"She's a Work in Progress"

Valentine's Day- Fact or Fiction?

2012-02-10T22:30:00.000-08:00

As this "special" day approaches, one cannot help but feel somewhat effected by the affect of this LOVE pronounced day. I hear all the notions that we shouldn't get caught up in yet
another Hallmark holiday; however, why not share the LOVE, express affection, and celebrate in your own special way? What if your not in a position to even have the option to give or receive with that one special person? For this reason alone I say let's prepare for what lies ahead. Starting with loving ourselves so we can truly LOVE another.

So as a result lets consider some conclusions surrounding Valentine's Day....

Generally, I support those who say, why react to a commercially pushed excuse to pronounce one's LOVE. I understand that philosophy on a non-emotional level and believe we shouldn't let such a "pushed holiday" dictate when and how we choose to display affection for another person. Yet at the same time I have felt the disappointment of not receiving any acknowledgement of LOVE on the "special" day and I know how much it can hurt one's heart-funny how that works on HEART day! So on an emotional level let's be honest- WOMEN want to feel loved ( and I am sure MEN do too)- especially on this day, as Taylor Dane's lyrics say "Tell it to my heart. Tell me I'm the only one. Is this really LOVE or just a game?". Let's be clear, I am not promoting the commercialization of Valentine's Day- but I am promoting the importance of stopping to recognize your loved one. I have a very romantic father and I don't remember a Valentine's Day he let pass without expressing his LOVE and affection to my mother in some special way. Make a card, breakfast, or simply plan a special moment- and I am not just talking to the men here ladies- go out and try to make your companion feel special.

In the creation of my book over the past few months-ok years, I have found myself focusing on the ability we each have to choose happiness for ourselves. As a result, I am reminded that in spite of what the world says about LOVE on Valentine's day, I own me, and the choice is mine to embrace LOVE everyday. On Valentine's Day I will do the same, with maybe a little more flavour than every other day- I will LOVE unconditionally, give what I can, serve those I care for, and bring light to all those around me. So, I choose to give LOVE freely on this upcoming "special" day- with no expectation of a return, knowing that true happiness does not come from a box of chocolates, flowers, or a card- true happiness flows through me when I first I learn how to LOVE me. Look in the mirror and and search for your soul, make peace with your flaws, and find strength in your spirit. Choose YOU, as you do you will have peace fill you, replacing fear with LOVE, the result more LOVE to give others.

When Valentine's Day arrives this year you will be prepared to: see the light in every person that crosses your path. I encourage you to find ways to bring light to those around you and I promise you that you will experience your best Valentine's Day yet. Should you receive acknowledgements of another's LOVE and appreciation of you, stop and appreciate the moment and treasure them as they do you. Life is too short to live without joy and happiness, especially during the lonely times. Make a difference and choose HAPPINESS! Valentine's Day- its a FACT!

A Poem I wrote when I was 16- yes, just a couple years ago:)

FAMILIES are like rainbows

with never-ending colour;

as long as their together,

their love will be FOREVER

Loving you from a far- Mehgan Downie- Feb 10, 2012

Share your thoughts at: mehgan@me.com

Christmas 2011

2011-12-29T01:40:00.000-08:00

It isn't often that we can say," I had a truly wonderful Christmas"- but this year I can say "I did!". It was looking like it was going to be a rather lonely single Christmas for my sister Kaisha, and my good friend Annette and I, until we came up with the PERFECT PLAN! Let's pool our gifts and get our brother in Vernon and his wife and two kids to come down. So that is exactly what we did with the help of our parents and their willingness to support our wish.

Bryn, Lisa and the kids arrived on December 21 and that is when Christmas began for us. As I was up late the night before their arrival ironing table cloths and getting beds ready, chocolates out, stuffy's in place and special Christmas decorations out- I realized boldly that I am my Mother's daughter.

