Friendship!

Today I spoke at Cedar Grove United Methodist Church on the subject of friendship at their Ladies' Day Retreat!

The scenery on the way to Deale, Maryland was breathtaking. Several times I swerved off the side of the road or rolled down the window to take a picture. Everywhere I turned there was another photo grabbing for my attention.

After the reatreat one of the ladies, Sharon, took me on a tour of Deale. If you ever get a chance, don't miss this gem of a town. With a view of the Chesapeake and quaint shops and cottages surrounding the yacht clubs, it's a haven of rest for the weary soul.

I stopped off at charming coffee shop on the drive home and almost stayed; it was the best cappuccino I ever tasted. I ended up giving one of my books away: "Chicken Soup for the Coffee Lover's Soul" for the best brew in town!

Who can beat a good cup of java and friends? Click here to view the slide show.

Fall Splendor

I had the privilege of being the retreat speaker this past weekend at the Traber Center. Fall came a little late to the East Coast, but arrived in its full splendor the weekend of Nov. 2-4. Although I missed the morning walks at 7:00 a.m., I found the retreat leader, Terry Ferguson, enjoyed my passion for photography. We snuck away for an afternoon photo shoot. Walking over a suspension bridge provided the perfect view of the river, lakes and ponds that painted a canvas of God's magnificent creation.

The food was awesome! Chef Mark prepared some of the most amazing meals I have ever tasted. One night for dessert we had ice cream with two types of homemade sauces: chocolate with cayenne pepper and butterscotch with walnuts. My personal favorite was the chocolate: spicy hot and sweet!

But the laughter during the weekend burned off any calories we might have gained, and the fellowship was tremendous. The ladies of First Baptist Church of Phillipsburg in New Jersey are an awesome group. I spoke on "Living the Passionate Life" and many found their passion that weekend and are taking steps to make them become a reality.

I came home renewed and refreshed because of the rich fellowship and the pictures found in nature that surrounded the Traber Center.

Click here to view a slide show.

Laughter is the Best Medicine

I had the prilvilege of being the keynote speaker at Bensalem Country Club this week addressing breast cancer survivors. As I looked out at the sea of pink, I realized just how courageous these women are; in fact, they are warriors. All the ladies were laughing and having a great time looking through their gift bag of goodies.

Eleven years ago, I sat at my first breast cancer survivor luncheon and wondered just how many more times I would get to attend. It was a feeling of joy to know I had made it a year, but it was mingled with nagging fears of what lie ahead.

But laughter is what got me through (along with a lot of prayer!). Today I'm blogging on Boomer Babes about a funny thing that happened to me on errand day (yesterday). Laughter and tears cleanse the soul and can de-stress even the most difficult days.

When I heard the ripples of laughter among the cancer survivors on Monday, I knew they were well on their way to healing.

Laugher truly is the best medicine!

Life-Changing Words

I just got back from a speaking event in Hagerstown, MD and it was supposed to be a Women’s Conference, and that evening I was the keynote speaker on “Living the Passionate Life” geared just for women. And since it was Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I combined my “Touched by An Angel Story” in the new Chicken Soup book. When I got to the Four Points Sheraton, I saw men in the conference room—thinking they were there to set up. No, there were “men” in the audience and my speech was geared strictly for women. I quickly poured over my speech and wondered what I would need to change. Suddenly, my “passion” started to fade and I thought, “Lord, help me, this is not the target audience I was intending to speak to—I thought it was going to be ‘all’ women.” As I got up to the podium, I realized that all of us have to be ready in and out of season and that it’s never me speaking anyway, it’s God who speaks through me. After my speech a man came up to me and said, “My wife and mother both have breast cancer and I needed to hear what you had to say tonight!” With tears in his eyes, he shook my hand and said, “I wasn’t going to come this evening, but now I know I was meant to be here.” How many times have you been in a situation where you thought, Oh no, now what do I do? This wasn’t what I was expecting, but God worked it out for good!

When I came home, I received my author copy of the book, The One Year Life Verse Devotional by Tyndale House Publishers. My story is titled, “Passing the Tests.” My life verse is Phil. 4:13, “I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.” I didn’t have the time or the strength to re-do a speech in five minutes to be appropriate for my new target audience of “men,” so I used what I had prepared and God went before me and used it for “good.”

We will never know the impact of our words in the lives of others, and yet sometimes we are fortunate enough to get a small glimpse into lives changed by Christ through our words. That's the miracle of it all!

Angels Among Us?

Today I'm blogging on Boomer Babes about an experience I had 11 years ago that convinced me that angels keep watch over us!

My "Touched by a Coffee-Loving Angel" story is featured in the newly released book, Chicken Soup for the Coffee-Lover's Soul. It will stir you to think about the times in your life when you were protected and saved from harm's way because angels were sent to guide and protect you!

Tune into Inspire Radio to hear my interview with Carolyn Gross at 1:00 PM EST; 12:00 CST, and 10:00 AM PST on Wednesday, October 17, 2007.

If you have an angel story that you would like to share, I would love to hear it!

Blessings to you all!

High Mill Retreat - Sept. 7-9, 2007

This past weekend, I had the great pleasure of being the women's retreat speaker for High Mill Church at Beulah Beach, Ohio (right on Lake Erie). The Lord blessed our time together and knit our hearts together as one. What a blessing to minister to such a great group of women.



To view the slide show, click here.



Blessings and Joy,

Connie

Interview with Allison Bottke

As promised, I have Allison Bottke with me today discussing her new novel One Little Secret, so grab a hot cup of something, and join us as we find out some secrets behind the scenes of this boomer-lit novel with an attitude!

Allison, welcome to Living Life Passionately. I finished One Little Secret in one sitting; I just couldn’t put it down. For those of you who don’t know by now, One Little Secret is about no ordinary housewife and mom who is surprised by an opportunity to pursue her passion. It was such a fun read with unexpected humor and tears. Was this a dream come true for you and what prompted you to write this book now?

Thanks, Connie, it’s great to be here with my boomer sister. You probably already know part of the background for this book, but the original idea was for a movie screenplay. I had the cast of characters—especially the lead actress already plotted in my mind. Then, when Bethany House requested a second novel as a follow up for A Stitch in Time—my debut novel—I dusted off the unfinished screenplay and the rest is history. Of course, I had to add a few more subplots and think how each scene would play out in a movie—so there was more creativity involved—but it was all a dream come true!

I have to say, Allison, I loved your first novel, A Stitch in Time, but I fell in love with One Little Secret. There’s a clear message that resonates throughout the entire book—that we as boomer women have all felt at one time—that our dreams aren’t taken seriously! What do you have to say about that?

Yes, you’re absolutely right, Connie! So many “boomer babes” are complacent about living out their dreams. They have held them under a bushel along with their God-given talents. We have taught our children to strive to be the best they can be—right? We have told our children they can be whatever they want to be when they grow up—correct? Yet, when it comes time for us to pursue our dreams and passions, we hold back. I think the healthiest thing we can do as parents is to allow our children to see us working toward our dreams. When those we love see us fulfill life-long passions and desires of the heart, we will be taken seriously!

Allison, tell me a little bit about the author behind One Little Secret. What things do you love to do when you’re not writing and what’s the one quality you hold most dear in a friend?

