Tuesday, August 9, 2011

Finders Keepers

Sometimes I wish that we could keep all those things and people we love, indefinitely. I suppose we can, to some degree. I mean they have a show all about people that hold on to things (Hoarders) Ha! I have things that I’ve kept that are very special to me and I am attached to them because of their significance, but when it comes to people, I try ohh so very hard to practice “detachment.”


Through my relationships and learning from life and my readings, I’ve learned what creates the most amount of suffering is if we are too attached to anything. Fears typically create attachments, because on a subconscious level we think that if we can cling on to something, it will stay. It will keep us safe. And when it leaves, we are crushed. Devastated. Angry. And we will typically do it all over again or avoid getting attached to anything and anyone, altogether, out of fear of being hurt again.

I am still attached to my family and friends. I give space and understand that we all have our lives and cannot be at each other’s beck and call every moment, but the current of love and support is always there and that is what I stay connected to regardless, even if weeks or months go by without seeing each other. The current of love and support remains.
Detachment in work can be easy for some hard for others. Many of us are very attached to our jobs and the income we receive. Without it, well, it can be freighting. I noticed a couple years ago when people were losing their homes, how that experienced shifted consciousness in a way like I haven’t seen for some time. People began to re-prioritize and scale back and learned to do without. All valuable and a practice of detachment to some degree.

Detachment is harder to practice in relationships. We typically want something from the other person and if our needs aren’t met we begin to control, lash out or leave. Sometimes we are lucky and attract partners that we grow with and have the support, harmony and love that is lasting, but most of us have to have a couple experiences before we attract that kind of love. And even if we are in a healthy and supportive relationship, the attachment to losing the person can come up.

I’ve learned to not be attached to anything in relationships. I have expectations for myself and hold on to what I want, but being attached to any sort of outcome, for me, creates suffering. I’ve learned to accept people for who they are and understand that we all have the ability to grow and change, but some people choose not to. Love is a choice. We do, to some degree, choose who we love (to quote my brother-in-law). I never in my life thought I would love so many people I encounter, but what I realize is that through my experiences I have learned unconditional love in a way that I can love everyone, genuinely, and be “in love,” simultaneously. I am constantly grateful for all that I have because I know that tomorrow is another day and things can change and people and things can move in and out of your life. If we’re lucky, they stay around, though. ;)

So, this month, I ask you to let go a little bit. Love people to the degree that you accept them for who they are, exactly as they are with no other expectations of them being any different. Give people the space to grow and support them with love and detachment. Love yourself enough to focus on your wants and needs and do those things that support that path.

To help with the process, let me recommend a product that you might just love: 7th Chakra Spray – Light from Life Aromatherapy. This spray is one of my favorites and smells like something other worldly. :)

A little music for inspiration:

Bright Eyes – Easy, Lucky, Free
Portugal the Man – Let You Down (my new crush)
The Civil Wars - Poison & Wine

I hope this month brings you all those things and people that make you feel good. Let's focus on loving, acceptance and detachment and see what happens. :) Sound good.

I love you, all. MWAH!
Carrie

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Look Mom - No Hands!

Happy belated Independence Day! I cannot believe it's July already and that I'm just sending this message. I completely missed June. Oh, well. I believe timing is everything, so I hope this message meets you at the perfect moment. :) Here we go!


So, I have a question for you: Have you ever told someone you're close with something that meant a lot to you; a dream, or an aspiration and heard these words? “How are you going to do that?? You can’t do that! What about…?”

Yeah, doubt. Fears. Other peoples stuff and limited thinking. They can crush your dreams, but only if you let them! :)

This message is more about YOU than them. You see, I believe if we have confidence in ourselves and trust our visions, that energy can carry us far (so far!) and can ultimately manifest our dreams.

There will always be friends, family members and outside influences that will attempt to sabotage our dreams if we let them. Many people cannot see past their limited thinking. If you grew up in a home with parents that reinforced all the things that you didn’t do well – jeez, don’t you think you’re going to get triggered a bit when someone questions your ideas? If you were told that “You can’t to do that! How can you afford to do that? Do you think I’m going to support you?” Don’t you think those words are going to have some effect on you? Maybe a little?




