October 2014 Snake Oil/Sweet Nothings

Snake Oil  Sweet Nothings

I’ve spent most of my life craving something sweet after meals. This quite physical craving has decreased dramatically over time. Throughout my childhood, we typically had dessert after dinner, and sugary cereals were part of most of our breakfasts. Mom kept chocolate bars or some other similar special treats in the top drawer of her dresser, and every once in a while she would surprise us with a treat from that magical place. As a child I loved that freaking drawer! Sweets became associated with my feeling lovable. Mom had learned from her strict German mother not to be comfortable with physical displays of affection. She was more at ease giving her children these love substitutes rather than hugs or telling us that she loved us.

Today my body no longer has such a strong craving for sugar. On the rare occasion that I do indulge and eat too much of it, I feel physically uncomfortable afterwards. My recent physical shift to no longer crave sweets coincided with a psychological emotional shift. I finally no longer need a treat to feel good about myself or to know that I am lovable.

When I was twenty-two, after four years of working out with weights, I was still eating fast food fairly often. As I pursued enlightenment physically as well as spiritually, my body also became more sensitive. I began to have difficult reactions to every fast food place I visited. After eating this type of food, I would experience uncomfortable stomach aches, followed by even more painful bathroom trips. It wasn’t long before I stopped eating fast food once and for all.

I have always listened to my body. Overindulgence with alcohol has never been a problem for me. Even when I was younger and drank a little too much alcohol, I still knew my limits. I feel discomfort in my lower right side if I drink more than my body can handle. A few times in my life when I did “push the envelope. “ I would end up gladly skipping any form of alcohol for days and sometimes weeks to clean my system out. I have always had ease around this and all form of intoxicants. I have never been addicted to any substance for any extended length of time.

I sometimes see long lines at Taco Bell and other fast food places. Lots of young men and women, as well as a number of people in their thirties and forties, wait at the drive through to pick up their “food.” I wonder how their bodies still let them get away with eating this type of garbage. To the fast food chain’s credit, they are beginning to add salads and healthier foods to their menus. This is, without question, a wise move. Still, I know that any type of food, good or bad, is better when prepared with care and love. Aside from eating food that is easier for the body to digest, energy and intention do influence us whether we believe it does or not. Eat garbage, and food prepared without caring for the art of cooking itself (does anyone really think that the often pissed off seventeen year old making your fries loves what he does?) and the result is a body and spirit that feel like garbage. Our bodies speak to us all the time. The trick is to learn how to listen.

As I approach forty, my body is lean and healthy, and I am in the best shape of my life. I am beginning to see washboard abs hiding happily beneath my shirt. No South Beach diet, no pills or cabbage diet, had anything to do with this. This seems to be opposite of what I have been told all my life. The typical belief I have endlessly heard is that it all goes downhill after forty. “Your midsection will expand and you will inevitably get fatter with age. There is nothing you can do about it.” I am not interested in programming my life with these and other types of negative beliefs. I may have kicked my sugar addiction, but the holidays are right around the corner. Christmas cookies, candy, and homemade lasagna and turkey with all the trimmings await me. Pig-out time of year will come and go, and I will enjoy it. I always do. I may even gain a few pounds, but it doesn’t worry me. Self control seems easier now. I like this lighter lean body and have no doubt that I will keep it for a while.

Jim Ventura 10- 2004

Editors Note:

This post marks just two months over the 10 year anniversary of the first Snake Oil column. I was getting ready to turn 40 when I wrote it. Now I am two months away from 50. I have to say that the only real difference physically for me ten years later is being in better shape because I am a bit more muscular. I still workout 4 or 5 days a week so this isn’t a surprising result. I am still about as lean, ideally wanting to loose about 7-10 pounds to get “really lean” but also not really caring that much about have a perfect six pack either. I tend to get a bit leaner in summer and a little thicker in winter - go figure! I’ve made staying fit a priority in my life. Due to my perseverance I can easily carry a few extra pounds and still look buff! To me, this is so worth the gym time. The other changes in the last decade have been a little more gray mixed in with my blond, red, and brown hair. I also now have to wear dollar store reading glasses to read small type. This started around the age of 44. Not too much change in a whole decade. I am actually healthier (far less allergy issues) and in better shape.  I still eat reasonably, but not TOO reasonably. A little indulgence from time to time (especially for someone with Taurus rising and Jupiter on his ascendant is not an oddity by any means!

Another change has been more of a shift emotionally and psychologically. I am more comfortable with who I am. My concern about whether people like me, and the normal human urge for approval has shifted. I feel more comfortable in my skin at even more levels than ever before. Not everyone is going to like me, and it is really okay. I like that I push narrow-minded people’s buttons!

We had some serious rain storms here in Phoenix this summer. Monsoon season was a powerful one. Many parts of the country are suffering with drought but Arizona has plenty of water. We would gladly send some of it every ones way if it was possible. Fall is here and I seriously love the Fall. It has always been my favorite season. I am actually going back to New York for a few days in early October. It has been almost four years since my last visit! Looking forward to seeing friends and family but also Italian bakeries, Salt Bagels, and NY pizza! I will indulge more than normal for a few days, and make it upon my return.

Check out my website to see some of the many types of readings I offer. People generally come in for Tarot, Numerology, and Astrology sessions and this is a good thing. Yet, some of my other offerings are truly transforming. Check out the options before you book your next appointment. 

I have decided to extend my new client special promotion for first timers until the end of November 2014. Send friends and family my way to take advantage of the $10-$20 off my listed prices. You can also purchase gift certificates for new clients at this rate and take advantage of the discount!

Wishing everyone a happy October. Cheers, Jim V

“The greatest mistake we make is living in constant fear that we will make one.” John Maxwell

Channeled corner. I read many, many books from different trance channelers in the 80s and 90s. Unfortunately many of them are now out of print, but I still have a huge collection and will share some of the best material I have collected over the years.

YOU ARE PERFECT

“On a Higher level of mind you are perfect-who you are is perfect, even though what you do is not always perfect. For just a few moments, dwell only on your perfection. Silently in your mind repeat this affirmation over and over for a minute or two: ‘I know that who I am is perfect.’

That’s right. You are perfect. But is your ego-self challenging your perfection, saying, ‘What a dumb idea, I am not perfect.’ If so, this affirmation seriously threatens your ego. Your ego needs to remind you how un-perfect you are because your ego prefers you to identify with your actions and to feel guilty about them. It wants you to judge, condemn, and blame yourself and others.

