Feeling Cosmic

Hello Sunshine,

How are you…you look like fall is doing well by you;)…yes, I have been in a peaceful mood for days…with hard work things are coming together…

Massage has been very productive…marketing has been a push lately (isn’t it always though)…the clients make it fun

I am so into my new class…it is a lot to take in…I am loving it…Ayurvedic Medicine is so encompassing, I would call it a lifestyle…

American Boudica Publishing is going through computer upgrades in our American offices while on hiatus…thank you for this consideration

My birthday was wonderful…I am now 46…it is a beautiful space to be and I am happy to be here;)

The Circle of Boudica has been alive with chant and prayer…the giving of thanks has been abound…not for wealth, but for the amount of love shared and received…love and faith far out way money…I am not saying money is not important, but it is not the priority…if it is your top priority, I would feel sorry for you as you would have missed so much of what is so good…the best things in life money can not buy

We have hit a cold snap this weekend…nights have dipped into the 60s…I am getting some beautiful color in the garden and the lawn is plush…Cooper got home and has been helping me clean up the yard for fall…the rainy season gave everything such a boost, weed flowers (small, white with yellow centers) have grown 8-10 feet tall…he has been befuddled and amazed…the lawn is like a soft green carpet…I have enjoyed rolling around out there with the dogs

The SunshinePaddle website has gone through so many updates, please stop by often to keep up to date…on my birthday we got a donation of a 17 foot Dagger- Magellan Kayak…we named her the Blue Horizon…we have had other ups and downs…this can be followed in the Captain’s Log   

On a medical note…have you really considered the apple, it is a really neat food…each different preparation has different nutrient qualities…it works on teeth, digestive and brain…they are low calorie with a low glycemic load…this basically means the body accepts the nutrient easily and uses them readily…

I will be putting the Blue Horizon through her first sea trials on Saturday in Sarasota after she gets her check out at Economy Tackle…I would love for you to join us…I will be leaving early and spending the day…feel free to e-mail me or call (813)907-6279,  if you wish to join us…

May the wind be at your back;)

D

Rivers lead to oceans...Kayaks lead to freedom

Merry Meet,


I am happy to see you…I see you got some color…summer seems to be going well for you…

Massage has been slow, but steady…I am working with several new pathologies and find the muscle structure quite interesting…

American Boudica Publishing is working in the background putting together the up coming trip…upon my return we will be releasing 3 books (Boudica, Children, Health)…at the moment, all energies are making sure we get the trip together and get me home safe;)

In the Circle of Boudica, I must ask for your prayers for baby Zach…he is back in the hospital and the doctors are having a hard time getting the feeding tube in...he will be going into surgery in the morning...he also has been diagnosed with pneumonia;(

The Menu…I have been having oatmeal or scrambled eggs or poached eggs or raisin bran or total with a banana and an orange…welcome to breakfast…lunch has been my large meal…chicken parm. or veal parm. or flounder or cod with 2 veggies (summer squash, zucchini, spinach, carrots, green beans, etc…), if I have a starch, this is when I have it…Supper…this is a light sandwich or salad or bowl of soup…I miss food, but have lost weight in a healthy way with NO pills or shots…really needed to cut back on soda so, I added 2 glasses of water and 2 of natural juice…before I allow myself a soda, I force myself to have the water and juice…I have lost weight and I do feel more energy…I just really want to eat food instead of what food eats;)…I will be ready to make the trip…

The gardens are a sea of color…we have been getting some much needed rain…flowers are popping up everywhere…mowing the yard is now up to twice a week...I am glad dad is home to work in the yard with me...

The dogs have been enjoying the increased amount of exercise…Chole has been enjoying the doggy pool….Quintus feel in the fish pond…he was so freaked out, it was cute…Chewy has been training them both, very sweet…

The website for the Sunshine Paddle is now up…training has been started…we have started gathering needed goods…plans for road and kayak being made…a lot of work;)



So as you see, I’ve been busy…

May you all be blessed,

D

‘plant crack’ and other things

Okay we are going on a long trip this blog…I am feelin a little old school…it seems my life has gone through many transitions and I feel more coming…


Massage has been going well for summertime…I got lost on a woman last week as she had so many knots and we were chatting…thought I had gone about 10 over and ended up 5 short…I gave her money off, but it left me feeling bad…I tend to work without a clock since I usually go over (and because I work for myself) this is no big deal…I just hate getting shorted time and it bothers me to short anyone…I have been looking at banners for my fence as a new form of marketing…anyone had any luck with this???

School is going okay…the information and reading is quite challenging…wish I could say the same for the class…its not gonna kill me, just make stronger

American Boudica Publishing has been shut for a week so we may get our families ready for summer…good weather in England and lack of focus, find us more productive in the yard…we will back with news soon

In the Circle we have welcomed 2 more babies…so far 2 boys and 1 girl…I got to work on one at 2 hours old…so cool…Beltane was awesome…the fire was strange…could have sworn I saw Jeff…purple, green and orange speak of a bountiful harvest

Melissa is heaven sent help in the garden…as I have worked very hard at restructuring the soil…often time developers’ peel off topsoil and replace it with sod…if you purchase property like this or with very poor soil your only option is to compost…working with different covers and plants is good too…even if they die…it makes your soil stronger…a friend gave me some cactus…with time, love and occasional compost…they have grown over the last 5 years…the friend stopped to see me last year and was disappointed….everyone else he had given them to had used miracle grow and the others had grown huge…he called today…winter had killed all of theirs and could he stop and get some cuttings…miracle grow or ‘plant crack’ as I call it- makes plants grow big, but weakens the internal structure…so if you plan to keep the plant in the garden for several years best to use compost...my plants to longer to grow, but are quite strong...

