Solstice: Earth Renewal Moon

The drum set the pace with a slow, steady beat while we walked in a single line and took our place next to one of the twelve moons that made up part of the outer circle in the medicine wheel. The 7 stones making up the inner circle were dark. The fire had not yet been lit.

The center stone in the medicine wheel represents the Creator and creation. In this case, the firepit would soon burn brightly to remind us of creation, death and rebirth of all things.

Solstice is a time to go within and reflect on all of our blessings. We learn gratitude for the challenges and release what is holding us back from creating a whole life.

Today begins a new moon on the medicine wheel, the Earth Renewal Moon. From her we learn to receive what the universe is giving us. We also learn that what we receive is a gift for sharing with others.

The totems representing this moon are Snow Goose, Quartz, Birch and the Color is White. The elemental influence comes from the Turtle clan. I could go in depth about what each of these represents, however, I'm drawn to Quartz and Birch at the moment.

I recall many lessons taught to me by my grandfather while he and I walked in the woods; he sharing stories while pointing to the birch trees telling me to be careful what I said around them because they never forgot and hold our ancient knowledge deep within them. From him, I learned about so many trees and other plants I would later come to respect and develop relationships with.

Quartz - specifically Rose Quartz, speaks of love and opening your heart to whatever the universe has to offer.I've learned to let go and now the universe is showing me a brand new world; full of creation and love.

After we sat quietly listening to the drum and reflecting, I began singing a song about a new journey. When I finished, I lit the fire in the pit. There were twelve small votive candles placed in a circle surrounding the inner spoke. We each picked a candle up. Taking a stick from the fire, I lit my candle. I turned to the person next to me and lit his candle, telling him I share my light from within so that it may shine without; may he do the same. This continued until all of the candles were lit. We ended the ceremony with song and dance, followed with food and drink.

Wishing you all an abundance of light, love, joy, and creation in the new year!

A Door Closed, But the Universe Opened Up Wide For Me

Yesterday, Eighteen days before Christmas, I was walked out of my job. Never once was I told I did something wrong, nor was I ever reprimanded for anything. The reason given to me was that they no longer needed the position and were eliminating it. Oh, and by the way, did I have any questions?

No, not one question. I did, however, see through the BS.

Not too long ago, a young man was promoted from within to the exact same title as me. In fact, I was the one he came to gather information on what and how to do things. Shortly after he was promoted, I felt the energy shift within the department. I tried ignoring the signs, thinking I was being ridiculous, however, I know better than to ignore the flags.

I was given a two-week severance agreement to look over. In the agreement, there are two mentions that if I chose to file an age discrimination claim or an Older Person’s Act Claim; both of which I am protected, then I will waive my rights to a severance check.

With that said, I’m told I should be angry and go after the company for promoting this young man and kicking me out. But as a very close person once shared with me; “Don’t let others’ ‘should’ on you.”

So, as of today, I am sticking to my ground and taking what the company is offering me without putting up a fight. My energy is meant for another journey; one that I set in motion 4 months ago and the universe is now answering. I wasn’t prepared for how I was going to travel down this new path, but I know that the universe is opening up the sky for me.

Knock, Knock
Photograph by r.l.karman. Venice, Italy
Copyright. All Rights Reserved.

A door closed on me, so I started knocking and I fully believe the universe set the plan in motion. I am now journeying down a path that I created for my own well-being rather than the path others think I should be traveling.

Follow Your Dreams.
Photograph by r.l.karman.
Venice, Italy
Copyright. All Rights Reserved.

I won’t deny I’m a bit anxious, but I know that by following the wind, I’ll be led to the correct nest…

Namaste

Reading a Rock

During my Clinical Herbalism class last night, the instructor spoke about the vibrational imprint of objects; how objects retain the energies (good and bad) of its previous owner, and when we purchase something we should always cleanse it. 

The first thing that came to mind about vibrational imprints were rocks. I was taught early on how to read rocks to find answers; because they have been around so long, they hold the answers of our ancestors and the key to our history.

