Love Always…Technology Occasionally

Those who know me well, also know Valentine’s Day is my favorite holiday. I must add - as if we need a holiday to celebrate Love! For me, when one is focusing on Love, they are in the most wonderful moment, dimension or space. Delightfully, it can be repeated and lived eternally – or, at least, as long as we can keep our conscious intention focused.

While doing my best to come from a place of love, today I report a bit about my relationship with technology. As long as technology has been available, I’ve had tech “issues”. When the internet first came to be, I just “had to” have an aol account to be in business. Then I “had to” have a website. Of course, the obligatory newsletter was not far behind. Then followed the social media explosion starting with Myspace. While I admit to dragging my feet the whole way – not thrilled with it at all, I did my best to learn so I could be the most professional and successful in my wellness business. Some knew me back then, when my company name and logo – yes, one’s logo

absolutely defined their business! – was Fit Bodies. (Long before facebook, FB to me meant Fit Bodies!) Very quickly, my practice expanded to encompass so much more than my clients’ bodies. Dancing with the balance and integration of body, mind, spirit and beyond, Fit Bodies evolved into UniversalWellness.  (Thanks Russ and Julie at JRP Productions Graphic Design for my current gorgeous lotus logo!) 

I used technology to market, to create a book, for bookkeeping and huge (for me) database maintenance among other things. In spite of my best efforts, as soon as I learned something and began integrating it acceptably in my work, the hardware or software changed. This forced me, should I wish to keep up with what was “necessary to succeed in business”, to spend more money each time. Needless to say, I’d have to learn the new format again as well since it generally didn’t behave like its predecessor. I loved working with my clients and teaching classes but the rest of the running the business stuff was constantly challenging. However, I battled on bravely. Why? Because I loved

my clients….and so I could provide the best life possible for my precious children. Unlike in days of old, things – especially all those tech – aren’t made to last. With every new computer I got, I was required to pay all over again for software I’d already spent hundreds of dollars on. But even paying the ransom didn’t prevent losing valuable information and abilities from the older version each time.

My move from CA to FL in 2006 was just the beginning of huge waves of change sweeping over my life. The incredible magicians at Axicom continued to assist me in keeping my database, and other things important on my computer(s), for years. This was particularly tricky with my life transforming to gypsy life and living mostly by trade. Obviously, hardware and software companies won’t exchange their products for wellness coaching and

such. The Axicom Angels helped me rescue remnants of my previously extensive database (around 2,000 contacts) but I finally lost complete use of the ACT software a few years ago. Same thing has been happening with my website for over a decade. I went from working diligently to maintain the content and mailing list and then… Over the years, I was able to do less and less with regard to modifying existing content and adding new information. This was in spite of my web guy doing everything he could for me in the ever-changing tech world.  It finally came down to me basically keeping the website for the presence, a reference for older information and a portal through which I sent out an announcement for new blog posts to the wonderful folks on my personally cultivated emailing list. Since last year, it has been getting shut down with each announcement. The mysterious cause was finally discovered, when it again occurred in January 2021. Sending out a message “only” once a month was seen as “not normal” (then again, what about me is?) and was getting flagged for sending out spam. Evidently the “service” cannot take into consideration individual account needs so I am left with some big questions of how to proceed from here.

A few close ones know it would be easier for me to disappear in some tropical location with virtually no technology. I have seriously been tempted to go that route a number of times over the past decade. Each time, I have regrouped and found a way to hold on...until the Universe shows me otherwise.

I am not even sure how this blog post will be adequately announced now that I cannot do so through my website emailing “service”. The January announcement only went out to maybe half the list before it got shut down. So many times, I have seriously considered just

quitting writing this too… And I do so again now. One of the big reasons it has gone on this long is for Love – it’s definitely not for money! Heartfelt feedback I’ve regularly received has reminded me of the bright difference it has made. And so, at least for this month, I lovingly share this post with you. I trust I will be guided appropriately – on so many levels – on what actions to take for next month. It’s still…one day at a time and sometimes even, one moment at a time. One moment to make a conscious choice to make the best decision possible from a place of Love.

