When I was researching into the science of gratitude for my eBook, “It’s All About Gratitude” I came across some amazing findings. Here is an extract from my eBook which relates to the famous book, The Science of Getting Rich by Wallace D. Wattles.
“There is a law of gratitude and it is absolutely necessary that you should observe the law. If you are to get the results you seek, the law of gratitude is the natural principle that action and reaction are always equal and in opposite directions. To fix your attention on the best is to surround yourself with the best and become the best. The grateful mind is constantly fixed upon the best, therefore it tends to become the best. Faith is born of gratitude. Every outgoing wave of grateful thanksgiving increases faith. It is necessary then to cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you and to give thanks continuously.”
If you can be anything today, be truly grateful for all that you have, in this moment right now. I do hope you feel as blessed as I do.
Every month I share a question for you to ponder and I also provide you with my own answer. Here is this month’s question for you:
How do you express your individuality?
Here is my answer:
I express my individuality most definitely through my creative writing. My original poetry comes from a special place in my heart and my songwriting comes from the core of my soul and the melody of my songs from my happy and harmonious spirit. That’s how I express my individuality and it can be quite an emotional experience for me, but it is authentic to me and speaks only truth.
We are all so very special and unique and I feel it is so important for you to express who you really are and I would love to know how you do that.
Wishing you a beautiful weekend with some precious time in there for you and for you only.
Keep going, keep going, keep going……I say this mantra to myself if I sense my motivation is a little lower than it should be. Those words “keep going” help me to focus on the goal in hand again.
This week has been a very productive week in terms of planning for my two Gigs in May this year. It really is all systems go and I can honestly say people have been truly amazing, they are offering to help as much as they can and I feel so thankful for it.
Day 29
This is Day 29 of the Clarabelle 90 Day Challenge and I do feel it’s all going to plan. Taking part in this Challenge has helped me to stay super focused because I have committed myself to it and I faithfully report on my daily progress on my Clarabelle Facebook Page.
I want to wish YOU a Happy Friday and a wonderful weekend, please don’t take life too seriously and just enjoy it……be happy in everything you do.….so that really means, do the things that make you happy.
Gratitude is in my heart, it is part of my me and is such an important core value to me. I want to share with you today an extract from my eBook, “It’s All About Gratitude”, this is one of the daily gratitude exercises that you can practice in your life today.
“Walk of Gratitude
Take a walk outside and bask in the beauty of nature around you. For every bird that you see, I want you to say “thank you” with every part of your heart and soul. Feel deep gratitude for being alive in this very moment and for being part of this beautiful Universe. You are a living witness to the magic and the wonders of the world around you. Feel blessed in this moment, feel gratitude for it all, right now. Feel at one with yourself and feel the peace in your heart as you do so, the magic of gratitude is breathing beautiful energy into you. ” (extract from It’s All About Gratitude, page 58)
Try this exercise out today and please let me know how it makes you feel…..I am positive it will do wonders for your wellbeing and inner happiness.
As you know I am putting my heart and soul into becoming a successful Singer-Songwriter and I guess the Universe is giving me what I am asking for.
Late on Friday afternoon I was asked to perform two of my original songs at an event that was taking place that evening. It was very short notice but I just had to do it because I need the performance experience and I really need to get myself out there. So I packed up my PA System and went along myself, only knowing 2 people in the room to start with, but by the end, knowing a lot more.
I sang my original song, “In Time We Heal” in the first half of the programme and sang my original song, “You Are” in the second half of the programme. I received lovely feedback, especially for the second performance – I am sure this was better because I felt more relaxed by then.
The main thing is, is that I said “yes” to this opportunity even though I felt a little unprepared but I know I had to push myself out of my comfort zone.
I was asking for performance experience only the night before….and I guess the Universe answered and certainly put my asking to the test.
Opportunities are everywhere in life and you know, you’ve just got to go for it…..I did on Friday night and although I was nervous, I am so glad I did it and I gained so much confidence from the experience.
Onwards and upwards my friends!!
Life is for the taking, take the opportunities when you can and when you can’t get them……create them.
I held it in my hands yesterday and I shed a wee happy tear…….what did I hold? I held my CD, my EP, Hearts Apart which contains 4 of my original songs. I feel very proud and emotional at the same time….has it been easy, “No” but it was worth it!! That feeling I felt yesterday was one of the best feelings ever….the realisation that you can really make your dreams come true if you have a enough passion, faith, heart, self-belief, determination, focus and self-discipline to do so. Sometimes you have to make real sacrifices to get hold of your dreams and you have to rearrange your life a little bit or a lot in order to get there. I’ve kept my “eye on the ball” with this one and I’m not letting go now. Yes there will be more tough challenges ahead, I know this, but I am strong and I am getting stronger everyday.
The Roots
I focused on the roots of this dream, the roots being “me” and my mind. I took control of my own mind……I didn’t let it waiver and when it tried to, well I had a motivational process in place to deal with that. Things aren’t perfect for me right now and I’m not really sure they are for anybody in this world but I can honestly say that the very gradual transition from Professional Executive Coach to successful Singer-Songwriter has overall been a happy occasion for me.
So Grateful
“The grateful mind is constantly fixed upon the best, therefore it tends to become the best.” (Wallace D. Wattles, The Science of Getting Rich)
I think one thing that has really helped me stay grounded and joyous in the moment, is the daily gratitude I have for everything in my life. I am honestly so grateful for everything I have……thank YOU love and thank YOU life. I would also like to say a massive thank you to YOU for being here and joining me on this journey…..I want YOU to have everything you’ve ever dreamed of in life….I want you to be so happy too.
Wishing you a very beautiful day today….go in the direction of your dreams but focus on the roots and the best fruits will grow. Love Clarabelle.
