Today, I have here with me, my dear friend, Betsy the Zen Mama. Besides being a beautiful person, Betsy is a wife, Zen Mama, school teacher and positive thinker. I first visited her blog over two years ago and we've become fast friends since. Over a year ago, I wrote a post titled "My Happiness Project" - the Collecting Smiles project, inspired by a post I read over at Betsy's titled “Take Two Smiles and Call Me In the Morning”. Then, Betsy invited me over to her blog to talk about my Happiness Jar.
One of the things that thrills me is her definition of the Zen Mama: "a devoted mother who has tried to stop worrying, who has let go of the attachment of an outcome and in doing so has become closer to her children." Does that mean you stop worrying? No! Betsy says, "You just change how you worry. You change your attitude. You don’t worry about the small stuff. You don’t worry out loud."
Beautifully said, don't you think? Betsy's posts are always positive and look at the brighter side of things. So no prizes for guessing why I love her. I've also had the pleasure of meeting Betsy's family (Hail Skype!) and I am so happy to have her here today!
You probably know that Betsy has already authored two successful books:
How To Be A Zen Mama 13 Ways To Stop Worrying, Let Go And Get Closer To Your Kids
The Zen Mama's Book of Quotes - A Collection of Thoughts And Wisdom Throughout the Ages
Betsy has just released her latest book, Zen Tips -Daily Meditations for Happiness and Fulfillment - and it is simply gorgeous! I had the privilege of reading it - and I know I am going to treasure it. And I thought - what could be better than having her over today to talk about it? In this joyous holiday season, she's here with us to share some wonderful Zen wisdom.
I asked her what inspired Zen Tips, her third book and she said, "My third book came together over the last year as I combined my love of quotes and photography. I would post the inspirational poster on Facebook and call them ZEN TIPS. Each morning I’d post a ZEN TIP. The tips not only inspired me but appeared to appeal to many. These Tips inspired my new book, ZEN TIPS! It’s a paperback book filled with inspirational quotes, color photography, meditations and “I Am” affirmations."
How will this book benefit you?
In Betsy's words, "I know that reading the book can make you happier. Two weeks ago I lost everything on my hard drive. It was quite depressing! I was also working on editing the book at the time. Every time I'd re-read and edit I would find myself feeling happier even though I felt so awful about the hard drive.. The book worked!
I suggest that you start your day with this book. Imagine a hope, dream or future you want and turn to a page that will answer that thought. Or just read from the beginning to end. Incorporate these meditations with your daily breathing, yoga or a cup of tea or coffee. Savor each page and let it set the tone for the day. A great book for everyone – parents, grandparents, graduates and students of life!"
She is absolutely right. And I kept this "interview" with Betsy purposely short because I can't wait to take you on a tour inside the book.
Get ready to get inspired! Here we go!
Don't you love these?
Please visit the Zen Mama Book Store to get the book!
You can also order it here at Amazon
Please also visit Betsy's Facebook fan page here for daily inspiration.
Ah, just one more thing.
It is that time of year again when Steven Aitchison of Change your thoughts, Change your life is inviting nominations for the Top 50 Personal Development Blogs 2012. I'd be very grateful to you if you would please head over here and vote for Betsy. Just say that you're voting for Betsy, the Zen Mama blog www.zen-mama.com. Each nominee needs at least three votes to be considered.
Thank you!
I am linking up with the gorgeous Unknown Mami for Sundays In My City
We get together at her place and travel the world together.
Every week!