I am now at day 29 with NO tobacco…day 5 without Chantix…little stressed, but doing well…smells are horrid…food tastes awful and I have lost 25lbs…

I had a new friend take his own life…I am sorry the pain in his life was more than his self worth…he is no longer in pain and for that I am happy…things like this really make you cherish those around you

10 deep clearing breaths (in through the nose out through the mouth) will not only help you relax, but also help you add focus to your mind…at times you will need to do more than 10…believe it or not your emotional health is directly connected to your physical health…keeping positive and laughing will aide in keeping you healthy…Did you laugh today?


May you be blessed,

D

Good Day in the Morning

Massage has had me hopping all week…sorry, if you had been trying to reach me…lets chat now…the coffee is on, go grab a cup…here let me wipe the table down


Massage is busy this week…YEA…I do try to help others getting ready to take the test…I had one young therapist call for advice…I helped her study to pass her test…now she was ready to run her first advert…she lives in Maine….I love to know Therapists in every state…this way I always have someone to send my clients to when they travel or move…Massage Envy limits the types of therapy they can give and medical massage is not one of them, so I do not to send clients there…besides, if I am going to pay that kind of money, I would rather go to a spa…I have raised my prices to $50 an hour…I hated doing it, but with so many costs going up…I had no choice

The new class in school is ‘Antioxidants’…so far very interesting…I will post more when I fully comprehend it…all I can say right now is the body is the most amazing place…I am glad to be in this school, what they teach is not only shown how the concepts apply in class, but also how it applies to the real world and where it can and should be used

Dale and I are working on bringing Chris over…we feel this will help the books…it will be fun to work with him side by side…it will be cool to see his face for the first time…it is true, we have never met face to face…amazing when you think we have co written/published 2 books with others in utro…

In The Circle this week we welcomed Cassy…she is a beautiful baby…her parents look like they have seen a little piece of heaven…I think they have…the very dry land got rain this week…so many blessings this week…I am a lucky girl

I am on day 8 of Chantix…not very easy…they keep telling me how much better things are when you don’t smoke…my head has been more than slightly bent…this is not the fault of Chantix (or at least I do not think so)…it is the fault of 32 year habit withdrawing from my system…the pill changes the sensation of smoking…for the first time, I feel like I will be successful with this quitting thing…I am happy for those of you who have gone cold turkey or done it with the patch…it just never worked for me…the best part is it only works against the nicotine so ‘nothing’ else is hindered…soon, I too will be cigarette free

I am still working with my fingers and the guitar…it is quite funny…kind of like the cigarettes, I will soon be looking back at this stage…life is funny…also, the guitar keeps my fingers busy so they do not have time to miss holding a cigarette

Shinara will be going to meet the maker this week…she started to do much better…thought maybe she had tangled with something and got bit…in the last 24 hours she is doing worse than before…she has been a good friend and member of the family…Walter will be crushed, but in this case you must do what is best for the animal (not you)…this is NEVER easy, nor should it be…not all lessons in life are made of sunshine and rainbows…the best ones leave scars on your heart

Yes, I have your cuttings…check out my new fig tree…yes, my plant man came through for me…I will be cloning my ‘yesterday, today and tomorrow’ plant…do you want any…the yard is starting to get full of flowers again…

With 3 days of rain I feel like a duck…I miss the pool…I am going to freeze when I go out there today…really stoked though…I love my aqua-workout…besides, it is hard to smoke in the pool;)

I am VERY over Charlie Sheen…really do not care about Libya…not to be mean, but neither helps put food on my table…I feel sorry for the children of Japan…I hope the adults stop killing Whales so I do not have to see it happen again…lesson for today…do not fuck mother nature…she can be quite mean when provoked

Lol…yes, I am losing what little mind I ever had…glad to see you smile

May you be blessed,

D

Wiped Out

Merry Meet,


I am glad we had time to get together…I have been on a dead run and could really use the time to unwind…thanx for the jasmine tea

On Wednesday…I finished all my class work, took my final and post test…I got an A…I also had 3 clients…Shinara started into the part of heat that drives all the male dogs crazy (poor thing)…with that and the new pup…I do not think my mom dried out…Tristan called and wanted me to buy a 20lb turkey for Thanksgiving

Thursday…I had 2 interviews…though the jobs were local, the interviews were in Plant City and Winter Haven…the first place had one job open and had called 50 people for interviews…boy, don’t that make you just feel special…at least I got an interview…many did not get that…the second interview had 2 jobs and only 45 people to interview…I play the lotto…I am feeling lucky…who knows…I am looking for part time in hopes of keeping my own business up and running at the same time…on my way back, the plastic/vinyl piece in the wheel well cut loose and felt like I blew a tire…I keep a pair of kids cutters (cut the paper not your hand) in my purse…I sliced it off and got back on the road…I was glad to get home that night

Friday was another busy day…bills to be paid and shopping to be done…I went through all the birds that Publix had…the biggest one was 18 1/2lb…I got it and smiled thinking how happy Tris would be dad hijacked the 2 new Roses and planted them… I find out my next class is an English comp class…I see loads of work in my future…came back and had 2 clients…full moon and high tide…dammit, I joined Shinara…I stayed up most of the night with cramps…I need to be thankful at my age that all my parts still work, but it still really sux…

This morning I fed the puppy and went to take him out…he is good about going outside…I brought him back in and went the bathroom myself…while I was busy Walter gave the pup some milk…when I got back I went to pick Quintus up and he lifted his little feet…OMG…there was shit everywhere…I was covered, he was covered, the walls, the floor….I love my husband…I have explained that the puppy is too old for the milk and it gives the puppy the runs 3 times…we will just say he is FULLY aware at this moment why he will no longer be giving the puppy milk…I called Tris excited about the bird…she proceeded to tear me a new ass for not getting a big enough bird…

At this point I am ready for a game of quarters…only instead of beer can we just do shots…I have been to the outer limits of Krylon too many times over the last few days…it is becoming my mini-vacation home…

I have found it is best to laugh about as much as possible….being covered in shit and being able to laugh about it…I have no idea what look crossed my face, but my husband turned sheet white and suddenly had to go help my dad...it was too funny

I have been handed a few slightly sick jokes…passing them to others with the same deranged mind is always good for a smile

I am getting ready my cooking music…I am thinking of making mint julep for those who are cooking…time to get festive…I was thinking of making a roasted acorn squash….mom has an idea with them though

I am hoping to get with Chris tomorrow and get the book cover complete…we are both so busy during the holidays… his daughter just announced that we will soon have another Boudica fan to add to our posse…she posted the ultrasound pic today…we are too happy about this

So…with the bad came the good….I love my husband…I love my daughter…I love the animals…we hope I find part time work…I am smart enough to fix my car when it breaks down…I am looking forward to Chris’s new grandchild…I have found other minds as sick as my own…I am looking forward to the holiday…if I keep repeating this do you think it will sink in????

