Showing posts with label Costa Rica. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Costa Rica. Show all posts

Friday, April 28, 2017

Beach Breakthrough & Ongoing Gratitude

You are probably aware how important it is to pay attention to the thoughts you allow to float around or take up residence in your mind. What we focus on contributes to creating our reality – our experience in this world. Since I’ve been coaching people, I have encouraged them to speak about “negative” things only if it is beneficial to someone - including one’s self. Idle talking about things for drama, attention or gossip generally is a sure way of getting more of those things in your life whether you label them bad or good. Please keep this in mind as you take in certain aspects of my blog stories.

Florida was not on my list last summer of places I wanted to go. In fact, if I had a list of places I did NOT want to go, Florida would have been high on it. There were people and situations there I just didn’t care to see or deal with again. So why in the world would a trip to Mexico, from which I expected to be traveling to Belize, Panama, Costa Rica and beyond take me back to Florida?? I will not, in this lifetime, know all the reasons things happen. However, I came up with 15 clear reasons for this Florida stay during one of my moving meditations aka cardio sessions. I saw beautiful encounters and ways I was able to be of assistance that I couldn’t have possibly anticipated. Personally, I was the recipient of some powerful gifts as well. But one of my most potent reasons for returning was unfinished business….that I didn’t even realize was unfinished business. 

The most fantastic examples of wrapping up loose ends takes place, no surprise, on my beach. I have a super strong ability that can be a gift or a curse. It is my sense of association. Songs, places, phrases, and other circumstances can trigger me into remembering past situations. Obviously many people do that. However, for me, it is like physically reliving these happenings. Depending on the experience, it can be exquisitely delightful….or extremely unpleasant. The latter was the case with regard to a certain tree on the beach which I associated with something deeply disturbing. No, the tree didn’t do anything unkind to me, it was just something I related to the situation.
Generally, I’d run north on Casey Key for miles. As I ran, I’d focus more on my workout enjoying the air and the night wondrously transitioning into day.
At my turnaround point of the day, I’d stop and face the ever-changing sea communing with it as well as all the magnificent creatures above and below. Then I’d enjoy my walk back noticing more of my enchanting surroundings often picking up sea treasures that caught my eye. Intentionally, I’d stop my run short of “the tree” as I didn’t want to think of certain experiences. Finally, weeks later, I managed to run to the tree.
Sitting under it, I allowed the tears to fall freely and whatever feelings that bubbled up to be acknowledged. The tree became....The Healing Tree. Over the months, I’d run to the tree experiencing varying levels of healing and release. On my final day at my beloved beach, a totally unanticipated breakthrough magically unfolded. As on numerous previous occasions, I was running to The Healing Tree. About a quarter mile shy of the tree I came to an abrupt stop. This was actually not that unusual either as the reason for the interruption was a stranded crab that needed a little assistance getting back to the water. Gently I assisted him/her as I had thousands of various critters before. Since I was pretty close to the tree and kinda lost my momentum, I was about to walk the rest of the way. Instantly something inexplicably propelled me to run to the tree. It was as if I were suddenly possessed by a strange power. I fairly flew effortlessly. Incredulously, at the same time, a song started playing in my head that I closely related to that time I’d rather forget. On top of it all, I noticed a great big smile spread across my face. There were no traces of sadness, regret, tears. I realized the grand towering friend of mine was no longer The Healing Tree. It was The Healed Tree! How freeing it felt! That situation no longer has any charge for me. It 
was also a humbling reminder of how much I don’t know that I still don’t know. I thought I was “past all that stuff from the past” yet there were still deep layers to deal with. Profound gratitude, release, and clarity swirled around and within me as I realized this huge purpose for returning to Florida.