As you may know, I’m quite the homebody—I love being home, working in my garden or spending time with my husband. One of my favorite pastimes is, of course, reading and watching movies. I could stay all day at the cinema—starting when the doors open and watch back-to-back movies until midnight. As for friendships, unquestionably it would have to be loyalty and confidentiality. Privacy is extremely important to me!

Allison, you and I have never “officially” met; however, my story “Living the Passionate Life,” was published in God Allows U-turns for Women. Later I blogged for one week on the U-Turns blogsite, and then you asked if I would like to take part in the “Boomer Babes Rock” blogsite. It’s been quite a ride! Can you tell me what makes you so passionate about the U-Turns ministry?

Wow, Connie, that’s a loaded question! The only reason why I’m here is because of God’s amazing mercy and grace in my life. Never in my wildest dreams did I ever believe that my life could make a U-Turn. I was 35 years old when I finally came to the end of myself and willingly gave my heart over to a relationship with Jesus. I’ve never looked back. My purpose is to share with others who are lost and searching how they can fill that God-shaped void in their life. As my friend Michelle says, “Every test is a testimony and every mess is a ministry.” My life has been filled with so many tests and messes that I have to believe that God wants me to use my testimony as a life ministry.

It’s been such a great pleasure to have you on Living Life Passionately. Is there anything else you’d like to share with my readers that I haven’t asked you about?

I guess one of the main things I’d like to ask is that your readers please pick up a copy of One Little Secret and read it—and then let me know what they thought of it. I really want to grow as a writer and obtaining reader feedback is vital for that to happen. Also vital is the word-of-mouth recommendations readers can make about books they enjoy. If your readers like One Little Secret, I pray they will share it with others—and encourage their local bookstores to carry my work. I’d also like to invite your readers to visit my web sites where they can sign up for our free monthly Dream-zine, see my Blog Tour schedule, and read the Writer’s Guidelines for the next volumes in the God Allows U-Turns series. Here are the web site URL’s: http://www.allisonbottke.com/ , http://www.godallowsuturns.com/ and http://www.boomerbabesrock.com/

However, more important than that is my final word of the day…and that is for your readers to take the risk and reach for their dreams! God has placed a desire in your heart—He has given you special gifts—and he wants you to use them. No matter how old we are—there is still time to discover God’s purpose for our life—and to make the choices that will change the story of our life.

Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to interview here at Living Life Passionately. And be sure to check out my review of One Little Secret at Amazon.com.

Thanks so much for having me!

FREE GIFT: The first person to post a comment on Living Life Passionately wins a copy of One Little Secret, And if you’ve always wanted to win a free trip to Hollywood, be sure to check out the One Little Secret Casting Call Contest. Click here: http://www.boomerbabesrock.com/onelittlesecret_castingcall.htm

Breast Cancer Awareness

Today I'm blogging on Boomer Babes Rock about the "Pay-Off" which has absolutely nothing to do with what I'm about to say.

I am passionate about a cure for breast cancer. Why you ask? Because I'm a survivor of 11 years and I know how devastating this disease can be and what it can do to a family. So how can you help?

Today Jan Parrish made a comment to my post on Boomer Babes and I checked out her blog (best thing I ever did!). She has a great idea that combines friends, coffee, chocolate and mammograms--not necessarily in that order! To find out more about Jan's brilliant idea, log on to her site at: http://www.janparrish.blogspot.com/

Remember: October is breast cancer awareness month! My story, "Touched by a Coffee-Loving Angel" appears in the Chicken Soup for the Coffee-Lover's Soul coming out November 2007. It's really my breast cancer story rolled up into a coffee bean.

If you'd like to know more about being a breast cancer friend, check out Jan's site.

Crossing Bridges

Yesterday I crossed over a bridge…I celebrated my 52nd birthday…one I thought I would never see. After a cancer diagnosis at age 40, I have learned to celebrate the preciousness of life. While my peers lament the fact that they are growing older, more out of shape, and counting gray hairs and wrinkles, I’m profoundly thankful to be alive and pursuing my passion.

One of the things I’m most passionate about is speaking to cancer survivors because they “get it.” We understand what’s important in life, we cherish the moments in between birthdays, and we pray for many more.

Yesterday, my husband asked me what I wanted to do on my birthday and my response was to “LIVE THIS THING CALLED LIFE.” I can’t do it alone—I need God, my friends, and my family.

Read more of my thoughts on Boomer Babes Rock about “This Thing Called LIFE!”

P.S. A great birthday gift came from Dotsie Bregel, founder of NABBW (National Association of Boomer Babe Women), who reviewed my book Trading Ashes for Roses: From Pain to Passion in her monthly newsletter. You can read about it here.

Reviewed by Dotsie Bregel, www.nabbw.com. Connie carefully traipses you through her cancer storm with honesty and a deep sense of spirituality that immediately makes you want her as your role model should you ever be diagnosed with cancer. While it must have been a horrendous venture, she gently unravels the bad and the good in a way that makes you trust you'd have the courage to follow in her footsteps if ever necessary. Should you know someone with a cancer diagnosis, this is the book for both you and them. In addition to sharing her perspective of what it's like to be the patient, she genuinely offers appropriate suggestions for caregivers to understand suitable ways of treating their loved ones with a similar diagnosis. She offers an attitude that may allow them to approach the disease from a healthy perspective while telling you the best actions and words to offer them. Connie also sells lovely baskets jam packed with goodies of hope for cancer survivors and caregivers at most reasonable prices and ships anywhere in the country. Each basket contains all kinds of pleasantries that any woman will appreciate. I've already sent two and the recipients were most grateful. I highly recommend anyone with a cancer diagnosis, or a loved one with the same, to visit Connie online at www.conniepombo.com . I have a feeling you'll make a new friend.

World of Messages

Do you ever feel like you're in your own little world when you're at the computer?

Sometimes I lose all track of time--like this week--when I have deadlines pressing in from all angles. It all gets done, but this week I received a clear message about how and when I should be doing my work.

I'm blogging on Boomer Babes Rock today and I'll share the message that rocked my world and made me realize...get out from behind the computer and smell the roses!

Thoughts?

Today I'm blogging on Boomer Babes Rock about "Pen-Less Thoughts." For some reason, I can't think unless I have a pen in my hand. I've been known to grab someone else's pen to write down my thoughts and others have been known to grab my pen to write their thoughts as well (I share one such experience!).

The comptuer is great...we can get our thoughts down faster (sometimes!), but I still love the pen to paper experience. For this writer, it's essential that my thoughts first flow from pen to paper and then to my computer.

Speaking of writing, Allison Bottke is starting her International Blog Tour for ONE LITTLE SECRET and you can catch one of 40 interviews this month. Today she's on Randy Ingermanson's Blog: http://www.advancedfictionwriting.com/blog/ I'll be blogging on Monday, August 27 (right here!). Don't miss it!
If you have some "secrets" to writing your thoughts, feel free to share them.

God Encounters

Did you ever have an experience that touched your heart so deeply that you were a changed person. You look back on that day as one that changed your life? I had such an experience last week...I got a new pair of "God eyes." It was so significant that I wrote the date in my Bible. You can read about it on Boomer Babes Rock--I'm blogging there today.

