A-Z 2013 the letter N

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No! Are you one of those people who has a wave of guilt flow through their body when they say that word, No? 

No my "N" word. 

I used to be one of those people!

Then I realized that no was not a dirty word.

That was after I learned from a wise counselor that I could keep my personal relationships intact and say no to my friends and family.

For some reason I had this notion that the two were not mutually exclusive. 

There is hope however. I learned so I share a few brief tips. 

If someone asks you to do something this is what I would suggest..

1. Think before you speak. Try taking a deep breath before you say anything. If not yes might some flying out of you mouth and you could be the PTA president for the 12th time!
2. Say yes and no at the same time. How you ask? Tell your friend, boss or pastor.."Thank you so much for thinking of me however I'm afraid I just don't have time this month. I am available next month for such and such an event or project."
3. Check your calendar so you don't overbook, remember to think of yourself (you are allowed) and don't spread yourself to thin.
4. Always be polite but always be firm and mindful of your body language. 
5. Never say your sorry. If you do it sounds like you've done something wrong! 

And remember; saying no is never wrong.

As I was poking around the internet I came across a priceless story that I thought I'd include in this post. This is a perfect illustration of a person who had no problem saying no...to anyone!

Read it and giggle...

John Galbraith’s housekeeper was a whiz when it came to saying no. One day in 1965 the noted economist was taking a nap when President Lyndon Johnson called his home. “He’s taking a nap and has left strict orders not to be disturbed,” his housekeeper told the President. Johnson replied, “Well, I’m the President. Wake him up.” Her response? A simple: “I’m sorry, Mr. President, but I work for Mr. Galbraith, not for you.” Then she hung up. (this segment is a link to the full article)

Do you have problems saying no? -or- Have you found your comfort zone with the no word?

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when nature calls

"N"

I thought today since it's Saturday and most of us are going about our chores and spending time with our family that I'd do something a bit different kinda low maintenance, less wordy. I would like to show you in pictures the natural beauty that surrounds us every day where we live.

My "N" words for today Natural and Nature.

Bill and I actually live on a rather large piece of property, 26.5 acres in a rural area of Virginia. It really is a lovely piece of land. Sometimes it calls to me.... Jen get off the couch and come outside and enjoy my beauty.

 I'll then go out in the quiet and walk, listen to the birds or take in the quiet enjoy that very beauty that surrounds me every day; drink in the smells of the flowers and the grass.

Today I'd like to share a tiny bit of that with you .....I do hope you're enjoying my photographs. I haven't used any photographs in the A-Z Challenge however today nature calls hee hee! I could hardly pass up an opportunity to share my beautiful plants with you. 

Nature is man's teacher. 

She unfolds her treasure to his search, 

unseals his eye, illumes his mind, 

and purifies his heart; 

an influence breathes from all the sights and sounds 

of her existence. 

Alfred Billings Street 

The hen's and chick are multiplying more than usual in the front garden since the spring has been so lengthy this year. In fact everything in our yard is greener and more lush than I've ever seen it.

Nature abounds! 

And this sweet little flower is a left over from last year.

These are little peaches from a four year old tree in our back yard. I might have a lot of peaches this year. Who knows I might have to try my hand at jam or ice-cream. 

I truly wish that computers had a scratch and sniff button or option because my lilacs are so amazingly fragrant; I just wish you could smell them!

There aren't many blooms left on my Magnolia but this is really beautiful cast against the gleaming green leaves. This tree is rather young only about eleven years old but it's a beauty.

And this is one of many azalea's that we have at our house, this particular one sits right in front of our deck. During the day it is actually buzzing with different types of bees and hummingbirds; it's as if the bush is alive.

I hope you've enjoyed the pictures may they serve as a reminder to get outside and enjoy a bit of nature yourself this weekend....maybe with the one you love; that's always best :)