This post drastically evolved into a very different communication than I envisioned for my sparkling Love post. For the moment, I trust this particular message reaches just the right people at exactly the right time.

If you so choose, you can “follow” me on Blogger and you will get notified of any new posts even if I no longer have an emailing list. You do have to have an account (which is easy to sign up for) and you don’t have to be active.

Changing gears but still with Love….

I enjoy recommending dear friends and their products and services when appropriate. Often the topic of love goes “hand in hand” with romance. My very talented (and spiritually aware) friend, Peter Simon, has created a Romance Novel Class – for writing one, that is. A complete and detailed guide and, it’s FREE! I know, what a novel idea! 

If you visit his fb profile, be sure to check out “Details About Peter” in his About section. Pretty fantastic! Those details can also be found on amazon as well as his book Context that I couldn’t stop reading once I started. And that’s available on Kindle for ONLY .99! Note: “This isn’t a story to go into lightly. This isn’t a tale for those expecting the familiar. This is a book for readers that want more in their entertainment.” The trailer for Context can be found on youtube Naturally, it too involves

lovers, as appropriate for my Valentine post….. “It begins here. This book consists of a collection of letters written by two lovers. Lovers who must wrestle to retain love as they endure the pinnacle of strife. Only read these letters if you believe yourself ready to learn the answers that only Story can provide. Of course you are already prepared to walk across the surface of alien worlds. Obviously, you are prepared to read a tale of love, wilderness, war and despair. But, are you ready to venture through the ultimate Unknowns? Are you ready to invest yourself in a tale that may forever change you? It begins here. Open this book if you are ready to begin again.”

Last year, I offered, for Valentine’s 

Day/Month, Hearts of the Sea. Images show a few of the many hearts nature and I lovingly co-created. Although all pictured have moved on to loving owners, for a limited time, custom orders are available. Of course, none will look exactly as those pictured. As with people, no two are exactly alike. 
                                     Please contact asap with your interest….

I wish I could wrap this up with......and they all lived happily ever after. But I realize, for me, I can only be happily in this moment. So, in this moment of love and joy, I swirl its essence to you in whatever moment you are reading this. Words cannot adequately express my gratitude for the Light You Are in My Life! Happy Valentine's Day! 
Happy Love Moment!

Surprises and Celebrations

My daughter knew of my plans as I prepared for the drive coast to coast. My son did not. Intentionally I’d kept the info from him intending to surprise him for his birthday in April. I made the Florida to California trek in 36 hours only to sit for another 5 in stop and crawl California traffic. Managed to keep my being in the same state (sometimes in the same city) a secret from him for a few days. Jeff’s big day came. My daughter, Natasha, arrived on his doorstep for his celebration. Standing off to the side, just out of view, the presence of another person could be detected by the colorful balloon bouquet I carried. Jeff opened the door enthusiastically greeting Natasha. Giving me a preliminary glance, he then turned back to Natasha. Me being there just didn’t quite compute in his brain for a second. Then his face changed as he looked back. Incredulously, he said, “Mom! You’re supposed to be in Florida!” He wrapped me in one of the warmest, heartfelt hugs ever. We will both definitely remember that happy birthday forever.

Many angels facilitated the possibility for me to pull off yet another extremely unlikely surprise. It wasn’t unlikely that I’d want to help my sister (aka Lue, Seal, Lucy, Sis…..) celebrate her big 60^th birthday. The unexpected part, for those who know me a bit more, is that I would brave visiting the state she resides, Washington. There are quite a few reasons it is on my least desirable places to travel in the world list - which will remain unstated here. My niece Annie, unbeknownst to my sister, picked me up at the airport and harbored me overnight. The next day I accompanied her family on the drive to the Olympic Peninsula where my sis lives. The rest of the extended family were already there, Dad, Mom, Brother, Sister-in-Law, and various Nieces and Nephews. I jumped out of the minivan to the side of the house. All came out to greet the newcomers as everyone knew what was up except my sister. As she came out, Annie grabbed her in a bear hug turning Lucy’s back to me. I hurried up behind putting my hands over her eyes. She felt my hands guessing my great-niece, Kaeli. Knowing she’d never figure it was me, I removed my hands and she turned around. The look on her face was priceless as she started screaming in disbelief. I was actually a bit concerned for a few moments that I’d have to catch her as she appeared to be in shock. The surprise was a super success as well as the weeks after I got to enjoy with her and my sweet nephew. Big thank you again to all who helped facilitate this memorable event!

