tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68432739418774872652024-03-13T23:45:59.153-04:00WAKING PLANETWelcome to our Waking Planet!
I hope this blog feels like an oasis of peace and beauty that renews and re-engergizes you!
I also include links to my other blogs- that often include action we can take as we co-create the saner, more just and heavenly world this world is meant to be.
Join the Waking Planet community on FB!
May peace and love prevail! So glad you are here.Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.comBlogger105125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-90544834702948127212018-10-07T12:56:00.000-04:002018-10-07T12:56:48.119-04:00Four Signs You Are a Warrior of the Love Revolution!<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hYi90Dlbr4s" width="480"></iframe><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feeling sadness about the state of our world? Don't despair. It just may mean you are a warrior of the Love Revolution!
We all have unique and important roles to play in these extraordinary times.of shifting consciousness. Are you being called to rise up and make the contribution that only you can make?
Subscribe to this blog, visit WakingPlanet.com and join the Waking Planet group on Facebook! Let's support each other in these transformative times!</span>Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-48859806422332497292016-01-18T10:38:00.001-05:002016-01-18T10:39:19.603-05:00"Hate Cannot Drive Out Hate; Only Love Can Do That"<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CaPN_Xzccfc/Vp0CtemaRQI/AAAAAAAABic/udap-iPZMGU/s1600/passing-storm-Upton2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CaPN_Xzccfc/Vp0CtemaRQI/AAAAAAAABic/udap-iPZMGU/s640/passing-storm-Upton2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This has always been one of my favorite quotes of Dr King, but the expanded quote makes it even better and never has it been as apropos as it is today.<br />
<br />
<span style="line-height: 107%;">“The
ultimate weakness of violence is that it is a descending spiral, </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;">
begetting the very thing it seeks to destroy. <br />
Instead of diminishing evil, it multiplies it.<br />
Through violence you may murder the liar, <br />
but you cannot murder the lie, nor establish the truth. <br />
Through violence you may murder the hater, <br />
but you do not murder hate. <br />
In fact, violence merely increases hate. <br />
So it goes. <br />
Returning violence for violence multiplies violence, <br />
adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. <br />
Darkness cannot drive out darkness: <br />
only light can do that. <br />
Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.<br />
<br />
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.</span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;">New Paltz Women in Black is in its 15th year of standing for peace and justice every Saturday (on Main St in front of the Elting Library- 12:45-1:30 PM, New Paltz, NY). If you are in the area, all peace-loving people are welcome to join us!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-22pjbkXngLU/Vp0GSehoroI/AAAAAAAABiw/95AUayNsGbQ/s1600/moni-pic-wib%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-22pjbkXngLU/Vp0GSehoroI/AAAAAAAABiw/95AUayNsGbQ/s640/moni-pic-wib%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SGpLbkGGewE/Vp0D1eyaUzI/AAAAAAAABik/xKeRiSDLtPM/s1600/peace%2Bwomen%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="291" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SGpLbkGGewE/Vp0D1eyaUzI/AAAAAAAABik/xKeRiSDLtPM/s400/peace%2Bwomen%2B2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Imagine" Photo by April Hubbard, hand painted by Barbara Upton<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-35467105785171673252015-09-09T16:57:00.003-04:002015-09-09T16:57:55.938-04:00Pond Friends in Stone and Rock!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9KQ8RDWOCoU/VfBfv0BmeWI/AAAAAAAABeM/xMzWLCMulsM/s1600/stones-hor-pond.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="432" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9KQ8RDWOCoU/VfBfv0BmeWI/AAAAAAAABeM/xMzWLCMulsM/s640/stones-hor-pond.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pond Friends B Upton</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I began this little stone project in August quite spontaneously. I was lifting sod off rocks my husband laid down years ago. After all that tugging and pulling I had just a little space cleared and thought -now I'll reward myself by creating a little spiral, and it all flowed from there! It took forever to create and it may have some resemblance to Tibetan sand art, as I didn't prepare the ground as I should have. The whole thing may eventually wash into the pond. A lesson in non-attachment!<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It was a pleasurable and grounding experience during a challenging time in my life. I lost my best friend a few months ago, both of my sons were facing difficulties, I had surgery in May (a new hip- I recommend it!) and I did this project while waiting for results from another medical issue that came up. Thankfully, those results came in OK. Just sitting and digging into the earth and arranging rocks and stones felt very healing. <div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VPYRowWX_2s/VfBklUtW7GI/AAAAAAAABeg/ko9cTE5kmYc/s1600/DSC01265_1164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VPYRowWX_2s/VfBklUtW7GI/AAAAAAAABeg/ko9cTE5kmYc/s400/DSC01265_1164.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I was also surprised to have a regular visitor while I worked. In the beginning, he just watched me for long periods, then he ventured very close and at one point even hopped into my lap! I didn't get that shot, but you can just make him out below, between my legs. Froggy also hung out with his cousin Lizard (below). I wanted to create a frog in stone (they are so ubiquitous in this pond) but instead, the minnow, lizard, turtle, snake and dragonfly showed up. This little fellow seemed to say it was OK - the frogs approved.<br />
<br />
<div>
There was also a dragonfly that often landed on the stone dragonfly! Here it is - ready for take-off. I've interspersed photos of the rock project with wild flowers growing near the pond. I hope you enjoy!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d1k13EbHRMk/VfBljUKEzmI/AAAAAAAABes/pXeoSpDzot0/s1600/stones-dragonfly2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d1k13EbHRMk/VfBljUKEzmI/AAAAAAAABes/pXeoSpDzot0/s320/stones-dragonfly2.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dragon or Damselfly?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Po37xDIYnO8/VfB3uXKZn4I/AAAAAAAABgU/oIpguHzDRY8/s1600/DSC01236_1201.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Po37xDIYnO8/VfB3uXKZn4I/AAAAAAAABgU/oIpguHzDRY8/s640/DSC01236_1201.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clover</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VCZsJAZwxoM/VfBmRyFAXrI/AAAAAAAABfU/ct03-Ao-OAU/s1600/stones-queen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VCZsJAZwxoM/VfBmRyFAXrI/AAAAAAAABfU/ct03-Ao-OAU/s320/stones-queen.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Queen Anne's Lace Ready to Bloom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p534jVo6mYM/VfBy1qSVgLI/AAAAAAAABf8/eqRiEPCcFG8/s1600/stones-turtle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p534jVo6mYM/VfBy1qSVgLI/AAAAAAAABf8/eqRiEPCcFG8/s400/stones-turtle.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Turtle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pczgkZ3sEEo/VfB7gH5WKbI/AAAAAAAABg0/q5wvrtl3aN8/s1600/DSC01385_1035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pczgkZ3sEEo/VfB7gH5WKbI/AAAAAAAABg0/q5wvrtl3aN8/s640/DSC01385_1035.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blooming Wild Flower</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fQ2PXm2J9Mo/VfB72YXvJoI/AAAAAAAABhM/bFsiuwGhCDM/s1600/DSC01259_1158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fQ2PXm2J9Mo/VfB72YXvJoI/AAAAAAAABhM/bFsiuwGhCDM/s320/DSC01259_1158.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Overseer</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DA0UVNL8o7c/VfBmUotpxkI/AAAAAAAABfs/6BY6xiZcigg/s1600/stones-vertical.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DA0UVNL8o7c/VfBmUotpxkI/AAAAAAAABfs/6BY6xiZcigg/s640/stones-vertical.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vertical Shot- the pond is to the right</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8r2rYok3W3Y/VfB7kNxCYoI/AAAAAAAABhI/PdajmGmyMsQ/s1600/DSC01129_1326.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8r2rYok3W3Y/VfB7kNxCYoI/AAAAAAAABhI/PdajmGmyMsQ/s640/DSC01129_1326.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butterfly on White Butterfly Bush (not planted- a volunteer)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-feGWUePql5M/VfBmObDLULI/AAAAAAAABfA/3ect3DxMRkg/s1600/stones-lizard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-feGWUePql5M/VfBmObDLULI/AAAAAAAABfA/3ect3DxMRkg/s400/stones-lizard.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Lizard<br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mDmSr7d5zl4/VfCAL7D_rPI/AAAAAAAABhk/3Ub2kwRlUdo/s1600/frog-by-lizard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: 12.8px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mDmSr7d5zl4/VfCAL7D_rPI/AAAAAAAABhk/3Ub2kwRlUdo/s640/frog-by-lizard.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-db-DKsQIVPA/VfB7VC_hZ6I/AAAAAAAABgw/-qnBxdMViP0/s1600/DSC01367_1017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-db-DKsQIVPA/VfB7VC_hZ6I/AAAAAAAABgw/-qnBxdMViP0/s400/DSC01367_1017.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vMvleCb_JBQ/VfBmPL1RhpI/AAAAAAAABfI/blTqvs82n6k/s1600/stones-horiz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vMvleCb_JBQ/VfBmPL1RhpI/AAAAAAAABfI/blTqvs82n6k/s640/stones-horiz.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wwzucCH13nk/VfB1jOaJmWI/AAAAAAAABgE/CrIvYjuCKiI/s1600/minnow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wwzucCH13nk/VfB1jOaJmWI/AAAAAAAABgE/CrIvYjuCKiI/s200/minnow.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Minnow<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pk3VyIzxJUQ/VfB9ITD_PsI/AAAAAAAABhY/U7Pc_tD3JgY/s1600/DSC01232_1197.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pk3VyIzxJUQ/VfB9ITD_PsI/AAAAAAAABhY/U7Pc_tD3JgY/s400/DSC01232_1197.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pVwQLQMhBGE/VfCCFQxw34I/AAAAAAAABhw/IBDtcRq8rVQ/s1600/stones-dragonfly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pVwQLQMhBGE/VfCCFQxw34I/AAAAAAAABhw/IBDtcRq8rVQ/s640/stones-dragonfly.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Lastly, here is the frog hanging out with me and a little fun I had with shadows. May the blessings of our divine, natural world also soothe and strengthen you on your life journey! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rmFwsiclT3k/VfBkfhm2ZUI/AAAAAAAABec/HNqo23hRCNc/s1600/DSC01276_1175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rmFwsiclT3k/VfBkfhm2ZUI/AAAAAAAABec/HNqo23hRCNc/s320/DSC01276_1175.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hvNTcOlvAYY/VfCFaK_qc4I/AAAAAAAABh8/jz90NxbxpLw/s1600/stones-shadow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hvNTcOlvAYY/VfCFaK_qc4I/AAAAAAAABh8/jz90NxbxpLw/s400/stones-shadow.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-63762512012532860352015-07-14T22:12:00.000-04:002015-07-14T22:59:26.899-04:00Pluto's Message<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3u1LPNx2vb8/VaXBKjiDHMI/AAAAAAAABdo/705NB6rmOrI/s1600/pluto-love.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3u1LPNx2vb8/VaXBKjiDHMI/AAAAAAAABdo/705NB6rmOrI/s640/pluto-love.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> B Upton</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-29361422613729577162014-10-17T15:06:00.001-04:002014-10-17T18:15:20.508-04:00"God's Wife" and Other Truths Revealed in Art Show, "Truth Out"<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>God's Wife</b></span></div>