Umm, yeah, some of us grew up in homes where these types of fears and limited views were flying at us from all directions and those words can leave an imprint. Even if you grew up in a home that was supportive, loving and encouraging -- stuff still comes up. We are all flawed to some degree, yet, perfect in that. If we didn’t have to learn and work at things, how could we truly appreciate the value of the gifts that come with learning?

To know ultimate faith and trust in one self can take time and experience, but I believe when we learn it and follow our passions and convictions, we become invincible. There is no limit to what we are capable of creating.

I share this because I often have to hear my own advice. I’m fortunate to have a remarkable support team, but it is also my belief in myself, my visions, faith and conviction that have helped to manifest my dream of supporting people through my product line, readings, yoga and inspirational items. I chose long ago to only listen to words of advice from people I respected and trusted, and more importantly, to trust my own advice and feelings. I’m glad I did, because I get to interact and share with all of you and it makes my heart incredibly happy. :)

So, the message here is to trust yourself and follow your own guidance. We have to ultimately be our own cheerleaders. Once we have inner faith and a level of pure confidence in our abilities, we become limitless.

The other night I saw a story around Billionaires and how they made their fortunes; Ted Turner being one of them. All of them had “stuff” and were told as children that they would amount to nothing. They could have chosen to believe what they heard as children, but instead, chose to reach a level of success that many cannot even fathom.

One of my hero’s, Anita Roddick, created The Body Shop. She was fortunate to come from a supportive family and was positively influenced in her up bringing. She started her business out of conviction and a need to support her husband and two children. They were struggling when she decided to open a store. He was going to go away for a year and they needed the money. She could barely afford the inventory and rent for her store, but she had a vision and was full of fire (and light) and she went with it. When she died a few years back, she was worth a half billion dollars. Not a billionaire, but close! She was an Activist and supported Social, Environmental and Humanitarian causes. She often questioned how she and her family were going to survive, but she kept going, kept the faith and wow did she leave an imprint and legacy.


If you won’t be your own cheerleader, then let me be yours in the meantime. If someone tells you that you can’t do something, smile inside and say “Oh, hell yesss I can.” (as long as it’s legal and moral, please!! Ha!).

Here is a little music for inspiration!



How You Like Me Now - The Heavy

Son's Gonna Rise - Citizen Cope

Stone Rollin - Raphael Saadiq

And some products to get you going and build your confidence: 3rd Chakra Spray - Innocence & 4th Chakra Spray - Love, 5th Chakra Spray - Truth....powerful combo!

We are launching out natural perfume line, soon! You'll be the first to know and WOW, you'zz gonna love them!

Oh, and I'm coming to Urban Yoga in Phoenix on July 30th!! Come join me that day from 11am-12:30pm for a Detox Flow Class. I'll be diffusing my oils and making you work. :) Bring a towel, some water and be ready for some detoxing on all levels. It's going to be fun!!! Contact Urban Yoga Phoenix at: 602.277.yoga to sign up. http://www.urbanyogaphx.com/

That is all. I promise that I'm not going to be such a stranger. Thank you for the love and support. Now get out there and do your thing!

Much love, always.
Carrie





































Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Man on a wire...

There is a famous wire walker called Philippe Petite. In 1974 Petite walked on a wire strung between what were the World Trade buildings. Not once, but an accounted 6-8 times that day. Only a couple close accomplices assisted him with the set up and filming of this illegal and unfathomable feat. To this day when I picture this man on a wire strung between two buildings, at a height of 1,368 ft., it makes me sick to my stomach. Knowing that these buidings are now gone and so many lives with them, evokes a whole other level of emotion that I cannot even articulate.

In our world’s history, there are countless accounts of these wire walkers that risk their lives for the love of their craft. For some of them, it’s all they’ve known. I’m not sure that the risk of losing their life is on the forefront of their minds…I think their art (and I’m sure pride for some) takes over any thoughts of falling. Some of these wire walkers began walking as early as the age of 5; like Jean Francois Gravelot, the “Great Blondin” who in his lifetime walked across the gorge below Niagara Falls – his wire, 1100 feet (335 m) long, 3¼ inches in diameter, 160 feet (50 m) above the water. Insane!