Back in California in time for my enchanted birthday 6/4/64 6:46, I was showered with an abundance of surprises, gifts, love and well wishes. Read about prior Birthday Magic in ALOHA Everyone couldn’t get together at the same time so I've just had an ongoing stream of celebration. Got to spend a full day with Natasha getting pampered and having fun. Enjoyed heart-warming time with Jeffrey which included seeing a movie on my wish list, Wonder Woman. He even had chocolate molten lava cake with French vanilla ice cream delivered to me during the movie. More happiness was had with my parents who treated me to a delicious dinner and a napolean pastry “cake”. So many friends and family honored me with cheerful calls, texts, emails, cards and more. I am always awed by the fact that you even remember knowing how busy and full your lives are too. Huge thank you all!! Of course, as is tradition in our family, I’m still celebrating as we do as long as we can 😉

In my past life in California (as a semi-normal person), I used to be quite organized and always remembered birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions of family, friends and clients. It was typical to have 3-5 greeting cards going out, on any given day, in my mailbox in acknowledgement of such. I loved the opportunity to be a small part of each loved one’s celebration. Over the years my life changed drastically. I got to the point that I could no longer send cards due to my gypsy life. I did my best via email but many folks didn’t have email or the email addresses I had became obsolete. Over time, with so many computer issues, my database was compromised (do you hear that Sage ACT?) and I’ve never been able to restore it to its former functionality. Additionally, the fact that I keep making hundreds of more friends over time makes it pretty impossible to remember special occasions as I’d like. Facebook helps me a little and my memory serves me a tad. I’ve resigned myself to the reality that I’ll never be able to keep in touch as I used to again. While this could be disappointing for me, I am reassured with the knowing that I make all the perfect connections in the perfect time. This allows me to let go of the feelings of disappointment or regret. It is delightful when I happen to be with someone to celebrate a happy occasion in their life. I also appreciate all the people who are serendipitously with me for the wonderful events I wish to celebrate in mine. Since I may not be able to remember or greet you on your birthday personally, please consider yourself blessed and showered upon with festive energies. And, unless your birthday happens to fall on this day (the day you happen to be reading now), here’s wishing a Very Merry Unbirthday to YOU!!

Remember, every day is a new day and brings infinite causes for celebration….

As you may know from previous writings, I prefer to live via trade other than money. However, there are still areas where money is needed occasionally such as phone bills and airfares. Trade is an energetic exchange and similar to Karma at times. In other words, there isn’t always an even exchange between two parties.

More often than not, we put good out into the world via our words, thoughts and actions and that’s what swirls back to us. If you've ever been inspired, motivated, intrigued or entertained by my messages and wish to assist in them continuing, I gratefully welcome any financial contributions you would like to gift. This can be done in a variety of ways. Please ask for an address if you wish to mail a check or money order the old fashion way. If we know each other well, a bank deposit could work too. Otherwise, you can use my paypal account. The down side is not all you give gets to me. The bonus for you with this method is that you can use your credit card and earn rewards or miles for your own adventures. Whether you feel inclined to contribute financially or not, your loving presence on my journey is an ever-constant source of joy.

Here's to Surprises and Celebrations! And many more,,,,,

Not All Those Who Wander Are Lost

And all that is gold does not glitter. Sit back and relax while I regale you with the ongoing tale of a Gypsy Wanderer from an intimate perspective.