Now on a lighter topic ~ As I do frequently, here’s a shout out to all the Angels who
have assisted me in any way along my incredible journey. Starbucks is a company of which I have mixed feelings. While not keen on all their practices, they have provided me for many years….an office of sorts all over the world. It has been a meeting place hundreds of times. I can sit comfortably getting computer stuff done thanks to their free wi-fi and charge my various electronics. Many Angels have facilitated countless Café Mochas (extra whip) via gift cards.
Generally the baristas are friendly but often they are just too busy to connect much. The weeks I frequented a Starbucks in West Palm Beach back in 2013, the crew was the best at getting to know me even vying to take care of me. Although they will always have a special place in my heart, I have to say a Team in Sarasota, Target of all places, one upped them. These gals knew my weird ordering quirks and could anticipate which of my varied drinks I’d want in advance. Sometimes they’d already have my drink ready before I even got to the register. They had an uncanny way of making everyone feel they were uniquely special. Michaela, Kellsy, and Brittany were the best! I know there are a couple more outstanding ladies but they weren’t there as often and my name recall has something to be desired. Thanks and keep shining my Starbucks Sirens. You are amazing!

My journey has taken a few more interesting turns so stay tuned for the next update. Your presence is felt and appreciated wherever I in the world I am. Likewise, I send you infinite love and support in all your endeavors!



Thursday, October 13, 2016

Hola And Adios

One of the most challenging aspects about my current chosen lifestyle is saying good-bye. Good-bye to people, places, experiences…. Definitely an effective way of learning detachment though.

Again I am at a loss for adequate words to express how incredibly grateful I am for the months I was privileged to serve a dear Soul Sister.
It was one of those situations clearly “meant to be” as my life changed on a dime in a direction neither of us anticipated before we met for re-connection Jamba Juice. We’d known each other 20? years as friends having done business together in the past as well. Acting as her personal assistant was a pleasure on so many levels. She, in turn, hosted me like royalty. How infinitely refreshing when people truly recognize and appreciate each other! Our time together was the living embodiment of NAMASTÉ. For those not familiar with that ancient Sanskrit greeting, it translates to the effect, “The God in Me honors the God in You”.  Together, over the months, we shared many smiles and tears, challenges and cheers.
I would have loved to stay with Her for much longer but my beach somewhere was calling. Due to the surrounding area and climate, I felt like a mermaid out of water. It was a sense that was constantly present which I needed to be vigilant to overcome to stay in positive energy. Hence, another bittersweet farewell when the next opportunity for tropical travel presented itself.

Time planning and talking about my trip to Mexico, Belize, Panama and Costa Rica lasted longer than the actual expedition. The person I was to accompany was not ready for a strong woman who could hold her own with street smarts in some Latin American countries. He wanted someone to hang out with, eat and drink together. This is not the picture that was painted for me when I answered the ad on Craigslist for a travel companion posted by his “sister”. Many very peculiar and entertaining conversations later via email and phone, I suspected something was awry. She either didn’t grasp what I was repeating over and over or only heard what she wanted. Obvious her international travel experience was strictly from reading and fantasy - not based in practicality whatsoever. At first I tried to only see everything in the brightest light figuring all actions taken where intended for her “brother’s” well-being. Then I saw her web of deceit, ignorance and manipulation was such that this Butterfly wanted nothing to do with it. I kept brushing it off thinking I’d be traveling with him, who I got a very different sense from, not her. When I flew to San Francisco to meet them a few days before departure for Mexico, it was evident how much I could assist the gentleman as there were so many important areas of travel not being addressed. To my amazement things were still being presented which had no basis in real life actuality. Realization that the gal who placed the ad was not really his sister became blaringly obvious to me (especially at the point she told me to tell people I was his sister) although I let her keep up the charade until the end. Now don’t get me wrong! While I have my own cherished, one of a kind Sister and Brother, there are many times I have referred to other members of this vast human family as brothers and sisters – like in the beginning of this post. Usually this is a relationship like SeaStar, Sistar, Dolphin Sister, Fairy Sister, Soul Sister…you get the spirit.  This was definitely not the intention here. Anyway, I figured once the gentleman and I got to Mexico, I would be able to share my expertise and all the extraneous wishful thinking preparations would simply fall to the wayside.

With one incident after another happening due to choices made from the beginning of the trip – or specific necessary actions not taken – it became clear to me this arrangement wasn’t working. The very talents I was supposedly brought on for were not appreciated, wanted or heeded. My staying not only wasn’t assisting him but had me in some less than desirable situations as well. I probably have the pretty awful experience I lived in the beginning of this year http://universal-wellness.blogspot.com/2016/04/have-courage-and-be-kind.html to thank for the fact I was able to discontinue this unhealthy arrangement very quickly.





