Recycle Tribe

These times, they are a changing!

2011-01-07T19:46:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

I want to start this year off with happy thoughts. Even in the face of what the news tells me. I have to believe that Humanity is smarter than this. We're going to have a mass awakening at the 11th hour and do the undoable!

For one, lets have some peace! Stop the prick waiving and play nice!

We can accomplish so much more and use our resources better.

In the mean time. For those who wish to bug out and find a safe place amidst the chaos of change. There are many resources.

http://www.survivaltopics.com/

http://www.greatdreams.com/survival.htm

http://survivalcache.com/

Sad, but true. You have to be prepared for the worse. Like.. Zombies! Or something as nasty.

Okay, back to the fun stuff. DIY!

http://www.instructables.com/
Recycle, build, revamp and be creative!
We're all in this together.
I want to see more cooperation, sharing, and creativity.
The old ways just aren't working. We can do better!
http://sugru.com/about/
Hack the world, culture jammers!

"Be realistic - demand the impossible!"
Anonymous graffiti, Paris 1968

The Element of Life.

2010-10-15T10:30:00.000-07:00

Water the element of Life.

From our beginning it surrounds us.

Cushioning our fragile flesh as we dream of being.

Rocking us gently in the womb, our tiny universe.

The damn breaks and we are thrust into a world of brilliant thirst.

We always seek that illusive, oceanic dream of creation.

Drink, bathe, swim, shower and dive.

Water calls to us.

We waste it, horde it, pollute it, share it, fight over it, cherish it and protect it.

Without it, Life ceases.

Patricia Bowne

2009

It's a precious thing. This simple mix of Hydrogen and Oxygen molecules.

The water we drink today is the same water the dinosaurs drank—there is no new water.

Nearly 450 million people in 29 countries currently face severe water shortages.

20 percent more water than is now available will be needed to feed the additional three billion people who will be alive by 2025.
As much as two-thirds of the world population could be water-stressed by 2025.
Aquifers, which supply one-third of the world's population, are being pumped out faster than nature can replenish them.
Half the world's rivers and lakes are seriously polluted.
Major rivers, such as the Yangtze, Ganges, and Colorado, do not flow to the sea for much of the year because of upstream withdrawals.

http://water.org/learn-about-the-water-crisis/facts/

Crisis- noun

a stage in a sequence of events at which the trend of all future events, esp. for better or for worse, is determined; turning point.

We have to make it for better.

We have to stop treating the water like a never ending, self cleaning resource. We need to stop expanding.

"Growth for growth's sake is the ideology of a cancer cell."

http://www.worldometers.info/water/


Stop funking up my home!

We're not the only ones on this planet. Fish, turtles, otters, frogs, beavers, alligators.. They live in water.

Alright, the water is polluted. How about just having access to any water?

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/2943946.stm

Doing research for this blog and keeping up with world events in general has opened my eyes to most of this information. In the future, wars will be fought over water. Oil is NOT necessary for life. Water is.

http://blueplanetnetwork.org/water/facts

We take it for granted. We turn on the tap and get drinkable water. Oh, it might taste funky, but we won't die if dysentery after drinking it.

http://www.irinnews.org/IndepthMain.aspx?IndepthId=13&ReportId=62312

Let's keep water clean and available. We all need it. Don't waste it!

Idiocracy

2010-10-05T18:42:00.000-07:00

It's been on my mind a while, but now I see I'm not the only one.
Have you noticed how stupid the kids are these days?

http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/article/20100928/LIFESTYLE/9280310/Are-we-raising-a-generation-of-nincompoops-

Even if your kid is a straight "A" student. Ask yourself. "Would they be able to survive if all the adults disappeared?"
What if technology broke down and they couldn't use their "smart" phone?
They are so used to having things done for them. Their laundry, food prep, basic chores and daily living activities. Technology has taken away the chore of solving problems and using your imagination.
I believe that we need to teach children simple, critical thinking skills. It's a must for our survival as a species. We came all this way from banging rocks together to smashing tiny buttons.
We had to think to survive. Now, we order out, flip a switch, call a repair person and Google our questions. Between posting our every thought and action online. Who leads that exciting of a life!? If you did, would you really want to stop to tweet about it? Update your facebook status? Almost everyone wants their 15 minutes of fame and they don't care how they get it.

http://www.king5.com/health/childrens-healthlink/Dangerous-online-stunts-sending-more-kids-to-emergency-rooms-103086969.html

I fear for the future of my species. I'm afraid we're going to dumb ourselves into extinction.
The kids don't care about History, Math or Science. They are in the "Right Now!" There is no patience. Food, information and communication is instant.
My son told me today that a Freshman girl didn't know about 9/11.
WTF!? She said it didn't concern her.
What happened to current events? Am I that old? I had a weekly assignment to read the news and write about something important and current.

There is something I came across, researching for this blog.

http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/90001/90782/7112408.html

Scary stuff. I have a cousin who married a brilliant, Chinese researcher. She can't cook, do laundry, interact socially, or take care of her own child!
But in her field, she's great. Just no life skills.

Then, there are the marginalized. The poor, have nots of the world that don't seem to fit into any, world leader's plan. Oh, they make for good publicity when funds need to be raised or votes secured.
They get what the rulers decide they deserve.

http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2009/03/poordevelopment/

I've said it before and I'll say it again.
We all do better, when we all do better.

Lets start with our kids. Lets make them more than pop star wannabes.
http://www.essortment.com/all/childraisingad_rcnj.htm

Simple, practical and should be common sense.

Politics suck!

2010-09-06T17:52:00.000-07:00

So, I voted in the primary and try to keep up with all the issues and mud slinging. Has the majority of people lost their flipping minds? I don't care what party you support. Really I don't. Being involved is good for Democracy.
But, SO IS CRITICAL THINKING AND RESEARCHING!

I try to tell my son. "Research a subject from several angles BEFORE you go shooting your mouth off."
Now, I admit. I have ignored my own advice on occasion and had to eat my words later. Humility is also a good thing to have. So many people go off half cocked and think violence will solve things. Then, there are these sleazy, ignorant, attention whores who whip up the easily led masses into a hateful frenzy from the safety of their studios. There is a special place in their hell for them. I'm sure.

"Man seeking power is the most dangerous animal on the planet."

I'm not sure who said that but it is true. One might start out with good intentions but power, money and perks corrupt quickly. Look at how many career politicians there are. NO ONE should be able to vote themselves a raise!! NO ONE! I want my politicians to punch a time clock and be accountable for their lousy work ethic. If we did that kind of slip shod, lazy ass work. We'd be fired without a golden parachute. It's bullshit.

Yet here we are. Voting, protesting and signing petitions. Does it really do any good? I'm getting a little frustrated.
Doing the right thing seems obvious and easy but governments tell us how hard and complicated it is. We're just stupid peasants.
I wonder what would happen if everyone just ignored their governments and did the right thing.

Feed the hungry, heal the sick, house the homeless, clean up environmental messes, help disaster victims and keep your religion to yourself.
The Divine Wow loves us all equally. Celebrate that in your own way and let me do it my way. Enough said.

Now, for some loving links!

http://www.oxfamamerica.org/

http://www.alternative-energy-news.info/

http://ecolocalizer.com/

http://www.newscientist.com/

https://www.adbusters.org/

Have fun, kids!

Gratitude

2010-07-14T12:57:00.000-07:00

To be grateful. I strive to appreciate my good fortune.
Under employed but I have a roof over my head, food to eat, my health and beautiful friends.

Saying thank you is more than good manners. It is good spirituality.

- Alfred Painter

A while back. I went into a store for some water. There was an old, pan handler sitting outside. Sun and wind burned from a life on the streets. I have seen him before. It was blistering hot and I didn't see if he had anything to drink. I picked up an extra bottle of cold water for him. When I walked by he muttered "Spare change?"
I responded. "No, but take this water. It's hot."
Suddenly, this quiet, beggar sneers at me. "I don't want no water."
I was a little stunned. What an ingrate! All he wanted was money to buy alcohol with. I rarely give money to pan handlers because of this. But to refuse a simple kindness because it's not what you want seems ludicrous. Especially when you're BEGGING!
Talk about inviting bad karma. Him and me. I was in a terrible mood all day because I let that incident bother me instead of letting it go.

Forgiveness is freeing up and putting to better use the energy once consumed by holding grudges, harboring resentments, and nursing unhealed wounds. It is rediscovering the strengths we always had and relocating our limitless capacity to understand and accept other people and ourselves.

- Sidney and Suzanne Simon

Life, it's a learning experience.

Beneviolent Anarchy!

2010-07-09T11:36:00.000-07:00

I'm back!
Time to share some great ideas in beauty, anarchy and freedom!

Have you noticed how the whole idea of what's beautiful and tasteful is packaged and crammed down our throats like a grease ball hamburger? I'm tired of it and adore the creative, graffiti artists and street performers who add a bit of beauty and whimsy to our urban jungles.

http://urbanprankster.com/

http://improveverywhere.com/

http://www.environmentalgraffiti.com/

Bringing Smart back.

2009-09-28T10:30:00.000-07:00

I have found something, today that got me excited.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090927/ap_on_re_us/us_more_school

Forget sexy, we need to bring smart back.
Our culture does not encourage us to excell in academics. That's for nerds, geeks, dorks and loosers.
http://householdhacker.com/

We are encoraged to be good looking, cool, thin, have HUGE breasts and be willing to do anything for our 15 minutes of fame.
What happened to having pride and dignity?
http://omg.yahoo.com/

My son jokes about wanting to develope a vaccine for stupidity. I think it's a great idea. At least he didn't tell me he wants to be on American Idol or some other "reality" show.
http://www.earthsky.org/

http://www.scifun.org/

As a culture, we need to appreciate our FREE education. Why is education the first thing on the budget, chopping block? Do the politicians not want smart people voting? We might make some informed decisions instead of falling for the misleading sound bites.
We have become a nation of people with the attention span of a ferret on speed. We are so busy multitasking that we probably don't understand half of the information that we just absorbed.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attention_span

What is up with Twitter? Who has the time or desire to know every little detail of their "friends" lives?
I get a twitch in my eye when I see so many people walking around with their attention glued to a small, electronic device.

The evil twin wants to trip them. Do they realize that LIFE is happening all around them?

Wake up and smell the text books kids.
Your chance of becoming famous are painfully thin.
That is, unless you can come up with the vaccine for stupidity.

http://www.thinkgeek.com/

Simple solutions.

2009-09-01T09:43:00.000-07:00

It's getting to be time to plant my winter garden. Yes, it's still on the hot side, but I'm itching to play in the dirt.
I did not have very much luck with my garden this summer, but my pond is thriving. Time to changes tactics.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biointensive

I'm not going to give up on urban gardening!
http://growbiointensive.org/index.html

Where there is a will, there is a way. Keep thinking happy thoughts..
http://attra.ncat.org/

We need to quickly, rethink how we do things. The old ways don't work. They're not sustainable!
http://www.kitchengardeners.org/

Simple post. I'm trying to keep hopelessness at bay. It's very hard to do that when you're a news junkie.

Food, glorious food!

2009-07-29T17:20:00.000-07:00

“Food is our common ground, a universal experience.”
James Beard

I enjoy eating. I enjoy growing things to eat and I love sharing food.
I watched a very disturbing documentary today with my son. Most of the information, I already knew. It scared the hell out of Rowan.
http://www.futureoffood.com/

Yes, Virginia. There is evil and one of it's names is Monsanto.
No frankenfoods for me! What gave us the idea that we were smarter than Mother Nature?
My mother has celiac's disease. Wheat and gluten make her intestines try desperately to turn themselves inside out. It's not pretty.
In her research, she has found that many have hypothesized that genetically modified wheat is a cause for the explosion of celiac cases. Hmmm..
I have been wondering if, perhaps. That the disappearing bee population is to blame, in part by the huge, mono culture crops of GMO's. Did you know that "Roundup ready" plants are considered insecticides!? They're poison to insects! I doubt that the scientists were smart enough to program the plants to know the difference between a good bug and a bad one.
But never fear! The Pharming industry has out best interests at heart... Right?

http://www.hollow-hill.com/sabina/2009/04/monsanto_to_michelle_please_pa.html

This is a very good reason to embrace organic gardening practices and heiloom seeds. That and it just tastes better!

http://www.heirloomseeds.com/

“If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.”

J.R.R Tolkien

Get informed and get involved. The world is run by those who show up.

Organise!

2009-07-10T13:32:00.000-07:00

Summer is not my season.
My genetics favor a cool, moist habitat with lots of shade.
Being in the desert during the summer seems to croc pot my brain a bit and the Evil Twin takes advantage.

Not today!
It's blistering hot and humid. I have the day off the the boy is at a friends. A few chores and then, ME time.
I can't comfortably cool the house with the swamp cooler so I got creative.
I tried a little Bikram Yoga.
This is not for the faint of heart or heat sensitive. It's intense.
I did have an epiphany though. Not anything too profound. It's a common idea. Dropping a meme into the collective consciousness.
Some people have prayer lists. Others have group meditation, journeying and sewing circles.

I would like to invite more people to gather into informal groups that focus on a few, specific goals. To think about it and on a weekly basis. Then, at the end of the week, perform a ritual to send out the intention. Burn a candle, pray, dance naked or yodel. Whatever works for you. We have to forget about the minor details and get together on the important things.

Cicero:
We were born to unite with our fellow men, and to join in community with the human race.

How about for starters.
1. Small families.
Kids are expensive on so many levels. Not just for the parents but the rest of the world has to bear the load in some fashion.
2. Less stuff is good. Simplify.
Do we really need so much? Food, gadgets, clothes, cars..etc.
Live out of a back pack for a while and you'll discover how little you really need.

