I've gotten a few emails lately asking me where I have been.
"Why haven't you written in so long?" Asked Brian.
"Are you on vacation?" Asked another.
I was out of town for a couple of days- but the real reason is... I got hired.
wellness Archives
Readers chime in on divorce conversation
A recently got an email from a fan. Well, she may not be a fan anymore since I wrote a blog saying that you shouldn't be staying married just for the sake of the kids if you are miserable in your relationship. While I try not to get upset with differing opinions, this woman's email to me was totally out of line. You be the judge, since I'm posting her email, (along with my response) in this post.
My Dad kissing me on my wedding day
Hey Parents- get off your cell phone at dinner!!
I like to have a "date night" with my son at least once a week. Whether we hit a deli or go for Chinese, I always love spending time with my little man one on one. This means, no phone calls, and giving him my complete focus for about an hour. It's something we both look forward to.
So why is it so hard for other folks to get on the bandwagon?
The Spiritual Meaning of Double Rainbows
A friend sent me a link to a double rainbow on youtube that's gotten over 4 million views. He wrote on my facebook wall, "you and this guy should hang out." See, this friend of mine was with me when I saw my first double rainbow. When it happened, I sort of sounded like this dude in the video, (only I wasn't weeping openly as he seems to be doing about two minutes in...)
Staying married for the kids- not always the best choice
I was recently on the phone with a friend of mine. She's been teetering on getting a divorce for two years.
"How's it going?" I asked.
"Eh," she said. "I think I need to keep the family together for the kids sake."
"I think that's a terrible idea," I said.
Let me tell you why....
Lily Dale hits HBO
There's a town in New York that's a popular spot for those trying to talk to dead people. I visited Lily Dale a few times. Wrote about the "town that talks to the dead" in my book
"Stay Tuned". I even pitched a documentary based on the town to several networks but nobody thought a whole movie about talking to the dead would be of interest.
I guess somebody changed their minds.
Turning 40 with style
This is the year. It seems that every month I am raising a glass with a group to celebrated the big 4-0. And last night, a group of people who haven't hung out since 1988 got to enjoy some wine, great food, and a gorgeous night out in Chicago.
Summer Solstice great time to de-clutter
The beginning of summer, or the Summer Solstice is a very spiritual time of year. Many feel it signifies starting anew, or a time of healing. Others claim it's the perfect opportunity to get realigned and say "out with the old, and in with the new."
For me- it meant, "Time to clean out the garage!"
Happy Father's Day
As I wrote about earlier in the week, this is a tough day for someone who lost their dad on Father's Day. But there are plenty of things to celebrate. Whether you have a father or were raised by your mother, honor those parental figures today. Take a picture and savor them later. Here are a few of my favorite fathers. Enjoy.
Anniversaries are bitter sweet
June used to be my favorite month. Between weddings, Father's Day, and family birthdays, the Weigels were always celebrating. But that all changed when my dad Tim Weigel died on Father's day nine years ago.
Words of wisdom from the over-served
Do you have a motto? Words of wisdom that you live by? I recently met a woman while I was on a shoot in Northern California who had a very simple one.
"All you need in life are the three W's" she said to me.
"Three W's? I asked.
"Weed, Wine, and Wieners."
Shortly after she shared these sage words, she proceeded to pass out at the table. Don't believe me? I caught it with my camera in the photo gallery.
Whether it's from consuming wine, or doing yoga- we all have our own unique way of getting there. For me- I'd say I need two L's- Laughter and Love. Okay, and maybe Wine too. So that's two L's and a W.
What do you need?
Getting married? Make it a destination!
I recently went to a destination wedding in the Bahamas for one of my oldest family friends, Armen Jr. It was a beautiful place, surrounded by clear blue water. Having been to my share of weddings over the years, (most of them for my own parents,) I now know that getting married in a far away place is the only way to go...
Unique places of worship from around the world
I was sent an email from my Aunt Deni yesterday that had several pictures of churches from all over the globe. I personally believe God finds you whether you pray in your kitchen or in a chapel- but here are some beautiful places to enjoy and pass along.
Look for signs in nature
I have been seeing a lot of Blue Jays lately. That's not usually my bird. Those who have read my first book know that the Cardinal has been my feathered friend for years. When I'm feeling down, a Cardinal swoops in front of me. If I'm missing my Dad, I hear a Cardinal outside my window. So why have these blue beauties been showing up in my life? I decided to do some research to find out. 
The push for cell phone warnings on packaging
I recently was forwarded an article about a Maine politician pushing to get warnings posted on the packaging of cell phones warning about the radiation dangers of over exposure. So why aren't more people talking about this? Because just like with tobacco giants- people are afraid to tattle on these companies- I mean there's MONEY to be made- so why care about exposing people to cancer?
