Change your life with Affirmations!

As many of you know I am a HUGE fan of affirming positive change in our lives.  

Affirmations are a wonderful way to manifest ANYTHING you want in your life.  Here are a few simple guidelines to help make your affirmations the most effective. 

✓Keep them in the present tense.  "I am…"

✓KNOW they are already happening….RIGHT NOW.  

✓Always keep them in the affirmative.  Try not to include words like "don't" "won't," etc.  Also be aware of the consequences of words like "all" and "never"...

✓Keep them clear and concise. The easier to remember the better.

✓Have fun and be creative.  The sky is the limit!

       I always start my affirmations with "I am so happy and grateful…"  I have omitted this from the beginning of every one, however, I believe gratitude is the very basis for any manifestation.  Being grateful for all that we are and have is the first step for making change in our lives.  The only other thing we need to create the life we want is belief.  KNOW this or something better is on the way.  Yes, it is that simple. Have fun.   

Here are a few of my favorite….

I am so happy and grateful...

I am in perfect health and every part of me is healing in every moment. 

I easily, freely, and gently release all that no longer serves me. 

I am in total balance and living in the flow of the universe. 

I make a wonderful living doing only things I absolutely love. 

I know I live an abundant magical life. 

The universe guides me, protects me, and goes before me preparing my way. 

I love and accept myself exactly as I am. 

I have a wonderful memory, I remember all I need and want to know. 

I am an excellent  listener. 

I receive clear, loving, and gentle messages from the universe. 

All of my relationships are full of love, joy, peace, and consciousness. 

I easily heal myself and others. 

I eat and crave only foods that nourish me deeply and wholly. 

I am full of confidence and courage. 

I trust in the universe. 

I know all of my thoughts, my words, and my actions all come from my inner place of knowing. 

AND MY VERY FAVORITE...

I am on a magical transformational journey to the next dimension of pure unconditional love with compassion for all beings. 

My last day in Cusco...

I love Cusco!  I love Peru! This is the only place I've ever been where they start every day with fireworks. Every day. To scare away evil spirits. Yep. I love it. 

And one of the only places you will never find toilet paper in any public bathroom. Yet toilet paper, is most likely the only disposable paper product you will find anywhere and you use it for everything. Everything.  

Ok, so occasionally at a restaurant you will find a one-ply square of tissue thin paper served as a napkin...that will remind you of, yes, toilet paper. 

This is a magical place. A cosmic energy vortex where anything can and will happen. When you are here, you understand why people are drawn here and have been for eons. People come for a visit and never leave. I get it. Life is simple here. And life is beautiful. 

I know, I know...where have I been??? I went into yoga teacher training and fell off the blog-faced world.   Well, I have been studying and working with medicine women, taking Zen Shiatsu courses, Reiki I class, Reiki 2 class, and of course making magic wands. (Pictures to come as I finish my first 8 highly-charged creations.) 

Quite frankly, I have been too busy to journal about allll the magic and write a blog. 

But alas, today is my last day here and I find myself being drawn back into a completely different world. Launch "preparation for re-entry" sequence. 

As I pack up my things (my how they have multiplied in almost four months)...I am excited and sad all at the same time. Many new adventures await me in other lands, but a piece of my heart will always remain here in Cusco. 

Until next time....

Namaste 

Yoga!

Just before heading to Puno, I decided to enroll in yoga teacher training/certification here in Cusco. The past month has been filled with an intense mixture of Ashtanga-Vinyasa Asanas, Pranayamas (Breathing techniques), Mantras, yoga philosophy, and everything in between.  It was absolutely fabulous!  There is something about studying all the cool stuff you already do and think about that makes you feel like you are totally on the right path. My yoga has improved to a point where I feel excellent about my ability as a student and now, a certified instructor. I passed my exams on Saturday and right now I am preparing to teach my first official class. Lookout Cusquenos. 

There is not a permanent teaching position open right now at the school, so I have decided to do some more traveling. My first stop? Back to the jungle of course! This time I will be visiting a different part of the jungle instead of going back to Iquitos. I am not exactly sure where,  but I have no doubt the universe will guide me to the perfect place.... Until then...

Pachamama ...

Lake Titicaca 

Today I climbed to Pachamama. The hardest part by far was making my way through the twisting and turning paths of the pueblo. You are basically snaking around everyone's homes and gardens but there are many turns and they all look the same. 

Needless to say, I was super proud of my navigational skills when I literally walked straight to town. From the Plaza, a stone path goes up and up and up through several stone "arcos" and eventually up to a point where you turn left to go to Pachatata or to the right to Pachamama. 

