A New Year Gift

Today I am sharing with my readers a post I wrote on Facebook yesterday. It received such great response that I decided to increase its audience in the hope that it will start off your New Year with positive vibes.

the post:
Let's clear the air.
I have a suggestion for anyone who has leftover negative energy with a person no longer living a human life. Write the person a letter, saying all the things you never had a chance to say. Next, read it back to yourself.Then burn it sending loving thoughts into the Universe.
If we all did this the air would be much cleaner.

Now, I thought I had an original idea. Apparently I have simply moved more solidly into the company of souls who have been evolved longer than I have. That's great! It means I am learning, which is exactly what we are all here for.

Priscill and Cheryl said they have used this technique for years, sharing it with friends and clients who are in distress. They both added that it can be used for anyone here in physical form or not.

Deborah took it even further, having used the technique for over 40 years herself. She said it can also be used to release clearing with institutions, situations and relationships. She suggested treating them as an entity and writing to them.

Susan's comment made me laugh. She said she was going to try it on "unreceptive living humans". Go Susan!!

I never tell anyone to do anything that I am not willing to do myself. After I came up with what I thought at the time was my idea, I cleared out the negative energy from my own life. I started with a soul who has not been in human form since 1987 and moved up to the present. When I had finished I felt free. I now have room in my life for positive energy.

Remember I am simply a messenger, passing on what I learn to my fellow humans. Happy New Year to all who read my words!

Is it I?

I am grateful that:

I am physically and mentally healthy

I have enough for today

I have friends who care

I owe no one anything

I am kind and thoughtful

I willingly share what I have

I do not depend on others

I desire to stay aligned with Source

I have been given a gift of vision to share my way

Being truly grateful for these and many other gifts that have been earned and bestowed by the Universe lead to knowing there are many more yet to come. It is up to me to quit procrastinating and help make them manifest. Life is a partnership and if you don't do your share you won't get anywhere.

On this next to last day before a new decade begins, my goal is to get off my butt and find new opportunities to use the Universal gifts I have been given; to help mankind understand it's all about LOVE.

I don't remember much about the 25 years I was held captive by the Catholic Church, but the words to one hymn still stand out in my mind. They are: Is it I Lord? I finally know the answer is YES!

My Personal GPS

Many people at this time of year take time out of their busy life to sit down and make a list of resolutions. Some they keep and some they don't because they are not very realistic. I don't do resolutions, but this year I came up with my personal GPS. It is not a list of rules. It is a global positioning system so that I don't loose my way in this gigantic world.

Express gratitude for all gifts big and small.

Follow my intuition.

Only do what makes me happy.

Be kind to myself.

Believe in my gifts and talents.

Look for Universal signs.

Take risks and have fun.

Use every opportunity to spread love.

Always be open to learn something new.

Seek like minded people.

That about does it. If I follow my personal GPS I should have no problem peacefully traveling from here to there in the time frame allotted by my Creator.

Heart to Heart

I know that my writing is a gift meant to use to inspire others. My blog has made me happy for over a year. I also know from feedback that it does inspire. Perhaps it is the child like manner in which I perceive and present simple thoughts and ideas.

Several months ago I accepted a FB friend request from someone I now call jt. From the moment of our conscious connection I was aware of very strong spiritual energy between us. It is impossible to ignore. It led me to accept concepts I may not have otherwise explored. The only explanation I can find is that our souls recognize each other from another realm.

I recently discovered that I can use the love found in this Universal connection to inspire and create something I didn’t know I could. A building full of kids matched with a handful of caring adults will benefit from a project to be called “Heart to Heart”.

Last October I signed up for Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) and had hoped to be matched with a child who is interested in writing. I was very excited about the prospect. The organization has been very slow completing the background checks for those of us who are interested. It has caused volunteers to loose interest.

I was about ready to give up the idea myself when I decided to talk it over with the director of our family center. I discovered that she was also disillusioned with BBBS. As we talked I remembered that I had an unrealized dream of connecting retired people with children in our community, but I did not have the resources or tools to do it on my own.

There are many older people in our community who no longer have the responsibility of a job or raising a family. They often sit at home feeling that nobody cares about them. Many of them have special skills, hobbies etc. that is their passion. There are also children who for many reasons feel that nobody cares about them. Maybe their parents are under stress or work too many hours to have time for them.

I know from my own experience that when someone notices and appreciates that you have something special to offer it can make a world of difference in self-esteem. Every human, no matter their age, has unique gifts to share with the world. We are all students and we are all teachers.

During our conversation we agreed that the basic idea of BBBS is good, but there is a lot of baggage in the form of unnecessary paper work and rules. Realizing the program really doesn’t fit our small town, we decided to keep it simple and do it our way. The family center already has a building full of kids in their after school program. All we need is a handful of adult volunteers with time on their hands and knowledge to share.

When our idea is launched my participation will be to encourage and hopefully inspire as many kids as are interested to put their thoughts on paper. I can even see a future book written by the kids. Anything is possible when you share what is in your heart with others. The project will be called “Heart to Heart” and I am very excited about getting it going early in 2011.

Imagination

It is finally the day after Christmas and I survived. I wonder was this a final test that I passed? I know Source/God has a sense of humor, but this is ridicules. I have not had communication (in person) with anyone since Friday morning. It reminds me of the movie Cast Away with Tom Hanks, stranded on a desert island, with nobody to talk to except a volleyball with a face drawn on it. Imagination is a wonderful gift that can keep us from going crazy.

Sometimes when life does not work out the way we expect it to our only option is to imagine it the way we want it to be. If we can find a tiny spark of love we can build it into a humongous flame that would light up any world. It doesn't matter if anyone else can see what we see. Love isn't something that can be seen- it just is.

When you can feel love in your heart, even when nobody else is around, you know you are a whole, well balanced human being. You will be just fine; no matter what the Universe has in store for you.

This less than perfect Christmas taught me to keep on imagining until the love I feel in my heart manifests my fondest dreams.

YOUR Perception Matters

The last four months have been an interesting experience for me. It has been a time for major personal growth, resulting in a renewed belief that I am a unique example of the best work of my Creator. There have been times, years in fact, during my life that I forgot who I was born to be. The Universe has a funny way of reminding us of why we are here. Sometimes it is a tap on the shoulder and sometimes it is a knock on the head with a sledge hammer that forces us to remember.

The day before my daughter's 31st birthday,in August, she sent me an email informing me that she was eliminating me from her life because I am a "terrible, abusive, narcissistic person" who has treated her like crap all her life. Although it came as a surprise, I quickly looked in my mirror and wondered where her perception was coming from. It sure wasn't who I saw looking back at me.

I decided to let her be for awhile. I expected her to eventually wake up from her nightmare and think about all the many times I have come to her aide and rescued her from disaster, during her 31 years on planet earth. Hello, remember me?

During this time I also thought about how she could have come to such an erroneous conclusion. When I stepped back and examined the situation from an observer's vantage point I did see things that had not been previously clear as the "perpetrator". I realized that by always helping her I was actually telling her I didn't think she was capable of helping herself; thus I came across as controlling, desiring to lead her life for her.

"I see said the blind man as he picked up his hammer and saw."

Going back in my life, I also saw how that could have happened. My mother, RIP, was also a very controlling mother, who was my role model. Her father died when she was 10, leaving her to spend the rest of her life as an angry, negative adult. When I understood the reason behind her actions I easily forgave her for the critical way she had treated me. How I treated my own daughter was simply over correction to the way I was treated as a child. It was not done on purpose to hurt her.

To unintentionally harm another is one thing, but to do it on purpose is quite another. I never would have believed my daughter would have carried her negative perception through the holidays, but she is doing exactly that. It makes me sad because I am aware that what we choose to give to the Universe will surely return to us.

I spent Christmas Eve alone consuming a delicious Cornish game hen with all the trimmings. I sure wasn't going to skimp just because of another's perception of me. Tonight I will be cooking my famous marinated pork loin, in all probability, just for me. Guess that's why they make freezers!

I will also spend this Christmas day expressing gratitude to the Universe that I have grown to the point of truly believing in me and remembering that my own perception is the only one that matters.

P.S. Thanks jt and Merry Christmas! <3

The Mongoose is Free!

'Twas the morning before the night before Christmas and who should appear bright and early at my front door?

A blond, blue eyed smiling little boy that I am proud to say I do adore.

Grandma, grandma is it too early? Are you up yet?

Yes, I’m up. Come on in and have some hot chocolate.

I came to exchange our Christmas presents, grandma just like we planned last night.

I know it is our special time together. The rest of your family was not invited.

Open yours first Grandma, I picked it out myself.

Oh nice, a cappuccino collection and bright pink cozy slipper socks! Thank you!!

