Animal Totem Energy For the Week of Dec. 5

a-z-animals.com

Porcupine asks us this week if we are taking time to rest, eat right, and play. Her energy is very balanced and good natured as she goes about her daily routine, and she will only give out the benefit of her quills if she has a very good reason. So, we may ask ourselves at this time if we have a tendency to lash out unnecessarily, or if we have the control to wait for real provocation. Just let the driver who cuts you off in traffic win - it's likely you'll both arrive at the next stop light at the same time anyway, but you'll get there with your blood pressure in tact. Let someone go ahead of you in line at the market. It's amazing how good it will feel.

At this time it's important to maintain a good balance between the duties which pull you all over the place and the moments you take just for yourself. Instead of gulping it down just for the buzz, sit for awhile and really enjoy the flavor of that afternoon coffee. Leave the smart phone in your pocket as you walk down the street - how much there is to enjoy if you're really looking around as you move along, and you'll find that your head clears for your next task. Balance in everything isn't easy, but any steps you take will add to your sense of well-being.

Porcupine energy can be associated with the flu, so get extra rest, wash hands often and have plenty of simple, nutritional foods on hand. You may find that you want to monitor your salt intake at this time, as Porcupine can crave salt for her health. Sea salt has extra minerals and we like the flavor, but always in moderation.

Look for what will bring you pleasure and some ease now, balance that with your work, and don't let other people's opinions dictate how you feel.

Blessings, Val

Precious Ones Need New Home

Colorado Cat People!
"Bailey" & "Lexie"

Are Ready to go to Their New Home!

If you can adopt either one (or even both!), of these two charmers,

contact Val at 303-692-9299.

Animal Totem Energy For the Week of Nov. 28

a-z-animals.com

Caterpillar comes this week to remind us that we're still not ready to show the world our wonderful ideas. The life phase of caterpillar is one of strengthening and preparing, so we find ourselves given more time to clarify, add to, and perfect what we've been working on. (Actually good energy for this time before the holidays when we may be keeping gifts secret for those we love). The energy of caterpillar is quite delicate, so once again, keep your projects and ideas close to your heart and pursue their fulfillment so when you do bring them out into the world, they'll be as perfect as you can make them.

There is also still the possibility of someone actually trying to block our path, so don't just trust without investigation. If you have been keeping up with this blog, you'll remember that this energy of potential sabotage has been going on for awhile, so be patient.

Because caterpillar sheds his skin several times before journeying on to his butterfly stage, he reminds us that in order for new ideas to manifest, old beliefs must be discarded. So, as you're preparing, remember to catch any worn out ideas, plans, goals, or even people that are no longer empowering to you at this time. Anything you keep by you out of fear or sentimentality will only block your creative flow.

Caterpillar focuses on one thing: getting strong so he will have enough energy to go through the great transformation into butterfly. He doesn't scatter his energies, but finds the best, most beneficial foods, and eats his way to strength. Follow caterpillar's example and husband your energies in secret so when the time comes, what you're ready to give to the world will be at its most splendid.

Blessings, Val

Amimal Totem Energy For the Week of Nov. 21

A-ZAnimals.com

Jaguar cames with an invitation to reclaim your own power from those who may have taken it away either physically, emotionally or spiritually. The energy opens now for you to look at those places inside where parts of you may be not just damaged, but missing; work with ceremony, soul retrieval, dreams, shamanic pathworking, or with a spiritual adviser to discover where there are empty places that need to be filled and healed. When trauma enters you life, parts of you can flee out of grief or fear, and because whatever is happening is just too severe to process. Now is reclamation time.

Simply knowing about a past event and how it may have damaged you is a first step in the process, but in order to recall parts of your precious inner being that may have gone underground, a more direct approach is needed. Calling these parts back is a mysterious and dramatic path, and Jaguar, being one of the most powerful of the big cats, lends us his energy at this time to use on this journey within. He will guide you to the right technique for your personal task, whether it be dreamwork, a shamanic practitioner or something else. Constructing your own personal ceremony is also very powerful and can be a part of any other way.

On a more mundane level, Jaguar may be asking you to remember to keep your plans close to your heart again this week, as there may be others who don't have your best interests foremost, and will be happy to sabotage your efforts.

