Animal House

The volunteers, led by Honi Reisman and Bonnie Folz, have continued to post flyers in the areas where Vivi has been seen.

HA!

Hello,

I was in Flushing today by Peck Park and I saw lots of Vivi flyers, which was somewhat encouraging after what I saw or didn't see on Monday in Bayside. Many of the posters also looked like they were there for a while.

The man whose house I inspected told me that the flyers were posted all around the area and he continues to keep his eyes open. I would imagine that if he is on the lookout, then so are his neighbors.

I thought the people posting the flyers would feel good about that.

Lisa E.

Thank you Bo. If there is anything we can do you know we are there for you all. (I think I can confidently say we rather than I on behalf of this board.) This pup is very elusive but she will be found. Never give up.
Lydia

Yes that is very encouraging ! I'm glad people are still seeing these flyers. It's the only way Vivi will be able to come home... the flyers. Good Luck This weekend.

Bo...keep the faith. I pray for Vivi daily. I know she will eventually be found. My prayers are with you & Jill. Never give up on that beuatiful girl....

All powerful Creator of the universe, We thank and praise you for the good that is being done because people are coming together for Vivi. We marvel at the reawakening of the world in the Spring. We marvel at the birth of Ridgeback puppies! How can we not place our trust in a God so wonderful! Allow the light of your stars, and moon to light the travels of Vivi, Biggie, and Sniffles, and put them on the road to home. Let them sleep peacefully, and protected, in the warmth of Your loving gaze. Gather all the lost and help them find loving "forever" homes. Thank you for the healing that is already taking place in Dante, and Murphy!
We praise you for the selfless and loving things that the readers of this blog are doing for animals, IN YOUR NAME! Bless the NYC "posters" and searches who seem to gather their vitality from Your never sleeping energy. Send Your angels to help and protect Vivi's angels! Bring into Your kingdom, with shouts of joy and welcome, all who will join you in Paradise tonight. Let us sleep in the confidence of Your love, content to know YOU ARE IN CHARGE! Amen

I WOULD LIKE TO REMIND EVERYONE NOT TO POST LOCATIONS ON THIS BLOG. THE BLOG IS OPEN TO EVERYONE. IF YOU HAVE A NEED TO INFORM SOMEONE OF A SIGHTING PLEASE EMAIL THEM INDIVIDUAL AND NOT MAKE IT PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE. WE ARE HAVING ENOUGH PROBLEMS WITH PEOPLE IN THE LOCAL NEIGHBORHOODS CHASING HER WITHOOUT HAVING PEOPLE FROM OUT OF TOWN DOING THE SAME. JUST FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES VIVE HAS NOT BEEN SEEN IN ANY OF THE AREAS THAT WAS MENTIONED ON THIS BLOG. SHE SEEMS TO HAVE MOVED TO A NEW LOCATION ENTIRELY AND WE ARE BUSY PUTTING POSTERS UP THERE AS WELL. Thank you for your continued prayers and those great bright orange flyers that I love so well..

What do you need for us to do? Any businesses, vets or schools need to be contacted?

Not sure yet, but will keep you posted. Thank you for asking.

Its sad Kathy, you guys would probably have her by now if it wasn't for the idiots..Mums the word about her locations..I think what we like is just to hear she has been sighted, not where. I know nothing of NY anyway, so a yes or no is fine with me. I wish you people only the best in finding her.
MaryL-California

When I first saw Gails website posted and I went and checked it out, my stomach twisted.She did a great dis-service to Vivi's owners by posting sighting locations. They asked everyone to keep quiet about Vivi's lcations,but Gail went ahead and posted them anyway and probably started all the idiots chasing Vivi all over again. So now...she moved to another location. When will you guys learn!!???

Janet, I believe she would post them a couple days after the sighting. Not only that, they are not all on there, trust me. Personally, Gail, I think you are doing a fabulous job. Instead of spending your time posting on the web site and criticizing what people are posting or "doing" to try to help find the dog, you actually are out there looking for the dog. I commend you. Everyone has an opinion... Some are more helpful than others. :0

Janet, there have been many sightings since what is listed on Gail's sight (I just double-checked). Trust me, Gail is a good person and will not "hurt" the search. She is working VERY hard to find Vivi. She is the one that suggested that we change the wording on the flyers (which I think is a great idea - we learn from our mistakes along the way).

