Village Wise Woman

Full Moon+Tu b'shvat= She Who Dances With Trees

2012-02-08T03:13:00.000-08:00

The Moon was oh so full and low in the sky when I noticed her last night. Appropriately enough,I saw here through stretching limbs of confused winter trees. Confused because many here are beginning to bud because of our very mild winter. Trees and plants beginning to wake up before their time could prove to be problematic since there is still at least 6-8 weeks of winter left and the possibilities of a harsh snowstorm are still likely. How sad it would be to lose those first buds, flowers or fruits. I began to consider today's holiday of Tu b'shvat, the New Year of Trees, and what this early awakening metaphor could mean.

People are often compared to trees and it was this comparison that caused me to think on this further. There are those of us, many of us, who may be trying to bud and bloom before we are quite ready. Or perhaps we are putting pressure on another to bud and bloom before his or her time. Every tree has their fruit according to their kind and according to their time. The sweetest and most enjoyable fruit is reaped when their fruit is ripe and the season is full. Otherwise, you are left with hard, tasteless or worse yet, bitter fruit.

Look at yourself. Are you pruning your branches too harshly? Are you cutting back that which you despise too cruelly? It's true, we do need to work on ourselves and we are always working to prune back the dead limbs so that the living may come forth. But there is such a thing as too much pruning or not pruning at the proper time. Pruning lavender in February instead of April proved devastating for me as I ending up killing a beloved lavender plant not so many years ago. Think on this, my friends.

Then look at your garden of family and friends. Is your well meaning advice simply more pruning to a tree who has already been quite brutalized? Have you carefully examined them to see if they need fertilizing and sunshine instead of more rain? Perhaps you are meant to provide shade or a filter of light for a young sapling so as not to expose it to the glaring sun before it's time. Gentle, compassionate caretakers tend to bring forth greater harvests than those who aggressive attack the landscape with harsh chemicals and pesticides. It may take longer, but the harvest gleaned will be worth the work and wait!

May we all celebrate this New Year of Trees by celebrating the Tree of Life within each and every one of us! May we grow in our proper time, not too early and too late. May we all bear fruit sweet, ripe and full! May we prune when necessary and may we flourish as a tree planted by the riverside!

Wordless Wednesday, Snow

2012-02-08T03:04:00.001-08:00

We've only had one layering of snow this winter.

The holly bushes looked so lovely blanketed in white.

Winter Dreams of peace.

Photos taken at Moving Arts Institute where I teach dance.

Peaceful Hypnobirth

2012-01-31T03:04:00.000-08:00

I love an empowering birth story and I particularly love it when I know the mother. A dear friend of mine and fellow child birth advocate recently birthed her third hypno-baby. Yep, three successful hypnobirths! Obviously this is not fluke of nature, Hypnobirth simply works! After the second one she became a Hypnobirth Educator. What a gift she is giving to the community women! Reading her baby's birth story thrilled me and reminded me once again how important it is for all of us to tell and share our stories. Inspiration, wisdom and empowerment are what it is to be gained. We no longer gather at the well to share our stories but at least we have email, right? After reading her story and mulling it over and decided to ask if I could share it here. She said yes, because she too wants to encourage and empower you with her story. So consider this our well, the well of this particular village and read on to hear this empowered woman's story. Drink deeply and let it empower your heart!

Just letting you know I am so blessed for the wonderful birth of our baby who was my third HypnoBirth- and the best birth I have ever experienced!After being up all night with my sick four-yr-old, labor began on Saturday morning with a bloody show and surges soon followed. I went right into the surge breath while timing each one. They were 12 minutes apart and then within 2 hours went to 6 minutes apart. I thought for sure this baby would be coming out by noon. I decided to eat breakfast and then take a nap to make up for the missed sleep from the previous night. I am not sure if I slept through most of the surges but the ones I woke up for were 20 minutes apart. Maybe this was going to take longer than I expected...

Well, by lunchtime I felt a constipated feeling and didn't really feel like eating. I decided to go back to bed and before long the surges began again, around 1:30pm. I was doing the surge breath and I read the affirmations found in the handout "Dear Little Baby." I felt most comfortable standing and doing hip swiveling, something my HypnoMoms know from the video "Birth As We Know it." My mother was massaging my back doing the "v"s when all of a sudden I felt a little pop and felt a little fluid rush out. I ran to the toilette, letting everything release and let go as I continued to do the hip swivels and surge breathing. I thought maybe this was my water breaking, but wasn't sure since the fluid had quickly stopped flowing. My mother was saying the birth companion's prompts from the sheet and my husband was timing the surges and I continued to labor on the toilette. By 3pm I said maybe we should go to the hospital, but I really wasn't sure I needed to go. The surges where a little intense but nothing I couldn't handle and in between them I felt like a regular person, laughing and joking around with my family. The only thing was, there wasn't much time in between each surge. They were lasting 1.5 minutes and 2.5 minutes apart!

My husband, mother and I quickly put some things together and went into the car to the Hospital. As we were driving there I kept saying the lovely affirmations, visualizing the rosebud opening and just letting my body be as loose as I could. When we got to triage I was sure my water had broken and when they checked me I was 8cm opened! The doctor said there wouldn't be much time. The birthing suite was beautiful, lights were dimmed just as we had asked and everybody was talking softly. I had an amazing nurse who believed in natural birth and said she would be with me for the remainder of my labor. It was 4:10pm by now. I felt pressure on my lower back as I was nearing completion and the nurse assisted me with hip squeezes. A little after 5 they told me I should push and when I did, they said, "There he is... he's looking at you, pick your head up!" I didn't believe them so I kept being in my zone but then everybody in the room said, "He's waving at you, pick your head up and look." I did and there he was, half way out of my body, calmly looking at me, his eyes wide open with one hand over his head giving me an introductory "Hello." I received my baby from my own body at 5:07pm on December 17th.

What a calm and loving environment it was. Mizmor litodah! My husband and I are so grateful for the many blessings in this journey! I hope this is encouragement or inspiration for anyone working on goals through positive affirmations and visualizations. I had been visualizing and affirming my dream birth for several months and thank G-d every thing I asked for came true! Keep on your own journeys and have faith that your wellspring of abundance will shower down too.

Red Tent Temple

2012-01-30T03:23:00.000-08:00

Each New Moon for the past 10 months I have helped to erect a Red Tent Temple in the Philadelphia area. It is a traveling Red Tent, visiting the home of any sister who would like to make that space for the Temple. We have red fabric draped everywhere to give a physical manifestation to the Red Tent. There is often music softly playing in the background and a low hum of conversation. Often you will see a sisters sharing hearts in the kitchen, enjoying soup or other nosh that someone has brought to share. Other times you may notice another sister quietly coloring a mandala or reading a book. And other times you may just see her sitting on the floor with her head thrown back and her eyes closed simply feeling the peace the permeates the Tent.

The Red Tent is a drop in which helps to maintain the relaxed feeling and openness of the Temple. Women are free to come and go during the time the Red Tent is open. Later the women are called to an informal circle and Ritual begins. That ritual too is an organic creation of whatever the need may be for the month. Sometimes it's a time of sharing New Moon intentions. Other times a sister may share a poem or story of her own or one that has touched her. There have been sisters who have brought a song to share or a drum to lead us. There have also been times when tears have flowed and hearts were laid bare and broken. At other times there have been no words and all that is offered is a gentle touch or love filled eyes. And of course there have been many times of laughter and silly, joyous sharing.

Women who have begun their moon time (menstruation) are welcome at the Red Tent and we have had sisters as young as 15 attend. The ages of the women there seem fairly irrelevant as wisdom seems to be gleaned and shared with little regard to how many years you have been on the planet. We all have much to give and in the safety of the Red Tent all the sisters young and older are free to speak and share. And the Red Tent is a very safe place. Each sister is loved, accepted and free. There are no rules and there is no limit to what can or cannot be shared. Each one of us accepts upon herself the Sacred Trust of the other's heart and maintains the sacred space for her sister, knowing and trusting that she will do the same.

My part in the Red Tent is simply the contact person, the soup maker and the keeper of the red box of fabric, colored pencils, markers, sketch pads and other such sundries that all add to the sweet experience of the Red Tent. I help to maintain the space but those who attend are the ones who make the energy and sisterhood happen. Each Red Tent has it's own identity and mission. In the beginning I would worry about what to do or what would happen, but I soon realized that the Divine was indeed present and each gathering was an organic and free flowing event. With each New Moon I look forward to this gathering with the community of women that has formed and continues to grow because of it. We have even given birth to a sister Red Tent in Lancaster county which is maintained by another sister Wise Woman.

As we come upon the one year anniversary of the Red Tent, I stand in awe of it. What began in my living room with the impetus and energy of several 20something year old friends, still stands a year later traveling from home to home, through the devotion and quite honestly need, of the community of women at large. We have discovered how dearly we need this time together, to gather, dance and sing. We have discovered how dearly we need this time to love and share with each other. And we have realized that regardless of what may be happening in our lives, the Red Tent Temple will be up and the space will be maintained because it is just that important. You may not be able to make it this New Moon or even next one, but know, She will be there waiting to welcome you into Her Womb of Sisterhood and Divine love. If you care to bring a gift to the altar, bring your heart and bring your dreams...oh and chocolate is always good too.

A love letter, to you

2012-01-30T02:49:00.000-08:00

“There is a vitality, a life-force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you in all of time this expression is unique and if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and be lost. The world will not have it! It is not your business to determine how good it is nor how it compares with other expressions. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open." ~Martha Graham

graphistolage.com

Martha Graham spoke these words from her Dancer’s heart. You are a unique expression of the Divine. A facet, if you will, of the Diamond of Divinity’s love for the world. You were born as a gift to the planet and the human race and it is your responsibility to express that gift. By being you, a free and wild human being, you gift the world with that Love. Your work is not to figure it out, or to encumber yourself with a label or persona, your work is to simply be you. You in all of your imperfect and wild beauty! The wildness of your self shines a light that is yours and yours alone. Consider the wild flower that insists on pushing herself through the cold suffocating concrete of a city sidewalk. She lifts her face up valiantly to the sun and allows her beauty to bless all who take the time who notice her. Does that seem too daunting a task, dear one? Do not let fear, an illusion, prevent you. The world is but an illusion because as the wildflower teaches us, even the ‘reality’ of cement did not stop her from blooming and sharing her light. You hard work is to be you, to burst through the cracks and be your true and authentic self. Search your heart and begin to see your own beauty. Do not judge yourself, that is not your job. Do not compare yourself, that is not truth. Find the wildness of your soul and begin to move! Begin to lift your face to the sun and dance your life, dance your Divinity and be the gift of love you were created to be.

Musical Monday-Peace

2012-01-23T04:14:00.000-08:00

As a believer and a contributor to The (peaceful) Revolution, I was looking for preschool songs of peace to share with my children. I discovered this lovely gem written by two teachers form Scotland, Jan and Randy Prichard.

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-18T03:04:00.001-08:00

Musical Monday Part 2-In Honor of Dr. Martin Luther King

2012-01-16T04:11:00.000-08:00

Beats Antique pays tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, "Almost always, the creative dedicated minority has made the world better."

Musical Monday- Tribal Belly Dance

2012-01-16T03:24:00.000-08:00

Today's Musical Monday post contains tribal belly dance, or what I like to think of as my sanity maintainer. Truly, it matters not what kind of week I've had, or if I'm not feeling quite so dancey before I get there, the moment I walk into class and see my sisters I am well. The music starts and life just got a heck of a lot better.

If I am not dancing, another sure fire way to put a smile on my face is seeing these lovely ladies. Along with my own troupe Tribal Spirit, they are one of my top ten favorite troupes. Wild Card Belly Dance! I go absolutely fan-girl crazy over them! Their smiles, their skills, their transitions, the absolute joy of their dance and fun they are so obviously having assures a smile on my face and sets my heart aright every time!

Have a peak yourself and see what I am talking about!

Wordless Wednesday, ISee Philly

2012-01-11T17:10:00.000-08:00

Walking down 4th street on a break and I discover glints of light on an otherwise gloomy alley

Closer I venture to the building that turns into a stationary disco ball of sorts.

Beauty is hidden everywhere in Philly

Even masterpieces lurk in dark alleys and side streets.

2012's Pep talk...or how I have finally accepted the Renaissance Woman I am

2012-01-10T03:20:00.000-08:00

(Caveat: this is a stream of consciousness kind of post. In other words, I'm fixing a hole where the rain gets in and stops my mind from wandering where it will go. You have been forewarned.)

I want to write and yet I find myself staring blankly at the keyboard.

Oh, I occasionally reach for the mouse and then before I know it, here a click there a click and I have found myself in distraction-land. Being a metaphor lady I am currently searching for the lesson in this. It is too simple to say I am easily distracted. It is too easy to blame it on lack of inspiration or the absence of old fashioned stick-to-it-tive-ness. Well, my friends it may be simple and easy, but facts are facts , I am too easily distracted, particularly when there is a task that I deeply desire to do.

One would think that if you want to do something you would simply do it. Not so, not so at all. It seems to me that simply wanting to do something is not enough. Deep desire does not seem to be enough. There must be something more that is the impetus that gets my feet moving, my hands typing, myheart creating.

Passion

Passion.

Deeply felt passion.

You must find your passion and tap into that. Passion is the life force that moves you. Passion is the energy that finds its way from your heart and into your hands, feet, and voice, whatever it is you need to get moving. It will happen when you discover your passion. Your passion will not fail you. But like most fires it must be tended to. You must keep feeding it; even it is bits of kindling here and there.

You see, true passion never dies.

Never.

I know that may seem to be a ridiculous claim, never being a long time and all. But I tell you it is true. If you are truly passionate about a particular thing, it will endure even if you find the need to bank the fire for a while.

At least, this is what it seems to be for me.

I have several things I am passionate about. But wait, didn't I just write "You must find your passion (singular) and tap into that."? Can you really have more than one honest and true Passion. Can you divide your attention thus?

I have found it is quite acceptable for me to be polyamorous in this situation. In the past I tried to narrow my passion down to some singular love. At different points in my life, I have tried to be exclusively devoted to herbs, to childbirth, to art, poetry, fiber arts or dance. I tried because I thought I must stop this Jill of all trades nonsense and attempt to become an expert in something. But to be monogamous in my passions simply does not work for me.

Enter the Renaissance Woman.

Photo by Gar Travis/www.garphoto.com

The common term Renaissance (wo)man is used to describe a person who is well educated or who excels in a wide variety of subjects or fields

Does that really fit? Does it even matter?

In a way, it does because it gives me comfort in my way of thinking about myself. It allows me to cut myself some slack. The fact that I know a little about a whole hell of a lot suits me. I never really have claimed the title expert, but that is okay really. What does being an expert even mean?

An expert is someone widely recognized as a reliable source of technique or skill whose faculty for judging or deciding rightly, justly, or wisely is accorded authority and status by their peers or the public in a specific well-distinguished domain. An expert, more generally, is a person with extensive knowledge or ability based on research, experience, or occupation and in a particular area of study.

Ok, so I am never gonna be the One. I look at my many teachers and I think to myself, “Man, she is cool. Wow, I wish I could be as cool as her.” Yeah, silly I know. A woman my age thinking things like that. Doesn’t programming suck?

Straight A's, Super Woman, Saint, all cursed epithets I have worn in my life.

Consider this part of my deprogramming.

I am me.

Me in my imperfections.

Me in my perfections.

I will never be Rachel Brice. I will never be Susun Weed. I will never be Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, or Tasha Tudor, or Emma Goldman and any of the many woman who I think are so damn cool.

I am simply the lady, who talks to plants, tells stories, plays with children, picks away at her mandolin, spins pretty decent yarn, and dances her heart out. I am the one jamming to my IPod on the El, skipping through leaves on South Street. I am the one who talks to every dog, smiles at most every human and still cries at every birth. I am the one who will listen and cry with you, stranger though you may be. Dream interpreter, believer in humanity, lover of the earth, and I can even shoot whiskey.

Weird and wonderful.

And you know what? I’m pretty damn cool.

Note: Guess what? This is you too. Just replace your name, your likes, your heroes and there you have it. You. A pretty damn cool human being who rocks this world!

Musical Monday

2012-01-09T16:19:00.000-08:00

I like Mondays. Not as much as I like Sundays, but Mondays are definitely one of my favorite days of the week. As I know many folks do not feel the same as way I do about Mondays, I thought I would help to cheer your Mondays up with a little musical joy!

Yeah, this video is just another hopeful reminder that there is so much good and beauty in humanity. Peace through music!!

Quoted from the video: "okay- what you are about to watch is a true new york experience. what originally started out as a typical nyc subway ride turned into an awesome performance by two people who have never met before. i captured the whole thing on video.

the singer continued with another great song after the entire subway car demanded an encore. her name is jessica latshaw- make sure to check out her music.

props to the conga player as well. check out his stuff- Quoom1.

filmed and uploaded by Matt Schwartz"

The Rose Bush Who Wouldn't Bloom (A Real Life Parable)

2012-01-07T08:16:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time, as this we know dear children is how all good stories begin, in a land that flowed with blacktop rivers and concrete shorelines, there was a small and modest garden. The Garden was in fact a smallish incline of dirt, too small even to be called a hill, and was really more of a mound of earth that provided living quarters for fat wiggly earthworms. (These earthworms then in turn provided food for the rather greedy robins, but that dear children is another story for another time.)

