5 comments about Romancing The Ordinary.

1. Wow. I can't imagine not loving this book, which is an homage to the senses and pleasure. I found myself inspired month after month by lush descriptions, yummy recipes and even household tips. I, like the author, like to stress the importance of beauty & appreciation in daily life. If you're the kind of woman who wants to make things lovelier and better, you'll love this as well.
   
   Breathnach likes to stress the magic that can be found in literature, at, nature, food, home, decor and daily acts of love to yourslef and others. Inspiring and delightful, this is also a well-written gem I will use all of my life.



2. I have never enjoyed a book as much as this one. I have given 3 of my sisters a copy along with all of my girlfriends. This book has changed the way I live. A must for all women over 35! I have also bought extra copies to give my daughter-n-laws when they get older!



3. "Do you remember when you were little and jumping into the deep end of the pool was one of the most daring things you could do? Once a sense of play introduces a little deep-end jumping into each ordinary day, you'll want to keep doing it again and again. And you were meant to."
   
   Thus begins one of the chapters of Breathnach's wonderful book. And reading this book is much like jumping into the deep end. Each chapter is replete with sage wisdom, witty humor and examples of ways in which we can all make each 'ordinary' day wondrous. From chapters such as "She Who Should Be Obeyed," which speaks to, and honors, a woman's sixth sense of "Knowing," to the delicious quotes which precede each chapter, and are scattered throughout the pages, this book speaks to indulgences intended to restore weary feminine souls -- soul wisdom evident on nearly every page, rituals for body, mind and soul, decorating tips for making your retreat a soul haven, scrumptious recipes, feminine fashion and helpful gardening hints.
   
   A welcome theme that is woven throughout the book like a scarlet thread is the subject of self-nurturance and the importance of being wedded to oneself. In a society that indoctrinates single women with the fallacy that life apart from a romantic relationship is a failed life, Breathnach affirms the fact that the most important love relationship a woman can have is with herself.
   
   I highly recommend this book to any woman interested in rejuvenating her spirit....and perhaps particularly to women who find themselves in mid-life with feelings of regret and longings for adventure. By the time you finish this book, you will recognize that 'something a simple as a rainy summer afternoon can provide us with some unorthodox adventures on the wings of memory.'



4. I bought several sets of tapes for my family gift giving but when I played one I decided to put them in the charity box instead. Far too much religion in it. Self improvement and joy of living does not HAVE to be god related. I am sorry because I really do think she has great talent. If she could just write and leave religion out of it.



5. Reading the other reviews I was surprised to see how many people appreciated the asthetics of this book in hardcover - I'm almost sorry I have the paperback version!
   
   I have not read any of Ban Breathnach's former books, so my review does not suffer from comparisons to what most reviewers consider to be a far superior book "Simple Adundance". However, I will be sure to hunt that book down now, given the glowing reviews it has been given.
   
   I found this book to be sweet and simple. I appreciated the structure of the book and liked that there were not dated entries - I feel this gave the book a more flexible, organic feel. Some of the entries were quirky, others insightful and a few were almost bizarre. But I feel the purpose of this book was to give people a focus for seeing the gifts in their own lives, most of which we don't see in the manner of not seeing the forest for the trees.
   
   I recommend this book, although I have my usual complaint of the seasons always being for the northern hemisphere, leaving us southern hemisphere people wondering what to do with 7 pairs of socks in January, the height of our summer.

1 comments about Unleash Your Potential: The Quest Life Trilogy Gift Set.