Sometimes you just have to be brave in the darkest night…..when challenges keep coming….this is your time to be strong, this is your opportunity to shine. I wrote this poem (below) a few weeks ago…..reflecting, thinking…..putting my self-belief to the test. I can do it, YOU can do it, WE WILL DO IT!! Here is an original poem from me to YOU. Just believe……BELIEVE IN YOU.
Who is She?….She is me!!
Sometimes she’s scared,
in the darkest night.
Trembling for hope,
seeking the light.
Questions run riot,
in her mind.
What is she doing?
What will she find?
I think I know her,
I’ve felt her before.
Wrapped in the secrets,
She don’t dare explore.
But I see she is brave,
fighting her war.
Doing her own thing,
What’s it all for?
Her spirit is high,
unusually so.
Because she wins every battle,
Tough tests when she’s low.
I see she is grateful,
in the now.
When all seems lost,
she doesn’t ask how.
For her desires are stronger,
than the fear she feels.
She knows she can win,
positive belief heals.
So she shares her story,
because all can relate.
She frees her happy spirit,
and dances through the gate.
On the 7th of February this year I decided to set myself a 90 Day Challenge to move forward with my Singing-Songwriting Career as successfully and as much as possible. I was basically taking things up a gear and putting more effort and energy into the career transition process. I honestly cannot believe how quickly times goes by and that I am now on Day 17 of the Clarabelle 90 Day Challenge. Below is a list of some of the things I have achieved over the last 17 days:
My first EP, Hearts Apart will be available in CD format next week. I have been working closely with the photographers, designers, printers and recording studios to pull all this one together and I am so excited to have my first CD in my hands next week.
I have committed myself to organise and perform at 2 Live Gigs in the Village of Carfin where I was brought up in. The 2 Live Gigs dates are Saturday, 3 May and Saturday, 24 May 2014 and the theme of the evening is very motivational, “Yes You Can” named after one of my original songs. I have been co-ordinating a team of people to help me with this and organising Support Acts etc.. for the evening, it is all very exciting indeed.
I have committed myself to weekly rehearsals for my Live Gigs, these are rehearsals OUT of my home, on stage where I can polish my performances and practice as much as possible. I am still practising daily at home but feel I needed to get out of the house and get on stage, so I am doing that.
I have also been contacting well known Motivational Speakers to find out if there are any opportunities for me to sing my original motivational songs at one of their live events. I feel their audience is a perfect audience for my inspirational songs, such as “Yes You Can”, “I Am The Greatest”, “In Time We Heal” and “Mr Inspirational” etc…
I have always been into my fitness and if you are a regular follower/visitor of this Clarabelle blog you will know I am a keen marathoner…Well, I have been getting down the gym more often and really “going for it“, I need lots of energy to perform on stage for 2 hours non-stop and I need to look AMAZING in my super sparkly dress….so this is another focus I have, together with my healthier eating.
I have been updating my Clarabelle Facebook page on a daily basis with all my progress and tried to get other people involved in doing a 90 Day Challenge for themselves. There are a few people on board which is really great and I am so delighted for them. Here is a link to my Clarabelle Facebook page if you wish to stay updated with my progress on a daily basis: https://www.facebook.com/clarabelle.org
As you will see I have also been working on improving the look of this Clarabelle Blog and I have changed the layout to fit more with showcasing my original music and poetry. I have also added in some more professional photos from my photo shoot which took pace in Glasgow City Centre last month…..more to follow soon!!
I continue to listen to Motivational speakers every day, as I know I need to keep a strong, positive mind and stay super focused on the goal in hand. I usually listen to a couple of hours each day, this really does keep my mind staying really positive and strong. I get a lot of positive feedback on my music and poetry, thank YOU, but some times I don’t and I can read some really tough criticism, so the stronger my mind is, the better I can handle this challenging feedback. I do my best to turn this negative feedback into a positive and use it to improve what I’m doing.
I continue with my daily gratitude exercises, as shared in the eBook I wrote, It’s All About Gratitude. I set up a Gratitude Facebook page so I could share the wisdom and learning from this eBook with others. If you wish to check it out, here is the facebook link for, “It’s All About Gratitude” Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/itsallaboutgratitude
I have also been working with designers to create a new Clarabelle T-Shirt design. I think the designer did an amazing job, see photo below. What do you think?
Loving This
So, there you have it, that’s a very brief update on my progress so far over the last 17 Days and I must say I am loving this 90 Day Challenge I set myself, it really is helping me to stay super focused and “on the ball”. I know I am entering a very tough industry….well, so everyone keeps telling me, but I must stayed focused on my goal in hand…..let’s see how far I get…..this transition is not a sprint it’s a marathon and well after running 3, I think I have the right attitude and stamina to go all the way. What do you think?
Thank you, as always, for being here and for your continued love and support, I really am truly grateful for it and I do really mean that sincerely. Thank YOU, Love Clarabelle
There are many things that have helped me to stay grounded, mindful in the moment and to feel truly blessed for what I already have in my life. Yes, I want to achieve my dreams and become a very successful Singer-Songwriter but it’s so important to enjoy the NOW as much as I can. I want to enjoy and embrace each baby step of the way.
My Grateful Heart
One thing that has really helped me on this journey is my grateful heart. Everyday I practice the art of being grateful for everything I already have in my life and even if I’m having a tough day, thinking about what I am grateful for, instantly uplifts my mood.
Rhonda Byrne
My attitude of gratitude really became more intense after reading the book, “The Magic” by Rhonda Byrne, Rhonda is also the Author of the famous books “The Secret”, “The Power” and “Hero”, which I have also read. The book, “The Magic”, I feel came at the right time in my life and it inspired me so much that I decided I wanted to write my own book about Gratitude and its positive benefits.