Rock reading is used to find answers, so let me share how to do this. 

1. If you have a question that needs and answer, grab a pen and paper and go take a walk and look for a rock that appeals to you - one that is about grapefruit size and has lots of indentations on it - not a smooth surfaced rock. 

2. sit down with the rock and repeat your question 3 times to the rock for which you would like an 
answer. 

3. Now look at the top surface of the rock and pick out four shapes (images) and write down what images you see. 

4. Move to all sides of the rock, each time thinking of your question and writing down four images you see on each side; you should have a minimum of 4 - 6 sides 

5. now sit quietly reflecting on the first set of 4 images you wrote down. When you look at these 4 as a whole, what does the whole represent for you? Write that down 

6. repeat step 5 for each group of images you wrote down. 

7. Now put together the last representations you just wrote down, and reflect on their meanings as a whole. 

8. Your answer will be there. 

Moving on, I wanted to share the following article on Psychometry, which talks about objects you encounter. 

http://www.dailyom.com/articles/2015/50219.html 

Hope everyone has a great day! 
Namaste

Owl -- seeing in the dark

Owl is amazing! Of course, there really isn't an animal I've met that I  didn't like.  

I took this photo at work today. When I saw the owl, I set my coffee down and walked right up to the tree next to the tree the owl was resting in. It watched me walk up and sat there staring at me. 

I smiled and said I loved him; he slowly blinked at me with both eyes. I took that as a positive sign. I then thanked him for being there, and he winked at me with one eye; also a good sign. 

Owls symbolize the ability to see where others cannot; whether it be the need to change or the ability to see deceit. 

For now, I know I'm going through a great transition in my life so I'm looking within to see what I need to change in order to continue moving forward

Namaste

Kindness Opens Doors

I see you every once in awhile while I'm out working in my front yard. You stand with your walker in the front door peering out. I wave and you stare at me. I know we haven't met (yet), however I'm looking out for you. You're housebound, but a visitor comes check on you once each day. Late at night however, before I head to bed, I notice your front door wide open, so I slip on over and quietly close it so you'll be safe through the night.

Finally, after a year we make contact. Your paper is laying in the middle of the yard and you can't get it, so you open your door and beckon me to bring the newspaper to you. I do and you're grateful.

Now when I go home at lunch, sometimes I see your inside door open and the paper in the yard. I pick up the paper and peek in your front screen door. You're sitting on your walker in front of the TV. You notice me and wave me in. I hand you your paper, wish you a good day and I'm on my way.

A door between us has finally opened.

Compassion

For the month of October, my focus is Compassion.

As a healer, I think the number one thing I need to remember is to become more compassionate and remember that everyone has a story, including myself.

I know I have only to look inside to see the path I’m choosing now is so different from whence I came. My clients are choosing a different path now, and I need to honor them for making the decision to change.

I started thinking about Dr. Masaru Emoto and his work with water crystals. Our thoughts and energy create both positive and negative. In Dr Emoto’s work, he shows that by simply saying “I love you” to water, the energy within the water changes.

People are  like water; some are mucky and some are only dirty, while others are crystal clear. How wonderful that I have the opportunity to help others on their path of healing by first being compassionate and sending them light and love to help clear their way.

Wishing you light and love.

Namaste

Goodbye & Hello

As I say goodbye to September, I open my arms and welcome the changes of October. 

 

While visiting with my elderly friend last weekend, we walked around her yard looking at her fruit trees talking. Twice she stopped and asked; "What's that?" I looked about and questioned what she was looking at, but she just shook her head. Whatever 'it' was, vanished. 

Then she pointed; "They keep flying over your head." 

I looked up and there was Dragonfly. 

"Well, hello little one. Did you follow me all the way from Albuquerque?" 

As of late, I seem to have an attraction with Dragonfly. No, I think I've always had a relationship with her that waxes and wanes; Dragonfly stopping by when I need a reminder to 
connect and feel the joy and light - be more adaptable. 

