It was a Big Step, Sharing what I've learned from the Wheel

And while I stood there I saw more than I can tell,
and I understood more than I saw;
for I was seeing in a sacred manner the shapes of things in the spirit,
and the shape of all shapes as they must live together like one being.
Black Elk, Black Elk Speaks

I wasn't sure how I was going to share and say thank you at the same time, so first thank you to all who attended the Wheel workshop, it was an honor to share what I've learned...so far.

The Medicine Wheel workshop was wonderful and all I'd hope it would be. The weather was perfect. I believe ordered up by God/Creator, just for us. I was particularly honored, because I think God in his way, showed me he is pleased with the Wheel, and it showing people how to re-connect to him in a Natural way. Why do I say this? Not only because of the beautiful vision, giving me a message while we were in the Wheel via a Tulip, but because, a Minister, a man of the cloth, came to the workshop to learn about the Wheel and what, 'it' would have to say to him, and speak to him... it did.

At first, I was a little nervous about Pastor. Bob coming to hear what I had to say about the Wheel, God, Creator and hearing through the Divine Essence of Nature. After all, he's a minster that's had years of teaching on God... I am not someone who's studied deeply about God and or the bible. I go by what I hear and 'instructed' to learn. What I know about God and the bible, are limited through my memory of my Catholic up-bringing and what I'm occasionally told to read in the bible. My knowledge of the Medicine Helpers, the Wheel and connecting to that higher source is what I have learned through the Wheel, lectures, ceremonies and what and where Spirit has directed me to learn from.

But, 'The voice' said, "Kellie, just speak the truth. Do not be who you are not...simply be who you are. Share don't lecture on what you've learned over the past 19 months. Remember do not speak my name to be a name dropper, merely speak what you have learned in the Medicine Wheel, from Me, the Native Americans, Nature and your Guides, and you will be alright".

They were right....I had nothing to be worried about. Pastor. Bob, was a wonderful addition to the workshop. Offering insights and perspectives on things through his unique connection to God/Creator/ the Divine/Great Mystery and 'things' he has learned that are deemed outside his 'calling'. We in return, learned a few things from him, which combined with all the beautiful people that attended, made this first workshop, grand.

With that said, It was a big step. A step that's been in the works, I believe for a while. I thought I'd never get here, finally comfortable or feeling qualified enough to share what I've learned since first being instructed to mow the Medicine Wheel. There is so much to learn and learning this tiny amount has taken longer than I could have imagined, by attending lectures, listening to Spirit, and God. Sometimes having the feeling of being lost, only to be found and guided by God, an Animal, Standing people, Stone, maybe an Ancestor helper, or relative of the Wheel, or sometimes through the words of another person, to put me back on track.

I have to admit though, I think the biggest surprise I've learned in these past months, is using Animal and other Medicine Helpers is not a light hearted subject which anyone can teach...its serious Medicine, and why I questioned my qualifications of did I have the right to be a speaker on this subject. The Native Americans had 100 of years to learn what they know. They lived the life. I am a Non Native American, baby taking my first steps and I realized early, working with Medicine Helpers is something you have to live everyday, feel every day, see everyday and be guided by Spirit and God everyday to learn. I found out, which I first believed like many do, it's not merely about saying you have a Totem, and or I see this animal all the time... there is much much more. If I would have known all there is to it, I might not have proceeded and asked to learn more. That's probably why 'they' didn't tell or show me all I would need to learn. They are just so smart...:)
So I am doublely honored they asked me to be the Wheel's guardian and now share what I have learned... and I am ready for my continuing education:)

So to 'them' I say thank you, for what you've taught me through your guidance so far.
I say thank you now too, in case I forget, to those who will teach and guide me farther and with their help, I hope to offer more workshops on the Medicine Wheel and its Helpers.
I can't forget to put a big thank you out to Rick McBride for giving me and a few others the chance to take his grueling, soul searching, mind digging, 2 day, nine-ten hour a day courses of which I not only took once, but twice, and his other classes, which enlightened and prepared me to move forward on this subject.
Plus I must thank him too for answering my emails, sometimes letting me learn things on my own, and for as he put it, putting his BS indicator out on me, and lucky for me, it did not go off. Thus he came and did the 10 day retreat, where he and I got time to talk one on one, and I learned things one cannot learn in lectures, books or on the computer.
Plus it was from him and one of his fellow Sundance Elders, I received the conformation I needed, that I was not going insane...LOL.

I have to say thank you too, to Creator and Spirits of the Sundance, which made it possible that Linda and I were able to attend Sundance ceremony, of which we learned much and I believe gave us the ability to truly see the difference between knowing Creator and Medicine Helpers and only knowing about Creator and Medicine Helpers.

And I cannot forget to thank, who ever guided my friend Linda and I through our Walks of Knowing, (which I've learned now is not the time to do walks with others...yet) though they were often difficult physical and emotional 'classes' of learning, they too were preparation for understanding the power in Thunder Hollow Medicine Wheel and all its Helpers and the powers out side the Wheel and the connection to God as well. I am still learning, and not sure I could teach about any other Medicine Wheel, and its Medicine Helpers, it would be out of my territory. But for now that's ok, there is plenty of schooling in just this one and I am loving the lessons, so I say.... keep em coming. I do have to confess, that though I have seen and experienced the power, often I don't fully understand the power in it all... but I cannot wait to see what is ahead. I am ready for the hours I know it will take for my higher education on the workings of this and any other Wheel and Medicine Helpers and their powers.

Be well
Laugh often
Love large
Dig in the dirt
Grow a garden
and may the sun light your way
Kellie
+
Herbs & Things

Unconscious Ego

Don't ever take a fence down until you know why it was put up.
~Robert Frost~


Herbs & Things Will be closed
The Week of Sept 11th-17th
I'll be at The Holland Farmers Market
maybe..8:30-11 AM Sept 11th? (will let you know)
and all day...Sept 18th
Also I'll be closed
Oct 1st and 2nd...attending a lecture.