You can neutralize your ego by loving yourself and your own perfection. Remember, in life you experience what you are deeply convinced is so. Meditate on loving yourself and accepting your perfection.” Dick Sutphen from The Oracle Within

Snake Oil Radio

Thursdays at 3:30 pm (there will be three live broadcasts this month)

My next live broadcast of Snake Oil Radio will be Thursday, October 2nd, at 3:30 p.m. (MST -AZ doesn’t use daylight savings time). Almost every Thursday you can catch a new show. Each 45 minute show will expand on my current column’s subject matter. It will also offer an opportunity for you to call in live (or chat with other listeners in the chat room) with comments and your thoughts about the topic of discussion. Halfway through some of the shows you can even ask me for a free 5 minute mini reading with your personal question. If you miss the live show, you can catch any of my previously recorded shows on the web site’s archive. You can also catch Snake Oil Radio on I-tunes (download my pod-casts there).

To hear a live show, all you need to do is be at a computer and tuned into: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Jim-Ventura  You may also access it by going to blogtalkradio.com. Type “Snake Oil” into the search option.

You can also go to the shows that are currently “On air” at that time and find me. The call in number is 646-200-3966 for questions and comments.

“The greatest good you can do for another is not just to share your riches but to reveal to him his own.” Benjamin Disraeli

Snake Oil Volume One

The first four years of snake Oil and 9 Added unpublished Snake Charms

To order a copy contact me by phone or email. Cost: $12.00 including sales tax. Please include $3.00 for shipping ($15.00 total).

Or send check or money order to Jim Ventura 2515 N 52nd St. #206 Phoenix Az 85008. You can also pay by charge or Debit thru Paypal. You can request to have your copy signed!

Snake Oil Volume One is also available at Amazon.com

Upcoming home classes:

CREATING PROSPERITY (there are two remaining spots, for in person attendance. Email me or call to grab the last two spots!)

Quite a few people have struggled with some financial difficulties in the last few years. The recession/depression that began in 2008 was a difficult period for many people. The economy has continued to improve, and this is a good thing. Yet, we always have the power and ability to tap into our potential to create prosperity, no matter what is happening around us!

Learning to open a doorway to living in abundance is possible. We can manifest prosperity in many different areas: career, finances, love life, personal happiness, etc...This class will focus on many different methods for generating personal wealth. Learn how to change beliefs and perspectives relating to finances as you uncover the blocks that currently keep you stuck. This is what creating prosperity is all about! The universe will support your decision to change your reality. Instructor Jim Ventura will discuss practical and metaphysical tools to show you how to create prosperity in your life. Sunday October 5th. noon- 2:30 pm. A maximum of 8 people for this home class (minimum of 4 to hold). $20.00 prepaid before August 25th or $25.00 on day of the class. Current Regular clients receive $5 off on the cost of this class. 

ASTROLOGY-101 (beginner class)
This class will teach you the basics of Astrology. By the end of this class, you will be on the road to interpreting your own chart, as well as those of others. You will learn about the house placements, signs, symbols, angles, etc... We will explore how powerful the influence of astrology is in our lives. If you already have your own chart, please bring it to the class. If you need your chart done, I will give information about how to get a free one to bring with you. Understanding your unique astrological chart is an excellent way to get more clear about your life path. Saturday November 8th 10 am until 12:30 pm. A maximum of 8 people for this home class (minimum of 4 to hold). $20.00 prepaid before October 28th or $25.00 on day of the class. Current Regular clients receive $5 off on the cost of this class. 

“True humility is being able to accept criticisms as graciously as we accept compliments.” Sabrina Newby 

New client offer for October and November 2014! 

If you have never had a session before or want to buy a gift certificate for a new client you can take advantage of a $10-$20 discount on sessions. Email me at Ventursag@yahoo.com for more information.

Here’s my contact information to make an appointment for a session, or information on current classes: Phone: (602)957-3035 text: (602)349-0746 Email: Venturasag@yahoo.com (best method for contact)

Information about the different sessions and types of readings and services, past Snake Oil columns, and how to order my books and audio CD’s can be found at my website: Http://JimVentura.com 

“Friend” me on Facebook to get other extra offers and in between column extras! Signing up for my fan page will get you even more extras and first shot at reading specials. Simply click on “like” on the fan page and you will automatically get my weekly updates. 

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jim-Ventura/110567902293371?ref=hl

All sessions/readings for 2014 are: Full (70 minutes) $110.00; Shorter session (45 minutes) $80.00;  Extended session (90 minutes) $130.00 (two people can split an extended session back to back for $65.00 each).  Email me for information about my Regular Client Program for even bigger discounts on session prices with the added benefit of monthly or quarterly check-ins. 

All Current Snake Oil subscribers get $5.00 off all listed prices for any 45-90 minute sessions (except when using a special discount promotion). Local in office visits receive  another $5 off listed prices for cash or check payments. 

I accept cash, checks, debit cards, Master Card, Visa, and PayPal for payments on sessions and for books and classes in office. Phone session will need to be by check or thru Paypal.

Send me your birth month, day and year to get added to the yearly Birthday mailer promotion.

Snake Oil September 2014/Seeing Owl's

Snake Oil

Seeing Owl’s

This summer I’ve happily taken advantage of a weekly offer I get for a free hotel room stay at the local Harrah’s casino resort. Three or four times each month I stay for a day and night and enjoy all the benefits that come with staying at a high end resort.* At around 7 pm on my last trip, I left the fun and noise of the casino for a bit to go relax in my room. I decided to sit on the back patio of my room and enjoy a calming look at the undeveloped land behind the casino. I immediately noticed there was a baby owl about 15 feet away from me. He seemed to be watching me with equal fascination. I felt blessed to see something that was so unusual. A few minutes later, two more owls landed about 8 feet from the other owl. I lit up a cigar and enjoyed hanging out with the owls for a bit. This experience was a great reminder that sometimes life can be magical if we simply allow it to be. This was definitely one of those times.

