2015 - Page 2 of 3

Sacred Smoke Bowl Blessing: A Native American Ritual

September 29, 2015

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Among the many world cultures, I find Native American history to be the richest and most profound of all. Deeply rooted in the great land that makes up the United States, their culture and practices are the foundation of our American civilization. Much is credited to Native American history and traditions. Many of their practices we still use today (think moccasins, teepees or dream catchers) but others are unfamiliar and worth exploring. Continuously aware of the spirit world and connected to the purity, symbolism and value of each nature element, Native Americans believed in the worth of life—most importantly the manner in which one conducts his life. As an immigrant who has grown up with a varied cultural background, I find the Native American culture...

smoke smudging

A novel is never a one-person project

September 28, 2015

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Cover design for "Chimera"Finishing a novel is easily the biggest accomplishment of my life. Immediately I had to change my bio, as for many years it had read: "Danielle has begun dozens of novels, but has yet to finish one.""Chimera" is about to be fully realized as I head to Vermont with a better than one-in-six chance to win a traditional publishing contract. I am so blessed and honored for this opportunity.I am so proud not only of myself, but of all the collaborators that helped me finish this. I could not have done it without Charla Dury, Tamara Rokicki and especially Rebecca Godina, who has been in it since the beginning! They were all patient with me as I gave them large chunks of...

Discovering Celtic Inspired Art

September 27, 2015

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This weekend I attended The Celtic Heritage Festival in Bethlehem, PA. Besides the amazing array of kilts, celtic music, and sports, I was stunned by the quality vendors whose wares were for sale at this show.The beauty of walking through tents and tents of hand crafted items is that each booth brings you into a different space of being. Whether it's smelling hand carved wooden toys and sculptures, watching the light bounce off hand tooled copper designs, or discovering an amazing new art techniques… each new space brings with it a sense of awe, wonder and amazement. Even better is the opportunity to meet the artist and talk about their work. They're always so willing to share their techniques, their inspiration, and their story. If...

inspiration

Mind Key Novel is now “Chimera”

September 25, 2015

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Only a couple days left before I head to Vermont and pitch my novel to Curbside Publishing, agent Marilyn Atlas, and publicist Meryl Moss. It's been a wild ride these past few months. Mere weeks after re-launching Mind Key and the membership program, I discovered that I was a contestant in this amazing contest. While setting up Mind Key membership, building a blog, publishing an anthology and organizing a festival, I had to finish writing a book that was only half done, make major edits, and then polish it by mid-July. Whew!While I have been working fervently to come up with a final title (check!), finish the novel cover (check!), drafting notes and and a powerpoint for my marketing plan (so behind), re-writing my inside...

“Yin and Yang: The Duality of Balance”- The Mind Key Anthology, Second Edition

September 23, 2015

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As the Mind Key Project continues to grow and evolve, we are looking ahead at some exciting collaborations. One of them is the second edition of the Mind Key Anthology, a collection of art, stories and poems that reflect Mind Key’s passion for life and discovery to one’s purpose. The first edition of “The Mind Key Project: An Anthology” attracted the exquisite work of many artists and writers, all of which contributed to the book by sharing their love and passion for life. The beautifully composed book shared captivating images of nature, magic and health while reflecting on intrinsic stories of faeries, Celtic rituals, and much more. Visit www.mindkey.me/anthology to see some interior images and purchase a copy of this first edition.Mind Key is thrilled to...

The Mind Key Anthology writing

Celtic Poetry of Place

September 16, 2015

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A total connection with the present is a difficult thing to obtain. Our worlds are shaped by our tumultuous histories, and our triumphs are often overshadowed by our worst enemies - ourselves. Daily planning and routine trumps most spontaneity. As a result, many turn to myths, rituals, and metaphysical practices to gain a better sense of what it means to embrace the present and savor every moment in a significant place, whether that place be physical or mental. The poetry associated with the Celtic tradition offers boundless outlets for anyone seeking connectedness. Here is simply a taste of what the Irish have to offer.The Lake Isle of InnisfreeI will arise and go now, and go to Innisfree,And a small cabin build there, of clay...

poetry

Take Charge of Your Life

September 15, 2015

Health

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Beauty Fitness

Flowers Healing Body & Mind

September 9, 2015

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The scents of their oils, the sight of their colors, and their simple presence in our environment have phenomenal yet unrecognized healing powers. Many align with certain chakras as well. For example...

herbalism

What is Raven Reiki?