These wire walkers have walked on tight ropes all over the world, the greatest heights and have set multiple world records. Some would say that they are completely fearless. Some would say they are crazy and reckless. I am wholeheartedly intrigued by their fearlessness or possibly, their delirium.

While watching a documentary about Philippe Petite a few years back my stomach turned as I saw the heights and distance he would walk on this tiny, narrow rope made of wire…all for the love of something he had known his whole life. The wire was an extension of him.

I had a conversation with a close friend the other day and she recounted her adventures on a recent trip. These adventures required that she sign a release form that stated “we are not responsible for death or injury.” GULP! She was signing up for a deep sea cave diving adventure. GULP, again! She dove in caves so narrow that they had to measure the circumference of her body to make sure she could get through the cave!! And she’s tiny!! Hearing her story and reflecting on the stores about wire walkers made me think? How is it that some people can be incredibly fearless when it comes to risking their lives, but when it comes to risking their hearts and being vulnerable with others they become paralyzed with fear?

I have no problem being vulnerable and falling in love and loving, but put me up on a wire and make me dive into an underwater cave… HELL NO!! I’d pass out before we even get there. Ha ha!

I want to dedicate this month to all those fearless people out there and encourage us all to stretch our boundaries and take some (non-life endangering) risks. I think it is healthy to have a bit of fear. Sometimes, we have every reason to be cautious; but, there are times when our fears can cripple us and block us from having an experience and expanding ourselves. Sometimes people stay in relationships, jobs, and a location for years out of fear of the unknown. Sometimes people are so afraid to tell the truth and share their honest feelings that is literally makes them sick or evokes some sort of physical reaction.

A rational amount of fear as I mentioned is healthy, I believe. But when fears cripple us from living, sharing, experiencing…well, we need to investigate. When I encounter people like Phillipe, who are so full of conviction with what they love, and are fearless as a result, I literally rejoice in my heart. These people inspire me and motivate me to do the same….and as a result, I transfer that energy to you allJ

If we can, day by day, inch by inch, whittle away at our fears we may experience freedom like we’ve never known and life in a way that is beyond explanation. When we can be completely vulnerable and fearless in all our relationships; wow, we will experience a depth of love like no other.

So, let’s face our fears this month. Whatcha think about that? Now, I don’t think I’ll be wire walking, skydiving or repelling anytime in this lifetime, but I’m sure I can think of some other things I can work onJ Can you???

To help you all muster some courage, how about using my 5th Chakra Spray – Truth. The oils in this particular blend help to evoke communication from the heart (anything from the heart is trueJ). This center, the throat chakra is the gateway to processing and releasing the energy of the lower chakras. It’s powerful spray!

I love the learning that life offers us. If we can look at life that way – as a learning experience, maybe we will play more, reveal more and love more. Just sayin’.

I love you all and I’m not afraid to say it :) xoxo

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Sucker-Punched

Wow! This month has been fast moving. How are you all feeling??

I have to say that I’m feeling better than ever and have finally settled in to my new home after 10 months…a new home that just last Friday, was to experience the consequence of a tsunami! An area prone to earth quakes, mud slides, wild fires, flooding… a cacophony of natural disasters, and it is my new home; vulnerabilities and all.

I cannot continue this post without acknowledging the situation in Japan. The devastation. Loss. Suffering. It breaks my heart and like many, I feel helpless and can only offer my deepest empathy for their situation, financial support to those aid organizations that are helping and my ever constant prayers.

Haiti is still recovering; Egypt, Libya and Tunisia are in uproar...so many people in areas of Africa, India, and Asia need help; and in the face of natural disasters and horrific abuse of their rulers - these areas have suffered and continue to suffer beyond comprehension. It makes me question so many things. Why all the suffering? Why so many?

On a spiritual level I do understand why many of us have to endure loss and circumstances that allow for growth and healing, but when there are thousands of people in dire circumstances I have to admit that I question these things, but my faith in higher workings is so much stronger…I can only trust that there is something more at hand and maybe that is to bring us all together as a World United to aid, support and through the awareness of the situation, appreciate all the good and blessings in life in a way that isn’t possible without these overtly sever situations.