She showed me that day to be open to the changes coming my way. Although I've been a little off since I returned from my trip, I know however slow, I am indeed evolving and transforming. 

The more time I spend quietly in nature, the more I experience myself differently and welcome my new journey. 

 

Change is around the corner - the fall colors; the crisp air; all reminding me that change is never ending and to try and control change only hinders my ability to answer the Universe's calling 

 

May you discover a new, positive and joyful perspective of yourself. 
WS

Ducks Fly Moon

Today is the first day of Autumn  and a brand new moon on the Medicine Wheel; Ducks Fly Moon. Fall is my second favorite time of year - the first is spring. This time of year reminds me to be grateful for the many gifts of the summer (the harvests of my fruits and plants;  the time hiking and communing with nature, etc). 

The power animal representing this moon is Raven, and the power plant is Mullein. 

Raven and I have a history that goes back to when my grandfather journeyed into the next realm. While hiking in Walnut Canyon, a Raven called out to me from a tree he was perched, near the path I was on. I looked up and smiled. I asked what he wanted, and in a loud croak he laughed. I laughed back and thanked him. I said I needed to keep moving, and as I continued down the trail, Raven flew ahead to the next tree. He and I continued chatting, laughing and ‘walking’ together for quite some time. To this day, I’m certain my grandfather was Raven telling me to quit being so serious while showing me how to laugh and let go. 

Raven also comes to me with warnings, like the time I abruptly woke in the morning to find the neighbor’s yard across the street from me filled with Ravens; on the roof; in the front yard; and in uniform marching across the driveway. But that’s a story for another time. The message was very clear and what I was shown came to pass within a couple of days. 

Depending on who you talk with, Raven can be a good omen or be a messenger of bad news. I have had both experiences with Raven, and I welcome him regardless of the news he brings. 

Mullein is a plant I’ve only recently started a relationship with when a friend dug up some plants from her yard and gave them to me. I recently went hiking where Mullein was growing abundantly on the hillsides. I was able to harvest a bag full of wild Mullein flowers which are now infusing with garlic in oil. When the infusion is ready, I will use it for my 4-leggeds' ears. Mullein oil is great for human ears, as well as warts, bruises, sprains, chapped skin, and other ailments. 

From Mullein, I’m learning to explore the ‘smooth’ and healing parts of my nature. By bringing my attention to the softer side of my demeanor, I’m able to move forward more openly with whatever I am doing at any given time. 

May you enjoy the wonderful colors of Autumn, and may the messages of nature bring you joy and healing. 

Teach a Child or Adult

I think many American ADULTS cannot identify a plant or animal…

I was hiking in the mountains with my drummer one time so we could take some photos for our album cover. I scoped out a nice cliff, overlooking the valley 10k feet below with more mountains in the background. I asked ‘special k’ to take her place on the rock.

I walked back down the trail and started setting up my tripod and camera when K screamed bloody murder at the top of her lungs. I looked up just in time to see her whiz by me screaming “SKUNK!!!!”  I shook my head and walked to the rock to investigate.

As I reached the cliff, I saw some branches move in the scrub next to me. I looked down and was greeted by a gray SQUIRREL. She told me she didn’t mean any harm, she was just gathering food for her winter  cache.

I’m laughing hard just reliving this event!!!

If you’ve been following me for any length of time, you’re probably aware that I have an enthusiasm for plants and animals. In fact, I have conversations throughout the day with my cat and dog and I’m always singing to my plants or talking with them as well. Notice I said ‘with’ my cat and dog, and ‘with’ the plants.

Ever notice a dog cock her head to the side while you’re talking ‘to’ her? Well I believe the pup is trying really really hard to understand me. And I think she does. Did you know that the average dog can understand about 165 words, possibly more with training? Well let me tell you about my pup Lakota. She speaks dog, and understands English, ASL, German and Spanish. When I say that I have to go to work, she immediately goes to her pillow and blanket on the couch. My cat is very vocal. I can ask her if she wants to be held or if she wants food, she’ll answer back. Of course I have to ‘guess’ what she really wants.