The Science Behind Gratitude
So for 4 months I studied and researched further into it….I looked into, “The Science Behind Gratitude” and what other credible successful Professionals and famous individuals were saying about it, such as Oprah Winfrey, Dr. Brene Brown, Deepak Chopra, Dr Robert Emmons, Jack Canfield….. and the list goes on – I share some of what they say in my eBook.
My Dream Journey
I truly believe that being grateful everyday has catapulted me even further on my dream journey of Singing-Songwriting, I just know this. I feel this dream of mine evolved from starting this blog in April 2012 and it is the visitors and followers of this blog that I am so grateful for, over 23,000 hits and counting!!. You have inspired me to “keep going” so I only felt it was fitting and right do dedicate my Gratitude eBook to you, so I did, thank you. 🙂
How Do I Practice Gratitude?
This is a question that hopefully I answer for you within the eBook. There is a full section (photo above) on this with a number of practical gratitude exercises for you to do. It really is important you do them though because it’s like creating a new habit and embedding a new behaviour and positive way of thinking into your heart, mind and soul. Once that spiritual connection of a grateful heart is made, just you see the good things that come into your life….and they will!!
Where Can I Get Your eBook?
The eBook is available from Amazon Kindle (Kindle format) and Gumroad (pdf format) and costs less than a cup of coffee from Starbucks and less than a Happy Meal from MacDonalds and believe me this eBook will make you much happier…..and for the long term!! Click on the appropriate link below to find out more about, It’s All About Gratitude eBook and to instantly download :
I wrote this eBook with a grateful heart for your grateful heart, in the hope that it will help you on your own journey towards your dreams. Thank you for being here, love to you, Clarabelle.
I had some professional portfolio photographs taken last month in Glasgow City Centre. Below is a little preview of some of them, I think the photographer did really great, what do you think? Keep smiling through the storms my friends, for soon a beautiful rainbow will appear. Much love to you, Clarabelle.
This dream, this passion of mine, to become a successful Singer-Songwriter is ALWAYS on my mind. Every minute of the day, every moment, every opportunity…….it’s there, all of the time and only stops when I sleep and even that is questionable!! 🙂 I feel enthusiastic, motivated, energised, determined and fulfilled on this journey. This is my happiness journey and I feel it building great momentum and positive energy as times goes on.
Rehearsals
Today, I have booked out my first rehearsal hall where I will polish my performance, practice my singing and become familiarised with the Big Stage and I am SO EXCITED!! I feels things are coming together and people seem to be popping out of nowhere to give a helping hand and move me forward on my journey. So a massive thank YOU goes out to YOU for all your continued support and everyone who is helping me along the way – it has not gone unnoticed. 🙂
Funny 🙂
The funny thing is, if someone had told be 2 years ago that I would be doing this, I would have never believed them in a million years. So it just goes to show, that true dreams can evolve when you least expect it and it’s that passion and desire that keeps me going. I feel really happy when I sing, I feel connected to who I am and IT IS ME!!
Let Go
Let go of trying to find your dream because as soon as you do that…….it will come right at you. I guess my dream was sleeping inside of me for 30 years and once I awakened, then my dream took a new lease of life.
Thank you for being here and I wish you a truly fulfilling day today.
My mum tells me that her memories of me as a child, is that I was always singing, all the time, from morning till night – she said, I wouldn’t stop. Then I did one day and it took 30 years to come back. This Clarabelle sound that you hear now, I believe is still the sound of the inner child in me…..a child who believes in the beauty of her dreams. This poem is a mirror part of that story and a true reflection of me, I hope you like it. Lots of love to you today, Clarabelle
She Was 5
She was 5,
her heart did sing.
Every day,
about everything.
She had friends,
so happy and true.
Little children,
smiling through.
They played games,
had lots of fun.
Carfin was the Village,
under the sun.
Talent shows,
we’d give it our all. “Come in for your tea”
Mum would call.
So much laughter,
living in joy.
The happiest times,
for each girl and boy.
Then she got older,
singing no more.
A typical teenager,
closed every door.
But as time went by,
30 years on,
the silence awakened,
and her light it shone.
Uncovering her soul,
being true to her heart.
The singing came back,
the most fulfilling part.
The friends of her childhood,
will remember this song.
“Dreamer” was the title,
our voices were strong.
We might have been children,
lost in the crowd.
Holding hands in the limelight,
our parents were proud.
When we let go,
sometimes wrong or right.
True dreams are like a boomerang.
They will win any fight.
I am one full week into my Clarabelle 90 Day Challenge and I am delighted to share with you today that my Clarabelle Music App has officially gone “live” today. The App is free to download and it is automatically linked to my blog, facebook, twitter and YouTube accounts, so you can get all the latest up-to-date information as and when I post. Here is the link to the Clarabelle Music App, if you wish to download it for free:
Yesterday I was doing some singing practice at home and I video recorded the NEW version of my original song, “Yes You Can” for you. This motivational song with empowering lyrics has a “Country Music” vibe to it and this song will be on my second EP entitled, “You Can Do It”. Below is a YouTube video of me singing the song yesterday and here is a taster of the lyrics for you:
“Keep your dreams alive, for they are so special, Let your happy spirit thrive, have strength and be strong. This is where your heart belongs. Yes You Can…..”
Wishing you a “Yes You Can” Day, lots of love, Clarabelle
I thought I would share some poetry with you today. I hope you like it and may you embrace “The Unknown Road”. Much love to you today, as always, Clarabelle.
The Unknown Road
The unknown road, with its turns and twists. Victory till the end, it’s fighting fists. Darkness may fall, but within, is a light. It leads the way, like a shining knight. It takes no prisoners, it wins no wars. This path to almighty, has invisible corridors. And the only way, to find your way out. Is to believe in you. Have faith, no doubt. The self is strong, heart moves your soul. Feel your way through, Let love be your goal.
