One of my aims this year is to create a dream vision board. I want to set my intentions, see my goals on paper and visualise how they might look when I achieve them.
Yesterday I bought myself a large poster size sheet of cardboard paper. I took all the magazines out of my bulging magazine rack and flicked through them, cutting out anything that appealed to me.
After a while I noticed a common thread in what I was choosing.
Adventure, health and well being. Hardly surprising choices I guess.
In the mix of mags I found a few of my articles that I’d forgotten I had published, and even a photo that appeared in Readers Digest years ago. It reminded me of how far I’ve come with my writing.
Years ago my biggest dream was to see my travel stories in print. It took a long time and a lot of rejections before I finally succeeded.
These days the magazine market is saturated with freelance writers, and with everything digital and emags becoming more prominent many publications are either going bi-monthly or disappearing altogether.
Yesterday I received the latest edition of On the Road in the mail with my South Australian story on Renmark in it, from our holiday last year.
It made me yearn to hit the road again.
Mid year, all going well, there’ll be plenty of stories to be told from the Red Centre of my great country. In the meantime there’s planning to do, after all, half the fun of a trip is in the anticipation and research.
During the culling I found this great map of Australia which is now hanging in our loo.
I’ve realised that while I’ll always write and submit articles I need new dreams. A new direction for me and my writing.
My blog and the WP community has become a huge source of joy. I love sharing my adventures. But beyond that, I’m not sure.
I’m still searching. And that’s where I hope this vision board will help.
As life changes and gets busier and more stressful, sometimes in the hustle we forget what’s important. We forget how to dream, like we used to as a child, as a teenager and that bright eyed young adult who was once ready to take on the world.
What do we really want in life now?
My wish is that as 2017 unfolds we can all take stock of our hopes and dreams. To visualise what we truly want.
For me it’s a work in progress. I think it always will be, no matter how old I am. Searching for meaning, for my place. Wanting to be happy, at peace and find my purpose beyond being a mother as my kids get older.
Of course I’d also like financial security, a villa in Tuscany, a 24 hour gorgeous masseur and my own personal French chef … hey, a woman can dream!
I feel as though there’s a whole world out there and I’m standing on the edge of it waiting to jump. To grab at those opportunities that often feel just out of reach.
Let’s make them achievable. Here’s to dreaming, to creating opportunities for growth and doing what needs to be done to make our dreams a reality this year.
Now back to crafting and creating my vision board.
If you’re inspired to do your own visit Wendy. Thanks for the inspiration my friend.
Wishing you all a year of heart filled intentions and dreams that come true.
Remember, as Walt Disney said, “If you can dream it, you can do it.”
Oh I’m SMILING!!! I can tell you’re enjoying creating a wonderful dream board… Wow – those articles though – how fantastic!!! Thanks so much for the link too which is much appreciated! Parcel’s posted and they said it would be 6 days so hopefully you don’t have too long to wait… in the meantime.. Keep dreaming (and cutting and gluing’) and maybe I’ll be invited over to your Tuscany Villa and you’ll share your hunky masseur! I’m going to add Tuscany to my Vision Board haha! Big Hug and I’m so pleased you’ve been inspired to do this xx
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Thank you for the inspiration Wendy. It’s something I’ve wanted to do for awhile and your posts have always stayed at the back of my mind. Haven’t had a chance to do any cutting/glueing and dreaming today with those darn domestic duties getting in the way! But I’ll get back to it. 😊Without a doubt you’ll be invited to my Tuscan villa but it might turn out to be a ski cabin in Canada instead! Oh and happy to share my hunky masseur Wendy! Haha. xo P.S I’ll let you know when the parcels arrive, thanks!
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I feel more or less like you right now, not really knowing what the next step is. I have so many responsibilities unrelated to my photography that I am very limited in going after my Dreams right now. I think the Dream board is a great idea! And good for you for getting some of your work published. Sometimes I just question what is the use of being a photographer and writer when everyone is taking pictures these days? My chances of being seen and known are not very good. Then I just said HECK I Love what I am doing now and that is what truly counts for me. Somehow things do have a way of working out. Best of luck!!! ❤
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Thanks so much Amy, I’ve often felt the same way about my writing, when so many others are doing the same. But, like you, at the end of the day I LOVE what I’m doing so that’s all that matters. In a way, I’ve found my passion so everything else really is a bonus. Good luck with whatever you pursue this year, I wish you all the best. Yes, somehow things do have a way of working out don’t they?
