See the world through my eyes! Experience it through these blog posts.

A Prayer For Our Times – Video From NL’s Irish Loop

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Mother Nature is a wonderful healer. Her breath, her beauty, her heartbeat, her love, and her bounty are constant sources of inspiration. In this 16-minute offering, she shares so generously of her energy through the beauty of  Newfoundland’s Irish Loop and the prayer for our times she inspired. May it nourish your transformational journey, a balm to your soul as you continue to navigate your way through the crises of 2020 and the new world they are birthing.

I’ve included the prayer below in the 1st person in case you’d like to recite it for yourself.

Intention

This sojourn by the sea was an answer to a Spirit Call for what turned out to be an energetically powerful time of rejuvenation, channeling and simply being in bliss:  2 sunny days of hiking & photography followed by 2 cold grey days working indoors, looking out at Ship Island and listening to loons call.

This was social isolation with style! Just 40 minutes from my home in St. John’s, my friend Elaine’s Whale Watcher House & Apartments is located in St. Michael’s on the Irish Loop of the Avalon Peninsula, on the road between 2 sections of the East Coast Trail: Tinker’s Point Path & La Manche Village Path. At the time of writing (May 29), I’d just witnessed my last of Mother Nature’s sunrise intuitive painting parties over the ocean before returning to the city. It was perfect!

After 2 months of walking in my neighbourhood, I needed time by the sea. Painting “Salacia – ocean goddess” wasn’t enough. Breathing in the beauty and grounding myself on the East Coast Trail was definitely top of mind.

The fact that a minke whale was feeding right outside my room when we arrived confirmed I was in the right place.

In addition to connecting to Nature, I thought I’d be spending time writing 12 prayers inspired by 12 of my paintings for a new series of posts. That didn’t happen! Not yet anyway.

Frustration

On my 3rd morning, after meditation, energy work, yoga, Spirit Calling Card journaling, and frequent contemplations of the ocean, I just wasn’t inspired to work on my project. (A hawk just landed 6 feet from me on my balcony roof as I was writing this. One of my childhood totem animals. Wow!) I’d spent time preparing by opening my channels, but then tried to force things into being. That didn’t work.

I was getting restless, being so goal oriented but without results.

So instead of writing, I kept joyfully editing my photos and working on making a movie on my iPhone, one of my favourite new creative playtime activities. 

I thought it was done once I’d paired the imagery with music as I’ve done in the past – creating a nature meditation.

Revelation & Tears

At 9pm, I lay my head down, ready for sleep. I decided to play my video one last time in gratitude for all I’d seen and experienced so far.

As I watched in my semi-awake relaxed state, the symbolism of the scenery started speaking to me. I could hear the words of a prayer come through my inner hearing.

Energy so strong was coursing through my body like an inner buzzing vibration from head to feet focused more strongly around my heart. I was trembling and wasn’t sure my body could handle that much energy.

I had to switch on the light and write a few sentences down. Switching it off, I kept watching my movie, tears in my eye, humbled at the presence of so much love & inspiration in the room.

I realized I’d been standing in my own way with pre-conceived notions of what I was supposed to be doing while here. I was trying to force something on paper when what I had been doing – following my bliss in the moment through the creation of this video – was exactly what was meant to happen. Intuitive video making – one layer at a time.

It wasn’t about making it happen… it was about making it welcomed…

As the words kept flowing, I remembered a friends’ recent suggestion to use voiceover, something I didn’t know I could do on my iPhone if I also wanted a music track.

This co-creation is what my Team of Divine Helpers and soul wanted to share with you when I’d been guided to come here to pray for humanity. It wasn’t 12 prayers to go with my paintings (a Left brain decision with undertones of marketing for my artwork).

It was 1 long prayer coming through the offerings of Mother Earth. So very humbling indeed.

On and off, I tried putting it aside to sleep. I’m the kind of gal who likes my 8 hours!

But no! Between frequent cold visits to the balcony to watch a blanket of stars like I hadn’t seen in years (couldn’t quite capture it with my iPhone but you get a taste of it near the end) and scribbling all that was coming through, I was up until 4 am.

Going back to bed yet again, I asked my Team to ONLY wake me up for the sunrise if it was important for me to see/record it. Sure enough, 1.5 hours later, I woke up in a bolt and was back outside filming a 2-hour time lapse that the iPhone turns into a 30 second video. These were my first nature time lapses ever. Fun!

I spent the rest of that cold windy day writing and editing until I came out of my creative cocoon at 4pm to scale the eroded cliffs next door to  ground myself on that horseshoe beach you see in the video.

That’s what it’s like to be in the zone – fed by Spirit (in-spired). It took breaking my routine and being out here to do it. And I’m so glad I did. I had to make the inner space for it. I often achieve this zone in the studio painting, but not with quite the same intensity of energy. That was something else!

P.S. The next day, I listened to the video again and was still happy with it (even not minding the trip up on the words “miraculous” and “diva” instead of “deva” that I didn’t know how to fix) – but I’ll admit it sounded so much better in my sleepless state of creative ecstasy. Again, to me this is a sign that although the poetry of it could use some refining beyond the first few drafts, it’s the energy that comes through and between the words which offers its gift as much as the language and imagery. That’s how I feel about my paintings too. It’s perfection in its imperfection and my job is to simply allow it to come through me.

May it serve you well. It certainly has me. Thanks be to God!

Prayer For Our Times – in the 1st Person

If you like this prayer – yes, it’s a long one – I recommend you record it in your voice and play it once in a while – making it your own.

A PRAYER FOR OUR TIMES

As I venture from my home
To embark on the road less traveled
May I greet my neighbours anew
To rebuild a compassionate community
Grateful for the rebirth of caring
Fresh ways of seeing
Healthier ways of being.
May I choose to garden a perspective of gratitude together
And be here now to colour our oneness with my laughter.
For on the shores of our planet’s beating heart
Treasures abound
New dreams are found.

 

May I rejoice in the flow of my passion
To shine & align in my own true fashion.
May I dance in the ebb & flow
At One with humanity
A witness to the glowing love & courage
Carried by the flow.

 

As I once more embrace life & loved ones.
May I breathe our planet’s cleaner air
My bosom rising and falling
To the rekindled rhythms of my soul.
May I allow this Life Force to grow within my being
Connecting me to my inner guidance, my intution

 

Thank you dear God & Goddess, Mother Earth & Universe
For your comfort when the tides are low
And your bounty when the tides are high.
As I relax into the layers of transition
May I celebrate the unity that follows change.
May I trust in the purity of my emerging health & prosperity.
May I welcome and receive guidance
To harvest and keep growing from my truth.
May I intuitively shift from my challenges to meditate on healing.
May I find balance in the fruit of my solitude
As I begin to awaken.

 

May my miraculous life be nourished
By Nature’s freedom of expression.
May I be still and contemplate,
What once I passed by or took for granted.
The treasures are already at my door.

 

May I attract complete wisdom through imagination and inspiration.
May I stretch my creativity as I seek in the direction of my mystery.
May I reflect upon the teachings of love to manifest clarity.
May I continue to explore through time
The light of my dreams and the dreams of my Light.

 

May I continue to rise above the harsh grounds of my challenges
As I journey onwards from this shore.
May I transform my memories to reveal the depth of my purpose.
And always feel at home at my core.

 

Walk on my beloved self, walk on,
May I be of service to friends and family along the way.
For no man or woman is an island
Separated by a sea, lost or astray
So walk on, beloved self, walk on
May my heart alight with the burgeoning hope of a new era
Reflecting on these times gone by:
The grief, the fear, the gifts & the blessings.
May I let go of what no longer serves me
To make room for the people, places, things, and feelings that do.