I sat in the airport today, observing all the people as I often do, silently praying that they get to their loved ones safely. I prayed that I, too, would get to where I need to go safely and connect with those I love. But, in my heart as I said goodbye to my dad who took me to the airport; and when I purchased my tea; and in my interaction with friends while waiting for my plane; and on my drive to the office: I kept affirming. I AM SO LUCKY. I AM SO LUCKY. I AM SO LUCKY!

There is not a day that goes by that I don’t feel sincere gratitude for my circumstance. I know at any instant everything in my life can change. There is nothing and no-one I take for granted. And, I’m not ignoring my own personal suffering that I’ve experienced in my life– I have had my share of experiences - but I have not experienced anything remotely close to a situation like those in Japan and the other areas mentioned. I cannot imagine. I wish, like many of you, that there was something more I could do to help:( So, to contribute right now in the way that I can, I am contributing 30% of my gross sales on all Life Aromatherapy products purchased up until the end of March. The contributions will be going to the IRC and Red Cross. Life Aromatherapy currently contributes a percentage of gross profits on all Life Aromatherapy products to the IRC and other aid organizations, but I feel this month, it is important to do at least a little something more. Individually, we can make big difference. Collectively, we can make an remarkable difference.

So, sorry to start this post in such a somber way, but again, I felt I had to say something.

Keeping things in perspective, I have to also acknowledge the energy and activity of this month and encourage you all to get out there with your manifestations!!

This is a powerful month and I literally feel as though I’ve been sucker-punched! Totally and utterly caught off guard, on my game and knocked off it – holy moly!! Now, this feeling is delightful, curious and well, a bit intense! I’m finding that my sensitivity to others is increasing, which is wonderful, but has caught me off guard more than ever in my life. So, I’m finding this month, these experiences to be especially intriguing. Sucker-punched. Yep. I’ve been sucker-punched.

I’ve been sucker-kissed, too…but that’s another story. Ha ha! Just kidding;) Actually, my friends little girl sucker-kissed me smack on the lips and she was the most delightful little thing…I didn’t mind a bit:)

The activity of March will swoop through quickly. That is why I’m sending this message at this time. If you want to ride on the magic carpet, GET ON!It’s leaving in about 2 seconds -- it’s that quick. Anything and everything you want to bring into your life, put it on paper and affirm you have it. “Act as if!” Now IS the time!

I’ve been sitting, waiting, hoping and praying for my heartfelt wishes to come true, all the while being tornado-ed by a slew of opportunities that I never considered. It’s a magical time and I’m keeping perspective and hoping through the whirlwind of energy, my deepest dreams surface. Of course, I will keep you posted (wink, wink). But, this month there is this feeling of confidence that I haven’t experience for some time. Magic is everywhere and I’m gonna be sucker-punched, again. I just know it! And I’m aware that I won’t be ready for it and I like that:)

Music PLEASE!! Okay, okay. I have to say that I’ve been such a baby lately, whining that I won’t be seeing the Black Keys in Phoenix next month. I’m still not over it, and to be frank, I’m not going to GET over it. They’re fabulous and every fiber of my being comes alive when I listen to their music. So, Ragnar Race, you better be worth it or I’m gonna SUCKER-PUNCH YOU! Ha Ha!

To honor the Black Keys – I want you all to take a listen to: Tighten Up

And to honor my race! Take a listen to: How You Like Me Now by – The Heavy

Another favorite: Where the Wild Things Are – Patrick Watson

And to honor all of you and to spread light and healing to all mandkind: Hallejula - Jeff Buckley
(and him).

My wish for all of you is to love beyond your idea of love and to not take one second for granted. Let the fears go. Let the ego go. Let go and LIVE. Why wait? It's silly, really and the fears don't serve you anyway. Just sayin'.

Many prayers, blessings, wishes and love to all…everyone as far as I can reach.

Carrie

Thursday, February 10, 2011

Mi Amore....

