Embracing My Milestone Birthday: A Journey of Aging, Happiness, and New Beginnings

Introduction:

They say age is just a number, but when a milestone birthday approaches, it can't help but stir emotions and reflections on the passage of time. As I stand on the precipice of this significant occasion, I find myself contemplating the essence of life, seeking happiness, making bold moves, embracing change, and letting go of the past. Join me on this personal journey as I embark on a new chapter, unafraid to redefine my life and create a future filled with joy and fulfillment.

Chapter 1: Reflections on Aging and Wisdom

As the candles flicker on the milestone cake, I can't help but marvel at the journey of aging. Each passing year has brought new experiences, life lessons, and a deepening sense of self-awareness. I've come to realize that aging isn't something to fear but rather a process that allows us to blossom into our truest selves. With each wrinkle and gray hair comes wisdom and a heightened appreciation for the preciousness of life.

Chapter 2: The Quest for Happiness

In a world that often emphasizes material possessions and external achievements, I've learned that true happiness lies in the simplest moments. It's about finding joy in the everyday, nurturing relationships that matter, and cultivating a sense of gratitude. This milestone birthday serves as a reminder to prioritize my well-being, pursue passions, and surround myself with people who uplift and inspire me on this incredible journey.

Chapter 3: Making Bold Moves and Embracing Change

Change can be daunting, but it is through embracing the unknown that we find our true potential. As I blow out the candles, I realize that this milestone birthday is an invitation to make bold moves and step outside my comfort zone. Whether it's switching careers, exploring new hobbies, or traveling to uncharted destinations, I am determined to embrace change with open arms and discover the beauty of growth and transformation.

Chapter 4: Letting Go of the "Old" and Embracing the New

Life is a constant ebb and flow, and as I commemorate this milestone, I am reminded of the importance of letting go. Letting go of old beliefs, regrets, and attachments that no longer serve me opens the door to new possibilities. It's liberating to shed the weight of the past and make space for fresh beginnings. With a renewed sense of freedom, I am ready to rewrite my story and create a life that reflects my truest aspirations.

Chapter 5: Starting a New Life: The Journey Ahead

With each passing milestone, I become increasingly aware that life is meant to be lived to the fullest. As I embark on this new phase of my journey, I am committed to crafting a life that aligns with my passions and values. Whether it's relocating to a different city, exploring new career opportunities, or cultivating meaningful connections, I am determined to take the leap and build the life I've always envisioned.

Conclusion:

As I celebrate this milestone birthday, I am reminded that aging is not a burden but a privilege. It is an opportunity to grow, evolve, and redefine what it means to be truly alive. By seeking happiness, making bold moves, embracing change, letting go of the old, and starting a new life, I am embracing the essence of this milestone birthday and stepping into a future filled with endless possibilities.

Thank you for the birthday wishes:

I would like to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to all those who have sent their warm and loving birthday wishes. Your kind words and thoughtful gestures have touched my heart deeply. Knowing that I am surrounded by such wonderful and supportive people fills me with immense joy and gratitude.

Birthdays are not just about growing older but also about celebrating the connections we have forged and the impact we have made on each other's lives. Your presence in my life has been a source of strength and inspiration, and I am incredibly fortunate to have you by my side.

With each birthday, I am reminded of the beauty of human connection and the power of genuine relationships. Your birthday wishes have reaffirmed the importance of cherishing the moments we share and valuing the bonds we have formed.

As I embark on this new chapter, your well wishes serve as a reminder of the love and support that surrounds me. Your words of encouragement inspire me to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, knowing that I have a network of incredible individuals cheering me on.

Once again, thank you for your heartfelt birthday wishes. They have added an extra layer of warmth and love to this milestone celebration. I am truly grateful for your presence in my life, and I look forward to the journey ahead, with you by my side.

In gratitude,

S

Seasonal Changes and Manifestation: Using Nature's Power

Seasons come and go, but the natural cycle never stops. Understanding that each season has its own energy and chances might help you create the life you want. We'll look at how to employ seasonal variations to help you achieve your manifestation objectives in this piece.

Spring: A season of rebirth and growth

Spring is a season of fresh starts, making it the ideal time to establish new objectives. It's a terrific idea to concentrate on manifestation now because this is the season of growth and rebirth. Then, take initiative to make your goals a reality. Now is the perfect time to start clearing up your home, taking up a new pastime, or enrolling in a course.

The season of abundance is Summer.

