Yep - you read that one right… We woke up this morning to the smell of a skunk. My husband reached over and said, “Jen - do you smell that?!” And comically enough, I got excited because our skunk friend is back! (I had totally forgotten about their mating season, which threw us for a loop last year when we couldn’t understand why it kept showing up in our fenced backyard… but here we are again.) Our windows aren’t open, so you can imagine how strong the scent is. That, and I have a sensitive nose. My mind immediately started running through possibilities - was she in our backyard area (it’s fenced but if neighborhood cats can slide in, then a skunk possibly could). Was she startled by our neighborhood cat, SmokeDog, who likes to come up to the window and say hello to my two indoor cats? Or are they just in the backyard foraging for something? We don’t have much to offer other than bird seed. Regardless, I felt like it was time to look into the skunk and learn more about its spiritual connection. Check out these pics for more info, including the root chakra connection, themes of self-reliance, self-defense, and awareness. Sometimes a skunk appearance can be a reminder to step into your own power. Any animal hellos coming in for you over the last few days?

I was guided to pull a card this morning from the Loving Words from Jesus deck, and this message came forward: "Love one another as I have loved you." — John 13:34 For some people, the name Jesus can carry complicated feelings because of past experiences with organized religion. I completely understand that, and many of us in this community have walked that path in different ways. When I reflect on Jesus as a sacred guide, I look through the lens of love and compassion - what many people today call "Christ Consciousness" - the practice of meeting the world with empathy, forgiveness, and care for one another. At its core, this message is simple and universal: Love others. Lead with compassion. Treat people the way the way you would like to be treated. This was a great card to have pulled in my opinion as it invites us to show up in the world with a little more kindness and a little more heart. May today bring you moments of joy, and may you share that joy with the world.

During the Rise and Align Connect on the 5th, we pulled some cards, and three of them were from the Goddess Guidance Oracle Card Deck. Interestingly, all three were new to everyone in the group. Taking a moment now to learn more about each one and share. (3 of 3) Diana Focused Intention "Keep your unwavering thoughts, feelings, and actions focused on your target, and you will make your mark." Various Meanings - Stay positive - Know what your priorities are and take action on them - Take control of your schedule - Release all doubts - Avoid naysayers and skeptics About Diana This Roman moon goddess carries the silver bow and arrow given to her in childhood by her father, Jupiter. Because her mother bore Diana and her twin brother painlessly, Diana is associated with healthy childbirth. Diana loves spending time in nature and is particularly fond of oak trees and watching over wild animals. You can call upon her for help with animals, painless childbirth, and connecting with nature and the elements.

During the Rise and Align Connect on the 5th, we pulled some cards, and three of them were from the Goddess Guidance Oracle Card Deck. Interestingly, all three were new to everyone in the group. Taking a moment now to learn more about each one and share. (2 of 3) Peace "There is no need to worry, as everything is working out beautifully." Various Meanings - Give your cares and worries to Heaven - Pray - Meditate - Engage in peace-enhancing activities such as yoga, sea-salt baths, massage, naps, music, playfulness, and the like. About Eireen Eireen is a Greek goddess whose sisters include the goddesses of Lawfulness and Justice. She brings peacefulness to all who call upon her. The Romans referred to her as Pax, which means peace. Eireen helps us replace worry with faith and reminds us to retain our childlike awe and enthusiasm for life.

During the Rise and Align Connect on the 5th, we pulled some cards, and three of them were from the Goddess Guidance Oracle Card Deck. Interestingly, all three were new to everyone in the group. Taking a moment now to learn more about each one and share. (1 of 3) Aeracura Blossoming "You are getting started, so have patience with yourself and the process, and do not give up." - Guidance - Slow down - Have patience - Get involved with gardening - Use aromatherapy and/or flower essences - Keep the faith Aeracura is a Celtic and Germanic goddess who multitasks as an Earth Mother, deity, fairy queen, and a bridge between earthly life and the hereafter. She helps us put our goals and challenges into perspective so we don’t needlessly stress ourselves. Call upon her for emergency financial support or help manifesting supply. She is especially fond of assisting artists and inventors.