I believe "God Encounters" happen for a purpose. If you have one you would like to share, I would love to hear about it!

Living Life Passionately,

Connie

Empty-Nest Vacation

Today I'm blogging on Boomer Babes Rock, so hop on over and check it out. I'm talking about the joys and sorrows of an empty-nest vacation. Yes, we have come to that phase in life where our "boys" take their own vacations and report back (via cell phone) just how great it is. There's joy and sorrow mixed together: we're not paying for it, but we're missing all the fun!

Life is bittersweet. When they're growing up, you wish they would hurry up and grow up. When they're gone, you wish they were back. So what we're left with are precious memories of vacations we took every year of their lives: trips to Acadia National Park, Yosemite, Disney World, the California Coast, Virginia Beach and Colonial Williamsburg, and my favorite--Bar Harbor. There are Creative Memory albums filled with precious photos and when I need a vacation, I pore over the pictures and re-live the God-given moments that come only once in a lifetime.

The empty-nest vacation is one of the best vacations I've been given--knowing that we left memories with our "boys" to travel the journey of life and hopefully carry on the tradtion with their families.

Living Passionately,

Connie

Chicken Soup for the Coffee Lover's Soul

I just heard that I was accepted into Chicken Soup for the Coffee-Lover's Soul.

Everyone who knows me, realizes I'm passionate about coffeee--can't wake up without it. And for someone who has more coffee stories than you can imagine, it was a thrill to have my favorite "coffee tale" accepted: "Touched by a Coffee-Loving Angel." I'm not sure if they'll be serving my special brew in heaven, but this cup of coffee literally saved my life!

Look for it in stores in the fall, although it's available for pre-order now at Amazon.com.

If you have a coffee story, you would like to share, feel free to send it to me at conniepombo@hotmail.com, and whoever has the most hillarious or heart-wrenching story, I'll be sure to send you an autographed copy when it's available.

Passionately yours,

Connie

Secret Garden

Today I'm blogging on Boomer Babes Rock about my "secret" place. About four years ago, I read about the "Best Kept Secret in Lancaster County," and realized it was just down the street from where I live. From the months of June-September on Wednesdays from 1-7 p.m. the Conestoga House is open to the public. The Steinman Sisters have lovingly restored the mansion and the gardens.


I'm passionate about all things natural and green, so this is my respite. It serves two purposes, it gets me out from behind my computer and enjoying the beauty of nature. And then when hubby gets off from work, he meets me there for a light picnic at one of the designated areas. We have date night and quiet time together in the lush background of tropical gardens and waterfalls.

Sometimes the best places to visit are in your backyard. I urge you to search out what's available in your city; you just might be surprised. There might be a secret garden waiting for you.


Living Passionately,




Connie

No Longer a Stranger

Today I'm blogging on Boomer Babes Rock about the grandmother I never knew. Recently some lost letters emerged that gave me a glimpse into the life of the woman that has remained a mystery for most of my adult life.

I'm the family historian and love collecting and saving cards, letters, and photos. I was the original scrapbooker before Creative Memories came along. I have literally hundreds of albums and continue to collect more. It's one of the things I'm most passionate about.

Our hectic 21st century living precludes us from preserving the past because we're just too busy. But one day, our children and our grandchildren will want to know what we did, what our passions were, what books we read, and how we spent our days.

Sure, we now have "blogging" which has pretty much taken the place of the journal and writing letters, but there's nothing like feeling and touching a letter--see the handwriting and looking at the stamp (it makes it more real).

If you've been putting off writing a letter to someone you love, write it today! What greater day than the Fourth of July!

Do you have to Suffer to Be Beautiful?

Growing up I heard the phrase a lot from my mom, "You have to suffer to be beautiful." Well, I do remember placing ice cubes on my eyebrows the first time I plucked them and thinking, Why would anyone deliberately do that?

I'm passionate about a lot of things, but plucking my eyebrows just isn't one of them and neither is curling my eyelashes! Today I'm blogging on "Boomer Babes Rock" about my recent experience with the eyelash curler that opened my eyes to suffering in a new way!

Painful circumstances always teach us a valuable lesson and most of us want to hide from pain--I know I do! But as I reflect on my life, there wasn't a lot of growing spiritually when things were going smoothly. In fact, just the opposite happened--I digressed.

The most passionate people I know have suffered some great tragedy, pain or loss. Some have experienced more than their share. It's not the degree of pain, it's what we have learned from the experience that makes the difference.

God has allowed some great suffering to occur in my life, but the beauty I see comes from within--a spritual awakening to what's truly important in life.

So my mom really was right, "You have to suffer to be beautiful!"

Meet the Dream Team!

Today I'm blogging on Boomer Babes Rock...about my passion for dirt biking that led to some undesired results. Sometimes this 50-something "babe" doesn't realize she isn't 20 anymore!

Thankfully...we learn from our experiences and we don't repeat them again (most of the time!), and I plan to stay closer to the ground in the upcoming months.

This experience allowed me to realize that I probably won't be doing #27 on my passionate to-do list (parachuting out of an airplane) for quite some time.

That's okay...there are a lot of other things for this "boomer babe" to do that don't require lifting too far off the earth. And if I happen to drift...there's always the dream team in the wings to put me back together again!

Living Life Passionately (with both arms!),

Connie

101 Uses for Things!

I'm always amazed---shocked really--at the multiple uses for "one" thing--like baking soda and Coke. Did you realize the beverage "Coke" can clean your engine, polish the chrome on your car, clean your toilets, and who knows what else?

Read about more startling discoveries on Boomer Babes Rock...I'm blogging there today. Let me know what "double-duty" uses you've come up with and which ones you're most "passioante" about. The first one to respond to this blog, will receive one of my favorite "products." Shhh...it's a surprise!

"The Wind Beneath My Wings"

I'm posting on Boomer Babes Rock today, so check it out! I'm revealing something about myself I've never told anyone except my husband and my mom (watch out!).

And because I've been "tagged" by my dear friend, Susan Kelly Skitt, I'm also revealing a few more things about me which we will call: 7 Random "Me-Me" Facts!

Unfortunately, I lost the list (I wrote them on a napkin at Starbucks), so this is the new and revised version.

1. I can "fly." Fly on over to Boomer Babes to read the rest of the story!

2. Japanese is my third language (actually fourth!). The first three and half years of my life were spent in Japan and so it was my "play" language. Strangely enough, it comes back to me in "song," like "London Bridges Falling Down." If you want the Japanese version, feel free to e-mail me!

3. I love to take "midnight" walks (around our neighborhood)! I'm a night owl, so I love the stillness and quiet, the moon, the stars, and now the "June" bugs!

4. My favorite flavor of popsicle is "banana." They are hard to find, but when I find them, I buy them in bulk!

5. The smell of the earth after the rain...I guess that's why I love waterfalls too!

6. My dad was in the Air Force for 15 years and so that makes me an Air Force Brat. I never liked that term, but I was fortunate to have lived in many cultures in my lifetime (a world traveler at a young age!).

7. I won a spelling bee in fifth grade (before the days of spell check!).

Okay, now watch out...you're next!

Blessings,

Connie

What matters--really?

