Are You Connecting With Him?

Many women find themselves stumped and bewildered when they try to communicate with men and especially the main man in their lives. Here's an article that suggests that you can reach his heart by "getting into his head".

Communication, open and honest with the other person's character at heart will much more often than not produce a genuine and lasting relationship.



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Journal Thursday

Today's journal will be on reminiscing. Pull out the old photo album or box of pictures and find one that is "ordinary". Look at it and reflect for a moment where you were or where it was taken and write out what comes to mind. Remember, it's the ordinary days that fill our lives the most and it is in these days that we reflect...our purpose, meaning, as well as our character which is demonstrated to others in these days.



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Job Blues?

Have you been feeling the "job blues" lately at work? Are there times you wish you were at another job? Well, according to career expert Marty Nemko you are not alone. Many workers find that it may be the company, an annoying boss or manager, broken promises, and the list goes on as to why they are dissatisfied. It may be necessary to evaluate where you stand with the company or your boss or confronting your own expectations of the job. Re-evaluating your circumstances and exploring your options certainly may help ease some anxiety and put you in the driver's seat for a fulfilling job.



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Coping With Loss

Loss in our lives is one of those things we know exists but have difficulty facing. We know it will happen but when, and with who, and why? Why does it happen at times unexpectedly? Here's an article about coming to grips with loss and as we do, working through the pain toward healing.

If you or someone you know has suffered a loss, you are not alone. Seeking solace from others and through counseling may truly be sources of comfort and healing.



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Journal Thursday

Take out a blank (no lines) piece of paper and a box of crayons. After reading through this paragraph, put a blindfold over your eyes. Imagine a pleasant scene that you have seen or dreamed of. The more the abstract the better (such as a sunrise or sunset or an outdoors scene). Now, reach for your crayons and begin to create your scene. NO PEEKING. Take your time and let your imagination do the creating. Remember: This is an exercise of expression and not perfection.

When you are done, remove the blindfold. Without the eyes as your critic, did your work turn out as you imagined?

Now journal your thoughts and feelings about this exercise.



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Kindling the Relationship Flame

Keeping the relationship alive can be a joy or a chore. Relationships that last have a much greater tendency of lasting when there is a strong committment in making it work. Here's an article that makes some great points on keeping the "flame" going.
Give it a read and see where you can make a positive impact in your relationship.



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

We Remember

Our thoughts and prayers for our country in remembering those who lost their lives 6 years ago today.



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Journal Thursday

Today will be totally up to you. Take a moment and write whatever comes to your mind. We may call this "free association"...a way to let out what is on your mind however it comes out. It could come out not making any sense or jibberish, random, etc. This is a way of helping to clear your mind.

After a few hours or a day has past, read your entry. You may want to highlight certain things that "jump" out at you and later make note of them.




Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Does Bullying Effect Your Child?

We see or hear about it in the schools or at PTA meetings, or in parent gatherings--bullying. It's something that may start as teasing, crude humor directed toward certain "types" of peers, then negative talk directed toward individuals, it then may lead to threats, pushing, kicking, and so on.
If your child is complaining about being bullied or may change his/her routine to or from school or with extra-curricular activities, leaves or comes home feeling scared or procrastinates in going to school, take notice and ask questions. Be calm, loving, and listen as you learn what is going on. Here's some tips that may be helpful in dealing with the bullying.

Being in tune with your child may help encourage him/her to be more confident, reassured, and pro-active.



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Journal Thursday

If you were to be given a gift, any gift you wanted, what would it be?
Who would give it?
What would the significance be of this gift?




Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Suicide Awareness

Recently in the news, a known actor was treated for a suicide attempt. In the past, we have seen many others who have attempted and/or succeeded. It is important to be aware of signs within yourself as well as in your family or friends. Here are some things to be aware of that may help save your life or someone elses.

Here's a link to suicide hotlines or call 1-800-SUICIDE. Of course, if you or anyone else is in imminent danger, call 911 immediately.

If you would like counseling in the Tucson area for suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, alcohol/drug use, or other concerns, we are here to help. Please feel free to let us know.



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com
phone: 520-292-9750

Return to Education...

Well, here we are...for many of us school has started, re-started or is about to once again. Whether we have school-aged children, are getting into college, or not, school season effects us one way or another. Education is advertised in so many circles from TV, magazines, newspapers, radio, etc. We hear about "save up for your child's education", or "start school now and finish is as little as 9 months", or "go back to school...", or "advance your career...", and other such proclamations. But does learning have to be connected to a "formal" education? Can we learn and educate ourselves in other ways? Sure we can!!!

What do you do to educate yourself on various topics? Re-discover learning as a way to expand your mind and exchange your knowledge with others.

Keep your mind alert & sharp...you never know when and how you will be called upon to use it!



