Archive for the 'Holidays' Category

HEART OF CHRISTMAS Book

Christmas, Heart of Christmas, Holidays, Kindle eBooks| No Comments »

IT’S PUBLISHED!

 

 

The newest book in the Heart Book Series is an eBook, Heart of Christmas.

A yuletide collection of original short stories, poems, quotations, humor and cherished memories

To purchase a copy of Heart of Christmas book:
https://www.amazon.com/Heart-of-Christmas-ebook/dp/B00AJMFX56

To purchase a copy of the FULL printed Heart of the Holidays book:
http://www.sparklepresentations.com/store_books_heart_holidays.asp

HEART OF THE HOLIDAYS, released on Kindle Sept. 19, 2012!
Yuletide inspirations: Thanksgiving thru New Year’s!
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE FOR $4.99

 

 

To purchase a copy of the printed Heart of the Holidays book with BONUS MUSIC CD:
http://www.sparklepresentations.com/store_books_heart_holidays_CD.asp

 

 

To purchase a copy of the printed Heart of the Holidays BONUS MUSIC CD only:
Includes beloved actor Jack Palance’s delightful reading of "Twas the Night Before Christmas."
Music CD produced by WorldSound Productions, Inc., http://www.worldsoundproductions.com/
http://www.sparklepresentations.com/store_heart_holidays_music_cd.asp

Heart Book Series … welcomes Kindle eBooks by Sheryl Roush

Heart of a Military Woman, Heart of the Holidays, Holidays, Kindle eBooks| No Comments »

This week, we welcome TWO new KINDLE version eBooks to the printed collection by speaker/author Sheryl Roush!

 

 

Heart of a Military Woman and Heart of the Holidays

 

VIEW OTHER BOOKS –AND MUSIC IN THIS SERIES:

Click on title to view each book.
Heart of a Woman (printed)
Heart of a Military Woman (printed) ….. and on Kindle
Heart of a Mother (printed)
Heart of a Mother (printed with Bonus Music CD)
Heart of a Mother …  Music CD
Heart of the Holidays (printed) ….. and on Kindle
Heart of the Holidays … Music CD
Heart of a Woman in Business (printed)

Corazon de Mujer
(printed) (Heart of a Woman in Spanish)

WINTER SOLSTICE

Heart of the Holidays, Holidays, Winter Solstice| No Comments »

Reprinted from the HEART OF THE HOLIDAYS book, by Sheryl L. Roush

WINTER SOLSTICE
by Reverend Uki MacIsaac, MA

Winter Solstice is the time when the “sun stands still,” the shortest day of the year. In the Northern Hemisphere, days become shorter from June 21 on, until around December 21st, when the sun seems to rise and set in the same place for a while. Then slowly the sun begins its journey toward the south again, and the days grow longer until the peak of sunlight at the Summer Solstice.

The longest night of the year bears within itself the promise of the return of the light, the “rebirth” of the sun. Thus, the Winter Solstice is a time to celebrate the darkness of the womb from which creation arises. We honor the cycles of life, death, and rebirth, the dark night of the soul and the rebirth of new hope and vision. When we move deeper into the darkness instead of avoiding it, we find the gifts the darkness holds. To some, that may mean moving into the shadow aspect of self. What needs to be released, to be brought into the light of our awareness? Even in our darkest moments we can find the seeds of growth and healing within.

The darkness of the long winter nights that culminate in the Winter Solstice is also a time to honor and celebrate the world of the unseen, of dreams, and of intuition. When we cannot see with our physical eyes, we learn to trust the inner vision, the power of insight and inner knowingness. The journey into the darkness prepares the way for celebration: in gratitude we rejoice in the return of the light, the promise of the sun/son lighting our path, the promise of new beginnings.