August 19, 2015

Energy, Health, Lifestyle

One of the core values of Reiki is the notion that the healing does not come from the healer but moves through the healer from a universal energy source. In other words I am a conduit, a hollow bone. In Reiki there is no ego. I have known healers who become impressed with themselves, thinking they are healing their clients. Shortly their energy becomes depleted. The universe doesn't condone that notion and reacts accordingly.The other tougher concept is the necessity to forgive all those who have acted unkindly to you and ask for only the best for them. Hard to get up in the morning and ask for blessings even on those who have wronged...

What is Reiki?

August 18, 2015

Energy, Health, Lifestyle

I don’t purport to speak for every Reiki healer, but learning Reiki changed my life. The International Center for Reiki Training says that “Reiki energy comes from the Higher Power, which exists on a higher dimension than the physical world we are familiar with. When viewed clairvoyantly, Reiki energy appears to come down from above and to enter the top of the practitioners head after which if flows through the body and out the hands. It appears to flow this way because of our perspective. However, the true source of Reiki energy is within ourselves. This does not mean that we use our personal energy when we do Reiki, but that the energy is coming...

Trinity Summer Fest 2015: North Jersey’s Premier Metaphysical & Paranormal Festival

August 13, 2015

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Hosted by the Trinity Metaphysical Center of Hamburg, NJ, North Jersey’s Premier Metaphysical and Paranormal Festival will feature live bands, entertainment, food, as well as practitioners and vendors. Those who are on a journey to personal growth and seek inner strength and insight through the metaphysical will be enlightened by the many presentations and services. Coming together from throughout the country, practitioners will provide services in psychic readings, energy healing, reflexology, massage therapy, yoga, henna art and so much more! Danielle Rose, an elemental healer and life-long medium of the faerie realm, shares, “I am excited to be offering readings and mini-healings at Summer Fest I’m also offering discounts on all future readings and healings booked this weekend!” Additionally, she will sell hand made wings...

Why I am a part of Mind Key?

August 12, 2015

Career

I’m part of several clubs or groups, each with interests that are pretty narrow – ghost hunters, equestrians, genealogists, therapeutic riding instructors. Mind Key isn’t like that, Mind Key is unique. Just look at the members, could you find a more diverse group? Writers, bloggers, artists, nutritionists, poets, healers, jewelry makers, cupcake bakers, collage makers. Here is a group whose most unifying aspect is their uniqueness. Am I making myself clear, ‘cause I feel I just ran in a circle? I innately know that we all have a singular goal, to better ourselves and the world, but we are moving there on different paths. There’s camaraderie when we meet, comfortableness when we exchange ideas. ...

Protect Yourself and Your Family

August 6, 2015

Energy, Lifestyle, Relationship

Health

Mindfulness

July 30, 2015

Uncategorized

Mindfulness.Merriam Webster’s dictionary defines mindfulness as:1: the quality or state of being mindful2: the practice of maintaining a nonjudgmental state of heightened or complete awareness of one's thoughts, emotions, or experiences on a moment-to-moment basis; also: such a state of awareness When I think of mindfulness now, I think of yoga, meditation, hot tea and incense. And calm.Calm is a difficult concept for me. With all of the roles I play in my life and the hecticness of my calendar, I don’t makeenough time for myself. As an aside: Notice I said make instead of find time. There’s enough time. As much as I joke that I could use more hours in the day (couldn’t we all?) if it’s important to you, you’ll find the...

mindfulness yoga

An Excerpt from The Golden Skillet

July 24, 2015

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I don't wear skirts. I don't wear heels. If I haven't made that obvious yet, then my apologies for losing you this late in the game. But for some reason I felt compelled to wear a black skirt with black heels for Daisy's viewing day, which comprised of one afternoon and one evening show. I say "show" because when I think about it now, for some reason we should have had some balloon races or a magician. Instead, we had photo montages and pregnancy banter since a handful of attendees were sporting baby bumps - children who would never experience her pancakes or Duck Pond triumphs. I was fine with the standard socializing and grieving that is part of the process of a loved...

