Tag: United States

Daily OM for June 4th – Prayer and Meditation

Prayer and Meditation
Asking and Receiving

by Madisyn Taylor

 

Meditation and prayer can offer us different experiences and both can be powerful tools.

Prayer and meditation are similar practices in that they both offer us a connection to the divine, but they also differ from one another in significant ways. Put simply, prayer is when we ask the universe for something, and meditation is when we listen. When we pray, we use language to express our innermost thoughts and feelings to a higher power. Sometimes, we plumb the depths within ourselves and allow whatever comes to the surface to flow out in our prayer. At other times, we pray words that were written by someone else but that express what we want to say. Prayer is reaching out to the universe with questions, pleas for help, gratitude, and praise.

Meditation, on the other hand, has a silent quality that honors the art of receptivity. When we meditate, we cease movement and allow the activity of our minds and hearts to go on without us in a sense. Eventually, we fall into a deep silence, a place that underlies all the noise and fray of daily human existence. In this place, it becomes possible for us to hear the universe as it speaks for itself, responds to our questions, or sits with us in its silent way.

Both prayer and meditation are indispensable tools for navigating our relationship with the universe and with ourselves. They are also natural complements to one another, and one makes way for the other just as the crest of a wave gives way to its hollow. If we tend to do only one or the other, prayer or meditation, we may find that we are out of balance, and we might benefit from exploring the missing form of communication. There are times when we need to reach out and express ourselves, fully exorcising our insides, and times when we are empty, ready to rest in quiet receiving. When we allow ourselves to do both, we begin to have a true conversation with the universe.

Daily OM

 

Daily Feng Shui Tip for Monday, June 4th

Is it a coincidence that ‘Audacity to Hope Day’ falls on the same date as ‘Old Maid’s Day?’ In any case, there’s nothing audacious about hoping to find the perfect partner who brings joy to your life. In fact, Feng Shui says go ahead and hope away, especially if you take an empowering step towards engaging the mate of your dreams. This philosophy says that single women looking to land a partner should affix two pink peonies (or an image of peonies) directly outside and to the left (as you’re looking in) of your bedroom door. Seal the deal by saying the secret ‘Six True Words’ mantra of ‘Om Mani Padme Hum’ nine times in succession. Do you believe? I do!

By Ellen Whitehurst for Astrology.com

Feng Shui Tip for June 3rd – “National Repeat drry

What’s that you say? Oh, it’s ‘National Repeat Day,’ a perfect time to repeat some sacred words that can bring blessings, health, and abundance into our lives! For the next nine days repeat (either silently or aloud) this affirmation three times upon awakening, three times at midday, and thrice before slipping into nightly slumber. Repetition is the name of the energy associated with this day, so let’s use that for all it’s worth. ‘My good is a perfect and permanent idea in Divine Mind, and must manifest for there is nothing to prevent.’ Do I have to say that again? Go ahead and repeat yourself today. You’ll be happy you did!

By Ellen Whitehurst for Astrology.com

Before We Get Started…..A Question For You???

I have a question(s) I would like for you to think about. Then I would like your opinions, come on now, don’t be shy!

The question: What is your opinion on Reincarnation? How does it happen? Where does it happen? Do we have a place we stay after death waiting to reincarnate? Do you have an opinion on how many lives we are allowed to live? Do we obtain perfection then move onto a higher plane? Or do we stay here, reincarnating forever?

I would like a discussion. This should be pretty interesting if we get quite a few opinions on this topic. There are no wrong answers on these questions. So please, I would love to hear your opinion on this topic!

Thank you!

 

A Celtic Blessing To All My Dear Friends, Blessed Be!

Celtic & British Isles Graphics
May love and laughter light your days,
and warm your heart and home.
May good and faithful friends be yours,
wherever you may roam.
May peace and plenty bless your world
with joy that long endures.
May all life’s passing seasons
bring the best to you and yours!

 

Peace to you and yours, all your days long,

Lady A

Magickal Graphics

Clear Vision Tonic

This is a valuable tonic for tired eyes and blurry vision.

