’s a park there until you pull in and can see the Ferris Wheel above the trees.

Here is a shot of Madd and I on the Tea Cups:

Maddie also rode both roller coasters - she even sat in the FRONT car of the Phoenix. She loved it!!

Here’s a shot of her and Daddy - this was her favorite ride with Daddy:

We had a wonderful time - hard to believe it’s almost back to school!