IS ANYBODY OUT THERE ?

THAT IS WHAT I WANNA KNOW...

I have had two blogs going now for quiet some time and rarely get any comments back (not counting my few loyal friends). What am I not doing right/wrong? What kind of topics do you want to read/talk/comment on? If I don't ever get any feed back, how am I supposed to know what kind of things to offer next(so to speak). So please, if you have a chance or the time, I would appreciate some feedback. However the only thing I ask is that you keep it to a positive response(regardless if it is a negative comment or not-not too much to ask for!).So, get typing...

CAN'T WAIT TO HEAR FROM YOU...

MAY-THURNER SYNDROME

WHAT IS THAT ?, YOU ASK...

It is the "spur" of the left common iliac vein at the crossover with the right common iliac artery or compression by tortuous left common iliac artery. Basically a main artery that runs thru your body is crossed over a main left vein, compressing it or even causing it to collapse. That is why there will be persistent edema(swelling/maybe water retention) in the left leg. It can also be the culprit of chronic dvts.

How do I know so much ? I am now dealing with the syndrome at this present time. My artery happens to be huge and really compressing on the left vein(in some spots, it doesn't even look like I have a left vein)! Thank goodness for the wonderful Vascular team at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota(the ones who finally diagnosed me)! You guys are SO awesome. Now I atleast have some answers, have a health plan of action, and don't feel so out of control!

Feel free to contact me if you or someone you know has this syndrome. I will be more than happy to try and get answers for you or direct you to someone who can help.

Until next time...

FIBROMYALGIA ?

Fibromyalgia, what is that you ask?....

It is a condition associated with widespread pain, chronic pain, fatigue, memory problems, and mood changes. It affects roughly 2-4 percent of Americans. It is however more common in women and is a syndrome not disease. The cause is still unknown and closely being studied(researchers are learning more everyday). It deals greatly with the central nervous system and how it sends signals of pain (usually amplified).

If you are diagnosed with fibromyalgia, you have had a history of pain that has effected both sides of the body, and below the waist that has been present for atleast 3 months or more. You must have pain (0r sensitivity) to atleast 11 of the 18 tenderpoints in the body(in all 4 quadrants, if your body was evenly divided into 4s).

As we speak, there isn't a full proof treatment yet for it, but there are several things that may lessen or help keep your symptoms under some type of managable control. Such as...time managment, physical therapy (areobic exercise-your choice and pace), relaxation techinques, food management, and possible alternative therapies. Educating yourself is the first and foremost important step on your road to recovery or managment. Don't be afraid to explore every option available to you (within reason and caution). Keep in mind that no two case of fibro are alike and everyone's symptoms can be to different degrees or different symptoms all together.

I find for me, personally, that time management, exercise, food management and relaxation techniques seem to help the best. Water therapy or walking helps me the most, although dancing is nice at times (as long as I don't over-due it). Massages are helpful at times as long as they aren't deep tissue, that seems to agrivate it more.

If you have any questions or know of a friend with fibro that needs to chat, send em my way and I will be more than willing to help out (within reason and try to stay positive).

Until next time...

POLL : IS THERE REALLY LIFE AFTER DEATH ?

IT'S THE QUESTION OF THE DAY... Is there life after death?

Please get back to me and let me know what your thoughts/opinions are(keep it positive please)!

Personally, I think that there is more to life so to speak because the idea of my essence being trapped in a dead body laying in a coffin somewhere is SO NOT COOL to ME!!! I believe that anything is possible and that there are alot of unexplained * undiscovered things out there ( ex..what really lies in our own seas/oceans?) We know more about the moon, then we do about our own planet! I think that we leave our bodies when our time is up and move onto something else that needs to be done until our individual journeys have been completed. Give me some feedback..... Later and love & light to all.

WINTER STOMP (MARCH 2006)

10 INCHES AND COUNTING.....

FOR THOSE OF YOU WITH SCOTCH-IRISH DECENT...

SELKIRK GRACE

Some hae meat and canna eat,

And some wad eat that want it:

But we hae meat and we can eat,

Sae let the Lord be thankit.