Why Mind Key Is My Second Home – Tamara Rokicki

July 23, 2015

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When you’re a writer, it’s very difficult to find that homey, comfortable feeling. The world, as we see it, is this monotonous and rule-enforced place in which we spend a timeline called life. It’s beautiful and enjoyable, don’t get me wrong, but when you have a story to tell, the real world just doesn’t cut it. There are words to be found, immortalized, and written to craft stories that have yet to be told. It’s both a heavy and exhilarating burden because the struggle to produce such stories, and then share them with the world, requires a huge leap into the unknown—and it requires faith. The Leap of FaithAmong the vulnerability, chaos and uncertainty of putting yourself out there, as a writer you need to...

novel relationships spiritual growth writing

My Mind Key Experience – Tara Ann Lesko

July 23, 2015

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My involvement in Mind Key has given me a new appetite for knowledge and self-expression. Until I met Danielle Rose and started participating in Mind Key the Blog, I had no idea I could be a multi-faceted writer and artist. The topics I have written about for the blog, and the creative spirits I have met through the Mind Key Project have opened an otherwise cynical and one-track mind. Okay, I am still a bit cynical and rough around the edges. But Mind Key has persuaded me to explore boundless realms of creativity and spirituality.Let me put it this way. If someone told me three short years ago I would be starting a collage party business and studying shamanism or tarot, I would have smacked...

growth Motivation

How Mind Key began

July 21, 2015

Career

I began Mind Key the Novel as a writer exploring the illuminated spaces in my mind. It began after a focusing session where I gave substance and vision to the persistent lump in my throat….That's when things began to change. I always knew I had the ability to manifest my reality through my art, but this novel allowed me to do more than just create, it allowed me to see the world around me more clearly. My guides and the faeries in my life began revealing themselves through the words on the page. They encouraged me to take chances, be daring and follow my dreams.And so I did.Arwork my Michelle FarenciWhat I never expected was the overwhelming response this endeavor would cultivate. People began rallying...

Charla’s story of Mind Key – Charla Dury

July 20, 2015

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I’ve been blogging off and on for nine years. That’s right, I said 9 whole years! I started on MySpace (can you believe that I mentioned MySpace to a younger coworker today and he had no idea what I was talking about?) and I gained a tremendous following. Over 300 subscribers. I blogged about family, friends, life, politics, love, kids, poetry (and poetry games) and personal experiences. Pretty much anything. Except fiction. I read fiction, I don’t write much of it. Sadly sinking MySpace I blogged on MySpace for a few years, making many new friends along the way. I created Charlapalooza and Walk The Word (incredibly attended and insanely popular poetry games,) was picked up as a weekly poet on TheBlueDoodle.com and, with...

novel poetry The Mind Key Anthology

In A Nutshell: Cooking As A Creative Endeavor

July 14, 2015

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Over time cooking has evolved from a mere necessity to a creative outlet. Generation after generation cherishes traditional recipes collected through their family line, while new age chefs are always in search for the next creative menu. Cooking (and baking!) has endless possibilities, varied meanings, and most of all a way to connect entire cultures. This past week our Mind Key writers have shared some of their thoughts and memories for our Cooking As A Creative Endeavor theme.Made by Sweet Sweet WonderlandTamara Rokicki highlights two baking enthusiasts. In Sweet Sweet Wonderland, we find a quaint little shop in the heart of Milford, PA. Indeed it is the sweetest part of town—with decadent cakes and gourmet cupcakes it provides freshly made treats bound to make your mouth...

Sweet Sweet Wonderland

July 9, 2015

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A little jewel hiding in the quaint town of Milford, PA, Sweet Sweet Wonderland indulges locals and visitors alike to gourmet cupcakes and one of a kind sweets. Using only fresh ingredients, these delicious treats are made on-site daily. The menu offers a variety of options even for the pickiest dessert seeker. Among seasonal treats, cookies and brownies, gourmet flavors are waiting for you to sink your teeth in their moist, jelly-filled, mousse layers. The cupcake creators of Sweet Sweet Wonderland aim to grow and adapt to the ever changing culinary needs and wants of their community. Check out their website to see samples of their decadent, specialized flavors and creations....

I love to cook!

July 9, 2015

Health

I'll say it again, I love to cook. I love to eat, too, so that works out well. I love trying new foods, I even love grocery shopping. I love to explore the grocery store (found bottles of clam juice today.) A few years ago, I subscribed to E-Meals. I got this awesome Groupon that gave me twelve months of meal plans and grocery lists for like $30 or some equally shocking amount. I was all gung ho to use them. They came by email each Thursday. Sweet! New food possibilities! Then I realized that I live with a bunch of guys who choose to have limited flavor pallets. Sad. I looked at the awesome recipes and my running diatribe sounded something like this...

When Passion and Creativity Meet: Crystal’s Unique Cakes

July 8, 2015

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Baking can be such a creative outlet. The cool thing about the entire process is the memories one makes while making a one of a kind sweet. My friend Crystal is one of those people who does it all; home schools her kids, spends great quality time with family, works out like a rock star and bakes her little heart out! When I thought about this week’s theme, Cooking as a Creative Endeavor, I immediately thought of her baking creations. What makes her baked goods so unique is that I can totally see a little part of her in every creation. We all know someone in our life whose qualities and attributes seem to reflect them in whatever they do. That’s Crystal and her special...