 

May I always know where I am welcomed
To explore and express my love of beauty and the beauty of love
Here my seat awaits
A gathering of those known and unknown,
Delights to discover.
May I always feel at home in the world
Knowing I’ll forever be nourished & loved.
May I take time to rest and relax
May I feed my body, nourish my soul.
To reconnect to my Higher Self
And take sight of my vision floating
On the calm waters of my shore.

 

And if I’m harkened back to the hidden beaches of my past
May I not be afraid of what I might find there.
May I uncover the clues to my destiny
Beachcombing amongst the garbage washed ashore.
May I remember what gave me the greatest joy
To bring that back into the expanse of my days ahead.

 

May the sun rise in my morrow with gentle splendour
To call me forth from my slumber
So many treasures await for me to discover
As I unlock the gifts of my shadows
To love myself forever more.

 

May I connect to my Team of Divine Helpers
In this, the the time of awakening.
There’s no need to journey alone.
Ask and I shall receive
Connect and the doors will be open unto me
I Welcome at my side:

* My Soul and OverSoul (I Am Presence),

* My Support Teams,

* My Guides in this dimension and beyond,

* My Ancestors,

* Nature Spirits and Devas,

* The Inner Earth Elvin Kingdoms,

* The Angelic Realm,

* Star Races and Star Councils I have a connection with.

 

May I tread gently and bravely
My every step a blessing, a prayer.
May I know that as varied as my pathway may be
There are those who love and support me
Walking alongside
May I know not loneliness in my solitude.

 

May the signposts to my healing
Bring me back to my Light within
From where I can illuminate my inner and outer landscapes
For my Good and the Highest Good of All.

 

May I emerge from my isolation
More familiar with my own design
May I revel in the symphony of my soul
My unique voice blending harmoniously
Into the choir of a community reborn.

 

May I stand tall
For I have the strength of giants at my back.
Ancient wisdom coursing through my veins
Divine unity at my beckoning call
Whenever I am ready to be joined again
Of my own free will.

 

May I breathe this beauty in as a mirror to my soul.
May I smile as I feel within every cell of my body that I am already home.
Let me take my shoes off and stay awhile
My feet firmly on the ground
Feeling the healing energy of nature rise within me
As I reconnect to the truth of who I am.

 

For we are all the light and the love,
Breathing as one,
Holding each other’s hand,
Holding each other’s dreams:
To be seen, accepted and loved
For the spirits we are in human form.
Each with our own design,
Each following our own path
Together intertwined.

 

May I walk on
Guided through my challenges
Rising above them with ease & grace
Stronger yet lighter for what I’ve left behind
Shedding the skins of old patterns and behaviours
That encumbered my gait.

 

May my attention be drawn to the light ahead
The evolving vision of my life unfolding
And the planet ascending.
And when I feel overwhelmed by the gap between here and there
May I take a leap of faith
Trusting that a bridge will appear
There’s no reason to fear.
May I simply pause to appreciate the spaces in between
And the vastness of the beauty all around.
May I see how far I’ve travelled
The precious footsteps of my passage through time.

 

May I embrace the mystery
As I enter the portal to the blessed unknown
May I choose love over fear
Rooted in the knowledge that I am
An individualized expression of the Divine.

 

May I walk on
Loving the grooves and textures of my journey
May my path be clear
My head held high
To find my way back to community.
May I always be provided for
May I welcome those at my door
May I be of service through the very gift of my presence.

 

And when the clouds darken my skies once more
May I remember I am vaster than the passing weather
And that light always comes to fill the darkness
And when the sun sets upon my day
May I rest my head in peaceful slumber
Wrapped in the warmth & comfort of a prayer answered.
May I know that I’m protected in the glow of Divine Love
As the stars cultivate my gratefulness
Multiplying my wishes & dreams come true
To be welcomed back unto me.

 

And if the night hangs heavy upon my mind
May I remember that as the sunrise I will find
Love, peace, joy, health, wealth, happiness and freedom.
May I continue to appreciate the promise of an open path of compassion.
Dream on, beloved self, dream on.
May I never sleep alone.
Loved by the sun and the moon,
The earth and the sea
Loved by the Heavens above and within me
For that is where is found the love & beauty of my heart
With a song so pure
Resonating with the original sound of OM.

 

Namaste

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Sacred Pilgrimage to Glastonbury

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Portrait of Dominique Hurley at the Chalice Well

Portrait of Dominique Hurley at the Chalice Well in Glastonbury, UK by Christine Radnich Photography

Oh Blessed Be! After years of connecting to the energies and waters of Glastonbury UK, I was finally called to visit in person. I’m so glad I answered that call.

Sixteen days was too short!

It feels like I was just starting to slow down on the doing to benefit from the being when it was already time to leave.

Back in November, my Team of Divine Helpers had introduced this pilgrimage as “The Gateway”.  

Do I fully understand why yet?  No. But that’s OK.

Three weeks after my journey across the Pond, I’m still integrating all that I learned and experienced in my time there.

This transformative trip offered me so much on so many levels – body, mind & spirit. 

  • day trips to Uffington, Wells & Tintagel-Cornwall
  • Multidimentional Energy Clearing & Realignment + Karuna Reiki training (Levels 1 & 2)
  • 6-day Sun Lover Goddess Conference
  • 3 nights at the Chalice Well Gardens with private access to the gardens after closing time
  • solo walks at sacred sites in Glastonbury
  • hours reading the amazing channeled book “Anna- Grandmother of Jesus”
  • a digital detox (no social media, blog posts, emails or newsletters)
  • and more.

Of course I took thousands of photos – all with my iPhone! That’s a first. My shoulder injury from last winter is helping me lighten the load. Although I’d brought my pro gear for my 3 days in the Garden, I never used it. You can see all my albums on Flickr or on Facebook.  But I’ve included my favourite 77 below.

The Sun Lover Goddess Conference


I only decided to participate in this intensive 6-day adventure when a friend told me it was happening during the dates I’d been intuitively guided to journey to Glastonbury

It was overwhelming, humbling, exhilarating and exhausting. I’d leave my B & B at 7:30am and often not return until 10 or 11pm. If you know me, that’s way past my bedtime! But I didn’t want to miss anything.

The whole town was a mega version of what I’d experienced pockets of in this lifetime. Hundreds of new age shops and a vibe unlike anywhere else!

Every day, we participated in full assembly (200+) ceremonies, presentations & rituals as well as small group workshops & conversation circles. There were venues all around town, including some art galleries, Goddess Temple, Goddess Hall, and Goddess House.

A group of 10 ceremonialists had been planning it for a year. What an organizational feat!

I laughed, I cried, I sang, I danced, I learned & I witnessed. I joined the crowds and retreated in solitude.

This was my first full immersion in the world of the Goddess. Wow! My mind, eyes and heart are definitely more open to the meaning of the Divine Feminine now.

I may not be one of those who travel yearly to attend this conference (next year’s 25th Conference will be for the Earth Mother Goddess) but I know I was meant to be there this year. What a blessing! My consciousness has expanded because of it.

The Chalice Well Garden

 

“The Chalice Well is among the best known and most loved holy wells in Britain.

The Well and surrounding gardens are a Living Sanctuary, a place to soothe the soul and revive the spirits. Since ancient times, wells have been regarded as sacred places, giving access to the mysterious and Divine. Here, we honour, as others have done for thousands of years, the Well and the healing and restoration it offers.