Now for you, my little man. You have patiently waited for months to take your mongoose home. Here is the key. Now go unlock the shed and set it free.

I heard him exclaim as he rode down the street, Merry Christmas to all I LOVE MY NEW BIKE!!! Thank you Grandma!

Communicate Please!

What is communication anyway? In my opinion it is the transference of thought between two living beings. It does not necessarily involve the use of words. Some of those beings do not speak "human". Whatever form it takes it satisfies the basic need to be recognized by another.

Sometimes a touch on the cheek, hand, head or shoulder speaks volumes. A tiny baby responds to a sincere smile. An animal responds to a calm loving voice or a pat on the head. Plants actually respond to someone talking to them. A friend facing a difficult challenge responds when someone simply cares to notice.

How easy it is in our busy world to simply focus on our own life and walk off as if there is no one else around. I feel very fortunate that I have so many friends from all over the world who communicate their thoughts with me. They all have their own unique way of doing so. Just to have them notice I am alive and take the time to communicate is what I am most grateful for this year.

Thank you Source/Universe/God for this precious blessing. You are number one in my book of life, always have been and always will be! <3 <3 <3

A Special Request

Today was circled on my calender three weeks ago, 21 days to be exact. I expect it to be a very fortunate day. What I expect to happen is the granting of a secret Christmas request between me and the Universe/Source/God. It is the only gift I asked for this year. It does not require a purchase, a container or special shipping.

I realize that the granting of my special request is not entirely up to me. My job was to simply state what I want more than anything, believe that I will receive it and trust in an unseen Spirit/Spirits that my request will be granted.

Interestingly, the number 22 has popped up again and again in my life over the last few years. I have always taken note of this fact. I know that the number represents a spiritual expression of balance and integration with self and others. A couple of days ago I received additional information on this sequence. It also represents the cosmic life force about to descend, inexperienced, into the world of manifestation. Last, but certainly not least 2+2= the master number 4.

Hopefully everyone will get their heart's desire this year. Remember there is no gift more special than LOVE given and received. Happy holidays!!

Motor Response

Winter Solstice gives us an opportunity to reflect on the past and begin again. I have chosen to take this time to acknowledge my past actions, take responsibility for them and accept the consequences that they may have caused others.

Most people stop there, but someone once told me that my motor works differently than most people. It was nothing I didn't already know. Because of that I also went way back in my life to find the reasons that caused my current actions. When I understood those reasons I was able to forgive myself and motivate myself to change.

So far my life has been demanding and judging of others. My new approach is to offer and leave, to ask and allow Source to do the rest and most of all to only do what makes me happy. Allowing people in my life that do not treat me well is now a big no no!

My happiest moments involve spending time with my grandson, Colin. Yesterday we had the whole day to just hang out together, a bigger Christmas gift than anyone could ever put in a box.

Earlier this week he got himself in trouble by not meeting his reading goal at school. This upset me very much because he is an excellent reader. I knew his punishment was to not participate in the party the school gives the students who meet their goal. By the way, this is in addition to the regular Christmas party for all the students.

I assumed he would be sad that he was left out of the party. When I asked him about it his response was, "We got to clean the school and the teacher in charge was the best, most fun teacher ever!"

I wonder if the way your motor works is an inherited thing? If it is my daughter is in for a lifetime of interesting lessons!

Gifts of Hope

There are many different ways to give at this time of year. Personally I am getting weary of viewing all the packages under people's trees. Whatever happened to the old fashioned Christmas when you got one very special gift, often hand made with love? It is my belief that most of today's children get way too much. Of course there are the exceptions who receive nothing and they are the ones I feel compassion for.

This year I found a special organization called "Plan America" that really touched my heart. There were a couple of people that I wanted to give a gift to, just so they knew I cared about them, but an ordinary gift purchased or made just wouldn't fit my purpose this year.

Then I found Plan USA and their Gifts of Hope. This organization was founded in 1937 by journalist John Langdon-Davies to provide food, accommodations and education for children whose lives had been disrupted by the Spanish Civil War.

Today Plan works in 48 developing countries. It has one million sponsors in 18 donor countries, helping over one million children all over the world. There are many ways to help the organization including sponsoring a child. What caught my eye were the gifts of hope, ranging in value from $10 to over $500. They may be given in memory or to honor someone.

Absolutely perfect for my needs. For the female on my list, whose goal is to be a teacher,I chose classroom essentials for one child. For the male, who has raised three children, I chose three baby chicks. These two gifts will provide not only education, but eventually a source of income for a child.

It made my heart feel so good that for so little I could do so much. Why don't you join me in giving a gift of hope?

The link is www.planusa.org

A Special Friend

Today’s post is dedicated to a special friend, Marc Hollis. He and I met through a writing site over a year ago and our relationship has grown ever since. It surprised both of us that we have so much in common because there is a generation gap. Marc is a year younger than my oldest son.

About this time last year Marc was involved in an online activity using one word to describe each of his friends. For me he chose enlightened. This little (big) word acted as a catalyst for me to look in my mirror and see what he saw. I believe my word for Marc was loving. He is a very caring young man.

Marc lives in the United Kingdom and has partial custody of his adorable daughter, Mia. She is the love of his life and a little younger than my grandson, Colin. Marc also eats sleeps and breaths trance music, which he has done his best to interest me in. Actually, I found I do like most of it, which surprised me- a lot.

My special friend also loves to write poetry and shares it on his Facebook wall. I do admit that some of his poems I don’t quite get, but keep in mind the generation difference. Today he shared a piece that I consider beautiful, honest and touching. I believe it is one of his best efforts and it is my pleasure to share it with my readers. Please enjoy and connect with him if he sounds like someone you too would like as a friend.

The Discovery of Hands

That,
which touched you,
sent your scent,
to my brain,
along narrow corridors,
and close, dark tunnels.

That,
which felt you,
touched me in return,
and relayed the softness,
in signals,
and synapses,
electricity without arc,
without the spark.

That,
which beat,
and journeyed to me by blood,
through me,
my fingers,
my hands,

And yours.

Marc R. Hollis,
AKA: Marco Van Der Vroom

Eliminate the Crap

Being a part of "new age" thinkers, I believe that with Universal assistance, we choose our challenges before we emerge in human form. This simple fact explains why it sometimes seems that our experiences are unjust. They are simply a means to the end, so that our soul may evolve. I have come to believe that my main life challenge is to cut out the crap and find love.

I remember an activity often played at group picnics my family attended. The game was sifting through a big pile of straw to find scattered coins (usually pennies) deposited by the adults. The payoff wasn't all that great, but the act of digging was a lot of fun.I have realized that life is a lot like that game, only the payoff is much more important.

Getting rid of things we don't need, both material and psychological allows us to see who we really are. How can you find your true self if you are deeply buried in a pile of crap? We carry with us unnecessary anger, blame, resentment and jealousy. Some of it we allow others to dump on us and some we pile on ourselves. It doesn't matter how it got there. What matters is what are you going to do about it?

I suggest right now, on this December day, before another year rolls around is an excellent time to start digging and eliminate the crap from your life. When you finish you will find that you truly love the soul who is holding the shovel!! Happy digging.:>)

Giving/Helping Can Hurt

“Helping others at our own expense is an act of selfishness. Martyrdom always has a hidden agenda.” ~author David Roppo

When we spend our life offering unneeded help to another it is like saying “I am not worthy of love as I am.” I have to give you things you could get for yourself and do things for you that you could do for yourself so that you will love me.

The second half of this equation is that the receiver thinks the giver believes them to be incapable or even stupid. When the giver does not get recognition for the unwanted giving and helping, a finger is pointed at the receiver calling him/her ungrateful. This unfortunate circle of events has no winner and only creates negative energy for both participants.

Often the misguided giver is trying to make up for their own childhood experiences of the lack of someone caring about them; causing the person to grow into adulthood with low self-esteem. The only cure for them is to practice self love. Of course, there is always the chance that some misguided soul who doesn’t understand, will label them narcissistic!

Words of wisdom:

I chose then based on what I knew then and will choose now based on what I have learned from the lessons. ~Pj Samuels

As we think, we begin to feel; as we feel, we vibrate; when we vibrate, we start to attract. You attract exactly what you are resonating. ~author John Holland

We wish to be self-sustained. We do not quite forgive a giver. The hand that feeds us is in some danger of being bitten. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Think of giving not as a duty, but as a privilege. ~John D. Rockefeller

I have found that among other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver. ~Maya Angelou

No one has ever become poor by giving. ~Anne Frank

Pure giving comes from the heart and expects no reward. ~Barbara Gunn

Are You Less Than?

This morning while flipping through posts on facebook I saw something that got my attention and caused me to respond "wait a minute I don't agree with that!" A post was written by a friend who appears to believe herself to be "an earth angel". I do not have a problem with that. There are many souls in the world today who believe they possess special spiritual powers, and perhaps they do.

