tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22569628848502551792024-02-20T09:51:16.541-08:00e a r t h l y b o d i e smusings on herbal medicinechristine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.comBlogger85125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-63599316426502823772018-03-11T18:50:00.002-07:002018-03-12T13:27:33.871-07:00Herbal Sense Expressions: Ginger <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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At the beginning of each month, we are assigned a limited list of herbs corresponding to a specific system of the body that we're currently learning that month. The goal is to use an herb for about a month in as many different forms as possible (e.g. hot/cold infusion, decoction, simples tincture, food, capsules, etc.) to get to know the herb better. The hope is that the student can develop their own intimate relationship with the herb and understand the dynamic ways in which an herb interacts with the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of self.<br />
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My teacher, Lisa Ganora, mentioned the phrase "herbal sense expressions" during one of our organoleptic sessions while we were smelling and tasting and feeling how our bodies responded to certain herbal infusions in class. I really liked the ring to that phrase... I interpret it as how our senses express themselves in relation to an herb's interaction with the body's sensory organs. Since then, that phrase has stuck with me as a way to label my "Herb of the Month" assignments.<br />
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Last January, I chose Ginger <i>(Zingiber officinale)</i> as my herb of the month corresponding to our 'Vitalism' unit. Energetically speaking, Ginger is known as a 'Strong Vital Stimulant,' meaning that it increases the 'Vital Expression' or function in the tissue. Some herbalists use 'stimulant' in the sense of a warming circulatory stimulant, but CSCH being of the Vitalist tradition, uses 'stimulant' to mean Hot or Heating plus Diffusive. (See link under 'Resources' below if you'd like to read more.)<br />
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{ <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hnRHl1gYLCs8AioOi2zM8CDZXNo6LTzm938pZoff73E/edit?usp=sharing">Click here to view my Herbal Sense Expressions for Ginger.</a> }<br />
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Resources:<br />
<a href="https://www.americanherbalistsguild.com/sites/default/files/the_action_formula_-_ganora_-_ahg_2015_1.pdf">The Action Formula by Lisa Ganora</a></div>
<br />christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-10748378886576181002018-03-04T22:03:00.002-08:002018-03-04T22:19:51.945-08:00Dong Quai, my Mother, and Death<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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One fine morning I was at the local coffee shop finishing up my Materia Medica assignment. Flipping through the pages of my usual reference book, <a href="http://a.co/0mRtNjo"><i>The Energetics of Western Herbs </i>by Peter Holmes</a>, I looked up Dong Quai / Dang Gui <i>(Angelica sinensis) </i>and suddenly I remembered my mom so deeply. I was flooded with emotion. Sadness and grief overcame my being as I stared at the page in front of me. Her pain. Her suffering. The symptoms of her liver disease. It all came back to me as I read the functions and indications of Dong Quai<i>.</i><br />
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"NOURISHES THE LIVER AND THE BLOOD, AND RELIEVES FATIGUE; RESTORES AND PROTECTS THE LIVER AND REGULATES METABOLISM </blockquote>
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<i>blood deficiency</i>: fatigue, white complexion, nails and eyelids; dizziness, palpitations, anemia, vitamin E deficiency" </blockquote>
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As I continued to read the extended Notes, I come to learn that Dong Quai acts as a <i>restorative</i> to the liver and blood, especially metabolic deficiencies centered around the liver (known traditionally in Traditional Chinese Medicine as <b>Blood deficiency</b>). It is infamous not only for being an overall womyn's health herb but also as a blood and chi tonic and hepatoprotective (prevents damage to the liver). As I continued reading, I found myself matching all liver and blood-related indications with that of my mother's liver disease symptoms. At the end of the page, I found myself wishing that I had known about this herb, or cared enough to search for this herb in the early stages of her disease. There are a lot of things I regret in regards to my mother's death. "I wish I could've helped her more. I wish I could have... I wish..." But, I know now that there's nothing I could have done to save her life. Perhaps, I could have tried harder to ease her pain...<br />
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Since Dong Quai, I've found myself regularly encountering the memory of my mother and her fatal disease through my research of other herbs. I don't get as emotionally triggered as I did with Dong Quai. But I make a mental note to remember when I encounter these herbs. Perhaps, I can save someone else's life or ease someone else's pain one day with Dong Quai...<br />
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You can view the Materia Medica of Dong Quai / Dang Gui <i>(Angelica sinensis) </i><a href="http://www.goldenpoppyherbs.com/blog/dong-quai-materia-medica/">here</a>.<br />
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For Joe Hollis' introduction to Dong Quai, watch this video that was lovingly filmed by Jennifer Noll:<br />
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christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-69984278314089522022018-01-14T18:49:00.002-08:002018-01-14T18:52:48.538-08:00Herbal and Vital Energetics (from a Vitalist Physiomedicalist perspective)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am learning how an herb interacts with the human physiology, specifically how the energetic qualities of certain herbs affect tissue states* of the body.<br />
