Category Archives: Book and Movie Musings

Book Musings: Sacred Circle and Super Genes and Ink Gardens

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“Dance of the Sacred Circle“ (amazon affiliate link) – A tale of bravery and magic based on a Blackfeet legend …. “The old ones spoke of the Great Chief in the Sky, whose breath gave life all the world. They said he lived in a wonderful land far above the stars …. ” Another one we really enjoyed …

“Super Genes”  (amazon affiliate link) – I first read about epigenetics several years ago in Bruce Lipton’s, “Biology of Belief”  (amazon affiliate link). This takes it even further with great information about the microbiome and inflammation. GREAT book. I’ll be buying this one!

Another book we really enjoyed … “The Ink Garden of Brother Theophane” (amazon affiliate link)

A wonderful fiction based on the monks of the Middle Ages from Ireland who established monasteries throughout much of Europe and parts of the Middle East. The monasteries were the place where books were made. The monks carefully translated and copied the great written works of antiquity.

Blessings,
Camilla
See It. Share It. BE IT … Spread Love Everywhere You Go!

Did you know I wrote a book? It’s titled “D iz for Different – One Woman’s Journey to Acceptance” and you can read more about it here.

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Movie Musings: Bamboo Princess, Gandhi, and Angels

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“The Tale of Princess Kaguya” (amazon affiliate link) … Lillian says, “Emotional, good, musical, great, amazing, good animation, pretty scenery, and awesome!” Thomas says, “Super-duper good, good story, good animation, great, really liked it, emotional near the end, and I really liked it.” Tale of the bamboo girl. This one was good, yet my favorites of the Studio Ghibili so far are: “As the Wind Rises” and “Kiki’s Delivery Service”.

“Gandhi” (amazon affiliate link) …. “The way of truth and love has always won.” Thomas says, “Really good, spiritual, inspiring, good feeling, amazing.” Lillian says, “Good, amazing, emotional, cool, and shocking.” “Wonderful,” I say.

“The Bishop’s Wife” (amazon affiliate link) .. I can’t believe I’ve never seen this! Loved it! “Loving-kindness and warm hearts bring peace on earth.” Thomas says, “Amazing, cool, funny, hilarious, miraculous, and really liked it!” Lillian says, “Good, romantic, Christmasy, good miracles, awesome, fabulous, funny, good theme, amazing, and good moral.”

Blessings,
Camilla
See It. Share It. BE IT … Spread Love Everywhere You Go!

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Book Musings: Sitting, Living, and Words

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“How to Sit” (amazon affiliate link) Another wonderful and simple book I read to Thomas and Lillian … We all really liked it!

“Peace is Contagious

The energy of mindfulness can help improve your whole being. Just pay attention to your in breath. Allow it to be the way it is and you will see that the quality of your breathing naturally becomes calmer, deeper, and more harmonious all by itself. This is the power of simple recognition. When your breath is deeper and more peaceful, it will have an influence right away on your body and your mind. Peace and calm are contagious.”

“Living Beautifully” (amazon affiliate link) I always find such meaningful content in Pema Chodron’s books.

“Let the power of your emotions open you up … Take your seat in the middle of your home ground and rouse your confidence – your innate capacity to open to your experience.”

“Roget and His Thesaurus” (amazon affiliate link) Wonderful book of the life of P.M. Roget and how Roget’s Thesaurus came to be.

“Measured on the vast scale of the universe, the globe we inhabit appears but as an atom; and yet, within the compass of this atom, what an inexhaustible variety of objects is contained; what an endless diversity of phenomena is presented; what wonderful changes are occurring in rapid and perpetual succession!” – P.M. Roget

Blessings,
Camilla
See It. Share It. BE IT … Spread Love Everywhere You Go!

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Movie Musings: Irish Legends, Ghosts, and Magic

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 “Song of the Sea” (amazon affiliate link) …. Lillian says, “Good, musical, good theme, good moral, funny, amazing, good animation, fabulous, good scenery, and emotional.” Thomas says, “Really good, good music, good everything, good animation, cool, amazing, funny, and I really liked it.” I say, “Loved it!!” – A magical Irish legend of the last seal-child and of she and her brother saving the spirit world.

 “Beyond Tomorrow” (amazon affiliate link) … I love how this one begins, yet not so much after that. And has some good scenes. “No one is a stranger on Christmas Eve” and “Sometimes you have to travel to the darkness alone to get to the light.” Lillian says, “Romantic, Christmasy, good, emotional, funny, awesome, and amazing.” Thomas says, “Seasonal and I really like it.”

 “Barbie’s A Christmas Carol” (amazon affiliate link)… I’m not a fan of the “perfectness” of Barbie or the movies. Yet, I am a fan of Lillian ….. And the overall message. “Keep the beauty of Christmas in your heart all year.” Lillian says, “Good, musical, funny, Christmasy, awesome, good moral, good theme, and beautifully colorful.” Thomas says, “What Lillian says.”

