48

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Oh my goodness. I'm so sorry that it's been a full year since I blogged here. I really planned to keep this going more regularly. It's a challenge. Lots has been going on, as that's my life.

It's good stuff. Busy stuff. Working, creating, thinking, parenting... and writing, although obviously, not here.

The first thing I promise is that I will do better this year.

This year has been a good year for me, and for my family too. Here are some of the things of note:

• I launched HugTexts.com - this is an encouraging text message that's automatically sent to you or someone you care about, four days a week. I think it's lovely and those who have tried it already are very enthusiastic.
• My wedding officiant practice is busy and in demand. Last year I thought I'd cap at 50 for this year, but I've done around 85 weddings and elopements. I'm enjoying it very much. I've also joined up with Ceremony Officiants, which is a company that matches officiants with couples. They approached me and asked if I'd like to join. I did, and we're off to a good start.
• Montgomery College contacted me and asked if I'd teach Animal Reiki. They ended up hiring me to teach not only Animal Reiki, but also two writing classes. 
• I created seven skills (like apps) for the Amazon Echo devices. Three of them get 500-700 new users per month. That's really cool! Two are games, and the rest are for inspiration and self-healing.
• My oldest daughter, Rayna, is applying to colleges for next year. This is a new phase of life for my husband and me as parents, and of course, for her too! By the early Spring, we should know where she will be going in the Fall. She's also taking driving lessons...and that is a whole new anxiety challenge for me that I'm working on each time I'm in the passenger's seat. 
• I quit my social media jobs that were bringing in extra steady money, but were not fulfilling anymore. Now all of my work are things I love to do - and that's so freeing!
• I completed my Master's Degree in Metaphysical Science and I'm getting ready to start my Doctoral Dissertation. I have a huge stack of resources amassed, and an idea of what I'm going to write about. I'm confident that the time will present itself and I'll get to work on it in the coming months. 

Here's a funny story - we went to Cleveland over winter break last month. While there, a surprising little set of events led to us having an unexpected lunch with my husband's cousins and aunt. We didn't even know they were in town, but a disconnected phone call ended up with us finding out they were all in town, and going to the same restaurant we were headed to for lunch. So we had this lovely family reunion and got caught up over lunch. Well - Evan's cousin said to me, "Well this was such an incredible coincidence!" 

I replied that I don't believe in coincidences, because this stuff happens to me a lot. He said, "Oh, that paranormal stuff, right."

I replied, "Not really, see, this is my normal. It would be paranormal to think they were random or coincidental." I wasn't being snarky - it was just a way of seeing things, and explaining how I live. I expect - and delight in - remarkable alignment of events, happy surprises, and things going right at the perfect time. This is my normal. And it's pretty awesome.

So, now I'm 48 years old. And, I'm expecting a fantastic year. I'll blog more often for sure - because this is an important part of my life. 

See you soon.

Love,

Alice

47

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Today is my 47th birthday.

Every year, I blog on my birthday. This is my 10th birthday blog, and I'm proud of that.

I did, as I do every year, look back and read through some of my previous blogs. I realized - I am a busy person! I do a lot in a year.

Since last year:

• I officiated 30 weddings and started a wedding officiant website.
  
• I got a new (yes my second) tattoo. This one is about peace. There is a peace sign in the middle of a world, which is the iris for an eye. The idea is what we see - what we deliberately see - we create. If we can see peace, we can be peace. In this time of world unrest, and USA unrest, this message is very important. I'm proud to wear it on my arm so I am reminded every day. It also matches the same place on my right arm as the love tattoo of last year sits on my left. So I've got my love and my peace. I'm ready for my flower garland - hahaha!
  
  

  

  My new tattoo

• I finished the exam and started the thesis for my Master's degree in Metaphysical Science. I expect to finish the thesis by end of January.
  
• I published two more books, and an app, and started another app.
  
• I won an award for my book, First Family, and went to Miami to accept the award.
  
• I changed locations for my Reiki practice to a beautiful studio shared with 5 massage therapists.

And more. That's just off the top of my head.

I'm planning for 2017:

• My son, Eli's Bar Mitzvah on Feb. 11
  
• A trip to Cozumel with my husband, Evan, to celebrate our 20th anniversary (also in February!)
  
• Booking 50 weddings (that's my max!)
  
• Helping my oldest daughter get ready for college applications and decisions.
  
• And who knows what else? New and exciting adventures await.

What have I learned this year?

It's hard to discern. I would say that overall, I realized how to stop worrying, how to incorporate an awesome manifesting technique into my day (which works!), how to trust the universe more, and be awake, and stepping more fully into my role as a spiritual being ready to share what I know with others.

So... not bad. 

