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No, this is not about Halloween, although the stores are already gearing consumers up for one of Fall's holidays. This is an acknowledgement that I mistyped the time of our Deepening into Wisdom circle last Thursday. This monthly gathering is always from 6:30 - 8 p.m. In fact, every evening event we have meets at that time. It seems a wise choose to keep events within the same time frame for convenience. Of course, when the person blogging puts an incorrect time, that can lead to some confusion.
Speaking of the Deepening into Wisdom circle, last Thursday's was a deeply personal and intimate gathering. It was the first time we gathered around a fire for 2025! Between the rain, high humidity and heat, circumstances kept us inside. The sharing of stories about our grandparents and how they influenced each attendee's life was enriching for all in attendance. It was an evening that allowed each of us to share some really personal stories from our hearts. It was also a perfect example of how community works; how we grow in wisdom by remembering the blessings of our lives and hearing others stories. We only have two more offerings of this circle for 2025, September 18, and October 16. We do hope to see some new faces with loving hearts at one or both of those gathering dates. As August rounds out, keep an eye open for the Fall decorations to add a bit of excitement for the cooler temps, abundant Fall festivals and the clouds of dust from the huge machines harvesting the crops. It certainly creates a space for each of us to examine what we are harvesting from our Spring plantings. And, that may not just be from our gardens! I am glad to offer the first "Boo boo," as a prelude to Fall's "scary" holiday. From my heart to yours, Vicky
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Events:
The date for the next "Infinite Possibilities," the Art of Living your Dreams class is Saturday, September 27, from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Mark your calendar! This will be a full day exploring your Inner World. Since thoughts become things, we will delve into where those thoughts originated and discern which ones need updated or eliminated to create the life your heart is calling forth. Read more about this class on the Community Events link. The Using the Mandala as a Compass retreat has been rescheduled for March, 2026. This retreat offers a platform for clearly stating your intentions for the new year, planting them into the magic of Spring and taking action to tend and care for them. Bringing forth our dreams created during the winter is a beautiful experience, and learning how to access and utilize the gifts of the seven sacred directions is a marvelous way to begin another round on our Sacred Path of Life with nature as our ally. This Thursday, August 21 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. is our next Deepening into Wisdom circle. Join us as we share stories and crafts we learned from our grandparents. If you never learned the skill, bring something that represents the craft, even if it's a picture. There will also be a "sneak peek" of the new course, Infinite Possibilities. Lastly, weather permitting we will be outside around a small fire. Bring a blanket, or chair to sit on since the ground may be damp and bugs abound this time of year! Note: if it has rained that day, we will not be outside! And, remember, there are no strangers, everyone is welcome to attend. The past few days have been refreshing as the cool, crisp air reminds Fall is just around the corner. What a delightful reminder, that just as life offers a sense of challenge, it is always followed by a "breath of fresh air!" Such is the case of polarities, or seeming contradictions to life. One day everything seems to be flowing with possibiities, the next day a roadblock appears and we may shrug our shoulders and say, "What's the use? Is nothing for certain?" Of course, we know things will change, yet something inside us wants everything to go "as planned, dreamed, wished for and so on." Life is, indeed, like a roller coaster, it is full of ups and downs, and yet, if we take a deep breath and steady ourselves, we do ultimately know things will change. Until it does, how we manage the situation is what is important. As we enter the last few weeks of summer, now may be a good time to check out what's happening in your community. With county fairs, school beginning, and the often frantic pace of activities being offered, now may be the perfect time to hit that pause button and check out what's happening in your "neck of the woods." Neighborhoods often have community cookouts that beckon one to get out the old guitar, drums, or whatever musical instrument that's been stowed away and put on a neighborhood concert. How about corn hole, horse shoes and other outdoor games? And, with cold weather just around the corner, it's time to make room for cars and trucks to return to their winter homes. That may lead to community garage sales. The options are endless. And, the extra money helps to prepare the the holidays ahead. The final days of summer need to be