It would have been rude to leave you without a forwarding address.
Sunday, June 2, 2013
Saturday, February 2, 2013
Ms. Wheelchair Florida Pageant 2013
Hello everyone,
I'm applying to participate in the Ms. Florida Wheelchair Pageant 2013. The event is taking place in April in St. Petersburg, FL. I'm very excited to participate in this event because it is unlike any other beauty pageant out there - it is NOT a beauty pageant.
The event is held to display the individual's character and accomplishments since their injury. It is a beauty pageant but from the inside out.
Anyway, again I'm looking for sponsors. I need to raise $200 for the entry fee and some money for the gown I'll be wearing. Any sponsors will be featured throughout the entire weekend and every cent contributed is tax deductible!!
If you or anyone you know would like to sponsor me, just let me know at camile@camilearaujo.com.
Again, I'm looking forward to this amazing event and exposing myself and my platform out there to many others, hopefully not only in the state but in the country as I go for Ms. Wheelchair USA ;)
Cheers!!!
I'm applying to participate in the Ms. Florida Wheelchair Pageant 2013. The event is taking place in April in St. Petersburg, FL. I'm very excited to participate in this event because it is unlike any other beauty pageant out there - it is NOT a beauty pageant.
The event is held to display the individual's character and accomplishments since their injury. It is a beauty pageant but from the inside out.
Anyway, again I'm looking for sponsors. I need to raise $200 for the entry fee and some money for the gown I'll be wearing. Any sponsors will be featured throughout the entire weekend and every cent contributed is tax deductible!!
If you or anyone you know would like to sponsor me, just let me know at camile@camilearaujo.com.
Again, I'm looking forward to this amazing event and exposing myself and my platform out there to many others, hopefully not only in the state but in the country as I go for Ms. Wheelchair USA ;)
Cheers!!!
Thursday, January 3, 2013
The brains behind the cuteness (what 2 year olds really think)
Nothing else matters than the present moment.
I am here, pay attention to me.
I am hungry, I eat.
I am sleepy, I sleep.
It's normal to change my mind in a split second.
If you don't understand me, you have the problem.
That phone of yours I throw on the floor all the time is my biggest competitor.
I love you but I don't like you all the time.
Learn to speak my language and we'll get along greatly.
If you don't want me to eat it, don't eat it yourself.
If you don't want me to eat it, don't buy it.
What? What do you mean I'm not the center of the Universe?
Oh, and if you don't want me to eat it, don't bribe me with it. I'll remember.
No, it's not fun starting school. All the other kids are spoiled brats and crybabies.
Ok, fine... School is all right.
No, mom, don't hug me in front of my friends, that's so not cool.
If I say I pooped, CHANGE ME NOW!
There's a reason I have unique versions of my favorite songs. Let me believe I'm singing them correctly.
Don't mistake my cuteness for dumbness... I'm watching you.
Mommy, I love you the best... Can I have some chocolate?
I am here, pay attention to me.
I am hungry, I eat.
I am sleepy, I sleep.
It's normal to change my mind in a split second.
If you don't understand me, you have the problem.
That phone of yours I throw on the floor all the time is my biggest competitor.
I love you but I don't like you all the time.
Learn to speak my language and we'll get along greatly.
If you don't want me to eat it, don't eat it yourself.
If you don't want me to eat it, don't buy it.
What? What do you mean I'm not the center of the Universe?
Oh, and if you don't want me to eat it, don't bribe me with it. I'll remember.
No, it's not fun starting school. All the other kids are spoiled brats and crybabies.
Ok, fine... School is all right.
No, mom, don't hug me in front of my friends, that's so not cool.
If I say I pooped, CHANGE ME NOW!
There's a reason I have unique versions of my favorite songs. Let me believe I'm singing them correctly.
Don't mistake my cuteness for dumbness... I'm watching you.
Mommy, I love you the best... Can I have some chocolate?
Sunday, December 30, 2012
In Gratitude For 2012
This is the last blog for 2012. As I prepare myself to welcome the new calendar year, I already feel a sense of great accomplishment. 2012 was not easy, but along with the obstacles there were so many goodies, so many a-has, and so much integration of the good and bad inside of me.