For those with diabetes

Talk to your doctor about an 8 oz glass of bitter melon (freshly juiced)…you drink it once a week to help level out blood sugar issues…many find this really helpful on a lot of levels…kind of looks like a cucumber crossed with a zucchini

May you all find something worth laughing at (even of its yourself)…may you be so blessed to share that gift with a family member, friend and a stranger…a smile doesn’t cost anything…kindness is never wasted

Blessed Be,

D

Stress Reduction Starts at Home

I am happy to have time to run by to see you…yes, the pimpmobile is shiny…I have been washing her…she is a lot of fun to drive…I just rolled up to the drive thru with Electric Avenue blasting…the girls at the window gave me a strange look and started bopping to the music…just too funny


Though massage has been slow, a lot of the clients have been calling…through the holiday season appointments are spotty…by this I means either I am swamped or dead…nothing in between and always so much fun…lol…the new cds have me flowing…I do so love Van Morrison in the massage room, his older work is the best…next would be Dean Martin… My winter hours for massage are 10 am- 5pm, by appointment only (813) 907-6279...

Chris and I have had our attention focused on our book cover…we have had a crash coarse in Adobe software…thankfully Chris has good temperament (kept me from picking up the computer and throwing it across the room)…we hope to be complete by the end of the week

I just completed my class in Stress Reduction and Relaxation Techniques…I do not have the final grade yet, but I believe it is an A…YEA…I am really glad I took it…I love Everglades Univ. and value the education I am getting…back when I went to Sanford Brown Institute, I had an instructor who had gone there…I really liked what he taught and the way he taught it…he inspired me…my mom taught me education is what you make of it…I want to give my clients the best medical care I can…I feel all of these classes are taking me to the next level…like climbing a mountain…I can’t wait to see the view at the next rest area

Dad is home and getting the yard ready for winter…Mom is getting ready to post Longaberger Baskets and products…she has a collection of 25 years…she wants to make room to make more quilts…Walter is getting ready to membrane the roof and paint the house

The animals have been in quite a flum…the puppy that wandered into our life is a cute little terror…he attacks everything constantly…he reminds me of a gladiator, so I call him Quintus…due to his color dad calls him Gold…so I guess his name is Quintus Gold…Dad loves him and enjoys coming to take him out…Shinara has now gone into heat again…needless to say my mop is kept handy as cleaning is a constant at present…Chewy and Blue have turned into 2 whining bags of mess…at least the food bill will be down for a few weeks

Since we are coming into winter…this week, I will be closing the pool…I am sad about this, but know it will not be long until I am swimming again…I have cleaned out the gardens already, but will be planting garlic this week too…next week I will winterize the pond, so if you want some of the water for your plants bring me up some jugs…I will also be starting a window farm in the house…it will be neat to have fresh growing herbs and veggies all year round…the whole idea is very cool to me…

It is soon to be the American holiday of Thanksgiving…we will be celebrating ours a day late this year as it is when Tristan can come home for leave…Dansir will also be here after her trip to New Hampshire…Walter will be making the turkey dinner with my mom…I expect to see many of our family and friends…crapp, I need to pick up batteries for the camera

In the Circle of Boudica this week…I sit here crying because you all are so wonderful…I asked for a good energy a few weeks ago for some folks…as always you have come through…the babies are out of the hospitals…the young man got the job…and we helped a young couple to remember why they married…I feel really blessed…when we work together mountains can be moved…I am starting to prepare for Yule 12/21…I am looking for a beautiful oak log and holly branches to burn…it is a time when everyone should be singing and laughing…this year will be hard on many…please take time to make someone smile each day…it is the best gift you can give or receive…has anyone thought of the feast you will be cooking…I will keep you posted on my choices this year…a white candle should be burnt for an hour each evening from 12/01-12/31…its meaning is rebirth, hospitality and hope…a blue candle should be burnt with the white on the 21st …it means truth and peace…on that night both should burn until you go to bed…I can not wait to see the sky that night

Cranberry Tea

3 cups of natural cranberry juice (room temp)

5 black tea bags or 5 teaspoons of loose black tea

10 cups of water

5 cinnamon sticks

Honey (to taste)

Brandy (optional)

Bring the water to a boil

Add Tea Bags and Remove From Heat

Add Cranberry Juice, Cinnamon Sticks and Honey (let steep about 10 Minutes)

Add Brandy (optional)

Can Be Served Warm or Over Ice

This is a great pick me up to help us…the cranberry has great anti bacterial properties…black tea is well known for its antioxidant properties…water helps us hydrate…cinnamon and honey combined have amazing healing qualities…



I am happy to see you looking good…a little tired…I know life is busy, but make sure to get proper rest…I want to see you for many years to come…


Blessed Be,

D

Time to Breathe…LOL

Intergalactic…Planetary…Planetary…Intergalactic…yes, you have come upon me listing to the Beastie Boys…for those who do not know me…I get lost in music when in deep thought…so far the week has been quite unusual…