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The energetic qualities of herbs refer to <b>temperature</b> and <b>moisture</b>. These qualities are described as <span style="color: red;"><b>hot</b></span> & <span style="color: blue;"><b>cold</b></span>, <b><span style="color: orange;">warm</span></b> & <b><span style="color: #3d85c6;">cool</span></b>, <span style="color: #38761d;"><b>moist</b></span> & <b><span style="color: #f1c232;">dry</span></b>, etc.<br />
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Following this similar pattern of contrasting energetic qualities, the tissue states of the body can also be described as <span style="color: red;"><b>hot</b></span> & <span style="color: blue;"><b>cold</b></span>, <b><span style="color: orange;">warm</span></b> & <b><span style="color: #3d85c6;">cool</span></b>, <span style="color: #38761d;"><b>moist</b></span> & <b><span style="color: #f1c232;">dry</span></b>, etc.<br />
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When anything exaggerates, obstructs, or depresses the Vital Force, there is an imbalance in the body which readily manifests as physiological symptoms in the tissue states of the body (i.e. inflammation, fever, etc.)<br />
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It is the job of the herbalist to neutralize these imbalanced tissue states using herbal medicine. In other words, the herbalist's job is to match the herbs to a symptom that points to a specific pathological indication. And this is where herbal medicine does its magic... (!!!) because herbal medicine is experienced at the tissue level! A human's physiological response to herbal medicine comes from phytochemicals stimulating mucous membranes.<br />
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Now this is where my training comes in as an herbalist because there is an art and science to pairing herbs to specific indications and that is dependent on energetics, both in the herb itself and the human.<br />
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For example...<br />
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A human is experiencing a fever.<br />
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(A fever is a positive sign; it is the body's Vital Intelligence coming through! A fever is the body's way of killing an infection--viral or bacterial. It heats us up and increases circulation in order to bring more oxygen and food to our cells so that it has the resources to kill the virus/bacteria. Amazing!)<br />
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From a vitalist energetic perspective, a fever is known as a <span style="color: red;"><b>hot</b></span> condition in which tissue states are inflamed and Vital Force is exaggerated. Said human is experiencing typical fever symptoms that come with increased body temperature: sweating and discomfort, mental malaise, dull appetite, physical lethargy, sleepiness, coughing, and overall lack of vital energy. Physicians of past and present state that a high temperature of 103 deg F in adults is ideal pathogen killing temperature. However, once the temperatures increase beyond 103, it is necessary to start cooling off the body! (Temperatures in the 104-107 range can be deadly.) In this instance, the application of <b style="color: #3d85c6;">cooling</b>, diaphoretic (sweating) herbs would be beneficial to help the body release excess heat which in turn will decrease body temperature. Examples of cooling herbs that help with fevers are Elder flower (<i>Sambucus spp</i>.), Lavender (<i>Lavandula vera</i>), Nettle (<i>Urtica dioica</i>), Mint (<i>Mentha spp.</i>), Yarrow (<i>Achillea millefolium</i>) etc. The methods through which one can apply these herbs to the body are: drinking teas/infusions of aforementioned herbs (Elder/Yarrow/Mint), applying a damp towel on body and forehead doused in lavender/mint water, hydrating with lemon water, etc. Of course, sleeping and rest is also needed when fever-ing! Forgo work/school/social obligations and take part in the body's restorative and re-vitalizing power of sleep!<br />
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Sources:<br />
- Blue Ridge School of Herbal Medicine, <a href="http://www.blueridgeschool.org/herbs-for-colds-and-flus.htm">Herbs for Colds and Flus</a><br />
- Bergner, Paul, Class notes from from Colorado School of Clinical Herbalism.<br />
- Ganora, Lisa, Class notes from from Colorado School of Clinical Herbalism..<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: "times new roman" , "georgia" , serif; font-size: 16px; text-indent: -22px;">- Weed, Susun, <a href="http://www.susunweed.com/herbal_ezine/February07/healingwise.htm">Hot Colds and Cold Colds</a>, Dec 2006. </span><br />
- Wood, Matthew, <i>The Earthwise Herbal Repertory (</i>2016)<i>.</i>christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-83720729221003659972013-04-15T02:48:00.000-07:002015-03-29T11:26:21.002-07:00Spring intentions<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Being still in Yosemite~ march 2013</td></tr>
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<i>A conscious effort to tap into my spirituality/spirit this spring...</i><br />
I haven't yet started meditating as much as I'd like. With the renewal of spring and longer days, it's so easy to see my intended purpose with new eyes. My perception is geared in honoring the here and now and finding love and forgiveness within myself. I'm still trying to reintegrate back into self and find balance in my busy, busy schedule. Perhaps, I'll venture out into a spiritual retreat this summer. If it's meant to be, I'll be lead there. The universe always conspires to make things happen.<br />