By Clarabelle, 12 February 2014
A couple of weeks ago I was in the Hospital waiting room for over an hour so I decided to put my creative mind to good use and write some poems. Below is one of the four poems I wrote for you that day, entitled “Pure Love”, I hope you love it and I hope you live it!! Love Clarabelle
Pure Love
Like flipping a switch, free your mind. Let down the barriers, and peace you’ll find. Wars are not won, with a broken heart. That battle is lost, before you start. Forgive in the moment, open the door. Vulnerability is a strength, see yourself soar. Capture in the now, the real essence of you, A feeling of pure love, shining through.
Well today is the first day of the Clarabelle 90 Day Challenge that I spoke about in yesterday’s blog post. I do hope you are going to join me on the journey because I would love success for you too. So today I am super focused and super motivated and I hope you’re off to a great start too!! I’ll be updating my Clarabelle Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/clarabelle.org everyday on what I’m up to and the successes I am achieving towards my music career goals, so please feel free to head over there and get involved.
Thank you for being here and I do hope you take on the 90 Challenge for yourself – YOU CAN DO IT!!
I have set myself a new 90 Day Challenge which will start on Friday, 7 February 2014 and will last until Wednesday, 7 May 2014. This challenge is to push myself forward with my music career and achieve as much success as I possibly can in this period of time. I have decided to, take it up a level – drive into a new gear and I am excited about this.
Join Me
If you would like to join me on this 90 Day Challenge that would be absolutely wonderful because we could support each other. What you would need to do is think of something that you want to achieve over the next 90 days and put your full heart and soul into achieving that. It’s amazing the results you can achieve, when you increase your energy levels and focus towards something that you really want.
Pure Passion
This 90 Challenge will take pure passion, persistence, discipline, a positive and self empowering attitude, courage, bravery, self belief, faith and a touch of boldness. You may need to take yourself to places you’ve never been……the unknown awaits YOU but so does the success.
So, LET’S DO IT, let’s do this together and achieve our dreams.
I will be updating my Clarabelle Facebook Page every day on what I’ve been doing and achieving, so please head over there and check it out. Here is the Facebook Page Link: https://www.facebook.com/clarabelle.org
CLARABELLE 90 DAY CHALLENGE, LET’S DO THIS TOGETHER.
YOUR DREAMS ARE WAITING FOR YOU.
What are you going to be celebrating at the end of the 90 Days?
I’d really love to know.
If you are a regular follower of this blog, you will be aware that I did my very first home Gig last Friday night and I wanted to share with you a very short summary video from the evening. I thoroughly enjoyed myself and I hope you can see that from the video. I’m moving forward step by step, taking myself out of my comfort zone and embracing the growth and change. Thank you for all your support and encouragement, I am absolutely over the moon that you are here. Thank YOU. Lots of love, Clarabelle
I am delighted to share with you today, the lyric video that I got created for my original song, “In Time We Heal”. The song is about overcoming tough times in life and I hope you like the song and the video. May today be your breakthrough day. Lots of love, Clarabelle.
I bought this beautiful card today with such a lovely poem on it, as a gentle reminder to myself to pray everyday – and I will. I thought I would share what the poem says on the card, with you. I hope it touches your heart the way it did with mine. Lots of love, Clarabelle.
the Difference
I got up early one morning
and rushed right into the day;
I had so much to accomplish
that I didn’t have time to pray.
Problems just tumbled about me,
and heavier came each task.
‘Why doesn’t God help me?’
I wondered;
he answered, ‘You didn’t ask.’
I wanted to see joy and beauty,
but the day toiled on grey and bleak.
I wondered why God didn’t show me;
he said, ‘You didn’t seek.’
I tried to come into God’s presence;
I used all my keys at the lock.
God gently and lovingly chided,
‘My child, you didn’t knock.’
I woke up early this morning,
and paused before entering the day;
I had so much to accomplish
that I had to take time to pray.
What’s your story? Where is your heart’s passion taking you? Today, in this moment, tomorrow is unknown, with no guarantees of what will be, until it happens. You have right now, you have this moment, yes, pinch yourself, this one, right now, this moment…..to do something that is going to enhance the story of your life. This next poem is all about that., I hope you like it. Much love to you today, Clarabelle
The Story of Life
The story of life, its twists and turns, a loving a heart, a flame that burns. Head in the clouds, Dreams at my door. Living life curiously, wonders to explore. To never give up, To never give in. A stubborn mind, Or an attitude to win. For all you have, Is here and now. It’s in this moment, Take a bow. For what you seek, Is seeking you. Words of wisdom, do come true. So believe in your soul, Have faith in the dark. Your story of life. Is making its mark.
A very warm and lovely welcome to this month’s question. I hope you will get the chance to reflect and answer this question for yourself – my answer is also below. I hope you’re having a fabulous start to February. Lots of love Clarabelle.
Question:
What do you love doing, you know that one thing that really makes you smile, that really makes you happy…..who or what is it, I would love to know what lights you up inside?
My Answer:
Even this very question is making me smile inside because it is taking me to happy times. I am sure this will come as no surprise to you, but I really do love writing poetry from the heart and also writing songs. What makes me even happier is knowing that these poems and songs are bringing joy to other people, that truly is the icing on the cake for me. I have a vision that one day I will be standing on stage in front of a huge audience and they are singing along to my own songs. I also have a beautiful vision of driving my car and one of my original songs are playing on the radio. This my friends, I truly believe will happen…..I just believe that in my heart of hearts.
So I hope you really think about this question today and if you’re not doing what you love, make sure you give it your priority this month, because you truly deserve to be happy doing what you LOVE doing.
Well tonight’s the night that I do my first ever Gig and I’m really excited. This one tonight is just a private Gig for close family and it will be really good to have a very encouraging and supportive crowd first time round. Lots of planning, practice and preparation goes into even such a small Gig like this, but at least it will prepare me for when I hit the BIG TIME!!! 🙂 🙂 🙂
Tonight’s Gig will be recorded on video and I will share some of it on here in the near future, so please look out for it.