Italian Involtini Recipe

July 6, 2015

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InvoltiniYields: 8, one for each person.What you will need:· 4 hard boiled eggs, each one cut in half· 8 slices of Mortadella or Prosciutto· ½ to 1 cup of Fresh Parsley, finely chopped· ½ cup of Pecorino or Parmesan Cheese· ½ to 1 cup of garlic, finely chopped· 8 large but thin beef steaks (You can also use veal meat for this, as well. Some supermarkets slice meat and label it Braciole.) If you only find a cut that is too thick to pack with ingredients and roll, use a meat mallet to pound them thin.· 4 tbs of olive oil· Salt and Pepper· Tomato sauce already cooking slowly on the stovetop*How to prepare them:1. Place a slice of mortadella or prosciutto on each meat...

traditional

Torta di Marmellata Recipe

July 6, 2015

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Torta di Marmellata Jam PieWhat you will need:· 1 stick of butter· ½ cup of sugar· ½ cup of flour· a pinch of salt· 2 eggs· any jam/jelly of your choosing· powdered sugar· 9 inch pie panHow to prepare:1. Preaheat the oven at 350 degrees.2. In a mixer combine together the sugar and butter for two minutes.3. Add the eggs one at a time and the salt, mixing well.4. Place the mix in a well-buttered pie pan. On top of the mixture place big spoonfuls of your favorite jam evenly throughout.5. Put pan uncovered in the oven for 15 minutes. Take out and sprinkly powdered sugar all over top of pie. Put back in the oven for another 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted...

Campfire cooking – the stew to beat all stews (cooked on a campfire)

June 30, 2015

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Over the Mountain in Estes Park, COMy family likes to camp. We're pretty outdoorsy and, in Colorado, we're near to great mountain retreats.Pelican at Bear Creek Lake Park, CO at dawn One of my favorite meals (and easiest to prepare at the campsite), is campfire stew. The best part? Everyone prepares it for themselves, the way they like it, so no one’s able to complain about the ingredients! That's important when you're camping with kids.I do suggest some pre-camping prep, but I’m good with that. Here’s a list of ingredients I pack for the stew (all diced into bite sized pieces): Stew beef Chicken Onions Carrots Celery Pre-cooked potatoes. To make things easier, most stores sell the mirepoix – pronounced meer- pwah - (onion, carrot and celery...

The Teacher-Student Connection: Standing on each other’s shoulders

June 26, 2015

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Carol Douglas ~ Petal DollTeaching is source of creative influx for sculptor and jewelry maker, Carol Douglas. She began her career as a teacher and has since moved into sculpting for herself and others. Now, after many years creating on her own, she has returned full circle to teach metal clay and polymer clay workshops to students of all expertise—from the amateur to the professional. The rewards of passing on knowledge come back tenfold, Carol says. In addition, sometimes a student takes a lesson and does something so creative as a result, that she finds herself inspired to go further next time. “It’s a synergy,” Carol said. “I start on your shoulders, then you can start on my shoulders, and it goes on and creates a...

Teachers and Students Connecting Through Nature

June 25, 2015

Creativity, Energy, Lifestyle, Newsbreaks

Every day I am a runner in a maze as if I were Zelda from the first Nintendo system. One day I teach, and they learn meanings of words like "scruples" and facts about the real Dracula. The next day I am shadowing a student who at any moment could disappear into the woods, or I am intervening in a verbal battle between a bully and his or her prey. "Enough with the side conversations. Get off the table, please. Focus on your work. Stop cursing." These are a few of my favorite daily declarations. But then there might be a Wednesday or Thursday when I get to play Scrabble with my struggling readers. There may be a Friday when I can get the...

The Teacher I’ll Never Forget

June 24, 2015

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Mrs. Brischetto’s breath reeked of coffee and cigarettes. Her face was inches away from mine, infuriated eyes glaring behind huge glasses. Frustration settled in every wrinkle on her face and her arms flailed in the air. My second grade classmates gathered around my desk watching me shrink smaller and smaller into my chair. My math book sat opened on my desk and I stared at it blankly. The unfriendly shapes and words started to blur together, creating a soup of ink on the page. I don’t remember what my teacher screamed but her words were slicing me to pieces. They belittled me, taunting me on my inability to figure out the math problem. She had explained it to me over and over. I just didn’t...