2   tablespoons fennel seeds
2   tablespoons eyebright
2   tablespoons bilberry powder
2   tablespoons gotu kola leaves, optional

Simmer in 2 cups of water for 15 minutes. Strain and drink half a cup daily. Two tablespoons of gotu kola leaves may be steeped for 10 minutes after the tonic has been simmered to increase circulation from the carotids.

‘THINK on THESE THINGS’ for June 1

‘THINK on THESE THINGS’
By Joyce Sequichie Hifler

There is much to be said of small things. Even in this age of emphasis on bigness, we must realize that bigness is only a mass of small things. An idea is a small thing. With it we can change our world. We can take a tiny seed and give it careful attention and reap a hundred fold. We can take a little idea and give it our attention and build it into a fortune.

A smile is a small thing. Smile once at someone in passing and three will return the smile. Smiling is so contagious that it moves from person to person until a hundred smiling faces are the result of one.

A thought is a small thing. One thought inspires another and another until a mental image is formed. From that mental image blueprints are drawn. And from those blueprints worlds are built.

Here is a small thing. One tiny glimmer of hope can lift us out of the deepest pit of darkness. One whisper of encouragement will help us to know that as long as there’s hope there is an excellent chance.

A wish is a small thing. Like a little prayer, it climbs the steps to an idea that makes a smile and gives us hope to make our wishes come true. For in small things are all great things formed, in little beginnings the possibilities of great events.

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Available online! ‘Cherokee Feast of Days’
By Joyce Sequichie Hifler.

Visit her web site to purchase the wonderful books by Joyce as gifts for yourself or for loved ones……and also for those who don’t have access to the Internet: http://www.hifler.com
Click Here to Buy her books at Amazon.com

Elder’s Meditation of the Day
By White Bison, Inc., an American Indian-owned nonprofit organization. Order their many products from their web site: http://www.whitebison.org

 
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Elder’s Meditation of the Day June 1

Elder’s Meditation of the Day June 1

“You have to have a lot of patience to hear those old people talk, because when they talk, they talk about motivation, the feeling, the unsound that is around the universe. They explain everything to one understanding. They bring it all together, and when they finish, just one word comes out. Just one word. They might talk all day, and just one word comes out.”

–Wallace Black Elk, LAKOTA

We need to be careful about judging the old ones when we talk. At first they may not make sense to us. Maybe we’ll say they’re old fashioned and don’t understand. But the old ones do understand! When they speak, listen very carefully. Often it will take weeks or maybe even years before we understand what they are really saying. This is the way of Wisdom. We need to listen, listen, listen.

Great Spirit, today, open my ears so I can hear the Elders.

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First Lady Grows a Book

by Eric Steinman

Eleanor Roosevelt achieved the last vegetable garden planted at the White House back in the early 1940s. For approximately 65 years the White House lawn (which technically is considered a national park) was reserved for press conferences, Easter egg hunts, and photo ops. Nary a vegetable was grown for generations. First lady Michelle Obama sought to change all of that, while simultaneously addressing the nation’s need to rethink health and nutrition. So, she did the obvious thing and planted an organic garden (or more accurately, had it planted) on the White House lawn a few years back.

The yield was impressive, with tons of organic veggies, honey, etc, and the reception was largely positive (excepting a few naysayers who feel the First Lady is trying to impose a “nanny state” where nutrition is dictated from up high). Now, after two harvests comes the definitive, White House-approved book to go with the garden. The fittingly titled American Grown is a look at rebuilding the tradition of the White House garden, while taking a concerted look back at the history of the American garden (it wasn’t so long ago that nearly everyone that could, had their own backyard garden).

The First Lady has made some noise in the past, and ruffled some feathers, with her dedication to reframing how Americans, particularly American families, consider health and nutrition. For her, the journey seems like it was informed by personal experience, as she told NPR earlier this week:

“Obama says her path to becoming a health advocate was a personal journey. ‘Before coming to the White House, I was a busy working mother. My husband was a U.S. senator and was often not home. We found ourselves eating out more than we should, packing on the sugary drinks … the habits that you fall into just trying to get through the day. And our pediatrician kind of pulled me aside and said, ‘You might want to look at your children’s diet.’ ‘”

Are you inspired by the First Lady’s moves towards a new era in gardening, or do you see it as just a cynical undermining of personal choice? Do you have a garden and if so, has it changed the way you and your family eat? Whether or not you want to buy the book, is there any reason not to be in support of the mission of bringing backyard gardening back into the mainstream?