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You put tears in my eyes. Bless you for having such a Kind Heart. ❤
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And you too Amy! So glad we’ve connected. ❤️
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❤ ❤ ❤
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I know you don’t really know me yet so … I do not mean to be short with you right now. I am just finishing a very challenging day and am very tired. Please know I am thrilled our paths have crossed and so do look forward in getting to know you better. 💕
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Me too Amy. Take care 🌹❤️
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A wonderful idea from the gorgeous Wendy. Nothing like creating a Guide to your future. Always love your posts and I vicariously travel through you too.
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Aw, glad to hear that Barbara. Wendy is awesome isn’t she? And I’m always so happy to see you here. Have a fantastic day. xo
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That is great that you got your article printed. I hope you find a new dream!!
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Thanks Anne. Working on it! 😊
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Great post! Can I join you in your wish for financial security, a villa in Tuscany, and a personal masseur and French chef. I’d also like a chauffeured limo to drive me to work. Just kidding! Honestly, I appreciate your adventurous spirit and your willingness to find the joy and excitement in the planning and anticipation before a trip. I am wishing you many wonderful adventures in 2017!
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Haha, love it! Of course you can join me Lulu. I almost put in the chauffeured limo but thought that might have sounded too greedy! Wishing you many wonderful adventures this year as well my friend. 😊
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Just think of how much more we’d appreciate our commutes from the passenger seat, just gazing out the window! I don’t think it’s too greedy at all! 😊 Can’t wait to see where this year takes us!
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Me too! 😊
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Yeah… I want this:
“financial security, a villa in Tuscany, a 24 hour gorgeous masseur and my own personal French chef”
SIgn me up! I think my board would be a bunch of hot guys. Oh, wait, I already have that board. On Pinterest. 😀
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Haha, go girl! Watch out, they’ll be rocking up to your door any minute. 😏
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That’s the dream… 🙂
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Thanks for sharing your dreams and spreading the inspiration.
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You’re most welcome Maverick.
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With your talents, enthusiasm, and determination, I can see those dreams come true, as you said, to your door any minute. Your post is so inspiring. I know some magazines are not in print anymore, and want us to subscribe the online version. You may find opportunities come knocking one your door… 🙂
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I hope so Miriam, thanks so much for your lovely comment. 😊
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Wishing the best for your new year!
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Thanks so much. You too.
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Dreaming and creating opportunities…love it!
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Yep, trying to. Thanks Arlene.
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What a delightful blog. Dreams can be realised. Im sure you will have a wonderful 2017.
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Hey Mark, thanks! I hope yours are realised too.
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Good to you have Tassie on your map. If you need info on details of this beautiful island just ask.
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I would love to come down your way again. Have been a few times and never tire of it. In fact we wanted to bring the camper across over Christmas/new year but the prices were just too high. Thanks though, you never know, in the future…
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Wow! This is wonderful! We must not stop dreamin! During December, I got this hitch that life is becoming too conventional, so since December I started to change my lifestyle just to get some newness. Vision board was also an intitiative I have taken! I am dreaming of new goals and enjoying the vigour and optimism I ve attained because of this! I feel so happy and encouraged to read about your initiatives, Miriam! You always add so much optimism in the heart of readers! I share with you all my dear wishes for your dreams! Lets dream with unbound possibilities, the world is a gift to every one of us! 🙂
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Oh you lovely man, you fill me with hope. How great to know that you’ve also done a vision board. I’m curious as to how you changed your lifestyle to get that newness but regardless, good for you. I wish you all the best in realising your dreams this year. Keep dreaming! 😊
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Yeah! Thank you so much Miriam! 🙂 Actually, since I joined a Company in May 2016, and as it was my first job, I was going a particular way with my work and living a lifestyle to which I was used to during college years, that is, being too careless with my attitude and self-care. Hence I made a vision board with pictures to inspire myself to adopt a new lifestyle in terms of adopting a more matured persona. 🙂 Haha! It’s interesting! 🙂
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It sure is. Good for you, that’s so great!
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Thank you for this inspirational post Miriam. I have to admit I have already started a new direction of writing: a new blog with a focus on nature and spirituality. I am feeling very positive, and your remarks confirmed the importance of this new step forward.
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That sounds great Denzil. Look forward to reading it.
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It’s https://lifesentences.blog/ if you ever get a spare minute or two.
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Thanks, I’ll definitely check it out when I get a chance.
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What a good idea, to make all those dreams and ideas more concrete! I think I will join you, too. After all, some of the advice after going through a major health issue is to really live life and not put things off 🙂
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Absolutely Diane. How are you doing?
