Pursue Love Deliberately!

A HOLIDAYS MATCHMAKING SUCCESS STORY

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 06:51:00 GMT

THIS EMAIL MADE MY HEART MELT - I just received it today from one of my friends whom I have introduced to one of my current single clients:

Sophia,
I want to thank you for being so persistent with Julie. She mentioned to me she was reluctant to meet someone during the Holidays and how you said not to pass up on such a great guy as me, that one meeting could be life changing.

Well that one meeting was life changing for me. I have dated enough to know not to let someone as special as Julie slip through my fingers, so to speak - and to think we almost did not get to meet J

I hope this finds you feeling better (you were fighting a cold last week when we chatted on facebook).

Warmest wishes to you and your son for a wonderful Holiday Season.

Marc

PS: I am thankful to you for staying in touch with me over these past few years and then when the time was right to send me Julie’s information – I have never met someone so genuine, caring, and beautiful.

THE LAW OF PARADOXICAL INTENT

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 06:48:00 GMT

The Law of Paradoxical Intent reflects the Law of Magnetism in warning that you'll only get a return of your own negative energy. If you're desperate to make something happen, that repulsive vibration will push it away, turning away the very people and situations that might bring your desired outcome. Your desperation, therefore, creates the paradox-or the opposite-of your original intention, leading you to failure instead of success.

The Universe wants you to achieve all that you desire, and when you align yourself with the Laws of Success, it will do everything in its power to help you on your way-but desperation and urgency are deal breakers. This isn't because the Universe wants to prolong your yearning. In fact, just the opposite is true: It wants you to enjoy your life and engage in a different, higher vibration now-and stop waiting for some vague happiness to come in the distant future. The best energy happens when you let go of urgency and engage in trust, when you rid yourself of despair and choose peace in the present instead.

CODEPENDENCE: THE DANCE OF WOUNDED SOUL

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 06:37:00 GMT

Feeling the Feelings - grief / emotional energy release

"Emotions are energy that is manifested in our bodies. They exist below the neck. They are not thoughts (although attitudes set up our emotional reactions.) In order to do the emotional healing it is vital to start paying attention to where energy is manifesting in our bodies. Where is there tension, tightness? Could that "indigestion" really be some feelings? Are those "butterflies" in my stomach telling me something emotionally?"
"We are all carrying around repressed pain, terror, shame, and rage energy from our childhoods, whether it was twenty years ago or fifty years ago. We have this grief energy within us even if we came from a relatively healthy family, because this society is emotionally dishonest and dysfunctional."

"Our emotions tell us who we are - our Soul communicates with us through emotional energy vibrations. Truth is an emotional energy vibrational communication from our Soul on the Spiritual Plane to our being/spirit/soul on this physical plane - it is something that we feel in our heart/our gut, something that resonates within us."

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO RESPECT YOURSELF

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 06:20:00 GMT

I recently posted an article from Scott and Shannon Peck on “Dating Mistakes that Block Soulmate Possibilities” where they talk about important things to be aware of while dating. Although I am not personally in the “dating” scene I can really appreciate their “no nonsense” approach. What stood out for me the most was when they talk about not continuing with someone who does not respect you. That is common sense for dating but what about long-term relationships?

How many of us stay in relationships with significant others who disrespect us on a daily basis? When we disrespect ourselves by allowing others to disrespect us we are giving that person the message that they don’t need to show us respect.

"SOPHISTICATED MATCHMAKING" VS. "IT'S JUST LUNCH" - TESTIMONIAL FROM CURRENT MATCHMAKING CLIENT

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 06:26:00 GMT

"So far 2 dates with 2 very fabulous women. Both are open to second dates so trying to line that up to get to know them better. If someone told me you have to make a choice now, I would go with Alex. But too soon to tell. I went on about 9 dates with "Its Just Lunch" and everyone was a painful experience as we had nothing in common. So 2 for 2 out of the gate---I’m really happy I decided to enlist your help. Thanks Sophia. ~ Male, 43yo, Seattle, WA / December 7th, 2011

LOVE IS....

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 19:00:00 GMT

Love is a feeling.

Love is a behavior.

Love is a choice.

Love is connection.

Love is the juiciest part of life.

Love opens our hearts, expands our world, and brings a smile to our lips.

For love we make commitments and agreements to share our life with another in good times and in bad.

DATING MISTAKES THAT BLOCK SOULMATE POSSIBILITIES

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 19:40:00 GMT

The whole idea of dating is to have fun, share meaning, and establish a potentially valuable relationship – and maybe even find your soulmate.

Often, that doesn’t happen. We make dating mistakes.

Most of them are avoidable. Anyone who has ever been on a date quickly recalls their worst dating mistakes. But the mistakes we make can be useful for future dates if we think through what went wrong.

Here are some dating mistakes that can block you from finding your soulmate.

Tags: love,relationship,dating,dating advice,matchmaking

WHY SOME MEN CAN'T MAKE ANYONE HAPPY

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 21:20:00 GMT

I’ve got a lot of theories about dating and relationships.

Whether you agree or not, my theories aren’t based on what I want to be true.

They’re based on the hundreds of women I dated, the thousands of women I’ve coached, and the many books I’ve read about relationships.

Which is not to say that I’m always right, but that when I offer you something, it’s an idea that has some measure of intellectual merit.

The latest theory I have is that there is a huge swath of men who can’t make ANYONE happy in the long run.

Any woman who dates one of these men will have fleeting moments of intense happiness…followed by many more moments of intense pain.

What makes my theory all the more confounding is this:

The men who can’t make ANYONE happy in the long run are very often the most desirable men of all!

That’s right.

It’s like a poisonous flower being the most attractive one.

Sometimes, the most charismatic men are the WORST relationship bets.

BEST MATCHMAKER WINNER - KING5 BEST OF WASHINGTON 2011

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 07:28:00 GMT

http://best.king5.com/best/matchmaker/local-services/western-washington/slideshow

SOPHISTICATED MATCHMAKING IN MERCER ISLAND WA WAS VOTED TO BE #1 BEST MATCHMAKER IN WESTERN WASHINGTON ON KING'S BEST OF WEST WASHINGTON IN 2011

Sophisticated Matchmaking was voted to be the #1 Best Matchmaker in Western Washington in 2011 again! Thanks to all who voted for us!

READ MORE HERE

WHERE YOU CAN MEET TALL, DARK, HANDSOME, SMART, SEXY AND RELATIONSHIP ORIENTATED MEN

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 06:13:00 GMT

Over 1000 of you took the time to fill out my survey last week.
You gave me your honest feedback about what I’m doing and how I can continue to support you in the future. What became abundantly clear after, oh, the first 954 responses, was that you’re craving more information, more clarity, more POWER over your own love life.

The #1 thing you want from me – by far - is how to understand men.
That wasn’t a big surprise. After all, if men were easier to figure out, you’d already be in a healthy relationship, and I’d probably be out of a job.

I’m kidding, of course, but I’m very sympathetic to your frustrations and have made it my top priority to focus my energies on helping you “get” what makes men tick and how you can make better choices with your partners.

