This month has been my lesson about staying flexible. I have been shifting my time from the tealights I produce for Glassy Baby to the Pillars and tealights I make for Odessa's Herbals. It is a very loving and positive change of pace for me. I adore Glassy Baby but my heart and truelove are with Odessa's Herbals and making candles with intention. So I feel blessed to have my customers new and old and I look forward to hearing your wonderful stories.
On the health front I have recently had a bit of an miracle happen. Half of the miracle is good old fashion work which I have spent almost every single day focusing on my spine. but I do believe that a little bit of magic has also helped me to finally become almost totally pain free! I am currently detoxing off all the pain medication and feeling better everyday. I can move freely and have even started to hike a little bit around the huge park I live near.
I will post more today as I must run out for my morning walk but I just wanted to get something up to let my good friends know I am still alive and doing really well.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Friday, October 31, 2008
Not sure what to do
I suddenly have more time in the day to get all those little things I need to do, done. I am not sure how this happened and I am not sure what to do with this new time I have but I am slowly filling it up. As I mentioned my pain levels are very low and my energy and strength are gaining so I feel safe to say..... I am coming back to a normal life.
I never thought I would see the light at the end of the tunnel but I feel like I am getting a handle on my condition and I am working towards healing. I feel like I have grown physical, mentally and emotionally while dealing with my health. Things have changed for me and I am starting to grow into my authentic self. This last sentence makes me smile. I am changing in some ways but also returning to a person that I left behind years ago. But this is the person that I am destined to become. I hope this makes sense but if not, just know that I am happier than I have ever been and glad to be working hard. I love my life and my company and am grateful for everything that has happened over these last few years. Sometimes you have to leave a place to realize it is truly your home. ( not a physical space or home)
My holiday orders are flying in and my holiday plans are filling up. But it looks like a good old friend will be visiting Portland at the start of the new year and I will be booking a hotel room for the night in P-town. I also want to do a little business in Portland and .... Shopping! But of course, I will have the old friend reunion dinner and drinks. Nothing too crazy but a nice little visit.
Ok, I must walk now and clean. It is time to move and get some more work down outside my little computer space. Have a great weekend!
I never thought I would see the light at the end of the tunnel but I feel like I am getting a handle on my condition and I am working towards healing. I feel like I have grown physical, mentally and emotionally while dealing with my health. Things have changed for me and I am starting to grow into my authentic self. This last sentence makes me smile. I am changing in some ways but also returning to a person that I left behind years ago. But this is the person that I am destined to become. I hope this makes sense but if not, just know that I am happier than I have ever been and glad to be working hard. I love my life and my company and am grateful for everything that has happened over these last few years. Sometimes you have to leave a place to realize it is truly your home. ( not a physical space or home)
My holiday orders are flying in and my holiday plans are filling up. But it looks like a good old friend will be visiting Portland at the start of the new year and I will be booking a hotel room for the night in P-town. I also want to do a little business in Portland and .... Shopping! But of course, I will have the old friend reunion dinner and drinks. Nothing too crazy but a nice little visit.
Ok, I must walk now and clean. It is time to move and get some more work down outside my little computer space. Have a great weekend!
Thursday, October 30, 2008
I love Una
Today I met Susan who runs Una Clothing and I am in love. She brought with her some of her wonderful arm warmers and I did not take them off all day. I even wore them into my night out on the town. My arms were so warm and I love having my wrists covered. Susan also brought some of her other items and I can not wait to wear them.
Susan was such a delight to spend some time with and I look forward to seeing her again.
My section of Seattle, where the studio is and where I spend all my time is in The New York Times today. I have not read the article but I can tell you all that my studio is right between each hood and I love both of them. Mostly I can be seen in Fremont right now because the walk from my studio to Fremont goes along a canal that is beautiful. But, I do spend a lot of time in Ballard. Two of my favorite places to eat are in that section and Ballard is still small enough that people begin to know who you are and enjoy your company.
I am exhausted so I must keep this short. Life has been good lately. Today, I woke up with no pain. This is the first time this has happened in 8 months. I still had some pain during the day and I am not totally recovered but I am happy to report that things are getting better and I am getting out more.
The other big news to report is that Glassy Baby has opened their third shop! This is so exciting and exhausting. I now have more candles to make and lucky for me that my back is allowing all this work. My body is coming back stronger!
However, if you have any holiday orders get them in now. I will be working like a mad lady to get all the Glassy Baby candles finished and all my special orders done. It will be hard but a really good thing and I am ready for this experience. Just let me sleep all January because I will be exhausted.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Perfect Fall Evening
Last night I headed over to West Seattle to have dinner with some good friends. It was so much fun not only because I can finally eat a little bit after the last six months of not being able to eat, but also after dinner we all put our fall clothing on and went for a lovely walk. Lately I have been trying to combine my social interactions with my need to walk for my back. I want to see people, I just can not have sitting and eating being the focal point of our evening. I have to spend so many hours walking everyday that I now prefer a walk to dinner or drinks.
Last night we walk around their new neighborhood in West Seattle and admired the fall colors. Their little one year old baby carried roses in her hand while she walked down the street. We laughed and enjoyed the evening stroll as I updated them on my back situation and what new developments have occurred. Like for instance, I took a pain reliever the other day that actually worked. All summer long, no matter how many pail killers I had to take, I was never pain free. It was very hard to be in that much pain and on such high doses of pain killers and yet still do not feel any relief. But that is what it was like. I was always in horrible pain. So I am getting better and my pain levels are going down. So exciting!
I can come with a belly full of autumn stew and mashed potatoes and I took another walk with my father and Ahmi before heading off to bed. Even though I had walked at my friends house, I knew that I had also sat down for dinner and this action meant I need to walk for another hour so that when I woke up in the morning, my pain would not be as bad.
Actually, I am off for my first walk of the day. I will take my camera and post some fall pictures.
Last night we walk around their new neighborhood in West Seattle and admired the fall colors. Their little one year old baby carried roses in her hand while she walked down the street. We laughed and enjoyed the evening stroll as I updated them on my back situation and what new developments have occurred. Like for instance, I took a pain reliever the other day that actually worked. All summer long, no matter how many pail killers I had to take, I was never pain free. It was very hard to be in that much pain and on such high doses of pain killers and yet still do not feel any relief. But that is what it was like. I was always in horrible pain. So I am getting better and my pain levels are going down. So exciting!
I can come with a belly full of autumn stew and mashed potatoes and I took another walk with my father and Ahmi before heading off to bed. Even though I had walked at my friends house, I knew that I had also sat down for dinner and this action meant I need to walk for another hour so that when I woke up in the morning, my pain would not be as bad.