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BEh1IGF6U2A/VDV8732_ZkI/AAAAAAAABYM/f0UTyqtrR9k/s1600/gods-wife-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BEh1IGF6U2A/VDV8732_ZkI/AAAAAAAABYM/f0UTyqtrR9k/s1600/gods-wife-2.jpg" height="640" width="504" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"God's Wife" Acrylic by Barbara Upton<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">On Saturday, October 18 from 4 to 7 PM there will be an art show double header at </span><span style="font-size: small;">the Unframed Artists Gallery, 173 Huguenot Street in New Paltz, NY. In the Big Room Gallery, there will be a </span><span style="font-size: small;">special, end of show party</span><span style="font-size: small;"> for the provocative art exhibit, "Truth Out". Artists have explored and exposed what has been hidden, ranging from the personal; with subjects such as domestic violence and over-prescription use, to the political; exposing fracking, nuclear dangers, wars and assassinations. It really is a must see show. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">It is also the opening of a new show "Exuberance" in the Main Gallery. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Unframed-Artists-Gallery/133642503357333">Unframed Artists Gallery</a> on Facebook said this about "Exuberance" </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 10.2399997711182px;">"To soften the night, walk the twinkling path to the Main Gallery and enjoy the lush colors and dynamic compositions in </span><br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 10.2399997711182px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 10.2399997711182px;">fabric, paint on canvas, drawings, sculpture and and glazed ceramics as 24 artists of the Hudson Valley share feelings of </span></span><br />
<span style="color: white;"><span style="background-color: black; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 10.2399997711182px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 10.2399997711182px;"><span style="background-color: black;">excitement, awe and joy. Light refreshments will be served. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fafbfb; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 10.2399997711182px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">For "Truth Out" I chose to depict a woman who is usually cropped out of Michelangelo's "Creation of Adam"on the Sistine Chapel. Most of us are </span><span style="font-size: small;">familiar with this:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 12.8000001907349px; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hogKzqMLJ_8/VEFYJfLvB8I/AAAAAAAABYk/kUNAqn9mkV8/s1600/god-hand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hogKzqMLJ_8/VEFYJfLvB8I/AAAAAAAABYk/kUNAqn9mkV8/s1600/god-hand.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 12.8000001907349px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 12.8000001907349px; text-align: center;">
and this:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RPrMmDkByDg/VEFYJbhZXPI/AAAAAAAABYc/n0RCoP9x6GA/s1600/god-adam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RPrMmDkByDg/VEFYJbhZXPI/AAAAAAAABYc/n0RCoP9x6GA/s1600/god-adam.jpg" height="278" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 12.8000001907349px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 130%;">But did you ever notice God’s left arm is
wrapped around a bare-breasted, young beauty?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 130%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jdtbEYGI4oU/VEGMlmUuCoI/AAAAAAAABcU/FlrQTwJyMjk/s1600/gods-wife-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jdtbEYGI4oU/VEGMlmUuCoI/AAAAAAAABcU/FlrQTwJyMjk/s1600/gods-wife-3.jpg" height="320" width="242" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 130%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 130%;">Scholars think she may be
representing the Shekinah, also known as Sophia, God’s beloved from the
Kabbalah which Michelangelo would have been exposed to at the Platonic Academy.
The Gnostic gospels discovered in 1946, show that the triad of these early
Christians was The Father, The Mother and The Son. In Aramaic, the language of
Jesus, the word for God was </span><i style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 130%;">Abwoon</i><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 130%;">,
which translates as Father/Mother God. So the idea that God had a wife and she was also divine was a given in those times.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 130%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 130%;">But it
didn’t take the church fathers (not a mother among them) long to erase any
mention of the sacred feminine from church doctrine. Instead, women and female
sexuality have been demonized for the past 5,000 years! We are now paying the price
for this severe imbalance that alienates humans from the earth, each other and
from their deepest selves. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 130%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 130%;">To me, this woman represents the
rebirth of the Divine Feminine – the healing balm our world so desperately
needs at this time. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 130%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 130%;">She has been
hidden for thousands of years, but now is her time and women and men who choose
compassion over competition, peace over war and love over fear are the vehicles
for her expression. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 130%;">When the
masculine and feminine are in equal balance, a new era will commence - a world
that works for everyone!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 130%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large; line-height: 130%;"><b>Intriguing "Truth Out" Art Show</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 130%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MWfx-_bFkH0/VEFc6Wc0BgI/AAAAAAAABY4/4qI4zcgjaMg/s1600/DSC00873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MWfx-_bFkH0/VEFc6Wc0BgI/AAAAAAAABY4/4qI4zcgjaMg/s1600/DSC00873.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 130%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 12.6666669845581px;">
<span style="line-height: 16.6399993896484px;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Issues such as homelessness, domestic violence, war, hegemony </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 12.6666669845581px;">
<span style="line-height: 16.6399993896484px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 12.6666669845581px;">
<span style="line-height: 16.6399993896484px;"><span style="font-size: large;">and environmental degradation are at once revealed, yet addressed </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 12.6666669845581px;">
<span style="line-height: 16.6399993896484px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="line-height: 130%;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 12.6666669845581px;">
<span style="line-height: 16.6399993896484px;"><span style="font-size: large;">with concise sensitivity." New Paltz Times 9/18</span></span></div>
<span style="line-height: 130%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="line-height: 130%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ye_mQbmh0I0/VEFgGw5HkNI/AAAAAAAABcE/CCaWFF62kGg/s1600/DSC00853.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ye_mQbmh0I0/VEFgGw5HkNI/AAAAAAAABcE/CCaWFF62kGg/s1600/DSC00853.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X9p2YuD1c_k/VEFdr5YD8CI/AAAAAAAABZI/j5UiJsi-nC8/s1600/DSC00854.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X9p2YuD1c_k/VEFdr5YD8CI/AAAAAAAABZI/j5UiJsi-nC8/s1600/DSC00854.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VXATcz_QdaM/VEFdsI6CVFI/AAAAAAAABZM/u5pJ0rpr_DE/s1600/DSC00855.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kB4z3DHqi7g/VEFdupQek2I/AAAAAAAABZo/bIm3ImTd6XU/s1600/DSC00857.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kB4z3DHqi7g/VEFdupQek2I/AAAAAAAABZo/bIm3ImTd6XU/s1600/DSC00857.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T01VmcgE6qc/VEFdvYkbSHI/AAAAAAAABZw/5JutFT06YC8/s1600/DSC00858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T01VmcgE6qc/VEFdvYkbSHI/AAAAAAAABZw/5JutFT06YC8/s1600/DSC00858.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EcL5wp5KHWQ/VEFdv0lljNI/AAAAAAAABZ0/guaEvYdVeao/s1600/DSC00859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EcL5wp5KHWQ/VEFdv0lljNI/AAAAAAAABZ0/guaEvYdVeao/s1600/DSC00859.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yzkNZ3NMr9U/VEFdwq0mDPI/AAAAAAAABZ8/kFKqTr6uev0/s1600/DSC00860.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yzkNZ3NMr9U/VEFdwq0mDPI/AAAAAAAABZ8/kFKqTr6uev0/s1600/DSC00860.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4lPOL16JtEE/VEGUWWNkuSI/AAAAAAAABck/gqc_yf9WzKs/s1600/DSC00861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4lPOL16JtEE/VEGUWWNkuSI/AAAAAAAABck/gqc_yf9WzKs/s1600/DSC00861.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0l7tmr9fO_4/VEFdyoKWS0I/AAAAAAAABaQ/yS2pnw2M3z4/s1600/DSC00862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0l7tmr9fO_4/VEFdyoKWS0I/AAAAAAAABaQ/yS2pnw2M3z4/s1600/DSC00862.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uswqE3Bb228/VEFd1AfAA4I/AAAAAAAABao/fW2QjXnj9pw/s1600/DSC00865.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uswqE3Bb228/VEFd1AfAA4I/AAAAAAAABao/fW2QjXnj9pw/s1600/DSC00865.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GOFkLK6kmtI/VEFd1n4fvfI/AAAAAAAABas/ESG-DHi7yik/s1600/DSC00866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GOFkLK6kmtI/VEFd1n4fvfI/AAAAAAAABas/ESG-DHi7yik/s1600/DSC00866.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0nxG7W4xoTg/VEFd3KLbE8I/AAAAAAAABa8/NPWL-rGbJv0/s1600/DSC00867.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0nxG7W4xoTg/VEFd3KLbE8I/AAAAAAAABa8/NPWL-rGbJv0/s1600/DSC00867.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uM426XTx-uQ/VEFd3KIOtAI/AAAAAAAABa4/8fSmF_rycpU/s1600/DSC00868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uM426XTx-uQ/VEFd3KIOtAI/AAAAAAAABa4/8fSmF_rycpU/s1600/DSC00868.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2n5sCV15QYo/VEFd3RKWsoI/AAAAAAAABbA/yATAGrY2Tf4/s1600/DSC00869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2n5sCV15QYo/VEFd3RKWsoI/AAAAAAAABbA/yATAGrY2Tf4/s1600/DSC00869.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mnVNZaPJmJY/VEFd6a3GTMI/AAAAAAAABbY/s2JCME12rbI/s1600/DSC00871.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mnVNZaPJmJY/VEFd6a3GTMI/AAAAAAAABbY/s2JCME12rbI/s1600/DSC00871.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z_VBAGZgU4M/VEFd77N7koI/AAAAAAAABbw/zaP3Q4T5MUM/s1600/DSC00874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z_VBAGZgU4M/VEFd77N7koI/AAAAAAAABbw/zaP3Q4T5MUM/s1600/DSC00874.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eK2YGHL6dhA/VEGU0_Cp7UI/AAAAAAAABcs/gJSb5Kk8Eg0/s1600/DSC00870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eK2YGHL6dhA/VEGU0_Cp7UI/AAAAAAAABcs/gJSb5Kk8Eg0/s1600/DSC00870.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cfpEuPBETWs/VEFd8q12LaI/AAAAAAAABb0/Z_-6D90n6Gw/s1600/DSC00875.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cfpEuPBETWs/VEFd8q12LaI/AAAAAAAABb0/Z_-6D90n6Gw/s1600/DSC00875.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;">Unfortunately, my caption function is not working today. The artists from top to bottom, after the group shot, are: Jean Tansey, Catherine Randall (curator) Laura Bolles, Ila Ahulja (2), Mernie Baker, Laura Lanchanten, Linda Mockler, Paul Sandiford, Ruth Pine, Michele Riddell, and Holly K Jackson. I am sorry to say I don't know who did "Criminalize Fracking" - but could it be Michele Riddell? Many other intriguing works are not shown here. Thank you to ALL the exhibitors who made this show so successful and memorable.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">See you there Saturday, Oct 18 from 4 to 7 PM! Don't forget, it is also the opening of the show "Exuberance" in the Main Gallery.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-7040455963928444572014-08-20T14:14:00.001-04:002014-08-20T14:14:03.374-04:00Clear Stream Media: Justice for Michael Brown, Justice for All<a href="http://clearstreammedia.blogspot.com/2014/08/justice-for-michael-brown-justice-for.html?spref=bl">Clear Stream Media: Justice for Michael Brown, Justice for All</a>: New York City Thursday Night anonymous@youranonlive- PopularResistance.org Thou...Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-23822445035022364492014-07-07T09:27:00.000-04:002014-07-07T09:31:53.304-04:00Back to My First Love<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PC8Ex2F2M4c/U7m2PwrwcBI/AAAAAAAABUk/5wc_Zv3LZRM/s1600/flower-fairy+(800x450).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PC8Ex2F2M4c/U7m2PwrwcBI/AAAAAAAABUk/5wc_Zv3LZRM/s1600/flower-fairy+(800x450).jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Photo: B Upton</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So after over a year, I'm happy to be posting on this blog again. I realize I have been out of balance this past year, devoting much of my time to activism - joining the millions rising up around the world to protect the earth and to co-create a world that works for everyone. But that means much of my energy has been <i>against</i>. I would much rather devote my time to sharing positive visions of the new world we are creating! <br />