A Winter Solstice Meditation

Begin by taking a deep breath in and then exhaling slowly.
Relax as you release the breath.
With each breath you take, you move deeper into the silent space
within, into your inner world.
Imagine yourself now walking through a desert landscape at night.
The moon is not visible to light your path, and at first your steps are
unsure and tentative. The more you attune yourself to the silent
world around you, the more your senses begin to perceive details
along your path.
The desert air is clear and cold, fragrant with the aroma of sage.
Now you move with confidence, you can “see” with your inner eyes.
You are comfortable with the darkness that reveals its gifts:
You can hear sounds of life around you—what do you hear?
You see things you have not seen before—what do you see?
You trust your inner senses, your intuition guides you on your path.
Answers reveal themselves as you surrender to the power of the unseen.
You feel safe and protected.
A warm feeling starts to bubble up in your solar plexus.
The warmth spreads to your arms and legs, to your whole body.
A pleasant tingling sensation accompanies the warm glow that now
seems to emanate from your body, creating a field of pleasant
vibrating energy throughout and around you. The source of light
and warmth is within, always accessible, your internal sun.
You are equally comfortable with the dark as with the light.
You are balanced, in harmony with Mother Earth and Father Sky.
As you turn your eyes toward the night sky above you, a blanket of
brilliant stars illuminate the sky.
Gratitude washes over you as you open your heart to the beauty
of this sacred time and space.
A granite boulder offers a place to rest and relax.
Hours seem like minutes, a sense of timelessness prevails.
Yet, almost imperceptibly at first, you notice a change on the horizon.
The light of the stars begins to fade, and toward the east, the first light
of dawn colors the sky with shades of purple, pink, and orange.
Slowly the landscape around you reveals a new face of beauty and
harmony.
Soon the radiant disk of the sun appears and bathes the desert in its
warm glow.
You are reborn to this new day, and you greet it with joy and
gratitude.
You can trust the sacred circles of nature that offer new beginnings.
Bless the return of the light as you have blessed the womb of
darkness that preceded it.
With your next deep breath begin to bring your awareness back to the
here and now. Feel yourself grounded, balanced, and in harmony.
When you are ready, you may open your eyes, fully back in the here
and now, bringing with you the gifts of this sacred journey.
And so it is.
Thank You God.

ORDER THE BOOK:
Bask in the glow of winter’s warmth. Celebrate the most blessed time of year with lighthearted tales, original stories and poems, and quotations… Chapters include: Thanksgiving, Christmas, Yuletide Around the Globe, Hanukkah, Winter Solstice, Ringing in the New Year…
ORDER COPIES of the HEART OF THE HOLIDAYS book here.   KINDLE version


ORDER THE MUSIC CD:

Touching the heart with music, Heart of the Holidays is a celebration of the season. Included are creative new interpretations of the traditional Chanukah songs "Mo’oz Tsur" and "Sivivon." Two original numbers written and performed by Laurie Z., "Heart of the Holidays" and "Warmth From Within" easily hold their own next to the traditional songs we all know by heart. Playful touches are included, like special guest, late actor Jack Palance singing "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus," topping it all off with Jack Palance’s delightful reading of "The Night Before Christmas."
ORDER COPIES of the HEART OF THE HOLIDAYS Music CD here.

 

 

 

VIEW OTHER BOOKS –AND MUSIC IN THIS SERIES:

Click on title to view each book.
Heart of a Woman (printed)
Heart of a Military Woman (printed) ….. and on Kindle
Heart of a Mother (printed)
Heart of a Mother (printed with Bonus Music CD)
Heart of a Mother …  Music CD
Heart of the Holidays (printed) ….. and on Kindle
Heart of the Holidays … Music CD
Heart of a Woman in Business (printed)

Corazon de Mujer
(printed) (Heart of a Woman in Spanish)

POEM: Happy Thanksgiving

Heart of the Holidays, Holidays, Poems, Thanksgiving| No Comments »

Happy Thanksgiving

The turkey is cooking; we’ve all been to church,
Our grandparents soon will arrive.
The table is set; the best linen is used,
What a grand day to be alive!

There’s a nip in the air; we’re planning on snow,
We kids have new scarves and new muffs.
The cat, a new bell—the dog, a new bow,
And the phone is ringing for us.

“Hurry up, kids! Talk to great Uncle Joe,”
Who lives a long ways away.
Then we’ll call Cousin Jo and dear Auntie Flo,
And wish them joy today.”

Oh, something special there is in the air,
And not just good smells from the oven.
The holiday feeling is felt everywhere,
“Come on, darlin,’ give Mama some huggin.’”

The kitchen door opens; the food is brought in,
We kids all race to the table.
Napkins are snugly tucked ‘neath our chins,
We are hungry, willing and able.

Dad starts to carve, right after grace,
Then my brother shouts, “Dibs on a leg!”
Mom has a special smile on her face,
Our dog sits at Dad’s knee and begs.