My birthday today was pretty uneventful. And that was a little disappointing. I did my normal Tuesday thing. I saw 4 hospice patients, took myself out to lunch (a nice lunch - it was my birthday after all), and spent the afternoon shlepping kids around. Tonight I went to watch Eli perform with his Rock Band class, and he did a great job. I did get over 200 birthday wishes on Facebook and a nice call from my parents. It's fine.

I look forward to seeing what my blog post for 48 will look like.

Peace.

Power Manifesting

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When I have a few minutes alone (usually in the shower or in the car), I mentally place myself in the role of CEO of my life. (Because I am, after all.)
Then I call an Executive Staff Meeting of my Guides and Angels. In my mind, I sit at the head of the conference table, or behind a big, fancy desk in my awesome office. I always begin the meeting by thanking my hard working staff for the things that have been going great lately. For example, "I'd like to thank you all for bringing me that new Reiki client this week. She really loved her session and we had a great conversation too. And, great job on that store that purchased 10 copies of A Moment for Teachers. It's really exciting to know that my book's out there!" I keep going with the thanks until I've listed everything since our last meeting.

Next, I tell my team what the latest projects are, and hand over assignments. For example, "Ok, Team, it's crunch time for My Moments of 2016. I've got Google Ads, Facebook ads, YouTube, Reddit, and Google+ posts, plus I've been sending out those newsletters. I'm assigning you to shine the rosy glow over those, and direct the right people to register to make this year wonderful for them. Guides, I'm ready for new ideas on this, so be sure to let me know what else would be most effective. Secondly, there are still a couple spots left for the Lightworkers Intensive Program. Angels, help fill those seats with the people who will complete this important group, and Guides, speak with the Guides of those people so they know it's time. And, finally, I'm ready for any other nice surprises you have in store, and abundance from those unlimited channels available. Thanks, everyone! You are SO awesome and I know you're on the job!"

Finally, I dismiss the meeting and stay present for guidance and noticing the things to add to the "Good Work" list for tomorrow's meeting.

Why this works:

Manifesting technique requires some essential ingredients. They are: Gratitude, knowing and naming what you want (specifically the end-results), and expecting they are already coming into your life. All pieces are present in this easy "Board Meeting." 

I like keeping things simple. Not that there's anything wrong with vision boards, or a more complicated or longer process if that resonates with you. But basically, the creative force of the universe works by those simple steps. So, make sure that whatever method you choose includes them.

Try this and leave a comment about how it works for you!

Peace.

We are all God

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I made this video to express how I feel about spirituality - the Big Picture, so to speak, and all of the thoughts that I have about how things fit together - life, its meaning, our connection to each other, God, and the Universe, time, and otherworldly beings. It's pretty packed. 

I think that I could probably make more videos that expand on ideas presented here, but I wanted to ask your opinion about this, and how this video strikes you.

Thank you, Namaste.
Peace. Love.

Taking it Personally

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It's become a regular practice of mine to invite my angels to play. Meaning, I invite them to bring me signs of their presence, bits of guidance, and even little happy surprises for my day. And then comes the fun part - I notice them and say thank you.

The things I notice might be things that other people dismiss. But I've decided to take them personally, which is part of this practice. 

For instance, we're on vacation at the beach this week. Every morning about 7:30 I walk to the ocean by myself and sit and enjoy just sitting, watching the waves, the sand crabs, and whatever comes my way. The waves come in, go out, stand out, then merge again into the larger body of water. They're a fantastic representation of the concept of flow. 

During my morning beach time this week, I've seen dolphins - which I love. And every day, there have been more. That delights me! 

I know I have a choice to think, "How nice. Dolphins. They're plentiful this time of year." Or, I can take it a step further and say, "Thank you, Angels, for bringing me this delightful gift of seeing a lot of dolphins, which I love." I choose to take it personally, just as if someone had given me a gift. Because it is.

Two days ago, I was having fun watching dragonflies zoom around me as I walked to the beach. I sent out a thought invitation to the dragonflies to come closer and visit as I sat on the sand. Within about a minute, a green-spotted dragonfly landed on my wrist and stayed for about 10 minutes. I admired the dragonfly, thanked him or her, and enjoyed the little gift of personal attention that I received. By the way, that's the only time the whole week that a dragonfly came that close, or landed on me or anyone in my family. 

Think of it this way - if you really could use a little pick-me-up present, and then someone gives you one, you don't ignore it or dismiss it, do you? You express your delight, and say thank you. Otherwise, the giver might not be so inclined to bring you want you ask for next time, because it sure seems like you didn't really receive the gift - and it seems that maybe you're not so open to receiving after all. 