When we are open to seeing the animals that cross our path from another perspective we can benefit from the spiritual messages they share with us. I already knew what the message of seeing owls was from my studies of Druid teachings. Owl represents wisdom, detachment, and change. The Owl is the totem bird of clairvoyance and astral travel. The veil which surrounds the normal boundaries of space and time can be pierced if you allow the energy of Owl as ally. Owl is a sacred symbol of the Crone aspect and the Goddess of Death. Owl may trigger an ominous feeling for those who are not comfortable with the energy of death. It is similar to the interpretation of the Death archetype in the Tarot which often scares those who are unfamiliar with what this archetype actually means. It is a signal of change and transformation that is often a positive one. While it may signify a death or new birth coming, more often than not, this omen is not about physical death. For me, even if it were to signify physical death this would cause me no fear. I long ago released any fear of this inevitable time to come in my life. Partly because I know it is far off, and mostly because I know I will welcome it when the time comes. I see the death of my body as a natural progression that will occur when I am ready to leave this world and go back to a residence in the Otherworld. I knew this Owl signal had nothing to do with me leaving this world at this time. It was more of a reminder that the coming changes I was perceiving intuitively and in my dreams were beginning to happen.

One of the most important elements in understanding the Owl totem is the owls connection to turning a disadvantage into an advantage. Because of Owls exceptional hearing it is able to hunt at night and catch unsuspecting prey. Owl also reminds us of the wisdom of healthy detachment. Most of us get caught in the trap of taking things that the world and other people do to us personally. Often difficult events can trigger our sense of injury. Yet, in most cases what appears to be cruelty from others, our job, or any other area of life is rarely primarily about hurting us. Decisions that are made by others often have little to do with us. If we are willing to go to a more evolved place in how we see the world, we can also see when someone triggers a wound in us we have an opportunity to let go of these wounds or restrictive beliefs. They may be reflecting a shadow part of us in an exaggerated way. Owl is a good reminder to not take this world personally.

The idea of turning a disadvantage into an advantage has become much clearer to me as I approach the big 5-0. I recently had my first really bad public-scathing-review on a popular business review site. Rather than hide this review I posted it on Facebook. I figured since I have posted my many good reviews I should not be afraid of giving voice to one of my first really bad ones. The young Virgo woman who posted the negative review was really difficult to work with. She left my office a few months ago and I told a friend after she left that I wasn’t sure if I was able to help her. She left me feeling uncomfortable. I even burned some sage to clear my home afterwards. She was caught in a victim trap, overly critical with the people in her life and probably with herself as well. This was resulting in frequent rejections in her intimate relationships and friendships. The cards suggested this was going to happen again in the near future and she did not like this information. After her unfavorable review, I was temporarily knocked from the number one position to number two. Her negative review ended up prompting many other people to post good reviews on the site about me. Even if her review were to slow down my business in any way (which I doubt it will) I have been so busy lately that a slight lull would not be a bad thing. There are so many levels where turning a disadvantage into an advantage can apply that they are simply too numerous to begin to list. This is truly something that I am comfortably aware of now that I am older and wiser.

My increased ability to connect with the Otherworld has been notable over the years. The owls were reminding me of this. I was also reminded of the shadow side of Owl energy which reminds us that too much detachment can be negative as well. An ability to be discerning is truly an asset, unless it is used as a way of avoiding vulnerability. To be fully alive we need to be willing to be vulnerable, especially when it comes to relationships and the benefits and risks that can come from intimacy. Two of the owls got a bit amorous with each other while I was watching them. I found this to be kind of funny. I have been comfortably single for over a decade now. One of the signals of change I have been getting is in this area of my life. A change may be coming. I enjoy the many benefits of being single, but I am open to allowing a partnership again if it is a right fit. I have been getting glimpses of all kinds of changes coming my way. None of these probable changes worry me. Change from time to time is a good thing. There is a saying in Sussex that sums up the way I feel about Owls recent message to me: “When Owls whoop at night, expect a fair morrow.” When we can trust that any changes coming our way will be beneficial, this is exactly what we experience when they come...”

Jim Ventura 8-2014 

*Because of my math skills and ability to use casino freebies and comps my average trip this summer has been $56 out-of-pocket for all of my trip expenses.

Editors Note:

We are getting close to the end of the summer. Overall, it was a fairly mild summer here in Phoenix. We had a good amount of monsoon storms and it never really got to the exhausting 117 degree highs. Of course I may be jinxing things a bit by writing this, since we still have a few weeks left...There were some really powerful monsoon storms that helped build up our water reserves. There was quite a bit of destruction as well during one storm in mid August. Most of the storms weren’t as brutal as that one, and like many Arizonian’s I enjoy the rain storms when they come. It is easy to use the trigger of rain to release any uncomfortable energy that occasionally clogs my flow!

I have two home classes this fall. Astrology 101 and Creating Prosperity. Check out the options in this newsletter and reserve a space before they fill. I will also be doing a November class called GETTING YOUR STAR ON THE MAP. This class will be practical tips on how to successfully launch your own business. Anyone who took my CREATING PROSPERITY class or current Regular clients will be invited to attend. 

If you have spam blockers or frequently change email addresses without letting me know, you will end up being dropped from my mailing list. Just request being added again, and remember to let me know if you change your email address. Because I send the column out in bulk (about 80 at a time, with over 1300 people receiving my column now) often the link will be in your spam folders. I have gotten clients requesting sessions that I found in my spam folder, so don’t be too quick to throw away these messages. 

I talked a bit about the totem of Owl in this month’s newsletter. One of the most interesting readings I offer is a look at your current animal totems. For the month of September 2014 all of my current Snake Oil subscribers will get $10 off (instead of the normal $5 off) their 45 minute or 70 minute session when specifically requesting this reading. Local clients who pay in cash or by check can also take an additional $5 off their session! Understanding the influence of your totem animals is an excellent way to increase your ability to feel and express empowerment.  

DRUID ANIMAL ORACLE READING

The practice and ancient Druidic teachings of animal totems and animal power is being revived. Every aspect of the natural world is alive and capable of being our allies, guides, and teachers. In Druid culture, wearing animal skins, heads, and feathers was a way of identifying with certain Animals and becoming them for a while in order to partake in their powers and to receive divine inspiration. This session will show what power animals are now available to you, and how they may already be influencing you. This spread is a perfect vehicle to open you up to the wisdom in the natural world around and within you. Either a 45 minute or 70 minute session is a good plan for getting the most out of this reading.

“Compassion for animals is intimately connected with goodness of character; and it may be confidently asserted that he who is cruel to animals cannot be a good man.” Schopenhauer

Channeled corner. I read many, many books from different trance channelers in the 80s and 90s. Unfortunately many of them are now out of print, but I still have a huge collection and will share some of the best material I have collected over the years.