I'm entering the new year feeling more grown up, more empowered, certain that I'm on my way to something extraordinary and extremely grateful that the road to this extraordinary place has been filled with unbelievable growth, friendship, teachings, relationships, freedom, opportunities and a fun knack for risk taking.
Life defied me once again this year in an unexpected way (this time nothing involving any hospital visits). And, as I worked through the event, I understood what a true blessing it was, and even now as I write about it, I am overwhelmed with gratitude flowing out of my heart & eyes in the form of tears. One of the best lessons I got out of it was that if I didn't defy myself, if I didn't push myself to my perceived limit, it WILL be done for me in a way I may not necessarily like at first. So I'm proud to say that 2012 has been a year where I have learned that going beyond imposed boundaries is not only okay but vital for constant growth.
This year, I solidified an amazing partnership with the best business partner anyone can ask for. Our projects are so congruent with our life's purpose that working feels like I'm taking a stroll in the carnival of life. The most fun I have ever had while serving others and truly honoring what I'm here to do. Without her support & kicks in my butt to get me in gear, I would not be writing this blog as is.
My family is my rock. And I include those who are my spiritual family too. To paraphrase the great Emerson, if we're related, we'll be sure to meet. I feel so loved and supported by those around me (locally & non locally). Through constant support & challenges, from every single one of them, I leave 2012 behind a woman. A woman who knows herself, her potential, her inspirations and her tenacity. I leave 2012 a lot closer to being the woman I have always dreamed of being.
A sincere thank you to all those who have in one way or another participated in this amazing journey with me. 2012 has been unforgettable. I wouldn't change one second of it.
To the two most important women in my life, my mom & daughter... You both keep me so balanced, focused and present. You are my buffer zone. Your hearts speak to me with no need for words. I live you so much & playing the daughter & mother in this wonderful dynamic has been thus far the most exciting experience of my life.
Finally, to myself, I would like to leave a little written note in case I lose focus, or get off track in 2013.. Thank you for taking a chance on yourself, for trusting that little voice inside who whispers lovingly to you. Thank you for acknowledging the blinding light inside of you and sprinting with it. Thank you for loving yourself, your family and honoring your sacred values this year. Thank you for not reacting during the tough times and finding that place of love when making difficult decisions. Thank you for taking inventory of your life and what's important to you. Thank you for taking your health seriously, and understanding that you are in charge of your well being. Thank you for seeing the divine entanglement among the living beings and seeing your own soul inside everyone's eyes. Thank you for your relentless curiosity and eagerness to learn. Thank you for believing in the beauty of your dreams and taking action steps to inspire the world. Thank you for investing in your financial future and deciding to emancipate yourself from the feeling of impotence. Thank you for seeing and feeling the love with your family... And thank you for reaching out and sharing your message with other social circles..
Thank you, 2012!
Love, inspiration, wisdom and lots of prosperity in 2013!
I'm entering the new year feeling more grown up, more empowered, certain that I'm on my way to something extraordinary and extremely grateful that the road to this extraordinary place has been filled with unbelievable growth, friendship, teachings, relationships, freedom, opportunities and a fun knack for risk taking.
Life defied me once again this year in an unexpected way (this time nothing involving any hospital visits). And, as I worked through the event, I understood what a true blessing it was, and even now as I write about it, I am overwhelmed with gratitude flowing out of my heart & eyes in the form of tears. One of the best lessons I got out of it was that if I didn't defy myself, if I didn't push myself to my perceived limit, it WILL be done for me in a way I may not necessarily like at first. So I'm proud to say that 2012 has been a year where I have learned that going beyond imposed boundaries is not only okay but vital for constant growth.
This year, I solidified an amazing partnership with the best business partner anyone can ask for. Our projects are so congruent with our life's purpose that working feels like I'm taking a stroll in the carnival of life. The most fun I have ever had while serving others and truly honoring what I'm here to do. Without her support & kicks in my butt to get me in gear, I would not be writing this blog as is.
My family is my rock. And I include those who are my spiritual family too. To paraphrase the great Emerson, if we're related, we'll be sure to meet. I feel so loved and supported by those around me (locally & non locally). Through constant support & challenges, from every single one of them, I leave 2012 behind a woman. A woman who knows herself, her potential, her inspirations and her tenacity. I leave 2012 a lot closer to being the woman I have always dreamed of being.