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<i>Crossing paths. Travel more - overcome fear~</i><br />
Intertwined in all of this is that I've started hosting couchsurfers, particularly Europeans. It's been a blessing to meet these travelers -- who I've learned so much from. So many European stereotypes and notions disproven haha! I've come to a realization that I need to travel abroad soon. On traveling in general, I plan on visiting Oregon in the summer. It will be beautiful. I desire to experience more wilderness.<br />
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<i>Capture...</i><br />
I am experiencing instances where I feel compelled to photograph again. I am going to feel it out. Santa Cruz in the spring is such a blessing and I am so grateful to be living here.<br />
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Most of all, I want to be receptive and open to new and exciting possibilities!christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-30989225242244568852013-02-19T01:10:00.000-08:002015-03-29T11:27:27.704-07:00Establishing Connection<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Since my move to Santa Cruz last fall, I've set the intention to intern at as many local farms as I can during the two years that I'll be at UCSC. Last quarter, I interned for 3 months at the 25 acre farm at <a href="http://casfs.ucsc.edu/" target="_blank">The Center for Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems</a> (CASFS) where I got to work closely alongside the apprentices learning ecological horticulture with an emphasis on small-scale crop production. It was a great learning experience where I made lasting connections to the land and people. The majority of the apprentices were all empowering young women with a passion for local food and community and activism in food justice. It is so inspiring to see these women work so hard and passionately in a line of work that is traditionally male-dominated. My intern supervisor and farm manager, Christof, also provided me and my fellow interns with a wealth of knowledge and in-depth answers to our continual curiosity. <br />
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Passing the time outside amongst the beautiful oak woodland and redwood landscape and being part of a collaborative effort growing food that fosters community is what I love about going to school here. I am so grateful for this beauty that I am witness to everyday. It is a continual process of learning and gaining life-long experiential knowledge; it is also about developing a deeper connection to the bioregion and creating an intimate relationship with our food that surpasses all theoretical knowledge about food systems. Having awareness and substantial theoretical knowledge about sustainable food systems doesn't mean anything until you get in the soil and experience for yourself what it is like to grow food from seed to harvest in a wholesome and ecological manner.<br />
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christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-19380167423352441062012-10-14T15:58:00.002-07:002012-10-14T16:00:37.024-07:00Bioregional Swap I had the opportunity of participating in a bioregional swap through Mary's blog, <a href="http://terrallectualism.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">terrallectualism</a>. I was so happy when I was paired up with <a href="http://littlefieldmouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Jenny</a> who lives in the Appalachian town of Mars Hill, North Carolina just a few miles away from Burnsville, the town that I had WWOOF'ed at two summers ago. I fell in love with Appalachia during my time WWOOF'ing there and have since missed the lush flora and fauna of that bioregion. So it was great to hear that Jenny would be sending me goodies from that area!<br />
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Here are my goodies from my bioregional swap package:</div>
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(clockwise starting from the top: 3 books on herbs and sustainable/natural living, dried <i>monarda</i>, a beautiful purple notebook made with hand-crafted paper, a little wooden pot, handmade pot holder, an awesome apron, and a hand-dyed tablecloth in blue and white)</div>
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Thank you, Jenny! <3</div>
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Your swap package will be ready in about a week or so! Here is a little peak of what's to come:</div>
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christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-56635278498449389842012-10-14T15:23:00.002-07:002012-10-14T15:23:48.037-07:00Last days of summer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-40481930391492828322012-10-14T15:09:00.002-07:002012-10-14T15:14:35.647-07:00Herbal Day <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Dessa, Ha, and I recently started this tradition of <i>Herbal Fridays</i>. We gather together every Friday and make herbal medicine or healing foods. So far, we've made lacto-fermented ginger beer and herbal capsules (alfalfa leaf, red clover blossoms, neem, and feverfew). In December, when I travel back down to SoCal for winter break, we are coming together again and making healing salves and herbal candies, and perhaps we'll also start some tinctures and infused oils!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1 week fermentation of ginger syrup + ginger bug</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">encapsulating powdered neem</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">powdering dried herbs in the vitamix</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">finished herbal capsules~</td></tr>
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christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-7299258630209089012012-09-10T16:25:00.000-07:002012-09-10T17:00:47.975-07:00THE 19TH and gratitude<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Blue moon on September 1st</i></td></tr>
