What did you MANIFEST today?

REMEMBER: My Love, Hugs and Inspiration Campaign runs from Saturday, Feb 17 – Saturday, March 10^th. This week's set of poetry booklets have been paid off due to more donations!!!

If I could describe yesterday in two words it would be: Unbelievably Amazing!!!

Truth be told, I didn't give what the Campaign would entail much thought. When I had my brilliant brainstorm I coasted for the next few weeks on adrenaline, hope and inspiration. I didn't factor in my childhood moments of shyness, nor my tendency to get clammy hands and choke on fear in front of large groups of people. When I got my first shipment of booklets in on Friday I was jumping up and down for joy. Suddenly this whole campaign and everything it stood for seemed real to me. It was even more joyous when I discovered the bill was paid in full through donation. To be quite honest, I had to leave my office to take a cry break.

I coasted on this high for about twenty hours until I woke up on Saturday morning and realized I would be standing by myself in front of a very busy outdoor mall holding up a sign that said: Love, Hugs and Inspiration Campaign 2007! Free Hugs and Free poetry! I called my wonderful friend Melissa and panicked on the phone. I was stepping out of my comfort zone and into a whole other realm of possibilities. What was I thinking assuming I could take on a project such as this – gifting hope and inspiration?

I voiced these fears to her with the promise she would never utter them out. I wanted everyone to think I didn't have any fear in doing this and was headstrong with my resolve and determination. But then that wouldn't make me human, would it?

So all morning she stayed with me on the phone as I spent about an hour figuring out what to wear, then changing my mind at the last minute to put on a completely different outfit. She was there when I searched my house for something to put the booklets in, made the signs, pumped gas, bought water, and drove to the promenade. I used her as a buffer, if you will, to avoid thinking of my fear.

Ironically, on my way there a friend of mine, Laurie, whom I actually met here on MySpace called to tell me she was bored and wanted to meet up with me before she moves to England on Tuesday. We have mutual friends in London and hadn't yet had the opportunity to meet face-to-face. I was excited to have this opportunity. I told her to meet me in Santa Monica and she willingly agreed. I failed to tell her I was doing the campaign. I figured I would work that little detail in when she arrived.

It wasn't until I parked my car, paid my meter, scooped up the tote bag full of books, and forgot my water bottle that I realized I was in for one hell of an adventure. Crossing the street to enter the mall, my palms sweated when I took in all the people milling about the farmer's market. Oh yes – I had forgotten about that. The sun was out and approaching eighty degrees, there was a slight breeze, the sky was clear and blue, and the universe wanted me out here on a bright and cheerful day. I had magic to do.

So I walked the length of the mall chatting with Meli and trying to find the 'perfect spot' to conduct the campaign. There is an area where two large dinosaur shaped bushes meet -- if they were a few feet closer, they could kiss. Just then Melissa shouted; wherever you are, stay there. The sun just broke through the clouds in this radiant glow! (She is in Michigan where it is currently twenty degrees and below) So I set up shop several feet away from a man singing songs that were a perfect companion piece to what we were up to. The time was seven minutes to noon.

There were lots of people out enjoying the stunning afternoon. I hoped business would be good and at the same time I wanted to bolt out of there. My heart pounded and I begged Melissa to help me. Could I really do this? Twelve was fast approaching and I convinced myself I needed fifteen more minutes. How was I going to hang up the phone, grab the sign, and advertise? I didn't think I could do it. I seriously considered packing up my things and getting the heck out of there. My hands watered the phone and I swallowed several times as many pairs of eyes watched me in interest to see what I was up to. At twelve-ten I will start the campaign, I told Meli, not thinking I would really go through with it.

At the last minute I begged her to give me some inspiration. Tell me something to motivate me further, I pleaded. She recited a few quotes completely unprepared for the challenge. Remember why you are doing this, was her message. After a few deep breaths, I unwillingly hung up the phone (she had to force me off) and I was left with my signs, a hundred copies of The Evolution of Soul and my vow to carry out the Love, Hugs and Inspiration Campaign. Without another thought I held up the sign, pasted on a big smile, and danced to the sounds of a man singing slightly off key. Within minutes, I gave out my first hug…

PART ONE:

Altogether I gave over one hundred hugs and passed out over eighty copies of my poetry collection in a span of three hours. The response I received was amazing. It was one of the most amazing experiences of my life, next to hiking in the mountains of Italy. I will never forget these moments as long as I live and I am eager to find out what is in store for me next weekend!

Interestingly enough I gave more hugs to men than women. I was quite overwhelmed with the kinds of people who responded to the invitation. Now before you think: Of course, more men will want to hug a woman, let me begin by saying while I had my fair share of the obvious guys trying to hit up on me, many of the men who asked for a hug were not the typical kinds of guys attracted to me.

Surprisingly enough there were a lot of 'skater dudes' with long hair and tattoos all over their body, chains coming out of their pockets and skateboards resting in the crook of their arm. Quite honestly, I would never imagined these guys wanting hugs OR poetry. In fact, two of them had to remind me to give them the booklets. I had guys shouting rock on! and throwing peace signs. Teenage boys with slicked back hair stopped by to pick up their free hug and book.

I chatted with two boys who looked to be in ninth or tenth grade who were interested in what I was doing. They both gave me a hug and congratulated me on my efforts.