At the top of the smallish hill, which was really a mound, grew a rose bush, or at least this is what the village wisewoman thought it was. She was never really quite sure, for it never bloomed all the years she lived in the cement forest. Each year she pruned it back, each year she offered it gifts of crystals and food and each year it did nothing.

Oh once, she thought it would bloom, when it grew taller than it had ever done before, and even shot forth one tiny bud!

''This is the year!'' she thought with glee. But sadly there never was more than a tiny green bud and it soon simply withered and died.

Another year, when she thought she would truly tend to the business of it's nurturing, she noticed tiny aphids consuming the rose bush's delicious leaves. She promptly consulted her books and concocted a wonderful herbal spray that was sure to rid her friend from the tiny green pests, but alas, nothing happened and all the wisewoman was left with were rudely chewed up leaves.

Now one thing dear children, that I have failed to relay to you, was that very near by the rose bush, in fact right in front of it, dwelt another bush, a rather large and not so very handsome conifer bush. The conifer was not a favorite of the village wisewoman, but as she was loathe to disregard any living being, she simply could not remove it.

When the young women of the village would stop by for a visit, or to admire her herbs, they would often encourage the wisewoman to rid herself of the unattractive and cumbersome bush, but she refused to entertain such a thought, instead trying to groom it occasionally hoping to shape it up some how. Even as she would wistfully look at her lovely lady lavender being crowded out by it's bristly green branches, she would not consider ridding her garden of it's presence.

Finally, after years of nurturing the Rose Bush that wouldn't bloom, the village wisewoman threatened it.

"If you do not bloom next year, I shall chop you down and be done with you!! What good is a rose bush that won't bloom! You are simply a bush of thorns!"

The Rose Bush that wouldn't bloom felt very sad. She knew the real reason she could not bring forth her true beauty, but she could not seem to make wisewoman understand. Just as the winter snow was about to blanket the cement forest for a long winter's nap, the Rose Bush that wouldn't bloom whispered a prayer to the heavens. "Please, show her."

Winter was long and cold that year and the snow deep. One storm was particularly harsh and lay such a blanket of snow on the earth that the conifer bushes branches finally buckled under the pressure of it all. When spring returned the village wisewoman saw that the conifer bush had split in half and that his branches were broken and lame.

"Oh dear," she sighed, "I suppose you've left me with no choice. You must go now."

Although she had grown accustomed to him being there, she felt slightly guilty because she immediately began dreaming of all she would plant in the space that would be left behind.

Some men from the village came by and removed the conifer bush and the village wisewoman bid him farewell. She immediately began to fill the space that was left with lovely purple flowers.

She looked at the Rose Bush who wouldn't bloom and said, "Is this the year we too part, my friend?"

Not too many days later she noticed her lavender seemed to suddenly stand taller.

"My, my lady lavender, you look lovely! Could it have been...?" she began to wonder.

As she pondered her thoughts she set her eyes to the top of her hill, that was really a mound and saw that the Rose Bush who wouldn't bloom seemed to be greening quite nicely.

"Hmmm," she thought to herself, "You have done this before old friend. For 10 years I have waited for you to bloom and for 10 years you have done nothing. You are simply a rose bush that will not bloom, you are just branches and thorns."

One day as she was returning from time in the village, she looked up at the hill, that was really a mound and could not believe her eyes! What was this? The Rose Bush that would not bloom was covered in buds! The village wisewoman excitedly ran over to examine her. She clapped her hands happily as she realized this could be the year!

Day after day, the village wisewoman would go out to her garden and check on the Rose Bush that finally budded, but nothing was happening. Was it yet another false alarm? Would the aphids return and devour the now tall rose bush?

One early morning as the village wisewoman went out to the garden, the Rose Bush whispered her name. The village wisewoman could hardly believe her eyes, yet there in front of her where once the Rose Bush who wouldn't bloom stood, was now the Rose Bush filled and filled with roses and buds!!!

The Beginning...

for the truth is dear children, that even wisewoman are daily learning and seeking wisdom, but the most challenging wisdom it seems for them to discover is the wisdom of themselves.

Dear Walmart,

2011-11-23T15:26:00.000-08:00

I hate you. I really do. Could you close your stupid greedy store for one day so people can be home with their families or at least have a day off. It's friggin' Thanksgiving, but the only people in your company who get to give thanks are the people in upper management who I am sure will have the day off but will benefit financially nonetheless from you 24 hour sales. You care nothing for your employees.

It is painfully obvious when you make people work on a day they deserve to have off. Yeah, I know all about your holiday pay and I know that is why most them will work on Thanksgiving (not that you give them a whole hell of a lot of choice.) You don't pay fairly to begin with or provide them with decent benefits, but you dangle money in front of them so your employees don't feel like they have a real choice but to work. Most of them are simply trying to make ends meet, pay bills, or save money. So they sacrifice a day in their lives, a day that it should be anathema to go Holiday shopping on anyway, so they can earn a little extra money to pay bills. Oh, but that would mean you gave a flying flip about people and ethics.

Basically, you suck and this is one of the several reasons why I do not shop at your greedy-don't-give-a-crap-about-anyone stores.

Signed,

Sister of the single mom you are making work on Thanksgiving

In Memory of My Cousin Joe

2011-11-21T03:59:00.000-08:00

I just read on Facebook, my cousin Joe died. Helluva way to find out, but the truth is would not have known without the social network. It was how my cousin and I stayed in touch.

It wasn't always that way. There was a time when I would go to his father's store (OB"M) and sit and chat with him, alot. He would tell me of his many adventures meeting celebrities. They were all true by the way, as he had the pictures to prove it. He wasn't known as "El Paparazzi" for nothing. He met all kinds of famous folks from pop stars, athletes to Latino celebrities.

Joe and Will Smith

We talked about G-d. We talked about my mother who has passed when I was an infant. We talked about the day to day. He and I talked about so much, even vegetarianism...I don't recall that he was one but I remember his dad was and I've been a vegetarian for longer that I wasn't one.

It was just such a comfort to walk into the store and see his very sweet smile looking up from the small TV set there on the counter to greet me. He had been through so much in life. He was incredibly non judgmental and always supportive. I always remember how kind he was.

When I moved and left the area, I only stopped back in sporadically for a quick visit, and then eventually we lost touch. Time and distance do that. But not love.

Facebook put us back in touch, but for too little time. I had read that he was sick, I joined in on the prayers of the family, but to no avail apparently.

Joe is gone. Along with his smile, sweetness and camera.

But according to his brother not his spirit.

Yes, I suppose that can be true. Memories allow a person to live on.

So I guess for me Joe will never be gone, because no one can take from me that smile or sweetness...or the time he tried to set me up with one of his friends, "He's a great guy!"

:::very big smile:::

The Village Wise Woman Visits the Big City

2011-11-20T14:39:00.000-08:00

I love working downtown, SO much! I get use public transportation and see all kinds of interesting folks. I am also noticing an awful lot grows there, which thrills me to no end. I decided I am going to try to take pictures of the green wonders I notice. Here are a few to start off with:

Philadelphia Fall Foliage

(Loves me some alliteration!)

Urban Sprawl or you can't hold a good tree back!

Determination!

This green being was growing out of a building across from the El.

Inspired... Once Again

2011-11-19T18:03:00.000-08:00

Part 1

I just got finished reading this post, Herbalism On the Edge by Kiva Rose. Her post proved once again to me, that although I have never had the privilege of actually meeting Kiva in person, (I do harbors hopes of doing so one day), I count her as a trusted friend and teacher on my path. Her post also has spurred me on to take a look at what is going on in my life, breathe a minute and reach out via this blog again.

I think one of the hardest thing regarding the evolution from Philly FarmGirl to Village WiseWoman was the life changes I was undergoing, and that reflected in my posts. No longer were my posts focused of the joy I found in mothering my three children and homeschooling. Now they were about trying to find my none too clear path and focus on who I was becoming. Then when it seemed I was finding my way, the need to earn an income seemed to consume me to the point I no longer had time for the magic of living. Even the names seem to reflect the becoming, from farm girl to wise woman.

Becoming and being who I truly am is challenging for me, as I well imagine it is for the rest of humanity who truly desires to live life fully and be their whole and wild selves. If I am to be completely honest here, you may not like what you see/read. Do I write for the readers or do I write for me? And if I write for the readers which readers do I write for, since I am a member of many tribes. So, here goes nothing. I am simply going to write about, well, everything! Everything and anything that I am interested whether it be spiritual, herbal, birth related, dance related fiber arts, whatever! Whatever flavor of the day it may be, I will write. Some days I may be the Wise Woman in all her wildly wonderful ways, other days I may simply be another seeker of truth and peace and still others I may simply post nonsense (yeah, nonsense is fun too). You will find posts filled with absolute faith and others that may be part of a dark night of the soul journey. Whatever the case I am going to treat this blog as I did in the very beginning of my blogging days, back in '05, like you are visiting with me in my home, sitting at my kitchen table enjoying a cup a tea/coffee. And if you like it, feel free to leave a comment and if not, comment too. Discussions are good too!

Part 2

Let me begin by telling you along with a new job, life changes and the absurdity of social networking, I have really been missing this blog.

So, what have I been up to.

Well, I am currently earning an income very happily, with a new group of little ones. They really are all quite delightful and I am pretty sure I work with children just so I will always have an excuse to play, explore and have an audience with which to hone my storytelling and song writing skills. (Oh yeah Raffi, I see you shaking in your boots over there)

I am also happily still teaching tribal belly dance. If you're in the Philly area you really should come dance with me. We have a lovely group of ladies that gather together and we have a whole lot of fun!

This past April I helped start a Red Tent Temple in the Philly area. That has been an amazing and transforming experience for me and many other ladies. I really cannot even begin to describe what is like other that it is very organic, safe and nurturing. I am honored and so blessed to be among some kick ass wise women every new moon. Again, if you are in the area you are very welcome to join us!

I have been realizing and becoming more comfortable with who I am and my own skin. Listen, it has taken a helluva long time to get here and I am planning to continue to learn and grow but it sure as hell feels good to finally not care (all that much) what folks think.

"Your acceptance, while it would thrill me, will not define me. My identity rests firmly and happily on one fact. I am my mother's daughter." ~Spanglish

I am still realizing what it means to be a Medicine Woman/Wise Woman and am joyfully accepting the mantle. I am realizing more and more that I am simply a teacher or guide. I am simply there to point out what may work or shine light on possibilities. Thus far it has meant I do more of what I have always done like counseling and mentoring. I have also discovered it means answering a lot of questions on

parenting
babies
birth
breastfeeding
sickness
herbs
marriage

Which lucky for me is also something I've done for quite a while and happens to be subjects I like to learn and talk about. Unfortunately it does not mean I have become an expert or have discovered all the answers which, quite honestly, sucks. Anyone who knows me, knows I would like to have the answer to cure every ill, solve every problem, and heal every wound. But it is simply not the case and even though it does suck, it is what it should be. It helps me to remember that it is not my responsibility to cure, solve and heal every ill, but that each person has a responsibility in their own healing process.

So, what have you been up to? What are you learning? Who are you becoming?

Dear Philly,

2011-06-30T11:33:00.002-07:00

It's taken me some time, but I am learning to love this city. Well, it'd be nice and might not have taken so long if the inhabitants of the "City of Brotherly" love would try to be a bit more, er... lovable. Inspired by the visitphilly.com billboards all over the city, I decided to create my own. I may even make a few more.

If you are having a hard time reading it, just click it and it will magically get bigger. °Ü°

Once Upon a Time...again.

2011-06-26T05:28:00.000-07:00

Introduction:

I have a tradition in my home, I relate the story of each of my children's birth to them on their birthday and I am quite sure they can give it over themselves quite well by now. Perhaps they can even recall an echo of memory, so often I have told them. Each time I tell it, it is as if I am birthing them again, I feel all the intensity of that love at first sight feeling. I did not intend this tradition, it simply came about, but over the years, I have realized why this was so very important to me to perform this ritual on their birthdays. It is because I do not know my own birth story. My birth mother left the planet when I was 5 months old. Because of this, I don't know much about my infancy or my childhood save for the mythology that has evolved over the years.

The anniversary of my own arrival is tomorrow and, perhaps because of the time of my life I am in, I feel very sad that no one will give over my story to me. No one will look into my eyes, tears welling up from the memory, heart overflowing with joy at the recollection of the happiness I brought them...or will they. As I meditated on this while writing my morning pages, I became overwhelmed with my own story. My story, told by me and a metaphor that like the Labyrinth, continually brings me back to myself.

The Womb.

It is dark but the darkness does not frighten me. I have been quite comfortable until now. Nourishment has been provided for me along with a steady, soothing heartbeat to lull me to sleep.

But now, now it seems I have outgrown my space.

I can barely move my arms or stretch my legs fully. Gone are the days I somersaulted in my watery home. It has gotten quite tight in here but I am content...until today.

Today the squeezing began. At first I did not mind it much, my home tightening it's walls around me, but I soon realized these were it's farewell embraces to me. Tighter and tighter they become and closer and more urgent they grow.

The descent begins and I feel myself spiraling downward, slowly at first. My head is being squeezed and my face is pressed and mushed. I feel uncomfortable and am not enjoying this dark journey. Time moves slowly and finally I begin to descend deeper still continuing down the spiral path into a tunnel impossible for me fit through. The intensity grows and I feel as if I may be finally crushed until I feel a coolness at the top of my head.

I wonder at the feeling, this unfamiliar sensation and have a moments rest to absorb what is happening. The tunnel tightens around me once again, feeling like a shove, a push urging me to leave my once comfortable home and forcing me down The Path. One more turn down the spiral and I emerge from the dark tunnel into blinding light!

After what feels like an eternity of flailing about in the confusion of the Light, warm arms hold me tightly and press me close. I listen closely and I hear a familiar drumming, a steady and comforting beat. I know this song although now it seems further away and I must strain to hear it. I take breaths and I begin to breathe in a scent that intoxicates me. My eyes struggle to focus but finally I see.

She is holding me and her smile assures me I right where I am supposed to me.

She is beautiful beyond compare.

She is Divine.

She is Mother.

Following the Wise Woman

2011-06-24T05:27:00.000-07:00

I have been following the Wise Woman all of my life in the many forms she has manifested herself to me. Young girl, nomadic gypsy, devil may care 20something, abused wife, horny teenager, cranky old woman and many more. Each time she has taken me on a new path. Each time, I've been hesitant to go. There is not much light it seems at first. Maybe just a candles worth, simply lighting the step directly in front of me.

"That is all that is necessary to move forward." she assures me.

Strangely enough, in spite of my fear, I follow her. I must, I believe I have no choice, for to remain where I am is to die a death of the spirit.

As I follow her there are times I struggle to keep up. Her knowledge of The Path allows her the agility of an erudite and reassures me. Occasionally I notice fear peeks from behind the trees reminding me that he is there. I linger not at his sight, moving on and marveling at her confidence, praying one day that will be me.

Finally, we come to a door. Always there is a door, sometimes great and foreboding, sometimes small and ridiculous. Several times, the door has been covered with thorns and I have had to hack my way through. Most times in the past I have simply followed her in, but this time is different. This time she tells me I must go in alone.

I feel paralyzed.

"You shall find me again," she urges me on. "I will be waiting for you, wise eyes will reveal me no matter what my concealment."

She sees the tears welling in my eyes and takes me in her arms. I am in no hurry to be released from her embrace. At last, I am comforted and she hands me small photo. "Look for her." Her smile seems to reveal that she has known a great secret all along and soon I shall too.

I gaze at the photo in my hands. Wiping the tears from my eyes I begin to understand. I will know her, the Wise Woman and peculiarly she shall look very much like me.

In fact she always has.

So I stopped by for a visit at...

2011-05-23T13:02:00.001-07:00

The Passionate Wise Woman for her "In Your Skin Monday" post. It is such a honor to be asked to write for another blog, not to mention a lot of fun. Go over and see what I wrote, and see what this lovely lady has to offer! I think you'll have a great time over there!

The Medicine Woman I want to be

2011-04-27T04:59:00.000-07:00

The Village Wise Woman

The words of Wisdom are on her tongue

The law of Kindness flows from her mouth

Dressed in her finery, clothed in the past

Eyes turned to the future, her heart ever present in the here and now

She walks between the worlds.

Calico apron draped across her tie dyed skirts

Lace handkerchief tucked up her tunic sleeve

Her head is wrapped in a cotton crown, leather sandals on her feet

Close to the earth, she listens

Close to the heavens, she soars!

Lavender and dandelion speak of their magic

Yarrow and plantain teach her of love

Owl and chickadee are her friends

Hawk and crow her guides

Butterfly her comfort

Dancing through hoops, spinning with fire, living beneath the cottonwood trees

She weaves her crystal ball through the loom of her life

And though she walks in harmony with all

Her sword is in it's sheath, her hand upon it's hilt

Warrior she is, when it is necessary.

