Random Acts of Kindness

Giving...Giving Thanks...Thankfulness...Gratitude...Blessed Be...Loved...

Life!

Truly, when one awakens to a brand new day, whether the sun is shining, or the rain is falling, or the cold winds blow a pretty white flurry of snow flakes through the atmosphere, it is a day for Giving Thanks!

Always show kindness.  Now something we always do as a family, and I mean always, unless of course an 18-wheeler pulls up behind us at the toll booth, (you'll get that in just a bit) is, we pay the bridge toll for the vehicle behind us when crossing the river.  (It costs much more, per axle in fact, if a tractor trailer pulls up behind you to cross the bridge.)

This is the first time the middle child has ventured off away from home for Thanksgiving.  And just before leaving the house, suitcase in hand, stopped to double check that there was enough cash at the ready to pay the bridge toll for the car behind her as she went over the river and through the woods, this Thanksgiving Day.

Now, think about this; depending on the recipient of this very small random act of kindness, the person pulling up to the booth could be so immersed in some mental turmoil full of angst almost ready to stomp the gas pedal and push your vehicle a little faster through this toll booth process.

If that is the case, this simple gesture has instantly, without warning, transformed the negative mindset of this stranger into a positive vibration first made obvious by a smile...a genuine smile that comes naturally when a happiness occurs.  A complete 180!

I'd like to think that this angry person, ok maybe just a tad cranky, with their own toll cash at the ready to toss out to the toll taker, forks that cash over for the car directly behind him, just because he's still so stunned by having his toll paid for.  And maybe, this next recipient is in the same "former" state as this lucky individual who was just awarded a sign via the cosmic universe...a very symbolic gesture indeed, that we are all connected...

-

Now, the case may be that the vehicle, (car, SUV, mini-van, pick-up truck) pulling into the toll booth is already in a happy state of being; singing all the way up to the toll taker, tunes a-blasting.  Again, cash at the ready, is now presented with or given a present, via a very simple gesture of a kind soul, who just passed through the booth, and paid your toll...without hesitation you keep on singing, and you do the same!

Yes, pay it backward!

Nature...the good, the bad, the ugly...always brings peace!

Either way, to either of the lucky persons "steered" in behind you as you approach the toll plaza, you are blessed!

Rejoice in that, and SMILE!
For Smiles spread JOY!
And Great Joy is LOVE!

A Love Divine!

Listen, and you will hear the message being spoken to you, to your heart and soul through the quiet noise of Nature.  Join in the dialogue.  It will have a profound impact on your life...

Giving...Giving Thanks...Thankfulness...Gratitude...Blessed Be...
Loved...Life...

Aloha

Happy Thanksgiving 2013

Blessed Be

In the true spirit of Thanksgiving, and tuning in late to "Sonography" for Martina McBride's Blessed, I am burning "Blessed Be" incense handmade from all natural plant material from Nina at Two Crow Cottage. 

 I get kissed by the sun each morning

Matching socks (a rare sight)...it's cold outside

Put my feet on a hardwood floor

Rosebud Sandy's porch swing...sweet!

Sometimes I sit on my front porch swing just soaking up the day

I think to myself, I think to myself

This world is a beautiful place

I have been blessed and I feel like I've found my way

I have been blessed with so much more than I deserve

Across a crowded room, I know you know what I'm thinking 

by the way I look at you...

And no words have to be said

I think to myself, I think to myself

This love is a beautiful gift

I have been blessed...

Happy Thanksgiving!

Gratitude

Seasons change...

And as the cold north winds blow, 

the dry, brown leaves become part of the earth.

The skies turn gray with the hint of snow

and the chill prompts a deep cleansing breath 

to the heart and soul....

clearing the mind of angst in the material world.

We must tune in and remind ourselves

that we are one in this universe.

The circle of life continues,

and the soul lives on.

Peace comes from within.

Ch..ch..ch..changes...again

Waking up to who you are requires letting go of who you imagine yourself to be. 

~ Alan Watts

With the changing of the seasons, comes a natural time of reflection.  A time to realize that the personality that is seen or perceived by those around you, is not necessarily the true self that lies deep within your soul.  For therein, lies the true being, the true spiritual essence of your very soul.  And that is where peace resides. 

Coming Home

Wind Turbines of Western PA

Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_home3.html#Vv0bjfIDh5EImZ1T.99

"I long, as does every human being, to be at home wherever I find myself."   Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_home3.html#Vv0bjfIDh5EImZ1T.99

There is something quite satisfying about taking a journey back home in the middle of Autumn. Especially if the rain holds off so you can get out there to enjoy the simple beauty of the great outdoors.  Driving across the state of PA is very long, and quite lovely. 