In the past, it was known as the ‘Red Spring’ or ‘Blood Spring’ because of the red iron deposit the water leaves on everything it touches. Many legends are attributed to its waters, not least among them is that they represent the blood of Christ, miraculously sprinting forth from the ground when Joseph of Arimathea buried or washed the cup used at the last supper. For others the waters are acknowledged as the essence of life and so a continuous spring like the Chalice Well is seen as a direct expression of unbounded life force.” (from the garden brochure – www.chalicewell.org.uk)

This is the real reason I felt called to Glastonbury. I bought a pendant of the Vesica Pisces Chalice Well cover in Saskatoon back in 2008, before I knew what it was.

When I moved to St. John’s in 2011, my friend and collector Regina Wright gave me a small bottle of both the Red Spring waters from the Chalice Well and the White Spring Water from across the street. I’ve been using these to bless my canvases ever since. Just as I was running out, Tristan of Otherworld Treasures in Ottawa gave me 2 bottles to thank me for a mediation I’d led in his shop.

When I was studying at the Vienna Academy of Visionary Art in Austria in 2013/14, I learned about the sacred geometry of the Vesica Pisces: the two becoming one, the marriage of Heaven & Earth, and so much more. It called more and more to be included in my paintings.

I was so glad Regina told me the Gardens have a few rooms for Companions, giving you 24/7 access to the grounds. So I bought a membership and booked 3 nights after the Conference, thinking I’d cloister myself for some contemplative integration time. Well, that turned out to be 2 days & 3 nights with a day trip in the middle. One of the Conference participants, Donna Virgilio, who is also a tour guide, offered me a seat on her bus to Tintagel-Cornwall. I couldn’t say no!

I loved the Gardens. I experienced it through my eyes (camera), feet, and heart. Still, I feel like I only scratched the surface of what there is for me there. But having been in person and having brought back 2 big bottles of healing waters, the work continues from here.

Oh, and I’m still reading the channeled Anna books I bought there.  They’re resonating so deeply with me. They reveal an expanded version of the story and family of Jesus and of their time in Glastonbury among many other places; it’s a fascinating, heart-opening read. When I finished the first book, my whole being was buzzing with energy. I totally recommend them.

The Sweet 77 – A Photo Summary

If you visit my albums on Flickr or Facebook, you’ll also get descriptions of each place I visited. My Chalice Well Garden album of 186 photos, for example, will give you a slow meditative journey through the whole gardens.

For now, enjoy this visual summary of my trip. May it be another testimony of the value of following our inner callings. 

Note: Click on the first image and use the arrow if you want to scroll through the full-sized images.

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A Change of Scenery – All Within An Hour

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Can you go weeks without leaving the house? I confess, I could.

I love  my sanctuary and work marathons in my home studio.

Plus, I just have to look out the windows to see a river and hillside covered in evergreens.

After a long day of writing, administrative work or painting, I really enjoy going to bed early with my TV tray & Netflix movies.

But I also hunger for time in nature. I need it.

I never regret exploring the great outdoors –  kicking my butt out the door can be a challenge though.

You don’t have to go far for a change of scenery. Walking down a different street in your neighbourhood will do it.

But a change of scenery can do you so much good, especially if you’re feeling stuck, bored, disconnected, or lonely.

Even if you’re a happy hermit though, time amongst the elements will add to your existence on so many levels.

I know I’m clearer, happier, and more connected when I spend time in Nature. I can be like a kid in a candy shop.

So whether it’s a walk on the trails in your neighbourhood or a road trip adventure with friends, let time outdoors feed your body, mind and soul. You deserve it!

All Within An Hour From Home

These 3 Nature breaks were all taken within an hour from home within the last month – either by car or on foot.

Where can you go that’s within an hour from your place?

Make it Part of Your Routine

When I was Artist in Residence in Carbonear April 14-19, I committed to going on a community walk from 8-9 am every morning. I chose a different path every time. It became part of my routine. 

It was an open invitation to those who wanted to join me, but I ended up going alone most days. Still, I was committed.

Rain or shine, it added so much to my day.

Knowing me, I could have spent the whole week painting in the gallery without really knowing where I was. I’m so glad I made a different choice.

So find a buddy (your camera or inner child count), add it to your schedule, and get out!

Carbonear is only an hour from my home in St. John’s but I knew so little of it.

Do Your Errands On Foot

I’m so glad I embraced this opportunity. My housesister asked if I’d be willing to drop off her car at the mechanic’s in Shea Heights after an appointment.

We’d had freezing rain the day before, but I hadn’t really noticed. I’d been fully focused on my painting in the basement studio.

On my drive to the mechanic’s, my heart sang as the silver thaw glistened in the light.

He offered to drive me down the hill to spare me the taxi ride, but I was thrilled to walk. Even with all the photo stops, it only took about an hour.

During a snow squall later in the day, I went to get the car and made sure to stop at Beaver Pond Park again to add a few snowy photos to my collection.

Where Within 1 Hour?

I’ll admit, we’re totally blessed here in Newfoundland & Labrador to have so much nature nearby.

Bell Island is less than an hour away from my house – part by car and by ferry.

A few friends and I dedicated part of a day to explore it. Wow!  I need to do this more often!

Without a car of my own, it’s easy to stay home. But that’s no excuse.

Time exploring with friends can be double the pleasure.

Bonus

Confession. I spent the last week indoors. No nature breaks except in my backyard.

The weather wasn’t great and my regular walking buddy is out of the province, but that’s no excuse. I was just in happy hermit mode again.

So yesterday, I asked my neighbour if he wanted to go for a walk somewhere. I’d gone out to chat while he was giving his cats some outdoor time.

He suggested we go see the icebergs at Cape Spear. 

This is the most eastern point of North America and it’s only 20 minutes drive!

I’d never seen such waves there before. It was amazing. I couldn’t help but exclaim my awe and joy. This was better than Netflix!  Here are a few pics taken with my ‘real’ camera with telephoto lens.

Your Turn

Whether you’re a homebody, busy bee, or creature of habit, give yourself the challenge to appreciate a change of scenery this week.

Where will you go? Alone or with friends? On foot, by bus or by car?

Feel free to report on your adventure in the comments below.

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Intuitive Travel on the Cabot Trail – Pendulum Style

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Does all the decision-making take the fun out of travel for you? Intuitive travel can help.

With the use of a pendulum, it’s even easier. Plus, it’s a lot of fun as you embrace the mystery and follow guidance.

Intuition is playful. It invites you to be curious, wonder-ful, and yes, stretch your comfort zones by exercising trust. Once you start to play with your Team of Divine Helpers in this way, it’s amazing!

Clarity, ease of decision making, playfulness, and experiencing what’s in your Highest Good …. these are all benefits of using your intuition.

Here’s my story and a coaching video on how to use a pendulum for decision-making.

Intuitive Travel on the Cabot Trail

Although most of my trip to New Brunswick to be the godmother of the Atlantic Visual Arts Festival (FAVA) was straightforward and planned, my return trip through Cape Breton island was not.

I’ll start by saying that although I’ve lived intuitively for years and have learned to completely trust my guidance, it doesn’t mean that some of what happened on this trip wasn’t a stretch of my comfort zones.

I’m not a natural risk-taker… yup, a bit of a chicken, actually.  But I trust my guidance.

Booking a Place to Stay

When I Googled places to stay in Cape Breton, here’s the map I got. Yikes! When you blow it up, a lot more places show up.

When I planned my trip, I didn’t even know if I should stay on Cape Breton Island or on mainland Nova Scotia. All I knew is that it was 7 hours away from Caraquet. But I wasn’t sure if I’d be packing up my exhibition that morning or the night before.

So instead of humming and hawing or worrying about it, I simply took out my pendulum to ask a few quick questions.

The trick is that once you get an answer, stick to it, trust it, and stand behind it. If you start to doubt and ask the same question over and over, it won’t work anymore. Your Team of Divine Helpers will stop playing with you.