To enjoy our Christmas Video- see below:

My Mom is an amazing woman, she loves to entertain, cook and make her

home special for those she loves. I found it incredibly exciting and intrinsically rewarding to be able to provide for those I love, each and everyone one of them! Kaisha was just as excited so she was out shopping and getting the extra special ant farm she thought the kids would love- and they did! We were finally in the true spirit of Christmas. It was hard to go to work on the 22nd, but the highlight was I brought Morgan my niece with me for a couple hours in the morning to prepare her present for her parents (she coloured a picture and we ironed it on T-Shirts for her parents).

Each minute of every day, brought with it special memories and moments we will each treasure for a lifetime and beyond. Everyone pitched in, and everyone including the dogs had a great time. From Butterfly Gardens, to Sleep-

Overs with new friends, to special dinners with those we love- we were blessed to experience the true essence of Christmas- Christ Like Love. Yes we bought a few gifts for the kids, but we didn't go crazy and we spent time together, precious time, full of laughs, tears, and joy.

I know that we are son's and daughters of God and he wants us to truly enjoy this life. He wants

us to seek joy and happiness in eachday so we can fill our hearts with love and share that love with others. The Plan of Happiness is simple, live in thanksgiving daily, love your fellowmen, and serve when the means and opportunity present themselves. My heart is full and my love runs deep, I look forward to striving more diligently this year to make a difference

in the lives of all those who come into mine. I want to live my life as a gift to God, just as my parents gift to Kaisha and I this year was a sacrifice for them to give up special time with their loved ones- we too must sacrifice.

May your days ahead be filled with wonder and special moments as you seek to see God's hand in your lives. To my friends- I thank-you for you have done for me!

What Makes My World Go Round?

2011-10-29T00:57:00.000-07:00

Life seems to be a bit of a blur these days, between setting goals and travelling more at work, I am finding I need to get grounded. The notion of being grounded seems almost fierce in the context of flying vs. not flying. I am a woman who loves to live life to my fullest and in so doing I go-go-go-go-CRASH! So the hope that getting grounded gives me is that I will put my wheel back in balance. Since June I have been in Washington DC, Costa Rica, Calgary, Edmonton, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Vancouver, Castlegar, and once again Calgary- I am sure there are a few stops I have missed in between. So needless to say, in so doing I have once again lost Mehgan and what I need to be in touch with balance. So what makes my world go round? These five things: Mental, Spiritual, Physical, Charitable (Service) and Social balance.

Mental

I need to be reading, filling my mind with good works, inspiration and rejuvenation. I have a few great books sitting next to my bed just waiting to be read- oh to making time.

Spiritual

I need to go to church every Sunday, it is my time to get in touch with my maker. To rebuild myself through prayer, study and strengthening my faith. I am a firm believer in the community and safety that my faith provides.

Physical

Taking care of Mehgan, i.e eating right, exercising, and breathing! This is the area I am really struggling with since I have been travelling so much, so I best find a way to make it happen even when I am on the road.

Charitable

When I am serving others, I am strengthened! I love to serve and yet, this is another area that is lacking with my travel schedule. Thank goodness I receive callings from church to serve, or chances are this area of my life would continue to slide.

Social

I need to spend quality time with my friends and family in order to be reminded what really matters. I find the time I spend entertaining or just chilling with the good people around me, is honestly good for my soul!

Balance

So here I am with a road map to balance, so I need to get at it and go to bed- it is way past my bed time, perhaps I should have put SLEEP on the list.

Below you will find a trailer of one of my past trips, I have to say as hard as it is to travel so much for work; however, I really do enjoy my job, because it is there I can help others seek further education and as the Chinese proverb says "If you are planning for a year, sow rice- If you are planning for a decade, plant trees- If you are planning for a life time, educate the people!"

Lessons I am Learning.....

2011-07-12T22:27:00.000-07:00

A dear friend from my past reminded me today of this blog, by sharing an entry I had made a couple years ago on Facebook. It was one of those special moments where I was taught by past thoughts. This small but substantial interaction online compelled me to revisit this blog. It also gave me the desire to take the time this evening to share some of the important lessons I have learned recently.