Her post began by stating, "You are not a lightworker (enlightened soul) if you are telling people, "why don't you get it?" She went on to say, "Your job is to lead them down the path, not to spank them. Your enlightenment comes from real "Powers that Be". You are used as a vessel." I agreed up to that point.

Then came my problem. She said,"You are not equal to Source/God or an angel."

Is that so, I thought? Well, perhaps you are not as enlightened as you believe yourself to be. I certainly do not believe myself to be greater than my Creator/God/Source, but I definitely do not consider myself to be less than the original. That would be like saying God makes junk. I don't think so!

I believe this is the mentality of religion today. It makes people believe there is something wrong with them and they need to spend their lives fixing it. You can't fix something that is not broken. Everything created starts out perfect, just the way it was meant to be, especially people. Listening to and believing all the warped views of the Universe is what damages people.

Wake up and believe that you are not less than anything or anyone! Live the rest of your life as the perfect soul you were created to be and get on with your mission of shinning your unique bright light!!

Use Your Own Twist

About a year ago I became friends with a woman from Jamaica. We communicated online for awhile and eventually decided we should create an inspirational website together. We each already had our own blogs as a stepping stone. Instead of approaching the idea slowly as I had suggested, Dawn forged ahead without my knowledge and set it up. When I saw what she had done I also saw that it would never work. Although we had similar messages we each had a unique twist on how the message should be offered.

I did not understand at the time that we really were not a vibrational match. My decision to fore go the joint website and concentrate on my blog angered Dawn and ended our brief friendship. Lately I have been thinking about her and wondering how her part of the idea played out in her life.

For me I am quite pleased with my little spot in the universe. It is plain and simple and gives me an opportunity to share my own twist on things with anyone who cares to listen. I am quite aware that many of my posts do come from my subconscious mind and I always give credit when I have used original thoughts expressed by others. It is the honest thing to do.

Your Inner Circle

Once in a while something pops up on a friend's blog/website that I just can't help passing on. This happened yesterday when I watched a short video presented by relationship coach, Lisa Merlo-Booth, on Lines of Beauty. The message was very powerful and one everyone looking for a peaceful life should hear.

It was in part:
"It is a privilege to be in your inner circle and only those who treat you well get to enter and remain in that circle."~Lisa Merlo-Booth

In my opinion, life gives you enough "stuff" to deal with, you don't have to add putting up with abusive, mean spirited, ungrateful souls whose main purpose is to suck up your positive energy. These people are living their lives based on their ego and will never be vibrational matches for anyone living a soul based life.

Time to clean out your closet and make room for those who truly know what love and respect mean. The world is made up of a lot of people and you don't need to allow them all into your "special" inner circle.

(Thanks Louise I hope you don't mind my sharing this important message.)

Way Ahead

This evening I am very pleased with myself. I looked around and decided that I am way ahead of most people, 18 days before Christmas. Many people are already in so much debt it will take months to clear it off the books. They are still rushing around trying to find the perfect gifts. Not me, says I!! I am way ahead of the crowd.

My gifts are purchased and paid for and I owe nothing to anyone. My gift cooking is done and delivered to my special friends. My cards are mailed, only to those I do not see on a regular basis. I don't choose to support the Post Office anymore. My house is decorated, minus a tree this year, but with my collection of snowmen and special ornaments scattered around the house. Oh yes, there is the added addition of a beautiful new wreath on my front door, purchased at the Christmas Craft Show last weekend. Quite festive!!

With any luck at all my daughter will allow my grandson to spend some time at my house during his Christmas vacation. I am learning not to count on things until they actually happen though. I'm pondering the thought of renting a family to share Christmas dinner with me this year. There has to be someone out there who appreciates the talents of a good cook who loves to fuss over holiday dinners.

Anyway, that's 18 days away and since I am way ahead of most people already I still have plenty of time to fantasize and conjure up an exciting day on December 25.

Christmas Doesn't Need a Container

For many years Christmas gifts, however special the giver meant them to be, just never meant much to me. There was always something missing. Today I am wondering if the problem was that I knew something that I didn't realize I knew. Christmas doesn't need a container.

The gifts found under people's trees nowadays often make me feel sick. After they are opened and the wrappings are disposed of, then what? Is it really going to make the recipient happy for very long? Will it change their life in a positive way? Probably not.

What is Christmas anyway? If people truly believe it is the celebration of the birth of our creator in human form then why would they want to limit it to just one day out of 365? It is my belief that Jesus was born because humans could not believe in a spirit they could not see. He wasn't born just for one day. If you truly believe in the Spirit behind Christmas spread it around every day of your life.

Every time we love; every time we give, it's Christmas.~Dale Evans

Remember this December that love weighs more than gold.~Josephine Bacon

Christmas gift suggestions:
To your enemies, forgiveness,
To an opponent, tolerance,
To a friend, your heart,
To a customer, service,
To all, Charity,
To every child, a good example,
To yourself, respect.
~Oren Arnold

Notice there is no container needed for any of the above. Freely give love this Christmas season and throughout your life, making the world a better place for yourself and everyone you know.

Christmas Craft Show

This has been an interesting weekend providing both negative and positive experiences/lessons for me. In Grants, NM the first weekend of December has for many years been the Christmas Craft Show. I participated with my wares from the time my daughter, now 31, was a baby until a couple of years ago. Last year I did join Christina with my photographs, poems etc. just to help her get started on her own journey.

This year she has her own space and is offering some very creative craft items, made mostly from paper. I am happy to see that she has inherited her family's tradition of creating. My mother was a very talented seamstress and her mother created beautiful needle designs with yarn and canvas. Also, my father's mother could make anything into a craft item and her brother designed beautiful etchings on ivory.

Yesterday it was nice just being able to walk around and view the talents of our local residents. I had a chance to visit with people I have known for years and have not seen recently. I even reconnected with a very good friend who just three days ago retired. Hopefully now she can have more time for just hanging out and catching up.

The memories of all the hours spent over the years preparing for and participating in this craft show made me feel a little sad. It is just another phase of my life that is in my past, but now needs to be replaced with something new.

Things change and if we don't change with them we find ourselves left feeling that nobody cares. Christmas this year is going to be a little sad at my house because it looks like all of my friends and family have plans that do not include me. I am not looking for sympathy it is just the way it is.

Birth Day Celebration

Today is the real anniversary of my human birth. Wow! All the experiences and all the souls I have met to reach this day are amazing. I am sending out love to everyone who has had the tiniest part in my evolvement, wherever you reside on this day December 2, 2010!

Peace be with you all,
Barbara Loure`

A Universal Birthday Gift

Our most precious gifts are those we cannot buy.

Last Sunday, a few days before my birthday was due, I received a universal gift that meant more to me than anything purchased for a million dollars could have. As I clicked on my computer that morning I noticed I had a message. Holding my breath I clicked on the familiar image. Yes!! I couldn’t hold back the warm tears as I took in what had been sent to me and who had sent it.

It was a computer generated photo with the following poem:

Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow;
I am the diamond glints of snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain;
I am the gentle autumn’s rain.

When you awaken in the morning’s hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft star that shines at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry
I am not there I did not die.

The man who sent this beautiful presentation has not been “visible” in my life since last spring. He is a very special soul mate and I have missed his wit, quick mind and spiritual enlightenment very much. Sometimes things happen to temporarily part even the closest of souls. It is often a necessary step to give one of the pair or perhaps both space to catch up and adjust. This growth period seems like an eternity.

In a very short time I learned much from this beautiful soul. He epitomizes the quote “The healthiest exercise for the heart is to reach down and lift someone up.”

Most importantly he taught me that what I see is exactly that and I do not need to justify it to anyone; that I Am the only soul in charge of MY life; to practice patience and letting go (whether I want to or not) and to accept the oneness of the universe. Although I suspect it was not entirely his idea, I also learned to shine my light and not hide behind anyone or anything.

I don’t know what will happen next, but I asked the Archangel Jophiel, who has never let me down, to send an angel to whisper in his ear, “I love you.” When I came home from running errands today there was a small gold angel on the floor inside my front door.

I am very grateful to the universe for giving me the best birthday gift I have ever received. I sincerely thank you!

Keep the Welcome Mat Out

Through our lives many people come and go. We open our arms and hearts wide and welcome them. Some are relatives, some are friends and some are messengers destined for a brief stay.

Although they accept our invitation to bond we cannot tell them how to interact with us. We all have our own path to follow.

Every soul has his/her own way of living, programmed before their human creation. To interfere, even in the name of love, is paving a road to disaster.

So keep the welcome mat out, but allow your guests the freedom to be who they truly are.