“Please pass the beans.” “Where are the yams?”
“Does anyone want a roll?”
“That turkey is almost as big as I am.”
“Who emptied the gravy bowl?”

So the feast moves on straight to the pie,
I rub my tummy; it’s so full.
But I’m no piker—oh no—not I,
“Whipped cream, if you please, a big spoonful.”

So, with warmth and laughter and much good cheer,
For this day, we send thanks above.
We’re grateful we’ve all been together this year,
“Thank You, Dear Lord for such love.”

~ Virginia "Ginny" Ellis
© 2001, 2003, 2004, 2007
www.poetrybyginny.com

Published in Heart of the Holidays, by Sheryl Roush
Order here!

POEM: Heart of the Holidays

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HEART OF THE HOLIDAYS

With praise, we welcome the Holidays,
We express our love for God and man,
We celebrate each special date,
In the very best way we can.
One God . . . one world . . . for us all,
Yellow or Black or White or Brown,
Joined in spirit, mind, and heart,
Holiday Time . . . our common bond.
Thanksgiving turkeys, cranberry sauce,
Hanukkah candles, Christmas tree lights,
Ring out the Old! Ring in the New!
Heart of the Holidays . . . God’s delight!
~ Virginia "Ginny" Ellis
© July 2005
www.poetrybyginny.com

Written for Heart of the Holidays, by Sheryl Roush
Order here!

 

 

VIEW OTHER BOOKS –AND MUSIC IN THIS SERIES:

Click on title to view each book.
Heart of a Woman (printed)
Heart of a Military Woman (printed) ….. and on Kindle
Heart of a Mother (printed)
Heart of a Mother (printed with Bonus Music CD)
Heart of a Mother …  Music CD
Heart of the Holidays (printed) ….. and on Kindle
Heart of the Holidays … Music CD
Heart of a Woman in Business (printed)

Corazon de Mujer
(printed) (Heart of a Woman in Spanish)

Thanksgiving Thoughts: Over The Years

Heart of the Holidays, Holidays, Thanksgiving| No Comments »

THANKSGIVING: THEN AND NOW

Then:
Dad carving the hard-crusted turkey with electric knife, nibbling
as he goes.
Now:
Dad carving the moist, baked-in-the bag turkey, without the
electric knife, still nibbling as he goes.

Then:
Mom cooked up real cranberries (too lumpy for me).
Now:
Sheryl brings jellied cranberry sauce with pickled beets.

Then:
Never decorated the house for the fall holiday.
Now:
Decorate with autumn leaves, real pumpkins, and golden garlands.

Then:
Showed up in time to eat, everything was fixed by mom, departed
early with leftovers in Tupperware and plastic baggies.
Now:
Arrive early, set the table, bring healthy food choices to add to the
menu, clear the table after the meal, and wash the fine china, stay
late just to hang around and have meaningful conversations.

From Heart of the Holidays: Yuletide Treasures and Traditions, by inspirational speaker Sheryl Roush, which features 67 original short stories, 36 poems, and 193 quotations and scriptures from 71 contributors.
ORDER HERE

 

 

 

VIEW OTHER BOOKS –AND MUSIC IN THIS SERIES:

Click on title to view each book.
Heart of a Woman (printed)
Heart of a Military Woman (printed) ….. and on Kindle
Heart of a Mother (printed)
Heart of a Mother (printed with Bonus Music CD)
Heart of a Mother …  Music CD
Heart of the Holidays (printed) ….. and on Kindle
Heart of the Holidays … Music CD
Heart of a Woman in Business (printed)

Corazon de Mujer
(printed) (Heart of a Woman in Spanish)

NATIVI-TEA (Tea Prayer)

Christmas, Heart of the Holidays, Holidays, Poems| No Comments »