Eugene V. Debs:
Now my friends, I am opposed to the system of society in which we live today, not because I lack the natural equipment to do for myself but because I am not satisfied to make myself comfortable knowing that there are thousands of my fellow men who suffer for the barest necessities of life. We were taught under the old ethic that man's business on this earth was to look out for himself. That was the ethic of the jungle; the ethic of the wild beast. Take care of yourself, no matter what may become of your fellow man. Thousands of years ago the question was asked; ''Am I my brother's keeper?'' That question has never yet been answered in a way that is satisfactory to civilized society.

Yes, I am my brother's keeper. I am under a moral obligation to him that is inspired, not by any maudlin sentimentality but by the higher duty I owe myself. What would you think me if I were capable of seating myself at a table and gorging myself with food and saw about me the children of my fellow beings starving to death.
1908 speech

We can change attitudes. Win hearts and minds.
We just have to take the ego out of the equation. It's not about my needs but the greater good.
Just a little, friendly meme.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meme

Organize, and work for beneficial change. Not just for your small, circle of friends, tribe, religion, or country. But for this whole planet.
I don't know about you, but I'm pretty frightened. Look up from your new, distracting gadget and smell the coffin. It's bad.
I'm up for any amount of good vibes you can spare.

Things change, Chaos Rules!

2009-07-06T10:05:00.001-07:00

Yeah, it's been a while.
I've been busy building my bunker and trying to grow a garden.
I'm afraid to read/watch and listen to the news.
What is wrong with people!?

Don't ever become a pessimist... a pessimist is correct oftener than an optimist, but an optimist has more fun, and neither can stop the march of events.
Robert A. Heinlein

I am trying very hard not to loose my optimistic outlook. It's becoming more difficult as I watch the world slip into Chaos, and not the good kind!

I think it's a symptom of overpopulation. Too many people, not enough resources or space. We have shit where we eat for too long and now the very earth that used to sustain us is now poisoning us.
My garden is not thriving, neither is my dad's. No matter how lovingly I water, weed and fertilize. The fruit withers on the vine if it fruits at all. The few cucumbers I've grown are deformed, bug nibbled and taste like the bottom of my shoe. I am very disturbed.

Things are becoming rather biblical. Even movies are cashing in on the end of the world scenario.

It is a truism that almost any sect, cult, or religion will legislate its creed into law if it acquires the political power to do so.
Robert A Heinlein

This is where I get off before I throw my computer out the window. Nothing is working as I want it to. So what else is new?

Good Vibes

2009-05-18T18:20:00.000-07:00

So we can all agree. Life is pretty rough right now.
Fine, I choose to be soft, strong, and resilient.
Being a massage therapist brings me into close, physical contact with people of all kinds.
I have to keep my psychic shield soft enough to be empathic but strong enough to keep from letting someone else's "junk" get in. It's a very, fine line.
I'm not perfect. I give too much energy sometimes. I let someone's mood infect me. I get over it and have no regrets.
I love being a healing, comforting, caring entity. I like to think I'm sending energetic ripples across the universe. I'm delighted to discover like-minded souls and to be part of any connection.
A spiritual and intellectual commune that defies physical boundaries.

“Society exists only as a mental concept; in the real world there are only individuals.” Oscar Wilde

http://charityguide.org/

“Be the change you want to see in the world.”

I LOVE the internet! People connecting across the world. So many ideas. So many things.
This philosophical, Raven woman is stunned with the buffet that is at my finger tips.
I have access to things I only dreamed of.

“If you limit your choices only to what seems possible or reasonable, you disconnect yourself from what you truly want, and all that is left is compromise.”
Robert Fritz

Forget going to the mall. I can find everything I want or need and make sure it's earth friendly, recycled, organic and fair trade. Perfect!
And when you order things online.. It keeps the postal worker's jobs secure. Yea!

http://greenpeople.org/

Lets get this green machine moving!

And the buzz word is.... Green Jobs!

2009-04-30T20:37:00.000-07:00

Work sucks, most of the time.
I am blessed with work that I love and know makes a difference in people's lives.
Not everyone can say that.
So, we know things need to change drastically in a very short period of time. The Old Guards of capitalism need to retire and let fresh minds and hearts change things.

“Your work is to discover your work and then with all your heart to give yourself to it.”
Buddha

Where do we start? Obama is encouragingly, optimistic about the future of green jobs. I want to get on that electric buss and pick up as many people as possible.

http://sustainablebusiness.com/

For starters.

http://greenbiz.com/

Get out there and find a new path. Share with friends who are looking for work. We can make things better. We have to!

http://www.bluegreenalliance.org/site/c.enKIITNpEiG/b.5085657/k.D6C7/Splash_2.htm

There are lots of possibilities.

http://www.greenjobs.net/

“Follow then the shining ones, the wise, the awakened, the loving, for they know how to work and forbear.”
Buddha

Have a job but want to green it up a bit?

http://planetgreen.discovery.com/go-green/green-work/green-work-tips.html

And finally! Good news.

http://www.greenatworktoday.com/

“The work will wait while you show the child the rainbow, but the rainbow won't wait while you do the work.”

Happy Earth Day!

2009-04-22T18:02:00.000-07:00

I wanted to write something that inspires hope.
Everything I've watched lately has been anything but.
Melting glaciers, droughts, pollution, overpopulation, extinctions, water shortages and war. Yay!

I need hope. It keeps me going.

Some of the best thoughts on earth.
http://www-personal.umich.edu/~jrcole/gibran/gibran1.htm
For starters.

I have to stop watching Frontline. It's never good news. I need good news. Why isn't there a major network that leads with something that doesn't bleed? I want to hear about people finding simple ways to deal with the issues that seem to plague us.
Like, laundry!
http://www.physorg.com/news154280985.html

I found this site. I love recycling, especially when it's fun! Fashion sucks, style rules! Frankenstein clothes are the best.
http://www.threadbanger.com/

Teaching our children how to live well and kind is also a kindness to Mother Earth.
http://ecochildsplay.com/

Like I say. I must have hope and I need to share the virus. I'd like to think that I'm making a difference. Small ripples grow into big ones.

Peace, hope, justice, and well being for all.

News Junkie and mad ranter!

2009-04-18T22:04:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I love to stay informed.
I listen to Democracy Now! when I can on my local, community radio. Read papers, magazines and troll the internet. I tell my son to know his sources before he starts to shoot his mouth off on any subject. This is why I'm quiet most of the time. I'd rather be thought a fool, than to open my mouth and remove all doubt. That's not to say I don't have my opinions, but I like to know, or think I have the facts before I speak.
If you don't know about the Tea parties that went on this April 15 then you should get out more often.
I had a friend send me the link to the party's site. It seemed like a decent idea and I forwarded the link to others who might be interested in participating in Democracy. But.. there was something that nagged at me. Why now? Suddenly the Republicans want to protest the government's attack on our civil liberties and basic freedoms? Where the hell were they when Bush was in office?
I'll admit. I voted for Obama and I still have hope, but I don't think the man walks on water. He's human and inclined to screw up. At least he's trying to make things better.

http://www.odemagazine.com/

I used to subscribe to ODE magazine but still get their email newsletters. It's full of wonderful resources and insights. Today I found this and would love to share it!

http://www.alternet.org/

I'm still going through the different articles but the ones about the Tea Party is eye opening. It explains the pain in my gut that nagged at me.
Yes, I am NOT a Republican, but I do have some conservative ideals. I love red meat and the 2nd Amendment. I think we shouldn't spend what we don't have but.. DAMN! I have a credit card for emergencies and have had to use it. George Jr and his friends have really screwed the pooch. So we do what we have to. Quit bitching and roll your sleeves up.

Stay informed.

http://www.mouseprint.org/

http://www.pyrabang.com/index.php

http://www.reachm.com/amstreet/

Stay hopeful.

http://www.ted.com/

Some of these might be double posts but.. Pay attention next time!

Sustainable sanity.

2009-03-29T21:19:00.000-07:00

Is it possible?
I hope so. I have to.
I go on news binges sometimes, in search of good news.
Why is it so hard to find?
I have my small garden and pond. Fish swim around my lotus, root ball.
I dance to old, punk music, do yoga, Qigong, create art and write. These are some of my coping mechanisms.

I also troll the internet for things so I can share them. Insanity loves company.

http://www.soundstrue.com/mysteryof2012/?page_id=21

I have a very dear friend who has an interesting philosophy. Humanity will endure because despite all out stupidity and penchant for violence. We're still here. I can't argue with him.
But then, I run across stuff like this and weep.

http://www.apfn.org/apfn/camps.htm

I don't know what to believe anymore. I try to get as many resources on a subject as I can handle, but there is so much spin going on. It's hard to find the truth without actually looking into it myself.
I love and hate the internet. Viral videos that are numbingly stupid. Asshole cops caught on a cell phone camera, harassing people. Kids posting naked pictures of themselves.. and then getting arrested for child pornography.
Do I laugh or cry?
Well, I have to love that the internet makes it harder for the government to hide things. Damn, try to hide anything. Everyone suddenly lives in a glass house and is a journalist.
http://www.pyrabang.com/index.php

So, life goes on with increasing speed. It's sad to watch as our fellow earthlings are struggling to keep up. Adapt or die. Isn't that the rule?
That's another blog.
Time for me to do a little meditating, on global sanity. Will you join me?

Where are they!?

2009-03-24T14:35:00.000-07:00

I want to know something.

WHERE IS MY LOBBYIST!?

Alright, not just my personal lobbyist but a lobbyist for us, the little people.
Don't laugh but I'd be willing to bet my pocket change that there are lobbyist for midgets. But I digress!

http://www.whitehouse.gov/the_press_office/ExecutiveOrder-EthicsCommitments/

I want to know why we, as regular, tax paying citizens don't have our own lobbyist. Can't we pool our money and bribe a congressman or two.. Oh, wait! I mean hire a lobbyist to bring our wants and needs to the attention of the demigods on Capitol Hill?
I know damn well that they don't read our petitions. I can just see them all. Being recycled into toilet paper for the bathrooms. Yes, it's a little rough but I'm sure they all fine it very satisfying to wipe their asses with our hopes and dreams.

I voted for the current president. I wish him every success. I'd like to see both parties put aside their childish attitudes and work together to fix an epic mess.
I dream of Rush Limburger choking on his vile words. Whoever decides to perform the Heimlich maneuver. I hope they fail.

Can you tell I'm angry? I'm not restraining the evil twin today. We're writing in tandem. Well, mostly. She's a little busy chewing at the seems of her GOP voodoo doll. She's already pulled off the button eyes and tied the trunk in several knots.

The whole world seems to be unraveling. I'm kind of excited, in a gun toting, crap your pants way.
The leaders of the world have screwed the pooch and I think it's well past time that the peasants rise up, again. We have been lied to for too long. Our sweat and toil has been taken for granted. Our hard earned money has been squandered.

This might make it a little easier to understand. Or not.

http://www.sustainer.org/dhm_archive/index.php?display_article=vn481modelsed

There has to be a simpler way, but then, what do I know?

She called out a warning!

2009-03-15T19:58:00.000-07:00

My dreams have been rather dark and forboding of late. It's in the near future and things don't look so bright.
http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/dreamtime_discussions/

I'm over 40 and have had many, heartbreaking things happen to me. Yet, I still have hope.

I have to or else... I'm dead.

Alrighty! That aside, I want to share some things that shore up my hope.

http://www.kvalegames.com/?p=home

Games that encourage fair play and a global consciousness. Don't we need more of that?

How about taking an offered couch in a foreign land? What a great way to immerse yourself in another culture and make new friends!

http://www.couchsurfing.com/

I know I'm not running on a single theme right now, but I feel that the world is plunging into Chaos and I'm trying to steer it towards the brighter side. We all have to steer this crazy ship before we fall off the edge of the world.

http://www.democracynow.org/

Alternative viewpoints are always good. FOX news makes me sick to my stomach.
http://www.jimhightower.com/

And it's always a good idea to know your rights!

http://www.flexyourrights.org/

I know, it's a lot to chew on, but I know you can handle it.
We have to.

Sustaining hopes and dreams.

2009-03-09T20:28:00.000-07:00

“The only thing that will stop you from fulfilling your dreams is you.”

“Never give up. Keep your thoughts and your mind always on the goal.”

Great quotes by Tom Bradley

I have kept many promises to myself this year.

1. Less care giving and more massage.

I sent out a blast of resumes to massage studios after having a snarky conversation with one of the women at the care giver office. It seems I was being "punished" for inconveniencing the office staff. I needed some time off for my sanity's sake.
The Universe smiled on me and 5 days later I'm working a job I LOVE!

2. More art!

Yes! I'm creating more. Paintings, sculptures, poems and as always, my own, crazy, fun, interpretive dances to old, punk music.

3. Garden.

I love fresh peas off the vine in the morning. Tasty and sweet. I planted strawberries by my pond. My heirloom seeds came and I'm planting tomorrow.

4. Dream more.

Now that my schedule has changed. I have time to linger in that lovely place between sleep and awake. It's great for sorting out the night's dreams.

“Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.”

I'm getting there and it's also nice to know that the people around me can also bask in the warmth of my happiness. Who wouldn't enjoy a little, blissful fallout once in a while?

Bamboozled

2009-02-27T20:44:00.000-08:00

Did you know Bamboo is a grass, stronger than steel and the fastest growing plant on earth?
(Kelp is the fastest growing plant in the ocean, so shut up.)

I watched Nova the other night and learned a lot about bamboo.
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/rats/program.html

This stuff is amazing! Pair it with hemp and we can leave the trees alone!
They're even making cloth out of it now. I'm sure the process is resource intensive so I don't buy bamboo cloth.. That and the stuff is really expensive!