Let's everyone be gentle with their suggestions and criticisms. I've been the recipient of some harsh ones and it's not very pleasant. We don't need volunteers feeling "bad" about their contributions. There is a way to word things in a positive and constructive way. :)

Like I said before and as recently as yesterday. I just want to know the little dog has been sighted, I don't care where or when! If the posting of when she was sighted is days and days late, I'm fine with it, what do I know..lol Gail has done a great job and should be be commended, not condemned for one second! I do believe, from what I've seen these past almost 3 months, that everyone is doing his or her best..Lois, what you said is exactly right!(0:
MaryL-California

Lois and MaryL, Ditto!

Lois and MaryL

Amen on your comments with Gail

I agree with Lois, MaryL, Pat, and Marty. Gail T. should be commended for what she is doing and for the time and committment she has put toward this effort. I just checked her site before I posted and her last entry did not indicate where Vivi is at all, just that she is waiting for Vivi to show up.

Gail Thomas has been proactive in searching for Vivi since day one and as far as I'm concerned, deserves nothing but praise.
The woman was not listened to long ago when she should have been. To my knowledge, she and her mother are the only two searchers who have actually seen Vivi.
She is not posting sightings until days later and that is not adversely affecting the search. It is, however, giving hope to those of us who have been here from day one, and due to distance feel somewhat helpless.
Gail postponed her long planned vacation to continue the search for Vivi- and that is admirable and kind.
I know you do not wat praise- but three cheers for you Gail- and thank you.

Lois,
Amen! You've stated it perfectly. We do not know about locations until several days after the sightings. What is important is not to lose heart,
and remain patient. All of the volunteers have kept Vivi's name in the public eye, and that's what's important!
(The several people I've talked to in classified advertising knew who Vivi was, and they knew she was still out there. That's impressive.)

OK, let's get one thing straight. Yes, Gail T. has been doing a fantastic job over and above what would have been expected from and of the volunteers. BUT, she did not cancel her vacation to search for Vivi - she has a close relative that is extremely ill and has canceled her vacation plans due to the illness, not to search for Vivi. This is not speculation on my part, she was telling us about it last Saturday. My sympathy is with her and her family and I hope that her relative is on the mend and out of the hospital soon.

I was at my vet this morning - Petcare Animal Clinic - and they had one of the laminated posters in their waiting which replaced the original one that I put there in the beginning.

BTW, if I seem a little more bitchy than usual today it's because I had to have one of my Whippets euthanized this morning. So I'm sorry if I offend anybody with any of my postings.

Diane- So sorry to hear about your loss. Please accept my deepest sympathy.

Diane,
I've been there too many times...It's the hardest part of having a pet. My heart goes out to you. I hope having all your other babies around you today brings you much comfort.

Yes..Gail cancelled her plans due to a sick relative...and while she is home for that person..she is still not sitting on her butt doing nothing. She's out there guys..regardless. As is many of our other searchers...let's not forget that Gail is NOT working alone and give equal credit to those we know are out there. They've been in pain and sick to their stomaches and they are still out there not to mention exhuasted. Keep giving them your support regardless of what you hear or not hear. That's what's keeping them going..that and the love for this little girl we've never met.

Diane, I'm so very sorry about your whippet.

Diane, I'm so sorry for your loss. Terrie

Diane, I am so sorry to hear of your loss.

Diane:
I'm very sorry about your Whippet. I know the pain your feeling now! Hugs your other kids tightly,most of have been where you are now. My deepest sympathy to you.
MaryL-California

Diane - I am very saddened to hear about your whippet. Been there many times and it hurts so much I almost said no more dogs once.

Diane,
So sorry to hear about your loss. I've been there before and know the pain of losing a treasured friend. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your other kids. Susan

Diane - I sincerely am sorry for your loss of your whippet today. I know it is a hard decision, and one that hurts - but it is the last act of love you can extend to a pet when they are in pain.

I will be praying for you.

Hugs from Kathleen and Tinkerbell

Diane, I am so sorry to her about your loss.
I have been there also, and know the pain . But know that you little whippet is in a better place.

Psalm 134
Behold, Bless the Lord, all you servants of the
Lord, who by night stand in the House of
the Lord| Lift up your hearts, and hands
in the sanctuary and Bless The Lord!
The Lord who made Heaven and Earth, Bless
you from Zion!