A teenage brother and sister passed by and someone else mentioned free hugs to the crowd. I heard him several feet away shout, FREE HUGS, COOL! Then he ran and jumped into me with a fierce hug, followed by his sister. His enthusiasm was amazing! I almost fell backward onto the pavement. He grew even more excited when I gave him Evolution, and I laughed long after he bounced out of my sight.

Another large gentleman gave me one of the best bear hugs I have ever had. He was followed by a homeless gentleman who spent about an hour sitting next to me watching me hug others. It took him the full hour to warm up to me and finally receive a hug. There was a group of men who obviously stopped because I was a girl, and one commented: I feel like a new man! Then the other one said – Wow! I really do! I could feel the sincerity in his voice and we both smiled at each other in truth and understanding.

Several people stopped by to sit on benches and watch the way people reacted to me. Some brought their lunches and watched with captivated interest. Others took photographs and video.

A guy from Ireland got his hug and told me he tried to do something similar in Dublin. But we didn't get much of a response. Some people yelled out we were gay and we ended up going home. Thank you for doing this! It's a great thing to see here in America. I assured him I would carry on his good work.

 
An older gentleman who was in his seventies stood outside of me and the group and smiled a beautiful smile while watching us. There was a twinkle in his eye and he made a gesture with his arm that said: All right! I told him he would be back for a hug and he said he wasn't so sure. But he stood several feet away watching me. After ten minutes, he finally made his way over. I asked him if he wanted a hug and he said yes. Then he commented that it was the best thing to happen to him in a long time!

Another gentleman who happened to be one of the clowns who made balloon animals kept passing by. He said it was a nice thing I was doing and I asked him if he would like a hug too. He seemed very shy and I pulled him in for a big hug. Afterwards, he said he hadn't been hugged in over fourteen years. It's been since the 1980's, he said. That's the last hug I remember. Thank you. When he walked off with his helium cart and balloons I felt as though a piece of me stayed with him. Hopefully he would remember what a hug feels like a week from now…

I will tell you about the women in a moment, but really, the men of the group affected me profoundly.

There was another gentleman from India who walked passed me with his head down. I could feel his energy was heavy and thick and he seemed troubled. I didn't press anyone to participate. In fact, I allowed people to come to me and only ventured to ask questions when they seemed unsure of what they wanted. So it was to my surprise when the man turned around and walked up to me a bit shyly. Are you giving away free hugs? His eyes held sadness within them. I told him I was. Can I have one?

We hugged each other and then he asked for the poetry. Thank you so much, he said. He asked if he could have another. Again we hugged and again he expressed his thanks. He wondered if I would accept donations and I told him I wouldn't. Really? He seemed surprised and I assured him I didn't want any money. Then he smiled a huge smile and walked off. An hour later he came back and said, I am sorry to bother you but can I have a really long hug this time? He hung his head down and said: I am surrounded by so much negativity in my life and I really need it. My eyes welled with tears and I held him close trying to impart as much love and healing energy to him as I could muster. He smiled again, this time his eyes joined in and then he walked off for good, clutching the book of poetry in his hands.

A homeless man with holes all over his clothes, dirt caked on his skin, and unruly hair stood next to me. He said: I felt a bad vibe in the air all day today and then I meet you. I gave him a hug after he said that. Then he said: I still feel the bad vibe but I don't feel it coming from you! I'm gonna remember that! He walked off backwards looking at me, nearly tripping over a man sitting behind him.

There was another gentleman who touched my soul -- another homeless man with no legs in a wheelchair. He wheeled up to me in curiosity and asked what I was doing. I said, giving away free hugs, would you like one? He seemed quite surprised and looked at me in disbelief – Really?!? His voice raised a whole octave. I crouched down and gave him a hug and pressed a copy of Evolution into his hands. His eyes watered and he whispered his thanks to me and then he rolled off. I had to choke back tears.

A couple passed by and the girl asked if I would give her boyfriend a hug for his birthday. I was quite surprised at the request as it is not everyday you hear a girl tell her boyfriend to give another girl a hug. He was a bit reluctant but then he gave in. Afterwards she said: I'm happy! Then the two walked off hand in hand, all smiles.

Another couple were strolling with their beautiful baby boy who looked to be almost two. I marveled at his gorgeous eyes and curly hair and I told him how beautiful he was. He began blowing kisses at me and I laughed in amazement. Although the parents were too shy to hug, I gave them a copy of the book. When they passed by on their way home the little boy saw me and blew kisses again. The mother yelled out: I love your book! Then we all smiled at each other and waved goodbye.

Several parents encouraged their children to partake in free hugs. I never factored that in so it was a lot of fun to mingle with little children and see them smile and laugh and play. One little girl ran to me without a second thought and jumped in my arms! Another little girl in a stroller tried to climb out to get to me. It was all so beautiful and sweet. Mommy and Daddy were usually good sports and got their hugs too!

Now for the women of the group!

Several women couldn't pass up the opportunity for a free hug! Suddenly out of nowhere they came, as soon as I was finished hugging one person, another would pop out of no where and go in for a big hug. Most women stopped to read the whole sign before getting their hugs. It was fun to watch them read out loud and then see their faces light up in understanding.

