deviantART: by:mombeam

deviantART: by:mombeam http://search.deviantart.com/?q=by:mombeam&section=today deviantART RSS for by:mombeam en-us Copyright 2009, deviantART.com Sun, 29 Nov 2009 00:44:56 PST deviantART.com http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss http://s.deviantart.com/minish/widgets/apple-touch-icon-precomposed.png To my American Friends - Happy Thanksgiving http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/28576839/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/28576839/ Wed, 25 Nov 2009 20:26:14 PST

May your Thanksgiving fill your hearts with contentment and peace.

Blessings to you and yours for a healthy, happy and safe Holiday.

Love,
Vena

]]> =mombeam Spreading Love Effortlessly - Kindness http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/28325862/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/28325862/ Fri, 13 Nov 2009 03:27:34 PST
The components of kindness are compassion, respect, and generosity. Put simply, kindness is the conscious act of engaging others in a positive way without asking whether those individuals deserve to be treated kindly. All living beings thrive on kindness. A single, sincere compliment can turn a personÂs entire world around. Holding a door or thanking someone who has held a door for you can inspire others to practice politeness and make already kind individuals feel good about their efforts. Smiling at people you meetÂeven those who make you feel like frowningÂcan turn a dreary encounter into a delightful one, for both of you. Every kind act has a positive influence on the individual who has performed said act as well as on the recipient, regardless of whether the act is acknowledged. Kindness brings about more kindness and slowly but surely takes a positive toll on humanity.

Weaving the thread of kindness into your everyday life can be as easy as choosing to offer a hearty ÂGood morningÂ and ÂGood nightÂ to your coworkers or neighbors, a stranger on the street, or the grocery store clerk. When you commit a kind act, you are momentarily disconnected from your ego and bonded with the individual who has benefited from your kindness. Being fully present in each moment of your life facilitates kindness as it increases your awareness of the people around you. YouÂll discover that each act of kindness you engage in makes the world, in some small way, a better place.

~ The Daily Om

]]> =mombeam Lest We Forget http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/28284652/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/28284652/ Wed, 11 Nov 2009 04:13:23 PST
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved, and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
Â Lt.-Col. John McCrae (1872 - 1918)

... ]]> =mombeam The Wooden Bowl http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/27958651/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/27958651/ Sun, 25 Oct 2009 11:46:27 PDT
a month from now,
a year from now......

A frail old man went to live with his son, daughter-in-law, and four-year-old grandson.
The old man's hands trembled, his eyesight was blurred, and his step faltered

The family ate together at the table. But the elderly grandfather's shaky hands and
failing sight made eating difficult. Peas rolled off his spoon onto the floor.
When he grasped the glass, milk spilled on the tablecloth.

The son and daughter-in-law became irritated with the mess.
'We must do something about father,' said the son.
'I've had enough of his spilled milk, noisy eating, and food on the floor.'

So the husband and wife set a small table in the corner.
There, Grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner.
Since Grandfather had broken a dish or two, his food was served in a wooden bowl.

When the family glanced in Grandfather's direction, sometimes he had a tear in his eye as he sat alone.
Still, the only words the couple had for him were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food.

The four-year-old watched it all in silence..

One evening before supper, the father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the floor.
He asked the child sweetly, 'What are you making?' Just as sweetly, the boy responded,
'Oh, I am making a little bowl for you and Mama to eat your food in when I grow up.
' The four-year-old smiled and went back to work.

The words so struck the parents so that they were speechless. Then tears started to stream down their cheeks. Though no word was spoken, both knew what must be done.

That evening the husband took Grandfather's hand and gently led him back to the family table.
For the remainder of his days he ate every meal with the family. And for some reason,
neither husband nor wife seemed to care any longer when a fork was dropped, milk spilled, or the tablecloth soiled.

On a positive note, I've learned that, no matter what happens, how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.

I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles four things:
a rainy day, the elderly, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights.

I've learned that making a 'living' is not the same thing as making a 'life..'

I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance.

I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands.You need to be able to throw something back sometimes.

I've learned that if you pursue happiness, it will elude you
But, if you focus on your family, your friends, the needs of others,
your work and doing the very best you can, happiness will find you

I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision.

I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one.

I've learned that every day, you should reach out and touch someone.

People love that human touch -- holding hands, a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.

I've learned that I still have a lot to learn.

~ Anonymous

]]> =mombeam What DOES dA do for me and, why am I here. http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/27729834/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/27729834/ Mon, 12 Oct 2009 16:09:56 PDT

I was out to dinner with a dear friend a few weeks ago and the subject of dA came up. A women completely immersed in the confines of everything internet. She is a journalist, teacher and avid student of life itself. Her life is the computer and she is always interested in why people do what they do or play where they play on the internet. So she was eager to know of Deviant Art and what is was all about.

I proceeded to give her my very best sell (probably should be left to those that really know what they are talking about) and inform her of the workings of dA.

After telling her it is the largest on line art community in the world and all the facts, figures and numbers, she pushed further. She was curious in the obvious, but she was seeking more. She was more interested to know what drew me here and why I speak about dA in this animated and very excited way.

She repeated her question, ÂVena, what does dA do for you and why are you a part of itÂ - so now, I answer from my heart.

I began my story. I came to dA 20 months ago, at a time when I was lost, hiding from the world and most probably depressed. I was encouraged, more than once, to come here by my lovely daughter Danielle $Moonbeam13 I finally accepted, because I had always heard the excitement in her voice when she spoke of this ÂwonderÂ community and the job she loved. I knew, given the fact I was basically computer illiterate (banging away at the keyboard does not constitute knowledge) that, with her guidance and support, I could venture into this place that I was unsure of. As she was so enamored by this wonderful place she worked at - she felt I too could benefit from the amazing people and community here.

So, here I was at 54 trying to pretend I know how to use the computer Haha! and delving into a place that pretty much scared me. Since I had been disconnected from people for so long, I was unsure what I would find on the other end of this screen. In short steps, I began my love affair with dA and, as scared and insecure as I was, I was totally embraced by the love and community spirit here. I quickly found I was back to writing (something I did many years ago) and through my writing and desire to be positive for everyone here, I found myself again. As well I started finding my spirit and laughter, that had become so well hidden in the black hole of my heart.

Since losing my Mom two years ago and with that, my immediate family - brothers and sister-in laws as well their children, I was finding it hard to dig myself out of my funk. It has taken me a long time to get past the hurt and sadness and to finally be able to recognize that others do not define me and, that sometimes family is not the obvious, sometimes it is made up of what has been nurtured from other places. And often that is so much better than what you were given coming into this world and that is okay.

Well, Danielle was right, this was a wonderful place for me to be, at the most perfect time. I found a new home, security, a multitude of wonderful new friends, a community and most importantly a purpose.

In effect, dA became my life saver as well, my new family. This is a family that allows me to be who I am on any given day. A family that laughs with me, that cries with me, that encourages me, that supports me, that shares with me and most of all, doesnÂt judge me, you just accept me for who I am. It just canÂt get any better than that.

And for this my Dear friends and loved ones, I am forever thankful, blessed and humbled for each and every one of you. I thank you for helping me open my heart again, to once again feel alive and to be in love with my life again. I can only hope I give to you, as much as you give to me.

I look forward to many years together.

To my Canadian friends, Happy Thanksgiving .......

To all of you ..... thank you from the bottom of my heart .....

Blessings, love & many, many hugs

Vena

]]> =mombeam Help Send Eric to Australia http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/27721694/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/27721694/ Mon, 12 Oct 2009 08:40:07 PDT

We all know the great work he did with the Snow Leopards Trust Fund ~HeWhoWalksWithTigers and now, after reading his story, I am totally amazed with all the other incredible work he has done. I encourage you to also take a moment to get to know this lovely man. Please read his journal, watch his video entry, spread the word, and more importantly VOTE ..... He needs our support

The world needs more people like Eric and I would love to see him win this opportunity to make a lifelong dream come true.

[link]

Love & Hugs to All !!!!

]]> =mombeam Leaving .... On a Jet Plane ... Don't Know When... http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/27522814/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/27522814/ Thu, 01 Oct 2009 14:24:52 PDT

Oh yes I do know when

...... I'll be back next Wednesday .....

I am truly working on getting caught up with all of you - really I am however, tonight I'm off to see my beloved Toronto Maple Leaf's home opener - Go Leafs Go!!!!!

Yes kids, the season has started

Then tomorrow morning I'm off to Florida for some fun in the sun with a girlfriend. Hmmm!!!! This is all sounding quite divine.

Until next week, play nice in the sand box and I'm sending you all lots of love, hugs and prayers.

Mombeam aka Vena

]]> =mombeam Mommys Got A Brand New Avatar http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/27293525/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/27293525/ Sat, 19 Sep 2009 05:26:06 PDT

Many thanks to my dear friend `Lauraest for this wonderful gift and, always taking the time to make me look good

I just love this one Laura

And I love you

]]> =mombeam Congratulations Danielle and Rob http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/27195938/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/27195938/ Sun, 13 Sep 2009 17:15:44 PDT

$Moonbeam13 and *gimp

For completing the 60km journey for the Weekend to End Breast Cancer ..... Great Job!!!!!

You both ROCK!!! and I'm so very proud of you - as would Grandma be.

Bless you for your spirit and commitment. I love you xoxoxoxo

]]> =mombeam The House of 1,000 Mirrors - Japanese Folktale http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/26540547/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/26540547/ Wed, 12 Aug 2009 03:18:48 PDT

Long ago in a small, far away village, there was place
known as the House of 1,000 Mirrors. A small, happy little
dog learned of this place and decided to visit. When he
arrived, he bounced happily up the stairs to the doorway of
the house. He looked through the doorway with his ears
lifted high and his tail wagging as fast as it could.

To his great surprise, he found himself staring at 1,000
other happy little dogs with their tails wagging just as
fast as his. He smiled a great smile, and was answered with
1,000 great smiles just as warm and friendly. As he left
the House, he thought to himself, "This is a wonderful
place. I will come back and visit it often."

In this same village, another little dog who was not quite
as happy as the first one decided to visit the house. He
slowly climbed the stairs and hung his head low as he
looked in the door. When he saw the 1,000 unfriendly
looking dogs staring back at him, he growled at them and
was horrified to see 1,000 little dogs growling back at
him. As he left, he thought to himself, "That is a horrible
place, and I will never go back there again."

All the faces in the world are mirrors. What kind of
reflections do you see in the faces of the people you meet?

May your day be filled with sunshine

]]> =mombeam Today http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/26184192/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/26184192/ Sun, 26 Jul 2009 05:41:06 PDT

~Author Unknown

Today, I will delete from my journal

two days: yesterday and tomorrow

Yesterday was to learn from

and tomorrow...well that will be the consequence

of what I can do today.

Today, I will face life

with the sure knowledge that this day

will never return.

Today, is the last opportunity

I have to live intensely,

as no one can assure me

that I will see tomorrow's sunrise.

Today, I will be brave enough

not to let any opportunity pass me by,

my only alternative is to succeed.

Today, I will invest

my most valuable resource: my time

in the most transcendental work: my life...

Today, I will spend each minute

passionately, to make today a different

and unique day in my life.

Today, I will defy every obstacle that appears on my way,

trusting I will succeed.

Today, I will resist pessimism, and will conquer

the world with a smile and a positive attitude

of always expecting the best.

Today, I will make of every ordinary task

a sublime expression,

Today, I will have my feet on the ground

understanding reality and the stars' gaze,

and thus will invent my future.

Today, I will take the time to be happy

and will leave my footprints and my presence

in the hearts of others, not just in the sands of time.

Today, I invite you to begin a new season

where we can dream

that everything we undertake is possible

and we fulfill that dream,

with joy and dignity.

=mombeam Attitude ....... http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/26041904/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/26041904/ Sun, 19 Jul 2009 10:09:16 PDT

There once was a woman who woke up one morning, looked in the mirror,
and noticed she had only three hairs on her head.
'Well,' she said, 'I think I'll braid my hair today.'

~unfulfilled

So she did and she had a wonderful day.

The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror
and saw that she had only two hairs on her head.

'H-M-M,' she said, 'I think I'll part my hair down the middle today.'

So she did and she had a grand day.

=Lothringen

The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed
that she had only one hair on her head.
'Well,' she said, 'today I'm going to wear my hair in a pony tail. '

So she did, and she had a fun, fun day.

~PurpleMilkPurpleCows

The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed

that there wasn't a single hair on her head.

'YAY!' she exclaimed.

'I don't have to fix my hair today!'

*ella-hippyhoppy

Attitude is everything.

~TheNobodyofaSOLDIER

Be kinder than necessary,

for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.

*CaramellxDansen

Live simply,

~insanegames (R.I.P. Lindsey)

Love generously,

~Rebel-Apolla

Care deeply,

Speak kindly.......

Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/25637295/ Mon, 29 Jun 2009 19:29:45 PDT

The Energy of an Embrace - Hugs

The need to touch and be touched is established early in our lives, as we develop and grow in the omnipresent embrace of our motherÂs womb. Once we are born, separated from that sanctuary of connectivity, we begin to crave the physical embrace of our parents. As we age, we become more independent. Yet during times of triumph or trouble and during those moments when we are in need of reassurance, we canÂt help but long for a hug.

Because a hug requires two active participants, each individual taking part in the embrace experiences the pleasure of being embraced and the joy that comes from hugging someone. As both individuals wrap their arms around one another, their energy blends together, and they experience a tangible feeling of togetherness that lingers long after physical contact has been broken. A heart hug is when you put your left arm over someoneÂs shoulder and your right arm around their waist. As they do the same to you, your hearts become aligned with one another other and loving, comforting energy flows between the two of you to flood your souls with feelings of love, caring, and compassion.