“...Science delegates the world of nature as the realm of exterior natural events. Its view of nature is therefore mechanistic. The natural self, however, like the rest of nature, possesses a rich dimension of inside psychological depth, that science, because of its own definitions, cannot perceive. Telepathy and clairvoyance, for example, are a part of natural events, but they belong to a nature so much more expansive than science’s definitions that they have been made to appear as highly unnatural eccentricities of behavior, rather than as natural components of consciousness.

 It is for that reason that they seem to fall outside of the realm of the s-a-n-e. Such characteristics are, however, basic properties of the natural person. They do not appear very well under the auspices of the scientific method, because the scientific method is itself programmed to perceive only information that fits into its preconceived patterns. Such abilities appear to be unpredictable, discontinuous, only because you are so relatively unaware of what is actually quite constant psychological behavior. That is, such abilities operate so smoothly, so continuously, and with such ease that you become aware of them only under certain conditions. You are aware of what seem to be isolated hints of odd characteristics.

The intellect is basically able to handle many kinds of information, and information systems. It is far more flexible than you presently allow it to be. It can handle several main world views at once, realizing that they are each methods of perceiving reality...” 

Jane Roberts “The Magical Approach

Snake Oil Radio

Thursdays at 3:30 pm (there will be three live broadcasts this month)

My next live broadcast of Snake Oil Radio will be Thursday, September 4th, at 3:30 p.m. (MST -AZ doesn’t use daylight savings time). Almost every Thursday you can catch a new show. Each 45 minute show will expand on my current column’s subject matter. It will also offer an opportunity for you to call in live (or chat with other listeners in the chat room) with comments and your thoughts about the topic of discussion. Halfway through some of the shows you can even ask me for a free 5 minute mini reading with your personal question. If you miss the live show, you can catch any of my previously recorded shows on the web site’s archive. You can also catch Snake Oil Radio on I-tunes (download my pod-casts there).

To hear a live show, all you need to do is be at a computer and tuned into: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Jim-Ventura  You may also access it by going to blogtalkradio.com. Type “Snake Oil” into the search option.

You can also go to the shows that are currently “On air” at that time and find me. The call in number is 646-200-3966 for questions and comments.

Join me on September 11th for a special interview with Alaric Hutchinson: After a half hour interview Alaric will be doing 5 minute mini readings on air for the last half hour of our 60 minute show.

"Alaric Hutchinson is a spiritual teacher and vibrational life coach who specializes in teaching practical spirituality for the modern world. Alaric’s emphasis is on expanding consciousness through the embodiment of peace and the transcendence of duality. As one of the leading voices in his generation, Alaric offers a fresh perspective on the soulful evolution that is taking place on our planet. 

Alaric Hutchinson is author of the recently released book, Living Peace, which is the first of seven books that are part of the Luminous Living series. In this book, Alaric shares the Living Peace Code, nine tenets and practices that assist in raising one’s vibration and consciousness towards enlightenment. Alaric provides a rational and practical approach to spiritual lessons that allow humanity to rise above attachment, duality, and ego. You will learn how to master your thoughts, impulses, and emotions, promoting prosperity, harmony, and success in all areas of your life. As Alaric often expresses, 'There is never a reason good enough to be out of alignment with peace.'"

“Never, never be afraid to do what’s right, especially if the well-being of a person or animal is at stake. Society’s punishments are small compared to the wounds we inflict on our soul when we look the other way.”

Upcoming home classes:

CREATING PROSPERITY

Quite a few people have struggled with some financial difficulties in the last few years. The recession/depression that began in 2008 was a difficult period for many people. The economy has continued to improve, and this is a good thing. Yet, we always have the power and ability to tap into our potential to create prosperity, no matter what is happening around us!

Learning to open a doorway to living in abundance is possible. We can manifest prosperity in many different areas: career, finances, love life, personal happiness, etc...This class will focus on many different methods for generating personal wealth. Learn how to change beliefs and perspectives relating to finances as you uncover the blocks that currently keep you stuck. This is what creating prosperity is all about! The universe will support your decision to change your reality. Instructor Jim Ventura will discuss practical and metaphysical tools to show you how to create prosperity in your life. Sunday October 5th. noon- 2:30 pm. A maximum of 8 people for this home class (minimum of 4 to hold). $20.00 prepaid before August 25th or $25.00 on day of the class. Current Regular clients receive $5 off on the cost of this class. 

ASTROLOGY-101 (beginner class)

This class will teach you the basics of Astrology. By the end of this class, you will be on the road to interpreting your own chart, as well as those of others. You will learn about the house placements, signs, symbols, angles, etc... We will explore how powerful the influence of astrology is in our lives. If you already have your own chart, please bring it to the class. If you need your chart done, I will give information about how to get a free one to bring with you. Understanding your unique astrological chart is an excellent way to get more clear about your life path. Saturday November 8th 10 am until 12:30 pm. A maximum of 8 people for this home class (minimum of 4 to hold). $20.00 prepaid before October 28th or $25.00 on day of the class. Current Regular clients receive $5 off on the cost of this class. 

“Carry out a random act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day someone might do the same for you.” Diana Spencer

Here’s my contact information to make an appointment for a session, or information on current classes: Phone: (602)957-3035 text: (602)349-0746 Email: Venturasag@yahoo.com (best method for contact)

Information about the different sessions and types of readings and services, past Snake Oil columns, and how to order my books and audio CD’s can be found at my website: Http://JimVentura.com 

“Friend” me on Facebook to get other extra offers and in between column extras! Signing up for my fan page will get you even more extras and first shot at reading specials. Simply click on “like” on the fan page and you will automatically get my weekly updates. 

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jim-Ventura/110567902293371?ref=hl

All sessions/readings for 2014 are: Full (70 minutes) $110.00; Shorter session (45 minutes) $80.00;  Extended session (90 minutes) $130.00 (two people can split an extended session back to back for $65.00 each).  Email me for information about my Regular Client Program for even bigger discounts on session prices with the added benefit of monthly or quarterly check-ins. 

All Current Snake Oil subscribers get $5.00 off all listed prices for any 45-90 minute sessions (except when using a special discount promotion). Local in office visits receive  another $5 off listed prices for cash or check payments. 