(Robert Burns/ 1759-1796)

CROSSROADS...?

Have you ever felt like you were standing at a crossroad or teatering on the edge of that cliff ? If you didn't choose wisely it could all go wrong or get you no where fast!

Lately, that is the way I've been feeling. I don't really want to go right or left, but making my own path straight thru the middle is sure sounding good. Problem is, I just don't seem to have the umph to just jump in blind folded anymore. I seem to be overly cautious and questioning everything. I just have this strong feeling that if I choose incorrectly, it could cause all kind of chaos(not that my life isn't already that way at times). I guess that is why I've been so hesitant lately.

Oh well, enough of me for now. How are things out there in the world ? What are your thoughts and opinions for the day ? Where are you headed in life and where have you been ? Some positive feedback at this point would be welcomed.

Till next time, good night and sweet dreams !

SNACK IDEAS....

Are ya just a little bit hungry ?

Here are some good and healthy snack ideas....

Tomato cheesewich : Cut 2 slices of cheese(your choice) into small cubes, add 3 chopped cherry tomatoes. Gently mix in 1 Tsp. of mayo. Smooth over crackers, toast or bagels, you decide!

Trim crust from a few pieces of bread(your choice), roll flat with a rolling pin. Spread with a half a cup cheddar(or whatever cheese you prefer), and 2 TBsp. of pizza sauce(or any tomatoe base product). Roll up jellyroll style. Cut in 1/2 inch slices, and dot with butter. Place on baking sheet and broil till brown or cheese is melted(which ever comes 1st).

Hope you enjoy the ideas and maybe more will follow in future blog entries.

Until then eat up!

TODAYS' GUIDED MEDITATION...

It is in the middle of the night, and the moons' glow is upon you. You are standing admist the circle of stones. The oceans' mighty waves crash upon the shore in the distance, and a single, ancient tree towers over you. It is whispering secrets of old into your soul. Your journey tonight is one of rememberence of a time very dear to who you are. The appropriate guides appear around you in the circle of stones. To embrace you in their light and to take you back to a time you may have long since forgotten. Know that with your guides encompassing you, no harm may come to you. Take this time to remember and reflect on a life that once was, paying close attention to where you are, and who you where. It may hold some importance to you in this present life. Perhaps, an answer that you have been long since searching for. ..... When you are ready, thank your guides for journeying with you. Feel the moons' warmth upon your head and hear the trees' leaves rustle above you. The oceans' tide pulling on you, and calling you home to the present time. Bring back any information of importance with you as you return.

Love & Light...

WINTER WONDERLAND (FEB. 5, 2006)

A Glimpse of the weather outside my window :

Moms' Motley Crew 

HMM...THIS SOUNDS YUMMY !!!!!!!

No Cook Tomato Sauce :

3 TBsp. Olive Oil

2 TBsp. Whit Wine Vinegar

2 TBsp. Parsley(chopped and fresh)

2 Tbsp. Shallots (diced / can use green onions in place of)

1 TBsp. Balsamic Vinegar

1 TBsp. Basil (chopped/fresh)

1 Tsp. Garlic(minced/fresh)

1 Tsp. Salt

1/4 Tsp. Black Pepper

1/4 Tsp. Sugar

2# Tomatoes(chopped/fresh)

* Combine all ingedients and pour over already cooked pasta (your pick) and serve. A perfect dish on a hot summer day or just when you need a quick meal (without heating up the kitchen too much).

* Prep time is 15 min.(give or take)

Bon Apetite'

*Great when the veggies come fresh from your garden and the kids give a hand in making it!

RESCUE, REALEASE, & RENEW......?

Rescue, Realease, & Renewel......(In reference to helping spirits cross-over)

Quiet awhile back, I attended classes to help hone in some of my "special gifts. The teacher labeled her classes "Rescue, Release, & Renew", hence the tittle of this blog (no kidding)! The classes dealt majorly with learning how to safely help spirits cross-over into the "big sky"(heaven or whatever it is labeled in your particular religion).NO harm meant by the reference. They also dealt minorly with using the methods to help someone in everyday life, healing illness, and whatever else was missing in ones' life. Big doses of risk, respect and responsibility were also added. When to recognize and when to help someone in need(ergo: healings, dreams, possesion, and mental confusion).