Below is a wee poem I have just created about tonight, I hope you like it. Thank you for being here, love Clarabelle
Tonight’s the Night
All the planning, all the prep. Another song, another rep. Exciting times, passionate heart. Dreams taking shape, and this is one part. I thank you all, for being here, By my side, I love you dear. So as the curtain falls, I smile from within, My destiny has awakened, it’s a musical win.
I am delighted to say that I have reached an important milestone in my new Singing/Songwriter career path. My single, “Runaway Love” has now made it on iTunes today and I am so excited. It’s been exactly 6 months and 2 days since I wrote the song, all alone in my little cosy home in Motherwell, Scotland.
Vision
I had held this Vision in my head and heart since I started this journey and although I have a long way to go, I feel very proud to see my original song displayed on iTunes. Here is the link for you to see: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/runaway-love-single/id808343271
I feel I am progressing quite nicely and I am doing my first private gig this week, so all very exciting. I am pushing myself out of my comfort zone and I know I am growing by doing this – this is such a fulfilling journey!!
Singing Poetry
I started this Clarabelle blog mainly to share my poetry and it has evolved into so much more than that. The blog, I feel, has gently and graciously guided me into my Singing/Songwriting Career, for sure. I like to call my songs “Singing Poetry”, original poetic verses with a beautiful melody.
So it just goes to show that if you are passionate about something in life YOU can make it happen, you’ve just got to take that first baby step.
May each step that you take today move you closer to achieving your dreams. Thank you for being here.
I’ve been back in poem mode recently and have written some deep thinking “look in the mirror” poems recently. I wrote the one below, this evening, it’s entitled “Heart with a View”, I hope you like it. Love, Clarabelle
Heart with a View
You, yes you, with the broken smile. What’s your story, on this rainbow mile? Why do the tears, run down your face.? Why the sadness, in a heartfelt place? Invisible chains, keep you stuck. Thoughts of fears, and “wish me luck”. But just around the corner, a harp plays for you, Its melody so precious, like a heart with a view. Just one more step, nudge forward a little more. The pitter-patter of your feet, reveals treasures to explore. For this life is an adventure, a colour one. It offers you everything, under the sun. So feel these whispers, as they talk to you. The cloud is an angel, guiding you through.
As you know I love to share my poems with you and whilst in reflective mode this morning I wrote the one below……..and even though I know you know this one is about me, I feel it is also about YOU, because we’re all connected in a beautiful way. Be the “happening” of your dreams today. Lots of love Clarabelle.
Will She Make It?
She looks beyond, the stars above. She feels her passion, she embraces the love. For all she has, is all she dreams. Reaching out, to glittering sunbeams. A twisted fate, a serendipity goodbye. Moves her on, many tears she did cry. But she is hope, ambitions from afar. She sees the light, as she raises the bar. No more hurt, no more pain. Will she make it? singing in the rain.
I am delighted to share with you today, the third introductory animation video that I got created recently for this Clarabelle blog. I’m really loving these animation videos and I think the people creating these are just super talented. I feel the animation videos really bring much more life, colour and vitality to the beginning of my Clarabelle videos. Once again, a special thank you to Adam Smith from USA for creating this for me.
I am delighted to share with you today a Guest Post from Steve Davis in relation to leading and working with a team. Steve is a highly motivated and inspirational individual and I would also encourage you to visit his empowering blog http://stevendavisuk.com/
Steve Davis
Guest Post by Steve Davis
Hi, I am Steve. I write an increasingly popular blog to inspire and motivate people like you and me. My goals are to help others to get drive, hunger and some passion whether it is in their professional life or personal life. For many years I have been motivating different teams with different types of people with much success. Increasing attitude, productivity and results for those I have worked with. If you would like to engage with my increasingly popular blog, please visit http://stevendavisuk.com/
I wanted to share with you 3 factors that I find are very important when leading/ working with a team.
Lead your team by example
In order to have a productive team, you must be a productive leader. Role-modelling what the employees are expected to do creates great influence, not only on the team but on the work environment itself. It will also generate enthusiasm and will inspire everybody to work more productive and harder. Sometimes it’s simply because your employees are looking up to you. Small things like being on time or being energetic may affect your employee most. This is a massive part of my game as I am always smiling and full of the well, ‘joys of spring’. However, role modelling is sometimes easily overlooked. Be careful with what you do, how you say things, and what you say to keep your team MOTIVATED.
Give ‘worthwhile’ incentives
Celebrating success within the team is HUGE. Giving your team an extra incentive aside from what they are compensated for monthly can be considered as a ‘high impact’ motivation driver. This type of motivation often applies if the performance of the whole organisation is at par with its strategy and goals, be it weekly, monthly, quarterly, or even yearly. However, keep in mind that it is not only monetary incentives that count. My team often like vouchers, ‘Reach-and-Go’s’ and any form of companywide recognition. When this was introduced to numerous teams across my company it had a positive impact on results, activity and morale! Don’t forget, ask the team what they want and compromise where possible, so your incentives will DRIVE them to win.
Listen carefully
This may seem like the easiest thing to do, but you will be surprised how hard it is to actually take on board. I know many leaders who are somewhat successful but struggle to listen. We can all hear what others are saying but to listen is challenging at best. With all your worries about your business, its targets and operations, how will you have the time to listen about how Henry forgot his lunch and now has to buy food from local amenities? It’s tough, but make a conscious effort to give that time to listen. You might think that your employees’ problems are ‘insignificant’ compared to yours, but you can’t make that call on what is important to a person and what is not. Listening to your teams concerns will be greatly appreciated. They will feel more empowered and happy since they are talking to the leader of the team.
