Grateful for the Otter Spirit in Me!

Though I've not seen an otter in years, they're playful, joyful critters, at home in the ocean and in free-flowing rivers, sometimes  beneath waterfalls.

They love to play hide and seek, carefree, and untroubled as they enjoy the simple pleasures of being in the water. moving with grace and delight.  They are on the go,  curious, adventuresome, totally at home in the elements of earth or water.
When pregnant with Lara (above) and Meagan,  swimming was my greatest delight, giving me strength to carry twins full-term, even as an older mother. 

    Otter "medicine" is about nurturing our sisterhood, the bonds that enjoy and share the good fortunes of others without preconceptions  or suspicions.  I see my daughters being playful, friendly, nurturing these kinds of bonds with the men as well as the women in their lives.  This is women energy without games, and I am so grateful to see it unfolding first between Lara and Meagan, and now to so many folks lucky to be their friends and colleagues.  This open, trusting way of living, with boundaries when appropriate too, is possible for men as well as women.  As I make my medicine shield for the West this month, I feel moved to include two otters, for they embody a hearty, healthy way of relating to others, and I feel a deep sadness that otters are now endangered in many places, along with bears,  wolves, whales, and so many species because humans have often ignored their needs and treated them abusively, sometimes even intentionally.
      I am indeed grateful to see the otter spirit in my own offspring, and hopefully alive and well in me as I am regaining my balance!

Spring is in the Air!

A storm is moving  in.  Glad I got to see the daffodils unfolding yesterday, and remembered to roll up the car windows.  I  am  learning to be patient,  and wait to plant until the ground has more moisture, the air is warmer, and I feel guided instead of rushing out, buying starts that I cannot protect from drought and storms.  Meanwhile Bianca is adapting gracefully to her new home, and she got a clean bill of health from the vet yesterday; we could both lose some weight, but it is easier to exercise for me.  She's been in a cage over a month, so needs encouragement to be active again.  One step at a time.  Already a neighbor dropped by, willing to give her food and water and a bit of company if I go away overnight.  New beginnings don't have to be difficult if we allow them to unfold in their own timing!