Blessings,
Camilla
See It. Share It. BE IT … Spread Love Everywhere You Go!

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Book Musings: Peace, Gratitude, Mindfulness, Meditation, Emotions

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“Tibetan Tales for Little Buddhas” (amazon affiliate link) – Simple, enchanting tales that give a glimpse into Tibetan culture, sharing inspiring wisdom relating to peace, gratitude and seeing with the heart. I was only going to read one per night. Thomas and Lilian loved it so much they did not want me to stop! We read all three in one night!

“Visiting Feelings” (amazon affiliate link) – Great and very basic book about emotional connection and mindfulness. Perfect for kids with a useful parent section too! “If you listen to what your body can say, you’ll find that your feelings are really okay. With a bit of attention, a little more care, they might even tell you why they are there. Some feelings are tough, and some are more fun …. So whenever a feeling comes by to play, welcome it in, and let it stay for as long as it likes, …. Treat your feelings like friends, talking to you.” Awesome!!!

“The Miracle of Mindfulness” (amazon affiliate link) – Great basic book about mindfulness. Lillian is writing a report about mindfulness so we checked this out for her, yet I secretly got it for me too.

“If you cannot find joy in peace in these very moments if sitting, then the future itself will only flow by as a river flows by, you will not be able to hold it back, you will be incapable of living the future when it has become the present. Joy and peace are the joy and peace possible in this very hour of sitting. If you cannot find it here, you won’t find it anywhere.” xoxo

Blessings,
Camilla
See It. Share It. BE IT … Spread Love Everywhere You Go!

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Book Review: I Am That Girl

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I Am That Girl: How to Speak Your Truth, Discover Your Purpose, and #bethatgirl. By Alexis Jones

Alexis Jones delivers an inspiring read with her own personal twist. “I Am That Girl” is not just another motivational/inspirational book. I have read more of these types of books than I can even count or remember. This one really speaks to me.

Perhaps it’s where I am in my own life; stripping away layers of stuff that’s not me, being okay with it, and not afraid to be me. If that’s the same place you are, or maybe you’re just attracted by the title, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

Did I like absolutely everything written in the book? No. But, I got more out of it then the few lines that I disagreed with or that weren’t my style. Jones shares her life experiences and the life experiences of other ladies with solid steps and new thought processes to get you started on your “that girl” journey or to add to the journey you’ve already begun.

What are the steps and thoughts to take to speak your truth, discover your truth and be you? Jones covers topics such as what makes you happy, having compassion for yourself, work ethic, dancing to the beat of your own drum, dreaming big, having resilience, being a sponge and being of service. I resonated with many of the quotes scattered throughout the book also.

I was inspired, had aha moments, and my eyes even sweated some. One of my favorite sections is “That Girl Manifesto”. I’ll be writing my own and you’ll see it appear as a blog post. I’ve already begun to write it and it feels good! Jones concludes with a great “Resource” section for continuing your “I Am That Girl” journey.

Most Inspiring Lines: (Way too many to list. Here are a few.) I know what it’s like to spend an entire lifetime trying to pretend that I’m okay, that I’m “fine.” I know what it’s like to carry the weight of the world on my shoulders, convincing people that I have it all together. I know how exhausting it is and how many nights I cried alone in my bed, too tired to carry the burden anymore. What I do know is the freedom when I decided that I wasn’t going to pretend anymore.

There is nothing in this world that is more beauty-full than a human being who knows her worth and is comfortable in her own skin. Authentic confidence is when you know who you are and what you stand for. You’re unshakeable, a force to be reckoned with, and no one can take that away from you.

I Am That Girl: How to Speak Your Truth, Discover Your Purpose, and #bethatgirl

If you found this content helpful or inspiring and it feels the thing to do, I invite you to buy me a coffee … -Thank you!!

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Blessings,
Camilla
See It. Share It. BE IT … Spread Love Everywhere You Go!

Coming Soon!! “Words of Alchemy” is the latest book coming to life! Shooting for near the end of July 2019 for publication date.

Amazing news! My 17 year old daughter, Lillian Darnell’s debut book, “Where Would You Fly and Other Magical Stories” was published January 2018. Learn more and order here.

Wonderfully exciting news! My 13 year old son, Thomas Darnell‘s book, Biggest Little Photographer is published. Be inspired! Learn more and order here.

Go here to see latest soul writings. xoxo

(To help support my blogging I will include an Amazon link to items I use or you will see google ads from time to time. I LOVE sharing my journey and choices with you and this just helps to keep me going!) 

Book Musings: Sparrow and Dove

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Team TLC read this poem before bed a few nights ago. When I was done, Thomas said he really liked it. I agree with Thomas. I liked it so much, my eyes almost sweated! Sharing with y’all, because if we liked it that much, I’m sure some of you may enjoy it too. I take great joy in mindful living so I can catch and savor these beautiful moments when they arrive.