A hug is a pleasurable way to share your feelings with someone who is important to you. Depending on your relationship with the other person and the kind of message you wish to send to them, a hug can communicate love, friendship, romance, congratulations, support, greeting, and any other sentiment you wish to convey. A hug communicates to others that you are there for them in a positive way. In an instant, a hug can reestablish a bond between long lost friends and comfort those in pain. The next time you hug someone, focus all of your energy into the embrace. You will create a profound connection that infuses your feelings and sentiments into a single beautiful gesture. ~ The Daily Om

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/25604252/ Sun, 28 Jun 2009 10:49:08 PDT

My first ever dA Dev Meet, and what a wonderful day it turned out to be. Mother Nature was certainly on our side, it was hot, but we had lots of shade from all the old trees in High Park. I absolutely love our city and itÂs fabulous parks.

It was my sincere pleasure to meet all that I had the opportunity to meet. I certainly hope to meet more of you in the future and for those in the area ( or could be in the area) please fav *toronto to keep informed with up and coming city events and future Dev Meets.

I must say it was a treat for me to personally hug *HeWhoWalksWithTigers he is a lovely man doing a lot for tigers and leopards and cubs, oh my! To have the opportunity to thank him personally ( mind you, I donÂt know that I actually did say thanks - Ooops!) was a pleasure. For those that arenÂt familiar, he is that guy campaigning for the Snow Leopard Trust Fund and the one that got a lot of us deviants on board to do our part in helping save the snow leopards. Please know the fight is not over and I highly encourage you to visit his site and learn how you too, can help.

It was also a pleasure to meet =rickyruffle (love the name) who drove all the way from Buffalo, and =kilgore-trout (hope to see you again in August!) that flew in from Calgary. I know there were more that came from far away unfortunately, my 'sometimers' won't allow me to remember their names

Who ever you are, thank you for making the effort. And to ~amosis55 ... Sorry darling, I have two years on you, so you were not the oldest deviant there

So many deviants ............. to name a few

=MintyFreak *PixlPhantasy ~Nero706 ~SHAN-01 *MummysLittleMonster ~Animatora =rebelx ~orrr =Callykitty ~Bravebeat21 ~amosis55 â¨*Elemental-Sight =acid-ardial ~jpui =CozyComfyCouch =emothemurdok
=Juwa @DaPineapple *Minomaru *CissboX ~Pillow-chan $starvingartist `neom ^Ghouldaddy `sodalicious *gimp *bat-girl13 ~7x5 =Juwa ~AcidBathSadie *MoonsongWolf =axl99 *Kittensoft `neo-the-foxycoon =InsideMe ~chibi-stellar

So little time ...............

I did have... ]]> =mombeam TORONTO - HQ World Tour Dev Meet - June 26th http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/25398789/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/25398789/ Thu, 18 Jun 2009 16:10:26 PDT Link Title Link Title Link Title Link Title Link Title Link Title Link Title

I just heard, the fabulous HQ World Tour is coming to Toronto

Yes my lovelies ......... Toronto ....... on Friday June 26th - how exciting is that!!!!!!

I must confess, this didn't fall into the category of quite 'enough notice' for me but I figured it is a one time only event and it would be worth me bouncing things around just to make the effort to attend.

So, I quickly canceled my dinner plans for that night and, much to the chagrin of my boss, booked the day off work. Oh, there is always another day to work

isn't there

I have never participated in a meet before so I am really excited to know I will have this opportunity to meet so many of you deviants within this wonderful community.

So,who's joining me.

A Title

TORONTO - Let's be the biggest on the tour and show $spyed and $Heidi how we can represent.

]]> =mombeam Happy Birthday .....Mrs. Ward http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/25355875/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/25355875/ Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:47:42 PDT

Thirty Three (33) years ago

And Today

$Moonbeam13 Always Beautiful

To My Daughter, My Friend

It means so much to me
to have a daughter like you
to be with, to talk with,
to share special times with...

For, more and more, through the years,
IÂve found myself confiding in you,
depending on you,
and valuing your companionship.
IÂve come to think of you
as more than my daughter -
I also consider you my friend...

And, on your birthday and always,
I thank you for the joy
youÂve brought to my life
ever since you were a child,
and for the love and friendship
thatÂs grown in my heart
as youÂve grown
into the beautiful person
you are today.

Danielle, I am always so very proud of you and honored to call you my daughter. What a treasure you are to me and everyoneÂs heart that you touch. I wish you a fabulous day and a year filled with joy, happiness and much love. You are a very special woman, and as IÂve always said to you, the world is a much better place, because you are in it.

Happy Birthday My Darling .......

Love you lots and always ...... mom xoxox

PS. this verse is from a Christmas card I bought you probably 5 years ago, but didnÂt give to you..... see what happens when you start cleaning

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/25269867/ Fri, 12 Jun 2009 09:25:47 PDT

Blessing For A Marriage

May your marriage bring you all the exquisite excitements a marriage should bring, and may life grant you also patience, tolerance, and understanding.

May you always need one another - not so much to fill your emptiness as to help you to know your fullness. A mountain needs a valley to be complete; the valley does not make the mountain less, but more; and the valley is more a valley because it has a mountain towering over it. So let it be with you and you.

May you need one another, but not out of weakness.
May you want one another, but not out of lack.
May you entice one another, but not compel one another.
May you embrace one another, but not out encircle one another.
May you succeed in all important ways with one another, and not fail in the little graces.
May you look for things to praise, often say, "I love you!" and take no notice of small faults.

If you have quarrels that push you apart, may both of you hope to have good sense enough to take the first step back.

May you enter into the mystery which is the awareness of one another's presence - no more physical than spiritual, warm and near when you are side by side, and warm and near when you are in separate rooms or even distant cities.
May you have happiness, and may you find it making one another happy.
May you have love, and may you find it loving one another!

~James Dillet Freeman

Darlings, I wish you both an eternity of love, passion and happiness together. May you love strong fight little and dance often!!!! I love you both, Congratulations..... now let's get this party started

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/25156746/ Sat, 06 Jun 2009 07:05:50 PDT

After all this neglect I'm subjecting you to by not getting back to anyone or spending much time here. I am sooooooo far behind and still unsure as to when I will catch up

I do know I owe so many of you answers to your wonderful comments and notes. Even my loving sister & friend Pegs and Janet have been neglected while I finish getting through the things that are taking up all my time. I also need to peruse your journals and amazing deviations .... lots to appreciate for sure

So what is going on in my life? Well I am still frantically pushing to finish my spring cleaning from 2 years ago. Yes my loves, I'm still fighting with this back room that I deemed the black hole some time ago. I am getting so close to it being finished however, fear is still blocking me from completely being over with it thus allowing me to move on with my life. I am feeling better about it as it's not grabbing me by the throat anymore when I walk in here, I can breath almost easily, of course there is still a little choking and hacking now and again, but much clearer it has become

You see darlings, once this room is organized and I'm caught up with all that I have procrastinated about, I can start making jewelry and getting creative once again.

Over the next month, I'm really busy with my Nia classes as the founders of the Nia Technique are in Toronto and there is a lot going on. Add to that I am joining, for several nights, many of the girls I met in Costa Rica for some evening outdoor classes. The end of June brings me to my 6 week belly dancing class. Yumm!!!!

All this exercise is part of my 'healing' and taking better care of myself. My doctor and I are trying to get my blood pressure down and keep it at a good level so I never have to take medication. This brings me to exercise and eating right - okay, that part is boring

and so I am told, it does not include copious amounts of red wine either. I just don't get it

The good doctor has also informed me this week that he wants to treat my 'emotional' state (can you say therapy) which seems rather fragile and obviously controls much of my being. So now I have homework and very clear instructions to take care of me. This important process should prove to be a long, interesting and exciting road. In the meantime, I'm loving the dance. I decided last week that I want to learn to feel my way through life, feel living itself, rather than thinking my way through (no ego). And dance, oh yeah! I really want to dance

So, I am starting to feel like a beautiful flower,

that has just popped up in this wonderful spring and starting to come alive again. Hmmm!

Add to that I am over the moon with excitement as we are nearing the wedding of Danielle $Moonbeam13 and Rob *gimp

We're having a party !!! It is just a week from today, June 13th and I couldn't be happier for my beautiful daughter than I am now. She has found the love of her life with a guy that I too love and will be thrilled to call my son-in-law. How she has been able to organize her wedding and keep it all together while coordinating this fabulous dA world tour, just reminds me of how amazing she truly is and another reason why I love her so much.

Well darlings, be well and I will be trying to get here more often. In the meantime I send you all much love and many

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/24722871/ Tue, 12 May 2009 15:16:39 PDT

Today I turn 55 and ..... I'm going to be a Pin up Girl.

Who knew aging could be so fun

For years, IÂve always been drawn to the glamour of a pin up girl and especially those from the 30Âs, and 40Âs. There is something fascinating about them. They have an air of mysteriousness, sexuality, class and allure. I don't remember saying as a child that I wanted to be one when I grew up, but I've always been attracted by them, and now I'm going to play dress up and become one, just for a day

How did this come about, you ask. Well, let me tell you. For a number of years I have experienced 'self worth' issues. Through the kindness of my upbringing, a few ex husbands and some bad choices for men in my life, as well other relationships, I have not, for a very long time, felt worthy enough of a wonderful relationship. Truth be told, I have held my heart too close for too long and it has hardened. So I decided this year would be the year I break out of old negative patterns and get out there and really live, get my 'sexy' back and find that one special guy to accept all this love I have inside, albeit very, very well hidden. So far I have ventured to Costa Rica and did the zip line, way out of my comfort zone. I've started this wonderful exercise class that incorporates amazing music and dance which I love, so I am starting to come alive again. I still needed to work on the 'sexy' part and needed a boost to feel like a 'woman' again. And yes, I know I look like one however, whatever is going on on the outside often does not reflect the inside of a person's heart and soul. Sometimes the demons are just not visible but, the time has come to heal my fragile heart and open myself to love again.

For quite a while I have been intrigued with the invitations to be a Model Citizen, Pin Up model that is ... and to participate in one of the many Pin Up Parlours run by Arsenic Addiction - our very own ^Ghouldaddy himself, with the accompaniment of the lovely `sodalicious. Finally after much thought, I got brave and decided that this is what I need to do right now, to feel like a woman. Okay, I will not break out in song, promise

So, this Saturday I'm putting myself in the hands of Frank ^Ghouldaddy and letting what may be, be. Now this is really out of my comfort zone. He has a professional do both hair and makeup then he will carry on with the shoot. I have no idea what to expect and I'm going in with reserved excitement. What I do know is that I can trust Frank ^Ghouldaddy with my life afterall he is Danielle's brother so almost a son to me. Go ahead and figure that one out

I think he will be a little more reserved with me and not do a burlesque shoot, but we'll just have to wait and see. Personally I don't like having my picture taken so this will prove interesting.

Franks Pin Up Parlours are shot at the Gladstone Hotel in Toronto which in itself is an incredible venue. It is the oldest, continuously operating hotel in Toronto, and was originally built in 1889.

Actually the more I think of it, the more excited I am getting. I'm truly looking forward to it and 'breaking out' of this rut I have been in. So, am I going to only unleash my inner Pin Up or, will I also find that Glamour girl, Sexy girl or Wild Animal. Hmmmm! I'll have to let you know.

This has been an awesome birthday, and it truly is all about me. My lovely daughter ~moonbeam treated me to a wonderful roast beef dinner on Saturday (just like my mom would have done) then gave me this amazing Swarskovski heart that was accompanied by a card that read:

Dear Mom - Wear this heart around your neck as a medal, for being extraordinary. May it always remind you that you are a dreamer, a believer and deserving of love.

What a gift she is to me. Thank you Danielle, you help give me strength and courage.

So on Saturday morning, along with my lo... ]]> =mombeam Happy Mothers Day http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/24688306/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/24688306/ Sun, 10 May 2009 14:31:58 PDT

Mothers throughout history have been worshipped, revered, analyzed and even criticized. Every one of us was created through the wondrous workings of a woman's body; each of us has a mother. But being a mother is more than a biological concept. In India, women who are profoundly nurturing, compassionate, and wise are publicly acknowledged by the title "Holy Mother." Those who have never met their biological mothers often have mothers nonetheless in adoptive parents, relations, and friends. There are human mothers and spiritual mothers, Mother Earth, and mother goddesses. The role of a mother is infinitely complex and one of pure tenderness, compassion, and unflagging loyalty. The mother represents fertility, stability, creation, and sacrifice.

Our mothers determine who we become because they are not only the life givers, but the most influential person in our young lives. Before we are old enough to understand that influence, mothers give us the beginnings of our spirituality and value systems. A mother lauds accomplishment and ignores minor faults, she both teaches and shields her children from misfortune, and hides her own tears, preferring to laugh so her children can laugh with her. She is both a sharer of grief and a healer of many pains. And every mother gives of herself knowing that someday her progeny will leave her. For these reasons and more, motherhood is a sacred institution, not limited by narrow constraints. It is also not unusual to seek the guidance of a mother in a wise woman or a grandmother because each woman is taught to be a mother by her own mother, whether she chooses to have children or not. Other ways to see Mother is to find a source of motherly nurturing in the earth, which gives us so much and demands little in return. Earth mother continually blesses us with her bounty and we are even born and eventually go back to the universal mother

The definition is necessarily broad because mothers of all types exist in part to put a smooth veneer on the rough edges of life for those they love. A mother never stops growing, never stops becoming more motherly. Though some may argue that a mother is a woman who gives life with her womb and nourishment with her breast, it is important to remember that a mother, any mother, is also one who gives life with her tenderness and nourishment with her love. ~ The Daily Om

If you are one of the lucky ones to still have your mother in your life, please tell her you love her today and everyday. If she is gone, like mine, spend some time and think of at least one wonderful moment you shared with her. Then put your hand to your heart and smile in her honor. If your memories are harsh and you can think of nothing wonderful or memorable, spend a moment trying to imagine you walking in her shoes, just for today, then try to forgive her.

