Sunday 15 April 2012

Book Review; Inside the Wall- Megan Bishop-Scott

One single mother's spiritual journey that began with the homeless of Venice Beach and exploded into higher dimensions with an Avatar in India.

I just finished reading Inside the Wall by Megan Bishop-Scott; Actually I wouldn't say I read this book, it was more like I devoured it. I started this morning at Chapter 5 and finished it around 6:30 this evening! I actually know Megan, in fact, my copy of this book is even autographed with a personal message from her. See, I met Megan at work, we share a passion for somehow, in our own ways touching the lives of foster children in a positive way. It's a true blessing to do the work we do.

Like I said I met Megan at work, she is lovely, a truly kind, creative spirit who I enjoy working with. I saw her before and after India, but didn't truly realize how life changing a journey that was for her until I read part 3 of this book. When Megan told me that she wrote this book I looked it up right away, I have a weakness for books, especially real life stories. As I read the write-up on the book that was posted on Amazon I was shocked, because it did not, in any way, match what I had conjured up in my head about Megan. The write up to me sounded like something out of a Hollywood movie, not a life journey that I could picture Megan having. Reading her story I was moved, I laughed, I gasped, and was in awe at her amazing capacity to be brave, grow, love, forgive and never give up. I know many people that have been crippled by journeys far less challenging then Megan's, and yet I see her frequently, smiling and laughing and doing her part to touch the lives of children in a positive way. Megan's story, to me illustrated the need to "Live your Bliss" whatever that may be, and to always, constantly work to better yourself, so that you in turn can help others and bless their lives in a positive way.

 I know that my journey probably won't be as epic as Megan's, it will probably have less twists and turns and adventure, but that's okay because it's my journey, and as long as I am being true to myself that's all that matters. Megan. Thank-you for writing such an inspiring story, it has truly touched my life.

<3 Kass

Wednesday 4 April 2012

Book Review; The boy who was raised as a dog



Some people think I am crazy for reading such a work-related book in my spare time, however I am not a fan of  "mindless" reads usually and prefer to learn something or have to think about what I am reading. I loved this book! Even though it was full of concepts that I was already familiar with through work, I found Dr. Perry's explanations and examples allowed me to gain a greater depth to my knowledge of how trauma affects the developing brain.

Most importantly I found this book encouraging, to know that children who have suffered horrific abuse can make gains and progress with the right treatments and interventions, even if they don't start until they are older gives me hope for the little's that I have come across in my work. I honestly think that this book should be shared/given to every caregiver of a child who has experienced trauma, perhaps it will help them understand what is behind their child's behaviors in those moments when they are "lucky their cute".

I would recommend this book to anyone really, but specifically to caregivers, social workers, therapists, etc of children who have experienced trauma. Perhaps it will also encourage people to raise our children in the healthy communities that Dr. Perry describes...wouldn't that be amazing?!

<3 Kass

Knitted Hippo's are adorable.

I love finishing knitting projects, there is nothing more satisfying, other than finishing books...obviously.

I have been working on a darling Hippo for my friend C's soon to be born baby boy, I finished today and promptly sent her a picture (I was dying to show her). Thankfully she and her husband love this darling little guy!

 Look at his little bum (and TAIL)
 Isn't he sweet! I could just snuggle him, but he is sitting in my car so that he is safe from Tasha, who would totally try to lick him to pieces.
 Here is the amazing dinner I made Mike on Monday, Baked Tilapia (with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, cayenne, clubhouse lemon and herb blend and clubhouse garlic blend). I also made Quinoa, Asparagus and Brussel Sprouts (Which I like as an adult). Mike isn't a huge fish fan but he did like this :) It was yummy, and super healthy.
 Today we dyed/glittered Easter eggs...HOW FUN ARE THESE?! Can you tell my friend A and I like pink?!
I am in love with this pic of Furry, she's amazingly cute when she crosses her paws.

BREAKING NEWS: I RAN ("intervalled") 5KM'S TODAY!!!!! Feels amazing

Hope your week is going well.

<3 Kass