Thanks to my ever-present legion of Angels, I was generously provided for and safely guided to my next sunshiny destination. I appreciate each and every one of you and delight in the journey we chose to make together! NAMASTÉ

Wednesday, September 14, 2016

The Gift of Pura Vida

A view of the endless Pacific in one direction and the ever changing mysterious cloud forest in another, our delightful Costa Rica property sprawled almost an acre. Back in 2004, my former husband and I purchased this tropical paradise –  a mere 10 minute drive to the beach. Excitement abounded as well as visions of our dream home we would build there. Shortly thereafter a friend, who bought around the same time as we did, was having marital issues making owning real estate in Costa Rica no longer in his best interest. To help our friend, we purchased that land from him. We weren’t really sure what we’d do with it but it was in the same phase in the development our lot was located. You may have noticed the title “former husband” previously in this tale. From that you would correctly gather there would no longer be a dream home for us. So for years we have offered both lots for sale or trade.


Around the beginning of my gypsy travels (2009) –  I wound up in Costa Rica although Panama was on my itinerary for where I’d be starting my new life. Since Providence landed me a few miles from where our land was situated, I searched for ways that made sense to start manifesting my dreams there. After almost three months, the signs all pointed for me to move on. Clearly this was not the place.

Earlier this year, I alluded to a difficult situation I was experiencing – one in which I allowed myself to be weakened physically and spiritually. Doubting and second guessing myself and my intuition were some of the effects. During this surreal period, an opportunity arose. At this point I’d been offered a few less than desirable exchanges for the two lots in Costa Rica. Really….how would trading for barren acreage in Nevada with precious mineral possibilities interest me? It was then I first thought of giving the property away. Although I know my energetic contribution to the planet and humanity is significant, I got to thinking bigger. If I could donate the property to someone who could make a powerful, positive difference with it, that would certainly expand “being the change I wanted to see in this world”. When I mentioned this to the Jekyll/Hyde lost soul I was entangled with, it was immediately shot down. Would I really want to give the property away as opposed to getting say 10-50K? My first instinct was YES! But when questioned again, my Authentic Self began to fade away once more. Regaining my strength and self-connection in the months following, I remembered that incident again. Give the property away? Yes! That is exactly what felt right!





Presenting my potent idea to my potential worthy recipient had me practically bursting! This man is a high energy healer disguised as a master of chiropractic arts in California. While I was aware of his affinity to Costa Rica for some time, it was my Mom who actually refreshed my memory recently. Bilingual in English and Spanish, he loves the country and, just as importantly, the locals. Not your typical tourist who sees them as “background people”, this guy enjoys interacting with and getting to know the Ticos and Ticas of the land. Visions I had of him dividing his time and talent between California and Costa Rica as he assisted diverse populations from around the world were grand! When I first laid the gift idea in his lap, his mind was spinning with possibilities, questions, and considerations. The “what ifs” were infinite. Knowing the myriad implications of him accepting, I left him to consider -  not wanting to pressure him into an immediate decision. As time went on, his excitement and clarity got us on the path of making it happen.


Pretty much every legal transaction in Costa Rica requires an attorney to get involved no matter how small it may be or how closely the participants cooperate with each other. And, while it might make things easier, real estate transactions do not require one to be physically present in Costa Rica as some people were counselling me. Once my DC friend and I were clear that we were on, we wanted to get things rolling asap. Researching recommended attorneys was turning out quite different than anticipated. I wanted to get an idea of how they communicated with me and how they would handle this kind of situation before committing to use them. Not sure if they don’t need new business, the transaction was too small or complicated or they just didn’t like to be “shopped” as one of them indicated to me. Finally I ended up pulling strings by contacting an associate of a good friend of mine. This gentleman had large projects in progress in Costa Rica and definitely knows how things work there. He recommended an attorney in Uvita that they were considering using for their next project or something similar. She is originally from the United States, married a Tico and has two kids in Costa Rica. She is familiar with law in both countries. Her immediate response to my email left me thrilled and hopeful. Almost immediately my little voice inside told me this is who we were to do business with. My initial excitement dwindled a bit when the communication became less prompt and a bit cloudy. All the information I was trying to get was stated in my original email communication. Yet it took 5 weeks to get it all clarified to the point where monies were being wired to begin to execute the transaction. Strangely, through all of this (unlike some other situations in my life), I felt mysteriously at peace and patient. Events still felt like they were on track albeit perhaps via the scenic route. I had a sense I would have information for what was next in my life when I wrapped up the Costa Rica Gifting Project.
In the meantime, the delays where holding me in a loving place I’d decided to assist in until the completion....or another certain sign. In that place I was thrilled to be making a clear, awesome difference and the Universe was engaging me there, in a sense, as long as I was needed. A highly respectful place I might add...with a beautiful Lady. There is a phrase I often use with people asking me how long I will be somewhere….. “I shall stay until the wind changes” :-)