savored. Every memory made will bring a smile during the cold, often gray, days of winter. One big takeaway from summer for me is the day I was driving home from town and our local lumber company had a giant billboard that simply stated: "Forget the wall, build a deck and invite everyone over." That pretty much sums up what my heart wishes for everyone. That we see each other as people needing love and acceptance. Let's put our mutual needs at the forefront and unite! I don't have a deck, but I do have an open door to anyone wishing to head down to Martinsville! From the weather forecast, the 90's are returning . . . get out, have some fun, and enjoy the warmth while it's here! EVENTS: Saturday, August 9 at 3:55 a.m. is the next Full Moon. It is called the Sturgeon Moon because traditionally, this is the time of year when sturgeon fish were most readily caught in the Great Lakes and other major lakes. Interestingly, the Native Americans designated every Full Moon based on the events in nature. Seems to me our modern world could take a few tips from those who walked before us that knew very well have to live in "Right Relationship," with all of earth's inhabitants. Our monthly "Deepening into Wisdom" circle is Thursday, August 21, 6:30p.m. - 8:00p.m. This month our focus will be on sharing stories about what we learned from our Grandparents. What songs, themes, traditions, "oddities," and other unique customs did they share in the thoughts, words and actions? What were some ways of cooking you learned? Any particular hand crafts that stayed with you? If you still have any of those items, bring them with you and show us. I am confident there is some unique item that we would enjoy seeing and learning about. The Clan Mother for August is, "She Who Heals." She is the teacher of ways to Serve the Truth. Go to the 13 Clan Mothers link and read a bit about her gifts and consider the questions listed. I am confident something will stir your thoughts and give you some things to think about. As always, if you have any questions go to the Comment link and ask away! Better yet, show up and ask 'em! Next, watch for dates for the next offering of "Infinite Possibilities," the Art of living your Dreams soon to be selected. In the meantime, read a bit about it and a few comments by our first attendees on the Community Events tab. Finally, "Using the Mandala as a Compass," is tentatively slated for Saturday, October 4, 1-4 p.m. If you are interested in learning more about the seven sacred directions and ways to use those gifts as trusted, reliable resources, this is the retreat for you. More will be posted soon, watch for it. Until then, those of you old enough to remember Cowboy Bob, remember how he closed each show, "If you can't say anything nice, say nothing at all!" Wise words for young and old alike! Let's hear some good things happening in your corner of the world. Remember, we're all in this together. Enjoy the Ride!   The heat of summer has firmly planted a “home in Indiana” this year; hopefully, the rains have provided ample amounts of moisture to ensure successful gardens this year. So far, so good! The fields are plentiful with tall corn and healthy, green soybeans. I may be a bit bias, but the rich Indiana soil certainly offers gardeners and farmers a solid foundation for success year after year. It is a beautiful display of nature teaching her inhabitants, human and nonhuman, how to work together to tend and care for each other, and ultimately their communities.
Nature is one of our richest treasures and most loyal and faithful teachers. Nature offers humans visual examples of how to trust the natural flow and unfolding of life. In essence, how to trust and live with Faith. That is certainly a lesson each of us need at this time and space. Trust and Faith in our world are rather wavering at the moment, perhaps looking beyond the human examples, we will find a sense of hope and promise that better times are being birthed. It truly is, in the “eyes of the beholder.” Each of us must decide where we choose to focus our attention, the place to begin is with the “person in the mirror.” Just make certain you look with “gentle” eyes. Do you see your cup of life as “half full,” or “half empty?” Now might be the perfect time to consider the current heat wave is here to burn off what no longer serves Earth Mother and her human inhabitants. What qualities do you wish to see more of among your tribe? How about a sense of compassion and cooperation among other communities and an awareness that every human has a heart that needs others, loves their family, and desires to grow and belong in a community. That is what’s on my heart this very warm and humid evening. I have much for which to be grateful, and sitting at the computer, one of those blessings is a functioning air conditioner. I have compassion for those that do not have one, and even more for those that do not have a roof over their head. The saying, “Gratitude changes things” is an absolute Truth! I will also add my heart felt gratitude to those that tend and provide shelters for those less fortunate. In conclusion, how about taking the lyrics to the 2001 song, “Burn