One woman stopped me and said it was the greatest human kindness she had seen in a long time. She gave me the longest hug I received that day. We stood for what seemed an eternity as we both hugged each other. I began to wonder who was comforting who because such warm and loving energy was leaping off of her. She hummed the whole length of the hug which caused me to think she knew to do something special to make the hug more effective cause' I could feel her energy. Her boyfriend did the same thing and I could feel his loving energy too. They both gifted me beautiful words and stood by for several moments before they carried on their day. They left an impression on me long after the warmth of their bodies vanished from my side.

A lady walking her dog stopped to talk with me. After a few moments I could tell she was working up her nerve to grab a hug so I leaned in and gave her one. She smiled and said thank you. Yet another woman who was walking with her boyfriend waited while I was hugging someone else, for her turn. Afterwards, she opened up the booklet I gave her and started reading the poetry. This is wonderful!

She then asked why I started this campaign and I gave her a brief description and told her I included the story in the first page. She thought it admirable to begin the campaign and wished me luck. Toward the end of the day she stopped by again and said she wanted to thank me again. I am in recovery for addiction, she said. Reading your story and reading your poetry gives me hope I can overcome it one day. Will you be here again? I told her I would be here for the next four weekends and she vowed to come for a hug again.

I look forward to seeing her again…

A lady who looked to be in her late seventies said to me: I don't understand what your sign means! I told her I was giving free hugs and poetry, and she had trouble with that concept. But why? She asked, her nose scrunching up as though she tasted something she didn't like. Because I love people and there needs to be more love in this world. Would you like a hug? She paused a moment then scrunched her face and said no. But she stood watching me for a few moments before she walked off. She looked back once and I willed her to turn around again. But she never did.

There was a homeless middle-aged woman who shouted from the other end of the mall. Aren't you worried about germs? I walked up to her and said that I wasn't. Well you look clean enough, she said. I told her I took a shower that morning. Then she went into a story of how she was a pop singer and liked to sing to all the 'teenyboppers.' The problem with singing pop songs is I have to study what all the kids like, and the girls today like songs I don't like to sing about. But I have to give my audience what they want, you know? I took in her tote bags full of garbage and odds and ends. I noted her unkempt appearance and missing teeth. Then I said: I bet your audience will love anything you sing to them. She grinned a huge grin and said she would sing for me one day. Then she picked up her bags and walked off.

A girl was going for a jog and on passing she said: That is so awesome! Another shouted: You are a God send! Yet another said: There should be more people like you in this world. Neither stopped for a hug, but all smiled as big as the sun. They became a part of the campaign and spread the love.

It was interesting watching people react to me. Many who didn't jump aboard for a free hug at least smiled, sent a wink or shouted their support. Several feet away I saw couples give each other hugs. My being there sparked conversations and I could hear people debate with each other about whether they would come and hug me or not. I heard dares, and saw people drag their friends toward me, one even shouted to hers': Why won't you go hug her? Fine! I am going to go get a hug! And she did!

It was beautiful to see mothers hug their children and boyfriends pull their girlfriends in tighter. There were several kisses and lots of displays of affection after people passed me. I like to think the energy in the air shifted when people's hearts shifted toward Love. I cannot relate every single story from every single person I interacted with yesterday. I only know the warmth of their embrace will always remain.

As it was drawing near 3:30 I decided to wind down as I agreed to meet Laurie and a friend of hers at the other end of the mall. I wanted to wait for one last special hug. A woman stopped in mid-walk and exclaimed real loud: I love you! And then she ran toward me and scooped me up in a deep hug. It seemed the perfect ending to the beginning of my Love, Hugs and Inspiration Campaign.

I will never forget the looks on people's faces as they walked off to carry on the rest of their Saturday. They each had a story to share with someone that afternoon. How many times is it that you hug a stranger on a beautiful Saturday afternoon? Yesterday, I hugged over one hundred strangers and I feel LOVED.

Stay tuned for Part Two where I reveal the rest of the evening which brought more beautiful encounters and an unfortunate conclusion ending with me landing in the emergency room.... I love you all. Thank you to EVERYONE for your support on this campaign. Another weekend awaits us!!!

With Love, Hugs and Inspiration,

Lisa Mae Click here to view photos

Though this week's campaign was NOT without its interesting stories and breathtaking encounters which still leave me smiling in awe. I am so thankful to overcome my fear of being in front of people each day I choose to spread love and hugs, otherwise I would not be able to live this truth: Life truly IS beautiful if we open ourselves up to living and doing the unorthodox.

This week's campaign was extended an extra day due to a special request I received from a woman who desperately wanted to take a photo of me and my sign and to bring her daughter for a hug. Despite a painful leg and back I agreed to go back on Sunday. Boy, am I glad I did!!!

Saturday:

I awoke feeling excited and high-spirited. The butterflies in my belly did not attack until I was actually parking my car at the promenade and pulling my signs and trusty tote bag out of the car. The sun was out in full force and it was as if the early morning clouds parted way for magic to resume its course. It was guaranteed to be a beautiful day.

Melissa was there to begin the day with me again. This time I was able to get off the phone within minutes of my arrival. No need to use her as a buffer anymore, though I did extend the conversation about five extra minutes. I wasn't cured of fear THAT quickly. But when the silence on the phone indicated she was no longer around, I immediately grabbed my sign and became an Inspirationalist (a word I coined to describe my efforts.) Within SECONDS I gave out my first hug. Things were about to get interesting…

While last week there were more men who jumped on board the Huggie train, this time it was about an equal amount of men and women. My first hug was given to a very nice woman who happened to walk by just as I proudly displayed my sign. She glanced at it a few moments as if she needed to take some time to read. I saw the meaning of my campaign flash in her eyes and then she smiled and held out her arms.