On Sunday I spoke at Grace Baptist Church in Millersville in the morning service! I felt right at home because while growing up I attended Sunnymead Baptist Church in Southern California. It was there that I received Jesus as my Savior at the tender age of five. So many warm and precious memories flooded my heart as I spoke. I thought about how differently my life is now...I was once a "shy" little girl (ask my family?). I almost didn't graduate from Bible College because I didn't take Speech 101 and was willing not to graduate rather than take the course. So where did I end up? I had to take "Homiletics" (with a bunch of preacher boys--I was the only girl in the class!). That taught me to get over my fear really fast--sink or swim! In fact, they changed the entire structure of the program because of me (I was to give "sermonettes").

As I spoke on Sunday about "Taking Off Our Masks: Developing Christ-Centered Relationships," a woman came up to me afterwards and said, "What you said was so meaningful...we needed to hear your message." I hugged her and said, "Thank you, but it wasn't me...it was God speaking through me."

Today I'm blogging on Boomer Babes Rock (jump on over and check it out!). I share how walking through the local cemetery keeps my life in focus because my desire is to always point others back to God. I may be the writer, speaker, author for a short time on this earth, but my "heavenly" purpose is to always points others to the "Jesus" I found when I was five years old in a little Baptist Church in Southern California.

What really matters on this earth is allowing others to see "Jesus" in me and that's what I'm really passionate about!

Taking Ten Minutes

The backyard is my favorite place, but more so lately with limited mobility. To get you caught up to speed: While visiting my family in California I went dirt bike riding (not on my passionate to-do list) and a tree jumped out in front of me! A torn rotator cuff—among other things—was the end result. I'm in physical therapy twice a week, which has slowed me down quite a bit...something I needed.


But I'm back to taking pictures and that is my passion, something I discovered through my tragedy, pain and loss with cancer eleven years ago. Now I'm re-learning what I've always known...whatever you are going through in the "pain" department it opens your eyes to things you might have missed along the way! This sunset started out with the clouds rolled back as a scroll...like one of my favorite hymns. So guess what? I sang the sunset down! And because I was patient…I got this picture. Oh, I’m glad I waited 10 minutes!

"Sandcastles"

I just returned from California—the Bay Area—where my family lives. And I got to return to one of my favorite places—Santa Cruz. After a lovely meal at the famed Shadowbrook Restaurant (a must for anyone visiting Capitola), we walked along the beach—watching beachcombers, jugglers, children building sandcastles, and surfers gracefully riding the waves of the Pacific Ocean.

This picture caught my eye and tears glistened on my sunburned cheeks as I remembered my childhood in Southern California—countless hours on the beach with my sister, Mom and Dad. Now that I can count the age spots on my face, I probably would have used more sunscreen (but what did we know back then!). It was a blissful time, frolicking in the sand, jumping waves and allowing them to wash over me—threatening to carry me away. I, too, built sandcastles and watched the ocean swallow them up. Precious memories, made more special, because for the first time in eighteen years I spent Easter with my family. We all went to church together (taking up an entire row!), had an Easter egg hunt in the front yard, and shopped until we dropped. But the best part was spending time with each other—talking about the things that really mattered.

One of my favorite times was spent looking at lost treasure (not in the sand), but in the tiny back room in the garage where all my memorabilia lay: old love letters, photos from high school, yearbook albums, birthday cards, books from high school (who could forget reading Crime and Punishment from Sophomore English?), diplomas, reports cards (one from Miss Wheeler in third grade: "Connie is an excellent creative writer"). Umm . . . .

I took what was most important and left the rest. My mom is going to send me the box and I look forward to poring through all the treasure once again (cross-legged on the floor), and re-living memories of when there was just the four of us at 5018 Concord Blvd. in Concord, California (before baby brother, David, arrived!). But that's another story!

To be reminded of what's really important was so refreshing: the love of family and friends, the deep love that God has for all of us, and memories that can't be washed away like sandcastles on the beach.

Ready for Spring?

Spring has arrived--almost! Today it was 58 degrees and almost melted the two glaciers in our backyard. Green grass is starting to perk up and I saw some tiny yellow flowers as I took a 5-mile walk/jog/run today. Maybe they were weeds, but who cares? It was something other than "snow." This has been a long winter and I'm passionate about spring (new birth) that I can't wait for the daffodils and tulips to emerge from the cold, hard earth. Lately, I've been filling the house with fresh flowers--like the roses you see in this picture--just to remind me that there is a cycle to life: fall, winter, spring, and summer. Some of the seasons last longer than expected--like this winter.

To help me get in the mood faster, I'll be flying to California to visit my family for Easter. A much welcome change (the trees are in full bloom there!). If I need to, I'll bring my glue gun and put the blossoms back on the trees while I'm there.

If you're passionate about a certain season, let me hear about it (but please don't say "winter")!

Living Life Passionately,

Connie

Author, Trading Ashes for Roses

Living Outside the Box

This is our kitten's favorite place—an empty water container box. Several times now I've tried to throw it away, and she "cries" until I bring it back (three times now!). She loves this space—comfortable inside—looking out at the world. Sometimes she even pounces on it and it squishes to a flat piece of paper and then she "cries" some more until I build it back up to the way it was before. I'm not sure if she will "outgrow" it or if it's part of our new decor, "Bianca" style.

But isn't that they way we are? Take us out of our familiar surroundings and we feel unsettled. Some of us flourish in an environment that's new, but others of us flounder—"take me back to my box!" But think for a moment what your life would be like if you were forced to stay inside your “box”? There would be no growth, no stretch of the imagination, and worst of all, how would your passions survive?

Several years ago, I ventured outside my box. Comfortable in the medical field for years, I was like Bianca—it was safe. It was a sure thing: retirement with benefits, great pay, steady hours, and guaranteed work!

After living 10 years with a cancer diagnosis, I realize there's no guarantee of tomorrow—I just have "today." And I consciously choose to "live outside the box." Was it risky? Absolutely yes! Would I change anything? Are you kidding?! I have the best of both worlds: I can still use my medical knowledge to write articles for medical magazines and journals and best of all, I am “living” my passion daily—speaking and writing!

Ask God what it would take for you to live outside "your" box?

God's Coffee!

A dear friend of mine, Judy Dippel, from the CelebrateMoms team sent this great analogy about coffee. Pour a cup of coffee and "ponder" this thought:

A group of alumni, highly established in their
careers, got together to visit their old university
professor. Conversation soon turned into complaints
about stress in work and life.

Offering his guests coffee, the professor went to the
kitchen and returned with a large pot of coffee and an
assortment of cups - porcelain, plastic,glass,crystal,
some plain looking, some expensive, some exquisite -
telling them to help themselves to the coffee.
When all the students had a cup of coffee in hand, the
professor said: "If you noticed, all the nice looking
expensive cups were taken up, leaving behind the plain
and cheap ones. While it is normal for you to want
only the best for yourselves, that is the source of
your problems and stress.

Be assured that the cup itself adds no quality to the
coffee. In most cases it is just more expensive and in
some cases even hides what we drink. What all of you
really wanted was coffe e, not the cup, but you
consciously went for the best cups... And then you
began eyeing each other's cups.

Now consider this: Life is the coffee; the jobs, money
and position in society are the cups. They are just
tools to hold and contain Life, and the type of cup we
have does not define, nor change the quality of Life
we live.