It is good wholesome living. When you see all the farms and all the churches (yes, rednecks clinging to their guns and religion...and damn proud of it) in a rural setting like this, well that speaks to my heart and to my soul.  It is such a peaceful environment.  Driving along to see the simple, very basic needs of everyday life obtained by hard work is very rewarding to witness, let alone actually live it.

Green Acres for sure!

 Farm after farm, folks waving to the passersby who are obviously visitors, for in these rural locations, everybody knows everybody, and they all know each others' vehicles (pick-up trucks, tractors, horses), so when an odd vehicle carrying out of towners, with out of state plates, passes through, they are greeted with hospitality.  Can only be one reason to be this far off the beaten path.  It's no secret that if someone is passing through this neck of the woods, they are here for one reason only; and that is coming home....and I did just that with all my redneckedness intact!  Some things never change.

 

 

The changing of the seasons is a way of life.  Especially in the Northeast where Mother Nature puts on a display worthy of this Universe.  And coming home, is a peaceful easy feeling. The same feeling that a child has running free in their own "Garden of Eden".  The innocent stage of life, where nothing mattered...nothing at all.  The carefree days, before setting off into the real world where grown up topics are displayed in living color, and inevitably make their way into your peaceful existence.  The realization as you move through life as an adult of the corruption that has taken hold of our society, cannot infiltrate your peaceable kingdom if you stay true to your very own soul.  And by going home to your "Garden of Eden" with your soul intact, is the very best way to live your life to its fullest.  All we have is the present. The past is gone.  The future may never be...make peace and live for right now.   JUST BE!!!  

The long and winding road...that leads...

back home.

Prince at Two Crow Cottage

"Kiss me, quick!"

Linking up today for Tuesday Muse and One World Tuesday
Stop by to say "HI"

Forever Autumn "Sonography"

Linking up with Kathy B for my first "Sonography"

Forever Autumn by The Moody Blues

 The summer sun is fading as the year grows old.

Like the sun through the trees you came to love me.

Through Autumn's golden gown we used to kick our way.

Those fallen leaves lie undisturbed now.

Cause you're not here.

My life will be 

Forever Autumn, cause you're not here.

Autumn Fog

Sunlight through the Autumn fog

"The world is so empty if one thinks only of mountains, rivers & cities; but to know someone who thinks & feels with us, & who, though distant, is close to us in spirit, this makes the earth for us an inhabited garden."  

~ Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Linking up with Nancy at A Rural Journal for Random 5 Friday.  

Stop by to say "hi".

1.  This morning I saw a "venue" of turkey vultures.  No, I did not know that a group of vultures was a "venue".  But I like it!  They were very cool looking, trading places along the fence.  I tried to get the shot with wings spread... but, of course, I'm not quick enough.  They may be preparing for flight.

2.  Autumn in New York is absolutely fabulous so far.  Of course, the past 2 Octobers brought us the terrible Sandy Hurricane, and the one before that we had a treacherous freak snow storm, both the last week in October leaving us without power for days...so for Christmas Santa brought us these awesome lanterns and radios that the elves picked up from LL Bean.  So get out there with your Canon, Nikon, Samsung Galaxy, or even your Iphone, or Ipad and capture Mother Nature at its finest.

 

 3.  The gorgeous colors of Nina's Sassafras tree make for a lovely display.  Yes, I snagged a few branches while wandering the gardens at Two Crow Cottage with a nice glass of apple cider!

More Autumn beauty and bounty

 4.   I believe I have a twin.  Not a biological one that looks like me, but one who thinks and feels and breathes with me.  One who understands and one who really knows me and what I am all about!  It's cool.  Yet, we live thousands of miles apart.

 

 5.  This weekend will be one of reflection.  I plan to meditate in the beauty of nature. I will be aware of all the signs and symbols that the universe is sending my way in its ongoing communication with my core inner being.  My soul is alive and well!

Autumn in New York...Aloha!

Also linking up here...Orange You Glad It's Friday???

Invitation to Within

This was a blog post I found last year by Tara Leaver.  It was a very powerful message for me then, as I was finding my very own PASSION from within.  These are the Ten Invitations written by Gill Edwards that Tara shares.  They speak volumes to me now, as I continue on my spiritual journey within.  And my, my...it's a beautiful thing!  Enjoy!  And thank you Tara for sharing your PASSIONS!