We learned that there are seven universal rays that reach our planet. The most important ones are as follows...1) Will/Purpose, blue in color and responds to the throat chakra. 4) Harmony through Conflict, white color and responds to the root of all. 6) Devotion/Idealism, red in color and responds to the solar plexus.

Now that you know about the 3-R's, I thought I might share some of prayers and what not that were included in the classes. Some of them are very well put.

1) I Am the Soul

I am the soul,

and also love am I.

Above all else, I am

both will and fixed design.

My will is now to lift

the lower self into the Light Divine.

That light I am.

Therefore, I must descend

to where that lower self awaits,

my coming.

That which desires to lift

and that which cries for lifting

are now as one.

Such is my will.

2) I draw a circle of love and protection extending 6 feet

around the house, around the room and around me.

In this circle, I place the white light of peace, the blue light of healing

and the red light of energy and love.

And I further direct that nothing or no one

can enter this circle

that is not for my highest good.

I hope you like or at the very least find this comment interesting/educational, and hope to add more interesting mystical things in the future. For tonight, love and light to all and may you all travel on the path that is right for you.

REIKI............?

Reiki, what is it you ask ?

It is an alternative medicine practice. Rei,(Japanese) universal and Ki, life force energy. Reiki is present in all living things and a short or blockage in that energy can form into numerous types of imbalances or illness. You can resume the balance and sometimes cure an illness by tapping into the universal energy. Everyone has the potenial to use reiki to some extent or another, some just happen to be better at it or more intuned to it.

There are two forms of reiki, traditional and non-traditional. The traditional way was started by a man named, Mikao Usui in the late 1800's. It was brought to America in the 1930s. Since then a more "non" traditional way has evolved. It evolved due to the fact that many teachers felt since it was a universal energy, many had the right to learn, re-learn or remember reiki.

The five basic symbols of reiki are... 1) Cho-ku-rei(the beginning or entrance) 2) Sei-he-ki (Earth & the person in incarnation are considered impure ground) 3) Hon-sha-ze-sho-nen (No past, present or future-no limits) 4) Dai-ko-myo (The person whohas the desire for enlightenment for others' sake and achieves it.) 5) Raku (Completion)

Reiki is learned thru a series of attunements as well as any information that your teacher may suggest or willingly pass along to you. Such as...books, charts and grids, meditations, and group sharings.

Reiki tends to open everyone up to different aspects of the universal energy as well. Some may be open more to animals, healing arts, art work , or any number of different things, but regardless of what it opens up in one self , it seems to be what is needed most at that time.

There are 3 degrees of reiki... 1) 1st degree, deals with learning the history, what it is, and healing sessions. 2) 2nd degree, deals with symbols, distance healing, and opening up the Kundalini. 3) 3rd degree, learning the 3rd degree symbols, teaching reiki, path to enlightenment and the future of reiki.

The reiki principles are as follows.... Just for today, do not worry. Just for today, do not anger. Honor your parents, teachers and elders. Respect the oneness of all life. Show gratitude. Make your living honestly.

The symbols for each degree are similar, but still belong to each seperate degree. I will add some of them in my next draft, but there also seems to be numerous new symbols that appear to individuals as they go thru their attunements or once they are done with their training. Although, most of these "new" symbols may work, they are not considered "traditional". However, if you are drawn to a paticular symbol and it works for you, don't disregard it either. I think that certain symbols may come to individuals on a case to case need basis.

I will try to add some of the symbols and meanings in my next blog. Hope this has been enough info until then...

SONG FROM LONG AGO...

*Please keep in mind when reading this, that it was written many years ago by two teenagers, who were experimenting with different lyric styles." Nothing is meant to be offensive or derogatory to anyone!

"Fire & Ice"

I am the Fire.

I always get what I desire!

To me, money is the ultimate objest,

All other material things, I reject!

I am hot to touch and I don't ask for much.

Just a man who goes slow!

So come on Ice, show that you are good to go!