I was brought a young man this week for massage…though I am quite educated in the ways of medicine, I am not a doctor…his parents did not have insurance and could not afford to pay upfront so, the ER basically turned him away…his leg was hurt…I started working…when I got to the hip, he and I were doing deep breathing together to aide his pain…I noted the ball out of the socket and called a local doctor…he would not come or let the child go to him without insurance, but did give me advice…this poor young (9 yrs old) man was going to end up with NO help…the mother begged me to help…being a mother, I could not say no…I had the boy lay down with his face in the cradle…I gave him a towel and told him it was okay to bite it if he was in pain…I worked the back until it was like jello…I grabbed the leg and treated it like I normally would (my massage is very rocking)…when I swung the ankle for range, a tear fell from my eye…the ball popped back in the socket…I could feel an energy connection from my shoulder to his and the pain…he was quiet…kind of thought he passed out…his head came up and he said thank you…the energy filled with relief flooded his body…I had not moved…I felt frozen…I worked his low back and glutes and things felt better…while his mother dressed him, I excused myself…I called the doctor back…man was I pissed off…needless to say, he saw the boy that afternoon for free…the mother called me yesterday…the boy has been admitted to children’s hospital…he has a severe bone disorder…the attending physician called me this morning to let me know I had done the right thing and to thank me…to me his color, who he called God, where he was born did not matter…my work was running the limit of my license and scope of practice…it is in me to do the right thing…the father called today, he got paid…I told him to use the money for his family…I am not a rich woman…again, it is the right thing to do…I have not talked to anyone about this all week…it is hard to mull through the emotion…I am happy the boy got help…to me that was and is the bottom line…thankfully, the rest of the week has been relaxation clients…phew

We are now on hold with book 2…the cover has to be adjusted…it will take 2 weeks…fingers crossed…we have had to obtain adobe acrobat…I will be soon taking a class in it…Rose has had a workshop installed in the back yard to make the 3D cards…very cool…I love my new work space and I am sure she is loving hers…poor Chris…we keep him in the attic…too funny…we have a new power point due out next Thursday…this too will be on herbal remedies…

In school I have started a new class ‘Relaxation and Stress Reduction Techniques’…the reading has been easy so far…I am even burning CDs for clients and friends who have been having problems getting into different techniques…I will let you know when they are available…

Mom came home…she brought Auntie with her…the Bobsey Twins in full effect…they are very cute…Dansir stopped by to say hi and pick up her mail…she is now working for The Olive Garden in Orlando so I do not get to see her much…Cooper is Still in MA

The grass has now gone to seed and the winter lawn is starting to pop up…cool thing…I have not had to mow for a few weeks…it seems like the garden is sighing for autumn…it has been dry for the last few weeks…I have actually had to water every 2 days…the butterflies have been migrating through the yard this year…the colors have been bright…a lot of yellow, red and orange…we have had a few with HUGE wings that seem to be shades of blue with a tinge of green and yellow…the birds too have started…we have had a few new and many of the old ones back…

I am getting ready for my trip to North Carolina…Tristan is even offering up her bed…I mailed everything so all I have is a carry on to take on the plane…Erin called to tell me the package arrived…I hate plane trips…thankfully I will be coming back by car

The gliders are really enjoying their new wheel…so am I…it is so quiet…the dogs have been really enjoying their time in the yard…they balk about having to go out in the morning though….they are real Floridian dogs…they hate it when it gets chilly (75-80f) in the morning…it gets real funny when winter sets in

The pond has been wonderful to watch…the fish have been quite playful…it is like the enjoy dancing on the water…I have been loathe to put the pool up as I am still playing in it…every time I think to take it down we get another heatwave…it has been a great place to play since last spring

I was happy to hear baby Zach was finally released from the hospital…thank you for all of the good energy sent to help his little body heal…It seems in the Circle many find comfort and healing…I am so happy that it is working so well

Need something for a cold?

Try equal parts Elder Flower, Yarrow and Mint steeped in 1C boiling water for 10 minutes

Strain, add 2T of local honey and drink ;)

May you all be blessed,

D

Sweeping the Task List Clear for Fall

I am glad yo came for dinner…it has been a long week…here have a plate, the pot roast was just cut…have some potatoes and carrots…I buttered some garlic bread for you


Massage was slow this week…I enjoyed the few clients that came in…with the rest of the week packed, I was thankful for the break…I am now refreshed and ready for the new week

This week in school was difficult…in American Lit. the reading delt with tough social issues…a paper turned in and final taken…My next class is ‘Relaxation Techniques’…I am so ready to be back in the healthcare area of the school…the class sounds really cool and it is with an instructor that I have not had yet…I am so looking forward to it

On the publishing front…get ready…here it comes…The second book is in print…I have been watching Amazon everyday…’The Chronicles of an American Boudica, Love is Like an Onion’ is now a part of the literary world…you can go to your local Barnes and Nobel or Borders and ask for ISBN# 978-1-60743-951-6…it will release in Europe and the UK next week…Asia and South America the end of next week…this is so cool…Chris and I have worked so hard…the herbal remedy power point was great and I have gotten such great response…with the herb ppt and the remedy ppt, Chris’s talent and his wife’s garden for inspiration I thought they were amazing…now that the publishing is done, I am feeling the urge to write again…many children are in my life again…maybe we should try a children’s book…Another herbal remedy ppt will be out in about 2 weeks…if you want any ppt, please message Chris or myself and we will get you one as soon as possible…feel free to share them or print them out

During the heavy heat, I do not weed or fertilize the garden…Robin and I cleaned them out last week and fed them…I am getting ready to take clones…I have a beautiful ‘Knock Out’ rose, true red and fairy pink rose…I also have pink, lavender, red and white crape myrtle…I have a beautiful bleeding heart vine…I will be doing some jasmine and honeysuckle…give me a call if you want some (813)907-6279…

The fish have made more babies…the dogs have been running crazy all over the yard…I think Shinara is missing Coop…she keeps running to his car and on the porch looking for him…it is sweet…the gliders have been so rambunctious they broke their wheel…87f during the day and 65f at night have them feeling their oats