baby Burn,” and consider if it is time to release some old less compassionate stereotypes and prejudice thoughts, words and actions and let them become ashes to enrich the soil of the beautiful farmlands of Indiana. Events: Every third Thursday of the month the “Deepening into Wisdom” circle meets from 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. If you wish to be connected to other like-minded people, this is a very diverse group of seekers. Each month we share a story, question, or topic that is brought by attendees. We welcome men and women willing to share what is on their heart. Our next gathering is Thursday, August 21. Weather permitting, we will gather outside around a small fire, that may be a perfect time to place the things you are ready to burn away! Our first Infinite Possibilities, The Art of Living your Dreams,” was quite successful. Check out the Community Events page for a few comments by those in attendance. Our next offering will be in late Sept, early October. Watch for details in August. The dates and times will be posted on the Community Events link. **Please note: if you are eager to learn this program, contact Vicky, [email protected] and sign up to host these teachings in your home. All you need is at least three people committed to attend. It takes around eight hours to cover the material which can be divided into two 4-hour sessions or one, full day. Total investment for the program is $125 which includes a very powerful and handy workbook. If you choose to host at your home, your investment will be half price. Our first offering was a full six hours, followed by two additional hours via Zoom. I am eager to share these powerful teachings to anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the obstacles that stand in your way, and develop the tools already inside you to manifest your dreams! Until then, enjoy the warmth of summer, Fall is just around the corner! This Saturday, June 28, is your opportunity to claim your Dreams! We all have dreams; ideas, creations, inspirations, hidden talents and undiscovered gifts. There is not a person that breathes that doesn't have some sort of dream for their life. As will often happen in the course of living one's life, day to day responsibilities seem to take center stage and our unrealized secret wishes patiently wait for the perfect time and space to be brought forth.
Mike Dooley's, "Infinite Possibilities, The Art of Living your Dreams," program will be offered to those ready and willing to take a close look at what awaits within their creative Hearts. This course will carefully examine the hidden beliefs that may be the culprit blocking your way. Identifying those beliefs is taking the next step towards bringing those dreams into form. It does take courage to open the door to those desires when the "world" keeps us busy with life, and yet, making time to change those old beliefs promises to clear the path to bringing life to those dreams and desires Read more about this class on the Community Events link, then take a few quiet moments, breathe and if your inner "source" nudges you to attend, contact Vicky at: [email protected] by Thursday evening, June 26 and sign up and receive more information. You will conclude the course and travel home inspired to take action toward realizing those desires and dreams. Quotes by Mike Dooley: "Intent, or thought without action, is not enough," "Actions are our beliefs in motion." "Being in the winner's circle, by its very definition requires facing challenges and 'winning,' not in the sense of being better than others, but by reaching the very bars you have set for yourself earlier." "Whenever something unexpected or unthought of falls onto your path, it is always a stepping stone in a journey to a 'place' that we have been thinking about." Are your ready to truly live a life full of wonder, joy and abundance? "Infinite Possibilities" offers you a 'hand up!'" From my heart to yours, Vicky . . . and, shortest night of the year in the North hemisphere occurs this Friday, June 20 at 10:41 p.m. Our ancient ancestors certainly took note of the yearly occasion by celebrating the astrological beginning of summer. In those early years it was often referred to as “Midsummer.” Common practices include lighting bonfires, gathering herbs, and engaging in nature walks. Of course, feasting, dancing and staying up late to witness the sunrise were also ways to celebrate the longest day of the year. Not being one that stays up late, I will probably do the nature walk . . . which I do nearly every day. What a marvelous time of year to gather with people you care about and enjoy some stories and laughs. There truly is magic when connecting to the natural world. Humans are interesting and, indeed, can be quite “entertaining,” however, walking or sitting in the natural elements can touch our hearts in ways words cannot express. Silence offers a peace that passes all understanding. Give it a try during these long summer days and/or short summer nights. The wisdom each carry is beyond mere words. And, the starry nights offer a depth of unspoken heart-felt emotions that can only be experienced.