I accept cash, checks, debit cards, Master Card, Visa, and PayPal for payments on sessions and for books and classes. Send me your birth month, day and year to get added to the yearly Birthday mailer promotion.

August 2014 Snake Oil

Snake Oil/ We Just Disagree

I love to sing. Every month or two, I find a way to get out and do karaoke with a few of my friends. It was something I started doing nearly fifteen years ago. With practice, my singing voice has become better and my confidence has risen along with it. I actually enjoy the opportunity to influence an audience and take center stage for a few minutes. I have a list of songs that I know I can perform really well. Yes, its a real list and I am a little bit of a geek. I also have an unwritten list, that’s far longer, of songs that I could never pull off! My voice tends to be stronger with songs and keys that are on the low side. I can’t comfortably reach high notes, so this is what eliminates quite a few of the songs that I love, so I never attempt to sing them. I remember to challenge myself each time I go by doing a song that I have never done before. I prioritize the value of “stretching myself,” even if afterwards I have to scratch that song off my list permanently. One of my favorite “easy songs” is a song from the late seventies by Dave Mason called “We just disagree.” I have performed it countless times and I can honestly say that it is one of a number of songs that I can sing flawlessly.

The song has an amazing sound and simple lyrics but has meaning for me. It took me some time to understand the clear wisdom of the lyrics, but in my mid thirties, I finally understood its meaning. Dave Mason sings about a past relationship that didn’t work out:

“So let’s leave it alone. Cause we can’t see eye to eye. There ain’t no good guy. There ain’t no bad guy. There’s only you and me and we just disagree. oh oh oh.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tmdaa1QX6TU

I remember when one of my long term relationships ended some years ago. We separated after almost three years together and I was bitter. My heart was broken and I clung to the idea that my ex was the “bad guy.” I believed that I was the “good guy.” He had an affair toward the end of the relationship, so it was easy for me to convince my friends and family that I was the loyal one who had gotten screwed over by him. Needless to say, they sided with me and reinforced my belief that I was the good one and he didn’t deserve me. I felt supported by my friends and validated that I had been mistreated. This helped me to move through the grieving process at first. It didn’t take long before I began to see things differently though.

After the anger and self pity faded, I was able to look at the experience from what I had learned from my many years of metaphysical studies. This shifted my viewpoint. When I looked at the situation through the lens of why and how I created this, I began to see that I had also contributed to the collapse of the relationship. After two years into the relationship I had begun to withhold affection, and was simply falling out of love. I was often finding myself irritated by many aspects of his personality. When I took an honest look at what had happened, I began to see it completely from an enlightened point of view. I could see that the joy in the relationship was no longer there and it needed to end for both of us. We were each moving in different directions. There was no good guy. There was no bad guy. There was only the two of us and we just were not in synch anymore. His affairs were simply the tangible excuse for us to both break away. Since that time, I have found it easier to see all of the relationships I have explored from a similar enlightened perspective. This has been tremendously empowering and I no longer participate in the illusion of victimization.

Once upon a time, I worked in a restaurant where some controversy started to brew around a year after we opened. The restaurant was not as successful as the owner had initially planned. He was not able to give the head chef some of the profits he believed he would have theoretically “acquired by now.” This contributed toward the chef finding himself dealing with some difficult financial struggles. The owner was struggling as well, but had some help from family and was less strained financially than the chef was. He was also more patient and willing to give things time to grow. The chef grew angry and felt victimized. The situation became progressively toxic. Many of the people that I worked with began to talk about how the owner had “screwed over” the chef. A few people thought that the chef was the bad guy, and “ungrateful.” It was uncomfortable for me to be around all of this opinionated speculation. It seemed that everyone around me was taking sides and wanted me to see why they were right, and who the “bad guy” was. It was clear to me that the owner had overestimated how much money he would bring in and was overly optimistic in what he could deliver. The chef was impatient, and while very talented and creative, was a bit of a martyr. He often spoke of times and circumstances where he “got screwed over” by others. People often steal to make up for what “should be theirs” and the chef did a bit of this to “balance the scales.” Eventually things resolved when the chef left the job. Still, there was still some bad vibes left behind over the whole situation, and many people were still convinced that they were on the side of “the good one.”

When we are willing to detach from taking sides and seeing things from the who is the “good one” and who is the “bad one” point of view, we can shift into a more evolved perspective. Some people take another extreme perspective in situations like this. Rather than decide that someone is the “bad guy,” they beat themselves up for getting caught in situations or with someone who is a “terrible person.” Their focus is more self deprecating and often centers around “how stupid they were for not being able to see what was happening.” They intensely berate themselves for their stupidity and “how they should have known better.” This is equally toxic, and also of little value. Even if we did “screw up,” and not see the signs or get out sooner, there is always wisdom in forgiving ourselves and the parties involved. 

Difficult experiences are sometimes part of our learning process. If we had all the answers without physical experience, there would be no need for life on the physical plane. Forgiveness is always the key in all cases. We don’t need to continue a relationship with someone we distrust, however it is always beneficial to purge ourselves of rehashing the experience and holding onto anger. Wisdom and maturity are about releasing the idea of taking sides. When we let go of self-recrimination and stubbornly hating someone forever for “what they did to us, or didn’t do for us,” we are free to be happy again. It is not only far wiser, but ultimately freeing to let go of the illusion of sides. If that is too difficult for some people to do, then I suggest just singing a little song: “There ain’t no good guy. There ain’t no bad guy. There’s only you and me and we just disagree. Oh Oh Oh.”

Jim Ventura 8-2010

Editors Note:

This Snake Oil originally ran in October of 2010. One of the things I really like about re-running a Snake Oil from only a few years ago is observing how my writing skills have improved over the years. I have very few re-writes and edits to do in comparison to my work from ten years ago, when I first started the column! Perseverance and a bunch of planets in a Virgo conjunction in my 5th house Natal chart have served me well.  

A few months ago when Mars was retrograde in Libra I really saw many people struggling with relationship issues. Mars rules what we get excited about and what we can get impatient about... While relationship challenges are always a common theme for many people, things seem to be less strained overall in this area since Mars went direct again. 