Last DishTurkey

Waste not want not has always been my motto. As I have said before I blame it all on my Scottish maternal grandfather, William Ott Johnston. Thanks grandpa! Even though I never met you your genes march on! Today I decided to be creative with some of my leftover turkey before tossing it all into the freezer.

Last Dish Turkey
8 oz vegetable pasta cooked and drained
1 can mushroom soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup sliced olives
1 pkg frozen spinach thawed
2 cups chopped turkey

Combine and season to taste, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese
Cover and bake in 9"X12" shallow dish
350 degrees for 30 minutes or until hot

I'll bet it's going to be yummy and healthy!!

What Happened to Love?

The Thanksgiving holiday and my house guest have moved on. The sheets and towels are washed and replaced. Leftovers have been divided and put in the freezer for meals to come. All the dishes are washed and put away for the last time. The only signs of life are my two cats, Ebony and Smokey, who are grateful that my son's dog is also gone.

Putting away the Thanksgiving adornments leaves empty spaces here and there in my house.I am at the moment trying to decide if I should put up Christmas decorations this year. If things keep going the way they are I anticipate a very sad and lonely holiday. At the moment I am wondering if I should just skip it altogether and leave the state. The only member of my immediate family living in New Mexico who would notice my absence is my grandson, who already knows I am giving him a new bike this year. He is counting off the days before he can ride it!

Even if I don't decorate my house it is hard to escape Christmas. Nowadays it starts in October and goes on and on. I guess I need to weigh the pros and cons of participating beyond buying gifts, which I have already done. That's not Christmas in my book. Whatever happened to love and the spirit of the upcoming season?

One Gift
If you could have one gift for Christmas
Tell me what would it be, someone asked.
Seriously pondering the question awhile
The gift I choose wouldn't be under the tree.

What I really want for Christmas
I told the person who had asked me
Is the most precious treasured gift of all,
LOVE, pure and simple and completely free.
B. Gunn 2000

P.S. (11/28/10)
After further contemplation I have decided to put up decorations and skip the tree as it no longer has meaning for me. What I want really isn't under the tree!

Soup's On!

This morning my house smells so good with the remains of the turkey carcass, plus fresh and frozen veggies and whatever seasoning I felt like throwing in the pot, simmering on the stove. One of my most favorite things to cook is soup.

Soon my oldest son, visiting from Colorado, my grandson and I will be exploring the bowling alley. It will be interesting to see how patient "uncle Jeff" is with his young nephew. Colin is a born athlete and may just show us both up! Since I haven't been bowling for over 30 years this adventure will be interesting for me too. Hopefully it's like riding a bike, one never forgets how to do it.

Apparently Colin, who popped in about an hour ago, is planning on spending the day with me and his uncle. He said he told his mom as he left his house, "See you tonight."

So that's my day after Thanksgiving. Life couldn't be better! Good company, and a pot of homemade soup to look forward to for lunch.

Family Baggage

This afternoon I watched a you-tube video titled Being Present in Relationships. It was based on Eckhart Tolle's idea of seeing our relatives as if they had no past with us. What a great idea, especially at this time of year when families and their "baggage" get together and often pretend to love each other; while deep down they are reliving past hurts that never healed.

"All Happy families resemble one another, each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way." ~Leo Tolstory

Wouldn't it be wonderful if someone could just snap a finger and wipe out whatever the transgression was? What if we could enter a room or sit down at the holiday dinner table as if we had amnesia, meeting everyone for the first time? Just to be present in the moment without the baggage of past mistakes would be a magnificent gift for all to give and receive.

Peace be with all of you during this holiday season and may you make every effort to be present in all of your relationships.

Mirror Mirror

The Universe is so clever! Due to recent events I have been forced to take a good look at who I am. Not who I was as a child, a wife or a young mother. The person I see in my mirror right now is someone I really love!

I not only love that person, I like the face looking back at me. That being is loving, generous, caring, grateful and an all weather good friend. It took years of determination to mold the current person I see in my mirror. I am very proud that I have taken every opportunity to do just that. It's been a long hard struggle, but worth every once of effort.

Have you ever loved someone, but you just don't like the things they do, say and think? Funny isn't it that they just fall away from you when you have moved past them. It is almost as if they are afraid that being in your positive company will somehow also change who they are. On the way up to where I am today I have experienced people who have displayed that kind of fear. Now I see the universal humor as I wave and say goodbye to them. Perhaps someday we will reconnect, but maybe not in this lifetime.

The air where I now reside is pure and fresh. The current souls in my life are positive, inquiring, eager to share what they too have learned and most importantly spiritually accepting. Their egos have been dropped by the wayside and they see every experience as an opportunity to expand.

Mirror mirror on the wall who is the most loving person of all?

You are of course, no matter what anyone else says!!

Living On Less

Today's blog subject was prompted by reading a post offered by a Facebook friend. It was about living cheap. My ears popped up because that certainly fits my current life experience. Some people my age, living on a small social security income, would spend their life seeing nothing but scarcity. I do not fit that group.

For clarity and thanks to a divorce settlement 11 years ago I do own my home and I was able to pay cash for an efficient car I bought new at the end of 2005. Of course owning those things also gives me the opportunity of paying property tax, license fees, insurance and repair bills. Oh well, that's life in the not so fast lane!

I owe no one anything, I eat well, I am warm and comfortable and there is nothing I need that I am not able to provide for myself. My secret is not living beyond my means and not wasting anything. Part of my current philosophy no doubt came from the manner in which I was raised. I never got used to throwing money away just to impress someone else. Money has never been the way I measure relationships.

One of my friends recently referred to me as "very poor" and it really made me angry for awhile. The woman, who is in so much debt she will never be debt free, had no idea how wrong she is. I wouldn't trade lives for any amount of money!

I think another ingredient that helps me live on less is that I actually get a kick out of seeing just how far I can stretch a dollar. Apparently I was created with an unusual sense of adventure that makes living fun no matter how much money is in my wallet. Being grateful for what I have is the first step to happiness!

Back Tracking

Time flies when you are having fun! I just noticed that I passed the one year mark of my blog created on November 7,2009. First came a newspaper column, then a book, then another then facebook and this my current passion.

Has anyone noticed that I love writing? My inspiration was and still is Richard Bach, who writes from his heart. He never cared whether anyone else "bought" what he wrote. He just expressed himself, following his subconscious mind. It is exactly what I do and it makes me extremely happy.

Over the last year I have written about many subjects that have touched my heart in some way. Although I make every effort to stay positive I also know that at least a couple of times a post has disturbed someone who read it. Sometimes a writer has to use all the power he/she can muster to reach a reader. It is called a wake up call.

My very first real post was titled "I Killed My Best Friend". Got your attention huh? You can still read it by going back in the archives to November 7, 2009. It is an article written for teenagers and previously published in the Yeah Times! It offered a different view of why I smoked for forty years and quit with the snap of a finger on February 24, 1999.

Writing my blog has made me realize that my gift of words is not and never has been about money. It is about sharing my slightly quirky views of life and the experiences it has given me. If in the process I am able to inspire others or even wake someone up from their slumber- wonderful! I remain eternally grateful to the Universe/Source for giving me the needed tools to do so.

(note:Hopefully I have fixed a problem I didn't know I could by, making it possible for anyone to comment on a post, google account or not)

The Tail of a Thought

Watch your thoughts, for they become words
Watch your words, for they become actions
Watch your actions, for they become habits
Watch your habits, for they become character
Watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.

author unknown

A Perfect Match

Visiting the memories of those souls who have made the most positive impression on my life and served as role models and guides brought back my maternal grandparents. They were married for over 60 years and were a perfect match. If I had known then what I know now I would say they were twin flame soul-mates.

I do not remember ever hearing a cross word between them. They allowed each other to grow and experience separately, but together they displayed an enormous amount of love that was showered on all that knew them. One of the best gifts I was given as a young person was to be allowed to learn from them.

Howard and Peggy (Laura) Cole were truly a perfect match. Although I miss them I also know they are among those souls who are still acting as my guides, perhaps leading me to my perfect match.

Proud Grandma

Last night I took my grandson, Colin to a high school band concert to honor our veterans. As always the band, choir and band leader put on a wonderful performance. I made sure we sat so Colin could watch the drummer, his favorite instrument. When he was little I gave him a set of drums for Christmas and he loved them. Now he enjoys playing in his third grade music class. Who knows what I might have started!

The music was great and Colin was very attentive, but my proudest moment came toward the end of the program. A high school student with a strong bass voice read a one page excerpt from the Constitution. When I noticed it was also printed on the program I pointed it out to Colin and he followed every word with his finger.

The concert ended with a medley of Armed Forces songs. My little man stood up when the Army song was played to honor his Uncle Jeff, who is a Sergeant Major in the Army Reserve and the Navy song for his Uncle David, who had spent some time in that branch.