If I ask for something, I figure I should be totally open to receiving it, rather than not really expecting anything, or even, too distracted to notice when I do. In fact, I'm not really "asking" as much as stating that I'm open to receiving. Asking comes from a place of lack or want. I am not interested in receiving more lack or want! I'm open to receiving a flow of blessings, wonderful surprises, and abundance from the Universe. I'm ready to offer the kind of assistance that's best for those who come to me for guidance, learning, or a Reiki session. I'm grateful to share the gifts and ideas I have to help make life better for others. That's how I live in the flow, as the ocean waves have been reminding me all week. 

It's like a game, and it makes life more fun to play it this way. 

I know people who see their life the opposite way. Something bad happens and they say that the Universe hates them, or that's what they get for trying, or something similarly self-defeating. They go around expecting the next shoe to drop, and so, guess what, it does. And then they feel justified, like the world just confirmed they are right about the way they understand their life. And, yep, they are. Why? Because they expected crap, and they got crap. That doesn't mean that they deserve any more crap than I do. But it does mean that the more you expect something, the more likely it is to happen, because you put all this mental energy into seeing the worst, and then put emotional energy (which is actually fear) into expecting the worst, so the Universe responds by manifesting what's expected. 

Turn that around by expecting the best, and anticipating it with gratitude, and a little excitement, and notice what happens. Try practicing living in the flow, and taking the gifts that come personally.

If something happens that you don't want, or don't like, that's not a personal affront. Instead, it's a chance to be open to something better, an opportunity to learn, reflect, or motivation to try something new. It's a gift of another kind. 

The waves come in, and go out. The tide moves the entire ocean further and back again. The tiny and massive ocean life are immersed in the motion of the flow. And for this week, so are we. My intention is to bring this lesson, and the energy of the ocean experience, back with me when we leave for home on Saturday. 

Blessings. 

A New Age Bracket

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Today is my birthday. I started this blog eight years ago, so it's also my blogversary! 

I take some time every year to consider how far I've come in the last year, and also since I started my blog, which I consider the time of the most significant change in my career, the beginning of my spiritual connection, and the start of living my true life's calling. 

I went back and read last year's post to remind myself where I was last year. It's always amazing to me to realize just how much happens in a year. Last year on this day, we had just recently moved here to Maryland, and were in the process of trying to sell our house in Ohio. I had just launched my Reiki Awakening Academy website, and was working on learning to update it and use the ecommerce system. My kids had started new schools, and I was looking for a place to practice Reiki locally.

Since then, I'm more at home here, our Ohio house is sold, the RAA website is doing well for us, my oldest daughter started High School, and all of the kids have adjusted beautifully. My husband has made great strides in his new job and loves it. I found a perfectly suited office to rent space in as needed, and have some regular clients. I've been teaching at The Institute for Spiritual Development, and have more classes scheduled there for 2015. Seven  weeks ago, I published a new product and started a new website for it. (This is a great time to get A Moment for Me Calendar, by the way!) Over 100 have sold already, and they are carried in four stores so far. I'm working on a new line of books for A Moment for Me now. I was interviewed in US News & World Report for an article called "What is Reiki?" 

Year 44 was a great blessing indeed. 

Today I'm 45. It's funny, but I keep thinking about how on surveys and registration forms that ask you to check which age group you're in, now I'm in a new age bracket, the one called 45-55. I've been joking that I hope there are perks in this new group, like graduating to a new level of life. What awaits? Better food? Special VIP access? Secret meetings? I picture an envelope arriving with a code for a secret knock, and an address. I imagine going to that address, and knocking on the door the special way, and being granted access, but no one under 45 is allowed in. They check my ID, and let me in, closing the door firmly behind me. What wonders await inside?

So far, my body has granted me some interesting temperature modulations. I'm told that's part of it. Interesting. Especially at night when I need to throw off the covers, only to pull them on again in about 2 minutes as I start to shiver. But, I'm sure there are more enjoyable perks awaiting. 

As last year was the year of the angels, (44 is the angel number in numerology), I've decided that this year of my life is the year of perks. I'm going to put the expectation out there that all kinds of abundance is flowing into this 45th year, even better than before. I'm in! The perks of being 45 are amazing, and wonderful, and I can't wait to experience them!

And that, my friends, is how you manifest a great year.
Happy birthday, me!

Taking a Moment

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It's been a busy Fall so far. I spent about eight weeks creating a 365 day tear-off calendar. Each page has something different on it. The theme is self care for busy people. It's called A Moment for Me 365 Day Calendar - self care for busy people - 365 FREE things you can do in 30 seconds to balance body, mind, emotions, and spirit. 

Here's the Behind-the-Scenes look at the process of creating this project I assigned myself.