Sometimes, by concentrating only on the cup, we fail
to enjoy the coffee God has provided us." God brews
the coffee, not the cups.......... Enjoy your coffee!

The happiest people don't have the best of everything.
They just make the best of everything.

Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak
kindly. Leave the rest to God.

Living Life Passionately,


Connie Pombo

Visit my post today at Boomer Babes Rock with Allison Bottke!

A Portrait in the Sky!

The other night I was coming home and saw this beautiful sight: layers of sky, moon, and a landscape from the "Tuscan Sun." I'm passionate about taking pictures, which is why I "always" keep a disposable camera in the glove compartment of the car. I swerved off the side of the road, ran into a newly manured field to take this shot. (I later had to throw those shoes away, but it was worth it!) I am a sunset watcher only because I don't see the sun "rise" that often, but now I'm a moon watcher!

Living Life Passionately,

Connie

Where is this beach?

Here's a little Christmas in July for you! If you can name this beach, I will send you a book bundle giveaway, including: Conversations on Faith, God Allows U-Turns for Women, and Trading Ashes for Roses!

Hurry! Christmas is just around the corner. (Yes, you may enlarge it to get the "total" picture!)

Living Passionately,


Connie Pombo
Author, Speaker, Photographer?

A Christmas Carol?

Today I went to my favorite Bible Bookstore and was saddened to see that it was going out of business. It's always bittersweet, isn't it? You get terrific bargains, but at the same time you realize that people will be looking for jobs and the mega-chain store buying online and off is taking over the "little" stores.

As I browsed through the aisles--some half empty--I felt sick inside. I even saw my book, Trading Ashes for Roses: From Pain to Passion at half off. It's always strange for me to see my book in the bookstore, mainly because I haven't gotten used to my "author" title yet. I just think of myself as someone who is passionate about writing.

I still had a few people to buy for on my Christmas list, so I checked out the music section of CD's--most of them had been picked over. But I found one by Sandi Patty--it was a sound track for singers. Okay, I'm not a singer, but I am asked a lot if I sing. I think the world has the notion that if you're a speaker/author, obviously you must be able to sing too, right? Wrong!

Singing has never been on my passionate to-do list. In fact, it's never made it to the top 27. But I have to say, I bought the CD and listened to all five sound tracks (one with vocals, one without, and of course Sandi Patty singing the "real" version of "It is Well with My Soul." It's one of my most favorite hymns. Now mind you, I have acute laryngitis and acute bronchitis, so all I could do was lip-sync. It didn't seem too hard until I really tried to sing (I don't suggest it with laryngitis). And then I thought, I just might be able to do this.

I was actually surprised to find out that "singing" is not listed under the top 10 fears of most people--speaking in public is still #1, so it may not be that bad afterall. Guess what my new passion for the New Year is going to be?

Fear is what holds back most of us from living out our passions and who knows, I just might become passionate about singing. And then when meeting planners call and ask if I sing, I can say, "Yes, I'm actually passionate about it!"

Speaking of passion and adventure, check out my dear author friend Susan Kelly Skitt's new blogsite at Living Life's Adventure.

Now that I'm back in the blogging rhythm, you'll be hearing more from me so stay tuned.

Living Passionately,


Connie Pombo
Author, Speaker, "Singer"?

More Wildflowers

I call this photo "Tuscany in My Garden": the blues, yellows, and the gorgeous sunflower right smack dab in the middle--like the leaning Tower of Pisa--make me want to jump on an airplane right now and head for Italy!

This has been a great summer for flowers and discovering a new passion--gardening. My neighbor still hangs her head over the fence and says, "I don't believe those came from a packet of seeds!" But soon the landscape will be covered with snow and a different kind of beauty will erupt. Until then I'll take my flowers! (Oh, did I mention I use Miracle Grow!).

Let me hear about your passionate gardening tips; I'm still new at this!

Living Life Passionately,


Connie

Savoring Joy!

These are my "wildflowers" that greet me each morning! How can I find such joy in a $1.00 packet of seeds that continually paint the landscape of my backyard with a myraid of colors?

For the last ten years I have practiced the "art" of savoring the present moment--countless positive experiences: awe at a brilliant sunset, luxuriating in a Jacuzzi, smelling the earth after a summer's rain, basking in the laughter of children playing, and watching my "garden" grow! How is it possible? I have to admit--extroverts, optimists and "Sanguine" types--like myself--have a much easier time than others (it comes naturally to us). But we can all learn to enhance our ability to enjoy our everyday lives more fully and to "live" in the present moment. But unfortunately most of us are just too busy to notice; the "white" noise of life distracts us from living passionately.

Next time you pass by a field of wildflowers: stop and take a mental photograph. Consciously make note of the features you want to remember later! I have several "mental" photographs I pull out often (even before I was interested in photography). Although it's nice to have a "tangible" picture; it's not necessary. One such mental photograph is of Dardinel's Lake in the Sierra's (backpacking in California--the year 1974). We made cheesecake in the glacial snow and watched the chipmunks eat it (not our idea, but theirs!). The glacier was mirrored in the lake and created an upside portrait--forever etched in my memory. I will never lose that photograph. I savor the joy of it often!

Living Life Passionately,


Connie

Passionate about Montreal!

No visit to Montreal would be complete without a visit to the Basilica of Notre Dame. This magnificent castle in the sky can be seen from almost any location in the city. And if you're planning a wedding, it can be rented for a mere $10,000 a day (ask Celine Dion).




The basilica inside is breathtaking (pictures cannot do it justice!), and at night a sound and light show: "And then there was Light," which highlights all the features and heritage of this artistic masterpiece. Don't forget the flower vendors across the street with a cascading fountain of every conceivable variety and color.




Mark Twain said, "This is the first time I was ever in a city where you couldn't throw a brick without breaking a church window. Yet I was told you are going to build one more . . ." It can't be argued that this is a city of churches, but if I had to pick just one to visit: Notre Dame would be it!

I'm passionate about stained-glass windows and the ones inside the basilica won't dissapoint you. Be prepared to wait in line and spend a couple of hours (we're glad we did!). Afterwards wander the sidestreets for some dining "al fresco" at one of the charming cafes.



Auvoir!

Living Life Passionately,


Connie

Paris without the Jet Lag!

The best way to see Montreal is via a carriage ride through "Vieux Montreal," and ask for "Slim" (aka Mark). He's had the likes of DiNiro, DiCaprio, Madonna and Oko Yono in his carriage. Instead of looking at the great architecture of this picturesque city, I found myself enthralled by the tales of Slim's celebrity adventures! The clip-clop of the horse-drawn carriage on the cobblestone streets with the bells of Notre Dame echoing throughout the city--with an occasional passer-by shouting "Bonjour,"--I felt as if I were in "Paris" without the jet lag!

Did you realize more "European" films are filmed here than in LA? Why? Because it costs less to take an entire film crew to Montreal than to close off one street in LA for an hour! There are no highwires in Old Montreal, and gas street lanterns give the feel of Europe at a fraction of the cost. Such films as "The Score"; "Ghostbusters"; "The Avaiator," and get this--the steps of "Law and Order" have been filmed here. Can you tell I was soaking in the entire flavor and history of this rare and unique gem of a city!