There's also a tendency at this time to act and speak more aggressively than is absolutely necessary, so try to remember that in gentleness is the greatest strength; meditate on an image of Jaguar with her cub.

So, in the beginning of the madness of the holidays, Jaguar is asking that we step in a different direction, and move into our own power as we grant ourselves the gift of wholeness.

Blessings on Your Journey, Val

A-Z Animals.com

Turtle comes this week to remind us of the cycles of the moon and of the wisdom of Mother Earth. A week from Sunday, on Nov. 21st, is a full moon in Taurus, an earth sign, which could give special strength to earth-energy events such as earthquakes, landslides, and volcanic eruptions. As the moon's energies increase this week, so does the influence of Turtle. She lives in water, not on land, and can feel the vibrations of events happening around her as they pass through her element. Pay attention this week to what you feel more than to what seems more obvious in the world of everyday life, because what you feel will be more accurate than what you see.

Water is the element of the emotions; Turtle, with her beautiful shell, flies weightlessly right through this element, finding food, shelter and companionship. The emotional body in humans can be fine-tuned to be one of the most exquisitely sensitive receptors of etheric messages if the emotions are cleared, calmed and filled with unconditional love. No small order, but one worth pursuing, and there's an open passage for this effort right now. Imagine cruising serenely as Turtle through the water with all your receptors open and willing to feel the universal energy flowing in waves all around, bringing you messages of wisdom and peace.

Turtle also is closely aligned with Mother Earth in many traditions across the planet, so spend some time this week bringing yourself closer to the precious being who gives us shelter, food, and such beauty as can hardly be fathomed. She needs us to care for her in loving and responsible ways, now more than ever. Don't give in to "Green Movement Burnout." Caring for the earth starts and ends with us, and it is a never-ending effort. Meditate with Turtle, ask for guidance about what part you can play in this endeavor, then step up and do just one thing each week to make this home of ours a little cleaner, safer, more beautiful.

Turtle's energy is kind, deep and wise; a delightful presence this week.
Blessings, Val

Mercury conjunct Mars until Dec. 18,2010

Mercury joins Mars in Sagittarius beginning today, lasting until December 18th. The most powerful time will be on November 20th, when they are in exact aspect. Communication and getting things done dominate your time; ideas, words and insights flourish. Your higher self is stimulated philosophically and spiritually, which can promote amazing leaps in your consciousness, since the new moon in Scorpio on November 5th set the stage for growth and advancement. Letters, emails and other written or oral communications need extra focus on expressing clearly what you want to say or get accomplished. Aggressive thoughts, word choices, or hasty, ill-thought out changes in your direction can lead to regret over ever having brought up these concerns, so let caution and kindness be your guide during these times, and you will achieve greater and more meaningful progress.

Mercury retrogrades in Capricorn on the December 10th until the 29th, influencing Mars from December 10th through the 18th. Use additional care, clarity and focus if you readjust,
what you set in motion earlier in order to maximize your success. Wait until after December 29th to begin new projects or to make large purchases.

All the outer planets will have their effects on this conjunction of Mercury and Mars. which brings a trans-personal level of influence to everyone. Pluto's influences from November 29th through December 18th will bring to the fore transformation and power issues in business, financial affairs or possibly your personal life. Circumstances may become better or worse depending on where Pluto's transiting in your personal astrological chart. Neptune's effects on Mercury from November 21st through December 4th, and on Mars from November 22nd through December 12th cause confusion, delays or changes of direction in your thinking and your ability to complete your projects. Be watchful of your time and commitments, and don't overextend yourself. Uranus's influence from November 22nd through December 4th, with Mercury, and through December 12th with Mars brings the unexpected; rethink your beliefs and take a wait-and-see approach to any long term projects or personal commitments.

On the other hand, Saturn will lend structure, discipline, and personnel changes to your business or personal life from November 12th through the 23rd, so stay flexible and remain mindful of the changes and constraints which may be called for now. Jupiter, associated with optimism and expansion, as well as philosophy and spirituality, will have a less than its usual fortunate affects on completing your projects or dealing with your personal affairs; however, this influence lasts only from November 22nd through December 1st with Mercury and through December 10th with Mars.