Have you ever made what some one else is doing...your problem because 'you know' what they are doing is wrong and it affects you or you think it does?
Recently I had that problem, I made what someone else was doing, a problem I thought I needed to fix or do something about...and had been struggling with it for weeks, with a mix of anger and hurt.
While mowing one day, 'they' reminded me of something I read in a book, about a Master that got blamed for something he did not do. I could not remember what book, what he got blamed for, or what his name was, I just had a flashing remembrance to the story, of which the ending or moral of the story was...eventually the truth came out that he did not do what he was accused of.
A couple mornings after this flashing remembrance, driving home on the Thruway after taking Rick to pick his semi up, I was forced to go slow (49 MPH in a 65), with flashers, slowly getting to Herbst Garage to get ......HELP Brian.:), because the stabilizer shock in the Jeep got tired and said...get a new one, and while every one was whizzing by me and I was concentrating keeping the Jeep under 55 to avoid the shattering shimmy, 'They' made a suggestion.
Their suggestion, with the reasoning, that I'd made a choice to put and fix a problem, I thought was mine...with what I thought valid reasons, on my agenda, that however, was not my problem to fix, that I should do...'their suggestion'.
They then left me to my own free will of decisions, with their suggestions, and explanation..the course of action... or better yet, a course of.. no action...would be better, than me trying to fix it. However, I still pondered...how to fix 'it'.
The next morning...leaving me no doubts or anything to ponder...they finally made no more suggestions, but told me...
"You have made something that is not your business, your business. It is not your business nor your problem, LET IT GO! God/ the Universe/ or what ever WILL take care of it. but YOU...NEED...TO...LET IT GO!"
"OK...I'll let it go. Jeeze!"
In the mix of my wanting to fix 'this problem' and then being told to let it go, my niece Rachel had come to visit and gone to the Medicine Wheel. As I watched her walk back I heard "ask her about the message she has for you".
So I did.
She said, "oh Aunt Kellie, yes I do. But,I am having a hard time deciphering what they are telling me. I'll have to sort through it and get back to you."
The next day without her knowing that I had been reprimanded about what I 'should not ' do..and had finally LET IT GO..
She emailed me the message...
I was to read in Chapter 7, section 7 in Eckhart Tolle's book, a piece called...IS THAT SO? That it would help me with a 'problem'.
But before I read that, I wrote her and told her that I had been reprimanded about making this problem that was not mine, mine:) and had let it go, But that I would still read that section in Eckhart's book...
As I read 'Is That So' at first I thought I was getting chastised again, but then was told "re-read it." I did, and realized this was the story 'they' had referred to a couple days earlier, and in reading it the second time, I figured out what they wanted me to learn...that if someone is doing you wrong...sometimes, particularly in this situation....NO REACTION is better than reacting because eventually the truth will come out. As I said, I've done what I was told and I've let it go, allowing the forces that are, to take care of it. And you know what, sense I've turned it over...and though I think of it sometimes, but know its 'not my problem' ...I feel much better!
I guess this is a lesson about...Ego, and I am suppose to share with whom ever is out there that needs to learn about the Unconscious Ego.
My Ego, which can be quite large, I am Scotch/Irish after all :) that definitely comes from my Dad's side, is something I work hard on, but yet I was shown, mine or any one's Ego, can...unconsciously... slip in disguised as 'fixing a problem' that you feel affects you, thus you put something not yours on your agenda, and it affects everything you do, how you interact with people, and your perspective on other things other than 'the problem', over all affecting your life, needlessly.
I guess, I am suppose to tell you....if right now, you have something in your life that you think you should fix but its a struggle, listen to the voice of, that no reaction some times is better than reaction, don't let your Ego take over. Trust (which may not be easy) that 'the problem' will get taken care of, just maybe not when and how you think it should be...but it will be:)

Kellie

Though they Mock Me

All truth passes through three stages. First, it is ridiculed. Second, it is violently opposed. Third, it is accepted as being self-evident.
Arthur Schopenhauer
German philosopher (1788 - 1860)

Most of us know, that nothing is coincidental, so when the above quote resonated deeply to me, I'll take what I've found out of late to be one of those steps and lessons in my journey of spiritual growth.

Something I guess that's no big surprise, I've been getting mocked about what I share via my emails. I understand that's part of the territory when you are willing to put yourself out there and share some off the wall stuff (to some) and I accept that. It really doesn't bother me, but it makes me a little angry. Because why not come to my face and tell or ask me if I am whacked, rather than to go to others if you have questions, doubts or concerns. I only share the truth of what happens, and often even for me it doesn't make sense and I find my self saying...this can't be right but I share it anyway. Consequently I can understand why, people would think me odd, or something to mock. Some people would take the mockers, mocking, as them saying I am lying.
I say they, the mockers, are afraid, because....isn't it true we hurt those things we do not understand or are afraid of?

However, I will and do share because that's what I am 'suppose' to do, its my path, and sometimes, even though I don't understand it myself, I've learned if I am patient...I'll eventually learn what the message was/is and or what it's intention

Alas, though they mock me, I smile because its obvious they read Herbs & Things email word for word, even though its for the wrong reason to accumulate ammo to mock me, but maybe, and if I don't let the words of a few deter me...I will reach those mockers, and one day...something will resonate with them, they'll 'get it' and maybe, just maybe it might even save their life, and that's what I am suppose to do...share and make people aware that nature, God, Creator, your Higher source, is speaking loud and clear every day, we just need to take the time to listen, learn and not fear a language we do not understand.

Be well
Laugh often
Love large
Dig in the dirt
Grow a garden
and may the sun light your way
Kellie
+
Herbs & Things

Sacred Places

When I was child, 4 or 5 years old, if my mother couldn't find me, first she'd look to the dog house. :) Where she'd find me sitting in the door way with our Irish Setter, Misty (never tied, just her 'den') and her puppies. There'd be one or two puppies on my lap, the other puppies scampering around me and Misty letting me use her as a prop to lean against. Sometimes I'd be sleeping, other times just sitting quiet holding the pups and petting Misty and sometimes using toilet tissue to wipe the puppies bums, (just helping Misty:). Then at about age 8 or 9, and later as a teenager, often after school, when going to do chores I'd take my homework, a book to read or nothing but my thoughts and pre-teen/ teenage worries with me.

In our barn each horse had a hay manger, thus when my chores were done I'd climb into and curl up in the manger full of hay, (At age 11 and on, it was with my horse at the time, Big Boy a 16.2 hand, chestnut American Saddlebred, ) with a book, homework or my thoughts. While he was working his away around me getting every blade of hay, I'd sit in there, cozy and relaxed, read, meditate (didn't know that's what I was doing then), do my home-work or study for a test. I realize now, sitting in the quiet and serene spot of whimpering pups, or curled up in the manger, listening to the rhythmic sound of Big Boy munching hay, me petting his forehead, or laying my head on his jaw, feeling his chewing muscles working, with no blaring teenage music, just quiet, were sacred spaces I had created for myself.