Plants are amazing! They’re alive and provide us with all kinds of benefits; clean air, medicinals for our apothecary, beauty. I can tell when my plants are happy (when I talk and sing - and of course feed and water them). I also believe they communicate, if you learn to listen.

Did you know that plants communicate and interact with each other, both above ground and below? Well they do. Some click, some release a chemical/odor to warn of insects, and they use their own telephone line below the surface via a fungus that connects the roots of the plants.

Speaking of connection, have you ever looked at a line of Quaking Aspens on a mountain side? Any group of Aspens you see next to one another are not just a bunch of single trees, but a single root system called a clone; all of the trees in the same clone are genetically identical. If you cut one down, the others feel it. 

The Aspens remind me that all are connected; humans, plants, animals, rocks (and the list goes on - like the energizer bunny). So why not get out there and talk with some plants and perhaps a skunk or two?

Go ahead; grab a plant, animal, bird, insect, geology guide and have fun communing with nature.

Namaste,
WS

Communing with Mother Nature

While out walking the pup earlier in the day, 3 Blue dasher dragonflies appeared. I love dragonflies and have had many interesting interactions with them. I even witnessed one as it hatched and unfolded its wings to dry before taking off from the dock. 

While sitting around a pond at a winery with a friend, a Flame Skimmer with its bright orange wings landed on the armrest of my chair. I spoke with it for awhile until I started getting hot in the sun. I told the dragonfly that I needed to move into the shade. I stood up and moved to a different chair. The dragonfly flew up and perched itself on the armrest of my new chair. Even when I got up a bit later to stand near the pond, the Flame Skimmer flew next to me. My new friend. 

One thing I've learned from dragonfly is to pay attention to 'things' coming to the surface. I indeed feel a shift in the air, so while working in my yard yesterday, I decided to listen; changing my frequency to a higher level in hopes of receiving more messages from mother nature.

I usually see the Blue dasher - especially when hiking in the foothills, but my true love is the Flame skimmer. Any time she stops by, I get excited and am like a child with a really big grin on my face. 

Yesterday was no different. While working in my flowerbed in the front, Flame skimmer stopped by and kept me company for quite awhile; flying up close to check me out and then back to the middle of the yard. I think she was supervising my weeding. 

I saw her fly near the rain barrel, so I thought maybe she needed a drink. I wanted to pull some water for my flower bed, so I thought I'd let some water escape the hose for her to drink from also. 

When I walked to the rain barrel, I watched as Dragonfly flew back to the middle of the yard. I turned my gaze back down towards the rain barrel and at the surface where the screen touched the water was a message, loud and clear - LOVE!

May your day be filled with new curiosity, joy and love!
Namaste
WS

A Visit from Merlin

Nature is always surprising me more every day. I've already bragged about my fruit trees, two rounds of baby finches in the same nest; the last group of babies took flight this last Sunday - miss them already... 

My plan last night was to mow the lawn and work in the yard while my cooler guy worked on switching me from furnace to swamp cooler. The guy showed up and did complete his work, however I did not accomplish anything other than rescuing a Mallard. 

Long story short... let my pup out front when I got home and she immediately started on a mission, sniffing around the side of the house (didn't see the duck). I stepped around the side and saw him. 

I named him Merlin... He was unable to fly, and after observing him just barely walking around, I realized he was severely dehydrated and hungry. I think he was in flight and saw my rain barrel and hoped for water, (but there's a screen on the barrel) so he just stayed put. I saw that he was tagged, so he was probably from the University pond, or the zoo or an area near the river. 

I set a dish of water near him, and another dish of rice in water for him. He started drinking immediately and then ate a little and then back to drinking, etc. He rested for quite awhile, and when animal rescue finally showed around 9pm last night, Merlin had wizard himself away. 

I'm hopeful that he finally had the energy to fly home last night and is now with his family. 

