Change–My Goal for the Coming Year

As life continues to venture by for me I am subtlety reminded of the changes that occur.  When I take the time to slow and look, I see that life is forever going on.  Sometimes it even goes on without me, or so it seems.   I guess that is what happens as we enter the later parts of our lives. 

 

I have never found much pleasure in participating in the rat race of day to day events.  Although I have timelines that need to be adhered to and deadlines that have to be monitored I dislike the feeling of going 90 miles a minute just to be sure that I complete all the things on my list. Yes I have been busy these last months, but it has been a different kind of busy.  At times the busy work has even been somewhat enjoyable. 

 

Each year, like many others,  I try to choose a word that could best describe my outlook for the coming year and how I would like to incorporate that action into my day to day life.  Thinking on my word for this year I am not quite sure of my choice.  The word that I continue to come back to somewhat scares me to tell the truth.  However I have learned that it is an action that although it may hold an aurora that can make some grimace, it also can be a positive action as well.

 

The word that I speak of is change.  It is easy to grow content in our little piece of the world.  We shy away from venturing  out and entering into things or places that may not make us feel as comfortable or at home. I think this is something I have done over the last few years and although at times it has been quite enjoyable, it has also hindered me from many things. 

 

Little by little the last couple months I have seen a light that calls to me.  It shines from a place that I would not consider a comfort zone for me, yet it still beckons me to go to it.  I have to say that it does intrigue me and in some ways even excites me.  It would demand that I go into areas that will require some things from me that I may find a bit of a struggle at first yet they are all things I know that I can do and that in the end I would be glad that I did push myself in such a fashion.

 

It is the procrastination that I need to battle the most.  I am one of those who is sometimes easily detoured from a rabbit that may be hopping by.  Honestly I think it is an excuse to focus on something else.  I think this year may be the year that I finally get off my butt, so to speak, and finally do a few of the things that I have been meaning to tackle for many years.  It will most definitely be a change for me, but a good change indeed.   Wish me luck. 

Blessings

A New Year… A New Opportunity

Well the holidays are over and a new year has begun. Time for resolutions to be set and often then not quickly broken.  I have given up on resolutions at this time of the year… It is too much like setting ones self up for failure.  I learned quickly via last year’s occurrences that there are too many things in life that one can not plan for.  Taking one day at a time seems to work best for me at this time in my life.
 

Change comes to all it seems eventually.  Sometimes it is a gradual occurrence that we may not even notice.  Then at other times it is like a wave crashing on top of us.  Causing us to lose our footing and fall flat on our butts.  Either way we experience it. 
 

I am not sure what 2013 will have in store for us all.  It seems that life is only getting more complicated.  There are the looming political issues that are plastered across the TV each day.  Fiscal Cliffs and Financial Landslides.  There are the senseless acts of violence and aggression against so many who are unable to defend themselves.  And lets not forget the lack of concern that man has acquired for this wonderful earth we live on and the great need to take care of it so that we will not eventually destroy  ourselves.  Yes, it all sounds quite dismal when it is put into such a context.  But I still see hope.  I know there are those out there who still do not think in such a way. 
 

I know there are those who despite the complacency we have learned to live with over the years, are not crippled by these things.  There are still those who do not feel that everything needs to be done for us simply because we are entitled.  That pulling ourselves up by our boot straps and fixing ourselves is what life really is.  We understand the great need for attention to this earth and the nurturing and care that is needed to sustain it for those to come.  And the violence that seems to be so rampant and unexplainable.  The mindless acts that seem to keep occurring with no apparent reason of explanation.  I am not sure about this one.  I only think that we need to be there for one another.  To keep an open eye and ear to concerns that may arise.  To listen to the sounds around us and not simply to the little world that so many of us have built up around us and ours so that the ugly world will not intrude.  Although at times it seems the only true defense. 
 

I grew up in a small rural town.  It was simpler times and instead of stagnant afternoons of mindless video games, we spent our time in the fresh air and sunshine.  I know that life is still there.  I mean… there is always sunshine and relatively fresh air outdoors.  Yet it calls for a change.  It calls for a turn in what is the normal day for most. A little extra effort if you please.  I know that one can not change all yet if one becomes many a shift can be felt.  I pray for this year to see that shift.  If only a small one, I pray it comes. 
 

May all of you have a truly wonderful new year, filled with new wonders and experiences that truly bless you.  Remember even the events that may at first seem dismal can turn out to give you blessings in the end.