A sincere thank you to all those who have in one way or another participated in this amazing journey with me. 2012 has been unforgettable. I wouldn't change one second of it.
To the two most important women in my life, my mom & daughter... You both keep me so balanced, focused and present. You are my buffer zone. Your hearts speak to me with no need for words. I live you so much & playing the daughter & mother in this wonderful dynamic has been thus far the most exciting experience of my life.
Finally, to myself, I would like to leave a little written note in case I lose focus, or get off track in 2013.. Thank you for taking a chance on yourself, for trusting that little voice inside who whispers lovingly to you. Thank you for acknowledging the blinding light inside of you and sprinting with it. Thank you for loving yourself, your family and honoring your sacred values this year. Thank you for not reacting during the tough times and finding that place of love when making difficult decisions. Thank you for taking inventory of your life and what's important to you. Thank you for taking your health seriously, and understanding that you are in charge of your well being. Thank you for seeing the divine entanglement among the living beings and seeing your own soul inside everyone's eyes. Thank you for your relentless curiosity and eagerness to learn. Thank you for believing in the beauty of your dreams and taking action steps to inspire the world. Thank you for investing in your financial future and deciding to emancipate yourself from the feeling of impotence. Thank you for seeing and feeling the love with your family... And thank you for reaching out and sharing your message with other social circles..
Thank you, 2012!
Love, inspiration, wisdom and lots of prosperity in 2013!
Monday, December 17, 2012
Sometimes words are not enough..
Collectively, I believe it's safe to say that a lot of parents feel a pang in their hearts when dropping their kids to school. Now, a hunting question hovers over their head... Will I see my child this afternoon?
I'm not writing to judge, analyze or demoralize any group or lawmakers. I'm writing because I too have this hovering question hunting every minute of my day. I anxiously look at the clock every hour-long minute and begin counting down to the moment I have my daughter back in my arms. I have (I admit) tried to dissect this incident at Sandy Hook Elementary using all the methodologies I have learned and applied before on myself or clients. It brings me temporary relief and understanding, and then I'm back at square one.
As I look at the pictures of the group of people who perhaps left us a bit too soon, I am unable to hold back my tears and the unanswerable questions that surround the event itself flood my head.
I have imagined myself face to face with the parents of the children who are now actually enduring the unimaginable, and the words flee me. I would not know what to say.
On Friday evening as we shopped for groceries, the usual annoyed looks or indifferent attitudes towards children were gone. They were replaced with a sense of respect, appreciation and profound compassion. The way every single adult spoke to my daughter made it clear to me that although we were not in Newton, Connecticut, the non local support spread throughout.
Since that day, I HAVE hugged my child tighter. I HAVE told her I love her more times than I can count. I HAVE been more patient during her tantrums. I DO feel grateful to have her with me.
As we each deduce whatever explanation to help us cope, I do wish sincerely that every time we hear Sandy Hook Elementary and their heroes, we realize that we are fragile beings and we are here to make the most out of now.
Let's pay attention to our children, live through example and truly grasp how privileged we are to be touched by the love of a child.
In honor of the brave souls from Sandy Hook Elementary.
(the link to the school will take you to the site where checks can be sent for support of those affected.)
I'm not writing to judge, analyze or demoralize any group or lawmakers. I'm writing because I too have this hovering question hunting every minute of my day. I anxiously look at the clock every hour-long minute and begin counting down to the moment I have my daughter back in my arms. I have (I admit) tried to dissect this incident at Sandy Hook Elementary using all the methodologies I have learned and applied before on myself or clients. It brings me temporary relief and understanding, and then I'm back at square one.
As I look at the pictures of the group of people who perhaps left us a bit too soon, I am unable to hold back my tears and the unanswerable questions that surround the event itself flood my head.
I have imagined myself face to face with the parents of the children who are now actually enduring the unimaginable, and the words flee me. I would not know what to say.
On Friday evening as we shopped for groceries, the usual annoyed looks or indifferent attitudes towards children were gone. They were replaced with a sense of respect, appreciation and profound compassion. The way every single adult spoke to my daughter made it clear to me that although we were not in Newton, Connecticut, the non local support spread throughout.