Let me tell you, it was quite a project. I wasn't sure if I'd be able to do it. I mean, I've written lots of content before - I have been a game content writer for several years and had to write thousands of categories for board games. But, this was different. These are some narrow parameters! 

First of all, they had to be tasks that a person could do in 30 seconds. So that eliminates lots of things, like taking a bath, or doing a yoga class. I had to find short ways to accomplish the same kind of effect as those, like washing your hands and the back of your neck, instead of a bath. Or doing a modified Sun Salutation, instead of a yoga class. 

There couldn't been any equipment needed, or special places to need to go to do the things. I did allow a pen and paper, because most people have those, or can at least think through the things if they don't. I did also allow an internet connection for just a few of the tasks, because I figured that most people have access to the internet most of the time. 

They also had to be free, and not involve spending money. So, no real retail therapy, or making some kind of donation. 

At first, it was easy. That's how content writing usually is. The ideas pour out fast, and need to be captured on paper quickly. The first 150 or so were like this. I also categorized by body, mind, emotions, and spirit, and made lists according to those. I listed special days that would be good for putting on the calendar, like holidays, zodiac sign changes, and seasons. Then I also added some themes, such as totem animals, planets, yin/yang, numerology, and colors. I made lists for those. 

Then, around the 250 mark, things slowed down a bit. I didn't want to be repetitive, and every task needed a reason behind it, and some benefit for doing it. I started researching what others had to say on the subject of changing your life, and self care. I was able to bounce some ideas off of some things I read, and that helped. 

The last 20 were the hardest, but I got to them somehow. Though the stress had increased at that point, as I had a timeline to manage (this IS a calendar after all, and needs to be ready for calendar buying time). The accomplishment was short lived because there was more to do beyond the content writing. I pulled some VERY late nights!

Now, I'm proud to say that it's done! I finished the list, organized everything in a spreadsheet, formatted it onto a document, designed the cover, and found a printer. I also started a website, a free daily email, a Facebook page, and a Twitter account for it. 

Three stores have ordered some so far. 

Why did I make this?
            Because I need it. 
I'm a busy person. With four kids, a business to run, a Reiki practice that's growing, and volunteering once a week for JSSA Hospice, I needed the reminder that self care isn't something to do once a week or whenever. A daily commitment of even 30 seconds can make a difference. And I know that this message isn't just for me, it's for other people like me. 

I loved doing this activity, actually. It taught me a lot. I learned that there are many, many ways to become present, mindful, and to value yourself. They don't cost money, and they don't take long. But they matter, and they make a profound difference. And now I can share this message with everyone.

So, I'm inviting you, my dear readers, to give it a try. Read the daily posts, or subscribe to the free daily updates. Maybe even purchase a calendar for yourself, or for a gift for the other busy people you know. (Use NOVPROMO as a code to save $5 per order). 

And especially, please offer me feedback. When I create something new, it really matters to me how people receive it. I want to know that it's helpful, and that it's really good, because I worked really hard to try to make it good. 

Thanks and love.

44

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Today is my birthday. I started this blog on my birthday, seven years ago. So every year I write a birthday post. 

I'm 44.

I've been seeing the number 44 around me all over the place lately. It's always something:44 when I look at the clock. My bill is $x.44 anywhere I'm shopping lately. The license plate of the car ahead of me is like a running stream of 4s. The email I click on was written 44 minutes ago, and has 44 words in it. It's grabbed my attention over and over again.

Here's the meaning of 44, from a lovely website called Angel Numbers. This is a quote from Joanne Walmsley, from whose website this is shared:

ANGEL NUMBER 44

Number 44 carries the doubled vibrations of the number 4, making its energies and influences magnified.  Number 4 resonates with the attributes of support and stability, establishing solid foundations for the self and others, willpower and effort, ability and worthiness, hard work and achieving success, wholeness and inner-wisdom. Number 4 is associated with our passions and drive.

Angel Number 44 asks that you pay attention to your intuition and inner-wisdom as your connection with your angels and the angelic realm is very strong at this time.  You are encouraged to continue on your current path as your drive and determination will lead to success and fulfillment.

When the Angel Number 44 appears repeatedly, it is a message that you are being surrounded by helpful, loving angels who wish to bring you peace of mind and joy of heart.  The repeating Angel Number 44 indicates that you are being given support and encouragement along your path, and when faced with an obstacle, rest assured that your angels are most willing to assist. Be assured that solutions to any issues or problems will soon be revealed.

Angel Number 44 is a message that the angels and Archangels are with you, encouraging and guiding you.  They are offering you inner-strength and support to enable you to get the work done that you need to in order to attain and achieve your goals and aspirations.  They know and understand that you have been toiling diligently towards your goals, and encourage you to continue on your current path to achieve the success and results you desire.  Work with the angels to ensure success in all of your endeavours.