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Journal Thursday

Starting Again...
The theme for today's journal entry. Think of a time when you had to start an activity all over again....whether a project, an assignment, a trip, a class, a relationship, etc. What were you initial thoughts and feelings? How did you "start over"? How did it end up? What did you learn from the event?



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Movie Time: For Fun & Chat

Movies, movies, movies. As many as there are people and opinions there are movies. Consider a date night or just gathering with family or friends for a movie that you could later talk about.

Enjoy.



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Journal Thursday

Identify 3 people in your life, whether in the past or currently that have been or are a great influence in your life. Identify and write down 5-7 key attributes about each one that jump out at you right away. Then, take each attribute and describe each one in summary fashion.

Then, take a highlighter and highlight those attributes you see in yourself.




Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Dream to a New Work

Ever feel you are stuck or just not cutting it in your current job? Have you just stopped dreaming? Here's an article that may be an encouragement for you to keep dreaming alive and move you to a plan of action.

If your gifts, talents, passions, and values aren't alive with you in your current job, it may be time to rediscover you, and seek satisfaction in your career.

Career counseling is a viable option to help assist you in discovering your design or re-inventing you in moving you to leaving a legacy full of meaning and significance.

What would you like to do?



Here for you....
Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Do I Panic?

Ever find yourself or someone you love having an overwhelming fear or panic? Do the feelings seem to come on for little or no apparent reason? Does anxiety creep into your life unexpected?

Learn more about this treatable condition.




Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Journal Thursday

As it is the day after the the 4th celebrations, I thought it would be good to do a Journal Thursday on -- journaling about what freedom, true freedom mean to you. Is freedom a gift without responsibility? Write also on what it means to be responsible with your freedom.

If you'd like, please post here on our blog. Thanks.



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Liberty: A Far Cry from Tyranny

Here's a speech spoken over 230 years ago from a bold Patriot.

Read,Enjoy, Ponder, Reflect, and Act.

May our freedoms be gained not by fear or force, but by courage, boldness in what is good, right and whole.

United we stand, d i v i d e d we fall.



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Does Thin = Happiness?

It seems we are bombarded with infomercials, ads, and news stations talking about weight, being fit, trim, etc and many times we may find that we lose ourselves in the whole shuffle. Here's an article that may help you set some realistic goals toward a healthy perspective of you and your body image.

Your health is worth the effort.



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Journal Thursday

Here's another angle on journaling. Think of numbers...what numbers come to mind? Any favorites? Birthday? Anniversary? Phone #? First day of _______? Any numbers that are significant for you? What thoughts and feelings are associated with the number/s?

Now journal about these numbers, their significance along with your thoughts and feelings.

Reflect for a moment...focus on the positive and fondness of these memories. If any unfinished business, consider talking with a trusted friend and/or consider talking with a counselor in order to work them out toward your health and healing.

Remember: You are of great value.



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Keeping the Discipline of Children in Check

Parenting today can be rather difficult and out-right stressful. This may lead to poor or at times "destructive" parenting. In an article with FamilyEducation.com the author identifies 8 destructive ways. Parents can avoid them by being aware of them and changing any negative way/s in parenting.

You can be a positive role model for your children!



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Hugs

Remember your 5 hugs a day...they do wonders! Of course, remember to ask before you walk up to someone and squeeze 'em.



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Summer Story-time

Are the kids getting bored at home or is it just too hot to get outside? Here's a fun way to tap into your kids' imagination as well as yours. Instead of turning on the TV, make up your own cartoon or TV show. Create a line of characters, costumes, and a "stage" in your living room or bedroom. The characters' roles, functions, environment, etc is up to all involved. Write out a story, or make it up as you go along. This will help all to "s t r e t c h" your imagination and creativity.




Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Need a Pick-Me-Up?

Do we all get down from time to time? Yes, most people experience some form of let down or sadness in their lives. When we lose a loved one, a change in our job responsibilities, or loss of a job, various forms of disturbing news, a decision gone bad, even when we come to the end of a hard fought and obtained goal we may notice an energy shift.
However, when we find ourselves in a "slump", just dragging along, we could use a lift to get us back up again. From a perspective of feeling happy, here are some things you could do to help improve your mood.

Sometimes when we need a pick-me-up, picking someone else up along the way can truly pick us up as well!




Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Helping Kids Cope

Kids encounter many stressors today and being aware of the stressors and ways to cope with them can really help children through them. Here's some ways to help a child cope with stress.

Being there, and listening to a child is a big start. What are some ways you can "be there" as a support?




Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Journal Thursday

Choose a flower, any flower...from the ground, from a picture...anywhere. Stare at it for a moment. What do you see? What is unique about it? What about its environment? How does it complement its environment? Write these things down.

Now, go to a mirror. Look into it for a moment. What do you see? What is unique about you? What is your life's environment like? How do you complement your environment? Write these things down.