By: The Village Wise woman's not so distant manifestation

Celebrating Passover, Dreaming of Freedom, Starting the Revolution

2011-04-22T05:46:00.001-07:00

I have finally begun to enjoy my Pesach/Passover celebrations. Prior to this enjoyment I was an angry, resentful, and none to eager participant in the preparation let alone the celebration. All ofthe preparations and cleaning and turning upside down one's home to search for chometz has been working my nerves for the past couple of years, and even more so this year. Now mind you, we are not near as "in depth" as many people, following a more letter of the law practice than all the extra chumras that some of my Tribe take on, but feeling the time constraints and attention to detail that this holiday demands was, nonetheless, beginning to wear at me.

Finally, with the couldn't-been-done-without-her daughter doing cleaning over the week, we finished on Sunday and were actually ready for the holiday the earliest we have ever been. I had decided earlier, since I only have one child at home and wasn't sure who actually would be present, to make plans to celebrate the seders in other peoples homes. I must say, they did much to flip my attitude. The first seder was quiet and meaningful with people we dearly care for. The food quite delicious and proof that the simplest of foods, without extra spices or whatnot, make for delicious and warm meals. Love truly is the most needful ingredient. The second seder was happily spent with extended family and my son so needless to say, my mother's heart was overjoyed! We enjoyed other meals out with two of my students families and they were equally wonderful.

Of course the point of all these mealtime celebrations, is freedom, particularly freedom from slavery. We use cushions, lean to the left, drinks lots of wine to remind us we are a free people. This really has gotten me thinking about what slavery and freedom really means. What exactly is freedom? Lack of ownership? Lack of restraints? Absence of boundaries? Absence of limitations? Opportunities? Choices?

"Emancipate yourself from Mental Slavery. None but ourselves can free our mind."~Bob Marley

With all this thoughtfulness I decided that now would be an appropriate time to make resolutions to myself. Resolutions focused on being Free.

I want to free myself to be who I truly am. I cannot even explain what that means, as I am in constant discovery of who I am, but simply put, I want to be free to be that person at each moment, without apology to myself or others.

I want to be free to choose healthy foods and not be enslaved to what my emotions want to eat. I want to nourish my body without then becoming a slave to a particular diet or food program. I want to enjoy the food I eat and simply eat to live.

Worry is slavery.

Fear is slavery.

Lack of control is slavery.

I want to be free from all these things. I want to love and experience each moment as it comes. I want to feel great emotion and not chastise myself for it afterwards. I want to truly understand that there is a real difference between lack of control and passionate living! I want to live Passionately!

"fire passion by FantomKiller"

I want to be free of obligation. That is a mouthful coming from me, I know. But I am beginning to believe their is a huge difference between obligation and response-ability.

ob·li·ga·tion

1. An act or course of action to which a person is morally or legally bound; a duty or commitment.

2. The condition of being morally or legally bound to do something.

re·spon·si·bil·i·ty

1.The state or fact of being accountable.

2.The opportunity or ability to act independently and make decisions without authorization.

3.A moral obligation to behave correctly toward or in respect of.

Mind you, I picked those particular definitions to suit me, but they better explained my point. Response-ability, the ability and desire to respond to a person, situation, cause etc. is freedom! I take upon myself responsibility, and I respond happily in a healthy manner. I am not obliged to do this or that, but am living my life and responding to it. I admit, I could be performing word gymnastics here, but I suppose that is how all revolutions start, with a word or a catch phrase

to hold on to and inspire.

"You tell me it's the institution, well you know, you better free your mind instead." ~John Lennon

Speaking of the Revolution, I realize that the revolution had to start within myself and my mind. Here I am thinking I am starting a revolution, but truly I need to revolt within myself first. I think this is the most challenging. To change and free my own mind!

"But the multitude among them began to have strong cravings. Then even the children of Israel once again began to cry, and they said, "Who will feed us meat? We remember the fish that we ate in Egypt free of charge, the cucumbers, the watermelons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic." ~Bamidbar/Numbers 11:4-5

We, all of us, are still very much slaves. Slaves to systems, ideologies, past experiences etc., that keep us tame and sedated. The sedation, I think we can shake off, but once we are fully awake then what? What happens then? We are free and awake but to what? How do we shake off the 'slave mentality'? As we see above, the Torah clearly relates the stories of the children of Israel and their continued desire for their 'comforts of slavery'. Is this simply our nature now? Have we forgotten or have we even ever known what it is to free and response-able? Once freed from any given situation or person will we naturally seek to enslave ourselves to another system, emotion, belief?

If I would unfetter myself and become my authentic wild self, who will I be? What will it mean to relinquish the bondages that I have accumulated along the way and to start the revolution within myself and to allow anarchy within my own being.To honestly be response-able to myself, others and the world around me? What will it mean to live a life fully awake and live each and every moment wild and free?

It is all at once, indeed, frightening and exciting. But to be wild is to grow and become all what one should be. The wild expensiveness of the Universe is all too awesome to try to understand. The beauty of a wild countryside, mountain range etc., is more than the soul can even consume. The earth as it was and in places still is.

It's not too late, you know. Land is constantly being set free, re-wilded, maybe people can be too.

Penny Pak Ponderings

2011-04-21T06:11:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my youngest daughter and I went for a long overdue walk into Penny Pak Park. I have now officially seen each season in the park. This past winter was my first snowy sojourn into the park. I realized yesterday though, that it is necessary to my good health to be a much more frequent visitor to the Park, particularly since it is truly the largest natural haven here in my neighborhood. There is so much happening there right now I was slightly overwhelmed by it all. I discovered cottonwood trees with their soft buds poking up. I saw young patches of nettle and violets. There were also many other plants, but sadly I only knew a small handful by name. Those that I could identify, I joyfully shared with my daughter. Another realization I had was, I needed to become the teacher I want. Therefore the bits of knowledge that I do have, I must share or they will become lost. So I showed her the cottonwood buds and invited her to touch and feel their softness. Instructed to stay clear of the nettle patches, pointed out shepherd's purse with their adorable heart shaped seedpods. We talked of violets and pansies and all the food that was growing there in the park.

Finally we sat for a bit and watched a beetle as it ambled down the macadam pathway. She (yes, we decided she was surely feminine) has us a bit worried as she was on her way since there were many dangers on her route of choice. Walkers, joggers, bikers to name a few. We struggled with whether or not we should move her out of the way, or if it was better to let her go her own way. We watched and were very curious to discover that as slowly as she traveled and in a seemingly indecisive manner, she made it. Her slowness of gait enabled the few observant humans walking by to stop and admire her a bit. She had quite a few near misses which caused us to look away and flinch a bit. (yes, we actually cared about the outcome of this beetle) In fact, in spite of all the near misses she made it and without any of our assistance.

All this beetle watching spawned the inevitable spiritual discussion between us. Did she think that this is how G-d is with us? Are we simply like this beetle travelling along the path? Does the Universe simply allow us to go our way as indecisively as Miss Beetle? When and/or does the the Universe intervene? Should the Creator intervene at all?

We came to no conclusions and had no answers. We believe Miss Beetle came to teach us to observe and to ask questions. She was quite captivating and in the end, she made it safely to the other side.

As I hope and pray, we all will too.

There are no pictures as it was a holiday, but I am committing myself to getting to Penny Pak more often and documenting my findings and perhaps, if I am able, do a little wildcrafting.

Note: as a fan of alliteration I could very well have added the words "Peaceful Pesach/Passover" to the above title but refrained from doing so. Much like my friends who adore puns, the tendency to go overboard is always tempting and restraint is mostly appreciated. °Ü°

How to Have a Great Day

2011-02-27T17:32:00.001-08:00

1. When you wake up, thank the Universe for a new day. The Jewish Prayer of "modeh/ah ani" is a good one to say.

מודה אני לפניך מלך חי וקים שהחזרת בי נשמתי בחמלה, רבה אמונתך.

Modeh ani lifanekha melekh ḥai v'kayam sheheḥezarta bi nishmahti b'ḥemlah, rabah emunatekha.

I offer thanks before you, living and eternal King, for You have mercifully restored my soul within me; Your faithfulness is great.

2. Enjoy a cup of your favorite warm beverage. My choice, coffee.

3. Meet beloved people for more coffee and tea biscuits. (On the way, have an argument on the phone that upsets your tummy and then promise yourself not to do THAT again. Makes the hug greeting of your beloved people even sweeter and remind you of the great day you are having.)

4. Have many REAL conversations with long time friends, family and your children.

5. Dance, ALOT!

6. Hug more friends and your daughter, ALOT!

7. Forgive yourself and the other person involved in above argument.

8. Go shopping with beloved people for lovely red fabric for the New Moon party you are planning. (Extra special treat: dear friend passing through Philly and has only 45 minutes to spare, joins you on your excursion and wow, you feel so much love!)

9. Sing real loud and dance with beloved people to Janis, Otis, and Gerry.

10. Blog about it and feel the gratitude and blessing of a wonderful day.

To Do List for a Snow Day

2011-01-27T11:27:00.001-08:00

Well, Philadelphia has been hit with 16" of snow and that means a SNOW DAY for me! Hooray!

I happened to start my day off quite pleasantly with three hours of my morning spent talking on the phone with my two sisters and my newly married daughter. How lovely it was to just chat on the phone instead of through text, email or some other electronic medium or network. I haven't done that in quite some time, so even though I am not really a phone person, it was a fun change of pace.

I really do love snowy days and have no objections to winter spreading her white mantle upon the earth, I mean, it is winter after all. If I didn't like the seasons I would be planning my move to the southern states. No, the biggest challenge is to spend my day wisely and not fritter it away online. This has become terribly easy for me during the past few years and I have to say, I don't like it.

What I have decided is the best thing to do, is to compose "To do" lists. I did this the last time I had a snow day and I got quite a bit accomplished including putting up more tinctures and writing on my blog.

So today's list of things to accomplish are:

~Set up the large triangle loom and start shawl

~Finish one of my wrist warmers

~Create my herbal journal for my herbal ally, Lavender.

I will let you know later how that turned out so stay tuned for further updates!

Herbal Ally Challenge

2011-01-23T13:35:00.000-08:00

So, I discovered this over at Dancing In a Field of Tansy and decided it would be a great way of really learning and discovering more about herbs and focusing on one in particular.

The steps she has listed so far are as follows:

1. Having a Herbal Ally
2. Finding a Herbal Ally
3. Herbal Ally Tools
4. Herbal Ally Challenge #1: Decorating your Journal Cover
5. Herbal Ally Challenge #1 Completed
6. Herbal Ally Challenge #2: Infusions
7. Herbal Ally Challenge #2 Completed
8. Herbal Ally Challenge #3: Research Part I
9. Herbal Ally Challenge #3 Completed

After reading the first two links she has posted regarding having and finding an herbal ally, it has become a bit hard to choose. There have been several plants that have spoken to me in my life, dandelion, lemon balm, lavender, yarrow and plantain. They seem to be the ones I am most drawn to. But I suppose if I had to choose just one, I would have to go with lavender since I can never resist brushing my hands past a lavender plant when I am going by. There has also been some tremendous emotional moments in my life when it comes to lavender.

I became obsessed with the scent of Lavender when I lived in Maryland and discovered Crabtree and Evelyn had wonderfully scented lavender soaps. Soon after, I discovered English Lavender and found and bought fragrances that made me swoon. The love affair was sealed as such and I fell completely and utterly in love. I first planted lavender back when I lived in Lancaster and I so dearly loved it. I got the courage to plant it because of one of my favorite scenes in the Jane Austen BBC (2007 with Kate Beckinsale) movie adaptation of Emma where Emma is walking through a courtyard filled with lavender and she is brushing her hands over it. Mr. Knightley is about to arrive and propose and the whole scene made my heart skip a beat I tell you.

(if you want to see the scene click here and wait until 1:48)

When I moved to Philly, I was sad to have to leave my beloved lavender behind but soon bought new plants. I really did not know much about caring for them and they became leggy and woody and so one winter I decided to prune them back. Too late, I discovered my grave mistake. spring came and my lavender did not bud. I looked up all kinds of reasons as to why this might have happened and discovered my folly had cost my lavender its life. As dramatic as this may seem I sobbed as if I had lost my best friend. I was truly heartbroken and could not believe I had been so careless. I promised myself to be more conscious of my herbs in the future and now have several lavender plants growing quite well.

That same year I reaped a lovely bounty of lavender from and obliging neighbor who was quite eager to have her three large bushes trimmed. Let me tell you that was quite a joyous time for me!

Whenever I want to gift something to friend I often snip some lavender and wrap it in ribbon to bless them and just this past year, my dear friend Angelique gifted me with yet another lavender plant. I imagine myself sometimes being Miss Rumphius, the Lupine lady, but with lavender planting it every where I go.

Well, after all this writing I have done I am quite settled that my ally for this year will be lavender. I will be posting all that I discover and learn about Lady Lavender. I will be creating a journal to record my discoveries and musings in. I will do my research and record my findings. I will write about her, poetry and prose. I will create with her, edible, medicinal and decorative goodies. Most of all though I will let her teach me all that she can and find how this gentle, small yet stately plant speaks into my life.

You are welcome to come along with me on my journey or better yet find your own and share your adventure with me!

Free Printable Owl Calendar

2011-01-22T19:51:00.000-08:00

I found this lovely link via Dancing in a Field of Tansy, so cute! Being a lover of raptors and owls in particular of late, I was delighted to stumble upon this. I am sure you will be too!

Free Printable Owl Calendar

Snowy Day Wanderings

2011-01-09T11:23:00.000-08:00

Today I woke to snowy shabbat. By nine o'clock the snow was falling consistently and had beautifully cloaked the city in a white mantle. By 9:30 am I began to get restless and started to debate whether or not a walk in the snow would be helpful. The child that I can be and who loves to play convinced me that it would be criminal to not avail myself of this winter wonderland and I quickly got dressed for the occasion. Once I had assured myself I would not freeze to death I began my trek. I stood outside on the patio for a few minutes taking it all in. It was cold and the snow felt lovely as it fell on me. I was amazed at how very quiet it was, very few cars out and about on this snowy morning, it all felt so surreal. Not even the juncos I had noticed earlier in the bush in front of my home were tittering about.

I started my walk not exactly sure where I was going then quickly deciding I desperately needed to see the woods on a snowy day. It occurred to me that I have never been there in winter and so off I went. The one mile walk seemed so much longer in the snow but I enjoyed every minute of it. The sound of the snow crunching under my boots made me smile and the silent city soothed my mind.

When I finally arrived at the Park I stopped myself. I wanted to really take it all in, soak up the seaonal change and observe all I could. Immediately I heard the titters and chips of birds. I looked up to try and spu them all out. I spotted cardinals, and black capped chickadees busily hopping from brancn to branch. Then I began to hear the tap, tap, tap of what I recongnized as some kind of woddpecker searching for food. I looked in the distance searching in vain for the wood pecker. Suddenly a sentence from the latest Charles deLint novel popped into my head that went something like "folks are always looking down when a whole world is happening right above them". Inspired by that thought I simply truened my eyes to right above me and, as if by magic, I saw the lovely red bellied woodpecker. It was hopping and pecking away at the tree in from of me. Then suddendly I was rewarded further by seeing several red headed woodpeckers! That was really a thrill for me and I was tremendously happy that I had ventured out into the snow.

Photo from dreamstime.com

I decided to continue with my walk and observed the creek still flowing slowly and frozen a bit in parts. I meditated on the ice and the water flowing freely beneath it. How often my own heart has felt this way. I leaned on a nearby tree and in fact embraced it to keep me stable on the snow. As I stood there I began to feel a sense of love, deep love that seemed to warm me from the inside out. Can't really explain it, other than that is simply what I felt.

I took my leave of my new friend tree and walked deeper into the woods. Following the creek I felt so alone and at peace with the woods. I found a place to stand and look and tried to take in every aspect of the woods I could. I had never been there in the winter so the experience was so new and wondrous to me. The silent beauty evoked the same emotions that I feel when I am in Maine. That surprised me a bit, as I was certain I would never feel that way outside of Tsfat or the cabin in Maine. I found another accommodating tree and found myself hugging this one too. Only this time I *felt* the tree and *knew* it. I breathed in the green smell of it's bark and what I had always know logically became heart knowledge. I felt deep love yet once again. The tree was ALIVE! In spite of the snow covered branches, the absence of leaves and the emptiness of the woods, the tree, all of them were very much alive. The woods were sleeping beneath the blanket of snow and this was simply a season. Spring would sooner than I realize make her return and the trees would wake up again.

A season, just like the seasons of my own life. Tears began to fall and prayers began to well up in my heart. I cried out to the Universe, to the Holy One and felt my prayers were being heard. It had been awhile since I felt so free and close to the Divine. It was a blessing indeed!

I found a nearby bench and sat for bit watching the snow fall and thinking to myself. Suddenly the desire to make a snow angel came over me. Silly, I know, and as I debated the wisdom of doing such, I finally gave into my childlike desire and plopped myself in a nearby snow bank. I laughed inwardly and swished my arms and legs back and forth to create my angel. Finally I carefully rose up and admired my creation. Brushing the snow off my coat and clothing, I laughed and tears of joy came again! In the distance I heard children playing and I knew it was time to go home. My heart filled with gratitude I made my way out through the snow and out of the woods.

It is my plan to continue.

