Cal Orey's Blog, page 165

My Warrior Dog: Brittany Post-Surgery

By Cal Orey


Today, Simon, my beloved Brittany Simon did better than expected during his surgery.  When I called he was first having his teeth cleaned; then it was on to the tumor in question--we chose to have it removed. The jury is out until Friday. And yes, I am on edge for my canine of 10 years. The waiting is the hardest part, with tribute to the Tom Petty tune...

So this afternoon I was preparing myself to welcome my beautiful Britt (cone-head, a smallish incision, groggy) back home.  He pranced and smiled. He was back, sort of.  I wasn't ready for such a large incision. And the shaved head with a red cross-like cut with stitches all makes it look oh-so sci-fi film dramatic. When my eyes first met my boy's head, I was super shocked. Images of big and small screen characters in accidents came to mind. I was speechless. (I recalled when I was a kid and my parents had my adorable white shaggy Maltese's coat shaved. I cried for days.)

But after a bit of time to think rationally and talk to vet techs via phone, I get it. The vet had to make a larger incision to get the mysterious lump out, make clean margins--whether the lump was benign or malignant.  He did his job. Objective: keep my companion animal healthy and happy so we can enjoy our human-animal bond for more years. And, of course, my canine's health comes first. Not looks. 

Before the surgery, I was told by the vet that Simon's thickish white/orange hair will grow back and cover the incision. Tonight, two techs agreed. I suppose if there is a dog god she will allow Simon's coat to fill in, bit by bit, perhaps within a few months. (One breeder bred her Britt just to get a coat like my boy!)

Most importantly, is the tumor harmless? We wait... We did this biopsy ordeal several years ago, when a foreign body made his nose swell. He passed the test. No disease. He has a small scar that can barely be seen; not a lot of hair on his nose. The head is different--more hair.  OK. I can do this. I can be strong for my Simon, my warrior dog. I will not cry. I will hug him. I will pamper him. I will love him. After all, he is beautiful inside and outside. 



A Natural Intuitive
I can tune into an upcoming good or bad event (i.e., a health issue for myself to my dog) and often read the end result. And yes, I can and do channel into my companion animals--and read their minds. The spiritual part comes into play time after time, because I become proactive and prepare for the worst and hope for the best as well as forewarn others to be prepared, not scared. 
It's a sense of empowerment to be able to use the messages I receive. These cues come to me in dreams, visions, word/picture images, body signs--anxiety, headaches, ear tones--as well as observing Mother Nature, my seismically sensitive cat/dogs, etc., and also feeling a hunch and/or picking up on vibes from a place, slot machine, wildlife to people. What's more, I do not believe white light power can stop some things from happening, but I do know we can toy with our destiny or fate to a point.  The key is to not tune out our intuition or gut instincts but tune into it for self-preservation--taking care of our mind, body, and spirit. 
The healing powers of intuition also can provide peace of mind. But sometimes, my spiritual guides can be pesky or even "a curse" when I sense something negative will happen. One more thing. Positive thoughts, of course, can help heal ourselves and others and stop negative things from happening--but sometimes it is not enough and we must be like a fierce warrior and take action and that in itself makes me a "healing type medium."

A Letter to My Brittany, My Love...Surgery Scheduled

By Cal Orey 


Dear Simon, 

It's early Sunday morning...You are on my mind. As you know, I didn't sleep well last night but as usual you were by my side. Tomorrow, near this time you will be going to the vet for a surgical procedure. Yes, Puppy Pie, I know. You just been there, did that in January to have your teeth cleaned...but this may be less scary.

Yesterday, I found a lump on your head! It could be nothing. Or, if it is something we may have indeed caught it in the nick of time. The doctor (he adores you) will remove the lump (no scar! your hair will cover it), and send it to the disease specialist who will study it like you do a bird. And then we wait Big Boy.

We have to wait until Friday for the results. But hey, it could be a win-win deal. I may have caught it in time (thanks to you for showing me how to be intuitive  like you do when you sense imminent earthquakes) --so the news could be good for us either way.


