This moment

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see. (An idea taken from Soulemama)

Integrity

I have a cousin (in-law) who is such a dewey-eyed dreamer.  He is passionate and an idealist, but in a way that lets you know this is who he really is...even if sometimes it is torturous to his psyche.  He does not pretend to know all the answers or even all the problems.  I respect him for his convictions.  I pray "the system" and the heart breaking beauty of the world do not strip him of his genuineness and innocence.

Perhaps this is why I went back into Borders today to let them know they did not charge me ENOUGH for my purchases. Of course, I was hoping the whole time, they would say "Wow.  Thank you for your honesty.  Why don't you just keep the magazine-on us." Nada.

Tis the season for doing what is right-365 days a year.

Thank you Luke for what you bring to the table.

Is This Biodynamic?

At the Urban Grange Hall we strive to be as organic and biodynamic as our level of knowledge and fortitude will allow.  Rudolf Steiner in his series of lectures about Agriculture advocated many things for the life of the farm as an organism.  The issue of healing is part of the whole of biodynamics. One way to promote healing within the farm is by "keeping our animals pastured in the open air, free to move and able to express their instincts" (Stella Natura, 2010, November ).

DO YOU THINK THIS IS WHAT STEINER HAD IN MIND?

                                                Maisie blowing bubbles for the chickens

Tis the Season

A Little Maine Insanity

Hello Friends and Family, 

Ok, as you may know, I have committed to jumping into the frigid waters of the Atlantic Ocean on December 31-again.  My father-in-law is planning on doing so as well, but I had to commit to putting my head all the way under.
 
I know. This is insane. What am I doing jumping into the near freezing waters of Maine ? Well, reducing carbon emissions, stopping our dependence on fossil fuels, and reinvigorating the American economy is important to me for the next generation, so I am joining in an effort to raise awareness about the reality of global warming and the benefits of fighting against it. 

I just read this morning that 2015 is the year by which some scientists estimate the Arctic Sea could be ice free in the summer (polar bears need sea ice to hunt). Polar Bears are my totem.
 
So, please join in and support my insanity. Last year, I raised the most money (as a non-employee), so "Thank you very much" for that. 
 
If you are inspired  to donate again this year you can go to: http://supporters.nrcm.org/polar_plunge
 
There will be plenty of documentation so that you may see your support in action. 
 
Loads of good wishes to you and your families for the holidays!

Thank you, 

Heather

"Every morning I awake torn between a desire to save the world and an inclination to savor it. This makes it hard to plan the day."   E.B.White

Something Akin to Joy

We went to Snug Harbor Farm this morning. We went in the shop and we strolled the grounds. There was a little wooden building on blocks.  The window was slightly ajar.  This is what the scene was inside.  It reminded me of the line in 2001: A Space Odyssey,  "My God.  It's full of stars."  But instead it was full of these frilly back pigeons. The light was softly filtered and the sun had warmed the interior. Simply wonderful!

Religious Freedom and Righteousness

BIG news! You will notice under the talk section in the sidebar an ordination certificate.  I have been contemplating this for a few months.  One of my oldest and dearest friends asked me to officiate at her wedding (planned for summer 2011) and after doing some poking around for ideas and such, I came upon this "ordination" from Universal Life Church. Although it is unlikely my friend's wedding will be legally recognized, especially in light of Maine's recent gubernatorial election, I can legally marry folks. Since my own marriage last year and in the rubble of the aftermath that was Vote No on 1, marriage is a VERY poignant topic and what better way to honor and reinforce the magnitude of such an undertaking?

Funerals, baptisms, ceremonial rites and last rites also fall under this (and now, my) jurisdiction.

The Universal Life Church has two basic tenets: To promote freedom of religion and to do that which is right. Anyone who knows me also knows I would be behind these premises ten-fold.

I in no way wish to undermine or minimize the education and professionalism of other clergy.  I take this very seriously and will act in accordance.

If you are in need of any of these services, please let me know.  I would love to help make these transitions and life events honorable, sacred, and unforgettable.