A few minutes later a family of five walked by and the father lined everyone up for a hug. I thought it was so sweet watching him encourage his three little girls to stand single file and partake in the loving energy that surrounded us. He was first to give me a hug, followed by the three little girls, and last his wife. They all smiled and then hugged each other. They seemed happy to walk off with two copies of the poetry collection. I looked after them and felt such compassion as I watched the two older girls grab hands and skip off ahead of the family.

Soon a homeless man came up to me and seemed apprehensive of my willingness to pass out free hugs. "Why would you want to do something like that?" he said, as his eyes narrowed taking in my sign. "Why wouldn't I?" I responded as if standing in the middle of a busy outdoor mall passing out inspiration was the norm. He seemed to like this answer and smiled really big, and then unexpectedly grabbed me in a hug. I then handed him a copy of Evolution and his eyes watered. "Poetry is what got me off drugs." He continued, "How did you know I love poetry?" I smiled wide as if I knew the answer, but for lack of knowing the answer I just hugged him again. He walked off clutching the book in his hand. I watched him go up to another homeless guy and the two of them began leafing through the booklet. Before I could process the moment, a lady tapped me on the shoulder for her hug.

A couple who seemed rather distant with each other were walking in my direction, and before they passed by I asked the woman if she would like a hug. Her eyes were hidden behind glasses but I had the impression she might have been crying. We embraced for a long period of time and then she said, "Thanks so much, I really needed that." I heard the quiver in her voice and I pressed her poetry copy in her hands. "Food for the soul," I told her. "This is really wonderful," she said and sent me a genuine smile.

A little five-year old boy was riding his scooter back and forth on the sidewalk in front of me and kept looking in my direction. I heard him speaking to his father in a foreign language and he pointed to my sign. I imagine he must have asked what my sign said because I heard his father reply: "free hugs." The little boy, whom I later found out is named Jonathon, rode up to me and asked if I was afraid of the dark. We carried on a nice conversation that spanned the origin of dinosaurs (as I once again chose to stand in front of the dinosaur shaped bushes) and touched on favorite things to play with. I asked him if he was my sidekick and he said yes. "I'm your buddy!" he proudly announced, and then begged that I watch him scoot back and forth in front of me.

He asked me if I liked giving people hugs and I said yes. His mother was inside a store shopping and his father asked if his son was bothersome. I found Jonathon absolutely charming! When it was time for him to go, Jonathon shouted out, "When we come back around I am going to give you your free hug, okay!?" My cheerful laughter mingled with the laughter of the crowd that stood by. He truly was a highlight of my afternoon.

A homeless teenager followed soon after and seemed shocked that I asked her if she wanted a hug. "Sure!" She responded enthusiastically, and then she gave me a big hug. "Wow, this is so neat!" She said in awe! "And people are coming and giving you hugs? That is so weird!" "Can I help?" She asked, her voice rising with curiosity. After I enthusiastically agreed, she eagerly grabbed a stack of booklets and began shouting for people to come for a free hug.

I was a little surprised at her forceful technique as I was letting people come forward as they felt compelled to, and only asked people if I felt they might be receptive or were indecisive. She all but dragged people to our vicinity, and voiced her irritability when people were unresponsive. Finally, I had to explain that I didn't want to 'force hugs' and would rather be gentle with my offer. She didn't seem to like my idea and walked off, though she asked for a copy of poetry.

I was waiting to meet with Leah, a new friend I met on Myspace. She had surprised me when I received a message from her that morning that she would be stopping by to meet me and give a hug. I felt her spirit as she bounced toward me, a huge smile on her face! After we hugged each other she announced with cheer, "I'm Leah!" "I know!" I said giving her another hug. Then she introduced me to her wonderful friend whom she dragged down from the valley with her. The two of them stayed with me for over an hour passing out hugs and booklets and taking photos!

If it wasn't for Leah's thoughtfulness I would not be able to display the slideshow I have on my page. She deserves a special thanks and a heartwarming HUG for her love and support. She dug right in to giving people hugs and encouraging shy individuals to step forward. They were my cheerleaders and I was honored to share my afternoon with them. Plus, Leah got to be interviewed with me when I was stopped for an interview! More on that in a moment…

There was an amusing moment when a guy on a skateboard flying past us in a blur, shouted "Whoa! Whoa!" as he tried to stop on his skateboard. He looked backwards nearly running into a crowd of people and almost fell off his board but he appeared to be traveling too fast to grab his hug. For a nano-second I entertained the thought of running after him, but then that would make me look like a raving lunatic. So I just stood watching after him joining Leah in laughter.

Three women out enjoying their Saturday walk stopped to pick up their hug and book. They seemed surprised I was out there and stopped to chat with me for a few moments. One mentioned contacting KTLA to let them know of my campaign but I declined. "I don't want to 'toot my own horn,' but if someone else felt compelled to do it…" I let the notion hang in the air. I hadn't thought about that before. What about the media? Of course, my humble little campaign wouldn't be of interest to the media so I tossed the idea out of my head as soon as the woman threw it out. "This truly is beautiful." Another woman said as they geared up for the rest of their walk. "I might do it for you!" One shouted when they were several feet away. I smiled after them and let the possibilities dance in front of me.