It took me about an hour to get up here and the early hour is totally worth it. I have the whole place to myself. From several viewpoints up here you cannot see any signs of mankind. On one side is the village and I see terraces for farming in several directions. But mostly I see miles and miles of the highest elevation lake in the world, uninhabited islands, and mountains. Mountains everywhere in the distance, 360 degrees. Some are in Peru, some belong to Bolivia. Some are roundish and smooth looking, many are jagged and pointy. Then, there are the Apus. The mountain spirits... The highest snow covered peaks are the Apus, and they are just as sacred and majestic as you would think them to be. 

This place is a vortex of energy. People have been coming up here for ceremony for eons. I see why. 

I can feel it. 

Lake Titicaca

Yesterday I took a bus to Puno, home to the highest lake in the world... Lake Titicaca. I spent the night in town and then took a small boat to several islands. The first island I visited is a floating island. They take the local reeds that grow in shallow water and tie them all together to form giant islands !  Seriously!  And lots of people live on these islands year round.  We got to see exactly how they made the islands and how they live.  It is absolutely astounding.

Then I got back on the boat and they dropped me off at Amantani island where this wonderfully sweet woman, Flora, was waiting for me. We walked to her house which was about a thirty or so minute walk up and down little paths, around rock walls, through garden plots, and neighboring villas. Me... With a giant backpack, a little backpack on the front, and a waist pack.  Why was my load so big and heavy, you ask? Because I was afraid there wouldn't be enough water...on an ISLAND...so I hauled almost 5 liters of water...bananas, oranges,  a kilo of sugar, and stupidly, a kilo of quinoa (I didn't know they grew it here! It was supposed to be a nice gift.)Hmmm. 

So what was for lunch? She made me delicious quinoa soup. She had actually grown the quinoa herself. Oh well. You can never have too much quinoa. 

My Spanish is improving and we can communicate fairly well. However, sometimes we have conversations that I have no idea what we are talking about. And the niños! I couldn't understand why I did not have a clue as to what they were saying but later learned that they mostly speak Quechua mixed with a little Spanish. That was a relief actually. I was thinking I just didn't speak child. 

In the afternoon, I rejoined a few of the other people that came over on the boat with me and we hiked up to Pachatata (The male energy ceremonial place at the top of one of the two mountains on the island.  The other is Pachamama...mother earth).  

I didn't realize how cold and windy it would be at the top. Luckily for me the pathway was filled with local women selling the hats, gloves, and sweaters they make with the local alpaca and wool. I broke down and bought a hat from the woman at the very top...she lugged all her wares alllllll the way up to the top of a very steep mountain!  And now I get to look cool just like the locals. 

Ahhhh...la comida de Peru!

Today, Barb and I decided to venture out on the town.  We walked all over the streets, the Plaza de Armas, and everywhere in between. We found ourselves outside of the touristy area when it was time for lunch.  We asked a local for a good recommendation and they pointed to a blue door. We went inside and the place was absolutely filled with people.  There was even a waiting list. We thought this was a good sign and Barb managed to get us on the list. 

Well. Boy, we were in for a local treat indeed. There was a show getting ready to start just as we sat down. Of course we didn't understand anything they were doing but that wasn't the main attraction anyway. 

The menu was by far the most interesting thing going on in there (see photo).  Of course by now, in Peru as a vegetarian I am in complete acceptance of the fact that my meal in a restaurant may be limited to the choice of papas fritas or maybe just papas... (French fries or boiled potatoes).  But this menu was mind boggling. I'm just happy they had one in English. There is no telling what I might have ended up with. Aaaahhhh... La comida en Peru es muy interesante!

"Ceremony of Sound"

I was honored to be a part of a "Ceremony of Sounds" in the Macchu Picchu pueblo one afternoon. A local shaman, Hebert Lira, performed a beautiful ceremony using every kind of instrument imaginable. Drums, rattles, bells, flutes, and the most powerful voice you have ever heard. 

It was a healing ceremony and each of us were blessed with Agua de Florida and a special blessing. I was sitting directly in front of Hebert and the sounds were so powerful and loud my entire body was vibrating. I am pretty sure I left the planet yet again!

After the ceremony it was time to board the train back to Ollyantaytambo.  On the train, we were entertained by Inka "clowns" (see photo). If you are one of those people with the very strange phobia of clowns, stay away from these. They are particularly creepy. 

IntiPunku

The second day in Macchu Picchu began with a hike to IntiPunku otherwise known as the sungate. This is essentially the last segment of the Inka trail and was only several miles long in one direction.  It is a beautifully maintained trail, paved with large stones and mostly 4 or 5 ' wide. 