The best time to concentrate on manifestation is during the summer, a season of wealth and enthusiasm. Utilize the nice weather by going outside and spending time in nature. This will offer you a surge of good energy to help you actualize your goals and will make you feel energised and inspired. Focus on creating greater wealth in your life, whether it be material, emotional, or spiritual, as summer is a fantastic season to do it.

Fall: A season for introspection and letting go

Fall is a season for introspection and letting go. Spend some time thinking back on the previous year and get rid of anything that is no longer helpful to you. This could include unfavorable feelings, connections, or material assets. Create space in your life as you release so that fresh chances can enter. Spend some time appreciating what you have and being grateful for your blessings this fall. It's a great time to focus on gratitude.

Winter: A season of regeneration and repose

Winter is a season of rebirth and repose, making it the ideal time to concentrate on your inner self. Spend some time thinking about your objectives and aspirations, and concentrate on what you want to bring into your life. Spend time in quiet contemplation and introspection by meditating, journaling, or engaging in creative endeavors. You will feel rejuvenated and ready to bring your dreams to life by the time spring arrives.

In conclusion, realizing that each season has its own energy and potential can help you create the life you want. There is always something you can do to assist your manifestation goals, whether it is spring, summer, fall, or winter. So take advantage of the changing seasons and use nature's power to make your dreams come true.

The Power of Positive Thinking

Have you ever heard the saying, "Whether you think you can, or you think you can't – you're right"? This quote, attributed to Henry Ford, highlights the important role that our thoughts play in shaping our reality.

Positive thinking is the practice of focusing on the good things in life, rather than dwelling on the negative. It's about cultivating a mindset that sees the glass as half full, rather than half empty.

But why is positive thinking so important? Here are just a few reasons:

Positive thinking leads to better health. Studies have shown that people who have a positive outlook on life tend to have better physical health. This is because negative thoughts and emotions can release stress hormones in the body, which can have negative effects on our health. In contrast, positive thoughts and emotions can lead to the release of feel-good chemicals like endorphins, which can help boost our immune system and improve our overall health.

Positive thinking can improve your performance. When you have a positive mindset, you are more likely to be motivated, focused, and persistent. This can lead to better performance in work, school, and other areas of life.

Positive thinking can help you cope with challenges. Life is full of challenges, and it's natural to feel overwhelmed or discouraged at times. But having a positive mindset can help you see challenges as opportunities for growth, rather than as insurmountable obstacles. This can help you stay resilient and bounce back from setbacks more easily.

So how can you cultivate a positive mindset? Here are a few tips:

Practice gratitude. One of the easiest ways to cultivate a positive mindset is to focus on the things you are grateful for. Take a few minutes each day to reflect on the things you appreciate in your life.

Surround yourself with positive people. The people we spend time with can have a big impact on our thoughts and emotions. Surrounding yourself with positive, supportive people can help you maintain a positive outlook on life.

Practice positive self-talk. Our thoughts have a powerful influence on our emotions and behavior. If you catch yourself thinking negative thoughts, try to reframe them in a more positive way. For example, instead of saying "I can't do this," try saying "I'm learning and growing through this challenge."

Take care of yourself. Taking care of your physical and emotional needs is important for maintaining a positive mindset. Make sure you get enough sleep, eat well, exercise, and make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

Positive thinking is a habit that takes time and practice to develop. But with a little effort, you can start to see the benefits in your own life. So don't be afraid to start seeing the glass as half full – your mind (and body) will thank you for it.

Dealing with Toxic People

Insanity: doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. The more time I spend with toxic people, the more insane/stressed I feel.

Unfortunately some people are just toxic and cannot help themselves but make others feel terrible about themselves too. Many are unwilling to change, and you cannot help them to change. 

I’ve come up with my own set of rules that I follow in order to not let their behavior affect my day-to-day mood:

1) Practice walking away from Negaholics. 

2) Eat healthy food

3) Meditate 

4) Set boundaries on dealing with Debbie Downers, and stick to them. Don't engage with them, nor cosign to their behavior.

Never feel like you have to tolerate a toxic individual, family or not. Your sanity is worth its weight in gold. Protect it at all costs.

How will you deal with toxic people, especially during the holidays? 

Share

How To Find A Silver Lining When You're Doubting Yourself

Life is tough. The world is even tougher. Sometimes we feel like we're living in a vortex of chaos and confusion, but it's possible to find the silver lining in this insane world.

The human brain is wired to seek silver linings in the darkest of situations. The good thing about this is that it can also be used as a tool for motivation.

“What is the silver lining?”