Today, I will bathe you. Simon, you love how your coat feels after a bath. You're super white and fluffy. This afternoon, we'll take you and your brother for a long walk, long car drive...extra treats today as well. You will be even more pampered. (And hey, tomorrow you're going to get your teeth done. Since I've been brushing them it should be a walk in the park, so to speak.)

You'll be on pain meds just a few days (that'll be so you'll be comfy); I will keep the little one mellow so you can get R and R. But we're all here for you. 
Simon, you are a strong, healthy canine. I'm strongly sensing that we're going to get through this with flying colors. You're my resilient boy and can do this. We will be okay. I will be here for you like you have done for me for 10 years. We can do this! You have more dog years to live Simon. With tribute to Bob Marley, "Don't Worry, Be Happy"...  It's going to be fine.

(Judgment) : Outcome"An opportunity will present itself that must not be ignored and it could have far reaching implications, changing your life for the better. ...the outcome will be quicker than expected."

Age is Just Another Number

By Cal Orey
Hello Sixties! 
I can do 61. It's not rocket science.The other day, a well-meaning 20-something woman/mother of two asked me the intrusive question: "What are you doing for your birthday?" Pregnant pause. "I haven't thought about it, really," I mumbled. But the truth is, my upcoming B-Day has crossed my mind, sort of. 

When I work the "intuitive" networks, a place on the webcam for the world to see; and phone--I dish out my "gifts" of uncanny intuition and years of experience. I find myself often saying to clients who want answers, "I wish I was 24" or "I'm old enough to be your great grandmother" and "I'm 95" --and it breaks the generation gap. I inspire by a bit of humor and pointing out the bliss of gratitude for our blessings--whatever our age.

Way, way, way back in time when I was 22, I recall telling my younger boyfriend, "I'm old." He then told me about his active older sister, 27, and gave me vivid examples of how young she acted. Actually, her amazing feats made me feel inadequate. I put my "old age" on the back burner as I yearned to be a more well-rounded, self-reliant woman.

Fast forward several decades later. True, I am older but it doesn't really matter. Sure, I'd love to be 27 but I wouldn't swap the experiences I have earned. (Years ago in a writing class a peer said I lacked living life.) So, here I am in my 60s, a baby boomer born in the fifties. (I've done growing up in the burbs, watched our guys come home from the Vietnam war, hitched and hiked with my dog across America, rolled pennies in the recession(s), survived the SF World Series quake, cried after the dot.com bubble burst, stocked up for the Y2K hoopla, and as a journalist covered catastrophic events of the 21st century.) And that's just the short list.

Oops! I forgot to have a doting husband and a baby (or two). While I am mateless/childless, I do have a world of escapades that still make me smile, blush, and feel good from head to toe. Flanked by two loving, loyal dogs--a pup and senior--one mellow 3 year old Siamese-mix cat, and a sibling (younger)--I'm over 50 (I recall not trusting anyone over 30!) but cozy with growing older. And, I do write books that seem to age gracefully.

So, what will I do for my birthday in early October? I will bake a healthy pumpkin pie; order skinny jeans and boyfriend sweaters; get firewood and flannel sheets; walk the Aussie and Brittany boys, and enjoy a swim/hot tub at the mountain resort pool without tourists. And, of course, I will continue to work on my latest book, The Healing Powers of Olive Oil, Revised and Updated. Late at night, I will watch a chick flick on Lifetime and cuddle up with the fur kids, check out the goldfish, and sip a cup of hot chamomile tea. 

Do I wish I was younger? Nah. I flunked math so numbers never did anything for me. Fueling the senses to keep balanced mind, body, and spirit are what counts at the end of the day. 

Senior Dogs Make Me Smile

By Cal Orey
I love senior dogs. At the age of 10 (about 60-70 in human years), canines get you. Simon, my beloved Brittany and I have been together for a decade. We are bonded till death do us part.

You may have heard that humans and their dogs eventually begin to look like one another. Well, I admit I get low lights in my hair to match my boy. We both have chocolate brown eyes; and while he has a long nose, I have an oval face.

