The dusting of snow on the lawn this morning reminds me of a time last January when meteorologists were forecasting a big snowstorm for the following day. Like this year, there had not yet been any school cancellations and, oh, how my sons were wishing for a snow day! My older son, who was almost fourteen, had heard that if you wear pajamas inside out you'll get a snow day. He came downstairs that evening with pockets flapping and the skiers on his flannel pajamas no longer visible-they were facing inside. At 6:15 a.m. the next morning, peering into the pre-dawn darkness, we saw no snow on the ground and only a few flakes falling. Seeing my son's crestfallen face, I suggested that we turn on the TV news to get the latest update. The weatherman was still calling for around a foot of snow in our area, beginning in the morning and lasting most of the day. There were lots of school closings scrolling on the bottom of the screen. We watched, holding our breath, until they finally reached our town and we saw, "Closed." I wish I'd had a camera handy to capture the look on my son's face as he exclaimed, "It worked! We have a snow day!"

Soon after this we watched the movie "What the Bleep Do We Know!?" which explains the "magical" power of thought and energy in terms of quantum physics. This year we've all watched "The Secret" which demystifies the Law of Attraction. Although I've been learning about and discussing manifestation and the Law of Attraction for years, he's at the age where he rolls his eyes and probably thinks, "What the bleep does she know!?" when I bring up such topics. However, having his ski team coach show "The Secret" during a recent practice was enough to grab his attention. Between all of these experiences, I think my son has begun to grasp that we really do create our own reality.

In case manifestation piques your interest as well, here's a basic outline of steps in the process:

1. DESIRE The process often begins with dissatisfaction, an observation of something that's less than ideal, and clarity about what it is that you do want and why you want it. This desire becomes a request. (From a spiritual perspective, you might think of it as placing an order with the Universe, making a prayer of petition, or calling upon your angels and guides for help.)

2. THOUGHT If your desire is motivated by lack or fear, it's important to reframe it into a positive thought, since what we think about is what we bring about. In my son's case, an initial want "for school to be closed tomorrow" focuses on school and is better reframed as "I want a snow day" focusing on snow. You also must believe in the possibility of what you want coming true. You have to expect miracles before they can happen. One technique at this stage is to create a mental picture of your desired outcome.

3. FEELING As powerful as affirmations are, thoughts alone may not be enough to make your dreams come true. Combine your thoughts with positive feelings, however, and you you'll put the Law of Attraction to work for you. Let yourself steep in the feelings of euphoria, excitement, or peace that you'll have when you get what you desire. The higher vibration created by the energy of these feelings becomes a powerful magnet, pulling what you want your way.

4. RECEIVING This final stage is about being open to but not forcing an outcome. It's also not a passive process-you don't want to watch opportunities pass by you. Instead, you want to take appropriate action and follow the doors that open for you.

I encourage you to experiment with this process, whether you apply it to New Year's Resolutions or to snow days. May it help you create just what you want in 2007.