About halfway up we stopped to listen to a local guide talk about a flower that was growing on the side of the trail. It was the most beautiful wild orchid I have ever seen.  

Then I saw her. A sweet American woman stopping to rest at the same place in the trail. I asked her where she was from and she said Tennessee, near Nashville. I laughed and told her I knew the area well, as I had gone to college and boarding school near there. As it turns out her son had attended the same (very small) boarding school as I had graduated from.  

He had been killed five years ago in a tragic car accident. She was traveling to Macchu Picchu with her son's friend because it was on his list of places he wanted to go.  I was so filled with grief and happiness for her all at the same time. I felt her deep sadness.  This trip for her was such a huge release as well as a renewal.  Anita, wherever you are, I applaud you and send you healing,  loving energy!

Full Moon in Macchu Picchu

 There are not enough words to describe the energy in this amazing place. Although I only spent two days in this ancient city, I somehow felt as though I had always been here. All I can say is, this is place worth the effort to come and experience for yourself. This energy is real. Are there 426 places to buy hats, bags, and "Macchu Picchu" shot glasses? Well of course there are. But there is also something very real here as well. 

After a thrilling walk all through every sacred nook and cranny of the ruins of Macchu Picchu, we enjoyed another lovely meal of "veggie pizza" at the Inka Wasi restaurant.

 If you are just now joining me, you will not get the humor of the term "veggie pizza" which translates to, no Spanish necessary, round white bread with cheese. The best part about dinner in this highly-decorated restaurant was the amazingly beautiful and slightly comical art (think Jesus at the last supper with his 14, yes... fourteen friends...with two fingers forming a peace sign) and all the Inkan rulers plastered all over the walls.  And last but certainly not least.... A great band with almost enough room to dance to...

After dinner a few of us walked up to the thermal hot baths (the town IS called Aguas Caliente after all...) and had a healing ceremony under the light of the full moon. Wow was that powerful. Floating around, head mostly submerged, in mineral rich warm water (sure it smells like sulphur...what do you want, flowers?) while bells are continuously ringing under the water.... 

Yep, I am pretty sure I left the planet for a while. 

Ceremony with the Q'ero Indians

This evening I was honored to be a part of a  "despacho" ceremony with two Q'ero Indians. It lasted about two hours and involved many blessings to "Pachamama" (Mother Earth) using coca leaves, "agua de florida", and lots of little packages of local grains, seeds, and various other accoutrements. After all the goodies were put into a beautiful little bundle and wrapped in white paper and a "mesa" cloth, we were each blessed again by the Q'ero elders. It was a powerful  ceremony that I will not soon forget. I am so grateful to be surrounded by this amazing healing energy. 

Heading to Cusco...

After a very interesting evening in Iquitos, eating Peruvian vegetarian "pizza" we are leaving on the first flight out to the Sacred Valley.   

Once again I am reminded that "city folk" in Peru seem to have an aversion to vegetables. One vegetarian pizza had mushrooms and tomatoes (neither of which are officially vegetables) and the other had a few tomato slices and basil. However, if you are a fan of lots of cheese and white flour, pizza is the dish for you here. 

Iquitos is quite the hustling-bustling little town. The two lane streets are filled with four lanes worth of cars, trucks, and an overwhelming number of "mototaxi's". These are motorcycles that have a 2-3 seat, covered "carriage" on them. They seem efficient enough but apparently there is quite a few accidents involving these "vehicles" due to the fact that other traffic doesn't really acknowledge their presence on the road. 

I have to say, I really really like the jungle. The diversity of flora and fauna alone is mind boggling. The hikes through the jungle have been one of my very favorite experiences. I think I will  come back here...my journey in these woods is far from over. 

Mud. Mud. Mud.

Ever had a mud bath?  Well, I had never even considered covering myself with gobs of river mud. Until today....

First, we took a boat ride down the Amazon river to find native pink dolphins. We found several pair and they played and dove in and out of the water all around us.  Some of them really were bright pink and others were dark grey. They seemed to really enjoy playing in the water and I was so happy we were able to see them. 

Then we continued on to a small island in the middle of the river. At first when we stepped out of the boat the ground was solid. As I moved closer to the other side I began to sink further and further until literally I was thigh-deep in the smoothest silkiest sloppety-slop mud you could ever imagine. It was a solid dark brown, the color of melted chocolate ice cream, and oozed between your fingers and toes with delightful satisfaction.  Several of us proceeded to strip down to our birthday suits and literally bury ourselves in mud. Seriously. I never thought in a MILLION  years I would find myself completely submerged in slimy mud from the amazon river and yet this has been one of the most exhilarating experiences yet.  And did I mention how smooth my skin feels?  Just like a baby's butt. Uh-huh. 