Walter has been gathering supplies…he is going to apply a membrane to the roof and paint the house while I am in North Carolina…Dale, Alex, Jazen and Don have Volunteered to help…fingers crossed that the house will still be standing upon my return…

I am very happy…a friend bought me 2 new games for the Wii…the Wii has been one of the best things I have ever bought…all of us love to play…I pulled a muscle in my arm and have not been able to play darts for a few weeks…hydrotherapy in the pool has helped with this…went to Target and got a new deck of Phase 10 cards as the old cards got too warped to use anymore…another really good investment in family fun…I need to replace my Yahtzee game too as the finish on the dice are wearing off

In the Circle of Boudica it has been ever so busy…I will ask you to keep baby Zack and his parents in your heart…a young man in NC has gone for an interview, his family needs him to get this job…please say a silent prayer for him…A young woman in England has found out she is with child…focus good energy for a healthy pregnancy…Samhain is drawing near…what are your plans...I have been clearing off my task list and done all my deep fall cleaning...getting the slate swept clear before the onset of winter…have you taken time to think of someone who has passed and the influence they made in your life…Chris has taken over the news letter…please e-mail him for the link...

For New Moms-

The herbs in Healing Sitz Bath recipe mix are:

• 2 oz. of rosemary and Aloe,

• 1 oz. each of Chamomile, chickweed, marshmallow root, plantain, land calendula, golden seal

• 2 oz. of sea salt

As I look at this list of herbs I see some that feel a bit astringent and powerful in their healing ability. These are herbs like yarrow, rosemary, and golden seal, and then there are the soothing, cooling herbs like chamomile, chickweed, marshmallow root, plantain, and calendula.

The soothing quality of the sitz bath is what I think of most – the relief and feeling of gentle herbal healing.

Prepare your sitz bath

To prepare your sitz bath...

• Pour boiling water over four ounces of your herbal sitz bath blend.

• Let it sit and steep for at least four hours.

• Strain it into a bowl and then sit with your vaginal area in the tea for about 15 minutes.

Not only are the herbs healing, but this little bit of time for you can be cherished as well.



So as you can see…it has been non stop…I am exhausted…it is a feeling of accomplishment and a sense of real pride…I gave my staff off till Monday…we have all been working quite hard and deserved it…I will be landing in Durham, NC on the 5th of November…call or e-mail me if you want to catch up while I am there or on my way back down to Florida…Life is good

May you all be blessed,

D

Long Week

I am glad you are here…as you can tell it has been one of those weeks…


Election time is here again…here in Florida it is frightening…Rick Scott…this man pulled off the largest case of Medicare fraud in the nations history is running for governor…he should be in Jail, but as with every other problem this country is facing our, president does nothing…I mailed in my ballot, so I have already voted…I voted for Alex Sink…even if all the nasty stuff they say about her is true…she is not the reason our seniors are going without needed medication and medical treatment…she isn’t fixing social security by killing off the old…by the way, I am independent and belong to NO political party...I only know 4 politicians I would allow in my home (Jeb Bush, Barney Frank, Ginny Brown-Waite and John Mc Cain) or near my family…it is because these people have shown to me (personally) that they took their reasonability seriously…I also feel if you do not vote you have no right to complain…I vote for the person I feel will do the best job…at times it has been the lesser of 2 evils…

Massage has been busy…busy…did I say busy???

I am getting ready to come out with a power point on herbal remedies…if you would like a copy e-mail Chris…Tuesday I should be able to give you a date on the launch of book 2…it is so exciting…Chris has been cranking out the artwork for the power points…I have been loving it…the art is beautiful…I will be working on the website next week and hope to launch it late next week…life is awesome

School is going well…American Literature is a lot of work…well worth it…I am learning a lot…did you know there are many books or parts of books are read on Youtube…after I have done all the reading, I found them…timing is a bitch sometimes

I have spent time this week cleaning out the summer yuk from the plants…they have received their fall fertilizer (compost tea)…all the garden beds look so happy…the fish got new water and the pond area cleaned up…I gave all the plants a deep water (this is when you water each for 10 seconds, let the water soak in and repeat 3x)…I will do this once a week until spring…this will keep the roots deep so they do not freeze…I will not water for one week after a ground freeze…I do not remember the exact reason for this…I just remember it being one of grandma’s rules and know to follow it

Is anyone besides me sick of all this 2012 crap? If I hear one more thing I think I will puke…the world is not going to end…get over it…we are not at the end of days…get a grip…this is like the 4th or 5th time in my life they have predicted disaster…does anyone remember Y2K??? They have been predicting the end of time since the days of Jesus…we are still here…how about looking around and enjoying what is here…the world in front of us is not great…stand up and make it better…hiding in depression over such silly things isn’t helping anyone…on that night I will be looking at the stars…the only thing that has been called for by the Aztecs was for a cosmic event…not the end of the world…sadly, our media has twisted the words of the ancients to make them the most money

Sorry for being so tightly wound…I work, study and care for my home with a great deal of solitude…when I turn on the TV, I get assaulted with political commercials…I have had 3 people go off the wall about 2012…with so much solitude, you get to thinking…in my case it can be a dangerous thing…

I bought my ticket for North Carolina to go see Erin and Tristan in Nov…it will be nice to see them both…I have not seen North Carolina in 10 years…I will take the camera

Well the phone is ringing and the sugar gliders are calling for food…I am glad you stopped by

Blessed Be,

D

Reaching for the Stars

Merry Meet,


You look well today…I am feeling a bit spunky…the ½ week has been quite active…sorry I have no goodies made, I do have cold sweet tea, let me get you a glass…come in, sit down, relax

Massage has kept me on the go…my youngest 2 clients (7months & 9 months) are in the hospital doing battle for their respective lives…I have turned over all info to the doctors and consult with the parents…I have a client who I had to pre op for knee replacement surgery…another is just returning after eye surgery…On Monday, I will be expanding my business…I will keep you up on that later in the week..My last client today was a 90 minute that needed his body stretched…I do love my job…