May I sit at your table
May I bathe in your light
May I take in the splendor
Of this fine night
May I look at your children
And witness all that
You hold dear
And be delighted because
You are happy
May I be in this beauty
And feel this way forever

May I love like you have
Loved

May I ask for this treasure

Carrie Keller

Oh February – how you come and go so quickly!

Where have all of you been? I have missed you!!

This has turned into, yet again, a busy month. I feel this is my life for the next while, so I’m trying to savor each day and keep balance. I find myself sleeping more these days which I know means I’m juggling too much. Uh oh…think I need some help. Ha! I’m not joking. :)

The energy “out there” has been so interesting lately. I realize Mercury is in retrograde, but my goodness, is it taking a lot of energy to just get everything done! I’ve been hearing this from other people, too (!), so I know a shift is happening. And as much as I joke about being sluggish and wanting to sleep and rest, I know how sensitive I am to energy and when my body feels this way, I have to honor it. There’s nothing wrong with getting 12 hours of sleep, right?? Ha! Yikes!

So, I felt I had to acknowledge the “energy” out there before I dive into the other stuff. The full moon two weeks ago was a doozy and those individuals that are sensitive most likely felt it BIG TIME. I sure did!! Whew! And it lasted two weeks!!!

These energetic shifts stir things up and clear out what's not serving us. It is for a higher purpose... even if it’s not fun when you’re experiencing the energy. The sluggish energy right now is also preparing many of us for some highly energized activity starting after the 11th. I’m not an Astrologist (really know so little about it all), but my intuition and guidance is telling me that there is some fast energy up ahead. It’s beyond “manifestation” energy. It is “actualized” energy. Things are just gonna happen, period! It will be interesting to see what happens. Share your stories with me please!!!

So, more about February! I realize this month holds Valentine’s DayJ (Ummhmm). I’ve mentioned in years past that the thought of Valentine’s Day kind of suffocates me. Ha! ( I admit, I’m a weirdo). I just don’t like anything that is over commercialized; I think it takes away from the specialness of demonstrating and sharing love and adoration; and the reality is, I just think we should celebrate the people we love every day. However, sometimes we need a reason show our affection and Valentine’s Day offers that window, eh? So take advantage of it people!! Go all out!! Haha!

Now, I say all of this with a sense of humor (and truth), but I feel like a hypocrite because I am a hopeless romantic! I’m such a sucker for sweet gifts, tokens of affections, grand gestures. I have definitely watched the Notebook, Pride and Prejudice, Something’s Gotta Give and Notting Hill way too many timesJ I believe in love over everything and seem to love everyone. Ha! Hell, I created a LOVE chakra spray so that people could get wrapped up in the essence of love. Haha! I just want us all to appreciate and show it more often…I know many of you do, but this is a little reminder for those of you that forget every now and again:) It is easy to take loved ones for granted thinking that they just know that we love and appreciate them. Some sweet gestures and pressies now and then can’t hurt and I bet it will make those you love feel really special and valued.

Now, I personally think handpicked flowers, a love note, a home cooked dinner with yummy wine, or a mix CD are some of the best gestures/pressies, but here are some other sites & stores I love:

www.esty.com
www.francesvintage.com
www.lifearomatherapy.com (wink, wink)
www.marthastewart.com
www.ladijijewelery.com

Favorite love songs:

Kooks – Do You Love Me Still
Beach House – Take Care
Al Green – All I Need
Etta James – All I Could Do Is Cry
Black Keys – You’re The One
M.Ward – I’ll Be Your Bird
Fink – If only

This message is a bit short - but as I mentioned...I've been a sleepy little girl, lately;) More exciting news to come. Promise!!

Enjoy lovers, sweet ones, mi amores...I am sharing all my love with you this month and always.

Mwah!
Carrie

Saturday, January 8, 2011

My new friend...

Welcome to January! Is it me or is time flying, already? Things are manifesting like crazy; it is almost surreal. I’m diggin’ it. Are you??

I have a story for you (don’t I always. Ha!) I have a new friend…

His name is “P.”