Nineteen and Counting

I haven’t posted in a while but that does not mean that I have not been a busy girl (although I feel more like a busy old lady).  My esty shop has been keeping me on my toes.  Seven rune orders last month and although I could do it faster, I prefer to do it the old fashion way…. by hand. 
 

Yule is only 19 days away and I am happy to say I have all my shopping done.  Now it is time to write my Yule cards, wrap all those presents and start my holiday baking.  The weather has been so warm here though that I have been far from a mood to bake.  But I do have a few new recipes I want to try.  Plus the dry weather lends itself wonderfully to doing some of my goodies. 
 

I guess if you believe in the end of the Mayan calendar the nineteen  and counting could be a countdown to the end… I choose to believe otherwise.  A change?…. Possibly…. hopefully…. It sure could not hurt.  I am ready for some positive changes… some goodness… some fun… And what better time to achieve such a goal then during the Yule time. 
 

And of course in nineteen days, my most favorite event of all… The shortest day of the year…… which means…. A return to the sun.  A return to more sunshine and longer days…. See there is always something good to look forward to.

Blessings,

In human life there is constant change of fortune;

It is unreasonable

to expect an exemption from the common fate.

Life itself decays,

and all things are daily changing.

You can find energizing moments

in each aspect of your life;

 

But to do so

you must learn how to catch them,

hold on to them,

to feel the pull of their weight

and allow yourself to follow where they lead.

Marcus
Plutarch

Life Goes On….

The last two weeks of life in our household has been anything but normal routine.  It is odd when life brings your events that take you away from the “normal routine” and you find yourself just staying afloat amidst all the change and chaos.  As things slowly revert to some form of normalcy you look at the time passed and are amazed at the time that has gone.  Finally our lives are somewhat normal.  Vincent is slowly improving.  Now we have the multitude of doctor visits and additional tests that need to be ran to verify or clarify what has occurred.  It is a bit easier to deal with than the darkness of a black  hole that you find yourself in at the beginning. 

 

Yet even though our world was turned upside down in a matter of seconds, life itself continued to go on.  Bills still needed paid… appointments that were made needed to be kept, rescheduled or cancelled completely… the house although not lived in for a few days still managed to become cluttered and needed tidied…. laundry began to pile… You know the drill…  Yet in the midst of this all a moment occurred that could not help but make me smile. 

 

A while back I spoke of how I was reopening my Esty shop, determined to become creative and once again attempt to peddle my wares.  Really before the only wares I had were my willow runes, yet they were something I was quite proud of.  Each set was created and became like a baby to me.  Well last week I sold my first set of willow runes from my Esty shop.  Yes it did come at a time when time was not necessarily something that I had tons of.  Yet still the event was a joyous event to me.  I will send them out tomorrow.  They are to be a gift for a husband’s birthday. 

 

As I worked with them and prepared them for their journey to their new owner, I realized that life is forever turning.  It does not stop when we have a moment that may seem to hard or too much.  It keeps moving on.  Much like we must try to do in the midst of such moments.  This event has shown Vincent and I much and truly I see it as a blessing.  It could have been so much worse than it was.  It was just enough to get our attention and let us know the things that needed to be done to advert a further possibly more severe event.  It reminded us of the precious time we have with each other and those around us.  Although I do not like to learn lessons or be reminded in such a manner, I am thankful that the message was given. It has shown me so many things this last two weeks and many of them are truly blessings. 

 

To those of you who have sent blessings and well wishes our way, thank you.  I have felt the healing energies and they have been so welcomed and appreciated.  I hope that I am able to return the gift.  Blessings

My Valentine….

Love is a funny thing,

When it is true nothing can take it from you. 

 Regardless of frustration, or change,

Love is the one thing that always remains. 

Those Who Do Not Dance

A crippled child

Said, "How shall I dance?"

Let your heart dance

We said.

Then the invalid said:

"How shall I sing?"

Let your heart sing

We said

Then spoke the poor dead thistle,

"But I, how shall I dance?"

Let your heart fly to the wind

We said.

Then God spoke from above

"How shall I descend from the blue?"

Come dance for us here in the light

We said.

All the valley is dancing

Together under the sun,

And the heart of him who joins us not

Is turned to dust, to dust.

Gabriela Mistral

It has been ten days since Vincent had his stroke.  Progress is slow but it is evident.  I know the power of a positive outlook.  I found this poem and it spoke to me somehow.  It reminds me that nothing is set in stone and that anything is possible.  Also we can never be sure what unexpected sources may bring us the very moment that will bring us the influences and experiences we require. 