But our human-animal bond goes beyond looks. We are connected. He has been there for me for 10 years. Not to forget how my Simon has flanked me at book signings, and helped me to sense oncoming quakes in California (we have been featured on msnbc.com). He has walked with me in the moonlight on snowy nights at Tahoe and to the Lake in the summertime. What's more, during tough times, he helped me raise another Brittany--our Seth, our boy--our family. We loved and lost him together. We grieved and moved on together.

And now we have a new pooch in the house that we are grooming and adore for getting us through it all.

Simon is my "rock".  He is strong. He is sensitive. He is smart. As a sporting dog girl, I have shared my days and nights with three beautiful Brittanys. Two of them were very close to me. Dylan, at the age of 5, fell victim to epilepsy. Actually, the grand mal seizures bonded us. I ended up writing a book about holistic remedies for "shaky pup"...And within two years he was seizure free. He lived a quality, active life to the age of 14.

Seth was not as fortunate. He, too, lived and loved a good life. But at the age of 6 a neurological disorder got him like the monsters that chased my Dylan. Sadly, like Seth, the fallen angel in "City of Angels" made a love connection with me but instead of falling to Earth to be with me--the angels rescued us in time of dire need. (I get that now, the angels did answer my prayers.) Seth made a departure to Dog Heaven--a better place even though I did not get to savor more time with my orange and white canine companion.

So, senior dogs, like Simon, are like human in their golden years. They are wise. They are mellow. They are good. I appreciate his age. I feel like he is my husband, father, brother, and dog all in one. He is my dog but with human qualities. So, for people who aren't sure about older dogs (and think back to wonder years of puppyhood), I ask you to reconsider all the positives of enjoying your aging canine. Lose the ageism and enjoy the best years of a good dog and good years with good health care: check ups, dental care, exercise, and love. Old(er) dogs are one of God's greatest creatures on Earth. Cherish your canine's mellow years like a fine wine.