Yaguas Indians

We visited a native village living on the bank of a tributary of the Amazon.   Everyone seemed so happy.  All the children were playing in the center of the village...futbol (soccer), volleyball, and various other ball games. They brought all their "pets" to show us...baby parrots and three toed sloths. Those baby sloths were the cutest little things I have ever seen. When you hold them, they gently hug you and put their little heads on your shoulder!  We all fell in love with them and wanted to take them home with us. After careful consideration, we decided that with their special amazonian diet, they would be better off staying here with the Yaguas. 

We met the tribal chief and the elders. They played music in the ceremony lodge and we all danced together to raise the vibration which was actually caught on camera with  orbs of light all over the picture.  Absolutely fascinating! 

Then the chief showed us how they make a blow dart gun for hunting monkeys, birds, and other small animals for food. They let us shoot with them and aim at a target. I was two for two and I'm seriously considering a career change. 

At first I felt like such a tourist walking around this authentic village. However, after spending time with these delightful people, entertaining them with my gringo spanglish, I changed my outlook. They truly seemed to enjoy showing us their ways and customs. We bought arts and crafts from them which will help sustain them. They are proud of their heritage and I am honored to have spent some time with these sweet, loving people. 

Living it up in the Jungle...

Dancing in the jungle with my new palm-leaf tiara...

Day one. In the jungle.

July 15

This place is truly powerful. The peaceful occasional sound of light rain falling on a thatched roof, the earthy smells, a giant colorful parrot welcoming you off the boat from Iquitos, the incessant chirps and calls of foreign birds, frogs, crickets, and who only knows what.... This place is real. This is LIFE happening. in. the. jungle. Not just for the tourists, but every day goings-on whether there is a human around to hear it or not.  Oh... And one of the best parts...an awesome hammock on a little screened porch looking out onto the most lush greenery I have ever seen in my wildest dreams.  ever. 

We went for a boat ride to visit a nearby shaman. He performed a beautiful ceremony for each of us for healing and preparing. He sang enchanting "icaros" while performing his sacred medicine.  The ceremony included the use of Peruvian tobacco,  eucalyptus water, and a bunch of special leaves tied together so that they make a sound almost like a rattle. I was in a far away place full of peace love and the ceremony completely rejuvenated my spirit. 

The food here has been the best so far in Peru.  Vegetarian fare in Lima pretty much meant you were eating a salad (although the salads are amazing) and papas fritas. Yep... the universal favorite, french fries.   Although there do not seem to be too many vegetarian Peruvians.... the plantains, yucca  (manioc root), palm, beans, rice, potatoes, and various indigenous fruits and vegetables have been absolutely spectacular here in the jungle. I am in heaven. 

Headed to the jungle...

(No wifi for at least a week -July 14)

Last day in Lima... Staying near the airport to be ready for a 4am wake up call to catch an early flight to Iquitos.   

The only positive thing I can say about the Vista del Sol hotel is that there is a switch on the wall that instantly pipes vey loud mariachi style music into the room. Yep. That's a fact folks. 

Lima Centro!

 Wow! What an awesome first day in Peru! Lots of "personajes" (characters) including my new amigos here...

And the streets are perfectly safe with my other new amigos...Limas finest...super friendly yet not too smiley la policia....

Dinner was served on my own little grill... providing not only a delicious array of grilled veggies, but also my own heater in this chilly Peruvian winter! Muy  bien!

Miraflores!

How do you know you are in a foreign country when you wake up in the morning???? Horns! Lots and lots of horn honking. Americans just do not use the car horn the same. Peru is no exception. The traffic noises, which literally continue nonstop day and night, was my first indication that I was not only NOT in Kansas anymore...I am not anywhere near Kansas, or Georgia, or even that half of the planet.

I believe the myriad of honks, beeps, and frequent siren bursts is viewed only as a way of communicating while driving...the "voice" of the blinkers, if you will. It doesn't seem to be an explicative as it does in the states. Also, I am quite sure it has to do with the...umm......12 million(!!!) or so people in this city!
The taxi ride from the Lima airport to Miraflores was an exhilarating ride.. weaving in and out of lanes just barely escaping the kiss of another bumper mere millimeters away...

