Susan Marek

Life is like a box of chocolates...

2012-01-12T12:13:00.000-08:00

This morning, a line from the movie, Forrest Gump, popped into my head. "My momma always said, "Life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get." "Hmmmm," I thought to myself, "Is that true? Do we really never know what we are going to get?" Have you ever had a Whitman's Sampler? You know, one of those big, yellow boxes of chocolates with the box top printed to look like a cross-stitched cloth? Inside the lid they have a cheat sheet, a diagram of the chocolates and their flavors. You could overlook or even completely miss this guide and be surprised - in a good or bad way - by the chocolate you choose. Or you could look at the map of chocolates and choose according to your own preferences. You wouldn't know exactly what they tasted like unless you actually picked it up and ate it, but you would have a heads-up as to what's awaiting you inside that luscious, sweet morsel. Now that I've made myself hungry, I will finish my thought about life. If we had a roadmap to our life, one that had some hints to where we are going, would we enjoy it more? In my "work," and I use that term loosely because what I do is never a chore, my passion is to help others re-member their path and their connection to the divine. I used to do that through readings, but am now called to help others see the roadmap for themselves, to teach them to read the signs that mark their path. We don't always read the signs even if we see them, but we have a choice, free will, to decide how we want to proceed. Do we eat the chocolate, or go for a different flavor? Do we skip them all together and eat cake instead? So life may be like a box of chocolates, but if we know what we are looking for, we may just know what we're going to get.

Keep your eyes open!

2012-01-03T21:42:00.000-08:00

I have started this blog entry many times over the past few minutes, waxing poetic and sounding all fancy and knowledgeable. I decided to backspace over all that and start again, this time in a more casual voice. Not that I am not poetic, fancy, or knowledgeable. I like to think I could run in those circles if I chose to. Today is not a fancy day and instead I grace you with my random thoughts on 2012. You know you have thought about the 2012 jibber jabber and prophecies that run rampant out there. I have. To me, the crazy energies of 2012 started about mid-2011 and will continue until the year finishes out. It has been and will continue to be a roller coaster, with ups, downs, loop-de-loops and hairpin turns. Hint about roller coasters, which I promise has a point: Keep your eyes open when you go upside down. I used to be scared out of my mind by those until one time I decided to try it with my eyes open. Om My God! (The Om was a typo, by the way, but I like it. Perhaps it was God's way of inserting humor...) What a difference! Keeping your eyes open the entire time is the way to go! So to the point. This year, don't close you eyes when you get tossed upside down by the crazy energies. Keep them open because you will see where you are going AND where you have been. What an opportunity for learning and growth! This year is all about YOU. Not about your significant other, your best friend, your children, your cat. It is time for YOU to re-discover who YOU are and why YOU are here. Selfish, you say? Not a bit. Like the flight attendants always tell us, "Put your oxygen mask on first, then help those around you." Think of it this way. If you are taking care of yourself, learning more about what makes you happy and finding your joy, won't everyone who matters to you in your life be happier? Your happiness will make them happy, but more than that, it is INSPIRING to them as well. We are meant to live in joy. We are meant to share joy. Find your joy this year, despite the ups and downs that will come your way. Be the inspiration for others and never close your eyes to the miracles that are awaiting you around the hairpin turn.

Nothing is too good for you!

2011-08-24T11:05:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I was re-introduced to the writing of Florence Scovill Shinn by a dear friend. She posted a quote on her Facebook page that I happened to see. It was exactly what I needed to "hear' at that moment. Quintessential divine guidance. I just "happened" (an accident? I don't think so...) to have Shinn's book in my bookshelf and began re-reading it. It was like I had never seen her writings before. I have changed so much since buying the book last year that I was looking at it with new eyes and a new heart. I want to share the quote that was shared with me yesterday. "Nothing is too good to be true, nothing is too wonderful to happen, nothing is too good to last; when you look to God for your good." - Florence Scovill Shinn. You may be more comfortable inserting Spirit or The Universe or something else for God, but in any case, you are looking beyond your human ego self and toward a Higher Power. Then, be open the miracles that come because you are declaring that nothing is too good for you. And that's powerful!

The Pieta of Saint-Sulpice

2011-08-12T14:02:00.000-07:00

Saint-Sulpice stands at the corner of two small rues in Paris, not far from the Seine. Her towering exterior, although lovely, pales in comparison to the mysteries and beauty inside. There are gorgeous sculptures, paintings and stained glass wherever you look. There is even a copy of the shroud of Turin in one chapel. There is one piece of sculpture that caught my attention and continues to frequently occupy my thoughts.

Pieta in Saint-Sulpice


Pieta in Saint-Sulpice

This piece is located in the Chapel of the Souls in Purgatory. Purgatory, by the way, no longer exists, as decreed by the Pope. It is no longer a place, so much as a state of being. Wonder what happened to everyone who was there? The official guide book just lists it as "Pieta by Clesinger (1868). Masterpieces of Saint-Sulpice, another book put out by the church, says, "Over the altar was set a stone Pieta between two angels, Clesinger's work." No sign. No plaque. The books don't even have a picture, but they do dedicate about four, large, color pages to the church organ. Come on! I am appalled by the obvious disrespect that is paid to this magnificent sculpture. It is purposely overlooked for obvious reasons. Look at the way Mother Mary is embracing both Mary Magdalene and Jesus. Really take in the facial expressions of the Mary's. It moves me to the core whenever I look at it. Notice Mary Magdalene's hand under her beloved's. It is both beautiful and heart-wrenching at the same time. It brings up so many layers of thought and emotion in me. Human mortality. Nature of Love. Types of Love. Death. Life. Mother-in-laws. Church doctrine. Heresy. If I could find one, I would buy a reproduction of this for my home. It is that powerful. And it just one of the many wonders of this church.

Chartres - Not just another pretty façade

2011-07-31T16:48:00.000-07:00

With breathtaking towers that reach toward heaven, Chartres Cathedral sits as a living monument to love.

Chartres Cathedral

It is truly a living, breathing embodiment of eternal love and divinity, as it was built by people who imbued each stone and piece of glass with these ideals. One of the only places to withstand assault by revolutionaries and war and survive intact, its beautiful stained glass and intricate carvings tell stories of the devoted that laid the foundation of faith.

Chartres Cathedral

At first glance, one would think that Chartres was just another pretty church, but upon closer examination, you will find layers upon layers of stories woven into the stone, beseeching the pilgrim to go within and investigate his truth. It was this way for me when first arriving in Chartres. Entering through the north portal, overseen by the wise Saint Anne, I literally caught my breath when I stepped into the body of the church. The glow from the windows coupled with the sheer size put me in sensory overload. I began to walk from chapel to chapel, trying to take in the statues, pictures, and information.


Chartres Cathedral - Look who greets you above the door!

Some of the church is being restored, so a portion is covered in scaffolding and shielded from public view, which is probably a good thing for me since the I was already at maximum information capacity. The first evening, I made my way around the cathedral, experiencing and feeling the energy. I saw amazing statues (A Black Madonna!) and Mother Mary's Veil.

Black Madonna, Chartres

Notre Dame sous la terre

Mother Mary's veil

Tomorrow, we were going to walk the labyrinth, and I didn't want to be distracted by all the things Chartres had to show me.

On most Fridays, the Chartres labyrinth is cleared of the blemish of chairs, and pilgrims are allowed to walk its path. I was a labyrinth virgin, having saved myself for Chartres. For years, I have wanted to build a labyrinth even though I had never walked one. Past life memories, I think, were pulling on me to remember the magic and sacredness of The Walk. I knew the first time needed to be in Chartres. I felt like I was coming home when I stepped inside the cathedral Friday morning and prepared to enter the labyrinth. Giving a nod to Mary Magdalene in her window, I began my journey to the center. Each person will have a different experience when they walk the labyrinth. I had unique experiences each of the four times I walked it that day, with deep reflections and personal epiphanies. It was interesting to watch people walk it as well. People walked slowly, quickly, absentmindedly, purposefully. Children ran down the paths. One adult did cartwheels. Some stopped every few steps to contemplate, while others were in a hurry to reach the center. I wondered if the way they walked reflected the way they lived.

labyrinth, Chartres

My time in Chartres was not long enough to discover the sacred secrets that she holds, but did give me a brief introduction to the mysteries that have yet to be solved.

Vezelay!

2011-07-26T20:33:00.000-07:00

The drive to the north of France was lovely. We passed chateau after chateau as we wove our way down country roads and through small villages toward Vezelay. Our mission: another church with mystery! Vezelay is a small town with a quaint main street that leads uphill to the church.

Vezelay

This town is very much steeped in the Mary Magdalene traditions, with sea shells (one of her symbols) on buildings and embedded in the street.

The church has interesting carvings above the imposing doors and even small rats carved into the foot of one column!

Inside, the inner portal to the main body of the church has an intricate carving of Jesus along with the astrological symbols. Unexpected and fabulous! Who would have thought Jesus would share space with a Capricorn?

There is a chapel to Mary Magdalene across from the crypt. She is holding the alabaster jar against her abdomen.

Mary Magdalene, Vezelay

Imbedded in the pedestal is a piece of her thigh bone.

Mary Magdalene reliquary, Vezelay

In the crypt is a beautiful reliquary containing a larger piece of her thigh bone. Don't you think the reliquary looks Egyptian?

Mary Magdalene reliquary, Vezelay

The Crypt, Vezelay

There are beautiful statues of saints throughout the church, as well as some painted saints on the columns. In addition to the Mary relics, one of the most fascinating things was something that wasn't on display. It is the "host holder" that holds the sacred communion host for adoration. It caught my eye on a sign in the church. I think my jaw dropped open when I saw it.

Ankh, Vezelay

The holy Catholic sacrament is displayed in an EGYPTIAN ANKH! LOVE IT! In many of the shops in town, there are references to the Church, Egypt, Freemasons, and paganism. What a unique and mysterious combination! I love Vezelay!

After brief visit, we left and made our way west to Chartres...

Montsegur

2011-07-25T13:00:00.000-07:00

Montsegur, or safe mountain, sits a top a strangely shaped mountain. It was the last hold out in the Albigensian Crusades, with the Cathars being burned at the foot of the mountain in March of 1244.

Montsegur from parking lot

Montsegur from monument

Most of the group took on the challenge of hiking to the top. It is a very steep climb through a small forest which then opened to a rocky path to the summit. We stopped first at monument to the Cathars who were murdered at the base.

Cathar Monument, Montsegur

Half way there...

Half way there

The fortress at the top of the mountain is not the Cathar stronghold. It is a fortress build after the Cathars were driven out. The king must of thought it was a great place to set up shop after the Cathars held out for so long.

fortress at Montsegur

The original building was made from stone and wood. The outline of some of the small rooms the Cathars used can be seen below.

Cathar rooms at Montsegur

I got a strong sense of peace here and had visions of laughing children running through these rooms while adults worked and taught. The view was spectacular. Except for a few cow bells in the distance, we experienced a silence that was blessed and magical. Besides a sense of accomplishment from making it up and down the mountain without dying, I felt overwhelmed by the love and peace of this place. It is so interesting how many of the sites we visited had such atrocities committed in their midst, yet the energy is peaceful and loving. It is truly a testament to how love conquers all and the way in which these beautiful Cathar people lived.

I left southern France the next day and drove up north to visit Chartres and Paris. First stop on the way, Vezelay!

Mystery of the Black Madonna

2011-07-21T09:23:00.000-07:00

Before this trip, I had little knowledge or understanding of The Black Madonna. These ladies sit in many churches in France (and other countries) and are misunderstood and discounted by most visitors. There are many theories on why the Madonnas are black (or were black - many have been white-washed by the Church), but my personal feeling is that these Madonnas represent the divine feminine, an earthy, mothering, goddess aspect of I AM that brings forth creativity and renewal. They are linked to Mary Magdalene, who also represents those qualities. They exude love, compassion, understanding and hold secrets to not only the past, but to our present and future experience on our relationship to ourselves, each other, and the divine. Upon returning home, I started gathering material on the Black Madonnas and am going to do some research on this lovely lady.. She fascinates me because of what she is said to represent, because the Church is SO threatened by her coloring it feels a need to paint her, and because her mystery is a source of information on a higher place.