I often remind my clients that forgiveness doesn’t mean that we agree with what someone did, or didn’t do for us. Wisdom is the ability to look at what part you had in it’s creation, without adding self-recrimination to the mix... Forgiveness is not about pretending that you no longer care and forced detachment. We can often love someone and at the same time, not really like them very much... Forgiveness is about letting go of the part of ourselves that keeps rehashing, stressing, and getting irritated with the trespasses we may have experienced. We are choosing to let go of anguish and to be at peace. I always humorously remind my clients that even if we do go through a break-up  “all ex’s get hit with the ugly stick!” Meaning, after some time apart we often realize we are no longer attracted to that person. In most cases we should see that it happened for a reason, even if we don’t understand why yet. Often the doors open later to something much better in our lives. Not all relationships are meant to be “for life.”

There are still a few openings in September’s Prosperity class. Grab one of the last remaining spots before this class fills. I probably won’t be doing this class again until the summer of 2015. I will be doing some Tarot classes, and Astrology classes though in the winter.  More information about this in next months newsletter. Wishing everyone a Happy August. Cheers, Jim V

“When I hear somebody sigh, ‘Life is hard,’ I am tempted to ask, ‘Compared to what?” Sydney Harris

Channeled corner. I read many, many books from different trance channelers in the 80s and 90s. Unfortunately many of them are now out of print, but I still have a huge collection and will share some of the best material I have collected over the years.

Bartholomew talks about our endless focus, and battle with “the curtain.” The curtain is what we believe separates us or causes us pain: Our job, our relationship, our family, body, what we lack, what we want, etc...

“...You keep trying to make sense out of the motions of this thin undulating curtain... I would like to tell you something, even though you have heard it before. YOU ARE LOOKING AT THE WRONG THING! You feel there will be a moment when that curtain, with its infinite number of ripples and tucks, is going to be in perfect alignment; and then you will have the perfect curtain, the perfect life! This drive for curtain perfection is so strong that you spend all your time trying to achieve it. It is humorous, but it is also very painful. No matter how much you try to understand the curtain, you cannot fit it into Divine Law. It follows the law of its own motion, which you know as the motion of the ego. When you fix your eyes on the motion of the curtain and try to make cosmic sense out of it, you are doomed to failure. The motion of the ego curtain is caused by ego energy. So stop looking at the wrong thing.

I am going to ask you to quickly complete a sentence for me in your mind. “I am unhappy because...”

However you finish that sentence, my friends, has something to do with the motion of the ego curtain. As long as you believe you are unhappy because the curtain is not in a particular place, as long as you believe you will never be happy until the curtain has a particular look, you are doomed to misery; because it changes endlessly. As soon as you have reconciled or resolved one of the folds of the curtain to your liking, look down three inches and you will find something else has moved out of place.

You ego tries to convince you that by paying enough attention to the curtain, you will get it to hang right. How many more lifetimes are you going to believe this? The motion of the ego curtain has nothing to do with your happiness. You truly believe when you have a very difficult situation in your life that you would feel more peaceful if this situation were not there. But as painful as your lives are, you need to keep the following in mind: the coming together of the seemingly separated powers is the only solution to your problems. Anything else is simply patching the curtain. You can choose one thing over another. You can leave this or you can keep that. You can make endless choices about the curtain, but in the end, it remains a curtain. The problem is not the shape, size, or number of folds it has, the problem is your transfixed gaze upon it...”

From the book Bartholomew Planetary Brother

“Before reacting negatively, ask yourself, Does it really matter or am I just acting out of a need to be right?” Dick Sutphen

Current classes:

CREATING PROSPERITY

Quite a few people have struggled with some financial difficulties in the last few years. The recession/depression that began in 2008 was a difficult period for many people. The economy has continued to improve, and this is a good thing. Yet, we always have the power and ability to tap into our potential to create prosperity, no matter what is happening around us!

Learning to open a doorway to living in abundance is possible. We can manifest prosperity in many different areas: career, finances, love life, personal happiness, etc...This class will focus on many different methods for generating personal wealth. Learn how to change beliefs and perspectives relating to finances as you uncover the blocks that currently keep you stuck. This is what creating prosperity is all about! The universe will support your decision to change your reality. Instructor Jim Ventura will discuss practical and metaphysical tools to show you how to create prosperity in your life. Sunday September 7th. noon- 2:30 pm. A maximum of 8 people for this home class (minimum of 4 to hold). $20.00 prepaid before August 25th or $25.00 on day of the class. Current Regular clients receive $5 off on the cost of this class. 

“Never let your morals prevent you from doing what is right.” Isaac Asimov

Snake Oil Radio

Thursdays at 3:30 pm (there will be three live broadcasts this month)

My next live broadcast of Snake Oil Radio will be Thursday, August 7th, at 3:30 p.m. (MST -AZ doesn’t use daylight savings time). Almost every Thursday you can catch a new show. Each 45 minute show will expand on my current column’s subject matter. It will also offer an opportunity for you to call in live (or chat with other listeners in the chat room) with comments and your thoughts about the topic of discussion. Halfway through some of the shows you can even ask me for a free 5 minute mini reading with your personal question. If you miss the live show, you can catch any of my previously recorded shows on the web site’s archive. You can also catch Snake Oil Radio on I-tunes (download my pod-casts there).

To hear a live show, all you need to do is be at a computer and tuned into: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Jim-Ventura  You may also access it by going to blogtalkradio.com. Type “Snake Oil” into the search option.

You can also go to the shows that are currently “On air” at that time and find me. The call in number is 646-200-3966 for questions and comments.

Here’s my contact information to make an appointment for a session, or information on current classes: Phone: (602)957-3035 text: (602)349-0746 Email: Venturasag@yahoo.com (best method for contact)

Information about the different sessions and types of readings and services, past Snake Oil columns, and how to order my books and audio CD’s can be found at my website: Http://JimVentura.com 

“Friend” me on Facebook to get other extra offers and in between column extras! Signing up for my fan page will get you even more extras and first shot at reading specials. Simply click on “like” on the fan page and you will automatically get my weekly updates. 

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jim-Ventura/110567902293371?ref=hl

All sessions/readings for 2014 are: Full (70 minutes) $110.00; Shorter session (45 minutes) $80.00;  Extended session (90 minutes) $130.00 (two people can split an extended session back to back for $65.00 each).  Email me for information about my Regular Client Program for even bigger discounts on session prices with the added benefit of monthly or quarterly check-ins. 

All Current Snake Oil subscribers get $5.00 off all listed prices for any 45-90 minute sessions (except when using a special discount promotion). Local in office visits receive  another $5 off listed prices for cash or check payments. 