Do I have a cool grandson or what? I am very proud of him!!

Raking Up the Leaves of the Past

This time of year the falling leaves are so beautiful, until it comes time to rake them up and put them in their proper place. If we don’t attend to this little task there is the danger of eventually walking around on a lot of dead stuff and that is not healthy.

Thanksgiving is a great time to rake up the leaves of our past and get rid of those thoughts and memories that are not helping us live a positive life. Nobody is perfect. If you live life as a human you and everyone you know will make mistakes based on their own life experiences. To hang on to those mistakes, as the doer or receiver of them, only serves to create negative energy for both individuals.

How about finishing the remainder of this year with a clean slate? Let’s rake up the dead leaves of our past, properly dispose of them and move forward with a fresh attitude, preparing the ground for new growth in the spring.

“We all have big changes in our life that are more or less a second chance.” ~Harrison Ford

(The above photo was taken in my backyard a couple of years ago showing my grandson enjoying the fruits of our combined labor.)

Motivation

Today's post is partly for my friend Michele who lives in Hawaii. Some of you may remember she once told me I was the color "green". Considering the growth that color represents in the universe I took it as a compliment. Upon finding out that she reads every post I write I decided I had better give her and the rest of my readers something to digest.

In the last couple of weeks I have acquired an unusual number of new friends, mostly online. Today I am looking around and thinking what happened now? The only explanation I can find is that I have raised my vibrational level and attracted a bunch of new like minded friends, plus a couple who have returned after a brief absence. I welcome them all and I am truly enjoying the insights and lessons we share with one another.

As I was leaving Wal-Mart yesterday on the way to my car I paused for a moment to take in the variety of people in the parking lot. I took a deep breath and thought, what a wonderful creator our Creator is. How could billions of souls be alike and yet so different. It blows my mind to take in so much creativity from a single source.

I am so grateful to be living a human life in this new age of transformation. Although it is exciting it makes me a little sad for those who are still not awake. Apparently it is not their turn.

So Michele, this is my impromptu blog post for today. It may be short, but it is to the point. By now you should all have realized that I do not use more words than I absolutely need. Have a great day everyone!

Life

I took these photos in 2000 at the Riverwalk in Grants, NM. Today I finally discovered why. Lately my life has been about picking up the old and using it in ways that would not have been possible when it was new.

Are You Conscious Yet?

I am a magnet my
thoughts become things
therefore I need to
be conscious of
what I think

Feelings are feedback
If it feels good
keep doing it
If it feels bad
stop doing it

Consciously
make peace with
where you are
who you are
and be grateful

Lost Poem

Flipping through my files this morning produced a poem I wrote long before I had a blog to share my work on. I have also noticed that a lot of lost interviews, photographs, creative works attached to celebrities have re-surfaced lately. So why not my lost poem?

I often find that things I have previously written and put away pop up at the most appropriate time to give my life new meaning. I also seldom throw anything useful away. This may be the re-surfacing of my Scottish grandfather’s genes. Although I never knew him I have a strong feeling that he was also a writer. I know he worked for a printing company way back in the early 1900s. Perhaps he is my muse! Now wouldn’t that be a nice surprise?

Greed
When you ask for more than you really need
You are asking to be taught a lesson in greed
You might be given exactly what you ask
To teach you aren’t ready to handle the task.

If what you want is only for you
And it’s not about helping others too
God could consider your request to vain
And insist it be rephrased.

When power and wealth and material things
Become more important than human beings
Perhaps it is time to step back and rethink
What you really need to succeed.

Thoughts often change with growth and experience. Although today I do believe in expecting abundance I still do not believe it is necessary to be greedy. I look at those who have more than they could possibly use in their lifetime and I wonder if they are truly happy. I know I wouldn't be. Abundance is one thing, but wasting anything is quite another matter.

Plastic Ducks

This year I did something different for Halloween. I helped with the carnival at our family center. It was a lot of fun. My assignment was the duck pond for little ones. Plastic ducks swimming in a wading pool had a number on their bottoms, which indicated which prize they had won.

The costumes were adorable, especially on the littlest ones. My favorite because it showed imagination was a balloon girl. Her body was covered with a clear plastic bag full of blown up balloons. The affect was really quite clever.

The tiniest participants didn't get the idea of picking a duck and turning it over to see the number. I had to fight some of them because they wanted to take my duck home. The funniest thing was a little girl who, before I could stop her, stuck her head into the water and picked up a duck with her teeth. Her mother laughed historically as her child stood with dripping hair and a plastic duck in her mouth, wondering what happened.

Most of the kids were very well behaved and it was a fun way to spend Halloween night. Usually I sit alone in my living room waiting for someone to ring the doorbell. Hardly anyone ever does and I end up eating the candy myself. This year a bunch of little plastic ducks saved me from consuming calories I don't really need.

Leave Your Fingerprints Behind

Yesterday I had an interview with a very sweet young lady from Big Brothers Big Sisters. Amie reminded me of a baby bird gathering enough information to be able to spread her wings and fly into the universe. The interview, although intense, was a very positive experience. The only unpleasant part was trying to remove the fingerprinting ink from my fingers. I still have traces this morning.

I recently volunteered to be a big Sister and I am in the process of being accepted into this very worthy program. I am very excited about the prospect of mentoring a young girl and I truly hope I will be able to make a difference in her life, whoever she might be.

As I thought this morning about some of the information I shared during the interview I realized it had not been my intention when we began talking. I also realize that many of the facts that came out will serve to help the organization provide the best match possible.

Thinking and talking about my own childhood caused me to see that if I had been given a mentor as a young girl perhaps I would have made better choices in my adult life. I am sure I would have developed self-esteem at a much earlier age.

Sometimes parents are just too busy, too stressed or have their own problems to help a child grow in a positive manner. They are not to blame it is just the way it is in today's world. A little help along those lines from someone not so involved benefits everyone concerned.

I have always wanted a little sister, now it looks like my wish will be granted and I can hardly wait to meet her. Hopefully I can leave the fingerprints of my soul mind on her life and guide her to be the best "little" she can be.

Fresh Apple Cake

Today I thought I would share a tried and true recipe passed on to me by my deceased mother, who rarely cooked anything while I was growing up. It's not that she was lazy. It just wasn't her thing and as I have mentioned before my dad was a chef. This offering is delicious and best made with Granny Smith apples.

Fresh Apple Cake
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 cup oil
3 eggs
1 tsp salt
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla
2 cups flour
4-5 peeled & chopped apples
3/4 cup nuts (optional)

Mix ingredients in order given. Poor into 9"x13" greased pan
Bake 350 degrees 40 minutes

(Store loosely covered- freezes well)

Ageless

Lately I have been acquiring many new friends and I just realized that the majority of them are somewhere around 20 to 30 years younger than I am. Interesting huh? Is the Universe trying to tell me something? No doubt it is.

Actually my whole adult life has always been a little off kilter with my peers age wise. Perhaps that is because at 40 God decided it was time that I had another child and I agreed. While my peers were getting ready to finish their job as active parents I was going to start all over again. I believe this decision has kept me younger than I would otherwise have been. It has kept me connected with a younger generation and I love it!

I have always thought that age is only a number between birth an death. I have decided that I want to die very old, as young (at heart) as possible! It appears there are some famous people who agree that we can be ageless.

"And in the end it is not the years in your life that count, it's the life in your years." Abraham Lincoln

"It is not the length of life, but the depth of life." Ralph Waldo Emerson

"May you live all the days of your life." Jonathan Swift

"To me old age is always 15 years older than I am." Bernard M. Baruch

"To be 70 years young is sometimes far more cheerful than to be 40 years old." Oliver Wendell Holmes

It Gets Better and Better

Today is all about good news! After receiving my surprise thank you this morning I kept an appointment I had made to discuss my Wellness Fair blood test results with my primary care doctor. As some of you know I have been upset because my cholesterol and triglyceride levels were much higher than last year, but still within normal levels. I have been researching the problem and for the last two weeks have done everything I thought was necessary; eliminating what I read were bad foods and adding those that I read were good foods.

My doctor's visit started out great. First the scale told me I had lost a few pounds since my last visit- yea! Next my blood pressure was perfect 118/74.

I decided I would stick around for the discussion I had made the appointment for. Actually the first question I asked was, when is the best time to take blood pressure medication? According to a recent Dr.Oz program night is best. My Doctor said, "It doesn't matter as long as it is taken every day at about the same time." She added, "People who take it in the morning are less likely to forget."

The first thing out of her mouth after looking at her computer screen was, "Your cholesterol is great!" I'm sure my mouth was opened as I responded, "How can you say that?" I have been worried because it is up from last year. As a way of explaining she said, "Even when you have fasted, the results depend on what you have eaten for the last few days. The levels change daily." Yours are fine!