Blessed by Dragonfly

I moved into my new home 8 months ago, and have been struggling with re-designing my yard - both front and back. My dream yard will be fully edible. I already have plenty of fruit trees in the back, however the rest of the yard is all grass. Don’t get me wrong, having been born and raised in the Midwest, I love the feel of a lush lawn under my feet. But now I live in the desert, where water is scarce and precious. So my goal is to plant a yard that is medicinal, healing and nutritional for the birds, bees, butterflies and my surrounding community.

My journey started this weekend by removing the sod from a 150 Sq. Ft. area along the side of my house in the front. The finished area will be paved along the house and 3 raised garden beds along the fence.

In the past, I focused so much on getting the project done that I neglected balance; forgoing meals, sleep, etc. So before embarking on this huge task, I had to give myself a pep talk and permission to take as much time as needed in order to maintain balance in my life.

Before I started digging Sunday morning, I sat in the middle of the front lawn while my cat and dog played. I felt the ground beneath me, pull the tension from my body. Hmmmm. Didn’t think I was stressed.

I looked around at the lawn and wondered whether or not my dreams were too large, when Dragonfly appeared; three all together. But one in particular kept coming back and hanging out with me.

Dragonfly, you are the winds of change. Like me, you too are a sensitive creature of water, and change seems inevitable and constant. Sometimes, when I question my dreams, I imagine letting myself flow from the depths of the ocean to the calm surface above. At this place of calm, I skim across the water towards that which is to be.

Thank you for visiting me today and reminding me to plant and provide water for you, your sister bees, birds and butterflies. Among other things, you symbolize strength, peace and harmony; all that I wish from within, extended without.

I believe you have blessed me, my dreams and my home and yard. Pilamaya!

Namaste

A visit with my Ancestors

I sat against the tree to meditate and quiet my mind. I'm usually upbeat and joking, but my heart felt heavy so I knew I needed to look further within to find out what was going on. Usually this happens when I've over extended myself and am exhausted.

Nevertheless, I focused on slow, deep breaths. After a few moments, I felt the energy of the tree meld with mine; her branches holding me while the light fingerless leaves gently brushed the tears on my cheeks, comforting me. I recognized the release and allowed the tears to flow freely.

I opened my eyes and saw Grandmother and Grandfather standing there; their eyes warm and smiling. I missed them so, and cried even harder. They spoke of how they are still with me, in my heart and all I needed to do was look for the light there to find the answers.

While we were talking, a fawn walked up and stood next to them. He glanced at me and then looked up at my Grandparents and nodded. I knew it was time to say good-bye for now. I thanked them for coming and that I loved them. They knew.  In a blink of my eye, there was now a Robin and Raven where once they stood.

I looked at the fawn. “Boozhoo, Waawaashkeshi. Aaniin ezhinikaazoyan?”

I wondered what message this ‘deer’ one was trying to convey.

Fearlessly, the fawn lay down and watched me.

Fawn symbolizes unconditional love and the fear that prevents us from moving forward. Ningotaaj. Yes, I am afraid. I’m pretty good at hiding my fears, but never the less, I am afraid. Afraid mostly of failing.

I thought about this for awhile…. The overwhelming release of emotion today made me realize that I am growing and working through one more challenge or two.

I have always been fearful. I recently shared a story  with a colleague where I was debilitated by fear. She responded that she would never have guessed I was ever fearful of anything. As I grew older however, I have learned to face my fears and move beyond them. After all, the fears I have are ones I created for myself, placing unnecessary stress. In the past, I have created events in my life through my thoughts (and fears), so I have every means to create the positive outcome I desire now.

My grandparents showed me nothing but unconditional love and support while I was growing up, and now they have passed on. When my fears start playing with my emotions, making me want to quit, one or the other, or both appear and let me know that they still support and love me - no matter what.

I understand now. My lesson is to find that same unconditional love for myself; trusting I am on the right path, growing, sharing and loving.

I thanked the fawn for his presence and patience.