Tags: WHERE YOU CAN MEET TALL,DARK,HANDSOME,SMART,SEXY AND RELATIONSHIP ORIENTATED MEN

MR. UNAVAILABLE AND FALLBACK GIRL

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 05:11:00 GMT

Fantasy vs Reality: When you struggle to differentiate between what was real and what wasn’t by NML on OCTOBER 17, 2011

If you’ve ever said “I don’t know what was real and what was fake”, “But it’s hard to let go of the fantasy” , “It feels like I was in love with an illusion” or “I’m finding it really hard to move on and accept what has happened”, you’ve got reconciliation issues. When you’re faced with making fantasy and reality consistent with one another so that you can accept the truth of what has happened, what you feel, do, or are being, you opt for the illusions which basically suspends you in No Man’s Land while opening you up to problems in the real world.

An illusion is a false idea or belief, or a deceptive appearance or impression.

A fantasy is an idea with no basis in reality and is basically your imagination unrestricted by reality.

Reality is the state of things as they exist. It’s what you see, hear, and experience.

So let’s imagine a few scenarios.

Tags: unavailable,emotionally unavailable,love,relationship,break up,matchmaking

WHY ATTRACTION IS NOT A CHOICE

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 02:24:00 GMT

Have you ever been attracted to someone who is no good for you?

Have you ever slept with a guy and immediately known it was going nowhere?

Have you ever wasted years longing for a man who never saw a future with you?

If so, you’re not alone.

Like pretty much everyone else in the world, were seduced by the irrational feeling of attraction - and you’ve paid the price for it in a thousand ways.

Today, I want to try to make sense of attraction and give it a proper context for you.

Perhaps when you understand attraction, you’ll be able to make different decisions based on it.

SEX WITH AN EX?... BAD IDEA?...

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 02:21:00 GMT

Make-up sex. Break up sex. Mercy sex. Drive by sex. It’s easy sex. I just gotta have some sex. It’s better than nothing sex. Friends with benefits sex. Maybe this time it will be different sex.

Sound familiar?

These are just a few of the countless reasons why we might fall into bed with an Ex-lover. Unless a miracle has occurred, and your Ex has suddenly become your perfect right partner, having sex with your Ex is a mistake.

Why?

As soon as you get close enough to smell them, your brain chemistry is triggered, memories come flooding back and you begin to re-attach....

ARE YOU AN ALFA BITCH?

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 05:21:00 GMT

Christy Whitman and her co-author Rebecca Grado, have just written a new book, Taming Your Alpha Bitch: How to be Fierce and Feminine (and get everything you want), that really addresses this issue and I've asked them to share their thoughts with us today.
Christy and Rebecca say:
Many women have cast aside their feminine natures and taken up a more aggressive, masculine stance - in other words they've fallen into the trap of being an "Alpha Bitch".

THE PERCEPTION OF SELF-WORTH

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 01:39:00 GMT

Notice that I said “the perception of self-worth” and not “self-worth” itself.
That’s because I’m guessing that, if you and I were to sit down and list your good qualities, we’d be conversing for a really long time.

You’d tell me you’re a very loyal friend.
You’d tell me you have a good sense of humor.
You’d tell me you’re generous to your loved ones.
You’d tell me that you’re kind and ethical.

I have no doubt that, in listing these good qualities, you’d be telling the truth – from deep in your heart.
You LIKE yourself.

MORE TESTIMONIALS ABOUT SOPHIA

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 22:03:00 GMT

“Not all MatchMakers are created equal! Find out for yourself ~ Contact Sophisticated Matchmaking. Above and beyond your exectations! ”

From: Shelley Greco on Jul 27, 2011

“Sophia is exceptional. There are few people who can keep up with the level of performance.”

From: Ken Gronvold on Jul 23, 2011

“Sophia is an amazing and inspirational woman! She changes lives every day”

From: Jacquie Begemann on Jul 12, 2011

“Sophia is the most amazing and professional match maker and consultant, highly professional and supportive ”

From: Tom Lehner on Jun 25, 2011

“Sophia McDonald is a charming, successful woman. She brings a smile to everyone she meets.”

From: Frank Drake on Jun 20, 2011

“Sophia is amazing! She changes lives every day! She is a real asset to my group of friends. Get to know her today!”

From: Amazon Rivers on Jun 14, 2011

“Sophia is a great communicator and team player. Someone I would hire immediately if I were forming a new team. Really connects with everyone”

From: Randy McKeown on Jun 13, 2011

“Sophia has a track record for success, as well as a bright future.”

From: Gregg Swanson on Jun 13, 2011

“Sophia is a terrific speaker! Want to be entertained and learn? Invite Sophia to speak at your next gathering. ”

From: Steve 'Sapato on Jun 13, 2011

“Sophia is one of the best Match Makers in the business, a real class act!”

From: David Nordstrom on Jun 9, 2011

Tags: matchmaker,sophia mcdonald,best matchmaker,love coach,dating seattle,matchmaking

BEST MATCHMAKER CONTEST - PLEASE HELP ME WIN!

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 18:07:00 GMT

PLEASE SUPPORT me and VOTE for Sophisticated Matchmaking!
We're thrilled to be nominated for the
Best Matchmaker In Western Washington!

We WON in 2010!!!
Make us #1 in Western Washington in 2011!

Click HERE to vote: http://best.king5.com/sophisticated-matchmaking-inc/biz/120799?r=short

I appreciate your loyalty, referrals and support and would not achieve my success without your help!
THANK YOU!!!

WHAT MEN REALLY WANT - PART #2

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 18:00:00 GMT

Sometime ago I had a post on my blog about "What men really want..." and today I have received this message from of my FB friends. I felt that I had to share... Such a powerful message....

Sophia,

Re: What Do Men Really Want?

I really liked this question you posted for a chance at giving. So I wanted to share my thoughts with you. I have been with my partner for 16 years and who became my husband 11 years ago. We were both very young at the impressionable ages of 20 and 22. I brought with me a signed divorce certificate and a two year old boy.

Tags: love,marriage,cheating,devotion,unconditional love,matchmaking,dating,boyfriend,marriage,divorce

HAPPILY MARRIED IN JUST THREE MONTHS>>>

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 01:50:00 GMT

"Dear Sophia, I met my soul mate....we met and married in 3 months, both of us thinking we would never ever be married again. When you know, you know. Best wishes to you." ~Female, Seattle/ WA, September 2011

JUSTIN IS FOLLOWING THE GETTING READY PLAN BY SOPHIA - Part #2: Philosophy and Photo Shoots

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 18:16:00 GMT

Philosophy and Photo Shoots by JUSTINE on AUGUST 30, 2011

In the end, after giving Sophia a lot of “push back” on the whole professional photo idea, I’m really glad I did it. When I look at the pictures I have up on my online profiles now (Chemistry and Eharmony), I realize that what she told me at our first meeting was very true- the photos make all the difference. I also realized that my current photos don’t look like me when I’m ready for a date- they look like me when I’m gardening… not exactly the first impression you want to make! They are all taken from bad angles, in clothes I would NEVER wear out to a nice restaurant or a show with a friend, let alone on a first date. So, why did I feel they were the best representation of “me” and that taking a nice photo would be misleading somehow? I don’t know, but I’m sure glad that I had some great people help me see the error of my ways! I won’t be so quick to rule out Sophia’s advise in the future, that’s for sure.

Tags: matchmaking,sophisticated matchmaking,sophia mcdonald,dating,coaching,dating coach,dating advice,dating in seattle,singles in seattle,love,relationship

JUSTINE IS FOLLOWING SOPHIA'S PLAN TO "GET READY TO DATE"

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 18:04:00 GMT

The Last Week of My Life: Part 1 by JUSTINE on AUGUST 28, 2011

How to describe the last week of my life? Well, I’ve spent hours with a professional matchmaker who challenged my deepest feelings about finding my future partner, been interviewed by a major news station for the evening news, been the subject of a professional photo shoot and attended toddler art class. Totally normal, no big deal… if you’re Cindy Crawford, which I am not!