Where I learned to love Editing – The Teacher Student Relationship

June 23, 2015

Uncategorized

No, no, no! Latin is good!Mr. Vargas, you suck. You got my Latin-loving hopes up and I feel like I was taught wrong. Let me explain. Mr. Vargas was my seventh grade English teacher. He wore polyester, drove a banana yellow corvette and he taught English. Now, this was before they called it "Language Arts", before there were any ESL classes, before IB classes and before reading and English were separate classes. You took English. Only English. And you learned about the English language. We conjugated our little 7th grade hearts out! For what seemed like hours and hours I'd work on my homework. I'd write essays and decode poetry and take furious notebooks full of notes.I am sure that this is where I...

In a Nutshell: The Mind Key Community at large

June 22, 2015

Uncategorized

Saturday was Mind Key's very first Festival, and despite the rain it was a fabulous way to ring in the summer. A lot of programs were cancelled due to the downpour and overall resulting mayhem. I know a lot of people didn't turn out because the weather was just miserable...

members

Midsummer Festival TODAY

June 20, 2015

Uncategorized

Don’t forget to join us TODAY for the Mind Key Midsummer Festival in Ringwood. The weather looks like it will be beautiful, and we’re gearing up for a day full of music, events, and lots of fun and inspiration.CLICK HERE for a full listing of vendors, activities and a schedule of the day’s events. This family-friendly event is also a great opportunity to get some physical healing, learn about membership and view our beautiful hardcover book: The Mind Key Project: An Anthology for the very first time.We will have live music, an open mic, and round out the day with a bonfire by the lake. There will be awesome give-aways and gift certificates every hour. Need a last minute gift for Dad? Pamela Dzbenski will...

The Mind Key Midsummer Festival is Tomorrow, Saturday June 20th

June 19, 2015

Health

The Mind Key Midsummer Festival is an opportunity for the Community at large to meet vendors and educators whose goal is to help you find healing and passion. At Mind Key, we believe that when you are on a path that leaves you fulfilled, inspired, and always striving for the next best thing, then health and happiness follow. We’ve planned a day of events with this belief in mind. Self discovery through dream interpretation, creative activity, and different health modalities are only a few of the ways we’re sharing our path with you. Musicians are encouraged to bring their instruments and play at our open mic. Poets and writers can read their work between demonstrations throughout the day. Children will have an opportunity to explore...

music poetry The Mind Key Anthology

Want To Be a Ghost Hunter?

June 18, 2015

Uncategorized

capturing energy/spirits on cameraFor you DYI ghost hunters, there’s much available today to get you started. Although there is no substitute for professional (Ahhh, are there really any professional ghost hunters?) advice, going through some great websites can give you a jump start. My all time favorite and the site I went to first is Chuck’s Paranormal Adventures (http://www.chucksghosts.com/). He talks about equipment, evidence, offers a glossary of terms. He actually comes at it from both the scientific method, as well as the metaphysical, offering protection advice such as using holy water and sage, something I recommend. I met Chuck at a recent NJ Paraunity Expo. He is down to earth and offers good advice.For those of you...

The Mind Key Community: Meet Joani

June 17, 2015

Uncategorized

Joani O'DriscollAs a massage therapist, Joan O’Driscoll is trained in sports medicine and is oncology massage certified. Clients looking for healing and relief from cancer treatment seek out her gentle touch, and those looking to compliment their sports and fitness regime recognize her talent for finding trouble spots and treating them accordingly.In addition to her training and talents as a massage healer, Joan is also undergoing schooling to become a naturopathic doctor.Diana Gibson says, "Joani O'Driscoll has helped me to recover from strenuous physical activity. Because of her massages I am able to recover faster and improve my athletic performance. She is highly knowledgeable about the human body and has the unique ability to make her client feel euphoria and complete...

members

Sweet Sweet Wonderland: Meet Dina

June 15, 2015

Uncategorized

Sweet Sweet Wonderland is a family owned specialty bakery in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. They offer a seasonal selection of baked goods from their signature cupcakes to their brownies, cookies, cake pops, cakes, pies and more… all as delectable to the palate as they are to the eye.Founder and lead baker, culinary artist Dina Gilmartin first realized that she had a need to bake while taking a Home Economics class in High School. Not only was she at the top of her class, but she also received a award for outstanding ability in the culinary arts. She was going to school for early childhood education, but her work was so exceptional that they allowed her to accept this monetary prize that was generally awarded...