Alet-les-Bains

As if Black Madonnas weren't enough to keep me busy, I was introduced to the world of encoded stained glass windows. I saw some of the most amazing windows in a little town called Alet-les-Bains. The windows of this small church have Stars of David build into the supports for the windows and colorful, intricate glass within the frame. Each tells a story, of course, but many were hard to see because of the height of the windows. I was instantly obsessed with the symbolism in these windows and will have to add discovering their secrets to my list of things to do. But I think, perhaps, the Madonnas and the windows have some shared secrets that are waiting to be discovered...

Black Madonna, Alet-les-Bains

Black Madonna, Notre-Dame-de-Marceille

Oh, and we saw Nostradamus' house today. It was a good day!

Another day, another castle...

2011-07-19T09:41:00.000-07:00

Oh, where to start today? Another chateau. Yawn. Another gorgeous view. Sigh. Just when I thought that the events of the day before were life-changing, another day came and additional miraculous places and experiences presented themselves. We started the day in Arques chateau, the beautiful remains of another Languedoc castle. This place is extremely special energetically. There is a lovely, divine current of energy that can be felt on this property. The views from the tower are stunning, and the inside is cozy and light. I am feeling somewhat selfish today with my experiences there and won't be sharing every detail, but here are some pictures which will help convey the beauty of the place.

Arques Castle

view from Arques Castle

Arques Castle

Next stop was the Gorge of Galamus, a magnificent gorge near Bugarach mountain. Built into the side of the steep rock walls is a hermitage, which houses a grotto dedicated to Mary Magdalene.


hermitage in Gorge of Galamus

The hike into the gorge was not terribly difficult, but the rocks on the path were slippery due to the thousands of shoes that have polished them to a shine. With a small river bubbling in the background, I made my way to the entrance of the hermitage. It was pleasantly cool inside and above, someone rang a bell, which at one time, probably called people to prayer. Today, it beckoned me in further into the sacred space, which opened into a surprisingly large grotto. It was breathtaking, with the high ceilings and soft candlelight. After the requisite picture taking, I settled into a natural stone seat in the back of the grotto. Mary Magdalene is said to have taught the Way of Love here, and from the energy that is imbued in this space, I truly believe that.


Mary Magdalene Grotto

There is a palpable softness and feeling of love that emanates from the stone. I had a powerful, personal experience here, which I am not ready to share, but it has left me changed. This is a place of heaven on Earth with all of its human-ness and divinity expressed together.

And for all you orb lovers, look closely at the last picture. There are a few that joined us in the grotto.

Alas, tomorrow there will be no chateaux. But the mysteries keep coming!

Mas Cabardes' Weaver's Cross

2011-07-18T15:14:00.000-07:00

Mas Cabardes is a tiny town nestled in the mountains north of Carcassonne. This sleepy hamlet is home to one of my favorite pieces of heretical art. Unassuming on the corner of two narrow streets sits a lovely cross. At first glance, it looks like a normal cross, with Jesus, angels, and Mother Mary. The addition of John the Baptist and Father God are different, but not unusual. It takes the name 'Weaver's Cross' from the carving of the shuttle under Jesus' feet. Cathars were shepherds, so this is said to be a nod to one of their professions.

Weaver's Cross, front

Where it gets really interesting is when you view the back of it. The back tells the heretical side of the story. Mary Magdalene, holding a baby (who is now decapitated) is crowned Queen of Heaven by the angels while God looks on. On her left is Archangel Michael, protector of the Divine Feminine, and the other is unidentified, but has pen and book in hand, ready to tell her story.

Weaver's Cross, back

The church in this town is small, but mighty, having special symbolism of its own and some fabulous energy as well. Again, we saw symbols of the divine masculine and feminine, as well as dedication to Mary Magdalene.

Nearby, on some small mountian peaks, sits the site of Lastours. It is the site of three separate Cathar chateaux and a fourth castle built as a prize to the victors after the Cathar chateauxs were conquered.

Lastours

The view was breathtaking and the hike up to one of the towers was worth the effort on that particularly warm day. Most of the group chose to hike to Cabaret, the chateau originally owned by Etiennette du Pennautier, patroness of the troubadours and defender of the Cathars.

Cabaret (left)

There is one remaining tower that you can climb up from which to enjoy the spectacular vistas. Many of us spent about an hour up there, singing and dancing, a fitting tribute to the woman who celebrated the arts, music and courtly love!

Me in the Cabaret Tower

Another busy day full of beauty, mystery, and the Divine. Oh...and wine. :)

Rennes-le-Chateau

2011-07-15T16:42:00.000-07:00

Rennes-le-Chateau is at the center of all things mystical and magical in the Languedoc region. Rumors of Egyptian rites, time slips, and portals to other worlds abound here. What I do know for sure is that it is full of more mysteries than answers, and beauty abounds. The view was breathtaking from atop the mountain on which it sits.

The streets were quiet as we approached the infamous church, which holds most of the town's secrets. Dedicated to Mary Magdalene, this place of worship has a gorgeous statue of Mary Magdalene above the door with an interesting inscription. At first, it seems as though it proclaims the place as "terribilis," but translated properly in this context, it means 'awesome'. Awesome it is, indeed!

Mary Magdalene at Rennes-le-Chateau

As I entered the church, Rex Mundi was waiting to greet me. One would not expect to find a devil at the entrance to a church. Rex Mundi means 'king of the world,' and to me, represents the ego and our attachment to earthly things that block us from our true path.


Rex Mundi

But on top of the statue sits four lovely angels, each making a portion of the sign of the cross, assuring you that all is well. A fascinating statue to be sure!


Angels triumph over Rex Mundi

For me, the energy in the church was a little "swirly" (it's a technical term...). It was noticeable once I was inside the main part of the church. There was so much to see within the church itself, like gorgeous statues of many saints, an ornate altar with a lovely relief of Mary Magdalene in it, painted by the priest, Berenger Sauniere, who brought this church back to life with a mysterious fortune at the turn of the 20th century.

altar with Mary Magdalene relief

The source of Sauniere's fortune is unknown, but the money started pouring into this small parish after he discovered something in a pillar of the old altar during a remodel. The papers found in a hole in the top of the pillar were said to contains secrets that were never revealed by Berenger or any of the people he entrusted with them.


altar pillar - no, it isn't upside down. Sauniere had 'Mission 1891' carved upside down. The hole is at the top.

Symbolism is all over the church. There is layer upon layer of messages and secrets here. Next to the church are the presbytery, Villa Bethania ( the home Sauniere built but never lived in) and his gardens. The gardens contain two magnificent towers, the Magdalene Tower, which served as Sauniere's library, and the Conservatory Tower, which was a green house. The Magdalene Tower is spectacular. Inside, walnut bookshelves line the walls, and the spiral staircase leads to the top of the tower. I could feel the energy swirling in the tower before I reached the door. I had to catch myself a few times inside to keep from falling because the energy was so strong. I didn't stay long because of it, but proceeded to the conservatory where the energy was a little calmer.

Magdalene Tower

Conservatory Tower

After visiting the towers, the group headed to another part of the Sauniere's original garden called Jardin du Marie for lunch. There, we ate under the sprawling branches of trees and were treated to a short talk about local lore by the restaurant owner. A harp concert followed, and then we did some shopping at the fabulous bookstore located at the foot of the garden. The shop items reflected the mysteries of Rennes-le-Chateau: Books, Magdalene medals, Templar crosses, Egyptian statues and shiny crystal jewelry.

Rennes-le-Chateau brought up mixed emotions in me. The church itself was so multi-layered in terms of energy and emotions. A LOT has happened there, and for me that day, it was quite jumbled when picking up on energies of the past and present. There is a definite air of mystery around the church and grounds, much more than you can see. I came away quite melacholy because I was on energy overload and processing quite a bit. I would love to go back after reading and learning more about the history and symbolism so I could focus on a specific area of the church or gardens. You could spend years here and not uncover or decipher the town's secrets. The next place we visited was quite the opposite of Rennes-le-Chateau...

Minerve - Still a Working Town

2011-07-14T08:26:00.000-07:00

Despite being the site of a Cathar massacre in 1210, Minerve is unexpectedly peaceful.

It's narrow streets wind up and down the diminutive hill on which it sits, overlooking a beautiful gorge. It is hard to believe that is was the place that 140 Cathar "parfaits" were burned for heresy. Energetically, Minerve had a blanket of loving energy over it, almost like a dome, protecting it and maintaining the feeling of love that so penetrated the Cathar society here once. It felt physically soft and calm. The group spent time walking to the Cathar memorial

and then journeyed down into the gorge, following the path of the martyrs. While walking, I had a vision of a line of parfaits walking down into the gorge, two by two, men and women. One pair were helping each other down when the woman slipped and the man gently caught her before she tumbled down the steep slope. It was such a gentle, loving gesture juxtapositioned against the harsh reality that awaited them at the bottom. There was an overwhelming feeling of sadness, which you would think wouldn't be unusual except that the sadness was not for themselves. The Cathars were grieving the fact that their conquerors were so misguided. The Parfaits were genuinely concerned for their persecutors! At first, it took me by surprise, but knowing the little I know about their ways and beliefs, I should have expected nothing less. It was actually quite lovely and a true "Forgive them, Father, for they know not what they do" moment. At the site of the burning in the gorge, the group said a prayer for them and spent some time in silence.

One member of our group began to sing a song, inspired and divinely guided in that moment. We were all moved to tears. On our way back up to the town from the gorge, I 'saw' that Minerve was not just a place of memories, but in actuality is still a "working" enclave of the Cathars. There is a funnel of energy that exists over the town, that channels the Way of Love into the energy of this world. These people are still here etherically, holding a space for love to remain. Demori!

On to Rennes-le-Chateau...

Sacred France - wine, churches, and cassoulet - Oh my!

2011-07-13T16:20:00.000-07:00

I just got back from France a few days ago and thought I had better make an attempt to put words to the amazing experiences I have had over the past two weeks. Please be patient with me as I tell you all about my adventures. There is so much to say (and not say) about what happened that I will have have to give it to you in bits and pieces. To say that I had a great time is an understatement. It doesn't do the experience justice to even state that it was life changing. I am altered in a way that cannot be adequately described. My adventure started in Toulouse, France, where I was introduced to an incredible group of people, who would become my close friends by the end of the trip. We were whisked away to a beautiful retreat center in the Languedoc region, which is marked by fields of sunflowers and miles of grape vines. After being welcomed with a wine tasting of a stunning array of local wines, we had a delicious dinner and went to bed.

We woke up to fresh croissants, gluten-free bread, meats, eggs, and fruit. Ah, to be this spoiled every day... The first stop for the day was the walled city of Carcassonne. You may have seen it in Kevin Costner's Robin Hood movie.

Carcassonne was energetically very interesting. When I first walk through the gates and along the city wall, I felt nauseous. It shifted energetically as we walked into the city to the cathedral. As you walk into the church, you are greeted with this sign:

I love the "Roman Catholic Cult" part! Ha! The church itself is energetically interesting. There were both "good" and "bad" pockets of energy throughout the church. One area in particular affected me tremendously. It was a small chapel with a lovely statue of St. Anne teaching Mary, and there is a red book under her foot.

On the floor in front of her was the burial site of a cardinal who was sympathetic to the plight of the Cathars. I had a very strong emotional reaction when I approached the chapel and had a vision of a young woman sprawled out over the tomb, wailing with grief. I was overcome with the desire to shoo people off his grave marker on the floor. The woman's relationship with this man is unknown, but she was definitely distraught over his passing. I didn't take any pictures of the marker because it felt disrespectful and wrong to do so. She wanted his resting place to remain sacred, I think.

There was also excellent shopping in Carcassonne, as well as delicious duck cassoulet for lunch. After lunch, we headed to Minerve, the site of one of the Cathar massacres in 1210 during the Albegensian Crusades. More about Minerve tomorrow...

Something is energetically afoot...