<br />
But when threats are imminent to such things as our air, water, food and democracy, I think one has to face those challenges squarely, share information and participate in nonviolent, group action to right current wrongs. There is plenty to work on, including opposing:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pqzM0vAhnDg/U7qdFOna8yI/AAAAAAAABVA/3UfbtHtYK3c/s1600/frackno13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pqzM0vAhnDg/U7qdFOna8yI/AAAAAAAABVA/3UfbtHtYK3c/s1600/frackno13.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Yorkers against Fracking photo: Jodiah Jacobs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<ul>
<li>the attempted corporate global coup- aka<a href="http://www.clearstreammedia.blogspot.com/2013/11/what-you-dont-know-about-tpp-will-hurt.html"> the TPP</a> (Transpacific Parntership) and its Atlantic counterpart </li>
<li><a href="http://www.clearstreammedia.blogspot.com/2014/01/new-yorkers-demand-safe-healthy-future.html">fracking</a> in New York </li>
<li>the <a href="http://www.hvnogmos.org/2013/10/five-reasons-to-march-against-monsanto.html">genetic modification of our food supply</a> </li>
<li>the growing <a href="http://clearstreammedia.blogspot.com/2011/10/eye-popping-charts-that-show-how.html">inequality</a> chasm between the elite 1% and the rest of us, corruption, racism and more. </li>
</ul>
Waking Planet was my first blog - where I wanted to share the good news of our awakening world. It is the one closest to my heart. So although I will provide links to <a href="http://www.clearstreammedia.blogspot.com/">Clear Stream Media</a> and <a href="http://www.hvnogmos.org/">Hudson Valley for No GMOs</a>, I will simply share words and images here that I hope remind you of the sacredness and unity of all life; including the love you are at your core! <br />
<br />
The first image I am sharing after this long hiatus, is of a flower I photographed that revealed a little earth angel (no photoshop needed) who had a message to share! I hope it doesn't sound too contradictory to talk about facing problems, yet worry less, but I think once we do accept reality as it is and do our best to right wrongs, then we can let go and remember to enjoy the moment. We can replace thoughts of constant worry with love and appreciation for what we have. <br />
<br />
I dedicate this image to my dear, dear friend Monika- who is a shining star of inspiration to me and to many others. She shares her compassion, wit and wisdom in this <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXArVJ_tdNc">video</a> I did of an art auction we recently held for her. <br />
<br />
So let's accept Monika's invitation to "be at ease as much as possible each day and to enjoy life". I hope Waking Planet contributes to your peace and enjoyment.Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-89568030064168383752013-06-19T10:58:00.000-04:002013-06-19T10:58:12.270-04:00No GMOs!<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/KgKQSoGyIws?rel=0" width="640"></iframe><br />
<br />
Sorry I have not been posting here in awhile- I've been pretty busy (as you can see from this video!).<br />
Will be posting some neat stuff very soon. <br />
<br />
If GMOs in our food supply is troubling to you (it should be) I hope you will check out our other new blog- <a href="http://hv4nogmos.blogspot.com/">Hudson Valley for No GMOs </a>and join us on FB <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Gmo-omg-Hudson-Valley-for-No-GMO/131115900297761?fref=ts">GMO? OMG! Hudson Valley for No GMOs.</a><br />
<br />
The tide is turning. People are waking up to the dangers of GMOs and insisting that our food be labeled like it is in most industrialized nations! If this is new to you, hope you will do some research. What is more important than what we feed ourselves and our families? We have the power and it is time to use it.<br />
<br />
Hope this finds you well and happy. Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-38604421212656764842013-04-20T22:40:00.001-04:002013-04-20T22:40:58.104-04:00Clear Stream Media: Terrorism, Heroism and the Long Suffering of War<a href="http://clearstreammedia.blogspot.com/2013/04/terrorism-heroism-and-long-suffering-of.html?spref=bl">Clear Stream Media: Terrorism, Heroism and the Long Suffering of War</a>: From the Occupy Wall St Light Brigade and the Illuminator Collective The rest of that quote from Martin Luther King is: "Hate c...Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-25742445515025261852013-04-06T22:08:00.002-04:002013-04-06T22:15:32.346-04:00International Women's Day 2013 - SUNY New Paltz, NY<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ePfbAPFMQuA" width="560"></iframe><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>"When women's rights are under attack, what do we do? Stand up, fight back!"</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Women
are rising up all over the world to demand an end to violence against
women and for equal work, equal pay, equal choice and equal rights! </span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZcKQEwfHaa8/UWDWdgrI7mI/AAAAAAAABRM/vVi0qXcXIvc/s1600/earth-at-night-india-935-1355521793+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="410" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZcKQEwfHaa8/UWDWdgrI7mI/AAAAAAAABRM/vVi0qXcXIvc/s640/earth-at-night-india-935-1355521793+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">At
this commemoration of the 102nd anniversary of International Women's
Day, 225 braved a freak snowstorm in New Paltz, NY to hear informative
and inspirational speakers, hear great music and poetry and share in the
good energy of people; female and male, young and old, black and white,
and from all backgrounds, coming together to take a stand for women's rights!</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The
event was part of a nationwide action initiated by W.O.R.D.- Women
Organized to Resist and Defend. Visit this new "grassroots, feminist
organization dedicated to building the struggle for women's rights and
equality for all" at<a href="http://defendwomensrights.org/"> http://defendwomensrights.org/</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Read
more about the event, including summaries of some great speeches and a
list of our 55(!) sponsors- <a href="http://activistnewsletter.blogspot.com/2013/03/03-14-13-activist-newsletter.html">http://activistnewsletter.blogspot.com/2013/03/03-14-13-activist-newsletter.html </a>They included New Paltz Women in Black, a
group I am a proud member of, the NY Civil Liberties Union, Hudson
Valley Labor Federation, Amnesty International (mid-Hudson), Progressive
Academic Network (SUNY), Ulster County Democratic Women and many. many
more. Such widespread support is an acknowledgment of the fact that
although we have come far in advancing women's rights, we still have far
to go. It is also a response to the current reactionary forces that
would take away our basic rights and our collective determination to not
let that happen. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Thanks to the Mid-Hudson Activist
Newsletter, especially to Donna Goodman, for organizing, to all who took
part and to all who braved a snowstorm to attend! Hope you enjoy the
video. </span>Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-75485355449666879532013-01-07T09:24:00.000-05:002013-01-08T16:09:19.897-05:00The Angels Are among Us<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ub0ZZa-C0RA/UOraO45bgAI/AAAAAAAABPs/Vu2mTqtIcjo/s1600/angels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ub0ZZa-C0RA/UOraO45bgAI/AAAAAAAABPs/Vu2mTqtIcjo/s640/angels.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The Angels are among us. They are all around you if you but open
your eyes to See them. They are the people around you with their Light
on and with Love flowing from their Hearts. They are the tears you cry
when you weep with Compassion at what may be happening in your own Life
or the Lives of others. They are the ones who show you kindness when
the kindness has left your own Heart. They are the Atlas that holds the
weight of the World on their shoulders and they are the Atlas that is
the Roadmap to Salvation. They have their hand out for you to grab hold
of when you lose your way. They are the children in our <a class="FAtxtL" href="http://moonhippiemystic.com/2012/12/11/the-angels-are-here/#" id="FALINK_2_0_1" rel="nofollow">schools</a> who
are bullied for being different but stay strong anyway. They are your
children who you tuck into bed every night hoping that the world will be
a better place for them when they grow up. They are the Soldiers and
the Firefighters and the Peacekeepers and the Teachers. They are the
sliver of Light you See in your darkest hour. They are the people who
See the Beauty in Life and have learned to look at things with the Good
Eye. They are the Healers and the “psychics” and the Witches and the
Goddess of the Moon. They are the people who inspire you every day on
every level. They are the people who know that to Truly Forgive you
must Forgive YOURself first. They know we are ALL Clean in God’s eyes
and hold no grudges for we know not what we do without Him. They are
the writers who speak to your Heart and Soul. They are the drama kings
and queens who aren’t afraid to show emotion. They are the artists who
show us all of the brilliant colors and see the wondrous Gifts our
Mother has provided us. They are the farmers who grow the food we eat
because they care. They are the people who take time out of their day
to give you a smile when you forgot how. They are the marital artists
and yogis who have mastered the Mind/Body connection. They are the
bloggers who gently nudge you from your deep slumber. They are the
people who place Value on the status of Life instead of value on the
status of money. They are the people who bond with Mother Earth whether
it’s on the ski slope or in the garden. They are the Tribal Elders and
the Shamans. They are the ones you go to for advice and the people who
always listen when you need an ear. They are the Lightworkers who
Light the path and the channelers who bring you the “news”. They are
the addicts and <a class="FAtxtL" href="http://moonhippiemystic.com/2012/12/11/the-angels-are-here/#" id="FALINK_3_0_2" rel="nofollow">alcoholics</a> whose
Hearts are wounded from the harshness of this World because they don’t
know how Worthy they are of Love. They are those who have Loved and
lost and Lived to Love again. They are the musicians who play beautiful
music that speaks to each of us in a different way. They are the
people who are trying to make a difference in the World and wouldn’t
have it any other way. They are the sentimental people whose Hearts
break when they don’t See Kindness or Compassion. They are the Creators
of their Universe and Live by the <a class="FAtxtL" href="http://moonhippiemystic.com/2012/12/11/the-angels-are-here/#" id="FALINK_1_0_0" rel="nofollow">Universal Laws</a>.