1. This three volume tape set is taken from a PBS series done several years ago. It remains one of their best offerings todate. This series has won several awards and continues to be as popular today as when it was first broadcast. It is the best compilation of todays leading thinkers, authors, and lecturers that I have come across. As a licsened counselor I have often used this series within my practice and it has been extremely well received. These tapes open the listener to many thought provoking ideas without preaching or pandering to its audience. It offers hope and insight without putting forth condensending, formulaic answers to the complicated process known as life. If you enjoy reflecting and need a boost in your life this set may be for you. I believe you will come away refreshed and feeling a spitiual (not religious) uplift to help you face today's challenges. One caveat however is that these tapes have been released individually over the last few years and the title here is somewhat different. It may led some to think this is a new version or update of the original and it isn't. It is all three of the original in one box set. So if you own any of the individual tapes you will be duplicating if you buy this set. If you don't own the others,buy these; save some money; and have a wonderful emotional experience. Reward yourself and buy this set.

5 comments about A Man's Journey to Simple Abundance.

1. The writers seemed to be reaching hard to delve some deep female part inside when they would rather be marlin-fishing or something. I found the discussions of intimacy the most readable, possibly because having sex is apparently the only thing men have in common with women. In trying so excruciatingly hard to show feelings, many of the writers turned to, you guessed it, life and death situations such as a spouse's cancer, war in Africa, parental loss. The kinds of things it takes to get guys to emote, I suppose. Could you perhaps let us know how you felt to see your child be born? Ease a child's anxiety over some imagined terror? Let us know why you hate, really hate, the guy in the car in front of you? So you would throw yourself down the stairs if it would make the Vikings win. Uhuh. And sex is the closest thing to God. Gotcha. Now we know you write with it, in addition to thinking with it.



2. Ms. Breathnach collaborated with Michael Segell to teach us women that men actually do think and feel differently from the females in their lives. It was through his wife, Winnie Gallagher, that the two found each other and produced this informative journal.

   There are fifty-two diverse contributors selected and edited by Mr. Segell. For ages we've known of the contradictions between recollections by the different sexes; this was published to bring them closer together by revealing some similarites not just the differences. It was a definite challenge. Whatever else you could say, they are perhaps true. I can see why they chose Mark Winegardner's "Like Mother, Like Son,' to get off to a good start. It is rewarding to read how he credits his mother with his creativity. I told son Zachary that he got his writing ability from me, but he was doubtful. Like me, Mark has trouble "forgiving."

   In this series of essays, we strive to understand male emotions, their historic lack of commitment, their great pride and self-esteem from the professional lives (I wonder, did they see the new STEPFORD WIVES movie?), and the uniquely male perspective on life's problems.

   Some years ago, I worked through SIMPLE ABUNDANCE, A Daybook of Comfort and Joy and learned what is really important to women. Now, they attempt to turn the tables, so to speak, to educate women about the men they love but have difficulty understanding.

   She gives her view of the creation, using Spirit as God, Eve as the first 'soul mate,' spiritual awakening; I waited to see if the Spirit was a woman who presented this version: It's not good for man to be alone; something or someone was missing.

   Merle Shain stated it clearly, "There are no perfect men, of course, but some are more perfect than others, and we can use all of those we can get." Men feel they 'deserve' respect (ha), they should seek it by their actions.

   Some of these essays are provocative and most are complicated to a woman's sensibilities. It's possible that some of them may move you to laughter or tears. Men are good at faking emotions they don't feel. And some can act up in public and embarrass an innocent woman for something the man mistakenly assumed.

   I was most interested in those written by Southern humorist, Roy Blount, Jr., and Reynolds Price, another Southerner with the longest bibliography. Jake Jacobsen was the most original, listed only as a 'hermit.' He hates women, it seems.

   Some are Pulitzer prize winners in their fields. They use thoughtfulness, intelligence, and sometimes wit to get their individual points across. I heard this on the Wink Martindale show recently on the Music Of Your Life radio network, "You are born an individual; don't die a copy." Men will always be men and we can value them for the creatures they are, for better or for worse.




3. For the most part I enjoyed the book. There were certainly many diverse and varied experiences written about in the book. Not anything earth moving but thoughtful and entertaiing. Would make a good gift to any male reader in your life.