I think all to often we travel down roads we've all ready traveled, roads we continue circling back too because we never found what we were looking for the first time, or never learned the lesson we were meant to learn first time. Over the past few years I have been fortunate enough to experience a number of these occasions- or unfortunate enough depending on the circumstance. In particular, I have learned the power of NOW, the process of being PRESENT, and the constrictions of PRIDE.

The Power of NOW

We are each given moments to act. Moments to reflect and make a decision that will effect the outcome of any given circumstance or situation. I have learned that key to my personal and professional success is my ability to be able to articulate reason and understanding- before the window of opportunity disappears. I will give you an example: I was traveling recently in Washington, DC for work and I came across what appeared to be a woman who was mad at the world. I watched her deal with conflict in a way I was not accustomed to while being somewhat in shock and somewhat intrigued to find out why she reacted the way she did. The more I watched her the more I wanted to interact with her, and of course the opportunity presented itself as she passed by my booth, I stopped her to ask how her day was going. She went on to tell me how unimpressed she was with her decision to participate in the conference (I too was attending) to profile her business. The more we chatted the more I realized my first impression was jaded by my dis-taste for her interaction with others, rather than my ability to seek to understand where she was coming from, her world, her experiences, and her natural abilities. After spending more time which included dinner and a Canuck's game, I believe I am the fortunate one to make a friend who's perspective is not only enlightening but fulfilling and who's abilities were far beyond interacting with prospective clients who may or not take the time to stop by her booth.

We have the power to choose, when to take a leap of faith and bring light or darkness into the life of another individual. We have the choice to be frustrated or find a solution. We are all children of a loving God who desires most to give us peace and happiness- IT IS UP to US to CHOOSE.

The Process of Being Present

I am a firm believer the only way we will truly make a difference in the world, is if we except, that our ability to make a difference starts by small and simple means. When I say that I mean as simple as being present with those we are with. This is one lesson I am learning more at work than anywhere else. I find my battle- is all that I have on my mind ( my mental to-do list) seems to be restrictive when I come face to face with someone I work with who doesn't read my facial expression or 'you lost me look'. Lost me because I just don't have the time or mental capacity to hear you right now- when the conversation has started and now its too late to say can this wait until I am in a better place to be here for you? Let me explain- At home I find it easier to be present because of my love for those I am with- its easier to engaged. At work my struggle is letting go of my mental to-do list in order to seek to understand the person who just needs to talk and needs desperately for me to listen. My commitment is to become a better listener while I seek to understand the speaker. I have also realized, its better to be honest with those you are communicating with- because chances are they can see you are not connecting the dots they are drawing for you anyway. Oh do I ever have a lot to learn! I think I am going to have to travel this road a few more times before I remember the twists and turns.

The Constrictions of Pride

Pride is one of the greatest limitations we can exhibit and hold on to in this life. I have often misunderstood pride and thought of it as a positive thing, i.e to have pride in your work - that's good right? Well it can be if we are not constricted by constructive feedback and alternative solutions to the work we put our name on. I have found that pride is truly the wrong aspiration for me, I want to seek humility and share everything that I do and all that I am. It is my goal to seek to be inclusive rather than exclusive, to earn respect over praise, and to encourage team over self. I don't think any of us will ever be completely free of these limitations; but, we can choose to leave our pride at the door:)

Ok that is it for now- next entry coming soon. MMDHK

Appreciation

2010-06-19T23:08:00.000-07:00

This past few months have been full of experiences that have given me a greater appreciation for the gifts that surround us. For instance, as I have mentioned in past blogs, I am living in Victoria BC Canada, and enjoying the true nature of coastal life. Ever since I can imagine, I remember sea gulls, and not necessarily for their beauty, rather their loud squawk. As you can see in the picture above, they are magnificent birds, and beautiful to watch.