Most people living “normal” lives cannot fathom the life I have been living since 2009. Personally, I don’t know how many years previous were preparing me for such either – perhaps since birth. Normal people, in this context, are those who subscribe to beliefs such as: You have to work hard at a job to have the things you want. Hard work is necessary to achieve or be deserving of just about anything. You have to have a secure job to ensure you will have enough for retirement. One must have savings, provisions, insurance etc. for a “rainy day”.

Not a typical being, I have lived outside the “normal” paradigm for quite a while now…..time pretty much blending one year to the next. This has led to extraordinarily amazing happenings and some, not so thrilling, quite interesting situations. People have chided me for soliciting contributions. This was in regard to my general open request via my blog, not even asking them personally. Some individuals, who I considered close friends and thought we understood each other, have even asked me to stop communicating with them. On a kinder note, people have offered me "regular jobs" as well as assistance in getting a “JOB”.

These wonderful, well-meaning humans, have no comprehension of my journey and mission right now. Heck, I have difficulty understanding it myself periodically. As far as those people go, I bless them for their thoughtful, caring intentions. If they wish to hold to those age old beliefs, far be it from me to try to shift their opinions. It is their prerogative to believe what they want and feel is appropriate for them. Although they might want to watch The Matrix! (Sorry, couldn’t resist throwing that in.) 

For those who have a clue, you may or may not know what an infinite blessing you are in my life! I cannot thank you enough for all your support via your love, your words, food, money, housing, services and positive energies. In fact, there are times when some of you believe in me more than I do. Yes, I DO have my “moments”. You are all Earth Angels both to me and all you touch by way of your far reaching ripple effect. You are, indeed, part of the Heaven on Earth Construction Team!

As far as my wanderings, it is true I don’t know much about my future and where it may take me. However, I regularly follow the signs indicating which direction to go or, often, which road not to travel. It is my joy and delight to share the gifts only I can impart to those open to receive along the way. Whilst involved in those bright endeavors, I feel so magically in my element! It is a high only known by those following their true path (not necessarily the one others say they “should” be on). Much continues to be a mystery for me but I always know, beyond the shadow of a doubt, my very next appropriate step. This is due to a conscious choice, made many years ago, to live in the present moment. Although not always easy, it is a very empowering place to live in/from.

There’s a saying many align with, “Everything Happens for a Reason!” I used to be extremely pessimistic so that saying then was, for me, along the lines that everything happens for a reason and that is to mess with me. Having since done a complete 180, when I use the phrase, I always add quietly inside….and is for my highest good and the highest good of all! On occasion I am gifted with the knowing of some of those “reasons” but much of the time not. This is where faith and trust come in! An amazing, wise friend of mine, Annalene Hart wrote a brilliant blog post that describes another place I find myself once in a blue moon….. The Surprising Gift Of Confusion  Can you relate?? However, even a temporary state of confusion does not equate to being “lost”. Numerous are the purposes for my journey that I know but human language fails me in my desire to convey such. Perhaps in the future, I will discover a way…..if it is for the highest good of all.

For now I encourage you to think about your personal journey in this very moment. Are you living your truth, whether or not you can clearly explain it to another? Are you allowing others’ opinions to influence your journey in ways that aren’t in alignment with your own heart? Are you doing things a certain way solely because that’s the way they have always been done? Is there some small step you can take today that would put you more in unity with your heart’s purpose?

I am not suggesting anyone live logistically as I am at all. Different strokes for different folks. I simply wish to be a mirror for you living your truth. There are many ways of living outside the mainstream “automatic” – Check out Money - Not the Only Currency & Freeworlder. Whether you choose to live more “normal” or off the beaten path, please remember to always live in integrity…..always be true to yourself! Namaste ~

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.

Make New Friends, But Keep The Old…..

As the saying goes, people are in our lives for a Reason, a Season or a Lifetime. I’m sure you have noticed this phenomenon in your life to one degree or other. In days gone by, in an environment with much less technology, people's world generally consisted of their close family, neighbors, friends from work and various organizations they belonged to. It was a challenge enough keeping up with everyone then. In my own life, there was a time when I could keep track of many family and friends’ birthdays, special events and what was going on in their lives. However, with increased technology and broader travels, I meet thousands of people – making new friends everywhere I go. As much as I would like to stay in close contact with everyone, this has become physically impossible. I just do the best I can and rely on the Universe to help me touch base or reconnect with just the right friends at just the perfect time. It is almost miraculous how this has worked out for me over and over again.