Leah wanted to take a photo of the three of us together so she stopped a woman who seemed a bit distraught. Her fingers trembled when she snapped the photo. Afterwards I gave her a hug and she began crying. "You haven't seen a man in a green trench coat have you? I shook my head and asked why. The tears began to fall and she explained that she had traveled from Bakersfield to be with a man that didn't want her anymore. She then told me she was forced to be a stripper to make ends meet because she couldn't bear being away from him. "But he doesn't love me," she said. "My heart is so broken."

I stood with her for several minutes and talked with her about the importance of learning to love yourself. I explained once you have an understanding of who you are and have come to embrace that knowledge, the need for someone else to complete you disappears. She nodded hear head rapidly, tears streaming down her face. "I know, but how do I do that?" I told her my email contact information was inside the booklet and encouraged her to spend moments thinking about the things she enjoys doing. I told her she can send me an email and I will send her more inspiration and encouragement. She thanked me profusely and went off in search…

Later, a man stopped and asked if he could interview us for a new internet television project, LoyalTV.com. Of course I wasn't going to turn that down. So I got my first taste of being interviewed in front of the camera. Let me tell you – a girl can get used to this. I can easily be in my comfort zone. *wink* But it was interesting to explain the reason why I was there and be a part of an upcoming project! After the interview, the host ran several feet back, geared up and then sprinted toward me for a hug. I almost threw out my back catching him. It was definitely an amazing and welcome experience. I hope to be interviewed one day again! Leah also got to participate and gave her opinions on what were the best cameras to use. Turns out she had one of them in her hands and had taken very nice photos.

I also got to meet an amazing man who paints with his nose. Gille was born with cerebral palsy and did not let that tiny little detail deter him from living an uncommon and absolutely remarkable life. He fell in love with my poetry and we agree on many of the same philosophies: There is no joy in living ordinary, which is on the cover of my book The Evolution of Soul. I fell in love with his painting and picked out a beautiful work of art which now graces one of the walls in my bedroom. His art and his life is Inspiration personified. His determination to enjoy and embrace life inspires me to continue forward with my passion. You will see him in my slideshow. There is such joy in his smile and in his eyes. There was such warmth in our hug.

After Leah left, I continued on with the campaign.

I met people from all over the world, hugging people from Ireland, Sweden, Russia, France, China and India. I took photos with countless tourists who wanted to capture a bit of the 'unordinary customs' in America. To be sure I am featured in a few vacation videos, sign proudly displayed, radiant smile plastered on my face. There was no way I could NOT smile. I was filled with SO MUCH love and energy. Though it was quite chilly throughout the day, I felt none of the chill. My heart and soul were on a mission and inclement weather could not touch my spirit. I was buoyed by the beauty and energy of others. I felt true happiness.

Again, to relate all the lovely and amazing encounters I experienced it would take up many pages, but I wanted to give you a sense of what I felt and saw. My heart expanded with each hug I gave and received. I loved watching the smiles on people's face as they walked past, curious eyes grazing my sign. And while several didn't stop for a hug, many instinctively pulled their loved ones close to them. Others hugged their friends and close ones, and most smiled the smile of one who had just been touched by love and inspiration.

Yes, my work here has only begun…

Sunday would prove to be one beautiful day…

Stay tuned for Sunday's amazing experiences where I was purposed to by a big purple Dodo Bird!!!

With Love, Hugs and Inspiration,

Lisa Mae Click here to view photos

At last I finally have the time to write more about the Love, Hugs and Inspiration Campaign events from last Sunday, February 25^th and this past Saturday, March 3^rd. I have been on several adventures over the course of the last ten days. Who knew so much can happen in so little time. Then again – time IS an illusion. I will break up this blog into two parts. If you have to come back to read, please do so – you DON'T want to miss a thing! (Aerosmith just came to mind right then…) 

Okay, now to talk about Sunday, Feb 25:

I woke up again to find the day radiantly sunny. I had been asked to come out the following day by a woman who wanted to take a picture of me and bring her daughter for a hug. I agreed even though I was quite exhausted and under the weather. In fact, on Sunday morning I debated long and hard whether or not I would show up. I sat on the couch and had almost no energy and my head rang with dizziness and fatigue. I thought perhaps I might have been doing too much. But as the hour crept closer to twelve o'clock, I felt in my heart I must do good on my promise. Love does not wait for anyone – even sick and tired people.

I decided to go an hour late because I was running behind while debating. I scrubbed up, put my game face on, called Melissa (a weekly ritual now, I cannot conduct the campaign without her voice) and headed out the door. I could feel positive energy begin to flow with each mile I ate up. As I got closer and closer to the Promenade, all thoughts of ailments or sleepiness abandoned me. Again, magic was waiting to happen.

My friend Samantha called to tell me she would be meeting me for the campaign. Yes, this IS the same Samantha who fell and busted her ankle the first week I fell and busted my butt and we BOTH ended up in the emergency room. (Pause while you laugh) Needless to say, she was crazy enough to actually meet me at the place where it all unfolded.

I began the campaign without her. Within seconds I gave out my first hug to a woman with the kindest eyes. She stated she had seen me the day before but was too scared to come up to me. "I am not used to things like this" she said. Her voice was rather soft as she embraced me. "Thank you for doing this." And then she walked off.