2010-07-01T15:16:00.000-07:00

Today is yoga day. I am usually so excited to go and stretch my muscles and mind, but today I feel differently. Something in me is wanting me to stay home and eat chocolate chip cookies. Not even the gluten-free kind. I mean the gross, gooey, wheat-laden type that wreak havoc on my physical and energy bodies. I have been fighting this feeling for a few days now. Baking vegan Twinkies and making homemade buns didn't help either. I feel like I am being pulled back into old habits. Something energetic is afoot here. I am not the only one feeling this. Others are having similar issues. Old injuries flaring up. Old ailments rearing their ugly head. How about you?

A Classic Case of Dotoomuch

2010-06-28T12:02:00.000-07:00

Well, I am finally back. Back from where? Back from my self-imposed hibernation of sorts. It was a classic case of dotoomuch. That's the official diagnosis. Symptoms are: forgetfulness, bitchy-ness (technical term), exhaustion, lack of interest in, well, anything, overwhelming sense of loss - loss of sanity, loss of self. Something had to give, so out went the blog. I have to say I wasn't sad to see it go then. I had been writing everyday, then almost everyday, then every week, and so on. It was quite obvious that I needed a break. Twitter stayed, but barely. I quit farkle and scrabble on Facebook cold turkey. Personal obligations were dropped and I hibernated. During my social hibernation, I discovered the I missed those outlets for my creativity and my experiences. I slowly got back into the game with some YouTube postings, then a YouTube series. I have tweeted a tiny bit more and have resurrected the blog. Stay tuned for more posting, but I make no promises to frequency or content. I may resort to discussing my latest raw detox adventure or my longing for Disneyland. It's good to be back.

Begone, Ego!

2010-01-18T16:25:00.000-08:00

Last week I was on vacation at Walt Disney World. At the Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park, there is something called The Great Movie Ride. It is a slow-moving car through re-creations of scenes from classic movies. One scene you pass through is The Wizard of Oz munchkin land set. At one point the Wicked Witch of the West pops in and threatens Dorothy. Glinda the Good Witch comes in and saves that day, saying, "Ha, ha, ha! Rubbish! You don't have any magic powers here! Begone before someone drops a house on you too!" The Wicked Witch of the West disappears in a puff of smoke, and Dorothy begins her journey down the Yellow Brick Road.

It occurred to me that I could use that same technique with my ego. Not the house dropping part, but reminding my lower self that it has "no magic powers here" in my heart where my higher self lives. When you get overwhelmed with self-doubt, criticism, worries and fears, explain to your ego that it has no magic powers and to begone! Then follow the yellw brick road. You may meet with crazy trees and flying monkeys along your path, but in the end, the power to return to your higher self is in your hands, or in Dorothy's case, her feet.

Just say 'No!' to Resolutions in 2010!

2010-01-01T16:24:00.000-08:00

The New Year is upon us. After recovering from a night or perhaps an entire year of overindulgence, bad habits, and unfinished business, most feel January 1st is the time to begin anew. Sounds great. The method of choice by most people is to make resolutions for the coming year. I heartily disagree. Just say 'No!' to resolutions! Let's take apart the very word, resolution. Re = again. Solution = an answer to a problem. So put it all together, kids, and what does it mean? An answer to a problem...again! Resolutions are always made from a place of a problem, a place of lack, a place where we see something is being wrong. How long have you actually kept to a resolution? Honestly. A month? A week? A day? I have gone down this wayward path many times. Sometimes I am able to keep it up for a month or two, but then lose my resolve and go back to the old way of doing things. The problem is, when we make resolutions, we are coming from the same mindset that got us into the mess to begin with. I propose a different method to affect change. I am a firm believer in affirmations. Look! Even the word firm is in there. Firm = securely or solidly fixed in place. Positive affirmations come from a place of abundance, love, a place completely opposite from where you were. You cannot tell me you were in a place of abundance when you were lamenting your maxed out credit cards. Instead of "I resolve to spend less money," try "I am grateful that I have plenty of money to save." We are still talking about saving money, but the affirmation keeps us in a very uplifted, powerful place. Instead of 'I resolve to eat healthily and exercise more," use "I love and respect my body. I honor myself with good food. I am energized and refreshed when I move my body." It may not always be easy, but it can be that simple. So celebrate the New Year and release your old habits. Begin anew, but from a positive place. Affirm, not resolve, and watch the changes begin. Happy New Year!

Adventures in Food Alchemy

2009-12-02T12:00:00.000-08:00

Bread is amazing. With basically the same 3 ingredients, you can make dozens, possibly hundreds, of types of bread. With flour, water, yeast and time, you, too, can have a heavenly-scented kitchen. Last night, I made bagels for the first time. I measured, stirred...waited...kneaded...waited...waited some more...boiled, baked...waited...then ate. There is more time waiting for these to rise, rest, and bake then there is eating them. Baking brings me joy and satisfies an ancient urge to create. It is food alchemy. Three simple ingredients magically transformed into culinary bliss. Unfortunately, these delicious morsels won't last long. My husband has a late night tonight, so I anticipate waking up to crumbs. My soul is satisfied, my belly full, and my home smells wonderful. What could be better? More bagels.

The Lord's Prayer Redux

2009-11-10T12:00:00.000-08:00

Coming from a Catholic background, I learned The Lord's Prayer, or Our Father, at a very early age. Although I am no longer Catholic, I still find the prayer to be a beautiful way to celebrate our community with God. It is a way to remember our divine connection and declare our gratitude and appreciation for our sacred journey with Spirit. The traditional one rubbed me the wrong way until I really meditated on the history and meaning of the words. It also has a deep connection to ancient mystery school teachings, which I will save for another time. I want to share the translation of the prayer from Aramaic, which would have been Jesus' native language. I believe this is the closest to what Jesus had in mind, as it addresses the male and female aspects of the divine, as well as our divine light energy. I prefer this version to the traditional Catholic one. Enjoy!

The Lord's Prayer

The Aramaic Prayer of Jesus is the original Lord's Prayer as given by Jesus in the Aramaic language (Original tansliteration from the Syriac-Aramaic version of the Peshltta by Neil Douglas-Klotz)

Allahah

O Birther! Father-Mother of the Cosmos, you create all that moves in light,

Focus your light within us---make it useful as the rays of a beacon show the way.

Create your reign of unity now---through our fiery hearts and willing hands.

Your one desire then acts with ours, as in all light, so in all forms.

Grant what we need each day in bread and insight.

Loose the cords of mistakes binding us, as we release the strands we hold of others' guilt.

Don't let surface things delude us.

But free us from what holds us back.

From you is born all ruling will, the power and the life to do, the song that beautifies all,
from age to age it renews.

And so it is!

What "vibes" are you giving off?

2009-11-09T12:00:00.000-08:00

What "vibes" are you giving off? Whenever my son starts to get mad and stomps around, I tell him to take it outside because I don't want him spewing negative energy in the house. I have become so sensitive to energy that I can see and feel the energy in an environment. Anger begets anger. Joy begets joy. Fear begets fear. Sadness begets sadness. Every moment we have a choice about how be can be. Just being gives off energy as we are light beings, made of universal energy. We change what we give off based on our thoughts and emotions at any given moment. Have you ever just known that a person was upset, or seen the glow around a pregnant woman? Those are vibes that we read, the energy that we exude. We don't give ourselves the credit we deserve at reading energy. We do it all time, even if we don't know it. Our ability to read energy changes every day. If we are tired or hopped up on artificial stimulants like caffeine, our ability goes down. When we are rested and happy, we can more easily feel the vibes from others. It is a natural and divine gift which helps us to function as a community.

Although we are naturally gifted in reading energy, many times we do not trust our instincts. We disregard what we know in favor of logic. Sometimes, the energy we are getting from someone goes against how they are behaving or what they are saying. Trust in your gut reactions, for they are truer than what your logical mind is telling you. Using your intuition along with your senses can give you a much richer picture of someone or a situation. So watch your thoughts and words, as you are giving off energetically what you are thinking, feeling, and saying. The fastest way to joy is to give joy. So give off those happy vibes and watch what happens!

Yes, No or Maybe So? Can't decide.

2009-11-05T12:30:00.000-08:00

Not choosing is a choice. You are choosing not to choose, which is a decision. I have a hard time making decisions sometimes. It could be regarding my budget, a business decision, or where to go to dinner. I think this indecisiveness is sometimes caused by my fear of disappointing someone or fear of making the wrong decision. If I don't decide, then I don't take the chance that I could be wrong. What I have learned that no choice can be wrong, too. Like when you can't decide at a restaurant between the steak and the chicken, so you make no choice and let your companion choose for you. They choose the fish for you, and you end up eating something you hate. Not that this has ever happened...

Make a choice. Be decisive. Use your intuition to guide you and then trust in your decision. You may make some bad ones, but at least you have taken charge of your fate. Better to be the driver and make a wrong turn than a passenger stuck in the back with no air conditioning and no say in where you are stopping to eat. I must be hungry with all these food references. Hmmm. Should I have the pasta or the salad?

Creating a Personal Mission Statement

2009-11-04T12:00:00.000-08:00

Corporations have them, churches have them, even some fast food places have them posted above the deep fryer. Mission statements are one way companies define their purpose and commitment. Why not people? What do you stand for? Who or what do you stand by? Are you ready to make a commitment to yourself around your personal mission here on Earth? Create a personal, empowering statement of passion, commitment, and purpose.

This mission statement is a "living document." It can grow and change as you do, being modified to reflect your divine journey. We aren't striving for one perfect statement. Throughout your life, your priorities will shift, circumstances will change. You are growing and learning. Your mission statement should reflect that.

I used an online mission statement builder to begin mine. My statement is in its infancy, but it is a great starting point for me. Here is the first draft of my statement:

I am at my best when I am focused on my passions.
I will try to prevent times when I feel I am going nowhere and not making a difference..
I will enjoy my work by finding employment where I can help people empower themselves and uncover their gifts.
I will find enjoyment in my personal life through reading, learning, and travel.
I will find opportunities to use my natural talents and gifts such as listening, learning, planning, teaching, writing, being a friend.
I can do anything I set my mind to. I will travel the world teaching people to harness their divine gifts to the benefit of themselves and others.
My life's journey is one of ups and downs, but always moving in the direction of divine service and community. I empower people to be their true selves, creating a sense of global community and peace.
I will be a person who has created an environment in which people feel they can be themselves, which, in turn, empowers them to create a life of service and community where love is the binding force.
My most important future contribution to others will be that I have given people the tools to empower themselves.

I will stop procrastinating and start working on:
releasing my perfectionism

I will strive to incorporate the following attributes into my life:
unbounded joy
peaceful power

I will constantly renew myself by focusing on the four dimensions of my life:
exercise and eating a good diet of life-giving foods
constant communication with Spirit and divine service always
always learning with an open mind
focus on joy and creating a life of bliss

If you would like to create your own statement using this tool, go to:

http://www.franklincovey.com/msb/

Keep your mission statement where you can read it. Post it on your mirror, on the refrigerator, and next to your computer. Let it remind you of who you are and where you are going. Enjoy!

Where the Hell is Matt?!!?

2009-11-03T12:00:00.000-08:00

Where the Hell is Matt?!!? At first glance, Matt looks like your average Joe. Cute, funny, all-American Joe. Who likes to travel, sometimes to strange, exotic places and dance "badly" (his words). The first time I watched one of his videos, I cried like a baby. All over the world Matt has danced with wild abandon, sometimes alone, but many times with crowds of laughing, smiling people. He demonstrated that no matter where you live or the circumstances in which you live, people are still the same. They laugh, they cry, they smile, they dance. Matt asked people to dance with him and they came in droves. We all are looking to find that connection with others. That is why we join book clubs, go to church, take line dancing classes, visit online chat rooms, play bingo. And that is why we dance with Matt.