They are the people who never fail to say “Thank You” for everything
that comes their way – good or bad. They are the miracles that happen
in your day no matter how big or small. They are all around you and
they are waiting to be of service in your hour of need. They are the
ones who suffer so we will See including the ones who are dying so that
we may Live. They are above you just waiting for you to ask for their
assistance so they may fly to your side. They are watching you and
standing by. They are the wayshowers who can show you how. The veils
have thinned and are getting thinner and they will arrive in force as
they are awakened to their calling. They are everywhere and they will
be taking over, slowly at first but ever faster. They are there if you
need them, you have but to ask. Do you know one? Do you See them?
Could you be one? YES…<br />
<br />
Copyright © The Moon Hippie Mystic. All rights reserved. You may
copy and distribute this material as long as you do not alter it in any
way, the content remains complete and you include this copyright notice.Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-23830841605698474622012-12-21T14:57:00.004-05:002012-12-21T15:01:10.231-05:00 Birth of the New Earth!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MbgQucy5C4w/UNDIUC389JI/AAAAAAAABIk/GY1lHYD_nk0/s1600/earth-heaven.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MbgQucy5C4w/UNDIUC389JI/AAAAAAAABIk/GY1lHYD_nk0/s640/earth-heaven.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I started to write a post on Friday about 12/12/12, 12/21/12 and what these dates may signify in these times of transformation. Then I heard about the tragedy at the Sandy Hook Elementary School and all focus went on those 26 angels; the 20 little ones and the six adults, the survivors and the families. The nation and indeed much of the world is united in sending healing, peace and love to them all.<br />
<br />
Maybe now, through our tears, it might be a good time to talk about the new reality that is emerging that has the power to soothe our troubled hearts and give us the strength to move forward.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VtjFTRioiGs/UNDXsu9L3NI/AAAAAAAABJQ/JtR_8El9ZO4/s1600/joakim-sunset2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VtjFTRioiGs/UNDXsu9L3NI/AAAAAAAABJQ/JtR_8El9ZO4/s400/joakim-sunset2.jpg" width="400" /></a> Something is happening on our planet that is unprecedented. Together we are wiping the sleep from our eyes and seeing ourselves, others and the earth with new eyes of reverence, awe and love. We are remembering the sacredness and unity of all life and are awakening to our power and responsibility to create a world that works for every one. Because the peril and the promise before us are so great, many believe we are receiving assistance from the spiritual world. Some believe a portal to this dimension opened on 12/12/12, others are saying it will happen today, 12/21/12. These dates may be markers, but the evolutionary change upon us is much greater than any one day.<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">The important thing is that we are reclaiming our ability to create a New Earth where compassion, peace, justice, joy and love reign supreme. It has begun.</span></i><br />
<br />
I think it is important that we share stories that symbolize this new way of being in the world- that we acknowledge the little miracles, the acts of kindness, the connections, the healing and the new found love. Here are two I heard recently that I think exemplify the new paradigm we are creating on earth.<br />
<br />
I heard the stories in the Global Peace Ambassador training I am taking with about 100 peace-loving souls from around the world. It
is being led by James O'Dea, author of "Cultivating Peace", which Jean Houston called "one of the most important and profound books of our time." and
Philip Hellmich, author of "God and Conflict" a true story of his time in Sierra Leone during their brutal civil war and his quest for peace within and in that terrible situation. I am honored and thrilled to be learning from them and other stellar teachers in the training and to be a part of this conscious and
compassionate community!<br />
<br />
Here is the first story in the words of Margaret, a participant in the training,<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>"I had departed the subway train and had planned to walk the rest of
the way to my destination; about 5 blocks. At the transfer bus stop,
where I had <span style="text-decoration: underline;">not</span> planned
to take the bus, I came upon a man and woman wearing a famous
coffee shop’s work uniforms, who were in a very heated argument about
something to do with work. Instead of walking on, my inner voice said I
should take the bus.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i> I did not listen to the details of their
disagreement, but just started sending light, love, peace and healing to
whatever was causing their divide. The arguing and cursing went on for
about 10 minutes then all of the sudden they stopped, then they looked at
each other and burst out laughing, at which point they both agreed it
was pointless to argue about something that really didn’t matter on such
a beautiful day. They ended up swinging their arms around each others
shoulders and all was well… but that is not the end of the story.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>We got
on the bus, me still not having said a word, only offering a smile. As
the woman took her seat she began to express her gratitude to God for
the beautiful day and how blessed she was. The man, sitting in another
seat, agreed saying he was grateful for all of his blessings too. I was
not in the same seat with either of them, but when I got up to leave at
my stop, this woman got up and asked me if I would hug her. To the
dismay of the other riders, I joyfully hugged her deeply and said “God
Bless You” as she was saying it to me. I turned away to depart and as
she was sitting back down I heard her say to everyone, “Everybody needs a
hug now and then,” which is a favorite mantra of mine! I think we both
needed that hug. I think that busload of people felt that universal hug
that day. I believe we do mirror each other, and the peace mirror is by
far the strongest because it draws from the “big self” and not the
little “ego” self."</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
The second story I heard during our weekly, global conference call. James read a letter he had received from Michaela, a graduate of this training, who is requesting prayers for her continued healing. She has been living in South Africa, working with a NGO on an AIDs project. One night she was assaulted and raped at knife point by four men. This is what she said about it.<br />
<br />
"Throughout the experience, I saw them as sacred beings, knowing in my being that I'm strong and clear and praying as this continued. I left my body some of the time, but was very aware of trying to create a field of peace."<br />
<br />
Eventually, there was only one man left. She told him she had come from England to help the people of South Africa. Upon hearing this he expressed his sorrow, saying he had done a very bad thing and she would never, never forgive him.<br />
<br />
She answered, "It is indeed very bad what you have done. Now you must go and do goodness. I forgive you now."<br />
<br />
She concluded by saying she was deeply receiving love and light all were sending her and added, "I am a very blessed person."<br />
<br />
That Michaela was able to find forgiveness during this violent assault is remarkable. Some people who have suffered abuse never forgive, some take decades and apparently some take moments. Please hold this amazing woman in your heart and ask for healing light and love to surround her. And Margaret's story reminds us that we are all always broadcasting energy- when you consciously choose to radiate peace, you raise the vibration around you and create the space for little miracles to unfold.<br />
<br />
These two stories and so many more are clear signs that we are indeed evolving as humans who not only know (<i>Homo Sapiens</i>) but who also feel (<i>Homo Sapiens Sensus</i>). We are reconnecting to our hearts, to ourselves and to one another.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Now I meant to post this a few days ago- and here it is already 12/21/12 (life happened)! I think most realize this day marks a new beginning not the end of the
world (the Mayans t</span>hemselves had other calendars that go well into the
3000s, so no worries there). But I do believe it marks the beginning of
an ending- the ending of separation, anxiety, distrust and fear and the
birth of greater connection, peace, understanding and love.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">I</span>t is also the Winter Solstice - the shortest day of the year, but more importantly the day that marks a turning point- the return of the light, or as the Romans so poetically put it- The Birthday of the Unconquered Sun! It is a perfect day to remember, every moment can be a turning point- a time when you reconnect to the light within and choose love over fear.<br />
<br />
Lastly, I personally think the portal to the divine love of the universe<i> has </i>been opened. We are being bathed in it. There has never been a better time to do healing work, within yourself and in the world.<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
I'll be next sharing a little meditation to help you connect to these loving energies. They are here to help us make the next evolutionary leap! Hold on to your hats it's going to be quite a ride, but our destination is assured. Or perhaps I should say, the never ending journey toward higher consciousness, peace and love is assured- it's our destiny!<br />
<br />
All Beautiful Blessings of Love to You! Keep faith!<br />
Barbara <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cBuniGD-nKM/UNDbdIAkQUI/AAAAAAAABKo/gLOSHK1SQsA/s1600/blog-saying14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cBuniGD-nKM/UNDbdIAkQUI/AAAAAAAABKo/gLOSHK1SQsA/s400/blog-saying14.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-80415484967787982622012-11-12T13:28:00.001-05:002012-11-12T13:28:19.167-05:00Flash Mob for Domestic Violence Awareness!Dear Friends,<br />
<br />
I apologize for my absence on this blog for awhile. I have been busy- but miss sharing the sacredness and beauty of our natural world and universe and ways to experience more inner peace and joy in your life!<br />
<br />
Hope to be back now- hope some are still with me!<br />
<br />
Here is the latest video I did on a topic that is very important and needs more awareness- I hope you'll watch it and share. Thank you!<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/bKC1gkael30" width="560"></iframe><br />Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-26326769556167955422012-09-07T16:41:00.001-04:002012-09-07T16:41:26.424-04:00Women's Rights Rally in New Paltz, NY!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Sfo6MZU7dB4" width="560"></iframe><br /></div>