To my friends and you wonderful dA moms out there, may you all feel love on this day and every day afterward.

Blessings

=mombeam Spring ... Love and Remembering http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/24227005/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/24227005/ Mon, 13 Apr 2009 19:02:29 PDT

Spring has always been a season of Ânew lifeÂ for me as well, the promise of new beginnings. It brings with it that wonderful smell of fresh air - songs of the birds and kisses from the earth as the flowers in all their glory pop their colourful heads up from the ground. It brings with it the luscious greenery of the grass and trees surrendering what was a long dark winter to the lightness of all the colours of a rainbow provided by Mother Nature herself. Ah, spring. What an absolute joy.

Spring also reminds me of my mother Margaret, born March 29th and my cat Zoe, born March 13th. Sadly they are both now gone.

Today marks the second anniversary of my momÂs death. She would have been 77 had she not succumbed to lung cancer. This past December I had to put Miss Zoe down, and she would have been 16 last month.

I am as sad for the loss of two wonderful blessings in my life as I am that spring had lost itÂs allure for me and quickly become a sad time rather than a joyous time.

Last year spring was an inconsolable time and this year, I decided to do something about it. I have been finding my apartment to be too quiet since January and realized I needed to feel life around here and I need to once again revel in the seduction of spring.

So it was time to be ÂfoundÂ by a new little one, and here he is. I got him just two weeks ago.

His name is Theo, Greek for Divine gift and that, he truly is.

He is a seal point rag doll - aka lap cat, born Jan 16th. He basically stops, drops, rolls and cuddles Awwwww! Just what I need

He captured my heart immediately and now, I just canÂt wait to come home and have him great me at the door.

I will always reflect at this time and remember my Mother and all she was to me. I will always thank her for the life lessons she taught me - about love, integrity, humor and honor. She will never be forgotten. As well I will always remember my Zoe and be thankful for almost 16 years of sheer joy. I will treasure their memories and continue to bask in the love they shared with me. I will no longer think of them with sadness - only gratitude, in knowing how blessed I have been.

And now, I will begin a new story with a new little life that is already bringing me much joy and many smiles.

Spring and the circle of life ...... acceptance of what has past and the promise of new beginnings.

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/24105311/ Tue, 07 Apr 2009 03:14:38 PDT

I'm reposting this journal from *HeWhoWalksWithTigers

Hello Everyone!

For those who have been following the Snow Leopard Trust, you will have noticed that because of people like you, their eNews contest was successful with over 3000 new subscribers for a total of $6000 donated. Those really staying on top of it would have noticed that for a few days, the Snow Leopard Trust actually specifically thanked the members of DeviantArt for helping to make the initiative a success! For those who helped, give yourself a big pat on the back. I would also like to thank the Kearsley Fund for making this happen. However, there is still more to be done!

Due to our efforts, another organization (The Sengupta Fund) has stepped up and offered $2 for every new subscriber to the Snow Leopard TrustÂs eNews campaign for another 2000 subscribers! That means that if we can get 2000 more subscribers, we will have collectively donated up to $10,000 to this wonderful organization..and for FREE! What easier way could there be to help out an amazing cause?

So...I have decided to put together a contest to get you folks involved (yes...that means YOU)!

The Contest

ÂWhatÂs this all about?Â

For those who do not know, the Snow Leopard Trust (www.snowleopard.org) needs our help. They are in need of subscribers to their awesome eNews. To support the Snow Leopard Trust, the Kearsley Fund and The Sengupta Fund have offered to donate $2 to the SLT for every new eNews subscriber for a total of 5000 subscribers and $10,000!

To sign up, visit the Snow Leopard Trust's Sign up Page!

ItÂs easy. ItÂs free. It makes a difference. ItÂs a no brainer.

ÂWhy sign up? I wonÂt get a bunch of unwanted crap in my inbox, will I?Â

IÂve been involved with several well known NGOs and in all honesty, the Snow Leopard Trust is one of the best out there. They do exceptional work and their staff are professional and courteous. They truly deserve all the help they can get. To find out more about their programs, please visit this link.

As for the actual eNews, you donÂt have to worry. Marissa Niranjan of the SLT explains:

ÂWe understand that people might be reluctant to give us their e-mail address. First, we never share or sell our lists or any personal information of any kind to anyone--EVER. We keep it in our ÂvaultÂ and use it only for things that we think are important for snow leopard and the people who want to support them. To that end, we also try not to send tons of e-mails. We think out our e-mails thoroughly and only send what we think is either good news, or a good fundraising push at a time we think is appropriate Â which basically means we donÂt ask for money all the time just for the sake of asking. And finally, we try to make our e-mails (outside of eNews) as personalized as possible. If you are the type of person who likes to adopt snow leopards, we try to know that and talk to you about adoptions specifically.Â

ÂWhere do I come in?Â

Basically, we need to sign up as many folks as possible. ItÂs wonderful to sign up, but what is REALLY needed is for people to spread the word. This is why I am running the contest.

If you post a journal entry on DeviantArt about the Snow Leopard TrustÂs eNews initiative, you will be entered in a draw (conducted by yours truly) to win one of several prizes (see below).

ÂCan I have multiple entries in the draw?Â

Yes...please see the rules.

The Rules (please read carefully)

1) You MUST ask your followers to sign up for the Snow Leopard Trust's eNew and you MUST provide sufficient information in your journal to be able to effectively guide people to the Snow Leopard TrustÂs website. To make things easy, I have provided text you can copy and paste into your journal at the bottom of this page.

2) You MUST ask the readers of your journal to post in their journal as well. As indicated, the contest is about spreading the word, and it wonÂt be effective if you create a dead end.

3) You MUST give a link to this journal entry so that others can get involved in the contest too.

4) If you post a journal entry in accordance to the rules above, you will receive ONE entry into the draw. All you have to do is post a reply and give me the link for me to check. For those who have previously added journals and have contacted me previously, you will be automatically entered (IÂve kept track). For those who did, but did not contact me, you may reply to this message with a link to your journal entry.
=mombeam The Snow Leopard Trust http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/23825595/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/23825595/ Sun, 22 Mar 2009 05:00:21 PDT

EDIT - provided by `wdwparksgal

Perhaps is would be good to mention that anyone signing up for the newsletter will receive a 20% discount on a purchase from the site's online store and the Snow Leopard site has some wonderful things for sale. Signing up is double: $2.00 donation to the site, as well as a discount for the signee.

I am re posting this journal by ~HeWhoWalksWithTigers that I personally feel deserves special attention. It is a wonderful cause and I encourage you to please go to the site and sign up. It costs nothing and will take but just a moment of your time.

Thank you for your time and Happy Sunday.

Here is the current Update 5:

This is a big one folks! The Snow Leopard Trust just updated their eNews-o-meter again and they have jumped all the way to 2801 subscribers! That's a jump of 2000 people and $4000! This is HUGE! Moreover, they specifically mentioned DeviantArt on their website!

BUT... it's not over yet! We still need 200 more subscribers! If you have not already, please tell your friends to sign up and post the note below in your journals. Also, take the time to visit some of the profiles of the folks whose icons are displayed below...these folks are what helped the SLT get so many subscribers and without them, they wouldn't have nearly enough people. They deserve a huge pat on the back for their help.

Let's get this done and show just what a group of committed individuals can do!

--------------

Good news everyone! The current number of subscribers in the Snow Leopard Trust's eNews/donation campaign has recently doubled! Moreover, this achievement has had a lot to do with people here on DeviantArt who took the time to sign up and ask others to do the same in their journals.

Here is ~HeWhoWalksWithTigers original journal post

The Snow Leopard Trust (www.snowleopard.org) needs your help!

They would like to you to sign up for their eNews and have others sign up as well. For every new subscriber, the Kearsley Fund will donate $2 to the Snow Leopard Trust. Their goal is 3000, but they are NOWHERE CLOSE! However, if we all sign up and post this in our journals, we can help donate up to $6000 for snow leopard conservation!

Visit here for more info!: "www.snowleopard.org/news/currentnews/sign-up-to-save-snow-leopards"

Please, sign up today and copy this into your journal to spread the word! With just a little bit of effort, we can make a big difference!

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/23813945/ Sat, 21 Mar 2009 12:44:44 PDT

An Astounding Affirmation

Spring comes when the earth, coaxed by lengthening days and warmer temperatures, begins to awaken from her winter slumber. She stretches open to receive the rain that gives drink to flower buds and seedlings. She takes a deep breath, and on her exhale the leaves on trees unfurl like tiny flags heralding her revival as baby animals tumble forth, trumpeting the good news to all who will listen. Rebirth and repopulation fill the void of winter with flurry and fury as what appeared to be gone forever comes into being once again. Even though it happens this way every year, we stand in awe, our insides trembling sweetly like the legs of a new foal as we too are reborn.

This is when we fall in love, again, speak without thinking, say yes to things we would normally refuse. It becomes more difficult to say no when the whole world around us appears to be an astounding affirmation of the resilience, richness, and plain, perfect beauty of life. We may find ourselves feeling several years younger and 10 pounds lighter without changing a thing. We may feel the urge to cleanse our bodies with a new pattern of eating, clearing our kitchens of cold-weather comfort foods and filling them instead with lighter fare and fresh fruits and vegetables. We may clear our closets of old clothes or cut our hair to express a new facet of who we are, and who we might become.

Springtime inspires us to believe that, along with the earth, we too might change, release the past, and give birth to new ideas, new relationships, and new perspectives. In honor of spring, we could make a list of the many possibilities we envision for the future and bury it in the earth, surrendering the fertile seeds of our imaginations to the nurturing soil. In tune with the season, we can then watch in wonder as the last of the snow dissolves into the rich brown earth, and stark winter gives way to green possibility. ~ The Daily Om

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/23749437/ Tue, 17 Mar 2009 15:43:06 PDT

~queencarr

*avi-of-scott

=Colliemom

~theMidlifeCrisis

*chenoasart

`Bloodredsangre

I'll be toasting with a 'big' drink in honor of my booming Irish Grandfather, my Granny and all the rest of the clan no longer with me. I'm sure, as always, they are laughing, dancing and kicking up a storm. Cheers!

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/23711020/ Sun, 15 Mar 2009 12:01:52 PDT

I thought I would share this lovely little gem I found in my in box today. Many of you may have read it, I know I have, but I think the message bears repeating. Enjoy!

The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings but shorter tempers, wider Freeways , but narrower viewpoints. We spend more, but have less, we buy more, but enjoy less. We have bigger houses and smaller families, more conveniences, but less time. We have more degrees but less sense, more knowledge, but less judgment, more experts, yet more problems, more medicine, but less wellness.

We drink too much, smoke too much, spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry, stay up too late, get up too tired, read too little, watch TV too much, and pray too seldom.

We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often.

We've learned how to make a living, but not a life. We've added years to life not life to years. We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet a new neighbor. We conquered outer space but not inner space. We've done larger things, but not better things.

We've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul. We've conquered the atom, but not our prejudice. We write more, but learn less. We plan more, but accomplish less. We've learned to rush, but not to wait. We build more computers to hold more information, to produce more copies than ever, but we communicate less and less.

These are the times of fast foods and slow digestion, big men and small character, steep profits and shallow relationships. These are the days of two incomes but more divorce, fancier houses, but broken homes. These are days of quick trips, disposable diapers, throwaway morality, one night stands, overweight bodies, and pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, to kill. It is a time when there is much in the showroom window and nothing in the stockroom. A time when technology can bring this letter to you, and a time when you can choose either to share this insight, or to just hit delete...

Remember; spend some time with your loved ones, because they are not going to be around forever.

Remember, say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe, because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side.

Remember, to give a warm hug to the one next to you, because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart and it doesn't cost a cent.

Remember, to say, ' I love you ' to your partner and your loved ones, but most of all mean it. A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you.

Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment for someday that person will not be there again.

Give time to love, give time to speak! And give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind.

AND ALWAYS REMEMBER:

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

Author Unknown

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/23470172/ Sun, 01 Mar 2009 12:45:01 PST

Well my lovelies, the doctor was right! All I needed was a wonderful trip away to reduce the day to day stress of life. Since my return, IÂve found myself to still be on Costa Rican time, Âit will happen when it happensÂ. Hence my taking a week to get back to real life and the computer.

It was truly the perfect balance of working out, adventure, treatments, hiking, sight seeing, relaxation and great company. What more could a girl ask for.

The first week of my trip was spent at Pura Vida Wellness Retreat and Spa. Pura Vida means Pure Life, and that it is. Including our two instructors, we were a group of 16 women, and I knew only one. Every day we had a yoga and Nia (combination of yoga, martial arts and dance) class in one of the most beautiful rooms IÂve seen. The whole trip was worth it just to do classes in the open air among the trees, little critters, birds and mountains. Hmmm! Each class was 1-1/2 hours, so I worked out 3 hours a day. Add to that, 2 meditation classes as well a drumming circle and salsa class. Are you tired yet, I am! Whew!. Wait there is more, the elevation factor and having to climb up an enormous amount of steps from our rooms, just to get to the resort every day, was a workout in itself.