Daily Chinese Horoscopes for May 31st

Rabbit

You will likely be the centre of attention amid a large group of people today. You may be tempted to blow your own horn just a little too much. A true leader does not have to broadcast their presence, they simply inspire followers. You will find that if you are more subtle today, you’ll be more effective.

Dragon

You have powerful insights, vivid dreams, and flashes of intuition today that can powerfully enhance your life. You are about to undergo some changes in your love life, which will add some sparkle to your eyes, and some spring to your footsteps.

Snake

It will be an unusual day with many surprises, especially where it comes to friends, companions and neighbors. You may have an opportunity to make a huge impact on your neighborhood or community with the help of those you are closest to.

Horse

You will find yourself in a new career position as a result of some action or project you are undertaking. Don’t be afraid to pitch your wild and dramatic ideas, that’s what can get you noticed right now. You are heading off to do corporate battle.

Sheep

Your energy shoots way up and you have the ability to make terrific strides today. You could be looking into classes, seminars or online courses, and a life-changing trip could be on the horizon. Plan carefully, while it will be a great experience there are likely to be great changes.

Monkey

Financial benefits and good intuition combine today to bring you into a much more positive frame of mind. You’ll be something of a magnet for opportunity so make sure you are able to act quickly to take advantage. You may decide to treat yourself to a spa treatment soon.

Rooster

There is opportunity for romance indicated in your chart today. If you are still single, you should get out and have some fun tonight. You could meet someone who shares your interests and passions, who is able to tweak your energy and creativity.

Dog

You are dreaming about the perfect career today, and it is possible that a dream opportunity could fall into your lap. Don’t be afraid to make a risky bet on yourself. If you don’t go after this chance you will never know if you really had a chance.

Pig

Fun, fun fun! That’s all that is on your mind right now, but the daily realities make keep intruding into your play plans. You may first have to set aside some time to organize your responsibilities so that you can get away to an entertainment or sporting event.

Rat

Home improvement classes or a long-planned home renovation are wonderful ways for you to enjoy yourself and build enjoyment and-or equity in your home. If you do not already own a home, you could find that it is easier than you think to get started down the path to home ownership.

Ox

The phone is going to be ringing off the hook today. The positive calls will come from friends and loved ones. Your social life is on the upswing. The challenging calls come from coworkers, employers or demanding customers making last-minute changes to everything.

Tiger

Things are looking a lot better financially today. You could receive that cheque that has been in the mail, or hear news about an upcoming raise, bonus or promotion. You may be taking an Internet course that could boost your earning potential.

Summer Vacation? Think Again

by Ashley Lauren

On my whiteboard in my classroom, there was a countdown until the end of the school year. I would joke with my students every day that teachers look forward to summer vacation as much as students do. Of course, I didn’t go into the fact that this is not necessarily because we’re looking forward to kicking back with a good book by the pool, but because summers off afford us more time to work our second, and sometimes third, jobs that we’ve been struggling to keep during the school year.

When the recession started, teaching was seen as a relatively stable job. That’s because it takes time for the economy to trickle down into schools — years, at least. It also means that schools are years behind any improvement in the economy, as well. Furthermore, once the financial strain hits school districts and contract negotiations start, these contracts are generally signed for three- or four-year periods during which time salary and benefits are not negotiable, even if the financial situation of the district improves.

The problem with teacher pay goes back well before that, though, according to the recent documentary “American Teacher.” In the mid-19th Century, there was a huge push to get women into the teaching field. Essentially, this was to save money, because at the time, women could be paid less. To this day, teaching is seen as “women’s work,” and, therefore, as second income for a family already making a decent living.

The truth of the matter is that many people choose teaching as a career because it is a wonderful one. You get to make a real and tangible difference in the lives of young people while making money and earning benefits. However, teachers’ salaries don’t always add up to what it takes to make ends meet in today’s society, and many teachers are either forced into second or third jobs, or decide to leave the profession entirely in favor of making more money.