NATIVI-TEA

At the moment of my birth there was a celebration, too.
The angels sang and God was all I knew.
God was all I remembered – for on earth
as in Heaven, we are all one.
To remind us of this God sent us his Son.
Once a year we are reminded of His special birth.
It is a rejoicing that encircles all of the earth.
Gifts are given, hearts open wide,
the focus is on good and we all take pride.
The hope for my daily rebirth is now understood.
A child in a manger, simple and pure;
    a symbol of peace and innocence;
that we are all safe from danger, sound and secure.
To be in God’s presence is the present I truly need.
In this time of celebration I am freed from my own greed.
I live to give – my gifts I share.
I do not hide them or disguise them, nor place them under a tree.
My gifts of love and laughter, kindness and caring were meant for sharing;
not just once a year or for a select few.
The gifts I have are unique to me and I celebrate my own nativity.
Every birth is planned, every child has a right,
every life is precious, delicate and meant to be.
On the tree of life every child’s light shines bright for all to see.
Thank you, God; my own light clears my visibility.
There is a place for each and every one of us on God’s special tree.
We glisten and twinkle in colourful harmony.
We each have our place and together we light up the world as we claim our space;
next to each other, side by side; loving and grateful God takes pride
at the birth of each and every one of His children – that’s you and me.
Christmas is a celebration of all we are and all we can be.
Thank you God, for this divine festivity.

Amen

Dharlene Marie Fahl
Author, Poet, Tea Expert
© 2009
www.TakeUpTheCup.com

Sci-Fi Celebrity Charity Benefit December 5-6, 2009

Charities, Holidays, Sci-Fi| No Comments »

Sci-Fi Celebrity Charity Benefit

December 5-6, Lake Forest, CA

Lightspeed Fine Art
is hosting their 10th Annual Celebrity Charity Benefit

Saturday December 5 and Sunday December 6, 2009

Sci-Fi Stars will appear throughout the weekend for photo op’s, signing, and auctioneering items…
Different stars each day in an intimate non-convention setting.

Andromeda

Babylon 5
Pirates of the Caribbean
Stargate Atlantis
Stargate SG:1
Star Trek
Warehouse 13

View details and celeb photos:
http://www.lightspeedfineart.com/celebritycharitybenefit2009.html

Auction Highlights

*Sit in on the taping of an episode for the third season of William Shatner’s "Shatner’s Raw Nerve" on HBO and meet William Shatner himself.*
*A set tour of NBC’s “Chuck” and meet the cast shooting that same day.
*Hot props from Star Trek: Enterprise that John Billingsley (Dr. Phlox) will be auctioning for the Aid Service Center.
*Personal memorabilia from William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, Patrick Stewart (and others not attending).
*A set tour of TNT’s "Leverage" and platinum tickets to the "Leverage" convention.

Since this event is now SOLD-OUT, attendees must be clients of Lightspeed Fine Art. Although BIDS will be accepted from all non-attendees as of Monday, November 30 for auction items.

Owner Gary Hasson commented, "People who are not attending can still bid on some of the exciting auction items.  They can give us their bids in advance and bid on their behalf."

Leonard Nimoy has just donated a rare pair of his "Mr. Spock" ears that he used in Star Trek IV.  They are one of only 20 pair he kept while shooting Star Trek and which are now in private hands.  So this is a special offering.  Leonard is personally providing a signed Certificate of Aauthenticity.

We will also have a rare fully cast signed poster from the new Star Trek movie which was also signed by JJ Abrams.  Paramount donated this to Pacific Stages Theatre group to raise money, all proceeds on this item will go to Pacific Stages.

Proceeds to go to the American Cancer Society and charities of each actor’s choice.

APPEARING for the WEEKEND EVENT!
Vanessa Angel, Lee Arenberg, Rene Auberjonois, John Billingsley, LeVar Burton, Claudia Christian, Evan English, Jonathan Frakes, Bonita Friedericy, Richard Herd, Catherine Hicks, Dominic Keating, Walter Koenig, Cirroc Lofton, Rachel Luttrell, Jason Mamoa, Eddie McClintock, Larry Nemecek, Robert Picardo, Kevin Sorbo, Jeffrey Willerth.
PLUS The Edwards Twins, musical and impersonation entertainment…
AND Star Trek Artist Keith Birdsong and
Garfield/Star Trek Life cartoonist David Reddick
EMCEE International convention auctioneer Marc. B. Lee

DINNER WITH THE STARS – SATURDAY EVENING:
Vanessa Angel, Lee Arenberg, Claudia Christian, Catherine Hicks, Walter Koenig, Cirroc Lofton, Kevin Sorbo, plus The Edwards Twins, and Star Trek Artists Keith Birdsong and David Reddick.