I accept cash, checks, debit cards, Master Card, Visa, and PayPal for payments on sessions and for books and classes. Send me your birth month, day and year to get added to the yearly Birthday mailer promotion.

July 2014 Snake Oil

Snake Oil

More and More Stuff

About a year ago a client gave me a pair of expensive sunglasses. While I appreciated her generosity, it is rare for me to own anything as extravagant as a pair of $300.00 sunglasses. I’m content to have a $30.00 pair and consider them to be just as valuable. In fact, owning a pair of expensive sunglasses might make me overly concerned about whether I would lose or break them. My client gave them to me partly out of generosity, but more to spite her husband. Her wealthy, overbearing spouse was playing all kinds of manipulative games of power and control with her. She contemplated throwing them away but recognized that it would be a far more brutal retaliation to give them to me. He doesn’t believe in therapists and any form of “metaphysical mumbo jumbo,”so I am guessing she would purposely tell him she gave them to me. While I didn’t want to get caught up in their domestic retaliation war, the sunglasses were innocent. If they were going to be thrown away it was probably better for me to take them.

I have never been one to put much energy into “showy acquisition.” I drive a moderate car and shop for most of my clothes at places like Ross and Burlington’s. While I am very much a fan of being comfortable and consider it a high priority, most of the things I own are not expensive items. I briefly went through a stage in my late teens when I wanted designer labels and high-priced items. However, this stage was extremely brief. By the time I reached my early twenties, I realized I was more interested in comfort, not glitter. Owning expensive things makes me more likely to get upset if I lose them. It also carries the trap of being too concerned about what could happen to the material things I might make too important. Expensive items can be stolen, they can break, they often require upkeep, and I simply never wanted to deal with all of that added worry.

In order to earn more money, I worked forty-five hours a week in my early twenties for about one year. I waited on tables at two different jobs. I made more money but realized that I preferred a little less money and more free time over the extra income. I think almost everyone has a few areas where they can be somewhat extravagant. I think there is nothing wrong with having a few areas in life where we have sophisticated tastes. Some people like expensive meals at restaurants. Some people like to own fine jewelry. Many people want to have the best looking home on the block. Some people spend exorbitant amounts of money on plastic surgery just to make their bodies look perfect. My biggest extravagance, in most of my friends and family’s eyes, are my trips to Las Vegas five or six times a year. They are surprised that I spend so much money on these trips and a few other vacations. The truth is, Vegas is one of the least expensive places for me to travel to. My mathematical skills give me an edge that most people don’t have when they gamble. When I play, I typically play low stakes and occasionally even win. My rooms and all of my meals are comped; these trips usually cost me very little in comparison to what most people spend on vacations. It’s actually far less costly for me to spend three days of luxury in Vegas than three days in San Diego (even though I do love San Diego!), where I have to pay for hotel rooms and meals.

I have never been interested in the “he who dies with the most toys wins” philosophy. I attribute this to being an “old soul.” Having lived many lifetimes, I think one begins to acquire wisdom and an ability to see how little value there is in obsessive acquisition. The more we strive to acquire things and get caught in the grips of greed, the more we will inevitably suffer. When taken to an extreme, competitiveness and voracity can be very unattractive. An obsessive need to have the best cars, largest house, designer shoes, and even the most elaborate parties (see if you can make it through an episode of the television show My Sweet Sixteen to know what I mean) carries a heavy price tag. When we get caught up with “keeping up with the Jones” we will probably eventually lose. Someone will always have more money and better “stuff.” We will feel like we have failed, or need to work harder to compete. If we have to work long hours at a job we don’t really enjoy, are we wealthy and successful or just a slave to the system of acquisition? 

I have also run across people who live at the far end of the bell curve in relation to having too much stuff. There are people who look with utter disdain at anything that smacks of materialism. This type of perspective is sometimes found among metaphysical people. Having been in the New Age world for many years, I have also run into a few people who consider any type of acquisition, or even the maintenance and needs of our bodies as lacking in spiritual worthiness. About five years ago, I received a message on my answering machine that was the epitome of the nuttiness of people who are far to the other extreme:

“Hi Jim, my name is Serendipity, a client gave me your name. We have a lot in common. I have been studying crystals, and I read Tarot cards. Right now I don’t have a home or a phone. I don’t believe in overvaluing material things, and choose not to participate in that kind of negativity. It will be difficult for you to reach me but I would like to talk. I will give you a friend’s phone number. He is really hard to reach also but if you keep trying he might be able to find me. His number is....”
I felt very little guilt when I erased this silly message from my voicemail and never returned the call.

We are born into physical body for a reason. When we pass back into spirit we will have no need for this vehicle, but while we are alive it is important to deal with the care, feeding, maintenance, and practical needs of the body. Having a comfortable home, a job we enjoy, some nice things, tools that help us to communicate with each other and a few luxuries to sweeten the experience are no less valuable than our spirituality. Too many spiritual seekers try to rise above the needs of the body. I often remind these types that it is very difficult to pay for your phone bill or air-conditioning in the hot summer with “good intentions” and “positive thoughts.” Money and “things” are a necessity and it is not wise to completely avoid this aspect of life. 

When it comes to acquisition I follow the perspective that comfort is what matters most. The things I acquire are tools to help me to enjoy the things that are of real value. I prefer to have memorable experiences over expensive possessions: meaningful conversations with friends. The happy relief I experience the first cool night in Arizona in October when I can open the front and back door and turn off the A/C, has nothing to do with material things. Cuddling up with my mate in a comfy bed is not really about having an expensive bed. When I see my clients excited about developing their intuitive abilities I feel a sense of wealth. My nephews’ excited reactions to a creative gift I recently sent them cost very little, but it had another type of value. It was memorable and fun, and it reminded them that their Uncle does care about them. The home I own brings comfort and security to the people, plants, and animals that are part of my life. It is not impressive by any means, but it is really cozy. Any piece of beautiful music, book, or a movie that makes me go mushy inside is priceless. Philosopher Art Buchwald said it perfectly: “The best things in life aren’t things.”

Jim Ventura 1-2008

Editors note:

This column was originally written in early 2008. the reference to MTV’s my Sweet Sixteen marks this! The sunglasses lasted about a year, I had a car accident about a year later in 2009 and when I went to pull my stuff from my totaled car (a woman ran a stop sign because she was texting and drinking a cup of coffee) I forgot that they were even in the car and simply left them behind. Just another reminder of how much importance I place on “stuff.”

