The Only Constant Is Change

Actually, it’s Love but I’ll focus here on change from a human perspective….or maybe a little of both.

Yes, I was on Casey Key....again. Guess I still had unfinished business. Facing the Gulf in front of one of the vacation resorts lining the beach is a huge heart fashioned with love and white clam shells. Carol is the artist. She'd regularly hike up the beach a distance for more construction material (clam shells) carrying them back in a bag. These can get quite heavy. I know personally having collected many myself. (You may have even seen a few transformed into Mermaid Trinket Trays.) **
                                                  

Carol greeted me with her usual cheery, “Good Morning!” Then words came out of my mouth, “You sure get your workout lifting people up!” Her face lit up with happiness as she responded, “Thank you so much!” Thank You Spirit/God/Angels/Universe for giving me just the right human words for the situation. Often, I find myself saying things I hadn’t planned at all, sometimes even using words very uncharacteristic of me, and think immediately after, “Where the heck did that come from?!” But deep down I know.

That was the morning I got the history of how the Shell Heart began. I’d photographed its previous version last year thinking it was a big beach Valentine. Turns out it was more than that. It was a tribute to John and Carol’s son who passed on 3:16 – March 16. Now I understood the shell with the writing inside of Brian 3:16. I knew what John 3:16 usually referred to and this was a loving combination of such. This year, Carol added a shell with her and her husband’s names with their anniversary date. A couple days later, someone else added one with theirs. A few more began to dot the heart. Carol decided to put a cup in the sand filled with markers with a shell next to it encouraging, “Write a message”. And people did. Colorful and varied messages of remembrance, love, encouragement and appreciation are what the shell heart is now made of. It’s doubtful one could walk around reading all the inscriptions and not be deeply moved. I bow to Carol for the profound difference she has made to countless people with her heartfelt act of love!

My life seems to personify change. Especially the past decade. If anyone would have suggested to me 20 years ago I’d be living this gypsea journey, I’d have laughed outright. No home. No defined plan. No end in sight. As many have read in Baring My Soul and Planting a Dream, there is a place I would like to plant myself on this earth - that tropical beach home I can almost touch. It just hasn’t manifested yet so I do my best with each change to enjoy my tour of life and BE in the NOW.

“Changes are what allow your spirit to expand into a greater awareness of your true nature. Through change you witness the many forms and faces of the Divine, for every living being, every inanimate object, every blade of grass, every mountain, every animal, is simply an embodiment of the One love. As you look into the mirrors of creation, you gain a greater awareness of the true Self within. People may come and go but the Divinity that animates them can never leave you. The very love that animates all of creation is One, peering at you through countless eyes, made manifest in oceans, trees, breezes, mountains, and the smallest single-celled animals. In every thought and every breath there is only One love.

Your soul will feel great freedom if, instead of fearing change, you embrace it wholeheartedly. Trust that change is the result of your growth – individually and/or collectively. Trust that your changes, when embraced with love, ultimately lead to a more conscious and happier life.”
~ VisionsofHeaven. com

You have your own individual journey of change whether it is visible to others or not. If you’d like a boost and a little company on the way, perhaps Wellness Couching by Phone will help brighten your trip!

On theme of the sea and experiencing change, one of my dear friends, Rod Thomas, has listed this beautifully restored Island Trader 46’ Ketch Rigged Motorsailer. https://www.yachtworld.com/boats/1982/island-trader-motorsailer-46-3147170/?refSource=browse%20listing  Cruisers are a fun lot who are no strangers to change. If you are one or know anyone who might be interested in this newly restored gem, please contact Captain Rod for more details.

Thanks to cruiser friend Manuela for sharing this appropriate video recently on fb. I also recently “heard” it playing in my head one faintly lit new moon predawn morning. The stars still shown overhead as I stood in the sand, cool waves washing over my feet. You know that it’s “Time For a Cool Change”. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bKwRW0l-Qk&feature=share

** Mermaid Trinket Trays are available in our  Mother Daughter etsy shop Gifts From The Sea and Other Treasures. Please swim by, browse and perhaps pick one up for you or your favorite mermaid.

As always, my heart overflows with appreciation for the ongoing support of all manner and the love that forever swirls between us! Aloha ~

All For Love

Valentine's Day is my favorite holiday. Some are aware, I have many reasons to not be fond of Valentine’s Day. Among other reasons, few hundred people would understand what I was talking about if I mentioned the Valentine’s Day Massacre. Without going into the details, to say it was traumatic doesn’t even scratch the surface. Usually, I don’t like to bring up “dark” situations but someone reading needed to “hear” this. While not denying the not so happy past Valentine circumstances, I choose to focus on the bigger picture here.   

Expanding a bit on last month’s post and the way we look at things… This can be compared to a mall where you go to different stores and get various things. You have your favorite stores where you know you will find things that please you. There may be stores in that same mall where you would never go as you don’t prefer the energy or style of the places. However, you wouldn’t say it is an awful mall just because it has a couple stores you won’t frequent. You would simply go and shop the retailers you enjoy. A few of you are chuckling at this example knowing my preferences regarding shopping in general but it works for some people haha.