Where the Hell is Matt? 2008

A Lesson in Letting Go from the Swine Flu

2009-11-02T12:00:00.000-08:00

For the past 3 days, I have not left my bedroom. HEY NOW! Not because of THAT. THAT would be infinitely better than the real reason. I have the flu. Probably the pig flu, as my husband likes to say. Fever, aches, cough, sore throat. The whole nine yards. Thank God for Hulu and iTunes. I am all caught up on Eastwick, No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, and am currently working on season 1 of Eureka. I know why Benjamin Button was so curious. And what Stephen Colbert thinks of, well, many things. All this video education I wouldn't have gotten otherwise. I missed out on a great Halloween party and Trick-or-Treating. I haven't seen my downstairs or my dogs since Friday morning. BUT, I have learned a few things about letting go. I have let go my need to make sure the house is neat and tidy. I can only imagine what the kitchen and family room look like with three children, one husband, and 3 dogs running amok for three days on a candy sugar high. I am not in any position to do anything about it for a few days more, and that's OK. I might be pleasantly surprised when I venture down there, but I am prepared for the worst. I also have let go my need to be in control of my own needs. I have finally said yes to help. Instead of being stubborn and making myself sicker by doing everything for myself, I have given in and been open to my family's help with food, laundry, and my care. I have rescheduled a few appointments instead of pushing myself to meet obligations that could potentially make me sicker. Letting go of control of exernal factors and focusing on myself has been a learning experience. Usually, I am so enveloped in making sure everything around me is running smoothly that I forget about me. My calendar is detailed and full of appointments for children, husband, pets, and a few for me. My Plan A has a Plan B and C. I have obligations scheduled out through next June already. All good things, but sometimes we need to slow down and recharge. Perhaps I wouldn't have to if I was continually making sure I was taken care of first. Not selfishly, but healthfully. It has taken a virus to finally get through to me that it is ok to let go once in a while and focus on myself. I have finally put myself first instead of last. And that is a lesson I am grateful for.

Making Your Interior Life Your Exterior Life - Part 3

2009-10-29T12:00:00.000-07:00

Part 3 -

The seed now must awaken and begin its journey out of the shell and into the world. It temporarily lives on the meat, the fruit of the labor of the generation before it, a gift from the universe. It slowly awakens and first sets down roots in its new home. Then, stretched its tiny, first leaves up and out beyond the remnants of the coarse shell and into the unknown. Sunlight, which has been warming the seed, unbeknownst to it, now is known in its full glory to the seedling. Because it has grown beyond the confines of its outer shell, it can now feel the warmth of the sun on its own leaves, not through something else. The light and heat directly affects the seedling, causing interior changes that encourage and support further growth into a sapling. And so it goes on from there. Earth feeding its needs from the roots, sun feeding its needs from the leaves. A connection of Earth and Sky. The Tree of Life. No wonder many traditions of people choose the tree to represent this divine relationship. They recognize the divine in a simple, beautiful tree. And it is that simple, joyful, and profound. Let it be that way for your life as well. Allow. Allow Spirit and all the divine energies in past your shell of fear, anger, sadness, and doubt. Allow them to find that inner soul seed. Allow the divine light to reach your sacred center and encourage the divine growth of your soul. You already have the knowledge to take root and grow. Allow Spirit in to support your efforts. And then reap the fruits of your labor in the fruit you bear after reaching the sunlight.

Making Your Interior Life Your Exterior Life - Part 2

2009-10-28T12:00:00.000-07:00

Part 2 -

When I was cracking walnuts the other day, I thought about how nuts mirrored our experience in life. We must first crack open and remove the outer hard shell of sarcasm, pessimism, fear, despair, in order to reveal the inner meat of the matter, the nourishment, food of life for the seed that is within. The seed itself is not substantial, but is the core of the seed. It holds all the information for the new life to begin and grow. The layers are peeled away to reveal the true purpose and nature of the seed. Once uncovered, the seed must be nourished, fed, watered, and warmed to encourage growth. Remove the human hand from this process and see how the natural process mirrors our own release of our spirit to the Universe. When the nut falls from the tree, it does not immediately begin to grow. Exterior forces must weaken the shell. Wind, rain, the harshness of the environment all contribute to the breakdown of the hard outer shell. Some shells are harder than others, and not all will be exposed to the extreme conditions. Although this shell serves to protect the inner, more fragile parts, it ultimately must be removed for the good of the future plant. It will open, sometimes gradually and naturally or sometimes by force of an animal. The interior is now exposed and the growth process begun.

Making Your Interior Life Your Exterior Life - Part 1

2009-10-27T12:00:00.000-07:00

Allow. It is that simple. You are already in control of your interior life. Your opinions, thoughts, knowledge, dreams, hopes, fears. Those are all owned by you. You are master of their fate. As you delve more into what your interior life really is, you will realize that you are just beginning to understand the process by which you come to this understanding. The origin of this interior climate is much deeper than you think. But for now, you live as creator and master of your intellect. From this point, you can begin to release your control and ALLOW the sacred energies to take over the procurement of your interior world for your enjoyment on the exterior. For it is truly about joy. The joy of creating, learning, experiencing. As the source is pure love, so are the creations. You are pure love, joy, one in all energies and thoughts with Spirit. When you allow the idea of allowing the sacred into your experience, it now becomes more than just a possibility of joy and lightness. It becomes unstoppable, this joyful life. All things work toward the creation of joy for you.

Part 2 - The Seed tomorrow...

Changes in Relationships

2009-10-26T12:00:00.000-07:00

Over the past few months, I have noticed how my relationship to different people in my life has changed. Some friendships have bloomed and grown. Others have withered and died. Some are still in transition, and I am not sure which way they are going. As I have changed, it is only natural that relationships around me must shift as well. Part of me is sadden by this, but I realize nothing can stay the same. Things become stagnant, and what was once healthy and beneficial can become toxic and dangerous to our movement forward. Friends and family members seem to change, but really, it is me that is changing and shifting. I know that all is in divine order and all of us are moving, shifting, learning. I am still in the process of trying to understand the changes that are taking place and working with the emotions around the shift in relationships. Sometimes it is just a matter of trusting all is in perfect order and going with the flow. So I am sending blessings out to everyone in my life - past, present, and future. May we all learn, grow, and change for our highest good.

Where Do You Find God?

2009-10-23T12:00:00.000-07:00

Where do you find God?

in a baby's smile
in a cat's purr
in a friend's tear
in a tree's shadow
in a flower's fragrance
in a strawberry's sweetness
in a dog's sleepy yawn
in the darkest night
in the brightest day
in a gorgeous sunset
in a lover's touch
in each breath you take
in a broken heart
in a open mind
in ourselves.

Where do you find God?

Reminiscing about Star Wars

2009-10-22T12:00:00.000-07:00

My kids are watching Star Wars #1 right now. That's Episode 4 to all you youngin's. A New Hope will always be the best episode because it is the one that started it all. I remember my dad taking me to the opening show and how excited we were to be there. I collected all the Star Wars action figures and still have a few. I think that Luke still has his original light sabre that you pull out of his arm to make work. Recently, I found my Princess Leia Barbie-sized doll I had hidden away in some keepsake box. Still has the plastic bun-makers on either side of her head. My kids have updated action figures spawned from the three newest movies and the animated series, Star Wars Clone Wars. It is fun to be able to watch a classic through their eyes and to be able to laugh at the same jokes. Who could forget about the cute little Jawas or the dorky Jar-Jar Binks? I would like to forget about Jar-Jar Binks actually. He is an abomination in the Star Wars universe. Jar-Jar aside, the Star Wars saga is a timeless masterpiece that should be shared with your children. It is a story of tragedy, triumph, and a lot of really cool space battles. It even manages to sneak in some philosophy. I will save the dissertation on that for another time. May the Force Be With You!

Going Raw - Day 20

2009-10-21T12:00:00.000-07:00

Today, my tummy is not happy. I have been eating raw foods for about 2.5 weeks now, and today is the day my body decided to flush its system out. When you move to a raw food diet, your body begins to release all of the waste and toxins you have been accumulating and storing in your bowels and fat. The detox phase of raw eating has been pretty good for me. I have had some emotional ups and downs that go along with the detox, but all in all, it has been easy. But today I have a headache and other unsavory physical symptoms that don't need to be described. On the upside, I have plenty of energy and have been sleeping more soundly than I have slept on a very long time. I wasn't sure if I would make it this far on a raw food lifestyle. The old me is very much addicted to white flour and refined sugars. As a long-time vegetarian, I ate a lot of pasta and faux meat products. It was more about mimicking a carnivorous diet with fake veggie dogs and chicken patties than eating foods that nourished my body. After listening to my body and the guidance I was getting regarding diet, I set out to learn more about raw foods. I bought a Vita-Mix blender and dehydrator. I have many raw "cook"books to learn about making some of my favorite foods from veggies and nuts alone. To jumpstart my new food plan, I ordered a fabulous raw food box from Rawvolution. They prepare a variety of raw meals each week, then ship them directly to you. It has been a great way to introduce my palate to new flavors and textures, as well as giving me incentive to experiment with foods on my own. Who knew you could make such a lovely pizza from nothing but veggies and seeds?

In addition to the physical benefits, I have also noticed an increase in my energy. I can feel the life force energy, or qi, running through my body. I am more in tune with my senses, as they are not dulled by artificial flavors or colors. My intuitive gifts are more active, and information is coming through more clearly. My ability to see and read energy has been heightened, much to my enjoyment and my client's benefit. I look forward to seeing how things unfold for me physically and spiritually as I continue down the raw food path. So I will keep blogging about my adventure and see where this takes me. Today though, I think I will take it easy, give my tummy a chance to rest, and find some recipes for some delicious raw meals. Zucchini "spaghetti," anyone?

Blessings that Chaos Brings

2009-10-20T12:00:00.000-07:00

"What looks like chaos is actually a future blessing in disguise." Carolyn Myss

After I read this, my mind filled with images of some pretty low and hectic times in my life. I felt like I would never crawl out of the pit I was in or be able to move through the chaos around me. But, life goes on, things change, chaos disappears. For each one the memories I have about those low times, I also have recognition of an important life lesson or blessing that goes along with it. The classic "cloud with the silver lining." More than once, I learned that I am stronger than I thought I was, mentally and emotionally. My determination to keep moving forward regardless of what appeared to be collapsing around me was enough to get me beyond the darkness and into the light. When I look back on the negative events, I recognize that my story around what happened is just that - a story. And a good one at that. It is full of nasty characters, drama, and some danger. But everything works out in the end, which is how I like it. For some people, that may not be true, but I am determined to write my stories with a happy ending. So I search high and low for the silver lining and incorporate that into my new story.

The blessings that chaos brings become easier to find each time because I am willing and anxious to learn and move on. I don't like to wallow in misery or be a victim, which spurs me on to move quickly through the hard times onto better things. I am finding that I don't stay angry as long or hold grudges like I did before. Time is too short and precious to waste on negative energies. In that way I am selfish because I don't like to give my energy away to foolish people or circumstances. I would rather just move beyond, rise above, and go on my merry way. So although I don't welcome chaos, I do appreciate the blessings that come with it and hope that you, too, find the silver lining on your most cloudy of days.

Mystical Verbs

2009-10-16T12:00:00.000-07:00

Per Merriam-Webster, a verb is "a word that characteristically is the grammatical center of a predicate and expresses an act, occurrence, or mode of being, that in various languages is inflected for agreement with the subject, for tense, for voice, for mood, or for aspect, and that typically has rather full descriptive meaning and characterizing quality but is sometimes nearly devoid of these especially when used as an auxiliary or linking verb." I like to think of them simply as mystical words of action, the action of being or the action of doing. Our whole life is one big verb. From the minute we are born to the moment of our transition, we are being and doing. Crying, pooping, whining, crawling, walking, running, screaming, laughing, learning, loving. We are spirits having a human experience and use these actions to learn more about ourselves and how we relate together as a collective group of souls. Our actions determine the kind of experience we have as well. Do you play, love, laugh and learn? Those actions help us stay connected to our higher selves. Whining, crying, lamenting, not so much. We can also perform the action of being. Being angry is not as fulfilling as being joyful. Being hopeful is a much higher vibration than being desperate. Sometimes just being is all we can do. Often, we cannot change our circumstance, at least right away, but we can change our actions. We change our verb, and miracles happen.

What verb are you right now? I am "WRITING' and "PONDERING" at the same time. You don't need to limit yourself to just one. Try verb multitasking. I challenge you to 'LEARN," "LOVE," "LAUGH," and "PLAY" all at the same time. Are you happy with your verb? If not, then change it NOW. You have the power to create miracles. Change your verb, change your world.