Finish by journaling your experiences.



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Creative Time Together

Many couples today are finding it harder and harder to share time together and especially making the time to talk through life's issues. Some couples are are using their time in the car to talk while others use text messaging, "sticky" notes, and other elusive forms of communicating. We may find it hard to communicate with one another when we have various distractions and other "committments" that interfer with our connection with our partner.

What general and creative ways do you find that are effective in communicating with your partner? If you find it difficult to connect or frustrating when you do, it may lead to hurt, anger, fear, and aloneness. A "tune-up" in counseling may be helpful in renewing that spark, the fun of being "with", and getting the value of "WE" back in the relationship!




Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Divorce Down?

There's an article that points out a trend in divorce rates--saying it's down...the lowest since the 70's. Different reasons are identified. How is it for you? Whether you are married, or partnering with someone, are you happy? Is the relationship on the rocks? Do you want to improve yourself as a couple or is it over? Maybe getting some help for the both of you would be beneficial or maybe just sorting some things out on your own may be good for you.

Consider the value of your relationship and yourself. Are you (as a couple or yourself) worth it?




Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Jounral Thursday

For today's journal entry, draw a circle about the size of a CD...then draw another circle the size of the base of a disposable water bottle inside the CD circle. In the smaller circle, write what things that matter most in your life. Now, in ther larger circle, write all the activities that you do that distract you from those things that matter most in your life.

Now, take a black marker, pencil, or lipstick or white correction fluid and mark out the outer circle (with its contents) while keeing the inner circle intact.

Journal ways you can keep your inner circle intact.




Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Get Ready for the Interview

Knowing the job you want, having the knowledge to do the work are very vital, but so is being ready for the interview and presenting yourself well. Her are some things to keep in mind when you go into the interview.

Happy interviewing!




Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Journal Thursday

Have you ever been assessed at work? The yearly evaluations? Have you ever given one?
Well, today's journal entry is for you to write a descriptive narrative about someone close to you as if you were going to describe the person to someone who doesn't know him/her. Describe the person's character traits, ability in interacting with you and others, and his/her citizenship and/or leadership qualities.
When done, would you share your narrative with the one you wrote about? If so, then do so. It just may make his/her day.

Happy journaling!



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Are You Ready?

Here it is the last day of April and students from all over the country are cramming their cranium with mass information for final exams and papers to turn in. But for those "non-students", how does the student population effect you? Do you grin in anticipation that someone you love is graduating? Will business pick up or slow down after the (college) students leave? What can you do to prepare for school ending (this season) for many?




Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

It's NeverToo Late

At 95 years young, an inspiring learner will grace the graduation platform next month as the oldest known student to graduate from college. What a story of one woman's journey who keeps her mind sharp and will be a motivation for many in the months and years to follow.

Way to go! You can do it! Stick to your goals & aspirations! Don't give up! When you feel discouraged, look to others for strength, guidance, and inspiration!

Have a wonderful weekend!



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Jounral Thursday

Reach in your pocket or handbag and find your keys. Pick a key and reflect then journal about what door that key opens, where it leads, what does the space that the key opens to represent to you.



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Healthy Mood Food

Whether we want to admit it or not, there's a reason or two why we eat what we eat. "What do you want to eat? What are you in the mood for?" How many of us plan weeks in advance what we are going to eat for lunch or dinner? To put ourselves in a happy or energetic mood, try out some suggestions from this atricle and you may find yourself in a wonderful happy mood.

Keep your body along with your mind and spirit toned!



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Jounral Thursday

Today, in wake of the recent Virginia Tech tragedy, journal your feelings about this tragedy. If this event is not known to you or doesn't interest you, then journal your feelings about another recent tragedy.
What positive things can you do about this tragedy? Journal these things. Consider what you may do from these positive things.



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Interview Readiness

There's times when we just want to get a job. We figure we qualified for some jobs we're looking at at then we get the call for an interview. But are we ready for it? Here's some blunders to avoid and some ways to be prepared.



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

When Mayhem Strikes

Why? How? Who could do this? Could this have been prevented? Did the authorities take proper action? What can be done? These are just a few of the questions stirring with yesterday's horrific killings at the Virginia Tech campus. Our country mourns again for loss at mass and our hearts, peace, and prayers go to the families and friends of those struck and to the students, professors, faculty, staff who have gone and are going through this tragedy.

Some Resources
Preparedness and coping with tragedy
Coping

On a Courageous Note:
A Virginia Tech Hero's Story



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Are You on a Technology Leash?

With all the advances in technology today, isn't it a wonder our jobs may take too much advantage of it? A survey was done with workers who carried some of the latest gadgets.

How would you answer the survey? Would you make some changes with how you use the latest gizmos?

Life in perspective.


Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Can You Choose Happiness?