So I asked:

“Is it in my Highest Good to say on Cape Breton the night of June 18th?”

Yes.

“Is it in my Highest Interest to stay on the right side of the island on this map?”

No.

“On the left side?”

No.

“Is it in my Highest Interest to stay in the centre?”

Yes.

And then I simply put my finger on each accommodation and watched as the pendulum gave me a no, no, no, no, and finally a yes!

When I checked out the listing online to make my reservation, it was perfect for me – on the outskirts of town with a view of the water!

The historic Broadwater Inn near Baddeck was the home of Alexander Graham Bell’s right hand man.

I delighted in the view and comfort after a long drive and very busy week at FAVA. My Team of Divine Helpers were right (of course). It’s just what I needed!

Over breakfast the next morning, its current owner shared entertaining stories and very useful travel tips with his houseful of guests.

How to Use a Pendulum

Intuitive Navigation

For my first day on the famous Cabot Trail, I simply followed my intuition using my clairsentience (clear feeling).

This is a simple intuitive exercise of tuning into your body to sense its yes/no through feelings of expansion or contraction. I teach you how to do it in a previous blog post.

You likely do it all the time unconsciously.

I like walking through a city or driving around in this way. At every intersection, you ask which way is in your Highest Interest and feel your way to a yes, whether it’s go straight, turn left or turn right.

Then you embrace the mystery, trust, and stay hyper attentive with a sense of curiosity and play to find out why you were directed that way.

The Cabot Trail is a 297 km (185-mile) scenic loop that tourism guides recommend driving in 3-5 days. I only had 2.

Intuitive Navigation was a great way to see and do what I knew was in my Highest Interest and let go of all the wonderful things I knew existed but I didn’t have time to do.

I’d check in to spontaneously decide whether to stop at various vistas, artist studios, restaurants, hiking trails, etc.

It was great! And it was fun!

Many have asked if I mind traveling alone. Trust me. I’m never alone. None of us are! My Team of Divine Helpers are great travel companions.  They always have my Highest Interest at heart and  never complain about my hundreds of photo stops and illogical decisions – in fact, they applaud and reward them.

Where Will I Sleep Tonight?

The skies were threatening rain and it was getting later than I was comfortable with. I didn’t know where I’d be sleeping.

I knew there’d be vacancies as we weren’t in the height of tourist season yet. But not knowing where I’m sleeping is a stretch of my comfort zone for sure!

I’m not the easy going nomadic spirit many people think I am when they look at my resume. I feel the fear, but know to follow my guidance.

In my mind, it was logical to drive to Pleasant Bay to stop for the night and maybe take a whale watching tour in the morning.

But when I got there through the heavy rain and fog, I was intuitively instructed to keep driving.

“Really?! It’s moose-hour and that fog and heavy rain are scary to drive through, especially through this section of roller-coaster hills”.

To keep going meant getting back into the nearly deserted National Park, not knowing how long it would take to reach the next patch of civilization.

But I know better than to say no to my guidance. It only leads to regret.

So, I kept going and all I could think about was “I’m glad my Dad doesn’t know I’m doing this right now“. Through the filter of my fear, it just wasn’t a smart thing to do.

But the moose were kept away and without any other cars on the road, I could drive as slowly as I wanted through the sheets of rain and blankets of fog.

At one point, I passed a hostel with cheap rooms – sounded good. But I got a strong “no” when I spotted the long lines of construction crew vehicles pulled up for the night. So I kept going.

Finally, I got to Chéticamp, an Acadian town I thought for sure would be my final destination. It was nearly 8pm and I’d been driving for more than 10 hours.

But as I stopped in the parking of all the B & Bs, hotels, and roadside cabins to use my pendulum (because I was unable to tune in to my body’s senses as well through the mild panic mixed with trust and tiredness), I kept getting a “no”.

Once I got to the other end of town, I was concerned yet still willing to play. “OK”, I said, “Now where?”.

And soon after that, I got the message to turn right. I was now driving on Chéticamp Island and spotted a bright yellow sign  “Camping & Chalet”” ahead.

My whole being vibrated when I saw that sign. It was a clear “Yes” and the joy welled up inside.

My first relief was that the Plage St. Pierre Campground office hadn’t yet closed for the night. My biggest relief, however, is that they had 1 cottage. And it was available!

Better than that, it was the only beach-front lot in the place. Everything else was behind the sand dunes in the trees.

Wow! What a view! It felt like wilderness luxury – with 2 bedrooms, living room, modern bathroom, full kitchen, and outdoor deck for the same price as my first night’s B & B ($120 Cdn).

I couldn’t believe my luck! But I should have. There’s a reason I trust my intuition. Look where it brought me.

I was woken up the next morning at 4:44am (one of my 2 angel numbers) just in time for the sunrise. Then, after a very welcomed hot shower, I walked the deserted beach for 3 hours in the company of my new iPhone X camera and was in total bliss.

There’s no way I would have enjoyed a hotel or in-town stay as much as I did this time to be in Nature stretching my legs with water all around.

More Fun Ahead

After taking my time to leave the campground and then exploring the bumpy road to the lighthouse on the other end of the island, I headed out of Acadian Country.

When I stopped at the Dancing Goat Café & Bakery (recommended by my Broadwater Inn host), I got a definite sign that there was more fun ahead.

First, I was given the order number 44 for my table. Then my bill came out to $11.44 (11 is my other angel number).  I was being congratulated and reminded that the game was still on.

So after a healthy lunch, I took the road with a sense of curiosity and wonder. It didn’t take long to figure out what was in store for me.

I was only about 1.5 hours from North Sydney, where I needed to be at 9:30 pm that night to line up for the overnight ferry back to Newfoundland. That gave me all afternoon to explore in the warm sunshine.

So I asked myself, “What would you most like to do?” and kayaking came to heart. I love being on the water and it had been more than a year since I’d been in a kayak. It was still way too cold in Newfoundland, so now was my chance.

I knew my loop would take me back to Baddeck, where I slept on my first night. I’d seen a marina and thought perhaps they’d have kayaks there. It was only half an hour away.

But not 2 minutes after having had that inner planning conversation, I see a sign for The Lakes Campground with go-karts and kayak rentals. For $13, I could take a plastic kayak out onto the pristine lake for an hour.

I had it all to myself, but once again, I was far from being alone.

Within the first 5 minutes I spotted an eagle at the top of a tree and crossed the lake to sing to it. Then I simply relished being on the water (definitely my element), embraced by the forest, and taking in the saturation of colours & abundance of life-giving fresh air.

A red-tailed hawk flew right above me, chased by some angry little bird. The sun through its tail feathers filled me with gratitude as I reconnected to one of my first totem animals from childhood.

While looking up, I also spotted a rainbow-coloured halo around the sun that took my breath away. The contrails added to what felt like a sacred geometry show in the heavens above.

I felt so very blessed and grateful ! I couldn’t ask for a better leisurely kayaking space. I was in bliss!!!

Then, just as my hour was up, the eagle left its perch across the lake, swooped half way down the expanse of water and pulled up a big fish with its powerful talons. Then it let it go and flew away over the distant mountains. It was as if it was simply giving me a show as I’d asked it to do an hour before. Sorry little fish…

I ended my Cabot Trail tour walking through Baddeck. I’m not a shopper by nature, but something compelled me to enter a clothing store. There, I found the perfect necklace to add to my small collection – a very long string of spirals in a hypoallergenic zinc alloy from Turkey – it felt like I’d been looking for it for years.

So I said “Yes!” and “Thank You!” embracing the circulation of abundance on this day.