“Miigwech, Waawaashkeshi. Thank you.  Giga-waabamin menawaa." I hope soon.

in Zahgidiwin,

WS

Heartbeat of Gaia

Sleep was not in my favor last night, making the night very restless. So needless to say, I woke a bit moody this morning. I’m used to not sleeping, so I’m not sure why this morning was so adversely affected. Maybe it’s because my baby finches finally flew the coop, or maybe because I've once again extended myself too much. Whatever the case, I shrugged it off and went to work without doing my morning T'ai Chi or meditation. 

I started feeling a little sleepy after a couple of hours staring at computer code, so I walked to Starbucks for a pick me up. On the way back, I stopped to sit quietly by the pond for a moment. 

While I focused on my breath and losing myself in the void of my mind, I heard tap tap tap. I wondered who was knocking and wanted in. I opened my eyes to the persistent tapping and smiled. The Woodpecker peered at me with acknowledgement before she began drumming the tree again. 

I closed my eyes and listened to the ever so lightly heartbeat of Mother Nature. I was being drawn back within her womb of comfort. With each beat, my breathing became deeper and slower, while my heart beat aligned with the not so distant drumming. I didn't want to leave, but work called. I thanked Woodpecker and walked back to my office.

Opportunity knocked, and I'm glad I answered; grateful for Woodpecker appearing and helping me regain my natural rhythm and attaining peace once again.

Namaste,

Communicating with Mother Nature

Call me crazy, but I talk to my plants. At times, I hear them too. They sing and dance with me, or whisper sweet nothings in the wind. And yes, there have been times when I've been scolded - like leaving my poor Aloe out in the rain, but let's move on to something more positive, like the feedback I'm receiving from my plants now. 

Did you know that plants have a frequency? They do. Go ahead and Google it - I'll wait... 

My plants LOVE music - I sing to them every morning and evening. Sometimes I'm pretty certain I can hear them join in. Plants and trees actually communicate by using different sounds (like clicking) or using volatile chemicals. FASCINATING, don't you think? I do. 

As you know, I've only been in my current home for a few months. I moved in last fall, so I really didn't have an opportunity to take time with the plants and trees in my yard. Now I'm able to get out and mingle more. 

I started 'detoxing' the yard by removing dead trees and branches to help the healthier trees 'branch' out more and thrive.While cutting some of the deadwood, I often spoke with the neighboring tree - mentioning that I hoped what I was doing would help her out. 

Every morning and evening, I go out in the yard and thank the plants and trees for their presence. I tell them I love them and that I'm truly grateful for them. They share their love back.

All of my peach trees presented me with spring flowers this season - very beautiful! 

While cleansing the yard, I kept going back and forth on whether or not to cut one of the peach trees down because I wasn't sure if she was healthy or not. I'm glad I left her, because last night I noticed that she is producing the most fruit of all the trees - Absolutely amazing! 

I love my plants, can you tell? They're very calming and I always look forward to spending time with them. 

I hope you all get a chance to spend time in nature and build a rewarding relationship with her as I am. 

Cheers! 
WS

Peach Tree 
 

Abundant Fruit 
 

Baby Peaches 
 

Equinox 2015

Happy Spring! 

Yesterday I woke to Finches singing exuberantly from my flowering fruit trees. I LOVE Spring!!! For some reason, I just can’t contain myself this time of year. I laugh and giggle, like a child who just discovered something new - all of the time. I was visiting with the HR women during their lunch and I just started dancing away in their office. They laughed, but then a few moments later, they joined in, moving to the beat in their chairs. See how contagious laughing can be? And it’s fun!! 

While walking to my vehicle at lunch yesterday afternoon, Hawk called out to me from the tree above my truck. I stopped for a moment and watched her before I engaged in conversation with her. I thanked her for sharing her time with me and what, if any, message did she have to share with me. She called out and waited for my response. I took a moment to ponder our interaction. 

How appropriate that she appeared then, since today is the eve of the new moon; The Budding Trees Moon. 

The mineral for this moon is Opal, a lesson of hope. Let’s see. I had hoped to finish my novel by now, but life happens and I pushed it aside for other projects. Yet lately, I’ve had a strong desire to write. I pulled my notes together, but there they sit on the desk, patiently waiting. Ok, time to schedule time to write - just like I do with my swimming, T’ai Chi, meditation, etc. 