Blessing to all who have been so generous with your prayers and thoughts.  I truly can feel the energy.  I know that many are praying for us at this time and it has taught me that God comes in so many forms, for I feel the healing warmth from each of you. 

The harder the conflict,

the more glorious the triumph. 

What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly.

- Thomas Paine -

In the Blink of An Eye

Last Saturday was much like any day for me.  I met a good friend I had not seen for some time for lunch and had a nice visit.  Afterwards I went home to work on a baby quilt I am doing and fix supper for Vincent when he arrived home later that day. Lasagna was the food of choice.  We had a quiet dinner enjoying each others company.  He excused himself and promised to return shortly. 

 

When he did arrive back he was complaining of being a bit dizzy and seeing double.  He works long hours and so I thought he was just tired.  He sat next to me and laid his head back.  It did not take long before he was asleep.  I missed his company but I let him sleep.  When I got up to go to bed I attempted to wake him to join me.  He would not respond.  I soon realized that he was not going to wake.  I quickly called 911 who arrived shortly afterwards.  They too were unable to rouse him.  After vitals were taken and such they decided to transport him to the hospital. 

 

To make a long story short, Vincent suffered a mild stroke.  We have spent the last four and a half days in the hospital, running multiple blood tests along with MRIs, MRAs, CTs and countless other anagrams.  He was discharged yesterday to come home.  Luckily he only had a small blockage that seems to have released itself.  He is on the usual medicine to help to prevent further episodes .  His vision is a bit messed up but we have an appointment with a nuero optometrist who should be able to help that. 

 

It is amazing how your life can change in the blink of an eye.  I find myself with all sorts of questions swimming around in my head.  I want so to talk my frustrations and worries over with my best friend yet I am unable to.  He is not who he used to be, at least not for now.  Plus the added drama and worry is not something he needs to feel he has to handle.  Keep us in your thoughts.  I am not sure what this journey has in store for us but I know that we will see it through…My giveaway is still a go, just understand if I am not as punctual as before.  Much love and hold precious those cherished moments.

Each End is a New Beginning

Another year is behind us and once again so many of us are finding ourselves preparing for the coming year. Making resolutions and promises to ourselves.  I swear each year that I will not do such things but alas as always I did last year and like so many years before I did not keep up with such promises as I would have like to have.  No big surprise. 

 Yet I will admit that this last year was a different one for me as for so many others I have spoke with.  I did not tend to my blog as I have in the past and at first this really upset me.  Yet as the year continued I realized that it was something that was not of urgency.  I missed so many of you on a daily occurrence and have tried to get back into the swing of things once more.  And honestly who knows if 2012 will be much different.  I have many things that I would like to give my time to and we will see if they transform as I would like.  If they do my time here may not be as frequent as daily but I do intend to make an effort to make it on a regular basis.  The support and friendship that I have found from so many here in blogland has been something I do not wish to let go of so easily. 

 I recently found out that an old friend of mine followed my blog.  I will be honest and say that it was a surprise to me.  Our beliefs have drifted in different directions as the years have passed.  Her admittance to me that she followed was a welcomed present this Yule.  It gave me hope.  I know that many look at 2012 as a time of uncertain change.  I myself have felt the feeling of it coming.  I do not know exactly what it is.  I am not sure if anyone does to be honest.  I only know that any end is only the start of a new beginning and thus I move forward in a positive stance. 

I am not sure what the next 358 days will hold .  I only know that all things must pass eventually and thus make way for new.  In the coming days I wish you insight, wisdom, and strength to likewise let go of that which is over and embrace that which is new and giving.  Happy New Year.

Quietly Before It Begins…

Hello old friends. It has been some time since I have been here.  I have to say I have missed it in so many ways yet every time I had good intentions of coming by for a visit, it always seemed like something else pulled me in an opposite direction.  But then we all know what they say of good intentions.

When I looked out at this time last year, I thought what I saw was a coming year full of events and excitement.  It did evolve into just that yet the events and excitement were not of the manner that I had thought they would be.  I will say that there were many lessons to be learned.  A time it seemed to realize that there are many perspectives and interpretations to the world around me.  I would not be talking truthfully if I was to say that I was not glad that this year is drawing quickly to a close and a new one is about to begin. 

 

Not only has this time brought a wonderful release from the sweltering heat that came our way this summer it has also brought about a calmness and a form of rebirth.  Even mother nature seems to be experiencing this effect.  Flowers that labored under the heat of summer and held back much of their blooms are now unfolding in vibrant colors and number.  It is as if they are trying to make up for the lost time they had stolen from them by father sun. 