Although I’ve tried to take summers off, I have never had a summer during which I was not doing some kind of work for extra money. When I first started teaching, I had moved away from my family and was living completely on my own. While I could make ends meet during the school year, I wasn’t saving anything at all, so if I had lost my job, I would have been in serious financial trouble. During those summers, since my school didn’t offer summer school, I decided to pack up my stuff and move back in with my mom so I could teach summer school closer to home. Since I moved back to the area for good, I have held many summer school jobs and, more recently, I’ve started writing during the summer to make extra money. My husband and mother are teachers, too, and both have also taken extra jobs every summer.

It’s not that we can’t make ends meet with our salary. We all teach in an area of the country where we are well compensated for our time. However, when there are always extra things that come up that cost us, if we don’t have those extra jobs, we cannot afford the extras. Furthermore, when you are as active as we are during the school year, it is a bit of a shock to your system to go from being so busy to having nothing at all to do. Part of the reason I take summer jobs is to keep myself occupied and keep my brain working during the summer.

Many people argue that teacher pay is so low because we only work nine months out of the year. This may be true, but, according to “American Teacher” and my personal experience, teachers do not work 40-hour work weeks. We’re in school that long, and then we bring home papers to grade and we plan lessons outside of that work week, making our work weeks easily 60-80 hours long. Since we’re not paid hourly, we make what we make no matter how much work we do outside of school. Also, there are plenty of teachers who would love year-round schooling — myself included — but it would cost already cash-strapped districts too much money to support being in school for the entire year.

The bottom line is that teaching is a profession and a career choice for many people, and there is nothing more important than teaching the youth of our country. It is sad that so many teachers have to take on extra work to make ends meet, and sad that, as a country, we cannot monetarily show teachers how important their work is.

Wikileaks’ Julian Assange Loses Extradition Appeal

by Kristina Chew

Wikileaks founder Julian Assange has lost his extradition appeal to the UK Supreme Court and could now face deportation to Sweden on allegations of sexual abuse brought by two Swedish women. His lawyers have been granted two additional weeks to submit fresh arguments as to whether they want to take issue with a central point of the judgement or to challenge the correct interpretation of international treaties — of, specifically, Article 31.3 of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties.

Assange, who has been on conditional bail and subjected to electronic monitoring, curfew and regular reports to local police, was not himself present for the decision due to being “stuck in traffic” according to his lawyer. Assange tweeted “We got the news not hoped for” after learning of the decision, says the BBC.

The 40-year-old Australian is charged with raping one woman and “sexually molesting and coercing” another in Stockholm and a nearby town in August 2010, when Wikileaks was in the midst of releasing a vast trove of classified United States military and diplomatic documents. The women, who were both Wikileaks volunteers, both made complaints that what had been consensual encounters became non-consensual. Assange was present for an initial interview with Swedish police than fled to London,prior to further questioning could be completed. Swedish authorities issued an arrest warrant for him, leading to him being briefly imprisoned in December 2010.

Assange has insisted on his innocence and his lawyers have spoken of a “honey trap” set for him, to prevent him from releasing more documents on Wikileaks. Assange has railed against Sweden as a “Saudi Arabia of feminism.” His legal battle has been going on for 18 months.

Britain’s highest court ruled by a vote of 5 to 2 to reject Assange’s appeal for extradition. The judgement hinged on whether the Swedish authority who issued the extradition order had the “judicial authority” to do so under the 2003 Extradition Act or whether that power was granted only to a judge or a court, says the BBC. Judge Nicholas Phillips, the president of the court, said that the decision “has not been easy to resolve” but was “lawfully made.” Assange’s lawyers are honing in on a “fine point of European law” in appealing the court’s ruling, namely that the judgement was “based on a point which was neither heard nor argued in the case,” says the BBC’s Dominic Casciani.

As the New York Times observes, this new delay in Assange’s extradition case pushes back “indefinitely” any attempts by the US to extradite Assange on charges for his role in Wikileaks’ release of classified US diplomatic and military documents.

 

The NYT says that there have been “frequent but unconfirmed reports … that a secret grand jury hearing in Alexandria, Va.” is preparing a US Justice Department bid to charge Assange with espionage. A 4-page Wikileaks statement, issued some 12 hours before the British Supreme Court’s ruling, has “depicted the decision in London as a prelude to a much grimmer challenge awaiting” Assange than the sex abuse charges in Sweden. If convicted of the latter, Swedish lawyers say that he faces a stiff fine or, at most, a brief prison term. If convicted of espionage in the US, he could face a life sentence in a maximum-security prison.