I enjoyed a few excursions and the big one for me, was the Canopy (zip line). This was huge for me because IÂm am extremely afraid of heights, and I wanted to overcome my fear. Well I did it and let me tell you, I was really scared. First off, I thought we only had to do it once, so imagine my surprise when I found out I had to do it 8 times, I thought I would die on the spot. So here I am reaching the first platform and I am literally hugging the tree trying to move around so the others can get on too. IÂm okay while the tree is behind me until of course itÂs my turn to move forward TO THE EDGE OF THE PLATFORM, so the guide can hook me up to the cable. Well IÂm just about beside myself and almost frozen, he asks, Âare you scaredÂ hell yes I say. so he proceeds to joke with me and move my body closer so my foot is almost DANGLING OFF THE EDGE. Well, I just donÂt know what to do, so he keeps joking, now I have a great sense of humor, but there was just no place for it here. So I beg him to stop joking because I am really afraid, yet he continues this inane banter. I finally say, unless you sleep with me first, you can NOT joke with me. Well, we all started laughing (I say silly things when IÂm scared) now he just doesn't know what to do with me, and me, I just relaxed, because I was laughing so hard, next thing I know, IÂm hooked up and off. WOW!! what an amazing ride. I actually had my eyes open and found it not too bad. How incredible to be over the rain forest and see all that beauty.

Did it get easier? Not entirely. The fear was still there, especially when I found out I had to go backwards once, then start controlling the cable so I could break when I was supposed to. Of course, that didnÂt happen and I got stuck and had to Âmonkey backÂ to get to the platform. Oh, my heart!!!!! But lucky me, I got to do that one a second time and correct my mistake. Yeah!!! I quickly welcomed the offer to have one of the guides take me down on the last line, which turned out to be the longest. What a great ride that was because I didnÂt have to do anything therefore I got to truly appreciate the rain forest and really get to look around at the trees and water beneath us. So I conquered a fear, and I was so very proud of myself. Would I do it again, NOPE! donÂt have to, once was fine

We toured a coffee plantation as well went on a wildlife boat tour down the river finding over 35 species of birds and several crocodiles. We had an 1-1/2 hour hike through the forests before reaching the boat that took us out. We also hiked through Rainsong Wildlife Sanctuary in Cabuya, with the specific instructions that should we fall, just fall, do not grab onto anything, because that vine above, could be a snake, and the tree roots and vines below, could be covered in ants. Good to know

I had three magnificent treatments of a healing nature, to which my body was mighty thankful.

I love nature and to be one with it, is incredibly satisfying. To watch the sun rise and set in such a wonderful setting of lush trees, and flora, while listening to the sounds of the animals and birds, is an amazing way to spend your day.

On the second leg of the journey, 7 of us continued on to the beach in Montezuma. We stayed at the Celaje Hotel and found our surroundings just as beautiful, yet a little more primitive. Not only would we find spiders in our... ]]> =mombeam I Bid You All Farewell ......... http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/23047949/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/23047949/ Fri, 06 Feb 2009 19:40:14 PST

At least for the next 12 days.

IÂm following through on a promise I made to take better care of myself this year and, IÂm off to a Yoga / Nia retreat in Costa Rica. It's going to be a wonderful time of wellness, healing and rejuvenation. I'm leaving tomorrow morning and I'll be back on the 18th.

I hope to come back with lots of pictures and stories.

In the meantime, take care of yourselves and take care of one another. For everyone that is suffering or knows someone suffering or facing challenges, you will remain in my heart.

I ask only one thing from you while I'm gone, please play nice in the sandbox kids, and be kind to each other.

The world truly needs more love, tolerance and empathy, thatÂs all IÂm saying.

Also, if you could see your way clear to help watch over my baby girl $Moonbeam13 while IÂm away, IÂd be grateful. IÂm sad to say she has to put her beloved cat Merlin down next week and IÂm sure she is going to need lots of extra love and hugs sent her way. I know she would do it for you. Thanks!

Blessings to all

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/22956916/ Mon, 02 Feb 2009 03:51:53 PST

Some of you might remember that a while back I was looking to commission an artist to create a very special picture for a very special friend. It was to be of a drummer and his angel. It was a picture that was to help my friend know, he was not alone and even though his body wouldnÂt allow him to easily play the drums anymore, his angel was there acting as his arms and legs. Trying to make each movement, as effortless as possible, while breathing life into his body.

IÂve had this wonderful picture ÂRhythms of the SoulÂ created by the lovely =nidhi-rathish for quite some time now. Unfortunately as he was one of those friends lost this past year, I couldnÂt bring myself to write the poem that was supposed to go with this and quite frankly, just couldnÂt get my head and heart around it.

To my friend, whatever the realm or dimension you are in, remember, you are not alone. May the music of your heart and soul play on forever.

In the meantime, I want to make sure you all get to see the great work that =nidhi-rathish did on this. She deserves appropriate recognition and credit for her artistry. She painted this piece by hand entirely in PSCS3.

Please take a moment and visit her page to see her other work. She is a wonderful talent, and should be seen.

Thank you =nidhi-rathish He would have been proud, and IÂm honored.

Blessings

There is no sadness here, just absolute love for another wonderful person that has passed through my life and that I have had the privilege to call a friend.

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/22830883/ Mon, 26 Jan 2009 18:44:59 PST

A friend just sent this to me and although I have seen it before, the message bears repeating.

A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life and how things were so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and wanted to give up, She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed as one problem was solved, a new one arose.

Her mother took her to the kitchen. She filled three pots with water and placed each on a high fire. Soon the pots came to boil. In the first she placed carrots, in the second she placed eggs, and in the last she placed ground coffee beans. She let them sit and boil; without saying a word.

In about twenty minutes she turned off the burners. She fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl. Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl. Turning to her daughter, she asked, ' Tell me what you see.'

'Carrots, eggs, and coffee,' she replied.

Her mother brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft. The mother then asked the daughter to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard boiled egg.

Finally, the mother asked the daughter to sip the coffee. The daughter smiled as she tasted its rich aroma. The daughter then asked, 'What does it mean, mother?'

Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the same adversity: boiling water. Each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak. The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior, but after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened. The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After they were in the boiling water, they had changed the water.

'Which are you?' she asked her daughter. 'When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?

Think of this: Which am I? Am I the carrot that seems strong, but with pain and adversity do I wilt and become soft and lose my strength?

Am I the egg that starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have a fluid spirit, but after a death, a breakup, a financial hardship or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff? Does my shell look the same, but on the inside am I bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and hardened heart?

Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water, the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor. If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you. When the hour is the darkest and trials are their greatest do you elevate yourself to another level? How do you handle adversity? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?

May you have enough happiness to make you sweet, enough trials to make you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human and enough hope to make you happy.

The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their way. The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past; you can't go forward in life until you let go of your past failures and heartaches.

When you were born, you were crying and everyone around you was smiling.

Live your life so at the end, you're the one who is smiling and everyone around you is crying.

You might want to send this message to those people who mean something to you; to those who have touched your life in one way or another; to those who make you smile when you really need it; to those who make you see the brighter side of things when you are really down; to those whose friendship you appreciate; to those who are so meaningful in your life.

If you don't send it, you will just miss out on the opportunity to brighten someone's day with this message!

May we all be COFFEE!!!!!!!

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/22780987/ Sat, 24 Jan 2009 11:55:15 PST

Well my lovelies, I was surprised when I noticed how long it has been since I have stopped in here. It wasnÂt intentional. The challenges of life simply got in the way and therefore, it just sort of happened.

I sincerely hope everyone had a wonderful holiday and start to their new year. I want to wish you all the very best that life can bring you and yours ..... for 2009.

For me, the year started off quite similar to the way it ended. Again, with loss. My friend of over 50 years, found her husband dead on Jan. 2nd. It was a complete shock and totally unexpected. He was only 49. Much too young. She called me while I was driving out of town to a funeral for another friends mom. You just never know what your day will bring, do you. After having a few other friends pass away at the end of last year that were just 54, as well my beloved cat Miss Zoe, I was emotionally pushed into a ÂreflectiveÂ place for a while and unable to ÂunfreezeÂ myself. I also realized when I opened my page the pictures of Miss Zoe, were pulling at my heart strings a little too much. Add to that I got hit with the flu 3 weeks ago, big time. I was off work for a while and the rest of the days found me coming home and hitting the couch almost as fast as I could take my coat off. IÂm still not 100% but given that IÂm representing half the population that is experiencing the same thing, I know IÂm not alone. So my darlings, that is my sad tale of woe.

Since not being here, I have accumulated, hundreds and hundreds of messages, journals, deviations and such. I would be lying if I were to say that I will now address them all, one by one, and Âget back to youÂ. Not gonna happen. It is incredibly overwhelming to have so much to Âcatch up onÂ and I simply havenÂt the time to do it. So my friends, I have taken to hitting that magic button ÂdeleteÂ. Ooops!!!!! I really need to start over and to do that, I require a clean slate.

For all of you that have stopped by to say hi, IÂve missed you too. For all of you that have sent well wishes and your concerns, thank you. I know I have missed many birthdays and I know so many of you have or had, just as many, if not more, issues and concerns than me. Everything you have shared and submitted is important to me, my story is no less sad nor important than yours. For that, I wish I could have been there for you in your time of need. Just know, I am back and here for you now.

I have decided this new year is going to be about taking care of me and opening myself to love again. I have decided I want to live, laugh, dance, and find more joy and passion in everything I do. Life is way too short and getting shorter all the time. I want to forget the trivial things that really donÂt matter, and rather focus on all the wonderful things, that truly do matter. I want to open my heart, mind and eyes to find that small miracle that exists in every single day. I want to be more compassionate, understanding and forgiving of both myself and others. I want to be an even more positive influence to those around me and openly grateful for all the many blessings of my life. I want to remind people why they are important to me, say I love you more and hug them often. Oh, and I want world peace

Suffice it to say, I am returning to my hippie roots where we made love, not war and we always gave peace a chance.

To all the Americans that voted in Barack Obama, thank you! What a incredible step in the right direction you have made. The world needs him to be successful. Change is good, change was needed and THIS change brings with it, the HOPE he could actually bring peace to this world. Not a bad way to start the new year. Another great way to start this year off is by sharing with you the winners of a fabulous contest carrying a much needed message:

ÂDigital Art for WORLD PEACEÂ

FIRST PLACE

SECOND PLACE

THIRD PLACE

AND TH... ]]> =mombeam Merry Christmas, to One and All http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/22183755/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/22183755/ Thu, 25 Dec 2008 07:26:19 PST

To all my new friends and dA family.

I wish you a very Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah and safe and Happy New Year.

I hope the year ahead brings you all, joy, peace, happiness, prosperity, good health and much love.

May the spirit of this season last the entire year of 2009 and, may all your dreams and wishes come true.

Be safe, be happy and hug someone today

Enjoy your time with your family and friends and remember to keep peace alive.

I love you all

:thumb68486910:

=mombeam Holiday Obligatios http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/21976917/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/21976917/ Sun, 14 Dec 2008 08:55:09 PST

The Gift Of Sincerity

*Ironshod

I both adore and collect Santa's, especially the 'old world' kind. So I wanted to showcase this beauty first. Isn't he lovely.

During the holiday season it is easy to feel scattered and overwhelmed. We may feel obligated to send cards, buy gifts, bake sweets, host parties, or give hostess gifts. But there is no need to feel any obligation when we commit to being our best selves as fully and sincerely as we can. Because then we are already giving the best and most precious gift we have to offer: our presence.

At any gathering, we each bring our own unique light to the party. When we think back on pleasant memories of events in our own past, we recall the fun and love that was shared, or the moments that touched us far more than anything else. A sense of obligation rarely brings out the joy within or moves us in any meaningful way. So as we walk through the holiday season, letÂs choose to only give what we can give joyfully, lovingly, and sincerelyÂwhether the gift is a smile, a compliment, a handmade card, or friendship. Once out from under the ÂshouldÂs, we will be free to share the love and kindness we sincerely feel with those who we truly valueÂfrom the mailman to our nearest and dearest.

Each gift we give and card we send carries the energy of our intention. If we are not giving from a true desire to share, itÂs loss of time and energy that could be better spent by sharing lifeÂs best gifts: love and joy. When we live each moment to the best of our abilities, then every second becomes a gift shared with the universe. Our positive choices have a ripple effect, touching those near and far, friends and strangers. In that way, sharing the light of our beautiful and unique presence becomes the best present we could possibly give, to ourselves and everyone else. ~ The Daily Om

So try and give the gift of your time this year, it doesn't cost you a cent and can mean more to someone than any materialistic item you could buy.

For the last number of years at work we have given up exchanging gifts and we now hold a drive for both toys and monetary donations (to which the company matches) that are donated to the Sick Kids Hospital. This year I am even more proud of my colleagues because I also introduced a drive for the food bank and the donations have been pouring in. It warms my heart seeing all these people paying it forward and giving to those that need it more.

While hugging closes the door to hate giving, opens the heart to love.

Blessings

=mombeam Goodbye My Angel, Goodbye ..... http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/21864283/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/21864283/ Sun, 07 Dec 2008 11:58:53 PST

To My Sweet Angel Baby, Miss Zoe - I thank you .....

..... for making me laugh and smile,
..... for being there to lick away my tears of pain when I needed a friend,
..... for listening to me rant and rave on those days, I just had to,
..... for walking alongside me, wherever I went in our home,
..... for cuddling up to me & letting me hug you so tight because,I needed to,
..... for always greeting me at the door with your meows,
..... for pretending you were a dog so I could play catch with you,
..... for being a cat that loved to talk,
..... for being that wonderful angel that never judged me,
..... for being there to help me through many, many tough times,
..... for being there every day to say good morning and good night,
..... for the endless solace and comfort you provided me and most of all,
..... for loving me, unconditionally, and
..... for giving me 16-1/2 years of absolute joy.

For now my sweet angel, I must say goodbye. You have been an incredible blessing in my life, and you will remain forever in my heart. As your role has switched to being an angel in heaven I need you to go give Grandma a really big lick for me

She needs you now, take care of each other.

To my other sweet angel, Danielle $Moonbeam13 thank you for being there with me. I could have done it alone but IÂm thankful you wouldnÂt let me - I love you

Miss Zoe
March 13, 1992 - December 5, 2008

Rest in Peace, my angel, Rest in Peace.