The asteroids Pallas Athena and Chiron are also players during this time. Pallas Athena, the asteroid of wisdom, intuition and healing, lends her love and strength to your communication skills and aids in finding creative solutions to your projects from November 10th through December 12th. Follow her guidance and find yourself wiser, happier and more satisfied in all that you have accomplished. Chiron, the asteroid of the wounded healer and the quest for truth, brings spiritual clarity and higher thinking to Mercury's influence from November 22nd through December 4th, and Mars' influence from November 23rd through December 11th, helping you to integrate your spiritual practices into whatever you are doing. Chiron focuses on keeping healing and understanding as your primary concerns in communication or negotiation with others, and offers you the power to break through to new common ground. Sudden insights may facilitate the completion of projects which seemed difficult to accomplish earlier.

Because the holidays can trigger unexpected issues, sensitive communications, contracts, and other large life changes are better left alone until these planetary influences subside after the 18th of December. Try to remain understanding of other people's points of view, fears and hopes, and encourage your inner pilot to take the high road in whatever situation you find yourself, specifically when Mercury and Mars are exact on November 20th .

The tarot's the King of Cups works with this energy in offering an open window to healing and releasing old hurts during this time. Also, heed the advice of older, more sensitive mentors who may have a different perspective which could help you along your path.

Find out how these planets and asteriods affect your personal astrological chart, and how you can best use these energies. Call Tom @ 303-692-9299.

Animal Totem Energy for the Week of Nov. 7

A-ZAnimals

Walking Stick Bug tells you that this is the time to keep your plans close to your heart & to reveal them to no one just yet. Silence & stillness are the watchwords for the moment, since there's a danger that someone or something may be about to undermine or sabotage your intentions. On the other hand, there's the possibility that you're holding too tightly to those plans & are thinking them to death without ever taking the steps that are needed to bring them into fruition. Unfulfilled dreams can undermine your energy & self-esteem as they demand to be brought into manifestation, so take time now to consciously free those plans & make a list of the first steps you can take to begin the process. Later, when the energy favors more aggressive action, you'll be ready to go.

Meditation & dream work are very helpful now as you solidify your ideas. It's not a time for action, but is perfect for refining what you have already begun, as well as for asking for inspiration from the deepest parts of your psyche. Rest can be important now as the seasons change & our bodies require more sleep as well as warm, nourishing foods, especially those that take awhile to cook - stews, breads & casseroles. You may not feel so much like socializing, but are drawn to the home hearth, quiet music & good books.

Walking Stick Bug will wait in perfect stillness for his meal to come along, or will freeze in place
as a predator passes by, & we could benefit from these behaviors during this week. Pay close attention to what's going on around you, listen to your intuition about the people you think you can trust, & as you wait, nourish yourself & build your dreams.

Have a great week!
Blessing, Val

Mars Squares Neptune, Mercury Trines Neptune

Mars in Scorpio squares Neptune in Aquarius affecting spirituality, belief systems, regeneration and transformation now through October 26th, with its exact aspect on October 22nd. Difficulties in trying to accomplish things, outbursts of unexpected emotion, argumentative behavior or turf conflicts are possible. Chiron, the asteriod of the wounded healer as well as the quest for truth, joins Neptune and adds uncertainty and psychological dis-ease. Handle these influences with sensitivity, a clear mind and an open heart. Pushing your agenda or the emotional buttons of others will only aggravate an already peculiar and fussy few weeks. Accomplish what you can when circumstances warrant a better than average chance for success, otherwise wait until these aspects end in order to move forward, particularly with your beliefs and in your spiritual practices. Be aware of the likelihood of accidents or unexpected emotional outbursts.

Mercury in Libra trines Neptune in Aquarius starting today and continuing through October 22, having its greatest influence on October 18th, bringing ease, depth, and greater intuition and understanding in communication, relationships, the arts, beauty, and spirituality. In addition, Mercury and Chiron's effects can temper the current energy and uncertainty of Mars conflicting with Neptune. You feel more confident in what you are saying and believing now. Journaling and quiet contemplation will bring insight and a deepening of your spiritual beliefs, faith, as well as offering greater encouragement and understanding of your psychological and emotional states. Taking action and moving forward may be more fruitful on the 18th. Give focus and time to your creative interests and projects now, and experience a greater sense of accomplishment and success as well.