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<br />
Since last writing in here, I witnessed two half-moons and 2 full moons in one month. It is a beautiful thing and calming to look up at the sky in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the human experience and to observe without thought or feeling at an energy source so beyond our measure and complete understanding. But it is beautiful and healing to vibrations, indeed.<br />
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I've noticed synchronicity in recent past experiences. There are parallel experiences appearing in my life as of late. I have been aware of it for a couple of weeks now and mentally weaving it together to extract understanding or meaning but to no avail. Why are these parallel experiences happening? Will I be able to grasp the truth by experiencing again similar past events...? I am awaiting for the answer to reveal itself to me in the future.<br />
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There have been some healing mantras that have given me peace these fast few days and I am so grateful for them.<br />
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This is what I am grateful for:<br />
<b>.+.</b> Ginger beer gathering with my special girlfriends on the first quarter moon<br />
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<b>.+.</b> Summer fun at the beach thanks to Dessa's overwhelming generosity<br />
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<b>.+.</b> Focusing my mind on inner self-fulfillment<br />
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.+. Being atop Mt. Baldy and experiencing sunset. Nature is majestic and it's beautiful glow is something to be remembered with all senses.<br />
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<b>.+.</b> Being loving of my own unique frequency<br />
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<b>.+.</b> Redirecting negative thoughts and malevolent emotions to compassion and loving gratitude<br />
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<b>.+.</b> Having awareness of the present experience<br />
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<b>.+.</b> Rishi taking time out of his early morning to teach me pranayama<br />
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<b>.+.</b> The people in my life -- past and present...<br />
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On the 19th, I will be leaving this southwest region that I've grown to know to be in the middle of the state that I love. I will be in Santa Cruz. I will keep updated on my transition --- both physically and emotionally.christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-33437180630330303572012-09-02T01:25:00.002-07:002012-09-02T01:25:37.092-07:00Sunset from atop Mt. Baldy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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26 August 2012</div>
christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-69960017229820814432012-09-02T01:05:00.000-07:002012-09-02T01:27:46.126-07:00Letting go ~Emotions and awareness are numb. Crystallized. Letting unconsciousness engulf me like a warm embrace, yet it firmly grips my mind tangibly with its invisible touch. Sweet, carnal memories intrude upon my daily thoughts. You are everywhere. We shared the moon. I would rather let it go, let it sail on a cloud and go... to bliss, to freedom. I am dry of salt. I am moist with pleasure. I am love, and you are too. I am letting go without struggle. Like a leaf falling off a tree, I am letting go. With the breeze, with the air, I release...<br />
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christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-75736169323856447902012-08-18T12:43:00.002-07:002012-08-18T12:43:42.837-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>Woman in the Wilderness</i> (1923)<br />
Alphonse Muchachristine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-38599940579465743682012-08-14T12:52:00.002-07:002012-08-14T12:52:25.733-07:00Life through Instagram<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I can't help but be swept up by the Instagram wave... </div>
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Life as of late (through the IG lens):</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"All that we see is one."</td></tr>
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christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-41594706817387256412012-08-14T12:19:00.000-07:002012-08-14T12:21:06.706-07:00Womenspeak<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a young Susan Weed</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 17px;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-size: 15px; line-height: 17px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">"Being authentic, being soul-propelled, is a moment-by-moment choice. It is the decision to forgo resentment, to relinquish grudges, to believe in bliss. It is the awareness of every step as a blessing. It is my consciousness in each breath, reminding me that I am connected to the plants, and through them, to all of life. Accepting it all -- the mess, the chaos, the pain, the insults, the senseless waste, the good deeds gone bad, the sheer beauty, the awesome power, the amazing perseverance, the stunning fecundity, the breath-taking coincidences – embracing it all, and loving it all, even within my self, is my path of authenticity, the real woman I wish the women of the world to know."</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 17px;">- Susan Weed</span></span>christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-76754701739426168242012-08-13T15:49:00.000-07:002012-08-13T16:00:59.817-07:00Gratitude "Munday"<center>