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I want to see the villa as well. 😁 What a lovely idea Wendy and you Miriam for sharing the idea here. This reminds me of my educational dreams that I achieved. I had longed to complete my bachelor’s degree, and once I did, I said, “Hmmm, why stop there?” I went on to complete my master’s while working and parenting. Somehow I did it. I never gave up. That was key. I wanted it that much. I love the idea of visualizing our dreams. Thank you two most intelligent ladies. 😍😍😍
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Make it three! You’re obviously one very smart cookie Karen. Congrats to you on all you’ve achieved, you’re a perfect example of knowing exactly what you want and going after it. Hope you have a brilliant 2017. 😊
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I’m not sure smart has anything to do with it, but I can muster a heavy dose of determination when needed. 😉 ❤
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And that’s half the battle, if not more!
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For sure. 🙂
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I think it’s wonderful that you’ve had so much of your work published! But you’re right, the publishing world is changing, and that means writers need to change as well. I love you idea of a dream board, and I think that although the essence of what we want in life stays the same throughout our lives, the details of those dreams can change. You’ve started a wonderful and successful blog, but I bet there are other areas where you can express your love of travel and writing too. And I also bet you will find it!
Meanwhile, thanks for always encouraging us to keep identifying and following our dreams and hopes… It is a gift to us all!!
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I hope I find it Ann. Sometimes I feel a little bit ‘stuck in my head’ but I’m hoping that with a bit of creativity with this vision board I can push through that place. Thanks as always for your immensely encouraging words, they mean a lot to me. xo
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Very inspirational and a splendid idea! I hope you reach all your dreams on your dream vision board!
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Thank you so much, me too!
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🙂 🙂 🙂
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Wow I have so many thoughts flying through my head. First congratulations on all the stories you have had published, that’s something to be proud of and quite the accomplishment. I think our goals change as we grow older, when we were younger we yearned for certain things, and now older the goals have changed to new ones. I had that CS Lewis quote hanging right next to me here where I sit when I first started my blog. I also did a vision board a couple of years back, time for an update. When creating your board don’t put on it what you think you should, put on it what you FEEL. How exciting that you are going traveling next summer(winter), I look forward to your posts. You’re right though half the fun is in the planning and anticipation. Until then there will be many a post by you that I will not only enjoy but learn from! Journey on my lovely soul! xoxo Hugs and Happiness your way.
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Thank you my lovely friend for your kind words of friendship and support. You’re right, our goals do change as we get older and our priorities shift. For me now it’s working out what’s really important, how I’d like my life to look and most importantly, like you said, working out how I feel. A work and vision board in progress! Warm hugs back xo
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Like the song says…Feel your way!! 😉 xo
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Absolutely!
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Hi Miriam, Brugid first told me of a vision board last year when i wrote if Journalling. And then i think Wendy has two post on vision boards. I went out and brought magazines but still have created a board. Thank you for sharing this post. Agree we should dream and definately feel tgere so much more out there. Though i havent achieved my vision board yet meaning just creating it…my meditation and inner foundation is coming along
Thanks for inspiring me with post.
Regards bella
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I did one years ago but it was so long ago and I’m feeling inspired to do another one now as so many things have changed. It’s a work in progress though and may take me a while. Glad I (and Brigid and Wendy) could inspire you. Good luck with creating your own vision board Bella and thanks for inspiring me yourself with all your meditations.
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A lovely post indeed. Just the nudge and good dose of inspiration needed for the new year.
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Thanks so much, I appreciate that.
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Here’s to dreaming, here’s to planning, here’s to just doing it and here’s to the Wikicamps Trip Planner 😄
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Here, here! Nicely said. 😊
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I (finally) made it over from the link on Coach Daddy’s 6 words post. It sounds like you’re on track for a great new year.
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Hi Kathy, you’re doing better than me! 😏 I’m so behind on my reading/writing/blogging. I’ve just returned from an impromptu overnight camping trip at the beach hence the late reply. Thanks so much for stopping by.
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You go for it!!
Nothing happens without a thought to start the process.
Just as long as you include meeting wonderful people in your plans. 🙂
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Absolutely Suzie. We’ll make it happen this year, for sure!
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I feel like I’ve been setting serious goals for myself lately as well. Great post! Keep up the great work and thank you for sharing! I’ll have to pick your brain on all things Melbourne soon!
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Thanks Eric. Pick away!
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Happy travelling…
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Thanks Brigid.
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I love the idea of a vision board, but never took the time last year. Maybe I’ll create one today!
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Hey Susie, go for it!
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Hi Miriam, I wish we could have stopped to see you when we were in Melbourne! Carol and I had a few days there sight-seeing. Your city is very beautiful. Congratulations getting so many articles published. It’s nice to get all your goals and reflections sorted at the beginning of the year to drive you through the rest of the year. 🙂 I need to do that when I get home to California. Right now, I’m going with the flow as I travel around Australia for the first time.