Meditate upon the tarot's Six of Swords to help you navigate any difficult or turbulent currents as you make your way toward calmer waters.

Blessings, Tom

Venus Retrogrades for 6 weeks .....

Venus, the planet of love, attraction, beauty, the arts and resources, begins its retrograde phase today for about 6 weeks, until November 18th when it stations and returns to its direct motion. In the sign of Scorpio, Venus is in its detriment or at its weakest influence until Nov. 7th, and then it re-enters Libra when it has greater effect because Venus rules Libra. Retrograde motion refers to the 're-doing' of something; for example, rethinking, reconfiguring, re-balancing, re-solidifying; possibly re-establishing your foundations, relationships, creativity, and whatever needs reexamining or thoughtful introspection is best accomplished now. The time to take action most effectively with these new insights is when Venus reaches the degree at which it first retrograded, which in this case would be Dec. 19th.

During this phase, you may experience old grievances or hurts, visit old situations and past ways of behaving, or be challenged psychologically or emotionally in unexpected situations. Old jealousies, frustrations, unjust comparisons toward others or competitiveness within or between relationships may suddenly surface. The universe may provide you with valuable lessons in any uncharted area or unproven ground. These challenges mean new ways of processing and responding, and you will feel supported in these endeavors when you look within. Be still and accept the lesson and what it has to offer you in order to further evolve. Demonstrate your best resolve and patience, and choose your words kindly, being mindful to monitor your feelings and show them respectfully. Seek the help of your loved ones and those you trust if you feel overwhelmed or unsure of how to handle yourself in these sticky psychologically potent times.

When Venus returns to Libra on Nov. 7th, it carries a stronger influence for what you are trying to accomplish, and you may feel more certain of where you're, going and stronger in your feelings about what to do. What major actions or changes you take will probably work better after Dec. 19th. You have ample time in order to plan and process how you will resolve a conflict or repair a wounded heart. Write in your journal daily to deepen how your feel about what you're working on, and experience it from all angles. Let your intuition guide you in your daily writing. Rehashing any old business gives you not only new insights, but it can release stress and tension and allow you to face the upset or challenge in ways that align your
subconscious with your conscious mind, avoiding any missteps or self-sabotage on your part. Dialogging with your inner self is empowering and regenerating, and with Venus retrograde opportunities for renewal and transformation are available as are the lessons necessary for your soul's growth.

Use the energy of the tarot's XIX The Sun to help you because it embodies a sense of joy and will help offset any difficulties Venus retrograde might represent.

Animal Totem Energy for the Week of Oct. 3

a-z-animals.com

The wild & haunting call of the Loon invites you to come into the wilderness of your dreams to travel unafraid with the ideas & images that are always the most reliable guidance you have. Those metaphors that emerge from the very depths of your being can be terribly frightening nightmares or supremely inspiring illuminations, but whichever they are, they are yours alone & belong only to you. Perhaps they re-hash unfinished business from the past, which you must re-visit, understand more completely, forgive & release, or there might appear some unlikely & creative way for dealing with circumstances in the present. Your dreams will often help guide you into the future as well. A warning could appear as you contemplate a new opportunity or option, or a signal light shines about someone with whom you are thinking about becoming involved. A spiritual path could be illuminated for you, or a new guide or teacher might appear. Some of these things will probably deserve more attention this week.

Loon is not too graceful on land, but is a great adept in the water, the element of the emotions. Ask Loon to help you grow & strengthen in that area, for the ability to cleanly process your emotions & to read correctly those of others will always put you far ahead in understanding your place & purpose in the circumstances of your life. This way always starts with the past & any leftover baggage of hurt, resentment, or misunderstanding, as well as the past promise of all of the hopes, dreams, & desires, fulfilled or not, that you may still be carrying around. Ask Loon to help you clear the way for this process of releasing & forgiveness.

Loon's haunting voice always reminds me of Spirit asking me to remember my inner world if I have strayed, & to pay attention to the dreams I have for my future that may have gotten put aside in the hypnotic round of everyday life. Spirit wants us to be happy, & creativity is a part of that happiness. Dreams are the way we begin the process of imaginatively manifesting new directions in our lives from the raw material being gifted to us from the depths of our souls. Loon can help us to bring those gifts to the surface. Don't compromise by turning your back on something that to the conscious mind may seem out of reach. Absolutely anything can happen!