I then felt completely satiated, so headed to North Sydney early to eat, line-up for my overnight ferry, and start editing the thousands of photographs from my trip.

Intuitive travel is fun. Enjoy trying it out – whether it’s for a couple of hours downtown or weeks on the road.

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What’s Your Perfect Role? This Was Mine…

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You’re like no other on this planet. You’re your life experiences, skills, gifts, talents, loves, and passions all rolled into a unique combination that’s here to be in and serve the world in ways no one else can.

You’re an individualized expression of the Divine with a unique role to play.  So the question is, what’s your perfect role or combination of elements that would make up your perfect role?

Your answer will be very different than mine.

You can use the meditations at the end of this post to explore your vision in greater depth. Know that part of the process, however, is to let go of the vision and amplify the feeling it gives you to allow the Universe to help you fulfill that vision in ways beyond your imagination.

That’s what I did… for years but more intensively on a daily basis for a month using the meditation in Derek Rydall‘s Awakened Wealth Mastery course.

Exactly a month after I started his program, I received an invitation to fulfill what turned out to be my perfect role.

Where attention goes, energy flows.

Godmother to the 22nd Atlantic Visual Arts Festival (FAVA)

Caraquet, New Brunswick

“God, make me an instrument of thy peace”. This has been part of my lightworker prayer for years.

When I became a full time artist, however, my focus often bounced back and forth from my heart to my head – from thriving to surviving. Becoming a soulpreneur has had its learning curve.

But since part of my mission is to help others align to their True Self to live a happy healthy life, I’ve been constantly reminded of the importance to do so myself.

It’s true, when I first received the organizers’ invitation, I thought that being named the FAVA godmother would be a great opportunity for my career. I equated “godmother” with “featured artist”.

But it was so much more than that, something that gradually dawned on me while preparing for my trip.

What does it mean to be the godmother of an arts festival?

I was chosen to nurture the other artists’ and festival goers’ transformational journeys through my scheduled offerings and presence. What a responsibility… and fun!

The theme of this year’s festival was “La faim de loup” – or “hungry like a wolf” with undertones of humanity’s deeper hunger on a body, mind & spirit level. Basically, the theme was “intuition”.

What a perfect match!

I’d basically been hired to allow my Light to shine and my love to flow through my energy-infused art and intuitive services while opening myself up to a circulation of positive energy in return.

My Team of Divine Helpers had been preparing me for this for years.

Exhibition: Enter the Mandala – The 12 Universal Laws

In 2015, I’d been guided to spend a year creating the 13 Enter the Mandala Project paintings. There’s one 30″ x 30″ mandala for each of the 12 Universal Laws and a summary piece that incorporates symbolism from all 12. See video below.

This was the first time I’d created a body of work that wasn’t for sale (unless I find a buyer for the whole collection willing to display them for the public).

This intuitively guided collection was designed to first teach me about the 12 Universal Laws and then become a teaching tool for others: helping us transform our lives from the inside out by becoming the conscious creators we are meant to be. 

The FAVA exhibition was the collection’s first time in public since its 1-day unveiling during a Winter Solstice event in 2015.

I knew I hadn’t painted those mandalas to sit in a closet. Part of me trusted guidance that the collection and I were experiencing a gestation period. But I’ll admit I’d been discouraged when my exhibition proposals for the collection hadn’t been accepted in 2 local galleries.

Still, I held on to visions of the mandalas and I travelling together. The FAVA exhibition was an answer to my prayer.

The festival organizers built a spacious gallery with perfect lighting for my work on the main stage. I was blown away!

The space allowed for 2 chairs to be placed in front of each mandala so the paintings could be used as meditation tools and portals to the Universal Energy Flow.

Many people accepted that invitation to go deeper into both their Self and All That Is by really taking the time to be in the experience. 

I was thrilled with the response! It was so fulfilling on so many levels.

I had the honour of energetically supporting a young woman experiencing a healing while sitting in front of The Law of Vibration.

I got to observe a young couple sit in front of each mandala for at least 10 minutes to animatedly discuss them!

I couldn’t help but melt when a beautiful man in his golden years shed one huge tear when I talked about my Source of Inspiration for the collection. The accompanying texts that I’d written as a summary of the painting and inquiry process had inspired him to ask me about my Team of Divine Helpers. His response was but one of so many touching moments during my time in Caraquet.

To witness so many people enjoying, feeling, opening to the exhibition was a dream come true.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Yes, tears are rolling down my cheeks again as I write this – tears of gratitude and joy.

You can learn more about the 12 Universal Laws and my mandalas by clicking here.

Intuition Into Action: A Gateway to Creativity

Another way my Path had led me to this role was in the development of my intuitive services, workshops, and Intuition into Action: 5 Steps to a Happy Healthy Life presentations.

Traditionally, a godmother’s role is to take responsibility for the spiritual education of her godchildren.

Part of my role as the FAVA godmother wasn’t so far off from that definition. I was asked to share in my intuitive gifts and teachings, something that brings me such joy and fulfilment while helping others.

I’ve been inspired to do this work and love it. Still, it isn’t always easy. I’ve had to cancel workshops due to lack of registration after months of preparation and marketing. I’m still learning about the business and marketing sides of things.

Thanks to several recent conferences and a yoga festival, however, I’d come to the conclusion that I love being a special guest in someone else’s group. That way, I can focus on sharing my offerings instead of marketing.

So I’d been focusing on that in my visioning meditations and the FAVA was a perfect manifestation of it.

42 participants attended the visionary art workshop, in which they experienced a channeled meditation before translating their inner discovery journey into a mandala drawing and list of inspired actions.

Many reported that the messages and visions they received had made a difference in their lives, their art, and their understanding of the energy flow as they witnessed it in the group.

*Note: Many of the photos in this blog post are by Louis Légère on the FAVA team.

I also gave a 1.5 hour talk and Q & A session on Intuitive Living & Intuitive Painting. The feedback was equally affirming that my work is making a difference. That’s a wonderful feeling indeed!

To share the intuition offerings I’ve developed in recent years in an event that not only featured my visual art but fully supported and appreciated my desire to share life-affirming processes was truly a vision come to fruition.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

My Beloved Godchildren

Just so you know, I giggled when I wrote that subtitle.

The Artists

One of my favourite parts of being the godmother of the festival is that I was given a leadership role when it came to the 20 or so other artists involved.

As much as I may be an experienced and enthusiastic teacher and public speaker, as much as I can be shy or uncomfortable in public. Hyper sensitive to energy in crowds and an introverted social observer by habit, there have been many times when I’ve chosen to be on the outskirts.

Not this time. I was hired to be a leader and a nurturer, and I thrive in that role.

Instead of focusing only on my exhibition and events (there was a lot to coordinate), I really enjoyed the encouragement my role gave me to connect with the other artists.

I consciously made the time to circulate to their booths to chat or shoot videos that I posted on Facebook or sit with them during meals to have heart-to-heart conversations (instead of taking quiet solo retreat times).

My interest in the other artists and ease with which we shared connections, techniques, experiences, etc. delighted me.

I met so many wonderful beings in this process and look forward to deepening some of these peer relationships through collaborations, exchanges, and more.

Being the FAVA godmother gave me the responsibility and permission to just let my full self shine. I did and was reminded that I shouldn’t need a role or excuse to be and do what I did at this festival – and am grateful for that lesson. I’ll never forget it.

When we shine our light, it gives others permission to shine. Please remember this next time you wonder if you can really fulfill the role of your dreams.

The Community

The reception, appreciation, generosity, enthusiasm, open-heartedness, etc. that circulated during the whole weekend and the days leading up to it was amazing.