<br /><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We had a fabulous Rally and March on Women's Equality Day on August 26 in New Paltz!</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Nearly
300 came out to demand equal rights for over half the population-
everything from full reproductive rights to equal pay for equal work to
ending violence against women and ending budget cuts that will affect
women and children the most. Thanks to Donna Goodman and the Hudson
Valley Actvist Newsletter for sponsoring and to all who participated!</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A few people asked me to print out my talk, so here it is.</span></span></span></span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span></span>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: white;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B_8Ll5UDa8w/UEo5w5Q4UwI/AAAAAAAAAv4/nkwngAegUsk/s1600/wib-dove.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="289" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B_8Ll5UDa8w/UEo5w5Q4UwI/AAAAAAAAAv4/nkwngAegUsk/s320/wib-dove.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: white;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Women, Militarism and War</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">by Barbara Upton<br />
<br />
Welcome! How wonderful it is to see so many women and girls of all ages
coming together to defend women's rights and it is great to see so many
of our brothers here too standing with us in solidarity.<br />
<br />
Let me begin by saying, men are not the problem, a patriarchal system
that oppresses women is the problem! Patriarchy is the social power
structure and ideology that provides justification for the
institutionalized discrimination against women. It is supported by and
thrives on war and violence. Patriarchy cannot exist without militarism
which promoters a culture of fear, is based on power over others and
that believes that the organized use of physical violence is the only
way to resolve conflict. Patriarchy and militarism are inextricably
linked. But let me tell you something else that is mutually
interdependent- women's equality and our ability to create a culture of
peace.<br />
<br />
The first step is to recognize and educate ourselves and others about the true cost of war.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: white;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F6hC5T76lok/UEpATzfRe9I/AAAAAAAAAwo/pPN9Cf2gQEE/s1600/Eyes+Wide+Open+and+house+2+062.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F6hC5T76lok/UEpATzfRe9I/AAAAAAAAAwo/pPN9Cf2gQEE/s320/Eyes+Wide+Open+and+house+2+062.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: white;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: white;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PTStVsL1Ijs/UEo8vUSSa-I/AAAAAAAAAwY/sfxDSq237TI/s1600/women+in+black+008.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PTStVsL1Ijs/UEo8vUSSa-I/AAAAAAAAAwY/sfxDSq237TI/s640/women+in+black+008.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: white; font-size: xx-small;">New
Paltz Women in Black "Eyes Wide Open Exhibit" and Altar to Fallen
Troops B Upton</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: white;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Do you know that war is currently being depicted as a game show on NBC?
This is the way of militarism. Only 1% actually does the fighting
and for the rest of us war is glorified and even made into
entertainment. The military sanitizes the horrors of war through
language. Civilian deaths are called "collateral damage" and missiles
are "peacemakers". Rarely do we see the real ravages of war.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">T</span>he fact is, war destroys people, the earth and the very fabric of life and no one suffers more in war than women and children. <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<br />
Although our conception of war, of soldiers fighting on a battlefield has not changed, the reality of modern warfare has</span></span>. A UN Peacekeeping General recently said, "It is now more dangerous to be a woman than a soldier in conflict."<br />
<br />
In WW I, 5% of the casualties were civilians, in WWII the number of
civilian casualties was 55% and today that number is 90%. Women and
children are killed, maimed, raped, sickened, displaced,widowed and
orphaned by war. Eighty percent of the millions displaced by war and
conflict are women and children. Rape is used as a weapon of war. In
Rwanda a half million women were raped . In Bosnia Herzegovina 50,000
women from all the ethnic groups were raped and a half million were
victims of sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo.<br />
<br />
It is also important to remember that war does not end when the bombs
stop falling. Agent Orange in Vietnam, resulted in hundreds of thousands
of babies being born with severe birth defects. In addition, tens of
thousands of US soldiers were sickened and disabled and the effects are
still being seen in second and third generations. Depleted uranium
munitions in Iraq and Afghanistan have left a radioactive legacy that
has resulted in a spike in cancer rates and childhood leukemia.
Landmines in over 80 countries kill and maim women and children daily as
they are the ones tasked with gathering food, water and wood.<br />
<br />
As if all this horrific violence were not enough, there is also the
structural violence created by a permanent war economy. Sixty percent of
our discretionary budget goes to death and destruction. This strips
money from health care, education, job creation and vital social
programs and because women and children are overrepresented among poor
people, again women and children are hurt the most. </span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: white;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vsiEJyOSCMU/UEo7lgZ7FOI/AAAAAAAAAwA/JhTdqR6UEQI/s1600/DSC05528.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vsiEJyOSCMU/UEo7lgZ7FOI/AAAAAAAAAwA/JhTdqR6UEQI/s640/DSC05528.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: white; font-size: xx-small;">Kingston
Rally for Peace and Justice
B Upton</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lastly, when violence is seen as the acceptable way to resolve conflict
in the international sphere, it affects all aspects of society. It even
extends to women in the military. One VA study done after Desert Storm
showed that one in three women serving were raped. It is said that women
in the military fight on two fronts; on the battlefield and in the
barracks. The effects of a militarized society is also seen in community
violence with our 30,000 gun deaths every year and in domestic violence
which increases during war. VA research shows that veterans with PTSD
are two to three times more likely to batter partners and children than
veterans without PTSD. Battery is now the number one cause of injury to
women in the US. <br />
<br />
Our path is clear. We have to end war before war ends us, as John F
Kennedy said. We have to make war as unacceptable in the 21st century as
slavery was in the 20th century. We have to build a culture of peace
from the ground up and inside out. That means we do have to be the peace
that we wish to see in the world. We can begin by replacing blame and
dwelling on all that is wrong with a focus on creative solutions, stop
fueling polarization by listening more deeply, and transform despair
with inspired visions and empowered action. Together we can build a
culture of peace founded on respect for the dignity and inherent worth
of every woman, man and child. Peace is our only true security and I
believe it is our collective destiny. <br />
<br />
So yes, you will continue to see Women in Black standing for peace in
front fo the Elting library every Saturday at 12:30. We have been there
every week for almost eleven years and you know what- we are just
beginning! We hope you will join us. Thank you.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: white;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: white;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: white;"><br /></span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: white;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N1zsvETP1T4/UEo-EMcNfXI/AAAAAAAAAwg/4Ikvi37_e3I/s1600/IMGA0020.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N1zsvETP1T4/UEo-EMcNfXI/AAAAAAAAAwg/4Ikvi37_e3I/s400/IMGA0020.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: white; font-size: xx-small;">Join us any Saturday- 12:30-1:30PM In front of Elting Library New Paltz</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: white;">Contact Barbara, or New Paltz Women in Black at <a href="mailto:ClearStreamMedia@gmail.com">ClearStreamMedia@gmail.com</a>.</span></span><br />
</span></span></div>
Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-47203297812074519782012-08-03T22:18:00.000-04:002012-08-03T22:26:43.722-04:00Best of Facebook, Summer 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6FPFMBV3HGg/UBvoSO0vw0I/AAAAAAAABBU/JX1K9ZlNkIs/s1600/bull-man.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6FPFMBV3HGg/UBvoSO0vw0I/AAAAAAAABBU/JX1K9ZlNkIs/s640/bull-man.jpg" width="640" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">
Compassion: This incredible photo marks the end of Matador Torero Alvaro
Munera's career. He collapsed in remorse mid-fight when he realized he
was having to prompt this otherwise gentle beast to fight. He went on to
become an avid opponent of bullfights. Even grievously wounded, the
bull did not attack Munera. May we all support the welfare of non-human
species. </div>
<h6 class="-cx-PRIVATE-fbTimelineUnitActor__header" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="fcg"><a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=43516433142" href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dzigar-Kongtrul-Rinpoche/43516433142" id="js_5"><span style="color: black;"> Thanks to </span>Dzigar Kongtrul Rinpoche</a></span></span></h6>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CPwt9BxXUkc/UBvanFbozwI/AAAAAAAAA_8/7j7rYczhqYI/s1600/blog-man-fox.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CPwt9BxXUkc/UBvanFbozwI/AAAAAAAAA_8/7j7rYczhqYI/s640/blog-man-fox.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="clearfix fbPhotoSnowliftAuthorInfo" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<div>
<div class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0">
<span id="fbPhotoSnowliftSubscribe"><span class="fbPhotoSubscribeWrapper"><br /></span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span id="fbPhotoSnowliftTimestamp"><abbr data-utime="1343891556" title="Thursday, August 2, 2012 at 3:12am"></abbr></span><span class="hasCaption">A very compassionate man and a loving beautiful fox. </span><br />
<span class="hasCaption">
Six years ago, Cropper was found in the street after a fight with dogs.