Actually, I am off for my first walk of the day. I will take my camera and post some fall pictures.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Midnight walks
Over the last six months I have been watching as my body changes and gets stronger. I love having a Physical Therapist - Coach for working out and getting my body back in a healthy state. Twice a week for over than an hour I worked with Laura watching over me. It has been years since I worked out with weights and I forgot how much I loved it. I am lucky in that my body responds to weight lifting and sculpting. So my body is changing along with what feels like everything else in life.
This week has been slow. My back has been bad so I have been slower than I like. But this has given me loads of time to take slow walks and notice the amazing fall colors in the trees. It has been breath taking! I am still spending 4 to 5 hours a day walking and digesting the change of seasons.
Ok.... I am sleepy. Tomorrow is the end of the candles for the magazine and cleaning up the studio.
This week has been slow. My back has been bad so I have been slower than I like. But this has given me loads of time to take slow walks and notice the amazing fall colors in the trees. It has been breath taking! I am still spending 4 to 5 hours a day walking and digesting the change of seasons.
Ok.... I am sleepy. Tomorrow is the end of the candles for the magazine and cleaning up the studio.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Today was the perfect day
I started out my day with a walk to the coffee shop with Ahmi. I bought a paper and read it cover to cover except for the comics. I just did not have time to read those since I went into the studio to keep working on the candles for Seattle Metropolitan magazine. I worry that I have not made enough candles and of course they never look good enough.
After the studio I came home for a nap and another walk with Ahmi. It is so beautiful outside right now. Perfect fall weather!
So many things are happening right now to my company and friends who are doing there own thing. Kelley Moore is in NYC for her first spot on The View. A little birdie tells me that she is going to give a shout out to Glassy Baby! I am so excited to watch The View on Thursday.
I will be having lunch with Jennifer J. who is my main lady at Seattle Opera. She is so awesome and helped to get my candles into their gift bags for their spring fundraiser. I have been wanting to see her for so long but my back sort of derailed this until now.
Speaking of my back, I think that I am finally able to understand the emotional aspect of my illness this summer. Before I was in so much pain all the time that all I could think about was getting rid of the pain. Now that the pain is finally getting better and there are even moments of the day when I realize that I am not in pain, I have been having moments where I get emotional over the giant life changes I have ahead of me. I walking around the book store in Fremont looking for a new book. After twenty minutes I realized that I was looking for a book that I could relate too about my back accident. Alas, this book does not exist or the bookstore did not have a copy but I did pick up a copy of this photography book about what women's bodies really look like. I heard the author on NPR one day talking about how she wanted teenage girls to get an idea about all the different body types that are out there and that trying to be perfect does not exist. I was looking through this book when I stopped one page to discover a woman who had a scar on her back from the top of the spine to her thigh area. She was around my age and had a similar experience. She was struck suddenly with a disease that would forever change how she moved, what her life could be like and what kind of events she could be a part of. She is now a dancer! I can not believe it. The best part of her biography was the last line. It said something like I now live for my body and center my life around it. It sums up what I have been feeling. I now have to create a life around my back. I can no longer live a life without intention. Every aspect of my life revolves around my body and my back. I can not sit for longer than five minutes, I can not lay in bed all day, I must walk for almost 4 hours a day and workout with a trainer. My life revolves around loving and caring for my back and there is nothing that is going to stop me now!
This photograph and story brought tears to my eyes. I finally found that little connection with someone who has gone through a similar experience. My back is breaking down at a very fast rate but there are others out there that have experienced this and found a place of love and peace with the situation.
I will find out the name of this book and post the link in a little bit.
After the studio I came home for a nap and another walk with Ahmi. It is so beautiful outside right now. Perfect fall weather!
So many things are happening right now to my company and friends who are doing there own thing. Kelley Moore is in NYC for her first spot on The View. A little birdie tells me that she is going to give a shout out to Glassy Baby! I am so excited to watch The View on Thursday.
I will be having lunch with Jennifer J. who is my main lady at Seattle Opera. She is so awesome and helped to get my candles into their gift bags for their spring fundraiser. I have been wanting to see her for so long but my back sort of derailed this until now.
Speaking of my back, I think that I am finally able to understand the emotional aspect of my illness this summer. Before I was in so much pain all the time that all I could think about was getting rid of the pain. Now that the pain is finally getting better and there are even moments of the day when I realize that I am not in pain, I have been having moments where I get emotional over the giant life changes I have ahead of me. I walking around the book store in Fremont looking for a new book. After twenty minutes I realized that I was looking for a book that I could relate too about my back accident. Alas, this book does not exist or the bookstore did not have a copy but I did pick up a copy of this photography book about what women's bodies really look like. I heard the author on NPR one day talking about how she wanted teenage girls to get an idea about all the different body types that are out there and that trying to be perfect does not exist. I was looking through this book when I stopped one page to discover a woman who had a scar on her back from the top of the spine to her thigh area. She was around my age and had a similar experience. She was struck suddenly with a disease that would forever change how she moved, what her life could be like and what kind of events she could be a part of. She is now a dancer! I can not believe it. The best part of her biography was the last line. It said something like I now live for my body and center my life around it. It sums up what I have been feeling. I now have to create a life around my back. I can no longer live a life without intention. Every aspect of my life revolves around my body and my back. I can not sit for longer than five minutes, I can not lay in bed all day, I must walk for almost 4 hours a day and workout with a trainer. My life revolves around loving and caring for my back and there is nothing that is going to stop me now!
This photograph and story brought tears to my eyes. I finally found that little connection with someone who has gone through a similar experience. My back is breaking down at a very fast rate but there are others out there that have experienced this and found a place of love and peace with the situation.
I will find out the name of this book and post the link in a little bit.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
The life of a candle maker
After getting up at 5 am and finishing the first hour long walk of the day, I have four more to go, I am ready to think about the rest of the morning. I did not want to get up at 5 but when I wake up in the morning my back hurts thus causing me to get out of bed, get dressed and wake Ahmi up. After my hour long walk, I can either go back to bed if my back is not hurting too much or I will start my day and this early hour.
It will take me an hour to get ready to leave for my studio. I used to only require twenty minutes or so to get ready for the day but with my new back, it takes me a good hour. Once I am ready I will pack my bag and head to the studio. From here I will take two hour long walks in between making candles and then I will head home.
Yep, it is an exciting life I live!
Ha Ha!