A great example of connections and uncanny reconnections happened recently. One day I was to meet my daughter Natasha for lunch. She is a Banker at Wells Fargo in Westlake Village CA on Lindero Canyon Road. Since I was arriving earlier than her lunch time, she requested I pick up sub sandwiches from a shop on Lindero Cyn Rd and Kanan Road. When I arrived at the shopping center, I wasn’t sure, from her description, which place to go. It could have been 1 of 3 possible food establishments. Since I couldn’t call her, I chose a place based on the number of the address….640. (Some of my readers will smile knowingly here.) So there I am, standing in Sub Contractor
Sandwiches waiting for my order, when an interesting mural on the

wall catches my eye. Depicted is a colossal sub sandwich with a team of builders in the process of its construction. Men on ladder and around are dwarfed by its size. What really jumped out at me was the artist’s signature in the design….Linda Hager. My gosh, I hadn’t seen that name in ages!

Linda Hagar is an extremely talented muralist. In the beginning of 2001, she transformed my upstairs home office in Thousand Oaks, California into a magical beachscape. (I wish I had photos to share with you of her enchanting creation but, as you may imagine, a gypsy cannot take everything with her.) It was so refreshing to work by “the shore” complete with sand castle, treasure chest, shells and a crab. Mommy and baby dolphin never tired of leaping in the air. My “sky” was a bluish purple with cotton candy clouds floating by. When we moved from that house, that scene and feeling was one of the most difficult things I had to leave behind. Hopefully the new owners appreciated it with their own sense of wonder. Over the years, there were a couple occasions I wanted to refer Linda’s work. For some reason, the contact info I had for her no longer worked and I couldn’t track her down.

Back at Sub Contractor…I compliment the sandwich art to the gentleman behind the counter asking how long it had been there. He responded about 15-20 years. With guarded hope, I asked if he knew how to contact the artist. As he apologetically responded, the woman behind me, another Linda, piped up with a cheerful, “I know Linda”. Wow, what are the odds? Evidently, when the Universe is conspiring in your favor, the odds are very great! I ended up giving her my card and she got back to me later with Linda’s contact info. It was wonderful to re-connect and hear Linda’s voice over the phone. She has been keeping busy with her art especially in a gratifying manner that touches untold numbers. Her work brightens peoples’ day in pediatric and oncology hospital wards. You can read more about that work in this 2011 LA Daily News Article If you’d like reach Linda Hager regarding her work, just contact me and I will assist in facilitating that.

I used to get a little frustrated not being able to keep in touch with people in the manner I desired. Now that I trust making the perfect connections at the right times, this type of Serendipity happens often in my life. Can you think of the times it’s happened in yours as well? Did you know you can actually magnetize desired synchronicities in your life on a regular basis instead of just random happenings? You can discover how with the guidance of Telephone Wellness Coaching. Read about it HERE to see/feel if it’s right for you.

If you are reading this now, you are my Friend on some level and I thank you for that gift! Many of my relationships are maintained more on a spiritual or soul level. While we may not be able to see each other or converse for years, we definitely are aware of each other’s presence. When we do communicate or see each other again, we just pick up where we left off. The bond remains strong. It is like no time has gone by. Then again, what is time? Perhaps a topic for another day :-)

PS to this blog post with regard to Linda Hager's magical art....

She has painted many uplifting murals both at Tarzana Regional Medical Center as well as Holy cross Hospital in Mission Hills. The significance of this is that I was born in Holy Cross and my kids both made their entrance into this world at Tarzana. Linda was kind enough to share a number of photos of her work. I am happy to present a few of them are below. Linda Hager can be reached at lbhager2@gmail.com if you would like to comment or inquire about her work.