I am the Ice.

I am twice as nice.

I am just like the narcotic!

I ready, aim and demolish my target.

I play things cool and go by own rules.

I'll freeze all of my opposition

Cuz' I'll take a stand on my position!

Together we are the ultimate team,

We are the stuff that is in your dreams!

Don't be fooled by our pretty faces

Cuz' we'll put you in your places.

When we play, we win , Always have & always will

We both carry 45's and we shoot to kill!

I've played this game all of my life

Ain't settlin' down to be no mans' wife!

If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen!

Cuz' you'll be the one I'm ditchin'!

I happen to enjoy my occupation,

Shut up Boy or I'll cure your situation!

As everyone knows, I'm independantly wealthy,

Bitch, get out of my face and don't mess with me!

In this business, things are always the same

It's like Russian Roulet, just a game!

To live or die is the question

So don't point that gun in my direction!

If you do, 6 feet under is where you'll reside!

So get out of my face, cuz' I have the home girls & boys on my side!

Yo, Ice! She's just talking shit!

I'll burn her down, bit by bit !

You see hoe, life is like a play,

It changes plots everyday.

Your life is a comedy

Which is about to become a tragedy!

We are Fire & Ice, totally opposite,

But we have the same requisite.

Together in life and to go far,

Because Fire & Ice is what we are!

(Originally written by and dedicated to :Fire {You know who you are!})

UNFINISHED....

In a run-down, brick apartment complex. It prowls restlessly back and forth in the cob web infested room at the end of a long corridor. Two luminescent green eyes appear, relflecting worlds of old in oceans of a deep, dark and longing cold. Hiding a cruel storm brewing from the hell within. Gradually creeping out of the night and seeping over into the sunlight. It thrives on probing the brains of unaware victims...Peeling thru memories and such, one by one, like visions of a cold, rising sun.

Serena shook violently in her love seat, which rested comfortably along the side of her panoramic window. She woke up to the tranquil surroundings of her apartment. Beads of sweat clung hungrily to her body. Like morning dew dripping down a lovers' red rose. She took in a deep breath, held it for a few moments, and then exhaled. This little exercise helped her to relax and find her inner calmness. Allowing her to realize that she must've fallen asleep in the love seat yet again. She stood up to stretch and was immediately drawn to the window. The view outside contained a glimmer of the hazy city below that Serena was becoming part of day by day. While gazing out at the city below, she could sense a storm approaching . As if it was outside that very window!

Serena jumped back and started to giggle at herself for being so foolish. Her daydreaming had caused her to be spooked by the simple, green-eyed worker that went by the name of Lucas. He was steadily washing the outside of all the complexs' many windows. She told herself to stop being so paranoid, but she couldn't help feeling a bit jumpy, especially after the bizzare dream she had just experienced.

What she didn't know was the the dream was in all actuality an experience within itself that soon would be grasping and holding onto life. Making itself more visable within days. Almost to the point of becoming flesh and blood again.

It had been impatiently waiting for several months and now the time was beginning to draw near. The momentous occasion when it would reappear and everyone would feel its' fury and taste the fear!

The evil began to unravel with one viciously, wicked sneer. All those sweet and innocent better steer clear. That includes you, precious Serena , my dear, or you'll shed several bloody tears.

Chapter #2-Home(several months later....)

Just a few months ago, Serena only knew Lucas as her "Window Man", but now things were becoming different. The two had become fast friends over a cup of joe one night at the cafe around the corner. Already they were talking about becoming a couple, and deciding on where to start their new lives together.
Serena and Lucas were standing in front of their newly purchased, brick, apartment complex....Although it was rather run-down, it would serve as their new home and income.Or maybe not....

It was as if Serena was caught in a bad version of dejavu'. She couldn't figure out whre she had seen this place before, but already she didn't like it. Lucas took her hand in his and lead her inside.

Here's where it all began and where it all could end, but when....


*So now you know why it is tittled "Unfinished". It is still in the works and one day I'll get it done. In the meantime, feel free to express any comments or opinons that you may have about it, but due try to keep them positive. Until next time...

POETRY FOR THE DAY...