Actually today is turning out to be a great day. Tea lights are on the menu for today at the studio. This means that we can watch whatever we want on the TV so I am planning on a Gilmore Girls marathon. I am sure my assistant Chris, being the dude that he is, will love this marathon. Oh well, it will be good for him! Today is also good because I am in very little pain so far. I was worried since I was on my feet yesterday running around doing errands for almost 12 hours. This is huge for me! The best part?
The hour I spent at Toy's R Us!
Dylan was in need of new toys and I needed to get to the voting office before registration closed. So I decided my nephew needs some new toys. Whoa Nelly! The toy store was amazing. I usually save my shopping for small family owned stores. I like to spend my money knowing I am supporting another small business owner but today I thought I would explore my options. I ended up getting him three toys, all boy related toys. He loves the one I gave him last night. I am going to spread these toys out over a few weeks so that I can keep the boy excited.
So because I am feeling so well, I am going to take it extra slow this morning. Strange logic? I know but it is best to take it slow after such a long day. I am happy that I am in very much pain and it is best to rest to keep this feeling going by taking it easy.
I am also making candles for an upcoming issue of Seattle Meteropolitian Magazine. I am not making intention candles so we can watch TV. When I make my intention candles I give them my full attention. Intention takes attention and that starts from the creation of thought. I will be posting some photos of my new candle molds.
It will take me an hour to get ready to leave for my studio. I used to only require twenty minutes or so to get ready for the day but with my new back, it takes me a good hour. Once I am ready I will pack my bag and head to the studio. From here I will take two hour long walks in between making candles and then I will head home.
Yep, it is an exciting life I live!
Ha Ha!
Actually today is turning out to be a great day. Tea lights are on the menu for today at the studio. This means that we can watch whatever we want on the TV so I am planning on a Gilmore Girls marathon. I am sure my assistant Chris, being the dude that he is, will love this marathon. Oh well, it will be good for him! Today is also good because I am in very little pain so far. I was worried since I was on my feet yesterday running around doing errands for almost 12 hours. This is huge for me! The best part?
The hour I spent at Toy's R Us!
Dylan was in need of new toys and I needed to get to the voting office before registration closed. So I decided my nephew needs some new toys. Whoa Nelly! The toy store was amazing. I usually save my shopping for small family owned stores. I like to spend my money knowing I am supporting another small business owner but today I thought I would explore my options. I ended up getting him three toys, all boy related toys. He loves the one I gave him last night. I am going to spread these toys out over a few weeks so that I can keep the boy excited.
So because I am feeling so well, I am going to take it extra slow this morning. Strange logic? I know but it is best to take it slow after such a long day. I am happy that I am in very much pain and it is best to rest to keep this feeling going by taking it easy.
I am also making candles for an upcoming issue of Seattle Meteropolitian Magazine. I am not making intention candles so we can watch TV. When I make my intention candles I give them my full attention. Intention takes attention and that starts from the creation of thought. I will be posting some photos of my new candle molds.
Monday, October 06, 2008
My comfort item
Everyone has one. That item in your closet that brings you feelings of joy, comfort and safety. This item has been with you longer than most of your friends. It could be your favorite band shirt, your baby blanket or for me it is an extra large grey cashmere scarf. This scarf was given to me by my adopted aunty Reni Moriarity. Reni is always a hero and mentor of mine. She throws the best dinner parties, she is an amazing cook and always has funny stories about country life. Her house is a log cabin made by her husband. It is my dream of a home. I long to be a child again so I can go spend the weekend in the country with Reni. I grew up getting to spend the night in the loft beds that Mark (her husband) built.
So today my grey cashmere scarf came out for my 6 am walk. I had visions of wearing this scarf when I was 16 and met my first boyfriend. I thought about wearing this item when I lived in NYC and the Midwest. I wrapped my head and neck up and walked out into the mist. Ahmi was really happy to be out before all the other dogs came out.
I just got back from hanging out with my nephew. He is under the weather and just wanted to snuggle. Right now the curious George that I bought him is his comfort toy. He likes to bring the George with him when we go on our adventures. Today I tried to make cookies but alas, I think I mixed the cookies and kid's play dough recipe mixed up. The cookies were awful! But Dylan had fun and the times passed by very quickly so I can over look the awful cookies. They were so bad Dylan did not even want to eat them.
I hang my head in shame today because I have lost my golden touch in the kitchen!
Friday, October 03, 2008
Helper Bee
I have a new helper and it is making my life so much easier!
I am still very limited in what I can do and the amount of hours I can be in my studio, but with the two of us there, the candles are flying off the shelf.
This weekend I am going to work on getting my shopping cart set up online so that candle orders can be place via my website. This is very exciting and I now have the technology to do it.
I saw my doctor today about my back. Things are looking better. My strength is coming back and my control over my right leg is getting better. I do not have to see the doctor for two weeks which marks the first time in three months that I do not have to see a doctor for over a week. Keep your fingers crossed that I do not have another flare-up and become bed ridden again.
This weekend is going to be a busy one. I have an auction to attend tomorrow evening and a party to go to on Sunday. I am exhausted just thinking about it all. I also will be making candles this weekend and trying out my new candle molds. That reminds me, I should take my new camera this weekend so that I can take some pictures of the new gift sets. Each candle is scented with just essential blends that smell wonderful but are less expensive for the conservative customer. I have been working with many of my customers to make sure that they can still enjoy my wonderful candles, live the best life they can while needing to scale back on expenses. The pinch is happening all over this country and no one is immune.
This week my nephew came running across the room saying "Love you Aunty! Love you".
This is my moment of zen for the week.
I am still very limited in what I can do and the amount of hours I can be in my studio, but with the two of us there, the candles are flying off the shelf.
This weekend I am going to work on getting my shopping cart set up online so that candle orders can be place via my website. This is very exciting and I now have the technology to do it.
I saw my doctor today about my back. Things are looking better. My strength is coming back and my control over my right leg is getting better. I do not have to see the doctor for two weeks which marks the first time in three months that I do not have to see a doctor for over a week. Keep your fingers crossed that I do not have another flare-up and become bed ridden again.
This weekend is going to be a busy one. I have an auction to attend tomorrow evening and a party to go to on Sunday. I am exhausted just thinking about it all. I also will be making candles this weekend and trying out my new candle molds. That reminds me, I should take my new camera this weekend so that I can take some pictures of the new gift sets. Each candle is scented with just essential blends that smell wonderful but are less expensive for the conservative customer. I have been working with many of my customers to make sure that they can still enjoy my wonderful candles, live the best life they can while needing to scale back on expenses. The pinch is happening all over this country and no one is immune.