But as a building material? Man, this stuff is awesome!
http://www-users.rwth-aachen.de/Christoph.Toenges/pagesEN/intro.html

It's beautiful, easy to grow, sturdy and best of all.. SUSTAINABLE!
We need to get with the program and use what works best for us and harms the earth the least.
http://www.completebamboo.com/

I'm thinking of planting a small clump by my pond. In a container, of course. I think it would go well with the lotus I plan on having.
http://waynesword.palomar.edu/ecoph39.htm

You need to find the right kind and learn how to care for it. It's also interesting to see what some people do with bamboo. Humans are such a creative species.
http://momer.home.att.net/

Smells like spring!

2009-02-22T19:23:00.000-08:00

I have gardening fever!
Bees buzzing, birds singing, cats fighting. Sounds like spring.
My pond is in and I'm eying my winter vegetables and willing them to bulb. My peas are delicious.
What am I going to plant!?
I do know that I will be using heirloom seeds. No GMO's for me!
Heirloom plants are hardier and less prone to disease.
http://www.heirloomseeds.com/

http://www.seedsavers.org/

http://www.victoryseeds.com/

http://rareseeds.com/

It's good to know that there are so many people who are saving these seeds and passing them along to others. I don't trust science when it comes to creating new and "improved" things that Nature has already spent millions of years perfecting.
One of my first jobs was hybridizing fruit trees. That's about as freaky as I want to get with plants.
Now, the problem I have is what to choose. I have limited space and a need to get creative.
I am up for the challenge!
Sunflowers, yarrow and beebalm for a patch of wildflowers. Great cover for an ugly, cinder block wall.
Melons, cucumbers, tomatoes, zucchini, basil, parsley.. Edible flowers..
Whoo hoo!
I love going out in MY yard and picking something I grew and nibbling.
Simple pleasures are the best.

Evil Twin's rant.

2009-02-18T19:14:00.000-08:00

I wanted to write a post that was informative and hopeful. Instead, the evil twin has taken hostages and demands her say. I can't refuse.. She has my sweet tooth and sense of humor dangling over a shark tank!

Look around people. There is panic. It hasn't run out into the streets.. yet. Money is loosing its value. That's if you believe it had any value in the first place. Jobs disappearing, counties, states and even countries are going broke! Then, there is this insane woman who has given birth to 14 children!! WTF!? Having too many cats isn't good enough? She has to horde babies?
Suicide bombers, cholera outbreaks, starvation, floods.. Does anyone else see the four horsemen coming over the hill?

Now, I know people and I know you know people who seem to live their lives in constant crisis.
It is not because they are unlucky. No one can be that jinxed. I have observed a friend of mine and I have been guilty of this as well. When things get a little crazy in life as they do sometimes. It can be tempting to get caught up in the drama. Instead of handling things in a calm and collected manner. "Oh, look at me! My life is always in chaos and I can't do anything but freak about MY problems. No time to make good on promise because.. Oh, dear.. another crisis came up and I totally forgot.

Enough of that. It's time to stay calm and get focused. The shit has only just begun to hit the fan.
I have no cleaver links to share. All I can advise is that you stay informed. Our civil rights are being eroded away! People are scared and willing to sacrifice personal freedoms for the illusion of safety. We can't let this happen. The more news I watch, the more I want to be blissfully ignorant. TOO LATE! The genie is out of the bag and now, I have to keep up with things. I'd like to know when it's time to grab my shit and head for the hills.
How sad is it that I think it's more important for my son to know survival skills and how to handle guns than it is to be an "A" student? I'd rather be a useful member of the tribe. Someone who can make fire, hunt, cook and make shelter.
Yes, I am a bit grim but hey, the world order is unraveling. Governments and the legal tender they create are becoming meaningless. Wake up!
Learn how to garden and preserve. Take a primitive skills class. Learn how to sew and knit. I have a feeling that we'll need each other to share skills and goods.

Urban Wildlife

2009-02-08T17:59:00.000-08:00

There is a Red tail Hawk in my neighborhood!
I know there is plenty of food. Pigeons galore and lots of mice. They adored my compost pile when I had one. I was beginning to wonder why all the neighborhood cats kept hanging out in my backyard.
One mouse was cute but I witnessed at least 5 one day picking through my compost pile. That was the end of that. Now, I just save my coffee grounds and use them to add to the soil. My garden seems to like coffee as much as I do.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Urban_wildlife

When I went to run an errand for a client. I found a very healthy looking Roadrunner in the parking lot. According to a recent report. Roadrunners are not as abundant as they used to be. Well, I have been seeing a lot and they're skirting the edges of the urban jungle and then the one in the parking lot. Nature seems to find a way. Adapt or die!
Here in Arizona, there is always an abundance of coyotes. I love how they seem so comfortable and at home in almost any environment. They are wiley creatures.

Even though I live in an urban environment. I want to create a small oasis that might encourage smaller wildlife to hang out. Maybe my pond will attract dragonflies and frogs. We'll see.

http://yuwr.org/

I don't see wildlife as a nuisance, unless it's pigeons crapping all over my car. I have covered parking so there goes that.
I love listening to the birds sing their spring time "hey baby!" songs.

I grew up in the country and was used to wildlife all over the place. I really enjoy the feeling of being a part of something more than the human condition. I like my furred, feathered and scaled neighbors.

I have discovered a plethora of sited dedicated to urban wildlife. The United Kingdom seems very progressive in the way they live in harmony, or try to with their wildlife. Maybe because they've had more practice. Maybe, because hedgehogs are so darned cute!
Peregrine falcons nest and feed in cities. Taking advantage of the tall buildings since they're the closets things to cliffs. Pigeons are everywhere.

With wild environments shrinking. I think it's only polite to invite the wildlife into our world.
Adapt or die.

Urban pond!

2009-01-26T16:59:00.000-08:00

I love my tiny, backyard!
My garden is flourishing and I'm getting Spring fever.
Yes, I know it's the end of January but this is Tucson and Spring comes mighty early here. It's been raining and the soil smells so wonderful!
A friend came over one night and while conversing in the backyard. I had an epiphany. I need a small pond with plants and minnows.
It's going to be lovely! I've done the research and can do it on the cheap.

http://www.littlecountryvillage.com/Garden-Ponds/

By Summer, my yard will be a cool, colorful place to meditate, BBQ, visit and hang my laundry.
Oh, and there will be shade cloth to keep the blazing sun from scorching everything. It will be an oasis. So what if it's small? Bigger isn't necessarily better.

Isn't it about time we all started enjoying simpler, smaller pleasures?

Hope and change!

2009-01-20T15:08:00.000-08:00

"The Bringer of Good News" is the name of this piece and I couldn't think of anything better to use as a picture.
We have a new president! A well spoken, thoughtful, educated, kind and COOL! man.
My son and I watched History being made today along with millions of other, hopeful souls. The amount of people who braved freezing temperatures was stunning. This was not just a cause for celebration in this country, no. The whole world is rejoicing!
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090120/ap_on_re_eu/obama_world_celebrations

Hope is a wonderful thing. It keeps you going when you have nothing else. I speak from experience. To see so many people coming together in hope was a beautiful thing. Obama's speech was inspiring, unifying and had just enough tough love interjected to keep it from rotting one's teeth.
It IS time to look past our differences and recognize our similarities.

I love Obama's call for service. It has been about Me, Me and more Me for too long.
There are so many ways to serve others.
http://www.ourpublicservice.org/OPS/

http://www.peacecorps.gov/

http://www.nationalservice.org/

Just for starters.

I am just so full of hope right now. The oil and gas industries were blocked from buying land in Red Rocks. Things are already changing, for the better!
I invite you to join the growing number of Hope and Change junkies.

http://www.ted.com/
It's going to be fashionable to be green and willing to work with others to make things better.

Sleep, perchance to dream?

2009-01-11T18:13:00.000-08:00

I, like a lot of people are tired. Sleep deprivation is rampant in this country. It's a go, go go! society. Time is money and sleep is seen as lost wages.
Do you know sleep deprivation has its own web site?
http://www.sleep-deprivation.com/
How sad is that?

I read several, great articles in Utne magazine about this problem and how sleep deprivation and the general, lack of slowing down and resting. Seems to be a big part in why we, as humans seems to be so.. messed up. For lack of a better term.
Technology enables us to run full tilt 24/7. That means constant consuming, constant polluting.
We have night vision goggle so we can continue to wage war at night.

Lack of sleep has more disadvantages that we might think.
https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/HEALTHbeat_011806.htm
It's not good for us! Sleep is good and it's good for us.
Try the Sheep Dash to test yourself. It's fun and educational. Watch out!
http://www.helpguide.org/life/sleeping.htm

Now, This information hit me like a slap in the face. I have been working like a maniac at my "regular" job. Coming home and trying to keep house, cook and home school my son. Oh, then there's the artwork, blogging and storytelling. Ahhhh!
Sleep is good, healing, and dreaming has always been something I'm very good at. It fuels my creativity and elevates my mood. Dreams also give me answers to questions and sometimes, spiritual kicks in the ass.
We all need to slow down and pause.
Sometimes, doing nothing is the best option.
It give us time to ponder, relax, renew, regroup and let our souls heal.
Why does our society look down on down time?
I feel like I have to give myself permission to just sit and catch up on my reading or just meditate in my garden. I took today off from everything except this blog.
I slept in, allowed myself to dream and ponder in the early morning's light. For some reason, I find that I think best lying down. Is it blood flow or is it the art of being lazy?

Look at any documentary on primitive cultures. You'll see a lot of sitting, resting and simple chores. Happy children being taught and old people resting and sharing wisdom.
We have more conveniences but less time to relax. What is wrong with this picture?

I was trying to find something on culture and relaxation. What I found was a mixture of travel sites and something that sounded delightful
Relaxation and culture parties.
Hmmm.. Today, after the memorial I stayed after all the other guests left. The family members and I ate fine chocolates, drank coffee and talked about the wonderful woman we all had known and loved. I had a stray thought about having a chocolate tasting party with coffee and good conversation. It struck me as a delicious idea. I love the idea of people gathering together for nothing more than relaxation and good times.
No networking or schmoozing, just people talking, telling stories and relaxing. We need to do more NOTHING!
Read up on Zen Buddhism.
I discovered this little delight.
http://www.odemagazine.com/exchange/4243/zen_and_the_art_of_drinking_beer

I'll leave you with that little gem and wish you good dreaming.

2009 is going to be a wonderful year!

2009-01-04T08:20:00.000-08:00

Why?
Because I said so!
I don't know about you but last year was one of the worst on record for me.
I want things to change.. NOW!
I'm tired of watching and reading the news and seeing people kill their neighbors "In the name of God."
What kind of God would want you to kill? I mean, weren't we all created in His/Her/Its image? I think it would be disrespectful to kill anyone in the name of their creator.
DUH!
Some of the most hateful people I have met and read about are people claiming to be "Holy men". If it wasn't so sad I'd laugh.
I'm glad my Divine Creator is kind, forgiving and has a great sense of humor. Sometimes I don't get the joke but then, I'm only human and still learning.

Happy thoughts!
Community!

Etymology:

Middle English comunete, from Anglo-French communité, from Latin communitat-, communitas, from communis
Date:: 14th century

1: a unified body of individuals: as a: state , commonwealth b: the people with common interests living in a particular area ; broadly : the area itself community> c: an interacting population of various kinds of individuals (as species) in a common location d: a group of people with a common characteristic or interest living together within a larger society community of retired persons> e: a group linked by a common policy f: a body of persons or nations having a common history or common social, economic, and political interests community> g: a body of persons of common and especially professional interests scattered through a larger society community> 2: society at large3 a: joint ownership or participation <community of goods> b: common character

Break that down to "neighbor".
We all have a community that we belong to, maybe even a few. I float from one circle of friends to another and then there's extended family, work associates and have you ever notice how friendly people are when you're waiting in line for a concert?
That's community, even if it's just temporary.
Now we have online communities! People who have never met face to face but share so much in common.
This world has gotten very small and I can't understand the "Us and Them" mentality anymore.
They ARE us. We all want the same things pretty much. To live, raise our families, dream, strive for better things.

Why are some humans so damned greedy? They have to have more than they need. Even if it means letting others starve and die horribly. What is wrong with some people!?

I'd like to know the answer to that question as well.
We all need to take stock in our own lives and ask some serious questions. Do I really need that? Will is harm someone or take a basic need from someone if I have it?
I know meat is bad on multiple levels but I am a carnivore and my body can't function on a vegetarian diet. I've tried, honest!

I'm trying to teach my son to be a conscious consumer. To ask himself if he really needs what he wants. It is made well and will it last? We live in a disposable society and that is killing us.
Look at China. How many people have jobs making cheap, plastic crap that will end up in a landfill within the month is not sooner?

I'm wandering off the subject again... I think.

Community. How do we achieve it on a global scale?
Start locally. It's easy.

http://www.i-neighbors.org/index.php?gclid=CMDHst609ZcCFQ7aDAodfz8oBw

Do you know your next door neighbor? Have you participated in a bloc party? Ever think about throwing one?
Look in your local paper and find something that interests you. Get involved, volunteer.

You want to go all "hippy" and join a commune? I've looked into it. Believe it or not. I'm a little too fringe for most communities. I'm better off on the fringe of the fringe.

http://www.ic.org/

But I think it's a good start to the New year. Be friendlier. Being a bully isn't as cool as some might want you to think it is.

Now, play nice kids!

And the Golden Monkey Wrench goes to?

2008-12-27T16:49:00.000-08:00

Tim DeChristopher!
What nerve! How can that man walk with those HUGE balls!?
No one was hurt and no property was damaged.
God love him for taking a stand and doing something we might think impossible.
Disrupting big business, land grabbing hyenas.
I have a new hero and so do a lot of other people.

http://oneutah.org/2008/12/20/why-i-disrupted-a-fraudulent-auction/

http://www.backpacker.com/blogs/627

We need more people like this and I'm hoping that the change in Washington will embolden us all.