I am finding as I seek to understand a greater will than my own, that my consciousness has been enlightened to see things I might otherwise have over looked. I have always seen beauty in most everything; however, these experiences have intensified. Whether it is gosling who has lost its parents, or two brand new twin fawns, or the beauty of the place I work, I experience great joy. Pure joy in fact, I believe everyone can tap into it, maybe it is my sincere desire to see more than my effect; or maybe it comes from a greater power, beyond our comprehension. Either way, stop today and ask to see the world unfolding to you, ask to have a greater appreciation for all that lives in the world, ask to find your purpose and you will be directed to a path unknown to you. It is in the quiet moments we are truly connected to who we really are.

Contemplation

2010-06-07T23:47:00.000-07:00

I think too often we travel through life, rather than being apart of life. What I am saying is, we get carried away in the "I have to" and loose track of the experiences we are blessed with or the "I choose to", that make living such a pleasure. When I look at life and particularly my life I can't help but acknowledge the moments I have missed because I was so concerned with getting somewhere or accomplishing something. People and relationships can provide our greatest joy, if we stop long enough to appreciate one another. I have been remiss and I want to strive more diligently to live in the moment, be present and choose my course rather than move forward out of obligation. I work with some incredible people, who teach me something new every day, I live with two amazing sisters who also in their own unique way make my existence more meaningful, and I am a part of many people who each over time have influenced the way I choose to live my life. I want to be more than I am, I want to live life to its fullest, while empowering those around me to do the same.

Today is a new day, a new moment, a new journey, and a new perspective.

MMDHK

To Intrude or NOT to Intrude?

2010-06-05T23:35:00.000-07:00

Everybody deserves a chance for freedom. The feeling it brings grows life and love. Stop today and reflect on who you are and the freedom you can provide others.

I have been on a journey this past year as I have embraced my life herein Victoria. I have been 'nesting' as my sister Kaisha calls it. We have been on the road for the past five years she and I, and now more than ever we are thrilled to be settling down a little. Our house is out of storage once again and we are loving our new home here.

As I reflect upon my opening statement, I would be remiss if I didn't share where it originated from. I recently watched a biography on Britney Spears of all people. After watching it, I felt extremely grateful for my life and freedom. I also felt a strong desire to provide others with the same opportunity. I honestly think if I were Britney Spears I would also be seeking a 'normal' life; therefore, I have decided I will do my best to not serve the masses who seek to impede another persons personal space.

At the beginning of this week, I was enjoying a wonderful dinner with friends and family at a local restaurant here in Victoria. We noticed a famous actress from one of our favorite night time dramas. Of course it was exciting to be sitting next to her as she enjoyed a 'normal' night out on the town with her young son and friend. We were all excited; however, we all agreed it would be best to not intrude on her time and give her the space and quiet she appeared to be enjoying.

This is obviously one of those choices that is up to the individual. Many would say that 'stars' have chosen a career that warrants the public to intrude at any time, that is what a 'star' is. I leave the door open to your thoughts on the subject. What would you do if you saw your favorite star, or even just someone famous?

Embracing the Sun, the Wind, the Earth, and the Flowers....

2009-04-14T12:27:00.000-07:00

I love being outdoors where I can be immersed in nature. This past weekend my sister and some good friends of ours came to visit, it was lovely to celebrate all that is good in the world with them on this Easter weekend. On Sunday after church we decided to go out for a walk, it was very breezy; but, sunny and lovely, a little chilly too I might add. We got down to the breakwater here in Victoria and just played with our cameras and had a good time, see pics.

Let's not forget to put ourselves in places that can rejuvenate our spirits, enlighten our minds and heal our hearts! We were spirits first so we need to get in tune with our spiritual selves in order to become one with our potential. I sincerely love to see all that was prepared for us before the world was...what a gift!

Tender Mercies and Gratitude...

2009-04-10T10:23:00.000-07:00

I am a strict believer in the power of our thoughts. I am also a firm believer in the power of prayer. And above all else I know that God gives us 'Tender Mercies' to provide us with clarity, comfort, direction, fulfillment, and love. It is through these tender mercies that we become capable of recognizing spiritual interactions when we live in a very physical or temporal world. I am a daughter of God, I not only believe that statement I know it's true, this understanding has changed my perspective on the way I choose to live my life. To those of you who know me, it is my hope you will recognize this within my character if not now in the future. Just like these lemons we too can choose to let our light so shine and make lemonade!