Don't miss Place Jacques-Cartier on the slope to the waterfront. Here you will find flower markets, cafes, and Place Royale - the city's oldest public square which dates back to 1657. Side streets are filled with artistans at work with something for everyone with prices to fit any budget.



This is absolutely a photographer's paradise! I caught this window while sipping cafe au lait with a "real" croissant (located along Place Jacques-Cartier). Montreal is charming by day and enchanting by night! You will want to return--like me--to taste more of this decidedly French city on the North American Continent.

Now I'm passionate about "all things" French, and managed to pick up enough words to make me really dangerous! However, you're safe with: bonjour, bonsoir, and merci!

Living Life Passionately!


Connie

More on my trip tomorrow! Until then "Auvoir"!

"Oh, Canada!"

If you missed me this week, I've been blogging on God Allows U-Turns. Visit www.godallowsuturns.com to catch up on "Living the Passionate Life!"

Tomorrow, very early, we leave for Canada: Montreal and Quebec City! I've made my new passionate to-do list and I'm checking it twice!! Be prepared for a photo journal when I return. I've got lots of superb reading to take along with me (hubby is driving this time).

Thanks for all who sent me their passionate stories this week via e-mail. I'll respond when I return.


Living Passionately,


Connie

Bellagio

This picture was taken in 1997 when I first discovered my passion for photography: a moment caught in time. That time, that place, that person will never be the same again. But this photo is forever engraved in my mind! At any moment of the day I can close my eyes and see the snow capped alps of Switzerland, the palm trees, and the sapphire of lakes--Lake Como. Walking through the streets with buildings flag-bedecked, geraniums rustling from every window, bougainvillea veiling the staircases--I knew heaven had to be close by! As I walked into the gardens of Villa Serbelloni, once designed to cradle dukes and duchesses in high luxury, is now the haven for the discreetly wealthy. I, of course, am not! But for one moment in time, I was transported to a time and place that serves as a reminder of what "heaven on earth" looks like. Is it any wonder that the composer Verdi chose to compose "La Traviata" in Cadenabbia across from Bellagio--what a magnificent view he had!

You can see why my love for Italy and the Italian language lends itself to "Living Life Passionately!"

Ci vediamo domani! Ciao tutti!

Connie

Guest Blogger

The week of July 3-9, I will be a guest blogger on Allison Bottke's U-Turns website. Allison is the the creator of the U-Turn series and in March, the book was released, volume 5 of the series: God Allows U-Turns for Women: The Chocies We Make Change the Story of Our Life. "Living the Passionate Life!" is my contribution to the book, and I hope you will join me next week. An added bonus, each time you make a comment to one of the posts, your name will be added to a drawing at the end of each month. Hope to hear from you next week.

Living Life Passionately,


Connie

Retreat for Writers

Welcome to my retreat for the weary writer: The Conestoga House. This estate is open to the public every Wednesday with formal gardens with thousands of rare and exotic flowers/plants from around the world. The public is allowed access from June through September and it's absolutely free. A picnic lunch is allowed in the terraced garden area by the pool. This is my great escape! You're free to join me on Wednesday afternoons (if you're in Lancaster, PA)! LOL

I started going regularly last year because an author friend of mine confided in me that she lost her "passion" for writing. I was amazed--shocked really--that anyone could lose their passion once they found it! It seems to be epidemic among writers/speakers. Too much on their plate with deadlines and multi-tasking! Her words came as a great admonishment: anything taken to the extreme can become a weakness! Writing became a "chore" to her--an obligation to fulfill and, yes, one more deadline to meet. Her health suffered, her family lamented, and eventually she experienced a total breakdown. I cried--no sobbed--as she shared the loss of her passion. I wondered, "Would she ever write again?" She said, "I don't miss it at all--my life is full of people that I love--not deadlines. In the process of writing, I lost contact with those I love, my family and friends, and I kept putting things off because of deadlines." Does this sound familiar to any of you writers?!?!?!? Take heed!

I have taken very seriously what she said because I never want to lose my passion for writing, but as long as I'm hooked into the "passion giver," I think I will continue to love what I do.

Of late, I have met even more authors/speakers just like my friend. Create a refuge, guard against a writer's worst enemy--the loss of your first love--the Lord Jesus Christ! Find your own "Conestoga Gardens"--refresh and renew your weary soul! A deadline can wait--your soul cannot!

Living Life Passionately,

Connie

Greek Tragedy or Roman Drama?

For those of you who have never given birth in a foreign culture, you have missed one of life's greatest moments. In less than 45 minutes, my oldest son, Jeremy, will turn 25 years old. He was born in Catania, Sicily (the little island off the boot of Italy!). We had a "Cinque-Cento" for a car, which is just about as big as a loaf of bread, and with my nine-month pregnant tummy--we had a car load full! I gave birth in a small clinic without a doctor. I truly believed them when they told me I would deliver sometime the next day!). Jeremy came kicking and screaming into the world in less than three hours after my arrival (while I slept--please don't hate me for having a nearly non-existent labor). I was surprised as anyone to realize that "birth" was so easy (what was that verse in the Bible?). I was expecting unbearable pain, but quite frankly I was scared by all the other laboring Italian women shouting, "Maria, aiutami!" (Translation: Mary, help me!) The only real drama that occurred was watching everyone else run around with haste trying to get me to the delivery room (don't move a laboring woman!). I won that battle and Jeremy was born. I was passionate about giving birth; it was just too much fun! My only disappointment was it didn't last long enough and I didn't get to use my "American" Lamaze classes that we took at Signonella Air Base. I expect those of you who have labored for 36 hours will be giving me a call and letting me know of your disgust! But I have "suffered" in other ways--just not childbirth!

Italians live life passionately without trying (I know I married one), and if I had to do it all over again, all my children would be born there. La dolce vita! Add Italy to your passionate places to visit--you will never regret it!

The "birth" of our passions is often the result of great suffering, but more on that later. Tune into www.godallowsuturns.com where I will be sharing how God used another kind of suffering to reveal my passions. (I will be blogging the week of July 3-9.)

Living Life Passionately,


Connie Pombo

My Son is Living His Passion

Jeremy, my 24-year-old son, called me on his cell phone from "El Cap" in Yosemite. He's the rock climber and is in "rock climbing heaven" right now. Last night they did a nine-pitch climb using their headlight gear and he said, "It was great, Mom; I could see the stars above and it was "pitch" dark below us." Great! There are some things a mom just doesn't need to know!

He's coming home tomorrow on his twenty-fifth birthday, June 30! But I think he already had the best gift of all--"Yosemite"--a rock climber's paradise.

Holding onto the "Rock"!

Living Life Passionately,


Connie

Superman Returns in 3-D at the IMAX

I just got back from a fun writing assignment: Reporting on Superman Returns in 3-D at the IMAX. Okay, I know what you're thinking?!?!? But I will never see a movie again unless I can see it on an IMAX screen in 3-D. Did you know that the film they use is three times larger than normal size film, the projector is the size of a car, and the light is so bright that it can be seen from space!!! The popcorn and drinks were great too--I love this job! I'm passionate about certain movies, but this absolutely tops the list. This is your movie critque's corner for today!