This week my nephew came running across the room saying "Love you Aunty! Love you".
This is my moment of zen for the week.
Monday, September 29, 2008
The Long Road
After several shots into my spine, a course of new nerve medicine and endless walks during the day, I am now finally getting out of my house. I have a very strict schedule now that also has to be flexible enough so that I can drop everything and come home to rest if I need too. I walk 4 to 5 times a day, I have stretches I must do several times a day and I can only do something for no longer than four hours. I am still unable to sit down and driving is limited but I can make candles and that is all I care about right now. Recovery is going to take a year or more but at least I do not have to get the spinal fusion.
So I just invested in warm winter clothing for my daily walks and I will be getting some shoes this week. Can I just tell you how much I love Lucy clothing? My new outfit keeps me warm and feels amazing to wear even when I take my walks at 3 am.
My body is changing. It's weird to watch my body become toned as I think about two months ago when I could not even get out of bed. I am so lucky to have such a strong body that responds to all this movement. It has been years since I worked out and I am now starting to see the importance of working out. My back is stronger and my leg works better as time moves on. I can almost walk like a normal person. For a while it looked like I would never walk normal again. My left leg is permanently numb and weak from my first spine injury. This summer my right leg became so weak that the nerve started to die. I could hardly control my legs and it was very noticeable. I don't know if you have ever seen someone with nerve damage or a disease that affects the nervous system but it becomes very hard to simply move your legs to walk.
Ok, I am off for my last walk of the day. I will be able to blog more now that I am finally healing and I will soon have fun new stories.
So I just invested in warm winter clothing for my daily walks and I will be getting some shoes this week. Can I just tell you how much I love Lucy clothing? My new outfit keeps me warm and feels amazing to wear even when I take my walks at 3 am.
My body is changing. It's weird to watch my body become toned as I think about two months ago when I could not even get out of bed. I am so lucky to have such a strong body that responds to all this movement. It has been years since I worked out and I am now starting to see the importance of working out. My back is stronger and my leg works better as time moves on. I can almost walk like a normal person. For a while it looked like I would never walk normal again. My left leg is permanently numb and weak from my first spine injury. This summer my right leg became so weak that the nerve started to die. I could hardly control my legs and it was very noticeable. I don't know if you have ever seen someone with nerve damage or a disease that affects the nervous system but it becomes very hard to simply move your legs to walk.
Ok, I am off for my last walk of the day. I will be able to blog more now that I am finally healing and I will soon have fun new stories.
Friday, September 05, 2008
The Good News
So after almost two weeks, I have some good news. The Physical Therapist has seen some strength return to my leg and it looks good. Small changes of course but very important in terms of my rehab to walk again.
Candle making starts up again this week and I am also doing my physical therapy. This is about all I can fit into a day right now. I am watching Gilmore Girls as an ode to my sister. It is fun.
I have never watched the show but she has seen every episode so at some point I knew I needed to watch it. It made me realize that it is her "Northern Exposure" . Northern Exposure is my dream world, especially when I was in my teen years. I longed to live in a town dominated by Native American couture and social rules. My sister growing up on the East Coast, loved a life where she could go to her room, read her books and study at really good schools. My sister and I are like night and day but I hate going a day without talking to her. So I am peering into her life, with my nails painted pink and watching her favorite show. I feel so close!
I will let you all know how candle making is going when I blog next.
Candle making starts up again this week and I am also doing my physical therapy. This is about all I can fit into a day right now. I am watching Gilmore Girls as an ode to my sister. It is fun.
I have never watched the show but she has seen every episode so at some point I knew I needed to watch it. It made me realize that it is her "Northern Exposure" . Northern Exposure is my dream world, especially when I was in my teen years. I longed to live in a town dominated by Native American couture and social rules. My sister growing up on the East Coast, loved a life where she could go to her room, read her books and study at really good schools. My sister and I are like night and day but I hate going a day without talking to her. So I am peering into her life, with my nails painted pink and watching her favorite show. I feel so close!
I will let you all know how candle making is going when I blog next.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Today
This morning was filled with writing at Cafe Fiore in Old Town Ballard. I have had a writing assignment for myself that was given in the beginning of June. However, with my health crisis I had not been able to work on this project but because of my birthday coming up and the monster life changes I am starting to implement, I decided that this morning was the morning to leave the house and office and just focus on myself.
I had the Seville drink which includes bittersweet coca and orange zest. It was not overly sweet and the flavors were just right for my stomach. I am for the most part of a totally fresh diet with coffee and toast thrown in as treats. I was able to stand and write which is better on my back and this marked the first morning I have been able to leave the house alone and not go to a doctors office. It was nice. I had to leave after only an hour because my leg started to bother me but I am very grateful for that hour I was able to do something I had been trying to do for months.
Yesterday was another hard day for me. The large scale life changes of my situation has started to sink in and my understanding of life as I have known it will never be repeated has finally hit me. I am no longer the same person. I have met various people as I traveled in life who always had these health issues that changed their lives or robbed their lives of what they were doing just prior to the injury. I had never been able to relate since all my health issues started so early and I was always able to bounce back right away. But not this time. I can now join the club of health related life changing events and the aftermath it leaves behind. But I am lucky that I had enough time to prepare for it that my company remains intact and running smoothly!
This weekend that just passed allowed enough sunshine for me to walk around Green Lake with two wonderful lady friends of mine. They are both kind enough to take the time and walk really slow with me as I begin rehabilitation to be able to walk again. It is hard. I feel and must look like an old person trying very hard to move. It is such a difference from five months ago where I was a busy bee. But with each step I hurt less and it's one step closer to healing.
This holiday weekend coming up marks my family birthday celebration. I am having a very small and intimate affair with my family to celebrate my birthday but also and more importantly to celebrate my family and the love and help they have provided for me as I return to a more normal and social life. My nephew will really be the bell of the ball and I have requested digital camera's to be brought so I can photograph him. Actually this was something I was realizing I really need to purchase along with a PC computer. Maybe I will just go ahead and purchase these two items. I know my life will be different with them and I know they will really benefit my company. I just am scared because they feel like such huge purchases.
Ok, I am off to read the new Paulo Coelho book, Brida and rest. I need to conserve my energy this week so I can be fully present for this weekend.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Trying for a normal day tomorrow
I have made plans for a walk around green lake with my good friend Jennifer and then we are off to a bookstore to look for something new to read to help my brain come back. All the medication I have been on has made my brain feel soft. So soft in fact that I was thinking about getting cable tv. This is bad.... I have not have TV since 2002 and I don't miss it. But lately I have been learning all about these great TV shows like Brothers & Sisters, The Office and 30 Rock. So for now i will fight the TV temptation and get back to making candles and renting DVD's.