Since that day, I HAVE hugged my child tighter. I HAVE told her I love her more times than I can count. I HAVE been more patient during her tantrums. I DO feel grateful to have her with me.
As we each deduce whatever explanation to help us cope, I do wish sincerely that every time we hear Sandy Hook Elementary and their heroes, we realize that we are fragile beings and we are here to make the most out of now.
Let's pay attention to our children, live through example and truly grasp how privileged we are to be touched by the love of a child.
In honor of the brave souls from Sandy Hook Elementary.
(the link to the school will take you to the site where checks can be sent for support of those affected.)
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Oração de Mãe (A Mother's Prayer)
Circa Janeiro 2006
Perdoe-me, perdoe-me, perdoe-me.
Sou um simples ser humano, que por mais que trate de levar uma vida correta, digna e justa, nao deixo de ser um pecador por as vezes em virtude das dificuldades da vida e pela luta, pela sobrevivência esquece de envocá-lo, saudá-lo e elevar preces ao senhor o quanto seria necessário, mas mesmo assim, em momento nenhum de minha existência, me revoltei ou revoltarei contra o senhor ou contra as divindades do espirito santo, pois o amor, o respeito e o temor maior de minha vida é e sempre será o senhor. O pai verdadeiro, aquele que sofreu com tudo que fizemos contra seu filho, e mesmo assim nos perdoou, e a cada segundo de nossas vidas nos da uma oportunidade nova de nos redimir e repensar nossa existência e reconhecer o verdadeiro motivo pelo qual estamos aqui.
Por favor meu Deus, esqueça nesse momento todas as minhas faltas e atenda o pedido de mãe em sofrimento e agoniada.
Por favor, derrame sobre minha filha o nectar da vida.
Devolva-lhe a sobrevivência, saúde completa, desde sua mente, seus orgãos, suas coordenaçōes seus sentimentos e principalmente corrija os erros de sua matéria, dando-lhe mais espiritualidade, humildade e força para daqui para frente possa ser um ser humano mais tranquilo porem com muito mais forca espiritual.
DEUS, em seu nome lhe peco permissão para evocar todos os caminhos pelos qual nos leva a seu nome.
SENHOR, de permissão para que um guardião seu de cada legião, como um soldado seu de cada tropa, não importa o nome, o tipo, a maneira como possa nos ajudar, desde que venha em seu nome, seja convocado e permitido nos dar ajuda nesta hora tão difícil de nossas vidas, quando ate as palavras me fogem, a concentração para rezar e dispersada por pensamentos adversos, quando o verdadeiro e o obvio se transformam em obscuro, pelo cansaço do corpo.
Meu Deus, meu espirito foi me ofertado pelo senhor, e tu sabes o quanto adoro tudo que vem de ti, quantas vezes paro ou agradeço a tranquilidade das águas, a energia do sol a luminosidade das estrelas, a transformação da lua, a suavidade dos pássaros a nobreza das arvores e tudo mais que o senhor criou.
Enfim quantas e quantas vezes lhe agradeço pela maravilha de sua obra, pela perfeição da natureza.
Em nome do senhor todo poderoso mais uma vez lhe peco não importe o nome que dão as igrejas, aos templos, aos centros, de permissão a cada um que lhe for invocado para que venha dar seu grão de ajuda nesta hora tão atribulada, me conceda este pedido e esta graça por tudo que e mais sagrado.
Eu só respeito e amo a ti, mais do que tudo.
Somente o senhor tem o poder superior para reverter a atual situação, por isso com toda minha humildade te peco que envie para perto da minha filha, seus mensageiros e nos ajude a sair dessa vitoriosos, pois estamos conformados e sabemos de nossos merecimentos.
Nos ajude a cada minuto ter mais fe e confiança em sua obra e nos ajude a prosseguir.
Obrigada, meu Deus.
De: Sonia Maria Flosi Araujo
Para Ajuda: Camile Flosi Araujo
Escrito pela minha mãe logo após meu acidente enquanto ainda me encontrava em coma. Amor de mãe é milagroso.
To all my English readers, this was a letter my mom wrote to God right after my life threatening accident while I was still in a coma. To not lose the essence of her writing I left the text in Portuguese, so please use your browser's translator to read this beautiful message.