Autumn's Amazing Coffee Grounds for Fall Cleaning

By CalOrey
AUTUMN’S AMAZING COFFEE GROUNDS FOR YOUR HOME             Drinking coffee for its healing powers is healing, but did you know that you can use coffee for healing your personal environment, too? Welcome to the world of coffee uses in the home, another perk of the coffee tree. Before I entered Coffee World, I didn’t know coffee grounds were eco-friendly and something to use. But now I know uncommon grounds can be home-friendly.  God bless nature’s little dark coffee grounds for their multi-purpose uses indoors and outdoors. Straight from The Healing Powers of Coffee (Kensington).
INDOORSKitchenUse An Abrasive Cleaner. Use grounds as a scouring agent to tackle any greasy or dirty surface. It also can get rid of pungent odors from pans and your hands.Go for a Deodorizing Buzz. Dry coffee ground (not soggy used ones) placed on a cookie sheet and put in an open container in your fridge or freezer can be an instant way to help absorb odors. Also, fill a sachet with dried grounds paired with cinnamon sticks and whole cloves and place it in close drawers (baby and pet-proof).
Living Room/Dining Room/BedroomFurniture Concealer:  Coffee grounds can do away with smells and unsightly scratches on furniture, too. Steep grounds and apply the dark brew to wood furniture with a cloth. I tried this household treatment on an antique dark chest in my bedroom and it worked. I thought, “If coffee stains cups, coffee pots, and teeth, it has to work on brown furniture.” And it did just that. Flavored coffees provide a nice aroma unlike commercial types with strong, undesirable scents.Fireplace Dust Buster: Ever notice that when you clean out the ashes from the fireplace that dust gets in your eyes and nose? You can control the dust by using wet coffee grounds on the cool ashes because they keep the dust down and not in the air. Note to self: Try to see if this method works.
BathroomAnt Repellent: In the mountains I don’t see ants but in the city I did. And if they weren’t in the kitchen they took over the bathroom, especially around water. Rather than using a chemical spray, try using coffee grounds on the area thirsty ants go to. (Be sure kids, cats and dogs are not around as the natural ant eater does its job.)
OUTDOORSPlant Fertilzer: Plants that like acidic soils will like your coffee grounds. Use grounds on the top layer of soil, or mix it with potting soil before planting. I started dumping coffee grounds on the aspens in the front yard.  It could have been the late summer rain and/or the green grounds that helped the trees perk up.Compost: Grounds not only feed your plants and trees, but they can feed your compost bin (if you have one). Simply add compost piles to increase nitrogen balance. Coffee filters and tea bags (yes, I have both, especially if my youngest Brittanydoesn’t scarf down the chamomile tea bags) will also break down fast during composting. I still don’t do the compost dance it but it’s on my list of to-do changes and coffee grounds and filters will be included. I continue to sprinkle grounds on one wilted aspen in the front yard but so far it’s not showing signs of being a coffee lover…Insect Repellant: But tossing coffee grounds on the deck, dirt, or sidewalks may have a faster effect. Again, it’s a risk to do this if you have indoor/outdoor dogs or cats, because you don’t want a sequel of the Ethiopian goat herder’s dancing goats. And that’s not all…
HEALTHY COFFEE FENG SHUI TIPS Welcome your home sweet home to the art of feng shui—the ancient Chinese art of placement—with a twist of coffee. By putting stuff in the right spots in your kitchen and other rooms it can enhance the flow of positive energy and zap negative vibrations, bringing you good health, happiness—and even fortune. Declutter Your Coffees. If you’re a coffee lover, chances are you’re going to have more than less java beans and gadgets in your home. Rather than stuffing it all in one place, such as your pantry, I suggest storing it in a variety of places just in case of a blackout. You’ll find cans of coffee (these have expiration dates) in my pantry. Plus, they are sealed so I feel safe and secure that my fur kids won’t get into the java. Also, when I open my freezer, there is an array of well packaged coffees lined up in rows. It makes me feel safe in case there is a shortage on coffee. And, in my fridge, I also have concealed containers filled with coffee in use, from day to day. It’s clutter free but coffee definitely has its place(s) in my kitchen. Clean the Coffee Pot(s) to Coffee Grinder. This is a chore but it’s good chi to have a squeaky clean pot (or two) and grinder. For the pot, use vinegar, water, and lemon (use hot water, let soak). As far as the grinder goes, day by day cleaning will keep you and yours healthy coffee drinkers.Brighten Up with Lighting.  In your kitchen, you’ll want to have neutral of earthy coffee colors, from a tan, light coffee or wood paneling.  Fresh, white curtains will lighten up the room and your energy. Scent It Up.And, of course, the constant aroma of fresh brewed coffee will linger from room to room.Boost Your Mood with Coffee Mugs. Select your favorite coffee mugs and place them together or in a mug holder on the counter. This is inviting for you or coffee. Use Coffee Art.Framed coffee prints can give your kitchen a nice visual effect, especially if they boast Mediterranean colors: red, brown, gold, and blue. Flaunt Coffee Companions. Glass canisters filled with biscotti to coffee candy, look inviting and are your friends whenever you decide to brew a cup of java.Bring Out the Fresh Fruit. Seasonal fruit in lucky numbers, such as eight, is good for you both physically and mentally. Citrus fruit, such as oranges goes well with coffees—and the shelf life is good. Conceal Knives and Scissors. These are a must-have item so when you open a new bag of coffee you can do it the right way and without going on a hunt through the house or using your nails or teeth.Hide the Gadgets.Too many coffee makers will give you clutter. So, choose your coffee toys and store the others in cupboards. Recycle these to fit the season and your mood.  Place Coffee Books in Piles. Cookbooks are attractive and show that you like being in the kitchen. Line these up in an appealing way or pile books in stacks. Either way it will give a nice coffee literary feel and will be on hand to inspire you.A bonus tip: Purchase a coffee calendar. It will keep you up-to-date on seasons and holidays—a great coffee lover’s tool so you can plan meals and coffee accordingly. And, of course, with your coffee-ized kitchen, what better way to celebrate than to have a cake, like this heavenly recipe, baking in the oven?