Angel Number 44 is a message that you have nothing to fear in regards to your life, work and Divine life purpose and soul mission.  The angels surround and support you, encouraging you to keep up the good work you have been doing. The angels and Archangels are always available for help and guidance  -  all you need to do is ask.

So, this is my year of 44. I like the idea of having a little extra support this year. One reason is that we moved to Maryland a couple months ago, after living in Ohio for...oh, all of our lives. So here, I'm starting over in terms of friends, contacts, business, and finding my way around. 

I do love the area, am meeting new people, and can now successfully navigate to a few places without my GPS. Progress!

Another reason I could use some support is that my new website launched a month ago, and I'm trying to make sure that people know about it. I'm learning marketing, OpenCart, and some coding on the fly - "fly-learning" always seems to be the way I operate. I have big ideas and I'm putting them into play at hyperspeed, trying not to trip over my own feet in the process. Angels, please help me not break anything as I go along!

I have a house in Cleveland (University Heights for anyone who is looking - here's the listing!) that I'd REALLY like to sell. This is a very good year for some extra angelic help!

But I also recognize how much support I'm already getting. Amazing, fast and surprising things have happened since we moved here. I've made friends with people who are just perfect in my life. I have teaching opportunities starting, and more manifesting. I have new ideas which are becoming reality. I have a sense of purpose and confidence that I'm moving in the right direction, despite the pressure to keep the momentum going. 

So, this year in particular, I'm going to make a practice daily of reaching out to my angel helpers to support me in doing all I'm meant to do to live my purpose. Whether little things, or big things, I know that I'm being helped and guided. 

And I'm very grateful to be in this place and time, with my amazing kids and supportive husband, and with the knowledge that my angels are with me. 

Please comment if you feel guided to add your thoughts.

In My Face

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A most amazing chain of events happened to me lately, starting with last week. It's so filled with "coincidences" that I had to blog about it, just to process and actually make the list that's blowing my mind.

As they say, "There are no coincidences." After reading this, you might just agree. I can't think of any better evidence that this could be true.

A week ago, my oldest daughter, Rayna, was wearing her Camp Wise tee-shirt to middle school gym class. Camp Wise is an overnight camp in the Cleveland area, where lots of kids go in the summer. 

Another girl noticed Rayna's shirt, and asked her, "Are you from Cleveland?" Rayna replied that yes, she is, and we just moved here. The girl, Hannah, said she had moved here from Cleveland ten years ago. And they started talking. Rayna came home and told me about it. I thought that was cool.

Well, shortly after Rayna came home from school that same day, a school secretary called to say that she had found Rayna's math binder in the Guidance Office, where Rayna had been keeping her too-large-for-a-locker backpack. Rayna exclaimed that she needed that folder for her homework, so I sent Rayna on her bike to go up to school and get it. Rayna cajoled her sister, Sari, into coming with her. 

It just so happens (here comes the flood)...that Hannah and her sisters and mom were at school when Rayna and Sari got there. They were all talking excitedly about Cleveland, and when Hannah's mom heard Rayna's last name, she said that she knows me from the same temple where I had worked, where she belonged before they moved here. She remembered me, and remembered that I had some notoriety there because I wrote the Apples to Apples: Jewish Edition games. Not only that, but she also knew a bunch of the same people that Rayna and Sari knew from school in Cleveland. She gave them a ride home with their bikes so she could say hi to me. 

We talked in my driveway, and she (her name is Kelly) invited my family to dinner Friday night (which was last night). She said she thinks her husband might know mine, because her husband, my husband, and I all went to the same elementary school. 

Last night, we went over to Kelly's house for dinner. The game of Jewish Geography (that's what it's called when Jewish people connect everyone they are mutually acquainted with) went on and on, of course. Most amazing of this was that Kelly's husband knows Evan's aunt and uncle, next door neighbors from his parents' house, and about a zillion other people that Evan or the both of us knew from school years and from living in the same area. And, also, our kids went to the same pediatrician (who is also my cousin). She has four kids, as do I. Her two youngest are in the same grades and school as my two oldest. Her older daughter does pet sitting (something we also needed to find for when we go on vacation in May, and if/when we visit Cleveland on a long weekend between now and then).

But there's more. 

During the course of conversation, Kelly said that she loves and has been to Lily Dale three times. I've taught in Lily Dale for the last two summers, and will teach there again summer of 2014!! The odds that the first person I "randomly" meet from Maryland is into holistic/metaphysical stuff, and has been to Lily Dale, are rare enough, let alone that I am sitting having dinner with this same person, and she knows me from living in Cleveland, and we went to the same temple...I mean, these are lottery winner odds. She also went upstairs, got her little bag of stones and a pendulum, and we played with those for a bit, while sharing stories of how we've found lost items using intuitive techniques.