This week is my birthday week and the first week I will be in my studio making candles since June. I am really looking forward to getting my routine back with candles, taking care of my health this week and next Sunday is a small family party that I am really looking forward too. I even invited a few friends to meet my family so it should be a good bbq.
So much has changed since my birthday week last year. Jennifer took me out for dinner that night. It was a very quiet and low key birthday year. This year there was a party for me last week and another party this week. This will be a reflection week for me and I am sure I will blog about it. I am going to sit down and go over all the changes that have happened in this year. I want to look at what I have accomplished since last August and where I want to go for the rest of the year. Of course we all know it includes a lot of doctor visits. I am starting Physical Rehabilitation soon and I have a long way to go to get back to where I was just 4 short months ago. But I am ready to give my back and body the attention it needs.
I received notice today about the craft sale I was a part of last Thanksgiving in The Berkshires. I am planning on returning this late fall to the area for another sale. I need to check if that craft show is still happening or I may have another outlet to sell my candles. I will keep everyone updated on my traveling plans and future candle sales.
This week is my birthday week and the first week I will be in my studio making candles since June. I am really looking forward to getting my routine back with candles, taking care of my health this week and next Sunday is a small family party that I am really looking forward too. I even invited a few friends to meet my family so it should be a good bbq.
So much has changed since my birthday week last year. Jennifer took me out for dinner that night. It was a very quiet and low key birthday year. This year there was a party for me last week and another party this week. This will be a reflection week for me and I am sure I will blog about it. I am going to sit down and go over all the changes that have happened in this year. I want to look at what I have accomplished since last August and where I want to go for the rest of the year. Of course we all know it includes a lot of doctor visits. I am starting Physical Rehabilitation soon and I have a long way to go to get back to where I was just 4 short months ago. But I am ready to give my back and body the attention it needs.
I received notice today about the craft sale I was a part of last Thanksgiving in The Berkshires. I am planning on returning this late fall to the area for another sale. I need to check if that craft show is still happening or I may have another outlet to sell my candles. I will keep everyone updated on my traveling plans and future candle sales.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Getting better everyday
You know it's bad when the cashier at the local grocery store is excited when I tell them that I am doing OK for the day. Today the cashier said "Coming from you, I know OK is a good thing". This is actually a really sweet story. I have been shopping at that Grocery Store for almost 20 years and many friends that I grew up with worked at this store. So this little store is a piece of my past and has survived the big bigger stores moving closer to the neighborhood. And yet I know when I walk into this store, there is a feeling of family history in this store. Years of shopping there with my grandfather, my father and now my nephew.
Yesterday morning I got a whole two hours with my nephew. He tired the both of us out but it was amazing. We spent time outside creating new games, learning new words and enjoying the cooler weather. Today I meet with a new doctor that is in charge of my rehabilitation. It is a long road ahead but I am finally able to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I even have the desire to cook and get back into my studio.
I have been thinking a lot about what has happened to me this summer. I have started to call it "The summer that changed my life". I am finally able see this while situation as a life lesson that will change my whole life. This idea has become less daunting with every good day I have. My life will never be the same as it once was, but I can now finally put my health and my well being first. In fact, I am pretty much forced to put these things first. But I know that this situation is helping me to create the life I truly want to live. I have already witnessed changes in me that are self loving and protective towards myself.
And to top it off, for the first year ever, I have let my friends to celebrate with me, how wonderful I am. There was a party given for me last Saturday that was a huge love fest for my friends that had not seen me since my injury. Before the summer that changed my life I would not have allowed such an event. I would not have slowed down enough to allow someone else to take care of me. But now, I understand how loving this party was. Not just for myself, but it was a loving thing these people did for everyone that came to the party, and it was a loving thing that they did for themselves. Does this make sense? Sometimes my words and thoughts get all twisted in my mind and i have a hard time writing it down. But as I keep experiencing this new life, I will keep writing about it until it makes sense.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
What I love today
Ah Garnet Hill I love you!
I have been staring at the new Garnet Gill catalog and wishing that I could make a candle for Garnet Hill in exchange for whatever I want out of all the products they sell. It would be amazing to meet the designers from this company and take a tour of their headquarters. Garnet Hill is one of the few companies that I receive the catalog from and buy things. They have a special place in my heart. Next time I go to my studio I am going to start creating a garnet hill candle to starting changing my bedroom and then my wardrobe into one from the catalog.
Another day, another doctor. I have now seen more than 3 specialist and each person tells me something different. So far I am leaning towards the holistic plan. I will start an intensive physical therapy routine along with a weekly accupunctucter session and daily walks. I am also going to see a nutritionist and massage therapist as well as others on a more long term basis.
Actually it is not so bad. I am very lucky to be making candles full time and not working at a corporate job. I can focus on my health right now and maintain my company.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Coming back to Life
What a trying time it has been lately.
Life has been dealing some pretty heavy lessons lately. These lessons become larger and mean more than when i was younger. But i like how I have been dealing with these lessons. I am growing up and learning to turn all these blows into positive life changes that I can be proud of.
After almost three months of being bed ridden experiencing the worst pain I have ever felt in my body and becoming totally helpless and unable to function without the love of friends and family. My first doctor told me I need a very servere surgery that would have left me a year to recovery from and more complications to arise from the surgery, as I get older. I do not cry often but just the thought of this surgery caused me to cry and become fearful for my body and life. I never have felt as weak and vulnerable as I did when thinking about getting this surgery.
However, after waiting a month to see the best back doctor in Seattle and learning more about my condition or disease that is affecting the disks in my back, I feel like I have been given a second chance. With the guidance and information that this docotr has shared with my family and myself, I am sure that I can stop this disease from becoming worse and I maybe be able to reverse it a little bit. No surgery required right now and maybe none in the future. So for the next six months or longer, I am going for a total life makeover. I will be meeting with Physical Therapists, accupuncterist, Yoga and Pilate teachers and other people that can guide me to a healthier lifestyle and mindset. I feel like I have truly been given a gift for a second chance and I do not want it to pass me by. So my candles and my body will be the only two things I will be focusing in life for now.
After this whole experience life seems a lot faster and fragile then before. I feel my worldview has opened up and I see that my little spot in this universe is so small and yet touches so many. Oneday you could wake up where everything has changed from what it used to be, but this is not a bad thing. This little area, my spot in life is mine to create, change, evolve and learn to love. Like a garden I must tend too my spot and make sure that it is healthy.