Inspiring and motivating your team is one of the most crucial job descriptions for a leader, you can teach skills, benefits and duties but lack of motivation to the team often results to decreasing productivity and declining results. Please keep in touch http://stevendavisuk.com/
Thank You
A very special thank you to Steve for sharing this post with us, I hope you found it as valuable as I did. Clarabelle
If you are interested in doing a Guest Post for this Clarabelle blog, then I would really love to hear from you. Please send me an email to claire@murraypeople.com noting your interest. Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you.
I hope you liked the first introduction animation video I shared with you on yesterday’s blog post of the butterflies surrounding the Clarabelle logo.
I am delighted to share with you today the second introduction animation video that I got created, this is an animation video of the unveiling of the Clarabelle logo. Thank you to Adam Smith from USA for creating this for me, Adam did an amazing job.
I have been getting some introductory animation videos created for the beginning of my music and video poems. Thank you to Adam Smith for making these videos for me, I think he did an amazing job. Below is the Clarabelle logo butterfly animation, I think it goes just perfectly with my Clarabelle logo. Let me know what you think of this animation, I would love to know.
Wishing you a beautiful day filled with sunshine and butterflies. Love Clarabelle
There is new facebook group that was created last week and it is about the village I grew up in, “Carfin Past and Present”. What a wonderful idea it was by Maureen Strachan, I feel it really is bringing that community spirit back together again, even though the group members now live in all different parts of the world. A very special thank you to Maureen for creating the group, what a tremendous idea it was.
Old Photos
So the lovely people who lived in the village of Carfin when I was a child are posting up their old photos and I must say they are absolute crackers (in a good way) and many have brought a tear to my eye. There was one in particular (below) which I thought I would share with you.
A Young Clarabelle in the red track suit
The photo is from the Carfin Carnival Week sports day in the 1980s. I looked at myself in this photo and I honestly just wanted to be that child again, because the happy memories I have from my childhood are second to none.
I feel very very blessed to have been brought up in a small village with such beautiful community spirit, where everyone knew your name and looked out for you – I miss that lovely feeling. This facebook group and the old photos, inspired me to write the poem below, I hope you like it. Maybe this has given you the idea to start up a similar facebook group or connect with some old friends. Lots of love to you today, Clarabelle.
My Childhood in Carfin
I look at that child I want to be her I forgot her smile My memory is blur She looks so sweet Just happy and content Laughing with friends Time well spent
As time goes by Photos bring tears Fun loving memories From Carfin past years A community with hope and full of pride A village of families Where love did reside
A strength and spirit very special to us all My childhood in Carfin with kick the can and football We made up the games for lots of children to play We sometimes did fight But were friends the next day
So when I think of this time More than 30 years ago I only remember good and the Carnival talent show Carfin was the best I’ll say it till I die My childhood in Carfin Happy tears I do cry
I got this beautiful “Wish Upon A Penny” Clarabelle necklace created (handmade) for me as a special momentum of the poetry work that I do. I have noticed that the search engines recently have been picking up on my poem “Wish Upon A Penny” and I am so very grateful to all the blog visitors reading and liking this poem. I thought this lovely little bespoke penny necklace beautifully represents the “Wish Upon A Penny” poem so well and especially the words “In God We Trust” because I have complete faith in everything I do and go for in life – please see poem below, I hope you like it – oh, and don’t forget to make a wish!! Love to you, Clarabelle.
Wish Upon a Penny
I listen in the silence, sweet birdies do sing,
Should I turn on the TV and drown out their din?
I will ignore their calling, just for a while,
I’ve a busy mind, chores they do pile.
The sun it may shine, but my heads in a cloud,
A storm is brewing, amongst this crowd.
I’m strangled in frustration, fighting the war,
No one sees me and my internal decor.
To just get by, another day,
Gives me hope, paves the way.
Then Lightning strikes, STOP, look at your life,
Look at your reactions, creating this strife.
Sing another song, dance to another tune,
Darkness will fade, here comes the moon.
See the beauty, in each moment now,
Look in the mirror, don’t ask how.
Be grateful for your riches, you have many,
Create a new you, wish upon a penny.
When you go for your dreams and goals in life you inspire others by your own doing. They see you moving forward in your own journey in life and it can truly inspire them too.
Inspiring Change
I have received some lovely messages from people who have shared with me that because I am going for my own dreams and goals in life, it is inspiring them to do that too. Isn’t that such a lovely thing. So by not only changing your own life for the better, you are also inspiring change in others. Like a beautiful ripple effect, your positive energy touches the hearts of others.
This is such wonderful thing and I truly do encourage you to just go for it in life because by doing so, you will also inspire others around you – this is the most amazing thing about it all.
Having self belief in your own capabilities and potential is such an important ingredient to moving forward and achieving your dreams and goals in life. When you believe in yourself, you create such a positive energy around you that is contagious and others also believe in what you see for yourself. This next poem is inspired by just that, keep going my friend and stay stronger than ever, because indeed, I believe you will get there. Love Clarabelle.
You’ve Got to Believe
You’ve got to believe, in all of you. Your talents are amazing, you’re a dream come true. Believe and have faith, you will reach that star. It’s waiting for you, shining down from afar. Your energy will shift, when your vision is strong. You’ve got to believe, this is where you belong.
One thing I have discovered for sure, is that if you don’t have clarity on where you are going, chances are you might just go around in circles. It’s so easy to drift when your destination is unknown, so I would encourage anyone who feels like they are in “drifting” mode to take time out to really answer that question for themselves.
WHERE ARE YOU GOING?
It may seem like such a simple question but it can be a difficult one to answer and/or even a more challenging one to pursue. You know what you’ve got to do though and I think this is a good place to start.
Please also ensure that the destination is in alignment with your core values, what and who is most important to you in your life, your passions, wants and desires.