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How wonderful Marsha. Yes, it would have been great to meet you and Carol. Hope you enjoy your trekking round Australia. There’s a lot to love here!
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You are right about that! I’m seeing and learning so much. We went to Ballarat while we were in Victoria. Both towns welcomed us with fabulous weather, too!
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Fantastic! You were lucky. In winter Ballarat is often the coldest place in Victoria! Where are you now?
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We are in Toowoomba in Queensland. Perfect weather. We visited the Cobb & Co. Museum today. I spent the afternoon culling through pictures.
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That sounds great.
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Congratulations on your travel story. It’s such a thrill to see your name in print, isn’t it. You are an inspiration, Miriam.
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I don’t know about that. But yes, it’s still a buzz getting my stories published I must admit. Thanks Carol. 🙂
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I might just make myself a travel board in those long grey days when I get home again. 🙂 I know for sure that I have a mountain of saved leaflets and articles that could do with a good sort! Congrats on the publications. I’ve never really been persistent enough to get far with getting into print. Plotting a course would certainly help.
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I forgot about my leaflets and brochures, thanks for the reminder. Need to get back onto it today. and actually made this board happen. Have a good week ahead Jo. xo
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Hello Miriam! Great post. Dream boards are awesome. I’ve come to find them like a cheerleader to life. always there showing us/reminding us of our potential. 🙂 Mine is my wallpaper on my laptop.
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What a great idea Nikki. Maybe once I’ve finished mine I’ll take a photo of it and do the same.
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Steve has one too but he made a word college. Used some program online. He does better with words…I do better with pictures. 🙂
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I think mine will be a combination. Whatever works hey?
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Exactly! 🙂
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Love this! Very inspiring! I want to write full time in 2017, quit my day job, spend more time w my kids, travel more, all while making a 6 figure salary. Here’s to dreaming!!
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Love it! Nothing like aiming big. Go for it Steph! 😊
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Amen to that and thanks for the idea with the vision board. That might exactly be what I need 🙂
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Go for it Bee. Still a work in progress for me but it’s getting there.
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🙂
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Miriam–exciting to see your story in print!! You have such a history of writing… Will be fun to see how your dreams ahead unfold. –and on being a mother, well, sen when your kids are grown it’s still a big job (and I wouldn’t trade it for anything– I guess that’s my dream)!!
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And what a wonderful dream Rhonda. You’re right, being a mother is a big job, the biggest, no matter how old our kids are, it’ll always be important. Thanks for your lovely comment.
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Miriam– Waiting to see all that appears on your dream board… xox
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Thank you for the inspiration Miriam! It’s great to set goals and have something to look forward while the year progresses. And having a vision board is really helpful. It reminds us of our dreams and it just keeps fueling our motivation!
Congratulations on your published articles! May you fulfill your dreams this year! 😙
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Thank you lovely Nina. Yes, the vision board is taking a little while to put together but I want it to “feel” right when it’s complete. Hope you also fulfil all your dreams and goals this year. xo
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The vision board is such a motivation… i have tried & i like it!! May you realise all your dreams ❤❤❤
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Thank you lovely lady. You too. ❤️
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❤
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I need to do this! I said I was going to and haven’t gotten around to it. I’m doing this on Tuesday for sure!
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Yay! Go girl. You and I can do it together, on opposite sides of the world! Have fun.
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Go Miri!!
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Haha, I’m still crafting …
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Even better!
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I’ve been doing something similar lately. Trying to get back to my goals. It’s difficult though to channelise thoughts. Congratulations on getting published! I’m not surprised. You’re a fantastic writer. 🙂 xo
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Thank you Cheryl. Takes one to know one my friend. xo
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This is my plan as well to create a vision board in order to visualise where my dreams are! I’m also going to create a journal, but not for my every day life now, but for the life in my future as if I am living it now!
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That’s a great idea. Kind of like writing and creating your future as you’d like to live it. Have fun
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Such a beautiful idea and I simply loved it that’s what I can say.
Lovely and all the very best for future!♥
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Thanks so very much. Wishing you all the best too.
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Love this, gives a lot more detail to some of the poems i write. Congrats on all your publications … feels like I may never get there. My dreams are written out in an exercise book, you have inspired me to make a more visual presentation. You are well on your way now to financial security and that villa in Italy!
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Oh Ginger, I wish!
Thanks for your nice words here. Yeah, go and buy a gorgeous something to write all your dreams in. They deserve to be written somewhere inspiring! And have fun. You’ll get there.
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Never sure I will get where I wish but do know that I will always be where I need to be. lol
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Absolutely. Keep smiling. 😊
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