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I've been skipping out on my weekly gratitude reflections and I notice myself losing touch with my inner being, my essence... my spirit has lessened... my happiness fluctuates. I'm not sure if it's because I've been skipping gratitude reflections or the fact that I've been so out of touch with my inner truth that I've let myself be influenced by the ego's promotion of self-judgement, or neglecting solitude and daily meditation practice. It may well be a combination of all the above. I need to let go of ego. Change my vibration.<br />
<br />
Instead of listing what I am grateful for this week, I will write out some affirmations to get myself back on track towards inner stillness and peace.<br />
<ul>
<li>I am blessed.</li>
<li>I am unique.</li>
<li>I am joyful.</li>
<li>I am creative.</li>
<li>I am loved.</li>
<li>I am empowered.</li>
<li>I am whole.</li>
</ul>
christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-34482597940872958672012-08-06T00:58:00.002-07:002012-08-06T01:01:39.584-07:00Guerrilla Midwife documentary trailer (2009)<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/13332305" width="500" height="331" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen></iframe>
<p>“In every country on this planet, there is a WAR being fought to gain an asset more precious than gold or oil. The battlefield is a woman’s body when she is most vulnerable and in need of protection… when she is giving BIRTH. In this war we stand to loose our humanity. At this pivotal moment of life individuals develop either an intact or impaired capacity to love. Protecting our capacity to love is essential to saving our planet. The inappropriate use of technology during birth has disempowered women, harmed the bonding process between mother and child, and has sabotaged breast-feeding and our essential human right to peace. At the heart of this war, perpetuated by the agendas of ‘big business’ and by our misunderstanding of the physiology of birth, we find the guardian of natural childbirth – the midwife.”
<p>—————————————
<p>This is a documentary about a woman who inspires me: Robin Lim, an American midwife who is reinventing the protocols for pregnancy and promoting holistic childbirth. I was introduced to her last December when I was watching the award ceremony for CNN’s Hero of the Year, in which she won the award. (You can watch her acceptance speech <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2011/12/11/living/cnn-heroes/index.html">here</a>.) As I was watching her speak about her cause I felt in my being a sense of empowerment, because she, a midwife—a woman who practiced a tradition long ostracized by patriarchal modern medicine—and her work was finally recognized by the world. To me, she is a beam of hope for women seeking to restore their faith in their own natural power to give birth.christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-85614639798386066092012-08-03T00:54:00.000-07:002012-08-14T12:29:08.750-07:00Help Tim Dundon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid6xVs1dDOolVGMK-RgQ3NxjarJMjlf9-xa9R9lNV2x0OT9qgIxRaug5EXfzUufGSVWnIuYpqEdAuzc_KgnXxfnevI67d-lAwVzV-5IVypVQW4Rng05zE9sIIIorxGmK_aU-v8yo2Jq3w/s1600/dundon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid6xVs1dDOolVGMK-RgQ3NxjarJMjlf9-xa9R9lNV2x0OT9qgIxRaug5EXfzUufGSVWnIuYpqEdAuzc_KgnXxfnevI67d-lAwVzV-5IVypVQW4Rng05zE9sIIIorxGmK_aU-v8yo2Jq3w/s640/dundon.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">"The citations, by the county Public Health and Building and Safety departments, require Dundon to clean up the property or face a $459.70 fine. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">If he doesn't comply, Dundon could end up in a long hearing process and eventually have a county crew clear the property for him, said Building and Safety senior inspector Tommie Sakurai, who wasn't present on July 17." </span></span><br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">- Pasadena Star News </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">More info about Dundo's predicament <a href="http://www.pasadenastarnews.com/ci_21194365/altadena-compost-guru-cited-by-county-code-enforcement?source=rss_viewed" target="_blank">here</a> and ways to help volunteer <a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/455327814501418/" target="_blank">here</a>. Here's where we can get the community together for a cause and help a man in need!</span></div>
christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-91405744102930415162012-07-08T15:04:00.000-07:002012-08-01T13:04:40.151-07:00summertime!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxwkutgXoCD9XF30gaWGWRuez4ZsqB_ufCiKxA_geS91PLebTEl8Auq2h9WXh3ApA1uMxrv3cy_vbGqJy22RAPfXAKUuYxK03pwsMsHZb_02RtRf4T9iG17PzuP4sxf2n_nU1gAgXFt-o/s1600/IMG_0527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxwkutgXoCD9XF30gaWGWRuez4ZsqB_ufCiKxA_geS91PLebTEl8Auq2h9WXh3ApA1uMxrv3cy_vbGqJy22RAPfXAKUuYxK03pwsMsHZb_02RtRf4T9iG17PzuP4sxf2n_nU1gAgXFt-o/s320/IMG_0527.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cool cucumber soup with cilantro cream -- one of megan's<br />
otherworldy vegan creations</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUmAMIwDkmF-i5GirbS-Cis7GIvy9IFrtXcXi0nF5yHhdWaWwuBmCVCIFgdFBBfYjrAeXfyJ8I-f04tHptRCWLKqySuY6BoxT63-7WjEfDL7FLpP9_qflhLmSgQnkRFjxVcSmP4yIr2aw/s1600/IMG_0540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUmAMIwDkmF-i5GirbS-Cis7GIvy9IFrtXcXi0nF5yHhdWaWwuBmCVCIFgdFBBfYjrAeXfyJ8I-f04tHptRCWLKqySuY6BoxT63-7WjEfDL7FLpP9_qflhLmSgQnkRFjxVcSmP4yIr2aw/s320/IMG_0540.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">helping megan with her vegan pop dinner. so much<br />