members

The Mind Key Writing Team

June 10, 2015

Uncategorized

I wanted to take a moment to talk about the Mind Key writing team.Many of you have been wondering why we’ve been focused on writing games, contests, and stories. What does this have to do with healing, or discovering my personal path, you ask?It’s a good question. And luckily I have an answer for you.Writers and artists are the distillers and the synthesizers of information. Whether through painting, Brian Froud's "The Piper"music, dance, or the written word, we take the information in our brains, the energy and emotions that affect our bodies and our souls, and we translate them into material that makes sense to the rest of humanity. This creative ability is something we all possess, but we express it differently. In other words,...

manifestation members writing

Meet the Community — Vera Remes and Raven Reiki

June 9, 2015

Uncategorized

Vera Ann RemesWhite Raven by Dana BreeReiki Master and Certified Angel Card reader, Vera Remes, began Raven Reiki after completing courses at Michael Harner's Foundation for Shamanistic Studies and with Sandra Ingerman on Shamanic Journeying for Guidance and Healing. She proceeded to combine nuances of shamanic journeying, music, drumming, crystals and psychic intuition to the Usui Reiki she was taught, creating a modality of healing she dubbed “Raven Reiki.” In addition to these modalities, Vera is also certified to perform past life regressions and future life progressions - each intended to bring greater insight and enlightenment on your path and in healing and achieving goals and dreams.As a special needs teacher turned lawyer who rode horses for a local sheriff’s department in her spare time, Vera...

members reiki shamanism

In a Nutshell: Fiction and Life Parallels

June 8, 2015

Uncategorized

Last week on Mind Key, the blog, your Mind Key writers explored fiction and life parallels. In Meet the Community: Danielle Rose on Tuesday, Charla introduced you to Mind Key's creator, Danielle Rose. "I've been talking to trees and faeries ever since I could remember," Danielle says. Her connection to the fae and to nature has taken her down life's path less traveled.As a mom of two girls, Danielle is perpetually on the go, but she’s always focused on what she has found most important, homemade family dinners, playing outside and reading. “I've been reading my favorite chapter books aloud since my youngest was about six months old," she said. "Today, both of my girls adore all of my favorites and that means...

Mind Key the Novel: A Review

June 5, 2015

Career, Creativity, Lifestyle, Newsbreaks

After the disappointments of a sour break up and the troublesome relationship with her abusive father, Noelle heads to the Jersey Shore. It’s supposed to be another brief vacation with her mother, dull and numb after the Noelle Ricci as drawn by Michelle Farencirecent heartaches. Still, the rumbling waves of the Atlantic shore make Noelle feel at home, as if she’s belonged there all of her life. But it’s not just the salty breeze and the soft wet sand under her feet that draw her in. Arden, a boy vacationing a few apartments away, captures her attention and before she knows it— her heart. The two spend only a couple of days together but somehow she feels as if she’s known him for years. It...

How fiction changes everything

June 4, 2015

Creativity

There’s something special in the way fiction opens the brain to draw its own conclusions and make new connections, while nonfiction—although certainly having its place—presents facts but rarely offers the opportunity for expansive thinking as fiction can.That’s not to underestimate the importance of nonfiction. Facts are useful, but facts change. And facts aren’t always… well, fact, are they? Opinion can be debated but cannot be proven… facts are hard information that can be proven or disproven. In other words, facts can be false. When fiction resonates, however, it catches us some place deep within our hearts and psyche… that place where we know truth, not as a fact, but as a place of understanding and peace. Because fiction does not claim to be anything other...

Spirituality based on Film

June 3, 2015

Uncategorized

Spirituality based on film. I find myself shaking my head. While films like Avatar definitely encourage thought, I find it hard to lend credence to cosplayers or regular, everyday people who would worship at the “tree of Utraya Mokri” were it real. Phrases like “I see you” have crept into the language of our society with stealth. I have to admit, I like that saying, though.Star Wars is another film whose principles have gained many followers. The Star Wars memorabilia area at Comic Con was by far the most popular with my family last weekend. The films have actually spawned many discussions in my household. Being surrounded by boys (including my husband) who love the series, we’ve talked a lot about the story...