I told her all the things I had done because I was worried, apparently about nothing, and was informed all I really had to do was take fish oil, which I do, and eat fatty foods in moderation. I also learned it is not the sugar it is the fat in foods that is the problem.

As a result of such a great appointment and a great day I am going to treat myself to Chinese tonight, one of my favorite foods. I'm also eating the fortune cookie which just might provide a great message to top off a day that just gets better and better!

A Surprise Thank You

Today is turning out to be a super day. On returning from walking this morning I found a surprise on my front doorstep. It was a box with a card on top. Wondering who might have left it I ever so briefly pondered if it might be from my daughter, who decided a couple of months ago not to speak to me. Opening the card I found a very sweet thank you note from an even sweeter young woman who is a few years younger than my daughter. The box contained a beautiful crystal vase.

Although it is personal I am sure Mayka will not mind my sharing the contents of her note. She has somehow always been mentioned in my writings over the years. She was for several years a neighbor of mine and one of the girls I was responsible for in my short stint as a Mother Advisor for the International Order of Rainbow for Girls.

Barbara,
I wanted to thank you for always being supportive. You always remembered my birthdays & my graduation. It was important to me. I also want to thank you for allowing me to be a part of your writings, books & life. You have motivated me to continue my dreams and being a strong independent woman.
Again Thank You,
Mayka

After high school graduation Mayka went on to realize her dream of becoming a trauma nurse and I am very proud of her. It was not easy, but she stayed focused and made it.

Thank you Mayka for your thoughtful gesture. You made my day-week-month!! Stay as sweet as you are!

Talk Radio-Help Hope Healing

Hi and happy Sunday to everyone! I just listened to my friend Cynthia Brennen's latest radio show. Her link can be found on my blog list. Her shows are archived and if you haven't checked them out you really should.This weeks program was an interview with Zen Buddhist Priest John Seniff.

Another friend of mine peaked my interest in Buddhism several years ago and I have been adding bits of information ever since. It seems to be such a calm, peaceful way of living. It is not a Religion as much as a way of approaching life. Following are some of the points I wrote down from Cynthia's program.

God is inside not separate from us.

Buddha means awaken. It is compassion/love/acceptance.

There are no mistakes only experiences.

A person is where they are depending on their experiences.

You have to experience in order to grow.

Look at your feet, that is where you are supposed to be.

Find the middle way- balance.

Buddhism is about being you.

Learn to love who you are.

Spirits of Cibola County- Maxine's Story

(It has been awhile since I have shared one of my true life stories from my book "Wake Up!" This one is about a lady who I am willing to bet could have survived 69 days trapped in a mine.)

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade could have been written with 80 year old Maxine in mind. Some people might say terrible things have happened to her. She says, “Maybe they were supposed to happen.” Positive energy, faith and a sense of humor keep her going.

Maxine has been on her own most of her adult life. Her first marriage ended in divorce when her four daughters were young and providing for them became the most important thing in her life. She said, “I have never stolen anything, but I would have stolen to feed my children.”

One of her girls was diagnosed with polio when she was two years old. At the time they were living in Maine. This experience devastated her. A friend who had a private plane flew them to Boston for treatment. The child eventually responded to hospital care and overcame the disease.

Maxine lived in Florida for awhile. She was on a trip when a friend informed her a tornado had wiped out her trailer. There was nothing left and she had no insurance. Her positive reasoning was the trailer was paid for so she didn’t owe anyone anything.

She picked up her life and moved to Arizona. She obtained a job at the Motorola lab in Phoenix. She accepted assignments others were afraid to take because she needed the money for her children. She was the only one in the lab one night when an electrical storm triggered a serious accident. The lightening caused gasses and chemicals from the furnaces to escape into the lab.

The janitor had accidentally moved her gas mask from its usual location leaving Maxine no protection from the gasses. He was afraid to come in to help her and only shined a flashlight in so she could see. The storm was so strong it etched the glass out of the double pained windows. Maxine was finally able to get out of the lab.

The damage done to her body from the inhaled gasses and chemicals was not immediately apparent. She was unable to return to work because the company felt she might be a health threat to other employees. Maxine could not locate three required doctors to fight their opinion.

This experience probably caused several future health problems. She has had ¾ of her stomach removed, open heart surgery, a cancerous growth removed from her arm and several heart attacks just to name a few. No insurance company will cover her. Motorola gave her no compensation.

She took her savings and moved to Coolege, AZ where she bought and operated a motel near the mines. There were so little rooms available miners offered to pay to sleep on her porch. She obtained a loan, bought a few horses and started a small ranch.

Then another twist came her way. Her doctor diagnosed her with valley fever, caused by cottonwood. Her lungs were a mess and she was given the option of living in a bubble or leaving. Once again she moved, this time to Milan, NM, where she bought three pieces of property.

Maxine is a modern day traveling salesperson. She says, “I will do anything to make a buck.” She picks up Kachina dolls and jewelry from Native Americans and makes trips to Arizona where she sells the items. She also buys and sells property, cars and anything else she can turn into cash. To help with food she always has a garden and goes hunting every year, freezing the venison and making mincemeat.

Maxine would have made a wonderful pioneer woman. Picture her sitting cross-legged in front of a campfire, a riffle across her knees, waiting to shoot, eat or sell whatever came out of the wilderness.

(Until a couple of years ago Maxine, now 90, was also the caretaker of her daughter, Alice. Her death was an unexpected blow for Maxine.)

Mind Games

For the last week I have been making a concentrated effort to lower my triglyceride level. I have checked many web sites for helpful information. I am quite aware that my enemy is sugar and all the tasty treats I have been consuming for several months. So far I have not even eaten one single cookie. Good for me!!

One of the sites I checked out suggested making one day a week a cheat day in which I could eat whatever I wanted to. The idea really annoyed me. How can a cheat day be a positive move for anyone? I can see allowing a single “something” after six days of playing by the new rules, but I wouldn’t refer to it as cheating. How about a reward day for good behavior?

It reminded me of watching the “Biggest Loser” last night. They were all given an opportunity to eat their way through cupcakes, which apparently contained clues for a payoff of some kind. In my mind the real winners were the ones who chose not to participate.

You can't cheat your way to success. Your body knows you better than you know yourself!

Ring Ring

Listening to Cynthia Brennen’s talk radio show this morning, titled "Understanding Your Dreams", brought interesting insight into my immediate vision. Her guest, Velva Lee Heraty AKA: Dream Momma, is the author of The Dream Belongs to the Dreamer.

The main fact that I left the show with is that our dreams are symbolic and are meant to provide insight and balance in our life. They are not meant to be taken literally.

Velva Lee shared a dream from one of her clients that got my attention. A woman had a recurring dream about a phone that wouldn’t stop ringing. The interpretation was that she was the phone always acting as the switchboard, connecting her family members. The dream could have been mine. Ever since I was a teenager I have assumed that role and blamed myself when it didn’t work out.

The thought of operating a switchboard caused me to think of Lily Tomlin and her comic portrayal of Ernestine the telephone operator. She was always sticking her nose into everyone’s business, even when it was not her job to do so. Truth has its roots in comedy.

I know the reason I was led to listen to Cindy’s program today. I clearly saw by looking at the life of someone else what I need to do in my own life. The role I assumed has been exhausting and it is time to let it go.

The next time my phone rings maybe it will be someone offering me a chance to experience a brand new exciting adventure- just for me.

Be Careful Where You Step

When others try to add their negative perception of who you are to your life it is imperative that you be careful of where you step.

Stepping on them in retaliation is a definite no no! Side stepping by trying to prove them wrong is a total waste of your time. Nothing you say is going to convince them that they are wrong and why should you bother anyway? You know who you are. Stepping in their energy simply mixes it with your positive energy, resulting in a diluted version.

The only sensible path is stepping over or around them. Just leave them alone to deal with their erroneous perception. Mentally thank them for helping you realize that you are not the person they perceive you to be. It is not necessary to brag or believe you are better than they are. Simply express gratitude for the lesson they presented.

To quote Abraham/Hicks, “You can only get negative feedback from people outside of the vortex.” The place you are sure to get positive feedback is from God/Source.”

Know who you are, hold your head up and take concentrated steps in the positive direction you are headed, no matter what anyone's perception is of you.

Shine On

Recently I read a wonderful to the point message that deserves to be shared.

"The universe is wired with the electricity of God and each of us is a lamp. With every act of love we plug into God."

If we all kept that in mind the world would be peaceful. When we are plugged in it is impossible to be anything but loving extensions of our Source of power.

Stay plugged in and shine your light so that others can clearly see the positive path you are walking.