The plant of this moon is dandelion, teaching us balance and knowing when to root yourself and when to fly. Right now, this plant is rooting itself deep in the earth. Hmmm. I hear you dandelion, and you’re right! It’s time for me to go deep within and become more grounded. 

The color of Budding Trees Moon is Yellow, which helps us to be more receptive. I think I’ve made so many projects that I’ve tuned out what’s important - have fun, enjoy the moment and everything else will fall into place! 

Thunderbird clan lessons teach us kindness and healing. What better way to start than to be kind to myself - allowing myself time eat, pray, love, laugh, enjoy life. As within, so without. 

Red-Tailed Hawk is one of my favorite raptors. Every time I watch this hawk fly above or sitting high in a tree, I am overwhelmed with joy. This majestic bird reminds me of my visions; to look ahead with clarity and focus on nourishing the whole - mind, body & spirit. 

I looked up at Hawk who was still quietly perched on the limb looking down at me waiting for me to respond. I told her I thought I understood and thanked her for her message. I wished her a safe journey and to please come and visit me any time. I know I’ll need the kick to bring me back on track! 

Tonight I had planned a release and renew ceremony around my fire pit, however the weather is in its true spring fashion - rain. The evening is still a few hours away, so I'll just improvise. 

Tomorrow, I'll participate in the worldwide didgeridoo equinox sunset meditation, and then on Sunday afternoon I am participating in the worldwide pray for water meditation. 

Yes, the weekend is full, but I believe the weekend will be one of joy and healing. 

May spring bring you cleansing, healing and peace! 

Namaste

Ding Dong! Raven Calling...

“Cras! Cras!” 

I looked up and smiled as Raven flew over from the NW to SE, and then continued scraping the ice from my windshield. 

“Cras! Cras!” Again, Raven flew over from the same direction, calling out to me. I responded with a good morning to him, before finishing the scraping. 

Then for a third time, Raven called out to me; “Cras! Cras” flying in the same exact pattern as the other two. 

Raven, like the darkness of your body, you are the harbinger of deep dark mysteries yet to unfold. So many times you have appeared and shared the future with me, yet this morning I do not hear you clearly, in spite of your insistent chatter. You symbolize shape-shifting qualities; change and transformation, along with being a keeper of secrets. I wonder my friend, what secrets from my inner depths are you trying to bring to the light of my own consciousness? 

This week, I have initiated spiritual changes, integrating my practice back in with the physical and emotional. Like many of us, I am questioning my purpose and believe I am closer to understanding who I am and where I belong and how to move forward with my plan. 

I am both scientific and creative, meaning I use both sides of my brain equally (I've been tested). I believe however, that I've pushed the creative part of me to the side and I am now trying to wake it up again. For many many years, I was an actor, playing a roll that is not from the heart, but a roll that would please others. Now I’m coming alive, and being reborn into who I truly am. That means I need to accept myself for who I am and believe in my values, and most importantly - like me, right now, right here! Transformation is in the air! Change is happening, right now!!! 

The key for my success however, is to pace myself. I’m such an overachiever, that I will have to carefully think out the steps so I do not risk placing myself in a state of dis-ease and unbalance. 

For now, I will do what I can and when I can, in accordance with the laws of nature! 

“EVERY TIME YOU EAT OR DRINK,..."

“EVERY TIME YOU EAT OR DRINK, YOU ARE EITHER FEEDING DISEASE OR FIGHTING IT.” 
-Heather Morgan, EndMonsanto March, May 23 

Next month I begin my studies in Traditional Holistic Herbal Medicine. 

I started changing my lifestyle living habits 5 years ago when I started a fitness challenge and team, motivating us all to make healthier decisions. 

Along my journey, I've had many challenges to overcome, but I eventually succeed - with patience. 