Kids see things we don't
The other night I was tucking my son into bed.
"Look, Mom!" He said.
"What?" I asked.
"The Angel," he said, pointing to the sky.
Laughing baby cures everything
I reconnected with an old friend recently, and she told me that thing that helped her through a very rough patch was Monty Python's Flying Circus.
"Laughter is the best healer," she said.
She's so right.
Economy is booming again- so why isn't this news?
I was amazed when I met with my financial advisor a couple of weeks ago and she said, "Your investments did very well this quarter."
"Excuse me?" I said, shocked.
"Yes- the economy is recovering nicely."
So why isn't anyone on the news talking about it???
Mary Schmich's article is right on...
I was excited when I got an email from Tribune columnist Mary Schmich yesterday.
"I'm writing a column on the dearth of women in Chicago talk radio and just stumbled on your recent blog item on it..."
Hey Chicago radio bosses- what do you have against women?
I am a lifelong Chicago broadcaster who tries to be supportive of the local media. But lately- the demise of talk radio in this town has me wondering one thing: What do the men who run these stations have against vaginas?
Don't take it personally!!
So I recently put in my facebook status, "If I have so many friends, why have only 127 people read my blog in the last few days?" I was kind of amazed at the message I received from one of them, accusing me of being a "one-sided" friend.
Could using intuition be the next wave of healthcare?
I've had the pleasure of interviewing best selling author Dr. Judith Orloff several times. She is a medical professional who also happens to be an intuitive healer. When she was growing up, her parents didn't encourage her gifts so she would "fit in". Now, she's "out of the closet" so to speak, and encouraging others to tap in to their "Second Sight".
Write your kids a letter- NOW!
Today, my son turns four. It's hard to imagine my life without him. I told him that many times today, all to be told, "Move Mommy- I need my fiyah twuck!"
So in this digital age- where everything is texted and tweeted- I am going to take a minute to write him a note. I will print it up and put it somewhere safe for him to read someday. I suggest you do the same...
Are your kids gifted or intuitive? You are not alone!
Do your kids have imaginary friends? Maybe they get anxious in crowded places? Do they walk on their tip-toes? Maybe they even talk to dead people? Then you need to be at the Wilmette Theatre tonight for a very important event.
Are there any "spiritual" meeting groups in Chicago?
An email from a reader:
Dear Jen-
I was raised in Catholic schools and I'm not practicing Catholicism anymore because I feel there is too much judgment. I spent my childhood around mean nuns and bitter priests that should never have been around kids to begin with. As a baby boomer, I'm trying to find a group that will be welcoming to my evolving beliefs. I don't want something that is "Christ" based- or really steeped in any religion at all. I am just looking for a group that talks about the 'after life' with an open mind. Any ideas?
From- A "Recovering Catholic"
Holy week can be dangerous, dammit!
On this "holy week"- I'm staying busy with the usual: Snacking on chocolate, enjoying the warm weather and trying to figure out what the hell a bunny has to do with the birth of Jesus. But today- my good mood was briefly dampened by a snotty twenty-something who almost killed me.
Real friendships survive political differences
I had a talk the other night where I interviewed Richard Roeper at the Wilmette Theater. Rich is pretty vocal in his column about his liberal beliefs- which is why I was surprised when my very Republican friend Ann said she wanted to come and meet him.
The Healthcare debate- would Jesus be covered?
I recently had a friend tell me he is "De-Friending" any of his friends on facebook if they are FOR this Healthcare Bill. I'm sure we've all had people we know forward us emails to sway us to their beliefs. So how do we handle this? What is the answer? How can I stay "spiritual" when I want to punch some of these people out?
Wednesdays with Weigel launches March 24th
When I spoke at the Wilmette Theater in January with medium Therese Rowley, we had a sold out crowd. So now, I'm blessed to be asked back every month.
Hey Starbucks- get your drive-thru in gear!
Can you imagine a life without using a drive-thru? From dinner on the go- to coffee before work, most of us take advantage of this service without thinking twice. But the hard of hearing or others with communication problems usually skip it. Why? They are often harassed, just for pulling up to the "pay" window to place an order.
Give up control- and "allow"...
I was talking to a friend yesterday who was having a rough day- computer troubles- work concerns- kid birthday parties stress.... basic life stuff. I too was worried about things. Mainly trying to get my son up for school. We haven't been able to get him ready for school lately without having to issue several "time-outs". (Some people talk about "the terrible two's- but for us, it's been "the terrible three's"!) And with the time change- I was sure he would be tired and confrontational.