Let's go back to the statement about 'spiritual interactions', when I choose to look at others through my spiritual lens (or with an appreciation for their spirit) I receive a gift, because each of us spiritually is far more perfect then we are physically. Have you ever noticed when someone takes their 'wall' down and you get a glimpse of the person inside, how much love radiates from their being? Because of this, I have started changing the way I choose perceive others in order that I might more fully experience their goodness. The outcome of this experiment brings enlightenment and a clearer perspective of, why we do what we do, and who we are and who we are to become. I want others to see my potential just as much as I want to see theirs, because in doing so we become a closer, more progressive people, all striving to achieve our best. Being our best self is a very attainable goal I believe; however, it takes us being confident enough in our own worth to allow others to share theirs. Have you ever been in the presence of someone who can't appreciate your talents or abilities? You feel as though you need to shrink to be in their presence. This is a result of not being in tune with our purpose or our strengths, we are each very unique- so let's choose to focus on our uniqueness! Our friends help us see our strengths and weaknesses and together if we embrace the truth, we will cherish a deeper, richer relationship.

On of my favorite quotes used by Nelson Mandela; but, written by Marianne Williamson is this...

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

If there is one change I have made in my life as of a result of these findings it is that I want nothing more then to see the world and get to know the spirits/people in it! We are each capable of becoming our best self if we can but embrace the light within us while allowing others to do the same. There is great power in knowing your individual power and glory; however, there is greater power in sharing them.

Gratitude- I am so grateful for the challenges I have been faced with over the past couple months. Since arriving back as I mentioned in my previous post, I was faced with a task to find work, something I have never before had to search for. I have now been fortunate enough to receive a contract working with some good friends of mine. I also just returned from Arizona where I joined my Uncle and Aunt to assist my Uncle in the preparation of his first presentation in front of a very large audience. The conference we attended was entitled Preventing and Reversing Killer Diseases. The people we met there were experts in their field and have all embraced integrative medicine for a changing world. Again, a weekend full of tender mercies and spiritual connections. Thank-you!

I have also been fortunate enough to meet a very special man during during this time of change and growth. His name is Future Gwaza, he is someone I have great respect for as he chooses to live his life with an eternal perspective, not an easy task for any of us. Future, as his name predicts is gifted with an ability to bring a greater future to his family. He has built his own company with the likes of his sister and brother-in-law, and is determined to make a difference where ever he lives. He wants to change the future for those members of his family struggling financially and he plans to do in in a sustainable way. As the glorified statement reads "Give a Man a Fish feed him for a day; Teach Him how to Fish, feed him for a lifetime." Can you imagine the future we could all live if we too embraced such a concept? This man I speak of is an inspiration as he chooses to allow those around him too shine as brightly as he does. He is in fact as I mentioned above, already sharing his power and glory. As a young father of three Future has decided he wants to lay a foundation for his family that will not only provide them with their needs; but, teach them how to give more, give back and live their lives in line with God's will. This man is an example to all, he is but one; however, his touch and goal will reach many. Being willing to take a leap of faith is key to being an agent for change.

I am grateful for the ability we have as Children of God, to stop and review our ability to become, our ability to make a difference, and our ability to be agents for change. It is my goal much like Future's to leave a legacy for those I love and to do this I need to start with small and simple means. I love the truth, I embrace the light and I choose to LIVE my life!

Catching the Vision and Seeking Change!

2009-02-11T13:20:00.000-08:00

Here I sit on my computer trying to intellectualize my vision so I can embrace the changes in my life I have been handed today.

I just returned to Canada after living in Costa Rica on and off over the past year. I found that during my time in Central America I was blessed with a greater perspective for the world and my role within it. I have always enjoyed people, children and cultures and since living in Costa Rica I realized that my passion or zest for life comes from my desire to connect with people even when there are barriers to overcome. When I first arrived in Costa Rica I didn't speak Spanish at all, in fact I had to ask how to say "how are you" every time I wanted to engage someone. So that was my first goal- learn the language so I can get closer to the people. I also needed to learn how to live with less, I can't say I have mastered this; but, I have certainly become more open to landing in unfamiliar territory where I have to make a home for myself. I loved every minute of my time there, especially once I was able to get through a conversation and feel as though I spoke or touched the soul of the person on the receiving end.