Bob the Builder vs. Your Ego

2009-10-15T12:00:00.000-07:00

"Can we do it? YES, we can!" Good ol' Bob the Builder. I watched my fair share of Bob a few year's back when my son was young enough to appreciate the wonders of construction machinery. Bob never said no. He never said, "No, we can't. Are you kidding? That is way out of my league. Go find yourself someone else. I am just not good enough." He knew he could do it. There was never a doubt that he would get the job done, and he had a good time doing it. His attitude is completely opposite mine for the past few days. I have been contemplating a few projects I have had in the queue for a while and wondering if I should take them on or let someone else do them. I have been feeling like maybe I am not smart enough, good enough, experienced enough. The list goes on and on. That was my ego talking and not my higher self, who is a lot like Bob. I finally got my ego to quiet down a bit, and my higher self took over. It has begun to formulate a game plan for the next few projects. The next few months are going to be busy!

We have all had our ego get the better of us from time to time. Ego loves to makes sure we don't mix things up too much. It loves status quo and making sure we don't leave our comfort zone. When we hear things like, "You aren't smart enough to do that." or "You don't have the experience to try that.", you know it is ego speaking. Opposite your ego is your higher self, which is much more pleasant. It is your own personal cheerleader. It ALWAYS supports your dreams and is positive and uplifting. Your higher self will say things like, "Wouldn't it be FUN to try that?" or "Go for it! You are ready to take that on!"

Next time you are contemplating a new project, listen to the commentary that is going on inside your head. Is it ego or higher self? If it is ego, tell it to take a hike. If it is higher self, listen up. It has some profound things to tell you. You may be asking, "Can I do it?" It is going to tell you, "YES, you CAN!" Think of it as your own Bob the Builder. Good ol' Bob will help you build your dreams and desires brick by brick. And he doesn't need a lunch break.

Diem to Carpe

2009-10-14T12:00:00.000-07:00

"Come on, Steve. We've got diem to carpe!" - Flint Lockwood. Flint is the bumbling scientist from the movie, Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs." Through a series of bad choices and crazy machines, Flint stumbles upon his greatest and most dangerous invention ever. I don't want to spoil the plot, but as always, all's well that ends well. I love this line from the movie. It reminds me that we all have the chance to seize the day and make our dreams come true. We all have a divine purpose, although sometimes it seems more elusive than others. When we ask for help in sorting out our path, we are moving in the right direction. Don't be critical of the actions you take in regards to your purpose. Sometimes, it will look like you are moving at light speed and other times it may seem like you are standing still. Have faith that there is a divine plan and do your best in each moment, even if seizing means just getting out of bed some days. It is time to carpe that diem!

Santa and the Christmas Countdown

2009-10-13T12:00:00.000-07:00

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas, everywhere you go. I was in Target, that fancy French store, a few days ago and noticed in the back next to the Halloween costumes, there are the cute, flashing wire Christmas animals. Dancing penguins, giant reindeer, singing angels and best of all, the torso of Santa holding a countdown sign. I hit the holiday jackpot! What is better than having Santa remind you every second that Christmas is slowly creeping nearer? I would leave that up year-round, but I would be afraid someone would use it for target practice.

I truly love Christmas and love the countdown as well. I look forward to the mail everyday because I know there will be a new catalog with things that I just have to have this holiday season. The more catalogs there are, the closer we are to the Big Day. Notice that the price is $99.99. The meaning of 9s in the new age world has to do with divine purpose. Perhaps it is my destiny to buy this Santa or part of my purpose is to stimulate the economy single-handedly through mega credit card purchases. All I know is that he is mine come Dec. 26 when he is 50% off.

Fall Energy Feels So Good!

2009-10-12T12:00:00.000-07:00

While the cat's away, the mice will play. In my house, this means "my husband is out of town, and I am redecorating." I love changing things up, especially in the Fall. The leaves are changing color and so are the rooms in my house. I haven't gotten out the paint yet, but I have adorned the rooms of my home in orange pumpkins, red apples, and brown turkeys. Ok, I jumped the gun a little on Thanksgiving, but he was too cute to pass up. Shhhhh! Don't tell my husband, but I bought a new coffee table that has storage inside. "It's practical and nice looking," I plan to tell him. Pumpkin-scented candles are strewn about the house. I even cheated a little and bought a few LED faux candles made out of real wax. My daughter has even gotten in the spirit of things and helped rearrange bedroom furniture. She has the potential to be an HGTV star. She even cleaned her sister's room! Shocking! I have a pile of books to go to the bookstore to be traded in and a pile started for Goodwill. Trash bags full of, well, trash are starting to pile up outside as we clear out the clutter. I am still hoping that the kid will clean up their closets and re-home some toys as we prepare for Christmas. A mom can dream...

I have noticed how the energy has changed over the past few days as we have been lightening our load. Our days have been flowing more smoothly. The kids have been helping out more than usual. The energy feels GOOD in the house. I am looking forward to the cool days and cooler nights. The leaves are starting to change and the the walnuts are ready to be picked. It was 36 degrees this morning. For some reason, I seem to come more to life when the weather cools down. So, life is good and all is well. I don't know if it is the redecorating and de-cluttering, the cooler weather, or the change of seasons that has shifted the energies in a positive direction, but it doesn't matter to me. I am loving this energy right now. Keep it coming and bring on the holidays!

A 6 year-old's look at a dog's passing. Absolutely beautiful!

2009-10-09T12:00:00.000-07:00

Taken from an email I received yesterday. A beautiful sentiment about our angel dogs...and perhaps some people, too.

A Dog's Purpose? (from a 6-year-old)

Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog's owners, Ron, his wife Lisa, and their little boy Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping for a miracle.

I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we couldn't do anything for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home.

As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience.

The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker 's family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on. Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.

The little boy seemed to accept Belker's transition without any difficulty or confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker's Death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives.?

Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, ''I know why.''

Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me. I'd never heard a more comforting explanation. It has changed the way I try and live.

He said, ''People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life --- like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?''
The six-year-old continued, ''Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long.'' Remember….

Live simply.

Love generously.

Care deeply.

Speak kindly.

Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.

Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure Ecstasy.

Take naps.

Stretch before rising.

Run, romp, and play daily.

Thrive on attention and let people touch you.

Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.

On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.

When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

Be loyal.

Never pretend to be something you're not.

If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.

ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY!

Short and Sweet: I want to go to DIsney World.

2009-10-08T12:00:00.000-07:00

Today I am manifesting a Disney trip. I booked the hotel and am now working on dining reservations. I decided that the best way to make it happen is to act as though it is already a "go". When we act with confidence in the direction of our dreams, we are putting out the vibrations to attract what we want. I want to go to Disney World in January. I am already making a pre-trip checklist and am playing Disney music to keep that high vibration going. I am thinking "It's a Pirate's Life for Me" will do. I will keep you posted on its manifestation. Anyone have good restaurant recommendations?

Is Re-Membering a Form of TIme Travel?

2009-10-07T12:00:00.000-07:00

"Remember the time when...?" The word 'remember' is interesting. Re = again or anew and member = a part of a whole. "Remember when we went to Disneyland?" "Remember to brush your teeth!" When we remember, we are becoming part of something again. We are re-membering ourselves into a group of memories, habits, realities. We become part of an event a second, third, or more time. We bring ourselves back to a time when we were five years old, or riding a roller coaster, or the death of a parent.

All this got me thinking about the human concept of time. Time exists because we say it does. We created it to have a point of reference in our reality. We are at once past, present, and future, but we place rules and restrictions on ourselves and call it time. So when we re-member, are we "time" traveling? Are we moving energetically to another point in reality when/where we re-member? Can memories have a detrimental affect on our vibration when we re-member into them. And I do mean "into them" because if it is "time" travel, we are moving into them. So then can we alter our reality when we re-member into a memory and have a different viewpoint? I have no idea what the answer is to that, but I think it warrants some more thought. I will have to re-member this next time I meditate.

Are Zombies Really Doing the Best They Can?

2009-10-06T12:00:00.000-07:00

I have heard it said that people are always doing the very best they can at any given moment. Sometimes I find that hard to believe, especially when I am walking through Costco. I believe the walking dead inhabit large warehouse stores. Today, I was overcome by the perceived incompetence of people around me and got very frustrated. I had a moment to reflect on what I observed today and came up with a few thoughts. Are people doing the best they can at any given moment? No, they could be pushing themselves to do more, they could be courteous to the people around them, OR could they? Maybe they don't have the energy or the will at that moment. If they did, would they be wandering aimlessly through aisles in search of ~~brains~~ food? I believe that every soul has the yearning to go higher, to climb the vibrational ladder, to move closer to their Source, but there are moments in our earthly life in which we can't see the road in front of us, and it is all we can do just to cling to where we are. When the fog clears, we move ahead, perhaps slowly at first. The yearning to move doesn't disappear. Regardless of speed, we all continue down a path, some bound for what others might term 'greatness', and others bounds for what some may term 'failure'. We must be careful, though, on how we label others' paths and their actions. When we label, we judge. When we judge, we do so from ego, not from our higher selves. This does not serve our journey up the vibrational ladder, nor does it benefit anyone involved. Our thoughts and actions extend beyond ourselves to the collective consciousness and affect the energy of the world around us. Thought by thought we affect and are affected by the collective. Sounds a little like a bad Star Trek episode with the Borg.

So all the way from zombie-like shoppers at Costco to collective consciousness...seems like a big leap. It makes perfect sense to my higher self, but the ego is still having a hard time with people leaving their carts in the middle of the aisle in search of the smallest taste of food. Perhaps microscopic samples of fruit smoothies and tortilla chips are worth it...

Disengaging from the "HOW"

2009-10-05T12:00:00.000-07:00

One of things I have noticed about angel guidance readings is that the issues and guidance that come up usually have a theme. I had the honor of doing readings for some very nice ladies yesterday. When I was finished for the day, I reflected back on the women and noticed they all had one thing in common: they were having a hard time releasing their issues to God and the angels. When we ask for divine assistance, many times we don't wait for an answer. We expect the answer to come immediately in a form that WE choose. We also expect the answer to be exactly what we want to hear. When it doesn't appear in the manner or time in which we have chosen, we become disappointed and lose faith. We might even assume God doesn't hear us or doesn't want to help. Both of those are the farthest from the truth. When we call on Spirit for help, the answer is immediately on its way back to us. We are so loved and connected to God that it is impossible for us not to be heard and honored.

Releasing your worries and concerns to God and the angels frees up our energy to focus on higher vibration things as well as allowing us to more clearly hear guidance from God and the angels. When we aren't worrying about HOW we are going to do something, we are open to the miracles and guidance that comes quickly and naturally. I have noticed that when I become so exasperated with a situation that I literally throw my hands up and say, "I give up! I can't take it anymore!", that answers, assistance, and miracle come at light speed. I released the "how" to Spirit. We don't need to get to that point to "Let Go and Let God." Simply trusting that everything is taken care of is enough. Hold on to the outcome, but disengage from the process. Allow God to choose the how. Then, be open and ready to take action on the guidance that will be coming your way. I would bet the "how" is much more fabulous and incredible than you could ever dream up for yourself.

I find that during the readings, there is also guidance for me in the messages I am receiving for the client. I am taking that to heart today and letting go of the "how". I am excited to discover what miracles are headed my way! It also frees up a lot of my energy so I can put it to better use doing laundry, cleaning toilets, feeding dogs, doing dishes...

"Bubbling Up"

2009-10-03T12:00:00.000-07:00

I first learned about "bubbling up" many years ago during a class I was taking on the energy body. As an empath (think Counselor Troi from Star Trek-TNG), I am extremely sensitive to others people's energies and thoughts. Sometimes, it can be overwhelming to be in large crowds, especially during high energy events. "Bubbling up" is a great way to protect your energetic and emotional bodies. It is very simple to do. Here's the technique: Visualize yourself inside a white bubble. You determine the opacity and thickness. Set the intention that you are safe and protected from all negative and lower energies and that only love may pass through to you. It is literally that simple. Do this once in the morning and once in the afternoon, and you will feel and difference in your moods and energy level. You can also use your intuition to select a different color of light to surround yourself in. Green light can be very healing, blue light is calming, and pink is full of love. Use what you feel would benefit you most at that time. Many times, I have been guided to use rainbow light. Perhaps I am covering all my bases with that one.

"Bubbling up" is a simple, effective way for anyone, not just empaths, to protect themselves on many levels. It is not only quick, but can be done anywhere. Make it an everyday habit, and you will feel its effects immediately. Bubble up!!

