One of the things I dislike most in the world is entertaining. And yet today, I am having 16 people over to my house for a birthday party. And I'm happy about it.

What? Isn't that a huge contradiction?

Let me explain. Yes, it's true that I dislike entertaining. I'm an introvert by nature and entertaining makes me very anxious. It also exhausts me emotionally.

So why do I do it? To give a good time to my family and friends. Today, for example, is my elderly aunt's birthday. She's a widow and her only daughter lives quite far away. I wanted my aunt to feel really special on her birthday. So I invited the whole extended family and am making a special afternoon tea for her.

Not only will my aunt feel special, but I know my mom (my aunt's sister) feels proud that I am doing this.

I think about these two women who have hosted countless birthday parties, Easter celebrations, and Christmas feasts over the years...and it seems only fitting that they now get to be hosted.

So that's why I'm happy about doing something I dislike.

Note added May 9, 2007: This article was chosen to be included in the Carnivals of Miracles.

Lori Radun, Certified Life Coach for Moms writes about how gratitude can help moms get through their day with grace.

How can gratitude help us in our everyday lives as moms? Think about the difference you can make in your family's life just by noticing and being thankful for all the great things they do.

When you express gratitude, you show your love and appreciation. Everyone needs to feel these things every day. But sometimes as moms we feel that no one appreciates us - and it is true that moms are usually last on the list to be thanked.

One way you can teach gratitude is by example. Even on the days when it seems your children or husband are doing everything wrong, find a reason to thank them. Take the time and energy to look for the good. Think about the things that your family does that deserve a thank you. You might say to your husband, "Thank you for working so hard for our family," or to your child, "I really appreciate your sense of humor - it feels good to laugh."

Expressing your gratitude helps family members to understand how it feels to be appreciated. And if they still don't catch on, let them know when you feel unappreciated. You can also tell them how great it makes you feel when they do express gratitude.

Excerpted from the article “The Power of Gratitude” available at iSnare.com

Imagine this: A spa treatment in a woodland sanctuary. Singing in harmony around a campfire. A workshop with an inspiring teacher. A steaming cup of scented tea in a quiet room.

Ahhh…such are the rewards of retreat.

The retreat experience is a temporary break from the rigors of daily life. It’s precisely the change of environment that refreshes mentally and physically. The rules: no laptop, no cell phone, and no paperwork.

But what if time or financial constraints make it difficult to get away to a spa or retreat centre? No problem. There are many ways to have the retreat experience without leaving town or even spending a dime. Jennifer Louden, author of The Women’s Retreat Book describes “mini-retreats” as alternatives to long retreats.