Bingo With My Oma

The change of seasons has always had such an effect on me. The scents of different flowers, the anticipation of what the summer brings, and just the feeling in the air triggers so many cherished memories for me. 

In particular, joining my Oma (My German Grandmother pictured above with my Opa) at church and then Bingo, Bridge or Canasta card games with her ladies' group. 

I always loved Bingo the best because it was the one game, she would allow me to participate in by carefully placing the chips on her card.

I can remember the excitement as we waited with bated breath to see if I would be the one who could jump up and yell "BINGO!"

Although winning BINGO was definitely the high point of my visit with Oma, I can't help but reflect on how I subconsciously admired the dedication that these women had to each other, and how they cherished their time together.

Every woman had a story. The stories evolved as the seasons in their lives changed. The patterns and origins were different yet there was a certain presence of respect amongst them. They were like one big orchestra moving in an out of their seasons exactly as they were meant to move - similar to the natural way we move into and through environmental seasonality.

Since opening The Haven I recognize the similarities of my "BINGO" days with my Oma.  It feels familiar and safe.

I look forward in sharing these newfound moments with my newfound friends at The Haven. 

Consider joining the fun between May 15th through June 30th at The Haven Yoga & Spiritual Sanctuary for Yoga Bingo. 

See you on your mat!

“The Courageous Peony”

I want to tell you a story about The Courageous Peony. This story is prompted by an oracle card I pulled recently. It was no coincidence after leaving Lowes earlier that day, debating whether or not I wanted to buy some peony bulbs (my favorite flower).  I deliberated over the purchase because of how much time it would take to see a result from the time I’d plant them to the time they’d blossom. The story of The Courageous Peony goes like this... "Flowers don't open and close according to who walks by. They embrace what they are and show it to the world around them. The peony doesn't try to compete with the cherry blossom, and the cherry blossom doesn't try to compete with the tulip - THEY OWN WHAT THEY ARE AND TRUST THE TIMING OF THEIR TRUE NATURE." I began my own personal growth garden back in 2017, and figuratively speaking, I was that bulb that needed to be rooted.  First, I needed to agree to plant myself in the work that I needed to do and find the nourishment I needed to grow. This story is about being called to be open to being seen.  How are you answering that call?  As we approach the month of May and flowers are blossoming all around us, I ask you to consider opening up like a flower petal blooming and be seen too. In the spirit of the Spring Season, The Haven Yoga & Spiritual Sanctuary is continuously growing. We have been manifesting a lot of incredible things that are beginning to fall right into place for our very special studio! Stay tuned for many new updates related to new classes and services including breathwork, manifestation, infrared sauna therapy, and details on our big move to a new location in April 2023! Without all of you, this tremendous growth would never be possible. Thank you for your support over the past two years. Things are happening at The Haven! Thank you for joining us on this very special journey. Namaste

The Rocky Road To Authenticity

For awhile, I didn’t know who I was nor what my purpose is in this life.  I didn’t do what I loved nor loved what I did.  I was a puppet on a string trying to conform to societal expectations. 

My dad would tell me “either humble yourself or life will do it for you”. I never quite knew what that meant until I was faced with some pretty intense situations and experiences. Each of which, gradually peeled a layer away forcing me to examine and consider the rocky road to my authentic self. It wasn’t comfortable nor easy but I learned that I had a choice to contract or expand. I gratefully chose the latter. 

I face many ugly truths about myself, my life and my relationships each day to stay grounded in the process. I shed many people who were my closest friends, turned inward and took years to reflect on where my responsibilities lay in everything I have done and do. I was sad and discouraged about my losses, but letting go of certain people, places and things made room for closer connections with others seeking the same. 

I forgave myself and others. I’ve also been forgiven allowing me to connect and accept myself exactly as I was and as I am in this moment. 

I practice truth, love, kindness, silence and non-judgement and do more each day to sink into my values.  I am a work in progress. I am not perfect, nor do I strive for perfection.  I do what I can in each moment to lean into my goals toward authenticity so I can give everyone I meet, the best version of myself. 

For so long, I cared more about belonging than I did about finding out about who I really am and what I have to offer. I worried how I looked and what I had as opposed to what I have to give. 

Today, I spend more time on myself so I don’t have time to criticize others. I am anchored into my values and boundaries, and my desire for personal growth and abundance is stronger than my desire to belong. I’ve come a long way. I continue to peel away the layers. I feel lighter. 

I know my purpose, and I am passionate about going on this journey with others who are open to gain awareness, and do the work necessary to live their best lives ever.  Are you?  If so, find it at The  Haven Yoga & Spiritual Sanctuary.