Sith Sithism

Meet the Community: Danielle Rose

June 2, 2015

Uncategorized

We each have the ability to change our life, create our future, heal ourselves,and achieve our dreams.Danielle Rose is many things, but conventional is not one of them. She identifies herself as a writer, herbalist, intuitive reader and faerie healer, but she's so much more."I've been talking to trees and faeries ever since I could remember," Danielle says. Her connection to the fae and to nature has taken her down life's path less traveled.Danielle grew up in a dark place. "I don't really remember much about my childhood anymore, probably because I've blocked a lot of it out," Danielle says. In a family plagued by emotional abuse, Danielle turned to her connection to nature and to her writing and journaling as a way to actually heal."This was a huge breakthrough for...

herbalism members writing

In a Nutshell: Past Lives, Parallel Lives, and Future Lives

June 1, 2015

Career, Creativity, Currency, Energy, Health, Lifestyle, Relationship

The idea of past, parallel and future lives almost seems ridiculous to a metaphysical heart surgeon who believes in the power of the present. However, who we are and who we are to become is affected greatly by how we view the broad spectrum of our life (or lives).“Our bodies live this current lifetime and label it the present, but the continuum of our entire existence isn’t limited to the restraint of time,” Tamara Rokicki says in The connection of parallel lives. “The past is what we see when we look as far back to the day we were born. Our future is the years we have yet to live until we reach the end of our journey. But is there more?”In Past life regressions...

The truth behind past lives, parallel lives and future lives

May 29, 2015

Uncategorized

I enjoyed reading our writers talk about their belief systems regarding past lives, parallel lives and future lives this week. The topic has always been one of great interest to me.Some people simply believe in reincarnation—from a young age there’s an innate understanding that they’ve been here before, or known things they have no business knowing. For me this manifested in a few simple moments throughout my childhood.Me and my soul kitten, Briar RoseI recall being four or five and thinking, fiercely, that I was so happy I had been born a human rather than a cat (which at that time, and in many ways still is my favorite animal). I had no concept of reincarnation… but I felt certain at that moment that I...

The Old Soul

May 28, 2015

Uncategorized

When our third son was born and we looked into his eyes, we could feel it. Jakob had an old soul.Our first two boys were normal (and awesome, of course) babies. New, cuddly, and learning things for the first time. With Jakob it was different. Jake knew and still knows things before his time. Jake, studying for the 2008 electionHe was walking at eight months, because I think he expected it of himself. Being surrounded by so many walking people, he figured he should be doing that, so he did. He decided he should walk down stairs at eight and a half months. He biffed it big time, but he reached up, grabbed the railing and stepped off into nothingness like he knew exactly...

spiritual

Past life regressions and future life progressions – what they are and how they help!

May 27, 2015

Uncategorized

“… Death is merely a pause to reflect on the progress of your eternal self so far." –VERONICAThis quote has been excerpted from Inner Whisper, Volume 1, Issue 15 by April Crawford, a Open Deep Trance Channel for an entity named Veronica(http://www.innerwhispers.net/transition15.html). Reincarnation by Dana BreeWhether you believe someone can channel a spiritual entity or not, the words are something to be considered and give us a degree of confidence when considering our own inevitable death.In Past Life Regression, I assist persons who seek to understand and release the karmic reasons for their present fears, proclivities or idiosyncrasies. Is that scar on your back the result of a wound from a past life? Does your fear of water that has been with you for as long as...

shamanism

The Connection of Parallel Lives

May 26, 2015

Uncategorized

I’ve never been sold on the whole ‘you live, you die, and that is it!’ idea. As a very young child I’ve felt a connection to some higher force, a spiritual being who watched over me and had a plan for my life. At that age I didn’t know what it was or what it meant, and it took several years of self discovery and spiritual journeys to finally realize where my beliefs stood. I’ve met countless people that cover both ends of the spectrum; from adamant atheists to deeply devoted Christians. I’ve also met Hindus and Muslims, New Age spiritualists, Pagans, and others who simply didn’t wish to be labeled but walk on their own spiritual path. We may be different from each other,...

spiritual journey

In a Nutshell: Meet the Community

May 25, 2015

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Last week, we met several new members of the Mind Key Community.In Meet the Community: Dr. Kevin Hall, Dr. Kevin talks about his views on his health modalities. “There are people that looked up at the starts and just saw stars, then there are those that looked up and saw constellations,” Kevin said. “I’m a constellation seer.” Read more about Dr. Hall on his website, Do Well Be Well.In Bringing Visions to Life: The Dream art of Dana Bree, we got to know artist and graphic/website designer Dana Bree. “I have always loved to make art, draw and paint what I see in real life as well as give voice and image to my dreams,” Dana said. “I have always had...