So how does all this lead to my vision? Well, I felt as though arriving back here in Canada had been somewhat of a set back until I realized that I had been blessed to see outside the box for the first time in my life. I have always been pulled from one job to the other, never requiring much work on my end to set a new career direction; however, now I need to not only find a career but create my vision while considering my new perspective. I want to serve the world; however, I need the means to take care of my financial needs first so I can take the time required to get me to a place where my dreams can be actualized. Because of my love for people and cultures I feel impressed to continue striving to be an agent for change within cultures that need recognition. I want to travel to Africa, South America and other third world countries to determine exactly where my skills are needed and how I can create a plan for my future. I am sure all of this seems a bit vague at the moment; but, I can tell you this: I will determine my path and it will likely not be the path of least resistance.

In the meantime, I am looking to work within an organization that I am passionate about so I can prepare myself financially for the future. My goals will be realized, I will achieve my purpose, I will love what I do!

"Life is a dream when you embrace reality" MMDHK

2008-07-14T12:50:00.000-07:00

So as I was falling asleep the other night I kept thinking this thought...life is a dream when you embrace reality. Here I am living and breathing in Costa Rica, swimming with the sea turtles, seeing the monkey's seek for food, watching the macaws fly by my office window and experiencing more then I could have ever dreamed of and yet I am still dreaming of more. Why? Primarily because I hadn't accepted where I was, today I woke up with a renewed sense of purpose. I plan on accepting all that comes my way, all that causes me grief, pain and sorrow, all that brings life, love and happiness, and all that I am meant to bare and experience. I will embrace my reality, and find every ounce of glory along the way, living in the moment more and more every day!

I just returned from Nicaragua this weekend, and wow it opened my eyes. It was sad to see the poverty and hunger within this beautiful country, yet my journey was special and brought me great happiness. Each smiling face I met filled my soul, and those without allowed me to fill theirs. We are humans, but more important to our human existence is our spiritual existence, so look on everyone who crosses your path and try to see them spiritually and you will be delighted to see what you see!

That is it for this entry, except to say- I am going to strive a little more each day to not only accept my reality but to embrace it, hug it and enjoy every minute of it!

Check out a little video I put together about our development down here in Costa Rica:

Mehgan Madeline Downie Heather Knauf (MMDHK)

The Journey vs. The Destination

2008-04-25T10:29:00.000-07:00

As we all endure our trials of faith, endurance, patience, kindness, fortitude and integrity it is important to note that they are ours, each individually owned and operated by us. I am on a new journey headed towards great things; however, it is clear it is not going to be a walk in the park nor is it going to create the 'same old' I am used to. One thing is clear it is going to be all about me finding those people I am met to meet and share experiences with. I used to be so caught up in the destination all the time that I missed the enjoyment found in the journey and so it is that I have decided to write this post. When we focus on the destination we will get there, that is a given, the problem with this picture is we will get there but not appreciate how we did, or who or what helped us along the way. It is not my intention to forget the importance of having the right destination in mind; but, rather having it on the map of life that I refer to often for guidance while still stopping and enjoying the smells along the way.

I am headed to Costa Rica for three short months to work with a couple good friends of mine on their real estate project. I want to enjoy every minute of the journey, not to miss a thing! My roommates and I have a new moto for 2008 it is NOW= No Opportunities Wasted! I am taking this moto and choosing to live by it day to day! Last night for instance I did something I have never done before- I went to meet a complete stranger at Starbucks- something I am sure many of you have done repeatedly; however, for me it was a new and refreshing experience. I am putting myself out there so I can be more aware of the world and people around me. I want to be in tune with those things I am meant to do and accomplish in my life time, I want to see clearly someone else's will before my own, I want to become my best self. I have no doubt this will take a lifetime, but the journey is mine as are the trials and I look forward to each and everyone of them!