I am looking forward to my annual trip back to the North East. I can't wait for the fall to arrive. I think it maybe my favorite time of year, actually thats not true. Maybe it is just my new mindset but the rythem of each season makes my heart warm. Fall is when my little nephew will start school for the first time ever. Fall is when production at Odessa's Herbals starts to heat up. Fall is when the best feeling in the world is a warm cup of tea, my favorite cashmere sweater and a walk with Ahmi.
Speaking of walks with Ahmi, I should get outside and give my body a nice evening walk with my father and dog.
Life has been dealing some pretty heavy lessons lately. These lessons become larger and mean more than when i was younger. But i like how I have been dealing with these lessons. I am growing up and learning to turn all these blows into positive life changes that I can be proud of.
After almost three months of being bed ridden experiencing the worst pain I have ever felt in my body and becoming totally helpless and unable to function without the love of friends and family. My first doctor told me I need a very servere surgery that would have left me a year to recovery from and more complications to arise from the surgery, as I get older. I do not cry often but just the thought of this surgery caused me to cry and become fearful for my body and life. I never have felt as weak and vulnerable as I did when thinking about getting this surgery.
However, after waiting a month to see the best back doctor in Seattle and learning more about my condition or disease that is affecting the disks in my back, I feel like I have been given a second chance. With the guidance and information that this docotr has shared with my family and myself, I am sure that I can stop this disease from becoming worse and I maybe be able to reverse it a little bit. No surgery required right now and maybe none in the future. So for the next six months or longer, I am going for a total life makeover. I will be meeting with Physical Therapists, accupuncterist, Yoga and Pilate teachers and other people that can guide me to a healthier lifestyle and mindset. I feel like I have truly been given a gift for a second chance and I do not want it to pass me by. So my candles and my body will be the only two things I will be focusing in life for now.
After this whole experience life seems a lot faster and fragile then before. I feel my worldview has opened up and I see that my little spot in this universe is so small and yet touches so many. Oneday you could wake up where everything has changed from what it used to be, but this is not a bad thing. This little area, my spot in life is mine to create, change, evolve and learn to love. Like a garden I must tend too my spot and make sure that it is healthy.
I am looking forward to my annual trip back to the North East. I can't wait for the fall to arrive. I think it maybe my favorite time of year, actually thats not true. Maybe it is just my new mindset but the rythem of each season makes my heart warm. Fall is when my little nephew will start school for the first time ever. Fall is when production at Odessa's Herbals starts to heat up. Fall is when the best feeling in the world is a warm cup of tea, my favorite cashmere sweater and a walk with Ahmi.
Speaking of walks with Ahmi, I should get outside and give my body a nice evening walk with my father and dog.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Once a week
I am now at the point of my back issues that I have to see my Doctor once a week. With my condition getting worse I am needing to change medications at least every week so that I can sleep. Without my medications as soon as I fall asleep I have some nightmare of falling off curbs or cliffs and wake up screaming. What is happening during these dreams is that I am having major muscle spasms that causes my leg to move. No Fun!
But, I am really coming to peace with the situation. I know I will be better soon and that this break has really allowed me to catch up and get everything in my life into a calm and positive state.
This weekend was my nephews 2nd birthday. I hope to have some pictures of it soon. My sister threw a lovely BBQ with close friends of the family that I had not seen in a long time. My nephew was so good with all the people and kids around. He loved it!
This week will be pretty slow but I am hoping to get into the studio at least for a few hours. I miss candle making so much. Plus I have a dinner party on Friday that I am really excited about. I wish I had more to say but things have been calm lately and I am just happy to not be in as much pain as I was a couple of weeks ago.
But, I am really coming to peace with the situation. I know I will be better soon and that this break has really allowed me to catch up and get everything in my life into a calm and positive state.
This weekend was my nephews 2nd birthday. I hope to have some pictures of it soon. My sister threw a lovely BBQ with close friends of the family that I had not seen in a long time. My nephew was so good with all the people and kids around. He loved it!
This week will be pretty slow but I am hoping to get into the studio at least for a few hours. I miss candle making so much. Plus I have a dinner party on Friday that I am really excited about. I wish I had more to say but things have been calm lately and I am just happy to not be in as much pain as I was a couple of weeks ago.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
The Sugar Queen
Last night I finished reading Sara Addison Allen's new book " The Sugar Queen". This book was lovely and a good summertime read. The only negative or not overly loving thing I would say about this book was that it was not magical enough for me. I love ancient herb lore, I love stories about wisdom pasted down by generations of wise women who helped cure the body, mind and spirit. Garden Spells, Sarah's first book catered to this need of mine. The book was filled with meals of intention, gardens full of mystery and secrets best kept not questioning.
However, the book was great and I highly recommend her as an author. She is someone I will keep as one of my favorite authors and I look forward to reading many more books by her.
Today I had lunch with my good friend Jennifer. It was great to be outside of my house and I can not remember the last time I saw Jennifer. I am on a new medication that has allowed a little more freedom in my life. I can walk and sleep more than I was last week. I am not healed and I know that all this medication is doing is covering up the severe amount of pain that I am in but it just feels nice to have a little bit of my life back. I have been unable to go out but once a week before this new medicine so I welcome the chance to go out a couple of times a week.
Jennifer and I will be making candles on Friday which marks the first time I will be back in my studio in almost a month. I miss making candles and getting into my studio. It has been hard to be away but I am lucky enough to have gotten ahead with my orders and I have found someone who can cover for me while I am waiting for surgery and healing.
However, the book was great and I highly recommend her as an author. She is someone I will keep as one of my favorite authors and I look forward to reading many more books by her.
Today I had lunch with my good friend Jennifer. It was great to be outside of my house and I can not remember the last time I saw Jennifer. I am on a new medication that has allowed a little more freedom in my life. I can walk and sleep more than I was last week. I am not healed and I know that all this medication is doing is covering up the severe amount of pain that I am in but it just feels nice to have a little bit of my life back. I have been unable to go out but once a week before this new medicine so I welcome the chance to go out a couple of times a week.
Jennifer and I will be making candles on Friday which marks the first time I will be back in my studio in almost a month. I miss making candles and getting into my studio. It has been hard to be away but I am lucky enough to have gotten ahead with my orders and I have found someone who can cover for me while I am waiting for surgery and healing.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Pow Wow
I love living by Discovery Park. At night we can hear the sea lions, the trains and a couple of weekends every summer there are Pow Wows that bring drum beating and singing to my window. It touches my heart every time I see the Daylight Center in Discovery Park, a building dedicated to the native Americas that used to live on this land and take care of it.
