by Lani Almanza | Mar 8, 2018 | Joy, Transformation
Perhaps it is a gift of age that you come to realize that you can’t keep saving the good stuff for later, although sometimes life can bring you that awareness in other ways in your younger years. Either way it is a revelation that we all should heed. We tend to... 
by Lani Almanza | Mar 6, 2018 | Joy
As a grandparent, I have the privilege of seeing my grandchildren grow up and am reminded of the simple joys of childhood. So, today I am compiling a list of as many things I can think of where I can remember those times from my childhood, sharing them with my... 
by Lani Almanza | Jan 9, 2018 | Joy
The words of the Jack Johnson song – “it’s always better when we’re together” – have a special meaning for our family. The song was released around the time that we were going through our experience of Jacob’s passing and we... 
by Lani Almanza | Dec 12, 2017 | Joy
My holiday season isn’t complete without a few classic holiday movies. Starting with the original version of Miracle on 34th Street. Being part Dutch one of my favorite scenes is when Kris Kringle speaks Dutch to a little adopted girl and sings,... 
by Lani Almanza | Sep 27, 2017 | Joy
We all know that depression and stress can weaken the immune system but there is also evidence that humor can strengthen it. Even a smile can counteract the negative energy. The greater the intensity of the laughter, the longer the impact on decreasing your tension. A... 
by Lani Almanza | Sep 18, 2017 | Joy
Sometimes we forget to recognize the simple joys of life so I thought I would share a few that are on my list: Tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches Daffodils and tulips Celebrating holidays with family and friends Old movies Fresh picked fruit Ice cream Star or... 
by Lani Almanza | Jun 14, 2017 | Inspiration, Joy
Here is my short list from a book called “50 Things That Really Matter” published by Rodale, Inc. 2002, that I received from a dear friend on the occasion of my 50th birthday (seems so long ago). Wisdom Faith Passion Motherhood Family Friends Gratitude... 
by Lani Almanza | May 24, 2017 | Joy, Managing Stress
“Bear with me” on this rather long post but I found this in my archives and thought it worth sharing. Gimme a hug! A phrase and gesture that encompasses a wide variety of denotations and connotations. By definition, hug seems to connote good feelings. Its... 
by Lani Almanza | May 8, 2017 | Joy
The Sea….. Kai is one of the Hawaiian words for the ocean which is one of the places that connects with me in special ways. Born in Hawaii, the beach was a place where as a baby, even without my memory, it became a connecting place for me. As a young child I...