Okay…great news at school…I made the Deans List (because I made good grades, I am not in trouble)…Yea!!! Whoohoo!!!...I have done 3 papers in the last 4 days…I find American Lit quite interesting…the teacher is a hard read and it is a work intense class, but I feel what I am learning makes it worth it…

Chris and I have much new to post…I need to keep it under wraps for now…I will fill you in this weekend…*smile*

Next week is going to be the start of an ultra-busy few weeks…Walter is prepping the roof as we will be putting on a membrane…thanks to a friend that generously gave me some paint…we have also started cleaning the house to paint it…

I am cleaning out the pool and getting it ready to start putting on the cover…I have still been going out everyday, but the water has started getting cold…we have decided to leave it up for winter…I have also started to prep the pond for winter…I have taken advantage of the cooler weather to clean up the garden…the compost pile is getting big

I am so looking forward to Samhain…it is the time of year to feel the breath of the past on your shoulder…In the Circle of Boudica, I have been helping moms find fun way to celebrate those who have passed on with the kids…one of the families rents a farm with a grave site on the property…she took the kids out and cleaned it up…the kids decorated it…the kids have found candles they will burn…it has been a lot of fun…another young woman has been planning her meal with the kids…her mom just passed, so they will make the food grandma made…what a great way to remember someone…a young man, who recently lost his wife, is taking the kids to see grandma (mother’s mom)…I can feel the love…it is a great thing…what are you doing to bring in the season?



Rose Hip Syrup

• Gather rose hips after they have developed and turned red. Some herbalists recommend waiting until after the first frost for improved flavor. (These fruits are commonly found on bushes well into winter.)

• Rinse rose hips well, remove any stems or flower remnants

• Bring two cups of water to a boil and add four cups of rose hips. Simmer for 20 minutes or until the water has been reduced by half

• Allow to cool slightly and then strain through a jelly bag or cheese cloth

Stir in 2 cups of local grown honey.

This rose hip recipe keeps well in the fridge. It is a great immune booster with an antibacterial back up (great for cold, flu, sinus, sore throat). Rose hip syrup is especially good on pancakes or to sweeten teas.


I will start cooking next week and it will go thru until after Yule…get ready to eat…I am looking for a good pumpkin bread recipe…do you have one? Or maybe one for pumpkin cookies? I will be making chicken with butternut squash and mashed potatoes for dinner tomorrow…if you are hungry, come get a plate…

Give me a hug…may you have much love and many blessings…I am here if you need me…listening to Van Morrison and doing homework or working on a client or working on the publishing business…I will sleep someday;)

Well it's a marvelous night for a moondance

With the stars up above in your eyes

A fantabulous night to make romance

'Neath the cover of October skies

And all the leaves on the trees are falling

To the sound of the breezes that blow

And I'm trying to please to the calling

Of your heart-strings that play soft and low

You know the night's magic

Seems to whisper and hush

And all the soft moonlight

Seems to shine in your blush...

-Van Morrison

Blessed Be,

D

Busy Times

Come in…sit down…relax…it has been a ‘hit the ground running’ type of week…I have fallen for the Simply Raspberry Lemonade…I will pour some over ice for you…I am feeling much better this week, thank you for asking…



My massage business has been hopping…I was really feeling the flow…the clients were happy as each massage went over by 10-15 minutes…I really enjoy seeing them feel better when they leave…okay lets talk business…since our business is one of a personal nature, marketing is a tricky issue…I have spent a lot of money over the years and some of it was truly NOT worth it…postcards were one of those bad ideas…only 1 in 9 appreciate it/ 3-5 of the same 9 will actually get upset…if you run an advert in a local paper…please be careful, you may entice more than clients…I have a cool little flyer that I advert in at times and have gotten great results…I used to try the local major paper- this brought me a lot of freaks and police (either way not a good thing)…craigslist is not a great idea either…I used to advert on there until almost every call from there was a freak or a cop…massage is my passion and I love my job…I want to work on people who need me and not play childish games with people who waste my time…


School has been a catch up this week…the computer class is great…though I wish I had a typist stand to hold the book up while I am trying to do my work at the computer…I have learned a lot of new tricks around Microsoft office…I have even built my first power point…Thank Goddess for an understanding teacher…he has allowed me to make up the work from last week…it feels good to be getting caught up


Waiting for the release of book 2 is like being pregnant and waiting for the baby…I have 2 more weeks to go…I am in love with the updated video that Chris has done with Chapter 1 of Family, Friends and Funerals…the sound is something we are working on…we are new to the video shoot game…thank you for having patients with us…Rose and Chris are out shooting Chapter 2 this weekend…I am not thrilled with how my massage videos turned out, but I have many ideas how we will make them better…Don has been helpful…even though he has started a new job, he has made sure to call and has started applying new knowledge so that he will help us make a great website…so very cool


Okay…so now you want to know why I look so stressed…we are currently in hurricane season…this means rain every afternoon with a lot of lightening…a bolt dropped down on the street beside our house…we are all fine, but it did damage in both homes on my property…at the folks- mom’s computer got fried, dad’s computer had the Ethernet card blow, on the back of his house the flood lights blew, his water heater blew up too…at our house the modem for the phone got blown up, the computer one went sideways, and 2 new holes popped in the roof…with work, school and Boudica- lets just say I was ready to hurt people…dad went to best buy and got a new Ethernet card…I told mom to call the home insurance about her computer…Walter replaced the water heater for dad…Heckle and Jeckle in Home Depot…this was truly a laugh riot…Walter rewired the flood lights…Brighthouse was quick…my phone was only down 2 days…they replaced the modem and sent signal to the other…Walter, Don and Dale will be climbing on the roof to lay down the new membrane…so everything got handled, but what an unholy orgasm…and of coarse mom is in Maine this week