Loon carries her young on her back to keep them safe & warm. Just so, you can carry your dreams safely hidden within until you have given them time to mature, & to protect them from the potentially unconscious & insensitive opinions of others. Many cultures teach that telling someone your most precious thoughts will drain the power from them, so keep your dreams in your dream-pack securely on your back. You will know intuitively when it's time to present them to the world of your soul circle friends.

I hope your week will be cosmic & filled with wonderful visions for you.
Blessings, Val

Mercury's Difficulties with Pluto

Mercury conflicts with Pluto possibly bringing major communication glitches, inconsistencies, setbacks, delays, and most likely power struggles in your relationships, your healing work, jobs or with your artistic adventures and creations. This planetary alignment begins today, continues through next week, and it will certainly foster uneasy times with trying to be heard or in getting your point across. Loved ones and bosses may bring up touchy subjects which require you to be more patient than usual, so by all means listen carefully and allow your emotions to complement what you are communicating. You may experience more heated discussions, differing opinions or all out verbal fights. Use forethought and clear judgment in picking what you want to talk about, delaying that touchy situation to resolve later; you may find a better outcome toward the end of next week. Snags or delays may occur in getting done what you want; again, those projects which rely mainly on conversation or the written word, require extra time and reasoning. Remember that a touch of honey-love attracts the best in everyone and brings greater joy and compassion to all.

Early next week, Saturn joins this arrangement and can offer greater stability when seeking clarity and understanding, and will bring more peaceful outcomes to your concerns involving others. Workplace problems can find resolutions now, because of Saturn's influence. Don't wait for your colleagues or boss to step in for you, but take the initiative yourself and follow your heart to find the wisdom and guidance which leads to success. All situations are for your greatest good, even if that is not immediately apparent. Trust that what you say and do will guide you where you need to be.

Meditate upon the tarot's Six of Swords for a deeper understanding of this energy. In this card, even though we're in the middle of an unsteady flow, we are still moving into calmer waters and away from the white water current.

Blessings, Tom

Animal Totem Energy for the Week of Sept. 26

Scarlet Macaw comes to us this week with messages about creativity & channeling our emotions imaginatively. Whether it's in our jobs, home environment, or following a spiritual path, creativity is a gift from Spirit which allows to process emotional circumstances in a way that clears them & leads to understanding. It doesn't matter what form your personal outlet takes, whether it is cooking, dance, painting, gardening or any thing else that gives you a sense of peace as well as allowing some space between you & whatever might be troubling you. Pour yourself into it now.

Macaw is the epitome of the ability to divert negativity into something profoundly beautiful & even spiritual. She lives many years & incorporates the wisdom from her long life into everything she does. This week we may need to draw upon this ability. Leave behind the shouting voices, fearful ranting, injustices, & cruelties, whether they are out in the world or in your personal experiences, & instead turn inward to your own flame of creativity & sustenance. Whatever it is, allow it to nourish you through this time.

Enjoy these beautiful days as the seasons change.
Blessings, Val

Animal Totem Energy for the Week of Sept. 19

weforanimals.com

So, now we have completed a number of projects & perhaps found a place of resolution with some of them. Ant comes now principally to help us distinguish between what is still necessary & what can be left behind to either work on later or to dispense with all together. Ant helps us to accomplish a lot, but the principle motivation here will be to inject as much of an element of spirituality into our daily tasks as we are able. Any job can be a meditation. Any chore a blessing of learning upon our path. As much as possible now, inject what you know from your spiritual wisdom sources into the mundane, repetitive aspects of life. Blessed with prayer, a simple meal that you've cooked dozens of times before can become a true feast. Mountains of emails can become an opportunity to send blessings out to people all over the world - just say a small prayer for them as you delete. Send a note of gratitude in the 'memo' space on your checks when paying the bills - it's amazing how this can relieve the stress that often comes with this chore, & after all we are grateful for water & electricity, are we not?


As you sweep the floor, see all the negativity & tired old energy that's accumulated from the last cleaning day being cleared out with the trash. Take a moment to really look at your home or place of work, & send up a prayer of gratitude for all that you have. That is the starting place for manifesting more of what you want.