You see, “P” is not someone new to my life; he is actually an ex boyfriend. Yes, it is true. Shocking news!!

But, “P” is now one of my closest friends and even though we are still crazy about each other; we’ve decided that being friends is the better path for us to take. We still see each other, talk and share our lives with each other; but it is a different relationship. Some days being “friends” can be challenging, but the joy of having each other in our lives outweighs a little heartache for us both every now and then.

I’m sharing this because this is a new experience for me and I thought it might help some of you out there when it comes to honoring your heart and making choices that not only serve you but support the other person. Making these choices takes a lot of maturity, awareness, compassion and confidence.

You see, most of my relationships have ended somewhat abruptly. I usually have to sever contact after a break-up to allow for healing and space. Because I feel so deeply, having contact with my ex's initially caused confusion and made the healing process longer and a little harder. So, as a result, I decided at some point with each of them to limit or sever contact. Most them didn’t like this solution (sorry!!), but I felt it was necessary and it wasn't forever;)

I can say that I have the fortune to be close friends with my ex’s (there’s only a couple:)), but it did take some time to reconnect and form a new relationship. I am grateful that I still have these men in my life. I feel still having them as close friends says a lot about our appreciation for each other and the gratitude we have for the experience we shared.

The relationship transition with “P” happened over a period of weeks, which is pretty fast, but what I noticed in that time was that I was that my love and appreciation for him grew, and with this feeling, I had the realization that I made the right decision and that we would be great friends and have fun supporting each other in a different way.

You see, sometimes when things don’t work out in a relationship or the timing isn't right, we get angry, lash out and try to hurt the other person. Sometimes we give away our power do things to manipulate the other person (not always intentional) to get what we want. And sometimes we shut off; walk away as if we never even knew the person. Now, these are all very real situations (break-ups can be messy!); however, there are many people that end a relationship with love and choose to be friends, part ways, in a graceful way. I admire these types of people and think it’s beautiful that they end their experience with the person this way.

I've may or may not have done one or two of the above. Haha! ;)

As much as it’s hard to leave a relationship sometimes, I do believe that intuitively, we know when something is not right/working or when the timing isn't aligned . Sometimes we ignore the nudges, signs or what is evident, but I believe this serves a purpose, as well.We’re not meant to know everything right away…that would inhibit the experience, the magic in discovery and the FUN!

I believe that when you feel a magnetic pull or energy with someone, it means that the relationship is not over. If there is no energy or pull between you and the other person, then usually, the learning and growth in the relationship has manifested and you form a new kind of relationship.

Every relationship in our lives serves a purpose and romantic relationships can foster some enormous personal growth for both individuals. There are blessings and light in all relationships in our lives. Even negative experiences teach us something and that something may be about what we don’t like and want.

I met “P” at the perfect time in my life and I think “P” would say that I entered his life at the perfect time, too:)We create smoke and fire when were together as a couple, but as friends, well, we’re creating only a mere steam…haha! Right, "P?" ;)

So, loving can be beautiful, painful, fun, passionate, frustrating...but it is all good for us. I'd rather love and take risks in love, rather than chose to protect myself from fully experiencing a person or situation. The first is so much more rewarding:)

Now about 20111.I’m telling you. Anything that didn’t work for you in 2010 is gonna clear out of your life like a tornado if it hasn’t already (I have a feeling it has for most of you). THIS IS THE YEAR for major growth and dreams coming to fruition. Anything you took a chance on in 2010 will pay off big time this year. I’m seeing it in my life with my business, readings and personal life…and it is just the beginning. EXCITING!!

Be conscious where and with whom you devote your energy. If you want your goals to manifest, focus on them. I am confident that with focused intention in the next month or two, you’ll see how quickly things happen. Really, I mean it!!

To help you clear and prepare your energy for this year, use my 7th Chakra Spray (Light). And to bring in the new energy and manifestations, use my 4th, 5th or 6th Chakra Sprays (Love, Truth and Connection). They DO work!!! Another promise! Haha!

"And cut!!"

Let’s please now talk about music!!!