The best part was Cesar the taxi driver. I spoke Spanish, or at least MY version of Spanish the entire 45 minutes we were navigating the maze that is Lima, Peru. He was great! He even kept his giggling to a minimum as I mangled my way through my first conversation completely in espanol. Love it!!!
So... Buenas Dias! for now...

Bon Voyage!

Well, here I am, at the airport....on my way to Peru!
It seems like just yesterday this day was months and months away.

Thank you all, dear friends and family, for all the love support I have received! What an amazing experience! I have had actually several wonderful "send-off" gatherings and all I can say is, I truly feel loved. I am so grateful.
Bon Voyage!

Thank you Young Dancer Joey

To young Dancer Joey
Thank you for your Spirit
for not being afraid to dance like you're on fire
for your wild enthusiasm
while Pitbull makes his many demands
Thank you for coming anyway, being young and male
and the only one of each in the room.
For yours Is The Generation
less fearful than ours
you are the Ones
we have been
waiting
on

Why Peru?

Why Peru?
Well, first of all, the answer is always magic.
I have no other response other than that is where the universe led me.  I have realized that life can be a grand experiment in trying things out.  We have infinite possibilities.  Our ego will tell us things are good or bad.  There only is.  So even if things seem "bad," the KNOWING that we can affirm something positive and CHOOSE to believe it is so…. well, it's magic.  And it works. 

Why Peru?  For all I know this path started out "way back when" where at one time in my life I had a fairly good understanding of the Spanish language thanks to a Peruvian Spanish Teacher.  That truly seems like eons ago. However, I worry not.  I am choosing a new experiment.  I think for now I will simply call it "immersion"…  For I know as much about the journey as you do.  Every mysterious moment is a gift.  This experiment is about releasing fear.  Being open to new adventure.  Always looking for the magic.  

However, by consciously releasing fear, we leave a larger and larger space inside.  I believe it is important for us to set our intentions by consciously deciding and affirming what we are bringing in to replace the fear.  Something will fill the space.
 The true gift is that it is also easier.  When we begin to automatically trust the inner voice inside, there is no debate as to what the "right" answer is.  It just is.  Spirit is INSIDE US ALL.  We just have to be quiet and listen for the messages. It is freedom.


I completely trust that I will be gracefully swept along this magical path, dancing and laughing all the way.  
I am grateful to have the opportunity to share this with you.  
Namaste


Affirmations of the day: 
I am so happy and grateful that I easily put my trust in the universe. and listen.
I am so happy and grateful that I am multilingual.  Hey, why not?

What is Magic?

Most of you that know me, probably hear me talk about magic, affirmations, and meditation a lot.   Why magic?  Well, first of all, who doesn't want to believe in magic?

I have a different relationship with "positive affirmations" than I once did.  I am so grateful that I not only grew up with a family full of wise women, but I also was gifted life-changing books and gifts written by spiritual teachers and healers throughout my life.  In Louise Hay's "You Can Heal Your Life," she suggests affirmations to heal nearly every malady known to humans.  I thought I understood the concept.
Yet it is only now, decades after reading that book for the first time, that I truly recognize how we create every moment in our lives.  We have the fundamental power to positively or negatively affect our lives in each of these moments.

I too was once a messed up girl who honestly thought the world was out to get me.  I now have a collection of positive affirmations that has led me on a path that is more magical than I ever dreamed was possible.  And meditation?  Well, it has done nothing less than alter my life profoundly.

I am so happy and grateful I am able to share this amazing journey with you through my blog, if you choose to come with me.  I have converted my www.cschambers.com website to a blog…
For, in the wee hours early this morning, I booked my flight to Peru for July 11 - October 20.

One of my most favorite affirmations that I have had for as long as I can remember is "I am so happy and grateful I am traveling to wonderfully wild places".

Experiencing my affirmations turn to reality is nothing less than magic.
And that my dear friends, is precisely what it is.   Magic.




If you would like to follow along, go to www.cschambers.com and put your email address in the box at the right.  If not, hasta luego tiene un buen verano.  

To be continued...

Mountains with Thunder

The scene before my very eyes is too powerful to photograph.  The picture would be flat, without life.
This happening is ALIVE.  It is a moment in time that is unable to be captured.  It is spirit… spontaneity and continuous change….for every moment is full of the arousal of the senses.
This ALIVENESS has the capacity to capture us…change us…  "BE HERE NOW! the mountains and the thunder bellow to me.  Share what we have to offer… Share in our gifts.  Let us MOVE you!"

The thunderheads continue to roll in and the wispy clouds rise up from the valley floor in reverence to the sky.  The blue grey mountains ascend above the layer of clouds.  I see them gently spiraling north in their pattern of rising steadily and then returning to the earth.  The valley before me is a thousand shades of green as Spring's palette is vast and infinite.