"To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven" ~Kohelet Ch.3 v1

The Leaky B@@b: A Fairytale

2011-01-03T04:16:00.000-08:00

Here is a link from The Leaky Book Blogsite telling her story. After you read it and if you are on facebook, go like the new support page.

Another Word on Feeding Nurslings in Public

2011-01-02T12:25:00.001-08:00

Facebook and Twisted Sensitivities

2011-01-02T08:35:00.000-08:00

This morning I read this article which states that four nursing students, who posted pictures on Facebook of a human placenta, have been kicked out of nursing school.

I then learned that Facebook deleted the page titled: "The Leaky B@@b" as it was considered offensive.

Uh, yeah. This coming from a Social Network that has a plethora of hate groups and pages devoted to prejudice. (obviously not devoting a link to any of them)

They have time and time again removed nursing babies photos, birth and placenta pictures but that wide array of drunken ass photos, not too worry, they are still proudly up.

Apparently stupidity and ignorance is not deemed offensive.

File Under: Strange but True Labrador Adventures

2011-01-02T07:56:00.000-08:00

This morning I was making my healthy low calorie breakfast, (why yes, I am on the eat well/lose weight New Year's bandwagon) and getting quite excited about it! New year, new beginning blah, blah, blah. I was even planning to enjoy a bagel because I have decided to stop demonizing carbs and simply learn to eat like a person and not two. So, there I was happily cooking away when suddenly from the back room I hear my daughter cry out, "Oh my g*d!" I leave my stove top and quickly run over to the hall where I ask her what happened.

Daughter: "The Dog!"

Me: "What?!"

Daughter: "The Dog got into the fridge and ate the bagels."

Me: "WHAT?!?!"

Daughter:"He got into the fridge and ATE the bagels!"

I simply cannot believe it! Even as she is bringing me the empty bagel package I still can't believe it. Ah, but there is indeed the rub, because you see I should have believed it. We had recently just began to store the bagels in the fridge because my clever pooch had figured out a way to open the bread box drawer (don't ask me how) and steal them from there!

I took the empty offending package and stuck in my dog's face demanding, "WHY?!?!"

He just looked and me apologetically, as if he had really done me some kind of favor, all sad eyed and sweet and I gave up trying to understand.

So here are my options:

1. Try sticking the bagels on TOP of the fridge and see if that works. Unless of course the Cat is in cahoots with the Dog, which in that case it's hopeless.

2. Give up on carbs completely because they are actually demonic delicacies that will only continue to ravage and ruin my body.

3. Eat bagels out.

4. Install hidden video cameras.

My stealthy ninja dog. Don't let that grey haired face fool you. This Old Man apparently still has some tricks up his sleeve er...paw.

To My Beloved Children

2010-11-27T15:54:00.001-08:00

Just to see you smile,

My joy is there flitting around your up turned lips

My happiness dancing at the song of your laughter

Just to see you smile,

My fears and worries are allayed

My heart is filled with peace

Just to see you smile

Your joy is my joy

Your laughter, my song.

Just to see you smile

My life is whole

My happiness complete.

Just to see you smile

Noting exists but that moment

And your beautiful, wondrous smile.

Thank you, Ms. Steinman!

2010-11-16T03:41:00.000-08:00

Finally, finally, Ms. Steinman has called a spade a spade and spoken the words I have been longing to hear! In an article titled Feminist Ideal: A myth she states:

"Women are told they can have it all, that they can do anything, as long as they also keep doing everything else they were doing before."

I am doing such a happy dance over here you have no idea!!! This was one of the main points that would infuriate me so much about the Feminist Movement. I could support equal pay for equal work, respect for women in the workplace, gender equality and such, but what I could not support is the fact of that women were still expected to "Bring home the bacon, fry it up in a pan and never let you forget your a man!" GRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!! It seemed to me that women simply were making more work for themselves and men were either becoming emasculated or lazy! Horrible words I know, but that is what I witnessed.

Women who wanted to stay home and keep house or raise their children were made to feel like they were being treated as slaves, second class citizens or iconic novelties. Women who desired a career were considered power starved bitches, male wannabes, or evil for abandoning their children and the only way to make up for it was to become frantic Supermoms who worked themselves into Valium induced oblivions.

Women were not given choices, and they were not supported in their choices if they made them.

And the men. Well, they seemed lost through it all. Is it okay to be a 'gentleman'? Does he hold the door not hold the door? What if he wanted a more active parental role? What if he wanted to stay home with the children? (True story: my brother raised his son for several years on his own and was a Stay at Home Dad for a bit.) What if he wanted to maintain the traditional role of breadwinner with his wife being a homemaker? What if that is what worked for them?

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Finally, I believe these words spoken by one of the most vocal Women's Movement activists of our time, and this article may get women and men to truly stand up and stop the insanity. Finally maybe women will stop believing the lies that they must do it all, be all and rise up and be who they are individually and collectively called to be. Women may finally be able to lay aside the guilt, give up the media and societal induced responsibilities and perceptions of their bodies and take up the ones that they truly desire, the ones that truly work best for themselves, their families, in whatever way that route may be for them.

Here is that 30 second commercial that I grew up with and supposedly represented the Feminist Movement. What it succeeded in doing is brainwashing most of my generation.

I really hate this ad!

The Business of Birthing (Repost)

2010-11-15T16:47:00.000-08:00

The "Business" Of Birthing

This is a repost from the Giving Birth Naturally website.

Note: All of the information here represents fact, not opinion, of birthing within the United States. If you don't believe it, check the references listed at the end of the article. That being said, you may want to sit down before reading further...

FACT
Each year, the U.S. spends over $50 billion dollars on childbirth. This is more than any other nation in the world. (This number does not include babies in the NICU or readmissions during the first month.)

FACT
Maternity care is the largest source of income for American hospitals.

FACT
The U.S. ranks 37th in the world for the quality of its health care.

FACT
Over HALF of all hospital admissions in America are for maternity.

FACT
Hospitals are NOT the safest place to have a baby. 25 infectious strains exist that are resistant to ALL known antibiotics. These are found primarily in hospitals.

FACT
75 years of routine hospital birth have produced NO studies to show it is safer than having a baby at home with a skilled birth attendant.

FACT
Both homebirth and birth centers have been scientifically proven to be as safe or safer than hospitals with a skilled labor attendant (i.e. midwives, not doctors).

FACT
The more technology used in childbirth, the more dangerous it becomes.

FACT
The larger the hospital, the greater the risks to both mother and baby.

FACT
Of the 4.3 million babies born annually in the U.S., a mere 5% represent natural childbirth.

FACT
America ranks 29th in the world for its infant mortality rate, the number of babies who die in their first year per 1,000 live births, meaning the US loses more babies than 28 other nations per year.

FACT
The U.S.A. ranks 14th among developed nations for its maternal mortality ratio, the ratio of maternal deaths per 100,000 live births, meaning 13 other countries lose less mothers within 6 weeks of childbirth than the US does per year.

FACT
Over 90% of all infants in the U.S. are born with drugs (e.g. narcotics from epidurals, pitocin, acetaminophen, etc) in their systems. NONE of these drugs have been tested for safe use in infants.

FACT
A 24-hour hospital stay, uncomplicated delivery in the U.S.A. costs anywhere from $8,000-10,000. This cost DOUBLES for a c-section.

FACT
ALL families in the U.S. are charged newborn nursery charges, even if the babyNEVER leaves the mother's room. This "routine" charge amounts to about $1.3 billion dollars annually, for services that are NOT rendered. (I'm not quite sure why this doesn't constitute insurance fraud - billing for services not rendered.)

FACT
Every year, 1 million, or about 20%, full-term, healthy infants are sent to the NICU for "observation" for an average stay of 3 days, totaling a whopping $6,000.

FACT
For newborns suspected to have serious medical conditions, the same NICU stay totals $20,000.

FACT
1 in 3 American women has an episiotomy. Episiotomies are medically indicated for less than 10% of all women. Over 1 million unnecessary episiotomies are performed annually in the U.S.

FACT
1 in 5 births in the U.S.A. are induced. 44% of women surveyed in 2002 reported their doctor wanted to induce. Only 16% reported medically-indicated reasons.

FACT
American women who elect epidurals are FOUR times as likely to have cesarean sections.

FACT
31.8% of American babies (nearly 1 in 3) in 2007 were delivered by cesarean section. The World Health Organization recommends a c-section rate of less than 10-15% as acceptable.

FACT
U.S. hospital policies for routine tests, practices, policies and procedures are based on financial considerations, which include malpractice insurance costs. They are not based on evidence, research, or appropriateness of care.

I truly hope you found these statistics disturbing. If they don't speak to the medicalization of childbirth in this country, I don't know what does.

The true horror comes in the fact that these views are being exported across the world. As the U.S. is such a powerhouse of marketing, more impressionable regions are adapting to these customs, despite the overwhelming evidence that the U.S. approach to childbirth IS SERIOUSLY FLAWED!

American obstetricians are taught to view birth as "a disaster waiting to happen." The average delivery in the U.S. is neither natural nor healthy. We have embraced a cascading system of successively more intense, unneeded interventions termed "active management" or the "standard of care".

So what do we do? How can we change the system?

We as a country need to reach beyond our own boundaries to embrace an effective model of maternity care. We, as women, mothers, and families, must educate ourselves as to the true process of labor and childbirth.

We must regain our faith in our bodies' perfect ability to have a baby. We must look at what the research is already telling us - that nature has it right!

In short, we must take back our births!

And if you're still not convinced, check these out:

http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nvsr/nvsr57/nvsr57_12.pdf

http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nvsr/nvsr56/nvsr56_07.pdf

http://www.motherfriendly.org/Downloads/induct-fact-sheet.pdf

Deneux-Tharaux D, Berg C, Bouvier-Colle MH, Gissler M, Harper M, Nannini A, Alexander S, Wildman K, Breart G, Buekens P. Underreporting of Pregnancy-Related Mortality in the United States and Europe. Obstet Gynecol 2005;106:684-92.

http://www.who.int/whr/2005/en/

Hartmann K, Viswanathan M, Palmieri R, Gartlehner G, Thorp J, Lohr KN (2005). "Outcomes of routine episiotomy: a systematic review". JAMA 293 (17): 2141–8. doi:10.1001/jama.293.17.2141. PMID 15870418.

(2006) "ACOG Practice Bulletin. Episiotomy. Clinical Management Guidelines for Obstetrician-Gynecologists. Number 71, April 2006". Obstet Gynecol 107 (4): 957–62. PMID 16582142.

http://www.unicef.org/publications/index_18108.html

http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/obgyn.htm

http://www.bmj.com/cgi/content/full/330/7505/1416?ehom

Macfarlane A, McCandlish R, Campbell R.
Choosing between home and hospital delivery. There is no evidence that hospital is the safest place to give birth.
British Medical Journal. 2000 Mar 18;320(7237):798.

Home versus hospital birth.
Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2000;(2)

The cost-effectiveness of home birth.
Journal of Nurse-Midwifery. 44(1):30-5, 1999 Jan-Feb.

http://www.kff.org/womenshealth/upload/whp061207othd.pdf

http://www.childbirthconnection.org/article.asp?ck=10401

http://www.bmj.com/cgi/content/full/318/7189/995

Peck P. Preinduction cervical ripening significantly increases risk of cesarean. Medscape Medical News, 2003

Goer H. The Thinking Woman’s Guide to a Better Birth. New York: Perigee Books, 1999, p 228-9.

Fullerton JT and Severino R. In-hospital care for low-risk childbirth: comparison with results from the NationalBirth Center Study. J Nurse Midwifery 1992;37(5):331-340.

Giving Birth Naturally: "Business" of Birthing

Cell Phone Doula-ing

2010-11-15T04:07:00.001-08:00

At 5:30 this morning I received a text from a dear friend/sistah informing she was at the birth of her niece! Well, anyone who knows me I cannot resist fiber, plants or birth so I shook off the sleep and got to it. I got to be the 'doula's doula' offering her support and encouragement through texting! I was amazed at the speed of my thumbs! What an honor to be a part of this birth even if only peripherally. The last time I had this kind of opportunity was about 5 years ago and I was a doula for a mommy over the phone! Yes, it can be done and although not ideal, that is what I do as a doula, support birthing mommies (and their doulas) however and whenever they need me.

This is such a timely reminder of what I've said many times before and will continue saying, "It takes a village!" Believe me, I struggle with this myself, not allowing anyone in and not venturing outside. It is much easier to close up into my shell and stay there. But the truth is we truly need each other, we do! We are the community we create and although it may not come naturally to us anymore, it is needful for us all to remember this and to what ever capacity we can, be there for each other.

It has been some time now, the many texts have ceased and the phone has gone silent. This tells me there may be some birthing going on. My thoughts and prayers are there with the birthing Mama and my dear friend, supporting her sister as her doula. May the Shechinah fill the room with Her sweet presence and usher this baby into the world in love and peace! Many birthing blessings!!!

Today's Horoscope said:

2010-11-15T03:47:00.000-08:00

Ok, let it be known that although I dig astrology, I only read horoscopes for fun about once a week, and only if it suits me. They are obviously generic and bogus but every once in awhile I happen across one that I say to myself BRING IT!!! This one happens to one such horoscope I want to make come true, and stars aligned or not, I am the only one who can manifest this into reality.

"New ideas are flowing into your life now, but you must be ready to receive them. You may already be in touch with a philosophical perspective as beneficial Jupiter continues to inspire your 9th House of Higher Truth, but the Sun-Jupiter trine today can blast the doors of awareness open. Luckily, this shouldn't feel like hard work. Opportunities to expand your thinking and widen your horizons are more fun than you might expect."

Bellydance, Anarchy and Prayer...OH MY?!?!

2010-11-14T07:05:00.001-08:00

Last night my troupe and I danced at a ridiculously awesome Hafla hosted by Tribalbellies studio. Hipnosis opened the show and we (Tribal Spirit) closed the first half. Unmata was the headliner and well, I couldn't possibly explain their awesomeness so just take a peak here to have a look see. To say it was an amazing show would be such an understatement. Once we get the videos up I will try and share them here with you. I can't even begin to explain to you the mad love I have for my tribal sisters, let's just say they remind me to not take myself so damn seriously and they keep a very silly smile on my face and dance in my step.

This morning, I stumbled upon a anarchist youtube channel. (!?) You know how that goes, you click on and this that leads to that, then all of a sudden I am on some anarchist youtube channel. I thought to myself, "Well some of my best beloved and dearest to my heart are anarchists so why don't I have myself a listen." I'll tell you what, I found I liked a lot of what I heard, many thought of which I have thought (surprisingly??) for many years. Other things, well... not so much. Regardless, the thoughts that resonated with me, I enjoyed. One such quote I thought I would share with you all: "Women go to work to have an income because you can tax that (but) you can't tax staying at home...not only do women not get to raise their children but the money that they generate is used to sell their children's future...if that doesn't outrage you if that doesn't make you look in the mirror and change your ways then you are lost beyond hope." ~Stefan Molyneux Isn't that brilliance! Take it for what it's worth, you don't have to agree with the source or his philosophies, but facts are facts and what he is saying here is true.

This afternoon I read this article . It is about Jews, Muslims and Christians all joining together to pray for the drought conditions in a valley near Yerushalayim. I was really excited when I saw it and eagerly read the post, only to end up being disappointed when I discovered that although they were all there at the same time, they did not actually pray together as a unified group. Each group prayed separately and on their own. I am happy that at least this seems like a step in the right direction, but saddened because it still feels like a matter of 'so close and yet still so far.' :::sigh:::

Photo by: AP

Anyway, that has been my weekend thus far. Now to venture off on more domestic matters and adventures to see what I discover next!

Honoring Veterans Day

2010-11-11T03:58:00.000-08:00

I am a multi-faceted "peace-nik".

So what does that mean? Well, think of a woman heavily influenced by images of John Lennon in front of the Statue of Liberty and the choruses of "Give Peace a Chance" ringing in her head.

Think of a teenager racing up to a friend in the halls of her high school hands held high in peace symbol/victory sign, exclaiming "MAKE LOVE NOT WAR" every day of her sophomore year.

Think of an eight grader engaging in a screaming match with her teacher on the injustice of dropping the bomb in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Those images are still burned in my mind so clearly, I still feel the pain in my heart as when I first saw the video in class that day.

Now, think of a young woman who witnessed Vets returning home from a war they had valiantly fought in and were thanked with protests signs, obscenities and claims they were murderers and baby killers. Vets who came home from nightmarish conditions, who the government deemed old enough to endure those horrors but passed laws in which they could not even buy a beer to calm the memories.

I try to be a peaceful person. I am anti war(really is anyone PRO war?!) I want troops to come home. I don't want 18 year old men and women out fighting a war, giving their lives for a cause, that I personally don't think we should have been involved in, in the first place. I have always had the opinion since my teenage years that "If the politicians want a war let them battle it out themselves". I would protest war and the governments who cause it.

But I will not protest the Vets.

So with this is mind I wish all the Vets, near and far, present in body and spirit much PEACE and LOVE. I honor you for your self sacrifice, valor and courage.

May we all soon see the day when "nation shall not take up sword against nation; they shall never again know war." Isa 2:4

PS. BTW, I found it interesting to learn that the Peace symbol was originally designed as an Nuclear Disarmament symbol.

Words from the heart, touch the heart.