The animals are shedding…all the dogs have short thin hair…so when we get to this point of the year they all look so bald…the cat is leaving white hair everywhere…when I sweep, due to the high amount of animal hair, I take it out to the back yard and dump it beside the compost heap…this way the critters out there can build their winter nest…the pond fish are putting on their winter weight…their colors are so bright…my bird house got blown out of the tree in this weeks storm…funny, we used deck screws to put it up…they are still in the tree…a mouse family tried to move into the house…Walter suddenly became the hunter…he tried glue traps…that was a waste of money…I showed Walter the glue trap and said, ‘It looks like Ming’s Chinese Theatre’, and pointed to the little foot prints left in the glue…he then tried the old snap traps…he got one…he was so happy…after a few more days he got some decon…I do not like that stuff for several reasons…he got the rest of the family, but God made him pay for it…they died in the walls and my house has stunk to high heaven all week


The garden and pool have been a happy place…the heat has broken and the flowers are starting to pop out…it is quite beautiful…we have had swarms of butterflies…I wish I could paint…I know where the renaissance artists’ got their inspiration…my little blue jay has been patrolling the air above the roof top and fighting with any bird who tries to enter the yard…I get a huge belly laugh out of it, because he usually loses…the osprey couple has come in early this year…it is good to see them…the female hawk is still hanging out…I think she has a thing for dad…my Cosmo rose has started blooming again and has taken pink to a whole new level…Dad’s front box has every flower in bloom right now…it looks like they will spill into the yard…we have had a pair of parrots hanging out too…I think someone let them go…sadly that happens a lot here in the country


Thank you to all of those who have been sending wood for my Induction ceremony…I feel as though I am ready for this honor…the first meeting of The Circle of Boudica will be 9/28/10 at 8 pm…if you can not make it all e-mail/letters will be read to the group unless otherwise requested…Our Bard Chris Bilton will be handling the news letter…please contact him if you wish to receive a copy (biltonwords@hotmail.com) …We will be getting ready for Samhain and praying for a bountiful harvest


The kids are doing well…the grandkids are well…my friends are outstanding…I still do farmtown on facebook…even though we are scattered all over the world now, we get to play…it is fun, but I do miss everyone…I am thinking on renting a house in NC for a week this winter…I know, I have not left Florida in 10 years…I will be close to all the girls and grandkids…Dansir is hoping to go with me…then we can have a really good time…I love the words road trip…I have been streaming a lot of Netflix…I love it…NO disks to mess with…At my table the games we play the most are- cribbage, chapel rummy, phase 10, scrabble, Yahtzee and Darts (these are on the wall)…we have a game going almost every day…I have Othello that the others play…I got to the point where I could not loose, so it became boring…Endless Ocean is a great educational game for the Wii…it is only one player…I enjoy it…you really feel like you are there swimming with all of these wonderful creatures…I just got finished reading The Art of War…I found it interesting and applicable to many parts of my life…


Want to boost the immune system for fall and winter? I have the best recipe…

Stuffed Peppers

1 Garlic- whole clove (roasted)

1 Onion (chopped finely)

1 lb Hamburger

½ lb Pork (ground)

1 Can stewed tomatoes

1 package Knorr Spanish rice

4 Large peppers (make sure they can sit flat)

6T Parmesan cheese

2C Mozzarella cheese

1 Jar tomato sauce

1/8 t of the following spices marjoram, thyme, rosemary, sage, oregano and basil


Cut around the top edge of peppers, clean and put on to boil

Put a little olive oil in a fry pan and add the onions, cook until soft

Add hamburger, pork and garlic and cook until brown

When brown, drain and place in mixing bowl (cover with towel to keep warm)

Put Rice on to cook (In a bowl mix spices and add to rice)

Line baking pan with tinfoil and add 2C sauce to the bottom

Drain peppers and seat them in the sauce

In the mixing bowl, add parmesan cheese and stewed tomatoes with hamburger and pork

Add rice and mix again

Spoon mixture into the peppers

Add ½ C of Mozzarella to cap off the peppers

Cook at 350f for approx 30 minutes

I am so glad you came to visit…I know you have a busy life and must be on your way…I am going to listen to Bob Marley and clean the pool…May your day be blessed

D

Fall Garden 2010

The garden has shown many shades of green this year.

Much of the foliage has been highly productive, but flowers were not happening much this year.

As you can see dad's screen, which is normally covered in blooms now hardly has any.

It has grown very healthy, just very few blue flowers.

Along the foot path can be found little bits of color popping out.

They seem to pop against the deep green background.

This is the best flowering plant on the property.

It's showy white blooms cry to be put in your hair.

I have been wondering if the severe cold snap of last winter caused the flowers to stay hidden this year.

Melon Salad with Pansies or Violas

Serve this salad at a ladies luncheon or breakfast. It will certainly create a lot of talk. I keep them growing in the kitchen all year round. Great for head aches (non-migraine) and constipation.


Ingredients

•¼ cup vegetable oil

•2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

•½ teaspoon sugar

•dash of salt

•dash of fresh ground pepper

•3 cups assorted melon cut in ¾ inch pieces

•2 small cucumbers, sliced thin

•Salad greens

•Pansy or viola flowers

Directions

1.In a tightly covered container combine vegetable oil, lemon juice, sugar, salt and pepper.

2.Shake to combine well. In a bowl combine melon pieces, greens, cucumber, and pansies or violas.

3.Right before serving pour on dressing and toss to combine well.






May you all be enjoying a walk in the yard.

Blessed Be,

D

Thoughts from my estranged mind...

When you sit and think about your life...where does your mid go?

Mine finds itself wandering to a special forest...

If you had a beautiful kitchen and dining room and could invite anyone to dinner...who would you invite (the person has to presently be alive)?

I would start my list with:
Dr. Zahi Hawass, Simcha Jacobvici, Anthony Bourdain, Chris Bilton, Warren Buffet, Martha Stewart, Alex Sink, Ginny Brown-Waite...to name a few

I can picture an amazing 4 coarse meal...the conversation would sparkle with diversity

Yes, my mind is wandering through time again...okay, come back to this world...