=mombeam WHEN YOU THOUGHT I WASN'T LOOKING http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/21825939/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/21825939/ Fri, 05 Dec 2008 04:08:44 PST

~ *Pretty-As-A-Picture

I received this email from a friend this morning and thought it worth sharing. Enjoy!

A message every adult should read because children
are watching you and doing as you do, not as you say.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you hang my
first painting on the refrigerator, and I immediately
wanted to paint another one.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you feed a
stray cat, and I learned that it was good to be kind
to animals.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you make my
favorite cake for me, and I learned that the little
things can be the special things in life.

When you thought I wasn't looking I heard you say a
prayer, and I knew that there is a God I could always
talk to, and I learned to trust in Him.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you make a
meal and take it to a friend who was sick, and I
learned that we all have to help take care of each
other.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you give of
your time and money to help people who had nothing,
and I learned that those who have something should
give to those who don't.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you take care
of our house and everyone in it, and I learned we have
to take care of what we are given.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw how you
handled your responsibilities, even when you didn't
feel good, and I learned that I would have to be
responsible when I grow up.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw tears come
from your eyes, and I learned that sometimes things
hurt, but it's all right to cry.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw that you
cared, and I wanted to be everything that I could be.

When you thought I wasn't looking I learned most of
life's lessons that I need to know to be a good and
productive person when I grow up.

When you thought I wasn't looking I looked at you and
wanted to say,'Thanks for all the things I saw when
you thought I wasn't looking.'

I AM SENDING THIS TO ALL OF THE PEOPLE I KNOW WHO DO SO MUCH FOR OTHERS, BUT THINK THAT NO ONE EVER SEES. LITTLE EYES SEE A LOT .

Each of us (parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, teacher, friend) influence the life of a child.

How will you touch the life of someone today? Just by
sending this to someone else, you will probably make
them at least think about their influence on others.
Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak
kindly.

(Author Unknown)

=mombeam WHAT DOGS TEACH US .......... http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/21626496/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/21626496/ Sun, 23 Nov 2008 07:34:34 PST

A Dog's Purpose ...... from a 6 year old

(Author Unknown)

Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old

Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog's owners, Ron, his wife, Lisa,

and their little boy, Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they

were hoping for a miracle.

I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the

family we couldn't do anything for Belker, and offered to perform

the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home.

As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would

be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt

as though Shane might learn something from the experience.

The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker's

family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for

the last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on.

Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.

The little boy seemed to accept Belker's transition without any

difficulty or confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker's

death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are

shorter than human lives. Shane, who had been listening quietly,

piped up, 'I know why.'

Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next

stunned me. I'd never heard a more comforting explanation.

He said, ' People are born so that they can learn how to live a good

life -- like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?' The

six-year-old continued, 'Well, dogs already know how to do that, so

they don't have to stay as long.'

Live simply.

Love generously.

Care deeply.

Speak kindly.

Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.

Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.

Take naps.

Stretch before rising.

Run, romp, and play daily.

Thrive on attention and let people touch you.

Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.

On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.

When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Stop when you have had enough.

Be loyal.

Never pretend to be something you're not.

If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.

Being always grateful for each new day and for the blessing you have.

ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY!

That's what dogs teach us.

=mombeam A Warm, Soft, Fuzzy Blanket of LOVE http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/21560848/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/21560848/ Wed, 19 Nov 2008 03:42:56 PST

ThatÂs what you are ....

On a day when I was feeling rather sad, your incredible outpouring of love, laughter, support and hugs have embraced every part of me surrounding me with a ray of sunshine.

Thank you to my darling Danielle for sending you all my way. Who knew she had so much power over you

Without dwelling too much on what has been happening, here is the short version.

A few weeks ago my dad had one or several mini strokes. The physical effects are obvious but not too bad. What is really off is his mental state. He continues to decline at a rapid pace, and it is unknown to me whether the effects of the stroke are accelerating his confusion or his confusion is accelerating his physical state. Either way, the things that are happening lately have become quite disturbing to me and making it harder for me to deal with. Just this morning IÂve had 9 phone calls from him since 3:30 each one angrier than the next

My uncle died Monday morning. It was completely unexpected and therefore quite the shock. He was my favorite as well the last of my relatives on my DadsÂ side.

Then there is my sweet angel baby, Miss Zoe (Greek for Life) My precious cat of almost 17 years may have cancer and it would appear the time is nearing when I will have to have her put down. I tell you, I never felt so alone as I did on Sunday sitting at the vets office and none of the words he shared with me were encouraging. However, Monday when he called, he suggested I could try her on medication for two weeks before making the final determination. So as of today, I have 12 days of hope. Is it realistic, probably not, but it is hope, and as long as she is not suffering, I will take it.

That my lovelies, is the short version. Thank you all again for your kindness and support as well, sharing that love with Danielle $Moonbeam13 As a parent I know anything that upsets me, she feels too, and vice versus. So the fact you have sent some love her way, warms my heart.

For those of you that have stopped by that I donÂt yet know, I thank you and hope to get to know you and your work sometime very soon.

If any of you feel you havenÂt made a difference in someoneÂs life recently, you would be mistaken. Your show of kindness and support has left a profound effect on me and is very much appreciated. I still say .......... all we need is love.

For now, I need some laughter so I am off to find batteries for my TMX Elmo. HeÂs the one that continually rolls over laughing and you canÂt help but laugh with him. I think everyone should own an Elmo. It was recalled here because of lead content, but I figure I wonÂt be sucking on any of itÂs little furry body parts any time soon, so I am quite sure I will be safe.

Love and blessings to you all dear hearts

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/21528821/ Mon, 17 Nov 2008 03:40:47 PST

As I was reading through some comments on a recent journal a while back,( I know, IÂm so, so far behind here, and actually everywhere in my life

a thought occurred to me. Yes, it happens sometimes, and this one just smacked me in the face. Visualize the ÂWOW, I could have had a V-8 commercial. It was one of those manic moments of quickly saying, mental note to self - clarification needed. So, here I am to clarify something ..... just in case.

Personally, one of my biggest pet peeves is seeing or hearing someone take credit for another persons work, thoughts, words, ideas etc., It gets me going because it is undermining and unfair. It also get me going because it has happened to me too many times in my life. So usually I am very clear and make a point to ensure everyone knows when something is not mine and to always give credit where credit is due. Even when a person feels it unnecessary to have their role mentioned, IÂm often quite vocal about mentioning their name anyway. For me, I think it is important for others to know where a suggestion or thought came from, especially when it is good. It is simply the kindness of supporting and respecting one another. I feel we should always encourage others, congratulate others as well give others their due. It is the least we can do for each other.

I choose to support all people, all the time. Okay there are a few (very few) that really get under my skin and I havenÂt quite learned the art of not giving them permission do that to me. Another note to self .... get over it. But, on the whole, I do support and encourage othersÂ ideas, actions, work and such. and I will be the first person to let you know, whoÂs idea or thought it was. I am very proud of people and their accomplishments and I will gladly promote them on any day, in every way and in any way, I can. Add to that, I also love to share.

So having said that I have, over the course of 9 months, submitted and or written a lot of journals and although I am a good writer ( it is that one thing I was good at in school, all those years ago

) I am also greatly inspired by the wonderful words of others and, because I love to share, I pass these writings on. Sometimes they are words that have just appeared in my life that day, from something that I have read or heard that simply resonated with me. Sometimes IÂve gone looking for the words because I need to address something IÂm going through and I need solace, or a good kick in the butt. I have said to many of you from the beginning, I am on my biggest journey of life right now. This includes, feeding my mind, soul, spirit, and body. All the while looking for my purpose in this life and that wonderful passion I used to have but lost, so long ago. As I grow and continue on this journey, IÂm taking all of you that want to do this dance with me, along for the ride. Everything I submit is usually something from the depth of my heart and soul or a passage that has been so eloquently written expressing exactly what I am feeling. I always feel that if something has touched me in a profound way, there is a good chance someone else would also benefit from the same words. So again, I share.

I have pointed this out before, but I just want to remind you all that any text I have shared that is followed by the word/words: ~Om, ~Daily Om or ~The Daily Om, is not mine, it is in fact from a site called The Daily Om. For those that also love the words from this magical place, I encourage you to log on, and sign up. You will get a lovely writing in your in box every day. Should you be inclined, they also have a daily horoscope. If there is a particular writing that you enjoyed from my journal you can visit the archives (top right hand corner) type in the heading I have used, and voila, instant positivity. This site encompasses the body, mind and spirit. In the meantime I will continue to use it as my best resource because I find the words, to be insightful, profound and very helpful. So anytime you see reference to The Daily Om, just know I was smart enough to find it and share it, but I didnÂt write it. I hope you all keep enjoying

Please know my heart and prayers are with all of you and your loved ones that are suffering the effects of the fires in California. May peace find you all, blessings

I know I am quite behind and owe many of you answers to your notes and such, please bear with me there is... ]]> =mombeam Lest We Forget http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/21431853/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/21431853/ Wed, 11 Nov 2009 04:10:49 PST

In Flanders Fields

In Flanders Fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses row on row,

That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved and were loved, and now we lie

In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die

by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae

... ]]> =mombeam Spreading Your Light http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/21176549/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/21176549/ Sun, 26 Oct 2008 18:27:35 PDT

How You Affect Others Daily

As the pace and fullness of modern life serve to isolate us from one another, the contact we do share becomes vastly more significant. We unconsciously absorb each other's energy, adopting the temperament of those with whom we share close quarters, and find ourselves changed after the briefest encounters. Everything we do or say has the potential to affect not only the individuals we live, work, and play with but also those we've just met. Though we may never know the impact we have had or the scope of our influence, accepting and understanding that our attitudes and choices will affect others can help us remember to conduct ourselves with grace at all times. When we seek always to be friendly, helpful, and responsive, we effortlessly create an atmosphere around ourselves that is both uplifting and inspiring.

Most people rarely give thought to the effect they have had or will have on others. When we take a few moments to contemplate how our individual modes of being affect the people we spend time with each day, we come one step closer to seeing ourselves through the eyes of others. By asking ourselves whether those we encounter walk away feeling appreciated, respected, and liked, we can heighten our awareness of the effect we ultimately have. Something as simple as a smile given freely can temporarily brighten a person's entire world. Our value-driven conduct may inspire others to consider whether their own lives are reflective of their values. A word of advice can help others see life in an entirely new fashion. And small gestures of kindness can even prove to those embittered by the world that goodness still exists. By simply being ourselves, we influence other's lives in both subtle and life-altering ways.

To ensure that the effect we have is positive, we must strive to stay true to ourselves while realizing that it is the demeanor we project and not the quality of our wondrous inner landscapes that people see. Thus, as we interact with others, how we behave can be as important as who we are. If we project our passion for life, our warmth, and our tolerance in our facial features, voice, and choice of words, every person who enters our circle of influence will leave our presence feeling at peace with themselves and with us. You never know whose life you are affecting, big or small. Try to remember this as you go out into the world each day. ~ The Daily Om

Please visit *jshapeshifter to read the latest post and update from his sister-in-law.

`insaneone Be The Change Challenge - :[link]

^Helewidis 44 Kittens - [link]

=mombeam A GIFT OF THE HEART .......... http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/21066555/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/21066555/ Sun, 19 Oct 2008 16:00:17 PDT

Letting People Know You Love Them

It's easy to take our feelings for granted and to assume that the people we care about know how we feel about them. But while those we love are often quite cognizant of our feelings, saying "I love you" is a gift we should give to our loved ones whenever we can. Letting people know you love them is an important part of nurturing any kind of loving relationship. Few people tire of being told they are loved, and saying "I love you" can make a world of difference in someone's life, take a relationship to a new level, or reaffirm and strengthen a steady bond. Everyone needs to hear the words "I love you." Three simple words - I - Love - You. When you declare your love for someone you admit to them that you care for them in the most significant way.

It can be difficult to express your love using words, particularly if you grew up around people that never expressed their affection verbally. But you should never be afraid to say "I love you" or worry that doing so will thrust you into a position of excessive vulnerability. It is important to share your feelings with those that matter to you. Part of the fulfillment that comes with loving someone is telling them that you love them. Besides, love exists to be expressed, not withheld.

If you love someone, let them know. Don't be afraid of the strength of your emotions or worry that your loved one won't feel the same way. Besides, the words "I love you" are often best said to another without expectation of a return investment. As each one of us is filled with an abundance of love, there is never any worry that you'll run out of love if your expression of love isn't said back to you. Saying "I love you" is a gift of the heart sent directly via words to the heart of a recipient. Even though it may not always look that way, love from the heart is an offering that is always unconditional and given without strings attached. That is the true essence of the gift of "I love you. ~ Daily Om

Over the last month I have found it difficult to be here on DA. I came here just 8 months ago with the expectation of finding great art, a wonderful community of love and support as well hopes of developing some new friendships. I was quickly embraced by all of these things and knew this was the place for me to be. At a time in my life where everything was changing, DA became my new family replacing the one I lost.

Unfortunately of late, I have found too often a lot of negativity, in-house fighting, rants about other people, and many attempts at getting others to join their personal fights against fellow deviants, volunteers, directors and of course the upper echelon. I just wasnÂt feeling the ÂloveÂ for one another, so I walked away for a while.

I fully respect everyoneÂs opinion as well appreciate a good rant. We all have feelings and emotions, some good - some bad, that need to be addressed, and what better place to express yourself than that of a loving community filled with caring family and friends.