Last month’s Creating Prosperity class went very well! I have a small waiting list of people who couldn’t get into the June class, so I am rescheduling another beginner class for early September. More information about this is in this newsletter. Grab one of the remaining spots while there are still a few left. I will also be doing an advanced class on how to market your own business in October. Students who took Creating Prosperity One will be first to have an option for taking one of the 8 spots. If there are openings after that I will allow anyone who wants to attend to join us. Creating Prosperity is not about being wealthy. It is more about recognizing that we each hold the keys to creating security and we can decide for ourselves what our level of success will be!

We are smack in the middle of summer. I love living in phoenix, but the summer months can be a real test. Monsoon season usually begins around mid July, so we will get a little relief. I bought a portable standing air conditioning unit for my bedroom. While I already have central air, my goal was to take some of the pressure off the roof unit. They can be quite costly to replace. The portable unit is amazing. Even at a 79 degree setting my bedroom is almost cold. My cat was scared of the noise it made for the first week or two, now it’s hard to get her to leave that room!

I haven’t been back east in almost four years and I am taking a trip back to New York in early October (where I am from originally). It will be great to get back east and to see family and friends. I moved away 24 years ago, and I’d I would go back more often, but I just don’t like flying. It’s not a fear of flying-just seems to be way overpriced, and I seem to get pulled out and molested by security about one out of every four times. I am not sure why they pull me out and go through my stuff so frequently, but it seems to happen too often! The last time I flew to Las Vegas, they searched me and my carry-on because I had a cigar cutter in with the 18 cigars I brought with me, ugh...

2014 has been a really good year. I reached the number one spot on Yelp recently. Special thanks to all the thoughtful clients who put reviews up about me. The positive karma of helping me to reach more people and be prosperous will be coming your way. You already put it in motion...

Wishing everyone a happy Summer, Cheers, Jim V

Channeled corner. I read many, many books from different trance channelers in the 80s and 90s. Unfortunately many of them are now out of print, but I still have a huge collection and will share some of the best material I have collected over the years.

A projection into the future from Seth  quoted from Spirit Speaks magazine

“Fear is the opposite of love. Fear is based upon not knowing, upon preparing for the unknown, for what might happen, for that which is not actually present in the moment. Fear is based totally upon future projection, which comes from evaluating the past, not only of your own lives but of other’s, and drawing deductions about what might happen to you in the future. This is what your insurance companies do; they project at what age you are likely to get sick, be disabled, or die, how many of you are likely to do that, and in what way.

Now, read enough statistics and you will necessarily start making yourself believe that this must be the way it is. And, in this way, society, group mind, and industry dictate the nature of your beliefs. Metaphysically, fear is the opposite of love, the opposite of love based upon the absence of knowledge, because you can love and be comfortable with that which you know. It is always the unknown that you fear the most.” Seth

“Don’t ask yourself what the world needs, ask yourself what makes you come alive. And then go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who are alive.” Howard Thurman

Current classes:

CREATING PROSPERITY

Quite a few people have struggled with some financial difficulties in the last few years. The recession/depression that began in 2008 was a difficult period for many people. The economy has continued to improve, and this is a good thing. Yet, we always have the power and ability to tap into our potential to create prosperity, no matter what is happening around us!

Learning to open a doorway to living in abundance is possible. We can manifest prosperity in many different areas: career, finances, love life, personal happiness, etc...This class will focus on many different methods for generating personal wealth. Learn how to change beliefs and perspectives relating to finances as you uncover the blocks that currently keep you stuck. This is what creating prosperity is all about! The universe will support your decision to change your reality. Instructor Jim Ventura will discuss practical and metaphysical tools to show you how to create prosperity in your life. Sunday September 7th. noon- 2:30 pm. A maximum of 8 people for this home class (minimum of 4 to hold). $20.00 prepaid before August 25th or $25.00 on day of the class. Current Regular clients receive $5 off on the cost of this class. 

“In Order to succeed, your desire for success should be greater than your fear of failure.” Bill Cosby

Snake Oil Radio

Thursdays at 3:30 pm (there will be two live broadcasts this month)

My next live broadcast of Snake Oil Radio will be Thursday, July 11th, at 3:30 p.m. (MST -AZ doesn’t use daylight savings time). Almost every Thursday you can catch a new show. Each 45 minute show will expand on my current column’s subject matter. It will also offer an opportunity for you to call in live (or chat with other listeners in the chat room) with comments and your thoughts about the topic of discussion. Halfway through some of the shows you can even ask me for a free 5 minute mini reading with your personal question. If you miss the live show, you can catch any of my previously recorded shows on the web site’s archive. You can also catch Snake Oil Radio on I-tunes (download my pod-casts there).

To hear a live show, all you need to do is be at a computer and tuned into: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Jim-Ventura  You may also access it by going to blogtalkradio.com. Type “Snake Oil” into the search option.

You can also go to the shows that are currently “On air” at that time and find me. The call in number is 646-200-3966 for questions and comments.

“Self confidence is the most attractive quality a person can have. How can anyone see how awesome you are if you can’t see it yourself?” Unknown

Here’s my contact information to make an appointment for a session, or information on current classes: Phone: (602)957-3035 text: (602)349-0746 Email: Venturasag@yahoo.com (best method for contact)

Information about the different sessions and types of readings and services, past Snake Oil columns, and how to order my books and audio CD’s can be found at my website: Http://JimVentura.com 

“Friend” me on Facebook to get other extra offers and in between column extras! Signing up for my fan page will get you even more extras and first shot at reading specials. Simply click on “like” on the fan page and you will automatically get my weekly updates. 

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jim-Ventura/110567902293371?ref=hl

All sessions/readings for 2014 are: Full (70 minutes) $110.00; Shorter session (45 minutes) $80.00;  Extended session (90 minutes) $130.00 (two people can split an extended session back to back for $65.00 each).  Email me for information about my Regular Client Program for even bigger discounts on session prices with the added benefit of monthly or quarterly check-ins. 

All Current Snake Oil subscribers get $5.00 off all listed prices for any 45-90 minute sessions (except when using a special discount promotion). Local in office visits receive  another $5 off listed prices for cash or check payments. 

I accept cash, checks, debit cards, Master Card, Visa, and PayPal for payments on sessions and for books and classes. Send me your birth month, day and year to get added to the yearly Birthday mailer promotion.