I am so in love with this band!! I’m sure many of you already know them, but because this is going to be a year of awesomeness, I had to feature them. They make me so incredibly happy:

The Black Keys! Here are two of my favorite songs You're the One and Everlasting Light. Take a listen and you’ll fall in love, too!

Another band that I’m obsessed with (also, one that many of you are probably aware of) is:

Bon Iver. Words cannot convey my love; oh my love, for this artist. Check out Skinny Love and The Wolves (Act 1 & 2). I wanna live in their world. Will you lemme, please??

One last recommendation. This one is for “P.” :)

Pixies Here Comes Your Man and

The Virgins Fernando Pando.

So, that is all my friends. Things are going well and I can genuinely say that I am happy and am excited about all that is happening. I knew I came out to LA for a reason and now I’m starting to see the purpose, but I know that more has yet to be revealed….of course, you’ll be the first to hear about it;)

And a thank you to “P” for being who you are and what you are to me:)

LOVE to you all!! Let’s make it a special year!!

Mwah!


Thursday, December 9, 2010

Take me home...

“Take me home;
Country roads

To the place
I belong.”

John Denver

When I think about the holidays, I immediately anticipate the time I'll spend with my family and friends. Woo hoo (!!); juxtaposition to these thoughts is a vision of seeing my dad sitting on the back patio, singing along to John Denver with an endearing look of joy and contentment...and it delights me to no end.

In the past 20 sum years or more, I do not recall a time when he hasn’t played John Denver on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. If you want to see someone "light up;" you should see my dad in front of a computer watching John Denver videos:) It's pretty adorable. If there was ever a man crush that went down in the Guinness Book of World records, it is this one. Ha! Fortunately, my mom can handle it;)

I will admit, I gush over hundreds of artists, and probably have the same look of utter bliss on my face when listening to them, but to see how happy “JD” makes my dad…well, there really isn’t anything like it. What brings me joy is seeing him in that space of pure delight. That is what I look forward to and receive the most pleasure from; seeing my loved ones happy; seeing people happy. And beyond this, nothing makes me happier than being home.

I was thinking of all of this, this morning while listening to Ray LaMontagne (my John Denver:)).While listening the song "Old Before Your Time," I had this overwhelming desire to be in the pines, barefoot, soaking up nature. Next thing you know, I’m barefoot in my kitchen, making homemade berry preserves at 8am, swaying as I stir the preserves and in my thoughts picturing myself in a cabin, with a fire, music in the background, the smell of the Ponderosa's in the cool air. Umm, yeah, wonderful (!) until I realized that it was probably not the BEST time to be doing this as I had to be out the door at 8:30am!!! Gave myself 15 min to shower, dress and scoot. Whoopsie!! It was worth it.

Why am I telling you all of this? Because I want us all to appreciate the simple things in life; the beauty of family and friends; the delight of music and the light it can evoke in us; the glory of nature and what it provides. The basic things that ground us and make us feel good.

So, this Holiday, give yourself the break you need, the nurturing, the little gifts that make you feel good. Please do the same for your family and friends. Let them know how much you appreciate them and do small things to make them feel good.

I’m looking forward to sitting on the patio with my “Papa” and family; under the stars, next to a fire with JD in the background. Maybe I’ll sneak my man in, too (RLM).

Wanna take a listen to some “root’ music. Check out Ray’s latest album. Every time I take a listen, I seriously long to be in the mountains. God Willin' & The Creeks Don't Rise

Another artist that brings me back home is: Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Song "Home"

Now back to business....Ha!

Wanna smell some clean fresh air??? Use the Clarifying Room Spray from Life!! This formula combines a blend of eucalyptus, peppermint and rosemary…perfect for this time of year!! Ummhmm...

Another plug:) - I am giving 15% off any readings scheduled within before January 1st. I want to support you all going in to the New Year!!! Yay!!! Send me an email or visit my website: http://www.fairygirlbliss.com/

Please enjoy yourself and your loved ones this Holiday Season. My wish is that you are all blissfully happy, always and that all that you hold in your heart comes true for you.

Enjoy this time. Rest. Rejuvenate and get ready for the New Year. It’s gonna be a good one (hold on to your hats!!).

Much love,
Carrie