What I understand the least from people in general is the amount of energy put into ÂhurtingÂ someone by directing their rants at them in public, as well the energy put into trying to get as many people as possible on their side. I donÂt understand because when I look around and see the horrific things that people in the community are going through and suffering from, I simply canÂt fathom the effort put into trivial matters such as, Âhe said, she saidÂ, or Âwhat kind of person doesnÂt callÂ, Âwhat he didÂ, Âwhat she didÂ, etc. I personally have little tolerance for such negativity. And trust me, I try very hard to accept it all. But when I read the stories of devastation from hurricanes, fires, or someone with a sickness, disease, those that have lost loved ones, or those themselves that are dying. I find it very difficult to understand spending time trying to ÂhurtÂ someone by pointing out, what? flaws, errors in judgment, perhaps someone having a bad day or a difference of opinion.

I work in an environment where too many of my colleagues spend an inordinate amount of energy pointing fingers, laying blame, sabotaging others, banding together while taking no responsibility for their own actions. My biggest pet peeve - when a person has an issue with someone and they donÂt deal with that person privately, they try and Âhang or shame, that personÂ by getting everyone else involved.

All of this is the ÂtrivialÂ emotional day to day stuff that in the grand scheme of things, is simply for me, not important enough to spend so much energy on. DonÂt get me wrong, our feelings are very important, itÂs how we deal with them that determines whether we are progressed or not.

The last few months have been particularly sad for me. Partly because I am still transitioning, st... ]]> =mombeam UPDATE on LOVE AND PRAYERS NEEDED http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20848102/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20848102/ Tue, 07 Oct 2008 03:09:28 PDT

Keep the

s going for *jshapeshifter

Dear All-
I can only say Jack has successfully come through his surgery. There has been detected some type of "rare infection" in the sack surrounding his heart. I only know he is being given X dose of antibiotics for this symptom. He does have other health issues that may have an effect on his recuperation. I can not share more without the family permssion.
God bless everyone for their thoughts and prayers.
Please keep him in your heart.

Peace-
Connie

I just received this message in my in box from Connie, Jack *jshapeshifter sister-in-law. I am posting her note as she wrote it as well including all of Jack's work so you can be reminded of the wonderful talent he is. Most of us got to know Jack after his DA interview back in March [link]
- if you don't know his story, please take a moment to meet this wonderful human being.

Connie's note:

Hello-
I am looking for URGENT assistance.
He is my brother-in-law and suffered a heart attack early this morning 05Oct08 about 1 a.m.
I know DeviantArt is his home away from home.
I was wondering if there is a way to let his "community" know of this misfortune, and to rally around with thoughts of good will and support. He is scheduled for quad bypass surgery tomorrow later in the day (06Oct08).
If anyone wants to send him an encouraging note - they can send it to me at cgstanton@netscape.net, and I will make sure it is delivered to him.
I GREATLY appreciate any assistance you can lend, as I am so unfamiliar with this website.
Peace-
Connie

Please take the time to send your love, prayers and thoughts to Jack for a successful surgery and recovery. You can do this by emailing Connie at the above address OR leaving a note on his site.

Blessings and thank you all.

And his work:

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20749579/ Mon, 29 Sep 2008 20:03:20 PDT

One day not too long ago the employees of a large company in St. Louis, Missouri returned from their lunch break and were greeted with a sign on the front door. The sign said: "Yesterday the person who has been hindering your growth in this company passed away. We invite you to join the funeral in the room that has been prepared in the gym."

At first everyone was sad to hear that one of their colleagues had died, but after a while they started getting curious about who this person might be.

The excitement grew as the employees arrived at the gym to pay their last respects. Everyone wondered: "Who is this person who was hindering my progress? Well, at least he's no longer here!"

One by one the employees got closer to the coffin and when they looked inside it they suddenly became speechless. They stood over the coffin, shocked and in silence, as if someone had touched the deepest part of their soul.

There was a mirror inside the coffin: everyone who looked inside it could see himself. There was also a sign next to the mirror that said: "There is only one person who is capable to set limits to your growth: it is YOU.

You are the only person who can revolutionize your life. You are the only person who can influence your happiness, your realization and your success. You are the only person who can help yourself.

Your life does not change when your boss changes, when your friends change, when your parents change, when your partner changes, when your company changes. Your life changes when YOU change, when you go beyond your limiting beliefs, when you realize that you are the only one responsible for your life.

"The most important relationship you can have, is the one you have with yourself."

~ Author Unknown

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20633258/ Tue, 23 Sep 2008 10:16:26 PDT

HOLDING SPACE FOR OTHERS AND, CARING

We have all been called upon at one time or another to help a loved one through a difficult time. When the help required consists of concrete actions, such as running errands or making phone calls, we know what to do. But sometimes we are called simply to hold space for the person as they go through whatever they need to go through. They may need to express anger or grief; they may need to talk or be silent. They may need us to hold their hand; they may need us to give them time alone. Whatever the case, when we hold space for someone, we offer ourselves up as a container for the overwhelming feelings they may be encountering due to their circumstances.

When we offer ourselves in this way, the more centered and grounded we are, the better. Our steadiness allows our companion to lean into us for support, as our presence provides an environment in which they can be free to move. We can also help by being responsive, allowing them to dictate the flow of action from talking to not talking, from anger to grief, and back again. By being aware and open, we can help them confront their feelings when that feels right, and back off from them when they need a break. Holding space requires humility, conscientiousness, and the ability to step out of the way, to honestly understand that this is not about us.

When we love someone in this way, we provide a space in which they can simply be. Able to feel what they need to feel without worrying about how they are being perceived. We can provide this offering in person, over the phone, or even from a distance, through meditation. However we do it, when we hold space for someone in need, we are offering a gift of the highest nature ~ Daily Om

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20613315/ Mon, 22 Sep 2008 03:53:40 PDT

The birth of autumn is an event missed by many. Autumn reveals itself slowly, hovering on the edges of our consciousness until its crisp breezes are strong enough to pierce our summer clothing, and we notice for the first time the transformations taking place all around us. It is only when the last fruits and vegetables have emerged in the crisp tangy air and the trees have begun to deck themselves in shifting patterns of crimson and gold that we internalize that fall has indeed returned. Autumn is invigorating and a time to gather our thoughts, in the same way that we might once have collected crops. Just as animals collect acorns to store them, we reap the fruit of our accomplishments. Autumn also ushers in a new slowness of being for most of us, as the tone and tempo of our lives change along with those of all of Mother Earth's children.

As the days grow shorter and the blossoms that brightened our gardens through summer's heat begin to droop and wilt, we tend to acknowledge the changing season without understanding that we, too, are in transition. The brilliance of autumn's foliage, the flocks of southbound geese honking overhead, and the arrival of a bountiful harvest are all signs that our lives will soon be changing. Whether the season's cooler days are a prelude to a cold winter or a long stretch of sweater weather, we feel obliged to slow down and take stock of our lives. Autumn's pleasures and rituals revolve around the gathering of abundance in preparation for the winter to come. There is ample time to contemplate what we accomplished during the warmer seasons while tasting the year's first cider or breathing in the sweet fragrance of leaves breaking down. The same stirring that inspires animals to burrow deep into the earth compels us to celebrate the rich bounty we instinctively know will not appear again until springtime.

Appearances deceive in autumn. The transformations undergone by living beings seem much more like endings than the transitions they really are. Dormancy, not death, is the hallmark of fall. Your priorities will likely change as nature flares into sunset brilliance and then lapses slowly into slumber, but remember to rejoice in the beauty of nature where every finale serves as an overture for a new beginning. ~ The Daily Om

<... ]]> =mombeam A MAGICAL MIND ........ WISH http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20484533/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20484533/ Sun, 14 Sep 2008 07:34:32 PDT

From blowing dandelion seeds into the air to throwing a penny into a fountain, we have all felt inspired to make a wish, to whisper our secret desires into the ears of the universe and wait for signs that we have been heard. Some wishes come true while others remain ethereal visions that either stay with us or fade like a star in the light of morning. Whether they come true or not, wishes are important missives, expressing our heart's desire as well as our intention to create something new in our lives. When we wish for something, our consciousness opens to receiving it, like a flower unfolding its petals to receive a bee.

There is something innocent and magical about making a wish, something that recalls the energy of childhood. Wishing is not about formulating a plan and following it step by step to attain a goal, which is the realm of adulthood. Wishing is more like a playful volley across the universe, an invitation to play. Waiting for the response is an integral part of the process. Wishing inspires an innocent opening to the possibility of magic as we wait to see if the invisible realm will bring our wish to life. This opening is a beautiful gesture in and of itself, regardless of the outcome. We place ourselves in a magical mind, and this mind is arguably as wonderful as the fulfillment of our wish itself.

In our straightforward, action-oriented society, we may tend to dismiss the power of this seemingly passive process, yet the power of a wish is well known, hence the cautionary phrase, "Be careful what you wish for." If you have given up wishing in favor of more adult pursuits, you might want to bring its magic back into your life. The next time you see the first star of the evening, or find yourself in front of a birthday cake covered in flaming candles, give yourself the gift of the magical realm that you knew so well as a child-close your eyes, open your mind, and make your wish. ~ Daily Om

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20401163/ Tue, 09 Sep 2008 03:27:46 PDT

After six years in participating in the Weekend to End Breast Cancer, I still find myself inspired, humbled and proud. This year I walked the 60 km alongside 4,746 other dedicated liked minded people. We walked in a united front against breast cancer. Our collective fundraising efforts raised an incredible 13 million dollars, benefitting the Princess Margaret Hospital.

With the generosity of those who continued to support me this year as well my new supporters, my personal contribution was $3,292.00. For this, I thank you all.

This year the weather was not on our side for it rained a while on Saturday and pretty much all day Sunday. Although our bodies became soaked, the rain couldnÂt dampen our spirit , motivation, dedication or personal reasons for taking these steps. Steps to help find a cure for breast cancer. It is incredibly inspiring to walk in the presence of a 96 year old ÂgrannyÂ, a man and woman pushing their way through from their wheelchairs, a blind man as well, the 86 year old whose body started off straight, until near the end when he became completely hunched over to one side. Equally as inspiring, was to walk alongside a young woman with a serious kneecap injury that left her in great pain however, endures this pain because, as she said Âothers are a lot worse offÂ. This is the spirit of this weekend. That is the inspiration that keeps you walking. Walking to raise awareness, walking for those who cannot, walking for the survivors, and walking to honor the memory of those lives lost to breast cancer. Finally, walking to help end breast cancer. A cancer that has affected us all in some way. It is very humbling to walk among such strength and fortitude making it difficult to complain of a few sore muscles or, a blister or two.

As most of you know, I started this journey to honor my mother Margaret during her battle with breast cancer. It was a battle she won for a while however, died last year of lung cancer. It is for this reason I have decided to make this my last year in participating in the Weekend to End Breast Cancer. Although this weekend is incredibly rewarding and continues to restore my faith in humanity, I feel the time has come for me to step away. As the fight for eradicating breast cancer is still near and dear to my heart, I will find other ways to continue supporting this cause. In the meantime I will put more energy into expanding my fundraising efforts to support other cancers and causes. Unfortunately, there have become way too many to choose from.

Over the last six years, participating in this weekend has represented some of the most emotional, touching and rewarding moments I have ever experienced. As well these walks have come to represent the,

78,947 .......... steps I took,
78,947 .......... ways I laughed,
78,947 .......... tears I cried
40,000+ dollars .......... I raised

To all that have provided financial and/or emotional support throughout these wonderful journeys, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. ~~ Blessings, Vena

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20346987/ Fri, 05 Sep 2008 20:07:05 PDT

Everyday is a blessing, and in each moment there are many things that we can be grateful for. The world opens up to us when we live in a space of gratitude. In essence, gratitude has a snowball effect. When we are appreciative and express that gratitude, the universe glows a bit brighter and showers us with even more blessings.

There is always something to be grateful for, even when life seems hard. When times are tough, whether we are having a bad day or stuck in what may feel like an endless rut, it can be difficult to take the time to feel grateful. Yet, that is when gratitude can be most important. If we can look at our lives, during periods of challenge, and find something to be grateful for, then we can transform our realities in an instant. There are blessings to be found everywhere. When we are focusing on what is negative, our abundance can be easy to miss. Instead, choosing to find what already exists in our lives that we can appreciate can change what we see in our world. We start to notice one blessing, and then another.

When we constantly choose to be grateful, we notice that every breath is a miracle and each smile becomes a gift. We begin to understand that difficulties are also invaluable lessons. The sun is always shining for us when we are grateful, even if it is hidden behind clouds on a rainy day. A simple sandwich becomes a feast, and a trinket is transformed into a treasure. Living in a state of gratitude allows us to spread our abundance because that is the energy that we emanate from our beings. Because the world reflects back to us what we embody, the additional blessings that inevitably flow our way give us even more to be grateful for. The universe wants to shower us with blessings. The more we appreciate life, the more life appreciates and bestows us with more goodness. ~Om

Blessings to all for a 'grateful' weekend!

=mombeam Giving Back and Paying It Forward ..... http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20335718/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20335718/ Fri, 05 Sep 2008 06:11:07 PDT

And ..... Why I Do What I Do

ÂNever believe that a few caring people canÂt change the world. For, indeed, thatÂs all who ever have.Â ~ Margaret Mead

I have spent a greater part of my days trying to give back in as many ways as possible for all the blessings I have been granted in my life. Throughout the years contributing wasnÂt always in a monetary form, for money was hard to come by especially in the early years of being a single parent. There were many days that I lay awake at night fretting what ÂtomorrowÂ would bring, because there simply wasnÂt enough money to even cover all the necessities of life. Through all the years of struggling I have learned that often, things just work out and life is filled with many little miracles, blessings, love and support. I am forever humbled by the outpouring of support I have personally been blessed with in my life. A day when a friend bought me groceries, or another gave me the money to buy my daughter the winter coat I couldnÂt afford, the person that invited us to dinner, watched my baby for free, or secretly stashed a $20.00 bill somewhere in my apartment that I would find long after they were gone. Those people, that had a kind smile, words of encouragement, arms to hold me when the tears were too frequent, shoulders to help carry my burdens, an ear to listen, and much love in their hearts. These are some of my blessings that kept me going during the many years of struggle and strife, and these are the blessings, that I have spent much of my energy repaying, one way or another.