Lake Forest Sun and Sail Club
Lake Forest, CA

EVENT HOST:
Lightspeed Fine Art
offers original art featuring the stars and scenes from your favorite science fiction movies and television series. These highly collectible pieces are offered as: originals, lithographs, chromagraphs, murals and posters in numbered limited and open editions. Many of these works are hand-signed by the artist or the cast members. We also offer an extraordinary collection of environmental art featuring the creatures of the land and sea. Lightspeed Fine Art is a proud member in good standing of the Universal Autograph Collectors Club (UACC). Lightspeed Fine Art is a distributor of Fine Art and a division of American Entertainment Arts
8831 Research Drive, Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92618
Toll Free (800) 490-9690 or (949) 679-4444
E-mail: info@lightspeedfineart.com
Owner: Gary Hasson

Live Long and Prosper!
This email was crafted and sent sent courtesy of Sheryl Roush, Sci-Fi Fan, Speaker, Author.
Feel free to forward to others who may be interested.
To be added to my personal Sci-Fi fan list, reply to Sheryl@SparklePresentation
s.com  We will comply!

POEM: Vegan Thanksgiving

Heart of the Holidays, Holidays, Thanksgiving| No Comments »

Vegan Thanksgiving

It’s sacred Thanksgivin’, and all through the house,
Nothing’s overnight baking, not Lamb and not Grouse.
Making plans for the morning, health-conscious are we,
Jotting it down, while sipping White Green Tea.

We’ll start with Wheatgrass – a 2-ounce shot,
Toasting healthy bodies with no meat in the pot.
Most thankful are we as we pause to say grace,
Not getting caught up in the commercial rat race.

Sparkling Pomegranate Juice in a wine glass,
Light up the stove – we’re cookin’ with gas!
Pita chips and hummus are starter pre-meal,
Carrots, Jicama, Bell Peppers – the natural deal.

Fresh garden salad, sunflower seeds and sprouts,
There’s enough for everyone – so no one pouts.
Simmer a pot of Cous Cous, or Basmati Rice,
Baked Butternut Squash would surely be nice.

Raw Sugar Snap Peas, and baked Yummy Yam,
Doing well avoiding Duck, Turkey and Ham.
Brown Rice Bread, Lentil Veggie soup, too.
Wow – without meat and dairy – there’s so much you can do!

Chocolate Tofu Mousse Cake – well-chilled,
With graham cracker crust, I’m not that strong-willed!
Organic Pumpkin Pie – served piping hot.
Maybe Turkey next year?  I think NOT!

By Sheryl Roush
Inspirational Speaker
Author of Heart of the Holidays
www.SherylRoush.com

 

 

 

VIEW OTHER BOOKS –AND MUSIC IN THIS SERIES:

Click on title to view each book.
Heart of a Woman (printed)
Heart of a Military Woman (printed) ….. and on Kindle
Heart of a Mother (printed)
Heart of a Mother (printed with Bonus Music CD)
Heart of a Mother …  Music CD
Heart of the Holidays (printed) ….. and on Kindle
Heart of the Holidays … Music CD
Heart of a Woman in Business (printed)

Corazon de Mujer
(printed) (Heart of a Woman in Spanish)

Random Acts of Kindness Day

Holidays| No Comments »

Random Acts of Kindness Day

February 17

Today is Random Acts of Kindness Day. And, you know what to do…perform a few random acts of kindness. Almost any kind deed will do. And, we highly recommend you perform kind acts on as many people as you can.

This is a favorite day of many people and groups. People like the idea of showing a little kindness to others. Its a fun and good thing to do. And, they like being on the receiving end of this day as well. It makes both the giver and the receiver feel good.

Schools have used this day as an educational event, and to promote the value of kindness. Organizations have used this day to promote their cause, and for fundraisers.

Caution: What comes around, goes around. Random Acts of Kindness is highly contagious.

Origin of Random Acts of Kindness Day:

Our research did not find the creator, or the origin of this day. We wish we could thank the originators of this great day. The originators have truly helped to make the world a better place.

Many organizations and groups have declared other days to be "Random Acts of Kindness Day." These declarations are usually local, one-time events, often for fundraisers.

Also see World Kindness Day

Story Credit: HolidayInsights.com

 

SUGGESTIONS from Speaker/Author Sheryl Roush:
Buy coffee–or the toll road fee–for the next person in line behind you.

Return the shopping carts left in the parking lot back to the store.
Pick up something for someone else when they drop it.
Open the door from someone else, even if they don’t need it.
Take clothes and toys to the battered women’s shelter.
Give flowers to someone who could use a pick-me-up.
Do an errand for someone who needs it.