I love the botany and herbology class I am currently in. I feel as though with all my Pagan training, I can excel here. I have enjoyed a lot of interaction with the other students. I have been encouraged to start speaking about such things. Here is one place where my priestess and healthcare training intersect. Many common herbs are around (and in my opinion should be used before pharmaceuticals)...I always think you should check with your doctor or pharmacist before making any changes in diet or supplements...I will however start posting some of the things I have tried and what I find it to work for...the gardener in me will give you those added notes also-

MINT- this is an easy plant to grow...those of you with a black thumb should do well with this as it is hard to kill...should ONLY be grown in a pot as it is highly invasive (across most of the country)...can be outside in summer/ sunny window in winter...as you pick leafs off for use (it will grow more and keep the plant healthy) keep in mind never to pick more than 1/3 the leafs from the plant in a week or it will die...this is a wonderful digestive aide and I have found it to work quite well for a sour or upset stomach or constipation...

For a really sour stomach...chew on 3-4 leafs

For Constipation...crush 2 leafs in coffee cup...pour hot water over leafs (add tea bag if you wish)...let stand 3-5 minutes...strain...

I have also made tictures for friends who do not have time to grow their own...for that- take a clean ball jar...you will need a wood dowel that fits inside and down to the bottom of the jar...put a few leafs at the bottom and crush them with the dowel...continue to add leafs and crush until the jar is 4/5 full...slowly add brandy until 3/4" from the top...put in a cool dark place and shake every few days for 3 weeks...strain and it is ready for use...will keep in a cool (not the fridge), dark place and should stay good for about 3 months...you could use 1T every 4 hours for adults or 1t every 4 hours for children...this can be added to 2 ounces of warm water...usually works fairly quickly

I have bought new components for the computer and I am not sure how to make them all work...I got this new thing called a speaker lens, but if i plug it in all sound goes away...seems like I can only plug in the speaker or the lens...I am sure I will figure it out...I am just stumped at the moment. I need to hook my web cam up and will not be able to do it until tomorrow. I love my new HP. The set up was easy and I love their customer support. I watched the walmart.com prices and got a great deal...I got the new puter and the Wii and had it delivered to the house for less than the computer would have cost at the store.

I rented 'Hasbro Family Games Night 2' for Wii from Bockbuster...I thought to rent it before I buy...the game sucked...can we say Blockbuster prices have gone through the roof...it would be cheaper to buy the games...Walt and I love the 'Hasbro Family Games Night 1'...I love being able to stream movies with Netflix and the Wii...for those who love the water 'Endless Ocean' is pretty cool...I am dying to try Monoply

The garden has been loving the overcast conditions and rain...it is overgrowing everywhere...it is too cool...I love this time of year...a rogue catipillar ate dad's topsy tomato thing...I hope it recovers...I can hardly believe all the damage 1 of those things can do. My ginger made a strong comback after this frozen winter as did the lilies.

My truck broke down last week...I bought a new altenator...went to the dump...when I get to the dump it stalls out and will not start...word today says its the fuel filter...I can not complain...she has over 230thousand miles on her...she has been a great vechicle to own...I think she has a few left in her;)

Time has come again for me to say I hope you all are blessed

A Beautiful Day In the Neighborhood

Welcome to my new blog home. It is raining here in The Chapel this afternoon. Many are complaining, not me...the heat of summer abates, it washes everything clean and I don't have to water the garden. Grab you a drink, sit down and let us chat about all that is going on...

Massage has been going well. The clients are doing well this summer. With so much time out of doors the aqua therapy has been working. I (and the clients who are doing it with me) am finding much more flexibility and my tone has really improved. I am still working my menu...I am now down 25 lbs, the clients have lost a combined total of 102lbs and we are all feeling great.

As a student, I am privileged...I have wonderful doctors and nurses to help me...I have clients who are willing to be test subjects...It helps that I am going to a great school. I feel very spoiled. At present, I am in herbology and botany. I really feel like the class expands the mind on how it all works. Week 1 was packed with work, herb table, herb paper and a quiz. I am now in week 2 and we need an herb recipe. Anyone got any ideas?

Chris and Rose are on vacation in The Isle of Man. We got the upload date from the printer and book 2 should be on the shelf by 8/15/10...YEA!!!! Many surprises come up in Boudica's life and now we will see them all play out.

I have been trying to work out all the ins and outs of government bidding. Right now the bonds are so high, I do not get how they think a small business can reach them. If anyone has bonding details they want to share, I am listening...

Mom has been in North Carolina visiting Tris. Dad is in Massachusetts visiting Tory. Dansir is getting ready to leave to New Hampshire helping a friend move. OMG...the property is quiet. The car and truck both broke down this week, but Harold saved the day. The 4th was quiet for us with everyone gone. Walter and I mowed the lawn, played Wii and enjoyed food. Dansir came by for dinner and we watched TV. When Dansir left we went to sleep, about 9p.m...About 3a.m. we woke up...Walter said "Want to put off those fireworks?", needless to say we were on the lawn at 3 in the morning putting off fireworks in our jammies...quite funny. He has been working all day putting my new office together. It is going to be so cool. I am quite excited.

The animals are doing well. I am looking for a home for 2 of the sugar gliders. It is time. Shinara is going through a phase where she thinks she is a little dog. She keeps trying to jump in my lap like Chewy Bitems. Walt bought the pond fish a new air pump. It was cool to see them flutter around the pond.

The garden is growing by leaps and bounds. I am getting ready to do a hard cut back. With dad being up north the weeds are growing faster than what I can pull them. When Happy gave me the crate myrtle, I made 10 clones from off shoots at its base. I am proud to say 6 are doing well and are ready to up pot. Dad's Topsy Turvy thing is still bearing fruit. It and the hanging baskets are loving all the rain. I am just not sure what to do with all these tomatoes.

May you all be Blessed,

Dorraine Cooper-Rooney, LMT