As we move through these times of great upheavals and change, in my heart, observing the steady, consistent teachings nature offers brings great comfort to my soul. It is a constant reminder that whatever we humans are doing, growth, support, wonder, and an unshakeable faith awaits those willing to pause and listen with their heart’s ears! From my heart to yours, Vicky Reminders: The Deepening into Wisdom circle is this Thursday, June 19 from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome to come and “sit a spell” as we share the stories of our Fathers. The new class, "Infinite Possibilities, The Art of Living your Dreams," is scheduled for Saturday, June 28, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Yes, it’s a very long day; however, the teachings offered will empower those in attendance with a deeper understanding and useful tools to manifest whatever is beckoning to be brought forth. This class is more than a new concept; rather, it offers a close look at how your “Thoughts create your reality,” and how our beliefs undergird everything you “think, say and do.” Read more about this on the Community Events link on our webpage, along with responses and praise by some very enlightened individuals. " As one believes so shall one think . . .And as one thinks, so shall one become!" and, "The Wright brothers could not have first dreamed of flight, and then flown, if they didn't first believe it was possible." Mike Dooley, " TUT - The Universe" “Sailor bologna on a caser catoot!” What does that even mean? Is it spelled correctly? Who knows? My father had the most interesting sayings that never made sense, and still we laughed. Most of the sayings were sing songy (if songy is a word). If I could remember all the words I would write more down to demonstrate some of his most interesting phrases. Those were the things that made us laugh. He was a most interesting man. A typical day for my father was to go to work, come home, eat dinner then sit in front of the TV. He rarely spoke to anyone, except to complain about something mother had prepared for dinner and the only time he spoke to his children was to correct a behavior. He would, on occasion, show his silly side by singing some song that made no sense; however, made us giggle. My father commanded respect by his mere presence. As confusing as he was, we knew he was the one in charge, and with that carried the “sword” of truth. What he said he would do, he did, what he required of us was very clear and we learned the meaning of consequences for our actions. As harsh and distant as he could seem, there was a security that came with his presence. He was strong, loved the Lord, and practiced what he preached. We knew what he said was true, and what he did was done consistently. Like it or not, his actions taught us to respect adults, love God, and do the right thing to help others. In honor of my father, I dedicate these words to all the fathers who do the best they can for their family. Being a leader is not an easy job, and yet, for the man who chooses to follow through with his decision to become a father, “Thank you!” You have an extremely important role in this world, here’s a song for you from my father: “Old man Tucker was a fine old man, washed his face in a frying pan, combed his hair with a wagon wheel and he died with a toothpick in his heal. So, get out of the way old man Tucker, you’re too late to stay for supper. Supper’s over, breakfast cookin’, old man Tucker’s just standing looking.” For those that know me personally, you now understand why I laugh so often. Regardless of the many ridiculous situations we currently face, there’s always something silly to laugh about. It’s certainly better than getting angry and frustrated! These days, I laugh a great deal, for that, and many other things, I thank you, Daddy! EVENTS: Wednesday, June 11 at 3:44 a.m. the Strawberry Full Moon appears. She offers those ready to create something new to use her light to perform a simple two step ceremony during her fullness. The first step is to simply state your gratitude for what you have in your life. The second step is to release any negativity and/or limiting beliefs. These two steps will create space for positive energy and good fortune to flow to you. Such beautiful and bountiful ceremonies open our hearts to the abundance that waits to be called forth. And the gifts found in Nature will receive those old worn-out limitations and find a perfect place for them to be buried within the richness of Earth Mother and be rebirthed into something that offers shelter and/or food for others in the Forest. Ahh, the sweetness of “recycling!” Thursday, June 19, 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. the Deepening into Wisdom circle will gather to share stories of their fathers. Join us as we reflect on the gifts we gleaned from the fathers in our lives. Who knows, there may be other such silly sayings and songs that give us belly laughs. And keep in mind, Fathers come in many ways, whether biological, adopted, or through a mentorship, or perhaps it was a grandfather, they served to guide us through important times in our life. The Clan Mother for June is “Storyteller,” read more about her on the 13 Clan Mother link. There are a couple of questions to consider that she may offer to help you share your “story!” Friday, June 20 at 10:41 p.m. Summer astrologically begins. It is when the Sun is at its highest point in the sky and marks the longest day of the year. What a wonderful time to enjoy the fullness of the Summer season. What wonderful adventures lie in front of you this summer season? Saturday, June 28, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. our newest offering is birthed, “Infinite Possibilities, the Art of Living your Dreams." Read more details about this course on our Events link, and contact Vicky if more information is needed. I am truly excited to share such a powerful, simple, and yet life changing program. From my heart to yours, Vicky  As we come down to the finish line of May, now would be a good time to reflect on the moments of success. We started the month recognizing the importance of "Mental Health Awareness." With the passing of Jim Irsay, it seems noteworthy to have such a visible reminder of the influence just one person can make to so many. Mr. Irsay lived with mental challenges throughout most of his life, and he used those experiences to offer a "hand up" to others. He demonstrated how to take responsibility for his actions and Never Give Up to overcome such a difficult struggle. He didn't complain or blame anyone; rather, he choice to be an advocate by living from a place of conviction to help inspire others to NGU! He offered those struggling with such difficulties a sense of dignity to believe in themselves. I venture to say there is not a soul in this world who hasn't experienced a "dark night of the soul." The opportunity that comes from moving through such times is to learn a great deal about one's personal strength and courage to claim the divine self that lives within.