So, this is the vigorousness ant brings to us. There may be a lot to do right now, but injecting the spiritual into all of it in a conscious way frees the energy to flow very swiftly. Resistance, boredom, resentment & all the other negativity that can pop up in the daily round only stalls the power & makes everything slow down. Ant is super industrious, but there is always a divine dance in the way he gets done all that is allotted him to do.


Remember the Equinox this week. Norma Gentile, the sound shaman, is giving a free phone meditation on Sept. 22. To participate, dial:(641) 715-3200 & enter access code 555220#. If you haven't yet visited her website or heard her music, it is well worthwhile - very healing! See her at:healingchants.com.


Have a most auspicious & enlightened week.
Blessings, Val

Ceres & Pallas Athena Affect Jupiter conjunct Uranus

Jupiter and Uranus, both retrograde in Pisces, are in exact conjunction this Saturday, September 18th, and this aspect stays in effect until October 27th. Ceres, the asteroid of nurturing and nourishing, unfavorably influences both Jupiter and Uranus through mid October, while during this same period Pallas Athena, the asteroid of wisdom, healing and the arts, favorably affects both planets. Expect the unexpected and don't count on the usual depth of your excitement or optimism, just because Jupiter sits prominently in your chart. Be wary of making risky or unusual financial decisions; instead spend some time rethinking, adjusting or revising your financial plans or future expenditures. Continue you tithing, and be prudent with trying to make large purchases, so wait until later this fall and stretch your dollars anywhere you can in the meantime.

Allow yourself time in order to understand and process communications, specifically those with possible emotional or psychological impact. Be patient with yourself and others where difficulties in being heard or being understood may arise, ask for guidance from within and find the middle path to resolve any disagreements or differences of opinion.

Review your spiritual practices, see where you could meditate more or spend additional time in quiet contemplation or reflection. Maybe it's time to go within and make that commitment to reach a greater understanding of how your inner work reflects and nourishes everything and anything you do. Return to your art projects. Practice healing modalities on yourself or help an animal friend to find comfort from distress. Start reading that book you've put off, and enjoy having a mental vacation from your usual thoughts and concerns. Reach out a helping hand to others who may need your support at this time or ask for that help yourself.

Meditate upon XXI The World card from the tarot for greater understanding of this Jupiter-Uranus aspect.

Blessings, Tom

Animal Totem Energy for the Week of September 12th

freefoto.com

Well! last week was just one thing after another, & Tom & I are delighted that it's over! This week we are visited once again by the wonderful energy of horse who comes to give a more disciplined forward movement to our affairs, so we may find that progress is much easier. We got a lot done under the influence of squirrel, but much of it was imposed from the outside, annoying & expensive. This week we can also achieve a lot, but it will likely be of our own choosing, swiftly accomplished, & perhaps even pleasing to the higher senses! Horse has, down through time, been associated with the wind & with magic among other things, so we can expect news, as well as things, people & events to blow through our lives. Perhaps there will also be wind related weather events. The spirits of our ancestors & of the land ride into our lives astride horse, so listen with your psychic self to the voices from other realms for guidance, wisdom & pregognitive insight.

Look over the accomplishments of last week, think clearly & logically about what still needs to be done & get on with it. Anything involving discipline will move forward easily at this time, so exercise programs, artistic pursuits, meditation & pathworking should all benefit, especially if they are done in the company of friends. Find someone with whom you can work through "The Artist's Way" (by Julia Cameron); start you own little exercise group or join the YMCA with a friend; form a drumming circle or invite a small group of people to join you in a spiritually oriented discussion over pot luck followed by something made with chocolate.

The best use of horse energy is through the tempering of the emotions, & the re-directing of that energy into creative, self-empowering avenues. If you find that what you are trying to do is not moving forward, change course. Either leave the project for later or ask Spirit if it's something you should be doing at all. Then choose another activity that will be more friendly to you at this time.