This building is also where my Grandfather's memorial service was. My grandfather grew up in Montana and spent most of his adult life in Washington DC as a Senator and Congressmen for Washington State. Native Americas were a top priority for him while he was in office many years ago. He was an honorary Blackfoot tribe member in Montana.
I have been thinking about him all morning. I am of course still bed ridden. The last time I had surgery was 15 years ago and my grandfather was still alive. I wish he was here now so I could ask him stories about Montana, Charlie Russell the painter that lived behind his house in Montana and what Washington state was like so many years ago.
But instead I will wait 30 rock, read some new books given to me by my good friend Kim and make cinnamon rolls.
This building is also where my Grandfather's memorial service was. My grandfather grew up in Montana and spent most of his adult life in Washington DC as a Senator and Congressmen for Washington State. Native Americas were a top priority for him while he was in office many years ago. He was an honorary Blackfoot tribe member in Montana.
I have been thinking about him all morning. I am of course still bed ridden. The last time I had surgery was 15 years ago and my grandfather was still alive. I wish he was here now so I could ask him stories about Montana, Charlie Russell the painter that lived behind his house in Montana and what Washington state was like so many years ago.
But instead I will wait 30 rock, read some new books given to me by my good friend Kim and make cinnamon rolls.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
The summer I spent in bed
This is quickly becoming the summer I spent in bed. My back condition is unfortunately getting worse by the day. I have endless doctor appointments and I know that I will be up and running soon enough but until I know exactly which surgery I am going to have, I have to lay in bed and just wait.
I am starting to get a little bored so I just got a new library card and I have been picking books to read. Every night I still am able to get up and take a small walk but it is getting harder and harder. Today I realized that for every decade I have been alive, I have had to have major surgeries. One was due to sickness but mostly now it just revolves around my back. I have never broken a bone but I have more scars than most people do. Some people get all the luck. I just keep thinking about what it would be like if I had this condition 100 years ago. Would I have survived being bed ridden? How did people survive pain that only the strongest pain killers on the market can help tone the pain down. That's right, my pain is so intense that it never disappears with the pain killers but numbs the pain enough that I can sleep for almost two hours without waking up.
I have been forced to slow down and rethink a lot of things in my life over the last few weeks. In many ways it has brought back part of my youth where all I wanted when I grew up was to live on a farm, grow herbs and really connect with nature. I wanted to help heal people and help them find meaning in their lives. This summer I am being forced by the universe to realize that I do not need to work a corporate job and have a company to live a healthy life. My desire to be successful is not about money, cars or material goods. My desire to be successful stems from wanting to live an authentic life, share my gifts to help people and be my own boss. All of this health stuff has shown me that the life I was living only 5 months ago was very out of balance and I now have time to bring balance back into my world.
So there are many positive parts about this journey. I wish that I did not have to get surgery and that I could move around pain free but I am also really happy to have such a wonderful group of friends and family that have provided amazing support and love.
In the next few weeks I will be having a fund raiser - studio sample sale - party for Odessa's Herbals.
I am lucky enough to have health insurance but I am also facing tens of thousands of dollars in medical bills once I have made it through all the operations. If you have any candles you would like to order for the sample discount please shoot me an email.
I greatly appreciate all the support and friendship that so many have shared with me.
I am starting to get a little bored so I just got a new library card and I have been picking books to read. Every night I still am able to get up and take a small walk but it is getting harder and harder. Today I realized that for every decade I have been alive, I have had to have major surgeries. One was due to sickness but mostly now it just revolves around my back. I have never broken a bone but I have more scars than most people do. Some people get all the luck. I just keep thinking about what it would be like if I had this condition 100 years ago. Would I have survived being bed ridden? How did people survive pain that only the strongest pain killers on the market can help tone the pain down. That's right, my pain is so intense that it never disappears with the pain killers but numbs the pain enough that I can sleep for almost two hours without waking up.
I have been forced to slow down and rethink a lot of things in my life over the last few weeks. In many ways it has brought back part of my youth where all I wanted when I grew up was to live on a farm, grow herbs and really connect with nature. I wanted to help heal people and help them find meaning in their lives. This summer I am being forced by the universe to realize that I do not need to work a corporate job and have a company to live a healthy life. My desire to be successful is not about money, cars or material goods. My desire to be successful stems from wanting to live an authentic life, share my gifts to help people and be my own boss. All of this health stuff has shown me that the life I was living only 5 months ago was very out of balance and I now have time to bring balance back into my world.
So there are many positive parts about this journey. I wish that I did not have to get surgery and that I could move around pain free but I am also really happy to have such a wonderful group of friends and family that have provided amazing support and love.
In the next few weeks I will be having a fund raiser - studio sample sale - party for Odessa's Herbals.
I am lucky enough to have health insurance but I am also facing tens of thousands of dollars in medical bills once I have made it through all the operations. If you have any candles you would like to order for the sample discount please shoot me an email.
I greatly appreciate all the support and friendship that so many have shared with me.
Friday, July 11, 2008
A Few Hours At A Time
Well I am now only able to sleep a few hours at a time because of my back. I have some new appointments with back and nerve specialists in the next two weeks and hopefully will have an answer by the end of the month. I am exhausted and ready to return to a pain free life.
One nice thing about my life right now is that when I wake up around Midnight every night, I take my dog for a walk around the neighborhood. It is so quiet and peaceful at this hour. The moon hangs low over the Puget Sound and is a Carmel color. Ahmi loves her midnight walks. The air is cool, the streets are empty and the raccoons are hiding but around somewhere.
I am thinking with all this extra time I have while I am bed ridden that I should write a book about my experiences. Not everybody gets to have over three major surgeries before the age of 31. Life is a lot different when you can not walk or sleep very much. We shall see.
One nice thing about my life right now is that when I wake up around Midnight every night, I take my dog for a walk around the neighborhood. It is so quiet and peaceful at this hour. The moon hangs low over the Puget Sound and is a Carmel color. Ahmi loves her midnight walks. The air is cool, the streets are empty and the raccoons are hiding but around somewhere.
I am thinking with all this extra time I have while I am bed ridden that I should write a book about my experiences. Not everybody gets to have over three major surgeries before the age of 31. Life is a lot different when you can not walk or sleep very much. We shall see.
Monday, June 30, 2008
In for a Shock
What started as a simple meeting with the surgeon this morning has turned into something much bigger than I thought it would. It looks like I need a spinal fusion. This will have me take the next year off of pretty much everything while I recover. It is scary but I know it is something I have to get done so I will go in with the strength and determination to heal that I have to make my candle company the number 1 candle company in America. So maybe this rest will be a good thing??
