Mercury Retrograde

So Mercury is Retrograde until Sept. 29th. I'm not highly educated in astrology and all the different factors that have an effect on things. However, whenever Mercury goes Retrograde I can't help but take notice.....
One of the side effects is that mechanical things don't work well or break: like the chainsaw we needed to cut & clear the MONSTER pecan limb that "self-pruned" smack dab in the entrance to the parking area at the shop, my business Internet modem, my husband's rig, and my daughters car (that was just today).
Another side-effect is communication failure. That can mean communication devices such as my Internet- telephone problems- and worst of all poor communication or mis-communication between people (the ones I've witnessed or heard tell of today are too numerous to mention)
I have to say that just being aware that things like these tend to happen during this time period, relieves some of the stress it causes. I attempt to couple this awareness with a sense -of-humor, and visualizing the 29th as a "light at the end of the tunnel". It's not a cure-all, however it helps me retain my sanity!

I create my life by constant awareness & choice-Remember??

I remember Labor Day weekend 30 years ago. It put into motion the "creation" of many people and things that shape my life today.
I did not have the awareness at that time of how that weekend would be a turning point of my life. I was indeed, caught in the moment- the sights, sounds, excitement and wonder of it all. Even the elements of the "unknown" and "change", fearlessly fueled my limitless attitude. Everything that was "put into motion" that weekend has created some of the most precious and long-lasting blessings in my life. This reflection has been a reminder to me that however we choose to create our experiences -either with positive or negative , high or low, energy- sets the tone for the rewards we will reap. Much like a "domino" effect.
What are we consciously or blindly attracting or creating everyday in our life by our thoughts , words, actions & attitudes....?
What energy do we emanate? Is it positive or negative? Are we aware that a look, expression, or word can change the lives of others??
Are we rushing so quickly toward the future that we have forgotten the importance of the moments that create that future?
Those "memories" that bring us fond feelings of joy, love & security are right in the here and now. We create them in each "moment" of our life.We should enjoy them in that "moment" before they become filed away as a "memory".
Is your brain racing ahead of you? Call it back. Enlist All your senses: Look at what is around you- choose to create it as beauty or not- really hear the sounds -make them music or mayhem- feel the energy you are projecting- is it centered or chaotic?
Taste this moment and make it sweet. Blessings~

Blessings come in many forms.....

Today was not what most people would call a particular "Prosperous" day at Cassy's.
However, it was filled with many blessings throughout the day. For me it was the perfect awareness of when you send out Light & Blessings- it circles back around. And today it seemed that the energy came full circle for many people who "stopped by" in many wonderful exchanges; gifts of plants, rocks, old friends & new ones, hugs, knowledge, gratitude, healing, friendship, hope, joy, laughter, & new opportunities to give and share even more "blessings". (and I can't forget the box of doughnuts either!!)
Whenever one of the men at the prison has a wonderful "blessing" come to them in some form or fashion(usually in the form of a renewed connection to loved ones) I remind them that the Light and Blessings that they have been putting forth has in turn "blessed" them.
So for every blessing that was given and received today, I give gratitude.
Blessings to you today and everyday~

Snail Mail Blessing.....

As a fully ordained Golden Eagle Minister, I have been serving the past 3 years as a volunteer chaplain in a Native American designated Texas men's prison. Twice a month, I drive 2 hours one way to meet friend of mine and we co-facilitate Native American Spiritual Circles and Educational classes. It's a full day that begins before daybreak and comes to conclusion long after the sun has set.....It has brought many challenges, opportunities for growth, rewards and blessings to both us and the almost 100 inmates that are now a part of our program.

Today when I opened my mail- it was a blessing. One of our members that had been transferred out several months ago to start his "out-processing" had written to let me know that after 17 years of being incarcerated, he is out and starting his" New Beginning". A place to live, a part time job, and enrollment in a technical college has already been put into motion.

As spiritual "clan mother" which is sometimes likened to "den mother" to these men, the feeling I have upon their release is much like the same one I am experiencing as my young adult children venture off to "make their way" in the world..... Joy and excitement for the new opportunities that life has to offer them, mixed with apprehension and nagging questions; "Have I given them the tools to succeed on their journey...." "Will they continue hold their spiritual walk as a priority in their earth walk..." "Do they have what it takes to rise above adversity & remain in the Light..."

Of course I know the answers to these questions are the same for both parties; I have fulfilled my direct role to the best of my ability , now I need to move into the role of "support" and let them maneuver their own course. They, like the rest of us, are the creators of their personal "walk" in life, and any choices they make are they're own. I pray that they all be led to what is in their Highest and Best interest. May we all " Walk in Beauty" Blessings~

How the #$(( did I get HERE???

It occurred to me today that those following this blog may find a brief explanation helpful, in understanding what in the world I am doing transplanted in what some refer to as the "buckle" of the bible belt....
Being raised from age 7-17 years by an "unconventional" single -parent father. I was introduced to many places, people, and experiences across the U.S. that many people do not even experience in an entire lifetime. My father was drawn to what many "mainstream" people would refer to as the "fringe" in society. From the leftover beatnik from the 60's that lived on the beach in Santa Barbara, CA, to the young couple from Australia bicycling across the U.S.. All were offered a meal, conversation, and sometimes a place to lay their bedroll for the night. My father had the gift not only to recognize the uniqueness of those following a path of their own creation, but also the appreciation such a venture deserves. He himself had never been a "follower" or a "leader", he was just a "doer". A creator of his own life path and experiences.
We travelled extensively throughout those years- many places, many schools, many different living amenities- Be it tent, trailer, or beautiful home- we "experienced" it all . We "rooted" in New Mexico- I started and finished high school there, so that is where "home" resides in my heart.
At 17 I decided to follow my own path to Texas and nurture a relationship with the wisest, most spiritual woman I have ever known, my Mother. College. Marriage. Children. Divorce. Various Careers, and eventually partnering with my Mother in a spiritually - minded venture geared at supporting people on whatever spiritual path they have chosen to their Higher Power- all followed for these past 26 years.
My Mother told me once that she asked in meditation- "why Texas?" and the answer she received was "Because this is where you are needed..."
My Mother transitioned several years ago, along with most all of my family here. There are days I ponder how much "easier" it would be to express myself in a different geographical area where people are less judgemental and more accepting of each other's choices of personal relationship with the Creator. However,for now, I feel like Mother did. This is where I am needed. I shall continue to nurture and grow my personal relationship with the Creator, and support others in theirs. I honor both my parents in expressing the strength and courage they instilled in me to create my own path, and I honor and appreciate all of you that are creating yours...... Blessings.