The Spiritual Lie Detector

2009-10-02T12:00:00.000-07:00

Today, my Daily Practical Mystic™ Tip read:

TRUTH = Transform Reality Using The Heart. Creating from the heart connects us to our TRUE selves.

I was inspired by Neale Donald Walsch's acronym for FEAR (false evidence appearing real). I thought, "What is opposite of fear? Truth!" When we know the truth, we are no longer afraid. The truth is our path of the heart. When we create from our heart center, we are living our best life, following our divine path and connecting with our higher self. We are transforming our reality.

This is all well and good, but HOW does one do that? Your heart is the center of your emotions and your truth detector. Decisions that are made from your heart are ones that are aligned with your divine path and higher self. Your body, your feelings, your intuition are going to tell you when you are in your truth. A close friend was scheduled to move to Canada to attend school. As the time got closer to the move, she began to experience extreme nausea whenever she thought about the move. It was nearly incapacitating and something she had never experienced before. She was surprised that a simple thought could produce such powerful effects on her body, so she wrote it off as nerves. She left on a Thursday, arrived at her new place in Canada on Friday, repacked her U-Haul on Saturday, and drove back to the US on Monday. That has to be the quickest move ever! When she arrived at in Canada, she was again physically ill and extremely upset. She couldn't go through with her plans to attend school there because she wasn't following her heart. Her heart had been telling her for months that this was not the right decision. It even tried to get her attention with nausea, but she was so involved in the reality of the move that she couldn't see that she had veered off course. Her heart eventually got through to her, 2000 miles and $3000 later. When we pay attention to what our bodies and emotions are trying to tell us, we are tuning into the TRUTH, because they amplify what the heart is saying.

Our realities are made of FEAR and TRUTH. Some of it false, some of it resonating with our higher self. You can transform your reality by following your heart, using this divine inner light to illuminate your way. You have a choice: live in fear or live in truth. It is as simple as making a choice, and it is completely in YOUR control. There is nothing better than being in charge of your destiny. And that's the TRUTH.

Are You Hypnotized? The Power of Suggestion

2009-10-01T12:00:00.000-07:00

I posted last week about a powerful book I read called "Hypnotizing Maria." Without giving the plot away, I can tell you that the main idea is that we are hypnotized from the moment of our birth. Hypnosis works through the power of suggestion. The person being hypnotized must buy into the reality the hypnotist is creating for them. Each statement that we make regarding ourselves and the world around us has the potential to alter the illusion we call reality. For example, the sentence "I am happy." is really a suggestion. We have to choice to buy into that and incorporate that into ourselves OR reject that statement and substitute a different one. Each thought we take as truth further shapes our view of the world around us, which is our version of reality. This is why positive thinking is so important. Positive affirmations that you accept really do have the power to change your life. The more you repeat them, the more they are accepted as fact, the more you are drawn into a world full of love, harmony, and good fortune. These positive suggestions build upon each other, raising your vibration. On the other hand, you can see how negative statements can drag you down further into a reality that is full of untruths and lower energy. It is completely up to you as to which suggestions you take as truth and which you discard.

Pay attention to your conversations. "I wish, I think, I like, I hate, I can, I can't" all begin powerful suggestions. Our words not only affect us, they affect others as well. Are you hypnotizing others around you? "You are, You can't, You had better..." More suggestions. What reality are you creating right now, for yourself and others? I suggest you pay attention to your suggestions. Hypnotize yourself into your ultimate reality. My next suggestion is "I am happy, healthy, and content." That's a suggestion I am glad to accept.

Power Breathing

2009-09-30T12:00:00.000-07:00

I was sitting here wondering what to write about. When I get stuck, I ask my angels and guides to step in and give me some ideas on what would be good to write about. I know that whatever they give me will be therapeutic for me and hopefully helpful to you as well. Today, they reminded me about how important breath is. Not just because of the obvious we-need-to-breathe-or-we-die, but because it helps us to release physical tension that could be blocking us from receiving information from Spirit. When we are tense, we have a hard time hearing our guides and accepting their help. The breath slows us down and brings us back to our center, which is where we need to be in order for our higher self to take over.

A powerful breathing technique that I sometimes use to center myself is based in Buddism, I believe. I don't know where I learned this, but it is a fast, easy, and powerful way to center, relax, and energize yourself.

Start in a comfortable position either seated or lying down. Breathe in deeply for a count of three, filling your lungs completely, but not until they are uncomfortable. Hold the breath for a count of three. Then exhale completely for a count of three, allow your body to relax and release tension. Then relax for a count of three before taking another breath. Do this for as long as you like, allowing each complete breath to remove the stress from your body.

It is also an excellent meditation technique because your focus is on your breath, which gives the lower self something to do while the higher self does the meditation work. It's a win-win! So next time you are feeling tired or stressed, try this out. You will find yourself lighter, energized, and less stressed. Enjoy!

Simple Space to Sacred Space

2009-09-29T12:00:00.000-07:00

We have all seen altars in churches, some more ornate than others. Some people have an altar in their home dedicated to deceased loved ones. Altars are symbols of Divine space, a place dedicated to spirituality and/or religious beliefs. In my home, I have a small space dedicated to my spiritual beliefs. I wouldn't call it an altar really, but a small sanctuary on a bookshelf in my bedroom. It holds my crystals, a few statues of angels, my pendulum, a salt lamp, and a few candles. I see it when I first wake up and right before I go to sleep. It reminds me of my connection to Spirit and my path in this lifetime. I think that everyone should have a space dedicated to their own beliefs, a sacred space that can serve as a refuge from day-to-day stresses. This could be as big as a room or as small as a shelf. Just someplace to go or view that brings you back to your divine center.
Here are some easy, low-cost ideas to help you create your own sacred space:
   - Choose a space that you feel relaxed in, whether it be a bedroom, a corner of your living room, or even a sheltered outdoor spot. It can even be the top of a bookcase, a shelf, or a table.
   - Clear out the clutter. This is your sanctuary! Treat it as such. Remove anything that doesn't celebrate your connection to Spirit.
   - Clear the energy. You can clear the energy of your space very easily with smudging. Sage bundles work very well at clearing. With a lighter, light your sage bundle, then blow it out, thus creating the smoke. Wave the bundle in the space to be cleared, setting the intention of clearing and creating a peaceful, loving environment.
   - Set the stage. A favorite handkerchief, table cloth, piece of fabric, or scarf can be a beautiful and simple way to add color to your space. I used a heirloom table runner to cover the top of a bookcase.
   - Time to decorate! Crystals, flowers, candles, pictures, statues, and sacred objects are all things you can use to make it your own sacred space. Switch things around with the seasons. Add and remove objects when you feel inspired to do so.

There are no rules to designing your own divine space. Use your intuition and have fun with it!

Learning to be Spontaneous

2009-09-28T12:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, my family and I took a spontaneous trip to Seattle. A few days before, I got an email newsletter from a bookstore in Seattle announcing a talk by one of my favorite authors, Richard Bach. His writings were seminal to my spiritual development, and I thought it would be wonderful to hear him speak. I checked the bookstore website at least three times to confirm the day and time. I shared the information with my husband, who also has been influenced by Bach's writings, and he was excited to make the trip. He checked the website out a couple of times for the details and directions.

After the initial excitement of potentially meeting Richard Bach wore off, my ego kicked in and convinced me not to go. Too much to do, too long a drive (3.5 hours), too hard to take the kids, etc. I talked myself out of going, yet my higher self kept at me, saying it would be wonderful to see him, might be fun to take a drive. Sunday morning, the day of the talk, my husband put his foot down, despite my whining, and announced that we were going whether I liked it or not. Literally, five minutes later, we were all in the car and on our way to Seattle. The kids watched movies or read a book, I read aloud from Richard Bach's newest book, "Hypnotizing Maria." The time passed quickly, and soon we were in Seattle.

We found a great parking place, which is no small feat there, and entered the bookstore, ready for his talk. Things were falling right into place. The Universe was conspiring to make this a fabulous day. When I asked at the counter about what room it was in, the clerk told me that the talk was yesterday, on Saturday. I couldn't believe it! My husband and I were shocked! We left, and tried to figure out what had happened. We were so thorough. We had checked the website at least five times between the two of us. There was no way we could be wrong. Due to the miracle of modern technology, once we got back to the car, we were able to go to their website and check their calendar. It said Saturday, not Sunday! I thought, "This is not some random mistake. This is a bizarre circumstance and must have some meaning."

We decided to salvage the day by going to the Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame at Seattle Center. All of us absolutely loved it! We, as a family, are huge sci-fi fans and were able to see many of the props from our favorite movies. We were relaxed and enjoyed walking around Seattle Center, seeing the Space Needle and the Fun Forest. I also made a mental note of some other places we would see the next time we made the trip up. We ended our day at Buca di Beppo, one of our favorite restaurants. We don't have one in Portland, so it was a special treat. Happy and full, we left Seattle and headed home.

On the way home, I finished reading the book aloud to my husband. The kids slept and played quietly, and we were home before we knew it. Looking back at the day, I realized that it wasn't about seeing Richard Bach. I am sure it would have been wonderful to hear him speak, but the day was about much more. It was about being a family, trying something new, going on an adventure. For me, it was about learning to be spontaneous, something I am not very good at. I follow rules, make plans, and then make back up plans for my plans. I research, make lists, read and re-read. I rarely just get up and go. I have to admit that I really enjoyed the spontaneity of the day. Nothing horrible happened because I didn't have each minute planned out. I was taught that it is OK to fly by the seat of your pants and trust that everything will work out. Could I do that everyday? No, but I certainly could let the Universe take the driver's seat once in a while. I think I am starting to enjoy being a passenger.

Clairvoyance - Our Divine Sight

2009-09-26T12:00:00.000-07:00

Have you ever opened up a book to a random page, only to find what you are reading answers a question about which you have been thinking? Have you been driving along the same road you have driven a hundred times only to notice for the first time a billboard that has information that you need NOW? Maybe you have had dreams of deceased loved ones or angels that felt so real you would have sworn you were awake. These are all example of your clairvoyance in action. Clairvoyance means "clear sight." It is what people commonly think of as being psychic. It is one of four clairs, or divine gifts, that we all have. Our clairs are our way of "phoning home" or communicating with God. We are born with these gifts, although one may be more developed than another. Clairvoyance focuses on sight, both physical and spiritual, to receive messages from Spirit.

For many of us, we use our spiritual third eye to "see" these divine messages. The third eye is located between your eyebrows in the center of your forehead. It is constantly watching and recording our life's adventures, as well as transmitting messages from our heavenly home. With our third eye, we can receive messages through dreams. During dreamtime, it is easy for Spirit to communicate with us because our ego is asleep, and our higher self has free reign over our experiences. When we receive guidance from our angels and guides through a dream, we don't argue with whether the experience was "real" or not. We can go with the flow and enjoy the experience, learning what we need to learn peacefully and without fear. Most people would freeze in terror if an angel appeared before them with a telegram from God. But when you are asleep, it can easily be written off as a dream, but with our higher self still benefitting from the experience.

We can also receive guidance with our physical eyes. I tend to see white feathers or colored sparkles when my angels are around me. It is their way of saying "Hi." I have also had books jump out of bookshelves at me that have messages that I need to read. Repeating numbers are another way my angels and guides get my attention and get a message to me. The visual guidance you receive may not be the same as other people's. Spirit knows who you are and what you are ready to receive. Think of it as having special, tailor-made guidance...just for you!

Remember to ASK for help, ASK for guidance, ASK for signs. Our angels and guides, who are messengers of God, cannot help unless we ask, which gives them permission. Once you have requested help, sit back and be open to the guidance that comes your way. Be careful not to expect it to come in a certain form or at a certain time. Trust that it will come at just the right time in just the right way. Once we let go of the expectations, we can enjoy the experience.

So, yes, you ARE psychic. You ARE clairvoyant. Enjoy your dreams and your visual messages from Spirit. It is nice to know that we are still connected to home and are not cut off when we drop into these human bodies. Ask and you shall receive, perhaps in the form of sparkling lights and white feathers or a fabulous technicolor dream starring angels, guides, and perhaps your deceased Aunt Edna.