Found an artcle on happiness and thought I'd share it with you. What do you think? Can you choose to be happy? Is it elusive like a butterfly, or is it something you can pursue until obtained? Can it stay with you?

Some things to reflect on.


Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Jounral Thursday

On the path of life we tread many journeys...some short, some spun out, some ssalient, some sluggish, some satisfying, some second-rate. Today, consider a journey in your life that made you stronger as a human being. Jounral about the ups and downs, the good, bad, and indifferent. How did it make you stronger? What did you learn from it?

Would you share your journey story with another who may be struggling as you did...to be helpful for him or her?



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Jounral Thursday on Friday?

Ever have one of those days you wish would just end...you just want to fast-forward through it and hope it goes away? But then there's something about a new day being a fresh start. We get them everyday...but of course, one at a time.

For your journal entry write about that new day...not about what has happened today or yesterday but rather about tomorrow...what you are to make happen, a day with hope, joy, newness, peace.

After the hard rain comes new growth, life and a chance to start anew. Question is, "Will the rain water stand still and turn green or will it flow through you to refresh and give you life?"


Joel
info@emmau2u.com

PASSION

What comes to mind when you hear the word passion? Strong desire? Intense emotion? Lust? Sacrifice? Enduring fervor? This week is considered by some as Passion Week...referring to the Passion of the Christ and his ultimate sacrifice. What "passion" did he show? Do you share in his passion? Could you sacrifice yourself for another?

Well, it may not be death but it could be spending time with someone in need, or listening to a friend's concerns, or paying a bill for another, or babysitting for a friend or ???

What motivates your passion? Is is selfless or selfish?



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Bored at Work?

Ask youself these questions.....
Are your skills and talents put to good use?
Are you better off where you are at?
Are you up for a raise or promotion (or did you recently get one)?
Are you not willing to relocate?
Are you willing to improve yourself with the current company?

If you answered "no" to most of these questions, then you may need to get ready to move on.
Maybe, you just need some time to sort things out or to reflect on the actual line of work you are doing. Is it you? Do you wake up ready to get the work done? Does it align with your career goals? Your skills? Talents? If not, then maybe it's time to get some career counseling and take an assessment or two to get a better handle on what work best fits you. This is an area we may be able to help you with. Feel free to email us.


Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Journal Thursday

Today is picture-it-and-draw-it day for journaling. Imagine a recent challenge you had to overcome and you did it. What comes to mind in that whole challenge? Picture it in your mind and draw something that reminds you of you overcoming the challenge.

Give it a try.



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Volunteering On Vacation

I saw this article and wondered what to make of volunteering time while on vacation. What a great idea. Isn't vacation a time of getting out of the routine and doing something different? Being altruistic can be rather rewarding...giving of our time or talent or resources really turns out to be a blessing for both the giver and the receiver.

Any ideas of joining up with some volunteers? Click here



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Keeping a Keen Mind

Whether we realize it or not, our mind is probably our most valuable or valued asset and keeping it in shape may help us maintain our mental and emotional health. Dr. Mao suggests some ways to improve and keep your mind together.

You're worth it to yourself to be mentally and emotionally sharp!


Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Is the "D" Word Coming in Your Relationship?

Is your relationship in trouble? Is it fixable? Click here to see if your relationship is vulnerable.

There's a few things you can do that may surprise you...but it will take some effort to make the relationship work.


Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Couples and Money

So many couples we see coming for counseling are telling us, among other things, that they disagree about money. A recent study indicates one major reason this may occur...materialism! What does this have to do with anything? Take a read and think about it for you and your situation.

There's an old saying that goes something like this: Where your money/wealth is there will your heart be also. Something to consider.



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Journal Thursday

Journaling is a way of clarifying your thoughts, clearing your mind, use of reflecting...so in a few days or weeks or months when you read today's entry you can look back to where you were.

Take a moment and reflect on one or two key interactions you have had with someone today or maybe if you have been alone an epiphany you have had. Write out your interaction/s or thought. Consider your current feelings after you have written your entry...then write these feelings. If you could have planned your interactions differently, what would you have changed?
Write this done as well.

Have a churning and reflective day!



Joel
info@emmaus2u.com

Teens and Hormones

Teens are their own mystery and explanations as to their behavior, well this may seem a mystery as well. There may be an explanation to their "moodiness" ,however, and one worth noting. Putting into perspective their life changes, learning new things, discovering the "opposite" sex, peer pressure, career exploration, etc will also add to the adult being the "sane" one in growing through this "phase" in the teens' lives as well as the young adult to become, well, an adult.

Joel Ackley
info@emmaus2u.com

Starting Anew

Well, we've been gone for a few moments in time and now are back. Hope all is well with you and that you find some fresh new ideas as well as some old solid insight and knowledge at your finger tips. To locate our previous blog postings go to http://www.pathwaystucson.emmaus2u.com/blog/