Bradley Manning, the US army private charged with leaking massive amount of classified government information to Wikileaks, is seeking dismissal of 10 of the 22 counts he faces. Manning, who is currently being held in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, contends that eight of the counts are unconstitutionally vague and that two others fail to state a prosecutable offense. He faces life in prison if convicted of aiding the enemy, the most serious charge. On June 6, a military judge will hear pre-trial arguments in Fort Meade, Md.; Manning faces a full court-martial in September. A Guardian interview with his aunt, who has been visiting him frequently, says that Manning is “keeping himself in a relatively positive state of mind, buoyed by trust in his lawyers and the support of close family and backers from around the world.”

Daily Feng Shui Tip for May 30 – “Water a Flower Day”

It’s ironic that today would be ‘Water a Flower Day’ since everybody knows that April showers bring May flowers. The floral most associated with this month is the regal magnolia, a tree native to the southern United States. It’s generally acknowledged that spring doesn’t begin until the magnolias bloom, and that splendid beauty and dignity accompanies every opening bud. This flower has long symbolized beauty, perseverance and nobility. Feng Shui has always believed that the white magnolia represents purity, and that a single magnolia tree planted in the front of the house will bring pure contentment and joy. A magnolia tree grown in the back garden is said to symbolize hidden jewels or the gradual accumulation of wealth. But the single greatest Feng Shui cure for using this beautiful flower is to bring a mate or partner who will also bring love everlasting. Placing a pair of magnolia flowers in the Romance area of the main floor or bedroom is believed to attract a mate for life, and a union that will forever bloom and grow. There’s hope worth watering!

By Ellen Whitehurst for Astrology.com

I Am A Witch

Witchy Comments

I Am A Witch
by Sandi Thomas

When I stand up for myself and my beliefs, they call me a “Witch”.
When I stand up for those I love, they call me a Witch.
When I speak my mind, think my own thoughts, or do things my own way, they call me a Witch.

Being a witch entails raising my children to be strong people
Who have a solid sense of personal and social responsibility

Who are not afraid to stand up for what they believe in
Who love and respect themselves for the beautiful beings they are.

Being a witch means that I am free to be the wonderful creature I am,
With all my own intricacies, contradictions, quirks and beauty.
Being a witch means I won’t compromise what’s in my heart.
It means I live my life MY way. It means I won’t allow anyone to step on me.

When I refuse to tolerate injustice and speak up against it, I am defined as a witch.
The same thing happens when I take time for myself instead of being everyone else’s maid or when I act a little selfish.

I am proud to be a witch! It means I have the courage and strength to allow myself to be who I truly am and won’t become anyone else’s idea of what they think I “should” be.

I am outspoken, opinionated and determined.
By Goddess, I want what I want and there is nothing wrong with that!

So, try to stomp on me, try to douse my inner flame, try to squash every ounce of beauty I hold within me. You won’t succeed.

And if that makes me a witch, so be it. I embrace the title and am proud to bear it. I love this, I can call myself a witch now and not feel bad about it!

SO MOTE IT BE!

Daily Feng Shui Tip for May 29th

As a maven of luck and foreteller of fortunes it’s fitting that I share this next fact about the merry month of May. According to ancient traditions, May was once thought to be an unlucky month. Somewhat supportive of this theory is the old rhyme that says: ‘Marry in May and rue the day.’ And while June is traditionally the month for marriage, what would happen if you jump the gun and marry in May? Do you end up shooting yourself in the proverbial foot? And if that’s the case, what’s a May wedding couple to do? But don’t worry if you or someone you know is planning on a May wedding — all the happy couple needs is a little Wedding Day Shui! They can take two champagne flutes and tie either nine or eighteen inches of red thread, ribbon or string around the stems. They would then visualize filling themselves with the golden light of good intention while tying the stems of the two glasses together, leaving a few inches of red string between each flute. You can even perform this secret ceremony for them. Hold the visual of the couple living happily ever after while additionally bathing them in waves of protective and lucky golden light. Place this energizer into the Romance area of the bride-to-be’s bedroom and leave it there for at least nine days prior to the wedding day. As quickly as you can say ‘cheers,’ the sparkling energies created by this cure will bring bubbly days and fizzy, sizzling nights to the happy and harmonious newlyweds, no matter what month they marry! I hope you trust that this tip will work. I know I do!