Today, though I don't have the mangers any more, or the puppies, I'll still go sit in the barn, sometimes with the new chickens, or in the corner of the stall on the hay, usually with Old Royal, and just be. In quiet I'll listen to the rhythmic sounds of barn, the swallows talking to their young and each other. The chicks chirping that's starting to turn into clucks, the kitty purring and or the horses munching hay. I don't do it as often as when I was a child and I probably should, because when I do, many good thoughts, feelings and a since of calm, come my way. Giving me a quiet mind to work my way around any problem solving.

But now too I have the Medicine Wheel and The Mediation garden to go to, which are Scared places much like the dog house with the puppies and the manger full of hay with the Divine Spirit of the horse in my aura,..because in the Wheel and Gardens, also I'm surrounded by nature and her sounds, where calm follows too.

So what I'm wondering...do you have a scared place to go, to be, to listen, pray or relax...if not, you should. You will love the benefits...and its doesn't have to be big or fancy, just a place where you feel a sense of calm and serenity...
Make a place of your own today you'll be glad you did...I promise:)


A new Nature assignment. What animal have you noticed seeing or hearing a lot of lately...? If you haven't notice, then try to do so. For me its the Robin...Yes Robins are common this time of year, but....when one lands on the fence post every time I walk to the Wheel, sits on my picnic table every time I go outside, or the roof of the shop. Or sits above me in the Tree and makes its Robin sound, and when I hear, go under the Chestnut Tree, stop when I tell you to and look up, to find a Robins nest...yes...I do believe the Robin is trying to show me something...
Robins keynotes: Spread of new growth.
The Robin lays distinctive blue eggs...Blue the color of the Throat Chakra...communication, and creativity.
Robins react to the color red. In males it signals other males to leave the territory.
The red is also connected to the Kundalini, which one of my main totems the Hawk is also connected to the Kundalini.
Robin denotes for one to 'sing there own song' forth for new growth. Which I find intriguing especially after my last emailing about my mockers:)
Gotta love nature! It does not lie, and thank you to all of you who gave me support on the mocker subject. I think I had to share, not only to address those people, but also let some of you who might be getting mocked for being 'different' not to let it bother you! Thank you! HUGS...

Kellie + Herbs & Things

The Trees you have to love the Trees.

I can't remember the date but I'll say about 3 weeks ago, I was walking in the Fairy Garden, when I was ' instructed' to visit one of the Apple Trees. Now you must understand this was while I was in the, When, What, Why Mode of thinking but for some reason...still felt I needed to do what I 'thought I was told to do' which was, visit with the Apple Tree.

I went to the Apple Tree and leaned against it and heard, No please face me. Huh..Ok. I turned around and laid the palm of my left hand on its bark. It was warm to the touch. It then felt like my heart area filled with a warm sensation too,...my first thought....Love.
With my hand on Tree wondering why and also wondering what the neighbors might be thinking of me just standing there with my hand on the Apple Tree I heard, "you need more Apple pectin".
Hmm...I recalled the old adage, an apple a day keeps the doctor away..and as a child I ate an apple or sometimes two every day, but now its only a few times a week. And I am not sure why that is, unless...because it seems harder to find a good Apple today, or maybe I am just pickier than when I was a child.
Of course as you know me, wanting to refresh my memory about the benefits of Apples, I researched their benefits again....and then few days after meeting with the Apple Tree, I had a session with an herbal practioner and told her the message from the Apple Tree and wondered beyond all its benefits, would it help me in my next step to a healthier weight....helping my adrenals. Rose, could not remember if in their multiple of benefits if helping the adrenals was one of them.
Rose as per Rose, wanting to help and learn more, did research of her own after my session...and guess what else she found!
~Apple Pectin is also good for protection against radiation!~

Now who would have thought that. I was then reminded that I read the Apple has a built in defense to help protect itself against radiation, so it stands to reason...if you eat an Apple, that same benefit helps you....you'll want to see the Benefits of the magnificent Apple...



Now really...don't you just love the wisdom of the Trees! See...this is why we need to take the time to listen to Nature. Nature knows what's good for us and what will helps us.
Then my mind went to, who would have thought a tree would know what was going on across the world, (Japan) but remember a few Herbs & Things, emails ago, (which also is why 'they' keep telling me to listen to my own words!) I mentioned the roots of the Tree are like underground connections through the Earth and the Tree tops are like Antenna...thus...they communicate. So...I was made abundantly aware...of why wouldn't they know what's going on around the world. In fact the Trees, with their built in 'technology' I believe way beyond ours (so smart humans)... probably know before earthquakes or any Earth event happens and for that matter, anything above us too.

So I say, listen to the the Trees...they are like old folks, slow to talk, slow about everything, but....we'd be wise to be still and listen, for there is much wisdom in their lessons:)

TREE FACTS and why we need to plant more Trees.

*One shade tree absorbs 10 pounds of pollution each year including 4 pounds of ozone and 3 pounds of particulates.

*By the time a Tree reaches maturity it produces 5 pounds of pure oxygen every day...enough to keep a family of four breathing

*Tree reduce the need for power plants by providing natural air conditioning. They also reduce the effects of car exhaust and industrial emissions. A single Tree can eliminate 90 pounds of carbon or 330 pounds of carbon dioxide from the air each year.

*One shade tree can reduce air conditioning bills by 10%.

*One shade tree can intercept 760-4000 gallons of rainfall in its crown annually, depending on species. The reduces runoff of polluted storm water and can affect the size of drain pipes and retention ponds needed in new developments.

*One tree can add at least 1% to the sale price of a $100,000 house each year whey annualized over a 40 years period.