Now, I'd like to open up a discussion about marijuana/hemp.
Why is it illegal? Is it because people who enjoy it are usually pacifists who like to bake brownies and hang out at peace rallies? Or is it because it's an ancient, medicinal herb that can take care of a lot of ills and can't be patented? Oh, dear.. it might cut into the profits of the pharmaceutical industry. We can't have that!

Alright, flippant rant aside. Lets get down to business.
Here in Tucson, I read an article.. ok, I skimmed it.
Some big law enforcement guy suggested that marijuana be legalized for the soul purpose of cutting into the profits of Mexican drug cartels. Smugglers are getting very resourceful and the cartels are becoming rather brazen. Police officers and officials are being threatened and killed.
Over something we could all be growing in out back yards if the government wasn't so stupid!
Does anyone remember what good prohibition did? Oh, yeah, it made insane profits for organized crime. Nothing is sweeter than forbidden fruit.

Now, the smokable stuff aside. Lets talk about industrial hemp.

http://www.votehemp.com/index.html

http://www.thehia.org/

Oh, and did you know hemp seed is wildly nutritious? Not to mention pretty damned tasty.

http://www.healing-source.com/

Let's see. As a fiber, hemp makes a wonderfully durable fabric, rope, paper and is an annual. That means it's very sustainable. Save the trees!
The seeds are full of tasty goodness. The oil can be used for bio fuels and cooking.
Oh, and let's not forget the medicinal qualities.
WOW! All this from a simple, disease resistant, drought tolerant, annual plant.

Uh.. why is it illegal again?

If I'm not getting through then try this.

http://www.hemp.co.uk/

It's time to use out brains and stop the propaganda.

http://www.reefermadness.org/propaganda/prop.html

Sustaining..myself

2008-12-23T08:22:00.000-08:00

k
I have always been and will always be a solitary practitioner.

When I was 16, I wanted to be a hermit because I thought all people were cruel and stupid.
But being a human makes me crave companionship. So I dreamed of a cabin in the forest where I was self sustaining with a garden, chickens and goats. Alright, so I needed to go into town once in a while to trade for a few things. Get my fix of human company and news before heading back to the wild.

"I know God promises not to give me more than I can handle. I just wish he didn't trust me so much."--Mother Teresa--

Life can be a challenge.
This has been a rough year, for me at least.

This past week put me on notice. I have graduated from a teacher's guidance.
It stung a little bit to be shoved out of the nest but tough love is still love.

I was forced to take stock of myself which can be a very scary thing. My dream world never fails me.

In the dream, I learned how to fly using simple tools. A basket I could sit in, a sage bundle and a large cloth to catch the smoke. It was like making smoke signals but I flew on the smoke.
I was so excited! I had to find my shaman friend and show her how to do it. But every time I tried to go to her, the magic failed me and I called her on the phone. Modern magic is cool too.
She told me that I needed to teach this skill to other people first. When I tried, I couldn't seem to explain myself and the simple technique. People laughed and called me crazy. I began to cry.

Sidebar: I might be good at written communications but I sometimes wonder if I'm speaking in tongues. I try to express myself in words but what I think is a good explanation comes out as something completely different than intended and people get upset with me. I used to dream of being a mute too. My loose cannon mouth can do a lot of damage when I don't want it to.

Back to the dream. There I am, crying and feeling like a failure when someone I have come to love very deeply appears. He makes the mean people go away and I explain what I was trying to teach them. They had broken my basket, tore my cloth and stomped on my sage bundle.
My very dear, friend helps me find another "basket" which turns out to be a large, cardboard box that fits the two of us. I fix the sage bundle as he goes and finds another cloth. The new one is a beautiful, batik sarong.
I teach him how to fly and he has no trouble understanding my directions. In fact, he begins to finish my sentences and we both work the magic and fly to a deserted house where we light a fire and sit. Watching the stars and roasting marshmallows.

Now, I have had a while to chew on this dream and think about its meaning.
What I got was another story.

When I was very young, I had spirit guides who were teaching me. What plants were good to eat and how to speak to animals. The world was a magical place and I danced though it joyfully.

Something terrible happened to me and my spirit was shattered. I could no longer hear my guides though I could still speak to certain animals. It has been a long journey. Picking up the shards and slowly putting myself back together, spiritually. There are still a few cracks and chips but I'm dancing along the path. Alone most of the time but I hook up with fellow travelers every now and again and we share stories.

It's all good.

Letting go when it's time.

2008-12-19T13:42:00.000-08:00

Death comes for us all. No matter what we do or how hard we deny it.
I don't HAVE to do anything but die.

I am a care giver and I am on deathwatch with one of my clients.
Death doesn't frighten me. I've courted it on many occasions.
What scares the hell out of me is dying badly. I see grown children going to ridiculous ends to prolong the life of a parent. Even though it's only prolonging their suffering.

http://www.nytimes.com/2005/08/07/magazine/07DYINGL.html?_r=1

Being a shaman and knowing others like me who don't fear the reaper. Makes me wonder why modern humans do what they can to stay in this life as long as possible.
Being hooked up to machines and pumped full of drugs isn't my idea of a "good death".

What happened to the old ways? Elders used to know when it was their time to take that one way walk into the woods and were allowed to go.
I don't want to be a burden on anyone in my tribe. When I am no longer useful and my stories have all been told. I want to greet Death with a smile and no regrets.

http://www.livescience.com/history/top10-after-death-1.html

In my family we have somewhat of an Irish wake. Drunken reminiscing, lots of food, tears and laughs.

Now, what about euthanasia for humans?
Remember the Hemlock Society?
I know there are religious people out there who will talk about "God's will". That's fine. Talk to someone else.
I work with a very religious woman who keeps wondering when God is going to take her home.
She's in a lot of pain and likes to spread the misery around to the rest of the family. Not very "Christian" behavior if you ask me. But what do I know?
She's not terminal. I fear she's going to linger a long time and drain her family emotionally and financially. It's hard to witness this type of dying process.
Alzheimer's disease terrifies me. I can't imagine a worse way to go. My son and I always say. "If I get Alzheimer's I'm going to kill myself before I forget."
In 10 years it's going to be so prevalent that medicare won't be able to handle it. Screw the drugs that make people linger. We put down animals for lesser things.

http://www.assistedsuicide.org/

Where does an individual's rights end? When do we allow the government to step in and force us and our families to suffer? Enough is enough.

Don't fear the reaper.

Sustaining our personal economy.

2008-12-09T17:48:00.000-08:00

Bailouts!
Banks, Insurance companies, The Big Three... Institutions who have fondled billions of dollars and made risky and/or stupid decisions when they of all people should have known better. The government, like the parents of spoiled children hand over money likes it's penny candy!
Where's MY bailout!? I keep to a budget and pay my bills but emergencies happen and next thing you know. You're in debt up to your eyeballs. My tax dollars along with my son's and future generation's tax dollars are going to pay for this bailout. Eventually, yes but for now, I'd like to know one thing.... Where in God's green acre is all this money coming from??? I thought the United States was broke and in hock to China?
Watch the news and see that the rest of the world is going broke as well.
What happened to fiscal responsibility?
Think no one cares about you? Try missing a few payments.

Alright then. As usual, no one cares about the peasants. Except that we're well enough to work and pay taxes. Looks like we have to look after ourselves.
What would happen if this insane, consumer based economy suddenly shifted to something.. Oh, I don't know.. A sustainable, barter based economy. Necessity is the mother of invention and change. More and more people are shopping at second hand stores. Using coupons, buying less and sharing more.
Next time you buy anything I dare you to look where it was made. I remember a time where made in the USA meant quality and job security. Now, all we can afford are things made in China and when we make a service call we get someone in India.

I'd like to issue a challenge. Lets be the change we want in the world. Stop giving global, earth defiling, soulless companies our money. If that's not possible. I say put them on a strict allowance. Stop feeding the monster or put it on a diet.
Lets start with debt consolidation. If you go to a bank be prepared to be bent over a barrel. I've found a better way.

http://www.prosper.com/

Then, there is the task of every day living. We need to eat, pay bills, buy clothes, gifts and other things that make life interesting. Why not do it on the cheap?

http://tightwad.com/index.htm

http://www.allthingsfrugal.com/

http://frugalzeitgeist.com/

Make it fun. Treat it like a sport and compete with friends. Share tips and tricks.
We're sure not going to get a bailout. I'm tired of trying to achieve the "American dream" It's like running on a wheel and I'm not getting anywhere.
Time to stop the madness and get back to basics.

Sustainability in its simplist form

2008-11-28T19:35:00.000-08:00

"Saying there's too many children is like saying there's too many flowers."

A simple, bumper sticker for a simple person. I do a lot of research on sustainability and the things we can do to promote it. As human beings we pride ourselves on our intelligence.

What arrogance! We think we're so above our animal neighbors but still seem to be slaves to the simple, biological imperative to procreate. You want to start a heated discussion at your next party? Forget politics and religion. Bring up the subject of population control and see even the most logical and mentally stable person turn into a slobbering fool. They will invoke God's will, their genetic superiority and moral obligation to pass these precious genes on to the next generation, keeping the family name alive or my favorite. "I wanted to be a whole woman and experience pregnancy and birth."
That's great. What about the human, cabbage patch doll you just had to have to satisfy your selfish ego? We need to stop breeding! Humanity is like a plague of soft, SUV driving, Latte sipping locusts. Enough already!!

http://www.vhemt.org/

Yikes! That was a rather restrained rant here but I'm still putting out small fires in the living room. Overpopulation is a major, pet peeve of the Evil twin.
Sustainability comes down to having enough resources to sustain the population. Now we have even more people on the planet and they want to live LARGE like post WWII Americans. LOCUSTS!

http://www.overpopulation.net/

I'd like to say I don't mean to scare you but... I DO! THIS IS SCARY S#!T.
We live in a closed system. We're gobbling up resources and spewing waste. Look around you and tell me you don't feel like you're living in a toilet. Stop and give it a good thought before you start lecturing me. Especially if it involves "God's will".
I was having a civil discussion with a self proclaimed, liberal Mormon. (isn't that an Oxymoron?)
We were talking about general, life issues when we started discussing how hard it was to raise children. Her sister got married young and started popping out babies like muffins for a bake sale. Living with her in-laws since her hubby did not have a job and she was busy taking care of the growing brood of children who were already becoming a strain on both families.
The Evil twin came out and started talking about the wisdom of birth control and the need to control the world's population to spare resources. Well... Suddenly, little miss "Liberal" turns into the most fundamentalist Mormon I've ever met and calls me a baby killing atheist. "There are as many people on the planet as God wants." And apparently he wants more!
It doesn't matter that you have a great job and can afford to have 6 or more children. Those children will grow up to believe your madness and have tons of children. It's a vicious cycle and we'll be living on a barren Earth before we know it. Even if you're counting on the Rapture. Please, please don't leave a scorched, dead earth for the rest of us. That's just not very Christian of you. In my opinion.

http://www.zpg.org/index.php

When I was in my early 20's. I tried to get myself fixed. I did not want to have children for many reasons. I was told by EVERY doctor I visited. That they wouldn't think about it unless I already had a few children. You see, it's a woman's nature to be a mother and I would change my mind. I mentioned adoption as a way to satisfy the maternal instinct that had yet to bloom in me. They laughed. I didn't.
Now, if I were a man and wanted a vasectomy.... They would have thrown me on the table and snipped me before the ink was dried on the consent forms. What is wrong with this picture?

http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/sex/is-getting-a-vasectomy-the-best-way-to-help-save-the-planet-315079/

I don't regret the magical, drunken accident that brought my son about. He's a very cool person and I'm teaching him to be kind to future generations by not consuming so much. He says he doesn't want children and I applaud his very adult decision. We'll see what happens.
I just pray people wise up before Mother Nature has to open a can of whoop ass to thin us out. Judging by the recent events. I'd say she's already working the opener.

Not too soon for me! Stop breeding you lemmings! What makes YOU think your genes are so great they need to be stored in a drooling, crying, pooping, future drain on the planet's resources? You're not that great. Trust me. If natural selection was allowed to do its job. There would be precious few humans on this planet. Look around and witness the glory that is humanity. Don't laugh or cry too hard.

Having an out of money experience?

2008-11-16T19:28:00.000-08:00

I am so broke I can't pay attention!
At least I'm not the only one. Looks like the whole world is strapped for cash. Iceland was going to declare bankruptcy. A whole, freaking country!
Lets pause and try to wrap out heads around that little nugget.

Now, lets think about what we, as simple people can do about this global, financial crash.

BARTER!
We all have goods and services to trade, right? Who came up with the stupid money idea in the first place? I could go on about governments and how they use "legal" tender as a way to control and manipulate their citizens...

Yeah, man! They make money that you work a crap job to get to buy things you need and then they brainwash you with television, magazines and music videos to want to buy more things that you DON'T need and then you start buying on credit because your crap job doesn't pay you enough to live the lifestyle your forced to see other people living and you start choking on envy and going deeper and deeper into debt trying to impress douche bags who don't matter and...The whole world blows up!

Sorry about that. Evil twin got out of her cage again. She's been frothing at the mouth and I've had to cut her CNN off.
Where was I? Oh, yeah, Barter! No money required.
I sat and had tea with a friend the other day. We chatted about life and how broke we both were but still needed things to live. She wants to raise chickens in the urban jungle and use the eggs as barter. Then we started to talk about other people who might have things to trade/invest in building her coop. We got to talking about creating a small, local, barter co-op.
There are many barter sites on the internet for those eager to expand their world.

http://www.barter.net/

This is a great place to start but don't discount the power of a small group of well intentioned people who live close to you. network people. It's an ancient skill that deserves to be cultivated.
I have friends who are growing small gardens with the intent of sharing and swapping. I have my own green things growing too. I also love to bake. I can't sew but I know people who do.
Can you fix things? I'm a massage therapist. I LOVE to do trades. If you ask around I'm sure you'll find someone who has something or a skill you need. Like my dad always told me. "It never hurts to ask. The worst anyone can do is say, no."
So ask and ask with a smile. You'll get better results.