And yes, there's even MORE!!

Kelly also told me about a metaphysical "church" around here that's having a healing service this Sunday, and I suggested that we go together. So she's going to pick me up, we're going to go there, and then get some lunch in Georgetown afterward. 

Mind blown. 

And I'm thinking back to how I had created goals for myself before moving here. One of the goals I'd put out to the Universe is to get acquainted with others who are into holistic work out here. How gorgeously generous of my Guides to arrange for me to meet Kelly, someone with ties to back home, and for her to be one of the people who will help me meet this goal.

Since writing my last post, I've also found a local place for my Reiki practice and have scheduled a Practical Reiki 1 & 2 Training at a lovely wellness center in DC. I also connected with the director of another Reiki organization, and we're having lunch together this coming week, and I joined a couple Meetups in the area. My new website will be launching at the end of next week, too. Things are moving, and they're happening easily, and in absolutely incredible ways!!

It's like the universe is saying YES, but not subtly. BIG, bold, and right up in my face!
So I totally had to share this with you.

Peace.

Driving with my head out the window

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Ace Ventura

These past few weeks have been weird. As I sat here composing my post, I thought of a few metaphors for how I've been feeling.

One is the moment when Alice steps into the looking glass, yet isn't quite across yet. She is simultaneously in both worlds - her familiar home, and Wonderland. (Which is more Weirdland than Wonderland, anyway, right? I mean, it's more disconcerting than wondrous most of the story, especially that nasty queen!)

Another is the image of sticking my head into another dimension, while my body is still here, in my original one. I'm seeing all sorts of weird things, but I'm not fully in there with them. 

I named this post "Driving with my head out the window" because I guess that captures it best. It's not about just standing there looking back and forth, but it's also representing the idea of the motion of things whizzing by outside, but inside they feel still, despite the actual movement of both.

In many areas of my life, I'm feeling like this. 

First, my business, Reiki Awakening Academy. Lots is in the works, in progress, right now. Among them, a new website is being developed. It's VASTLY different from the current one, and also a whole lot better. I'm waiting for the coding to be finished, and then I'll have loads of work to upload the real content instead of the placeholders that are there now. We are also planning a full school year of classes, trainings, and retreats. But the school year hasn't really started yet. So all of this momentum is happening behind the scenes (that's the outside the window part), while inside the car, everything seems like it's just sitting here waiting to get somewhere. 

Next, my home life. My husband, Evan, has spent most of the summer interviewing for a very big position 350 miles away. This organization recruited him, quite "out of the blue" but not really, as it happened just a few days after he tried a manifestation exercise that I taught him. More interestingly, it is the same position he interviewed for four years ago, and back then, he was suddenly passed over when they hired an internal candidate. This job was a fantastic fit for his education, experience and skill set, and the level of position and salary sounded perfect for us. It was surprising and a little jarring at the time that (seemingly at the last minute), he didn't get the offer. Turns out that if he had been offered the job then, it would have been absolutely wrong for our family. Shortly after he didn't get the position, his mom got sick. We were very much needed here, and if we had moved, it would have been impossible for us to stay. We spent the next eight months caring for her. And then she passed. And we had to settle her estate, sell her house, and readjust our lives. It took time. 

Back to this summer, when as I mentioned, Evan was suddenly contacted by that very same organization, saying that the same position is open again, asking if he would consider applying for it. Only this time, he went through the whole interview process, and was called and told that they are putting together an offer for him. They had said they were going to make the offer last week. But then they called and said their finance committee would be on a retreat for the week, so the offer won't happen until Aug. 21. We don't know what the offer will be, or if the (we assume) relocation package will be enough to make this possible for us. 

I get that same world-rushing-by-while-I-sit-and-wait feeling when I think of all the ways this could play out, along with figuring out what to do about our house, a new place to live, school systems for the kids, a new Reiki practice location for me, and the timing of it all. It's impossible to really plan until we know about the offer. So, until Wednesday, or possibly a few days later after negotiations, my head is out the window trying to catch a glimpse of the world of potential, while my body is here, getting the kids ready for the start of school next week in their current school. 

Finally, those I work with - my business partner, and my Naturopath, both incredibly intuitive people (to say the least). I went to see my Naturopath last week to get some advice and energy work for a small but irritating health issue. She helped me with it, and then we were chatting about computers. She told me about how she gets overwhelmed by electromagnetic energy, like being in the Verizon store. She could always see energy, and it certainly helps her in her work. I can't, and I could stand in the Verizon store all day without noticing the energetic difference. I listen to her and it's like sticking my head into the looking glass while the rest of my body stays put. I feel like I'm somehow missing something by not being as sensitive as she is to the energies all around me.