Be well

Laugh often

Love large

Dig in the dirt

Grow a garden

and may the sun light your way

Kellie

+

Herbs & Things

What Nature can Teach US if we listen

Hello form Herbs & Things :)

It is well that you should celebrate your Arbor Day thoughtfully, for within your lifetime the nation's need of trees will become serious. We of an older generation can get along with what we have, though with growing hardship; But in your full manhood and womanhood you will want what nature once so bountifully supplied and man so thoughtlessly destroyed; and because of that want you will reproach us, not for what we have used, but for what we have wasted.
~Theodore Roosevelt, 1907 Arbor Day Message ~

Nature definitely was trying to tell me something, last Tuesday April 5th. I was reminded too a statement made by Rick McBride last year during the 'Learning the Lifeways' retreat at Herbs & Things...he said, "Sometimes, Nature, if she's not gotten your attention in a subtle way---Will--- get your attention by showing you something out of the ordinary. For example; if you see one turkey in your yard, you'd notice but may not think twice about it. But if there are 100 Turkey's in your yard, you'd notice, thus Nature has your attention and make you wonder what's the message."
And take notice I did, when there were 100's of birds in the back pasture behind the house, in the trees and flying around. Actually kind of all over the place.
There were grackles, redwings, starlings, crows, cowbirds, and a few woodpeckers, doves, chickadee's, juncos, nuthatches, sparrows, titmice, a hawk in the Tree (probably going yum) Robins, and one blue bird. I mean we are talking all at once.
To give you a better perspective of how many of , lets say the Starlings there were, when they took off in a flock I could hear it in the house, with windows closed. So yes Nature got my attention. I searched for information in, Animal Speak and Animal Spirit Guides (which can both be purchased at Herbs & Things--shameless plug:) Haven't put it all together yet, but I'll let you know as soon as I have:)
But according to Rick McBride, after I told him, about all the birds, he said..."This was the Bird Nation not speaking to me as one species but as the Whole Nation. I must look at what Bird Medicine can offer me on a whole, what it's wanting me to see, or maybe where I am, where I am going, what I can accomplish, what it's teaching me, showing me, or letting me in on. Whew...lots of work to be going on...The Whole Bird Nation...What the heck? LOL

Be well
Laugh often
Love large
Dig in the dirt
Grow a garden
and may the sun light your way
Kellie
+
Herbs & Things

Excerpt of 3/27/11 Herbs & Things Newsletter

Are you trying to get your gardens planned for this year? But like me, you're not sure what to plant, because the past couple growing seasons haven't been great. Here is my take on that, for me anyhow. I, the past couple gardening seasons, to preserve heritage, did heirloom planting. However, being a Scorpio I hate to admit... without much success. Especially because I've always had good luck gardening.

I believe, my so-so gardens are in part of the so-so WNY's growing weather, but I also believe it has something to do with the heirlooms I was planting. Why? The heirloom seeds we purchase are not cultivated and 'raised' in this area. Thus they are not tolerant of our soils and unpredictable weather changes. Many of the heirloom varieties are from areas that are use to longer growing seasons, and looser soils, not our well known temperature fluctuations, shorter growing season and often the clay-loom soils of WNY. Thus, seeds less resistant to, diseases, cold, heat, damp, and dry. Not hardy to this area:)

So this year, and this might cause a few gasps, I'm going Hybrid again. Organic mind you, but hybrid. Hybrids are noted for being diseases resistant and weather change tolerant. After all hybrids are a mix of the best growing and weather tolerant plant lives of the plant world. The way my mind works, I think maybe hybrids do well in this area, because isn't WNY and the surrounding areas, historically a community of Hybrids? Because back in the depression era and before, dreams were to come to this area for work and proposer. Ultimately growing a population of hardy, 'weather' resistant people. So I say...yea for the hybrids...they are a mix of the best of the old and new, no matter what the situation, whether it be gardening, cooking, community or churches. When all thrown into the pot, makes the best and hardiest 'stew'.

But here's an idea that came to me, and I might try it. If you plant heirlooms because you like the idea you can save Heirloom seeds year and after year. Maybe its possible to get the seeds acclimated to growing here, by setting aside a piece of garden to plant a couple each of heirlooms you like, and if they don't do well, you can still save the seeds and try them again next year, in hopes they will become accustomed to this area and it's quirky growing patterns and eventually thrive and grow.

I find it ironic as I am sure many others do, that now...after...the fact with the nuclear disaster in Japan, we are hearing more about the countries who have nuclear plants and that governments and companies are searching ways of implementing better safeguards, so no other disasters like this can happen.

One thing I personally feel sad about beyond the sadness I feel for those of Japan, and I'm probably not alone, but its my lack of realization of the vast number of nuclear plants around the world. I just did not know.
Also living in the land of Oz that is called Colden, knowing full well we have a nuclear waste facility only 20 miles from here, I realized how I've accepted it was there and hardly ever think about it, expect when my husband takes his semi in there, and comes home with a radiation detector cord (minus the radiation tag) hanging around his neck and then, even though he and his truck have been scanned before he leaves, the wait for the letter to come in mail a few days later, stating he's not (hopefully) been exposed to radiation. I would say even Japan, though on a bigger scale, are so use to those nuclear plants being there, that the plants merely became part of the scenery too...
I do believe Japan is a country equipped to handle most earthquakes, and they were prepared, and they would have been OK, if it weren't for the Tsunami...BUT...and this is a big but...this shows, that no matter how prepared we are, how highly technological we are, how smart we think we are.... we still can not understand the forces of Mother Nature, and ultimately....We...are no match for Her.

Though we'd like to believe we are the superior race, we are not superior to Mother Nature, and as prepared as Japan was, Mother Nature showed the vulnerability of all us humans or really, life on earth. We, who live on Turtle Island, (what the Native Americans call Mother Earth) must understand that even a turtle with its hard shell has a vulnerable spot.
The way I see it, according to Mother Natures standards, a tsunami, is only a sneeze at what she is capable of, and us humans thinking we are so intelligent that we can outsmart Mother Nature is not a good or safe mind set.

It's time we listen to Mother Nature, and heed her warnings. If you look back, she's been warning us for a while, to clean up our room, and just like any Mother who tells her child many times to clean up their room and they do not, she goes in and does the job. And when 'She' does the job, many things are tossed, and this cleansing is painful. So yes its time to listen to Mother Nature and clean up our room and have respect for its space...and that space, our room...is the Earth we live on.


Be well
Laugh often
Love large
Dig in the dirt
Grow a garden
and may the sun light your way
Kellie
+
Herbs & Things

Part of March 8th emailing from Herbs & Things

Hello from Herbs & Things:)

"Deep doubts, deep wisdom; small doubts, little wisdom."
Chinese Proverb


Sometimes, I...as many of you, don't take the time to give myself the treat of meditation or a calming, healing form of standing meditation, such as Tai Chi. (benefits and more info about Tai Chi.... http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tai_chi_chuan )
because somewhere in the course of the day, I've convinced myself, I don't feel like it, it won't make me feel better, or I don't have time, forgetting the benefits even a mere 15 mins let alone an hour will give, and decide to Veg out. Then, if you are like me, as you sit there vegging out, you beat yourself up because you are not doing.....Something.