Donate your books to the library, or literacy program.

Send a Holiday Message to American Troops

Holidays, Patriotism| No Comments »

Send a Holiday Message to American Troops

Say THANK YOU to thousands of American men and women are in the trenches fighting to keep us safe and free. Go here and your message will reach them in time for Christmas… http://www.letssaythanks.com/Home1280.html

Veterans Day Remembrance

Holidays, Patriotism, Poems| No Comments »

Veterans Day Remembrance

It is the soldier, not the reporter,
Who has given us freedom of the press.

It is the soldier, not the poet,
Who has given us freedom of speech.

It is the soldier, not the campus or community organizer,
Who has given us the freedom to demonstrate.

It is the soldier, who salutes the flag,
Who serves beneath the flag,
And whose coffin is draped by the flag,
Who allows the protester to burn the flag.

— Father Dennis Edward O’Brian, USMC

Travel Tips and Favorite Places to Rejuvenate: Xcarat, Cancun, Mexico

Heart of a Mother, Heart of a Woman, Heart of a Woman in Business, Heart of the Holidays, Holidays, Tips & Trivia| 1 Comment »

Travel Tips and Favorite Places to Rejuvenate:
Xcarat, Cancun, Mexico

Submitted by Karen Tate, Speaker, Author, Sacred Tour Leader

Travel industry statistics show that when people travel they want to do more than lay alongside a beautiful pool or beach sipping margaritas.  They want to spend their precious time away from work engaged in some activity that nourishes their body, mind and soul, uplifts their spirits, or contributes to the good of society.  Some doctors take vacations and participate in efforts such as Doctors Without Borders.  People go on spiritual pilgrimages to curry favor with a deity, connect with their ancestral roots or for emotional or physical healing.  They rejuvenate their bodies, minds and spirits with what we call in contemporary times, purposeful travel, rather than the more out-dated term, pilgrimage.  And statistics also show that more and more women are taking these kinds of journeys, alone and in groups.  And many are seeking out places that can bring them closer to the essence of the Sacred Feminine.

Whether one is seeking the Sacred Feminine essence or not, Xcarat is, a cultural, spiritual and eco-archaeological park filling many of the aforementioned needs, for women, men and children.  Located just outside Cancun, in the lush tropical landscape of the Yucatan region of Mexico, the park offers more activities than one can possibly entertain in one day, often tempting visitors to return a second or third time.  The park promotes a healthy respect and enjoyment of nature and the cultural heritage of the Aztec and Maya world.  And for those interested in Aztec and Mayan aspects of the Sacred Feminine, the park is a fun place to experience the essence of the Goddesses, Chalchiuhtlicue and Ix Chel, respectively, in a living, participatory and natural environment. 

Xcarat, meaning “small inlet” was one of the most important Maya spiritual and ceremonial centers for more than a century.  Goddess devotees who visit Xcarat will immediately be overwhelmed with all there is to do and see which immerses the visitor in a communion with the spirit of Goddess – at an adult amusement park!   Here visitors are offered a unique opportunity to feel within Mother Nature’s embrace like nowhere else.  Set on the blue-green waters, filled with butterflies, felines and colorful birds, Xcarat is a contemporary sanctuary of Goddess.

Starting with the naturally occurring underground rivers for which this region of Mexico is famous, (which quickly brings to mind Chalchiuhtlicue and “her watery jade skirt” motif), at Xcarat visitors can don a life jacket and flippers and immerse themselves in these cold, swift and clear waters.  The experience is almost one of rebirth.  The cold water, compared to the heat of the steamy temperature outside, causes swimmers to quickly stop breathing and catch their breath, in a sort of mini-death, only to gasp back life a few seconds later, feeling truly alive from the experience.  The clear waters of the underground rivers are magical.  One floats in this womb-like waterway for 1,600 feet, sometimes completely underground in dimly lit watery caverns.

The animals kept at Xcarat certainly reflect Goddess, as Mistress of the Animals, especially the large feline cats on jaguar Island where there are adult and young pumas and jaguars for all to see.  There are the exquisite butterflies in the Butterfly pavilion.  This pavilion is one of the largest in the world and unique for its self-sufficient butterfly reproduction.  It is truly awe inspiring to sit amongst these beautiful and delicate creatures whose life is so fragile and transforms so quickly, a symbol of life, death and rebirth offered by the Mother. 

