This is one of those moments where I am feeling a bit nostalgic. My daughter and her husband are taking their three children and moving back to California. They have had a tough time of it, and felt a move would do them good. I of course feel differently, yet this is their lesson to learn, and I must respect this. We shall miss them, especially the children, as they had only been living near us for the past year. We had grown quite used to spending time with them, and I will miss them so! Perhaps soon, my daughter will learn that running away from problems is not the answer. So of course, I am looking through pictures and reliving some wonderful moments with our little ones. Did I say I am so going to miss them??

Meanwhile, we have a bit of a dilemna. Our in-laws speak very little English. Their native language is Spanish. So if we are to communicate in a good way, we shall need to learn their language, as it does not appear they are in any hurry to learn English as of yet. We do have many Spanish speaking neighbors as well, and I believe it would benefit us greatly to learn a new language. We will probably learn several other languages as well, as in our home studies we have much interest in the languages of our World. This will also help us to better understand all the different cultures of the people of this Earth.

 We shall just look on the bright side. Everything happens for a reason, as there truly are no accidents. This is just another part of learning and growing for each of us, and I shall embrace the moment as always. This will truly serve to bring our family closer together and dispel the illusion of separation. For we are all connected in spirit, and should not let language be a barrier.

So… it is time to explore our options and search for some sites to learn, as in this example, the Spanish language. I prefer audio as well as video, so we shall see what more we can find to help us in this new adventure!

Today I would like to share a special post as shared by a friend of mine. Our health and our lives are greatly enriched when we embrace the gifts of Nature. We are surrounded by too many man-made products which are made from harmful materials and chemicals. Decreasing these deadly objects from our homes and increasing that which is natural, will bring forth harmony and balance to our bodies as well as our Spirits. Let us love, honor, and respect our beautiful planet Earth.

Adapted from The Lost Language of Plants by Stephen Harrod Buhner (Chelsea Green, 2002)

In earlier times, when nature was perceived as alive, with intelligence and soul, people bonded with nature much as people bond with their pets or family now. This bonding process engendered a certain kind of attitude toward nature. It is an aspect of what Edward O. Wilson calls biophilia – a genetically encoded or innate emotional affinity toward all other life-forms on Earth. It means a deep fondness for, connection to, and love for life forms and living things.

We can begin to undo the cultural conditioning that teaches children that thinking defines their value, that Earth is dead, that other life-forms intrinsically possess less value. Bringing nature indoors is one way to begin bonding with life.

Here are a few ideas for welcoming the natural world into our homes.

Simple Solutions…

* Stones, rocks, pebbles. Placed in bowls or in a ring around a vase, heaped in a small cairn or put singly in a special place of honor, the infinite variety and solid beauty of stones add grounding and stability to our homes.

* Plants. Many potted plants need very little care, and they repay a minimum of effort on our part with so much benefit: plants filter the air we breathe and add vitality and good green energy to our rooms.

* Sunlight. Cheering, uplifting sunlight is such a necessity for the human body, mind, and spirit. Open the curtains and let it stream in.

* Windows to the elements. What do you see when you look out of your windows? If you are fortunate to live in a place where nature isn’t overpowered by buildings and concrete, consider opening up a wall to create a window overlooking a special scene. Annie’s bathtub is surrounded by windows: when she bathes, she soaks in the spaciousness of sky, the majesty of trees, and the freedom of wild birds in flight.

* Gifts from the animals. Some of us find special treasures when we walk in nature: a feather, a cast-off antler, a shred of snake-skin. Consider bringing these inside to honor the animals.

* Seasonal reminders. We can bring bare branches indoors, place them in water, and watch the new leaves emerge in Spring. In Summer, we can put a handful of lush grass in a vase to appreciate. A few nuts and colorful leaves connect us to the spirit of Fall, and pinecones and evergreens help us celebrate Winter. Find your own ways to mirror seasonal changes inside.

* Tabletop fountains. It isn’t difficult to create small water fountains for our home. The gentle sound of trickling water is soothing and the principles of feng shui say that fountains create good energy. For easy directions, see /greenliving/good-fortune-fountain-how-to.html.