As we all know, there are times, we need to Veg, but then there are the times, we need to push ourselves past feeling yucky, to tired, don't want to do it, don't feel like doing another thing today, feelings and make ourselves go to that Tai Chi or meditation class.

That's what happened to me last Thursday. All day, I did not feel sick....just blah, thus convincing my tired, icky, so so, part of me, that I was to tired and achy, to go to Tai Chi and yoga. It wasn't until 10 minutes before Tai Chi Class, I yelled at Myself, "Kellie, its only an hour, get your butt moving. Once you get there you'll be glad you did"!
Guess what, 'Myself' was right.

Ok...but I must be honest, I compromised with Myself, saying... "Ok self, I'll go to Tai Chi, but no Yoga tonight, my body really does not feel like doing that....OK"?
Self said, "Ok, but you must go to the Wheel when you get home and meditate there".
Sigh..." OK Deal"...(sad when you start making deals with yourself, or was it 'The Voice':)

I went to Tai Chi, and as I warmed up, breathed deep, did the moves, I could feel the stiffness ease from my joints, and back. My mind was not so...agitated and I didn't feel as tired. That was in the first 20 mins. Still, I did not stay for yoga, it didn't feel right this night... BUT...I did keep up the bargain I made with 'Myself' to go to the Wheel when I got home.

It was very cold Thursday night. I bundled up, and as per instructions, took sage, tobacco, Rattle, walking stick Owly, and headed to the Wheel. When I reached the lane leading to the meditation garden, I got the impression I should take my time and feel each step, that 'they' would not let me fall.

I concentrated and set each foot down soft and deliberate, testing for solidness of the ice covered ground beneath that step. By doing this, I felt energy enter my body with each mindful on the earth step and the quiet made my inward thoughts calm.
I reached the bridge going to the meditation garden, and stood there for a while in the silence breathing in the cold air, and listening to and feeling the energy of the creek running under the bridge.

After about 10 minutes of quiet time on the bridge, I was told, "spend time with the Ancestors. Enter the Wheel through the Ancestors path, rather than the South".
I again, going through the Ancestors, went slow and deliberate. It felt like I was wearing moccasins instead of heavy winter boots. Eerily, though the night was fairly bright, I had the feeling someone or something was following me, hearing 'their' foot falls on the hard covered snow and ice. A little nervously, I'd look behind me and around, nope nothing. Did I feel and hear a presence, or was it my imagination?

I reached the Wheel's circle and stood on the edge of the Ancestors spoke and the Circle, gazing at the bright stars towards the North, wondering to Myself, what constellation I'm looking at?
When in the quiet I heard,
"you know what constellation that is".
"uh, no I don't. I didn't even know it was a constellation"
"Yes you do, be still and think".

Oh yeah, there's the be still and think, thing again. Sigh...how can I be quiet and meditate when I must be still and THINK, isn't that the point of mediation, NOT to THINK?.Ok...blah, blah blah, its just my mind going around in circles again.

Myself, "Orion?".
"Now you know better, be serious, just think".
"Do I?...I know better?"
"Yes...stop it, be still and think".
I stood there for about five minutes.
Bear constellation?
I heard nothing, of whether I was right or wrong. I shrugged my shoulders and dismissed it as my thoughts merely rambling. So I entered the Wheel's circle, and did what I came for, to relax, be in nature and meditate. I burned sage, offered Tobacco, played a beat with the Rattle, hummed a tune and tried to clear my mind. For about 30 minutes, not really feeling the cold, I just was and felt better for it.That night, I slept well and the next day, I felt better. I'd forgotten about the Bear constellation thing until I was reminded Saturday morning, so I searched.

Some of you may already know what stars etc are in the night sky, but I only know a little astronomy, such as common things, like where Polaris and Venus are, when some of the 'star shows are' and though I know of Ursa Major, I was excited to find...there is a Bear constellation...actually two, Big and Little Bear...and different histories with different cultures. I found it exceptionally ironic my eyes were drawn (unknowingly) to the Owl Nebula that night, while I was suppose to be still and thinking, because oddly for the past few months, I get the impression I have been directed towards Owl Medicine and need to learn more. Thus making what I found in my research beyond the Ursa Major constellation, mind boggling, which I will share at a later date...to much again for an email:)

So anyhow, I guess this is just another little heads up about writing down things you think you think and think you hear, even within a quiet time of meditation. You might be surprised at what you've learned or know! :)
Read more here...about Ursa Major, Latin for the Larger Bear, constellation http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ursa_Major
and
Thank you to some new people on Herbs & Thing emailing for signing up and if you'd like to be on Herbs & Things weekly emailing...please email Kellie and type subscribe in subjet line.

Part of Herbs & Things Feb 10th email

Hello From Herbs & Things:)

Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience.
~Ralph Waldo Emerson

On clear pre-dawn mornings, is anyone else enjoying Venus (sometimes called Earth's Sister planet) in the SE sky? If not, you are in luck it will be there until Oct, then disappear and reappear in Dec as an evening star. Next to Venus, to the left is the constellation Virgo and to the right, is Corvus. Corvus in Latin means Crow or Raven and there is a myth of how Corvus got its name. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corvus_(constellation)

If you are drawn to this particular area of the morning sky, such as I have been, it may mean something. Why, because in nature, often Nature gives us food for thought, that will help with life, direct us to the right path, or saying simply, take the time to enjoy the view.

I was drawn to Venus and its surroundings, especially after 'they ' told me I need to learn more about the stars, that this knowledge I will use it later, not only for me, but for others. So, I researched and also used my Animal Speak book (which is available at Herbs & Things:) to look up meaning of animals I found within my research, such as Crow and Snake.

What if an animal keeps showings itself to you, literally or other wise. Such as when you walk outside, open a book, or turn on the TV...It's time to pay attention...there is a message from nature. Nature includes all things, not just Trees, Birds, Flowers and such, but includes, Clouds, Stars, Planets, Rainbows or anything created by Nature.

For instance...Rat...Yew....nobody wants a Rat as a messenger...but it can be a sign of intelligence, with its innate ability to survive and store up on rations. What could Rat be telling you? What is Nature telling you. What are you hearing?...Learn about this and MORE in Linda and Kellie's lecture Feb 28th...details in Herbs & Things EVENTS PAGE...and OH the lecture is FREE.