2010-11-09T18:12:00.000-08:00

I have some pretty awesome friends, of which I am most grateful. One particularly special lady stepped out of her "No Poetry" zone and wrote this for me. Strangely enough it came after I had seen her and said nothing in particular, but obviously my heart and soul spoke volumes to hers. Words from her heart spoke to mine and, I believe, offered me some healing.

Gentle waves start from her heart

Flowing down her arms

Twisting wrists and flicking off fingers

Beckoning you to come, warning you to stay

Her heart pulses, lifting her breasts

Chest fills with desire

And collapses, coated with pain

Loneliness washes down her belly

Her body remembers fullness

Ecstasy and conception

The undulation of birth

Dancing children out of her womb

Her empty hands wait

Anxious for the next baby to catch

The next tuft to spin

The next florio to circle

Hips twist, thighs pump

Knees flex, calves tighten

She pushes against the ground

Feeling, needing the ground to push back

Spirit demands her body to dance

Ears strain to hear the changing tempo

Missed beats, stumbling feet

Her life song feels distorted

She looks more graceful then she feels

Swaying to the arrhythmic strain

Her muscles miss the old cadence

Spirit waits for body’s inevitable surrender

New Moon Musings Kisev

2010-11-08T19:13:00.000-08:00

The Month of Kislev, birthed under the Dark Moon in Scorpio, brings with it many, many changes for the Village Wise Woman.

The month of Kislev falls during the Dark Months, the months that beckon us to rest, to delve inward and to reflect. Their is no foliage, no birdsong to distract on this leg of the journey. Physically the animals are making their final preparations for their long winter's sleep and the gardens are all mostly bedded down for the winter. The sun sets earlier making our times of daylight shorter. I will admit, this is not my favorite time of the year. The cold and dark force me to search out the cold and dark within myself. That Dark Side of the Moon we all have as Twain so aptly calls it. Sometimes it is a hard place to visit.

This lovely piece of art is by a dear friend and mentor of mine, Dvorah Horn. She has based this beautiful and comtepletative piece on the month of Kislev. You can read her thoughts here.

It is not mere coincidence that many major religion's "Festival of Lights" fall during this time. Diwali has just passed, and Hanukah will soon be here along with Christmas and Kwanzaa soon after. My hope lies with the Great Spiritual Light that will soon be celebrated and emerging through the physical darkness. While I only celebrate Hanukah, I am aware of all peoples need for light during this dark time.

I am also aware of the necessity of this dark time. This is a time of renewal and re-dedication, a time of rest and reflection. A time of borrowing deep within and seeing who and what truly lies there.

We shall see who and what comes out on the other side.

A picture is worth a thousand words

2010-11-08T17:58:00.001-08:00

And when you add a few words it becomes even more valuable!

Picture of my friend BJ at the Rally to Restore Sanity by LaDawna

I have realized...

2010-11-08T04:09:00.000-08:00

That just because something is good and wonderful that doesn't mean it's not painful.

That just because it painful, that doesn't mean I don't want to feel.

Pain and sorrow, joy and bliss can be wrapped up into one beautiful package and I owe it to myself to feel it all. To pause in the moment and rejoice and mourn. That intermingled in the laughter and the dance are tears.

It is okay to cry and feel the sadness.

It is okay to feel the ache in your heart and soul.

And it's okay to go right on dancing and while feeling it all.

Birth Art by Nancy Bright

"Our daughters are like cornerstones, crafted in palatial form."

2010-11-07T05:01:00.000-08:00

My daughter is moving today. Close to three weeks a married woman, she and her beloved are setting off about 12 hours from my home to establish their home. This morning as I woke up she was who I saw in my mind's eye and she is to whom my thoughts turned and my heart was full of words and love that I want to share with her as she embarks on one of the greatest journeys of her life.

My daughter, you are my daughter. This means you come from a long line of kick ass women. Never forget who you are.

You are the granddaughter of Dawn Ann and Carmen Lydia. You are the Great granddaughter of Mercedes, Inez and Blanche. You are the great-great granddaughter of Maria de los Angeles. You are the daughter of Sarah, Rivka, Rachel and Leah and a child of Chava. All strong women, all wise women, and all of which you carry a spark of inside of you.

Inside of you are the generations of women, strong and brave, tender and loving. Inside of you is all of the collective Wisdom and Light of your grandmothers and great grandmothers of generations past and even a bit from your own mother. May you open your heart and your mind to this Wisdom and Strength to receive and draw from it freely. May you also know that the answers to your questions simply lie as deeply as your own heart.

Yes, that's correct my princess, your own heart. For in that beautiful and loving heart of yours is your own Wisdom. Your own Light. Your own Strength. Stuff that you have not even yet begun to tap into. Hone and sharpen it and then trust it, for it is the Wisdom of the Divine. The Divine of which you were created from. The Spark of Light that spoke you into existence. That Spark of Light that shines brightly through your eyes and radiates from your soul.

May you grow deeper into the Woman of Wisdom you have always been. May you grow deeper into the Woman of Strength you are becoming and may you grow into the Woman of Valor you were created to be.

May you always be a help meet to your beloved, a support to him and the wind beneath his wings. May you always be a Home to him and his Crown of Glory. May your words always build him up and provide strength and wisdom for him. And may your great love for him grow and give you the courage, wisdom and strength to say the difficult yet needful things.

May you and your beloved walk in Light and Love together always. May you always be a comfort for each other and provide strength for each other. May you both be the one to lift the other up and to champion the other on. May you both provide shelter for each other and be a safe haven for each other. May you both always know that no matter what may happen in this life of variables that the one thing that always remains steadfast and firm is the deep love and respect that you have one for the other. May you both create a home of Love, knowing that no matter the edifice that you may dwell in, your true home lies within each other's hearts.

May you both have excellent health, success, prosperity, joy and long life.

May you both always feel and know the presence of the Shechina and may Her wings be ever over you both providing protection and love all the days of your lives.

And may you also know, my beautiful daughter, that more than this meager offering of words can express, I love you and I am so very proud of the woman you are.

My daughter, you are my daughter. Which means you carry bits of me , good and bad with you. May you keep the good, learn from the bad and always know that most of all you carry my heart, my love and my prayers with you.

May Hashem bless you and guard you.

May Hashem shine His countenance upon you and be gracious to you.
May Hashem turn His countenance toward you and grant you peace. (Numbers 6:24-26)

Walk in Peace. Walk in Light. Walk in Spirit. Walk in Respect. Walk in Love.

Amen, ve Amen.

Happy October

2010-10-03T04:46:00.000-07:00

Well, it seems Autumn has finally arrived in all of her golden, red, and orange splendor. Granted, Philly is in no way Lancaster County or Maine :::sigh::: but we do have a few trees around here and they are quickly changing their clothing for their last dance before Winter.

The weather has also cooled down and the sun has returned after a very rainy last days of Sukkot. I'm ready for the sukkah to come down and return the sunlight to my home. Once I know the shach has dried I will start that process. A bit sad for me, I really do enjoy Sukkot and the removal of the sukkah means re-entry back into the 'real' world with work and responsibilities. I have to try to keep in mind the bit of chizuk (encouragement) I received on Simchat Torah. We rejoice when we enter the sukkah for obvious reasons, (think fun outside harvest festival and good food, woot!) but then we are also supposed to rejoice when we leave. (huh??) Well, the trick here, I was told, is to take with you all the joy that we felt in the sukkah and bring the sukkah in with you. I liked that thought and, like many other things, the ikar (main point) is basically to remain in your happy place, keeping your thoughts good and being joyful always.

Speaking of joy, we will be having a wedding here, b'ezrat Hashem, in three weeks! Sheesh talk about time flying! There is still alot to do and the whirlpool of emotions that goes along with it. I really haven't allowed myself to think about that, other than I am most happy for daughter and I am quite proud of the lady she has become. It's a new generation, facts are facts, but she does carry with her our core family values, traditions, stories and love so I am looking forward to what the future holds with this next generation. I have had the honor and priveldge of raising three of the finest human beings on the planet, and they have shown me much compassion and respect when the time came for each of them to leave my home. It's obviously hard to let go, but thankfully my children have been very gentle with their mother, letting go of my hand often times one finger at a time. It does make the transition easier for my heart becasue I know each one of them would have loved to simply have spread their wings and flown high into the sky, racing headlong into their lives. It is after all, what I did and truly what I have always hoped for them, to Live Life!

The disease called "Perfection"

2010-09-29T05:20:00.000-07:00

This is the title to a blog post that I am hoping will go viral. The Disease of Perfection is something that is wipespread, in face I am a victim...or a willing infectee, but I would like to now be part of the cure. The first step, of course, is knowing you have it. Click this link and see if you have any of the symptoms: The Disease Called Perfection.

After you read it you can comment there or here and read my comment below in the comment section.

Organic birth video

2010-09-26T05:29:00.000-07:00

Walk it Out - Baby (another Baby Dance Video!!)

2010-09-22T07:05:00.000-07:00

Well, they say walking is best to get baby going! °Ü°

Labor of Love Birth Dance

2010-09-22T06:37:00.000-07:00

Enjoy this beautiful mommy as she dances during labor just hours before delivering her baby! I particularly enjoyed her musical lullaby, 'Sweet Child O' Mine'.

Tuesday's Tasty Tidbits

2010-09-21T03:58:00.000-07:00

Ack, ew...now that was really too corny but I was trying to think of something clever to call this list of fun and interesting links I wanted to share with you. Enjoy!

Cloth Diaper Blog is having a huge giveway with a $500 gift certificate to Diaper Junction!

Essential Herbal has super tutorial for an herbal syrup for cough and conjestion.

Check out this pictorial on Positions for Labor and Delivery.

Great post by Public Health Doula delinating the role and usefullness of a doula and how she does not interfere with the birthing mom's partner or other birth team members.

And Now for a Man's Opinion on Nursing in Public

2010-09-21T03:47:00.000-07:00

Neil over at Citizen of the Month has decided to join the forum and share his opinion regarding the whole Nursing in Public controversy that is so hot and heavy right now. You know, I kinda see what he means. ;-)

Grandmother Moon

2010-09-20T19:30:00.000-07:00

I am a moonchild and I have a love affair with the moon. I watch her constantly and observe her comings and goings. I meditate on her waxing and her waning and it makes me think of my own. I think of how she is the lesser light that rules the night and a reflection of the greater light that rules the day, regardless of whether you see her or not she is there. I love all the moon songs, moon books, pictures and jewelry. I've written her poems and celebrated her monthly rebirth. She is a metaphor for women and the beauty of femininity. According to the rabbis she is even a metaphor for the Jewish people, a reflection of Divine Light. She is my Grandmother carrying wisdom and Light from high above. And I love her.

Tonight my husband set up the telescope and knowing how much I love the moon he called me out to see. How lovely! I could not believe the craters and the light that was reflected off the surface. There she is and here we are, drifting in space, spinning and twirling, dancers in time guided by the One, and I was privileged to have the joy in that moment and see her.

Yom Kippur Reflections

2010-09-20T14:52:00.000-07:00

Photo Credit

Kippur has come and gone and I am left with a feeling of joy and deep gratitude. Much prayer and petitions for help from Above enabled me to exchange my fear of not even being able to get through the fast (Tisha B'Av kicked my butt with a blazing headache by evening you would not believe) to sincere thanks that I made it and even experienced Joy in the Journey. I did not get hungry and I did not suffer the ever feared caffeine headache. Prior to the fast I did have a bad attitude. No, that's not entirely accurate because I knew I wanted to fast. I had been working on myself and I wanted very much to be there for the Kol Nidre and Neilah services. My stress level though felt like it was through the roof and it left me ultimately feeling quite unprepared to come before the King. Also I was struggling with a few of the pre Kippur traditions and these feelings were irking me. (Truth is, if someone wants to wave a chicken (or even money) over their head, more power to them, just don't go around feeling all smug and superior when someone else doesn't do it or even agree with it.)

Anyway...

After all this tremendous soul searching and mind wrestling/metal gymnastics, I finally came to the simplicity of it all. Elokai, neshama sh'natta be, tehora (My G-d the soul you have placed in my is Pure.) I remembered that I am ultimately a neshama, a soul ,a pure soul, and I came before the King as a pure soul/child. That is how I explained it to my preschool children. Kippur is the day where we do not focus on caring for our bodies, we focus only on our souls. That helped me so much. I had no fear as I have had in past years. I did not fear an unfavorable judgement nor did I fear my prayers would not be heard. I had absolute trust in that moment in time that Avinu, Malkeinu, (Our Father, Our King) would hear every word and would judge me favorably. I felt absolute love and peace in my Father's favor. I did not feel an obligation to do anything except fast and be. I meditated on atonement, At-One-Ment, and kept the holiness of the day foremost in my mind. I kept my thoughts, attitude and the words of my mouth in that Holy place and was blessed with a honestly meaningful and beautiful day.

I am now looking forward to Sukkot, the Festival of the Ingathering. I have a lovely sukkah up just waiting for schach and to be decorated and will hopefully do that tomorrow as long as my mommy and baby that were due on Yom Kippur don't arrive before then...but then that's another story.

Now that's an etrog!!!

2010-09-20T14:41:00.001-07:00

Check out this ginormous etrog!! This baby weighs in at 7.5 kg (16.5 lbs) and is kosher. It now also hold the Guiness Book of World's record for the largest citron. Imagine waving this around with your lulav, the muscles you would have and perhaps the blessings that come with it!

From Kikar Shabbat

Herbal Ally: Valerian

2010-09-19T05:02:00.001-07:00

So yesterday was Yom Kippur, a 25 hour fast from food or drink of any kind. After I break a fast, I usually catch a buzz which makes it almost impossible to fall asleep and ensures me of a miserable next day. This time I decided to be a good herbalist and heal myself. I took some Valerian and had a great night's sleep and am feeling quite refreshed and content this morning. Valerian is a wonderful ally for those with extreme anxiety and insomnia. It is often referred to as 'Nature's Valium', although I think it should be the other way around and Valium (diazapam) should be referred to as the pharmaceutical Valerian. Although they sound alike and work in similar ways by binding to the same brain receptors, Valium is not derived from Valerian as many people think. Valerian is non addictive, does not interfere with the REM part of sleep, and you are not left with that groggy hangover feeling the next day.

Medicinally the roots are used. You would recognize Valerian simply from the pungent odor. It is kind of a stinky herb, although it does not bother me, some folks find it quite repugnant. (For all that odor though, it's effectiveness is worth it, in my opinion.) You can take it either in a tincture or capsule form. The plant itself has lovely smelling bell shaped flowers. I do not have any Valerian growing in my garden but I read that "Gregory Tilford, in his book From Earth to Herbalist, writes that Valerian is easy to grow and can be a great addition to the herbalist's garden. The roots are harvested when at least two years old and can be divided and planted again."

Botanical name: Valeriana officinalis.

May help: Anxiety, insomnia, menstrual cramps, tension headaches, sleep problems associated with chronic fatigue syndrome, muscle cramps, and muscle spasms.

Origin: Europe and Asia, although Valerian sitchensis is in the western mid elevations of North America

Cautions and possible side effects: Do not use with prescription medications such as diazepam (Valium) or amitriptyline (Elavil). Don't use Valerian if you experience heart palpitations or nervousness after taking it.

Look and Listen

2010-09-16T13:51:00.000-07:00

The day before a holiday and/or shabbat is always hectic at school. Couple that with the fact school has just started and so there is a ton of other things I am trying to accomplish and you have the ingredients for Frustration Stew. Today I was in such a stew and the time came for my break when I soon realized that said break was not going to happen. Nonetheless, I ran home, about half a mile from work, to try and grab something to eat and find glue sticks (don't ask). In the short time it took to get home, my frustration was heavy on my head. I drove home, turned off the radio and got out of my car. Just then I heard a hawk's cry. I looked up to see if I was hearing things when there I saw her soaring over me. As I was admiring my friend Hawk, soaring so effortlessly in the sky, a monarch butterfly flew over my head and I smiled. Right here in Philly, the hawk still cries the butterfly still flies and at that moment all is right in the world and that is what matters. I thought of the message of my winged friends. I do not claim to be a shaman, but I do claim to be a believer in wonder. I try to find the message in all things, (scoff at me if you like, I care little if you find me ridiculous) and mostly I just feel like I was being noticed. It felt good. I happen to love Hawks and all raptors and monarchs remind me of my beloved mother, so it felt like a gift from the Holy One.

"Now, dear daughter relax. See how she flies so high above. You hear her voice from miles below; I too hear yours."

"I see you too kid. Hang in there."

Yep, that is what it felt like. It's good to look and listen. And whatever the message is, if you feel the touch of Love, of the Divine, I say bask in it. It's your gift to enjoy.

Crossing the Narrow Bridge--Together

2010-08-29T03:57:00.000-07:00

For the past nine years I have wanted to learn Breslov Chasidut with someone, anyone, near my home. As there is no vibrant Breslov community here I was pretty much tough outta luck. I continued on my not so merry way, and occasionally I would meet up with someone who would be willing to learn a little with me. I must say, those times were like a small oasis to me and I was most grateful for them but they lasted only weeks, if I was lucky. By nobody's fault the learning simply fizzled out. Well, perhaps it was someone's fault. Maybe even mine. Perhaps I just wasn't ready. Perhaps I was not committed to learning with others and sharing that learning. Perhaps I simply did not want it enough then, because this past summer I have enjoyed the sweetness of learning with a group of ladies that have become such a precious time in my week and particularly of my shabbat.