 

Over the weekend we received a wonderful drenching of moisture from the sky.  It brought with it a revival of growth and blooms.  The shorter days as well as the moisture have given cooler days and relaxing moments, something I have missed terribly.

I hope that likewise all of you have been able to experience such a time yourselves.  A few moments to gather ones self and prepare for the quietness that the coming months will soon bring.  I have no doubt that with it we will have our own surprises, much like this last year brought.  Yet I hope that it will give us times to reflect and once again prepare ourselves. 

The year draws down to its final days and soon the time of Samhain will be upon us.  It is a special time for many.   I look forward to all the aspects that it will bring with it.  I look forward to putting this year to the past and making way for the new one to come.

Blessings to you and yours,

M other Moon

The Cycle of Life

Grace

emerges in the ebb and the flow.

The waning reveals a different blessing

then the waxing.

As The Wheel Turns

Balance, according to Webster is mental and emotional steadiness. Although I do not feel that I have gone off the deep end, I do not feel like I have been very balanced as of late.

After my birthday last year, I had grand plans of all the things I wanted to accomplish and the manner in which I would do just that. Of course there is still a few more months left for me to chip away at the list I created, yet the lack of enthusiasm I have had as of late has not helped matters much. As many of us know when we plan to do something so many times something always seems to come up and "change" things.

"The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry"

Robert Burns

 So with that being said I guess I am in good company and should not be too hard on myself. Most definitely this year has turned out to be much different than I had expected it to be. Not necessarily in a bad way just in a different manner. It has taught me lessons and helped me to lose a little of my controlling nature. Something that I guess I needed to work on a bit. A good life lesson is always welcomed, although the tough ones sometimes make me whine a bit. Yet as I look around there has been difference in many areas of life. From the weather to politics there are times when I want to just throw up my hands and say what in the world is going on. Yet the wheel continues to turn as it always does and will. Change is something that will always be among us no matter how much we may cuss it or wish it away

Change is inevitable, growth is intentional

Glenda Cloud

Change is what makes us who we are. How it comes and how we choose to deal with it is what is most important. Do we react or do we respond? Reaction is sudden and often from our emotions. Such times are usually the ones we wish we could go back and change given the chance. The sudden release of intense emotions often feels good initially yet later we see the folly in our actions. Responding is often done over a longer period of time. We consider all that is involved and although we may not make the best decision the one that is eventually made is often a much clearer one.

I know from experience that reacting is usually not the best thing to do. Sitting back and thinking over all the options and all the feelings involved will bring one to a much better conclusion. Thus with this recent change I sit back and try not to over think the situation. I look at the opportunities that have come my way in place of those I had planned on and see that there were other things that needed to be tended to first. I also am able to see the additional blessings that have come my way on this different road. So many times when things do not go our way we jump to all the bad things about the situation and forget to look for the good that may have come from it. I have learned there is always some good in bad things. It may be hard to see let alone accept, yet it is there.

July is almost over and soon the Autumn will come. The circle will have taken its course and all that was to happen will have come to pass. We may not think that it was as it should be yet in its own way it will have been just as it should have been.

Blessings to you and yours

Mother Moon

Company's Coming

When last I wrote I spoke of the warm weather and the wonderful signs of the coming spring.  Many of you spoke of the long cold visits from old man winter which you have experienced thus far.  A few of you even told me to be careful what I say as winter is not over yet and he could still come knocking on my doorstep eager to come and stay a while.

Well I think that may be the case.  Although we are still enjoying the 70 degree weather today, tomorrow we start to fall.  By the beginning of the week we should be well in the deep freeze and if it continues as it looks it will, a  nice coating of ice and/or sleet will be what we have. 

I am of course preparing for the weather they say we may get and hope that all my preparation is in vain.  Where I would love to have a gentle snow fall with a nice cup of rich hot chocolate at hand, the idea of an ice storm does not interest me in any way.  We have managed ourselves through some the last few years and it always does such damage to the willows and other trees as well. 

I will admit though that I marvel at the strength that the willow has shown me.  She bends so deep with the weight of such a burden that the ice gives.  Yet as the ice melts she once again lifts herself towards the sky.  She knows that in order to survive one has to learn to be flexible and not rigid.  A good lesson for all of us I think.

My birds have been overly active as well; another sign that we are more than likely in store for a good cold spell.  I trust their predictions of what is to come far more than I do the weather man's assumptions.  I know that they watch the sky in all their scientific manner.  Yet nothing can compare with the keen sense that a small creature has.  They are so more attentive and aware of the subtle changes long before they even occur.  A wonderful mystery of mother earth that I truly love to witness.