Health Cautious

Receiving the results of my Wellness Fair blood test caused me to take a look at what I am consuming. My cholesterol and triglyceride levels were up from last year. Although both were within normal levels it was disappointing. I had even added Omega 3 Fish Oil capsules to my diet for over a year.

I decided to have a talk with myself. The result was that I need to eat more vegetables, fruits and whole grains and consciously cut out cookies, pastries and candy. I'm sure the latter is the cause of most of my problem. It is time I realized I just can't eat the way I could when I was 20 or 30 or 40. Never having to worry much about my weight caused some very bad habits that I need to change.

Also my freezer is now full of very tasty soups and recipes I have picked up from friends. I seriously doubt that I will ever become a vegetarian, but I have had fun trying out new ideas. Meat is not an essential part of my diet, but it won't hurt to eat even more meatless meals in the future.

Nancy Hatch from "Spirit Lights the Way", offered the following recipe that I am passing on to you. I have been making it weekly just to keep on hand for a healthy snack. It can be used as a dip for vegetables or crackers. I also like to fill celery sticks with it. According to Dr. Oz celery is good for memory. There are of course, some things I would prefer to forget. Like my test results!

Hummus
1-16 oz organic garbanzo beans- drain & rinse
2 cloves minced garlic
2-3 Tb lemon juice
2 Tb olive oil
1/4 tsp salt 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1/4 small onion chopped or 1/4 cup dry onion flakes
small can mushrooms-chopped
small can black olives-chopped
(I add a little hot salsa for more zip)

Blend in food processor until smooth & chill for several hours.

Fear Not

Over the weekend I watched the ABC program “This Week” moderated by Christaine Amanpour. It was a Town Hall debate titled “Holy War Should Americans Fear Muslims”. I found it very upsetting and it left me with the feeling that we are instilling fear into the minds of our children.

One of the panel, Donna Marsh, who lost a daughter in the 9/11 attack said, “Americans should not live in fear of a whole group of people.” Peter Gadiel, who lost a son in the attack said, “To ignore the history of Muslim terror attacks would be unwise.”

The most biased quote in my mind was by Rev. Franklin Graham who said, “They want to build as many mosques and cultural centers as they possibly can so they can convert as many Americans as they can to Islam.” He has a problem with the principles of their religion. He also feels it is unfair that Christians can not build churches and temples on their land, but Muslims can build mosques on ours. I would think, being a pastor, he would know one of the freedoms we have in America is freedom of religion.

The quote that made my day was, “Using the word they to describe a group of people is the definition of bigotry.”

Not all Muslims are terrorists nor do all Christians live lives that follow the teachings of Jesus. There are moderates and extremists in both groups. The one thing that they have in common is that they are all human beings and came from the same Source.

Teaching our children to fear is not new, but it needs to stop. I remember when I was in school we were taught to fear Russian attacks. Instead of fire drills we were instructed to crawl under our desks and hide from anticipated bomb attacks. We grew up fearing people who are different and have passed that fear on to our children and grandchildren.

How about we just try for peace in the world and forget about fearing each other? As the song says, Why Can’t We Be Friends?

What's in the Pot?

I truly love to cook. It makes me happy to take a little of this and a little of that and create something delicious. The last couple of days I have been filling up my freezer with inexpensive creations from my kitchen. I know this surge of positive energy sprung partly from the fact that my freezer was almost empty and winter is approaching. I also began to see it was the universe reminding me of my past.

The two people who were my cooking role models were my maternal grandmother and my father, who was among other things a chef. I can't make an apple pie without thinking of my grandmother and all the wonderful lessons she passed on to me from her kitchen.

My father, Sidney Halverson, was born on October 3, 1912 in the small town of Tolt (now called Carnation)Washington. He died in 1967 at the age of 54. He was a quiet unassuming man who was overshadowed by his wife. He was basically self-taught and had a thirst for knowledge. I remember his encouragement when I decided to take French in high school. He wanted me to teach him after I learned. I'm sorry to admit I didn't do well in the subject!

I believe one of the most valuable gifts I got from my father is my love of cooking. I remember him helping me with the very first turkey I roasted as a new wife. He not only helped me get it ready for the oven, but he made sure it was done so I wouldn't be the cause of my guests ending up in the hospital.

So today as I reflect on all the things I have cooked up in my pots this week I also joyfully reflect on the influence my father had on my current life.

Happy Birthday dad! I love you!!

Who Do You Trust?

Trust is an interesting little word that I believe has a lot to do with control. The dictionary says it is reliance on the integrity, ability, surety of a person or thing; confident expectation. Obviously it also has other meanings having to do with money and property.

In my humble opinion the only entity anyone can truly trust is God and in turn our own soul mind, which is eternally connected as one. Anything else is EGO or as Dr. Wayne Dyer has said, “edging out God”.

A lack of trust occurs when someone else does not do what we think they should do. The ego’s desire to control others pops up its ugly head. We are then angry and hurt. How dare that person think without my guidance? It often leads to the elimination of that person from our life, which is not necessarily a negative move.

Recently my daughter had this kind of reaction to something I did. Actually, I believe it was something I wrote in a blog that hit home and she wasn't prepared for the truth. She told me, “I don't trust you”.

My reaction is GOOD! It is about time you grew up and started thinking for yourself and stop relying on others to take care of your problems. It was also a positive sign to me that I have finally arrived at a place where I am free to do, say or write exactly what I choose to, no matter what anyone else thinks.

When I trust and follow my Creator and my soul mind it is impossible to lead anything but a positive life. Who do you trust?

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding." ~Proverbs 3:5

Just Ask

Everyone has heard the advice “ask and you will receive”. We have also been told “be careful what you ask for because you just might get it”. How much plainer does it have to be? I consider myself fairly intelligent, but now I am wondering about that.

I am a survivor, who has lived through many experiences that others might say are negative. Of course, there is always a lesson attached and I either learn it or I don’t. These lessons have also taught me that I am a lot stronger than I ever suspected. So strong in fact, that I recently told the Universe/God bring it on I can handle anything you throw my way. Do you see where I am going with this, as Judge Judy would ask?

Unexpected challenges have recently occured in my life and I just realized why. I asked for them to happen. I have had house repairs, relationship problems and a health issue that could eventually result in surgery, with the additional fact that I have no insurance. Now if that isn’t the dumbest thing I have ever heard of!

I have already shown the Universe that I am strong and do not crumble with earthly challenges. There is nothing more I need to prove. Since there is absolutely no reason to ask for more problems I am rephrasing my request, believing that everyone deserves a second chance.

Dear Universe,

I am now asking for an abundance of love, peace and good health and if you have anything material you are holding in escrow for me I will accept that too.

With eternal love,
Barbara Loure`

Synchronicity/Serendipity/Intuition

Synchronicity is a wonderful word coined by Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung in 1920. It means two or more events causally unrelated occurring together in a meaningful manner. A favorite of mine is intuition, meaning an inner knowing. Another fabulous word is serendipity, making fortunate discoveries while looking for something else. They often work together to validate belief in the oneness of the universe.

The following is a true story. It began when my intuition led me to my friend Eric Allen’s new web site, (change-your-world.com). The home page offers inspiring music and a beautiful picture of a mountain stream. I stopped for a moment to listen to the music. While viewing the picture the face of a man in the water clearly came to view. At first it startled me because it was so unexpected. As I looked around I noted many other spirit images, also in the water.

I decided to confirm what I was seeing with my friend Maria Certo, who also has a new inspirational web site, (Connecting With Your soul). Maria and I share a God given gift of recognizing spirits in photos. We have both captured many on film and some are shared on our individual Facebook walls.

Not wanting to spill what I saw I asked Maria what she saw. She confirmed the man who had startled me is located next to a large rock in the water and has a round face, mustache, wears rimless glasses and possibly has white hair. Excited, we discussed our find and agreed that I should tell Eric in case the man was a relative or maybe a guide. She reminded me that I am the messenger.

I passed on the message and Eric could not see the man in question. He said he was open minded but had no experience with such things. He did say he was aware of orbs. I was disappointed, but suggested he view the images I share on my wall, especially the one titled “My Man”. He is a very large in your face guy, whom I believe is meant to convince others that spirits do indeed exist. I was happy when Eric said he was able to see him.

Maria and I agreed that I was chosen to pass on this gift of sight to Eric, who by the way is a much evolved soul. As an added bonus or perhaps serendipity, Maria and I added each others spiritual blogs to our sites and I also added Eric’s to mine.

I just never know what will happen when synchronicity pops up in my life and I follow my intuition. It’s always fun finding out!

Vibrational Match

The lengths the universe uses to get my attention is sometimes amusing, well that is after I recover from the shock of what happened. Recently someone who I thought was very close to me suddenly and without warning informed me that she does not want to speak to me. I am not to call her or go to her house. I am allowed to email and in her words, "If I choose to answer you I will and if not you will not hear from me."