Monday, December 10, 2012
Less than 25 days ...
So here I am again reaching out to you through my beloved blog.. The wonderful place where I come to leave my innermost desires, feelings, thoughts, and although it sometimes feels that I am writing to myself, I sense an enormous amount of non-local support through this world wide web.
Like I said, here I am again.. I have less than 25 days to go for my campaign to close. You know the one where I am asking for an outrageous amount of money to accomplish an incredibly awesome dream, which is to attend an amazing training that will lead me to extraordinary experiences all over the world with all different types of people.
Sounds extravagantly embellishing? It's not. It's the reality of this project.
Anyway.. the link to donate is INDIEGOGO CAMPAIGN.
Any amount helps... so...
Only $5.00... for a 45 minute session. Even if you don't want to use it.. Wouldn't that be a great Christmas gift to give someone you love?
Thank you, readers!! I love you all. If it weren't for you, this little tiny space on the web where I come to be me and leave a piece of me would be meaningless...
Ta ta..
Here is the video for the campaign:
Like I said, here I am again.. I have less than 25 days to go for my campaign to close. You know the one where I am asking for an outrageous amount of money to accomplish an incredibly awesome dream, which is to attend an amazing training that will lead me to extraordinary experiences all over the world with all different types of people.
Sounds extravagantly embellishing? It's not. It's the reality of this project.
Anyway.. the link to donate is INDIEGOGO CAMPAIGN.
Any amount helps... so...
FROM NOW 'TILL DECEMBER 31ST FOR ANY CONTRIBUTION OF $5.00 OR MORE, NOT ONLY WILL YOU GET THE CORRESPONDING PERK BUT A 45 MINUTE SESSION TO GUIDE YOU ON GETTING YOUR PRIORITIES STRAIGHT FOR 2013.
Only $5.00... for a 45 minute session. Even if you don't want to use it.. Wouldn't that be a great Christmas gift to give someone you love?
Thank you, readers!! I love you all. If it weren't for you, this little tiny space on the web where I come to be me and leave a piece of me would be meaningless...
Ta ta..
Here is the video for the campaign:
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Super-Woman Syndrome Dilemma
Sometimes, what I need and don't allow myself the opportunity to experience very often is the ability to feel vulnerable. The wisdom to know that in vulnerability lies the transparency that most appreciate. The knowledge of recognizing vulnerability as an inevitable trait that can be both painful and pleasurable.
It is only when I am in a certain setting that all walls are off, guards are down and I just.. am. I've been thinking about this today. Especially after a very life changing conversation.
To carry through the feeling that vulnerability means accessibility to others; it means humility amidst certainty; it equals strength of exposing the parts of you you still have not owned and loved.
Ironic is the understanding that freeing myself from the strains of my own guards expands my mind, fulfills my soul and nourishes my body. Why is it then that I still stop one step short form full vulnerable exposure? Is that an art that we learn? Is that a trait that we master? Or will it be for ever a game of risk taking and hoping for high odds?
Have I not yet crossed through gates that shed you of pride, fear and self-righteousness?
There was a lesson today. Be transparent. Be authentic. Be ready for the love. Love the hatred. Be you. Always.
One more layer peeled away.
It's a craft worth mastering. Being vulnerable.
Down the path of vulnerability, I stroll, one yellow brick at a time.
It is only when I am in a certain setting that all walls are off, guards are down and I just.. am. I've been thinking about this today. Especially after a very life changing conversation.
To carry through the feeling that vulnerability means accessibility to others; it means humility amidst certainty; it equals strength of exposing the parts of you you still have not owned and loved.
Ironic is the understanding that freeing myself from the strains of my own guards expands my mind, fulfills my soul and nourishes my body. Why is it then that I still stop one step short form full vulnerable exposure? Is that an art that we learn? Is that a trait that we master? Or will it be for ever a game of risk taking and hoping for high odds?
Have I not yet crossed through gates that shed you of pride, fear and self-righteousness?
There was a lesson today. Be transparent. Be authentic. Be ready for the love. Love the hatred. Be you. Always.
One more layer peeled away.
It's a craft worth mastering. Being vulnerable.
Down the path of vulnerability, I stroll, one yellow brick at a time.
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