It's cold, and there is snow on the ground, but...now is a good time to plan your 2011 garden. Before you know it, the snows will be gone and we'll be wanting to dig in the dirt.

I have a revision in mind for the outside line of the Wheel with Flowers and Trees and also getting a plan together for the veggie gardens. This year, I am concentrating on, corn, squash, tomatoes and potatoes. Squash and potatoes (red and gold) over in the garden by the Fairy Garden. On the other side of the creek adjacent from there, more corn and potatoes and carrots, a 3 sisters garden might go behind the house. And maybe inside the corral of all places....tomatoes. Linda K was talking of covering her garden, so this made me think of covering the tomatoes, and maybe they won't blight. I learned last year, the blight is airborne and not within the soils as previously thought? So hey its worth a try. And just when I thought I wasn't going to try tomatoes...:) Thanks Linda for a great...well lets hope a great idea!



Did you know?

The 'Voice' has been telling Kellie to can Strawberry juice and I think I've found the voice to be VERY wise. Canning Strawberry juice, sounds odd doesn't it...yes right up until I researched the health benefits of Strawberries http://www.gayot.com/lifestyle/health/features/strawberries-health-benefits.html
and
Strawberries are sacred to the Native American and they believe the juice has medicinal purposes. They drank it as a healing tonic and also strawberries are associated with the Goddess VENUS...hmm so what were they telling me...OK I'll Can Strawberry JUICE...:)
Benefits of Ginkgo biloba (available at Herbs & Things)
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/ginkgo-biloba/NS_patient-ginkgo

Music heightens your vibrations, (for me, at this time in my life, it is drums, flutes, meditation music and music with no words) whether, physically, emotionally and or spiritually..and apparently astronauts know this too... Flutes in Space?
http://www.wivb.com/dpps/news/offbeat/space-serenade-astronaut-has-4-flutes-in-orbit-ob11-jgr_3715441
and other ways to heighten you vibrations
http://hubpages.com/hub/raise-your-vibration-level

Heidi and I are excited...we have hand-drums arriving soon, made by Rick McBride who gave the retreat last year!
Chelated? you see it on supplements, what does it mean?...Chelated minerals are minerals that are bound to proteins for better absorption in the body. A target chelated mineral is one that is bound to a specific ammo acid geared toward a particular body organ when it is ingested.



If you'd like to be on Herbs & Things weekly email
email Kellie and type in subject Subscribed

Feb 1 Herbs & Things Email

Hello From Herbs & Things:)

"The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched, they must be felt with the heart."
Helen Keller




February is one of my favorite months of the winter. Why? Not because its the month of valentines, but because though its not spring and in spite of the colds we might have to endure, it's showing us spring is not far away. The day light hours are increasing, and the sun even on a cold day, radiates more heat. To me there is something special about sitting outside on a cold day, closing my eyes and letting the sun warm my face and feeling that warmth penetrate through winter layers, creating a peace one cannot find anywhere else but within. But I have to wonder...my message? Get ready for a cold like we've not seen in a while, if this storm coming is the one 'they' were referring to? So be prepared, for just in case:)

Just when I think, I am not hearing anything from the Wheel, I receive two profound messages in a 24 hour time.
Friday morning, walking (or actually snowshoeing) I was asking to see something that I wanted to see, but did not, yet someone else did. Heading back to the house a little disappointed, I heard, clearly "if you are to busy watching for the Eagle, you will miss the Sparrow"
Huh...?
Well...this message was loaded with wisdom. Which will make tons of sense when I share during Linda's and my lecture. Feb 28th...see events page
Then....
Thursday evening again while snowshoeing in the Wheel, selfishly, I was asking, why can't I be gifted as some people with the ability to see orbs. When the an answer came in a reference to Helen Keller, who was blind and deaf, and I was told, one does not need to see or hear to know. You have an innate ability to 'feel' and know beyond what you hear. Cultivate that, more than trying to see orbs.

Most of us know the story of Helen Keller, a woman who in spite of her 'limitations' , miraculously, achieved great things. Intrigued by this message, and wanting to be reminded of what she accomplished, I googled her. So imagine my surprise when I found, today's quote by Helen Keller, which is engraved on a statue of her standing by the water pump where in a pivotal moment in her life, she understood her first word: W--A--T--E--R, as signed into her hand by teacher Anne Sullivan.

I, with the way my mind works, find it amazing that the first word she understood was water, because metaphorically what does water represent, but the fluid of life, a spiritual cleansing agent, and what is most needed to make a garden grow...yes water.
Read more about Helen Keller... http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helen_Keller
Ok so I won't worry so much about not having the ability to see orbs and concentrate more on the gift I do have:)

What's going on in Egypt, now that's food for thought...Think... how would you survive should All the internet, cell phone and any wireless be shut down and you seem to be left in the dark? And the 'professionals' say this could never happen in US...hmm ? and you might find this interesting, maybe read Exodus 10:12 as I was instructed to do Sunday morning(in my Standard Revised Edition) ? Now you have to understand, I do not read the bible as some do as a daily practice. In fact I do not pick it up unless I am 'told' to read something in particular, such as Exodus 10:12, so yes....this got my attention.



Magnesium the good and bad...get more info...
http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/magnesium/


Be well
Laugh often
Love large
Dig in the dirt
Grow a garden
and may the sun light your way
Kellie
+
Herbs & Things


Some 'Things' inside Herbs and Things


Bob's Red Mill Aluminum Free Baking Soda -- 16 oz
Yogi Green Tea Kombucha -- 16 Tea Bags
Yogi Tea™ Classic India Spice® -- 16 Tea Bags
Yogi Tea Peppermint Caffeine Free -- 16 Tea Bags
Yogi Tea® Green Tea Goji Berry -- 16 Tea Bags
Hyland's Rhus Tox. 30X -- 250 Tablets
Hyland's Gelsemium Semp. 30X -- 250 Tablets
Hyland's Ruta Gravis 30x -- 250 Tablets
Hyland's Arsenicum Album 30x -- 250 Tablets
Hyland's Hypericum Perf. 30X -- 250 Tablets

New suns
Vita, C, D3, B-Complex, B-6,B-12, Life Source, Hawthorn Berries, Magnesium Blend, Magnesium with Herbs, Advanced Joint formula, Multiple Vitamin with out Iron, Probiotics, Omega 3 fish oil, Flaxseed oil,
Natures Sunshine...Chlorophyll, HSN-W, Chelotaed Iron, Dandelion Root, Auyrvedic Joint Heath, Vita D-3