Living Life Passionately,

Connie

A Day without the Internet

Yesterday my modem went out on my highspeed Internet and a new one had to be ordered through my Internet provider, so now I'm using "dial-up" (and I thought highspeed was slow!). To get an old password for dial up re-activated, I spoke with four technicians from India: Raymond, Michael, Ben, and James, obviously not their real names. The problem: I couldn't understand a word they were saying, so I asked my computer technician whom I had called to help interpret. He couldn't understand them either. Three hours later, we got someone from the states who solved the problem in 3 minutes instead of 3 hours. My point: How did we become so dependent on the Internet in the first place and how did out-sourcing become so prolific?

I'm passionate about writing, but when there is a systems' failure, my passion dwindles. Today, I'm up and running (mind you a tad bit slower), but I realized through the whole experience, I'm entirely too dependent on the "computer"; it's my best friend and worst enemy. But as a writer, I can take any situation--bad or good--and write about it! Stay tuned for the tales of: Raymond, Michael, Ben and James (I wonder what their "real" names are). If you have a "passionate" Internet story, I'd love to hear from you.

In the meantime stay connected!

Living Life Passionately,

Connie

Wedding Bells and Happy Father's Day Weekend!

This past weekend, my oldest son, Jeremy, was in a friend's wedding. I was supposed to be at a book signing for God Allows U-Turns for Women in Whitehall, PA, but my "U-Turn Sisters" allowed me this time to be with my family at the wedding. Thank you Susan, Tammy, and Carolyn--you are so precious to my heart! I can't wait to hear all about the reading/discussion and signing!

The wedding was beautiful and the flower girl upstaged the bride by throwing and "re-throwing" her petals up and down the aisle! But the best part of any wedding is re-living your own when the vows are given. What made Terry and Danielle's wedding so memorable was the similarity to ours (minus the adorable flower girl!). The bridemaids' dresses were lime green; they played "The Wedding Song" and the "Lord's Prayer," and read from I Corinthians 13--all of which we had in our 1975 wedding! There was "passion" in the air.

Passion--what is it? Webster defines it as: "a compelling emotion or desire." Mark and I are more "passionate" about each other now than when we first married 30 years ago. That my dear friends is a tribute to our Lord Jesus Christ who made us one. Now we complete each other's sentences, we speak the same words at the same time, and some may say we look like each other (I'm the one with the hair!).

Thanks, sweetheart for 30 wonderful years! I'm sending this post to your e-mail! And thank you to my dear U-Turn sisters for allowing me to make yet another U-Turn back to the future--if only for one day!

Living Life Passionately,


Connie

"The Grand Canal," Venice, Italy - 2004

Today while trying to find a Father's Day gift, I came across a book, 1,000 Places to See Before You Die. Okay, I have to tell you . . . that reminds me of my "Passionate Life" speech--27 things I want to do before I die, and many of those things I wanted to do were in the book--that is places to see! I guess it's no secret to those who know me best, that I love to travel! And one of my favorite places is Italy: my son was born there, we lived there six years; I love the Italian food, language, and culture. So the first chapter I turned to was Italy, of course, and I had to make sure I had visited all the places that were on their list. With a few exceptions, I have seen all the "passionate" places in Italy except, are you ready? - Pompeii, the "Leaning Tower of Pisa," Verona, and "The Last Supper" in Milan at Santa Maria delle Grazie. On my last trip to "Milano"--it was closed! That was my third trip to Milan and I left without seeing "The Last Supper." Okay, what's my point here? Do you have a list of places you've not seen, but always wanted to? Start making the list and crossing them off. There's no time like the present to "live" your passion! I will leave you with a picture postcard of Venice. Marcel Proust writes, "When I went to Venice, my dream became my home." Enjoy your ride down the Grand Canal--experiencing the city from a uniquely Venetian perspective.

Living Life Passionately,


Connie

DREAMING OF A NEW JOB?!

This morning I read on MSN the "Five Dream Jobs of Women." I looked to see if Author/Speaker was on there and "no" it wasn't. But what was listed intrigued me; I guess because I've actually thought seriously of doing one of them! Here they are ladies (keep dreaming!): Hollywood Wardrobe Stylist (no thanks!); Vacation Tour Director (Yes! Of course, it also pays the least--$20,000 per year--but who cares?!). After living in Italy for six years, I realized it's a BIG world and I want to see more of it! Actually, I considered a job with "Pirillo Tours"--only because I speak "Italian" and I love Italy (need I say more!). Here's one that made me laugh: Ice Cream Creator! On a recent speaking engagement, I was in Stowe, Vermont and passed by the Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream Plant and went on tour and met the "ice cream tasters." Except they call themselves "food scientists" for a whopping $56,000 per year! You can have your ice cream and eat it too! Okay, are you ready? Number Four: Concert Promoter (maybe!--I guess it depends on who I'm promoting!). And last but not least, Doll Fashion Designer. Okay you "GI Janes" at $68,000 per year you too could learn to like dolls--again?!

They all sound fun and interesting, but I'm going to keep my "job"--writing about my passion!

That's what's on my heart today!

Living Life Passionately,


Connie Pombo

"Delight yourselves in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart." -Psalm 37:4

God Allows U-Turns for Women Book Signing, North Wales, PA

From left to right: Carolyn Ruch, Susan Kelly Skitt, Tammy Gehman, Connie Pombo.

At Barnes & Noble in North Wales, PA on Saturday, June 3, the U-Turn authors and I had our third book signing. It was pouring down rain and sure enough it proved to be a good day for having a book signing (authors--keep that in mind!). What a joy it has been sharing these signings/discussions with Susan Kelly Skitt of Chalfont, PA, Carolyn Ruch from Hatfield, PA, and Tammy Gehman from Allentown, PA. Their U-Turn stories are amazing and what a gifted group of women that I have had the pleasure of being with since our first book signing on April 1 (no joke!). Had it not been for our stories and inclusion in the series, our paths would have never crossed.

This morning on the way to church my husband said, "If you could be doing anything right now at this time in your life, would what it be?" Without hesitation, I said, "Exactly what I'm doing now!" For the first time in my life, I can truly say, "I'm passionate about what I do!" Unfortunately, it all came with a cost!Through my tragedy, pain, and loss, I found my passion--speaking and writing.

Don't wait for something tragic to happen to ask yourself the same question. Evaluate your life: Do you want to be doing what you're doing in a year from now? It's estimated that 84% of Americans dislike their career or profession and 63% don't want to get out of bed on Monday morning because they dislike what they do. Are you one of those statistics? It's never too late to evaluate your life and make a U-Turn!

I'll be guest blogging on the U-Turn website the week of July 3-9. Be sure to check it out at www.godallowsuturns.com.

That's what's on my heart!

Living Life Passionately,


Connie

Weekend of Hope, Stowe, Vermont - May 5-7, 2006
Once every year, the community of Stowe and surrounding areas open their hearts and resources to cancer survivors across the nation. Lectures, workshops and informational sessions are given by leaders in the field of cancer care. Rooms are provided free of charge to families dealing with cancer--donated by the members of the Stowe Area Association. I first attended in 2002 and then again in 2003 where my life was changed--I wanted to share my story of hope and healing with others.