I can hear you growing and stretching upward with all the rain that has soaked the bones.  The rain subsides momentarily.... the constant dripping from the newly born leaves fills my ears with an ancient rhythm.  I hear crow calling me off in the distance far, far away.  "I am here! I am here!"

The thunder is almost continuous now with the occasional flash of lightening to make sure we are all paying attention.  The clouds all in a line just below the mountain ridge seem to change direction and now gently float south and rise to new levels.  Many calls from feathered ones surround the place where I sit.

The thunder gets louder.  It shakes the ground mightily with its majestic roar.  A splintering bolt of pure light energy comes hurling out of the billowing mass right in front of me and yells "RIGHT HERE!" This is where… I.. am...."  

Seemingly out of nowhere, the void is filled….the clouds move in and make the air thick.  I can smell them strongly... for these clouds hold every scent in the universe …every flower, every animal, every ray of sunlight, every bit of darkness….
And just like that…there are no mountains, or trees, or birds or anything.  I am in the midst of the clouds, enveloped by elemental energy.  It is nothing but a thousand shades of white and grey, light and dark.
The rains return in a hurry.
It is pure magic.



Affirmation of the day: I am so happy and grateful to feel so connected to the universe.  

Oh, Spring!

I got to this moment right here.  I couldn't take it any longer.  I flung down my backpack, pulled out my notebook and pen and began a story.  Tears stream down my cheeks as I write the words. The wonder and amazement of it all……It simply feels like magic.  That is exactly what it is and nothing less.

Dwarf Iris

…..

The woods are different now.  In Spring, every day in the woods is completely different from the next…. blooming, unfurling, opening, regenerating, reproducing…
It is absolutely mind boggling.… every moment is ...changing …evolving. from. one. moment. to. the. next….
It happens right before our very eyes.  It is the miracle of life itself.
Spring is the time of our rebirth, too.  It is exactly what we have been waiting for.
These are exciting times.  We must sow our seeds with intention.

In the woods I feel aliveness.  I am aliveness.  I feel the connection to all that is.  I lay completely still on the ground with all the aliveness all around me.
I am the clouds sliding by and the warm sun on my skin…  the gentle breeze blowing my hair around in circles…..the smell of the warm leaves and damp earth…. the rustling of leaves… a cricket and then a squirrel calling back.
This is it!  To be totally alive and KNOW you are a part of this.  You and I.  This is the magic in every moment.
….

Not too long ago, my trail was clear and open…views long and wide.  I now have a deep tunnel of green that embraces me fully…. my arms and legs...caressing me like long lost souls…they call to each other.  And to me.

The Blackberry brambles stretch daintily into my path. Grabbing my sleeves and pant legs… begging me to stay… lulling me into a false safety by their pretty white flowers and sweet scent of honey.
I must move on… see what else has changed since yesterday!
…A new Trillium I have not ever seen in that spot before appeared before my very eyes.  She nods shyly in the wind.  The Ferns are a thick green carpet on either side of me.  The warm sun makes them smell like sweet Hay.
A gentle breeze sends them all…. tall and tiny…into a fit of waving and dancing and laughing...gently calling my name.

Large White Trillium

…..

The shiny wild ginger leaves proudly show their heart to all that pass.   Red maple seedlings litter the ground like tiny flags. Wintergreen and Rattlesnake Weed bravely unfurl themselves upward toward the sky.  Dwarf Iris and Violets rise in a huge congregation…  Jack in the pulpit rises to the occasion.  He accidentally hides under Mayapple's friendly and extraordinary leaves.

The longer I sit here the more I belong here.


Affirmation of the day: I am so happy and grateful that I experience magic in every moment.

Gratitude for the Gift of Green...

I have received a very special gift from my husband.  I have been gifted the mindset of "greenness".  I thought I was "green" when I met him, but I soon learned that there was a lot more I could be doing.  I can remember a time when I thought because I recycled, composted, gardened, and I brought my own reusable bag to the grocery store I was eco-friendly.  

Ha! When I first met my husband, he was in the process of installing solar panels on the roof of the house…..By himself.  It was an amazing process to watch.  It takes rewiring the whole house and installing quite a few pieces of equipment to regulate the power coming in to the panels.  I learned a great deal about how it all works.  Now I cannot figure out why we don't see more solar panels on rooftops…they're awesome!