members

The Juice Box Incident, from the memoir “The Golden Skillet” by Tara Ann Lesko

May 24, 2015

Uncategorized

Ignore them and they will stop when they see they can’t get the reaction they want out of you. Another commonly used and utterly false declaration. Nuisances don’t care about being ignored by one person because there is always going to be a group of sheep bleating behind them in support. So I sat at the table with my head down. My tiresome lunch looking up at me – the scent of chocolate milk, fruit cups, and mozzarella cheese swirled around my throbbing head. I looked at my juice box that was slightly crunched since it was mostly empty. Juice boxes are all fine and dandy, but there is only problem with them. They are never enough. Your thirst is vaguely quenched once you reach...

growth self development

Meet the Community: Tara Ann Lesko

May 22, 2015

Uncategorized

“I live my life between my ears.”Tara Ann LeskoTara Ann LeskoIn sixth grade Mind Key writer Tara Ann Lesko’s elementary school librarian asked the class to write a story based off a picture prompt of a dove that looked like it was flying off the page. What ensued was a story about a motherless girl who watched the doves on her wallpaper disappear one by one, until one day she saw them flying outside her window. Tara’s story brought her teacher to tears. “[Writing has] been who I am ever since,” Tara said. “It’s defining of who I am.”A teacher and tutor of English, Tara admits that she was a writer first and last. “My identity is comprised of poetry and prose,” Tara said. This...

members poetry writing

The Mind Key Community: Meet Dr. Kevin Hall

May 21, 2015

Uncategorized

Doctor Kevin Hall of Do Well Be Well utilizes a wide variety of modalities for health including sports and functional medicine, and acupressure.“There are people that looked up at the starts and just saw stars, then there are those that looked up and saw constellations,” Kevin said. “I’m a constellation seer.”This talent, and his experience and extensive skills as a doctor in both traditional and alternative medicines has allowed Dr. Hall the opportunity to offer perspectives and guidance in a broader context than most doctors and health care professionals.“Everyone exists within and everything takes place within a context, a domain,” Dr. Hall said. “Understanding the broader picture of the domain helps to frame responses, approaches and even perspectives that allow an individual to not only...

Bringing Visions to Life: The Dream art of Dana Bree

May 20, 2015

Creativity

Dana Bree, photo by Trix Rosen Web, logo and marketing graphics designer Dana Bree is also a painter of the fantastic and surreal. Her dreams have always intrigued her with questions of alternate realities, past and future lives, and our present course.“I have always loved to make art, draw and paint what I see in real life as well as give voice and image to my dreams,” Dana said. “I have always had a very active, colorful and memorable dream life.”As an artist, Dana believes that a connection to, and an opportunity to discover new things with like minded individuals is essential to her health, happiness, and creative progress.“This has also allowed me to move forward into metaphysical realms with healing and helping others as well...

The Mind Key Community: Meet Sarah

May 19, 2015

Uncategorized

Mind Key Member, Sarah LoukosIf you’re so psychic tell me when my birthday is. When people ask me questions like that, I know they don’t understand what being psychic really means.Sarah LoukosAlthough a deeply connected Mind Key Member, Sarah Loukos is more than just a psychic. She picks up on the subtleties of humanity, particularly those of the emotional variety. “I can’t read your mind,” she clarifies. But as an empath, she can energetically read the emotional signals each person’s body and aura transmits. Once aware of a person’s dominant feelings she uses her clairvoyance (psychic seeing), clairaudience (psychic hearing), and claircognizance (psychic knowing) to decipher what is happening to trigger the emotion—the loss of a pet or friend, or news of a marriage or...

meditation poetry spiritual guidance The Mind Key Anthology yoga

In a Nutshell – Charlapalooza

May 18, 2015

Lifestyle

Don't forget to read and vote for your favorite Charlapalooza poems! Charla Dury and I have done a fantastic job (if I don't say so myself) writing about all your crazy topics in record time (less than 72 hours I believe...

Meet Charla

May 15, 2015

Uncategorized

Charlapalooza is OPEN FOR VOTES!The poems are written, and the voting is open...

members

The origins of Charlapalooza and what it means to me

May 12, 2015

Uncategorized

Charlapalooza is a blog game that sprouted on my old Myspace blog back in 2006. I was writing a semi-successful blog about life, the universe and everything and wanted to be more interactive with my audience. Back on the Space, people would actually comment on blogs but I wanted more. I figured that I enjoy challenging myself and, since I am NOT a poet – or don’t think of myself as one – but love words, I decided this would be a good way to do it. So, I got my friend Medussa on board and we called for topics from my many blog subscribers. Lots of people showed up!Suggestions ranged from the serious to the silly and Medussaand I furiously wracked our brains...

poetry

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