 The Ten Invitations

1. You are invited to love yourself, others and life without condition – trusting that, in an evolving Universe, everything is unfolding perfectly.
2. You are invited to do whatever makes your heart sing and your spirit dance. Only that.
3. You are invited to live fearlessly and passionately – to step into your divinity, while embracing your humanity.
4. You are invited to treat yourself and others with extraordinary respect and kindness – reaching out with love towards all beings, and seeing the Light within everyone.
5. You are invited to honour everyone else’s beliefs, feelings, values and choices – knowing these add to the variety of life, and that everyone’s path or guidance is unique.
6. You are invited to honour the earth, your body and all creation as sacred and divine – and to celebrate life in all its richness.
7. You are invited to choose your own mission or purpose, expressing your creative gifts, talents and vision in whatever way feels most joyful.
8. You are invited to listen to the inner voice of Love, which always sets you free – knowing that your goodness and worthiness are never in question, and that you can do no wrong.
9. You are invited to trust in a loving and abundant Universe. Ask and it is given. Seek and ye shall find. Knock and the door shall be opened.
10. You are invited to follow your dreams and desires – trusting your feelings, and using your imagination, to create your own heaven on earth.

Enough said...now feel it...and live it!!!  And Breathe in all the goodness that the Universe has to offer.  For when you exhale, you will spread it throughout the cosmic atmosphere and it will reach out and touch a very special soul as they breathe in your good intentions, for we are all connected and the Universe is definitely speaking to us all!  HAPPY OCTOBER IN ALL OF ITS BEAUTIFUL GLORY!

Clarity

Dewdrops taken with Samsung Galaxy S3

1.  A new day dawns, leaving dewdrops on the tips of the still green blades of grass.  It is a simple JOY as the Universe continues its conversation with me and reaches into the depths of my soul to keep me in tune.

This one taken with Canon PowerShot A3300

2.  The cosmic energy that flows through the atmosphere is very powerful if you are attuned and open to receive it in all of its positive glory.

 

The Shawankgunk Ridge provides a vantage point for a fantastic view in the fall.

Slip into a pair of Nike sneaks and hit the trails.

3.  There is much peace in Mother Nature for the seeker. 

 

 4.  The colors of Autumn are a message of transformation...there is an alteration taking place.  I like to think of it as a renewal, for this is the time that Mother Nature takes hold and preserves all the goodness & beauty that was bestowed upon us through Spring, into Summer until now, as she prepares for rest and renewal.

The Journey within...

5.  It is a glorious day!!!  I am in a complete and peaceful state of 

JUST BEING!!! 

Won't you join me?

 

Joining Nancy at A Rural Journal for Random 5 Friday!!! 

Stop by to say "hi"!

Ch..ch...ch...changes...

Autumn Sunrise

"The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, 

move with it, and join the dance."   -- Alan Watts

The first full day of Autumn is alive with the colors and cool breezes that make us smile as we reach for a sweater, add another blanket to the bed (but do not turn the heat on just yet), wear socks to bed, or put on a big pot of soup with homemade bread.  Can't you just smell it?

Of course here in the northeast United States, the colors of fall bring out the leaf peepers from all over the country with their fancy digital Nikon, Canon, Sony...cameras.  
Or even yet, the Apple iPhone, or Samsung Galaxy s3 Android that gets many rave reviews for its picture taking capability.  The quality is quite good for a cell phone, and you can share your takes instantly.  I'm always amazed at how quickly someone can capture a moment when I'm still digging to the bottom of my monster bag/purse trying to find my camera...
(I have a very easy to use Canon Sure Shot).

Remember to go apple picking and choose from the many varieties to make applesauce and pies...mmm...mmm.  Can't you just smell it?  Warm some apple cider and stir with a cinnamon stick.  And of course, don't forget to grab a few pumpkins and pretty mums to complete the autumn picture.

Whatever you choose to capture the beauty of this magnificent season, get out there and breathe in the clean crisp air that comes with the most vibrant colors of the changing of the leaves from varying shades of green, to yellow, to orange and red.  Soak up that vision underneath a clear blue sky with the sun shining bright, and let it sink down deep into your very being, for its natural beauty will surely transform you and carry you to a higher plane.  The universe is having a conversation with all of us.  Take the time and listen!!!  

Sharing my BLUE SKY with BLUE MONDAY!