Together, we raised our vibration. The more I gave, the more I had to give. The more I received, the more I allowed myself to receive.

As a godmother would, it was my pleasure to proudly share my Caraquet experience, FAVA, and the many wonders & miracles that took place while I lived my perfect role in such a warm-hearted community. If you follow me on Facebook, you know I enjoyed spreading the word about the love & beauty I witnessed in the heart of Acadian country.

From the organizers, staff, and volunteers who helped me with my events and showed me around town, to the light technician who helped my work shine, to the people in the streets that recognized me from my picture in the program they received in the mail, to the costumed characters at the Acadian Historic Village who crossed the time barrier to say they knew who I was – I felt so welcomed!

Yes, I could see how such attention could go to my head. Instead, I let it go to my heart.

I was scared when I came out of the visionary closet a few years back. It wasn’t easy to talk about things I’d learned to shut up about when I was a child. Intuition, however, is always an invitation to grow. I’m glad I followed guidance.

To be so welcomed, acknowledged, appreciated, and given a platform to be fully me without fear or resistance has left me a changed woman.

So I’ll keep asking:”What would love do now?”, “How can I be an instrument of thy Peace dear God and blessed Universe”. And I trust that my next perfect role is on its way.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

The Bucket List

Part of my vision for my life is that my teaching/ art will allow me to continue to travel the world exploring and expressing my love of beauty and the beauty of love.

Thanks to my FAVA sponsor, Tablo-Solution, my 2-week road trip across Newfoundland to New Brunswick was fully paid for.

I also got to check 2 things off my bucket list during this trip: the 7-hour ferry from Port-aux-Basques to North Sydney (which I’d read about in many NL -based novels) and a 2.5-day drive on the Cabot Trail on the island of Cape Breton on my way home from the festival.

I’ll write more about that in the next post.

I wonder… does an event in Ireland need a godmother? That’s still on my bucket list and my mandalas now have excellent crates to travel in. I’m ready! Hee hee.

I’ll keep visioning and generating the feelings of my ideal life and am open to what the next perfect role the Universe has in store for me.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

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Avoid Overwhelm One Step at a Time

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around-burnt-cove-dominique-hurley-_dlh7478Last week, I offered you a meditation to take stock of your life. Click here if you haven’t tried it yet.

When I did it (vs. channeling it – very different experiences), I identified a few areas that weren’t in alignment with my soul.

Basically, I work too hard and not always on the right things. When I lose touch with my abundance, I struggle with the overwhelming demands and expenses of being a budding entrepreneur and the mismatch with my desire for a simple life.

Identifying those areas and visualizing a more fulfilling life was a great first step. It helped shift my mindset and started the momentum for change. Taking inspired action was next.

That’s where many quit. They get overwhelmed by the size of the task and end up stuck in the status quo.

Is your to-do list already too long? Time too short? Money too tight? The learning curve too steep?

Change can be overwhelming on many levels. But the cost of staying where you are can be even higher.

Take a Deep Breath

My first inspired action – taking a short seaside holiday away from the computer – had opened up this next opportunity to spend 3 days in Burnt Cove.

I brought my laptop this time, but spent several hours breathing in the fresh sea air while walking in small communities and nature trails.

Deep breathing is key to intuition. Your breath is your Life Force, your connection to Spirit.

Ask and You Shall Receive

On my walk from Bauline East to Doctor’s Cove, I did an Intuitive Walkabout.

I asked “How can I create a viable business while living a simple life?”

For the next half hour, my attention was fully absorbed in the various textures and features of the forest path beneath my fee.  The variety in such a short walk was remarkable: gravel, bedrock, stepping stones, boardwalks, stone and log steps, dirt, moss-lined, steep, level, jagged, smooth, etc.

When you ask a question, pay attention to what draws your attention. This becomes the intuitive data to work with.

So how did I interpret this?

“Avoid overwhelm one step at a time. Appreciate where you are in every moment, knowing that your path will vary greatly. Some parts will be smooth and easy and some may require you to climb or tread with more care. Don’t worry about the terrain. You’ll be provided the resources to navigate your way through it. Others have walked before you and prepared the way. Enjoy the journey as much as the destination.”

When I got to Doctor’s Cove, my first ocean view since the trailhead, I could see the storm rolling in. Part of me thought it’d be best to head back right away, knowing it would take 1.5 hours. But when I tuned in, I recognized it as fear, not guidance.

So I sat on a big stone boulder and admired the view, breathing it in and contemplating the meaning of this part of Intuitive Walkabout.

“Remember to pause and enjoy the results of your efforts. Even if the world or your tasks seem daunting, rest and contemplate. Tune in to know when it’s time for your next best move.”

I felt a lot lighter after that walk, filled with beauty and guidance. I got home minutes before the heavy rain and winds picked up the deck chairs and threw them to the edge of the cliff. I grabbed them just before they went over.

“You’re abundant and safe. Know it. Feel it. Then continue walking forward one step at a time when you’re moved to do so.”

Life is Beautiful

I’m sharing this with you because I believe that one person’s journey can help others.

I’ve long known that taking one inspired action at a time is the way to success – whatever that means for you.

My 3-day sojourn up the southern shore is yet another example.

Overwhelm is a state of mind.

I did what I needed to shift that mindset and the Universe collaborated with the details.

Your Turn to Ask

Do you have a question to ask your Team of Divine Helpers to live more in alignment with your soul?

Ask and then scroll through this sampling of photos from my time around Burnt Cove to see what catches your attention.

Then analyze the symbolism (with your heart and mind) to see what it means in relation to your question.

Next, take inspired action. Come up with 1-3 things you can implement to open up the doors to your ideal life.

Then allow the Universe its time to do its thing.

One step at a time. One breath at a time.

Click on the first image if you want to see them in slideshow mode.

Click here if you’d like my free 75-minute video tutorial on the 5 Steps to Activate Your Intuition and Get Your Life Back on Track. There’s a special invitation at the end for a Divine Storytelling Time Session.

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Pearls of Wisdom from a Cycling Philosopher

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Dominique and her bikeMeet Sephira – my bicycle. She’s not only helping me get in better shape, but providing lots of opportunities to reflect on life.
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In this post, I’m sharing some of the pearls of wisdom she’s given me while biking to campus for the last month.
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Sephira is the name she gave me when I first brought her home. According to a name website, “Sephira” means “west wind”. Those with that name are said to:
  • be spiritually intense,
  • bring love and new starts into life,
  • be the creator and promoter of original ideas,
  • be dependable, very down-to-earth and well grounded,
  • have a desire to build protected and secure environments
  • be very persuasive in achieving goals and gaining objectives.
  • have a practical approach to life and productivity that makes her one of the most beneficent members of community.

I’d say that’s a great personality for a bike and also a teacher…

That’s right. I believe that everything in life is both a mirror and a teacher.

In the short time we’ve ridden together, I’ve learned so much!

I’m not just talking about biking. I’m talking about life!