* Tabletop gardens. Fill a pretty container with soil and use it to create a miniature garden in your home. These can be both seasonal and fanciful: in Winter, for instance, you could imagine a gnome garden with moss, evergreen twigs, and quartz crystals to evoke ice.

* Flowers. Flowers are an instant cheer-up, such lush reminders of the natural world. If you compost them when they begin to fade, you won’t waste them: they can help to nourish your garden. We like to choose organic flowers, since most commercial growers rely on harmful pesticides.

* Decorate with food. Many of us love to put a bowl of cheery oranges, lemons, or apples on the table, or heap a few pumpkins and squashes on the countertop in the autumn: food makes a lovely natural decoration, as long as it isn’t too quickly perishable, that connects us to what we eat. Be creative: there is so much beauty in food!

* Birdfeeders visible from your window. We may not be able to let the birds inside, but placing a birdfeeder where we can watch it from indoors makes it feel as if they are in the room with us.

* Fresh air. If the air in your area is fresh, open your windows as often as possible to let it in! And be sure to use all-natural cleaning products, furnishings and building materials so your air is fresh even when the windows are closed.

* Nature-themed artwork. The next best thing to being there is having a painting or photograph of a natural scene or wildlife on the wall.

* Companion animals. Sometimes we forget that pets are part of nature (as are we), but when we watch a cat stalking its favorite catnip-filled mouse toy, or a dog worrying a bone, we can see the wildness peeking through!

* Choosing natural materials. Using all-natural household products, bedding, building supplies, and furnishings all add up to a home that resonates with nature — and is more healthful for you and your family.

Following upon the heels of my last post, I would say this particular subject is only fitting. I am a strong believer in utilizing the power of Nature, in safe and intelligent ways, always keeping the Balance in mind. With such powerful resources available from the elements of Nature, such as Air, Water,  and Solar, it stands to reason we should actively explore our options to live clean and healthy lives. The natural abundance of these truly amazing elements should lead such intelligent beings, as we humans imagine ourselves to be, to greater depths of study of natural sciences. Who needs resources which pollute the planet and destroys our ecosystems, when the Creator has provided us with everything we need, if we just open our eyes?

Our family and friends are dedicated to re-learning how to live in Balance with Nature. As such, we are learning how to grow our own foods, studying herb lore and wilderness survival, as well as how to travel through nature as softly as possible so as not to disturb the Balance. Also, we are keenly interested in how to build our homes with the Power of Nature in mind.

It is so very important to the health of this planet and her inhabitants to find the cleanest sources of power. The ebb and flow of our Ocean tides are efficient, consistent, clean and free. Empty of emissions, carbons or combustibles, the currents created by the tides can provide a conscious alternative to the fossil fuels that now power most of our electrical needs.

Until now, the potential of the tides and the gravitational lunar pull upon them has remained relatively untapped. That’s where Florida Keys Hydropower Research Corporation steps up to make a difference.

Keys Hydro Power is a Florida alternative energy company providing clean power from tidal turbines. This non profit environmental project uses water power as a clean renewable energy source.

Integrating action into awareness, Keys Hydro Power will reduce human-caused sources of global climate change by working with nature to harness an environmentally viable form of energy—through the research, development and implementation of tidal current turbines in the Florida Keys. By producing a clear, feasible concept and demonstrating its success, Florida Keys Hydro Power (a nonprofit Florida corporation) will generate power from tidal turbines to feed local electric grids.

The results will create both a local and global impact, propelling others to explore this sustainable form of alternative energy. This is NOT a new concept, as the Ancients knew how to utilize this form of clean power which our waters so generously provide. Now, isn’t that just what those of us who are in tune with Nature are looking to revive? It gives me hope for a better future for our generations and the Earth. Just imagine the possibilities…

I would like to share a message from the President of Florida Keys Hydro, Douglas Bedgood…

“Nature intended coal, gas, and oil to be buried forever. They represent death and decomposition, dead vegetation from old swamps under pressure for millions of years. These carbon fossil compositions we use for fuel also represent death today. There is death to the land above the open pit coal mines, poor health and death to the mine workers, death to the atmosphere after combustion, death to nature’s life support systems that took millions of years to develop, and eventually death to the fragile organic skin of our host planet.”

To learn more visit Keys Hydro Power Tidal Turbine Farm.

In our fight to save Earth’s wild creatures, we are faced with many battles. I will never tire of this worthwhile cause… yet I sometimes wonder if time is our greatest enemy. Time is running out for the beautiful and wild Polar Bears in the Chukchi Sea. Yet truly time is not THE enemy of those who wish to live as Nature intended. Year after year, President Bush has called for harmful drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, one of the most important onshore denning habitats for U.S. polar bears. Earlier this month, his Secretary of the Interior approved the sale of drilling rights in the Chukchi Sea, potentially threatening even more bears with pollution, spills and disruptive activities.

What does George Bush have against polar bears?

The Bush/Cheney Administration’s own scientists at the U.S. Geological Survey say that global warming and habitat loss could lead polar bears to extinction in the U.S. by 2050. Yet, the president said little in last night’s State of the Union about what — if anything — his administration would be doing to prevent their extinction.

It is so very important to place this matter on high priority. Please visit Defenders of Wildlife and take the time to send a personalized message urging President Bush and his administration to do the following…

~ Direct the Fish and Wildlife Service to immediately list polar bears as “Threatened” under the Endangered Species Act. The decision on listing has already been delayed once. It’s time for President to act.
~ Abandon plans to drill in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge; and
~ Protect polar bears by scrapping the planned February 6th sale of leasing rights to drill for oil and gas drilling rights in the Chukchi Sea.

Our fellow Polar Bears are quickly running out of time. I am sending my own personalized message right this moment, and I strongly urge you to follow my example and Take Action Today!

Thank you so much for your support and thoughts for this important cause in helping to protect our four legged friends. We are nearly halfway there… let it be known how precious and sacred ALL Life is, and let your voice be heard!

Save the Polar Bear with us at Defenders of Wildlife

Thinking about taking a Vacation? I know I am! After the hectic Holiday Season, I am truly in the mood to travel to a place that will take me away from all the hustle and bustle of city life. My Love for Nature will naturally send me looking for a place that is comfortable, yet will leave me totally surrounded by the wonders and Beauty only Mother Nature can provide. I long to visit Canada, so if you are like me, take a look at what I have found…

25 minutes north of Mont Tremblant resort in Quebec, tucked away in one of nature’s most beautiful landscapes, scenic Blueberry Lake awaits you. A true country experience in a well-appointed Quebec-style log home, with first class client services. More than just an escape to nature, Blueberry Lake provides guests with accommodation in luxury log chalets, first-class service and all modern amenities, such as high-speed Internet and 42″ plasma screen TVs. In addition to the onsite fine-dining restaurant, gourmet chefs can be scheduled to prepare fine cuisine for guests in the comfort of their own chalet. Professional therapists provide massages both at the lakeside spa and in the chalets.

Nearby national parks, ski resorts and golf courses offer the perfect opportunity for guests who want to get out and explore the Mont Tremblant region in Quebec. Visitors who prefer not to stray too far from their luxury log cabin can take advantage of all the on-site activities. A game of tennis, canoeing, ice-skating or hiking on our private trails are just a few of the options available.

Whether your stay is short or long, the sense of peace that overtakes you from the moment you arrive will delight you, ensuring that from now on, this will be your first choice for summer or winter vacations. The charms of each season complemented by a wide choice of activities make Blueberry Lake the ideal place to spend wonderful times with family, friends or groups, or to inspire excellent results from corporate events and meetings.

Well then, what are we waiting for? A Tremblant cottage rental awaits us adventurous souls!

When I travel to Mother Ocean, I always look forward to possibly seeing those creatures I associate with the Seas of this planet. I truly wonder how happy they are in their environment, which the Creator has designed in such thoughtful detail. Then I become sad at times, knowing man has changed this perfect balance, and in doing so has created an environment that is not as Nature intended. Can we possibly be so selfish as to think this beautiful Earth was meant for our pleasure only? This cannot be. Even as a small child I have always loved and respected Nature. Never would I have guessed everyone did not feel this way. I am no longer so naive, yet I am still appalled at times to see how widespread the acts of carelessness and outright cruelty abounds. I will continue to look for the Beauty in this Life, and pray we find the compassion in our hearts to treasure the wonderful gifts in Nature which surround and sustain us.

“In their innocence and wisdom, in their connection to the earth and its most ancient rhythms, animals show us a way back to a home they have never left.” ~ Susan Chernak McElroy

“The time will come when men such as I will look upon the murder of animals as they now look upon the murder of men.” ~ Leonardo da Vinci

If you would like to take a few moments out of your life to see how you can make a difference in the lives of our precious Seals, my daughter would love to guide you to a wonderful site in which Children are taking action. Kids 4 Seals is an international network of schools, students and young persons interested in OPPOSING the ANNUAL CANADIAN HARP and HOOD SEAL SLAUGHTERS that take place off the Atlantic coast of Canada each year.

If you feel like we do about all of Creation, and the Sacredness of all Life, please open your hearts to help us as we champion those unable to help themselves. They should be allowed to live and play in a safe and healthy environment, just like our own children. Our lives are short in comparison to the Life of this Planet… must we take all that is good, clean and pure, and destroy it so our future generations suffer from our folly? Or will we open our eyes  and our hearts to the truth and take responsibility for our World…

Please Visit Kids 4 Seals

Even though wolves are meant to remain protected under the Endangered Species Act, and despite the opposition of tens of thousands of Defenders supporters, the Fish & Wildlife Service just made it much easier to kill wolves in the Greater Yellowstone and Northern Rockies region. This is totally unnaceptable! Wolves play a very important role in Nature, and all of Earths creatures are Sacred, besides.

Wildlife officials will be able to shoot, trap and kill endangered wolves — even those that wander from the safety of Yellowstone National Park and other protected areas. The states would only need to prove that wolves are a “major cause” of the inability of elk and deer to meet state management goals. Wolves could be killed even if they only have an effect on how elk herds move or behave — not just if they reduce herd numbers.

Please let your voice be heard on this outrage! Help stop this slaughter by passing along this message, and writing a message to Secretary Kempthorne as soon as possible. This is very important, as wolves may be slaughtered as soon as March. We can help save these noble creatures before it is too late.

Write to Secretary Kempthorne to express your outrage today!

Everywhere I look these days, I am surrounded by so many ideas of romantic gifts to enchant and delight ones true Love. Since days of old, the traditional love letter, at times accompanied by flowers and trinkets have served to bring smiles and blushes to lovers all around the World. Naturally, a delicious assortment of sweet and fancy candies are always a favourite treat.

Now, I don’t know about you, but my favourite candy  is… you guessed it… chocolate! I absolutely love chocolate in all it’s delicious forms.

And seeing as Valentines Day is a special day set aside for lovers, I would like to share a wonderful idea which is certain to bring delight and enhance those most intimate moments. Organic Chocolate Massage Oil is a perfect Valentine’s Day gift. Totally organic and made with pure chocolate, and including Organic Palm Fruit & Sunflower Oil, Apricot Oil, Light Coconut Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Natural Vitamin E, and Cocoa Absolute, this is a natural gift that is certain to bring sweet pleasure to ones romantic moments, and may be added to your bath as well.

I found this totally romantic gift at Kate’s Caring Gifts, where you will find a wide selection of Earth friendly, and sustainably manufactured gifts for friends, family, and yourself. Oh yes, as an absolute must for the Vegan in your life you may wish to see what you think about Kate’s Organic Vegan Chocolate… yummm!

Well, as you know, I am always on the lookout for these great places to enhance my natural lifestyle, and am truly happy to share. I have made it a point to bookmark this site, and you can be sure I will be visiting often.

Enjoy!