It all started when I met one lady at shul (synagogue). Now allow me to preface this with just a little something about me. I tend to consider myself a bit shy, but when my radar goes up and says to me 'You must get to know this person.' , shyness be damned, I hone in and meet them. I do not ignore that inner voice because I know there is something I need to learn from them, some message they have for me. Well, lucky for me, this lady turned out to be a kindred, new to the neighborhood and even more shy. I was tickled to realize that the Divine had already prepped me for this meeting by having me read about her and her family in the local neighborhood paper in a "Welcome to Neighborhood" piece. I was so blessed and I knew I needed to make an effort to become friends. You see, my shyness was a direct combination and result of being hurt so badly by a few folks in the neighborhood and the loss of my mother two and half years ago. I certainly did not want to be hurt again and so I made sure not to be by holding back. But Hashem had other plans and deep within, I found the courage to take a chance and step forward. I am so happy I did! After a few weeks of the casual getting to know you type visiting, I noticed a book on her end table. It was a Breslov book, Crossing the Narrow Bridge and a light went off for me! Maybe, just maybe, this time would be different. We started talking about learning and she expressed interest in learning Breslov Chasidut as did my other friend who was with me and BOOM a study group emerged!

We decided it would be on shabbat and we would alternate homes. After a few weeks another friend joined us and now there is a core of four ladies. We have also enjoyed the occasional and added pleasure of having a reoccurring visitor to our group when she comes in to visit for shabbat and just this past week, another lady joined us! I felt like I was in heaven! Six ladies all sitting in the living room and learning the sweet teachings of my Rebbe, our Rebbe! Since it is a casual learning environment, all of us taking turns reading and commenting when we feel led, we have not gotten very far in the book, page 98 to be exact, but the depth to which I feel it in my soul and my heart is immense. I find myself opening up to these ladies. I have found myself being quite honest with myself and them, realizing where I have challenges, where I need to grow and where I can help. I feel my emunah(faith) growing and the sweetness of friendship blossoming! What a refreshment in my life! And what a need being fulfilled.

It amazes me the way the Universe aligns and provides for needs you may have given up hope at ever seeing fulfilled. I feel so blessed and full with my Shabbat Ladies. I feel so blessed for the precious gift of our learning and time. There has been laughter and jokes shared, struggles and 'I'm not quite there' moments, and through this time I am realizing one very important thing: Rebbe Nachman tells us that "The whole world is a very narrow bridge, the main this is not be afraid." Well, truth be told, it sure is a lot easier to not be afraid when there is someone else there on the bridge with you and even better if you know they will hold your hand and cross it with you.

The Face of Turbulence By Jesse Wolf Hardin

2010-08-16T15:22:00.001-07:00

This is a beautiful poem by someone I count as one of my mentors, Jesse Wolf Hardin, of the Anima Lifeways and Herbal School.

The Face of Turbulence – a poem by Jesse Wolf Hardin

And the monsoons continue,
their swelling dark promise
bursting forth as searing lightning and crashing thunder,
setting an example some afternoons
by pouring their stormy hearts out.

Pouring down the cliff sides,
and deepening the river.
Pouring down our cabin roofs,
and overflowing the gutters.
Overflowing our barrels
with a deafening din,
overflowing the carefully dug ditches that
like many projects and missions in life,
we know must be dug again
and again, and again.

Pouring down on us as we rush to tend
what needs tending and covering,
rivulets down our faces indistinguishable
from life’s clearly unavoidable tears.
Pouring rain, and then pouring
hard
and unforgiving hail.

I look straight up
into the blinding white face of turbulence,
squint and then smile…
remembering well
what it’s like to be dry and thirsty,
even as the many little frozen balls
shoulder against the trail’s edge
in piles.

A Nightmarish Situation

2010-08-16T14:12:00.000-07:00

This came up on my facebook feed and I couldn't believe it even after reading it twice. A mother who refused to sign off on a pre-consent to cesarean consent form has had her child removed from her custody for the past THREE years. File this under: unfreakinbelievable!

Mother Loses Baby for Three Years

Soul Garden

2010-08-16T03:34:00.000-07:00

I come across a parched and weed filled garden.
Planted with love, tended with devotion the day to day stealing the time away from the Beloved.
My eyes become heavy and my heart feels a hole as I bend down to look closer.
I reach out and touch the now dry and withered plants.
One there was medicine here.
Once there was peace.
Once there was healing.
Once there was growth.
I begin to trim away the dry stems and pull out the excessive clover. I find the earth is crying from thirst, the clover has prevented the rain from even reaching the soil.
As if in answer to a prayer, the rain begins to fall. I feel the drops falling on my back and with gratitude, ignore the dampness. This garden needs me.
I continue to pull, small plants which I think should come out with ease have sent their roots deep into the earth. I curse the plant and begin to wonder how long has it been.
I pity the once beautiful garden and get back to work.
I discover lavender and yarrow, columbine and lemon balm. How could this have happened with such treasures lying here? Who could have been so neglectful?
I pull at a vine and find it has twisted itself desperately around a sunflower. I reach down and grasp it by it's roots and untangle the strangling tendrils from it. I imagine I hear a gasp for air...or did I?
The rain has stopped and I look up. Grey skies filled with clouds pregnant with rain and the earth still so dry. I comfort myself with the knowing that at least now there is space here for the life giving water.
Suddenly a Voice so soft, so loving, whispers in my ears.
I know this Voice. It is the Voice of a long lost friend.
My, it's been so very long.
I cast my eyes down to the now repaired garden.
"Welcome back to your soul." the Voice says.

©Village Wise Woman

Herbal Ally: Yarrow

2010-08-15T17:17:00.000-07:00

Yarrow is a dear, dear friend of mine. I discovered this lovely plant on a trip to Salem, Mass. several years ago. At the time it was mostly a lot of folklore and stories, and the more I read about Yarrow, the more intrigued I was. Yarrow has a reputation for being the "Witches Herb" and I have no issues with that, considering I think 'witch' is a term that was thrown around haphazardly at any woman who was skilled in herbs, midwifery and healing. Let's just say the 'misogynistic religious right' was quite intimidated, with the herbwifes and midwives who came before us. I myself can accept the fact that if I was currently in those times, I'd have been burnt at the stake several times over by now. :::sheesh::

Yarrow is an amazing herb. Just being in her presence relaxes and calms the mind. Her gentle scent is very soothing. I personally love to pet the flowers and enjoy how each tiny flower feels of my hand. Spending time with a plant is truly the best way to get to know it. Even allowing it to 'speak' to you. (How do you Wise Women of the past learned how to use herbs?) By the way, do not think this is an odd practice or expectation . The book of Iyov/Job, chapter 12 verse 8 states, "...Speak to the earth, and it will teach you." Expect the plant to teach you what it is good for and begin to trust your intuition regarding it. By developing a relationship with the plant you will learn more than you ever expected to. That said, a little book knowledge doesn't hurt, so I did some online research and decided to post that information here for you. But don't be limited to what is here. Go out and find some yarrow! It grows wild in many parts of North America and Europe or you may find a neighbor who would be willing to let you keep their yarrow company. Heck, it couldn't hurt to ask!

From the Alternative Nature Online Herbal: and Herb Monographs

Yarrow

Achillea millefolium

Other Names: Milfoil, Old Man's Pepper, Soldier's Woundwort, Knight's Milfoil, Thousand Weed, Nose Bleed, Carpenter's Weed, Bloodwort, Staunchweed

Habitat
Yarrow is a perennial herb, native to Europe and Asia and naturalized in North America and most other countries throughout the world. Yarrow is very common along roadsides and in old fields, pastures, and meadows in the eastern and central United States and Canada.

Cultivation
Yarrow is easily cultivated, will survive in poor soil. Prefers a well-drained soil in a sunny position. A very good companion plant, it improves the health of plants growing nearby and enhances their essential oil content thus making them more resistant to insect predations also improves the soil fertility.

Parts used:
All parts of the herb that are above the ground are used, flowers, leaves and stems

Collection and preparation: Harvest Yarrow in the morning, after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day. Yarrow is best dried upside down in a dark, airy, dry place

Constituents
up to 0.5% volatile oil, flavonoids, tannins, a bitter alkaloid

Actions
Diaphoretic, hypotensive, astringent, diuretic, antiseptic, anticatarrhal, emmenagogue, hepatic, stimulant, tonic

Indications
Fevers, common cold, essential hypertension, digestive complaints, loss of appetite, amenorrhoea, dysentery, diarrhoea. Specifically indicated in thrombotic conditions with hypertension, including cerebral and coronary thromboses. Used topically for slow-healing wounds and skin inflammations.
Yarrow is a valuable diaphoretic herb and is the central ingredient in any fever-management programme. It prevents the body temperature from rising too high but has a minimal suppressant effect on the course of the fever.

The flowers are rich in chemicals that are converted by steam distillation into anti-allergenic compounds, of use in the treatment of allergic catarrhal problems such as hay fever. The dark blue essential oil, azulene, is generally used as an anti-inflammatory, or in chest rubs for colds and influenza.

Yarrow lowers high blood pressure by dilating the peripheral vessels, and it also tones the blood vessels. It is considered to be a specific in thrombotic conditions associated with high blood pressure. Used externally, its astringent properties will aid in the healing of wounds, and it has been used to treat haemorrhoids and varicose veins. The leaves encourage blood clotting, so can be used fresh for nosebleeds. However, inserting a leaf in the nostril may also start a nosebleed. Achillea has also been used in the treatment of heavy and painful periods, and the presence of steroidal constituents may help to explain this activity.

Description
Yarrow grows from 10 to 20 inches high, a single stem, fibrous and rough, the leaves alternate, 3 to 4 inches long and 1 inch broad, larger and rosette at the base, clasping the stem, bipinnatifid, the segments very finely cut, fern-like, dark-green, giving the leaves a feathery appearance. The flowers are several bunches of flat-topped panicles consisting of numerous small, white flower heads. Each tiny flower resembling a daisy. The whole plant is more or less hairy, with white, silky appressed hairs. Flowers bloom from May to August. Gather stem, leaves and flower heads in bloom, dry for later herb use. Dry herb edible as a spice or flavoring, strong sage flavor.

Properties
Yarrow is a very valuable medicinal herb, with much scientific evidence of use in alternative medicine as an antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, carminative, diaphoretic, digestive, emmenagogue, stimulant, and tonics, vasodilator and vulnerary. Yarrow is used against colds, cramps, fevers, kidney disorders, toothaches, skin irritations, and hemorrhages, and to regulate menses, stimulate the flow of bile, and purify the blood. Medicinal tea is a good remedy for severe colds and flu, for stomach ulcers, amenorrhea, abdominal cramps, abscesses, trauma and bleeding, and to reduce inflammation. The main constituents are volatile oils including linalool, camphor, sabinene, and chamazulene, sesquiterpene lctones, flavanoids, alkaloids including achilleine, polyacetylenes, triterpenes, salicylic acid, coumarins, and tannins which prove these uses in alternative medicine to be effective. Extracts of yarrow exhibit antibiotic activity and may also act as anti-neoplastic drugs. Externally for treating wounds and stopping the flow of blood. Yarrow oil has been traditionally used in hair shampoos. Some caution is advised , large or frequent doses taken over a long period may cause the skin to be more sensitive to sunlight.

Contraindications
In rare cases yarrow can cause severe allergic skin rashes. Prolonged use can increase the skin's photosensitivity. Large doses should be avoided in pregnancy because the herb is a uterine stimulant. Excessive doses may interfere with existing anticoagulant and hypo- or hypertensive therapies. Caution should be exercised by epileptic patients

Folklore and additional comments
Yarrow stalks are traditionally thrown to read the I Ching, the ancient Chinese book of divination. Yarrows botanical name Achillea refers to the ancient Greek hero Achilles, who, during the Trojan War, reputedly used it to treat his wounds. Its specific name means ‘a thousand leaves’ and refers to its feathery foliage. The folk name Nosebleed confirms its traditional use as an emergency styptic. The name ‘yarrow’ is a corruption of the Anglo-Saxon name for the plant, gearwe.

Yarrow was used for love divination in the past, one of the herbs dedicated to the Evil One, in earlier days being sometimes known as Devil's Nettle, Devil's Plaything, Bad Man's Plaything, and was used for divination in spells. In Ireland young girls would cut a square sod in which grew a yarrow plant and place it beneath their pillow so that they would dream of their sweetheart. In France and Ireland it is one of the herbs of St. John, and on St. John’s Eve the Irish hang it in their homes to avert illness. It has been employed as a snuff and, in the seventeenth century, it was an ingredient of salads. In Sweden it has been used in the manufacture of beer and the peppery leaves and the flowers are used to flavour liqueurs.

Folk tales tell of how yarrow can prevent but not cure baldness. It is said to attract friends and distant relations to you and, if used in the bridal bouquet, it is believed to ensure that love will last for at least seven years. It was also believed that the yarrow could help you find your true love, either by sleeping with yarrow under your pillow to bring dreams of your true love or by cutting the stems across the middle, which would reveal the initials of your future spouse

A popular remedy for treating fevers and feverish conditions, yarrow was once used as a substitute for quinine. Native Americans burned yarrow to help drive away evil spirits, and it’s said that to understand the voice of yarrow, chew a little of the root and hold it in the mouth, a tea of leaf and flower will continue the story. European women would throw yarrow onto the fire and look into the flames for a picture of their future husband.

Whilst yarrow will stop a nosebleed it may (see above in Therapeutics) also start one, this was used to relieve a headache. It has been employed as snuff, and is also called Old Man's Pepper, on account of the pungency of its foliage. Both flowers and leaves have a bitter, astringent, pungent taste. In the seventeenth century it was an ingredient of salads.

In the middle ages, yarrow was one of the ingredients in Gruit, a selection of herbs that were used to make beer, before the widespread use of hops. Other Gruit ingredients included sweet gale, mugwort and juniper

Dried yarrow flowers can be used for decoration and in pot-pourri mixture. Leaves added to the compost bin help speed up the process. An infusion of yarrow can also be made and added to the garden to boost copper levels.

Dried yarrow included in incense or smoked in a pipe is very calming and has a lovely scent, thoroughly recommended for lowering stress levels.

The weirdest suggestion found when researching folklore of Yarrow is that if the hands are smeared with yarrow juice and then plunged into a river they will act as magnets to fish. This one has yet to be confirmed!

Preparation and dosage

Infusion: pour a cup of boiling water onto 1 to 2 teaspoonful of the dried herb and leave to infuse for 10 to 15 minutes, drink hot three times a day
Tincture: take 2 to 4ml of the tincture three times a day.

More on Yarrow

2010-08-15T14:56:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I have checked out the blogs I am supposed to be following. Well, I just did and lookie what I found! A lovely post on yarrow by Methow Valley .

My Friend the Tree

2010-08-13T10:23:00.000-07:00

May I introduce to you my friend, The Tree.

I met this friend three years ago when I started working my summer job at a local Friend's school. There is a very old meetinghouse there, established somewhere in the 1600's. I enjoy working there during the summers, change of locale and people. The children are darling and the campus is gorgeous. Behind the meetinghouse is a very old cemetery with a variety of trees growing. They seem to me to be sentinels, watching over both the living and the dead. In this setting is where I met her, my friend The Tree.

I was first drawn to her by her lovely, spread out roots. The first year I was there we would pass by her, taking the short cut through the cemetery to the athletic fields where the children would have sports, and I noted her roots. I pointed them out to the children and they of course began to clamor all about her. It seem there is nothing more enticing to children then a large welcoming tree. They felt her bark, ran among her roots, studied the insects crawling on her. It felt magical!

As I began to run my own hands on her smooth bark I too began to get swept up in her magic. I marveled at her roots spreading out into the cemetery. I studied her trunk which appears to me to be many smaller trees twisting their bodies into one entity. As the children began to spontaneously hug her, I followed their lead and embraced my new friend. Her huge trunk made me feel small and safe, as if she was some kind of Great Mother.

My second year I saw my friend again and repeated the ritual. I felt welcomed once again in the peaceful setting and there my friend waited for my return. New bugs and creatures were discovered, moss and lichens. My magical friend taught me of constancy and patience. Again I felt safe.

This year, upon my reuniting with my friend, I performed what I did not realize became a ritual of sorts. Every time we would walk by I would walk up to her and pat her, smiling. I felt she was a gift of the Holy One, a metaphor for the Tree of Life. Her she was again, steadfast and strong, watchful and inviting. On one of my encounters with my friend, my co teacher remarked saying,

"You really love that tree, don't you?"
"I do." I laughed embarrassed. "Why do you say that?"
"Because every time we pass by you touch it."

Apparently this did not go unnoticed by the children either. They began pointing excitedly every time we would draw near to her exclaiming, "Look! It's your friend The Tree!!"

I laughed out loud! My friend, The Tree.

I decided to formalize our friendship, so I greeted her saying, "Hello my friend, The Tree. Thank you for your gifts. Thank you for being a friend." I hugged her.