May we all step up and choose to enjoy the Journey more then the Destination- because frankly that will be a given!

MIRACLES of the HEART-

2008-01-14T00:38:00.000-08:00

It is funny how this blogging thing works, I don't even really care if anyone out there reads my blog, but rather it is a release and an exchange of energy that I quite enjoy experiencing- please excuse the distraction from my purpose.

When I say miracles of the heart I write concerning our natural need to be or become one with ourselves, and the infinite distraction of our natural-man drives which deter us further from our goal or goals. Let me explain: when we desire change or decide to reach for a greater perfection in and of ourselves, somehow the natural man instincts or drives we have take over and distract us from our goal. We are each able to become more then we are capable of imagining- I find it fascinating to consider. There have been many times in my life when I have set goals for myself to find that before I even come close to achieving them I have already disabled my ability for success. I plan to put this issue to rest in my life and overcome my personal failings one at an time as I work towards becoming the best I can be during my earthly existence. I want nothing more then to allow those tender mercies we see all around us, to fall nicely into my lap as I strive for a miracle in my heart!

The choice is ours who we will become and how we will choose to live our lives- I choose to be an outdoor girl who loves life and everything about it, I choose an active lifestyle that involves lots of sports and recreation, I choose music as it brings peace to my soul, I choose faith as it provides me with guidance to govern my life by, and finally I choose family and friends to share my life with daily!

I CHOOSE THE RIGHT!

MMDHK

Friends....

2008-01-05T01:10:00.001-08:00

All I have to say to these photo's- is Friends make us laugh, cry, smile, frown, and most of all feel loved and appreciated! Thank-you to all of you for a CraZy HoLy MoLy FuN New Year's!!! YOU ARE THE BEST!!!!

New Year's and then SOME!

2008-01-05T00:32:00.000-08:00

After much ado about Blogging from one of my good friends out there, I would be remiss if I didn't take the challenge and start to share the life of Mehgan Madeline Downie Heather Knauf! The passion for writing; however, may not be as heightened as my friends so bare with me as I explore this new outlet of expression in my life!

This last week and a half has been but a blur, a colorful one but still a blur~ I spent Christmas in Victoria with the family, with a selection of both my father's siblings and my mother's, along with some cousins in there too! Needless to say it was exhausting and enjoyable! I returned home to Vancouver on December 26th (good ole' boxing day) and prepared for visitors arriving for New Year's! On the 27th my good friend Jacky Roman and I traveled down to Seattle to pick up our friend Don who was the first to arrive! We had a blast, from the shopping, boarder patrol situation, to Don's music, we were ready to start what became the longest New Year's party ever- and the best I must add!

We arrived home to have a few more friends arrive for the final night of making masks for our Penthouse Masquerade on December 31st- pictures to follow! Another friend arrived later that night from Victoria, and so the party continued! In order for us to host this once in a life time party of all parties there was some serious preparation which included cleaning a freshly tiled Penthouse full of DUST! We cleaned for three days straight- with some fun in between of course! Don and I took a brief get-a-way to pick up our friend Lyndee from the Vancouver airport- much welcomed I must add! I am sure Lyndee was a bit concerned when she saw the state of the place upon her arrival! Needless to say with much help, work and sacrifice we got it all done and had an amazing time ringing in the New Year from on top looking out over the city of Vancouver! Thanks to all of you who broke your backs and shoulders to contribute and make it happen!

After the party we partied again the following night as we cleaned up the place! Then Jacky, Lyndee, Don and I had a special "Spa night in Canada" to finish off a great end to 2007 and even better celebration of what's to come in 2008! Don, Lyndee and I headed back down to Seattle on January 2nd so they could catch their plane, and we could all get back to our lives! Since then I must admit I have had the wickedest cold and have felt like jello- all in preparation for cleaning out the system before beginning 2008 in style!

Oh.....how life does bring us JOY!