A little over a week ago, I was describing my life to a friend. I told her that I felt like the universe just cleared my chessboard, I mean, took it and dumped all the carefully planned moves on the floor. It's been a tumultuous couple of years with a great deal of change, and it's been unsettling at best. I have always lived within the parameters of a typical life. There are certain non-variables in life, like you have to work to make money so that you can pay bills and

While growing up, I can remember that a lot of people used imitation vanilla, but it wasn't the same quality as real vanilla extract. I had to ask myself why people didn't just use the real thing. All it takes is a little look into history to explain. The world has been through two great wars and many other smaller ones, and that takes a toll not only on people but also on the land that nurtures us. It took me a while to understand that the fields of France didn't grow we

Apparently, I love projects. Not just projects but creative ones. Organizing my life in writing helps me see how many things I enjoy doing, and they don't get completed in the order they were started and that's ok. It means I am listening to my inner needs and allowing life to flow rather than forcing it into a shape that looks normal to others. While I have a main book to read, I actually read quite a few others along with it. It's the same with other aspects of life as

As the winter guardians of ice and snow draw back to make way for the spring ambassadors of greenery and flowers, we are all inspired to hope for more free days. The once magical snowfall has now become dismal and the habits of wearing coats seem smothering instead of warm and we look to the mornings that are no longer cold but scented with the fragrance of freshly blooming flowers. In our hearts, these days will feel much lighter and more care-free and our minds travel to

Today I finally made space to put my hair mask on. Several days ago I put some Walnut shells into water to soak so that I could make this mixture for my hair. The shells only needed to sit for six hours, but I guess the tint needed more intensity because they have been sitting for days. I mix it with Amla powder and make a runny paste to apply. For anyone wanting to try it, I developed this recipe from extensive research into natural hair dyes so, it is a dye, but it also

Why can't it be both? While coaching in the Learn to Skate program at my ice rink, I encounter all sorts of people. In this particular class, there were quite a few children making it quite chaotic. At some point one of the little girls was crying. As an empath, I reach to hurt so I did my best to make her feel safe and heard. When she got comfort from her parents she returned to the ice and kept coming over to me and giving me hugs. I found this in sharp contrast to an

Lavender carries the energies of balance and renewal. It guides us to quiet the mind and listen to our inner voice, bringing focus and easing anxiety. This humble plant teaches us that true strength can be found in calm and that even in the busiest times, we can create our own peace. Many times, reflection, growth and wellness work so closely with each other that it's hard to tell the difference. Yesterday, I saw them work hand in hand as I implemented the strategy I set

Let go of old dreams that no longer resonate with your current path. You may have spent years working toward a goal that no longer aligns with who you are. By releasing that dream, you open yourself up to new opportunities that are more in tune with you now. The sacrifice here is not a failure but a sign of growth, and it allows you to pursue what truly brings you fulfillment. This week I have started on a deeper journey to release and rejuvenate. So far, I have been prac

When you feel stuck or stagnant, take a moment to reconnect with the elements around you. Step outside, breathe in the wind, and feel the earth beneath your feet. This morning, I chose to light a candle to welcome in my day. As I focused on the flame, it reminded me that my flame is still burning, no matter how much negativity tries to snuff it out. A simple cup of coffee warmly cupped in my hands as I gaze out the window to the distant field where the deer stand sentry