Why is true, true?

2009-09-25T12:00:00.000-07:00

Today, I read an extraordinary book called "Hypnotizing Maria" by Richard Bach. Why is it extraordinary? Because I say it is. In my illusion, this book has changed my life. For the better. Why? Because I say it has. I suppose for some people, it could be upsetting, as it rocks your reality to its core. I know this because it rocked mine. It is only 154 pages, but those pages contain truths that I have known for a long time, but hadn't 'fessed up to. The author puts the ideas down so simply, so eloquently, that it is easy to slip out of your lower self and into a higher reality where time no longer exists, and you are in charge of your illusion. I am still processing these concepts, and they will be percolating for a while, I think. My ego is unhappy right now and fighting to keep a foothold.

That is all I will say right now. I am still processing and will share more later, but will leave you with this question: What makes the ideas you hold as true, true? To be continued...

Decisions, decisions!

2009-09-24T12:00:00.000-07:00

When faced with an important decision, it is natural for us to ask others for their advice and opinions. Sometimes, we agonize over making the right choice and become stressed and anxious because of it. In the end, it is not what your parents, your spouse, your children, your best friend, your therapist or the checker at the grocery store have to say about your choice. It is all about YOU and what YOU think is the best course of action. YOU are in charge of your path. Pay attention to what your heart is telling you. You know what you need to do. TRUST your intuition. I have yet to find someone who regrets a decision that came from their heart.

Remember that your angels and guides, who are messengers of God, are with you to support you and lend a helping hand. They are full of great advice and many of them LOVE to talk. The catch is you have to ASK for help. They cannot help you until you ask because you have free will to make decisions and they can't infringe on that right. Ask for help, but stay empowered, and remember that you are the one who knows what is best for you.

Saying "I Love You"

2009-09-23T12:00:00.000-07:00

Recently, my father has been ending our phone conversations with "I love you." For some people, this may be routine, but for my dad, it is something new. For all thirty plus years of my life (you didn't think I was going to give away my age that easily, did you?), I have known my dad loved me through his actions, but rarely his words. Our physical goodbyes were hugs and pecks on the cheek. Our phone calls ended with, "Talk to you soon." But within the past month or two, things have shifted. At first, I was surprised, but I had presence of mind not to drop the phone or stutter when he said "I love you" before hanging up. What was going through my mind was, "Who are you and what have you done with my dad?" I thought maybe I had not heard correctly. I returned the sentiment and hung up, still in shock. The next time I spoke with him, I waited to see if he would do it again. He did. "Third time's a charm," I thought the next time we spoke. By golly, he said it again. I am beginning to like this habit.

I am not sure what has changed in my dad's life to prompt him to verbalize his affection. For some people, it could be an illness or a challenging time that causes them to reflect on their relationships and change their behavior. For others, perhaps therapy. To me, it doesn't matter why he has emotionally opened up. I am just happy to be the beneficiary of this sentiment.

Today, please tell those special someones in your life that you love them. Hugs are wonderful, but nothing beats a genuine, verbal "I love you." You will not only brighten someone else's day, but I guarantee that your divine light will shine all the brighter because of it. Spread the love!

When Strangers Spill Their Guts...

2009-09-22T12:00:00.000-07:00

I receive A TUT Message from the Universe every morning. They are usually funny and insightful, but today's message was particularly good. It said:

Ever wondered why so many people, sometimes virtual strangers, tell you their deepest secrets, Susan? It's because when they look into your eyes, they see me. And sharing their secrets with me, as you, reminds them that no matter what they have to say, my love is so much bigger.
We're quite the team -
The Universe

This message really made me think because strangers spilling their guts to me happens A LOT. At first, I was rather uncomfortable with it, but it happens so often that it doesn't phase me anymore. I have heard just about everything, from lying and stealing to abortions and extramarital affairs. Apparently, nothing is off-limits. I had assumed that people found me trust worthy and a good listener ( I first typed God listener. How appropriate!), but this message made me realize it is so much more than that. It is about opening yourself up to others at the heart level and listening with your sacred self. Allowing another human to connect with you on this soul level is the greatest gift you can give to yourself and them. And what a wonderful way to honor God!

I had never truly thought about how we are reflections of God's love for all of us until this morning when this message appeared in my in-box. Now I realize that the simple act of listening can be sacred. It assists in our spiritual growth when we look beyond the obvious and allow the connection of two souls to take place. It can also be quite healing for all involved. I have learned much from the stories of human heartache and conflict told to me by virtual strangers. The next time a stranger spills their guts to me, I will thank The Universe that I am a Go(o)d listener.

Ode to Autumn

2009-09-21T12:00:00.000-07:00

Thank God it's Autumn! This is my favorite time of year. The leaves are changing, the days and nights are cooler, and there is a lot of fresh fruit and nuts to be eaten. It is also a time for dressing up in costumes and feasting with friends and family. I love the smell of just-picked apples and the crunch of newly-fallen leaves underfoot. Having lived in Arizona for many years, I missed the color and temperature changes that Fall brings. Now that I live in Oregon, I enjoy wearing something other than shorts at Thanksgiving.

In addition to the physical changes that Autumn brings to Mother Earth, there are other changes taking place. In the Northern Hemisphere, we are preparing for winter. Animals are migrating or storing food. People are getting out the blankets and stocking up on wood for the fireplaces. Energetically, we are slowing down, preparing for that long hibernation that winter brings. Our focus shifts from external to internal, literally and metaphorically. I begin the process of planning family holiday get-togethers and parties with friends, which marks the beginning of the season of gratitude for me. Externally, there is a lot of hustle and bustle, but internally, it is a time of personal reflection. I find myself looking back on the year and wondering where the time went. There is so much to be thankful for this year.

Thank you, God, for fresh apple cider, starry nights, crunchy leaves, Halloween, longer nights, cooler weather, an excuse to wear a cute sweater, rain, and Thanksgiving. Goodbye, Summer! Hello, Fall!

New Moon Mainfesting - Think BIG!

2009-09-18T11:00:00.000-07:00

Today marks the new moon. The energy of the new moon is one of hope, promise, and magic. It is the perfect time to begin new projects or set intentions. Here are a few ideas to get you started on creating your own new moon ritual:

- Set aside 15-20 minutes for your new moon ritual.
- Find a quiet spot and begin with a short invocation or prayer.
- Center yourself using any technique you choose, like focused breathing, a short guided meditation, or chanting.
- On a piece of paper, write down your intentions for creating. What do you want to manifest into your life right now? What projects do you want to start? What empowering habits would you like to incorporate into your life? When you write them down, word them as if they have already happened. I like to use words like, "Thank you for my great new job!" or "I am really enjoying driving my new, red convertible."
- After finishing your list of intentions, quietly sit with that list in your mind and use visualization to bring them to life. Focus on being in the moment with each intention, really feeling like you have that new job or are driving that new car. Immerse yourself in the sensations, feelings, and thoughts around your intentions.
- Remember to express your gratitude!

Post your intentions where you can see them. Just seeing the list automatically brings you back into the frame of mind in which you created those intentions. This increases your positive vibrations that you are putting out there to manifest your desires, and it is uplifting to daydream about all those fabulous things that are on their way into your life!

The time for this new moon is 11:44 am. Those numbers remind us that the angels are with us as our powerful thoughts are manifesting quickly, so think positively! What a wonderful time to begin this period of creation! Have fun and think BIG!

Forgiveness. It's not just for breakfast anymore.

2009-09-17T12:00:00.000-07:00

Revenge is a dish best served cold. Does that make it a sandwich or perhaps a bowl of breakfast cereal? On the other hand, forgiveness is a dish best served warm, I think. Perhaps it is a warm waffle or pancake. It could even be a delicious casserole. No matter what you liken it to, I think forgiveness is one of the most difficult things a human can do. Many times, it seems to go against every fiber of our being. Our ego has the hardest time with this, as forgiveness requires us to let go of anger, fear, resentment, and blame and allow God to come back into our life. Ego does not like to give up power so easily. I do believe that the resistance to forgiveness lies in the lower self. When we remain angry and resentful, it allows us to be a victim of circumstance. "She did that to me, and now I can't ________________." "If he hadn't done _______________, then I would be happy." We give up our power in order to be "right." Are we really right? No. Because we have free will and are ultimately in control of our experiences, WE DECIDE how we are affected by what is going on around us. WE CHOOSE the experience we have.

About three years ago, I came to the conclusion that I was only hurting myself by remaining angry with someone. I had a mediocre relationship with this person, and I doubt that they even knew what resentment I harbored toward them. What is so interesting is that the only person who was suffering was me. All the anger and blame I felt was only harming me. It didn't affect them at all. This person acted in a certain way, and I made the choice to react to their actions in a way that angered and disappointed me. In my reality, this person did act in ways that hurt me. I could live the rest of my life angry, but that would only be causing me pain. I was wasting so much of my energy on these unhealthy feelings. By forgiving their actions, I released the anger and freed up all that energy to be put to better use. They never even knew that I had forgiven them. Sometimes it is not important to have that conversation, and it is enough for you to do in your heart. Please note that forgiveness DOES NOT CONDONE anyone's actions. It doesn't mean you tell the person that what they did was o.k. Forgiveness says, "I forgive you and release these unhealthy bonds of anger and resentment." You forgive someone for YOU, not them. Give yourself that gift. I guarantee that true forgiveness feels like having someone lift a 100-pound weight off your shoulders.

I practice forgiveness often. Sometimes with others, but many times with myself. I have found that I need to forgive myself for things, which releases blocks in my path. Whether forgiving yourself, loved ones, or strangers that cut you off on the freeway, forgiveness is a dish best served warm. Warm, loving feelings and uncontrollable smiling are often the side-effects of forgiveness. And it's not just for breakfast anymore.

Co-create, don't hesitate!

2009-09-16T12:00:00.000-07:00

"Our duty is to proceed as if limits to our ability do not exist. We are collaborators in creation" - de Chardin

What an empowering thought! I am a collaborator in the creation of my life. Not by-stander. Not a victim. We are co-creators in this illusion we call our life. Once we get beyond limiting concrete thoughts, we experience the fluidity of creation. We manifest at astounding rates, moving easily and effortlessly through our own universe. It is our right and our duty to forge ahead as if we are limitless in ability and power, for that is how we truly are. What a disservice we do to our sacred selves when we decide to succumb to the illusion of limitation and mediocrity.

Move forward in bold steps. Your doubts and blocks will fall by the wayside as the illusion dissipates. When you co-create instead of hesitate, you shift the power back to yourself. And that is where we naturally want to be, in the driver's seat of our life. Enjoy the ride!

Wait! Don't give up yet!

2009-09-15T12:00:00.000-07:00

"Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish." - John Quincy Adams

The message I am getting for today is persistence. We have just come into a new energy and vibration over the past week. We are still getting used to the calmer energies that have slowly settled into our reality, and we are ready to take a deep breath and relax. I am being told that we need to be patient and to let the new vibration really settle into our beings before giving up on projects that seem to be going nowhere or on dreams that seem to good to be true. Be persistent in allowing your true self to shine through. Once we have fully absorbed and adjust to this new vibe, we will be ready, willing, and able to tackle our unfinished business with greater joy, speed, and success.

There are a few way you can help yourself in attuning to this new energy. Get out in nature and ground yourself in the grass or by literally hugging a tree. Let the Earth assist in adjusting and clearing your energy. Drink more water. Water helps to cleanse your physical body, and releasing physical toxins also clears them out energetically. Get more sleep. Yes, I am giving you permission to take a nap. Our bodies need more rest while they are going through the adjustment. Laugh, and I mean a real, belly laugh. Laugh until your face hurts and your eyes start tearing up. That alone is enough to raise your vibration tremendously. Laughter clears out denser energies from your lower chakras and makes room for higher vibrations.

Be persistent in taking care of yourself, and don't give up yet! Our new and improved, energized selves will soon be moving forward despite our previous fears. The best is yet to come!

Song of the Day

2009-09-14T12:00:00.001-07:00

My angels and guides often give me a "song of the day." I wake up with the music and lyrics running through my head. It is usually just the part of the song that has the meaning they want me to pay attention to. Today's song choice was Natasha Bedingfield's "Unwritten."