It's amazing to me where you find Love. In the eyes of your children, other people's children. Love in the words written across a page, a forgotten message of devotion. In the eyes of a stranger or a long time friend. Family, companions, travelers along The Path. Divine Love is found everywhere and in everything. Look deep into your heart, into my heart, Love is there.
Or into the woods, or nearer still and find a tree. Who knows, you too may make a new friend, The Tree. I never expected to have the Holy One show me love through a tree. Silly I know, why of course wouldn't I. I suppose then, I still have a lot to learn.

A New Sister of Mine Writes

2010-08-12T03:40:00.000-07:00

A new sister of mine, friendship forged by the meeting of hearts, minds and souls, an artist brought to me by another sister, has honored our time this past Rosh Chodesh by writing about it. Please check out this POWERFUL verse written by Melissa! It made me shiver, and I was there!

Devotion, Drums and Dance

2010-08-10T04:19:00.000-07:00

"If you make it they will come." This famous line from Field of Dreams repeated over and over in my head as I prepared for last night to come. Born of a thought and a vision that I have had for quite some time now, I wanted to gather the women on rosh chodesh to have a drum circle, dance and share in sweet sisterhood while connecting to the One. It occurred to me about three weeks ago that if I was going to do this, Elul would be the time.

The Baal ShemTov called the days of Elul the days when the King is in the field. He explained this with a parable. Normally, in order to gain an audience with the King, one must go through a lengthy procedure. He must travel to the capitol city, arrange an appointment, and then get permission to enter the palace. Even when permission is granted is may be days or weeks before he is finally allowed to enter. When he does finally get to... see the King, the audience is likely to be short and very formal. The citizen, not used to the royal surroundings doubtlessly feels out of place, and maybe even regrets his decision to see the King. From his great fear and uneasiness, he may forget to put his request before the King. Once a year, the King leaves his capitol to visit the various regions of his Kingdom. Now a King can't just enter a city unannounced. When he reaches the outskirts of the city he is to visit, his entourage sets up a camp while a special delegation goes ahead to the city to make preparations. for the King's visit. In the meantime, the King is in the field; relaxed and enjoying the early fall weather. He doesn't stand on the same formality that he does when in the palace. The common folk are allowed to come out to greet the King and receive his blessing. During Chodesh Elul, the King is in the field and he is easily accessible. We need only make the effort to go out and greet Him.

So my idea was, "Let's have a dance party/drum circle to celebrate the King's arrival to the fields!"! I truly thought that I and the three other women I learn with would be the only ones there. It never occurred to me that Hashem would use me to actually accomplish the vision He planted in my heart. The weeks went by and women started asking if they could bring a friend or two. Others came to me to ask me if anyone could come. Suddenly, the four of us became a score of us!

With these thoughts in mind, about an hour or so before I was suppose to arrive, I was stricken with an anxiety attack that I could not believe! My stomach went into knots and my mind began slinging thoughts and accusations at me like thousands of tiny pebbles being thrown at me from every direction. "What have you done?" "What have you gotten yourself into!" "What if you can't keep a beat?" "You are no professional!" "They will be bored!" "Who do you think you are anyway?" "You are no rebbitzen!"

I felt paralyzed and frightened and then finally the Voice, quiet and firm spoke to my heart, "Who is this about anyway? Why are you doing this? This is not about you, is it?" Baruch Hashem!!! No, it was not about me at all! I was not doing this for me! I laughed a bit at myself and my oh so vociferous ego and replied, "No, this is NOT about me. It is about YOU! It is about G-d, and my desire to serve the King and my sisters."

Finally, I came to the conclusion, "Who cares?" So what if all those things my poor frightened ego said were true, I simply wanted to give a gift to the King. I simply wanted to be with my sisters to worship and sing, to drum and dance. That's all, nothing more, nothing less. That was my intention and my prayer.

As I arrived at my hostess' home, I began to get excited about the possibilities. What if indeed we could welcome Elul with devotion, drums and dance and maybe help the shift in the cosmos that happens this month to be stronger? After I set up the chairs, I went outside to the circle and prayed. I prayed that The Holy One would guide my hand, "Please let me keep a beat." I prayed that my voice would be praise, I prayed that my heart would be open and then I got down to the real business. I invited the Shechinah, the Divine Presence/Divine Feminine to join us and I asked that every woman there would leave there changed and closer to the Source. As I prayed I constantly had to stifle my ego and my thoughts that attempted to assail me again with their fears. Finally the thought occurred to me, I am a doula, I help women birth. "Hashem please," I prayed, "let this time be a time of birth and let me help these women to birth themselves, their dreams and a new closeness to You."

And with that the doorbell rang and the first woman to the circle had arrived.

I have faith that the night went well, for myself it feel it did. I simply tried to connect to my Creator and share that love with all. After the drum circle we had a time of dancing which was, oh so fun, and a lovely community fruit salad that every lady contributed to by simply bringing one fruit to share. Oh, and let me not forget our moon cakes made by our sweet hostess who opened her home to us and provided us a place for the gathering of the women.

May you all have a lovely and meaningful Elul! The King is in the field, go and greet Him!!

Discovering again who I am

2010-07-01T04:39:00.000-07:00

This post was birthed, pun intended, from a Facebook status of mine I posted after assisting a long labor and having been up for about 40 hours on an hour of cumulative sleep. It went like this:

Yael is a doula. That explains how she can, after working with her campers yesterday, go straightaway to assist a new mommy in birth and not come home until today. Live on about 20 minutes sleep, fight her own self doubts and demons, and realize once again the strength, beauty and amazing power of a birthing mommy and the child being born. I have no idea anymore what I am typing so I am going to bed friends. Peace!

The next morning I woke up to 17 notifications, most of which said "so and so likes your status" and a lot of "You are awesome!" responses. Although I loved reading everyone of them, I wanted to explain what I meant by the post. I was really trying to express what drives me to be able to work those hours. But of course, I cannot be limited to a 425 character status. Oh no, if you know me at all, you know I hardly have the simple answer. So here for all of you, was my response because after writing it, I thought to myself, hey, this would be a good blog post. °Ü°

Thanks folks, you are all super kind. But mostly, I was speaking of the motivation that drives me to be able to do that. Being a doula, assisting a mommy birth is a devotion of pure love. This love seems to be what empowers me to empower them. Honestly, any one who knows me know I am pretty worthless after about 8 pm. I am tired most days and lack drive. But somehow, when I am with a birthing mother, the world seems to change. Nothing matters but that moment. My thoughts seldom drift, although this birth I hit such a wall within myself. I had this tremendous wall of self doubt and exhaustion. I actually had thoughts that went along the lines of, "I can't do this anymore. This will be my last birth. I am too old."

Finally, after a while that things were not moving along at all, I asked the mommy if she minded if I went home to get some rest (the hospital is like 10 minutes from my home). I assured her she could call me at any point and I would be right back. She and the father agreed it was a good idea and so I left. I got home, oh so tired and full of doubt, changed into my pajamas and got a 20 minute nap when the phone rang. It was mommy and labor, the oh so unpredictable mistress of birth, had kicked in and so I got dressed and left.

But something happened in the moments of answering the phone call and getting dressed. Something clicked so deeply and I was in my 'role'. This is who I am. I wake up at ungodly hours and attend women in birth and I do it quite joyfully. When I arrived mommy was indeed in labor and so I got down to the business of what I do. I am realizing a deep peace, and it isn't about how wonderful I am, although it is awful nice to hear and I thank you all from the bottom of my heart. It is about what motivates and drives me. It is about conquering those self doubts and not feeling badly about them, for they are who I am too. How else will I grow? If I never sink deeply into the darkness of the earth, how will I ever germinate and grow roots. If i never come face to face with my own darkness how will I ever appreciate my own light? Although, when I am at a birth it is all about attending to the needs of the mommy, I have to be honest and say it also very much about me. If I do not believe I can do this, how will I? If I do not believe I have the strength and the wisdom to guide and support this mother through uncharted waters how will we both not drown? If I do not trust my intuition how will I know what herbs or tricks of the trade to use.

I prayed so hard, as I always do before every birth, for wisdom to know what to do. This time though, I asked to believe and trust my intuition and my instincts. B"H!!! I knew what was needed for this birth and into my bag of tricks I went. I pulled out herbs to calm her body and mind when needed, herbs to energize her when she was tired of pushing. Even daddy appreciated the herbs and felt revived! I knew when she really needed a cold wash cloth, a light touch, some ho-ku acupressure and I didn't need to think about it. As a doula, a healer, a medicine woman, herbalist and a teacher I am changed with each person I walk with. It is all about the mommy, the child, the client at that moment, but it is also about me growing and seeing and trusting. It is what drives me, motivates me. Those dark nights of the soul, so many of them I have endured, but they are what I believe King David speaks of when he says, "Weeping lasts but a night (or two or three) but joy comes in the morning!" It is at that moment, I can see clearly who I am and what I am to do.

Menu For a HOT Day

2010-06-01T15:27:00.000-07:00

Every Tuesday night my son and his lady come over and have dinner with us. She and my daughter are avid foodies and I might add, are damn good at it, so they take turns each week working their mad skills in the kitchen. Ever since my oldest daughter decided she enjoyed cooking, I have pretty much given up my domain in the kitchen. I gotta tell you, I don't always like it, although cooking is NOT something I particularly enjoying doing (in other words: foodie I am not) . But when I do find a recipe that tickles my fancy I do enjoy it. So tonight, in this east coast hot and humid weather, I am trying out a gazpacho recipe that a super good friend sent me. We will have a pasta salad that my daughter made up, along side.

Avocado Gazpacho
Prep: 30 minutes
Cook: ZERO
Servings: ~8

Ingredients:
5 avocados, diced
2 cups cucumbers, diced
5 tomatoes, diced
1 medium leek, diced
2 cups vegetable stock
2 tablespoons lemon juice
salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup coarsely broken tortilla chips

Directions

Reserve 1/2 cup avocado for later use.

In a food processor, place half the remaining avocado, cucumbers, tomato, onion, broth, lemon juice, salt, and pepper; whirl until smooth.

Place in bowl and repeat with other half of ingredients.

To serve, spoon gazpacho into 4 bowls. In the center of each, spoon a small mound of the avocado and sprinkle with tortilla chip pieces.

Easy Summer Pasta Salad (Note: this is my daughter's recipe so measurements are not her forte)

1 lb rotini
1 pint grape tomatoes
basil to taste
olive oil drizzled on
spinach
salt to taste

Cook rotini until tender. Drain an rinse in cold water
Slice grape tomatoes in half add to pasta
Sprinkle basil, drizzle olive oil and salt to taste.
Serve in a bed of fresh spinach

Bye, Bye Balmie

2010-05-27T16:20:00.000-07:00

I love my neighbors, I really do. They are super kind and incredibly helpful folks. If ever I needed anything, they would be right there for me, I know it. In the past they have helped me move furniture, taken me to a laboring momma on shabbat, trimmed my hedges,etc., I could not have asked for kinder neighbors. But when it comes to plants and Earth Care, let's just say their considerations fall short.

I went out to cut my lemon balm to perhaps make some tinctures. I had thought maybe they might not be good for medicine because they are close to the road but since my street is not terribly busy and I thinking about personal or family use, I thought it might be okay. When I went to cut them I noticed a terribly noxious smell, like gas type fumes. My neighbors daughter was on her porch and greeted me. I said hello and asked her if she knew what that smell was. She replied with "What smell?" and came off the porch to chat with me. As she got closer she noticed the smell and asked if that was the one I meant, to which I answered yes it was.

My beautiful lemon balm this past spring.

Wait for it...

"Oh, my dad just sprayed the whole front here for weeds!"

OH NO!!!!

My plants, my lemon balm has fallen the way of chemical weed spray. I am so sad right now, you can only imagine. I feel angry, not really at them, but at what has happened. I cannot use my lemon balm or any of my lovely herbs. ARGH!!! I am so frustrated!!! What is the use of growing plants in an urban area is they are going to be totally toxified!!! I really want to make like a shepherd and get the flock out of here! I can't believe this!!!

ARGH!!!

Are any of you folks urban dwellers? Do you use any of your herbs for medicines? How do you keep them pure?? Can you??

Signed,
Livid over Lemon Balm

Farewell beloved lemon balm, I shall miss you...

Just for fun: Cats VS. Dogs

2010-05-27T04:09:00.000-07:00

Note: for the record,I have both...equal opportunity over here ya' know.

Via: Online Schools

It DoesTakes a Village, but....

2010-05-26T13:19:00.001-07:00

Today the discussion came up of when school should start next year. The problem to be addressed is do we start at the end of August or after Rosh Hashana. My administrator said, "I think it's important to start in August so that the children can learn about Rosh Hashana." Immediately my gut reacted. I thought to myself, "What are you talking about?! The is a religious Gan! All of these children come from 'frum' families. Of course they will learn about rosh hashana...from their parents!" I felt anger rising up and a lot of frustration. I realized it came from my homeschooler mentality.

Let me explain what I mean. As a homeschooler, and yes even though my children are all grown I still think like one, I do not understand this idea that the school needs to teach the children about rosh hashana at all. I expressed my feelings to my administrator, admitting that I am coming from a homeschooling mind set. I explained that I taught my children my beliefs and shared with them my ideologies. It was very important to me that what they learned, particularly spirituality, came from my heart. Right, wrong or indifferent, that is where it came from. I clarified to her that I did not have an issue with starting earlier, but that I wanted to understand her statement so I could quell the frustration I felt inside. She explained the frustration that mothers feel. They have so many children to tend to, they are working, etc. that sometimes the children will not have really had the opportunity to learn about what rosh hashana means (from their parents). She explained that the schools fill in that gap. She then went on to explain that the advantage to this is the school then has the opportunity to teach the children the holidays from the prospective of the school.

hmmmmm.....

I understand and embrace the concept that it takes a village to raise a child. I believe that as a teacher I am working in harmony with the families that I serve helping them to nurture and encourage their children to grow as people and as Jews. What I do not believe in is that I am a replacement for the heart and soul of their parents faith. I believe it is their job, duty and very vocation to share the essence of their beliefs with their children. I have no agenda other than blowing upon the spark that already exists in them. I do desire to help them grow in character, to grow in their world view, to have a sincere joy and love in their faith, but as a complement to their family's faith. My administrator explained to me that what we had was a cultural difference. My paradigm versus the paradigm of the religious community I live and work in. This is a tremendous quandary for me.

I think too many parents have passed on their responsibility to teach their children and passed it on to the institutions. I realize the need for these institutions, particularly in today's society and in urban areas, but they are NOT a replacement for the family. I can even view my particular school as just an extended part of the home, a part of the village whole, but again, I cannot---will not, take the place of the parent. I do not want to. I want to help you raise your child, not raise your child. I want to share my heart with your child, not be your child's heart. Perhaps I am presuming too much. Taking myself and my position too seriously, but quite honestly, it is becasue I take parents, families and thier sacred positions so seriously.

Shouldn't parents rise up and say, "These are MY children! I will teach them my values, my beliefs and my heart. I ask you the school, the teacher to help me, to be my support! At times I may need your guidance, at times I may need to lean on you heavily. But I embrace my sacred trust and accept the brunt of the responsibility belongs to me, the parent!"

What do you folks think?? I welcome your insights.

Doula Becoming Household Name

2010-05-25T21:05:00.001-07:00

There is an awful lot of talk since President Obama has passed the healthcare reform legislation. While I don't presume to understand most of it, this little tidbit of information from my hometown thrilled me; the healthcare reform will begin to provide for community based doulas! This is incredibly exciting and truly would begin to really fulfill the vision of a Doula for every woman. Also, I just discovered this provision of the healthcare reform legislation for breastfeeding mothers on Doula-ing Blog. The United States has a long way to go regarding maternal mortality, care for mothers, lowering the c-section and intervention rate, etc., but I am incredibly hopeful and optimistic about these changes. The birth ball is rolling!

A Mother's Day Thought

2010-05-09T07:40:00.000-07:00

I have tried to write my facebook 'status' about ten times today. Seems like the words I wanted to say were too big to fill the small space provided there.I thought is was a good metaphor for Mothers, for who we are, what we do and our potential. I decided to ask myself, "Am I a good Mother?" Go ahead, ask yourself that question. Don't be afraid, because the answer is in your children. Look at them, at your children. Do not look for the so called perfection, look for them and who they really are. Are they authentic, beautiful, and joyous beings? Do they live life honestly? Are they true to their convictions and beliefs? Are they independent thinkers? Are they kind, compassionate people. If the answer is yes to any of these questions, then the answer is "Yes, I am a good mother."

Blessings and peace to all mothers! Blessings and peace to every woman who has touched the life of another being in a maternal way, be you wife, lover, aunt, sister, activist, daughter, pet owner, maker of her home, to whatever you do and love on this earth, you are Mother and this day is for you too!

Dancing For Birth TM Classes as seen on CBS Inside Edition

2010-05-06T14:51:00.000-07:00

Check this out folks! This is what I will very soon offering in my area, Dancing for Birth classes! Stayed tuned, details to come shortly!

Free Teleclass: New Menopausal Year with Susun Weed

2010-05-06T09:29:00.000-07:00

What a super opportunity to learn from one of the finest Wise Woman and herbalists! I am sure Susun has a lot of herbal wisdom to share and help us on this journey, whether we are entering or already full into the journey of Menopause. Be sure to check this out and save your seat for this Free Teleclass: New Menopausal Year with Susun Weed.

