Sometimes I’ll get a note or an email from a client I worked with years ago. And I do mean years ago. Like maybe a decade ago, because I’ve been counseling and coaching, in one professional incarnation or another, for over 13 years. When these missives arrive from former clients my first response is always … Continue reading
That’s me in the photo, with my brother Mike. I was about five-years-old, sporting my mom’s sunglasses and my grandmother’s cigarette holder. I remember the day vividly: sunny, summer, goofing around with my brothers at my grandparents’ house. But then things turned. I don’t remember why or what caused it. All I know is I … Continue reading
It seems I’m far beyond the age for playing with dolls. And yet, during the past year or so, I’ve made two dolls, both times in the company of other women. Let me tell you, sitting together in a circle and creating these small dolls has been a treasure, both the process and the outcome. … Continue reading
Look Deep Love Deep Work Deep Play Deep * * * * * Comments are closed since I’m madly studying for exams (although blogging continues). I’m on at least a two month social media hiatus too but love hearing from you by email: pattybechtold (at) gmail (dot) com. You can also sign up for my … Continue reading
A few weeks ago I was talking about the simple things I love and appreciate. My brief moments and small loves, I called them. Sometimes, I’ll ask clients to share what they appreciate and what’s good in their lives, particularly when they’re feeling down, drained or defeated. Usually I hear a familiar litany, with small … Continue reading
A warm night. The kitchen window wide open. I’m unloading the dishwasher, second nature. Feet moving along the well-worn path between cupboard and drawer. Hands depositing glasses, forks, bowls in their waiting places. Suddenly, I hear something that stops me in my tracks: the unmistakable sounds of a small group of people gathering. Laughter. Lilting … Continue reading
A few years ago I pulled this quote from a magazine and it’s been hanging near my computer ever since. You’ll notice I pulled a little haphazardly and the L is missing from Laziness. That doesn’t mean that I’m not up for some good old-fashioned (or new-fashioned) summer laziness, though. But there’s more than laziness … Continue reading
What if all the advice out there about needing a clear vision and destination for your life is misguided at best and harmful at worst? I sincerely believe that the people giving this advice are well-intentioned. Still, I cringe a little every time I see a variation of it (and there’s a lot of it out … Continue reading
This year May arrived with a burst of heat and a gust of wind, a particularly unfortunate combination for me. Nothing else antagonizes my allergies like this springtime duo. And when I’m in the midst of one of my rapid fire sneezing fits, don’t even bother trying to comfort me with a well-intentioned bless you, … Continue reading
This is a story about worry. And it just happens to feature two amazing women, Angeles Arrien and Gabrielle Roth. Here’s how it goes: several years ago I was reading a book and came across an interview with Angeles Arrien where she talked about the four healing salves: singing, dancing, storytelling and silence. Her words … Continue reading
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