Giving back or paying forward is all about support. Supporting those people, institutions or causes, that matter to you, in some way, shape or form. It isnÂt always about the donation of money, it is about awareness and compassion for things that count or simply just getting the word out. It is about remembering your many blessings, even when it may seem there are few, and actively reaching out and ÂtouchingÂ someone with your heart and soul.

For me, I will continue to find little ways to say thank you to this universe by paying it forward, I will continue to help support causes that are dear to my heart, because I know my contributions, whether large or small, in the grand scheme of things, are huge. I will continue to find ways to help those I donÂt know because you just never know when a kind word today, can become a helping hand tomorrow.

This weekend is by far my largest effort to contributing to a great cause, and one we are all too familiar with, Breast Cancer. This will mark my sixth year in participating in the 60km walk for The Weekend to End Breast Cancer. I started this journey, along with my lovely daughter $Moonbeam13 , over 11 years ago. The first five years we participated in The CIBC Run For The Cure. When this new 2 day journey came along six years ago, we quickly signed up. This journey was very close to my heart and a way for me to help show support to my mother Margaret in her battle to conquer breast cancer. After a masectomy, chemo and radiation, it was a battle she won for almost 10 years. She became a survivor. Unfortunately it would be a 2-1/2 year battle with lung cancer that would take her life. She died last April.

I had decided last year that I wouldnÂt walk this journey again because I had mixed emotions about my MotherÂs death, wanting to now focus on supporting other causes. Of course I got Âcaught up in the momentÂ at the end and signed on for another year. I figure if I say this out loud to all you lovelies now, then I wonÂt change my mind this year. Personally, I have raised somewhere in the area of 30,000.00 or 40,000.00 for Breast Cancer Research over my 11 years of support. So it is with pride I feel I can now, Âstep awayÂ. Of course I couldnÂt have done this without the kindness and generosity of all the wonderful people that support me year after year, and all you new lovelies, that have joined me this year, thank you.

I have already signed on to walk next MotherÂs Day for a little girl that lost her battle to a brain tumor at age 5. Just yesterday I agreed to join a campaign for a childrenÂs hospital, as well a walk for Ovarian Cancer. IÂm now looking to find more ways to support lung cancer research. So my journeys of support are not even close to being over, they are just shifting to help in a wider range of causes.

As Danielle says, the Big ÂCÂ - so many cancers, so many diseases. You would be hard pressed to find just one person that has never been touched by cancer in some way in their lives. I too am a cancer survivor. We all know someone, or are that someone, that has been devastated by this disease.

I love $Moonbeam13 new way of looking at w... ]]> =mombeam Belly Chakra Tonics ..... http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20195224/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20195224/ Thu, 28 Aug 2008 03:01:18 PDT

***** FORTIFYING FIG SHAKE *****

In the Ayurvedic traditions, figs and dates confer energy to those who consume them and it is recommended to eat one of each a day. Cinnamon is believed to lower cholesterol and is effective in treating diabetes, according to U.S. Department of Agriculture research.

1/4 cup coconut milk
1/2 cup filtered water
2 large or 3 small figs cut in small pieces; use dried figs if fresh are unavailable
1 date, pitted and then finely chopped
dash of cinnamon

Place all ingredients in a blender and puree at high speed until smooth and frothy.

***** BE STRONG BANANA SHAKE *****

This delicious and light elixir is based on a jamu, an Indonesian herbal-healing tradition recipe, combining the healthful spices tamarind and turmeric. Turmeric is a wonder herb. It has antibacterial, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory properties. Tamarind and turmeric are naturally alkalizing spices. Validating the yellow hue of manipura, this high-potassium, energy-rich shake is great for a balancing breakfast or afternoon snack. Omit tamarind and serve to children.

1 banana cut in four pieces
1 tablespoon tamarind paste or pulp from a tamarind pod
1 teaspoon turmeric
3/4 - 1 cup cowÂs milk, almond milk, rice milk, or soy milk
3 dates, soaked for 15 minutes, pitted then sliced into little pieces for the blender
(or substitute 1-2 tablespoons agave)

Bonus super ingredients: Add 1 or 2 of the following:
1 tablespoon sesame seeds - high in potassium, selenium, thiamine, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, great support for adrenals

1-2 tablespoons maca powder, and adaptogen and natural hormone balancer, a great super ingredient for menopausal women

1/2 teaspoon Ashwanga powder, and Ayurvedic adaptogen and used in Indian medicine as ginseng is in Chinese medicine

1 small vial Siberian ginseng or 1 tablespoon, use for adrenal support, do not use if pregnant

Blend and serve!

***** HOLY COW *****

CowÂs milk, revered for its healing power in India, is consumed with trepidation among the health conscious in the United States According Ayurvedic texts, cowÂs milk provides special and unique nutrition unavailable in any other food, but it should usually not be consumed cold. Instead, cowÂs milk is made more digestible if boiled gently for five to ten minutes and blended with carminative spices like cardamom and ginger. In addition, Ayurvedic tradition recommends using raw, non-homogenized milk whenever possible. If you are a vegan, substitute almond or soy milk for the cowÂs milk. Enjoy the healing medley of spices of this tonic, including turmeric, an anti-inflammatory and anticarcinogen. Its bitter and sweet flavor blends well with the milk.

2 cup unpasteurized whole milk or substitute regular milk, almond or soy milk
7 whole pods crushed cardamom (or 1/4 teaspoon ground)
1 stick cinnamon (or 1/4 teaspoon ground)
2 dates, soaked for 15 minutes to make them easier to blend
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon finely chopped ginger
1-3 tablespoons agave or other sweetener (add more if not using soaked dates)

If using cowÂs milk, bring to a slow boil for 5-10 minutes with cardamom pods and cinnamon stick (if not using ground ingredients) If using almond or soy milk, do NOT boil. Heat almond or soy milk to a near boil, then add cardamom pods and cinnamon stick. Allow mixture to steep for 5-10 minutes. Cool slightly, strain and then put in a blender. Add the rest of the ingredients. Blend this hot mixture carefully for a minute or two on high. Pour and enjoy.

***** MANIPURA MANHATTAN *****

The alcoholic version sometimes contains digestive bitters, which help the third chakra assimilate energy. The fennel acts as a digestive tonic in this yogic cocktail. Manipura Manhattan is especially good following a large meal or anytime digestion is sluggish.

1 small fennel bulb or 1 large bulb, cut in half
1 Asian pear (or apple if unavailable)
1 Bartlett or other sweet pear

Bonus super ingredient: 1/2 to 1-inch chunk of unpeeled ginger

Remove the stem and a few of the outer layers on the fennel bulb, then cut in pieces suitable for juicing. Combine ingredients. Juice. Stir. Enjoy!

***** PAPAYA PINEAPPLE SMOOTHIE *****

Papaya is the Âacknowledged universal healerÂ in the Indonesian healing tonic tradition of jamu. The enzyme papain seems to be able to digest almost anything. It is found in the juice of the fruit and is highly concentrated in the leaves of the plant. Pineapple contains the enzyme bromelain, which is also an appetite suppressant.
=mombeam Manipura - The Third Chakra http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20177996/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20177996/ Wed, 27 Aug 2008 03:16:52 PDT

The belly chakra, located along the spine at the solar plexus, is called the manipura chakra, meaning, Âcity of jewelsÂ. Associated with the element of fire, the belly chakra is our divine power plant or energy center. Fire fuels the will and tenacity needed to achieve our worldly goals. In Chinese medicine, the belly is signified by a written character that means between heaven and earth. This character signifies the duality of the manipura power center and the belly centerÂs archetypical lesson if inciting the seeker to look beyond outer power toward inner power. The belly chakra kindles our desires to achieve, sparking the outer drive of the ego personality. Yet in order to attain true power we must also be able to simultaneously squelch the conflagration of the ego personality.

The art of surrendering to a higher power is not thought of as something of value in our culture. From an early age we are taught to be the best, to shut out the competition. As children, we learn to engage fully in the game of life, and it is natural for us to be emotionally involved and attached to winning objects and ideas. While this can lead some to great worldly success, it can also lead to misery. There are those having the brains and talents to master many subjects in life; however, on a spiritual level not really grasping the value of deeper personal power because all their energy was given to the outcome of their efforts. When people are always attached to the outcome of their work, then their Â power Â depends on that outcome.

Another truth about the manipura power hub is that their will always be plenty of people wanting to tell you what to do with your power and how. But each of us has our own power best suited for our own spiritual path. We must ignite our energy engage our presence, and then let go of the outcome.

The comparing mind resides in the manipura chakra. Through it we compare ourselves to others and their accomplishments, attributes, and shortcomings. It tempts us to look outside for our power, to create a value judgment about whether we are ÂbetterÂ or ÂworseÂ than someone else. The irony is that when we turn inward we let go of our ego and its attachment to outcome, we can find our inner city of jewels, and we follow our instincts. In the end, following our gut is infinitely more precious, valuable, and potent than any external source of validation.

In order to properly energize our bodies, we need a good diet, adequate rest, and exercise. The belly chakra governs the pancreas, adrenals, liver, and stomach.

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20160481/ Tue, 26 Aug 2008 03:39:38 PDT

Also called: the power centre, the solar plexus, lumbar, stomach or liver chakra

Location: diaphragm at the solar plexus below the breastbone

Colour: bright yellow (yellow is joy, power and divine wisdom)

Qualities: joy, mental power, happiness, intellect

Glands: adrenals and sexual hormones

Governs: digestion, flow of bile, adrenal and sexual hormones

Aura: the emotional body

Tone: musical note E

Fragrance: grapefruit

Foods: corn, banana, pineapple, grapefruit, melon, parsnips

Crystals: citrine, amber, malachite, turquoise

Psychological function: outgoing, cheerful nature with a strong sense of personal
power, you have found your own unique gift - the work that gives you
pleasure and makes you feel fulfilled.

Weakness: jealousy, fear, shame, anger, ignorance, despair, agression, critical,
egotistical, depressed, judgemental, perfectionistic, worry about what
others think, confused, poor digestion, afraid of being alone.

Strength: centre of personal power, will, strength, confidence, centre of life force
energy (chi) so this chakra relates to physical abilities and athletic
prowess, alignment with Cosmic Will - Âthy will be done on Earth as it is
in HeavenÂ, knowing your perfect fit in the universe.

Affirmation:

I want happiness - just as the sun radiates acceptance, warmth and relaxation
from the centre of my universe, I also radiate the same from the centre of my
being. My will is aligned to GodÂs will. I am happy, expansive and wise!

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20141834/ Mon, 25 Aug 2008 03:56:54 PDT

When individuals experience difficult times, they often find that they possess a previously undiscovered reservoir of strength. In ancient Vedic texts, the third, or Manipura chakra (when healthy) is the seat of that strength, bolstering courage and determination in times of stress and uncertainty. This chakra radiates from the base of the sternum, governing our emotions, will, and ego. When balanced, it blesses one with a profound drive to succeed, authority, integrity, and self-respect. It is active, rather than passive, and helps in the achievement of tasks both great and small. The Manipura chakra may be visualized as a bright, cheerful yellow and is associated with the sunflower and amber.

Because of its connection to the ego, when the third chakra is in a depleted state, it is common to experience feelings of inadequacy, doubt, and rejection; depression and lethargy; and intense worry. Too much energy focused in the area leads to the desire to exert inappropriate control over one's environment. A well-developed Manipura chakra empowers you to grow in positive ways and inspires you to act on your desires. It is possible to exert a balancing influence over the chakra by bringing fire into your life in the form of candles or hearth fires, wearing yellow clothing, and doing exercises that strengthen the muscles of the abdomen and teach you to breath deeply using the diaphragm. You can stimulate an under-active third chakra by burning cinnamon or carnation incense, using peppermint or lemon essential oils and Ginkgo biloba or milk thistle, and exposing the chakra to tiger-eye. The simplest and most potent method of opening and energizing the chakra is relaxing your emotional center. Laugh and cry more often, let yourself be more sensitive, and embrace your raw emotions.

Living with a repressed Manipura chakra is like existing automatically, without vitality. Its qualities can be the cause of overwork and excessive perfectionism, but this chakra is more often the seat of free will, goals, personal power, and decisiveness. When nurtured, it can lead you to new heights of spirituality and balance in all aspects of your life.

=mombeam Personal Harmony- Balance http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20126783/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20126783/ Sun, 24 Aug 2008 08:54:44 PDT

Like pieces of a puzzle, the many different aspects of your being come together to form the person that you are. You work and play, rest and expend energy, commune with your body and soul, exalt in joy, and feel sorrow. Balance is the state that you achieve when all of the aspects of your life and self are in harmony. Your life force flows in a state of equilibrium because nothing feels out of sync. While balance is necessary to have a satisfying, energetic, and joyful life, only you can determine what balance means to you.

Achieving balance requires that you assess what is important to you. The many demands of modern life can push us to make choices that can put us off balance and have a detrimental effect on our habits, relationships, health, and career. In creating a balanced lifestyle, you must ascertain how much time and energy you are willing to devote to the different areas of your life. To do so, imagine that your life is a house made up of many rooms. Draw this house, give each part of your life its own room, and size each room according to the amount of importance you assign to that aspect of your life. You can include family, solitude, activities that benefit others, healthy eating, indulgences, exercise and working on self. You may discover that certain elements of your life take up an inordinate amount of time, energy, or effort and leave you with few resources to nurture the other aspects of your life. You may want to spend less time on these activities and more on the ones that fulfill you. ~ Daily Om

A balanced lifestyle is simply a state of being in which one has time and energy for obligations and pleasures, as well as time to live well and in a gratifying way. With its many nuances, balance can be a difficult concept to integrate into your life. Living a balanced existence, however, can help you attain a greater sense of happiness, health, and fulfillment.