End of the World 2012 Scenarios That Didn't Happen

EARTH CHANGESI Feel the Earth Move…2012 Phenomenon–The End of the World

By Cal OreyWelcome to the spooky, sensationalized end of the world “2012 Phenomenon.” Thanks to an array of spellbinding theories tossed about on the Internet, books, TV, and blockbuster films, catastrophic events were feared to hit in the year 2012.Today, in 2013, doomsday followers still believe the world will stop, too. Read on—unravel some believe it or not no-nonsense scenarios that may or may not happen. While smoky skies in Northern Calif. and Nevada isn't doomsday, the Rim Fire is catastrophic and one of the worst wildfires in history for the Golden State.
Alien Attack: In the exciting film “Independence Day” aliens pay a visit to Earth. The extraterrestrials are hostile and their arrival causes devastation. Other UFO films like “War of the Worlds” and open-minded human observers show us that we may not be alone.2012 Scenario: And come December 21, an E.T. sequel could take place on our planet. But, the rumor is, this 2012 Phenomenon scenario may come with a Planet X aka Nibiru and collide with Earth.Great Earthquakes: If you don’t like space creatures, you may not enjoy a group gathering of planets that can shake it up. The Jupiter Effect, a book penned by John Gribben, Ph.D., and Stephen Plagemann, predicted an alignment of the planets of the solar system would cause gravitational effect on the Earth’s crust and create great earthquakes, including a great movement of the San Andreas Fault, on March 10, 1982. It didn’t happen.2012 Scenario: Still, some folks believe, like in The Jupiter Effect, there is going to a “galactic” line up but with the sun and black hole at the center of our galaxy and it may spell disaster on Earth.Asteroid/Meteor: If the West Coast doesn’t go down, the East Coast may be next in line, according to the film “Armageddon,” when an asteroid zooms toward Earth. As the rock nears, meteorites damage New York with cause of concern for our planet. According to California Geologist Jim Berkland, we may be tested during the 2029 scheduled close approach of an asteroid.2012 Scenario: But 2012 end days fans believe a large asteroid or meteor may arrive sooner than later on Earth. If it’s large enough, doomsday could be the end result.Polar Shift: In another sci-fi thriller, “2012” shows us a pole shift in motion where the North Pole and South Pole change places.2012 Scenario: If there is a pole shift (shifts of geographical locations of the poles and the axis of rotation of the Earth), great earthquakes and massive flooding could be the end result of such an event.Solar Storms: Seattle-based, science author Mitch Battros believes there may be a connection between the Sun and Earth’s magnetic field shift and earthquakes. In my book The Man Who Predicts Earthquakes (Sentient Publications), he noted his studies have been targeted toward solar activity and its link to weather. So, what is Battros’s equation? Sunspots – Solar Flares – Magnetic Field Shift – Shifting Ocean and Jet Stream Currents – Extreme Weather and Human Disruption.2012 Scenario: Solar flares are nothing new. In the movie “Knowing” the sun’s solar flares scorch the Earth and a lethal tidal wave of fire sweeps the Earth. Some theories suggest on December 21 a solar storm could happen.Meanwhile, I suspect the media and commercialism will have a heyday about the potential coming apocalypse. More chatter about a dangerous reversal of the Earth’s magnetic field (which could cause a mega glitch in technology to solar radiation) will be the buzz. As an intuitive, I sense we will be challenged and endure more natural disasters and man-made catastrophes–whatever the cause may be. And it may feel like end times but in the end we do not have control over catastrophic events.The End of the World as We Knew It
Back in 1999, people feared the Y2K crazies linked to a potential computer crisis but we survived and entered the 21st century. In 12 years our world has endured events that have felt like the sky was falling. Who can forget the attack of America on September 11, 2001; The 2004 Asian Tsunami; Hurricane Katrina; the BP oil spill; the 2009 flu pandemic; and the 9.0 Japan Quake-Tsunami(s) and nuclear plant crisis. These events were horrific. Lives were lost, humans and animals were displaced, and our environment was challenged. But despite the chaos, life goes on and our world is still here.

Here Comes Popular OLIVE OIL Book - 2nd Edition

By Cal Orey

The Healing Powers of Olive Oil:A Complete Guide to Nature's Liquid Gold, REVISED AND UPDATED(Kensington, February 2015)
Here comes a new, improved 2nd edition of The Healing Powers of Olive Oil. It will be bigger and better-appealing to a mainstream audience around the globe!