Feel the rain on your skin
No one else can feel it for you
Only you can let it in
No one else, no one else
Can speak the words on your lips
Drench yourself in words unspoken
Live your life with arms wide open
Today is where your book begins
The rest is still unwritten

This is not only a message to me, but to all of us. Our stories are unwritten, and the pen is in our hand. Each day, each hour, each moment is an opportunity to start fresh. We must speak our words, our truth. Embrace each feeling, each thought and incorporate them into your story. You can change the words, the plot, even the characters in your tale. Be brave and true in your choices, and your words may become stuff that legends are made of. Carpe diem.

Making Light of Our Circumstance

2009-09-12T12:00:00.000-07:00

"Making light" of a situation is a phrase that is often used to describe the use of levity in response to a serious event or circumstance. Tonight, as I was preparing for an angel talk that I am giving, Archangel Uriel gave me some thoughts to pass on to my workshop participants. The name Uriel means "light of God," so it was appropriate (and funny) when this angel told me to "make light" of serious situations in order to bring about healing and growth. Who says angels don't have a sense of humor? Archangel Uriel fully understands how we as humans take things so seriously and forget that we have tremendous power to alter our circumstances. It was also an excellent reminder to ask our angelic helpers for assistance. Because we have free will, angels cannot assist us unless we ask. When we ask, we open ourselves up for miracles to occur on so many levels.

The phrase "making light" also has a deeper meaning. When we use humor and laughter to defuse a tense situation, we are using a higher vibration to raise the energy. We are, in fact, making (the situation) light(er). We are lightening the vibration and allowing it to naturally move toward where we want it to be: toward the divine. Digging deeper, making light symbolizes us, as sacred beings, adding our divine light to a dark situation.

Anyway you look at it, making light of a situation not only uncovers the divinity in life, it also is a very human, very healing act. Thank you, Archangel Uriel, for shedding some light on the subject.

Is Harry Potter 'The Chosen One'?

2009-09-11T12:00:00.000-07:00

Overheard at a salon: "I just don't get Harry Potter. I mean, he just goes around waving his wand - zzzpfffth (along with some emphatic air wand waving) - and then what? What does he do? I mean, he's, like, the Chosen One, and he doesn't do anything. I just don't get it."

In addition to being amused by the sound effects and gestures I observed that morning, I was intrigued by this woman's dismay at the fact that Harry didn't live up to her expectations. She was genuinely upset that he hadn't performed at a level befitting 'The Chosen One'. It got me thinking about Harry and his friends. I have seen all the Harry Potter movies many times and have read all the books. I love the magic, fantasy and adventure!

So why is Harry Potter 'The Chosen One'? Harry Potter does not have extraordinary skills. In fact, he is much less skilled than Hermione in most subjects. He does have that "survived-an-assassination-attempt-by-he-who-shall-not-be-named" power that does make him unique, but overall, he is not an extraordinary wizard as wizards go. What makes him 'The Chosen One' is the fact that he is willing to step up and take a stand. He is willing to do what others WON'T do. He goes where no wizard has gone before. Sometimes not by choice, but always with gumption and resolve. And he has some great friends to take with him.

This made me think about how we as humans need a 'Chosen One,' someone to look up to, to aspire to, to ridicule, to blame. It is human nature. We all have our own 'Chosen One.' It could be a parent, a teacher, a movie star, or sports hero. We look for traits in others that we, ourselves, feel we are lacking. We hope that by osmosis we might gain a fraction of their magic or that they will be our saviors in one way or another.

I propose that we search no further than ourselves for "The Chosen One.' The time is NOW to take hold of our own destinies, step up to the challenges, and fight our own Lord Voldemorts. Aspire to be the best you can be. You will make mistakes, but in that, there is learning and growth, moving you closer to where you want to be. Lean on your friends for support and guidance, trusting that all is well and taken care of for your highest good.

In my opinion, Harry Potter is 'The Chosen One.' That kid can pull miracles out of his hat like nobody's business. And for me, I am my own 'Chosen One,' not always working the magic successfully, but always waving the wand, yelling "zzzpfffth!" and seeing what happens.

Spiritual Lost and Found

2009-09-10T12:00:00.000-07:00

A friend just called me in tears. She told me she had lost her passport and was supposed to leave TODAY for an international trip. She wondered if I could help. I told her what I got and to call on her angels. I also said she needed to be receptive to their guidance. Here are some tips for calling on your spiritual friends for assistance:

1. Call on Archangel Chamuel for help in locating your lost item. This archangel is always available to provide assistance. "Archangel Chamuel, I know nothing is lost in the eyes of God. Please help me find ____________. Thank you, thank you, thank you."

2. Ask your personal angels to point you in the right direction. Remember to thank them for their help.

3. When asking for guidance, you must also be ready to receive the answer. When we lose something, we are often in a panic and not in the right mind to be open to guidance. Please remember that asking for help is only the first step. You must calm yourself and put yourself in a receptive state so you will be aware of the answer when it arrives. Deep breaths and meditation help tremendously with this.

4. Be open to all forms of guidance. Sometimes it arrives in the form of a gut instinct, a flash of where the item is, or maybe an instant knowing of the location. Don't disregard any guidance, even if you have already searched there or it seems unlikely. Sometimes the most ridiculous things turn out to be the answer.

5. Use a pendulum. If you have a pendulum, you can ask it variety of questions to narrow down your search. You can even use it as a dowsing device to literally lead you to the item.

I don't know if my friend found her passport, but I am positive that she will receive an answer to her request. All prayers are answered in some form. We just need to be open to receiving that answer in whatever form it takes.

09/09/09 Some thoughts for the day

2009-09-09T09:00:00.000-07:00

Today is September 9, 2009. In short form, 09/09/09. In the angelic realm, nines are a message to you to get to work NOW on your life purpose. Everything is in place for you to get moving. Today is huge energetically, as it signifies the completion of one energetic phase and the beginning of a new one. We are moving into a new energy that has been a long time coming. The human race and Mother Earth are moving into a new vibration, which is opening up many doors for us in terms of our life purpose. We have been riding the vibrational roller coaster over the past year and a half, up and down with some dramatic pauses that felt like we were standing still. The ride is now coming to an end in terms of the extreme changes and we can look forward to a more peaceful time energetically as we settle into our new vibrations.

Take advantage of this day to reflect on your accomplishments and where you are on your life path. It is a perfect time to plant seeds of hope and abundance on all levels and in all aspects of your life. Take a few minutes to write down your goals, as the Universe is paying close attention today to the intentions and vibrations you put out there. The angels are telling me that "the fruits of your labor have never been so important as right now." Take stock of yourself and release blocks to your path with the help of this new vibration. It is "go/no go" time in terms of your desires and aspirations. You are in the driver's seat and can decide to not step into a new role or future. But these energies are "ripe for the picking," and I encourage you to take advantage of this loving, powerful energy to bring about your hopes and dreams. Have fun with it!

Where did 'me' go?

2009-09-08T12:00:00.000-07:00

A friend came over today and showed me some new outfits that she had just purchased. They were all fresh and clean and had that "new clothes" smell. As she carefully unwrapped them from their crisp paper, she beamed as she gently unfolded each item and explained how she would wear it and how she could mix and match pieces. She modeled each look for me, and each one was better than the one before. She looked fabulous!

Then there was me, standing in my sweatpants and old t-shirt. Now, in my defense, I had been cooking and cleaning, but it was still not my best fashion look. After she left, I looked in the mirror at my sad hair and tomato-sauce stained shirt and fantasized about how the blouse I saw in a catalog would look on me. I could get something new, too! But then I thought, 'Where would I wear it?"

All afternoon I have thought about those new clothes. And all afternoon I have thought of where I would wear them. The conclusion I have come to is that I don't take myself out enough. I am committed to everything but myself. Cleaning, Girl Scouts, soccer practice, grocery shopping, and laundry are some of the tasks that occupy my days, none of which require a fabulous new outfit. I find myself contemplating when it was that I took a back seat to everything and everyone. I am not sure exactly, but I think it has to do with baby vomit on a new dress. And if you know baby vomit, that is some toxic stuff. So all good things went to the back of the closet, and t-shirts became the uniform du jour.

Over time, going out was replaced by staying in. Dinners for two replaced by dinners for three, then four, then five. I don't regret a minute of family life. I just wish that "my time" hadn't gotten lost in the family shuffle. Completely my fault and something I am going to work on ASAP. Starting with a new outfit. And someplace to wear it. Stay tuned!

That's not my name.

2009-09-07T12:00:00.000-07:00

Often, people call me Karen. I have no idea why, but when I correct them, they say, "Well, you look like a Karen." What does "a Karen" look like? Me, apparently. I have been called Susie, Suze, Suzanna, and my least favorite, Sue. You can always tell someone who is from East of the Mississippi. They shorten names with wild abandon. I also go by the name of mommy, mama, and MOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMMMMM, depending on the circumstance. Then there is "ma'am," which is completely unacceptable if it implies I am over-the-hill.

Names are used to identify us with a group and give us a sense of uniqueness and belonging. I belong to the Marek "group." It is an easy way to distinguish each other from the millions of people roaming the countryside. They also determine relationship. Dad, Uncle Owen, Aunt Beru. It forms an unbreakable connection between people that languishes on genealogical charts.

Taking it a step further, names can become symbols. Marilyn Monroe is an excellent example. The name alone now exudes sexiness and sadnesss together. James Dean is a rebel without a cause. Michael Jackson is the "king of pop." What does your name represent? Does it represent honesty and conviction? Happiness and hope? Confusion and chaos? My name, Susan Marek, means many things. It does mean wife, mother, sister, daughter, cousin, aunt, friend. It also represents lightworker and teacher. It means integrity, hope, and love to me. I do my best to represent those qualities at all times. I am not always successful, but it is in the trying that we learn, grow, and change.

So, what is your name? What does it mean? What does it represent to you? How do you introduce yourself to others? When we meet, I will introduce myself as Susan. Not Karen. That's not my name.

Play That Funky Music!

2009-09-06T10:00:00.000-07:00

It is about 5:30am. I have been up for the last hour and a half with the song "Play That Funky Music" repeating in my head. My angels and guides have a sense of humor. For me, music is a way they communicate with me. I often get a "song of the day" from them upon waking, although I think 4 am is a bit early. After fluffing my pillows a few times, counting backwards, turning the fan on and off twice, and failing at focused breathing, I gave in and asked what they were trying to tell me. I was pretty certain it wasn't about getting up and disco dancing. As it turned out, it was a gentle reminder.

Dr. Wayne Dyer often says, "Don't die with your music still inside you." The first time I read that, I was profoundly affected. I felt sad and inspired all at once. I worried about what my music was. Have I already played my song? What if my song was out of tune or boring? Should I be playing the same old tune, or was it time to compose a new one? I was inspired by that last thought and decided that it was time to get out paper and pen and set down a new melody that I am still composing to this day. At 5:30 am.

What music is inside you? Classical, rock, jazz, reggae, country? It doesn't matter if you hit all the notes all the time or if you forget the words. Just "lay down that boogie and play that funky music 'til you die."

On Emmenthal and Enlightenment

2009-09-04T21:45:00.000-07:00

I love cheese. I love macaroni and cheese. All sorts of mac and cheese. The boxed kind, the frozen kind. The homemade kind. I have never met a mac and cheese I didn't like. As I was feasting on the frozen kind tonight, I had a culinary epiphany of sorts. Spiritual paths to enlightenment are like mac and cheese. There are lots of different types, but when it comes right down to it, it is just pasta and cheese. Could be Muenster cheese. Cheddar cheese. Colby Jack. Havarti. Bleu. The Three-Cheese Mexican Blend. Even American Cheese, although I am not sure exactly what that is. Might be elbow macaroni, fusilli, farfalle, penne. No matter what kind, it's still, at its core, the same thing: pasta covered in coagulated cow's milk, aged to perfection. And it is still going to the same place in every single person who eats it.

Even if you are lactose intolerant, gluten-free, or vegan, I think you can still appreciate the similarities between the universal quest for spiritual enlightenment and the quest for the perfect bowl of mac and cheese. And, of course, I believe the "Big Cheese" him/herself would appreciate it as well. Bon appetit!