Seriously injured and ill (toxoplasmosis), Cropper was nursed back to
health by this man's patience, love and determination. Not strong enough
to return to the wild, Cropper spends very happy days with his human
friend. Thank you Sir! ♥</span></div>
<span class="hasCaption"></span></div>
<span class="hasCaption" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> <br /> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=gvfJs1P-0Xc" rel="nofollow nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/<wbr><span class="word_break"></span>watch?feature=player_embedd<wbr><span class="word_break"></span>ed&v=gvfJs1P-0Xc</wbr></wbr></a></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=130415010365299" href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Helped-by-Animals/130415010365299" id="js_1"><span style="color: black;">Thanks to </span>Helped by Animals</a></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
Oh my goodness- I'm not such a big fan of these types of video- but this one touched my heart. Try watching without crying- I dare ya!</div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/txPQC8NB_-M" width="560"></iframe> </div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FH0ldG-RDng/UBx32yYQ6-I/AAAAAAAABCA/geEujmNLGj8/s1600/blog-bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FH0ldG-RDng/UBx32yYQ6-I/AAAAAAAABCA/geEujmNLGj8/s400/blog-bird.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<div class="fbPhotoContributorName" id="fbPhotoSnowliftAuthorName" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="hasCaption">OK, people. Get out there and break some rules</span></span></div>
<div class="fbPhotoContributorName" id="fbPhotoSnowliftAuthorName">
<a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=121398997940445" href="http://www.facebook.com/womenandgirlslead" id="js_2">Women and Girls Lead</a></div>
<div class="mrs fsm fwn fcg">
<span id="fbPhotoSnowliftSubscribe"><span class="fbPhotoSubscribeWrapper followingOwner"><span class="photoViewerFollowedMsg unsubFlyoutEnabled"></span></span></span><span id="fbPhotoSnowliftTimestamp"><abbr data-utime="1343953763" title="Thursday, August 2, 2012 at 8:29pm"><br /></abbr> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FYLSVMmCDAk/UBx8k4-szZI/AAAAAAAABCs/RE3aQx68cCY/s1600/blog-photobox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FYLSVMmCDAk/UBx8k4-szZI/AAAAAAAABCs/RE3aQx68cCY/s400/blog-photobox.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=219440488106847" href="http://www.facebook.com/GeErmile" id="js_14">PhotoBox</a><br />
<div class="mrs fsm fwn fcg">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span id="fbPhotoSnowliftSubscribe"><span class="fbPhotoSubscribeWrapper followingOwner"></span></span></div>
<div class="mrs fsm fwn fcg">
<br /><a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/group.php?id=134551136556817" href="http://www.facebook.com/groups/134551136556817/"></a><br />
<br />
<span id="fbPhotoSnowliftTimestamp"></span><br />
<span id="fbPhotoSnowliftTimestamp"></span><br />
<span id="fbPhotoSnowliftTimestamp"></span><br />
<span id="fbPhotoSnowliftTimestamp"><abbr data-utime="1343953763" title="Thursday, August 2, 2012 at 8:29pm"></abbr> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3KC9WV3Wt3k/UBx8vzti2QI/AAAAAAAABC0/dmsHQs-ZGRI/s1600/blog-funny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3KC9WV3Wt3k/UBx8vzti2QI/AAAAAAAABC0/dmsHQs-ZGRI/s1600/blog-funny.jpg" /></a></div>
<a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=1082584665" href="http://www.facebook.com/carol.weller.16" id="js_16">Carol Weller</a><br />
<div class="mrs fsm fwn fcg">
<span id="fbPhotoSnowliftSubscribe"><span class="fbPhotoSubscribeWrapper followingOwner"><span class="photoViewerFollowedMsg unsubFlyoutEnabled"></span></span></span><span id="fbPhotoSnowliftTimestamp"><abbr data-utime="1343953763" title="Thursday, August 2, 2012 at 8:29pm"><br /></abbr> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2InnjjT8Egk/UByFplfw0ZI/AAAAAAAABEU/HGIOG9_sbHg/s1600/lochness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2InnjjT8Egk/UByFplfw0ZI/AAAAAAAABEU/HGIOG9_sbHg/s640/lochness.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="mrs fsm fwn fcg">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span id="fbPhotoSnowliftSubscribe"><span class="fbPhotoSubscribeWrapper followingOwner"><span class="photoViewerFollowedMsg unsubFlyoutEnabled"></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span id="fbPhotoSnowliftTimestamp"><abbr data-utime="1343953763" title="Thursday, August 2, 2012 at 8:29pm">Loch Ness Monster!</abbr></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="fbPhotoContributorName" id="fbPhotoPageAuthorName">
<a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=219440488106847" href="http://www.facebook.com/GeErmile" id="js_0">PhotoBox</a></div>
<span class="hasCaption"><br /></span></div>
<span id="fbPhotoSnowliftTimestamp"><abbr data-utime="1343953763" title="Thursday, August 2, 2012 at 8:29pm"></abbr></span></div>
<span id="fbPhotoSnowliftTimestamp"> </span></div>
</div>
<span class="hasCaption"> </span><br />
<span class="hasCaption"></span><br />
<span class="hasCaption"></span><br />
<span class="hasCaption"></span><br />
<span class="hasCaption"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-37hJ779YoHo/UByG-XSXyjI/AAAAAAAABEc/hDeMTkm_FCs/s1600/blog-saying20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="483" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-37hJ779YoHo/UByG-XSXyjI/AAAAAAAABEc/hDeMTkm_FCs/s640/blog-saying20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span class="hasCaption"> </span><br />
<span class="hasCaption"></span><br />
<span class="hasCaption"></span><br />
<span class="hasCaption"></span><br />
<span class="hasCaption"></span><br />
<span class="hasCaption"></span><br />
<span class="hasCaption">Don't know who originated this one- but I love it and posted it on the </span><a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/group.php?id=134551136556817" href="http://www.facebook.com/groups/134551136556817/" id="js_0">Waking Planet- One World, One People, One Future</a> page on FB- Please join us there!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zWnkLJHnIYs/UByH17MFwJI/AAAAAAAABEk/nz-oMNOvApY/s1600/blog-optimism.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zWnkLJHnIYs/UByH17MFwJI/AAAAAAAABEk/nz-oMNOvApY/s400/blog-optimism.jpg" width="347" /></a></div>
<br />
<span id="fbPhotoSnowliftSubscribe"><span class="fbPhotoSubscribeWrapper followingOwner"><span class="photoViewerFollowedMsg unsubFlyoutEnabled">Another on </span></span></span><a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/group.php?id=134551136556817" href="http://www.facebook.com/groups/134551136556817/">Waking Planet- One World, One People, One Future</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FH0ldG-RDng/UBx32yYQ6-I/AAAAAAAABCA/geEujmNLGj8/s1600/blog-bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P5xP_K0cW0c/UBvlgAOPypI/AAAAAAAABAo/7OiquSscVtg/s1600/namaste.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P5xP_K0cW0c/UBvlgAOPypI/AAAAAAAABAo/7OiquSscVtg/s400/namaste.jpg" width="295" /></a></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">
NAMASTE!</div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">
<span class="hasCaption">I honor the place in you </span><br />
<span class="hasCaption"> which is of love, of truth, of light and of peace.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=296326950428939" href="http://www.facebook.com/Tuyet.Van.Julie.Heart.Space"><span style="color: black;">Thanks to </span>Tuyet Van Julie</a></div>Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-74515949471021340772012-07-17T11:28:00.001-04:002012-07-17T11:28:04.479-04:00Clear Stream Media: Doable Solar Energy!<a href="http://clearstreammedia.blogspot.com/2012/07/doable-solar-energy.html?spref=bl">Clear Stream Media: Doable Solar Energy!</a>: Germany is on its way to being a green energy nation! Their solar power plants produced a world record of 22 gigawatts of electricity d...Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-6733443310516807902012-07-03T11:13:00.000-04:002012-07-03T11:18:07.342-04:00"Princess of Peace"<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r1_lrmQsamE/T_Jd_4stVDI/AAAAAAAAA_A/pOvUQID92fQ/s1600/DSC09356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r1_lrmQsamE/T_Jd_4stVDI/AAAAAAAAA_A/pOvUQID92fQ/s640/DSC09356.JPG" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Princess of Peace B Upton</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I painted "The Princess of Peace" a few years ago for an art show I was curating called "Exposing War and Exploring Endless Peace". I recently decided to make the princess's hair wavy to match my grand daughter's and gave the painting to her on my recent trip to Arizona. She is not three yet, so the bubble wrap was infinitely more interesting than the art! But I hope as she grows older she'll like it and appreciate its message of peace.<br />
<br />
The Princess of Peace is one with all life, rooted to the earth, yet also at home with the starry night. She is a harmonious blend of soft and strong, head and heart, and the physical and the spiritual.<br />
<br />
Her compassionate gaze tells us that we are perfect in all of our imperfections-that we should not be so hard on ourselves-that at our core we are divine and worthy of all the joy this world has to offer. She also reminds us that each of us has tremendous power to create a more just, sane and loving earth and that power begins when we love and honor the totality of who we are!<br />
<br />
That is what I hope my darling grand daughter will see when she looks at her!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p72A3ccxKUE/T_Jjx7qpTpI/AAAAAAAAA_g/NeNosF6R1ac/s1600/DSC09372.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p72A3ccxKUE/T_Jjx7qpTpI/AAAAAAAAA_g/NeNosF6R1ac/s400/DSC09372.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
I have been standing for peace every Saturday for over ten years with a wonderful group of dedicated peace and justice activists called New Paltz Women in Black. We are part of an international movement of women taking to the streets to say no to war, militarism and violence in all its forms. We wear black for we are mourning all the senseless deaths of war and as a symbol of resistance. Women in Black has been called the largest mobilization for peace in the world! Here is a video I did last summer - "Women in Black in the Hudson Valley and Beyond." <br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/JnlSxjolyXc" width="420"></iframe><br />
<br />
<i>"When we see God in each other, we will be able to live in peace."</i> Mother Theresa<br />
<br />
Wishing you a day of peace, love and joy.<br />
<br />
<br />Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-23508983835492203472012-06-21T08:27:00.002-04:002012-06-21T16:09:56.345-04:00Baby Robins Outside My Window!<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Srh4EGJKKOs" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