By Ellen Whitehurst for Astrology.com

Today’s I Ching Hexagram for May 29th is 41: Decrease

41: Decrease

Hexagram 41

General Meaning: Increase and decrease are part of the natural cycle of life. As spiritual author long ago put it, ‘To every thing there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.’ Like a reservoir that is being used to irrigate the fields, learning to accept a decrease in position or material possessions is part of preparing for increase in the future.

We may live in materialistic times, but there is no disgrace in material decrease, particularly if it represents an investment in future gain — even if that gain be in the form of one’s education or the development of personal character. Likewise, the inner strength that comes from bearing loss can be balanced by a corresponding increase in inner strength and insight — as in the expression ‘what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.’ When letting go of attachment and personal demands leads to a greater simplicity in daily life, good fortune often comes calling.

In nature, the lake evaporates to form the clouds that drop the rain that nurtures the surrounding forest. As the forest grows thick, more rain is captured for the lake. Similarly, an ‘evaporation’ or decrease in one area of your life, may give rise to an eventual increase in another. A loss of responsibility at work can mean more free time; more free time may generate more career options. A period of decrease is not necessarily a bad thing; in fact, it can free the spirit and fill the soul.

Be mindful of the lesson of young lovers: even with a minimum of possessions, feelings of the heart can bring an unsurpassed richness to life. The smallest of actions, if sincere, have value. So remain confident, for a time of decrease may actually bode good fortune, especially if you remain open to that possibility.

Let go of frustration, resistance and regret over whatever may be going down at this time. Accept the cycle, and remember what goes down must come up.

Your Weekly Pet Horoscopes for May 29th

Aries

While I’ve always been in love with the sound of my own voice, I’m taking this to a whole new level this week. I’ll be making sounds just because I can, but also to get your attention. Let’s face it, I love to have my ego stroked and if making a noise gets me more attention then I’ll be right into it. The only problem is that I’m not particularly smart about this, so only reward me when it’s deserved.

Taurus

When my birthday month came to an end last week I began another year of going around the block again, except that for me the aging process is accelerated. As I get older my health needs change and I need you to keep up with them. Whether it’s by going on line or talking to my vet, find out what I need as I age. I want to be around for a long time, but I also want to keep healthy and agile.

Gemini

With my birthday month now well underway, it’s time to look at how we’re going to celebrate. I won’t say no to a new toy or some treats, but what I really need are those annual updates that are easier to remember at this time of year and that you’re making a commitment to my future. I can’t make the new resolutions that you might make when you have your birthday, so I need you to make them for me.

Cancer

If I had my way I’d be turning into a bit of a sloth, moving when I want to, which chances are isn’t that much. This is a changeable time of year as far as the seasons go, but while the environment might change what I’ll be seeking won’t. When it’s hot expect to find me lounging in the shade while seeking out the warmest spot to laze away some happy hours when it gets cold outside.

Leo

So long as I’m in the thick of things and I can see what’s going on, then I’ll be happy. I’ll have a healthy sense of curiosity for anyone that comes to the door, comes over to visit and if there’s not a lot happening at my place, I’ll be looking over or through the fence to see what the neighbours are up to. I’m not exactly nosey, just interested in all the facets of life going on around me and all those interesting smells.

Virgo

Any chance I get this week to impress or show off and I’ll be in seventh heaven, with a competitive streak running right down my back. If there are other pets in the house expect me to be first to the food, not because I’m hungry but because I want to win. This is a good time to teach me some new tricks, especially those that involve treats when I get it right or lots of ‘atta girls’ or ‘atta boys’.

Libra

I’ve had a bit of wanderlust pumping through my system for some time now, but rather than wearing off it seems that it’s here to stay. Chances are a sense of curiosity that goes with this may also be getting me into a bit of trouble, as I try and explore all the nooks and crannies I can manage to squeeze myself into. At least you won’t have to spend too much time entertaining me, as I’m more than capable of entertaining myself.