So it looks like I may be having more company next week as old man winter comes to sit a spell with me.  I already have a small bunch of bananas sitting on my cabinet ripening.  A nice loaf of fresh banana bread sounds good with a hot cup of English breakfast tea.  My son gave me a William Sonoma gift card for Christmas and I finally decided what I would purchase with it. 

A wonderful little cast iron crock just the right size for Vincent and I and a Tunisian Tagine.  I am eager to try both of them out.  A nice pot of stew for the crock and some braised short ribs for the other.  Cold weather always makes me want to bake bread too.  Maybe I will finally try that recipe for rosemary bread I have...

So although they say it is going to possibly be nasty I am looking forward to it.  My only wish is that I could have the lot of you over for a cup of tea and some of that fresh banana bread.  Needless to say Vincent does not care for it much and I do not need to eat it all alone.  I guess my son will once again get some of his momma's leftovers...

Wishing all of you a wonderful weekend with blessings and joy. 

Spring Fever - A Bit Early

Before I say anything else I have to say thank you to all of you who left such wonderful words and thoughts in regards to my last post.  I appreciate so much the condolences for Blackie and know that he would too.  He was a loner to say the least yet he possessed a kindness to him that was hard to describe.  It truly was my honor to have been someone that he felt somewhat at ease with to the point of allowing me to tend him while he was here.

Time still seems to be going at a slow pace but that is the way during the waning of the year.  The cold weather comes and goes and at times I see tiny glimpses of the distance reentry of spring.  Last fall I planted some new lily bulbs under my faerie tree and they have started to peek out of the earth.  The flickers and downy woodpeckers have returned and even seemed to have paired.  Odd at such an early date  yet each day I see them it is always in twos.

I find myself watching the trees for that distinct look that shows them wishing to start to bud.  I know that it is only the end of January and March 21 is still a good two months away yet still spring always seems to start calling me early.  We have been blessed with no massive snow storms yet this also has brings it cons.  The lack of snow also means the lack of moisture so many things would love to have that extra drink of water.  I usually do not find myself watering in the winter time yet this year I think there may be several occasions where I may need to, especially if my bulbs continue to peek out a bit early.

The time indoors has gotten me in a mood of reorganization and cleansing of my living quarters.  If this mood continues I plan on painting and revamping our bedroom as well as the master bath.  It is a bit of a daunting task yet one that I have had good intentions of doing for some time.  The new look will be a nice change for the coming year. 

There are also other projects that call me.. My writing as usual (nothing new there)... sketching (I need to give it more serious time).... My sewing machine and all the projects that I want to start (and finish)... my garden (which is a never ending project)... and my craft.  Not sure how to explain the last one except to say that is sort makes up the whole of me. 

What kind of changes and/or projects do you have in mind for the coming year.  Are they daring and different than anything you have done before or are they similar to the same old thing?  I always try to do something that is a little off the chart for me as a means to sort of challenge as well as spark up my life.  Sometimes it turns out good other times I realize exactly why it is that I do not do such things.  In any case it is a evolution. 

Today think about what it is that you might enjoy exploring in your life.  Something different... something you have dreamed about dabbling in... just something new....

The Evolution of The State Fair

This last week Vincent and I took advantage of the beautiful weather and jumped on the Harley and went out for a ride. The State Fair was going on so we figured that we would step by for some of that great fair food. You know what I am talking about: Roasted ears of Corn on the Cob, Giant Cinnamon Rolls, Cotton Candy, Funnel Cakes and the list go on. They even had something called deep fried beer. They are small little pockets of bread which have been deep fried with a small portion of the brew inside. Personally I do not see the attraction yet it seems that at least here in Oklahoma each year there are those who are just waiting to see what the next deep fried treat will be.

I myself enjoy the exhibits which themselves seem to be dwindling somewhat. We finally did find the building where all the 4-H and other home extension activities were taking place. Yet most of the exhibits seemed to be sales of items that in my youth would never have been found at the fair. Oh well I guess that is just a sign of the times. Already our state fair has shrunk down to a mere 7 day event. I remember when it ran full swing for 2 weeks. Yet attendance has fallen and it is no longer the “fun” thing to do, even here in rural Oklahoma.

Guess it is proof that I am beginning to age. When I speak of my youth I have to realize that it took place over 30 years ago. It hurts to type such a realization. A lot can change in a time span of that magnitude. Believe me…. A lot… But fortunately some things will never change no matter how much time goes by. And for that small miracle, I am thankful.