As I plopped in to bed, I looked up at the ceiling before grabbing one of my 20 woo-woo books from my night stand and said, "What do I need to hear?"
God loves sinners- even Tiger Woods
A comment from a reader-
Dear Jen,
i agree that only God has the right to judge a woman who is an exotic
dancer. And He loves her just as He loves me or you. However, the fact
still stands that she is causing other people-her brothers in Christ-to
sin. When the 10 Commandments say not to commit adultery, He also means
lust (Matthew 5:28). Disobeying one of the 10 Commandments is sinning.
Is it better to cause one of your brothers to sin than to commit a sin
yourself? I believe it's worse to knowingly cause someone else to
stumble.
dancer. And He loves her just as He loves me or you. However, the fact
still stands that she is causing other people-her brothers in Christ-to
sin. When the 10 Commandments say not to commit adultery, He also means
lust (Matthew 5:28). Disobeying one of the 10 Commandments is sinning.
Is it better to cause one of your brothers to sin than to commit a sin
yourself? I believe it's worse to knowingly cause someone else to
stumble.
Brittany
Addicted to psychics? Get a grip!
A letter from a reader...
Dear Jen:
I am wondering if you can recommend some psychics for me? I have been using them for years, and I haven't had much luck with my "usual suspects", as they say. Could you tell me- out of all the people you've interviewed- who is worth calling or visiting? I am really looking for some advice in my career and love life.
Thanks-
Lost in Westmont
Can clearing energy help sell a house?
A letter from a reader-
Dear Jen-
I have had my house on the market for two years, and despite dropping the price WAY below it's worth, removing all clutter, re-painting the rooms per my realtor's request, and changing realtors several times, we are still unable to sell. One of my friends suggested I contact a medium to "clear the energy" of my house, but I don't even know what that means. I know you have interviewed a lot of mediums and psychics. Do you have any recommendations?
Sincerely-
Desperate on the Northshore
If you THINK about getting some- you just might!
Did you know that just THINKING about someone you really dig can actually cause them to have a physical reaction? This isn't my "woo-woo" stuff talking either, there's actual research behind it. 
Jesus likes dancing
My last post about God loving everyone, even exotic dancers- generated this response from someone with the name "Heisthelight"...
God loves you- even if you're a stripper
An email to share from a reader...
"Dear Jen-
I wanted to ask you a question about judgment. I was raised Catholic, and feel guilty about everything. I am a single mom and because of this tough economy, I have had to resort to getting a second job dancing for a strip club. Does that mean I'm going to hell?
Positive attitude a good reminder during winter blues
It's January in Chicago. Ick. It's cold, and snowing and most of us have broken our resolutions. Lots of people get depressed, or feel down. So what could possibly motivate us to feel better? How about choosing to be happy?
"Avatar" is spiritual, dammit!
We've all heard the debate- people with too much spare time are trying to find faults with the theme of Avatar. So I had to check it out for myself and see what all the hype was about. 
Dear Abby meets "I'm Spiritual Dammit.."
I got a note tonight on facebook from a reader who wanted to know "Where can a good girl find a guy who won't take her for granted?" I've never been asked about relationships advice- but I do know from interviewing lots of spiritual guru's that when you're LOOKING for love- something is missing inside.
Dreams from dead people
Every have a dream of someone you loved? Is it vivid? Well, according to all the "I see dead people" experts I've interviewed, that's actually a "visitation".
Dad kissing me on my wedding day
Three things you need to know this holiday season
If you want to be spiritual for the holidays, I have a couple of ground rules... They're pretty simple and I've already seen several people I know and love break them. Of course, in my attempt not to judge for the month of December, I am torn whether or not to share... but for now, I will say this is guidance...and not judgment.. (You buying this? Cuz I'm not sure that I am..)
Nurture your family this holiday season
So it's that giving time- and we are wondering where, if anywhere, we should donate to charities before the end of the year. I've been honored to be helping with a group called NURTURE since last fall- and if you are passionate about creating healthy eating habits for you and your kids- this is for you...
Eating bananas feeds VIOLENCE!
I always thought that eating bananas was good for me. I feed them to my son all the time. They are supposed to be filled with nutrients- low in calories.. the "perfect" food. As a "spiritual" mom, I will never be able to buy another banana now that I know how many people die to bring them to my Chicago grocery store.
Is judgment acceptable if someone's in danger?
I would like to make an amendment to my "no judging" challenge. If you put someone's life at risk- then not only should you be judged- you need to be STOPPED!