Sophia, my matchmaker, spent hours with me.....

HOW TO BE FBO (“Facebook Official)

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 08:32:00 GMT

In the era of Facebook, men and women in the dating world are often not satisfied until their relationships are “FBO” or ”Facebook Official”. But before you can get to FBO, you must be officially boyfriend/girlfriend. This means getting your dating partner to make an exclusive commitment to you.

It seems simple enough but I’m surprised by how many people are not aware of the DTR principle. DTR stands for “defining the relationship”. If you’re an adult in the dating relationship, you’re doomed to fail if you’re fearful of the dtr. With clients I’ve worked with, if they do not dtr the relationship, they end up either in the platonic friend zone or if they’ve been sexual with each other can end up in the “friends with benefits” category. The timing of the dtr talk is critical. In this hook-‐ up culture, young men and women have no concept of what it takes to be in a committed, exclusive relationship. They think if they have sex, then they presume they’re in a relationship and are shocked, hurt, and confused when sex meant nothing to the other party than mere pleasure.

Tags: Facebook,matchmaking,coaching,relationship,dating,singles,relationship status

FINDING LOVE BY HARVILLE HENDRIX

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 08:24:00 GMT

Referred to by Oprah Winfrey as the Marriage Whisperer, Harville created Imago Relationship Therapy, a therapy for couples now practiced by over 2000 certified therapists in 30 countries. He is also the author of the New York Times bestseller Getting the Love You Want, which has sold over two million copies.

Tags: love,relationship,harville hendrix,marriage,matchmaking,matchmaker,seattle,dating,singlesm

A TESTIMONIAL FROM SOPHIA'S MATCHMAKING HAPPY CLIENT!

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 08:15:00 GMT

"I hired Sophia as my match maker and quickly realized she has a unique gift when it came to identifying who could be my ideal match. I have met a wonderful man through her that I would not have met through my own avenues and he fits all the major aspects of what I have been searching for, including great chemistry! In addition I used Sophia's relationship coaching services when I first met her, which truly helped me build my self confidence in the dating world, as well as to be more open minded about the process. I am not only impressed with Sophia's work but incredibly grateful to her!" -- August 2011, Female, 50yo, Seattle

Tags: love,relationship,marriage,matchmaking,matchmaker,seattle,dating,singles

THE AWAKENING

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 20:24:00 GMT

Photo by Jack Guy

The Awakening~

There comes a time in your life when you finally get it ... When in the midst of all your fears and insanity you stop dead in your tracks and somewhere the voice inside your head cries out "ENOUGH! Enough fighting and crying or struggling to hold on." And, like a child quieting down after a blind tantrum, your sobs begin to subside, you shudder once or twice, you blink back your tears and through a mantle of wet lashes you begin to look at the world from a new perspective.

COMMITMENT CAUSES COMPLETION

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 05 May 2011 07:28:00 GMT

When you experience life has a natural purpose, and doesn’t have to be manipulated in some particular way to be meaningful, you are then free to manipulate it consciously. The content of life that is most meaningful to deal with is that which relates to relationships. Commitment is the cornerstone of relationships. Without it there can be relating, but there can be no relationship.

Relationships exist within the framework of defined boundaries so that people know what they can and cannot expect from you. Since commitments necessarily involve that which is relatively unchanging in life, and since the very nature of life is change, commitments are best made related to the most fundamental components of life. They are the simple things you are willing to have people count on you for.

CONSCIOUS COMMITMENT

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 05 May 2011 07:24:00 GMT

Conscious commitment is a pact between beings, rather than between personalities. In effect, partners say to each other, “Whatever the problems our personalities have, together we will not let them get between us. If our egos are at war, we will not let that ruin us. If our egos are at war, we till not let that ruin our deeper connection…we will always come back and meet on this deeper level. We will help each other wake up and become all that we can be. We will keep opening to each other and to life itself in and through this relationship.” With out such an alliance between our beings, our egos will likely conspire to perpetuate old habitual patterns and the container we create may become a prison or a hollow shell. Conscious commitment is to being together, not just staying together.

Of course, two partners may connect deeply on the being level, yet still be unable to work things out on the personality level. That is why the testing stage is so important. If they cannot find ways to work on things together, it means that their personality conflicts are more powerful than their being-connection. Therefore they cannot move toward greater commitment.

LOVE BY OSHO

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 05 May 2011 05:45:00 GMT

Love cannot be learned, it cannot be cultivated. The cultivated Love will not be Love at all. It will not be a real rose, it will be a plastic flower. When you learn something, it means something comes from the outside and it is not an inner growth. And Love has to be your inner growth if it is to be Authentic and Real.

Love is not a learning but a growth. All that is needed on your part is not how to learn the ways of Love but how to unlearn the ways of Unlove. The hindrances have to be removed, the obstacles have to be destroyed and then Love is your Natural, Spontaneous Being. Once the obstacles are removed, the rocks are thrown away and the flow starts. It is already there and hidden behind many rocks, the spring is already there. It is your very Being.

It is a Gift, but not something that is going to happen in the Future. It is a Gift that has already happened with your birth. To be is to be Love. To be able to breathe is enough to be able to Love. Love is like breathing. What breathing is to the physical body, Love is to the Spiritual Being. Without breathing the body dies and without Love the Soul dies. Hence, the occurrence all of Mans Diseases. They are the diseases of Unlove.

MAKING RELATIONSHIP WORK

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 04 May 2011 03:57:00 GMT

“Love is the exquisite exception that is a reflection of what is normal; what we mistakenly label as normal is the aberration…” ~ Stewart Emery ~

All of our lives we have been searching for the one thing that will ensure the quality of all experience and provide us with a “happy ever after,” free of the pain, anguish and separation we find in the world. The thing that seems to hold the most promise for us, as far as furnishing us with the ultimate happy-ever-after, is the “perfect relationship.”

We expect to have absent from the relationship everything we don’t like about life. Our expectations have been fed, since we were very small, a diet of Snow Whites, Cinderellas, and fairy godmothers, along with Prince Valiants and the Clark Kent-to-Superman transformation. We grow up believing that some day our prince or princess will come and stay forever, as we share a state of bliss, untouched by the harshness of the realities of the world.

A beautiful dream, an exquisite fantasy – let us now explore the reality. In a romantic relationship what I really want from you is a more joyful experience of myself. I will say “I love you” if in your presence I experience myself as a joyful, lovable and capable person. And this is actually what you want from me.

HEALING POWER OF LOVE

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 20:59:00 GMT

Keeping the magic of love alive: Feelings that we could not express in our past suddenly flood our consciousness when we are safe to feel. Love thaws out repressed feelings, and gradually these unresolved feelings begin to surface into our relationship. We are all walking around with a bundle of unresolved feelings. When we feel safe to be ourselves, our hurt feelings come-up. For years we have suppressed our painful feelings. Then one day we fall in love, and love makes us feel safe enough to open up and become aware of our feelings. Love opens us up and we start to feel our pain. When the unresolved feelings from childhood are coming up, we easily interpret our partner’s comments as criticism, rejection, and blame. Keeping the magic of love alive: Feelings that we could not express in our past suddenly flood our consciousness when we are safe to feel. Love thaws out repressed feelings, and gradually these unresolved feelings begin to surface into our relationship. We are all walking around with a bundle of unresolved feelings. When we feel safe to be ourselves, our hurt feelings come-up. For years we have suppressed our painful feelings. Then one day we fall in love, and love makes us feel safe enough to open up and become aware of our feelings. Love opens us up and we start to feel our pain. When the unresolved feelings from childhood are coming up, we easily interpret our partner’s comments as criticism, rejection, and blame.