My business partner emailed me yesterday. She had a surreal (to me) experience of being in and out of her body most of yesterday, being visited by spirits, Guides, and getting "downloads" of new books to write. She grounded again last night and "returned" to a more earthly state of living in her body. But honestly, she's like the Mad Hatter (not crazy - no implication intended there!), and I'm in Wonderland when I read about her experiences. I am that Alice, looking around and feeling out of my element when faced with things like this. I can only look - these experiences are out of my realm. They are, though, common enough for her, as she has been astral traveling since being a child. 

So here I am in a sort of limbo. I do my thing - I am good at giving Reiki. I'm pretty awesome at teaching Reiki. I can give some insightful Angel Card readings. I have a sensible business savvy. Inside my calm little car, I am used to the way things are. 

But I'm feeling like intense things are whizzing all around just outside of me in my little world, and I can guess about them, hear about them, learn about them, but they aren't taking me with them to experience them personally. While it's just a matter of time - just a few more days - for Evan's situation to work out, and a matter of weeks for my website to be ready, new programs to be launching, and classes to begin again, my imagination and desire to be moving (rather than waiting) are far ahead, whizzing around in an unsettled pattern.

And when it comes to the people I'm working with, I don't know if I'll ever be able to really visit their worlds as they see them. It bothers me a little. I remind myself that they both have had a lifetime of that natural intuitive gift that I only started finding in myself and working towards five years ago. Logically, I know that perhaps, in time, with continued work on my own development, I could sense something of what they experience, when it's right for me. And, that is ok.

But for now, I'm feeling like I'm driving with my head out the window. Inside the car, I feel the sensation of barely moving. I'm enclosed in my little space. But my head, outside the window, is getting a bigger, wilder reminder that what I experience inside my space is only a fraction of what is really happening.

How do you ride through your life right now? Will we see each other on the road, our hair whipping about wildly in the wind?

Are you near the looking glass? Do you know it's there? Have you stepped inside?

In the Fire

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Last night I attended a Fire Ceremony. A man named Ljubomir Rozic has these Shamanic ceremonies at each new and full moon. There's a bit of learning about a healing concept, a meditation, and then the fire. He teaches everyone to touch the fire and bring it into their heart chakra (there are no burning or special effects involved!). We also put a list into the fire of things we would like to remove from our lives. Then Ljubomir changes the frequency of the fire to manifestation, and we put (either symbolically or physically) into the fire a list of things we want to manifest into our lives. By the way, it was pouring rain last night, and we still gathered and did the ritual. This was my first time going, and I really liked it. It was also my husband's birthday. He wanted to go (to my surprise), and also really liked it.

I've been thinking lately that I have lots of things in the fire (symbolically). You know the expression "A lot of irons in the fire"? That's what I mean. I've got a lot of irons in the fire, and I'm waiting to see what's going to come out.

The things I have in the fire are all things that I've applied for, or inquired about, and am waiting for results or answers.

Here's my list:

• I applied to be part of the new Transdisciplinary Holistic Care Education Program at the Cleveland Clinic. This includes specialized training in holistic patient care, rounds, case studies, and lots of direct experience in being an advocate for Reiki and holistic care in the hospital setting. Only CCF staff and volunteers from the Healing Services Department were allowed to apply.
 
• I sent in my application to teach in Lily Dale for the Summer, 2013 season.
 
• I've been invited to be a practitioner for a research study on comparing the effectiveness of acupressure vs. Reiki for people with Gulf War Syndrome. I completed all necessary forms as asked. Funding should be approved (or not) in two months.
 
• I pitched an idea for a board game to a game company. They received it and will get back to me...whenever they do.
 
• I am beginning to plan a very big two day Practical Reiki training weekend for April, 2013. The goal is to have at least 100 participants. I'm looking for a venue, interviewing holistic event marketing professionals, and waiting for people to get back to me.
 
• I'm starting a project, called the Just Love Project. There will be t-shirts that on the front say "Just   love."
  On the back, will be a variety of quotes, cartoons, and specifically chosen artwork that fits the theme. The writers and artists who created the selected works for the back will also be featured on the website. 100% of the profits from the series of shirts will go to charity. Each quarter, we'll change to a new charity. The idea is to spread messages of being loving and kind, while also doing something more to help those who need it. I've initiated contact with the first couple of artists and writers whose work is fitting, and am waiting to hear if they are willing to participate. I had one shirt made to see how it would turn out. It arrived yesterday. Stay tuned for a more official launch...whenever it's together. I've got the website, the manufacturer, and the idea. Now I'm waiting to see who will participate so I can get to work on the website details.