As an ecological park, Xcarat is providing breeding and care programs for the animals they house there, including the rare turtles and manatee. The park raises awareness of environmental concerns threatening marine life, animals and the environment in participatory programs such as careful swimming with dolphins.  There is a bat cave, wild bird aviary, reef aquarium and native bee exhibit – all creatures of Goddess, known to embody her very essence.  One can also enjoy the mushroom and orchid farms or the tropical jungle path, all sources of sacred beauty and fertile bounty.

Maya culture comes alive among the actual archaeological ruins on site in a recreated Maya village and especially during the night time activities.  When the lights go down at Xcarat, and the activities of the day close with the setting sun, the ancient rituals of the Maya come to life.  At dusk everyone gathers on the terraced seating for spectators to await viewing of Ulama, the actual ancient Maya ballgame. Under the watchful eye of Ix Chel, the Moon Goddess, the evening ceremony begins with a calling for the blessing of the elements of the universe and four corners: air, fire, water and earth, also associated with Ometeotl, the deity who embodies the duality of male and female.  The ballgame then begins and spectators are instantly transported back in time, seeing players in native dress of the era, play an ancient game few have ever witnessed.

At the conclusion of the ballgame, spectators walk from the park along a particular route through a modern recreation of an ancient Maya village.  The route takes them by various Maya rituals being performed to haunting music by individuals dressed in vivid and glorious costumes.  It is truly a unique experience and a rare glimpse at what life may have been like during the worship of Goddesses in ancient Mexico.  Sometimes the night activities include touring the underground rivers lit by only candlelight – an opportunity not to be missed.

The park has other activities not particularly related to goddess, though are a continuing celebration of life that is the Divine Feminine within nature.  There are opportunities to scuba dive, ride horses, see cultural performances and equestrian shows.  There is a museum which displays detailed models of all the archaeological sites on the Yucatan peninsula.  There are restaurants, locker rentals, a drug store and all the modern conveniences of home – including the opportunity to get a great massage or facial.  One is reminded of the words of the Popol Vuh, a sacred book of the Maya-Quiche, “Here is the story of the beginning, when there was not one bird, not one fish, not one mountain,” Xcarat feels like a paradise, an Eden, a place far from mundane life, a pristine place of nature, from which all life may have been born.

-Karen Tate, Speaker, Author, Sacred Tour Leader, Radio Show Host, www.karentate.com
Excerpted from Sacred Places of Goddess: 108 Destinations

Time for an American Evolution

Holidays, Patriotism| 1 Comment »

Time for an American Evolution

“The good news this July 4th is that we don’t need a revolution in this country. We’ve already had one. What is needed now is the American Evolution, where we the people realize we are the leaders we’ve been waiting for and restore the all-important missing ingredient in government of, by and for the people — the people.

“If fear has hijacked the American dream, we the people must higher-jack it. We must overgrow the fear-based state of emergency, and declare a love-based state of Emerge ‘n See instead. We must emerge from our fearful state of separation and see we are all in this together.

“Biology is now confirming what our spiritual teachers have been trying to get through our thick skulls for millennia: Life is not about survival of the fittest, but the thrival of the fittingest. Each of us is a remarkable community of 50 trillion cells, all working together in harmony. In the society beneath our skin, there is universal health care and full employment, truly no cell left behind. Unlike most human nations, the ‘nations’ of cells known as organs cooperate for the benefit of the entire organism. You rarely if ever read about the liver invading the pancreas and laying claim to the Islets of Langerhans.

“We declare our independence from the obsolete positions of left and right, and we come front and center to face the music and dance together. We see there are no sides, only angles … and when seen from the right angle, we are all on the same side.

“We declare our independence from the notion that we are better than or less than any other human being. Consider this: Each of us is totally unique, just like everyone else.”

Excerpts from Beyonda News:  http://www.wakeuplaughing.com

Real Freedom

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Real Freedom

Observing Independence Day may mean getting together for a family barbecue or taking an out-of-town trip, but no matter how you spend the day, Dr. Robin Smith says it’s important to remember what the day is really about. "People have lost loved ones so we can live in this free country," she says. There is also another, more personal, side to Independence Day that Dr. Robin says people sometimes forget: "Part of freedom is being safe to be who you are," she says.