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20089441/ Fri, 22 Aug 2008 03:44:05 PDT

Living A Day In Grace

Grace is always with us. It flows like a river through our lives, artfully reminding us that there is magic and power beyond what our eyes can see. At times we catch its subtle beauty, like during chance meetings, near misses, and insights that seem to come from nowhere. Other times we experience grace in all its powerful surety such as when a job or relationship comes to an end. Though we may forget that this is grace at work too, it is indeed influencing our lives, helping us to move forward and take the next step. Grace exists in all situations, in every moment, yet all too often we may overlook its presence.

Imagine how it would feel to live an entire day in grace, to fully appreciate that your day is unfolding in absolute perfection. Whereas usually you might miss the magic in ordinary events and interactions, on this day you would recognize them all as little miracles. Perhaps you could begin with your first deep breaths in the morning, becoming aware that there is an abundant supply of air for you to breathe. Your lungs know just how to carry oxygen to your blood, and your blood knows where to carry it from there. This is grace at work. You might appreciate the brilliant sunshine, the warm summertime rain, or the possibilities for learning that greet you at every turn. You might notice the ease with which you do your job or laugh with a close friend. These things are also grace. Even laying your head down at the end of this day and resting in the stillness of night is grace.

With each opportunity you give yourself to enjoy this current of benevolence, you may discover a deeper peace. Your faith may strengthen and your heart may open. You might begin to wonder if struggle is really all that necessary after all. By living this one day in grace, you might open the door to many more. ~Om

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20071390/ Thu, 21 Aug 2008 03:35:45 PDT

SACRAL CHAKRA EXERCISES:

- PELVIC ROCK 1 - Lie plane on your back with your knees bent so that
the soles of your feet are placed securely on the floor. Inhale into your
chest completely and breathe out totally, pushing into your feet at the
end of the breath and tilting your pelvis in the air. Visualize you are
pushing the breath out stuck between your legs. When the breath is
spent, unwind your legs and hips, returning them to the floor, and
breathe in completely into your chest again. Then do again. Keep
these going for a least possible of five minutes to feel the results.

- PELVIC ROCK 2 - If the primary one awakens an immense distribution
of force, or if there is too much inflexibility to execute it effortlessly,
try doing it again in the similar arrangement a lot quicker. In this work
out the pelvis is snapped up and back rapidly, with as a great deal of
power as possible. Let yourself create any sounds that are accepted.
This helps to discharge infertile force. (Make sure you do this on
something soft like a mat or bed.)

The SACRAL CHAKRA unites us to happiness, craving --our craving for
sexuality and our desire for life--and emotive understanding.
Try this easy and very soothing working out to help you experience
more unbiased and fully associated to your Sacral Chakra:

1. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and knees comfortable. Close
up your eyes.

2. Bring your hands to your lower belly. Start on to transfer your
heaviness from foot to foot, building a gentle, consoling rocking
motion. As you rock from side to side, start in on making minor
moderate circles with both hands on your lower belly.

3. Carry on doing this as long as you need to. Then open your eyes.

BALANCED ENERGY: SECOND CHAKRA FACTS

Â The second chakra generates your excitement for life, have a
good times, high-quality sex and excellent food.

Â A well-balanced second chakra will outcome in a contented taste
for life, bodily satisfaction, expressive accomplishment and
inspired appearance.

Â In your body, the second chakra presides over the sexual and
reproductive organs, the bladder, and part of the lower intestine.

Â An appropriate representation for the second chakra is a
temperate, exhilarating fireplace in your abdomen.

Â The second chakra quivers with the color orange.
When your second chakra is disturbed, you might have the
inclination of let alone, calculating or pay no attention to your way
of thinking. Or you might even sever connections from the physical
on the whole, separating by hand from your intelligence and your
thoughts, and living your life in your head. If the unevenness is
immense enough, you could come into contact with self- rejection,
self- refusal, and self- removal. Darkness can cover your life,
setting an end all impulsiveness, enjoyment, and happiness.
At its very worst, an unprovoked second chakra can show the way to
anorexia, bulimia, obsession, sexual dysfunction and hopelessness.

TOO MUCH ORANGE?
There are periods when we contain too much orange energy. That is to
say that our sacral chakra can be operational in the fullness of time.
When this comes to pass, you may come into contact with those in
general constructive way of thinking of originality and creation begin to
move into overexcited and obsessive behaviors. You will know this
takes place when the development youÂre effective on is longer
enjoyable. This is not the identical as getting bored with a
development or feeling that itÂs time to being something new. Rather,
it is when just getting the project done to have it finished, is your main
incentive. The energy of this is serious and easier said than done. It is
wearing and energy-zapping.

RESTORING BALANCE TO AN OVERWORKED SACRAL CHAKRA:
How do you medicine this? Use purple to bring equilibrium back.
Purple is orangeÂs Âharmonizing colorÂ and this just signifies that
purple balances orange. In basic terms wear purple clothes, or use
purple gemstones, eat purple foods, etc.

THE GODDESS BAST:
A Goddess we can appeal to help maintain equilibrium of our sacral
chakra is Bast. She is the Egyptian who administers dancing, flora and
fauna, independence, the funny side, ecstasy, the supernatural,
conquering and lightheartedness. Her secret language comprises of the
pyramid, sun and moon and her totem is cat.

SIMPLE BAST MEDITATION:
To call upon the commanding and constructive disti... ]]> =mombeam Sacral Chakra Tonics ..... http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20015746/ http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/20015746/ Mon, 18 Aug 2008 03:33:10 PDT

***** SUNRISE JUICE *****

According to Ayurvedic texts, it is not recommended to skip breakfast. When you skip this important meal, it is believed that you disturb sadhaka pitta, making you irritated and full of unsettling emotions. Responsible for bad hair days, the sadhaka pitta is a subdivision of the fire element. I It influences our Âget up and goÂ in the world, our decisiveness, and our spirituality. ayurveda recommends fruit and vegetable juices for breakfast to balance sadhaka pitta. Ayurvedic texts go as far as to say that fruit in the morning is like gold because it is the optimum time to receive the nourishing physical and spiritual properties of fruit.

Sensuous, delicious, nutritious, and orange, Sunrise Juice will get you out of bed in the morning with a smile. ItÂs filled with life-giving energy, and its sweet flavor will stimulate feelings of joy and contentment. Christie McClellland, founder of Gayatri Healing, contributed this recipe

1/2 mango
6 tangerines
5 strawberries

Juice together and wake up to life. Take this cleansing, sweet, juice fruit elixir 30 minutes before other breakfast foods such as hot cereal.

***** SACRED SACRAL JUICE *****

This unusual yet delicious beverage will leave you feeling refreshed and in control of your emotions.

1/2 jicama, cut in chunks to juice or approximately 1 cup to 1/2 pound peeled jicama chunks
1 medium carrot, washed, not peeled, ready for juicing
2 small or 1 large gala or other sweet variety of apple, cut into chunks

Juice all items and then stir just before serving

***** SENSUAL SECOND CHAKRA SHAKE *****

Peaches have long been considered symbolic of sexuality and sensuality. The orange color of the shake reflects the cosmic aspect of the second chakra. this luxurious shake will inspire your senses and heal your body.

3 small or 2 large peaches cut into chunks
1 cup almond milk, or plain yogurt, or 1/2 cup plain yogurt plus 1/2 cup water
Pinch of nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon chopped mint leaves
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
1 teaspoon finely chopped ginger
1-2 tablespoons agave or appropriate sweetener

Bonus super ingredients:
2 tablespoons ground pumpkin seeds or pumpkin-seed butter
1 tablespoon flax oil for hormonal balance

Blend and enjoy. Makes 2-3 cups. Pumpkins seeds are high in zinc, essential fatty acids, and plant sterols, and they are recommended for benign prostate enlargement, bladder disease cystitis, kidney inflammation, and urinary path, all related to the sacral chakra.

SACRAL CHAKRA TONIC INTENTION:

My emotions are an expression of my divine essence. I feel my sexual energy flowing freely in my body. I feel and validate my emotions and sexuality as a part of my divine expression on earth. I allow any imbalances to release so that I can fully express myself without excess in my emotions and sexuality.

Namaste!

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/19945957/ Thu, 14 Aug 2008 03:33:13 PDT

Also called: the emotional, creative, spleen or sacral chakra

Location: two inches below the belly button - the centre of chi

Colour: orange

I encourage you to read *blessed-saen findings on blue being
the colour representing the second chakra

Qualities: optimism, self confidence, enthusiasm, courage, self-discipline,
prosperity

Glands: spleen and pancreas, womb

Governs: urinary / elimination system, sexuality

Aura: the emotional body

Tone: musical note D

Fragrance: mandarin

Foods: peaches, oranges, tangerines, cantelope, mangoes, apricots, pumpkin,
carrot

Crystals: tigerÂs eye, carnelian

Psychological function: relates to the quality of love for the opposite sex, giving and
receiving physical, mental and spiritual pleasure

Weak: emotionally explosive, aggressive, manipulative, self-serving, over-
indulgent - or the opposite - shy, timid, fearful, resentful, buries
emotions, burdened by guilt

Balanced: person expresses friendliness, creativity, sexuality, emotions and
intuition. The second chakra governs the person's sense of self-worth,
their confidence in their own creativity and their ability to relate to
others in an open and friendly way. (Orange energy gives you the ability
to reach out, to radiate, to extend yourself, to reach up to your heart
and to your soul.)

Affirmation:

I am creative. I am expressive and friendly. I am sexually expressive.
I am intuitive! I am emotionally balanced.
I create to support my security. I desire ....

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/19905891/ Mon, 11 Aug 2008 21:18:08 PDT

Caretaking The Soul Of Gaia

As we walk upon the earth, we walk upon a living being more similar to ourselves than we imagine. Just like us, the earth has both a physical body and an energetic body, complete with a chakra system identified by ancient mystics and modern scientists alike. Gaia, as the earth is called when acknowledged as a living entity in her own right, has her own life force and her own path of unfolding, separate from us, but including us. Human beings and Gaia are intertwined on every level, not just the physical, and an awareness of her chakras can help us to acknowledge, heal, and enable her on her path, just as she selflessly returns the favor to us.

It is generally agreed that Gaia has seven major chakras distributed evenly across her body and connected to one another via two lines of energy that intersect at various points on the earth. The first chakra is located at Mount Shasta in Northern California; the second is in Lake Titicaca in South America; the third chakra is in Uluru-Kata Tjuta in Australia; the fourth chakra resides in Glastonbury in England; the fifth chakra is at the Great Pyramid in Mount of Olives; the sixth chakra is in Kuh-e Malek Siah in Iran, and the seventh chakra is in Mount Kailas in Tibet. In addition to her seven major chakras, she has minor chakras and other vortexes of energy that are significant to her life-energy system, and all these energy centers need caretaking. Just as we can heal ourselves through our own chakras, we can heal and support Gaia through hers.

While it would be a wonderful experience to visit one of the earthÂs chakras, you can always participate in loving and healing Gaia wherever you are. Maintaining an awareness of the regions in which her chakras reside can be very powerful. You may place photos of the locales on your altar, sending healing energy to each of her chakras during your meditations. As you consciously connect your energy system to her energy system, the true meaning of groundedness reveals itselfÂit is a relationship with Gaia in which we acknowledge our calling as the caretakers of her soul.

http://mombeam.deviantart.com/journal/19867245/ Sat, 09 Aug 2008 18:37:27 PDT

Your Allies On Life's Journey

Part of being human is the search for an individual identity. Bound to this strong need to establish a unique persona, however, is an equally intense desire for acceptance. It is when we find our individual tribes that both are satisfied. Our tribe members are those people who accept us as we are without reservation and gladly accompany us on our journeys of evolution. Among them, we feel free to be our imperfect selves, to engage unabashedly in the activities we enjoy, and to express our vulnerabilities by relying on our tribe for support. We feel comfortable investing our time and energy in the members of our tribe, and are equally comfortable allowing them to invest their resources in our development.

The individuals who eventually become members of your unique tribe are out there in the wide world waiting for you. You are destined to find them, one by one, as you move through life. Sometimes your own efforts will put you in contact with your future tribe members. At other times, circumstances beyond your control will play a role in helping you connect with your tribe. If you look about you and discover that you are already allied with a wonderful and supportive tribe, remember that there are likely many members of your tribe you have not yet met. On the other hand, if you feel you are still living outside of your tribe, broadening your horizons can help you find your tribe members.

However your life develops after you come together with your tribe, you can be assured that its members will stand at your side. On the surface, your tribe may seem to be nothing more than a loose-knit group of friends and acquaintances to whom you ally yourself. Yet when you look deeper, you will discover that your tribe grounds you and provides you with a sense of community that ultimately fulfills many of your most basic human needs. ~Om

This community represents the perfect relationship. It is one of comfort that makes you feel youÂve been attached forever and yet in reality for me, it is only a short time that I have been here. As a matter of interest, I am still relatively new and will only hit my 6 month mark, this coming Thursday and yet, it feels as though I have been here forever. I have quickly met new friends, and been drawn into a very nurturing and all encompassing community. This is a community I am proud to be a part of and talk about often. It is a community of support, generosity, kindness, talent, nurturing and much love.

Because I am so proud of this community, I have encouraged my very dear friend Peter *Pierre-DeBris to also come and play. Please go and show him some of that fabulous DA love. As a human being, he will be an asset to this community as well he has some wonderful photography that will soon be coming to a computer screen near you.

This art community IS the best in the world, the talent here is simply incredible and, you should all be very proud of yourselves.

Happy 8th Birthday to Deviant Art and a very Happy dA Loving Day!