Nature is a continual source of inspiration for us especially in challenging times. We can tap into its energy, its wisdom, its beauty 24/7. Clouds remind us that life is all about change. Relish each moment and trust that something wonderful will unfold again. Read my latest Enews to learn more about this featured cloud and the global interaction I enjoy with fellow cloud enthusiasts. PLUS: Know someone who could use some cheer? FREE photo note card to the friend of your choice; and an easy recipe for these in home cooking days. Stay well and remember to enjoy the view! Go to April Enews.
natural wisdom
Messages of Gratitude
“Fan mail from some flounder?” A one liner from my youth that never fails to bring a smile to my face. It also serves as a reminder that messages do matter – especially ones of gratitude. Click here to read my latest Enews and its dedicated message about the power of cultivating gratitude in your home and in the world.
FALL In Love
I am in love with Autumn. The season that celebrates release, the element of water and the energy of the West. What’s not to love? Here’s a reminder from a favorite post of mine from last year. Happy letting go!
Fall is officially here and most of us couldn’t be happier. Autumn is, in fact, THE most popular season of our nation. A Gallup poll done a few years ago ranked it number one with Summer coming in 2nd, Spring 3rd and Winter 4th. This is the time of year when I remind everyone (myself included) about the power of letting go. Whether it’s stuff in your space, weight on your heart or things in your head – letting go brings clearer energy and renewed strength. Like leaves that release from their branches, Nature shows us that it is the letting go that allows for new growth to happen. So, use this natural energy to help you remove and restore on all levels. It’s SO worth it!
Now For Some Good News
Whew! Lots of bad news going around these days. But there’s plenty of good stuff, too. Starting with a recent cover from The New Yorker, I talk about tending the garden that is your heart. I also share a personal story about my Dad and suggest a way that you can focus your good energy and really make a difference in the world. I even threw in a little green tip on mighty arugula. Take a moment and read the June issue of ACP Enews.
Here’s to making it a good news day everyday!
Illustration by Tom Gauld courtesy of TNY.
Cedar the Season
One of the oldest known distilled oils, cedarwood has a surprising myriad of benefits to bring into your home. If you’ve stood in the presence of these magnificent trees, you already have a sense of how fresh and reviving it feels to breathe in that air. One of the sacred trees used in clearing ceremonies, cedar has antiseptic and antibacterial properties. Our brain loves it. It’s restorative and calming at the same time. Grounding and uplifting. It can relieve arthritic pain, clean your counters and renew the scalp. HOW TO USE: A little bit goes a long way. Whether you distill or add to shampoo or lotion, a drop or two will do it. Always use authentic essential oil from a trusted source. Tip: When diffusing, I like to blend Cedarwood with Bergamot and Lavender. Like a walk in the forest, it provides the perfect ambiance for putting up the Christmas tree and enjoying the holiday spirit year-round. See my Resources Page for essential oil and diffuser source suggestions.
Sustainability Fair
Join me Friday the 12th for a FREE and fun event. This 8th Annual Sustainability & Repair Fair brings a great group of folks together at the Garden Home Library in SW Portland. Lots of earth friendly products and information. You can even get your toaster fixed while you visit with vendors. Note: You can bring up to 2 items for repairs but they ask for a heads up. Click here for the Repair Fair registry. This event is so popular they now have to hold it in the adjacent gymnasium to accommodate everyone. And that’s a good thing! 5 to 7:30 pm. Corner of Oleson & Garden Home Rd. See you then!
Shining Review for Wisdom Cards
A 5-star rating just in from a new customer in Maryland. “I love the cards! Each photograph is beautiful and fresh and the words apply to various things in your life. Simple ideas for changing your living space. Very nice quality and such a unique deck idea!” Thank you, Anjali. Happy to know the cards are now shining in MD! View more comments and photos from the ACP Wisdom Card deck.
Briar Patch is A Clear Winner
It’s always a treat to discover a business that is authentic and clear in it’s purpose. Newly opened Briar Patch Herbs in SW Portland is such a place and I’m delighted to announce it as the latest A Clear Place Winner for entrepreneurial spirit. From the extensive inventory of organic herbs to its repurposed wood shelves and tree decor, the shop exudes healing Earth energy. You’ll find highly regarded Floracopeia products along with a commitment to showcasing quality local vendors. Owner Sheri Copans is passionate about herbs and happily offers suggestions for both newbies and seasoned shoppers. Clearly the stars have aligned to bring this refreshing herbal oasis to the neighborhood. Congrats Briar Patch and here’s to a rewarding and enriching experience for all! Check out my review of Briar Patch Herbs on Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/8DteXJUwpdG2
It Starts in Bed & Clouds Ahead
How you start your day – even while still in bed – can have a huge impact on your well being. In this issue, I share a simple practice to help make a powerful shift. AND I’m still high from last week’s big event! Find out why I’m an unabashed fan of looking up. Plus, get in on a special ACP offer now through May. Spring celebrates the energy of new ideas and fresh starts. Here’s wishing you inspired thoughts and cloudy skies ahead! Read the latest ACP Enews.
Balance Matters
Staying in balance is something we all strive for but it can seem a difficult and elusive task. It’s especially tough when weighed down by physical, emotional and mental STUFF! The latest ACP Enews shares some favorite ideas on how to get back to center. You’ll get a great breathing tool for releasing stress, read about a win/win “letting go of stuff” story and learn my top item to eliminate in your home in order to maintain balance. PLUS enter to win a deck of ACP Wisdom Cards for you or a friend. Just taking a few moments to view the stunning sunset image will help create a positive shift. Make 2017 the year to share the cheer and spread the clear! Read January ACP Enews here.
A Clear Place 