admiration for this woman!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDEam0_IiTaX_lf1-8C1GRdYMOUIGVPlUKlPas6ueRUl1GMJC4WX_kq0SxwI6iw-zn3rrJnRE__FTMAiLqRX5Q3ogPevd-YaelGzW8xpM8Y7yryoe9bXXFFhQxb76gKF07CFyp_6Q8F0Y/s1600/IMG_0545.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDEam0_IiTaX_lf1-8C1GRdYMOUIGVPlUKlPas6ueRUl1GMJC4WX_kq0SxwI6iw-zn3rrJnRE__FTMAiLqRX5Q3ogPevd-YaelGzW8xpM8Y7yryoe9bXXFFhQxb76gKF07CFyp_6Q8F0Y/s320/IMG_0545.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">vegan pop-up dinner @ atwater village</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHfxnF_HqCGrZ42EgVulSJHXvQNry1E0QIvXXYpeGMqHMaW-n32OMtujY6P9zXd7wR1CXdz14iOub_vkWfPUmu9iwGgCKkV8yCAtRg7XHr7HZ-lfC6-01PmJxo8p_ms0teZV7Lg_ZZnDQ/s1600/IMG_0548.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHfxnF_HqCGrZ42EgVulSJHXvQNry1E0QIvXXYpeGMqHMaW-n32OMtujY6P9zXd7wR1CXdz14iOub_vkWfPUmu9iwGgCKkV8yCAtRg7XHr7HZ-lfC6-01PmJxo8p_ms0teZV7Lg_ZZnDQ/s320/IMG_0548.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">comfrey infused coconut oil</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUe8KMzBq2JjNM9gETf3aPkjxJCaGfKHf9mrWxnSZZzH2m797EQOAy1Fn23YFGZy0D39at0Pb1cqgGG31HHLf12pzXmedBCtsW78AzinlHvlxAVQtM3fugBX15pPmDS1DZdTMcAIv8YFE/s1600/IMG_0569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUe8KMzBq2JjNM9gETf3aPkjxJCaGfKHf9mrWxnSZZzH2m797EQOAy1Fn23YFGZy0D39at0Pb1cqgGG31HHLf12pzXmedBCtsW78AzinlHvlxAVQtM3fugBX15pPmDS1DZdTMcAIv8YFE/s320/IMG_0569.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">precious baby Sitka</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrG1mlViDnS1BWjldZfoqjl7FnapXe6kp_5eI89XLngILuQMqRaddIAXVqwElbdDMrxZRSCFPzjI16VCVseKVZ4dtpa2mixNytT6f4HAvN5qa9nGl82R5nV0u68e8rPRBRcSfY5EOrERQ/s1600/IMG_0577.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrG1mlViDnS1BWjldZfoqjl7FnapXe6kp_5eI89XLngILuQMqRaddIAXVqwElbdDMrxZRSCFPzjI16VCVseKVZ4dtpa2mixNytT6f4HAvN5qa9nGl82R5nV0u68e8rPRBRcSfY5EOrERQ/s320/IMG_0577.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">waterfall serenity at mt. baldy wilderness</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdZagTr7HCCkWcD1uxrHP-Grrqk63nPV0LbrmnzNCszMlCCkGfLgbJRErTFdVMCAeua11jgCgzXsUSLvddBtKmugKlCSYow5ixAIjPusy8iQaMbCrE_3fA-nXUaKDppg1Jph0hIrjCrWY/s1600/IMG_0582.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdZagTr7HCCkWcD1uxrHP-Grrqk63nPV0LbrmnzNCszMlCCkGfLgbJRErTFdVMCAeua11jgCgzXsUSLvddBtKmugKlCSYow5ixAIjPusy8iQaMbCrE_3fA-nXUaKDppg1Jph0hIrjCrWY/s320/IMG_0582.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">nature's art</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjstRHEq0ZLfYW0y9gHAD_UgmwbYK-8ck93uKoTxHaiwWxH-Y2nFqDwJFIyMBMMJCThm5Q1XcRNeXhF0LEOA-BibY_rK9IYTaaYFQa9puSg89AZQ1S1ttmPfDjhQ1xS2gIuWvuLcN5-DUs/s1600/IMG_0583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjstRHEq0ZLfYW0y9gHAD_UgmwbYK-8ck93uKoTxHaiwWxH-Y2nFqDwJFIyMBMMJCThm5Q1XcRNeXhF0LEOA-BibY_rK9IYTaaYFQa9puSg89AZQ1S1ttmPfDjhQ1xS2gIuWvuLcN5-DUs/s320/IMG_0583.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">wild columbine <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">(<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><i>Aquilegia)</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAktsiR6ha7U2uPWnEnb_G86cVxQBSbj9QiJnHx0cNbaaPaErO6M3_1N6_A4Rvn48ZOZl8s28xI1C-2rbxmJbVcOujN6PR5MSg-kVhs-RtubFzMTs8AojA-7xdFEE2YTjLLRJIcCrXGN4/s1600/IMG_0588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAktsiR6ha7U2uPWnEnb_G86cVxQBSbj9QiJnHx0cNbaaPaErO6M3_1N6_A4Rvn48ZOZl8s28xI1C-2rbxmJbVcOujN6PR5MSg-kVhs-RtubFzMTs8AojA-7xdFEE2YTjLLRJIcCrXGN4/s320/IMG_0588.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">jackfruit madness!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4oswgGn9KqfJGpeV5DhwK-P7ZFqpz1RMpgGeBfXZtlj2TZ4gI6giXJH0CDSbpclQZit3r0Hr5jZcWKvHiFNUEd1rnPGIYEzmf72MQOs5-7gsPaaIXOU8GQTQbl81R23bbGZvXcBOwRgA/s1600/IMG_0590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4oswgGn9KqfJGpeV5DhwK-P7ZFqpz1RMpgGeBfXZtlj2TZ4gI6giXJH0CDSbpclQZit3r0Hr5jZcWKvHiFNUEd1rnPGIYEzmf72MQOs5-7gsPaaIXOU8GQTQbl81R23bbGZvXcBOwRgA/s320/IMG_0590.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sweet jackfruit!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-67112375879434818502012-07-01T22:26:00.000-07:002012-07-02T00:30:01.247-07:00Gratitude Sunday<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDj9vTy0qSfwhS3G4yLP_kjKYf2OUB93aKEjWeF3mZkP-QzgYSaHXVoJNSRjX0TwpxN17fSK7nyMolNS38Hszs7AVaUQkMPNNVUIS1Kpc2QNmWvJzxKhgKAAJng7-DceAH7htwebFCGNU/s1600/waxinggibbousmoon_july12012" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDj9vTy0qSfwhS3G4yLP_kjKYf2OUB93aKEjWeF3mZkP-QzgYSaHXVoJNSRjX0TwpxN17fSK7nyMolNS38Hszs7AVaUQkMPNNVUIS1Kpc2QNmWvJzxKhgKAAJng7-DceAH7htwebFCGNU/s400/waxinggibbousmoon_july12012" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waxing gibbous moon on July 1, 2012</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div>
I am grateful for:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>giving a helping hand to friends. Helped Rishi at market and Davey transfer his chickens and goats to their new home. They are so cute, by the way!</li>
<li>the calm of this particular summer day. Sunday is still and calm.</li>
<li>affirmations and the wise Louise L. Hay.</li>
<li>going about my day mindfully and perceiving each day as an adventure waiting to happen.</li>
<li>the roasted root medley I had today. So goooood! Beets, carrots, and potatoes that I dived from the Trader Joes' dumpster (oh yeah). It went so well with the basil garlic dip I bought at the farmers' market. Bomb.</li>
<li>finally being motivated to cook a home cooked meal almost everyday. Frugality is my main motivation right now. </li>
<li>walking under the almost full moon this evening. See picture above.</li>
<li>deciding today that I will make a conscious effort to write my thoughts down on paper - for clarity and perspective</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Other thoughts:</div>
<div>