I would love to hear all about it, please keep me posted or better still send me a postcard from that beautiful destination, yes that one place that just feels like home, like no other. 🙂
I’ve been working with some wonderful Artists to help me develop my original music and help me to “get it out there”. Below is a video that has just been created for me, for my original song, “Runaway Love”. Thank you to Calvin West www.calvinwest.co.uk for creating this for me, you did a great job. Now you have the lyrics, you can sing along too. I hope you like it. Much love to you today and always and please feel free share with your friends. Thank you. Clarabelle
Dreams are for the taking, don’t let them lie dormant in your heart, set your spirit free, jump on that cloud and fly towards them. What are you waiting for? Just do it!! The poem below is inspired by just that. Much love to you today, Clarabelle
I Dreamed a Dream
I dreamed a dream, thought impossible today. The essence of paradise, a beautiful way.
I dreamed a dream, of hope and forgiving. Captivating hearts, extraordinary living.
I dreamed a dream, of future smiles. Love and laugher, going on for miles.
I dreamed a dream, it swirls around me. A life changing dream. I know this will be.
This poem was inspired by my previous post, “What is Perfection?”, and I just had to share it with you.
Perfection is in the Imperfections
There is a perfection, that will never stay true. The perfection in your mind, stopping you. The word perfection, has a flaw. Perfection is in the imperfections, this is my law. When you believe this, you can start where you are. Then you’ll make progress, then you’ll go far. So eliminate perfection, from your life right now. Keep going, stay strong, Imperfections are WOW!!
Sometimes we can all be our own worse critic, saying things like “I can’t do this because it’s not perfect.” Life is not perfect, nothing is and if you honestly think you have to wait and get going until everything is perfect, then you might have to wait a very long time……then, my friend, you may have missed the boat!!
Progress
I have said this before on this blog and I will say it again, “perfection is in the imperfections”, just like “beauty is in the eye of beholder”. Please don’t put your life on “hold” because things aren’t “perfect” right now, think of baby steps towards progress.
If I had waited….
If I had waited to start this Clarabelle Blog until everything was perfect in my life and in my posts and poetry, I would never have started it and you wouldn’t be here, reading this right now. 🙂 If I had waited to release my own songs until everything was perfect then you wouldn’t have the opportunity to listen to them right now. I heard someone say the other day that it can take the best part of 20 years to master something, wow 20 years is a long time, I can’t wait that long, can you?
Start NOW
Start where you are, NOW, hold that vision in your head and do something everyday to move you closer to your goal. It’s amazing the new people and opportunities that cross your path when you just decide to, go for it.
I love this motivational video, below, which I came across on Youtube yesterday, the words ring very true for me and it is worth the 7 minutes to listen to it and be inspired.
Keep it real, keep it true to your heart and believe that you WILL do this.
Have a super inspiring day my lovely friends and thank you for being here.
Wow, I am so excited and I just thought it was right to update all my visitors to this Clarabelle blog, especially for those of you who have been following my new music journey.
Original Songs
I uploaded 4 of my original songs onto the music membership website, Music Ray late last night and I now have 6 “Official” fans, woo hoo, this is absolutely amazing for me. I am so happy I could cry….but I won’t, I’ll dance around my living room instead. 🙂
A very special thank you to all of you for your continued support and encouragement whether it is my original music, poetry or inspirational blog posts – long may it continue.
Expect the unexpected in life, it can shoot you down and leave you in the gutter of despair. I want to tell you something, because I’ve been there and there is always hope, there is always faith and I want you to believe that if you’re feeling like that right now, hold onto the truth of your heart. Work on improving the most important relationship in your life first and that is the relationship with yourself – be your own best friend. I like to pray when I’m feeling like this, so I made up this prayer to share with you in the hope that it may help you during tough times. Prayer truly works for me, I believe and know this and I hope that it works for you too. Lots of love to you today and always, Clarabelle.
Prayer of Courage of Strength
Dear God,
I say this prayer, from the bottom of my heart. And I ask you to help me to stay strong in this time of need. Please help me to overcome these difficult challenges, And become a better person from the lessons therein. Help me to build a loving and empowering relationship with myself, So that I can turn my life around for the better. Give me the courage and strength to forgive and to be forgiven. Let me see the open door in the darkest night Let my heart grow with true love, faith and hope. And may my inner light shine and guide me to all good. I pray that I raise my self belief in my own capabilities and potential. And may this lead me into a happier, healthier and more fulfilling life. Thank you for answering my prayer.
I once read somewhere that motivation is like showering, you need it everyday. I can honestly say that I do listen to a little bit of motivation every day, normally first thing when I wake up – it’s a great way to start the day. Below is a motivational poem I created for you, I hope it gives you that little nudge that you need to get going today. Lots of love Clarabelle.
When Motivation is Low
You haven’t moved, You do not know. One cause to being stuck, Is your motivation is low.
Your mind is numb, Your body feels lazy. Lost in time, This all feels crazy.
What can you do? How can this be? Let me help you up, Let me help you see.
Turn on the music, Open your heart. Listen to the sound, Of your favourite hit chart.
Then go for a walk, To clear your head. This is much better, Than lying in bed.
Or pick up the phone, And call a friend. They’ll be happy to hear you, And it will help you mend.
There is many little things, That you can do. To shift your energy, Make you feel happier too.
So when motivation is low, All you have to do, Is one of the above. And you’ll feel motivated too.
I have been in the Professional Recording Studio this week (Reeltime Music Studios) recording my very first ever EP, entitled “Hearts Apart”.
Runaway Love
Below is a Youtube video of track 4 from this EP “Runaway Love” which was released yesterday (09.01.14) from this EP. I am singing on the track and Denis Kilty, www.deniskilty.com arranged and played the piano backing track.