So, these are a lot of works in progress, and my need for patience is at a premium. There's such an element of surrender in waiting. I'm very much an action person, and those of you who've read my blog over the last few years (bless you all!) know that this is one of my life lessons. 

Meanwhile, I'm working on things that need action now - teaching, giving Reiki, promoting events, finding a venue for my big spring Practical Reiki workshop, etc. Of course, there are personal life things going on always too. Next month is my oldest daughter's Bat Mitzvah. There are school activities, homework, lunches, grocery shopping, chores, and a big group of holidays to observe in the next few weeks. 

So I breathe. And put myself back into the space of the present moment. "Just love," I remind myself. It's all about that.

And, I'll let the fire ignite, offer, and shape what's been placed in there. I look forward to seeing what emerges, all in the right time. 

Making Connections and Reaching Upward

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I'm thinking lately about how it's clearer that things are working out for the best when they are viewed in retrospect. In the moment it can be harder to see the big picture - to attempt to discern the reasons that things happen as they do. I'm learning to ask clearly for what I want/need to happen, and to express gratitude for the results, and for the process itself. Lately, I have many opportunities to practice.

As my readers know, a few weeks ago now my husband, Evan's job was eliminated. It was a stressful job working for an unstable person, and truly, in many ways this is a relief. His mom also needs us more now than she had previously, and we are both available to assist her as she is recovering from a series of radiation treatments and the side effects it brought on. Evan now has the time to focus on finding that "right" placement. If he were still working, he would not have been able to devote the same focus to finding a better position. He has found a number of suitable positions to apply for, and has made some good contacts already. So it only takes a small step back to look at this situation as a blessing, or at least a good opportunity to tend to the present and put out energy for the future.

Also, it is important for us to know that we will be ok. I am making a point to ask for what we need, and I'm finding that we are being provided for in many ways. One example is that we had hoped to have sent two of our daughters to overnight camp this summer, for a short time. We applied for scholarship assistance and waited. We received a call that it was still going to be more money than we could commit to. Evan was upset and I told him that we should believe that we will have what we need, that it will be provided for us when we need it. He said I should be realistic. I refused to budge and went out to run an errand for his mom. As I was driving, I talked to the angels and Spirit. (This is, admittedly, a rather new and slightly awkward-feeling activity for me.) I told them that I am counting on them to provide for our family in whatever way will work, that I will joyfully accept more students and more writing assignments to make ends meet, and that we need their support to help us manage during this transition. When I arrived at my mother-in-law's house, Evan called and said I needed to return a call to our rabbi. I called and the rabbi told me that the girls would be going to camp on a full scholarship, and because there was a requirement for JCC membership in order to receive funding, that it would also be taken care of for us. (One year's membership to the JCC for our family is a huge perk.) It was a big told-ya-so opportunity! It reminded me of my California vacation, and the last minute plane ticket change that got me on a first class flight with cheesecake!

I am making it a point to ask the angels and Spirit to provide means for financial support for us while the right job is being lined up for Evan's highest good. Evan is putting forth the effort of searching and applying, making contacts and following through as he should be. Shortly after I made my request, Evan's severance check arrived and was double the amount we had expected (they paid out in one instead of two installments) and the next one will have his accumulated vacation pay (more than what we had anticipated). It came at the time we needed it and I'm making the connection between asking and receiving once again.

You might say these things would have happened anyway, regardless of me going to the effort of asking, and that the two events (my asking, and things working out shortly afterward) are only connected because I'm connecting them in my mind. Perhaps. There is no proof that it would not have happened without my asking. But this is where a measure of faith is needed. I'm reaching upward by asking directly for what I need, and I'm making connections between the request and the results. So let's see what happens if I continue to do this, as an experiment with the Law of Attraction, or manifesting, or whatever you want to call it.

I'm going to "Act As If" it is my asking that is making the results appear and see if more things seem to line up that way. I'm going to "Act As If" the big picture of our situation is that things are working out exactly for our highest good and that of our family, and that we are being supported by the higher powers. At the very least, this confidence will keep fear and anxiety at bay, provide us with some sense of purpose, and make living in the present a lot easier than otherwise.

We could, on the other hand, worry about when he will get a job, what we will do for money, how we will manage, and what will happen next. But, I think I'll try this new approach this time around. I have a sneaking suspicion that this process will be the realizing of an important lesson on life, attitude, manifesting and faith.

And that's something I can pass on to our kids, and share with you.

Thanks for hanging in there with me. I welcome your thoughts.