Here are some opportunities on a recent adventure that I had chances to practice what I preach and focus on things that brought me happy feelings.

↧ The description given of one of the available boats sounded like this.

In actuality, it was this ↣ 

Above is the resort in Mexico, the address of which I was directed to give customs for where I was staying. However, where I actually stayed is pictured below.

Before I arrived, there was much talk about the glamour of the area... 

...yet where I was living looked more like this ↣

 Although the work exchange was not quite as presented, I was able to see beauty in what was. There were happy people exercising in the park, many of whom I exchanged cheerful greetings with. It was beyond hilarious seeing a Pit bull jump joyfully to grab a rope hanging from a tree then proceed to simply swing back and forth until he could hold on no longer. There were gorgeous flowers, beautiful skies and, very importantly for me....warmth!!

I observed, once again, that some people appear to have it all. Then there are those that don’t have much in a material sense (including myself here). Many people who have all the stuff, also have more troubles, health issues and/or fears than one might imagine. There are people without great means, who have a great degree of happiness, health and freedom as well. It’s all in the choices made, what one focuses on and the meanings they assign things/events.

If you are ready to make a dramatic shift in your life, and would like some guidance along the way, I am available for Wellness Coaching by Phone in the U.S. Skype is a possibility for those outside the U.S. provided we can coordinate days and times. Please contact me to schedule your complimentary consultation to determine if this is appropriate for you.

Although every day is Love Day, I choose to use the “Hallmark holiday” as an opportunity to focus on it just a bit more. Of all the human created holidays, Valentine’s Day remains my most precious. Many who know this showered me with thoughtful love messages to help me celebrate the occasion. I am extremely grateful to you and all those who have shared their love in any way. Swirling it all around again!!

Happy Valentine's Month!!

Who is this blog for?

This blog is for those for whom it is created. Cryptic huh? No doubt those for whom it is written will “get it” though. Sometimes I even wonder why I continue to publish it as I am generally a very private individual and it is a challenge putting so much out there for the world to see. People who know me best realize I could easily become a recluse…..as long as it is amidst a lush tropical beach on turquoise, dolphin frequented waters! Yet every month I get one to three heart-felt responses poignantly reminding me exactly why I continue making these posts. If I assist even one person in picking themselves up or turning their lives around for the better, my efforts are more than worthwhile.

The practical aspect of sharing this information with others I have touched on before in Communication and Technology  In today’s fast paced, high tech world, with the ability to connect with thousands regularly and meeting new people daily, it is virtually impossible to maintain contact as in days gone by. In what now feels like a prior lifetime, I would annually send out hundreds of handwritten cards for all occasions, birthdays, thank yous, anniversaries, and cheer as well as numerous holidays. I’d call people, not only for their birthdays, anniversaries and special occasions, but just to say hi and see how things were going. Presently, its’s a miracle to keep up in these areas just with my immediate family. Yet so many people, both relatives and friends, ask what I am up to and want me to stay in touch. This blog, in a small way, helps facilitate keeping in touch. Ironically, many folks who wonder what’s happening in my world, won’t read my blog although they’d read the same info in an email or listen enthusiastically over the phone. Each to their own. We all do the best we can 😊

In my years of officially personal training, going to my clients’ homes and offices to coach, it was much clearer what my work was. Wellness Coaching over the Phone - clear as well. Now however, my “work” is far more encompassing and not as easy to define in human words. In addition, by choice, I generally don’t get paid in money for what I “do”.  My beach ministry scores me spectacular views, smiles, leads, invitations, dolphin entertainment, shells, sea glass and refreshment. Often my communication online with a potential host, an exchange site, fb or similar, I get the satisfaction of brightening someone’s day besides providing and receiving valuable information. This leads me to

the topic of free travel and/or accommodations. In just a few years, the number has skyrocketed of folks living alternate lifestyles. House-sitting, care taking, pet-sitting, travel companions, and work exchange situations can be found world-wide. What constantly catches my attention, and makes me laugh, is the regular promotion of “free accommodation” or “free travel”. There are blogs written and courses taught on how to participate in such. Websites have sprung up overnight for house-sitting, work trade and more. I guess “free” is a good attention grabber but, upon reading the content, it is never free. It is an exchange. The ads are particularly humorous that state “free stay” followed by a long list of the work one is expected to do. Don’t get me wrong! I am not against working in exchange for one’s keep. I’ve been doing this for years! Free press trips and FAM (familiarization) trips….same thing. They are not free! These trips are provided and hosted in exchange for the participant writing enticing articles about them (including getting them published) or promoting travel to one’s clientele to the areas traveled. Again, this is awesome, it’s just not free. Perhaps someday there will be a world where things are done and given for free. This bright concept is being cultivated by many, Freeworlder for one. Check it out if this way of life appeals to you. Of course, nothing is still done/given absolutely freely……one does it for the benefits there of. Benefits include smiles on other’s faces, warm hugs, wagging tails, healthier lifestyle and that feeling of joy inside for accomplishing noble actions!