  Tuesday Muse
Smiling Sally and Blue Monday

The Universe...Here On Earth

Seek and ye shall find...

Recently my soul has awakened to its true purpose in this shell of a body of mine.  It is guiding me through a beautiful transformation that is directly affecting my heart.  For there is a divine love that comes from within the soul when the pathway opens up to the seeker who acknowledges the signs and symbols that are ever present if one chooses to accept them.  The seeker must be receptive to the dialogue that is taking place all around us in this universe that we all belong to.

There is truth that comes from within, that will set you free.  Free to choose how you react, free to explore without fear, free to see more clearly through the fog, free to JUST BE!  Free to love and be loved without judgment.  And this has given me great happiness.  So much so that nothing seems to bother me.  Negativity skirts me and new opportunities seem to take the place of obstacles. I am able to let go and just let it be.  I am evolving, and it is a beautiful journey.  A profound and very vivid spiritual journey.  I am full of life!  And...IT'S ALL GOOD!!!

Soul Memory

To look backward for a while is to refresh the eye, to restore it, and to render it the more fit for its prime function of looking forward. 

 ~Margaret Fairless Barber,The Roadmender

Westmoreland County Memorial Park 2013

Going home to where your roots were planted is an event that can bring a new perspective to your present day life. 

First, it can be great fun to re-connect with your childhood past, the home you grew up in, the elementary school you could walk to, the playground you rode your bike to, the sled riding hill...and the neighborhood you meandered off to for the teen years with new friends...finding a true soul mate there...one who made a difference in your life, yet you didn't know this until now...until your soul has become awakened. 

Second, it can be completely draining and utterly exhausting.  Especially if you are lucky enough to be part of a large family with 4 generations surrounding you and providing a whole new set of memories of "being home".

“Community has little to do with proximity.”

– Aaron Starkey

Going back to the homefront after leaving it decades ago, gets your brain cells churning...for some of that seemingly indelible image that you carried off with you when you first left home, has changed.  Roads have changed, many new businesses and buildings have been added; some things look much smaller than what you may have remembered as a child, like the street on which you lived, and some things may seem bigger.  The downtown department stores remain empty, but their beautiful architecture is well maintained and quite unique, still adding beauty to the main drag when the sunlight hits just so.  

"The splendid achievements of the intellect, like the soul, are everlasting."

- Sallust, The War with Jugurtha

I believe when you "go home" your soul is given the opportunity to open wide for a re-connection to its origin.  There is a "soul memory" that takes place if you are attuned to your inner self and willing to let the seeker out.  

The heart of the soul ignites and yearns for that higher plane where its mate has been waiting, bringing to light a whole new awareness to the humbled body that provides a safe haven for it.   And all is right with the world!!!

Soul memory is a beautiful thing!!!

Sometimes, Let's Just Blow Bubbles

“You must live in the present, launch yourself on every wave, find your eternity in each moment. Fools stand on their island of opportunities and look toward another land. There is no other land; there is no other life but this.”

 ~Henry David Thoreau

The peaceful, easy feeling continues.  It is necessary if I am going to make it through these next few months of the last child of three, graduating high school and going off to college.  The way I see it now is that, although the years have gone by in the blink of an eye, I am relieved to the point of letting go.  For, while it has not all been fun and games and the blowing of bubbles, (even if that is still my favorite pastime with all of my children), we have made it so far in such a very short time. She is ready to fly. 

Roots and Wings

The soul searching that comes with the awareness of the upcoming "empty nest syndrome" that everyone talks about is bringing me to a higher plain.  It is allowing me to see that I am at the beginning of a new phase of life. Actually, I am realizing that each and every day I wake up, is the beginning of a new phase of life.  Oh so cliche, I know, but it is so true when you stop to think of the alternative!

HELLO...I AM ALIVE!  Whether the sun is shining or the clouds are cleansing themselves with the shedding of their tears, it is a brand new day!  And the possibilities are endless!  So, I'm gonna GO FOR IT!  (Well, yes, I still have to go to work, and do the grocery shopping, blah, blah, blah...) Remember...the alternative.  And don't forget these words by Ruth Reardon...

Sometimes,
let's just blow bubbles,
For no good reason,
let's just blow bubbles.
Laugh a little, watch them disappear,
not even wonder where.
Smile and touch the rainbow colors
watch them float in the air.
No reason why--
no goals--no structure.
Sometimes...
let's just
blow bubbles...

YES ~ IT'S ALL GOOD!!!