15 FASCINATING TED TALKS ON LOVE AND SEX

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 10:24:00 GMT

As much as it might make our lives crazy, tumultuous and stressful, most human beings spend a great deal of time seeking out love and sex. We are hard-wired to want companionship, security, physical contact and a deep, intimate connection with those around us– sometimes forming bonds that last a lifetime or in some cases, just one night. Because love is such a big part of who we are as humans, it can be immensely enlightening to learn more about the biology and sociology behind love, relationships and sex and why they drive us like they do. These talks offer listeners a chance to do just that, and may just teach you a thing or two about love, helping you understand why you just can’t get that special someone in your college courses out of your mind.

Tags: sex,love,matchmaker,tantra,helen fisher,relationship

PREPARING FOR THE GALA: BLACK TIE DEFINED

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 04:22:00 GMT

By Lauren Sauser

Seattle is not known for hosting many “Black Tie” Galas

But if you are planning to attend one soon, FNS decided to create a guide for what is appropriate and fashionable to wear at a Black Tie function. Below are examples of gowns that would look fabulous on any Seattleite coming down Fourth Avenue. Now remember, Black Tie is different than cocktail or formal. Black Tie calls for gowns and tuxedos or nice suites with a tie/bowtie.

OSCAR NIGHT GALA FUNDRAISER FOR STARLIGHT CHILDREN'S FOUNDATION

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 04:17:00 GMT

OSCAR NIGHT GALA FUNDRAISER FOR STARLIGHT CHILDREN'S FOUNDATION

Fairmont Olympic Hotel, Seattle, WA

Time: Sunday, February 27 · 3:30pm - 8:30pm

Location: The Fairmont Olympic Hotel

Created By: Starlight Children's Foundation of Washington

More Info: Join us for the only Academy-sanctioned 2011 Oscar Night Gala in Washington State while supporting Starlight Children's Foundation of Washington. Enjoy the glitz and excitement of the 83rd Annual Academy Awards Live Telecast, a red-carpet entrance and reception featuring live music and a silent auction, a live auction, and a delicious five-star dinner at the renowned Fairmont Olympic Hotel.

SURE-FIRE WAY TO FIND LOVE

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 09:18:00 GMT

By Brad Nehring on February 7, 2011

Big plans to lavish your significant other with chocolates, flowers and romance on the 14th? No? No problem. Just connect with local certified matchmaker, love and relationship expert Sophia McDonald for some overdue help in that department.

McDonald, 37, has professionally arranged dates since 2007 when she founded her company, Sophisticated Matchmaking — now an established boutique high-end matchmaking company. However, she stresses, setting people up is just one aspect of her work.

“I call it the art of serendipity,” she explained, over coffee at her home office on Mercer Island. “Serendipity is when you are looking for something, but something else comes to you, and to your surprise, you like that second thing more. That’s what people do with me. They increase their chances of serendipity catching them.”

Tags: love,valentine's day,valentine,dating,singles,seattle dating,matchmaking,elite,upscale,matchmaker,high-end matchmaking

SOPHIA MCDONALD ABOUT HER MATCHMAKING PROCESS AND APPROACH

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 07:48:00 GMT

Lisa Rayanne Sophia, I love this video – You did a magnificent job of touching on all of your areas of specialty, including your unique individualized coaching strategy through the entire dating lifecycle. You absolutely have a gift for successfully providing successful outcomes through your experience and personalized attention to the individuals you work with. I like how you also mention the fact that so much money can be spent on dates that are not a fit – whether the cost be in dollars, time lost on matches that bring no long term potential, or lost opportunities due to repeated behavior patterns that allow dating to end prematurely. There is an absolute savings and success factor that is to be accounted for in working with you. Your honest, personalized, and open approach to communication is magnificent – you drill in to the core issues that allow for an individual to recognize and realign with their desires and attract as well as recognize the best mate. You provide that additional before and after layer that is fundamental to success, and that coaching aspect is so very important, and something that the majority of services out there do not provide. You take the false notion of love being a numbers game, and you put the information for success in your client’s hands by identifying key areas of value, and empowering them toward their greatest potential with a very caring touch. You have a wonderful gift my friend, and Seattle is blessed to have you. You can't put a price on love...but there sure is a cost to lost time and small talk with a host of nonmatches - if we took a spreadsheet to the average annual expenditures of unsuccessful dates - I have no doubt the numbers would add up to far more than the average person realizes over the course of each year!

February 2, 2011 at 9:18pm

5 WAYS TO HAVE THE HAPPIEST VALENTINE'S DAY EVER! (EVEN IF YOU ARE ALONE)

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 00:17:00 GMT

The thought of Valentine’s Day conjures up romantic evenings, a candlelight dinner, and long walks with your loved one. It is, without a doubt the most romantic day of the year. So how could you possibly be expected to enjoy Valentine’s Day when you’re alone? Well, while it might not be all hearts and flowers, you can still spread the message of Valentine’s Day: Love.

Over the years, I’ve interviewed numerous people and asked them what their favorite Valentine’s Day memory was. Surprisingly, very few couples actually mentioned a gift or a special night out. In fact, most of the people I interviewed remembered their special Valentine’s Day by things they did for others. Gifts they gave, whether they were store bought or home made, gave them an unforgettable feeling of joy and happiness.

BEING SINGLE ON VALENTINE'S DAY - A Survival Guide

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 00:11:00 GMT

Valentine’s Day -- a day of exchanging flowers, cards, and loving sentiments punctuated with warm feelings of admiration, affection, and infatuation. But for millions of Americans, there is one thing preventing them from participating in these celebratory acts of love: a date.

Being dateless on Valentine’s Day can evoke feelings of loneliness and self-doubt, especially for those who are believers in the mythology of true love. Embedded midway through the frosty season of winter, it is portrayed in the media, particularly in relentless flower, fragrance, and jewelry advertising, as the singular day of year set aside for love, romance, and passion.

But what is a person to do when he or she is feeling the chilling blues of being single instead of embracing the fiery desire of love?

THE PHYCHOLOGY OF LOVE AND ATTRACTION

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 07:34:00 GMT

Consider the following questions. What do they have in common?

How many sexual partners do you want over your lifetime?

Would you go to bed with an attractive stranger of the opposite sex?

Would you be more upset if your romantic partner had passionate sexual intercourse with someone else or formed a deep, emotional attachment with that person?

How important is physical attractiveness in a potential romantic partner?

How many pairs of shoes do you own?

WOULD YOU LIKE A PHONE SESSION WITH ME and A FREE DATING ADVICE and A NEW LOVE STRATEGY RIGHT BEFORE THE VALENTINE DAY?

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 05:32:00 GMT

Are you ready to start dating in 2011 in a whole new way? Have you gotten to a point in your life where "good enough" dates just aren't going to cut it anymore? Do you feel it's time to finally attract your soulmate to you?

If this is you, I have a special invitation for you. I am offering you a session with me personally, one-on-one session over the phone. During this session, I will get to know you and your relationship and dating history and will coach you to finding solutions and strategies for you to once and for all, attract the love you desire. It's time, isn't it?