Shortly after, a whole family stopped by for their hugs. They would be the first of many families. The mother presented her children who looked to be about eleven or twelve and both boys opened their arms wide. Apparently mother practiced open affection for they were all eager to share in the moment. They each smiled and jumped up and down as if they won the lottery. One boy exclaimed: "That was cool!"

A gentleman and his cute little dog who wears barrettes and ponytails on her ears, stopped by for their hug. He came the week before and has stopped by every week since to share in conversation. He says it is one of the highlights of his day now and wonders if I will continue to come when the campaign is finished. He is kind enough to fetch me water make sure I have eaten something. He is one of many friends I have made.

Also stopping by again, the wonderful and talented Gille, the man who paints with his nose. (You can check him out in the slideshow) His radiant and positive energy always picks me up. This past Saturday I made sure he was one of the first to grab a hug. He stated he didn't feel as though he was there that day. Inspiration had left and he didn't feel he could paint. I promised I would try and infuse as much as I could into the hugs I bestowed throughout the day. Somewhere in the middle he began painting again.

An older lady grabbed my arm and asked for directions, then glanced down at my sign and smiled huge. "You would think there is a catch!" She said, her eyes scrutinizing my face. "You just come out here and give hugs?" I responded "Yes, would you like one?" I was quite shocked when she grabbed me without answering. Afterwards, she exclaimed she really needed that. Who needs directions when you can have a hug?

Then a very tall, gorgeous gentleman with the most radiant smile and eyes walked past with his friend. Ordinarily I would have let the shy part of me take over and I wouldn't have said a thing to him. He was that adorable. But I was powered by Love and the Inspiration Muse and they didn't care that I can get tongue-tied when talking to an attractive guy. "Would you like a hug?" I asked without an introduction or a second thought. I half expected the guy to look at me as though I were nuts. A woman standing out in the sun waving a sign?!? "Sure!" He said and we shared one of the best hugs I have had.

Perhaps I imagined it, but it surely was a nice exchange. "Thank you, so much" he said when it was over. He seemed a bit surprised, us being strangers and sharing a hug in plain sight. He smiled and I almost died. I stared after him as he and the other gentleman walked out of site. Then I sighed.

My attention could not linger for long because I was then stopped by a well-dressed gentleman in the most exquisite Italian Leather shoes (yes, I know my shoes) who said he read all about my campaign on the internet. He revealed he made a special trip just to see me. "I had to see for myself if this was really happening, and I cannot believe it is true!" He took a copy of The Evolution of Soul and then pulled out his wallet trying to pull out twenties to give to me. "No way!" I shouted and motioned for him to put his money back. "No donations." He was surprised given that the majority of the people on the promenade are seeking donations for one reason or another. I was there for free. He then said, well than can I have another hug then? So I gave him one!

A few moments later a young man wearing glasses trotted by. I had seen him earlier glancing at my sign and it was approximately the third time he passed by. I ran up to him and asked if he was interested. His eyebrows shot up and I thought he was going to say no. Instead he said, "Really! Wow that would be great!" Afterwards, he wondered if it was really free.

That seemed to be the theme of this day. Every few hugs people would excl.. "Really? For free? Are you serious?" One teenage skater dude even shouted after his hug, "You would think there would be a catch!" I laughed and said, "Absolutely not! All for free!" To which he replied, "It's one of the few things in life."

I was surprised to turn around from another exchange and find Mr. Gorgeous, friend no where in sight, walking back to me with a beautiful smile on his face. Now was the time to feel shy. I didn't have the time. Before I could think, he was already standing in front of me. "I just want to say, I think this is absolutely wonderful what you are doing!" I expressed my thank you's and asked him where he was from. "Denmark" he said. "I came down here for the weekend and I am on my way back to San Francisco right now to catch a flight and leave tomorrow for home." I don't know why I felt so disappointed in that moment. I would have had the balls to ask him to lunch if he had the time, I felt that drawn to this stranger.

"I hope to visit Denmark on my travel adventures." I told him, fully compelled to book a flight that day. He said he could tell me the places to go and I informed him my contact information was in the booklet. Hey, might as well make a friend in Denmark while sharing in the love, right? So we chatted for a bit longer and then he showered me with that smile and we had another beautiful hug. I had to stand on my tip-toes, something I RARELY do. I could have died and gone to heaven. Okay, enough gushing. Sorry. Back to the hugs…

So the gorgeous Dane left and Samantha took his place.

She stated she would rather not hug too many people, and instead take in the events. So she got to watch while I met some more interesting people. Eventually, I was stopped by a giant purple Dodo Bird whose beak I ran into with my forehead when he/it hugged me. Yes folks, I was interviewed and purposed to by a giant purple Dodo Bird. (See photo In slideshow) Only in Santa Monica.

So this thing asks me to marry him and together we could travel the world cause he's running for president. My thoughts go back to the handsome Dane as soon as travel is mentioned. "Yes," I answer into the microphone facing the camera. Now before you think I am nuts, of course I know all of this is not real, but I was playing along. So my Purple Dodo Fiancé asks me questions and talks about all the fun things we can do together. Then he interviews Samantha and asks her if she is jealous he is marrying me. Semi-long story short – she said no, the thing eventually leaves.