That’s one of the most common questions asked when someone is trying to find some motivation. It's easy to give up, but finding that silver lining can be life-changing.

It is easy to give up and think that the world around you is hopeless. But there is always a way for you to find a silver lining.

Understanding that things aren't always what they seem can give you motivation and help you change your perspective on life.

This article discusses how being able to accept that life isn't always fair can help motivate you to change your perspective on life. It discusses the importance of looking at your obstacles as a challenge instead of a setback and use them as an opportunity to grow.

So, how can you create your own Silver Lining?

We all go through hard times. But, what sets us apart from others is how we choose to cope with them. There are many ways to find your happy place. This is a list of some of the ways you can start to make changes in your life and seek your lining.

*Take a walk and explore your surroundings

*Meditate

*Read a book/books

*Drink more water

*Take a vacation, or a small weekend away.

*Eat more Fresh Food

By no means is this list complete, perhaps you would be willing to share some ways you find your Siliver Lining

The Silver Lining is that, for many of us, there are more opportunities than ever before. The world has changed, and for the first time in history you can be an entrepreneur (or start a side gig) at any age and with no money. Technology has leveled the playing field; you no longer need to be rich or know someone who is to make your idea happen. Join me and lets find it together.

Share in the comments.

Why Ive been away

I know I know, I said I was going to post more content. Covid hit, I got seriously busy, neglected a few things. However, I had some time to refocus some more of that energy on myself. 

Ive been having some issues with my vision the past few years. This past week, I had to do something about it. Have a look at My Strabimus Journey, it will explain it.

It has been a while...

Hey folks, it has been a while since I've posted anything. To be quite honest, I didn't even know what to post. I know know that 2020 has been a whirlwind of activity for everyone, and I'm being kind. Heck, folks are STRESSED!!! Hatred, Illnesses, pandemics, masks/no masks, fights, name-calling, school/no school, the isms, politics, where the heck do you turn to? What do you do? Where can you go? How do you relieve the stress/anxiety? What do I do?

I found myself asking those questions, and not knowing the answers. The first few days of the shutdown, I was taken aback. First, my vehicle broke down, and I was laid off from a couple of places I worked at. OK, not completely bad. As I sat back and wondered what to do with additional hours in my day, I got grounded. I started a garden...again. This time, its different. I'm actually home more, so I can see it in the daytime. Working 8 to faint, you hardly know what your home looks like in the daytime. It was something about me literally getting my hands dirty that chilled me out. I love seeing the "fruits" of labor. No, its not the prettiest garden, but its not dead either. Again, something about feeling soil between your fingers and toes grounds you (kind of the feeling I get when I go to the beach to chill).

I could go on, like ridding the house of clutter, identifying and repairing stuff at home (since we are at home, make it an oasis, right), spending more time with my businesses, etc. 

So, what are you doing different since the pandemic? Are you adjusting to the "new normal?"  Share with us!!

And don't forget to swing by www.staceystarrlong.com and make a purchase. Hey, I still gotta eat 😉

April 30 Day Positivity/Motivational Challenge

It isn't a fitness, or eating challenge. The Challenge for this month is to Spread Positivity. We know that there is plethora of negativity in our lives, from media, music, and even in our homes. I'm Challenging you to change that in 30 days. So here it is:

For 30 days:

Wake up and give thanks for Waking Up.

Drink a large glass of water.

Turn on something Motivational as you prepare for the day, and keep something Motivational on throughout the day.

Identify some of the negativity around you an avoid at all costs.

Smile, even if it's a "bad day".

If it isn't Positive/Motivational, don't speak it.

Share a Positive/Motivational post, whether you create it, or its from someone else. Dont be a part of negativity going viral.

Tag and Share with at least 3 others. Share the hashtags #keepitpositive #keepitmotivating #motivate

Instagram


We don't change unless We Change.

Surprising my Son

So, I made a "surprise" visit to my Son.  Its all on video, check it out, click the link

SURPRISE

Fathers Day

My Father taught me how to shave (before disposable razors), polish shoes, tie a tie, wash cars, ride a bike (and hit a tree) drive on Lincoln Drive (you better not hit anything), smoke a cigar and cuss...lol. Skills that maybe a lot of girls don't know, and some boys too, but I have them, just in case...

My father is somewhat traditional, so Im sure he didnt realize he was teaching me skills I could later pass on to my Son and Daughter. I was just a little girl, watching my Dad get ready for work. My Mom was home with us, while he worked. It was my version of Family dynamics, that doesnt really apply today. We played outside, and I was just too excited to see my Father when he came home from work. I have to say though, the cussing and cigar part, he didnt actively seek to "teach" me that, I just thought my Pop was cool..