Varity of
Organic Fair Trade Spices
Harrison and Crosfield Teas
Tazzo Teas
Gifts
Soaps
Books


CD's
Drum Healing
Drum Journey
Shamanic Dreams (for meditation)
Shamanic Dreams II (meditation)
Holy Harmony (meditation)
Chakra Toning with singing Bowls (meditation)
2-Celtic Dance music
Arriving soon
Bach Flower Remedies Rescue Remedy Pastilles Orange Elderflower -- 50 Pastilles
Bach Flower Remedies Rescue® Pastilles Black Currant -- 50 Pastilles
Boiron Arnicare® Gel -- 2.6 oz
Boiron Oscillococcinum
Bach Flower Remedies Rescue® Remedy Stress Relief For Pets -- 10 mL
Bach Flower Remedies Essence Larch -- 0.7 fl oz
Bach Flower Remedies Essence Impatiens -- 0.7 fl oz
BOOK...The Tao of Equus: A Woman's Journey of Healing and Transformation through the Way of the Horse"
Bob's Red Mill Organic Scottish Oatmeal, 20-Ounce Bags

Because we cannot get the Mexican Chiapas or anything with Mex Chiapas in it until March, a different selection of great tasting Dean's Beans Organic/Shade grown coffees

Marrakesh Express
Peruvian
Ring of Fire
Uprising
Full Moon

Latest Weekly Email Ramblings from Kellie and Herbs & Things

Reading about nature is fine, but if a person walks in the woods and listens carefully, he can learn more than what is in books, for they speak with the voice of God., ~George Washington Carver ~ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Washington_Carver

I find it kind of funny, that years ago when I bought my Mad Bomber hat because of its warmth, that people laughed, smirked and said, "You gotta give Kellie credit, she must be comfortable in who she is, and not care what she looks like to wear a hat like that', that now they are the IN thing! Well its just goes to show, ask a country girl what's the best style and she'll instinctively know...:):)

Minus 18 degrees is very cold.
That's what the temp was Monday morning at 4:30 AM going to the barn. Thank god for no winds. Even the one set of fluorescent lights in the barn had a hard time getting going. By 6 AM it had drop to minus 20.

This typical January cold snap reminded me of a walk I had near the Wheel last week when I was told, 'be prepared, very cold air is coming'. I don't think this cold snap is the one 'they' were referring too or I maybe 'they' meant, the weather men only 'think' they know how cold it will get, when they tell us the wind chill will make if feel like 20 below when in fact it will actually be -20.

However the reason I am thinking its not this particular cold snap is...I have boots good for minus 50 degree weather I've not worn yet this year. Repeatedly, I was told to get them out, and also get the blankets ready and on hand for the horses, which is not typical either, because since not playing polo or showing anymore I rarely put blankets on the horses in winter... Except... when it gets in sub zero weather, as it did, I am thinking about 20 years ago when the cold plummeted to minus 40 and that was NOT ...it felt like minus 40 because of wind-chill. It was minus 40 degrees!

You know me, just in case its not thoughts merely rambling around in my head, the blankets are ready as are my boots good for -50 degrees. I've also noticed, birds that normally don't eat a lot of suet are packing it in. Suet fat generates heat for the birds, so I wonder if that in itself is a sign. Could be.

So...at the chance of coming across weird, (nothing new) and as with have enough gas for the generator not being for here but other areas, I have to tell you to be prepared for 'cold weather the likes we've not seen in a while', just incase the cold air coming I envisioned, is not reference to the cold we just had, or for this area. I'm not taking chances wishing I'd said something.

So get your wood piles replenished and near. Make sure your vehicles gas tanks, food freezers and cupboards are Full. Get all your cold weather leggings, hats, gloves and boots out, and make sure any pipes that have a chance of freezing are protected, for just in case. Don't forget about your dog, cat or outside animals that need protection too and keep your suet feeders full, it will help the birds stay warm, (even though they usually can survive well with out us, it just makes their life easier and makes me feel better:)

Did you ever wonder why you are drawn to a particular tree? Its because Trees are one of the oldest living plant people on this earth. They've seen a lot and have much to teach. Each tree has its own sense of power, wisdom and are inherent to rhythms of the earth. Their root systems are underground telegraph wires and their limbs are like a telescope or antenna that can 'see' and 'sense' for many miles.

Such as if the tree is deciduous, or coniferous, that we are drawn too, might be an indication of how we are going through life at that time. Telling us whether we work with the seasons or use what's at hand at the moment.
Each Tree holds secrets and knowledge for each one of us.
If you are drawn to a Walnut...it holds wisdom. The Pine is balancing and awakens the divine spark. Oak provides strength and reminds us that true strength is also gentle. Cherry is about new awakenings, birth and insight. There are so many trees, each holding different educational properties for each one of us. Its time we introduced ourselves, and ..OH...you don't need to know the names of the trees to hear what they have to say.
If you are not sure about Trees. Try this little experiment. On a cold winters day, if you are out walking, remove your glove, put the palm of your hand on a tree that 'Speaks' to you, you'll be surprised that Tree will feel warm. Keep your hand there for a while. Because it's cold out, you will expect that your hand or the tree will start to feel cold. Surprise, it will not. Your palm will stay warm. Move your hand to another part of the same tree, and there too it will feel warm. Try putting your hand on another Tree, that at that time you aren't particularly drawn too. It might feel cold. Go back to the Tree that feels warm, it has something to teach you. Close your eyes, (don't worry what people will think) lean on, or rest your palm on it, and just listen at what you hear. Sometimes when I lean against a tree, I feel that tree vibrating.
Really, try it, you won't be disappointed:)


Book Club was fun Monday night. We met and ate at the Food Court at McKinley Mall, then went to Barne's & Noble and each of us took 30 minutes to find a new read for the month. We came back with many choices, but Cathy Cole found our new read to discuss at our next meeting...which is Thursday Feb 24th, 5:30 at Mo's by the five corners in OP, then after dinner and discussion, we'll trek to Borders to find our next read.
This months book is 'Voluntary Madness' by Norah Vincent.