Now that the world is running out of money. We're going to have to get creative with commerce.

How will YOU be of value in the near future? There can only be so many blow hard, political pundits and financial advisers. I can't wait to see THEM begging for spare change.

Now, the way things are going. We're all hurting but there is always someone worse off than you.
PLEASE, don't let hard times stop you from giving to charity or even donating your time.
Your local food bank is always a good bet. Just a few extra items in your shopping cart to put in the bin. Most stores have them in plane sight this time of year.
The Salvation Army is another I always find an extra dollar or two to spare.
Karma is an account I always try to invest in. It doesn't take much and it never looses value.

Be well and know you have skills and things other people want. Even if your cash flow is little more than a trickle.

Sustaining ourselves and our bright future.

2008-11-12T20:33:00.000-08:00

Into your life some rain must fall. I can handle a little rain but lately, I've been considering building an arc. My luck has been so bad it might be funny if I were a cartoon character. But I'm not.
After some intense meditation I've stopped feeling sorry for myself. Instead, I've decided to see this rash of minor disasters as a learning experience.
1. Don't feel the victim. The Universe gives us all a swift kick in the ass every once in a while.
2. Accept help of any kind graciously.
3. Take care of yourself.
4. Keep a sense of humor. It's a lifesaver.
5. Reevaluate your purpose. Have you lost your way? The Universe can dish out some harsh lessons. But it's tough love.

Now, my poor, poor me rant is over. I want to get people to stop and think deep thoughts.
There is definitely a shift in the way the world is or isn't working.
Everything I look into to seek clarity in my life seems to point me to ONENESS. It has different names and you can call it whatever you like. It all boils down to connectedness and harmony.
http://www.phoenixregenetics.org/index.html
This is an interesting site. Love the concepts.
http://www.experiencefestival.com/

I watch the news and wonder how we, as humans can behave like territorial animals. We've been to the moon, mars and can look into the depths of the universe. But there it is.. People killing their neighbors because they don't pray in the right direction. Being from a different tribe can be a death sentence. Heaven forbid if you're female. That just opens you up for all sorts of pain and humiliation. What is wrong with us?
Things have to change and I'm working on "For the better" change in the world.
How about you? Happy thoughts make happy people.
http://www.december212012.com/
Because it's coming sooner than you think!

Sustaining our inner primate

2008-11-05T19:52:00.000-08:00

Watch primates and you'll see a lot of touching. It strengthens social bonds and lets face it. It feels good!
Being a massage therapist really opens one's eyes to how we, as modern primates. Have become touch phobic.
I have always been a touchy, feely person. I loved cuddling with my parents and had no problem touching the animals on the farm.
It took being molested by a babysitter to change that. How sad.
It took me many years to get comfortable with touch again. Even then it wasn't without hesitation. I wondered what the other person wanted from me.
Then, I had my son and fell in love with touch again. I cuddled him before he was born. Hugging my belly and rocking myself and him while humming happily. Nursing was especially wonderful. Snuggling my baby as he suckled. Rocking in the chair as I dozed. It was so peaceful.

Recently, I started hosting a touch therapy circle. It's been small so far but I hope for more people. It's so wonderful sitting, touching other people and chatting. It's very intimate, safe and a great way to make friends and bond with old ones. Those silly monkeys have it right! We should have never come down from the trees!
Ok, maybe we should but look around you. Americans are weird about touch. Somehow it has to be sexualized or sanitized. Touch can't be just touch. A non verbal way of communication.

http://www.whitelotusryu.com/historyofmassage.htm

And for those who don't believe in the power of touch.
http://skepdic.com/tt.html

It's simple, intuitive and it feels good.. unless the touch is from someone who's intentions are NOT innocent and friendly. That's another subject.
I'm talking about people touching people as a way to reconnect, communicate and sooth each other.
Don't be afraid. Reach out and touch someone.. after you've asked permission first. Wounded people can be a bit skittish but they need touch so badly.
Compassionate, healing touch. We need more of this my brothers and sisters.

Hey.. how about a cuddle party!?
http://www.cuddleparty.com/

We are social animals and NEED touch. It's scientifically proven. Children who are touched a lot thrive more than those who are not.
So don't pass up an opportunity to hug someone or even to just lay a loving hand on someone's shoulder. People respond to touch. It's our first language.

Sustainable living

2008-10-30T18:30:00.000-07:00

I've said it before and I'll say it again.
I LOVE THE INTERNET!
Researching this blog has given me a renewed hope. More and more people and companies are turning Green. Things are becoming economical that used to be out of reach for the average person. 2o years ago I was a poor, environmentally conscious person who dreamed of living off the grid, eating food I grew myself and living in harmony with my environment. I did what I could which wasn't as much as I wanted to. Why, you ask? Because all the cool, off grid gadgets were prohibitively expensive!
Now, people are putting wind turbines and solar panels on their houses. Tax incentives take the sting away but we need more. The technology of energy is becoming wildly futuristic. I read about photo voltaic paint! Can you imagine that? Your whole house can generate electricity. Groovy!
Wind turbines come in so may different styles and even become functional art.
http://peswiki.com/index.php/Main_Page
These links are only a few. I invite anyone reading this blog to research more.
http://www.earth4energy.com/?hop=makeasplas
I am amazed at humanity's inventiveness. We can do so many wonderful things.
http://www.jetsongreen.com/wind_energy/page/2/
And this is an old favorite.
http://www.realgoods.com/

Oh, dear.. my evil twin is having a fit..

Yeah, humanity is very inventive.. When it comes to ways of killing each other!
Most of the technological advances we have come to enjoy came from the military.
http://www.army-technology.com/
Just take a look and see what wonderful things await us.

Then, I want you to wrap your brain around this little bit of madness.
http://www.genocide.org/
Can you imagine the population problem if we weren't so efficient and enthusiastic in killing each other?
We're smart mammals. We should be able to balance things out.. if we could all agree on a few things. Like, sharing is good. Fundamentalism is bad and we all need a world, dance party once a year at least!
I'm not as evil as some people say I am. Just a blunt, harsh realist.

Channeling Betty Crocker

2008-10-24T14:54:00.000-07:00

When the weather finally begins to cool off and the blanket gets put on the bed... It's time to fire up the oven and BAKE, STEW and ROAST!
Right now, I have a beef shank simmering in a pot with barley. Soon, carrots, onions, celery, cabbage and.. Oh, Damn! I need to get some dark beer. Not for me silly.. well, maybe a little. I like to flavor my stew with a little beer. It's delicious.
I'm teaching my son how to cook and bake. Skills that seem to be fading in this day and age.
I once knew a woman who was actually proud of the fact that she couldn't cook. As if it were beneath her to do something so... What is the word I'm looking for? I can't wrap my head around the concept of NOT enjoying the magic of creating edible delights. It's one of my favorite ways of showing affection and friendship.
Sit in my kitchen, have a drink and let me cook for you. We can also go out back and admire my budding garden and flourishing herbs. What do you think gives my food that extra special YUM?
I wish my camera wasn't broken in the car wreck. I'd love to post pictures of my little darlings.
*Sigh* Such is life. I survived but my camera didn't. Fair trade I'd say. No complaints from me.

Back to channeling Betty Crocker.. Tis the season my friends. Nothing says "I love you" quite like a batch of cookies or bread, cupcakes, fudge, even something canned like pickles or jam.

http://www.grouprecipes.com/flavor/wholesome

And for those who want to share in a broader sense.
http://feedingamerica.org/

Don't forget to donate to your local food bank. I've been the recipient of charity before and boy, was I grateful! It's simple enough to do. One of the places I shop has a collection bin right by the door. It doesn't take much to add a few extra things to my cart and share with those who need it.

Now, back to to the recipes!
I know there are those of you, who like me create a long list of goodies they plan on making for holiday gifts. As time passes, the list gets shorter. But never give up. I aim to overachieve every year! I collect recipes and plan to make something new every year.. Most of the time I make one new thing and stick to my tried and true yummies that are always appreciated.

http://allrecipes.com/

So get those ovens fired up, recipes out and the aprons on.
Don't forget. Always cook and bake with love.

Dumpster Diving at its best!

2008-10-22T19:14:00.000-07:00

Researching the internet is so wonderful!
When I watch the news. I get discouraged. Then, I listen to http://www.democracynow.org/
Watch PBS or wade through the internet. I love how more and more people are taking things into their own hands and changing the world.
I dream that we're not too late.

Urban Mining! Wrap your head around that concept my friends. Then look into these sites and maybe more.
http://www.coolbusinessideas.com/archives/urban_mining.html

http://www.treehugger.com/files/2008/08/urban-mining-rare-metals.php

http://www.naddum.com/

Now, in some places dumpster diving is illegal. Liability is an issue. What is wrong with this country!?
I read about how an old landfill was opened up and they found whole newspapers from the fifties! Someone thought it would be good to mine landfills but what I read said these landfills are composting and the heat and lethal gases that would escape make mining too dangerous.
Eww! So what does that say about what is being leached into the ground?
Leave it to Humans to dig something out of the ground, process it, mix other natural materials and then transmute this blend into poison.
I hate gadgets. I do not apologize for being a low tech, barefoot, made from scratch, baking, writes on paper type person. I had to recycle two cell phones this year. If you research the politics of the materials that are in cell phones and computers you'd probably think twice about trading in your phone for a new one every six months.
http://www.thestandard.com/article/0,1902,26784,00.html

I wanted to write a blog that was positive and hopeful.
So lets get on that.
Meditating for world peace.. Dreaming a new reality, Dancing for global change.
ORGANIZE!
I doubt it matters to the Divine how the message is sent. We need to remember we are part of the Divine and reconnect with ourselves.
http://www.meditatepeace.com/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lrukVaWn5ak

So, keep the faith and stay hopeful. I am.

Gifting for good! Sustaining the holiday spirit.

2008-10-09T15:17:00.000-07:00

Oh, mercy me! It's coming.. Run, hide, swim down the river of denial but you can't escape it.

Holidaze!

You're wondering what I'm ranting about. Aren't you?
Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Yule, Winter Solstice, Annual gift giving day..
Whatever you want to call it. However you want to celebrate it.
It's in our face and I'm sure most of us cringe at the thought of the coming, consumer frenzy.
This year, it's going to be interesting. The world's economy is spiraling down like a flushed turd. Ewwww! You have a better euphemism?

Winter holidays. Holy days to most. To the atheists out there.. I still love you and have a plate of goodies for you too.
I'll give recipes next blog.

But what about the gifting part!? You don't have the time, desire or skills to cook, bake or even concoct a home made liquor? No worries my friends. I have kindly solutions for the shopaholic with a conscience.

First.. A word from out non sponsors.
http://www.adbusters.org/

Alright, now that I have you good and scared. How about buying things for your loved ones that also benefits others? Does that sound like a win, win situation or what?
Not only that, these gifts are unique and thoughtful. I love the internet! We can do so much good and be slightly selfish, save fuel and shop in our underwear!
This site has some very cool stuff and it helps feed people. Pretty, basic need.
http://www.thehungersite.com/clickToGive/home.faces?siteId=1

Want more choices?

http://www.charityguide.org/volunteer/fifteen/charity-shopping-portals.htm

How about something for that person who has everything already?
http://www.oxfamamericaunwrapped.com/home.php?xid=abe99d41add169c7b4f38fa90487e09 4

http://www.heifer.org/

Are we having fun yet? I'm not a big fan of malls or fighting crowds for stuff no one wants anyway. I like to bake, have friends over for a cozy visit and make gifts. On occasion, I do find something that screams to be given to someone I know. Then, why wait for a "special occasion."
Every day is special and who doesn't like a spontaneous gift once in a while?
Alright, I know there are card carrying, shop till you drop people out there who see shopping as a sport. Try this site out and let me know how you like it.
http://worldofgood.ebay.com/home
My own dad is an ebay junky.

Alright America, lets get shopping and not just to stimulate the economy. Lets give gifts with heart, meaning and thoughtfulness.

Keep within your budget or I'm telling your mom!!

Sustaining Autumn fun!

2008-09-30T20:53:00.000-07:00

Pumpkins, autumn leave falling, apple pies, candy corn, costumes, haunted houses and Trick or Treating! I love Autumn. Harvest festivals and time for baking, warm, hearty soups and lets not forget.. Oktoberfest!
Alright, enough of my giddy, Autumnal ranting. I wanted to bring attention to Halloween. One of my favorite holidays. Well, it used to be before the damned, greedy retail monsters took over and tried to make us buy stupid, made in China costumes, candy that is filled with HFCS and what is up with these stupid, Halloween trees? I remember having so much fun making decorations and costumes. Once, my family even made our own haunted house in the barn and invited neighbors over. It was great.
I'd like to challenge everyone who reads this to try and have a Green Halloween.
http://environment.about.com/od/greenhalloween/ss/green_halloween.htm

Bake goodies for friends, have a jack o lantern carving party, bob for apples and make your own costumes.
http://www.stopglobalwarming.org/sgw_read.asp?id=1141369282006

http://greenliving.suite101.com/article.cfm/green_costume_ideas_for_halloween

I'm planning on dressing in black and scaring trick or treaters. I like tricks over sugary treats.
If that doesn't work out I'd like to have friends over for good food, beer and swapping ghost stories.
http://www.halloweenghoststories.com/

So lets get back to simple, fun, creative holidays and spend more time with friends and family and less time and money shopping for junk that will only end up clogging the landfill.

Love your Mother!

Cultivating a peaceful nature

2008-09-21T09:43:00.000-07:00

Have you ever noticed that the Universe can be a very subtle yet insistent teacher?

My evil twin reminds me that it can be a harsh, unforgiving, task Master as well. Yes, but this is MY blog today. I'll let her have one closer to the elections. You have been warned.