He was also in the process of building a clothes drying rack out of 2 x 4's.  I can honestly say I have not used the clothes dryer in the laundry room even once.  It would not occur to me to use it, as the clothes rack is a beautiful way to dry your clothes….the wrinkles fall right out.   Plus, clothes dryers use a gargantuan amount of electricity…more than the solar panels can handle.  I have not missed it.  It is really quite a meditative practice…the hanging of clothes on the line and then taking them off and folding them.  I have grown not only accustomed to it but I enjoy it.  I use it as an opportunity to practice being completely in the moment.

Another way I have "greened" my thinking is that I also drive a lot more consciously than I used to.  Not only do I enjoy the more peaceful method of driving I now employ, but I also know I am treating the planet with care by coasting downhill (or hyper-miling as some call it), setting the cruise control on 60mph, and just generally being intentional while I am driving.  It has made driving so much more peaceful no matter where I am.  It has become a great habit.  

My husband is very committed to this way of living and it reflects his core beliefs.  He absolutely refuses to have anything to do with a plastic bag.  If we end up shopping and for some (unusual) reason do not have a reusable bag, I have seen a cart full of groceries hauled out to the car Costco style… no bags.  I admire and respect this dedication to the planet.  He has inspired me.  I am proud to have my default attitude automatically think of the most efficient and "green" way to do something.  

I realize now that everything we do is simply habit.  We train ourselves to act based on the familiar and routine.  It doesn't take much effort to CHOOSE to think differently about our behavior.  

I choose to find new ways to be more efficient, and less dependent on the disposable items that have become so prevalent in our society.  

Setting intention really works.  I hardly ever forget my reusable shopping bags when I go to the grocery store!

Thank you, Drew.

Affirmation of the day: I am so happy and grateful my natural behavior is in balance and harmony with the earth.

Revisiting Balance.....

This is a print of the original drawing balance. She has been mounted on a painted wood panel  and bejeweled. 

$95

She can be viewed in the etsy store... click here. 

I'm Slow and I'm Proud...

Something that I have gratefully learned from my husband is the art of driving 60mph, calmly, and with intention. As someone that grew up driving in the crazy city of Atlanta, I always seemed to think the idea was to "Go with the flow" and drive just like everyone else. Cities such as Atlanta have a group mentality teeming with chaotic energy.  If you're not conscious about it, you might look down and be surprised to see your speedometer registering a high rate of speed without even realizing it.  I know this has happened to me on more than one occasion. 

When I met my husband he was the first person I had ever met that actually drove 55 or 60 mph ...on the interstate.... on purpose. 

Now of course he has friends that make fun of his pokey driving, but he has a wonderful explanation besides the fact it is usually the posted speed limit. ... it will seriously help your gas mileage and therefore is one of the best things you can do for the environment. 

However, the best reason is, IT IS SO MUCH LESS STRESSFUL.  When I found myself driving to the crazy city last Friday I realized I have not driven to Atlanta in quite a long time... in fact so long I couldn't even remember when the last time was. I set the cruise control at 60 and made my way south. I was so surprised by how calm I felt, driving 60 intentionally, and not "fighting" traffic but creating my own bubble of calm. Actually, it was the most serene I have ever felt driving in a city ....ever. 

So I ask you this...the next time you're driving on the highway or interstate do you think it's worth saving money, gas, as well as the planet AND your sanity, to get there five minutes later? If you don't do this already, try it, you just might be surprised.





Today's Affirmation:  "I am so happy and grateful that calmness is my natural state.

Ancient Spirit Stick

***SOLD***

 The Ancient Spirit Stick is a unique and powerful wand. She shows us that by honoring our Earth Mother, we can harvest all the blessings we send out to her. Embracing gratitude in our very presence can transform our world. 

This special wand measures approximately 16" long. She is adorned with three clear quartz crystal points, unakite, agate, shells, shell beads, tigers eye, thread/cord, beads, an antique chinese coin, vine wire, and a sharks tooth. She is imbued with magic and ready to help you manifest all of your wildest dreams! Instructions enclosed in package. See bottom of page for information about qualities of some of the gemstones.

The following gemstone information has been taken from "The Crystal Bible: A definitive Guide to Crystals" by Judy Hall

QUARTZ is the most powerful healing and energy amplifier on the planet. It stimulates the immune system and brings the body back in to balance. Quartz also raises energy to the highest possible level.

AGATE is a grounding stone, bringing about an emotional, physical, and intellectual balance. It also aids in centering and stabilizing physical energy. Psychologically, Agate gently facilitates acceptance of one’s self. This builds self-confidence and aids self-analysis and perception of hidden circumstances, bringing to your attention anything that is interfering with your well-being.