Creator of the Night and Day, and all living things which live on the Earth--We will bless Your name. You created the stars to brighten a dark world, protect and keep Vivi, Biggie, and Sniffles in safety and warmth of Your light so that they may sleep peacefully and well. Gather them Good
Shepherd into Your arms, and give them to the searchers in New York. Let us rejoice in their return to the earthly home. Thank you for the healing taking place in Madison, Dante, and Murphy.
Console all those who grieve tonight, assure Diane that you will give her whippet child a special place at Your feet until Heaven becomes like Home.
Welcome all who will join you in Paradise tonight!
Rescue all the lost, and do not "lose" us so that one day we will come Home to you. Bless and protect those who persevere in the Vivi rescue-- many of them despite physical limitations, and fatigue. Send your angels to help this cause!Author of all that lives bring this story to its happy ending. Send us peaceful refreshing sleep knowing YOU ARE IN CHARGE. Amen.
Much empathy in the loss of your baby, Diane. I was there a year ago, hoping it could end another way, but knowing I did the right thing! Prayers.

VIVI E-CARDS

I'm trying to keep up with the latest threads here, so sorry about the cross-posting...

I've posted a few vivi photos on my website that you can send as E-Cards. Maybe they can give someone a smile and keep the spirits up.

www.carolbeuchat.com

Carol

Carol!
Lovely pictures. Thanks for sharing them.
MaryL-California

Sharon you prayers are always very touching, thank you for posting them.

I don't post much, but read the blog daily for news about Vivi. I also wanted to thank you, Sharon, for your prayers every night. They are so beautiful. . .I wish I could put words together like that. I specifically look for your prayer every night as a way to end my day. Thank you so much for posting them.

Just a thought, but would a male tracking dog be helpful in finding Vivi when she goes into heat? I pray she if found before that but if not, wouldn't the scent carry quite a distance? I am not sure when she will be in heat but I thought I read on this blog sometime this summer? Perhaps a couple of male dogs professionally handled would be able to detect the scent and find her location? I post this now because if it would be an option I know it takes time and money to get tracking dogs. I am no animal rescue expert, just mom to two black labs and an animal lover who has come to care for this beautiful whippet and wants her to come home, so this may be a stupid idea but I thought I would throw it out there. Vivi, the weather is beautiful, come out and play with one of those nice volunteers!

Donna in Ma

Just always remember no ideal is stupid on the this blog. I believe ViVi goes into heat in July. Can't be for sure but I think I read that somewhere.

I meant idea and not ideal

Carol, beautiful pictures of a beautiful little girl.

Donna,
I think someone said Vivi was just over her heat when she got away...I hope they catch the poor girl before the next one! Poor sweet doggie. Everyday I think, "this is the day they'll find Vivi" and days come and go..Keep praying!
I had a dog trainer friend tell me Friday, that they need Whippets to attract her attention. They've already done that and it hasn't worked. Ideas are what this blog is all about! (0:
MaryL-California

If you try to use Whippets to attract her, it would work, but she has to be in the vicinity.
Vivi can do twenty miles a day no problem. You need to figure out which park she might visit and wait with Whippets.
Patience needed, good luck , Diana

Thank you all for your kind thoughts and prayers. I take comfort in the fact that Thunder was 15, was with me since 6 weeks of age and definitely had a good life full of love and companionship, both human and animal.

Whippets when under stress don't necessarily stick to their cycle so there's a very good chance that Vivi may not go into season in July. I've heard of bitches skipping a cycle for as long as two years.

I've always spayed my females so I'm not up on the cycle thing but wouldn't her diet play a role in it also..plus the stress she's under everyday? Also, if there's a significant weight loss that may change the cycle to. Would I be correct in this thinking?

Of course, the cycyle could go either way. She could start earlier or later or like you say,skip one. I praying that she's home before any of that happens, or least, before she goes into heat. That could be bad..Poor thing, being out by herself could be in for a lot of problems with male dogs.
I try not to think about things like that,even tho I know they are there! )0:
MaryL-California

Gail Ct. all those factors come into play. Unfortunately, we can't say for sure which this will come into play with Vivi.

Well...I'm not going to worry about that right now. Just have to think positive she'll be home by than.

So ae we back to posting on Straphanger or what?

uh, are that is

Today was Good Shepherd Sunday, and it is a wonderful image to hold in mind while we are waiting and praying for these babies. Whether looking at Psalm 23 or the Gospel of the Good Shepherd, both are a wonderful reminder of the reckless love of God for creation. (Shepherds, good ones that is, would literally lay across a break in the rocks and let their flocks pass over them to safety.) We have to believe that God holds that same love for our "lost ones"... and for us.
In a modern musical setting Bob Duford S.J. wrote:
"Like a Shepherd, He feeds his flock, and gathers the lambs in his arms---Holding them carefully close to His Heart, LEADING THEM HOME."