My Father taught me to take no S@#%. Now, traits that would be subscribed to a Man, I picked up...however, instead of  me being a take charge leader, Im called Bossy, B@#$%. Oh well, Ill take it, especially if it helps me achieve my goals. I know Im a pain in his behind sometimes, but hey, he did this...lol

Fathers, you matter to your children, they watch you and how you move through the World. As I said above, my Father didnt actively sit me down and teach me, but he interacted with his daughter. So good or bad Fathers, think about how you are moving, and the impact it will have on your children.

Yes, there are plenty of single Mothers heading household (I am one myself, both children are productive adults with college degrees), but I had my Mothers Day. Im willing to step back an allow Daddys to have their day.

So to the daddies, be sure to teach your daughters to shave, tie a tie, shine shoes....and well, I dont know about the cigar and cussing though

Happy Fathers Day Pop, from your Pain the the Ass Daughter.

Share your memories of you and your Father, good and bad...no judgement.

International Women's Day

Wishing Every Woman a Happy International Women's Day. It isn't lost on me the sacrifice that many Women have made to help the many generations coming. We still have a long way to go.

International Women's Day

Age Discrimination

I have heard this far too often.

Age Discrimination

Happy 2018

Well, here we are, celebrating another New Year, how awesome!!  So, checking in with you, what are your goals for this year? Do you have them written down, so you can follow and achieve them? If not, hop to it!!  But, lets briefly touch on Last year, to make sure your on track to your success...

Did you achieve your goals you set Last Year?  If not, why not?  Did you start that business, or get a new job? How are your relationships, or do you have one?  If you havent achieved any goals, or have fallen short of goals you created Last Year, dont fall short this year. This is the Year of YOU!!

You have to find out why you havent achieved your Last Year goals, identify the issue, because This Year, you will not make that mistake again. Get laser focused!!  Move to that new home you have been desiring, go after that new job. Start a business, invest in that stock you have been looking at!! Take that dream trip!! In order to achieve that success you desire, you have to change You!!   You have to leave last years baggage in last year.

Get out, meet new people. Leave the Negative Nellies and Poverty Pimps alone. Their total goal is to keep you at their level of foolishness. You arent built for that!! You are built for Greatness!!

So folks, get out that notebook, start writing down your goals, then attack them, straight away!! Dont worry if others dont understand, everyone isnt meant to take this journey.

So, the New Year parties are over, time to kick it into high gear!!

Share your thoughts in the Comments section below.

-S-

PS...Stop by my shop to get your motivational shirts, coffee mugs. 

www.eyeslaynow.com

Be good to yourself...Always

Even during the hustle and grind to improve our lives, we can lose ourselves. Dealing with family, friends, customers, bills, etc, can drain your tank empty, and just when that happens, they come back for more. So where does that leave you? Tired, angry, worn out, sick, depression, stress eating, etc.

Never be afraid to take time for you. Burnout is Real. Vehicles do not run on empty tanks. Take time to be good to yourself. Take a walk, get a massage, enjoy a good meal alone or with good friends, find your resting and happy place. Dont ever feel like you have to be everything to everyone, and dont be afraid to say NO!! You are no good to others if you arent good to yourself.

Comment below on how you deal with stressful situations. How are you good to yourself.

Found Money

So, here it is, Holiday time, and many people are scrambling/struggling with money issues.  What to buy, how much to buy, can I afford it, no wonder people are stressed!!  Bills and savings go right out of the window.  So here are a few suggestions you can use now, and beyond the holidays.  (Be mindful, some of these suggestions will work for some, the only factor is You, no guarantees are made).

Some of the easiest things you can do, right now, to find money are:

Put change in a jar after spending cash.

Check pockets in coats, jackets, pants, especially before washing clothes (hey, sometimes you find a surprise rattling around in the washing machine).

Sell items you no longer need or want.  I use Offer Up, Lets Go for local sales, and Ebay for distance sales.

LetGo: https://us.letgo.com/en/u/stacey-long_edbd8c69-6f20-41e3-9cf1-19cf7a91957c

OfferUp: https://offerup.com/sendapp/

Drive for Uber:  https://www.uber.com/a/join-vs?exp_slp=1&invite_code=c53e8vvay

Drive for Lyft: https://www.lyft.com/drive-with-lyft?ref=STACEY195500

During shopping, why arent you earning Cash Back and saving from shopping online?