If this opportunity sounds good to you - give me a call (206)6830089 or send me an EMAIL request

I look forward to connecting with you personally and helping you to find the LOVE of your life!

Pursue Love Deliberately!

Sophia McDonald

Tags: free relationship advice,love advice

RED ENHANCES MEN'S ATTRACTION TO WOMEN, PSYCHOLOGICAL STUDY REVEALS

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 05:09:00 GMT

ScienceDaily (Oct. 28, 2008) — A groundbreaking study by two University of Rochester psychologists to be published online Oct. 28 by the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology adds color—literally and figuratively—to the age-old question of what attracts men to women. Through five psychological experiments, Andrew Elliot, professor of psychology, and Daniela Niesta, post-doctoral researcher, demonstrate that the color red makes men feel more amorous toward women. And men are unaware of the role the color plays in their attraction.

Tags: valentine day,love,relationship,attraction,sexual desire,sex,sexy

WANT GOOD RELATIONSHIPS? CREATE GOOD RELATIONSHIP GOALS!

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 04:36:00 GMT

Want Good Relationships? Create Good Relationship Goals!

The first step in creating great relationships is in knowing what you want. I know this sounds obvious, but most people forget this simple step. Goals help you make good choices when meeting a potential friend, lover, employee or business partner.

Tags: relationship,love,goals,realistic goals,love,marriage

Testimonial from a current coaching client

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 23:43:00 GMT

Begin forwarded message:

From: xxxxx@yahoo.com

Date: October 15, 2010 2:10:54 PM PDT

To: SOPHIA MCDONALD

Subject: Fwd: referral for Sophia McDonald

Hi Joie,

Beautiful name by the way!

Back in September, Sophia mentioned that you had asked for references, and I apologize that between travel and work and children, I've not been as timely in responding as I had hoped to be

RECENT TESTIMONIALS FROM HAPPY CLIENTS

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 20:27:00 GMT

What people have to say about matchmaking and coaching services provided by me:) Letters like this make my heart smile:) XO

FAVORITE QUOTES FROM "EAT LOVE AND PRAY"

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Sat, 21 Aug 2010 01:02:00 GMT

“We search for happiness everywhere, but we are like Tolstoy’s fabled beggar who spent his life sitting on a pot of gold, under him the whole time. Your treasure–your perfection–is within you already. But to claim it, you must leave the buy commotion of the mind and abandon the desires of the ego and enter into the silence of the heart.”

"To lose balance sometimes for love is part of living a balanced life"

"You gotta stop wearing your wishbone where your backbone oughtta be"

“Faith is walking face-first and full-speed into the dark”

‘I once recognized myself as a friend’

KEY RECEPIE TO SUCCESS: BEING INTENTIONAL WITHOUT BEING ATTACHED TO THE OUTCOME

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Sat, 21 Aug 2010 00:56:00 GMT

Notes from Spiritual Living Group By Sophia McDonald

Like two golden birds perched on the selfsame tree, intimate friends, the Ego and the Self dwell in the same body. The former eats the sweet and sour fruits of the tree of life, while the latter on it detachment.
~ The Mundaka Upanishad

In order to acquire anything in the physical universe, you have to relinquish your attachment to it. This doesn’t mean you give up the intention to create your desire. You give your attachment to the outcome.

WHAT YOU NOTICE MATTERS

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Sat, 21 Aug 2010 00:53:00 GMT

What You Notice Matters! And, what I've noticed is that I'm intuiting that we are in an energetic period of grace in the waning days of summer. This is an important time that can make all the difference to how your fall season forms.

I've been sensing that many of us are in a "holding" pattern right now and that things are going to dynamically change up come September. It's not holding as in "doing nothing" It's about being in the moment, being observant and appreciating the grace of planning and prepping time.

GET HIM TO EXPRESS HIS FEELINGS TO YOU

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 22:49:00 GMT

Have you ever experienced this? Things are going well with your guy. So well, as a matter of fact, that when you start feeling insecure about something or want to share something you think he'll perceive as “negative”, you keep it inside. You're afraid that by being honest with him, you'll rock the boat.

FIVE TOOLS TO HAVE THE RELATIONSHIP YOU WANT

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 22:46:00 GMT

1. THE RORI RAYE MANTRA TO INSTANTLY CONNECT WITH A MAN

Trust Your Boundaries
Follow Your Feelings
Choose Your Words
Be Surprised

I trust my boundaries - I trust myself: I know I will not knowingly toss my pearls before swine, throw myself into the path of destruction, hide from the truth, go along with or tolerate something that is damaging to me. Now I can move to my feelings.

ARE YOU IN RELATIONSHIP AND ALWAYS IN DENIAL?

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 22:42:00 GMT

Give yourself credit for trying to find the best qualities that your partner has to offer, starting new relationships with an open mind and being positive is a great way to start off, but when you are making decisions that affect your life long term looking at only the best qualities that a person has to offer may cause you to overlook their worst ones and those could be the ones that break your relationship and have a negative impact on your life.

WHY LESS ATTRACTIVE MEN MAKE BETTER MATES

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 19:33:00 GMT

My friend Karen is a gorgeous, tall, auburn-haired beauty with measurements that would put Barbie to shame. And although she has her pick of hot guys to choose from, she's currently in a committed relationship with a man who's pushing 5'6", balding and could afford to park 15 pounds.

And she couldn't be happier.
Their pairing is not an anomaly. All one has to do is step out onto the street or flip through a gossip rag to see a great beauty stepping out with her beast. From couples such as J. Lo and Mark Anthony, Beth Ostrosky and Howard Stern, Salman Rushdie, and well, anyone, one thing is clear: Physically-mismatched couples are everywhere.

If the Buddha Dated: A Handbook for Finding Love on a Spiritual Path

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 19:28:00 GMT

If the Buddha Dated: A Handbook for Finding Love on a Spiritual Path

In this practical, playful, yet spiritual guide, Charlotte Kasl, author of the highly successful Finding Joy: 101 Ways to Free Your Spirit and Dance with Life, shows you what it would be like to have the ancient wisdom of the Buddha to guide you through the dating process. Kasl brings a compassionate understanding to the anxiety and uneasiness of new love, and helps readers discover their potential for vibrant human connection based on awareness, kindness, and honesty. She approaches the dating process as a means for awakening, reminding us that when we live by spiritual rules, we bring curiosity and a light heart to the romantic journey. Filled with quotations from Zen, Sufi, and other wisdom traditions, and informed by the experiences of people from all walks of life, here is a relationship book that will appeal to readers looking for more than a Venus-meets-Mars solution to the complex affairs of the heart.

FEAR OR LOVE - WHICH IS YOUR DRIVING FORCE?

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 09:14:00 GMT

"The single most important decision any of us will ever make is whether or not to believe the universe is friendly." ~Albert Einstein

Fear and Love are two of the most basic and powerful human emotions. As they spread from person to person, they can inspire such extremes of behaviour as killing one another or dying for one another. Considering that the fundamental importance of love is so widely agreed upon, it is remarkable how many organisations seem dedicated to promoting its opposite: fear.

"There is no fear in love: true love has no room for fear."

FEAR / CORTISOL VS. LOVE / OXYTOCIN

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 09:10:00 GMT

Various spiritual teachings, such as A Course in Miracles,[1] say that there are only two fundamental emotions: love and fear. For the body, this is true. All mammals, including humans, have two opposing hormonal responses to stimuli. Threatening stimuli cause an increase of stress hormones - adrenaline and cortisol. Soothing or reassuring stimuli cause an increase in oxytocin.