Be well

Laugh often
Love large
Dig in the dirt
Grow a garden
and may the sun light your way
Kellie
+
Herbs & Things

Herbs & Things is now carrying some Yogi Teas

Mayan Cocoa Spice...in stock now
Peach Detox...in stock now
Detox...in stock now

Calming...in stock now

Green Tea Goji Berry...Arriving soon

Green Tea Kombucha ...Arriving this week (was in stock)
Tea Peppermint Caffeine Free ...Arriving this week

Herbs & Things has Hylands Homeopathics

In stock...30x

Arnica Montana

Chamomile

Nux

Allium Cepa

Hepar

Apis

Mag Phos...6X
and also

Bach's rescue remedies and flower essences

Willow, Pine, Beech, Star of Bethlehem (others arriving soon)

Arriving this week 30x

Rhus Tox.

Ruta Gravis

Arsenicum Album

Hypericum Perf.

Winds playing the Flute? Latest ramblings from Herbs & Things email

Hello From Herbs & Things :)

 

Let us permit nature to have her way. She understands her business better than we do.
~Michel de Montaigne


My "time off" has come to an end.
Wed back to 'work' for me.
Did I get done ALL the things I had planned? Of course not. I spent to much time goofing off:) My friend told me, "Kellie, that's what being on vacation is, goofing off, going at your own pace. Not doing all the 'work' things you told me you were going to do."

It didn't take me long to begin to enjoy 'hanging out' while the shop was closed. I did not go anywhere, really do anything, but yet I felt free. When I went snowshoeing, meditated, shopping, or did something as simple as talk on the phone it felt like I had all the time in the world. There were no time constraints other than the animals, but they've been a part of my life since childhood, so that time doesn't count:).

I guess I did not fully realize that though I work from home, I am still on a time schedule, of when and what I can do, that revolves around Herbs & Things opening and closing times. I did good though, the one thing I had to get done.... I did...Herbs & Things books. Good thing I am not a big business...book keeping IS NOT my forte':) I procrastinate so.

I rearranged Herbs & Things little shop. Very little though, there is not a big space to rearrange:) but I think it is roomier, with a new rack, (graciously given to me by Rose from Body Glyphix) which looks nice and is more space efficient.
I didn't get my web site updated as planned, but I will. The new ideas have not stopped so when I get them collated, then I can start to work on the website.

On a fun 'NOTE' I copied Linda K, and bought myself a walnut, Native American Sparrow Hawk flute in the key of A. I am LOVING it. I am amazed, that though I've never played flute that I can actually play a couple tunes and already I have a flute and maybe Spirit encounter? :)

Tuesday morning around 3-3:30 AM I woke to a sound, that I figured was the wind blowing through something. But to me (probably because I've been practicing) it sounded like some one was playing a flute. I turned over and listened to the tune, thinking that the winds, in their natural beauty and rhythm were able to create music that sounds like a beautifully played flute with no squeaks or missed notes, and then I thought, gosh to bad I can't play the flute like the wind does. How beautiful it was.
Later that morning, Rick (husband) says to me, "Did you hear that sound during the night? I think it was wind blowing through something, but it sounded just like a....."
" A flute playing?" I said, with wide eyes..
He said, "Yeah....that's just what it sounded like, in fact at first I thought you were practicing in the wee hours of the morning, but then I felt you still in bed."
So, now I wonder? He heard it too, AND to him, it sounded like someone was playing a flute too.

COOL! :)


Did you know?

If you cut the Hawthorn Berry open, the fruits has a heart shape inside and what does the Hawthorn Berry Benefit? Yes the heart. Also it helps with high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, cholesterol and much more....Read more about the amazing Hawthorn Berry
http://www.nutritional-supplement-educational-centre.com/hawthorne-berry.html
Hawthorn Berry is available at Herbs & Things


Cayenne Peppers from the Capsicum family has a number of benefits, for the heart, stomach, intestines, circulatory system, metabolism and more...read more about Capsicum/Capsaicin.. http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=140

Reminder...Herbs & Things has a variety of New Sun Supplements

Such as, Vita C, B6, B12, B Complex, D3, Magnesium Blend, Life Source, Probiotics, and more
and if I don't have what you want in stock...let me get it and you pick it up in the shop and save up to 30%-50% on shipping.

Also I have a variety of Herb Pharm products too.
Nettle, Milk Thistle, Good Mood Tonic, Healthy Liver tonic, Willow Bark, Echinacea, Turmeric and more...
Mention Herbs & Things and get 10% off your first Body, Soul and Mind 2 hour consultation with Rose at Body Glyphix Studio.
http://www.bodyglyphix.com/

Be well
Laugh often
Love large
Dig in the dirt
Grow a garden
and may the sun light your way

Kellie


+


Herbs & Things

Part of Herbs & Things email...Fountain of Youth?

Every one has heard about the fountain of youth and would like to jump in.

I've learned where to find the fountain of youth without traveling to foreign countries. It's as simple as keeping what you've acquired while spending time nature for any length of time, with you.

Here's what happened. I was taking the dogs for their walk on a snowy day last week. I went to the 'Fairy Garden' near the Wheel. In that garden along with the Pines are Apple Trees. One particular Apple Tree caught my attention with a limb that swoops down making a perfect sitting spot within that tree.

I sat there, watching the snow flakes being carried at a slight angle by a breeze and listening to that same breeze sing through the Pines. I could hear the birds at the feeder at my back, and it was in that quiet time, I recalled a couple conversations I'd had with friends during the week. One friend said she at 46 put on her leggings, went outside, and laid in the snow under some trees and just was. Her words to me were, "I felt like a little kid and did not care what the neighbors thought and it felt good".

I had just done about the same thing lying on the Fairy mound, in the snow like a child, watching the snow fall and waft through the trees. As the snow flakes landed on my cheeks I stuck my tongue out trying to catch some snowflakes, remembering what they taste like to a child. After which, I got up, did a little dance of joy in the snow, and looked up in the trees and again felt like a small child next to their tall stature. That's when I eyed the welcoming arm of the Apple tree, and sat in its cradling comfort.

It was there in the serenity of the moment, the light went on. The fountain of youth is that child that visits you for 20,30,40 minutes at age 46, 56 or 63 as you lay in the snow, make snow angels, or do a hair-do with your grandchildren and go to dinner like that....that will keep your inner child alive as you re-enter your adult world. By merely allowing that child from the past to be part of your now adult life is what keeps you young and get this...grounded.

So go out in nature, hike, sit, play in the snow, walk IN the puddle not around it. Splash in the creek, swing on a swing, do it all...and you will have found the fountain of youth and it will make you feel good.