Greetings!

Happy Holidays! Welcome to the first (of hopefully many!) monthly e-newsletter for A Peaceful Touch Massage and Bodywork.

So how have things been for me? Well, it's been an interesting ride over the last few months. After seeing clients at home for a while, I took a plunge to rent an office, originally once a week, in Uptown Minneapolis I had no idea that things would pick up, and I'd soon be getting busier. I added an additional day within two months! But.... The big news is, starting in January, I'll be taking over the lease for the office I use! You'll soon see signs for A Peaceful Touch on the door, and in the windows of the building that face out to Hennepin Avenue. I'll still be sharing the space, but I'll have MUCH more availability. In addition to the two days of Monday and Wednesday, I'll have the flexibility to schedule people over the weekend times as well. This is a big step for me, but one that I feel drawn to putting my energy.

Some other developments in life and work: I recently became a member of the Permaculture Collaborative in Minneapolis, after taking a weekend Introduction to Permaculture class at the Audubon Center of the North Woods. I've always been very environmentally conscious, but learning about Permaculture has given me an even bigger boost. I'm continually finding ways to apply the principles of permaculture into my own practice of massage therapy, and in my own life. I plan to write about this more extensively in this section of my newsletter over the next few months! Stay tuned!!

Again, to everyone who has been supportive of me in this new journey of coming back to the work I love (after too long a break), I give a huge THANK YOU! Have a very very happy holiday! -Scott

I've also discounted massage therapy sessions for gift certificates through the end of 2006. You can choose from an hour of bodywork, an hour-and-a-half, or packages of 3 or 4 massages. Prices will return to normal rates in January.

To order holiday gift certificates, go to my website: http://www.apeacefultouch.com/gift-certificates/

Bill's Pantry is an all volunteer food shelf, providing nutritious meals and food delivery to persons and families living with HIV and AIDS in the twin cities metro area. Because they are small, have no staff, and are all volunteer, they are often off the "radar" for many grant opportunities. You can donate online with your credit card or through PayPal by going to their website, and clicking the "Make a Donation" button.

http://www.billspantry.org/

People Serving People provides education, social and life skill programs to all residents in need. In addition, they can house over 350 individuals and provide up to 1,000 meals every day. Their facility includes a full service kitchen and dining room, two libraries, classrooms and study areas, indoor and outdoor recreational spaces, a medical clinic, child care facilities, a laundry room, computer lab, 99 separate shelter rooms with a bath and 10 two bedroom transitional apartments. Established in 1982, People Serving People grew out of a need for temporary secure housing.

http://www.peopleservingpeople.org/

Pathways Health Crisis Resource, provides programs that are designed to support a creative healing response to life threatening illness. The programs provide emotional support, meditation, imagery and positive attitudes which can contribute to the healing process. Persons in health crisis, families, friends, and caregivers are encouraged to explore new possibilities and discover that joy and dignity are always at hand.

http://www.pathwaysminneapolis.org/

Community of Grace - Founded by my friend, Dennis Sanders, Community of Grace is an open and affirming congregation. As an "emerging congregation" it is a work in progress. They meet for worship, and participate in local community through outreach. Community of Grace has people from all walks of life, with different viewpoints.

http://www.communityofgracemn.org

Jeannie Grimes - I've known Jeannie for about three years, and her bubbly personality and enthusiasm are so very contagious! She's in the pampering business just like me! And guys, she's got a lot of good products for you too! I'm a fan of the TimeWise micro-derm and facial cleansers! Get a free gift with any purchase by mentioning this ad! Contact her at 612-987-6956.

http://www.marykay.com/jgrimes6