Sign up today and start earning right away:

Ebates: Savings and cash back. https://www.ebates.com/r/MIEEMA3?eeid=28187

Honey: Coupon codes automatically. https://www.joinhoney.com/ref/qvr3ui

SwagBucks: Earn points, redeem for almost anything. http://www.swagbucks.com/p/register?rb=18649230

Ibotta: Earn Cash back and points for shopping instore and online: https://ibotta.com/r/ysssw

Shopkick: Earn points and free gift cards. https://shopkick.app.link/jM69yDDOQG

So, why not start a business?  Do you have a hobby that you can convert into a business, like sewing, catering, etc?

Check out Etsy for handmade goods: www.etsy.com. You can link to my Etsy shop, www.staceysshea.com

Not sure what kind of business you want to start? Consider helping to protect families and friends…Tap into the new Economy:  https://my.rapidfunnel.com/res/1886/893/?source=mobile

Ok, so now you have all of this found money, now what??  DON’T SPEND IT!! I will address it on my next blog post. Stay Tuned!!

Please feel free to weigh in on the above subjects. How are you finding money? 

New Tee Shirts

Ive launched my new tee shirt line. Im bound and determined to help spread positivity and build motivation throughout the world. My vision is a global vision, and each step, albeit small, is a step to help do that.

The shirts are available at the Eye Slay shop. Lets spread the positive global vision together.

Praying

In light of the tragedy in Las Vegas, storm destruction in the mainland States, and islands, this is truly NOT the time to point fingers, blame, argue about who is right, wrong, color, race, etc. People are dead, dying, grieving for their losses, and people want to point fingers? Honestly, if the temptation to argue and blame someone, something for these tragedys, do yourself and everyone a favor...dont!! Take a walk, eat, go to the gym, read, crochet, SOMETHING ELSE except flaming social media. This isnt the time for that, we are better than that. Pray/meditate for the victims around the world who have suffered unspeakable tragedy. 

I will say this...is it now time to have a real and productive discussion about Mental Illness? The more you turn your back and pretend it isnt there, the more it will rear itself into the international consciousness. Its not going away. 

Lets talk about that...

My Total Juice Fast Journey.

Back in August, I was pulled, by my Spirit, to start a total 21 Day Juice Fast. I knew and felt I needed a total body reset. So I began the Fast on September 1, 2017. I made it a point not to tell anyone, as I didnt want or need any distractions. I didnt want, during my Fast, try to explain why I was doing it, as I wasnt sure how I would react to my cleansing. I didnt know if I would be crying, angry, happy, or all of the above at the same time.

So, 19 days into my 21 and further day juice fast, I have ended it. My plan was to go to 21 days, see how I felt, then maybe add a couple of fays here and there, but my body had other plans. It let me know is subtle and not so subtle ways it eas finished doing its work. Although it may have ended 2 days before my initial goal, I dont feel like a failure, in fact, I feel wonderful. My brain fog has cleared, my eyes are clear, as are my goals I have set before myself, and have released a lot of baggage. This was a solo journey that I needed to take, without distractions, aggravation.

I documented my journey via videos. I didnt do too many, as during my cleanse, there were times I was just simply fatigued, emotional and just plain angry...in other words, just didnt feel like it, wasnt in the mood. I also realized that all of that was part of my cleansing, releasing the physical and emotional baggage I was carrying.

Ive done long fasts in the past, so this wasnt new to me, but it had been years since my last long fast and now, I had to relearn my fasting formula. Some things my body was doing was familiar, but I was blindsided by others. I remained calm, prayed, meditated. Heck, I even started a new gig, teaching cycling classes, what a rush!! I had a lot of energy, that was fun!! I also walked through my home and threw out bags of stuff I was holding on to...so it wasnt just my body and mind needing a cleansing.

The purpose of this is not to diagnose or treat any medical ailment, this is my personal journey. Enjoy the videos.

Eclispe

Today Monday 21 August 2017, there will be a total Eclipse of the Sun. How will this affect you, aside from not staring at it directly (we all know the warnings). 

This is the time to allow your Spirit to free itself from the negativity and strife that you have been holding on to. Come out on the other side of this event with a clean slate. That argument you had with your spouse/child/boss, let it go!! That "thing" that you are constantly worrying about, let it go!! Start off with a clean and positive slate. Start that new project, take that trip, move to a new home!!  This is your time Reset and Redo!! Do It Big!! 

Success

Success comes from habit. All

you need to do to create a

habit is develop a routine.This

lessens the need for self-

discipline and makes creating

the habit easier.