Scorpio

While I might be a creature of habit by nature, liking things to stay the same, I’m becoming a lot more open to change and no longer as fearful of new things as I once was. If you’ve tried to introduce me to new things in the past and I turned my nose up at it, then try again as I might be more receptive this time around. Though don’t take it too far, as there are some things I won’t compromise on.

Sagittarius

Just like you, I get bored of the same old same old, day after day and I’m just as much in need of variety as you are. It’s balance that will keep me happy, so mix and match things up a little for me. This would be a good time to introduce new tastes to my diet, though go for smaller sizes first. And just like you movement and keeping agile is important for me as I age, but for me exercise means having a chance to play.

Capricorn

As the focus shifts more and more to my health needs, it’s important to remember that as well as the right food, the right vaccinations and treatments I need, that I also need to have fun. If you’re looking at all my other health needs and not seeing running around and having fun as part of that package, then you’ll miss the most important part. I not only need to keep agile, but having fun has all sorts of health benefits for me.

Aquarius

While it will soon be time to start looking more closely at my health needs, that time won’t come until next week. However, there is nothing to say that you can’t get a jump start on this or that you can’t start taking some shortcuts. I’m in a mood this week for having fun and I want and need lots of playtime. It just so happens that running around and having fun is one of the best things for my health and for our bonding.

Pisces

I am fast becoming a real homebody, not only liking my routines but loving being right in the middle of family life, with the more you include me the better. This is not because I’m feeling anxious or because I need reassurance, just that it’s something that I’ll enjoy. So much so that I’m likely to be a barometer for everything that is happening in the home, for if there is something out of kilter I’ll feel it and you’ll know about it.

Have Back-To-Work Tuesday, I Know But Friday Is Only 4 Days Away, lol!

Days Of The Week Comments A Traditional Scottish Blessing.

World peace may feel unattainable, but truly it can all start with each one of us. Read this inspiring ancient Celtic blessing that shows us the way:

If there is righteousness in the heart

If there is righteousness in the heart,
there will be beauty in the character.
If there is beauty in the character,
there will be harmony in the home.
If there is harmony in the home,
there will be order in the nation.

If there is order in the nation,
there will be peace in the world.
So let it be.
-Scottish Blessing

 
Magickal Graphics

Car Protection/Blessing

Car Protection/Blessing　

Before leaving on a trip, create a protective sachet for your car. Add the following to an orange pouch or cloth – one Tiger’s Eye, a pinch of Sage, a Silver Coin and three pieces of Galangal Root. Empower your pouch with protective energy, and tie it with a red ribbon. You can also anoint it with Protection Oil.

Place in your car for protection against thieves, accidents and danger.

Create a Memorial Garden

 

by Judi Gerber

For many people, Memorial Day is just another day off, and is seen as little more than the unofficial start of summer and a great day to barbecue. But, the real purpose of the day is to remember those who have died in service to the United States.

If you are looking for a way to truly observe Memorial Day, you can visit a cemetery and place some of your homegrown flowers on the graves of fallen soldiers. Or, if you aren’t a gardener, but are equally concerned about the negative environmental impacts of conventional flowers, buy organic flowers.

A more lasting remembrance is to plant a tree, or even a garden, in memory of a lost loved one or other service members. As I have written about before, giving somebody the gift of a garden is one of the most memorable things that you can do. This is all the more true if you create a “memorial” garden either in remembrance or in honor of someone.

Aside from remembering those we have lost, there are some things we can do to help the thousands of men and women now serving. For example, are you a gardener? Do you want to make a difference? Then why not put your green thumb to use. For service members that are deployed, consider “adopting” their garden while they are gone. You can even involve his or her family in the care of the garden. Not only will they benefit from beautiful flowers and delicious food, but working in the garden is therapeutic and can help them deal with the stress that comes with the deployment of their loved one.

Not only can you take care of their garden for them, but, if you incorporate edibles, when it comes time to harvest, you can donate that produce to a local veteran’s agency or hospital, or to other military families whose loved one is also deployed.

You can also create a cut flower garden and give the flowers to the same veteran’s organizations. Or, you can go and regularly place them on military grave sites and deliver bouquets to other military families as well.