What surprised me about this person's order is that it did not cause me to feel angry. I felt a great deal of relief. For years I have been trying to make myself believe that this soul is a vibrational match. I finally realized that I have been dragging her and her negative energy around like a sack of potatoes. It was really getting heavy and I believe the universe noticed and set up just the right opportunity to sever the problem.

I have heard it usually takes 21 days for a positive change to occur. Today is 22 days since I received her order for silence and I wish her love. Perhaps since the universe helped me have better vision it will also help her deal with her situation. This experience taught me that I cannot force someone to be a vibrational match. It needs to happen naturally and when the time is right.

Peace on Earth

(Great song for us all to live by!)

Let there be peace on earth
And let it begin with me.
Let there be peace on earth
The peace that was meant to be.
With God as our father
Brothers all are we.
Let me walk with my brother
In peace and harmony.

Let peace begin with me
Let this be the moment now.
With every step I take
Let this be my solemn vow.
To take each moment
To live each moment
With peace eternally.
Let there be peace on earth
And let it begin with me.

Virtual Friends

Recently I read someone's blog post about virtual friends as opposed to "real" life friends. The person writing seemed to be of the opinion that they are less significant. I totally disagree with the writer, who also has a Best Friend Forever AKA "BFF" whom she believes is more important than any of her other friends.

I wonder what she will do if the Universe suddenly and without warning decides to take her BFF out of the picture? Will she simply collapse from lack of support or will she go on as if it didn't matter. I suspect she will gladly accept the support of those loyal and trusted friends whom she considers less important at the moment. Life is interesting isn't it with all its little lessons?

As for those virtual friends, I love them all! Through internet connections I have friends from all over the world in all age, economic and religious brackets. I would never have been able to connect with these souls in my former life as an ordinary wife and mother.

I will probably never meet the majority of these people in person, but it isn't really necessary. Our connection is spiritual and goes beyond the earth's boundaries. Generally speaking they give me much more support than most of my "real" friends and relatives do and I wouldn't trade them for anything.

My vote is for Virtual Friends! <3 <3 <3

A Better Day

The last couple of days I have been busy updating my CD, A Hole in the Middle. I picked out my favorite blog posts and added them to the document, in preparation for moving my project on. In two days, 9/16/10 my contract will end with Publish America for my first book, Wake Up! Whew!! I am so glad that is over! Of course, I do still have copies of my own on hand. Every now and then someone actually asks to purchase a signed copy and I often give copies away when I believe reading the book could benefit someone.

A person like that knocked on my door last night. She was a teenager, selling subscriptions to earn a trip to Hawaii. We sat down on my front porch and talked for some time after she found out that I am a published author. I love it when the universe plops souls down for me to have a conversation with. One of her interests is acting.

Katlynn asked all kinds of questions about my writing and my life. She seemed to be generally interested. When she asked why I wrote my first book I told her I wrote it for me. My answer amused her. To sum up our impromptu exchange, I offered her a copy of my book, which she eagerly accepted. One of the first things she said when she knocked on my door was, "Inspire me!" I sincerely hope that I did.

A Hole

I have a new problem this week that has led to discovering a hole partnering with mold in my ceiling. I thought I was being very smart the other day when I decided to scrape off some water damaged paint caused by a water leak from the roof. As I scraped I began uncovering mold and an actual hole in the ceiling. It was disgusting!

My first reaction was- What did I do to deserve this mess? This particular room was built thirty years ago and is an addition to my mobile home. It also has a tin roof, which when built was attached with nails. Guess what? The nails are now popping up allowing rain, when accompanied by wind, to leak onto the ceiling. The nails, hundreds of them, will all need to be replaced by pro-panel screws. Just what I needed another unexpected house expense.

Through a friend I found a man to do the job who charges a very reasonable rate per hour. Because he wants to fix the cause of the problem before he repairs the result, I am stuck with viewing the ugly mold and the now bigger hole for awhile longer. I noticed that I have been having sinus symptoms and I am convinced they are coming from the exposed mold. What to do what to do? I decided to close off the room from the rest of the house until my hole and its friends are no longer visible.

Wow the things I have learned since I was forced to take care of my own problems! I am actually grateful for these kinds of experiences because they teach me that I am strong and capable of taking care of me.

In and Out

In case my peeps are curious, the reason I have been absent from posting this week is because I have been busy getting rid of things. Moving in a positive direction requires weeding out the old to make room for the new. Two things cannot occupy the same space.

I started with my yard, which now looks pretty good. I have huge piles of weeds that I am waiting for someone with a truck to cart to the dump. It was a lot of work, but I was determined to get the job done. My next project was a large shed that houses stuff that doesn't belong or fit in my house. Some of the objects are just being stored by others. The next step is to get the others to take care of their own belongings!

For several years I have been wanting to replace my bedroom set purchased in 1972. The pieces are Lane and very heavy, especially the 6'7" long dresser. Although I replaced the mattress after my divorce, 11 years ago, I couldn't afford to do the same with the furniture. I knew someday that would happen. Last Tuesday was that day. I followed my strong intuition to our local furniture store and discovered they were having a 1/2 off sale. Guess what? My new bedroom furniture was delivered on Thursday and I love it. The best part was my old furniture is now in the home of a young man who needed it, oddly just up the street from me.

Of course, taking the contents out of the drawers resulted in disposing of unwanted articles, which led to going through closets etc. with the same intention. Amazing the things we accumulate! It is also amazing when we take a step in the right direction how quickly the universe comes in to assist us. One thing leads to another and another. It is called synchronization.

Recently I made the decision to list my house in the spring and find a nice 2 bedroom apartment. I have tried for 11 years to take care of my too large house and too large yard and I do not choose to do it anymore. The endless effort is draining my positive energy.

Out with the old and in with the new is a fantastic adventure and feels fabulous!

Jamie's Story (Spirits of Cibola County)

A year ago Jamie and her husband Fred were chosen to raise a newborn baby boy through an open adoption. This loving act and the steps that made it happen have created a circle of love far greater than the baby's birth or adoptive families could have imagined. With an open mind and heart adoption can be a positive choice for everyone involved.

Somehow Jamie knew since she was a little girl that her first baby would be an adopted child. She gets very upset with people who make assumptions such as, "You couldn't have a child of your own so you had to adopt?" Just the opposite, Jamie feels humbled that she has been given this child to mother.

She said, "Adopted children are not booby prizes."

Jamie and Fred met in 1992 while attending college in Idaho. She received a teaching degree and he is a computer tech who teaches classes at NMSU. After being married for a couple of years, they really wanted to start a family, but it was not happening. Jamie went through two years of the usual procedures to find out why. Finally her doctor informed her that he believed her only option was artificial insemination. It is very expensive and usually takes about four attempts before succeeding.

When she found out it often causes so many embryos that some might need to be eliminated, she walked out of the doctor's office without saying goodbye. Jamie began looking into adoption. She and Fred did their homework, reading over 40 books on the subject. One of the most informative was The Idiots Guide to Adoption.

Believing an agency was the best choice, they contacted Adoptions Plus in Albuquerque to begin the process. Prospective adoptive parents are examined with a magnifying glass. Everything about their lives including health, finances, education, past and present relationships and living conditions are evaluated before they are presented to prospective parents.

Jamie called the agency several times a week to ask about their case. She did not feel they were showing their information to anyone. Her mother-in-law noticed an ad in an Idaho paper for an agency called Northwest Services. Idaho is among the top ten states listed as friendly adoption states.

They contacted the agency and within four months were in touch with the birth mother of their soon to be precious gift from God. The mother chose them from several couples mostly based on a letter they had written to her stating the reasons for wanting to adopt. They wanted an open adoption, which gives the biological parents the opportunity to keep in touch with the baby.

Jamie believes their experience is working because both families have an honest relationship and totally accept each other. There is no judgment on either side. The baby has gained an extended family, the young biological parents can move with their lives while watching the baby grow, knowing that they have made a mature decision that is best for their child.

Jamie and Fred saw their baby for the first time when he was a day old and transferred him to their car when he was three days old. Everyone in the parking lot including parents, grandparents and hospital staff filled it with tears that day. The baby was the only one not crying. Perhaps he knew how lucky he was.

Jamie recently told her sister Kelie, who is the biological mother of a young daughter "Adoption is not easy."

Kelie replied, "Having a baby isn't easy either."

Jamie will soon find that out for herself as she is about to give birth to her first biological child. Her children will be 14 months apart, which is causing Jamie to wonder how she will manage. Knowing she has help from God and a supportive family is all the help she needs to widen the circle of love.

(Strange, but true, Jamie and Fred's adopted son (now 8) looks like Fred and their biological son looks like Jamie.)