Lose Weight…Lower Cholesterol And Blood Pressure…Prevent Heart Disease And Cancer...Live Longer... And So Much More!Discover The Amazing Powers Of Olive Oil!
From ancient times to present-day, olive oil has been used for everything  from  health  ailments to beauty and housekeeping
 and so  much more.  Now evidence  shows that a  diet based on olive oil can add years to your
 life and may even  prevent some diseases.   Health author-journalist 
Cal Orey has consulted top doctors, nutritionists, olive  oil  producers, and chefs, getting the
most up-to-date information on the many benefits of o live oil, such as: Health Improvements:Relieving arthritis achesInhibiting breast and colon cancerPreventing diabetesReducing painStaving off ulcersFighting impaired memoryHome Cures:Soothing diaper rashReducing hair lossCleaning your house, naturallyMinimizing stretch marks and wrinklesZapping ticks and conditioning your pet’s coatAnd more information that everyone worldwide should know!Includes dozens of delicious recipes that make olive oil a vital part of a long and healthy life!

“The best and highly practical information about the core of the

longevity-boosting Mediterranean  diet.”

 —Karlis Ullis, M.D., 
Medical Director of Sports Medicine and Anti-Aging Medical Group in Santa Monica, California

* 1st edition The Healing Powers of Olive Oil (dozens 
of heart-healthy recipes
 and home cures for autumn)

Wo(man)'s Best Friend

By Cal Orey
The Healing Powers of DOGS


“A dog doesn't care if you're rich or poor, big or small, young or old. He doesn't care if you're not smart, not popular, not a good joke-teller, not the best athlete, nor the best-looking person. To your dog, you are the greatest, the smartest, the nicest human being who was ever born. You are his friend and protector.” Louis Sabin quotesThis week marks a big milestone: Skyler, my Australian Shepherd, a blue merle, is nine months old. Skye has performed his "job" and so much more. Late last year, I was on a mission to find the right canine to help fill a void for my loss of a Brittany, to help me and his dog pal Simon heal. And this little Aussie did just that.

Today, I awoke to my senior Britt and pup roughhousing on the bed. I wanted to sleep (I tried) through the play. Now, awake, I am grateful for this upbeat, active pooch. He is keeping my 10-year-old sporting dog and me, an aging hippie chick. younger and healthier. In the past, I have leaned on warmhearted dogs to get through tough times (I shared this up close and personal story in national magazines). I feel that my dog pack is balanced once again.  And yes, I dance outdoors and indoors with my fun-loving canines, young and older. (My heart and soul continues to be moved by the heroic dog companions in my life, past and present.) 

Come September, my senior boy will be getting a teeth cleaning so he can continue to be well and chew his bones. In November, Skye will go to the vet to be "f-i-x-e-d"... I don't know what I'd do living a life without dogs. 

As a kid, my father turned me onto canines. I had my fill of unforgettable dogs including Casey, a Dalmatian, Ole, Norwegian Elkhound, and Tiger, a Maltese. As I grew up dogs became a big part of my life. I hitched and hiked across American with a fearless Maltese and later a Lab with street smarts and sixth sense that saved my life. Both dogs were great traveling partners. In later years, I was a sporting dog girl and enjoyed 20 years with two Labs. Then, I fell into the wonderful world of Brittanys--three (Dylan, Seth, and Simon) are with me on both Earth and Heaven.

And now, I have been blessed with a very strong and smart Brittany and a loving, energetic Aussie--the best of both worlds. I am loving two dogs--my companion animal angels--again and it feels right. 

Dogs have given us their absolute all.  We are the center of their universe.  We are the focus of their love and faith and trust.  They serve us in return for scraps.  It is without a doubt the best deal man has ever made.  ~Roger Caras