A while back I created a facebook page to help move the land in Central America. It was called, “Costa Rica Land 4 Sale or Trade”. That title has now been changed to “Gift of Costa Rica Land”. While things may not happen quickly, I foresee updates of the transformation being posted there over time. If you are on fb and have not already “liked” Costa Rica Land 4 Sale or Trade, please visit Gift of Costa Rica Land and be a part of Gaia’s bright evolution.

Friday, January 29, 2016

Destination Unknown

Who was that person named Michelle Hazlewood who had 1 year, 5 year, 10 year and more plans all plotted out? Who was that person with all those specific worldly goals? It sure seems like another individual than I am right now and, possibly, another lifetime! Current ME has goals like peace and happiness in the NOW moment. Where I will be to live those goals tomorrow, next week or next month continue to remain elusive. It is becoming more natural for me to go with the flow – even when that flow takes me places I thought I’d never go in my wildest imagination. Good thing “never” is not in my usual vocabulary.

December’s end and January certainly brought me to completely unexpected destinations and experiences. It’s not important that I share the specific details – only that my spiritual growth has expanded in leaps and bounds beyond anything I would have thought. I ask the Universe for certain lessons, or “remembrances”, manifested in the best way for me. Sure enough, a Higher Power knows better than my human self how to deliver!




So my main share in this blog post, from my personal encounters, is this. I recommend you define your goals, say your prayers or put out your requests to God or The Universe but not be attached to all the specific “hows” and even the exact outcomes. While you could get what you think you what with your human recipe, you may be limiting the grand gifts you could be receiving. It’s fine to have or follow a certain formula – I just suggest you add, “this or something better” and allow for flexibility in your process.
If you’d like to play with this whole idea together, perhaps you’d like to consider Telephone Wellness Coaching. Together we could create…..A Whole New World!

It’s been over a decade now since I received, what I refer to as, the "download" regarding a Tropical Dolphin Spa Retreat Center. Many details were revealed to me then, with equal amounts left mysterious. The whole picture was in the realm of my capabilities but not necessarily my personal dreams/desires. Reflecting on various aspects, I decided, if it were for the highest and best good of all, things would fall into place for this manifestation. If this was indeed Divinely inspired, I would joyfully walk through necessary doors but would not break down doors.


Since that event, so long ago, my journey has taken me through a variety of interesting situations in many parts of the world. Travel with me, if you so desire, by subscribing to my blog or perusing previous posts. Sometimes I wonder if any of these adventures are bringing me closer to that tropical retreat vision. God, the Universe, often works in ways mysterious to humankind and this may be a perfect example.

Even now, I continue to walk through the doors presenting to me and one particular opportunity keeps popping up as a key puzzle piece – moving my lots in Costa Rica. That gorgeous property was from a time of different energy in my life. My former husband and I purchased it with expectations of building our dream home there. While the land is definitely magnificent and in close proximity to jungle and beach, it is not appropriate for the new energy necessary for the development of the retreat haven I am envisioning. So I believe it is necessary to sell or trade it in order to open the door to acquire land more suitable for that place “shown to me”.


With that in mind, I am again requesting your assistance in making the appropriate contacts for this to come to fruition. Please check out and share the new pages on my Universal Wellness website dedicated to Costa Rica Land for Sale or Trade: TWO Lots 1-Ocean View.94 acre 2-Tropical Forest w Creek.55 acre Combined Value $158,000 for Cash, Land, Boat or House I also have a facebook page with details, pics and many interesting tidbits about Costa Rica. If you are on fb, please LIKE my page to help increase exposure there.