I know I have still got a long, huge, MASSIVE way to go but hey I only started doing this in May 2013 so I am definitely pleased with my progress. There is still lots to do in terms of promotion, vocal coaching, practising, performing, gigs, Album covers, websites, professional photographs, videos etc etc etc however why wait, let’s get my music out to the Universe, I’ve just go to go for it. If I wait for perfection then no one would hear anything!! I like to think that “there isperfection in the imperfections”.
What is the Song About?
Runaway Love is a highly emotional love song about the emotional pain of being in love whilst having the sense of being “played” but you still love that person and the memory of that love is still in your heart.
All my songs are based on my own personal experiences or experiences of people very close to me so I am sure the words will ring true for some people listening.
Here is the Youtube Link Below for Runaway Love:
If you would like to purchase instantly a mp3 file of the track, Runaway Love, then please click HERE.
Thank you and please let me know what you think of the track.
Today I am celebrating over 20,000 hits on this Clarabelle Blog and I am super super excited about it. So a very special thank you goes out to all of you who pop by and show me your love. Next official blog posting celebration is 25,000, so I look forward to that.
Woo hoo, I feel like having a party, want to come? 🙂
Dream Big my beautiful friends and reach that mountain top.
Clarabelle Practising for the Professional Recording Studio
Professional Recording Studio
I am delighted to share with you that yesterday I experienced my very first professional recording of my original songs. I am making my first ever music EP, entitled “Hearts Apart” and I am so excited. A big shout out to Chris, Professional Sound Engineer from Reeltime Music Studios who was an absolute gem and totally made me feel at ease. Was I nervous? “Yes” a little bit, but I think more excited than nervous because this just feels right to me. I will be the first to say that I am very inexperienced in the Music Industry and I know I have a huge learning curve ahead of me but the great thing is I am not holding myself back, I am just facing my fears and going for it!! I know that if I stay in my comfort zone here, I will never grow so I have to get comfortable feeling “uncomfortable”. Basically as a Professional Coach, I am practicing what I preach….quite literally!!
EP, “Hearts Apart”
The EP will consist of four songs, I did take up six to record but two could not be used at this moment in time because one of the songs I am finding it difficult to master, so much more practice needed there and the other song needs a better quality backing track. So the songs on the EP are:
1. In Time We Heal
2. I Am Here
3. You Are
4. Runaway Love
What are the songs about?
All the songs are love ballads with a very highly emotional attachment to me. I speak my heart’s truth and cry out my soul in these songs because they are all based on my own experiences or experiences of people very close to me. There is nothing hidden away in these songs, my deepest heart’s secrets are shared because they are true and very personal to me. I like to call them “beautiful songs” because I feel that is what they really are.
In Time We Heal: An emotional song about a broken relationship and overcoming tough times.
I Am Here:
A highly emotional song about missing a loved one (my Dad in heaven).
You Are:
This is an emotional love song about loving someone who doesn’t love you back but you still have that person on a pedestal. Emotions are torn between loving and letting go.
Runaway Love:
This is an emotional love song about the emotional pain of being in love and the feeling of being “played” but you still love that person and the memory of that love is still in your heart.
Master CD
I am so excited to share the finished article with you, I should receive the master CD in a couple of days and then I’ll get to work with unleashing my songs into the Universe.
I loving this creative journey and I feel, “this is my time”.
Thank you, as always, for being here, there is a lot of love here for you.
Wishing you a beautiful day on your journey of life.
Today’s poem is all about gratitude – one of my top values is being grateful in life. I hope you like this one and thank you for being here. Love Clarabelle
I Am Grateful
I am grateful for my health, and the happiness I see. Grateful for the sun, shining down on me.
Grateful for the rainbow, with colours so bright. Grateful for the youthfulness, making me feel light.
I am grateful for, just everything, I am grateful for, the joy it does bring.
For once I forgot, to thank all that I own. I was never gratefully mindful, when I was alone.
But something happened, to me on my path. Something so serious, but now I do laugh.
Because life is what you make it, see it shine. Let it dance in your soul, and you’ll feel better than fine.
Have a grateful heart, and happy spirit too. Because an attitude of gratitude, will always shine through.
I created this poem below a while ago, I actually forgot all about it, until I was going through some saved notes on my iPad last night. I really do love this wee poem and I feel most people, if not all, could relate to it in some way, shape or form. I hope you like it. Lots of love to you today and always, Clarabelle.
Sometimes
Sometimes you don’t always, get it right, Sometimes you can’t, sleep at night.
Sometimes the thunder, drowns out your prayer, Sometimes you’re lonely, when no one is there.
But a lot of times your smile, is brighter than the sun, A lot of times you skip, rather than run.
A lot of times your happiness, cheers up a friend, A lot of times your heart, reaches the rainbow’s end.
So when life gets you down, as it sometimes will, When the frosty ice, is making you chill.
Remember the love, warming you up, Remember the joy in me, filling your cup.
Remember you are strong, nothing can break you, Remember the courage living in you too
. It’s so easy to forget, the difference you make, It’s so easy to give, and to never take.
But I want you to know, that I am here, Always for you, bringing you cheer.
My smile is for you, my hand is to hold, Melting the ice, in the bitter cold.
A friend is in me, a friend is in you, Together we’re stronger, this is so true.
A friend allowed me to share with you a stunning photo (below) he took of Loch Lomond, Scotland recently and it inspired me to write the poem about it below, I hope you like it. Thank you to Gerry Mitchell for allowing me to use his beautiful photo of Loch Lomond for this blog post. Lots of love to you all today Clarabelle
Loch Lomond, Photo by Gerry Mitchell
Loch Lomond Sky
A bird flies high,
Beneath the Loch Lomond Sky.
With freedom in its wings,
The whispers of its soul sings.
A beautiful tranquil day,
Where shadows guide the way.
And reflections of white light,
Keep my heart bright.
As I stand here all alone,
Loch Lomond feels like home.
It takes my breath away.
Forever this moment will stay.
Clarabelle Online Magazine 