Maryland Sheep and Wool 2010

2010-05-03T04:47:00.001-07:00

One of the highlights of my year is the first Sunday in May in which my daughter and a beloved friend of mine, all make the trek to Howard County Fairgrounds in West Friendship, Maryland the annual Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival. I was on a very fixed budget this year, (hooray for free admission!!) and I really just felt more like be-ing there and not just observing or frantically searching for THE yarn and/or roving. I wanted to really look at the crafts of the local artisans, feel the yarn and enjoy the people. Mind you, I do this every year, but this time I wanted to practice being fully present. I didn't take a lot of pictures this year and the pictures that I did take were of the yarn. I did this in honor of my dear friend's father who I was missing. He passed away about three months ago and used to accompany on these types of treks. He was a photographer, among many other things, and took wonderful pictures of the yarn.

For me, one of the highlights of the festival is the ride there with my fellow fiber fanatic friend. She and I have had a standing date now for 4 years and although we tend to lose each other at the festival, the ride there is grand spent chatting, kvetching, and sharing hearts. When we get there, we wander a bit together, but inevitably end up doing our own thing, she being a more purposeful shopper and I being a meanderer who gets easily distracted.

I love to wander about the festival meeting the different folks, chatting with them about just anything. I love to listen to the Celtic and Bluegrass music and watch the cloggers dance. I love seeing all the creativity that floats throughout the fairgrounds and all but knocks you over from inspiration. I love watching the working dogs demonstrations and dream about being a shepherdess one day with my own flock and border collie along side of me. I walk around and I dream romantic dreams, knowing full well all the hard work and sweat that goes into the animals, weavings, yarn and other handcrafts there. And hard work, though it is, it is work that has evolved from passion and passion that turns into works of art or just plain useful items are always a good thing.

My Birthy Week

2010-04-30T04:15:00.000-07:00

About two weeks ago, I had the pleasure of attending a Dancing for Birth Teacher Certification™ workshop and some of the Midwifery Today Conference. What an amazing week that was for me, to be in the presence of all that wonderful female and birth energy was energizing and very inspiring.

First of all, the Dancing for Birth™ Workshop is such a dream come true for me! I was completely unaware that such a program existed and to have a merging of two of my passions, dance and birth, into one program seemed too good to be true! When I received the newsletter from a local retreat house that they hosting a workshop the following week I was amazed! Now mind you, it wasn't that I was naive to the benefits of dance, particularly belly dance for the prenatal and laboring mommy. As a matter of fact, just the weekend prior I had taught a workshop on this topic called, "Dancing Your Way Into Motherhood." I had a very simple workshop focusing mostly on dance moves that would be helpful during labor. What was super awesome about this workshop was that Stephanie Larson combine childbirth education and dance into an amazing workshop! She was also reviewed doula tips so I felt like it was this wonderful dance and doula workshop rolled up into one! Furthermore she had the ability to put into much better words the benefits of dance during labor. Asymmetry of the hips and providing OFP (optimal fetal positioning) were some of the things quite honestly, I did not address. She opened up my vocabulary in such a powerful way that now I feel better able to share the knowledge I have on both subjects. She also presented a lovely class format that provides a safe and intimate setting for mothers and mothers to be. Oh, and another really fun aspect to the workshop was we learned other birth pertinent dances that were Latin, from Africa and even a pinch of Reggae. I have taught my first demo class and have sent my certification pack in so I will soon be offering Dancing for Birth™ Classes in my area. I will let you know when are where so you can come join me!

That week also happen to coincide with the Midwifery Today conference which I had signed up for back in January.That was such an act of faith on my part because the Midwifery Today conference has been in Philly several times in the past and I had all kinds of excuses as to why I could not go. (lack of money, no time etc.) But this year was different, this year I decided not to put aside my dreams for excuses. How happy I am to tell you I so do not regret this decision! Wednesday was a pre-conference Herbal workshop with Janice Marsh-Prelesnik. What a wonderful knowledgeable and fun woman she is! We learned about different herbs that were specific to pregnacy, labor and postpartum. We received a very useful and informative meteria medica of herbs with pictures to help us identify them. We tasted every one of the herbs we talked about, made infusions and a tincture to take home. It was great to be with ladies who loved plants and birth as much as I do, if not even more.

It was just such a special place to be having the opportunity to make connections with other doulas and childbirth professionals. Being able to sit in round table discussions with such special folks and experts like Naoli Vinacer, Ina May Gaskin, Debra Pascali-Bono, Eneyda Spradlin-Ramos, Michel Odent, and Marsden Wagner(who if you did not already know went into retirement). But by far the highlight of my time was meeting and being blessed by dear Sister Morningstar, the author of the Power of Women ! She was an amazingly tiny, holy, fireball of a lady. I enjoyed her thoroughly and it was a joy to be in her presence. Her gift of storytelling is so empowering and is something I would aspire to.

So what is the end result of this birthy week? Well, I signed up for Childbirth Educator courses through Birth Arts International. I also signed up for more doula training, can't get enough of that, and I am still moving ahead with my Herbalist Courses. I am still doing a lot of learning, but after all that is what Wise Woman do.

Y'know what? I LIKE Earth Day!

2010-04-22T04:56:00.000-07:00

You know, I really don't care how Earth day started and why. Just like I don't care that Mother's day and Valentine's day are Hallmarks tricks to guilt you into buying lots of presents and acknowledging the one you love. Y'know why I don't care? Because if it gets some folks to OPEN their eyes and take a moment to become AWARE then I am all for it. If a person never calls their mother or visits her except on mother's day, well shame on them, but at least there is that one moment in time that they have. If you never say I love you except on February 14, well you're a fool, but at least your sweetheart has that moment in time. If you already do what is right, forget Hallmark and continue on, for you are blessed!

That is why I am benevolent about Earth Day. For sure it is our duty to take care of our planet. I give thanks for the beautiful planet I live on! I bless her by caring for her. I try not to make excess waste and live consciously. But there are many, many who do not, and truth is I could do more. So if a day has been marked to wake you and me up again so we can reevaluate what we are doing then it is a good thing.

See, as a Jewess, I am supposed to find the spark, the holiness in everything. It's there you know, you simply have to look and then elevate it. And so, I see the holiness in Earth Day. I see the good in folks saying, 'Hey, maybe I should be more diligent in recycling. Maybe I could take my own bags to the grocery store. Maybe I should not through this plastic bottle on my street.' See, every little bit helps, and if it even only happens today, well then this too is good.

Regardless of your faith or lack of one, it is our duty to care for the Earth. Search your own scriptures folks it's right there in black and white. Otherwise, search your common sense. You can't have a home if you destroy it.

Why I like Morning Pages

2010-04-21T04:40:00.001-07:00

I have been slowly reading and working my way through The Artists Way by Julia Cameron. Although I have not followed through on everything she suggests the one thing I have taken on and fully embrace are the morning pages. According to Ms. Cameron, morning pages are simply three longhand handwritten notebook pages of whatever comes spilling out of your brain. She encourages you to write them every day even if you have nothing to write. In that case, she suggests you simply write, "I have nothing to write", just be sure to fill three pages of it.

When I embarked on this journey of morning pages, I wasn't sure what the result would be, but I figured it couldn't hurt. I began doing them quite purposefully and ritualistically. I lit a stick of incense, creating a sacred space in time. I got my coffee, creating a wide awake human being and sat myself down in my spot at the dining room table and began to write. My notebook is a nicely weighted spiral bound one where the covers can completely flip themselves around so as not to feel cumbersome. This is very important because if you are anything like me, the journal has to "FEEL" good, otherwise you won't write in it. After all, you are dumping your thoughts, feelings and emotions in this thing, developing a relationship with it. You have to feel good about it.

I began writing whatever was rolling about in my brain, whether it was the 'I-don't- know-what-to-write' phrase or the previous night's dream. Then I suddenly realized I began to write about my dreams, meaning aspirations. I began to write them out as if they were an actual plan and an actual goal. As I kept writing them, I began to notice things began to happen. My dreams began to manifest themselves in my reality! Slowly they are coming true and I have the plans to see them through.

This week now, I see myself beginning to write affirmations for myself. As I am writing out my dreams and desires I am realizing they can be turned into affirmations, mantras even. Here is an example of one from today that I will share with you:

I am true to myself and I walk fearlessly on the path I am called.

There is more to it, but I think I will share them with you in future writings.
It is very exciting to see how these simple morning pages have evolved and helped me. After a little over a month of doing them, I find that they are an important and very meditative part of my day. I still have my ritual, my cuppa still necessary, but not so much with the incense which feels so heavy these bright spring days.

Harbingers of Spring

2010-03-03T04:31:00.000-08:00

As an expecting mother eagerly and anxiously awaits those first signs that her baby will soon arrive, I pace my home, eagerly looking out my window for some sign of the Earth waking up and springs arrival. Even here in the city spring has begun to send some calling cards that she will soon be here. Several that I have noted so far have been:

* the flock of robins tittering in a local tree this past shabbat.
* some budding trees that I pointed out to the children during our purim parade on Monday
* waking up yesterday to the robins singing in the morning.

I have also been searching my own garden are here is what I discovered yesterday:

My hydrangea bush is beginning to reveal some lovely, fat, green buds!

My potted weeping pussy willow's blood is flowing back into it's branches and also growing tiny buds. Look at how lovely and red they are!

And last, but surely not least, I actually found this pussy willow blossom on my little tree. How happy it makes me even now to look at this picture. Even the harsh March winds howling outside my door this morning whisper springs imminent arrival! Oh Spring, please come soon! Oh Earth, please wake up and cheer my heart with your green smile!

Just a Couple of Reasons Why...

2010-02-08T19:20:00.000-08:00

I can't seem to get things finished! °Ü°

Who is this lurking behind the loom?? Oh yes, it is the ever mischievous Mystery kitty.

"Here let me get you some more yarn!"

Do not let him fool you, he is plotting something very evil!

And then there is Edgar who seems to think this would be a opportune time to sit on my lap.

Mystery begins to bore...

So I am left to my weaving...and blogging. °Ü°

Sun is Shining, Busy Day Ahead!

2010-01-31T19:21:00.000-08:00

Good morning Sun! How I've missed you when you were way!

Days like this I love to look up and let the sun kiss and caress my face. It feels so wonderful, like a lover I've not seen in awhile. It also has such a soothing calming effect on my mind and soul. This is a particularly good thing today because I have so much I hope to accomplish today.

So on the agenda today is:

1.) Rehearsal for our upcoming shows. The first one is actually next weekend. It is a benefit for breast cancer research, so I am very happy to be participating in that!

2.)Finish the shawl that I have been working on too long, at least get the second half off the loom!

3.)Finish up the belt and put a dent in the bra for next week's performance.

4.) Make elderberry syrup for our sore throats.

Sounds like a lovely day! I guess I better get started!

What are you all up to today??

So this is the one that I want to get off the loom. It is made from cotton and is a taupe and white plaid. It is the second half of a child's poncho I am working on.

This is half number one. When they are finished I plan to put copious amounts of fringe on the bottom. It stands to reason that a fringe-y person like me would do such things!

And the results are:

2010-01-31T19:16:00.000-08:00

1.) Had a super duper rehearsal and we are feeling really great about our upcoming performance. Just so you understand a little about Tribal Style Bellydance, the way we dance is totally improvisational. We do not choreograph our dances. What we have is a vocabulary of moves and cues that signal those moves. So when we rehearse we are simply dancing with each other, developing chemistry and trust. Yes, trust because you have to trust your leader to guide you clearly. We all have a turn being a leader and that is also part of the dance. You never know when it will happen. Makes for an exciting and fun way to dance together.

2.) I did not get the shawl finished but I did work on it and am committed to working on it every day next week.

3.)I have the belt just about done and should have it completed tomorrow...which means the bra may get done too.

4.) I made the elderberry syrup for our sore throats and not only is it good for us it is yummy too!

I also had the pleasure of talking to some amazing ladies and even did some henna on some other beautiful women. Yep, it was a perfect day!

This last one is a North African symbol of a fern. It stands for endurance and resourcefulness.

My friend Nettle

2010-01-28T04:29:00.000-08:00

Well, my friend Nettle and I are getting along very nicely so far. It has only been three days since I started taking this NHI (Nourishing Herbal Infusion). I have been making a quart each night and drinking it the following day. Taking an NHI appeals to me because of it is more of a whole body take on healing, healing the body from the inside out by providing nutrients, vitamins and minerals. I used to drink a green barley drink many moons ago in my fresh carrot juice. I have to tell you I enjoyed it, but since beginning this part of my journey, I am very desirous of leaving the supplement lifestyle behind and walk the road of simple whole healing and nutrition.

I felt very drawn to nettle (Urtica Dioca...sheesh I even love it's latin name), and decided to start there.
Some information regarding nettle that I have learned is:

Properties: Nutritive, astringent, diuretic and styptic. (Has anyone noticed any laxative effects? I was having some difficulty and seem to be having very normal bowel movements now. I am wondering if it is due to the nettle?)

Nutrients: Calcium, potassium, Protein (YAY!) iron, B carotene, chlorophyll (love green!), Vitamins A,C,D and K.

Benefits: Strengthens kidneys and lungs, intestines, and arteries. Restores vibrancy to the adrenal system. According to Susun Weed nettle NHI is one of her favorite anti cancer remedies. According to the Herbalist & Alchemist website nettle is also used as a venous tonic for varicose veins, capillary fragility, and excessive bruising. There are a number of ailments that nettle help with ranging from acne, to edema, to PMS to varicose veins. (Yes, I mentioned that twice because I have two legs that have more than their fair share of variscosities.)

There is much informantion on the web and many articles regarding the wonder and healign in nettle. One of my favorites is by my teacher Kiva Rose on the Anima site. You can read it by haz clic aqui! ;-)

This is a doodle I did while thinking about my lovely nettle.

Getting to Know Nettle

2010-01-24T04:32:00.000-08:00

Last night I made my first nettle infusion and I am very excited! I must be because I even dreamt about it last night, that is I dreamt about it's name, Urtica Dioica. All I have read indicates that it is good for what ails ya'. High in iron, good for circulation, general well being etc. I am really looking forward to seeing how my body reacts to this plant ally!

Here are a couple of links on Nettle and making infusions:

Kiva Rose's article on Nettles

Susun Weed Making infusions

This is my lovely Nettle infusion, I love my lighthouse in the background, seems kinda metaphoric. °Ü°

All I needed to learn in life I learned from Tribal Bellydance

2009-07-24T19:25:00.000-07:00

Well, I figure an update is long overdue. So here is what's new and exciting with me:

There were open auditions for the 'semi-pro' group at my dance studio. We have several dance troupes there, a professional, semi-pro, and a student troupe. I have danced with the student troupe before, but was looking for a bit more in the areas of commitment and excellence. Imagine my excitement when they announced the auditions of the semi-pro troupe! Yippee! Here was my chance to see a dream of mine come true! There was quite a bit involved for the audition.

1.I had to write an essay as to why I wanted to join.

2.I had to prepare a solo with a prop of my choice. (I chose a sword because I feel so damn powerful with that huge scimitar in my hand, yalla!)

3.I had to dance with my instructor and another member of the pro troupe.

4.There was also a time of dancing with all the other audition-ees to fast, slow, and semi fast music.

5.I also had to perform an impromptu solo to a song I had never heard before.

During this whole audition, there were times where I was in the lead and other times where I followed. Add to this huge mix the fact that I was so nervous I simply could not get over myself!! Needless to say, it was a very LONG and exhausting day.

It took almost a week to finally hear the results and I was one of the three ladies that was chosen for the group! Yay for us! Unfortunately our joy was tempered because a couple of the ladies who tried out did not make it and were very, very devastated. I really felt so much for them because none of us were guaranteed a spot and we all gave our absolute best shot. Fortunately, I am proud to say that these ladies are of great character and have bounced back and are looking forward to next years auditions!

The dance troupe has been an intense exercise for me. Learning to intimately know these ladies and to dance with them is far more demanding than I even expected. We are a Tribal belly dance troupe, which means we are completely improvisational. There is no choreography, so we work off of cues. This entails some real practice of awareness. Watching the other dancers body language and looking for cues are very important. But it also important that you do not LOOK like you are looking for these cues. In other words no staring at the dancer's butt! :-) There are obvious reasons for this, (you might look a little silly) but there are so many subtle movements in the body, that by solely focusing on the lead dancer's hips you may actually miss the cue for the next move. Learning to watch peripherally is a very important skill to cultivate.

I think in many ways this awareness will help me in the other parts of my journey of life. Learning to not stare intently at situations that come up, so as not to miss the subtle cues of change. Keeping a peripheral eye out for the subtlety of change without losing my awareness of the present moment. Having my opportunity to lead and to follow. Learning that a good life is not just about the fast and jumpy songs, but also about the slow, darker, even slithery songs. These important times provide balance, rest, rejuvenation and an intense physical and emotional release.

I am really looking forward to my time with the troupe and the ladies of the troupe. I think there will be so much to learn, and not just about dance. After all, what is life, but a spiral dance, and what is tribal belly dance but a wonderful metaphor
for life.