In December 2005, the journey was complete with the book I had in my heart since I was first diagnosed: Trading Ashes for Roses: From Pain to Passion. It's the book I always wanted when I was diagnosed: "Here read this book; this is what I'm feeling and this is how you can help!" One of the best gifts I received was a journal that read, "Start writing!" and I have stopped since. Writing is therapeutic--it aided in my recovery, and to share that with others is my way of giving back. This year I returned as a presenter for a therapeutic writing workshop, and what started as a way of dealing with the life-changing effects of cancer, has now become my passion--speaking and writing!

Thanks to the generosity of the Stowe Weekend of Hope, I stayed at the lovely von Trapp Family Lodge (a bit of Austria in America!). From my balcony I captured a rare moment for me--a sunrise! I heard it would be magnificent, so I set my alarm for 5:00 a.m.--no sunrise! Then again at 5:15 a.m. (where is that sun?!) Once again at 5:25 a.m. (I was tempted to go back to bed!), and then creeping over the mountains it came--a magnificent fireball filling the sky. I captured it on film to remind myself that it's worth an early rising to see God's beauty painted in the skies in such a glorious backdrop!

Green is the color of spring, hope, and healing! It's also the color of the mountains in Stowe that inspire us to celebrate each day as a gift--something those of us living with cancer never take for granted.

If you know someone dealing with cancer, tell them about the Weekend of Hope (held every year--the first weekend of May). Bringing survivors together in such a beautiful, supportive resort environment is healing for the body and the soul. That weekend three years ago, changed the course of my life--I wouldn't be doing what I'm doing today!

For more information on the Weekend of Hope visit www.stowehope.org.

While cleaning out my file folders (definitely not on my passionate to-do list), I came across an essay written by my son, Jonathan, when he was 9-years-old; I had just been diagnosed with cancer. That boy is now a man--he will be 20-years-old this summer and is a freshman at Grove City College and doing wonderfully. But as I read through the essay I was reminded how significantly my diagnosis had affected him. He writes, "Because of my mom's cancer, I have been able to handle many changes in my life. Also, I have learned how to handle unexpected situations. These things have given me strength for today and for my future. I will always remember what happened on March 21, 1996." Great words of wisdom from a young child! Both of my sons have gone on to excel in all their endeavors, but more importantly through their tragedy, pain, and loss--they have discovered their passions! Jon is passionate about snowboarding and Jeremy is passionate about rock climbing--extreme sports--testing the limits. I find that we do two things with pain: either bury it or become more passionate about life because of it. The choice is always ours. I'm not passionate about organizing files, but I received an extra gift today. This month on March 21, 2006, I will be celebrating 10 years of "cancer survivorship" and living life passionately. Life is a gift--open the file folders of your life and begin to do the things you've always wanted to do--start making a list, but don't file it away! For more about "Living Life Passioantely" check out my story in the God Allows U-Turns for Women book that just came out by Bethany House Publishers.

Every night before you go to sleep, look at the good you've accomplished during the day; measure your progress, and make plans for taking advantage of whatever opportunity the morning brings your way.

Simple Wisdom - Inspirational verses for each day!

As I went to bed last evening I was surrounded by 17 file folders--all works in progress: speaking engagements, writing projects, deadlines, and my "passionate to-do" folder--an ongoing list of the things I want to do, but haven't accomplished yet! The day had been one of constant interruptions and it seemed that "nothing" was being accomplished--I was faced with more "to-do's" and my passion for completing them was fading. But then I picked up the folder titled: Passionate Living Workshop. Then I had one of those lightbulb moments: Wait a minute, this is the whole purpose of what I do--to help others discover their passion! In the last chapter of Trading Ashes for Roses I explore the questions that helped me to discover my passion; it started with three simple questions: If you had a year to live, what would you do differently? What would change in your life now in order for that to happen? What are some goals you can make in order for that to become a reality (name at least three)?

Measure your progress one passionate goal at a time! For more helps and hints on discovering your passion, check out: Trading Ashes for Roses at http://www.conniepombo.com

Blessings and Joy,


Connie

"Roses--what would my life be without them--whether a single rosebud or an entire bouquet, they have transformed my life."

Ten years ago after being diagnosed with cancer, I never thought that a "rose" would change my life, but each day brings more roses--ones I never expected, including the book, Trading Ashes for Roses, my gift to anyone hurting from life's tragedies, pain and loss. Through my cancer journey, I discovered my passion--speaking and writing. That list of 27 things I wanted to do before I died is now complete--it's time to start a new one!

What's keeping you back from realizing your passions? Take some time to reflect on what it is you have always wanted to do, but didn't because there wasn't enough time. Well...there's no time like this present moment.

To help you get started, check out the last chapter of Trading Ashes for Roses and begin your journey of living the passionate life.

Blessings on this remarkable journey!

Last night at 7:30 p.m. I received a phone call that every parent dreads. It was from our youngest son, Jon, who just left for college in August. Well into my first trimester of the “empty-nest” phase, I was feeling confident I had passed the first hurdle with flying colors. Then the words, “Mom, I got hurt.” Visions of disaster poured into my mind of our child lying in a foreign hospital bed with no one to comfort him. Jon is passionate about sports: rock climbing, skiing, snowboarding, and tennis. What was it this time—a stray tennis ball? “Jon, what did you do?” Thankfully, he was lucid and able to explain in detail what happened. He said, “I was playing Ultimate Frisbee and got tackled—hitting my head on the ground. They think I have a concussion.” My overworked and tired brain turned to Jello! I couldn’t comprehend what I was hearing—this was his third concussion in a year’s time. Would his brain also turn to Jello? “I gotta go—I’ll call you later.” I prayed, “Lord this is our beloved son—please take care of him.” I fell asleep around 1:00 a.m. with my Bible and phone clutched to my chest.” I was awakened shortly afterwards and grabbed the phone on the second ring. Sweet words to a mother’s heart: “Mom, I’m okay—they sent me ‘home,’ I’ll talk to you tomorrow—I gotta go.” A dial tone filled the silence. “Home” was now the dorm room—not the place of comfort we created for him over the past 19 years. We gave him roots and now we were giving him wings—to pursue his passion! I passed my first test “How to Let your Children Go—101” Did I get a passing grade? I hope so! Although we can’t always be there physically, we can be there with our prayers. “Lord, you are the great protector—keep an eye on this child of ours.” Jon, will always be passionate about sports—we can’t keep him from it—but we can pray God’s protection on him. Passion—an intense emotion, a compelling desire—it can change our lives and those around us! (At the time of this writing, Jon is being sent a helmet!)

Recently I read that 84% of all Americans dislike their jobs or professions! I had to wonder about the dentist who drilled into my tooth last week (my 50th birthday present--a crown)! Does my dentist truly enjoy getting up each morning to drill teeth? Statistically speaking, 63% of us dread Monday mornings because we dislike our jobs so much. That's a lot of dissatisfied people! What would need to change for everyone to be passionate about what they were doing? I'm in the process of collecting "passionate" stories of lives changed by difficult circumstances. As strange as it may seem, those of us who have suffered the most have received an unexpected gift--living life passionately! It took a life-threatening illness for me to discover what I was truly passionate about, and it changed the way I would live the rest of my life. If you would like to share how you discovered your passion through difficult and painful circumstances, go to www.womensmentoringministries.com and write "passionately living" in the website feedback.

Passionately yours!

Connie