I got to meet a woman who loves writing poetry and was eager to get a copy of mine. I couldn't convince her to grab a hug but she said she certainly needed inspiration. I still felt my work was done.

I hugged a homeless gentleman who shared he had not been hugged since he was a child. "You know I wasn't always homeless." He said, his fingers covered in dark soot. His toothless grin was beautiful to me as he twirled his fingers in his hair, eyes distant to a far off place where running water and warm beds were familiar and at hand. I wanted to take him back to that place but all I had to offer was another hug. I pressed a couple dollar bills into his hand and told him that I admire him. I didn't have to explain – it was enough to make him smile.

Another woman dressed all in black, makeup almost scribbled across her face came up to me with her boyfriend also dressed in black and chains. "You got money?" She said rather forcefully. "Why don't you do something to help me out? I'm homeless!" She reeked of alcohol and listed to both sides as she spoke. "I have something better than money;" I told her and pressed a copy of poetry in her hands. I didn't dare offer her a hug she was so aggressive, but she did walk off with Evolution. Perhaps it might do her some good.

Another pal of mine stopped by to see me. The old gentleman I met the first week I was there, has been a regular participant. Each week he bounds up to me with a smile and a new story of his life. He too, wonders if I will be there in subsequent weeks. I cannot imagine not seeing his cheerful face again when this campaign ends for Santa Monica. Where once he seemed shy and reserved, he now practically skips toward me for a hug.

Another regular – an older Chinese gentleman who also first hesitated when giving me a hug the week before, came by. Originally when I asked him if he wanted a hug he looked as though asked him to fly to the moon. After we hugged, he got a silly smile and said in very broken English, "Thank you, Thank you." He almost ran into several people as he beamed back at me when he walked off. I smiled at his apparent flustered state.

He would also visit me this past weekend when he came up and asked for another hug. I couldn't imagine this older gentleman who hardly spoke a word of English wanting to hug me. Again -- he walked away flustered, smile on his face, almost running into people. About an hour later he came back again and bowed when he walked away. Perhaps I will see him this coming week.

Still others came. I was in twice as many photos and videos this Sunday as I had been in previous weeks. I posed with tourists obviously visiting America. Two gentlemen from India posed with me and waved the sign up high, large smiles plastered on their faces. A large Chinese family each took their turns taking photos. I hugged a pug, a golden retriever, a woman while she was holding her baby, and the balloon man who was recovering last week from the hug I gave him the first week, (he hadn't had a hug in 14 years) but was ready to take on another.

I had the time of my life and I was thankful I got off the couch, set aside health and sleep issues, and committed myself to my promise and the Love, Hugs and Inspiration Campaign. And you know the woman who originally asked me to come? She never showed up…

But boy am I honored and thankful I did.

I will post part two tomorrow night as this is quite long and I don't want anyone to lose interest reading this.

With Love, Hugs and always Inspiration,

Lisa Mae Click here to view photos

I have this goofy default thinking that goes something like, "I can only create as far in my day as I planned, and only under the conditions of alignment (meaning happy) can stuff manifest." I mean, it's hardwired somewhere, but gently another old assumption about the universe and how he/she works is evaporating. And over and over again, the U teaches me otherwise.

Like this afternoon.

Aaaahhhh. You see, I have my son signed up for a sports class at our park district, its from 5p-6p, and it's primetime for schlepping the kids in and out of the cold, being in traffic, getting sippy cups/diaper bags going, AND having dinner started far enough in advance so that when we get home and EVERYONE is hungry, that there is something decent to eat. It's just a really bad time of the day.

So this afternoon...not once did I push against having to bring him and my daughter to this sports class. I embraced how I really felt about it, "yuck, I don't like this, next session I'm scheduling one day between classes bc the time, 5pm, 3 days in a row just doesn't work. How I wish I didn't have to bring him today. how I wish something else would work bc this just is annoying and we'll make the best of it."

Well, I didn't plan for ANYTHING with this and on the surface it doesn't look like ALIGNMENT in classic Regina understanding pure alignment in Abe terms. But what happens? Hubby calls at 4:40pm, announces, "I'm on my way home now, I'll take him." YIPPEE!!!! and this was after me asking me earlier, and he said he didn't think it could happen - and he sounded swamped and I didn't push it at all or question him or beg him. It's not his job to make my life comfy and easy. My job.

I just LOVE that the smallest manifestations make a WORLD OF DIFFERENCE and just ROCKS the HAPPY FACTOR to the stratosphere!!!! And I love that just being real where I am with my feelings - just lets everyone and everything off the hook, and creates a space for things to shift, cause hammering away with justification and defensiveness ALWAYS keeps you away from your heart's desire. Acknowledging the sting, and the fleeting moment of justifying and defensiveness while honoring that feeling, and feeling the gap of what is and where you want to go...and letting it all be just because it is.....creates a feel better space, (by default?) and a nice comforting space for things to just unravel themselves without another thought or intention on your part.

aaaahhh....

Love Regina

It could even be that you were able to manifest better feeling thoughts about yourself, someone else, or a situation.  It's all part of creating our own reality.

Hello, I'm Trina.....still new here, LOL

I have some things I would like to share, things that work well for me when I get into negative thinking patterns.