Ever vigilant Shepherd of us all, hear our prayers for Vivi, Biggie, Sniffles, and all the lost and abandoned ones. Hold them near Your heart and bring Vivi, Biggie, and Sniffles to the families who love them. Bring all the lost and abandoned ones to families of their own so that they may know love and home. Accept our praise for the healing you are doing in Madison, Dante, and Murphy. Put one of your angels in charge of racing with Thunder until Heaven is home. Welcome all the weary whose journey leads them to Paradise tonight. Watch over us and protect us so that we do not become lost in the unimportant things of the world. Remind us of your call to us as caretakers of animals and your creation. Bless the efforts of Vivi's angels as they post and search-- often fighting troubles of their own, to do Your will in this matter.Give them Your angels to keep them strong and safe. Strengthen our faith in You as a result of this experience, regardless of our faith expression. May all of us human and animal alike sleep well tonight knowing---YOU ARE IN CHARGE! Amen.

Amen

If anyone is interested in seeing the most recent ad I took out, you can go to www.onlongislandtoday.com and click on classified ads and then click on pets. I know this is in a Long Island paper but, hope that someone may work or know of someone who lives in the area Vivi has been sighted. I think it is a very well done ad.

Meri-Lou

Very nice ad on ViVi. She is such a beautiful dog. I just wish she would get tired of running and come to someone so she can go home. Thank you again for everything that you are doing for ViVi

Meri-Lou
I just saw the ad. Beautiful. From one of the seachers here in NY. Thank you so very much.

Meri-Lou did you get my e-mail from this morning? The ad is NOT in Newsday today.

I haven't seen it in Newsday since Feb.

Diane - Please let me know what dates the lost and found ad appeared in Newsday.

Meri-Lou,
The ad IS well done..Great picture. I also love the white terrier! (0:
MaryL-California

5/4, 5/5, 5/6, 5/7, the first few days it was not in the NYC edition.

I just spoke to a very nice gentleman at Newsday (Richard) about the problem with the ad not appearing for the first 3 days. He asked me if I had heard about the missing whippet in New York and I explained to him that the ad was for her. He then said, Oh yes, I recognize her name (VIVI) because that's his best friends name. He apologized for the error and said that they would run the ad for another 7 days at no charge. The ad is to run in all of their newspapers from 5/10/06 - 5/16/06. Those is New York, please verify this for me.

MERI-LOU Please check your email

Gail CT - I just replied to your email

MERI-LOU: THE AD IS JUST LOVELY. WISH I COULD CATCH I GLIMPSE OF THE LITTLE SUCKER IN PERSON!!! YOU HAVE REALLY HELPED GET THE MESSAGE OUT THERE.
THANK YOU*********************

Maybe this thread will stay around for awhile:

To answer the questions: My first vision of Vivi with a little boy and a swimming pool - was just before her birthday - and they were cat people and the mother told the little boy to take Vivi back where he found her.

So Vivi was spotted again on her birthday and for a few days after that. Then last week, I had gleanings that Vivi was captured and held in a closet temporarily - then taken home where she is now. She was taken to a vet and is being kept safe in a crate when the women are not home.

I believe one woman has blond hair and they might live near Kessina Park area - and walk Vivi by the lake.

The next post I wrote last night and details (rather boring) about why I think it important to entertain the possiblity that Vivi is caught.

Next question:

Concerning whether or not Vivi is free roaming or caught. These are my thoughts: (Yes, there is a third. No need to dwell on the negative.)

In the Vivi is caught camp:

1. Do not consider my visions in the equation – since my psychic abilities seem bothersome to a few and of course, I can be wrong. Consider that I have a hunch. Vivi is caught based upon the lack of verifiable sightings and her normal behavior over the past three and ½ months – parks playing with children, visiting playgrounds etc.,
2. Remember the approach by Whippet experts and the owners: Vivi will come in on her own, a kind person will close a gate behind her – that is the way Whippets are traditionally caught. There’s some truth here right? So then, why can’t or won’t this happen, or why hasn’t it happened? It is in the range of rational possibilities that someone has indeed done just that. What was hoped for has happened.
3. So, it is rational to consider that Vivi might be caught, unless we have clear and convincing evidence otherwise. What does that mean to the volunteers and bloggers? How does the search change?

a. I believe if we assume Vivi is caught, the searchers and volunteers will contact the Vets and Vet hospitals in the area asking if they have treated a Whippet recently that looks like this……
b. All pet stores and pet supply houses will be notified to be on the look out for the Whippet.
c. Ads might be placed and the door knob fliers posted asking people to watch for this Whippet - might be seen with someone.

