Self Reflection

 With self reflection it is important to really look inward and determine if the things we don't like in others is really the thing we don't like within ourselves. 

 

The very thing that we don't want being reflected at us may be the exact energy that we are unconsciously pulling from those persons or things into our own subconscious. Most times it's not the other person or thing causing you the discomfort, most times it is your own thoughts and perceptions causing the discomfort. In our minds, we have set up certain expectations and rules that we govern ourselves by. We don't allow our minds freedom to rest and accept the variance that make up the beauty of life. We want to experience life in a way in which has been predetermined for us instead of truly allowing our soul to be free. Destiny is different than a predetermined learned reality. 

 

While doing self reflection it is important to learn about those things that truly make you afraid and those that truly liberate you. Once you master the art of self reflection you will learn that most internal emotions are a reflection of your own thoughts not the thing or person you are actually blaming. Once you know what liberates you, do that. Self reflection should encompass your mind, body and spirit. 

My Top Ten Thoughts This Week

1.) People don't really want what they ask for

2.) Being a black vegetarian is an anomaly

3.) 45 has an agenda that will benefit his pockets once he's done

4.) I really want to travel

5.) Entrepreneurship in America is interesting

6.) You can't set goals and attain them for others

7.) Magic is real, I've been a mermaid and a unicorn in one week.

8.) 11 year olds are little kids no matter how mature they try to act

9.) There is a clear difference between spiritually and religion

10.) When your faith is tested, when you were sure about an outcome, it's hard to rebound

*owning a brick and mortar business alone is hard

Let Go

The truth is...this journey called life can make you crazy if you let it. I've learned to start my day by letting go of expectations and through letting go I am free to experience this journey at its fullest capacity. I've learned that disappointments are a choice. 

We get to decide if we stay in a place of sadness or if we move towards the light. I let go not because my heart is always full of happiness but because my heart deserves it. Freedom is embracing that in which you know is yours for the taking and letting go of that which was never yours in the first place. I let go of people, things, experiences, thoughts, expectations and perception.

Children's Party Planning Guide

When planning parties for little ones I often encounter parents that are at a loss as to where they should start. Some parents simply lack time to properly organize without becoming totally frazzled.  My advice for parents is to do what makes party planning the least stressful and the most fun for your family, especially the birthday child. Since 2009 I have had the privilege of helping countless families plan their child's birthday celebration.   From the very simple play party to the most extravagant birthday blowout,  my staff and I have helped to create the "par-tay" magic! As my favorite shirt says: "I LOVE Parties!  Nothing makes me happier than helping a parent create a day that they or their child will not forget.  Whether you are planning a birthday party at Amaya Papaya Play Lounge or another venue let me share my advice on planning the best celebration of your child's birth.

Who...        

            Who are you planning to invite? Maybe you want to have a close family-only event, or maybe you want to invite 25 children (and their adults) to the party. If your child has a BFF, make sure you include them. Sending invitations out four to six weeks out usually ensures a good turnout to your party.

What…

            What is your budget? Decide on a budget for your party. If you are looking to spend $100 or $1,000, you can create a memorable party for your little one. If you are looking at a venue to host your party, calculate the components of the party package within your budget. For example, at Amaya Papaya, some of our party packages include invitations, paper products and balloons, so you could deduct these items off. 

           
 What are you going to do? Themed parties can be so much fun! If your child has a favorite character, movie, or television show, you can use this to determine the theme. Discover your creative side to develop a theme, or you can peruse sites, such as Pinterest, to give your creative side a kick-start! In addition to a theme, you might want to add entertainment. Balloon artists, face painters, bounce houses, enrichment,  characters and a DJ might be fun to add to a party. Make sure you contact your entertainment at least 6 weeks out from your event; they might require a deposit. Certain venues, like Amaya Papaya, are the entertainment. If your budget is tight, put your extra money toward your food and drink. Your guests will enjoy your party better.

When…

            When will you start your party? One decision is weekday vs. weekend. On a weekend, more of your scheduled guests will be able to attend. For older children, a weekday party might be preferred; it stays clear of Saturday sports, rehearsals, etc. The time of day matters as well. If you plan to serve a meal, have your party during lunch or dinner times. If you are not planning to serve a meal, then plan your party between traditional meal times. 

Where…

            Where do you want to hold your party? Home parties can be less expensive and you are not confided to time restraints. Venues, like Amaya Papaya, can be fun, exciting, and they make your job a lot easier, especially the cleanup.  Local parks can be a fun place for a party. Make sure you contact the local Parks and Recreation Department to secure the location. When choosing to host your party at any venue, reserve your spot as early as possible to ensure you are able to get your desired time and location.

Why…

            Why are you hosting a party? Parties are supposed to be fun, so don’t forget the fun items such as: goodie bags for each guest, party games like a piñata or pin the tail on the donkey, and a fun playlist that gets the party going. Throughout the entire process, don’t lose sight of the reason you are hosting a party: to celebrate the birth of your child with family and friends. Make sure you take plenty of pictures to remember your fun!


I hope this advice has been helpful and that it makes your party planning stress free. This year for my daughter's 11th birthday she opted to have a party in our home in our backyard after having countless parties at Amaya Papaya over the years.  My husband and I planned every activity yet left room for alterations in the schedule. It was a fabulous day for her and her guest. My husband and I left the party happy also.

Everyone wants less clutter

How can you have less clutter AND more play options?

Easy! Donate your extra toys to a Toy Library and borrow them back a few at a time.

 If 100 families did this each family would have access to a thousand toys for their children while 

their houses would only have a few selected toys to play with at any one time. As soon as your 

children are "over" the toys they picked they can visit the Toy Library and choose something new 

to play with. And because the toys are ownership neutral your children are more likely to share. 

Join the clutter free club!

Visit the Toy Library of Central Florida

toylibraryofcentralflorida.org

dawn.tlcf@gmail.com

407-592-7575

2517 East Semoran Blvd

Apopka FL 32703

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