I Forecasted Calif. Wildfires for the Summer

EARTH CHANGESI Can Feel the Earth MoveBy Cal Orey
Lake Tahoe, August 23--two miles from my home.
 Western Wildfires… On the Rise? Perhaps, there is something to global warming and we will see more effects including more wildfires during the summer into the fall. – 2013 Forecasts, Cal Orey January Oracle 20-20
The news is, Western wildfires are becoming “more immense” than ever before.  This summer, science gurus claim the Arizona wildfire and other fires burning in the West are not an earthshaking surprise as the planet gets hotter.  And, of course, warmer temperatures and drought are not to be ignored during a longer fire season. In July, more than 24 wildfires are burning in the West (including Colorado, Southern California, and Nevada), many triggered by the heat wave, lack of humidity, and winds.  One unforgettable wildfire in Arizona, took the lives of 19 firefighters in the mountain town of Yarnell. Worse, the U.S. Forest Service notes wildfires in the West are more commonplace than a half a century ago. So, are Western wildfires really raging out of control?  Read on—find out the lowdown on terrifying and destructive summer/fall wildfires and Mother Nature.
GLOBAL WARMING TO BLAME—OR NOT?Like many of the effects attributed to global warming, fires have been occurring for many years—with and without man’s help. Yes, surprisingly, the world as had its share of fires before you were born and before industrialization of the 20thcentury.In nature, lightning causes a number of fires every year. Whether we like it or not, fires actually serve a purpose in the environment. A forest not gardened out or not subject to brush clearing fire on a regular basis will develop a ground cover which can cause an extremely hot, low fire that sterilizes the soil when a fire eventually does occur.The main complaint in the thinly stretched global-warming-leads-to-more-fires chain is that fires created by global warming will have a negative effect on the total count up of species, ecosystems, and peoples’ habitat in a given location. And that’s not all…
 FIRE SEASON IS GETTING BIGGER, BADDERSome researchers believe that some areas of the world, including the western United States should prepare themselves for more wildfires.  It doesn’t take a savvy scientist to tell you that wacky weather and rising temperatures thanks to the below average snowfall in the Western states is partially to blame for wildfires in the past and future. While weather is a key factor, the jury is still out whether Western states are victims of climate change.Whether you live in the Western states or East Coast, Deep South, or Midwest, wildfires may affect you one day.  Take a look at these factoids, straight from the website http://www.smokeybear.com/wildfires.asp—and find out what you can do to stay aware of a problem on our planet that appears to be on the rise.Facts on Fires:In 2011, there were 10,249 wildfires caused by lightning, but 63,877 wildfires caused by human error (as reported to the National Interagency Fire Center).In 2011, more than 8.7 million acres burned due to wildfires in the U.S. More than 5.4 million acres burned due to human-caused wildfires. Common ways YOU could unintentionally start a wildfireunattended debris burningequipment fires such as from lawnmowers, ATVs, power equipmentsmokingunattended campfiresfireworkscarelessly discarding fireplace or BBQ ashesFor more information:   http://www.fire.ca.gov/  http://www.usfa.fema.gov/citizens/home_fire_prev/wildfire/
As a native Californian, I know the danger of wildfires. More than 30 years ago, I lived in Santa Cruz Mountains, Calif.  In the summertime, the High Fire Danger signs were a constant reminder that our community was a victim of wildfires. In 1991, I was on the beat as a journalist for the deadly Oakland Firestorm—an unforgettable event that affected homes, people and their pets. And in 2007, I ended up evacuating South Lake Tahoe, to avoid the drama of the Angora Fire. While fire season is not over, and the wildfires continue to spread, this year may or may not be one that goes down in history.  As wildfires break out in the states West of me, I cannot help but wonder, “Are we next?” The sound of sirens and plumes of smoke have me and my pets on guard. I know living in the forest I am too close for comfort and a wildfire during the summer and fall can become a harsh reality of living in paradise.(August issue Oracle 20-20 Magazine, by Cal Orey)
 [SHADED SIDEBAR]A CAT WHO FOUGHT THE FLAMESCharmain, a gold-eyed 10-year-old part Abyssinian who often brought lizard and bird gifts to her devoted owner may be the Joan of Arc of the cat world.            Norma Armon, who lost and found her brave cat in the Oakland Hills firestorm, cannot forget Charmain’s  tragic story.            This is how it happened.             Norma, a six year San Francisco Bay Area resident, is concerned—but, looking at the people milling on her street in Montclair, no one seems to be panicking yet. The Oakland blaze is still burning in the distance but John Itzkowich, Norma’s son-in-law, hurriedly climbs on their roof and waters it down.            Then Norma looks for Charmain. She goes through every cupboard and every closet. By now, she is worried that she is going to be forced to leave—and leave her big cat, a spunky yet oftentimes skittish squirrel-colored animal.            Soon, police officers cruising on motorcycles quickly put out the word: It is time to move out!            Despite the fact Charmain had access to a cat door, Norma takes one more round around the house to make certain every one of the cupboards is open.            “She’s long gone!” John again yells. “She is not stupid. That’s why you can’t find her.” So without Charmain anywhere in sight, John and Norma’s daughter, Carla, convinced the upset cat owner to evacuate the two-story home, and flee for their own safety.            “Maybe she did leave before we did,” agonized Norma. And that’s what frightened the devoted cat owner. She had the notion that Charmain escaped when she witnessed the heavy duty flames. Yet, Norma sensed her cat would return in search of her owner.            On Monday, after several futile attempts to return to the blazing fire, Norma hit all of the emergency animal shelters in hope of reuniting with Charmain. No luck.             It wasn’t hard to focus on her missing cat—despite that on Tuesday morning it was confirmed. Norma’s house on Swainland Road was destroyed. Nothing but hot ashes and rubble remained. “Material possessions are replaceable,” says Norma, “but the cat was something different. Charmain is part of the family. She is one of my people.”            On Tuesday, after searching shelter after shelter, once again, Norma reunited with her cat at the Oakland SPCA. It was Charmain’s distinct meows in a hospital room that grabbed Norma’s attention.            She was told Charmain was rescued by a heroic man who stayed behind to save other homes burning in the fire. Late Sunday night her cat was spotted. Charmain was severely burned and in sad condition, meowing in front of Norma’s lot; and soon after was brought to the SPCA for burn treatment.            Says Norma, “The only reason she was there was because she was looking for me. Because she had plenty of time to get out. She wasn’t trapped. There was no reason for Charmain to be up there. She went back to get me!”            One week later, on Tuesday, after fighting to live—Charmain died. Soon after, Norma paid tribute to Charmain. She had planted a small pine tree out on Charmain’s burial spot in the Oakland Hills as a memorial to her cat that fought the flames.

