Frogs, Flora, Fauna, and Creativity by Raphaella Vaisseau

The other night in a dream I was swimming in a beautiful body of water and met a frog. It was a large green frog coming right at me, eyes saying something intently to me as it approached. I was mesmerized by the scene. The blues and greens and yellows were stunning, and neither one of us spoke. When I awoke, I was aware still of the presence of the frog and I wondered what message it might have for me.

I thumbed through Ted Andrew's Animal Speak until I found Frogs on page 356. "Transformation through Water and Sound" it said. "A totem of metamorphosis, [the frog] is a symbol of coming into one's own creative power." The author asks "Are you needing to dive into some fresh creative water?" That sounded good to me so I took out my paints and let creativity flow forth from my inner being. The result is Flora and Fauna, a 5x7 swirl of blended color evocative of rain forest ambiance and lush watery spaces. Enjoy my art. Love frogs.
-Raphaella Vaisseau

Magical Egret pays a visit to Heartful Art

While on the phone with my agent yesterday, this beautiful creature paid us a visit. It followed my voice from room to room as I went to find my camera. Even though our studios are in a bird sanctuary and we see many lovely birds in flight and on the ground here, the visit from this egret was particularly magical.

Ted Andrew's "Animal Speak" includes egrets in the chapter on herons, saying the "waders" are a group of birds who are "symbols of balance, and they represent an ability to progress and evolve." Also, heron people go deeper in their exploration of life, must be able to stand on their own, and follow their own path, without the pressure to keep up with others.

Whatever this bird was communicating to me, whether expecting food or delivering symbolic information, I accept the experience as magical and for a few moments in time, this bird and I were one. Sharing the magic. Loving the diversity of life.  - RV

Favorite Author, Ted Andrews passes into Spirit

Ted Andrews passed away Saturday, Oct. 24, 2009. His work and his writings have contributed so much to my life and my awareness of animals and animal communication. His work has blessed me countless times. I am so very grateful for the gift he made of his life here on Earth. Here's a link to my favorite of his books: Animal Speak. To explore more of his writings and his life, check out his website, Dragonhawk Publishing.