More judgments
Trying to go through my day still without judging- and I got all rattled after getting a note from a friend. She was ripping on a friend of mine and I got this sick feeling in my stomach. Why do some people have to think they are better than others?
The judging challenge continues
I put out a challenge last week on vocalo.org asking people to stop judging for the month of December. It's their "Month of Faith". I figured- since Jesus said not to "judge"- let's see how many people can follow the word of the guy they say they worship. I thought it would be do-able. But after just a few days- I'm embarrassed to say that I officially suck at this.
Can you stop judging others for a month?
I've been asked to take part in vocalo.org's "Month on Faith" by issuing a challenge to my readers and the vocalo listeners. This challenge doesn't have to be specific to any particular faith- (which is good, because I am a combo platter..) and should make others want to share their experiences.
Psychic predictions from a 3 year old
A few weeks ago, my brother Rafer was getting the feeling that his soon to be born son was coming early. While the baby's due date was Nov 19th, in early November, my brother had a hunch it wouldn't take that long. My 3 year old son Britt, however, begged to differ.
Uncle Rafer with his nephew Britt
The end of the rose experiment
I wanted to update everyone on the status of my roses. They were going strong for nearly three long weeks- amazing considering that most cut flowers from the grocery store last just a few days. And as you can see- the "positive energy" has left the building...
my dead flowers
Kids STILL say the darndest things
My son is at it again. I've written before about the inappropriate phrases that have accidentally flown out of his mouth in public. Well now, he's cracking us up at home too. 
my son Britt
Positive energy and nice words keep flowers alive
So it's been two weeks since my husband bought me these flowers. Normally they
would be dead within a week- but I decided to do a little experiment to help them live longer.
Seems to be working!
would be dead within a week- but I decided to do a little experiment to help them live longer.
Seems to be working!
How to stop your baby from crying
My brother Rafer and his wife Tiffany are about to have a baby. Whenever someone you know dives into this adventure, you want to arm them with as much information as possible. For me- I never would have survived without learning how to calm my baby from crying- and that knowledge came from the dvd "The Happiest Baby on the Block."
Positive energy and the life of plants
I've long been a believer that words and thoughts have energy. Did you ever think that you could make plants or flowers last longer by being nice to them? Sounds a little nutso, but I gave this experiment a shot.
The top 5 foods to help fend off the flu
I am a big believer that your diet affects your health. It's part of being a spiritual warrior. (Kind of like giving your car a tune up. If you never change the oil- are you really running on all cylinders?) So what should you have in your fridge during this FLU EPIDEMIC?
I'm going to share with you five simple things that will increase your bodies immune system. While it is NO GUARANTEE it will prevent you from getting any flu virus- it IS going to help you stay healthy by feeding your body nutrients it so desperately needs.
I'm going to share with you five simple things that will increase your bodies immune system. While it is NO GUARANTEE it will prevent you from getting any flu virus- it IS going to help you stay healthy by feeding your body nutrients it so desperately needs.
I am not a Doctor!
Here's a newsflash... I am not a Doctor, and I've never claimed to be one. Titles I do feel comfortable with? Mother. Former Journalist turned Author. Spiritual Warrior. I write a blog where I express my "spiritual" opinion, and I give voice to stories that don't get main stream attention...What you do with that information is your choice. 
The grief of losing a pet...
It's always hard to put an animal to sleep- even if they are in extreme pain. Today, it was time to say good-bye to our 15 year old Golden Retriever Brandi. While she lived a great life, it's as if we lost a member of the family.
More Doctor's against the swine flu shot
I stumbled upon a video interview with a retired neurosurgeon named Dr. Russell Blaylock. He lists his concerns about an adjuvant in the swine flu vaccine called squalene, which has been shown to paralyze animals and cause brain malfunctions.
Chemtrails are cause for concern
Have you ever looked up in the sky and seen a trail? Maybe you think it's vapors from a plane..but if you look closely- they don't go away. I saw one in the sky the other day and took this picture. And there is growing concern that these lingering trails are actually poisonous chemicals being dropped onto the public.
Guess who got the flu?
So with all this talk about flu shots- I found myself a little under the weather over the past week. I went to the Doctor yesterday and discovered that I wasn't just tired. I had the flu. And guess what?? I survived.
Expert says swine flu vaccine rushed to market
I don't usually watch Fox News- but I was sent a link to an interview showing an expert on infectious diseases saying that he would NOT give the H1N1 vaccine to his kids. Why? Because it was rushed to market, and has preservatives linked to autism. 
God hears you -- even if you don't go to church
Have you ever gone out to dinner and overheard the conversation at the table next to you? From first dates to long time friends, the variety of table chat can be both entertaining and tedious. Well, the other night my husband and I were out to eat, and we witnessed something unusual -- someone praying.