A sudden threat triggers the fight-or-flight response associated with adrenaline. Adrenaline steps up heart rate, increases respiration, activates muscles, and promotes hyper-alertness. Longer-term stress (from a few minutes to days and weeks) increases a different stress hormone: cortisol. Cortisol, too, makes us hyper-vigilant, but its evolutionary functions are quite different than the temporary jolt of adrenaline designed to propel us out of danger.

The stress encountered by mammals - and our hunter-gatherer ancestors - was chiefly physical, not emotional. The most common physical stressors were probably starvation, long migrations, and critical injury. To cope with such emergencies, cortisol begins to break down non-essential organs and tissues to maintain blood sugar and feed vital organs. When cortisol stays at high levels, it automatically digests bones, muscles and joints to obtain these key nutrients. The result is elevated blood fats and sugar, which are related to many disorders. Another side effect is hunger; we reach for high-calorie foods.

TRANSFORM FEAR TO LOVE

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 09:05:00 GMT

Fear often originates from a sense of not being in control. We use control to manage people and situations that we do not understand or that threaten to expose our lack of self-love. If we accepted people and situations for what they are, we would be back to the universal definition of love - which is,

"Love is the opposite of fear".

SMART STRATEGIES

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 08:51:00 GMT

Why do some couples seem so head-over-heels? It's not that their lives are any easier or more perfect than yours-- but they do know how to keep the daily grind from eroding their relationship. Get some of what they have by incorporating these happy-couple strategies into your love life.

A REAL LIFE STORY ABOUT THE COUPLE I HAVE RECENTLY SUCCESSFULLY MATCHED

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 07:54:00 GMT

I am asked often to share some good stories about people finding their perfect match. I meet men and women, old and young, tall and short, of all kind shapes and colors… And they all have one thing in common – they want to love and to be loved…

They come to me, often after loosing a hope and faith that that special person even exists… Sometimes they are ready and sometimes they are not… To let love in – first you need to have your heart wide open… It took me a long time to figure it out…

I definitely have a supreme intuition when it comes to heart matters… Very often the first introduction I make is the only one and people leave me holding hands with the love of their life…

TRIANGULAR THEORY OF LOVE

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 07:13:00 GMT

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Not to be confused with Love triangle.

This article includes a list of references, related reading or external links, but its sources remain unclear because it lacks inline citations. Please improve this article by introducing more precise citations where appropriate. (December 2009)

The triangular theory of love is a theory of love developed by psychologist Robert Sternberg. The theory characterizes love within the context of interpersonal relationships by three different components:

Love Has Nothing to Do With the Five Senses ~ Rumi

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 03:50:00 GMT

Love has nothing to do with
the five senses and the six directions:
its goal is only to experience
the attraction exerted by the Beloved.

THE NEW AGE MATCHMAKING OR THE ART OF SERENDIPITY

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 07:30:00 GMT

For years, I have been signing all of my business and personal correspondence “Live Deliberately”, and when I opened my matchmaking business, it has turned into “Pursue Love Deliberately”. You might be surprised but the majority of single people are not really clear on what they want - even though they think they are. If you don’t know what you want – you will never get it! Whatever it is you are seeking, you have to define it exactly to yourself, or it'll never sound clear to the person you are trying to connect with.

LETTERS TO SOPHIA

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 20 May 2010 20:57:00 GMT

"Every time I think of Love, Friendship and the word Serendipity I think of YOU! I think of the person who reached out to a stranger and only connected by FB and a few common friends! You helped me heal, grow and believe in myself! You have been a very important role in my journey and when I think of where I was in Dec and where I am now I smile and think of you. I am now MADLY in love.. I am in a year mentorship to help others like you have helped me and I am the happiest I have ever been in my life! Thank you my friend! I look forward to one day meeting you. Anytime you need a reference I will gladly give you one! Blessings!!!" Michelle, May 21 at 8:59pm

SOPHIA MCDONALD ABOUT HERSELF AND HER BIGGEST PASSIONS IN LIFE

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 20 May 2010 20:34:00 GMT

YOU ARE THE GREATEST WOMAN ON EARTH

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 20 May 2010 20:31:00 GMT

FROM A MOVIE "AS GOOD AS IT GETS" - A GREAT COMPLIMENT

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 20 May 2010 20:29:00 GMT

LOVE WHEN PURSUED IS JUST BEYOND YOUR GRASP

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 20 May 2010 20:18:00 GMT

"Happiness is a Butterfly which, when pursued is just beyond your grasp... but if you will sit down quietly, may alight upon you" ~ Nathaniel Hawthorne

JUST DO IT

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 20 May 2010 20:12:00 GMT

1) Whenever you feel out of sorts, lost or out of sync with yourself or the Universe – allow the Universe to carry you into the field of Intention to implement surrender in your life. Just be peaceful and calm.

2) When you ego defines you by what you do and what you have, or compares you to others, say to yourself, “I am here on purpose, I can achieve and accomplish everything I desire by staying in harmony with Universe”

3) Act as if anything you desire if already here. Believe that all you wanted and dreamed about was ordered with your American Express and you got a confirmation email that it was shipped and will be delivered at the appropriate time of your life to surprise you

FAKE DATING PROFILE ONLINE - SOMEONE ON MATCH.COM IS USING MY PHOTOS POSTING FAKE PROFILES

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Mon, 03 May 2010 23:45:00 GMT

I would never imagine that it would happen to a professional matchmaker. It's almost ironic that someone would pick my photos to create their fake profile. Last night I got an email from my Facebook friend who forwarded me a Match.com profile from somebody form Idaho who used my Facebook photos as their profile pictures. Some people might think that I shall be flattered by the fact that someone finds me attractive to point that they want to look like me but if you really think about it – it’s an identify theft that is damaging to my reputation and also is abusing towards innocent men who are corresponding with this woman, thinking it’s Sophia McDonald, who is taking advantage of them in one or another way.

DID THE NARCISSIST EVER REALLY LOVE ME?

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 06:42:00 GMT

READ MORE ARTICLES ABOUT NARCISSISM AND HOW TO RECOGNISE AND RECOVER FROM UNHEALTHY RELATIONSHIP AT MY FACEBOOK PAGE: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=196868&id=674697773&l=894f61a8ce

This is one of the most commonly asked questions from those who have given their hearts, and souls to a narcissist. At first the relationship is very intense and romantic and it seems perhaps you have finally found "the one."

I recently watched a movie where a character comically said "or you are still chasing after the elusive "one." Meaning we often spend our lives waiting for the one who will finally make everything right with our world. Initially it may seem the narcissistic lover is "the one." But after the honeymoon is over the tables turn. Why? Well because the honeymoon is over! And narcissists love the honeymoon.

NARCISSISM IN RELATIONSHIPS - 7 SIGNS OF NARCISSISM IN YOUR PARTNER

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 06:40:00 GMT

READ MORE ARTICLES ABOUT NARCISSISM AND HOW TO RECOGNISE AND RECOVER FROM UNHEALTHY RELATIONSHIP AT MY FACEBOOK PAGE: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=196868&id=674697773&l=894f61a8ce

Relationships have their challenges for everyone. With effort and commitment, two reasonably balanced and emotionally healthy individuals can forge a relationship that is mutually supportive and fulfilling. However, there is a segment of the population that is hard wired with personality disorders. Narcissism is a disorder that often drives the affected individual to act in ways that are very destructive to intimate relationships. The non-disordered partner is often left feeling bewildered and hurt by his or her narcissistic partner's behavior. While only a licensed mental health professional can diagnose narcissism, it is helpful to know the signs. Here are 7 signs of narcissism:

FREE YOURSELF FROM THE PAST

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 06:24:00 GMT

free your soul your mind and your body
release, loosen and relax your conscience
and see that it was only holding you back
from the springs to come, more springs and more...