(Reprinted with permission from Cats Magazine, January 1992 issue.)

Skyler's Scoop: My Aussie"Pup" is Awesome

By Cal Orey

Wow!  Skyler is no longer the 12 pound puppy that greeted me on February 2, Groundhog Day. He is now most likely 40 plus pounds and still growing! And yes, he does have soulful hazel eyes! Confirmed.
This Aussie's temperament is oh-so sweet and lovable with a capital L. He adores kids, women, and dog men. He's loyal and protective.  And did I say smart? He sits, shakes, lies down, rolls over, kisses, gives bear hugs, cuddles kitty, and allows Simon to remain Alpha dog. Oh, and you, my fearless Sag, can sense oncoming thunder storms before we get the warnings on TV! And you're not spooked!
I've been a Sporting Dog girl for years; Labs to Brittanys. And it was fate that led me to this Herding breed. True, I wrote about Aussies for Fancy Publications. Perhaps it was a sign for my future. But here we are. One Aussie, one Brittany. And they have finally become dog pals. A team. The boys play in the morning...this makes my tail wag. And he's keeping my senior Britt young and active with our walks.
Looking at Skye's puppy pictures I realize that I'm at a loss for words. My baby boy is growing up into a handsome dog. And he's helping me to heal a broken heart from last year's devastating loss of my former Brittany. Skye, did I tell you that I love you? You're doing an outstanding job. Simon and Zen adore you.
This fall we're going to do some cool obstacle course romping at special spots I've spotted; swimming in the Lake when the tourists go home. And wintertime? Ah, baby boy...You will love the snow and fires I'll make for you and Simon. You are meeting my expectations and beyond. You're a godsend. Will you shovel snow with me? I'm sure you'll dig us out! You're my amazing Type A sidekick. Skyler, your energy and passion for life is welcome every day. I couldn't have chosen a better canine. I've fallen in love with you. And this moment I have happy tears!
P.S. Please let mom sleep in until 6:00 AM tomorrow?