My dreams, conversations with friends and even the ramblings of my teenage son have been stirring up my subconscious . This morning, instead of going to my 12 hour job. I got to lay in bed and drift in that special place where dreams, ideas and grand inspirations are formed. I haven't visited it in a long while. That might have something to do with the edgy belligerence I've been fermenting.
The evil twin grins.

Go ahead and laugh. We all have that dark, petty, mean spirited and selfish "evil twin" inside of us.
I remember a long time ago. Having a conversation with a friend who was and probably still is an arrogant, intellectual who likes to argue his point until you surrender to his logic. Poor guy never thought he'd end up arguing with someone who embraces Chaos Theory and loves the term 'Fuzzy Logic'. Anyway, he posed the question. "Is man inherently evil or good?"
I argued that we were both and developed one more than the other as we grew. He didn't like that answer. He was looking for a black or white answer and he asks the woman with the purple hair and tie-dyed shirt. I don't know who was more frazzled after that conversation. Me or him?
But I believe we come into this world with the potential of both good and evil. We just have to be taught and learn how to cultivate the peaceful side of our nature.
http://www.scienceofpeace.com/document.html

Have you heard the BUZZ over this new game, Spore?
http://www.spore.com/
When I saw the preview I was so excited. What a great way for children and adults to create a wondrous world, from scratch! Then I began to hear the reviews and of course the juvenile, penis monsters. *SIGH* I was hoping to hear about how someone created a world where everything lived in harmony. I'm not so idealistic that I didn't think there would be conflict. That's just part of life, but when a game reviewer says it's impossible to be a peaceful race without some hostile, weapon toting behemoth coming and wiping out your lovely village, so you had better make weapons and join the bloody party. Why is it that we, as humans think it's not only alright but DIVINELY ORDAINED that we crush peaceful cultures, take their stuff that we like and burn the rest? WTF is wrong with us!!
When we came down from the trees, did we collectively hit our heads? I understand the need to protect one's territory, family and own skin, but we've taken it to an insane level.
I'm not a communists but I think we can share the earth a lot better than we are now.
http://www.peaceandsecurityinitiative.org/

This blog started with just the happy thought of a small garden. I'm moving and have a small yard. I have friends who want to encourage people to grow things in urban areas. Edible things that can be shared. Oh, what a beautiful thought! Sharing food is such a basic, human gesture. Look at most animals. Do they offer to share food with anything that isn't their own offspring and even then.. No, we as humans not only sit together and share food with out families, we offer it to people who come to our homes. What a lovely, generous offer.
I grew up around many, different cultures and was taught to never refuse the offer of food. It was rude and ungrateful to do so.
So, as I lay in bed and let my mind wander to where it needs to go. I wonder how I, as an individual can shift our collective, human consciousness into a better direction. The time for subtle shifts is over. We've procrastinated too long and now.. OMG! The arctic can be circumnavigated for the first time in History!!
Iran, North Korea...Nuclear weapons... Ahhhhhhhhhh!!
BREATH! breath and think of your garden. It doesn't have to be a reality, just yet but think peaceful, gentle thoughts and send the ripples out. Unclench your ass and breath, slowly, deeply.
What to plant? Herbs, naturally and some edible flowers for color. Think of sharing the goodies from my garden and turning my compost pile full of wriggly worms.
That's better..
Now, back to sending out urgent, yet peaceful ripples. Things have to change quickly children.. No more time for studying. The test is NOW and it's a pass or fail exam.

Take my advice. I'm not using it!

2008-09-15T21:18:00.000-07:00

“Promise me you'll always remember: You're braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. Christopher Robin to Pooh”

STRESS MANAGEMENT: TEN SELF-CARE TECHNIQUES

This brochure was shared at http://www.ucc.vt.edu/stdysk/stresmgt.html
by Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

TO RELAX. Throughout the day, take "mini-breaks". Sit down and get comfortable. Slowly take in a deep breath; hold it; and then exhale very slowly. At the same time, let your shoulder muscles droop, smile, and say something positive like, "I am r-e-l-a-x-e-d." Be sure to get sufficient rest at night.

PRACTICE ACCEPTANCE. Many people get distressed over things they won't let themselves accept. Often, these are things that can't be changed, for example someone else's feelings or beliefs. If something unjust bothers you, that is different. If you act in a responsible way, the chances are you will manage that stress effectively.

TALK RATIONALLY TO YOURSELF. Ask yourself what real impact the stressful situation will have on you in a day or in a week, and see if you can let the negative thoughts go. Think through whether the situation is your problem or the other person's. If it is yours, approach it calmly and firmly. If it is the other person's, there is not much you can do about it. Rather than condemning yourself with hindsight thinking like, "I should have...," think about what you can learn from the error and plan for the future. Watch out for perfectionism -- set realistic and attainable goals. Remember: everyone makes errors. Be careful of procrastination -- practice breaking tasks into smaller units to make it manageable, and practice prioritizing to get things done.

GET ORGANIZED. Develop a realistic schedule of daily activities that includes time for work, sleep, relationships, and recreation. Use a daily "thing to do " list. Improve your physical surroundings by cleaning your house and straightening up your office. Use your time and energy efficiently.

EXERCISE. Physical activity has always provided relief from stress. In the past, daily work was largely physical. Now that physical exertion is no longer a requirement for earning a living, we don't get rid of stress so easily. It accumulates very quickly. We need to develop a regular exercise program to reduce the effects of stress before it becomes distress. Try aerobics, walking, jogging, dancing, or swimming.

REDUCE TIME URGENCY. If you frequently check your watch or worry about what you do with your time, learn to take things a bit slower. Allow plenty of time to get things done. Plan your schedule ahead of time. Recognize that you can only do so much in a given period. Practice the notion of "pace, not race".

DISARM YOURSELF. Every situation in life does not require you to be competitive. Adjust your approach to an event according to its demands. You don't have to raise your voice in a simple discussion. Playing tennis with a friend does not have to be an Olympic trial. Leave behind you your "weapons" of shouting, having the last word, putting someone else down, and blaming.

QUIET TIME. Balance your family, social, and work demands with special private times. Hobbies are good antidotes for daily pressures. Unwind by taking a quiet stroll, soaking in a hot bath, watching a sunset, or listening to calming music.

WATCH YOUR HABITS. Eat sensibly -- a balanced diet will provide all the necessary energy you will need during the day. Avoid nonprescription drugs and avoid alcohol use -- you need to be mentally and physically alert to deal with stress. Be mindful of the effects of excessive caffeine and sugar on nervousness. Put out the cigarettes -- they restrict blood circulation and affect the stress response.

TALK TO FRIENDS. Friends can be good medicine. Daily doses of conversation, regular social engagements, and occasional sharing of deep feelings and thoughts can reduce stress quite nicely.

I've been under a ton of stress lately. Being a proud, independent and stubborn woman. I've been taking care of everyone and everything.. except myself.

You see, I've been having some aggravating dreams and interpreting them has been a challenge. But they all boil down to Stop trying to be super woman. You can't solve every problem on your own!

Alright! I get it. My son and I are moving soon and already I have a garden growing in my mind. Wonderful meals, prepared for friends in my large kitchen and a cat playing at my feet. My son is in his room, playing his bass. It's going to be lovely!

Then there is the daily news. My goodness! Isn't there any good news out there!? I feel this need to research and write this great blog and share hope and exchange ideas that will somehow change the world for the better. It's all about peaceful, hopeful ripples. I look at my son. He's becoming a beautiful, young man and I wonder about his future. Does he have one? Do any of us?

I have been so busy that I forgot to pause and listen. It's a full moon tonight and I sat outside and listened to the wind. Then I came in and took a soothing bath, meditated and will go to bed with the intent to dream important dreams. I'm not alone and help is out there. I just have to ask, nicely.

“Sometimes you put walls up not to keep people out, but to see who cares enough to break them down.”

I don't know who this quote is from but I like it.

Breath, pause, think calm thoughts and don't forget to nap. Naps are good.

Sustaining childhood

2008-09-07T13:10:00.000-07:00

It's never too late to have a happy childhood. I don't care what anyone says.
I love running barefoot through grass, sprinklers on and laughing till my sides hurt. I'm 42 going on 12.
My mother always said. "You're old for a long time. Enjoy being a kid."
Yes, ma'am!
I still climb trees when I find one. It's hard living in the city, but parks have grass and some have swings. I find that nothing fights depression better than swinging. It's as if your worries just fall away and are replaced by this wonderfully giddy feeling. Try it. You have nothing to loose but your dignity.
Now, what about the real children? These poor kids who don't know what flashlight tag is or have ever caught tadpoles, bugs or eaten dirt. They play video games, watch way too much TV and eat stuff that I really wouldn't call food. We have children who are obese and now the medical establishment wants to put them on statin drugs. WHAT!?
I remember not wanting to come inside because I was having too much fun outside. I came in when it got dark or I was hungry. There was always the occasional cut and bloody nose that needed tending to, but that was just a short intermission. Kids need to get dirty and hurt. I think.
http://blog.treeswing.org/

I'm moving and our new place has a small yard. I can't wait to have a small garden and teach my son the joy of tending things that will sustain you. That and watching how insects live. Life is amazing when you observe it without interfering. I don't mind sharing my food with a few bugs. They don't eat much.
http://www.kidsgardening.com/

http://gardeninglaunchpad.com/kids.html

Children are our future. My son worries that the world will end in his lifetime. I can't say I blame him the way things are going. It's very scary but I tell him he can't give up. None of us can afford to give up. There is too much at stake.
A friend gave me this link and when I watched it, I cried. Children matter and they can make a difference!
http://www.youtube.com/user/TheGreenChildren

Then we have this.
http://www.justgive.org/html/kidscorner/inspiringkids.html

I have to believe that there is hope for all of us. It doesn't take much to reach out and give a little of yourself. We don't have to be multi-billionaires to make a difference.
Even a small kindness causes ripples.

Teach peace, kindness and encourage bravery.

Sustainining the Dreaming

2008-08-31T20:41:00.000-07:00

Mood music.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TohFk9qkePQ

I have vivid, powerful and epic dreams. Always have.
Some are lessons for me to unravel. Others are meant to be shared with anyone who's willing to listen. I truly believe the Dreaming is a reality that is just a blink away from this one.
recently, I have asked for important dreams before I sleep and the Dreaming answered.
http://www.shamanichealing.info/id38.html

The first dream. I found myself and other survivors crawling from the rubble of what seemed a large city. Someone finally created the ultimate weapon and used it. So powerful was this creation of madness that it ripped the seams of the worlds. We were somehow in a shadow land between what was once our waking reality and the Dreaming.
As the survivors gathered together, we began to discuss what to do next. I wanted to explore this strange place and find out if there were any beings who might be able to help or at least explain where we were. A large, loud man stood up and quickly declared himself the leader. My ideas were crazy. He told everyone we needed to get back to the way things were. Barricades and weapons were needed to protect ourselves.
I argued that this was the same thinking that destroyed the world as we knew it in the first place. We needed to adapt to our new environment. Not the other way around.
I was quickly exiled from the "safety" of the city.
Out in the strange wilderness, I quickly met a being that looked like a cross between a black cat and a teddy bear. I curbed my fear and let myself radiate friendliness. The creature responded and began to teach me the way this world and its creatures worked. This place was a small pocket between what had been our world and the Dreaming. Reality was pliable so we had to be careful with our thoughts. Because I was thinking peaceful and friendly thoughts when I met my guide. It reflected back to me. The beings in this world were able to phase in and out. Traveling where they wished with a thought.
With time and coaching, I had created a small dwelling that blended with the environment. Fruit bearing bushes and trees grew nearby and water was close and clean. I had many, friendly, shape shifting neighbors. I was getting the hang of this place and loved it. It was like lucid dreaming and I needed to go back to the city and teach this to the others before something bad happened.
http://www.shamansdreammusic.com/index.html

Why are humans so stupid? It amazes me that we've been able to avoid extinction this long.
Anyway.. Something bad was on it's way.
When I went back to the city it had changed. Rebuilt as best it could be by fearful people. Barricades, fires, and where the hell did they get the guns?
I was let in by someone who knew I wasn't a threat and had something important to say. They didn't like the way things were going but were too afraid to speak up for fear of being exiled like me. I began to talk about the wilderness and how our new home conformed to our thoughts. We could create a beautiful world if we just put our minds to it. Just when I began to reach people, the leader showed up. He began to preach hate and fear. Saying I was a lier. People didn't know who to believe until my friend showed up and went to a small child. At first, the child seemed eager to be friendly and the creature smiled and looked adorable. Then, the child's mother looked at the leader and pulled her child away. Saying it was dangerous. The child seemed confused for a moment but then looked at her mother and believed as she did.
My cute, little kitty bear friend suddenly transformed into the child's and her mother's worst fear. It grew fangs, claws and foamed at the mouth before attacking the mother and child. Al, hell broke out as other denizens came to the call of panicked humans. It was not a pretty sight.
Some in the city escaped with me into the wilderness where I began to teach them what I had learned. Our new home blossomed and every creature was considered a friend.

Want to read about other dreams and dreamers?
http://www.worlddreambank.org/INDEX.HTM

My second, important dream that needs to be shared.
I'll keep this brief.
I found myself in a secret, underground, government facility. I had gotten in because many people put themselves at risk to get me fake documents. My job was to find out what was being kept prisoner and tell the world.
Years ago, an emissary of Mother Earth came to talk to those in power and warn of the harm they were causing to the planet. This gentle, physical manifestation of nature was locked up and studied mercilessly.
As it's anger and frustration grew, so did its physical form. Now it was as big as Godzilla and breaking free of its prison. The whole mountain shook as it broke through barrier after barrier. Evacuation sirens blared as we ran. Trying to get out before the mountain collapsed on us.
I wanted to see the creature. I had to. I found a small, observation window and caught a glimpse of its eye. I still weep when I remember the pain and anger in that huge eye, staring back at me.
I knew everything then.
It had come in peace and was betrayed. Now its goal was to reach the ocean and begin to repair the damage humans had caused. I found my hand on a lever that would open the last barrier and give this "monster" access to the ocean. I knew many people would die and I might be one of them. I pulled the lever and woke up. Earth's bodyguard had left the building and was it pissed.