What a joy it was to return from AZ to find a robin family had set up camp right outside my window! The intimate perspective was really quite thrilling! The babies- adorable like all babies are- and the parents- tirelessly working, feeding, cleaning, warming and loving the little ones. They also had a graceful choreography that was beautiful to watch. They worked as one.<br />
<br />
For best viewing click the icon on the lower right to watch full screen. I hope you'll enjoy and share with others!<br />
<br />
Happy Solstice!Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-63990844478645004692012-06-12T11:19:00.001-04:002012-06-12T18:31:37.216-04:00Science Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vNWvXpaQs0E/T9dbbfisXAI/AAAAAAAAA94/K4BCJ8FqsAs/s1600/blog-pic11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vNWvXpaQs0E/T9dbbfisXAI/AAAAAAAAA94/K4BCJ8FqsAs/s640/blog-pic11.jpg" width="585" /></a></div>
Sorry to have not posted for awhile. I have been in the company of my darling grandchildren (an almost 3 year old girl, 7 and 9 year old boys) and have been very busy playing Sorry, Twister and scrabble, making pasta, swinging on swings, going through hoops of water in my clothes, dancing, reading, listening, singing, coloring, buying endless Leggos, and tickling and hugging a lot. I'm a lucky woman!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TaNoEfARgs0/T9bTjkD3xMI/AAAAAAAAA8s/2ajf0UMQZho/s1600/blog-sign9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="398" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TaNoEfARgs0/T9bTjkD3xMI/AAAAAAAAA8s/2ajf0UMQZho/s400/blog-sign9.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I have also enjoyed time with my two sons. One is in transition and like many Americans is having a tough time finding work- I send him blessings and hope things will turn around soon! The other, the dad of the three, is studying physics and chemistry and runs a scientific (and happy) household. The periodic table graces the living room and my granddaughter points and says Einsteinium, Fermium, Mendelevium, Nobelium, Lawrencium, Hydrogen, Gold, Tin, Mercury, Polonium and one she named "candy candium" (because of its shape!). Bedtime "stories" on the computer (no TV in this house) are documentaries often featuring Carl Sagan. There is an electron microscope on a table and all are encouraged to view whatever interests them. There is also an oscilloscope the little one likes playing with to see the dot move. My son is on a tight budget- he received these instruments from an ad he put in Craig's List- "my kids and I love science if you have any old equipment you are not using we would sure appreciate it." People are kind.<br />
<br />
So in the interest of continuing the scientific theme I offer these little gems I found on FB today on a page called "I Fucking Love Science". I don't usually swear on this blog- but hey that's their name!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7oDx-gZL7tw/T9fAaSNQjPI/AAAAAAAAA-k/GiBFRxV9TkU/s1600/blog-sign5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7oDx-gZL7tw/T9fAaSNQjPI/AAAAAAAAA-k/GiBFRxV9TkU/s640/blog-sign5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TaNoEfARgs0/T9bTjkD3xMI/AAAAAAAAA8s/2ajf0UMQZho/s1600/blog-sign9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pp6227b_UnU/T9bS3uWQq7I/AAAAAAAAA8U/IN5Hcb1wNM4/s1600/blog-sign4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pp6227b_UnU/T9bS3uWQq7I/AAAAAAAAA8U/IN5Hcb1wNM4/s400/blog-sign4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XUPVF6MQW-E/T9bTPBUczgI/AAAAAAAAA8k/eskg71mro8Q/s1600/blog-sign7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="381" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XUPVF6MQW-E/T9bTPBUczgI/AAAAAAAAA8k/eskg71mro8Q/s400/blog-sign7.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Io--tYwmgbk/T9bUF1Cu-nI/AAAAAAAAA88/tWThHvT4X1o/s1600/blog-sign2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="460" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Io--tYwmgbk/T9bUF1Cu-nI/AAAAAAAAA88/tWThHvT4X1o/s640/blog-sign2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8uVF31dIejU/T9bUjDgVMAI/AAAAAAAAA9M/TvrK88gVgF8/s1600/blog-sign8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8uVF31dIejU/T9bUjDgVMAI/AAAAAAAAA9M/TvrK88gVgF8/s400/blog-sign8.jpg" width="260" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kbPp6QiKG18/T9dbJGUy-ZI/AAAAAAAAA9w/pBlLVDBIwO4/s1600/blog-pic15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kbPp6QiKG18/T9dbJGUy-ZI/AAAAAAAAA9w/pBlLVDBIwO4/s320/blog-pic15.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-njCO6BfOQ0E/T9dcIzz-GFI/AAAAAAAAA-I/QTQzJKLfqGA/s1600/blog-pic18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-njCO6BfOQ0E/T9dcIzz-GFI/AAAAAAAAA-I/QTQzJKLfqGA/s1600/blog-pic18.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x1W7KknH3SM/T9bUxozZmWI/AAAAAAAAA9U/_c00xwLRieE/s1600/blog-sign10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="356" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x1W7KknH3SM/T9bUxozZmWI/AAAAAAAAA9U/_c00xwLRieE/s640/blog-sign10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As we are all made of star dust!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Just to be clear, although I love, love, love Carl Sagan, I don't agree with him that your being here at this time is an accident! But I do agree it is a critical moment and that you can't sit it out. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You're needed. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Have a happy day being the star you are!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xvWMvWhTJCw/T9bTHD6oHBI/AAAAAAAAA8c/yZ7x2fj0b2w/s1600/blog-sign6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-60499139207701527562012-05-07T13:41:00.000-04:002012-05-07T15:04:07.386-04:00The Goddess Altar<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3q2JKyxOLMY/T6f4m1uAAxI/AAAAAAAAA6Y/t3XPFFcWsvs/s1600/DSC09078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3q2JKyxOLMY/T6f4m1uAAxI/AAAAAAAAA6Y/t3XPFFcWsvs/s640/DSC09078.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WTaZuEiiJ4k/T6f1X06UdBI/AAAAAAAAA5w/8aL17oaxmig/s1600/DSC08981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WTaZuEiiJ4k/T6f1X06UdBI/AAAAAAAAA5w/8aL17oaxmig/s200/DSC08981.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1sdubWtRg30/T6fwVNKzyzI/AAAAAAAAA44/d_pUG3OePR4/s1600/DSC09013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ma6LW5mfl-c/T6fyMnbDt2I/AAAAAAAAA5Y/JAoVfdd8M_s/s1600/DSC09023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ma6LW5mfl-c/T6fyMnbDt2I/AAAAAAAAA5Y/JAoVfdd8M_s/s400/DSC09023.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ma6LW5mfl-c/T6fyMnbDt2I/AAAAAAAAA5Y/JAoVfdd8M_s/s1600/DSC09023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OEza4ZFrSCA/T6f0yHZO0FI/AAAAAAAAA5o/GjQvM2K2bwA/s1600/DSC09021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OEza4ZFrSCA/T6f0yHZO0FI/AAAAAAAAA5o/GjQvM2K2bwA/s200/DSC09021.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
How do you like my little Goddess Altar? It came about after the yard had to be excavated and I ended up with many, many stones. I thought I'd put them to use by making this bird bath a focal point. Must say- I never really noticed this old tree stump much before!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Once again I had a visitor. Last time, it was a <a href="http://wakingplanet.blogspot.com/2012/04/happy-earth-day.html">contented looking robin</a> and this time a teeny tiny frog (not much bigger than the tip of my thumb) stopped by. He was so perfectly camouflaged that for a time I thought maybe I was wasting my time photographing a leaf- but then "the leaf" hopped!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XITAy94iBCs/T6gAPQl3VFI/AAAAAAAAA64/Xi9zCWV7cJM/s1600/DSC09006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XITAy94iBCs/T6gAPQl3VFI/AAAAAAAAA64/Xi9zCWV7cJM/s320/DSC09006.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rs0aOYx5ci4/T6f8_1nvVfI/AAAAAAAAA6s/jrC6ZRG8qjM/s1600/DSC08992.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rs0aOYx5ci4/T6f8_1nvVfI/AAAAAAAAA6s/jrC6ZRG8qjM/s320/DSC08992.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-izTIiPC_lw8/T6gA9mtIWiI/AAAAAAAAA7A/c7xfMIhKtFQ/s1600/DSC09091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-izTIiPC_lw8/T6gA9mtIWiI/AAAAAAAAA7A/c7xfMIhKtFQ/s400/DSC09091.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uq5v8c9nNt4/T6gBtMRm7_I/AAAAAAAAA7I/KMQu1tzbsLc/s1600/DSC09045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uq5v8c9nNt4/T6gBtMRm7_I/AAAAAAAAA7I/KMQu1tzbsLc/s320/DSC09045.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uN3VZP4px4o/T6gQH-rfBEI/AAAAAAAAA7o/D-4sJhkM2p0/s1600/DSC09028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uN3VZP4px4o/T6gQH-rfBEI/AAAAAAAAA7o/D-4sJhkM2p0/s320/DSC09028.JPG" width="232" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Do you see the silhouette of a woman? The Goddess herself showed up!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CJsEMRqf5QA/T6gMmr2dhTI/AAAAAAAAA7c/I-1M34PB4F8/s1600/DSC09013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CJsEMRqf5QA/T6gMmr2dhTI/AAAAAAAAA7c/I-1M34PB4F8/s640/DSC09013.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To me, goddess energy represents
all that is true and beautiful and loving in our world. An altar is a
place where we reconnect with the divine and for me that happens best in
nature! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Interestingly, I was placing stones to blend with the roots and contour of the land when I suddenly noticed I had (almost) spelled out a word. All it needed were a couple of more stones to define it and there it was- the word- "Shalom"- the Hebrew word for peace! You can see the first part of it in the first photo above. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
May you connect to your inner goddess today (and men this is for you too!) She is that part of you that is intuitive, loveable, loving, bold, fearless, authentic, beautiful, compassionate and sacred. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Peace, Salaam, Shalom</div>Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-35193349377657473102012-04-27T10:46:00.000-04:002012-05-09T08:16:50.006-04:00Connect to Mother Earth...<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kLFFAszvuDA/T5qwNJZZoZI/AAAAAAAAA4g/llsedkLN4-E/s1600/Catskills.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="372" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kLFFAszvuDA/T5qwNJZZoZI/AAAAAAAAA4g/llsedkLN4-E/s640/Catskills.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Catskills B Upton</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"></span></span><br />