On the topic of work trade situations, I am looking for leads again. There are numerous ways I can assist hosts. Here is an example on one of the websites I occasionally look for connections  - LuxuryHousesitting As you may know by now, I am on a Quest of sorts. The ideal place for a win-win work exchange for me is on or in walking distance of a tropical sandy beach. The closer to the description I revealed in Baring My Soul and Planting a Dream the better!  If you have any ideas or know anyone who may be instrumental in landing my next trade adventure, please share.

Thank you all, both new readers and old friends, for being on this journey together. It enhances all our lives in countless ways. YOU are who this blog is written for. Remember to always enjoy your NOW!

Doing Our Best Where We Are

Every time we come to a place or experience a situation, it is a first. Everything we experience contributes to who we are. We are, in a sense, a different person than we were even being in a place or situation visited previously. That being said, the energy in Florida on my Farewell Tour definitely felt different from my prior stays.

Previously, I’d see dolphins frequently. It seemed a bit odd that they visited me very rarely even though I was on the beach most mornings and evenings. Energetically, they are always with me but, as a human, physical sightings still bring an unmatched thrill. Rainbows were another sight I was gifted with regularly during my earlier time in Florida. This trip they were an uncommon treat.

One of the characteristics that I love about Florida is the lush tropical foliage……green everywhere! During this time, human activity had caused great harm to nature. Vast areas were clear cut and in the process of such. The cut vegetation was piled high and burned….not even being used! I witnessed these scenes, in a very raw, visceral manner. Even the Gulf’s shoreline was eroding drastically before my eyes! One day I physically witnessed sea grape plants and a palm tree fall into the water as the rain poured and unusually large waves crashed high onto the sand. I do understand that things evolve and Mother Nature is constantly reshaping, renewing, refashioning, reinventing, recreating….. This is not a bad thing although it sometimes creates some hardship and sadness for humans. It is simply part of Gaia’s ever-changing dance of existence......a reflection of our own lives with our ever-changing chapters.

Another interesting scenario that helped show me I wasn’t meant to stay was my meetings with friends. Actually, my lack of meetings would be more accurate. Many friends said they missed me, wanted me to keep in touch and indicated they’d like to get together if I was in the area again. While I had delightful connections with 5 of these beautiful friends, there were 10-15 that just didn’t happen. I know most people are very busy and have trouble just keeping up with their daily lives but this was just excessive. I also know some of the behavior of certain people not getting back to me was totally uncharacteristic of them. It was as if the Universe was conspiring to make sure my reunions didn’t happen so, combined with my other unusual experiences, I felt no more ties to the area.

On a bright note, I felt new hope regarding the trees and “natural landscaping” when I learned about a project one of my friends is involved with – The Urban Forest.

​​​“The Urban Forest will be located on about 26 acres of land between the eastern leg of the Waterway Trail and the Seaboard industrial section, extending between the Venice Avenue and Circus Bridges. The proposed corridor will extend about 1.75 miles.
The VABI Urban Forest is a critical component in enhancing the City of Venice’s urban design that was introduced by John Nolen in 1926 and remains its principle planning document. Adding this “green belt” corridor will complement Nolen’s “city garden” concept and serve to improve the quality of life for residents and visitors.
Once completed, the Urban Forest will provide sanctuary for migratory birds as well as enhance storm water management and improve the community’s water resources."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=139&v=Fuk3u4GZ1gY

I feel like I’m coming full circle regarding my relationship with Casey Key so will bring you along regarding my experience of my first visit there. It was 2005 when I visited Florida for the first time. My former husband and I traveled to the southernmost state in the contiguous US to confirm that we wanted to move there and determine the specific area that felt best to us. Stepping foot on Casey Key, I felt like I was in – the only word I can best describe is – a vortex. It was as if I was in the same place, different time. I don’t know if I was Calusa or some other tribe unrecorded in current history. What I was aware of is, in that instant, I somehow knew what the rest of the key looked like….sans houses…with much more flora and fauna....and it was not called Casey Key. The whole experience was probably just a blink of an eye but so powerful I will always remember it. When another intuitive friend mentioned healers are being called back to places they once worked (sometimes very long ago), it rang true as another possibility for my possibly final Florida trip. Perhaps there was some energetic work I needed to wrap up before bidding this beautiful paradise good-bye.

Reporting more cheer.....
My happiness has been heightened with the knowing that my kids are both happy and starting new chapters in their lives.

In closing, wherever you are, please find comfort, happiness and reassurance with the knowledge that we are always doing the very best we can where we are, with what we have, in the present moment. If you’d light assistance shedding light regarding this, perhaps you’ll consider Wellness Coaching byPhone. Namaste ~

P.S. I was just about to publish this blog post when this message from TUT showed up. It was so appropriate, I had to include it:
“People who do all they can, with what they've got, from where they are, Michelle, no matter how puny their actions, how tiny their steps, or how futile it may seem, simply have more fun. Way.

Of course, to the uninitiated it doesn't appear that way. To them it appears as if only those taking gigantic leaps, who drive cars with fancy wheels, have loads of friends, perfect bodies, and fly around the world in First Class Sleeper Seats, are having fun. But what they don't realize is that we're often talking about the very same folks, just at different points in their journey.

Coffee, tea, or a brand new Bentley?

   The Universe”