TIGER'S EYE combines the earth energy with the energies of the sun to create a high vibrational state and enhances psychic abilities. This stone assists in accomplishing goals, recognizing inner resources and promoting clarity of intention. It grounds and facilitates manifestation of the will.

Six million and counting...



Lovely park in the center of Buckhead



      For the better part of the last eight years, I have spent my life in a small country town.  It was my choice, my dream in fact, to be in rural Georgia and after spending the past week back in my childhood city of Atlanta; I realize now why I make that choice.  Besides obvious reasons like the beauty of silence, as well as the sounds of nature, darkness…watching the moon rise and actually seeing stars in the sky, vast forests where the trees do not have to push their roots up through concrete, breathing in deeply and experiencing clean, fresh air…and don’t even get me started about city water…Gag.... the most profound difference is the energy.  I always notice the intensity that seems to come over me as I travel down the highway from the country four-lane into the throbbing, frenetic 14 lanes of I-75, and it is real.  It is a frantic and chaotic energy that makes me scrunch my shoulders up without even realizing I am doing it.  The city with its now six MILLION inhabitants (that’s right 6,000.000!)  is overflowing with an anxious energy that reaches out its tentacles and sucks you into the vortex. 

I have been staying here, without a vehicle, and have done all the things I needed to do including grocery shopping, on foot.  It has been an enlightening experience and I am grateful to be in a place that has so much to offer in a five-mile radius.  I have spent the last few days walking up and down the heart of this city and have passed many people along the way.  Everyone is in such a huge hurry.  Not just the people in the cars inevitably stacked up at the numerous traffic lights, but even the pedestrians.  The sidewalks are filled with people that appear to have some giant invisible beast in hot pursuit.  They don’t look up, they don’t make eye contact, and they certainly don’t talk to you.  Well, being the instigator of well, I don’t really know what, I have been intentionally talking to everyone I see.  Smiling as big as I can, saying, “Hello, what a beautiful spring-like day we have today!” and other such small talk.  I am pretty sure they think I am either crazy, or “she’s not from around here…” ha! I am from here.  I am from exactly here!” Although I might also be crazy because I do in fact feel like I am from another planet. 

This brings me to another difference between overcrowded cities and where I live.  It is most definitely the people.  You see, I live in one of the most beautiful places on earth.  The mountains, the rivers, the forests, the expansive sky full of infinite possibility….these gifts are all so special, so sacred.  The people that live here know it.  Even if they grew up in a place like this, they still know, deep within themselves, that they are connected to it.  There is something so divine in this land that goes beyond physical beauty.  It is a peace that resides in the soul that can be called upon in the blink of an eye. 

I understand the importance of cities and that they exist for a reason.  They just seem to grow so BIG...and so BUSY.  Why is everyone in such a dang hurry? You just don't see too many "sleepy" cities.  My question is, do you think it is too late for humans?  Are we so far down the rabbit hole there is no turning back?  Although sometimes I get discouraged when I see how we treat the earth and the creatures living on it, I do not believe this to be true.  I believe we can all… together, create the loving, peaceful, abundant world we all dream of living in.  Gandhi knew.  He said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world”.  What do you think would happen if we ALL did that?

The Changing of Time...

The time changed last Saturday.  Even though the “time change” is a manual and physical changing of time, it still affects us on a deep level.  Our concept of daytime and nighttime as well as sunrise and sunset completely change in one single moment.  Shifting time is where all the hands wind down for a split second- only to be thrust forward or backward on the wheel of life.  It goes against everything in the natural world.  No wonder it is so discombobulating. 

I am not sure about everyone else, but I get thrown out of whack for a day or two every time it happens…At least in the world where clock time is important. 

I saw this picture and it made me laugh.  I believe Daylight Savings Time is generally a good thing because it reduces the amount of electricity being used in most geographic locations.  Gone are the days where we rise with the sun and retire with the moon.  Now digital displays tell us what to do.  Hmmm.

The Emotion Spirit Stick

 The Emotion Spirit Stick shows us the importance of honoring our emotions and feelings while observing them from our inner spirit instead of our mind (ego).  When I first saw this beautiful piece of wood in the forest, I gasped.  She seemed to glow from within.  I felt a connection with her instantly.  She tells an ancient story. Gather round and open your ears as well as your mind and heart. 
This special and powerful wand measures approximately 19" long. She is adorned with beads, glass baubles, hemp, yarn, shell, quartz, agate, and adventurine gemstones, and a vintage mother of pearl gold cufflink. She is imbued with magic and ready to help manifest the wildest of dreams! Instructions enclosed in package.

$79

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