Procrastination and Chocolate

Another glorious week of life has passed us by and I cannot help but ask myself what I have accomplished. Strangely it went past rather quickly. That is probably because it was such an enjoyable week. Not necessarily that anything special happened; in fact I spent it mostly alone. Yet the weather was quite perfect and I was able to get outdoors more than I have in some time. That always seems to lift my spirits. Even the Mercury Retrograde that everyone seems to be talking about, although I can feel it, is not affecting me in a terrible way.

It is not as if I have sat on my butt all week and absolutely done nothing. The normal chores and errands have been completed. I have my Celtic Tree Lore posts completed for the next two months. I did some deep fall cleaning. I worked outdoors of course and spent some extra time tending my flowers and gardens. I have started working on Christmas gifts. Yet still I ask myself what I have accomplished. For some time I have wanted to start seriously working on my writing yet it seems that I always find some excuse or reason not to give it the time that I really want to give it. There really is no excuse that is adequate enough although I can always find one that I deem suitable to stop me.

This morning I ran across a quote by Robert Kennedy which somewhat kicked me in the butt as if trying to tell me exactly what I need to hear. “Only those who dare to fail greatly can ever achieve greatly.” It is not necessarily that I want a top ten bestseller book, although don’t get me wrong if the fate landed in my lap I would not turn my nose up at it. I just want to be able to say that I put my best foot forward and that I gave it my best attempt. Procrastination is my monster that lurks in the shadows and whispers those bad things to me that keeps me from doing the things I need to do… That and possibly a bit of senility as it seems I chase rabbits a bit more now than I ever used to. Yet even that I think could be called an excuse that I use for the dragging of my feet.

In the coming weeks and possibly longer I have promised myself to stop making excuses and to work on those things that I have kept back on the shelf telling myself that I will tend to them when I have adequate time. Really what is adequate time? Any woman knows that if we were to wait for the perfect moment to work on anything that we see as slightly selfish that it would never get done. Or at least not be given the same amount of time or importance that we give so many other things in our lives. It is not that the keeping of the household, the children, the husband, the job, and all the other things that we put before ourselves are not important. They all hold their special place in our hearts and for some no matter what we decide there are a few of those distractions that we will not budge.

Yet I do think it is important that a woman tends to herself; that she takes those special moments to treat herself and do things that she enjoys and loves. Some of us are able to do this a bit more than others. Our children have grown and are no longer at home. We have time in the day that is spent alone and we can steal those precious moments we so desire. Although I am very much in that situation; I still find myself putting myself at the bottom of the list. Which we all know means, that many times it is the one item that there just was not enough time for in the day. I will be honest and say that I do manage to have so much more “me” time than before and I do sympathize with mothers of young children at home. I know if I still here in that situation I would give my prime time to them. It is a woman’s nature to do such a thing.

In the long run though to give a little of the nurturing, that woman do so well, to oneself will benefit them greatly. It took me a while before I understood that statement. Yet when I realized that it was impossible to give anyone or anything my best if I was not giving my best to myself first, my life changed. As you can see I still regress back at times, yet like I have said before that is a woman’s way, we love to tend to others.

I guess what I am saying is I am going to have a little me time. I am going to give a bit more to the things that I enjoy and want to excel in and also jump off a few cliffs. I mean that figuratively of course. Take a few moments (or longer if you can ) this weekend and ponder on what it is you want out of yourself and then ask yourself what are you doing to achieve it. Eat a little chocolate while you think about it... Why? Because any woman knows that a little piece of chocolate can make any woman feel better. Blessings

Cooler Weather.. A Full Moon.. What More Could You Ask For

I woke up this morning to cloudy skies and a light rain outdoors.  Even at 7 am the bedroom was still dark and beckoned me to stay under the covers a bit longer.  Yet Winston would have nothing of it.  He was ready to go outdoors and greet yet another day. 

Yet when I opened the back door and felt the rush of cool air come in at me, I was glad for his persistance.  The cold front that the weathermen had been promising was actually here.  A brisk breeze blew outdoors and a light rain fell.  It was a wonderful start to another day.  Across the yard I caught sight of a young squirrel hanging around the bird feeders, obviously out for a morning snack.  This is something that I have not seen for some time.  Humingbirds raced here and there in their usual morning routine of keep away from the several feeders throughout the yard. The young frogs also were out in abundance and hopped making their way back to the pond.