Listen to that inner voice
If you ever doubt your instincts- you are like most of us. Our logical mind gets in the way, and we question that inner voice. But if you really did make an effort to listen every day to that little nudge inside- you'd find the journey to be much more enlightening.
Flu death numbers exaggerated by Center for Disease Control
So why is the "spiritual" lady writing about flu shots again? Many people on a spiritual path are choosing NOT to vaccinate their children or themselves because of mounting research that it does more harm than good. Here's some more evidence to get that pot stirred up...
Dear Oprah and Xm Radio: Your subscribers deserve a refund
I am just curious- but does Oprah Winfrey listen to her own radio station? If she does, how can a woman with such high standards for television and her magazine possibly be okay with the train wreck that has become XM 156? For a woman who is known for "walking her talk"- I think the message boards on Oprah.com tell a very different story. 
Don't bitch when it's free
I had the pleasure of meeting many Chicagonow.com readers yesterday at Blogapalooza. But I have to ask- is it spiritual to complain about the free spread?
Are buffets spiritual?
I have always thought that the concept of a buffet is kind of obscene. I mean do we really need to have the option for "all you can eat" ribs?? And isn't part of being "woo-woo" being practical? Can you be practical when you are stuffing your face?
Well, recently I found a buffet that is now making me re-think my theory on this whole issue- and it's located right on Michigan Avenue, no less!
Well, recently I found a buffet that is now making me re-think my theory on this whole issue- and it's located right on Michigan Avenue, no less!
Kids say the darndest things
I have a three year old who is just starting to talk. If you've been through this, you know that every day is a new adventure in their discoveries. So yesterday, I had a moment that I found so hilarious, I wish I could freeze time. But since I can't, I'll write about it instead.
My son Britt saying "cheese"
Supporting theater is spiritual, dammit!
Earlier this week I blogged about music and how it heals the soul. I mentioned going to see the musical High Fidelity, which is now playing at Piper's Alley- but I didn't really get to elaborate on how kick-ass the show really is- so here we go....
BPA is bad for everyone- not just babies
So there's been a movement of sorts to get baby bottles made without the chemical BPA- or Bisphenal A- because of it's potential risks for your child's brain development. But it turns out adult exposure to BPA is also quite dangerous, and those levels are much higher than previously estimated.
Music therapy heals the soul
If you are down in the dumps or not feeling like yourself- don't go reaching for the anti-depressants. Try your i-pod instead. Yes- that's right- music is a proven form of therapy and it could be just what you need to get the pep back in your step.
Oprah is spiritual, dammit!
When it comes to being a spiritual warrior- we all know Oprah is a pioneer. Her word is... well- all powerful. (Who else could get permission to shut down Michigan Avenue??) And as her new season gets under way in a few days, I'm hoping that in addition to interviews with folks like Whitney Houston, Oprah will continue to push the "woo-woo" envelope.
Brain tumor risks increase with cell phone use
The evidence is in...Cell phones aren't as safe as you thought they were. So why are we just starting to hear about this now?
More evidence against getting the flu shot
It's flu season, and you know what that means- everyone is scared and clamoring to get their shots. But in addition to concerns about flu shot ingredients, Tamiflu is so risky, it's banned in Japan. So why are we lining up to take it here in the U.S.?
Minimize tantrums by not feeding kids candy
We all know that a lollipop isn't the ideal food choice for a growing child- but every once in a while, we like to reward them with a little cake and ice cream, right? Well, I'm here to say- if you have an emotionally sensitive kid- this can be a disaster.
Eat what you want and stay thin
Okay- I know with that headline you might be wondering if I've lost my mind- but I am here to tell you that you CAN eat anything you want, and stay thin....without throwing up- working out for hours a day, or counting your calories. Crazy? Not even close. It's the spiritual way to getting in shape, and I'm determined to spread the word.
Cooking with olive oil at high heat levels can be toxic
Like most Americans, I have adopted the concept that the first step to healthy cooking is to use extra virgin olive oil. We hear about this from just about every chef on The Food Network, and Rachel Ray starts almost every dish by drizzling her "E-V-O-O" in the pan. But did you know that heating olive oil is actually toxic?
Mediums in the Bible? You bet!
I've gotten a lot of flack from religious folks about the content of my book, Stay Tuned. What seems to set them off is the fact that I interview several mediums and psychics who claim to be able to talk to dead people in an attempt to talk to my dead dad, the late Tim Weigel. They think that the Bible cautions against this, saying it's "the devil's work." But I met a Catholic priest who told me otherwise...
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