If a negative thought comes to my mind, I counter it with a positive thought on the same subject. I do this right away to "extinguish" the bad thought. If a coworker irritates me, I find something about her I like, her hair, her smile, or something she does. I have turned around many situations doing this and it is so much fun. I got into a petty argument with a coworker a month ago, went home and thought of things I like about her. A few days later we got on the elevator one morning, both looking at the floor, and suddenly we were both laughing. The funny thing is that I never said a word to her to make ammends. It just "happened".

Another thing I do, is if I get too negative, I make myself do leg stretches or arm stretches to counter the bad thinking. At any rate, it makes me WANT to change my thoughts to better ones because I get tired of doing the stretches, LOL. This one is a little harder when you are in public or at work. Another way is to "shift" your thoughts by bringing yourself into the present moment. Notice a person, a object in front of you. Sometimes I bring my attention to detail on something, colors, smells, and I take my attention away from the negative thinking.

Another idea, make gratitude lists. Write down something that annoys you and then write as many things you can think about it that don't annoy you. Suddenly, you see more good about it than bad (hopefully!) .

My favorite is my "energy circle". I draw an imaginary circle on the floor, and "toss" my wishes into it as I say them out loud. Step into the circle and gather up your wishes, embracing them to your heart and then "toss" them out to God or the Universe. IT WORKS! But don't push for the outcome or demand, and don't throw complaints into the circle, rather what you would love to see or have or a situation you would like to change.

Just some thoughts, Trina

Just some thoughts for everyone

Friday PM I met friends at a restaurant where we like the food but find the "call ahead" seating to be extremely confusing.

(They won't take your name if there is no wait, however when you get there, they say there is now a wait and, since they wouldn't take your name, you'll have to wait!) We'd encountered this twice after they told us that if we'd use "call ahead" there wouldn't be a wait!") Does this sound like Esther and the tacos relayed on tapes long ago?? I knew my vibration was contributing to the problem because I was considering going elsewhere even though the food is good and service (once seated) is also good.

The three of us talked - I had asked my friend to call as I knew my vibration was interfering - but hers was too - we were both caught in the "upstream" and she'd had the same results! As we talked for awhile, we decided on another restaurant that would suit us, decided on a different way to try explaining to the persons at the desk, and then her husband mentioned that "Here's another possibility". (Good things often begin with those words, "Here's another possibility." He said we might write a letter to the District Manager. They talked about how he always writes courteous, helpful letters, not angry, complaining ones.

We began talking about times when we'd been able to get changes in service by courteous, pleasing letters, etc. I told about a friend who had gotten a CASE of crackers (in a home way on top of a Mt - a 1+ hour roundtrip drive from the main road) when she just courteously let a company know that the crackers she purchased at the local store were stale.

(She certainly had no expectation of replacement crackers!) Then my friends talked about NEARLY $10,000 which was repaid them IN FULL for a tile floor that should not have been sold to them for the space/light in their house where it was to be used (the rep from several states away visited when he was in town, immediately recognized and corrected the problem!)

By then, we were having fun thinking of how we would address the next interactions, how our friends would write the (courteous - almost playful - he almost makes a game of it!) letter if the plan didn't work and how we'd go to the next restaurant if all failed! As we were leaving, a delightful manager from another branch of this restaurant was at the door!! I had always found her to be delightful at that location and would have gone there always except this restaurant works so much better for my friends. After joyful introductions and hugs, we playfully asked if we could explain our experience, she happily said she could fix that problem - it's her area to handle since she now works in that area in this restaurant!! As I was commenting on law of attraction to my friends, it occurred to me, that if we had not modified our vibration "she would have been in the kitchen instead of at the door when we left, I'd never have known she is now at this restaurant, and I'd have continued to have unaligned energy about this restaurant with - we all know - what results!" :):)

So thanks for letting me share my LOA experiences. There were undoubtedly others this week as well. I love reading these from all of you on the list!! It reinforces what works for all of us!!

Freedom N Joy

I love engaging with the phenomenal world and how it engages with me. I had my favorite 4 year old visiting all day yesterday and learned so much about seeing things with new eyes.

When I awoke today I giggled and asked for more. Just then Riley jumped on the bed and rolled all around snuggling up to me. So I laughed and we headed out under clear blue skies and mild temperatures.

And it began right away. A crow - and I love crows - landed on the lines above us as we hesitated a bit for Riley to sniff - we were on the lane across from us and it flew straight at us before it landed so I'd see it. I said good morning and smiled.

Well as Riley and I walked across the street at the end of the lane and around the corner on another street, this crow kept flying over head and almost touching me-I could feel the wings flap on the top of my head. I bowed down a bit and stopped and looked at the crow and giggled, after my initial surprise. She did it again and as I stopped she actually landed on the road and began to walk when I walked and stop when I stopped. Well, I laughed out loud and she nodded her head up and down and flew off! What a lovely way to start the day.

In the ball park two older pups showed up and I thoroughly delighted in watch Riley and the two of them run the full park along the fence - they had a blast just running full out and then Riley rolled around in a mud puddle to cool off as it is a beautifully mild day today!We continued our walk talking to birds and squirrels, Riley had a quick part dip in the lake and then home to give him a bubble bath!

I filled a bird feeder out my back window that I don't always remember as most of the feeders are out front and the chickadees are enjoying it in the full sunshine!

Speaking of sunshine - I'm off and wishing you all sparkling moments giggling with the phenomenal world today.

Love, Judi Richardson

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