I was glad that I managed to catch a glimpse of the glorious moon last night, as I doubt that the clouds will give me the same opportunity this evening when she is suppose to be full and in all her glory.  She was beautiful as usual.  As I have said before I sense Autumn in the air.  Although the tempertures hit a whopping 104 yesterday with the heat index close to 110 still I feel it coming.  And this makes me smile.

I feel myself much like nature preparing for the time to come.  I know that it is still warm outdoors yet my heart yearns to go to my kitchen and cook.  It is a time of shifting.  The harvest has come and nature begins its ritual to prepare.  Growth slows and the focus is now on storing for the winter.  Animals begin their feasting as a means to fatten up for the colder weather when food will not be as abundant.  I love this time of year.  The beauty of the colors it brings, the smells that will soon surround us, cutting and drying of herbs and seeds.  It is a tranquil time.

If by chance you have a clear sky, venture out this evening and enjoy the moon as she makes her walk across the evening sky.  Close your eyes and take a deep breath and feel all that is around you.  The seasons are changing right before our eyes, ears, and nose.  If you are still enough you will experience what I mean.  blessings

Believe... And Maybe You Too Could Fly

Don’t believe what your eyes are telling you

All they show is limitation

Look with your understanding

Find out what you already know

And you will see the way to fly.

-Richard Bach-

I have often marveled at the making of a successful person. Many times it is the sheer luck of being in the right place at the right time. Yet more than that I think the need for the attribute of perseverance needs to be present. You know the ability to continually get up after being knocked down again and again.

Although many times it can appear that the one who has reached their goal of success seemed to just waltz their way through life and suddenly there they are; more times than not there is a story behind that journey. Usually the story is a long one. I once read that in order to be a success at something you need to have completed the task at least a total of ten thousand times. This doesn’t really sound like much yet when you start to apply it to whatever it is you are wanting to master you realize the time and dedication that is needed to truly do such a thing. It is not something that will happen overnight and without some trials.

Many of us do not have the ability to do this. There are many reasons that keep us from accomplishing such a goal. Slothfulness is probably the biggest. The procrastination bug has bit us all at one time or the other. Some of us are much more susceptible to its bite then others and its symptoms linger and never completely leave. It can be a tough disease to recuperate from. It seems that there is always something that we need to do and thus we postpone taking the extra time to work on our dream. We fool ourselves by telling ourselves that we will do it when we finish what we feel is so pressing at the time. Yet in reality we know that at the end of the day that time will not be there for one reason or the other. Either we found more things that needed our attention or we have given all our energy to the things before, leaving none for ourselves and our wishes.

There is also the doubting bug. Its bite can become just as troublesome. Planting ideas into one’s mind to question the need for such devotion to be given to something that one may never ever accomplish and even if they eventually do, the success they seek may not be what they wanted in the first place. Such a bite has the ability to cascade into a series of questions in one’s mind that can leave them confused as to whether their actions are really even worth the effort and even more so the cost. This eventually causes stagnation and in many times a total shut down of any activity towards the desired destination. A feeling of guilt can also accompany; which can itself manifest into a whole other issue.

The ability to sacrifice is also a trait that one must possess. One can juggle the many tasks that may be in front of them for so long until finally a decision will need to be made as to the priority of each one. When this is finally done, there will be things that will fall to the side. Many times when this happens, the things that must be limited are things that can possibly be of great importance. One must realize though that this limitation should not last forever. Usually it is for a time period in order to accomplish a given task. When this occurs in regards to people it can be a trying thing. I often think that it is more difficult for an overly emotional person to travel this road as they are often pulled between their desire for their goal and the need to tend to those who feel that they are being ignored. Too often when this occurs, they will side with the individual or situation at hand as it is present - then and now as compared to their task which may not be something that is concrete and in front of them yet.

Regardless… we all have dreams and aspirations in us. Some lie dormant for years and never see their fruition into reality. It is easier to hold it back and look at it fondly as a dream. In this way we can see it as we think it ought to be and not how it may actually be. Seldom in ones dream do we have any of the negativity that may occur if we were to truly take the actual journey. Also we can say to ourselves, if I had truly wanted to I could have done…… You fill in the blank. We have all been there and done that.

Others strive towards their dreams all their lives never actually getting to the final point. It always seems that there is something that has precedence over it. Constantly we place it on the back burner until we feel we can give it the time we feel we truly need to give to it. When in truth, such a time seldom comes. Some are content with this method. Much like the continual dreamer, it allows them to hold on to the reality they wish they could achieve. Others form a foul taste in their mouth for the dream that in the beginning was everything. Now it only leaves them yearning and regretful.