I've been having trouble meditating these past couple of weeks. I subconsciously choose to be stuck in negative thought patterns, and this somehow is magnified when I consciously decide to still my mind. Maybe I have not released these negative emotions fully. How can I release them in a wholesome manner, I ask myself. I never reached closure with Aaron's departure. It was a swift and unfulfilled connection... and now... nothing. I felt very numb to emotions at the time. I was repressing sadness so I could fast-forward the motions of detachment. Change should be gradual, I've learned. And now it's all rushing in and permeating my thoughts in negative ways. I combat this by fixing my thoughts in positivity. "I release him to his greater goodness," I tell myself. Aside from all this, however, I am happy and I know I will move on. You have to close a door to open a door.</div>
<br /></div>christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-76158790598822167912012-06-18T01:29:00.000-07:002012-06-18T01:29:16.533-07:00How to build community<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Ya7rEVQVlf1ZC6Jmp9waxE9-2il_g-1bWrkUAnQNid4AyFh_UDdZKTaS2SmN1x8Y6FcOeYttrsHvpTyJG6hzSEJ2u_GwumujHqTHK50yUSUY_5QggJFlN0x6oYlQfBSNeYmSzM5FlVg/s1600/556282_4240039125765_1948853739_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Ya7rEVQVlf1ZC6Jmp9waxE9-2il_g-1bWrkUAnQNid4AyFh_UDdZKTaS2SmN1x8Y6FcOeYttrsHvpTyJG6hzSEJ2u_GwumujHqTHK50yUSUY_5QggJFlN0x6oYlQfBSNeYmSzM5FlVg/s1600/556282_4240039125765_1948853739_n.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-58492139550289881262012-06-18T01:06:00.003-07:002012-06-24T18:43:01.569-07:00Gratitude Sunday<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuOs129c_EyJgCOphLNJCDjgTpHgtpoExpreOs0e6P8vszpwz9YxPYpNaeK-LpLRUcJzkRlT8TjezEuEtVuJfExTJVu5QpZYiu_izDCzDRAdjYp5pW5fhjPA4TrP23NbOWjFyQsj2TQhY/s1600/hugelbed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuOs129c_EyJgCOphLNJCDjgTpHgtpoExpreOs0e6P8vszpwz9YxPYpNaeK-LpLRUcJzkRlT8TjezEuEtVuJfExTJVu5QpZYiu_izDCzDRAdjYp5pW5fhjPA4TrP23NbOWjFyQsj2TQhY/s400/hugelbed.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cob house foundation turned hugel bed for wildflowers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The photo above captures the last remnants of Aaron's cob house foundation. You can see the rubble trench foundation and cinder blocks and various other building materials in the background. Aaron decided to bury all the building materials which could be safely returned back to the earth. The ground which I stood upon as I took this picture is the place of the second cob house foundation which has urbanite buried beneath it. It is sad to see a project with so much effort and sweat invested into come to a sudden end due to something as asinine as city code violation. Wildflowers will be seeded on top of the hugel bed after it is done. I am glad I got to document a portion of the building process in action, which you can view <a href="http://christineolanio.com/a-simple-shelter">here</a>. It is also sad to see a friend depart so suddenly. I wish him the best as he makes a life transition towards a new path.<br />
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<div>
I am grateful for:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Krishnamurti's wisdom for giving me clarity and calm.</li>
<li>the invigorating and meditative energy I receive while harvesting medicinal herbs. I harvested the leaves from a comfrey plant whose seeds originated in NorCal. It is one of my all-time favorite herbs. I feel most in my element when I am communicating energetically with plants as I harvest them. Next on my list is wildcrafting some elderberries. Oh geeez. </li>
<li>beets. So beautiful and yummy.</li>
<li>the whimsical entertainment of <a href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CFMQtwIwAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3D7N8wkVA4_8s&ei=993eT4rLLaS42QXTwOmuDQ&usg=AFQjCNG9sTpZ3ioVxRItpDHRlRlD_LB2Wg&sig2=E2lvHn7scG8mDWmEcBfUkQ">Moonrise Kingdom</a>, the new film by Wes Anderson</li>
<li>passing my classes with flying colors. I really do wonder how I manage to bullshit my way through institutional education.</li>
<li>releasing pent up emotional memories to a friend who listened.</li>
<li>my tendency to collect memorabilia in nature. I was staring at my room in awe today and realized this. I can't help this habit, but I love it.</li>
<li>the nourishment and subsequent buzz I get from nettle tea.</li>
<li>being at peace with all that has happened these past couple of months. Next time, however, I will make more of an effort to be grounded in my intentions.</li>
<li>the wholesome effect of nonjudgmental inward reflection and breathing deeply everyday</li>
</ul>
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What are you grateful for? If you read this, I invite you to do a gratitude list with me, if you are so inclined!</div>
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Love,</div>
<div>
Christine</div>christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-47191989466320288882012-06-12T23:34:00.002-07:002012-07-01T20:57:26.484-07:00Gratitude Sunday (on a Tuesday)<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-vl5IWNQ6o9kJG_EMo_U8z30ffufnBYRdkGN1Ps1gQCjOaHRdpqiCIkBKzSrC9OxMD40eZnmAA9N9LwDAtWfwZxqFKpP59NfVz00V4vxIo7WCvvUnlv3s-qcunnqFoJWNYRRCCqkD9SU/s1600/aliciabaylaurel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-vl5IWNQ6o9kJG_EMo_U8z30ffufnBYRdkGN1Ps1gQCjOaHRdpqiCIkBKzSrC9OxMD40eZnmAA9N9LwDAtWfwZxqFKpP59NfVz00V4vxIo7WCvvUnlv3s-qcunnqFoJWNYRRCCqkD9SU/s400/aliciabaylaurel.jpg" width="308" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><i>Being of the Sun</i> by Alicia Bay Laurel - a great book</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Hello, I've skipped a week of gratitude reflection, but that's alright. I have been having fun :-D
I've finally quit my job for good! I am almost free... This weekend will be a time for celebration and relishing in my freedom!<br />
<br />
I am grateful for:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li> my amazing friends who always make me joyous </li>
<li>experiencing and appreciating the beauty of the May 20th solar eclipse with a friend </li>
<li>a beautiful shared experience... It is now coming into light ... And I sense positivity. I am embracing it for what it is. </li>
<li>tea tree oil. So powerful.</li>