I have nothing else to report since I am still in shock........
I have nothing else to report since I am still in shock........
My Back
Today I am meeting with a back surgeon to talk about my up coming surgery. At times I feel nervous about this surgery then there are other times where I am at peace with it. I know in the long run this is the right decision and that everything will be fine but sometimes I can not fight the fear. I have had dreams about the surgery which has in some ways, helped calm my fears. In my dream I over hear the doctors talking about how easy the surgery went and how well I am doing post operation.
I am even starting to look forward to daily life where I am not in constant pain. Simple things like taking a walk or feeding my dog have become almost impossible. I long to take a long walk in the park and to pick up my nephew without any fear of hurting myself. Soon enough I will have my energy level back and be able to finish all those little projects that are still not finished due to my back.
Send good energy my way and I will keep everyone updated on the situation.
I am even starting to look forward to daily life where I am not in constant pain. Simple things like taking a walk or feeding my dog have become almost impossible. I long to take a long walk in the park and to pick up my nephew without any fear of hurting myself. Soon enough I will have my energy level back and be able to finish all those little projects that are still not finished due to my back.
Send good energy my way and I will keep everyone updated on the situation.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Today I Eat My Words
This week has produced two new candles. Both candles have stories around the creation of these new candles that I will share with everyone.
First story is about the new Happy Divorce candle. While delivering candles to Glassy Baby, I over heard a customer talking about how excited she was for her up coming vacation. She is going to the East Coast to visit one of her best friends who had just served her husband with divorce papers. This lady was so full of joy as she talked about how much she loved her friend and what a great move this is going to be in her friends life. There was no sadness around this divorce but a feeling of freedom and love for her friend and the situation. Her friend was ready to start living an authentic life full of self love and discovery. It was a great story and inspired me to make this candle. Good Luck!
The other candle I made this week is a giant I Am Sorry candle. This week I spent some time with a dear friend who has a high profile job in Seattle. We have known each other since middle school and as much as I love this person, I still have trouble seeing him for who he is now. A Seattle celebrity. So while we were having dinner the other night, I told him to get over his high profile paranoia and just enjoy life. I understood his point that he had to have a public and private life, but I just never thought he was that big of a star in this small city full of famous music and TV stars. However, last night I went to a party at a famous bands house that provided a situation where I learned a valuable lesson. This band tours the world, has very high selling albums and has been interviewed for all major papers, TV shows etc.... But at the party, everyone was asking me about my other friend. How did I know him, why was he not at the party, could I tell him about how all these people love him? This was a total shock to me and I am now eating my words about what I said to him earlier in the week. He does have a public life and I need to realize and respect this. My friend is still the person I loved in my youth and now I can start to see him through my grownup eyes. He is a gem and deserves all his success and I am very sorry I did not believe him.
It is hot today so I am hiding inside. I already got burned for the season and I have to say, I think the pasty white look is wonderful. Let's hear it for being inside and not getting skin cancer!
First story is about the new Happy Divorce candle. While delivering candles to Glassy Baby, I over heard a customer talking about how excited she was for her up coming vacation. She is going to the East Coast to visit one of her best friends who had just served her husband with divorce papers. This lady was so full of joy as she talked about how much she loved her friend and what a great move this is going to be in her friends life. There was no sadness around this divorce but a feeling of freedom and love for her friend and the situation. Her friend was ready to start living an authentic life full of self love and discovery. It was a great story and inspired me to make this candle. Good Luck!
The other candle I made this week is a giant I Am Sorry candle. This week I spent some time with a dear friend who has a high profile job in Seattle. We have known each other since middle school and as much as I love this person, I still have trouble seeing him for who he is now. A Seattle celebrity. So while we were having dinner the other night, I told him to get over his high profile paranoia and just enjoy life. I understood his point that he had to have a public and private life, but I just never thought he was that big of a star in this small city full of famous music and TV stars. However, last night I went to a party at a famous bands house that provided a situation where I learned a valuable lesson. This band tours the world, has very high selling albums and has been interviewed for all major papers, TV shows etc.... But at the party, everyone was asking me about my other friend. How did I know him, why was he not at the party, could I tell him about how all these people love him? This was a total shock to me and I am now eating my words about what I said to him earlier in the week. He does have a public life and I need to realize and respect this. My friend is still the person I loved in my youth and now I can start to see him through my grownup eyes. He is a gem and deserves all his success and I am very sorry I did not believe him.
It is hot today so I am hiding inside. I already got burned for the season and I have to say, I think the pasty white look is wonderful. Let's hear it for being inside and not getting skin cancer!
Friday, June 27, 2008
Summer Reading
Every summer I manage to find a gem of a book that takes me through the summer with a warm and enchanted heart. Last summer it was Good Things by Mia King. This year I found an unbelievable wonderful little good that I read in one day. Nancy Pearl our wonderful superstar Liberian in Seattle turned me onto this book and whenever I see her next I will rush up to thank her. The book is called Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen. It is a wonderful sister story much like Alice Hoffmans' Practical Magic book which is a good thing in my view. Both stories combine old herbal lore with Wise Women advice and strength. Garden Spells took place in North Carolina which moved me because that is where my family has our reunion with all 100 members of the family. I feel close to the Earth in North Carolina and love to get lost on the back roads. For a while now I have been dreaming of North Carolina and moving there. It is also home to one of my favorite candle making supply stores. So maybe North Carolina is in my future?
The author of Garden Spells has a new novel that just came out and I can not wait to read it. Garden Spells was about a caterer, the new novel she wrote is about a woman that makes chocolate, my book would be about a candle maker that helps people bring magic into their lives via my candles. I feel a close connection to these stories. Sometimes there are people in this world that have gifts which are accessed through their talents in life. I do not know how better to explain it than with this thought.... Read these books!
We are about to have a heat wave in Seattle and so I will be taking a few days off from making candles. Tomorrow I have a busy social day and Sunday I will clean my studio, room and car.
I go to the surgeon's on Monday and will find out when I will go in for surgery. Hopefully sooner than later. I want my energy back! Chronic pain is hard to live with but I am so lucky to have wonderful friends and family that have helped me prepare for the surgery and all the things I need to get done before I go into the hospital.
Lastly, I have been able to see my wonderful nephew this week a couple of times and I am always in awe of how much he has grown up. He loves to talk and all the kids that live on his block now come over and play with him. He is a truly magical being and life is just not as fun without him.
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