<div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Connect to mother earth </i></span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #9fc5e8;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>to breathe more deeply</i></span></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Breathe more deeply</i></span></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>to connect with beauty</i></span></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Connect to beauty</i></span></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>to open to gratitude</i></span></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Open to gratitude</i></span></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>to focus on what is working</i></span></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Focus on what is working</i></span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #9fc5e8;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>to draw more of it to you</i></span></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Draw more of it to you</i></span></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i>to follow your heart </i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Follow your heart </i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i>to live your soul's purpose</i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Live you soul's purpose</i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i>to be you. </i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i>A synopsis of the <a href="http://www.wakingplanet.blogspot.com/p/seven-steps-to-inner-peace.html">Seven Steps to Inner Peace </a></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Wishing you a day of ease, deep breathing, gratitude and love!</i></span></div>
</span></span></div>Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-59359323810978378292012-04-25T18:13:00.001-04:002012-04-25T18:13:59.924-04:00Clear Stream Media: Good News- Clean Elections, GM Labeling, Overturni...<a href="http://clearstreammedia.blogspot.com/2012/04/good-news-clean-elections-gm-labeling.html?spref=bl">Clear Stream Media: Good News- Clean Elections, GM Labeling, Overturning Citizens United...</a>: Public Financing of Elections One Step Closer! An unlikely coalition of wealthy individuals, business leade...Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-11156921726802916082012-04-22T21:37:00.001-04:002012-04-23T21:27:52.378-04:00Happy Earth Day!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EEZaM_aGucA/T5RwuIiX77I/AAAAAAAAA3A/t7rhnbV7V3w/s1600/dandelion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EEZaM_aGucA/T5RwuIiX77I/AAAAAAAAA3A/t7rhnbV7V3w/s640/dandelion.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dandelion B Upton</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xadzxRLvLBk/T5R4GFdjXSI/AAAAAAAAA3g/hpGpMvQGNIk/s1600/viola2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xadzxRLvLBk/T5R4GFdjXSI/AAAAAAAAA3g/hpGpMvQGNIk/s640/viola2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Viola 1 B Upton</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I enjoy finding delight and wonder in the very small, the often overlooked and sometimes even in the maligned.- like the "lowly" dandelion photographed above. I find that when I look closely- at anything in nature, I see divine handiwork of the most delicate and inspiring beauty. For instance, in the dandelion, I see a flower radiating like a sun, bursting with
tendrils of golden light, like little solar flares looping into space...I
notice their curved tips and how they mimic the curve of the insect's
antennae...in the tiny viola, I see dark blue, bare branched "trees" with the hint of a rising sun...I see the harbinger of spring- a contented looking robin paying a visit to the goddess altar I am assembling with stone, pansies and bird bath. The robin laid there for about a half hour as though blessing the space. I will post pictures of my little goddess altar soon. I discovered the stones spell out a word- one I did not consciously create.<br />
<br />
Today is Earth Day and it has NEVER been so important for all people of good will to come forward to pledge to be the guardians and protectors our beautiful earth so needs- to honor, cherish and love her and for all of our words and deeds be expressions of that love. I hope my little observations rekindle your awe and reverence for our one jewel of a home and may they always remind you that the sacredness that is all around you, is also in you and is you.<br />
<br />
On this Earth Day, I hope you can reconnect to the limitless reservoir of vast healing and nurturing
energy that is always at your disposal. It is the very ground beneath your feet! Even though our planet is facing environmental perils, it still contains amazingly powerful energy. Most
of us have cut ourselves off from this life force energy and then we wonder why we feel sick and tired. But the good news is, we can tap into this renewing energy anytime. It is available to each of us in the same abundant and nourishing way! <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UTx46ayGOMU/T5Snwea0O8I/AAAAAAAAA3o/3RPYetEN4QI/s1600/robby2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UTx46ayGOMU/T5Snwea0O8I/AAAAAAAAA3o/3RPYetEN4QI/s320/robby2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin 1 B Up</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
Mini Earth Meditation</h3>
Take a few deep, slow breaths- inhaling peace and exhaling tension, allowing your body and mind to relax and slow down.<br />
<br />
Bring your attention to the earth- to its beauty, power and sacredness. Imagine you have "roots" extending down from the base of your spine, or the bottom of your feet and going deep down into the nourishing, dark soil of mother earth. Now imagine your roots branching out laterally and connecting with the roots of the plants and trees nearest to you. See your roots and theirs intertwining and together sinking deeper into the earth. With time, you can extend your roots to connect with all the rooted ones
on the earth (it can happen in an instant!) and together you can journey to the center of the earth- to
the place of transformative healing.<br />
<br />
As you inhale imagine a beautiful golden light entering your roots and the roots of all you have connected to- bringing healing, calm and strength. As you go deeper you will be able to feel more and more relaxed and a pleasant warmth may flow through you. It can feel like you are nearing a healing fire and it may even have a sensuous quality to it as your roots go deeper and grow warmer. Each time you inhale, the golden light grows brighter and fills you and all you have connected with- bringing vitality to every cell of your body and to all of the grasses, bushes, flowers and trees.<br />
<br />
With each exhalation you can give mother earth all your worries, all your fears, all of your heartache- she can recycle it all into nourishing energy. With every in-breath, fill with peaceful, golden light and feel your wholeness and oneness with the earth and all life on it. Radiate love, honor and protection to the earth and imagine it glowing brighter from your loving connection.<br />
<br />
Know that every time you do this little exercise, you are grounding and strengthening yourself, the earth and all its life! Reconnect to the earth to be your highest, healthiest and happiest self.<br />
<br />
Happy Earth Day, Happy Spring....over the next few days, may beauty reveal itself to you serendipitously when you least expect it! May you feel your very real connection to the earth and be strengthened and renewed by it.<br />
<br />
May everyday be Earth Day!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jd2b7LGtKPI/T5StxNm0yHI/AAAAAAAAA34/X3UmYY_dWT0/s1600/DSC08853+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jd2b7LGtKPI/T5StxNm0yHI/AAAAAAAAA34/X3UmYY_dWT0/s400/DSC08853+copy.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin on the Goddess Altar B Upton</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e-2fXSepDjw/T5S4TlqR9SI/AAAAAAAAA4I/ZvGYizDV8jU/s1600/robby4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e-2fXSepDjw/T5S4TlqR9SI/AAAAAAAAA4I/ZvGYizDV8jU/s200/robby4.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin 2 B Upton<br />
<br />
<h4>
</h4>
<br />
<h4>
</h4>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="caption" data-ft="{"tn":"L"}" style="font-size: small;">The world is full of magic things, </span><br />
<span class="caption" data-ft="{"tn":"L"}" style="font-size: small;"> patiently waiting </span><br />
<span class="caption" data-ft="{"tn":"L"}" style="font-size: small;"> for our senses to grow sharper. </span><br />
<span class="caption" data-ft="{"tn":"L"}" style="font-size: small;"> ~W.B. Yeats</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Arxi7LsVHTY/T5YAMNAzhDI/AAAAAAAAA4Y/uVuPKQSj9cg/s1600/viola1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Arxi7LsVHTY/T5YAMNAzhDI/AAAAAAAAA4Y/uVuPKQSj9cg/s320/viola1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Viola 2 B Upton</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="caption" data-ft="{"tn":"L"}" style="font-size: small;"> </span>Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-1913630821395943062012-04-19T07:51:00.001-04:002012-04-19T07:51:15.316-04:00Clear Stream Media: Tax the 1% Rally, Kingston NY Video!<a href="http://clearstreammedia.blogspot.com/2012/04/tax-1-rally-kingston-ny-video.html?spref=bl">Clear Stream Media: Tax the 1% Rally, Kingston NY Video!</a>: As you can see, the Tax the 1% Rally held at the Kingston PO was a lively affair. Thank you to all who came, who shared their stories, ble...Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6843273941877487265.post-39129785350633117952012-04-17T00:07:00.000-04:002012-04-17T00:07:25.109-04:00The 99% Spring<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aHjjveWGhHs/T4zoSPsMqFI/AAAAAAAAA2o/OrUv4WjXKDQ/s1600/DSC08797.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aHjjveWGhHs/T4zoSPsMqFI/AAAAAAAAA2o/OrUv4WjXKDQ/s640/DSC08797.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unmanipulated Sunset B Upton</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d8FMfiJUprY/T4zowGM1-vI/AAAAAAAAA2w/8k0t1UIsG18/s1600/DSC08802.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d8FMfiJUprY/T4zowGM1-vI/AAAAAAAAA2w/8k0t1UIsG18/s400/DSC08802.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset 2 B Upton</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Took these coming home from a training I co-hosted with a few others on non-violent direct action as part of the 99% Spring. Our group of about 100 was part of a nationwide movement of over 100,000. We came together in community centers, churches, campuses and public places to say "enough is enough". Time for the 1% to pay their share. Time for corporations with record profits in the billions to pay taxes, rather than get refunds! The percent of revenue from the 1% is at its lowest in decades. We are all sacrificing- why aren't they even doing their fair share? Read more<a href="http://www.clearstreammedia.blogspot.com/2012/04/ulster-county-new-york-preparing-for-99.html"> here.</a><br />
<br />
Time to rise up!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qizZjglbtqA/T4zqUEBSQ4I/AAAAAAAAA24/yXwF5IUG_H4/s1600/DSC08777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qizZjglbtqA/T4zqUEBSQ4I/AAAAAAAAA24/yXwF5IUG_H4/s640/DSC08777.JPG" width="489" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We Are Struggling with... B Upton</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
If you are local - join us tomorrow on the steps of the Kingston Post Office- 90 Cornell St, Kingston, NY- 12 to 1PM- for a Tax the 1% Rally! We will be (literally) blowing the whistle on the system rigged to benefit the 1% at the expense of the rest of us.Barbara Uptonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10702925155540397336noreply@blogger.com0