<li>the comforting effect of lavender EO, especially before bed.</li>
<li>letting go of resentment. And of sadness that accompanied it. There's only a limited amount of satisfaction this gives me. It is time to look to the light and release all negativity ... </li>
<li>cinnamon swirl hug on my birthday. What a crazy, exhilarating group hug! </li>
<li>my recent birthday dinner at Avanti Cafe. Good food!!</li>
<li>my home and creature comforts. I will never take my comfortable life for granted. (Although some rustic living will be in order soon.) </li>
<li>nettle herbal infusion with raw milk and honey and cardamom. You are the savior to my moon time. </li>
<li>passing my classes at my last semester at SAC. Later SAC!</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br />
What are you grateful for?</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
Love,</div>
<div>
Christine</div>christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-69262240859622877912012-05-13T13:41:00.001-07:002012-05-13T13:41:51.239-07:00Gratitude Sunday<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5RV42r2hlO2LRNvvq0EM2zMkJfITNTD1pE9g3A24DEsIHuS4YJtcVRVwDYnF7FZFJyA3km_ikQg2_gUFrD8Nt_MtpKsDPbc6SXKTo4vu66s5K8yrCCMqBW5KKH027EINC_Rb-B5CHgxA/s1600/389329_3513226342797_1036050073_3194742_1226592221_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5RV42r2hlO2LRNvvq0EM2zMkJfITNTD1pE9g3A24DEsIHuS4YJtcVRVwDYnF7FZFJyA3km_ikQg2_gUFrD8Nt_MtpKsDPbc6SXKTo4vu66s5K8yrCCMqBW5KKH027EINC_Rb-B5CHgxA/s400/389329_3513226342797_1036050073_3194742_1226592221_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sharing a delicious communal lunch with friends in New Mexico</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I am grateful for:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>my beautiful and strong Mama! Thank you for everything! I love you.</li>
<li>my adventures in New Mexico and all the wonderful folks I met.</li>
<li>being taught by Dr. Lad at the Ayurveda seminar. What an amazing soul.</li>
<li>all the cherimoyas I've had this season. Thank you cherimoya trees... The season is about over.</li>
<li>being grounded and focusing on my self... prioritizing.</li>
<li>the rejuvenation of meditation (especially early morning and at dusk)</li>
<li>a friend's decision to make his natural home into cob! Looking forward to partaking in the process :-)</li>
<li>my realization that I shouldn't dismiss the male energy that surrounds my friends. It is never overpowering or dominating. It is wholesome energy.</li>
<li>SPRING. I am enjoying this season as much as I can. It is a time for flourishing (and hopefully balanced) relationships.</li>
</ul>
<div>
What are you grateful for?</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
Love,</div>
<div>
Christine</div>christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-24941270449420187352012-04-29T23:17:00.002-07:002012-04-30T23:43:32.660-07:00Gratitude Sunday<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJIxr1VpQUZlfyyYEx7nlr8OtzxDPtn6grYu78DlhU6UzV3vifOFqLbD_0ImKPy7V8dYmKLbaOJ7jheXBvS2iCdEOcOI9hNVrjlmkVGz60uUUh67gZyOS3HAmd6rSguHKbwZJdw9MkZ0o/s1600/556182_10100969190890938_45707589_35111576_1207429248_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJIxr1VpQUZlfyyYEx7nlr8OtzxDPtn6grYu78DlhU6UzV3vifOFqLbD_0ImKPy7V8dYmKLbaOJ7jheXBvS2iCdEOcOI9hNVrjlmkVGz60uUUh67gZyOS3HAmd6rSguHKbwZJdw9MkZ0o/s400/556182_10100969190890938_45707589_35111576_1207429248_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">learning to basket weave with melissa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
I am grateful for:<br />
<div>
<ul>
<li>Holly and Jake. Rishi's new farm bunnies! [<a href="http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/399135_281514735272099_100002407254843_637814_1212502521_n.jpg">Aren't they cute?!</a>]</li>
<li>Janis Joplin's soulful music -- almost everyday!</li>
<li>The beautiful elderberry trees that are in bloom! I wildcrafted some today and hope to make some botanical medicine soon.</li>
<li>The joy that my friends continually give me.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amys-Farm/416666914551">Amy's Farm</a> and the work and local, delicious food that they grow with love and dedication</li>
<li>Restorative asanas. They are invigorating.</li>
<li>The abundance of coconut juice in my house. </li>
<li>The realization to take it slow and enjoy things/events as they come.</li>
<li>SPRING and the sensory overload of sight, smells, etc. of flowers in bloom, and the green California hills that are normally golden and parched.</li>
<li>Shifting my vibrations to manifest my desires!</li>
</ul>
<div>
What are you grateful for?</div>
</div>
<div>
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<div>
Love and light,</div>
<div>
Christine</div>christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2256962884850255179.post-60365755492706576932012-04-23T23:30:00.001-07:002012-06-30T14:52:41.894-07:00Gratitude Sunday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
For yesterday (Sunday). My time for inner reflection.<br />
<br />
I am grateful for:<br />
<ul>
<li>The people in my life who inspire me to live my inner truth. </li>
<li>My quirky friends who give me so much joy.</li>
<li>The cycles of the vibrant moon. Helps me to be more in tune with nature and the seasons. It awakens my feminine energy. </li>
<li>Expressing my true emotions. Whether or not it is reciprocated. </li>
<li>Daily meditation. Unrushed. Feeling grounded. The precense of a meditation partner. </li>
<li>Coconut oil. I love you, coconut oil. </li>
<li>Cultivating kindness and positive, loving energy.</li>
<li>Nourishing herbs. </li>
<li>Being true. </li>
<li>Finding out that there's going to be a full moon on May 5th when I'll be in New Mexico. </li>
</ul>
What are you grateful for?<br />
<br />
Love & light,
Christine <3christine grace olaniohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10522924902257617906noreply@blogger.com0