Whether you’ve just met me on my path now or have been honoring me with your presence on the journey for years, I am deeply grateful! I know it is hard to keep up with all the technology these days but a line or two about how you are doing is invited and appreciated too.

Friday, November 13, 2015

Good-Bye Casey Key


It’s been 5 or 6 times now that I have “left” Florida. In all the previous departures, upon leaving Casey Key, I was filled with sadness and tears as I bid farewell.

Some of you know I ran on Casey Key almost every morning. Well….ran/walked. I’d run out to a certain point, usually 3-5 miles, then walk back drinking in the beauty and experiences of nature. Almost always my run would be in the darkness before dawn while my walk was crowned by the gorgeous sunrise. Along with my
enchantment in witnessing this glorious transition (and the temperature), I loved the solitude this time of day gifted me. Frolicking dolphins entertained me with their antics. At times, they provided escort services and once I swam with lone finned friend. Turtle season brought a new wave of babies of which I probably got to see 50 -75. It was my privilege to personally rescue dozens too. Osprey, heron, and other seabird varieties were ever present both before and after dawn. Magic presented in the form of shooting stars, dragonflies on gossamer wing and sparkling rainbows. On a final visit, an exquisite, inch long baby sea horse presented me a parting magical experience.

When engaged in my daily ritual, I experienced a different Casey Key than most perceive. Often I
moved along this Island when it did not bear the name Casey Key. It was sprawling with lush tropical vegetation sans all the houses there now. Frequently I was transported to this "scene" I first experienced in 2005. It was the first time I’d been in Florida and stepped foot on Casey Key in this human form. Words cannot adequately describe the “event” I felt. It was as if I was in a swirling vortex of energy, then had a profound feeling of remembrance……same place different time. The words and feeling, “I’m back” rang through me and have been echoed many times since. I really don’t know “when” I was there before….if I was a native in a past life or what, but I was definitely returning somehow….again…and again.

You know, by now, that I follow “signs” and divine inspiration. One day I was walking back “smelling the seashells” and I hear a monster mosquito. Ok, it really wasn’t a mosquito, it was a motor of some sort. Looking up I couldn’t believe what I was seeing….a large unmanned craft, rectangular with 4 propellers on each corner, flying low along the shoreline.  As I come back to the sea every day for the solitude to refresh and renew, this gross invasion of my sacred mood was keenly felt. The very next day, I observed a strange glass tubular object protruding from the sand about 4 feet. It had some kind of measuring markings and a small solar panel generating it. What it actually is for I don’t know but the labeling indicating “armed” and “ready to launch” certainly didn’t leave me with very happy thoughts. These two incidents seemed to be the icing on top of the cake pointing to head somewhere else. Once I was very clear about that, an interesting thing happened. I began my process of saying good-bye to Casey Key. For the first time there was no sadness…only peace and calm. There was almost a sense of completion and finality. It is as if everything I have come to Florida to give and receive had happened. Since I almost never say never, I can’t be sure I won’t return to Florida but, for now, that’s definitely how it feels.

Speaking of things received, I am so grateful to have been the recipient of the kindness of many Florida Earth Angels. Some reading this….you know who you are! On a previous trip, my bike remained with a friend with the message to sell, give away or do whatever he needed with it as I didn’t know if or when I’d ever be back. He was the one that unexpectedly put me up my first night back in Florida. Gleefully I discovered my bike still there just waiting to be reunited with me. Flashing back to my previous time in California….I’d offered my enthusiastic musical nephew my accordion as he indicated interest when my Dad was entertaining us on his. Upon my hunt through my stored items, the realization hit me that it was one of the things I had to part with previously. I had no clue who I gifted it to or in what state it currently resided. As I was having a cheery catch up lunch in Florida with a dear girlfriend of mine, she mentioned that the family still had “my accordion” in their closet. Now it all came back. I’d hoped one of the kids would take a liking to it but, thus far, nada. So I happily repossessed it excited at the prospect of being able to present it to my deserving nephew. In a previous trip from Florida, I took all my items from storage and others who had been kindly holding things for me and drove them across the US in a 16 foot rental truck. Most of it I gave to my daughter and a good portion my daughter was gracious enough to let me store at her place for my future use. It wasn’t until I was unpacking that I realized I didn’t have one item that was quite special to me and a very important part of the intended cargo. My grand shell framed mirror was one of the few items I actually had the time and space to create. “Few” because I have dreamed of making shell creations for years and all the different treasures I’d create to gift and sell. So far I have a shop full….only in my head as the life choices I have made so far aren’t conducive to having a craft room by the sea. Years I’d spent trying to track it down in vain. Planets lined up on this trip for a hero to miraculously get it back into my hands. I had a feeling that all my Florida “loose ends” had been tied up.