4. Several short peices about men and then commented on by the author who collected everything. There are a lot of great enecdotes and life lessons in this book.



5. The book was "almost new". The cover was perfect, no highlighting or marks inside. The binding seemed to have been "seconds" as the pages weren't lined up and it didn't look as nice. But it's still readable! However, I would have liked to have known that before purchasing.

5 comments about Sarah Ban Breathnach's Mrs. Sharp's Traditions: Art of Domestic Bliss.

1. This book is wonderful to have and explore for those women and families with children who love to take time to enjoy simple, natural treasures and to observe old-fashioned family traditions. It is a wonderful source to find out WHY we celebrate some holidays in the ways we do and to take a trip down memory lane as you rediscover some of the older traditions you might remember your grandmothers or aunts or great-aunts observing. I am definitely adding it to my home collection to use with my own family. The only negative note I might have is that the persona the author writes with has some strange sayings "Dear Reader" this and "Dear Reader" that. A little annoying, but definitely not worth NOT getting the book!



2. It is Thanksgiving Day as I write. I have used this book extensively over the past week as I write down the activities we will do as a family this holiday season. We are a family with young children (8, 6, 3, baby), so we are only now starting our family traditions. It is VERY important to me that the children have family memories to keep them reminded of their happy childhood. This book has been a wonderful keepsake. I have already started purchasing it for others, as it is beautifully written and breathtakingly beautiful. Do not hesitate to buy this book. It will enhance your library like few others. I am wishing for another book like this one, but have not found it yet.



3. I love the noble simplicity of the Victorian age. This book is an invitation to experience simple rituals in your daily life. I especialy enjoyed the beautiful art work and many pictures. This book takes the reader on a gilded journey through the entire year with wonderfull passages describing a myriad of traditions and daily rituals for living. If you cherish the victorian tradition then you simply must have this book. Buy it new or used, read it, experience it, and pen a review to spread the joy, this truly is home.



4. I found this book inspiring and full of practical and lovely ideas. Some of them are relatively easy to implement; others take a bit more effort/preparation. The holidays discussed are American. The book presents simple ways to make daily living special and to take note of holidays, seasons, and other occasions.



5. This book comes with beautiful illustrations and a plethora of ideas separated by month of the year. It includes crafts, recipes, games, and holidays I've never even heard of. Some of them are fairly elaborate, but most are simple and easy to implement.
   
   I am especially impressed by her consistent message that gentle parenting is the best kind of parenting, and that family togetherness is precious. It even includes sections on what to do on those of days when children are simply impossible, how to comfort a sick child, and making travel with children fun.
   
   It does remind me a bit of the Waldorf philosophy of education, since it incorporates an observance of the seasons, emphasizes creativity, and includes lots of fantasy play and fairy folklore.

No comments about SOMETHING MORE EXCAVATING YOUR AUTHENTIC SELF(4 AUDIOCASSETTES).

5 comments about Something More: Excavating Your Authentic Self.

1. When you have done your "work" (as Sarah has), or have been initiated into your "work", there is a mutual respect and resonance you have with those who have been there and survived. This book is about being a woman in our world. It has little to do with break ups, beyond what is naturally part of being a woman in this world.
   
   In my opinion, this book isn't for the unexperienced. It's for women who've had it all, lost it all, seen it all and now realize they've been put here to do it all again, until the last breath of life escapes them. This is not a self-help manual. I'm sorry if the title has disappointed some. No, she deals with much more. This book brings the mystery of life to a new level and Sarah has her fingertips right on the edge of it.
   
   Any woman who "has a past" as Sarah terms it, will understand this book. That past can be anything, as long as it initiates us into consciousness. On the surface, Sarah may seem to be talking to an older generation, but closer examination reveals she transcends time for women of all generations; those who came before her, those who walk with her now, and those who will repeat history and learn the same lessons the hard way. They may be sporting a different fashion statement than Victorian vintage, but it'll be the same deep work that cannot be avoided, no matter how many careers and cell phones they carry.



