Finding your Treasures

What people, places and things are important to you? These are your treasures. Certainly your children or a spouse would make this list. Maybe it's a friend that always brightens your day with a phone call, or the Starbucks coffee girl that always remembers you when you walk in. Besides my own family, I love my church family. Anyone who shares their heart with me is special to me. This past weekend I led a women's retreat, and my heart was filled from all the wonderful women I met throughout the weekend. What places in your life bring you joy or peace? Maybe it's nature, a special room in your home, or a favorite restaurant. For me, when I lay down in my bed to read and relax, I feel blessed. My bed is soft, cozy and warm. What values strike a chord with you? Perhaps it is love, honesty or creativity. Or maybe it is adventure, peace, or intimacy. Connect with and protect those values in your life and you will experience richness.

The Precious Moments

Everyday, there are moments in time that are just like pieces of gold. However, most of the time, we don't slow down enough to capture them. Yesterday, I had many of those moments. I watched my five year old perform silly tricks with silly names on the bed. I enjoyed moments of relaxation because I gave myself the gift of a housecleaner. While shopping for medicine at the drugstore, I realized the Easter candy was out. One of my favorite candies is Robin's eggs. I indulged and bought a bag - it only happens once a year! I marveled at my teenager's fashion sense. He is picking out his own clothes now, and I must admit, he has sharp taste. Gone are the days of shorts and t-shirts, and me telling him, "That doesn't match". Now, he meticulously selects the perfect pair of cargo shorts with a matching "Apt. 9" polo shirt. Slow down, take a look around, and savor those precious moments.

Identifying your Gifts and Talents

Also, in your pot of gold are those gifts and talents God blessed you with. What are they? Maybe He gave you athletic ability or the gift to teach. Perhaps you are a wiz with numbers or you are good at building and constructing. Sit down and make a list of all your strengths and talents. Stretch yourself and don't stop until you have reached 50 strengths and talents within yourself. Next, ask three of your closest friends or family members to make a list of what they see in you. Chances are, they will see things in yourself that you don't. Now, instead of focusing on your shortcomings, you can focus on your gifts and talents.

Creating and Protecting Your Memories

Everyday, we have the opportunity to create special memories. We can turn an ordinary day into an extraordinary day just by focusing on creating memories. The other day, my best friend sent me pictures of her three little girls all having a tea party at home. What did it take to create this memory? It took a little imagination, a lot of love, a few moments of time, and a digital camera. My five year old loves cars! One day I had an idea that truly excited him! We separated all his cars (and he has a lot of cars) by type of car and then took pictures of all the different categories?emergency vehicles, pick up trucks, sports cars, race cars, etc. Time goes by so fast, and if we are not proactive about creating these special memories, you'll miss them. So get out your creativity, a camera and a journal, and start filling your pot of gold.

Giving a Voice to Your Dreamer

As memories represent the past, your dreams represent the future. What do you dream of being or doing one day? I talk to so many moms who have lost their ability to connect with what they love doing. It's not that the passions and dreams are missing - they are just buried. Maybe that critical inner voice has discouraged you from dreaming. Our dreams and passions give us hope and joy! Don't let that part of you die. I dream of becoming a popular speaker and inspiring moms wherever I go. I dream of owning a motor home one day and traveling all around the country. I dream of writing a book one day. I am passionate about reading, singing, and personal growth. Dig deep and find your dreams and passions that are lying on the bottom of your pot of gold.

Did you find your pot of gold at the end of the rainbow or is it right there with you? Focus on and have gratitude for all the important people, places and things in your life and your life will be blessed. Slow down and savor the precious moments that slip away when you are too busy to see them. Honor your gifts, talents and strengths by seeing them for what they are. Realize your pot of gold contains all your special memories, dreams, and passions. Dig deep and pull out those pieces of gold so you can live a rich life.