THE SOUL MATE MYSTERY

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 06:11:00 GMT

Finding A Soulmate Doesn't Necessarily Equal A Blissful Relationship
As we are approaching Valentines Day I thought it would be appropriate to discuss the topic of soulmates.

There is a lot of information out there on soulmates and much of it is conflicting, as in any subject. It is difficult to have a solid understanding that can serve us when we attempt to know what these heartfelt connections in our lives mean.

THE LAW OF ATTRACTION

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 06:07:00 GMT

When the movie “The Secret” came out it spread like wildfire across the Internet and the cat was out of the bag about the Law of Attraction. Ever since we’ve been seeing all kinds of expansion on the topic, such as “The Secret Behind The Secret” and “What The Secret Didn’t Tell You!” And also there is the angle that “There Is No Secret! We’ve Know This Stuff for Ages!”

“The Secret” was based on the “Law of Attraction” which launched into a new awareness once that movie was released. The Law of Attraction is a universal law that says “You attract into your reality everything that shows up.” This means what you think about comes about or what you focus on you create. It also means how you feel on an emotional level will attract into your reality a similar vibration, meaning if you are feeling low and depressed you will attract depressive people and circumstances into your reality.

FINDING TRUE LOVE

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 06:04:00 GMT

True love can only be found within ourselves. If we have not taken the journey into the darkness where we meet our own soul, we can never truly know another. It is when all distractions are pushed aside and there is nothing left but the experience of our own existance that we descend into the dark realm of the unconscious or psyche.

ENTERING THE "TWILIGHT" ZONE!

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 06:01:00 GMT

You’ve got to wonder in our messed up society how a young woman falling in love with a vampire is so hugely romanticized and how this is right up there with Harry Potter in sales. Women love it! O.K. for all you ladies out there. What is wrong with this picture?

This is a man torn between his desire to snuff out her life, because it is his nature, and his desire to love her, because her life-force makes him feel alive. And she…our loved starved heroine says to him “I would die to be with you.”

DATING MEN: If A Man Wants You

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 07:53:00 GMT

• If a man wants you, nothing can keep him away.
• If he doesn't want you, nothing can make him stay.
• Stop making excuses for a man and his behavior.
• Allow your intuition (or spirit) to save you from heartache.
• Stop trying to change your self for a relationship that's not meant to be.
• Slower is better.

UNCERTAINTY

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 02 Apr 2010 23:53:00 GMT

Uncertainty is a measure of variety. Uncertainty is zero when all elements are in the same category. Uncertainty increases with both the number of categories and their equal-probability. It is the statistically defined discrepancy between a measured quantity and the true value of that quantity that cannot be corrected by calculation or calibration. Uncertainty is a prominent feature of the benefits and costs of climate change. Decision makers need to compare risk of premature or unnecessary actions with risk of failing to take actions that subsequently prove to be warranted. Uncertainty defines change and thus these uncertainty quotes describe the need for the variation in one's static and immobile life. These quotes describe the changes that have occurred in people's lives due certain very crucial events in their lives.

LOVE STORY WITH A HAPPY ENDING - THEY MET THROUGH SM

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 23:27:00 GMT

Nathaniel & Mercedes - they met through Sophisticated Matchmaking in 2009

April 1, 2010 at 4:02pm

DATING ADVICE: QUESTIONS/ANSWERS

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 22:22:00 GMT

Thank you again to all of you who have sent questions. The range of interests and concerns is amazing! Today I will attempt to knock a few off and for others give gentle reminders to our graduates.

QUESTION: "How do I tame the 'hunter' in me? I'm a bit aggressive when I find a man I really like & I always seem to scare them off. I try really really hard not to pursue, but my cave woman inside makes me! Help!! I started to see this guy I've known & really like, and I don't want to mess this up too."
S. S. - Santa Monica, CA

INSPIRATIONAL QUOTES ABOUT LOVE AND RELATIONSHIPS BY SOPHIA MCDONALD

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 20:45:00 GMT

Wall Photos 215 photos

Please enjoy beautiful images, inspirational quotes, lyrics and thoughts about love, relationships and life

I have loved to the point of madness;
That which is called madness,
That which to me,
Is the only sensible way to love.
~ F. Sagan

http://www.facebook.com/sop hiamcdonald#!/album.php?aid=109263&id=674697773

ADDICTED TO OUR MATES

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 17:42:00 GMT

Before I get into this let me say that it is my belief that EVERYONE becomes somewhat addicted to things that are familiar and habitual in their lives. For instance, if every morning you drank a glass of orange juice immediately upon rising, and then one morning you found you were out of orange juice, you may mourn the absence of it. Habit. When a habit is removed our sense of stability, one of our life's rituals, has been removed–upsetting our balance. Very common. I believe every one of us goes through some kind of withdrawal after the end of a relationship.

QUANTUM REALITY

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 17:41:00 GMT

On this level everything consists of information and energy. The material world is a subset of this quantum world, and is demonstrated in Einstein's remarkable equation E=MC2. Energy equals mass times the speed of light, squared. Matter is made up of molecules, which in turn are comprised of smaller units called atoms. The latest research now shows that even atoms are made up of smaller particles called quarks, and that these quarks have no solidity at all.

MAKE A SHIFT IN YOUR CONSCIOUSNESS

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 17:38:00 GMT

Change Your life forever

Can you imagine what kind of things can happen to you when you don’t block your mind from possibilities available to you?

You can shift your own thoughts and create your own new reality!

ASK YOURSELF - WHAT IF??? What it will be like if…? The answer is - It’s already done. Notice what you see and interact with it. Be ready to what will show up.

LOVE and VALENTINE'S DAY

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 02:40:00 GMT

Love Love Love
The eternal energy of the Light.
Yet in our western world Love has become a commercial property that can be brought and sold.
So much distortion of the real meaning of Love has come to many that the very mention of Valentine's Day can bring with it so much pain and unhappiness for so many people.
What I have noticed is that in the westernisation of Love, Love has become a thing that has to be measured.
Valentine's Day prompts people to put expectations on Love.

HAPPY VALENTINE DAY EVERYONE! LOVE, LOVE and more LOVE to you!

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 16:45:00 GMT

SOPHIA MCDONALD LIVE ABOUT HERSELF, HER PASSION - MATCHMAKING AND COACHING BUSINESS

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 06:30:00 GMT

CLIENT'S TESTEMONIAL FROM JANUARY 24th, 2010

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 04:33:00 GMT

"I cannot thank you enough for your time yesterday. I want you to know that our meeting yesterday changed my life. That may sound melodramatic but that makes it no less true. Through our meeting, I was able to identify exactly what I am looking for in a life partner and now feel better equipped to recognize it when I see it. Moreover, I finally embraced my ultimate goal--to be married and to create a family--and no longer feel as though it's something I ought not admit for fear of what others might think. You gave me some tools I can use to stop wasting my time with all the things that do not look like my life partner and stay focused on my goal. In short, I am energized to pursue love deliberately. I must say, our meeting yesterday was time and money well spent. I would have paid ten times the amount to get the same value you provided to me yesterday alone--that is how impactful it was."