"My Forever More"

You are the suns' first ray of light, the brightest star twinkling at night. You are my fresh summers' breeze, the grounding rock beneath my feet. The tears that swell in my eyes, full of pride. You are all of these things and more.For you are the daughter I love and adore, you are my forever-more!

(dedicated to my oldest daughter)

"The Storm of Life"

Before the storm, there is a calmness hanging in the air. It is my love hovering over and slowly embracing you.

Then the storm begins...

The beating of my heart is the pounding rain. The wind, my gentle whisper of "I Love You" in your ear. Thunder, the raging of passion growing inside of me, and the lightening is the flash of heat in my heart and soul.

Just as strong as anything sent from up above, this magical thing, the storm of love, goes on for all eternaties to come.

(Published in Poetic Voices of America)

"Love is Still on Your Side"

Picking up the shattered pieces on the floor, like a life that was there once before. You start to wonder if anyone will come knocking on your door , to open up the heart inside, and show that love is still on your side.

Suddenly, you look up to realize, I am there at our side. My love for you I did not hide. I had been there for you through out the entire ride down loves' slippery slide.

(Published in "A Break in the Clouds)

"Untittled(as of yet)"

One life,

One hope,

One body, mind & soul,

One love of a lifetime,

together to fulfill all of our goals.

What beauty this one love does hold,

it reaches beyond the very depths of a mortals' soul.

HOLD ON MY HEART

SAD POETRY

Trying to hold my heart above the tears and pain. Before they swallow my whole heart again.Afraid that the love my heart is now feeling will be erased from this place.Never to be felt or experienced again.

Crying isn't going to help me refrain from the hurt. It is a true strain on the love my heart could gain and sustain. (from a sad moment in my life)

Mom/glam 

Kalidescope

Just wanted to share a few shimmers of me today.... There are many sides to everything & everyone. Thought I'd show you, so here it goes...

THE REBEL: Always trying to fight for justice and whats right or wrong in the world even if it isn't the most pleasurable thing to do or say. Always trying to be independant and remain true to myself(whatever that maybe at the moment). Willing to adapt and except change(change is good/bad, but it helps you to survive). Think outside of the box as well as inside.

THE GLAM GIRL: What every girl dreams of being(depending on their views). Mine is to be that well-rounded woman who is still the lil girl at heart, but a sexy vixen as well. The woman who has class and knows how to behave in certain circumstances and still walks away with her pride and diggnity. One who holds her head up high and isn't afraid to be herself. A woman that can look and feel good one day in a striking dress and pumps and the next day be comfy in jeans and t-shirt. Knows all / does all. Who loves fashion, traveling and the finer things in life.

MYSTICAL/SPIRITUAL: The woman that knows that there are many shades of black/white and in betweens. One who doesn't have to see to believe. One who just excepts things as they come to her(the knowing). One who knows that anything and everything is possible and could very well exist. Who loves exploring and adventure. The healer who is a reiki master as well as practiced in soul release/renew(helping others cross over). The one who is learning to deal with and accept that she can see others and times in life.(Profiler w/out the training-haha)

THE MOMMY: The woman in me that loves her children and accepts them unconditionally for who they truely are(all ups and downs included). That goes for the husband as well. The one who will truely listen to what is being said, even if it isn't spoken. The one that is always there no matter what. The protector of the family(strong like a panther and as wild to boot).

THE SISTER: The one who never judges because she wishes the same for herself, that shoulder to cry one or share lifes' joyous moments with. The one who will always be there to lend a helping hand or whatever is nec.(and within her reach).

THE ARTIST: Who is always busy creating in her head or on paper, computer,or whatever media is available at that time. Ever-changing and growing. Very colorful and the "great communicator"

So as you can see, being just me is a very complex thing. I hope you enjoy and maybe now understand a lil of what it is like to be me.

Discovery...

Join me on a journey of discovery... Learning to use this blog and many other things(hmm...)! Check out my "dream look" to the left of the text. What do ya think? Ok, so I didn't exactly put the face on perfect(did you guess that it IS my face?).My fav. hair do and color for the future(?).