The Indy 500 has a new, first time "winner." A 23 year old young man, Alex Palou from Spain. In addition, we saw Helio Catroneves, a 50 year old, 4 time winner, challenged himself to a possible 5th win. He even came in 13th after starting at the 22nd position. So, I ask you, is he a "winner?" The remaining 31 drivers are all "winners" in my book. Why? because they had the courage and tenacity to go for their dreams. They Never Gave Up on those dreams. All too often we talk about "winners" and "losers." I ask you, whoever we gets up every morning and goes to work, whatever the amount of pay or position they hold at the workplace are they not a "winners?" Perhaps it is time to consider using the word "success." Simply living, provides ample opportunities to test our courage and bravery to muster up the strength and take the initiate to take action in life. Regardless how large or how small the successes, they are just that; a sign of the personal strength and sense of responsibility to take action for themselves and their families. Which leads the recognition of those and their families, that paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country, and for people and families of other countries. It certainly is a reminder of the awesome life and opportunities each of us have! In conclusion. let's make every day, "Mental Health Awareness" day! Let's "treat people they way we want to be treated!" We're all "winners!" We all have "success" in our lives. I say, "Winner, winner, chicken dinner!" Get ready, Colonel Sanders, Sgt. Peppers, Popeye's or any other favorite chicken place you enjoy, we're lining up to enjoy the well-deserved chicken dinners offered! Events: Check out our Events tab for two terrific retreats being offered in June. The fifth offering of the "Mandala Retreat," and the first offering of "Infinite Possibilities." Both offer support for the "winner" in you! "Success" is made possible when we take the first step to move towards our dreams. Please read the Community Events link for more details. These retreats offer a path to living life in balance and with clear intention, as well as a solid means to Walk the Sacred Path of your true divine self! From my heart to yours, Vicky "When the power of Love overcomes the love of Power, the world will know peace." Jimmy Hendrix As we move through yet another month at warp speed, now would be a good time to pause and reflect on the events May offered. First was the recognition that May was designated "Mental Health Awareness" month which allowed us to consider our own state of mental health, which we will mention later in this blog. Next was the world renown, Indy 500 and all the festivities associated with the "checkered flag." Lastly, the opportunity to honor and commemorate the men and women of the U.S. military who died while serving their country. It is a time to pay tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. In 1868 General John A. Logan officially designated May 30th as a day to honor and show respect for those heroes. Using the 500 race analogy, "I wondered how many times we 'Change Lanes' in our life?" Certainly when in high speed, stressful, or intense situations we have to make quick decisions which, of course, raises our blood pressure, causes our heart rate to increase, and our breathing to become shallow. At those times, our head springs into action and our natural instincts kick in to manage the situation. In the case of race car drivers, and the military men and woman, those situations were chosen. Something within their inner sanctum moved them into action to pursue their "calling." We cannot know for certain the specific moment when that desire was birthed. What we can know, is it was chosen and the action was taken to bring that dream to fruition. Each of us have an "inner sanctum," a place deep within our heart that beckons to be of assistance, to offer support, and guidance during our life, that wishes only to be of service. It's getting to that place that often requires we change lanes many times throughout our life. It take courage to find that place, take action, and if the choice was disappointing or not as satisfying as we had hoped, to return with a strong, positive energy to move in a different direction. Thusly, our mental dialogue, that inner chatter needs to be from our inner sanctum, rather than a fearful, negative, self-defeating place. All too often our human conditioning may lead us to a place that does not serve the love and sweetness we wish to have in our lives, or in the world. Let us cross