In order to really appreciate your freedom this year, Dr. Robin suggests making Independence Day an up close and personal holiday—a time to exercise your idea of freedom. "What does it really mean for you to be free? For you to be liberated? For you to not just live in the land of the free, but for you to be a human being who is accessing it in your everyday life?" Dr. Robin asks. "What does it really look like for you to make good choices? Free choices that feed you body, feed your mind, feed your relationships?"

By embracing the meaning of independence and freedom and applying it to your own life this Fourth of July, Dr. Robin says you’ll become liberated in a new way. "Become who you were born to be, who you were destined to be—that is what it means to be free."

– Dr. Robin Smith, radio show on July 4, 2008, www.Oprah.com

God Bless America

Holidays, MUSIC, Patriotism, Poems| No Comments »

God Bless America
Song Lyrics by Irving Berlin

God Bless America.
Land that I love
Stand beside her, and guide her
Thru the night with a light from above.

From the mountains, to the prairies,
To the oceans, white with foam
God bless America
My home sweet home.

God Bless America,
Land that I love
Stand beside her,
And guide her,
Through the night
With the light from above,

From the mountains,
To the prairies,
To the ocean,
White with foam,

God bless America,
My home sweet home.
God bless America,
My home sweet home

Independence Day

Holidays, Patriotism, Stories| No Comments »

Independence Day

In celebration of the United States’ Independence, we bring you this true story of five men who broke through their terror barrier and made a commitment to something huge.

The thirteen colonies (what would become the United States) were being taxed unfairly under Great Britain’s rule. Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Robert R. Livingston and Roger Sherman were the five men that stood up for the Colonist’s rights. They argued that Great Britain had no jurisdiction to tax the Colonies.

While all of the other Colonists felt that they were being treated unfairly, none of them were willing to say so, as their allegiance was still with the King of Great Britain. It was up to these five men to push for the rights of the Colonists. They met at the Virginia Convention and then again in Williamsburg to declare the Colonies independent. John Adams stood up for the resolution that: "these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent states that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved.

When these five men met to draft the Declaration of Independence, there was no working process. They did not have someone to lead the meeting, take minutes or even guide them as to how the ideas should be presented. They were on their own to take control and put all of their thoughts into an organized form that could be presented to Congress. The committee decided on a general outline that the document needed to follow, and then appointed Thomas Jefferson to write the first draft. The weight of the 13 Colonies’ independence now rested on Jefferson’s shoulders. Jefferson only had 17 days to finish the first draft. He then got comments and revisions from the other committee members and wrote a second draft. The document titled "A Declaration by the Representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress Assembled" was presented to Congress on June 28, 1776.

These men knew that what was put on this paper could have cost them their lives, did they not receive backup from Congress and the other Colonists. If the King of Great Britain wanted to, he could have had these men executed for encouraging the Colonists to go against his rule. They put themselves on the line in order to gain freedom for the rest of the Colonies.

On July 2, 1776 Congress and 12 of the 13 colonies approved General Lee’s Resolution for Independence, severing ties between the Colonies and Great Britain for good. The next day, John Adams wrote a letter to his wife predicting that July 2nd would soon become a great American holiday. Congress then began to look at the Declaration of Independence. After several days of debating, word changing, and some content adjustment, Congress approved the document on July 4, 1776.

Today America celebrates 232 years of independence and freedom. Because these men did not let fear stand in their way, because they did not hesitate to make the right choice, American Citizens now have the right to vote, the right to free speech, the right to practice any religion, the right to a fair trial, just to name a few.

Paul Martinelli
Imagine what impact you could make, if you broke through your terror barrier. The endless amounts of people you could impact and differences you could make in the world are incredible!

Easter, Passover & Spring Holidays

Easter & Spring, Holidays| No Comments »

Easter, Passover & Spring Holidays


Purim, a Jewish festival celebrating the biblical book of Esther.

Narouz, the Persian New Year, which is observed with Islamic elaboration in Iran and all the "stan" countries, as well as by Zoroastrians and Baha’is.

Eid Milad an Nabi, the Birth of the Prophet, which is celebrated by some but not all Sunni Muslims and, though officially beginning on Thursday, is often marked on Friday.

Small Holi, Hindu, an Indian festival of bonfires, to be followed on Saturday by Holi, a kind of Mardi Gras.

Magha Puja, a celebration of the Buddha’s first group of followers, marked primarily in Thailand.

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