There are even those who choose denial as a means to deal with their aspirations for themselves. They tell themselves that really it is not that important to them. They are quite content with an occasional dabble in it yet they never really wanted to give the full energy that it would require to see if they had it in them to accomplish it. It was a silly notion of youth and that was all. Definitely it was nothing that a serious adult would ever consider. They have too many other responsibilities that they feel are much more important than any silly dream they may have held in their heart since they were a child.

Then there are those who have a dream, a desire to reach something. It is stronger than anything they have ever felt. They start on their journey towards what they hope to be their final goal. They falter along the way of course. There are setbacks and unforeseen obstacles at times. Sometimes they occur more often they wished. There are even times when they sit and contemplate the option of giving up. Yet each time this comes up they ultimately reach the conclusion that it is not an option. There may be times that they slow their cadence yet always they continue. They know that to stop would only hinder the cause. They always have their eye on the final point they see clearly in their mind. It is not necessarily success but to finish the journey; to complete that which they have started. To see what the outcome of their commented endeavor brings.

I would bet that there are many out there who have chased a dream. And when they accomplished all that they had wished to do, they are not necessarily a famous rock star or a bestselling author. They are someone who pursued their dream and took the steps to accomplish their goal. It is a good feeling to say that you completed a task, even if the end result was not exactly what you had wished it would have been.

So I urge you out there with a dream in the back of your mind. The secret wish you have inside that you may have never shared with anyone in fear that they would think you foolish to think such thoughts. I urge you to start that journey; whether it is from the very beginning and taking your first step or starting back up again on something that you sat to the side for whatever reason. Follow with vigor the path that leads towards your wishes. Give to your journey the time and energy needed to help bring it to full view. Delight in the experience of your travels and the experience it will bring into your life. Allow yourself to be happy in being good to you.

There will be those of course that will still scoff at you. There always are those kinds. Yet much like the saying above, look not with your eyes or listen with your ears… for they do all have limitations. A true dream gives your foresight inside; something that cannot be seen or heard but felt. If we could all but trust our intuition and believe in what we know deep down to be true….. Maybe we all could fly.

Spiritual Partnership - The Journey to Authentic Power

I have always been a person who believes that opportunities come to us every day. Each one of these opportunities is a possibility; A possibility to experience and grow. Often such chances just flow past unnoticed or ignored. There are too many other things that seem to be competing for the importance of our valuable time. Yet when we do stop and notice and act upon such possibilities most usually we are glad we did.

Earlier in March of this year I was asked by TLC Book Tours if I would be interested in reviewing a new book that was to be released later in April. Something about the title struck me and caught my attention. “Spiritual Partnership – The Journey to Authentic Power".  How could such a title not spark some curiosity. The phrase authentic power alone had me wondering. I agreed and soon I received a copy of the book. At that moment I had no idea of the opportunity I had just walked into or of the possibilities I would have because of it.

The author Gary Zukav is well known already with four consecutive bestsellers. With such previous titles as “Seat of The Soul” and “Dancing Wu Li Masters: An Overview of the New Physics” he has already made his mark in the literary world as well as too many who follow his writings. I would have to be honest and say that I had not heard of him or any of his previous works. I would have to go further and say that I will be looking into his previous works as this addition has definitely created a hunger to learn more.

In a world where we are taught to deal with incident between ourselves and others based on our feelings, situations can occur that may not necessarily be the best for amicable relationships. We tend to let our emotions react instead of responding in the manner best suited. It is human nature. This book gives the blueprint to developing within ourselves the tools to be able to change by looking at ourselves and what makes us tick. What memories do we have which motivate us to react as we may - good or bad? Slowly realizing our triggers and how to deal with them in a productive manner.

As this world continues to evolve at a rate that is increasing daily, we find ourselves dizzy not only with the attempt to keep up yet also with the questions as to what will become of it all. We tend to worry too much about what everyone else “needs to do” rather than looking within ourselves and asking the same question. This book seems to help one down this path. A path of self evaluation that is more than many have even considered; yet one that is there for any and all to take.

A passage from the beginning of the prologue seems to sum it up best. “This is a book about change, the biggest change possible or imaginable… This is a book about possibilities. Experiences, insights, motivations and creations beyond our ability to imagine only a few years ago now call to us, beckoning us to new destinations and yet more new possibilities… This is a book about power.” For more information in regards to “Spiritual Partnership – The Journey of Authentic Power” see below: