The Ayurveda Way

Balance

2012-02-10T16:36:00.002-06:00

It was very cold, 25F degrees, with a strong nothernly breeze when I fed the birds this morning.

I bundled up. The sun felt warm.

I spent some time outside reading and drinking mint tea.
I soaked up some vitamin d.

Cooper's Hawk is a regular visitor.

I am pleased he hunts my backyard,

keeping the population of the sparrows and doves in check.

There is balance in nature.

I am thinking of buying "Yoga of the Mahamuda."

I have not yet finished reading my library book
and already I am planning to re-read.

Nassa has released another amazing photograph in their Blue Marble series.

This is my favorite to date.

With Iran in the news I decided to read about this amazing ancient culture.

Balance.

Koans

2012-01-27T13:22:00.002-06:00

I feed the butterflies this morning.
One was acting like it wanted to lay eggs.
I helped it to some parsley.

We will see if she was able to lay.

Teaching the butterflies to use the nectar pot has been stressful.
Thank goodness they were successful.
I love watching them feed.

I will need to get some royal jelly for them,
sugar water does not provide proteins.

I am working with a new Koan.
After years of working with "I do not understand"
I have realized I do not have to understand.
There is no way I could ever understand.
It is the 67th anniversary of the liberation of
Auschwitz, the concentration camp.
I cried this morning. I laid my sadness at the wall.

We were just children.
I have a new koan, "I don't know."

I am reading.

I am still celebrating Luna New Year.
I will celebrate until the Full Moon.
I will celebrate Dragons forever.

Tonight we will attend a gathering at our art gallery.
I have my patterns for doing some embroidery.

I hope to have a spot for all my needle work needs.

Getting organized is a 2012 goal for me.

Luna New Year is all about Spring.
"Soon to fly kites," I said to my hat.

Today we remember Lewis Carroll.
It is his birthday.

Alice in Wonderland is a family favorite.

We often quote "Alice in Wonderland."

I am very fond of the Gryphon, the Mock Turtle

and Mad Hatter.

I am taking a break.
I shall be unplugging February 1st.
We are going to redo my office.
We are starting our Spring cleaning.

I did my mailings for
March of Dimes.
It is a January ritual.

Every morning I read
Earth and Sky.

Every day I look up and say my
prayers.

Frankincense

2012-01-20T16:33:00.000-06:00

I have been using Frankincence essential oil for the last couple of weeks.

I love the way it smells. I have read it is good for reducing fine facial lines and excellent for breathing.

I inhale and hold the scent. It is divine.

I did a bit of spinning this afternoon.
I have my books and tea for later.

I do enjoy cold January days.

Who I am

2012-01-13T14:58:00.000-06:00

I have accepted myself.

I may be a wee bit different

but I have found my way.

I have found my place of ease.

I have found my niche.

I sat outside in the sun.

I did a bit of reading.

I lit a candle this morning
and sent blessings.

I think of my friends and family each morning.
I think of their concerns.

I found my word, Yuga.
It is Japanese.
I have searched all my life for this word.
It means gracefulness and refinement
that is strongly infused with gentleness.

I have found peace.
I am a little bit of this
and a little bit of that.
I am content.

Gifts from the heart

2011-12-23T16:11:00.000-06:00

My friend gave me a German Smoker.
I have a collection of them.
When she saw this one she knew it was meant for me.
We think of each other when we shop.
We think of each other as we go about our days.

We bubble up in each other's minds.
We send blessings and look forward to seeing each other.

My friend and I have known each other since Kindergarten.
We are heart to heart friends.
I have been blessed with her friendship.
She is a forever friend.
We make a point to talk at least once a week.
Even if it is just for a couple of minutes
we check in with each other.
We try and see each other once a month.
We make an effort.
We value each other.

She loves the Ebony Jewel Wings too
and the butterflies, the bees and the birds
that call my backyard home.
She wants to hear about my adventures
and shares her stories with me.
We laugh and cry together.

We are sister friends.

Artist Date

2011-12-02T17:47:00.001-06:00

When I unwrapped the tree topper for my antique ornament
tree it was broken.
I knew I would be shopping for a replacement.

Much to my joy I was able to find one today
when we went on our Artist Date.

My tree is now looking beautiful.

We went to a fun resale sale today.
I have already made plans to go again
on the first Friday in January with a girlfriend.

In December I am selecting a card from
the Animal Divine Tarot deck each day.
This morning I chose Mama Cocha.

Before this morning I knew nothing about this Incan Goddess.
I knew nothing about the triskelion.

I am always open to learn.
I did a wee bit of research on this ancient symbol.
Today we associate the Triskelion with Celtic art from the iron age.
It is also known as the three legs of man. It is the symbol of Brittany and Isle of Man and Sicily.
Once again I am reminded of three in one. I look to my mind, my body and my soul. I remember to seek balance.
I am so happy to know of this ancient Goddess of the Ocean.
So happy to connect once again to my inner life.

Last spring I bought a Mancala board at the second hand shop.
I thought I would use it for beads and buttons
since I did not know how to play.
A search at the library turned up a book that has instructions. Tonight we will attempt to learn.
Artist Date continues after supper!

I have fallen in love with the Pterosaur.
I am learning about them.
I had always thought they were called Pterodactyls.
I am learning differently.

I think I need another Christmas Tree.
A Swan Tree would be so lovely
and I need a Tree to honor the good Dragon.
I think a Pterosaur Tree would be cool.
I will be shopping.
I found a spot in the hallway
a few trees could spring up.

My Artist is ready to create!

Sniffles

2011-11-11T15:42:00.001-06:00

It is Indian Summer.

Warm breezes are spinning the wind spinner

I have the sniffles.

I believe in fresh air and sunshine for when I have a cold.

I was so happy to see a butterfly I forgot about my sneezing
for a few minutes.

I am drinking echinacea tea and lots of orange juice.
I am resting in the sun.

I am reading.

I am learning.

There is much to know.

I have many questions.

I forget I am sick
when I am far-far away.

Meditation with the birds

2011-11-04T14:35:00.000-05:00

Once again I meditated outdoors.

Once again I sat in the sun with the birds.

The time I spend in silence with the birds

fills my soul with joy.

I chose Hawk this morning from

my deck of Medicine Cards.
Hawk is the messenger.

It is up to me to listen

to be aware.

It is up to me not to be blinded by the light.

I have learned to trust.

I have learned to laugh.

I know how to have fun.

I look and am delighted.

Each day I see a butterfly

I am blessed.

Birds and butterflies fill me with gratitude.

Magic in the air

2011-10-28T16:50:00.002-05:00

Each day the butterflies are in the gardens is a blessed day.

We have had a few light frosts.

The marigolds have been outstanding this year.

They are my marigolds....seed to seed for many, many years.

I once again took my yoga to the deck.

Once again I took my meditation outdoors.

I wanted to be with the butterflies and birds.

The colors mix with the scent of wood fires.

I am reminded of long ago bonfires.

I can hear laughter in the Northern wind.

I am filled with October's magic.

Butterfly Meditation

2011-10-21T16:05:00.001-05:00

The water in the bird baths was frozen this morning.

We had covered the flowers and squash last night.

I am so happy we did.

When it warmed to 60 degrees this afternoon
I brought Black Swallowtail to the deck.
We said our goodbyes.
I sat quietly and watched the butterflies.

Prairie Walk

2011-10-07T19:12:00.000-05:00

We walked on a section of restored Tall Grass Prairie

that is close to our house.

We walked for a couple of hours.

I have decided to take long walks on Fridays as long as
the weather allows.

I want to see the butterflies in the wild.

I want to see the wildflowers.

I want to see the colors

and the seed pods.

I want to be part of Autumn on the Prairie.

It is very dry.

Today we had clouds but no rain.

I love the way white flowers are part of October
on the Tall Grass Prairie.
I am learning how to add white to my October decorating.

The colors of October are in the trees, the grasses,

the butterflies

and grasshoppers.

Leaves are beginning to fall.

The wind was a fresh breeze.
I felt so good walking
on the Tall Grass Prairie.

Retreat

2011-09-16T17:44:00.001-05:00

I cut a bouquet of parsley for the kitchen table.

I looked to make sure there were not any Black Swallowtail caterpillars on it.

Much to my surprise this morning I saw two tiny cats.

They must have been eggs when I cut the parsley.

I have potted up some so I will have caterpillar food even if it gets cold.

Once they start on parsely they will only eat it.

Some of the other Black caterpillars I have found on Queen Anne's Lace or on Fennel. I have brought in enough host plants
for the caterpillars.

One of the Blacks emerged yesterday.

I cut some blooms for her to feed from.

Still too cold to release her. Maybe tomorrow.

We potted up the cactus.

They are on the porch getting used to less light before I bring them in.

A few leaves have turned and fallen to the ground.

Seeds are setting and I will once again gather for next year.

I am giving myself a retreat next week.
I will spend a few days reading and journaling.
I will spend a few days in silence.
I am unplugging.
Have a blessed Autumn Equinox.

Up Up and Away

2011-09-09T18:41:00.001-05:00

At first light I saw a hot air balloon float over my backyard.

It rose rapidly and went out of sight.

The leaves on the Dogwood are beginning to turn.

These are end of Summer days.

A flock of Robins visited the pokeberry.

I watched as the sun rose higher in the eastern sky.

I watched as the butterflies woke up.

I am reading stories about Swans.

I am far away in dream.

Swan Days

2011-09-02T13:38:00.002-05:00

I am following Celtic Astrology.

Today is the first day of Vine Muin.
The symbol for these days is the White Swan.

The Swan is a totem animal for me.

I look to the sky and see Swan.

I looked back at the photographs from our road trip in May.
I remembered the gift of seeing Swans building their nest.

I always have Swans about.

They are tucked into my gardens.

They nest in all sorts of spots.

My desk Swan is waiting for her card for September.

I have a few journals I keep.
I am planning a September retreat
for September 20, 21 and 22nd.

I am listening to the Swans.
I am learning from their lessons.

I am highlighting and taking notes.

I have always like Winter.
I like the coolness and the bright sun.
I like the snow and the birds.
I just miss the butterflies!

The Waxing Crescent Moon
in September is my Swan Moon.
Last night I watched her from my deck
setting in the west.
It was 90 degrees at 9pm.
I thought it was too hot to go walking.

I heard her call to me.
I put my shoes on.
I walked under my Swan Moon.
I watched as she turned an amazing gorgeous orange.
The color of creativity.
I am grateful for her encouragement.

In September I celebrate
the Clown.

In September I celebrate

the Swan.

Planning

2011-08-19T19:42:00.001-05:00

The Swan is one of my totem Animals.

The Swan speaks to me.

I turn to the Swan often to remind me of my own inner beauty.

Summer's heat and humidity have returned.

I am planning my at home retreat.
I shall take a few days in September to be silent.
A few days in early Autumn to take long walks in nature
without my cameras.

I will journal and meditate.
I will honor the Autumn Equinox.

I shall sit and weed in the gardens
during my retreat.

I want to let some seeds I have planted in my mind
a chance to sprout and grow.

I am planning my retreat.

Body, mind and soul

2011-08-12T19:13:00.000-05:00

Being outside with the butterflies is very joyful for me.

I was so happy to see a Red Admiral this afternoon.

The Giant Swallowtail comes most every afternoon.

I am glad I deadheaded the Butterfly bush.

A pair of Monarchs mating.
The newly emerged butterflies from these eggs
are the butterflies that will migrate to Mexico in October.

Every time I am with the Hummingbirds I am happy.

The sunflowers are finishing up.
The Gold Finches are getting their fill.

It has been a hard Summer.
The heat and humidity has taken its toll.

But we will bounce back.
We will make some changes so our next year's summer is easier.

I will have to decide what plants I will
over winter indoors.

I get distracted by the butterflies.

The Full Green Corn Moon rises tonight.

I have added another pose to my yoga time.

My mind, body and soul are full too.

One aspect informs the others.

I am full of joy.

Dreaming

2011-08-05T19:10:00.001-05:00

I greeted the dawn this morning
and the Hummingbirds.

Clouds came in and it began to rain.
Glorious summer rain.
We received one inch!

I sat outside after the storm blew over.
I sat with the Dragonflies

and butterflies.

I watched the Gold Finches eat seed in the Bergamont.

I finished reading this amazing book.
I shall be following my dreams more closely.
I am beginning my dream yoga practice.

I added a new pose to my home practice.

I look forward to my yoga time each day.

I have decided to add another layer to my
Astrology studies.

Adding Celtic Astrology
will be fun.

Thirteen Moons
works for me.

Little Whys

2011-07-29T19:09:00.001-05:00

I looked back to a year ago.
I saw the Ebony Jewel Wing photographs.
I fell in love all over again.
She is amazing.
I hope to visit her soon.

I was looking to see if the Buckeye Butterflies
were here last July 29th.
They were.
We have not seen a Buckeye this year.
I wonder why.

We have packed up our July things.
We have cleaned the house.
We have decorated for August.
It did not take very long.
We worked together.

Tonight I will read the journals.
I love reading about our past Augusts.
I filled a journal last year. I have filled many.

I will begin a new journal.
I have been doing the monthly decorating for many years.
I have always kept journals.
I will work on our calendar of events for August.
We will celebrate Lammas on the 1st.
Our August theme is Sunflowers.

My husband brought up music for us to listen to in August.
The heat and humidity continues but we are finding ways
to be delighted.

Next year I am planning to have a huge Sunflower garden.
I already know where it will be.
I will need to have a fence around it to keep the Deer and Ground Hogs out. I think something decorative would be good.
Sunflowers bring a smile every time I see them.

I am working on a personal retreat.
I am thinking sometime in September would be nice.
I am planning to take a week and devote myself to meditation
and renewal for Autumn. Perhaps the weather will allow for a Prairie walk. I would love that.

Yoga continues to inform my everyday life.

I love my daily home yoga practice.
I find I am able to do more not only in the garden
but in my everyday activities.
Decorating was easy today. I was mindful of my body.

When I read The Inner Life of Asanas
I was inspired to take my practice to a deeper level.
Slowly I am understanding how a pose can teach me.
I have created a couple of my own poses.
For August I created "Sunflower."
I redid my altar for August.
I will cut a sunflower tomorrow in honor of the second New Moon
of July. I have named it the New Wise Moon.
We will celebrate.

Herbs are also a part of my every day life.
I love them.
I love learning about them.
I love growing them and harvesting them and using them.

I took the camera out into the gardens.
I had finished my work and I wanted to see bugs.
This tiny Leaf Hopper was so cute.

I was not pleased with my first set of Gray Hairstreaks.
So I went back out for another round.
One of the many joys of Summer is just popping outside
for a few minutes to take photographs.

O my second round I spotted this very different tiny bug.
I will get my insect field books out.
It will be fun seeing if I can id him.

Tiny, tiny wasp like insect in the Garden Rue.

The Road Runner is our bird for August.
It would be great fun to see one again.

Last night we watched as storm clouds gathered.
We watched the lightening after dark.
We heard an Owl hoot
three different time.

Then he flew right over our heads
and over the house.
It was magical.

101 degrees in the shade

2011-07-22T21:04:00.000-05:00

Last winter my friend sent a charm for my birthday.

I have it sitting on my sacred table.

It is a charm of the Indalo.

It is the symbol of Almeria, Spain.

For me it symbolizes the closeness I share with my friend.

She also sent me her amethyst when I was so very sick.

I am well now. I am filled with vitality.

Yet I still hold her stone every day and
give thanks for a caring friend.

I turn on the salt crystal lamp in the mornings.

It helps to keep my air clean.

My yoga nook has a few special pieces.

I have added many different Mudras to my day.

They are a gracious way to hold your hands.

They are healing too.

I have also added a few special poses to my practice.

The Swan is now part of my sequence as is the Mammoth.

I try and spend 30 minutes before my practice for reading.
I would like to add more meditation to my day.

The doTerra oils are amazing.

I use them daily in some way.

I am planning a retreat for myself.
I am thinking it will be in September.

I will include tree time and oils and special herbs.

I will be at home but I will be quiet. I will go on long walks.

I will take a break.

I bought two patterns.

I want to do some sewing.
I think a retreat outfit would be fun.

I need a new summer nightgown.

I am inside.
It is too hot outside even in the shade.

Early Morning

2011-07-15T16:22:00.001-05:00

I went out to the deck in the early morning

before it become too hot and humid to enjoy the day.

I thought of my yoga practice when I watched
the Tiger Swallowtail do an inversion.

I was so happy to see an Orange Sulphur.

I had not seen one this year.

Our new deck chairs arrived.
They are comfortable. So very nice to sit up straight with
feet flat on the deck.

Both of these books are keepers.

I shall be ordering them.

Ayurveda and Yoga are sisters.

They compliment each other.

My face is relaxed.

I look forward to my daily home yoga practice.

I am getting up early too. Early enough to see the sun rise.

It is part of the Ayurveda Way...early to rise.

Natural Surroundings

2011-07-08T18:42:00.000-05:00

Our gardens are full of Queen Ann's Lace.
It is a native wildflower.
The butterflies seem to love it.
A new to my backyard, the Olive Juniper Hairstreak stopped for a moment.

The Tawny Emperor is a regular visitor.

I have two butterfly bushes. They are not native to my area.
They do seem to be a butterfly magnet and with deadheading they bloom all season.

I love going outside when the female Tiger Swallowtail,
in her black form, is about.

I think she is lovely.

Much joy when I saw the Pipe-vine Swallowtail.

This is a male.
I can tell by the iridescent blue on his upper wings.

I collected rain water yesterday.

I added lemon and rosemary.
I shall use it for my finishing hair rinse.

I am finding a balance between native and cultivated.

I am practicing determination and resolve.
In sanskrit this is known as sankalpa.

I resolve to do my yoga every day so that
the result is experiencing ease in my body.

I have a yoga journal now
and my yoga time.

New Tiger Moon

2011-07-01T18:28:00.001-05:00

Happy New Tiger Moon!

We have a special event this month.

We will have two new moons!

Today we celebrate our first new moon the,
New Tiger Moon.

On the 30th we will celebrate the New Wise Moon.

Like two Full Moons in one month two New Moons are special.

I made some lotion this afternoon.

I used shea butter, co-conut oil, vitamin e cream and four drops of lavender oil.

I stirred it all together. I did up a couple of jars.

The Humminbird Clearwings are daily visitors.

I do enjoy the bugs.

I did a foot soak.

My Spa Friday treat.

I had a cup of tea

and a read.

I want to restart my home yoga practice.

It has been too long since I did my yoga.
I miss it.

I will set aside Yoga Time.

Healing

2011-06-24T20:04:00.091-05:00

The butterflies are so beautiful.

They have healing power for me.

Today I honor my sister.

She died on June 24th, 2000.

I miss her every day.

She sent me this postcard when she was in Denmark.

I have it on a little stand on the mantel in June.

I decorate with mermaids in June in her honor.

My daughter- in- love is a doTerra representive.

She has given me amazing Essential oils.

While visiting her and my son while on holiday I was given more healing oils. I am spoilt!

Citrus Bliss is one of my favorites.

Lavender oil is good for me!
I blend it with a carrier oil for an all over the body oil.

I love the smell of lavender.

I use the diffuser they gave me in February almost every day.

This travel case is wonderful.

It fits in my purse

and I can easily refill the bottles.

Often I need a bit of serenity while driving and remembering to

relax and breathe makes for a pleasant time where ever I may be.

I have been using the Digest-zen blend.

Just a drop does the trick. These oils are food grade. Amazing quality.

To celebrate the Summer Solstice I went in for a facial.

I decided to try a different day moisturizer.

It is nice to have a bit of color and spf 25 .

For my night cream I am using Alaffia's renewal cream.

I have found I cannot be outside as much as I would like to be.
I cannot be in the sun anymore for very long.
I cannot tolerate the heat or the humidity of summer in the mid-west.

I have been turning on the salt crystal lamp every morning.

It puts healing negative ions in the air.

I am feeling good. Happy to be home from our holiday.

My husband and I are walking again twice a day.

I am drinking my water and getting good sleep.

When I look out the backdoor and see butterflies I am so happy.

I often grab the camera and go out to the butterfly garden.

I can spend hours taking butterfly photographs.

I forget all about chores, aches and pains.

Butterflies are healing.

Earth Day

2011-04-22T10:38:00.001-05:00

It is Earth Day.

I made a rosemary infused rain water rinse for my hair.

I am studying the wildflowers

of the Tallgrass Prairie.

I saw a Baltimore Oriole on the deck this morning.
We set out more grape jelly.
Thundershowers woke me in the predawn hours.
I did not mind. Watching lighting is always thrilling.

We will wait until the ground dries a bit before planting our
sunflower seeds.

April showers do bring May flowers.

Happy Earth Day!

Rainy Day

2011-04-15T22:37:00.000-05:00

It rained all day today.
The north wind has sent the temperatures into the 30's.
It is cold. I spent the day reading and drinking tea.
I am growing Hibiscus this year for winter teas.

I have enjoyed reading about the microbes.
They are very fascinating.

I am harvesting more mint this year.
I ran out of my dried mint in January.

Cold rainy spring days are perfect for dreaming about bees

and finding the taste of place in my own backyard.

Honey

2011-04-08T19:34:00.000-05:00

Very few tulips are in the gardens.

The ones that are here have a story.

Most of my tulips

have been eaten by the squirrels.

The finches are extra bright.

Their mating plumage

is gorgeous.

I am studying the health

benefits of honey.

I am enjoying a cup of honey lemon tea

as I watch the sun set.

Red sky at night sailors delight.

Gardeners delight too.

April Fools Day

2011-04-01T20:17:00.000-05:00

I am celebrating the bee in April.
I have once again fallen in love with these amazing creatures.

We shall get our bee box ready for the Orchard Mason bees.
I am looking for a bee field guide.
There are many different types of bees.
I want to learn about all of them.

I have all sorts of bee things in my April house.
The bee plates are fun.

The bee tea towels come out in April.
The set of six are for drying dishes only!

I am trying out a new night cream.
So far I really like it.

I reading about Home spas with a French influence.

Lavender is one of my favorite herbs.
French milled soap is delightful.

The sun was out by mid morning.
It had been 10 days since I last sat out in the sun.

As the clouds blew away

I felt like a Red Tailed Hawk soaring in the warm sunshine.
Happy April.

12-15 year old me

2011-03-18T19:55:00.001-05:00

I went outside this afternoon.

I took my books to the deck.

It is beginning to green up.

The birds are delightful.

A pair of Mocking birds came for raisins.

This female Cardinal knows me. She has been around for a few years now. Her red eyebrow is her calling mark.

I am slowly finishing my study of Wales for this year and beginning my study of all things French.

I am almost finished with my Merlin shows from BBC.

I will wait for the next season to begin.

I recently realized the Ayruveda way is passed down from Mother to daughter.

My Mother did not pass these ways down to me.

My Mother was busy with her own agenda and did not have time to help me find my way.

I have always been self taught.

I decided to read a couple of books about the Middle School years with the idea of re-parenting my inner 12-15 year old.

I am learning so much!

I am opening my heart to my passions.

I remember myself as a twelve year old, just beginning to bud,

emerging like so many lovely Spring plants are right now.

I remember loving beautiful jewelry

and nature.

I wanted to travel when I was young.

Now I can.

In Aries I will be allowing my 12-15 year old to have Fridays as her day to explore, to have adventures with a loving caring adult

to guide and support. Fridays shall be my dream days and spa days. Fridays are for my 12-15 year old to come out and play.

This shall be interesting!

Finishing Touches

2011-03-11T19:48:00.000-06:00

I am still finding fun finishing touches.
I filled a lovely crystal jar with my morning oils.

I so enjoy using my oils!

Twenty-four white roses finished my tables in the living room and dining room. They look beautiful!

A dish garden was just the perfect Spring touch for the deck.

I use coconut oil for hand lotion.
I have a small pot of it on my desk.
Off and on during the day I oil up.

Each night I have been brushing my hair
100 strokes with a natural boar bristle brush.
After my brushing I massage my scalp and hair
with babasu oil.
This morning I decided to use a tiny bit of oil
on my natural bristle round brush.
A nice finish to my morning style.

I began a 5 minute, 3 times a day, exercise
routine. I simply fast dance about for 5 minutes
while my tea steeps.
Just five minutes, three times every day.
I was so surprised when I saw this book at the library.
I am looking forward to reading about other quick ways of
adding energy to my day!

I continue my study of Wales and her people.
This new translation of the epic poem
Preiddeu Annwfyn
is presented line by line with references
and gorgeous paintings.
The finishing touch to my own Grail Quest.

New Clover Moon

2011-03-04T16:33:00.000-06:00

Today we celebrate the New Clover Moon.

I press clovers to use on cards.

In March my house has lots of clovers dancing about.

We have had thundershowers today.
It has been so dark I have had to turn on a few lights.

I have been listening to music from Wales.

My soul has been refreshed.

I have been touched
by an Angel.

I have been reading this afternoon,

getting to know the Welsh by their
legends.

I do love rainy days.
These end of Winter rainy days
are Dragon Days for me.

I am wrapped in my blanket
with a cup of tea.

It is a Wabi Sabi
sort of day.

Smiling

2011-02-25T13:47:00.002-06:00

The Robins were looking for food.

I stood at the backdoor

and smiled.

All the birds are delightful.

The ice

and snow

brought many birds to the feeders.

I am so very fond
of White Throated Sparrow.

The Carolina Wren sang

as more and more Cardinals came for seed.

My smile grew

until I was laughing.

The birds filled me with
awe.

Gaining Strength

2011-02-18T17:58:00.000-06:00

I am back walking!
It feels great too.
I am not up to my 1 1/2 hours a day just yet but I am working
on gaining strength.

I am feeling better each day.
I am 98% well. A tiny bit of tightness in my chest remains.
The pneumonia wore me down a bit but I am bouncing back!

I have added 20 minutes of meditation to my afternoon.
Twenty minutes of outside quiet time with the birds.

I am restored and refreshed from being in the silence
and in the sun.

The Neti pot is helping my congestion.
I am so happy to be feeling better.

Healing mist

2011-02-11T17:04:00.000-06:00

My son and daughter-in-love sent a beautiful diffuser

and healing oils.

The mist is amazing.

I love this scent she blended.

I have been turning the diffuser on three times a day
while sitting at the kitchen table and reading.
I am sure the mist has helped in my recovery.

Today I went out for the first time in weeks.
I went for a hair cut and facial.
It felt great to have some spa activity.

When I was sick it was suggested to me to get
a Neti pot to help with congestion.
After reading about the benefits of the Neti
I decided to get one.

I shall add this to my morning routine.

Last night while relaxing
I hand stitched two wool hearts
and filled them with roving that I had soaked in rose oil.
February is heart health month.
Holding hands with my husband keeps my
heart in perfect health.

Scented hearts under our pillows is divine!
I think I will do up a few more hearts.
One in my purse would be nice.
Oxytocin is released by touching and scent.

I sat in the sun for a little
while this afternoon.

I could feel the
Vitamin D!

There is a pair of
Yellow-shafted Flickers
that have begun to court in my backyard.
The Carolina Wrens
and the Northern Cardinals have begun
their morning song.
Snow still lays on the ground but it is melting.

A strong breeze came up just when the Crows were
returning to their roost.
Time for me to go in and have a cup of tea.

Healing

2011-02-04T13:54:00.000-06:00

It has been a very long illness.

The pneumonia has left me tired.
I am determined to be well!

I have my Ayurveda books open.

When I can spend time in the sunshine
on the deck with the birds

I feel well.

The Carolina Wren
sang the sweetest song.

The snow is blue,

as below so above.

Taking a break

2011-01-14T21:37:00.000-06:00

I enjoy my afternoon tea.

I am reading and sipping my tea.

I am relaxing.

The Art of Tea

2011-01-07T18:44:00.002-06:00

We shopped at the Chinese market today.
We bought our January tea.

I am grateful for this refreshment.

As I take care of my hands and feet

I am mindful of all the places my feet have taken me;
I am mindful of all the work my hands have performed.

Kuan Yin is the Goddess
I study in January.
Thich Nhat Hanh inspires me this month.

Everyday Wabi Sabi

2010-12-31T14:31:00.000-06:00

Everyday I live the
Wabi Sabi way.

My meals

are now plant based.

Living mindfully and

living at one with nature,

is living

in bliss.

Happy New Year.

Spaing on Christmas Eve

2010-12-24T14:47:00.001-06:00

I am adding aspects of the microbiotic diet
to my daily meals.

Denny Waxman, the author of The Great Life Diet,
has a seven step program that incorporates Ayurveda teachings.
The first step is "Take time for your meals everyday".
It is suggested we spend at least 20 minutes sitting with our meal. By being mindful of our meal we will relax and enjoy our food helping each bite nourish us. Following step one is helping me with digestion. He also suggests we stop eating 3 hours before laying down for sleep. Another Ayurveda teaching.

I am taking care of my hands and

learning to relax.

I am walking every day
and becoming stronger with every step.
I have never thought of myself as an athlete
but this book is encouraging me think differently.
I shall be thinking about what being an athlete means.

Spa Friday

2010-12-17T14:45:00.002-06:00

Once again I am spaing on Fridays.

Last year I made a commitment myself that I would take excellent care of my hair.
For 365 nights I brushed my hair with my natural boor bristle brush 100 strokes. I oiled my hair afterwards with babassu seed oil. My hair has never been more healthy. This is a habit now.
I don't think I could sleep if I didn't brush my hair.

I am ready to make another commitment to my body care program.
I am ready to add abhyanga, self massage, to my daily routine.

I am gathering information.
Deciding on my oils.

I think mornings would be best.

I will make infused oils and find pretty bottles
to store them in.

I used to think taking care of myself was pampering.

Now I see that it is the best way
to maintain good health.

I am reading cookbooks
and drinking my water.

I like some of these beauty secrets.
Mink oil is recommended.
I will do some research before I buy any.
I will see if I want to put mink oil on my skin.

My nails become so very brittle in the winter.
I have begun to oil them.
Sweet Almond oil is what I am using right now.
I will be making hand cream this coming week with co-conut oil.
I am back spaing.
It feels good.
I have made a commitment
to The Ayurveda Way.
Friday is my day to share with you.

Good Morning

2009-08-07T13:17:00.002-05:00

On Fridays in August I am treating
myself to a Spa Day at home.

My new book arrived just in time.

I had read this book from the library and loved it so much I ordered it.

I am learning all about hair care. One of the books I read said to treat your hair like you would fine silk. I like that idea. It said never to wash your hair in hot water. It suggested shampoo should be used sparingly and a small dot on the palm first than gently on the hair.
I am working on making my own shampoo. I grow soapwort. It is has pretty pink flower in the spring. The low growing habit makes it a perfect herb to grow in my butterfly garden.

I gathered rain water for my rince.
I used my Rosemary and the rain water.
Very nice.

Rose water makes a nice refresher spray on hot afternoons too.

I sprayed my hair with some this afternoon.

I think I will go spin for awhile and listen to some music!

Mint

2009-08-04T11:33:00.014-05:00

I am working with mint this week.

I am making mint syrup.

I harvested 36 stems and stripped the lower leaves off.

The stems with blooms went into vases.

The rest of the stems will be little stir sticks for my tea and coffee.

I cut up 1 cup of mint leaves

and added to them 1 cup of unbleached sugar and 1 cup of water.

On low heat I stirred until the sugar was dissolved.

I cooked the mint sugar for five minutes never allowing the mixture to boil.

I removed the pan from the heat and let the syrup cool

to room temperature.

While the syrup cooled I gathered my container and my cork.

I decided to make a top for the cork from a shank button
that was in my Grandmother's button box.
I cut out a tiny hole in the cork and filled it with household glue.
I wiggled the shank into the glued hole and let it dry.

I strained the syrup, saving my sugared mint.

I use this recipe for all my syrups. I substitute different herbs.

Lavender and rose make lovely syrups.

I patted the sugared mint out on a piece of wax paper.

After it hardens I will break it into little pieces.

It will be mint candy, a pretty garnish.

I use the syrup for many sweeting needs.

It is delicious in tea and my iced coffees.

It is wonderful as the sweetener for lime aides or lemon aides.

Also delicious in yogurt and over pancakes!

I store the syrups in the refrigerator.
They are so pretty I use them at the table too!

My next mint project is to make mint infused oils!

It is mint time at my house.

Lip Pots

2009-07-10T15:15:00.004-05:00

I needed more rose water
and my nightime oil bottle was almost empty.

Both would be easy to make in the kitchen.

My nighttime oil is Vitamin E and vitamin C mixed together.
The lemon oil is the vitamin C part of my recipe. It is easy to do up a bottle.
It will last me three months as long as I keep it out of the light.
It is my nighttime face treatment since
Vitamin E and Vitamin C are affected by light.
I wear a cream with sunscreen for daytime.
For less than $10.oo I have a lovely nightime treatment.
I sometimes will add lavender oil if I am having trouble sleeping.

My lip pot was almost empty.
I have been planning on making my lip gloss.
I want to make all my cosmetics when I have a studio.
Today I decided I was not waiting for a studio or a still room.
I wanted to make my lip treatment today!

I rounded up the supplies, I put on my apron.

I stirred some Rosemary oil into the Shea Butter.

I filled the little pots.

This is nice for cuticles too.

I have the poppy pot on my desk.

As soon as I need creams I shall make them.

I just need to find pretty jars!

That was very fun.

Wellness

2009-04-27T13:59:00.009-05:00

My dear friend sent her healing way.
Her love is guiding me to trust my inner wisdom.
I have asked the Oak Tree that grows in my yard for healing.

My Doctor has suggested I return to my yoga practice.
When I found this darling book at the bookstore I decided

I could get back into my routine at home.

I feel comfortable in my kitchen.

I am learning to savor.

I am using my sand timer to help me

spend at least 20 minutes enjoying my meals.

My doctor has prescribed two more books.

This one is to help me with my anxiety.
I have begun a study, complete with a high lighter and note taking.

From the library I have a few
food and health books.

While shopping for my great niece's first birthday gift

I found a book for me.

Something for my little inner "French child."

I am writing and reading and working on wellness.

Thank you for you kind support.

I am having fun while learning to be the best I can be.

Being Fit!

2009-04-09T20:15:00.007-05:00

I am learning how to be slim and trim.

I am learning how to relax and release stress.

I am learning how to let go of anxiety.

I am developing my own program.

I am honoring my green, natural ways.

I am celebrating who I am.

I still fix my morning tray.

I still follow my Ayurveda Way.

I am adding in some Western Ways.

I am under Doctor's care.
I am in a partnership.

I have a goal.

I am putting together my team of healers.

I am building my support.

I fixed an afternoon tray.

I am keeping a detailed food journal,
recording not only what I eat but when and where and how I feel.

My digestion is improving.

I refilled my tea chest.

My friend sent me a card. She addressed it to "Butterfly Woman."

I feel as I have been in a cocoon.
I feel as if I am emerging.

I am shopping for a yoga class. I am shopping for a cooking class.

I may need to get my beret out!
Adding a lovely French twist to my eastern way is fun!

Products

2009-02-19T16:09:00.002-06:00

I added a few drops of lavender oil

to my unscented lamp oil.

The smell is relaxing.

I have been trying out a new product line.

The company seems to be responsible; aware of the enviroment and fair with their labor practices.

Their products are all organic.

I am very plesed with each of the products I am using.

I am looking forward to when my stone crop is in season.

I want to make a serum for my face.

Stone crop is the same as sediums.

I grow lots of sediums!

Listening

2009-01-22T15:24:00.001-06:00

I have been listening to my body.
Sleeping when I need rest.
Walking and getting exercise as I am able.
I started desiring the taste of peppermint and licorice.

I was so pleased when I found licorice pastilles

and liquid stevia with peppermint!

I am smitten with peppermint coffee!
I add a few drops of the stevia to my non-fat dry milk and stir into my coffee.
Delicious!

In the evening I have a pot of tea!
I add my lavender and rosemary to the tea pot for a delightful blend.

I am feeling better.

I am listening to my body.

Blue-Green Algae

2008-09-08T17:05:00.004-05:00

Lake Klamath in Oregon, is the source of a fantastic super food
I have begun to take.

My doctor suggested I read this book

and try Blue-Green Algae.

The one I am taking is from Klamath Lake in Oregon.

I am impressed with this super food.

I am impressed with this beautiful lake!

Exercise

2008-06-02T17:02:00.002-05:00

To stay in balance we need to give our
bodies proper exercise.
I like to walk.

Dr. Nancy suggests we walk 20 minutes in the morning
and 20 minutes in the evening.
The problem is having the energy for walking.
When I do not feel good it is hard to get out and walk.
Keeping my motivation up can be the deciding factor on if I go walking or not.
Knowing you are walking with me helps.
Thank you!
Once I go walking I feel much better.
My husband walks with me at twilight.
I do enjoy our walking and talking time.

I am still walking in place each time I go into the bathroom.
I am up to 3 minutes of fast paced walking in place.
I do this once an hour from 7am to 5pm.
30 minutes every day.
Today I added weights to my walking in place.
I also brought out my wrist weights to wear around the house
and when I go outside walking.
Dr. Nancy suggests weight baring exercise as part of a
prevention program for osteoporosis.
As I am able I am adding to my exercise program.

What type of exercise do you like?

I am almost finished reading Ageless Woman.
Next on my desk is Home Remedies.

Having support is important.

Each month I recevie an Ayurveda newsletter.

I enjoy the articles and feel support in my new way.

The Ageless Woman

2008-05-22T10:32:00.003-05:00

Dr Nancy Lonsdorf's teleconference last night
was very informative. I took notes.
I ordered her book, "The Ageless Woman:
Natural Health and Beauty After Forty"

Yesterday while shopping with a girlfriend I found this little lotus candle holder.
I decided I needed a blessing candle for me.
I lit my candle this morning and set my intention for today,
"I am healthy and filled with vitality."

I turned the kettle on and boiled my water for five minutes.
Dr. Nancy suggested we boil our water for five minutes to remove impurities and give a lightness to our water. I use filtered water but I still boiled for five minutes.
This is new information for me.

Sipping warm water during the day not only helps with digestion but also with weight loss. Warm or hot water is known as "silver tea". It is very comforting and delicious!

Dr. Nancy told of a lady that worked in her office that lost 99 pounds in three years.
She started her weight loss with sipping warm water throughout the day.
The warm water took away the craving for sugar.

I keep my hot water in my 64 oz. stainless steel carafe.
A stainless steel thermos would be nice to take with me when I leave on errands.
I have one in my road trip things.
I could refill my stainless steel travel mug as I go about my day away from home.
I will get it out and cleaned up so it is ready to go!
It will be so nice to have my water with me.

I will drink two carafes of water before I go to bed tonight,
45 oz of this water will be used for my echinacea tea.
I am building up my immune system.
I also will drink a pitcher of lemon water today.

I am flushing ama, toxins.
I am gaining vitality.

I am feeling better.

I check my water intake twice a month just to make sure I am getting enough.

Are you too getting plenty of water?

Abhyanga

2008-05-20T16:06:00.001-05:00

"Ayurvedic skin care begins with abhyanga,
a therapeutic self-applied oil massage that nourishes the skin."
Inner Beauty

I am using an oil I bought while at the Raj.

When I am finished with it I will make my own.

Vata Abhyanga Oil

1 cup sesame oil

1/4 cup mixed herbs: turmeric-root powder,

fresh ginger. lotus root, fresh basil, cloves and fresh orange peel

Essential Oil: jasmine, basil, orange or rose

In a small saucepan, heat the oil gently until just to boil.

Stir in the herbs and remove from heat.

Cover and steep for one to two days.

Strain the oil into an air tight container.

Add 5-8 drops of single or mixed essential oil.

This daily massage routine takes five minutes.

I am currently under the care of a massage therapist.
She is teaching me some self massage techniques.
She is helping my connective tissues heal.

Connecting with you is healing.

Breathe

2008-04-16T12:10:00.003-05:00

Each morning I practice conscience breathing.
I greet the day with gratitude and a deep breath.
I release negativity as I exhale.

I am aware that my resting breathing is shallow.
Off and on during the day I will stop and take a few deep breaths.
I fill my lungs and enjoy the oxygen rush!

As I exhale I think of all the impurities I am releasing.

I inhale and hold my breathe for a count of five.
I exhale for a count of ten.

Conscience breathing is good for digestion.

Water

2008-04-03T12:31:00.002-05:00

When I stayed at the Raj I was given a folder with lots of information in it.
The handout about water is very interesting.

Water Facts

Experts recommend our daily intake of water should be half our body weight in ounces
( 140 pounds = 70 ounces).

Lack of water is the number one trigger for daytime fatigue.

A mere 2% drop in body water can trigger fuzzy short-term memory,
trouble with basic math, difficulty focusing on the computer screen.

In 37% of Americans the body's thirst mechanism is so weak that it is often mistaken for hunger.

Even mild dehydration will slow down one's metabolism as much as 3%.

I am good on drinking my water each day.
I trained myself years ago to make sure I stay hydrated.
I have a filter system on my kitchen tap so I am drinking filtered water.
I have a stainless steel water canteen I carry when I run errands.
No plastic bottles!

In the Ayurveda way we are to drink our water room temperature
or warm. No iced or cold water. Cold drinks are difficult for digestion.
I became used to this while I was away.
My program also includes lemons in my water which I really enjoy.

I also am to drink 6 cups of barley water every day.

According to the Raj
barley water is my great friend in the weight loss process.

Barley water:

*Satisfies hunger
*Reduces cravings
*Extracts toxins from deep within the tissues
*Eliminates toxins through the urinary tract
*Is diuretic
*Relieves fluid retention
*Balance Kapha
*Helps metabolize and eliminate fat
*Promotes weight loss

Note: Do not drink after 6pm to avoid disturbing sleep due to the diuretic effect.

Recipe: Boil one handful of whole grain (not "pealed") barley in 6 cups of water for 15 minutes. Strain the barley out and pour the water into a thermos. Drink the water through out the day.

I pour mine into a pitcher.

Some people need rice water.
It is high in nutrition.

Not on my plan.

This morning it is cold and rainy.
It is dark and dreary.
I decided to do up a tray for myself.
Something pretty for my water.
I started off my morning with refreshing lemon water. Good for elimination.
Once the barley water cooled I began drinking it.
I use a glass drinking straw.
By lunch time I was back drinking lemon water.

This morning I lit my candle and sent blessings to those who are thirsty.
I gave thanks for my water.

The Day Starts the Night Before

2008-04-02T12:05:00.000-05:00

In Ayurveda there is a saying,
"The day starts the night before."
A good night's rest makes for a good next day.

It is suggested to go to bed during Kapha time, before 10 pm, and arise before 6am, in Vata time. By giving our bodies this 8 hour rest period we are giving our bodies the best opportunity for daily rejuvenation. Sleeping during Pitta time, 10pm-2am, is sleeping during the best time for our metabolism to clean the body of toxins and impurities.
I remember, "Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise."
I like getting up with the birds. Going to bed "on time" has taken me awhile to adjust to.

I have been working on getting the bedroom as pleasant as possible.
I ordered two sets of organic bamboo sheets. They are soft and comfortable. I also found a silk blanket that is warm and not too heavy. I am thinking about ordering a Spring nightgown and robe set. Keeping my night dress comfortable and pretty is one way to get me to get ready for bed early! I like this company. I like their oragnic products and their commitment to fair trade. Gaiam Living often inspires me!

I have cleaned and scrubbed and organized the bedroom. It is one of my favorite rooms now. I almost always have a flower on my night stand and some lavender under my pillow.We set up the night stands with reading lamps. My husband set up a small cd player on the lower shelf of one of the nightstands. We listen to music and read each night before shutting off the lights. I look forward to getting ready for bed. I love our daily down time.

To make my breakfast easier I bought a small, 1.5 quart, slow cooker.
My breakfast is a cooked apple or cooked pear. I get this ready the night before. I just wash my fruit piece, add a handful of raisins and a cinnamon stick, cover with water. When My husband gets up he turns the cooker on high. My fruit is ready in a couple of hours. This is so easy and I look forward to breakfast every morning now.

I am supposed to have a cup of tea first thing each morning. Waiting on the kettle was a bother. I bought two carafes, one for hot water and one for coffee.
Before I go to bed each night I boil up some water and fill the silver carafe. It is still hot in the morning. My husband leaves me a cup of hot coffee in the black stainless steel carafe.
I am learning how to enjoy getting ready for bed and the next morning.

I receive a news letter every month called, Namaste.

It is written by Deepah Chopra. This month it is about Doshas and the Ayruveda Way.

Do you have a night time routine? Do you have a bed time?

Learning the way

2008-04-01T20:20:00.000-05:00

Three years ago I bought a book.
I began learning about the Ayurveda life style.

In March I went to the Raj for a
Spring Rejuvenation.

I bought a cook book while I was there.

I made the commitment to live this beautiful way of life.

There is lots to learn.

May we learn together.