 

Pearls of Wisdom

 

As you read these philosophical tidbits, I invite you to reflect on how they apply to your life.
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1. Better be safe than sorry
When I bought my bike, Harold at Earle Industries told me “now you have a car!”. I’d bought so many extras: headlight, 2 tail lights, reflectors, helmet, mirror, etc. I may have added weight to the bike, but I also have much greater peace of mind.  Drivers here just aren’t used to seeing bikes on the road, and so by helping them see me, I help myself.
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2. Even if the road is rough, don’t give up.
The steepest uphill climb on my journey is the long driveway where I live. I’m pushing so hard at such an angle that I get to the top panting. That’s just the warm-up.
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3. Be ready. Invest in the tools you need for the job.
It may be summer, but during my first weeks of teaching it felt like 2°C (35 °F) in the morning with highs of 11°C (52 °F). I prefer it cool, but like to be comfortable. So that meant equipping myself with the right gear – gloves, ear protector for under my helmet, etc. It was worth the investment. I hate wind in my ears. I also appreciate my new matching padded bike pants and long-sleeved high-collared sport shirt that protects me from cold and sunburns. And those saddle bags are perfect to carry my school books, wardrobe, and groceries – they’re sparing my neck and shoulders after decades of heavy backpacks.  Plus we’ve got a great gravel trail on the old railway bed. My old 10 speed road bike just wouldn’t cut it here. I’m so glad I got a hybrid with hydraulic brakes and a front shock to spare my carpal tunnel from a bumpy ride.
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4. Plan ahead.
There’s no way I can bike to school in my teaching clothes. I have to give myself a sponge bath when I get there. So before classes started, I brought enough clothing for 1.5 weeks to give it time to de-wrinkle hanging on the clothes tree in my office. It’s a good system.
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5. There’s a time for everything.
I’ve got 24 gears on this bike. I use ALL of them! I just couldn’t stay in the same gear for the variety of terrain on my journey. And when the bike works, but I don’t, it’s OK to get off and walk.
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6. From one opportunity comes many hidden benefits:
One reason I bought my bike was to get in shape -legs, cardio, etc. I didn’t expect that the sorest part of my body after my first few rides would be my thumbs from changing gears so much on the hills of St. John’s. I’m improving my hand-strength and manual dexterity too. Bonus!  To add to that, my arms get quite the workout, both pushing the bike up 2 steep hills and keeping myself from flying over the handlebars on the one roller-coaster dip down 18th St.
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7. Some rules are smart to follow.
There’s a reason St. John’s doesn’t have a cyclist-friendly reputation. First, there are so few bikes on the road that drivers aren’t used to them. Second, cyclists don’t always follow the rules of the road and lose the respect of drivers. On my first day, when I used my hand signals to indicate a turn, a driver slowed beside me, rolled his window down, and thanked me for signalling. I’m not sure why, but that brought tears to my eyes – maybe because I’d heard of drinks being thrown at cyclists. I appreciated the kindness. If you want to share the road, show respect.  It’ll be returned. I’m also grateful for the many cars that have stopped to let me to turn left in traffic.
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8, Balance is bliss.
St. John’s is hilly! You got that. I live in the Waterford valley at sea level, and campus is on the other side of a big hill. Although there’s plenty of walking and peddling uphill, there’s also coasting and braking downhill, no matter which direction I’m coming from. It only takes me 30-40 minutes to get to my destination, but it’s a workout both ways. I’m happy with this balance. I’d hate for it to be all uphill one way and all downhill the other. It’s fun to know though, that if I’m working hard on one stretch of my journey to work, I’ll be coasting there on my way home.
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9. What may be easy one day can be hard the next. Go with your flow. 
I may be able to make it 3/4 up a long steep hill before walking the rest one day, but only 1/2 the next. That’s OK. My energy or physical stamina aren’t the same every day. Not surprisingly, I’ve noticed that hill is easier on Mondays, once I’ve given my body a break.
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10. When there’s a strong headwind, you may need to walk even on the flat stretches.
Newfoundland is infamous for its winds.  It wasn’t unusual to have 70km/hr (44 miles/hr) gusts in the forecast my first weeks of school.  External circumstances out of our control can turn what was once easy into a challenge. Don’t quit; just do what you need to do move forward the best way you can.
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11. There’s nothing so refreshing as a paradigm shift.
I had a choice. I knew it’d be raining and cold the next morning. It may have been July, but we were still getting frost warnings at night. I could have dreaded my bike ride or even backed out, but instead, I looked forward to it. I saw it as an adventure. What a feat! I geared up with my rain pants, Gortex, gloves, hiking boots and headed out. It was actually the happiest I’d been biking to work to that point. I may have looked soaked, but I was dry and just so proud of myself.  Sephira handled herself great too in the rain! Fun!
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12. Be flexible and adaptable. Sometimes you need to let go of plans.
I’d made it my goal to bike to campus every day during my 5-week contract. I was committed. But there are times you’ve just got to be flexible.  With a storm watch, heavy rainfall warning, and risks of flash floods, heavy fog, and winds up to 100km/hr, I reluctantly yet gratefully accepted my housemate’s offer to drive me. Cycling that day wouldn’t have been nice to myself or drivers.
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13. There’s a whole world to discover just off the beaten path:
I’m no stranger to Cashin Ave., a long wide hilly road on my trajectory. But on the first Friday of classes, I wandered just one block off my familiar path to discover Ropewalk Lane, a commercial street with several malls, a big grocery store, and most importantly, a delicious and affordable Filipino restaurant. I’d usually avoid such a street, but it’s great to know it’s there when I need it.
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14. Choose peace
I made the mistake of biking at rush hour once. It frazzled my nerves and I’m sure drivers’ nerves too. So I’ve chosen to bike between 6-6:30am to avoid traffic. I then have lots of time at school to let my hair dry after I get rid of that helmet imprint,set up the classroom, and correct essays. It’s more relaxing that way. Plus, I’m an early bird by nature.  And luckily I finished classes before rush hour.
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15. Don’t compare yourself to others.
Many wouldn’t think that my goal to bike to work every day this summer was a big deal. So what!? … an hour of biking a day. But for me, it is! I used to bike all the time, but that was in Ottawa or the flat prairies. It’s hilly here! I also used to walk 1-2 hours a day to work or school for most of my life. I’d choose my housing location to ensure it. Since moving to my current home 2 years ago, however, I’ve been much more sedentary. It’s too far to walk to campus in the summer, and the rest of the year I work from home. So biking to work this summer was a big deal for me. My goals are mine. It doesn’t matter what others think.
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16. Be grateful for breaks, even forced ones.
I can be very goal oriented, forgetting to enjoy the journey. If I could, I’d bike without stopping until I got to where I’m going. I’m finding myself thankful though when the light turns red at the top of a hill. It forces me to stop and take a breather or a sip of water.  I can feel my heart pounding, and it’s a nice break. Be grateful for your stop signs.
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17. Be fully present.
Even if drivers mean well, they’re often oblivious. I’m so glad for my mirror. But still, there was this one time when I was just standing still beside a car – slightly behind the front seats –  at a red light. The driver decided to make room for cars in the next lane (very polite of her) so she squeezed me against the curb and didn’t hear me shout. Be aware of your environment. Make eye contact. Learn from your lessons. I sure have.
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18. Have vision but pay attention to the road right in front of you too.
It’s thrilling to pick up speed going downhill, but you need to do 2 things.  First look ahead to make sure cars aren’t about to cut you off from upcoming side roads and intersections. But also look right in front of you. It’s amazing what you’ll find: potholes, nails, broken glass, toothbrushes, banana peels, and more large machinery bolts than you can imagine…
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19. Balance work and play.
It was the bliss of my leisurely bike rides on an island resort in San Diego that inspired me to buy a bike. Biking to campus on city streets, however, feels like work – or at least a workout. It’s a whole different feeling when I take Sephira for a ride on the Trailway or up to Cape Amhearst to sit by the lighthouse and contemplate the open seas. I need more of that.  Our relationship isn’t only functional; it’s meant to be uplifting and fun!
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20. Solitude is precious, but sometimes, it’s more fun with friends. 
I love my solo bikerides. But I’ve enjoyed sharing the adventure too. My friend Leslie and I have plans to explore different trails this summer. She’s got a rack for the back of her car, and I foresee a few seaside cycles this August. Yay!
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21. A smile changes everything.
Biking is not only about sharing the road with cars, but sharing the trails with pedestrian. What a difference it makes to smile and say hello, or use my pretty sounding copper bell instead of shouting that I’m coming up behind someone.
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22. Trust in God, but tie your camel.
I may invite Archangel Michael to ride with me and guard my bike when I’m shopping, but I also have 2 locks to keep it safe. One’s a U-lock for the frame and the other’s a cable lock for the wheels. It’s just best not tempt those who, for their own reasons, choose to take others’ belongings as their part-time job. That’s why I was relieved to find out I could lock Sephira in my office while on campus. More peace of mind.
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23. There are no coincidences.
You know me. I’m all about signs and symbolism. Everything has meaning. So I couldn’t help but laugh when the wind blew an empty chip bag from up high to right under my wheels when biking to school one day. I’m both a health food nut and a chipaholic, so the message was clear. Sephira’s helping me make up for my chip cravings.
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24. Don’t believe everything they say.
Just because they say there’s 0% chance of rain, it doesn’t mean you won’t get soaked. Surprise showers, heavy fog or mist – they’re all refreshing reminders that it’s good to be prepared. There’s no use blaming anyone for anything.  It’s healthier to take responsibility or to simply enjoy the surprises.
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25. Don’t get stuck in a rut.
After 4 weeks, my bike rides are much less exciting. I’m not collecting philosophical gems like I used to. Instead, I think of what I’ll eat when I get home. Biking to work has become routine. It’s just something I do – that’s gotta get done. The honeymoon stage is over …  How can I add variety or mindfulness back in my ride for my last few days of work? How can I avoid the rut of routine? I don’t want to take Sephira or this opportunity for granted. That’s my responsibility. My choice. We both deserve it.
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26. Acknowledge your successes.
This is the last week of my teaching contract. I skipped a day because of severe weather, but made it up when I joined my class for a whale watching trip on the weekend (photos below). I’m thrilled with my results. No wasted time waiting for the bus. No nauseous bus rides. Freedom. Better health. More fresh air. It’s all good! Thank you Sephira for a great ride! I’m so glad I invested to bring you into my life. We’re worth it.
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Enjoy being alive – no matter the weather or your fitness level. Happy August!
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Get Your Butt Moving!