Now for something a little more friendly.
http://www.shamantic.org/shamanticarts.phtml
I need to know the universe is also kind, silly and loving as well as a tough teacher.
http://www.shamanworld.com/

So I wish everyone out there, powerful dreams. Thoughts have power. Use them wisely.

Sustaining fashion

2008-08-23T18:16:00.000-07:00

OMG! It's back to school time and that means NEW CLOTHES!? Have you seen all the adds for the latest fashions? Since when did our children become bratty little clothes horses? Why are we bullied into buying them expensive things they're going to outgrow in a few months or worse.. They won't be in style next week. Gah!! I have multiple solutions my friends. 1. Teach your offspring how cool it is to be an individual. 2. Make them listen to The Ramones, The Clash, Dead Kennedys and other punk bands. 3. Take them to a second hand store and let them discover how fun it is to create their OWN style. 4. Teach them the value of money. 5. Turn off the TV! I see so many young girls dressed up like they're hookers! The boys look like they could have a small family living inside their pants. That can't be comfortable. While researching this blog. I came across some pretty disturbing images. I'm going to have nightmares tonight. I'm sure. baby jumpers with an Apple iphone icon. What is wrong with this picture!?
http://ipopmybaby.com/

People pay ridiculous prices for clothes, bags and shoes with designer names on them. Shouldn't THEY be paying US for advertising? Alright. I'm going to stop this rant before I drool angry, ranting froth onto my keyboard. Lets fight the fascists, fashion police and dress as individuals. We can be cool and still kind to our Mother Earth. Lets start with one of my favorite sites.
http://www.adbusters.org/
Free your mind!

Now, I found this and it's wonderful! Put in your own local and BAM! Get busy.
http://www.hellolocal.com/ypsearch.cfm?kw=fashion%20recycle&KID=30273

Don't forget that you can fix old, stained, moth eaten clothes by using patches, sewing if you have the knack or just plain old cut off couture. Never forget to be creative. It's fun.
Eco fashion is becoming a trend. "Green is the new Black." They say.
Fine, but stop putting a hefty price tag on your trendy, hemp and organic cotton crap! Saving the planet shouldn't drain your back account. That's why I recommend local, second hand stores over the green washed, Internet stores I looked into before writing this. *Grumble*
I like this site though. Get the kids involved. This world will be theirs soon enough.
http://www.stepin.org/

Can you imagine working in a sweatshop? Those cheap clothes and shoes you bought at Walmart weren't made by workaholic Elves. I hate to break the news to you sunshine.
Do a little research into sweatshops and you'll probably be appalled at how much stuff you own that was made by underpaid and over worked people.
STOP BUYING SO MUCH STUFF!
Do you really need it? Do any of us?
Lets be kind to each other and think about the ripples we cause with every thing we do.
http://www.coopamerica.org/

I am so glad my son has listened to me. He's turned out to be a savvy kid with a kind heart and beautiful soul. Not to mention a punky fashion sense and a love for going "treasure hunting" with his mom at the second hand stores. He's growing so fast I can't imagine buying him Brand New clothes! Shoes are the only thing I have no problem with buying new.
I don't want someone else's foot funk, thank you very much. I have my own.
So, stay cool, be an individual and don't dress like everyone else! How am I supposed to pick you out in a police line up?

Sustaining our animal friends

2008-08-14T19:32:00.000-07:00

Woof, Meow, Chirp, Hiss, and whatever sound a fish makes.

We LOVE our critters. Our non human friends who love us back and ask so little of us in return.

I miss having animals around me. I have lots of exposure to other people's animals and I do feel that they love me but they don't live with me. I get the benefit of playing, petting and talking to these animals without the ugliness of cleaning up after them, buying food and making sure they stay healthy. Life is good!

But what about those of you who do have to do the dirty work? I feel your angst and can smell the poo from here. Ewww!

Lets start with basics.

http://www.onlynaturalpet.com/default.aspx

This is genius! How about cat poo?

http://homepage.mac.com/cityfarmer/PhotoAlbum22.html

Alright, cats and dogs are regular pets. How about the exotics? Love reptiles? I do. Silky scales or sharp spines. I'd take an apple off one any day.

I have a beautiful friend who does some pretty amazing things along with her sweet, partner.

http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/dragon_sanctuary/

Lots of links if you join but if not here's a good one.

http://www.herpetology.com/

For those who are are sexy, activists and love to stay informed.

http://www.neopoa.com/

Knowledge is power and animals need all the help they can get.

Oh, dear Goddess. This is a very good argument to become a vegetarian. Too bad I was born a carnivore. Go ahead and tell me I'll die. Choking on a bacon cheeseburger. Mmmmm, bacon.

Oh, wait. What was I talking about? Oh yes..

Love the animals.. Don't eat them!

http://cultureandanimals.org/animalrights.htm#rational

I feel the urge to make a salad and sing to my fish.

I have a lovely, spunky and sometimes insane Betta. His name is Spike and he lives in a bowl on my table. He's my pretty boy! Yes he is. They are such cool fish.

http://www.bettafishcenter.com/Betta-Pictures.shtml

So it appears I'm rambling. This is a simple subject with simple resources.

Every time I research something it all boils down to one thing.

Be Nice!

Sustaining the spirit through cultivation.

2008-08-06T20:14:00.000-07:00

I just spent 4 days at a Qigong seminar. I recomend this to anyone who has the opportunity.

http://qigong.com/Welcome.html

Now, be prepared for the hard sell on the books, DVDs, shirts, and blender. I understand everyone needs to make a living. The message and lessons are beautiful and powerful.

I always try to take something possitive from every experience.

Like the concept of Cultivation. Not just plants but good deeds, compassion and love.

http://spiritualcultivation.com/component/option,com_frontpage/Itemid,1/

Now, I'd like to discuss something that might make some of you uncomfortable, angry or just plain laugh at this crazy woman.

The DIVINE. Goddess, God, The Source, The Big Electron.. It has many names but none has touched it. How can we, as infant gods and goddess' ourselves begine to understand what IT is? We're still learning to crawl it seems sometimes. How many enlightened people do you know? Not just the people who you know are farther on the path than you but truely enlightened, like Buddah or Jesus?

We all long for union with our creator. Don't we?

http://www.godsdirectcontact.com/quanyin/index.html

At this seminar there were 450 people. The instructor said he had 1800 at the last one. At one point we were ALL breathing together in an intense meditaion. We sent loving, healing energy to the people we love, ourselves and even to people who we didn't love. It's TRUE sharing and it's powerful! If it doesn't make you uncomfortable. It's not really true sharing. That's a good thing to remember. Also, there are so many of us who are striving for UNITY and PEACE.

http://www.experiencefestival.com/

Now, can you imagine football stadiums filled with people meditating on peace and love at the same time? I think we could change things quite quickly if we could organize.

Oh, no! Here comes my evil twin!!

Alright, sounds great but lets take into account human nature.. How many wars have been started in the name of God? Look at some of the BIG religions and tell me, with a straight face that they really want to love their fellow man. What started out as a good idea warped and mutated into a Religious beurocracy. More concerned with controlling its followers with rules, regulations and self imposed eating disorders than encouraging joy and kindness. WTF!?

Oh, and lets not forget the way they love to hate anyone who doesn't believe the same way as they do. Somehow GOD sanctions killing these non believers. I can't wrap my head around that idea. String theory makes more sense than that.

Be nice people! For no other reason than it's the right thing to do.

Is that so hard? What is wrong with humanity? I weep when I see the evil that we do to each other. We can do better. I know we can and I'm working on it. How about you?

I don't care what name you tag onto Divinity. It loves us all and that's good enough for me.

lets keep our thoughts peaceful and loving. If you can get friends to meditate with you. Please do. Let's work together for a change. Things are getting pretty grim out there.

I highly recomend this movie. Buy or rent. It's worth a look see.

http://www.whatthebleep.com/index2.shtml

Change your mindset, then change the world.

Come on people! I can't do this by myself.

Duh! 101 Less is more

2008-07-23T15:07:00.000-07:00

"Look at every path closely and deliberately, then ask ourselves this crucial question: Does this path have a heart? If it does, then the path is good. If it doesn't, it is of no use."--Carlos Castaneda

Great opener, right?

Now that I have you lulled into a false sense of security..

STOP BUYING SO MUCH STUFF!!

Honestly, do you really need it?

It sickens me that our culture is based on consumption. We eat, drink, talk, drive, shop and drink too much. Obesity is preventable. Debt is mostly preventable. What happened to accountability? Ever watch a talk show? Ok, it was for research purposes ONLY, I swear.

Nothing is any one's fault. They have a condition, mental disorder, drug problem, they're abusive mother screwed them up or the devil made them do it. No one drops their head in shame and exclaims "I'm a weak, easily seduced moron with no self control!"

Now you can come out from behind your chair. The mad rant is over.. for now.

I have embraced minimalism most of my life. Granted, as a member of the Raven tribe I love my shiny objects and tasty bites now and again. But my home is small, I have one TV, computer, stereo, microwave and a rapidly declining collection of dishes. (They break) And a car that's paid for.

It was never my ambition to become rich and famous. Comfortable and notorious, yes, but not at the expense of other beings. How did we, as a culture grow into a bunch of stupid, mean, selfish and lazy bullies? Who's guiding this ship of insane consumerism? Why are so many people on board? Are we that insecure in our own self worth that we need to base it on the stuff we own? Instead of beautifying our souls and loving our fellow beings. {Hey, vegetarian friends. I do love all beings. Some of them are down right delicious!}

Alright, enough teasing. Vegetarians are great people.

Now, what was I talking about before I was so rudely interrupted by my evil twin? Oh, yes..

STOP BUYING SO MUCH STUFF!

To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and to endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded. Ralph Waldo Emerson

I like to challenge myself on how little I spend. I go "treasure hunting" with my son. We each have a certain amount of money that we can spend. Then we go to second hand stores and try to find a "treasure" for under that amount. In a local, green paper, I read about a great idea. During the depression some one's grandparents came up with a beautiful, free and entertaining game. Air castles. One would start out the wishful thinking story and each would take turns building on it. Sounds like a great campfire or coffee table game. What a lovely way for people to interact and get to know each other.

It might be a good way to find out if someone you know might be a psychotic, serial killer.

Back in the closet, evil twin! I have a serious blog to write..

"Try not to become a man of success. Rather become a man of value." Albert Einstein

Not everything has to cost money. Do you really need to have the latest, most expensive THING? Reduce, Reuse and Recycle isn't just a catchy slogan to slap on your SUV.

Lets start with getting out and seeing this beautiful country. Don't forget to carpool and drive the speed limit.

http://www.free-attractions.com/

I LOVE these ideas!! What ever happened to the bloc party?

http://www.thesimpledollar.com/2007/04/17/fifteen-free-things-to-do-during-a-money-free-weekend/

Alright, the theme of this blog is consuming less. There are people in the world that live on less than $2.00 a day. Can you imagine that!? Now I know there are people who think they need to live surrounded by stuff and things. Electronics, clothes, cars, and other things. I knew someone who lost their job and had to economize. I told him to cut a lot of things I thought were unnecessary, like his expensive cell phone, extended cable, and a few other services that were just draining his bank account. He told me that living like a monk might be good enough for me but not him. The man loved his things.

I prefer living things, beautiful places, and the time to enjoy them. Simple pleasures are usually the best.

http://zenhabits.net/2007/07/75-simple-pleasures-to-brighten-your-day/

Then, there are simple solutions that don't cost much and reuse things you might not think to reuse.

http://www.realsimple.com/realsimple/homepage/flash/0,23022,,00.shtml?origref=http://www.realsimple.com/realsimple/content/0,21770,1076272,00.html

Make a game out of being cheap and it becomes habit. Now I'm not advocating living like a monk all of the time. I love treating myself to fine chocolate, a fun pair of shoes or a glass of single malt whiskey. My dad always taught me the importance of what he called mad money.

Being frugal and stepping lightly on the earth is not something only poor people do. Why is greed, gluttony, sloth, vanity, lust, anger and envy encouraged and pandered to? Aren't these the seven deadly sins for a reason? Is this a flashback to Sodom and Gomorrah? Don't we humans learn from past mistakes? I guess not.

Keep consuming like locusts until there is nothing left.

http://www.scifi.com/sfw/issue55/classic.html

Remember this!? Getting pretty close to reality. I'm scared.

http://www.huxley.net/bnw/index.html

Another scary, future. Written in 1932! Emotionless, drugged up, uber consumers who have meaningless sex. Hmm..

I don't want a future like this. I want one where we explore our inner worlds and realize we're all connected. We're all family.

http://earthlovemovement.org/

Sustaining Hope and outrage

2008-07-17T08:51:00.000-07:00

I am hopeful that things will get better. I am outraged that it isn't happening as quickly as it needs to be!

Conversations with friends can be so enlightning and helpful.

There are a lot of us who are working to make things better but when we watch the news and hear about how polititians and big business keep tying up efforts at change with red tape. We get a little discouraged, angry and hopeless. If we give up, we loose.. EVERYTHING.

Keep the faith my brothers and sisters.

We have to stick together and bolster each other up when things look bleak. Even if it's a simple gesture, like recomending a good book, documentary or offering an inspiration quote. Oh, and let's not forget. A good beer with friends is always an uplifting experience.