Have an uplifting & satisfying week!
Blessings, Val

Animal Totem Energy for the Week of September 5th

FreeFoto.com

Squirrel comes to us now as a reminder to begin to prepare for the coming change of the seasons. Winter will be here sooner than we might think, so unless we're migrating to warmer climes, the time is right for stocking up on foods, candles and other supplies we might need if an early snow comes; check out winter wardrobes for things that need mending or replacing, look at those winter tires, have the furnace checked, get a carbon monoxide detector, and start putting the garden to sleep. It's also a good time to look at our finances and make sure everything is as up-to-date as we can make it. Maybe it's time to make a better plan for the savings as well, so that by the spring you'll have more put by than you ever thought you ever would. Also, work out a plan for tithing to whatever organization inspires you, whether spiritual, human or animal; 10% right off the top of your income, no matter what that is, will keep the flow going, and if things have been sparse lately, tithing will get the current running once more. Squirrel is about giving as well as getting, after all.

Squirrel is also making room for the pleasures of the season. It's harvest time, so enjoy the bounty of the garden while putting away some for the winter. Enjoy canning and preserving foods of all kinds, as well as the unmatched taste of produce picked ripe from the vine this very day. Bask in the more gentle sun of this time, since soon enough there will be less of it to warm and cheer us.

When talking with squirrels, I've often found them to be a bit self-involved. They will use humans as food sources, use our houses for shelter, and our dogs as really durable action toys. The lesson from squirrel at this time also includes a reminder to not use, nor allow yourself to be used by others in any way that drains your or their energy or resources needlessly.

I've also noticed that sometimes when squirrel makes itself known in my environment, there may also be numerous little annoyances to deal with, so rely on patience during this time as well.

Have a wonderful week.
Blessings, Val

Amimal Totem Energy For the Week of Aug. 29 - Sept. 4

freefoto.com
Peacock comes this week to help us address issues concerning the cycles of death and rebirth, because down through the centuries, peacock has had close associations with the phoenix, symbol of extinction and regeneration. This week will see the removal of some circumstances, people and things that no longer serve our well-being, growth and evolution. We may not know what will replace that which is taken away, but whatever comes, it will be for our benefit. Avoid melodrama,which will be very tempting at this time, as it can only interfere with the evolutionary process in which we are engaged. There will be choices to make especially concerning our belief systems and ideologies, whether political, spiritual, moral, academic or other purely mental constructs by which we govern our lives. Peacock's voice is very discordant to some ears, so take a lesson from this and don't try to convert others to your way of thinking by shouting louder than anyone else. Remember, everyone is under this influence at this time, so talking louder may not get your message across after all. Whatever comes, the phoenix will always rise from the ashes, so let go, release with grace what is no longer part of your soul's path, even if there is pain, for new energy and life will rush in to take the place of the old.

Pallas Athena & Juno Help Us Until the End of the Year

While Saturn & Pluto still present us with turning points and challenge all of our relationships, Pallas Athena, the asteroid of wisdom, healing and the arts, and Juno, the asteroid of intimate partnerships, square each other and help us focus in more detail on our deepest and dearest soul relationships. These two asteroids are influencing us now and will continue to do so through the end of this year, which will help to galvanize us in finding ways of creating more love and harmony, greater communication and understanding. Be adventurous and novel in your approach to change and transformation now. Strengthen your purpose and intent to grow within; challenge the status quo, learn from it and chart new territory. Feel the magnificence of how your inner growth facilitates what you'd like to have manifest on the outside. Seek novel ways of saying 'I love you,' sending heartfelt blessings, acts of kindness and compassion to your very special loved one. All of these efforts at deepening your connections give gifts of feeling renewed, invigorated and recommitted to love at the core of your being. That smile of understanding and knowing will follow you everywhere, and others will benefit from your loving radiance. All your other relationships benefit from your enhanced state of being and feeling. Let the music begin.