2. I've never written an Amazon review, but this book compelled me to do so. I'm surprised that this book was published because its style and organization are so poor. The chapters are choppy, their arrangement makes no sense, and there is no cohesion. The self-excavation thread does not tie the book together as well as it might have, and the excavation journal project doesn't finish what it starts.
   
   Though some passages are interesting to read, the tone of this book leaves me feeling depressed rather than inspired. Is marriage such a bad thing? Do we give up ourselves completely in order to be married and raise a family? This book can suggest that, intentionally or not.
   
   Something More may be helpful to others or it may slightly resonate for me at a different time in my life, but I just don't agree with the view of life and relationships that it expresses. I was expecting something more positive, inspiring and helpful. Instead it leaves me unhappy an unnerved.



3. I have taken this book out time and time again since buying it a few years ago. I have underlined, highlighted and written notes in the margins according to what peaks my interest at a particular time. These books never fail to give me a boost of refreshing energy that is well-needed and, according to the author, well-deserved in a time where women find themselves constantly on the go. I can't say enough how much I enjoy this book.



4. It is exactly what I was looking for and I am most pleased with another one of Breathnach's books. JP



5. A delicious book! This is one of my favourite books in my library. Sarah writes so beautifully and appears to hold nothing back from her readers. She generously shares personal moments of joy and sadness-you know those things that make life so rich and challenging. If you are ready to uncover aspects of our own personality that can allow you to feel proud and strong, as well as vulnerable, then I suggest you might like to read this book. In a busy world it is easy to forget how wonderful life really is and this book serves as a great reminder of the possiblities that we have open to us when we embrace all aspects of our self, the good, the bad, and the ugly, and work with what we have to make our world a better place to live in.

5 comments about Simple Abundance: Living by Your Own Lights.

1. This book would appeal to anyone who is already in the process of wanting more from life -- after having so much and enjoying so little. Her thought provoking approach to self evaluation accompanied by the inspiring quotes, really helped me to evaluate my priorities. I am enjoying every chapter -- some of the experiences she cited are so true -- you will enjoy it if you are already seeking.



2. This is a thoroughly New Age approach to simplifying your life. It is an inward journey, complete with a map that you make of your own wishes to find harmony between your soul and the creative forces of the universe that lie within you. It is a celebration of the "spiritual" over the worldly. It is also a celebration of the self. It gives passing reference to a higher power which seems to be defined by the inner spirit. Christians should stay clear of this. A far better Christian treatment is Richard Fosters book "Freedom of Simplicity". Men should stay clear of this unless they have a very strong feminine side.



3. Good thing I did not have to buy money for this...hey, I am grateful, yippee. I went down to the local library and borrowed it and I couldnt wait to hear her ideology. I for one, think it is preposterous that so many women are seeing Sarah as God. She is not wise, or full of wisdom. What is her message? She is saying the same exact thing the New Age and Religious Communities have been saying for at least the last 15 years...be grateful, have gratitude. She acts as if she invented the idea...and what is worse, people are buying it. I cant believe people are buying this tape to learn how to be grateful. I have an idea, and it doesnt cost you anything...learn to say "Please", "thank you", and dont cut people off on the freeway.



4. After a bad marriage, I didn't know who I was or what I wanted anymore. This book helped me sort through all of that and rebuild myself back to my original design. I listened to it and stored some very important rules in my mind about keeping the real me alive and now I will never let anyone convince me that I need to change those wonderful characteristics about myself.



5. I don't know what it is. The book seems to be a classic and that I can understand. But I pulled out the tape to listen to after not having heard it for some time and it seemed so out of date. Some parts were almost embarrassing, and in all was a mishmosh of biblical, new age, and groovy girl advice. A friend of mine borrowed it a while ago and was listening to it in her car. her 10-year-old son said, "Mom, this is so dumb!" Sometimes kids do tell the truth.