Of course there always has to be a cliff hanger….both for you and for me. Another situation arose for me before leaving the state. It may prove to be an exhilarating future adventure. But….that’s a story for another day ;-)
Many of you are aware that I am selling or trading land in Costa Rica. The two lots are in Ojochal – one with an ocean view – near the Osa Peninsula on the beautiful pacific side. Just in case you might know someone…..I am also interested in trading the property for a boat such as here. This particular boat owner wishes to trade for something in Fort Lauderdale Florida. If you know any property owners in Ft. Lauderdale interested in Costa Rica land, perhaps a deal can be done there. Otherwise I’d be interested in connecting with a boat owner similar to the one presented. Also, I have a gentleman interested in potentially acquiring my Pura Vida land for the first hemp luxury retreat. If you are on fb, you can learn more here  If you know anyone who may be interested in joining his venture, I’d be happy to connect you. Who do you know?


As always, I extend to you my fervent gratitude. You are such an important aspect of my journey. Appreciating your warm love and generous support and magically swirling the same back to you!

Saturday, July 11, 2015

California Layover

As you may have read from my previous blog post, I was absorbed for a few
weeks in the Pura Vida of Costa Rica. While there, I continued to engage in my ongoing planting of seeds worldwide to determine where my Spirit was calling me next. As a result, I was in communication with a gentleman in Florida I connected with via craigslist who had a room offered in exchange for work. The work was a very worthy charity that I could easily align with and provide major assistance in a variety of ways. I was almost at the point of going directly to Florida from Costa Rica. For a number of reasons I was guided to stick with my previous set itinerary of returning to California. However, I figured it would be a quick turn around on my way back to the Sunshine State. My excitement to be back in Florida near my beach clouded my vision regarding this particular work-exchange in the
beginning.
Cloudy or not, it became clear to me that the communication between this man and I was definitely not on the same page. Disappointment was a fleeting emotion as I promptly called to the Universe, “Next!” I must admit, due to the possible situation that wasn’t meant to be, in my mind I was already in Florida. There I was happily running, walking and strolling on my warm beach. There were my Dolphin Friends welcoming me back with a joyous display. The Y was just waiting for me to bring back my smile and energy to volleyball. I was there! Now to figure out how to flow my way there physically as well.


California, of course, had its blessings too. While I didn’t let very many folks know I was back since I planned on leaving soon, I did get to spend some quality time with my family….Mom and Dad, Tasha and Jeffrey (my kids for any new readers) and extended family. My Sis, Seal (my pet name for her – ok, if you must know, mine is Shell), her boyfriend, Paul and her son Paul came all the way down from Washington for a visit. It was a blessing for my presence there to coincide with theirs. Even my musically gifted nephew, Greg, made an appearance a few times and entertained us
with his exquisite guitar and mesmerizing voice.
Meanwhile, I hunted through listings, posted ads, mailed requests looking for ways to sustain myself in Florida. Among my efforts, I looked to find someone interested in trading their house in Nokomis for my land in Costa Rica. If you are interested in checking it out, I even made a Facebookpage to that end and postings on craigslist. What I thought would only be days or weeks became a month until I was actually ready to do something. Yes, it was still kinda vague but I had a couple strong possibilities lined up one being that of renting a room from a delightful lady named Elizabeth. Still hoping for something that would allow me to have my own place or a work/exchange or something that got me on Casey Key……I headed for the unknown in that magnetic area that kept pulling me back over and over again. Stay tuned for the magic that burst forth when I arrived…..

My Grandpuppies