In order to maintain healthy eating habits throughout the year, I plan on growing inside as well as outside. I already grow medicinal herbs for my practice, but have high hopes on being able to sustain myself with healthy (non gmo) vegetables and fruit even during winter.   

So, Tomorrow and Sunday will be busy for me. I start my demolition - or dismantling one of my 6 sheds in my yard. I will then clean up the area and prepare it for my greenhouse I plan to build in it's place.  

Once this project is complete, I move on to the other dozen in my bucket list - one is to transform my front lawn into an edible landscape. 

Who knows, maybe I'll be so successful, I'll be able to share with the community. 

Have a healthy, peaceful, sustaining weekend!

WS

Dancing to the beat of my drum

I was in a bit of a mood yesterday - tired and trying to figure out how to prioritize my life and slow down. I was letting myself get out of hand - go to work, go to the gym and workout, go home and do housework (work...work...work), and then sleep if I was lucky enough. I’m starting to see how work truly is a 4 letter word. Don't misunderstand, I love my job!  As a good friend pointed out in her comment about my last blog, I don’t even know what day of the week it is half of the time…. 

I lit a candle and took some quiet time to meditate and ask for answers on how to balance, work, workouts, play, meditation, and school / studies. 

Woodpecker appeared. I heard him rapping on the tree. And then nature’s drum stopped and flew off. I knew instantly what I had to do. 

I lit the sage on my altar and smudged myself. I then smudged the altar, the seven directions, rattles, flute and drum. 

I started tapping slowly on the drum. Eventually, my breathing slowed and my heart pulsated in sync with the beat of the drum. I sang my power song and then felt my body sway to the beat. The dance of the drum began. 

Snake appeared with her back to me - I standing behind her. She and I were swaying (similar to a cobra) simultaneously as if we were dancing together, and then we melded. 

Snake, my birth totem and teacher. Showing me how to overcome multiple snake bites (figuratively of course) and transmute the negative into positive, so I listened. 

In a nutshell, I shall remain open to all of the opportunities I’ve set in motion and consume each one in small bites to achieve what I set out to accomplish - physically, spiritually and emotionally. 

Blessings,
WS

Rest & Cleansing Moon

A new moon (Rest & Cleansing Moon) begins today. 

Associated with this moon is the precious and playful Otter; the Quaking Aspen; Silver, both in mineral and color, and Air with the influence of the Butterfly clan. 

I floated along Resurrection Bay when two Otter appeared nearby, also in the water. Their silver fur glistened in the sun as they lay on their backs, holding onto one another. As if on cue, they rolled and chattered, sounding more to me like they were giggling. They would stop, look at me as if beckoning me to join them in their playtime. I wondered what adventure they were making up? And then they disappeared. I realized then, I needed to learn to play more, rejoicing in my relationships with others as well as loving myself. Perhaps I should go play in the snow... 

Loving myself. Hmmmm. I’ve heard the voices before; “start playing and relaxing. All of this work and no play is killing your relationship with yourself and others. And what happened to your spirit? Perhaps taking time to quiet your mind will rekindle the playful creative side in you.” I do believe I'm on the right track with my workout routine, but am I having fun and truly loving the effects all of this is having on me? Maybe a little more gratitude, eh? 

I found myself hiking along a mountain path when I heard a noise. I stopped and listened. No, I hear birds singing, but wait, what’s that? Then as clear as the day, I heard the Aspen. The breeze of their voices singing to me in harmony with the birds. I once sung with the birds. What happened? I let the hustle of the day just flutter me away and I stopped creating music. I thought to myself, It’s probably too late to re-learn how to sing and create music again. 

There it was again, the wind speaking softly; “It’s never too late to create. Look around you and all of the beauty Mother Earth has birthed, again and again. Every day is a creation. Look at the sun as it starts to lay down and sleep, slowly dimming against the canvas of reds and oranges… What are you going to create each day? Perhaps living daily as a live sculpture of love. Whatever you create, do so in love and harmony with all around you and within you. Remember, we are a ripple in the water, creating from within and sending out into the world around us."