September 2023

🐰🐰     Mix Tape  

“The times you lived through, the people you shared those times with...nothing brings it all to life like an old mix tape. It does a better job of storing up memories than actual brain tissue can do. Every mix tape tells a story. Put them together, and they can add up to the story of a life. “ - Rob Sheffield

The only constant is change...

Life, much like a mixtape, is a curated collection of moments, experiences, and emotions woven together into a seamless tapestry. Just as a skilled DJ crafts a mixtape with diverse tracks that evoke various feelings, our journey through life is a compilation of highs, lows, and everything in between. Let's explore this metaphor and discover the parallels between the art of crafting a mixtape and the art of living.

Track 1: The Opening Anthem - Childhood

Just as the first track on a mixtape sets the tone, our childhood serves as the opening anthem of our lives. It's a time of innocence, discovery, and boundless imagination. The beats are light, the melodies are carefree, and every experience is a new adventure waiting to be explored.

Track 2: The Breakup Ballad - Adolescence

As we transition into adolescence, the mixtape takes a turn. The beats become more complex, and the lyrics start to resonate with the turbulence of teenage emotions. Like a breakup ballad, this phase is marked by heartaches, self-discovery, and the struggle to find our own rhythm amidst the cacophony of expectations.

Track 3: The Triumphal March - Achievements and Milestones

Just as a mixtape features tracks that elevate the listener's spirit, our lives are punctuated by moments of triumph. These are the tracks that make us feel invincible, reminding us that we can conquer any challenge. Whether it's a graduation, a promotion, or a personal victory, these tracks mark the milestones that shape our identity.

Track 4: The Melancholic Interlude - Loss and Grief

Life, much like a mixtape, also includes melancholic interludes. These tracks speak to the universal experience of loss and grief. They remind us that vulnerability is an integral part of the human condition. Just as a soulful ballad can provide solace, facing our sorrow allows us to heal and grow stronger.

Track 5: The Unexpected Remix - Surprises and Serendipity

One of the most exciting aspects of both mixtapes and life is the element of surprise. Just when we think we know the playlist by heart, an unexpected remix throws us for a loop. These moments of serendipity, chance encounters, and unforeseen opportunities add depth and intrigue to our journey.

Track 6: The Wisdom Hymn - Growth and Reflection

As we mature, the mixtape takes on a more reflective tone. Like a wisdom hymn, this phase of life is characterized by introspection, self-discovery, and a deeper understanding of the world around us. We learn to appreciate the complexities of our own narrative and find beauty in the nuances.

Track 7: The Finale - Legacy and Impact

Every mixtape concludes with a memorable finale, leaving a lasting impression on the listener. Similarly, as we approach the later chapters of our lives, we contemplate the legacy we leave behind. How have we touched the lives of others? What mark will we make on the world? This final track is a culmination of our experiences, values, and the impact we've had on the tapestry of humanity.

Life, much like a mixtape, is a work of art that evolves with time, experiences, and personal growth. Embracing the diverse tracks of our journey allows us to appreciate the beauty in every note, whether it's a joyful crescendo or a melancholic refrain. So, craft your mixtape of life with intention, embracing each moment as a unique and valuable part of our story. I’d love to see the playlist!

Unique & special September holidays:  

Some of my favorites:

National month for: Better Breakfast

September 7 National Neither Rain Nor Snow Day

September 12 Positive Thinking Day

September 15 Make a Hat Day

September 19 National Dance Day

I'm grateful to know you and I thank you for letting me be a part of your journey.  Please let me know if there is anything more I can be doing to support you.

“Love is a mix tape filled with fast songs to get your heart going, slow songs to help that perfect moment last just a little longer. It's filled with songs that have those nice little lines of lyrics that you memorize. It's filled with songs that you can relate to when you're happy or sad, songs that fuel your anger. Love is a mix tape that screams for you when you can't, love is a mix tape, an assortment of different emotions, good or bad. Love does suck, love is great, love is like a mix tape filled with everything you love and hate.” - Rita Ghatourey

Some housekeeping items:

• Scheduling: 

  • This season gets busy with back to school and work routines, more activities on your social calendar, and end-of-summer getaways.    I believe that family, friends, and fun are priorities in our lives, and am happy to reschedule our session times when you have something enjoyable to do (or otherwise important, like studying or a project).  Please remember to cancel or reschedule your appointments with as much advance notice as possible so that we can reschedule and I can offer the session time to someone else. No shows and late cancelations (fewer than 24 hours notice) are subject to a no show charge.

• Crisis Numbers:   

I recommend adding these to your contacts in your phone. If you don't need them, you might be able to share them with someone who does.

• Suicide Prevention Lifeline: the new 988 line is live!  988 is the new Suicide Prevention Lifeline number.  It's exciting to have an easy-to-remember number available to access crisis support quickly.  For more information: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/current-events/the-lifeline-and-988/.  The old number remains active as well: 1-800-273-8255

• Text crisis line... you can send a text to 741741 and just write HOME and someone will get right back to you. https://www.crisistextline.org/text-us/

• Trans Lifeline:  (877) 565-8860

• National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233

Credits:

• (http://holidayinsights.com/moreholidays/september.htm)