My name is Amanda, also known as Raven. I am originally from the finger lakes region in upstate New York. I have had five children. I have two sisters. I am an RN, retired. You might say my mind and hands have been in the healing arts since childhood.

As a youngster, I bandaged everything in sight. I made a nurses cap out of newspaper as a little girl and said, "I'm going to be a nurse someday." At age fourteen I worked taking care of an elderly couple in their home. That was my first experience. I worked my way up from aide to a licensed vocational nurse in California. In the Chicago area I continued my education for registered nursing. I have taken extensive continuing education, too numerous to mention here. 

My specialties were in the areas of addictions, domestic violence, child abuse, acute psychiatry, mental health, group therapy counseling and general medical/surgical units. My work areas were in acute general hospitals, as well as state and federal facilities. As a nurse in the Army I worked in a troop clinic while in Texas and in obstetrics at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Wash. DC. Another area of employment was in a prison in upstate New York.   

I am a Reiki Master and have a certificate for Guided Imagery. I  work with herbs and oils as well as being certified in the art of Tarot. Dream studies and interpretations have been an enjoyment for many years. I believe in the magick of everyday life.

Other interests include learning  drumming, aromatherapy, crystals, gems, numerology, shamanism and the paranormal. As an Empath, I follow my intuitive psychic abilities. I have a special appreciation of our Universe, the Earth, the sacred Trees, and of course all living beings. Currently I am persuing Celtic spirituality studies, Magickal Arts and  I practice meditation. 

Although legally ordained, I do not follow any specific denomination or group. All beliefs or religions do have their own special place.  It is a personal choice. If I were to choose one path, I suppose it might be following the rhythms of nature. The beauty of the outdoors and all that lives there evolved as the original church from the the Mystery. Of course it is important to gather together with like-minded individuals as it provides spiritual nourishment within all faiths.      

I enjoy a variety of music, especially classical piano... but I have outgrown most rock. Well, maybe some of it... Fantasy, some sci-fi, and romantic comedy movies are also favorites. Science and the exploration involved continues to be something I research.

A current resident in Tennessee, I live a quiet solitary life by the river in a country setting. Reading is a favorite pastime and I write some short stories, as well as my own kind of simple poetry inspired by nature. I enjoy watching the different animals the many types of birds. Of course I do some work on the computer and this website. I have always been an exercise enthusiast... it just isn't as easy now.

Having driven on many roads here in the states, my favorite places are northern California, Oregon and northern Idaho. There are only three states I have not explored yet...
                
                     "do not seek to follow in the footsteps of the men of old;
                                  seek what they sought."  ~Basho