In the Vivi is not caught camp:

1. Keep on in the same direction hoping for sightings and placing food and staking out her most recent haunts. Nothing in error here. (However it might be nice if this camp would admit, they could be wrong.)

So I suggest to make a choice without adequate evidence in either direction is not wise. But to assume that Vivi is free-roaming and will never be caught by the average dog person, means neglecting some basic steps in searching for a lost dog – Vet Notification. The vets, like most people, probably think Vivi is home with her owners and might not be looking for her. And because Vivi has been gone so long, some steps taken in the beginning might have to be “re-done” to keep Vivi in the forefront of everyone’s minds.

My idea that Vivi is caught is reasonable, since we don’t have clear and convincing evidence otherwise. Now my visions are just that – visions. But I do believe that tweaking the search to include the possibility that Vivi may be caught, is a wise move.

Also, a vet and vet hospitals, treat hundreds of animals in a month, and they might forget who brought the Whippet in. I had that happened with a cat I found that was sick. “Oh, I’ve seen this cat before, can’t remember who brought it in, but yes, it’s been here before.”

Regardless of my visions, I suggest other possibilities should be considered – cover all bases – neglect nothing – bring Vivi home. But to dismiss my idea based upon “everyone agrees she will never be caught” – because it hasn’t happened for three months - means some good reason must exist to believe it is not in the range of possible events that might occur- ever never ever. Or it could be: a person we trust, says so. We don’t like visions, so your idea “sucks.”

Okay, rational people conducting rational searches using rational means. My approach is a legitimate searching technique.

I suggest: The Queens, Flushing, College Point, Whitestone area etc., any and all places where Vivi has been sighted be divided by zip codes. Then two volunteers take one zip code – one sends queries either by e-mail, fax, or letter to all the Veterinary Hospitals and Clinics, the other to all pet stores in that zip code.

Each query should be accompanied by two photos (black and white okay) of Vivi, right and left side – asking if they have seen a Whippet that looks like Vivi with someone (male or female) and for them to call the Vivi number.

What if college students have Vivi? The semester is ending. Time is of the essence.
What I have noticed over the Vivi hunting months, is that it takes much time to garner support and take action - the window of opportunity narrows and Vivi moves on.

Let’s act now. What do you say - is this a workable idea?

If there are verifiable sightings (as mentioned in Bo's recent post) in so many places, then why aren't they posted on Gail's website?

I only wish all bases covered - so Vivi does not slip between the cracks of everyone's so very good intentions to bring this dog home.

I get the sense that Vivi went for a walk this morning. I sense a leash on her neck and the smell of donuts nearby.

Middle Eye, I'll answer that question. they aren't posted on Gail's site because she's been asked not to post them and being the devoted searcher that she is she has agreed to abide by the wishes of the owners.

Thank you Diane - If I had a choice between Vivi being caught and her being lose - I'd take the caught any day. Off the streets is so much better for her.

So I can't say I hope you are correct - I can only think if there is merit to her still free-roaming, then perhaps I am picking up something else - another animal - but I, of course, have no way of verifying my visions.

So when Gail posted on her web site: I do not expect any sightings where she (Vivi) is now - that statement is just misleading if not wrong? Why not just say, I have been asked not to post the sightings any more so no more sightings will be posted. Gail seems like a very upfront honest person - so why the "cloudiness"?

It is all a little confusing. And we are further away from knowing anything of substance about our little miss Vivi - Gail needs to change her web site so to end the confusion - so we all are on the same page.

So I guess the bottom line is that no one will help notify the vets - which in any case it seems wise regardless of the seemingly error of my visions - and it may be the future too. I'd like some clarification wouldn't you?

I can only believe that what Gail posted - that Vivi is in a place where no sightings are possible - must in some way be correct - and that the powers that be do not want it known that Vivi has not been sighted? Is that possible? Why - so the good search goes on - and there is merit in that approach. I agree, continue the good search. But one must admit - the contradiction in what you say now and what Gail posts on her site is a "crazy" maker.

Of course: Both statements can be correct. The owners can ask - Do not post sightings.

Gail can rightfully put up: I expect not sightings where Vivi is, because she does not really expect any, so the owners have nothing to worry - there are no sightings.

And again: I can be wrong. That is true.

Please note I did post Vivi was caught long before Gail put the comment on her web site that she expects no sightings where Vivi is. In fact, I posted that vision when sightings were coming in with ???? after them.