Answer to A Child’s Question

Do you ask what the birds say? The Sparrow, the Dove, The Linnet and Thrush say, “I love and I love!” In the winter they’re silent—the wind is so strong; What it says, I don’t know, but it sings a loud song. But green leaves, and blossoms, and sunny warm weather, And singing, and loving—all come back together. But the Lark is so brimful of gladness and love, The green fields below him, the blue sky above, That he sings, and he sings; and for ever sings he— “I love my Love, and my Love loves me!” – Samuel Taylor Coleridge

This poem is included in a book of animal poems titled, Birds, Beasts and Fishes. There are many other amazing poems in the book with beautiful illustrations.

While reading the poem that night I was flooded with warm feelings of love for myself, for nature and simply being alive.

Thomas said the poem made him feel happy and made him want to hug and kiss Lillian and me.

What feelings or thoughts does it bring forth in you? Please share. We would love to hear about it! Go here to share your comments.

Heartfuly Inspired™,
Camilla
See It. Share It. BE IT … Spread Love Everywhere You Go!

Go here to subscribe to my blog to ensure you receive new posts delivered right to your inbox! Right here!

Have you ordered your copy of my book, “D iz for Different”? It’s available in paperback and Kindle (Kindle device not necessary). Go here to learn more.

(To help support my blogging I will include an Amazon link to items I use or you will see google ads from time to time. I LOVE sharing my journey and choices with you and this just helps to keep me going!) 

Book Musings: Gift from the Sea

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“Gift from the Sea” by Anne Morrow Lindbergh

Passage from Gift from the Sea (amazon affiliate link) …. “The sea does not reward those who are too anxious, too greedy, or too impatient. To dig for treasures shows not only impatience and greed, but lack of faith. Patience, patience, patience, is what the sea teaches. Patience and faith. One should lie empty, open, choiceless as a beach – waiting for a gift from the sea.”

This is another find from a used book sale. I paid one dollar for it years ago at a library book sale. I’ve read it several times and was called to read it again this week. This book speaks to my soul as it delves into simplicity and balance. It’s clear why this is the book I’m reading right now. My heart and soul crave simplicity. I’ve come a long way and continue my simplicity journey paired with natural and inspired living. Yes. I know why my hand went right to this book on my nightstand bookshelf as I was rushing out the door for yet another time of arriving late at an appointment.

At 138 pages it’s a quick read. One could read the book in one sitting, yet, you may want to read a chapter a day to let each chapter settle in and give yourself time to ponder what you’ve just read. Get it. It’s well worth it!

Book Musings: A World of Wonders

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Verse from the book A World of Wonders: Geographic Travels in Verse and Rhyme (amazon affiliate link):

Walk Lightly

Make the Earth your companion.
Walk lightly on it, as other creatures do.
Let the Sky paint her beauty – she is always watching over you.
Learn from the Sea how to face harsh forces.
Let the River remind you that everything will pass.
Let the Lake instruct you in stillness.
Let the Mountain teach your grandeur.
Make the Woodland your house of peace.
Make the Rainforest your house of hope.
Meet the Wetland on the twilight ground.
Save some small piece of Grassland for a red kite on a windy day.
Watch the Icecaps glisten with crystal majesty.
Hear the Desert whisper hush to eternity.
Let the Town bring you togetherness.
Make the Earth your companion.
Walk lightly on it, as other creatures do.

This is a beautiful book for kids … and I LOVE it too. Titled, “A World of Wonders: Geographic Travels in Verse and Rhyme” it has eye pleasing illustrations. You not only get to read a great verse or rhyme, you have the added feature of gorgeous illustrations.

Perfect read before bedtime. You could read the entire book in one sitting. I chose to split it into two nights since I get to read to two kids before bed. I was touched and inspired with good feelings when reading this one … and so were Thomas and Lillian.

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Book Musings: Awakened Imagination by Neville

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…. Rivers, Mountains, Cities, Villages,
All are Human, & when you enter into
their Bosoms you walk
In Heavens & Earths, as in your own
Bosom you bear your Heaven
And Earth & all you behold; tho’ it
appears Without, it is Within,
In your Imagination, of which this World
of Mortality is but a Shadow.
William Blake

I discovered this absolute gem of a book, Awakened Imagination/the Search (amazon affiliate link), by Neville, in the used book store. I had heard the name Neville mentioned by Wayne Dyer in his audio, Making the Shift: How to Live Your True Divine Purpose (amazon affiliate link).

It’s a quick read at only 94 pages. Awakened Imagination is best read without interruption or distraction and some place quiet. Yes, it is deep, deep, deep. If I had tried to read the book before this year, I may have been scratching my head. That’s the beauty of these types of books. If we don’t get it the first time around, we stick it back on our shelf and pull it out again later.

Definitely an enlightening book about our imagination and how it is the creator of our World. I enthusiastically suggest getting this one when you have the opportunity. If it leaves you scratching your head, just put it on your bookshelf and pull it out again 6 months or a year from now. Have fun!

“Imagination is more important than knowledge.” –Albert Einstein