~ Female - 35yo, Bellevue/WA - January, 2010

OLDER WOMEN... YOUNGER MEN... YOUR THOUGHTS?

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 01:14:00 GMT

Age Difference / Older Woman / Younger Man

1 Year

Angela Bassett . . . Courtney B. Vance
Victoria Beckham (Victoria Adams/"Posh" Spice) . . . David Beckham
Camilla Parker Bowles . . . Prince Charles
Brandy . . . Robert Smith
Jane Fonda . . . Ted Turner
Cassandra Harris . . . Pierce Brosnan
Helen Hunt . . . Hank Azaria
Nicole Kidman . . . Keith Urban
Sharon Lawrence . . . Tom Apostle
Tracy Pollan . . . Michael J. Fox
Kelly Ripa . . . Mark Consuelos
Julia Roberts . . . Danny Moder
Rebecca Romijn . . . Jerry O'Connell
Afton Smith . . . Brendon Fraser
Uma Thurman . . . Ethan Hawke
---------------

OLDER MEN... YOUNGER WOMEN... YOUR THOUGHTS?

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 01:10:00 GMT

Age Difference / Older Man / Younger Woman

0 Years (less than one year age difference)

Mark Burnett . . . Roma Downey
George W. Bush . . . Laura Welch
Albert Gore Jr. . . . Tipper Aitcheson
Tom Hanks . . . Rita Wilson
Tim McGraw . . . Faith Hill
---------------

TOP TIPS FOR SURVIVING THE CALORIE-LADEN MINEFIELD OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 21:14:00 GMT

It's that time of the year again - we are inundated with more party invitations and opportunities to treat ourselves than at any other time of the year. We gather with our loved ones and make merry! For many of us, celebrating at this time of year is synonymous with over-indulgence and is often followed in the New Year with pangs of guilt and resolutions to do better this year. The question many of us have is; 'Is it possible to survive the Holiday Season without culpability in January?' Believe it or not, and I know how difficult it is to imagine, but you can enjoy the Holiday Season without weight gain being a foregone conclusion!

FORGET NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS AND SET LIFE GOALS FOR 2010 INSTEAD

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 21:09:00 GMT

It is my belief that, if we look hard enough, there is something good to be found in even the most disastrous of situations! With the events of the latter part of 2009, the much publicised credit crunch and the subsequent consequences this may have had for many, perhaps we can reap benefits in 2010 by re-evaluating what is important to us and living our lives by a new set of rules that encourage balance. A perfect New Year's resolution for anyone is to aim for, or to maintain, fulfilment: a goal that is surely generic to the entire human race. But how can we make sure fulfilment does not evade us in 2010?

FOR A REASON, A SEASON, OR A LIFETIME

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 19:20:00 GMT

People come into your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. When you figure out which one it is, you will know what to do for each person.

When someone is in your life for a REASON . . . It is usually to meet a need you have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally, or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend, and they are! They are there for the reason you need them to be.

HAPPINESS OR JOY

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 19:18:00 GMT

"I just want to be happy!"
Asking most people what they want from life gets the same answer, "I just want to be happy." There is a common belief that happiness is something that can be achieved and held on to it. We look forward to that time in which we can finally be happy, but it continually recedes. We want to get to the top of the Wheel of Life and stay there.

LOVE ADVICE ABOUT MR. RIGHT

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 08:19:00 GMT

I recently interviewed Lisa Steadman about her upcoming book If He’s Not The One, Who Is?: What Went Wrong - and What It Takes to Find Mr. Right (January 18, 2010) and her transformative 8 week teleclass based on the book. Lisa’s message is one of hope, inspiration, and empowerment for singles who are done with past dating drama, disaster, and disappointment, and ready to create happier and healthier dating futures.

THE DANCE OF DRAMA

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 07:24:00 GMT

It's getting late at the office. Everyone else has gone home. Greta props her head up with her hand and sips coffee as she and her co-worker, Michael, examine the blueprints spread on the drafting table. Almost done. The deadline is tomorrow. The table behind them is littered with empty Chinese food containers and coffee cups. The garbage can is overflowing with rejected ideas.

Michael reaches for a ruler and bumps Greta's arm, splattering her coffee on the blueprints. "What have you done!”? Greta yells. Staring in disbelief at the ruin, he sinks into the chair and moans, "I can't believe it! Look what happened? What an idiot."

THE PUSH-ME PULL-YOU DANCE AND THE REJECTION MOVE

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 07:18:00 GMT

The Push-Me, Pull-You Dance is a relationship dance that creates fear, distance and drama. There are three moves in this dance:.
The Abandonment Move
The Clinging Move
The Rejection Move

Once you know them, you can easily spot the obvious and subtle ways they play out. They are predictable.

I first identified this dance while working with couples who stimulated fear in each other using the threat of abandonment. Most of these couples did not consciously know they were doing this. All they knew is they were stuck in a painful situation. Pushing and pulling from one drama to the next.

THE PUSH ME, PULL YOU DANCE

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 07:12:00 GMT

First you say you'll stay and then you go.
Then you say you will and then it's "no".

You're undecided now so what are ya gonna do?
-1920's song

How can I miss you if you won't go away?

4 STEPS TO FINDING LOVE

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 04:04:00 GMT

HONEY TRAPPED

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 03:56:00 GMT

There is nothing wrong with being attracted to a successful man or woman if this is because they have qualities such as drive and ambition that you find very appealing and that match you well. For gold-diggers however, this is the sole reason or main decision making criteria for entering into a relationship with a partner.

Key common features amongst gold-diggers are that many have experienced a troubled background of some sort and that they are desperately materialistic (to the extent that things in the material world are used by them to represent their identity). This can be a dangerous combination.

HAPPY BEING SINGLE

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 03:48:00 GMT

According to evolutionary theory the fundamental purpose of life is reproduction. We are therefore 'pre-programmed' to find a compatible partner, reproduce and raise our children.
This is, of course, greatly oversimplified and in the modern world, where many other factors come into play (such as career, travel, financial factors, health implications, personal choice etc.), it is not simply the case that all we must do in life is find a partner and raise a family.

THE THREE BEAUTITUDES: PRAISE, LOVE AND THANKSGIVING

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 03:42:00 GMT

These three frequencies, if developed sufficiently, produce everlasting life. Each frequency is a virtue, an emotion, and a magickal force for creating change. They are not abstract, intellectual concepts. Here are a few ideas and proposals to further their development in society, and in the individual.

PRAISE: Praise is a fire, or light, which needs to be established within the heart. It is our most sacred duty to keep this fire burning perpetually, in the midst of all situations. If we do this, then, in time, flames of praise spread from the heart and ignite eternal fires within every atom and cell of the physical body. Praise has two functions:

SELF-CHECK: ARE YOU CAUGHT IN YOUR EGO

sophia@sophiamcdonald.com — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 03:32:00 GMT

While we have preferences, the minute we start insisting that people and situations be different, we create internal turmoil - anger, disappointment, sadness and so on... It's our attachment that leads us to donning a mask. blaming others, or feeling incomplete.

There are some ways to distinguish between spirit and ego.
The following are examples of getting caught in the EGO.

* Boasting of our accomplishments to impress someone
* Defending and criticizing yourself and others
* Lying, being deceitful, seductive, or manipulative, whether overly, covertly, or by omission
* Talking on and on about ourselves and others