One last comment: I agree with everyone's efforts to capture Vivi by tents, food stations, noise makers and any thing else. I am not trying to get any effort off track. I only care that a good avenue and source of information is not overlooked - ie Vets and Pet Stores.

I don't understand that if the area is so large - as large as it seems on maps and even larger in reality probably - then why not post an accurate sighting - note the person calling (male or female) - date and time etc. - or some information that is accurate. Post whether or not the sighting has been verified. Are they verifying sightings with photographs? Why the secrecy now after three months? Something doesn't fit here. I don't know what is off - but something doesn't seem right. If Bonnie wants the bloggers or outsiders to help, it seems more information is needed about Vivi's routine and the sightings. Then maybe we (or another person) can come up with a solution to catching Vivi. Let's start by knowing her routine and a list of the true sightings? Is it really Vivi or another thin white/brindle dog? What do you think?

I can be wrong. Catching Vivi is more important than being "right". Bringing Vivi home is the priority. I'd sure like more information on the sightings - time of day especially and location. I guess the information is not being shared on the blog and only a few special people are privy to it. Ummm......

Time to go. Bye all.

I don't have much to add about Vivi today. I do feel that she is content and I hope that she is caught - much safer and better for her - but I cannot be certain about it.

If I am wrong and she is still free roaming, I feel the window of opportunity to develop a pro-active scheme to bring her in has passed. Her territory is just too large now. When she was staying near the cemetary and near the Botanical Gardens and Kessina Park - then there was a chance.

I remember when someone contacted the Dog Pound (whatever you call it in New York) and it was posted that stray dogs go in circles and they increase their range - wider and wider.

I do hope Vivi is caught, but if I am picking up energy for another dog and Vivi is still lose, there is not much that can be done now - except keep the public aware and stake out parks in the hopes of just seeing her and maybe not even getting near enough to make contact.

I would like to read some verifiable sightings. In the meantime I will begin sending notices to Vets in the area.

The fear that surrounded the search in the beginning where all were told to keep hands off and away from Vivi - and when the advice of Laura the Pet Detective about hiring an expert Tracker was not followed - all of it - created the problems we are now facing today.

I care about little Vivi. I do not know the owners and I only want Vivi safe.

That's it for today. If you contacted me about your numbers, please e-mail me the information again - I lost them on the last e-mail address. Thanks much.

PS: Some people have asked me how to communicate with "animals" and I will post next week the steps I took in a process that took me several years to develop - not because of its difficulty, but because of my lack of focus. Although, I admit it is much easier to communicate with wildlife and animals you do not own - than with your own pets - that is from my experience - but it can be done.

First of all I suggest this weekend that you sit down with a pen and paper (or computer) and begin to jot down all your ideas like this: I believe I need to do __________________ to develop my ability to communicate with animals - and list what you now think is required. Don't worry about being right or wrong - just brainstorm and put down your preconceived ideas about the process.

I will post more on Vivi tomorrow.

On Communicating with Animals:

Here is the first step that everyone can do over the weekend – no sense wasting a good weekend. Since I do not have access to the internet on the weekend – no phone line – I will post my steps on Monday – but just a few at a time. (From your list you make – you can tweak these steps to enhance your development.)

First:

Sit outside (I suggest not laying on the grass or in a lounge chair – you’ll probably fall asleep) at dawn or at dusk – sit and watch the sky but avoid the heat of the day – sit at the transition times when night becomes dawn and when day becomes night.. Do this for as long as you can. If it is twenty minutes okay – two hours even better. Do not close your eyes – do not meditate – do not force anything – do not use effort – just sit and watch the sky and the breeze or if no clouds or no breeze – then watch the still air.

Do not listen to music but if a dog barks, okay. Don’t stop anything and don’t force anything – just accept nature and where you are on your patio (if you don’t have a patio then look out a window.)

Do not think about anything – but if your mind is busy – okay just don’t hold on to the thoughts – let them like water flow through you – until you become just a vessel of stillness and the busy mind flows out into the universe.

Notice the movement of shadows, notice a bug crawling – but don’t notice yourself or your problems. Just watch the clouds and the sun and the sky and the shadows etc.

That’s it – do this twice a day if you can.

P.S. - you can e-mail me with any question - I have not given up on our little miss "Vivi".

I can only answer e-mail during the week from 8:00 am to 4:00 p.m. west coast time.

The time spent outdoors in solitude is to accustom and attune your spirit to the vibrations of nature. There is an art to it and you are in the process of teaching yo