the finish line into June with a renewed desire to take the warm, welcoming of summer and infuse our hearts and those around us with patience and compassion. Let's help society "Change Lanes" to a path with more understanding, acceptance and heart felt fun! Events: A quick note: Deadline is June 5 to sign up for our next, "Using the Mandala as a Compass" retreat being held on Saturday, June 7, 1-4. bring a friend and learn the basic of living a balanced life and getting to know and trust your inner sanctum! Read more about the retreat on our Community Events link. We will be offering our first, "Infinite Possibilities" class on, Saturday, June 28, 10-4. More information will be posted on the Events page by June 1. Until then, go to: https://www.tut.com, or better yet, purchase Mike Dooley's book, "Infinite Possibilities." It is a game changer for creating the life you truly desire. From my heart to yours, Vicky  As nature unfolds her beauty, I am reminded of the rich abundance available to each and every one of us. Life offers a plethora of opportunities to choose and create the life of our dreams. Whatever we truly desire can and will come in fruition. Sometimes those statements seem too grandiose, too unachievable, too distant. Whatever word fits one's current life situation, those words are true. Those times when nothing seems to line-up or is taking too long, are the times when we need to really go within . . . to our heart. All too often the voices in our head run at warp speed out of fear and doubt. Of course, we have financial obligations to live in this world, and with layoffs, competition with other job seekers, and other extenuating circumstances, our head is doing it's job! Perhaps the loss of a relationship, death of a loved one or another major disappointment was the culprit for the pain we feel. Our beautiful mind's job is to figure things out, strategize, search for options, and the list goes on. While it is doing it's job, it also can become a judge that reminds us of all the things we "should've/could've" done or we would not be in the current situation. The Truth is, life brings challenges, circumstances often beyond our control, whichever the case, chances are your heart is hurting. Those are the times when growth and change is just on the other side of what we are confronting. Indeed, it is very difficult to summons up the courage to find the strength to set aside time each day to become clear on what we want when our heart heals. We live at a time when support, guidance, and information is rampant, and yet, we often feel very alone. So, how do we heal? If there is one thing I know for certain, "Thoughts become things," one of the first places to begin is to examine those ruminating thoughts. Begin from a place of being the observer and you will quickly discover what needs attention and carefully examined. Doing that takes a great deal of time and commitment. It takes reflecting with gentle eyes on your prior experiences and examining what you learned. Then with tenderness, turn towards your heart and the healing will begin. Every person alive has met such life-changing times in their life, and if we will reach out to a group, attend a retreat, join a yoga or other healing modality, we will begin to feed our spiritual self. If we are faithful to our true, authentic self, our tears will become less and hope will return. We live in a fast pace world and yet when life circumstances happen, it takes time! It does, however, happen with each step we take. And, if we "never give up," we can begin to feed hope, faith and a knowing there is a divine source that is on our side. Some food for thought: Check out our Resource tab, there are some remarkable gatherings by impeccable human beings that offer diverse ways to identify and enrich your heart while feeding your beautiful mind! Check out our Events tab for offerings here at Dancing Flame Medicine Lodge as well. Lastly, I recently became certified as an "infinite Possibilities" Trainer. What a profound way to truly become aware of who you truly are when unencumbered by old stories and shifting your thoughts. We will be offering that course sometime this summer. Periodically check our Events page for other opportunities as well. Until then, enjoy the colorful display of spring growth. Remember, they too, had to wait until the perfect time to come into their fullness! From my heart to all you brave warriors heart's, Vicky  |
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February 2026
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