This is on my reading list and comes highly recomended by a good friend.

http://www.paulloeb.org/newimp/impindex.htm

I loved this book! We have the ability to do this. Why aren't we?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ecotopia

Oh, wait.. people are terrified of change. That and it costs too much. $$$$$

Old men sitting in air conditioned offices. Drinking bottled water. What do they care about the future?

ARRRGH!

Ahem, anyway.. There are more of us than there are of them and we're networking. I LOVE the internet!!

http://www.ecotopia.com/

Lets not forget another, important neccessity of life.

http://about.adnams.co.uk/post/News/2008/04/East-Green.aspx

All things are possible. It might take a little time, thought and inspiration, but it's possible.

Yeah for GREEN beer.

Whatever your passions are, make them green and things will fall into place.

Be good to your Mother. She can really lay the spank down on us if she wants to.

Sustaining sanity during insane times

2008-07-09T14:45:00.000-07:00

Purple, one of my favorite colors. It's warm, peaceful and powerful.
Oh, God! I want my mommy!
Iran is testing missiles along with threatening everyone and no one is going to spank them like the brat they are because they might block the OIL traffic.
http://www.worldwithoutoil.org/
But that isn't stopping anyone from the standard, primate posturing and weenie waiving. They toss threats and warnings around as if this were a ping pong match. It Isn't!! What is wrong with people? Doesn't anyone remember the epic cock/flag waiving that Reagan did? Daring Russia to do something. Well, now the world has a new wacko with an attitude problem and his finger on a button.

“Patriot: the person who can holler the loudest without knowing what he is hollering about.”
Mark Twain

I have a solution.
Neuter them! That's right. You heard me. Snip off their chicken shit nuggets and lets see how eager they are to start another war. The war mongers never seem to be in any real danger anyway, do they? It's the rest of us who are just trying to live our lives that become pawns in their game of Stratego. How did the majority of humanity become so powerless in the face of a few, cowardly bullies?
They keep us divided, that's why. Religion, race, ethnicity, culture, age, economics. I could go on but you get the point.
Boil us down to our simplest desires and we all want to live, be happy and safe. This shouldn't come into conflict with anyone elses desire for the same thing. Should it? Play nice children.
But no, there are always those who can't be happy unless they have everything and/or everyone else is miserable. These are the people who seek power, money and fame so they can be at the top of the food chain. The rest of us, sane people don't want that crap. Too much trouble and work. I want to play, have fun and make friends. Don't you?
http://iamrevolting.org/
Yes, it's a Jesus based organization but like all good messengers, Jesus said we should be nice to each other. So no complaints from my Wiccan, Buddhist, Druid, Hindu and other non-Christian friends. Play nice or no cookie.
I just finished a book by Dalai Lama Ethics for the New Millennium. It was a bit wordy but then, he was trying NOT to interject his religious beliefs into it as well as trying to explain Tibetan terms that do not translate well into English. No easy task, I'm sure.
Most religions seem to get lost in their rules and regulations and loose sight of their founding principles. Basically, be compassionate and mindful.
http://aeu.org/
Just another group trying to be good humans. We are all HUMANS. Lets start acting like it and see beyond our differences. Please, please.

“I think that people want peace so much that one of these days government had better get out of their way and let them have it.”
Dwight Eisenhower

Alright, lets get a little light hearted here. I'm becoming hopeless and that's not an option now.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQ-wRci8JhU

“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It's not.”
Dr. Seuss

And just because it makes me laugh.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8JJcJIiQq2A

Home Sweet Home

2008-07-02T14:45:00.000-07:00

Sustainability 101
Brought to you by www.earthtibetv.org
Home is where the heart is.

That's nice but something warm in winter, cool in summer, dry, safe, and comfortable would be lovely.
Is it too much to ask for earth friendly, sustainable, inexpensive, local and unique materials to build this place of spirit and body?
To have a safe haven that is not only a reflection of you but an artistic abode worthy of being part of the landscape.
I love the Internet. I have found links to people and ideas that give me hope for humanity. No longer is there a monopoly on information or containment of ideas. To hell with cracker box houses with over watered lawns and white, picket fences. Who's messed up idea was that!?
I have always wanted to live in a tree house. I was the queen of forts and other eco hideouts as a kid. I dreamed of building my own home and working it into the surrounding landscape so it wouldn't clash. Who wants to live in an eyesore?
These are just a few resources. There are so many alternatives to crap housing.

http://www.usgbc.org/

http://www.greenhomebuilding.com/index.htm

http://www.inhabitat.com/category/treehouses/
Check out the rest of this site too.

We live in exciting times! Things are changing so fast and I look around me and see people fighting to hold on to old ideas and behavior. Adapt or die.
As humans, we have not done a whole lot of adapting to our environment. Instead, we adapt our environment to us. Looks like we got that one wrong.
Don't get me started on certain people trying to tell natives how they should be living, even though it goes against everything their culture was built on over thousands of years.
We are smart mammals. Lets show the other inhabitants of this planet how to evolve. We can have technology without raping the earth. We can have function, beauty, comfort, and sustainability all in one package.
http://www.ecobusinesslinks.com/

http://www.sharingsustainablesolutions.org/?page=Home&lang=2

A local favorite.
http://www.originatenbm.com/index.html

Who are the people in your neighborhood?

You can't stay in your corner of the Forest waiting for others to come to you. You have to go to them sometimes.
Winnie The Pooh - as written by A. A. Milne

Throw potluck dinners, plant a community garden, play Frisbee, swap recipes or baby sitting. Aren't we all really neighbors now? We can chat with someone across the globe in real time. Information is a click away.
I'm excited! I'm passionate about change and hope it's for the better. It has to be people, or we're screwed.

http://www.architectureforhumanity.org/?gclid=COeJyav9l5QCFQEpIgodviiLtQ

http://earth911.org/

Every little bit helps. Don't get discouraged.

Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would go to pieces, I would still plant my apple tree. Martin Luther

Water, water everyewhere and not a drop to drink?

2008-06-25T19:06:00.000-07:00

Brought to you by www.earthtribetv.org

Sustainability 101

"Anyone who can solve the problems of water will be worthy of two Nobel prizes - one for peace and one for science."John F. Kennedy

Humans and the planet are roughly 70% water. Coincidence or some, Divine design?
I'd like to think since we came from the Earth (Yes, I'm an Evolutionists.) That we have a similar makeup. She is our mother after all. We should love and respect her.
So, why are we polluting, wasting and generally taking one of out most vital resources for granted!? Here, in the USA all we have to do is turn on a faucet. Like magic, water comes out and most of the time it's drinkable. Personally, I get my water from a good source and refill my containers. I grew up with sweet, well water. Hmmm, what a great childhood I had. To think I'm only 42 and how bad things have gotten in that short time. I worry about my son and how quickly our natural world is declining. But we have it good when you look at other parts of the world.
For starters, let's look at how much water we use. You'll be surprised.

http://www.waterfootprint.org/?page=files/home

We need to drink so much water a day just to survive. I keep finding different amounts but here in the hot, Tucson desert it seems you can't drink enough. I count my blessings every day that I have clean, safe water to drink. Apparently we're running out of drinkable water on this planet. WTF!? This is affectionately known as the BLUE PLANET. Not Dune or stinky, sludge planet. At least not yet.
There are so many people who don't have clean, drinking water. Something so basic to every living creature. How did we get to this? How do we solve it and make sure we all have access to drinkable water.

http://www.worldwatercouncil.org/index.php?id=5

http://www.cleanwateraction.org/

http://www.nrdc.org/water/pollution/gsteps.asp

So, we can do our part, even if it's just small steps. At least it's a step in the right direction.
Here's another link to a great, general site.

http://www.sharingsustainablesolutions.org/?page=Home&lang=2

"Nothing on earth is so weak and yielding as water, but for breaking down the firm and strong it has no equal."Lao-Tsze

Mourning a hero

2008-06-23T20:12:00.000-07:00

Alright, this blog is about sustainability in all things. In memory of George Carlin, 5-12-37 to 6-22-08 I'd like to dedicate this blog to HUMOR!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FdYfYugvVL4&feature=related

Not the simple, locker room potty humor that most of us can muster but the kind only a true jester can generate.
The original jester was not just a fool who entertained the king's court. He was in a position to say what no one else was allowed, or had the balls to say. A political satirist with a funny hat. All in the name of a good joke. The body begins to laugh at the supposedly, simple humor but then the brain processes it and suddenly.. *Gasp* There is more to it than a hearty belly laugh. Hmm.. I am made to think and laugh at the same time.
Laughter IS good medicine. They have proven that. There is laughing yoga! It massages the insides and who doesn't feel better after a good laugh?
This world needs more laughter. Not the mean, snickering at some one's misfortune but the genuine, shared, life is funny kind of laughter. So lets have a few laughs and wish George a good journey.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCljFYn3zTY&feature=related
His wit and wisdom will be missed.

Becoming Sustainable 101

2008-06-18T14:42:00.000-07:00

This rant brought to you by: www.earthtribetv.org

Before I begin, I'd like to warn anyone who reads this. I am not a vegetarian and make no apologies. I used to be one for several years only to discover my body needs animal protein to function properly. So, to you vegetarians and vegans with an attitude problem.. Bite me.
To those who avoid meat and/or all animal products who aren't without meat eating friends and can take a joke. Welcome.
Now, to the sustainability part. Lets begin with ourselves.
What do we put into ourselves that sustains us? There's food and water. Pretty basic stuff, right? Lets stick to that for now.
What are we eating? Seriously, think about it and be honest.
Confession time! I am feeling rather guilty right now. I have not eaten as well as I should and could today. Oh, God, but I love Flamin Hot Cheetos!
Damn! But it's so damned easy to get a quick, junk food fix. Watch TV and see how many ads there are for food that we don't really need. "Snacks" devoid of any real nutrition. It's more entertainment for your mouth than food. But if I believe the commercials it will make me popular, people will break out in show tunes around me and cartoon characters will try to steal it away from me because it's just so damned delectable and.. addictive?
Ouch, that visual just hurt my brain.
As I said before. I grew up on a farm.
We had a large garden. What we didn't grow, one of our neighbors did. We also raised sheep, pigs, chickens and an occasional cow. Let me tell you, I knew where my food came from!
I knew who grew it, who raised it and sometimes what it was fed all its life.
In the summer I lived on fruit and vegetables that were still warm from the sun. I pulled weeds in warm, moist, living soil that smelled like heaven.
I was a very healthy kids. Store bought cookies, chips and soda were rare, treats.
I am NOT that old!
I am so thrilled that organic foods are becoming an "in" thing. More people should start their own container gardens. Even in the city it's possible to grow something. How about some herbs?
http://www.urbangardeninghelp.com/
I promise to start a small, container garden in my next home. I'll be settled and ready by the fall. It's so hot right now. Even the cactus are wilting.
Oh, to have a full acre or more to work with. I miss growing things in the earth.
I'd like to share this site so maybe more people will get inspired to at least join a co-op if not go all the way and start a family farm.
http://www.youtube.com/user/cookingupastory
And lets not forget the old standby and a personal favorite.
http://www.motherearthnews.com/
If more and more of us find a way to grow our own food or come together with others to grow and share. I think that would be a very good start for many improvements to life. Better food, closer communities, and let's face it. Playing in the dirt is fun.
Well, where I grew up it was. Now I'm in the desert and there are different rules than what I grew up with. Anyone who has a sizable garden here has my respect and admiration. Here is an organization that is going a beautiful job at encouraging and saving heirloom plants which kick ass on the ones created by labs. Nature is far superior to man in the creation process.
http://www.nativeseeds.org/v2/default.php
I encourage anyone who reads this blog to do a little reading and let the Earth Muse guide you.
Just to add a little more incentive and a few laughs.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f5RrGFBbbSY&feature=related

Battle Cry!

2008-06-17T21:55:00.000-07:00

Moral support for the masses.

I remember when I was going through a very terrible time in my life. I felt the world was closing in on me and I was all alone. Alright, I wasn't but I felt like it. Out of the darkness, I received one of the best pieces of advice that I use almost daily and I'll share it with you.
When you are surrounded by problems, pick out the most critical one first and handle it. Forget all the others that seem to hover over your head like a hungry vulture. Focus on one problem at a time.
It's easier to fight one thing at a time. If you look out and see the converging army, you'll shit yourself and not have the courage to knock down even a few. Oh, and don't forget, you're not fighting alone.
Crisis Management 101
Simple, yes? Of course it is! Now let's get started.
I'm going to be putting up links to sites that have great ideas and resources.
Am I going to be the voice of reason in a mad world? Probably not but at least I'm making a possitive effort. I make no claims to striving to be like the Dalai Lama though I do wish I had more love for humanity.
Is it me or is the vast majority of people stupid? Common sense is far from common I'm afraid. Why else do we have so many reality TV shows, bad drivers and.. Pollution!?
I grew up on a farm with lots of animals and one of the many things I was taught was that any animal that shits where it eats is not a good animal. Something is not right with it. Get the BBQ started!
As I write this I'm thinking of the recent news of the flooding in Iowa. My heart goes out to all those who have lost anything.
It used to be beautiful farm country. Now it's an open sewer. Chemical fertilizers, oil, sewage and all kinds of waste is floating in the water. EWWWWWWWWW! Does anyone remember Katrina? Huh?! People were getting sick by touching the water! What happens when you have to swim in it to get to higher ground and it gets in your mouth?
We're shitting where we eat!! BLECH!
We can do better than this. We have these big brains and they have to be good for something more than keeping our skulls from caving in.
So, brothers and sisters, lets lock arms and face this enemy that is our arrogance, apathy and the belief that we are separate from everything else.
Remember, you can't have a REVOLUTION without EVOLUTION!
You're not alone. We are the solution so don't let anyone tell you different. Every little step brings us closer to home.
http://wecansolveit.org/
Great, general site to get started on.
http://hacknmod.com/
For the hackers we all know and love. Build your own electric car among other projects.