Animal Totem Energy for the Week of Aug. 22

Horse has come to guide us through this week. Power, stamina, strength & balance will be the watchwords for this time, as we are asked to stand fast & refuse to run away from those things that may frighten us. Just as horse might carry a deep fear of cougar or wolf suddenly coming out of the woods & threatening her, so we must be aware of the things that we fear most deeply. Most of what frightens us, whether it be financial, physical or spiritual, will never happen. These things live primarily in our minds, but we can give them life if we focus upon them with powerfully fearful images. So, this week focus instead on the most illuminated & joyous outcomes you can possibly manifest; see yourself in strength, in power & in serenity. Horse instills in us, as well, the balance & stamina to carry on through long-term situations that will tax our reserves, & which may make us feel like giving in to fatigue, or threaten to dishearten us to the point where we will just want to give up. Meditate on the power of Horse, & draw endurance from her. Horse also loves community, so go to your friends, family & loved ones for shelter & nourishing companionship.
Blessings For the Week, Val

Tom Says Saturn & Vesta Are Affecting You Now

Vesta, the asteroid of hearth, home & service, entered Libra August 9th to influence Saturn, Jupiter, Uranus & Pluto for about the next month, so re-balancing, re-energizing, revitalizing, reestablishing, recommitting & restructuring fit well energetically now. Do you feel the urge to check in with your partner and family relationships? Is Aunt Betsy or Grandpapa Michael calling for you? Or is it time to be alone with your loved one, hide out and have fun? How about a quiet retreat used for resting, journaling and meditating without any should's, oughts or have-tos. How about renting that epic movie or mini series and firing up the popcorn maker while you both enjoy time vegging out. Or, is it the time to set a preliminary course for having some major fun; something exciting, or that out-0f-the-box experience or journey you've thought about for so long. Revisiting an unresolved relationship issue in order to deepen your love and understanding, spending time to find a solution to an old problem, or volunteering at your favorite animal shelter would also find energy with these astrological influences. Whatever it is, be passionate and free thinking about it. For Aug. 19th, 21st and the 27th, along with the 3rd and 9th of Sept., be vigilant about your time, feelings and commitments. Work easy and take extra downtime.
May this help you on your journey.

Colorado Spirit of Deaf Dogs Playday

We will both be doing readings at the 11th Annual Colorado Spirit of Deaf Dogs Play Day on Saturday, September 11, 2010, at the Best Friends Pet Care. Hours are from 10am to 1pm, & the sessions will be 15 minutes long.

WHEAT RIDGE, CO
Best Friends Pet Care
11440 W. 44th Ave
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Phone: (303) 422-2055
Fax: (303) 456-2062

Meet Tom and Val in person

Mark your calendars now for the opportunity to meet one-on-one with Tom or Val - and get a reading!

The Shining Lotus - 2178 S. Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO

• Sat., August 7th - meet Tom from Noon - 5pm
• Sat., August 28th - see Val from Noon - 5pm
• Sat., September 25th - see Tom from Noon - 5pm

My Pet Station - 2300 S. Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO

• September 18th - meet Tom and Val for pet astrology & numerology, & animal communication sessions from 11am-4pm

Metaphysical Celebration - Denver Merchandise Mart, Denver, CO

• September 3rd-5th - meet Tom during the regular fair hours at table #79, & sign up for a reading.
  

Denver's Metaphysical Celebration Fair

Tom Will be Doing Astrology &
Numerology Readings at Table #79.

Hours:

Friday - 1pm-9pm
Saturday - 10am-7pm
Sunday - 10am-6pm

Daily admission is $5 and there's plenty of parking.

Keynote speaker: Author of "Grimoire for the Apprentice Wizard" - Oberon Zell.
Headmaster of Grey School of Wizardry. Speaking topics:
Saturday 2:30pm - Real Magick for Personal Transformation
Sunday 2:30PM - Wizardry School: Restoring the Wonder

$20 per lecture. Advanced tickets available at celebrationfair.com. Pay in advance and admission to the fair is free.

Meet Tom Parks in person for a reading on July 10th

Tom Parks will be offering Astrology readings at the "Cat Fest" event at the Denver Dumb Friends League on Saturday, July 10, from 10am - 3pm. Come out and meet Tom in person and support the Denver Dumb Friends League! Where is the Denver Dumb Friends League? 1 block North of Evans and S. Quebec Street -
2080 S. Quebec St., Denver

Animal Intuitive Sessions

If you're having behavioral issues with your pet, or multiple pets, give us a call. We can help identify what the issues are and recommend a course of action. Pets can learn to live, and play, well together, no matter what breed they are. Big dogs, small dogs, cats, etc. - we can help you get to the root of the problem.

Welcome to our Blog!

We are happy to announce that we are now going to provide updates on our blog for your convenience! Please let us know how we can help you!