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Paradise Point-San Diego-Dominique Hurley-_DLH4647

Lots of photos for you today!

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Trust me. This isn’t easy. I’ve been blogging at least twice a week for years! But I’m slowing down for the summer.

I’ll be posting every Tuesday, but skipping Thursdays to spend more time outside. I need the air, the beauty, the exercise. I hope that’s OK with you.

You see, I was smart and arrived 2 days early for my business bootcamp at the Paradise Point Resort  in San Diego. I also stayed 2 days after it.

It felt soooooo good to walk on the beach, kayak around the island, swim in one of the 5 pools, and bike in nature for at least an hour every day. See photos below.

So I came back with a commitment to get my butt moving outdoors this summer.

It’s so easy to spend full-days both in the studio and at the computer. I tend to overdo it. Working at home has been fantastic in many ways, but I don’t get off my butt as much as I’d like to.

So I’m listening to what my body, mind, and spirit had to say as soon as I hopped on that bike in San Diego.

What freedom! What joy! I sang with glee as I explored the deserted trails around the island at 6am. I didn’t stop after I got in the kayak either. Bliss!

So I’m shopping for a bike these days. I sold my 30-year-old men’s 10-speed Peugeot as part of my pre-Vienna fundraiser. Now it’s time for a hybrid that can handle St. John’s hills and the gravel trails on the old rail bed.  Exciting!

I’m also choosing to walk more, especially in the early evenings instead of defaulting to Netflix. I had some great river & canal walks with my Dad in Ottawa after San Diego. I went from palm trees to tulips! I also went from cool California weather to a heat wave!

But it was back to freezing once home in Newfoundland (Yay! I don’t do heat very well.)

And so far so good. I had a lovely hike up Signal Hill next to downtown with my friend Janice. I’m also taking my work strategy sessions to Bowring Park.  I’d much rather walk & talk with clients and collaborators than sit in a coffee shop.

So what about you? Are you going to get your butt moving too this summer? Sound crude, I know. Sorry. But trust me, it’ll love you for it. Haven’t you heard? Sitting is the new smoking! 

What’s your favourite form of outdoor exercise? Comment below.

Oh – and if you’re in the mood for a bit of inspiration between posts,  just come visit the archive. You’ll find lots there!

Here’s to our health!

 

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Take a 15-Minute Soul Break

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photo of the snowy Battery in St. John's during a soul break

Ahhhh….. What a difference a 15-minute unplanned soul break can make in the middle of a busy day. 

Am I ever glad I listened when my soul said “Turn left!” on my way home from running a bunch of errands with my housemate’s car yesterday.

I’d spent the morning taking down an art show, checking on a print order for a customer, and exchanging the broken microphone I’d recently purchased to make better-quality videos for my blog/website.  I was tired and hungry.

When I was less than 5 minutes from home, the sun broke through after a few days of wind and snow storms.

I cranked my neck to see out the St. John’s harbour as I drove through downtown.  By the time I got the intersection that leads to both Cape Amherst and Cape Spear, I had no choice but to turn left.

I know better than to ignore those soul callings.

My stomach and the rest of my to-do list could wait. As long as I was home for my phone-meeting at 2pm, I’d be fine.

I didn’t even drive all the way down to the Cape Ameherst lighthouse. I made it to the first parking lot and walked along the pier for 15 minutes with my camera.  That’s all it took to get me back on track.

It’s hard to believe I live about 5 minutes by car from where I took these!

I may have a river running through the backyard, but I have such a deep connection to the ocean. It pulls me and lifts me up.

I love St. John’s!

I’d been wanting snowy pictures of the Battery every since I moved here in 2011. I spent 2 months that summer living in one of those houses at the base of Signal Hill, right by the trail head. Click on a photo if you want to see it larger.

So where can you go for a 15-minute soul break in the middle of the day today? Trust me. It’s worth it. You’re worth it.

 

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A Change of Scenery

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Brigus NL-Dominique Hurley-DLH_3793

It’s only February, and I’m already manifesting my way through my 2016 intuitive vision board. This time, I took its soul advice for a change of scenery and spent 4 days at my friend Victoria’s in Spaniards Bay, a little less than an hour from St. John’s.

I love road trips. I’m constantly gasping at the beauty (sometimes a bit alarming for the driver).

But since I’ve chosen not to have my own car, I don’t get out of town much – especially if I’m focused on work as much as I was in 2015.

So Victoria came to get me, and we spent a lovely 4 days driving around taking pictures, socializing, eating, and getting to know each other and her 4 fur-babies better. It was great!

I first met Victoria in an art class I taught back in 2011. She’s taken almost every one since. She was also instrumental in helping me raise funds for my Vienna Art Scholarship Fund.

I felt right at home in her new house. Plus it was thrilling to see so much of her artwork live. She’s not only thriving with intuitive painting, but creating wonderful figurines and mixed media hooked pieces on slate. Click here to visit her FB Page.

Vision by Victoria Munavish
Salt-Water Cowboy by Victoria Munavish
Three Sheds on Cavendish Beach by Victoria Munavish

I came home with a closer friendship, lots of new photos, a few extra pounds, work in a new gallery, some cute kitten scratches (the kittens were cute, not the scratches), and all the benefits of recreation.

So there you have it.  By traveling only 50 minutes away, it was a complete change of scenery. What a blessing in so many ways! Thanks Victoria!

You don’t have to go far to play tourist. 

Where can you go this February for a change of scenery?

P.S. You can also click on the first image and scroll from there.

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