What makes you smile?
I want to share an experience I had recently as the effects are still blissfully lingering.
Reflective and open space is of high value personally, especially with my busy lifestyle. Rarely, do I get a full day to ‘just be’ and enjoy the little things in life at a more relaxed pace.
So, my friend and I both enjoy riding
bikes, and had a great idea to take the day to fully experience an
adventurous bike ride. Early morning we set an open agenda to park in
Chestnut Hill and see where that takes us. No plans, no expectations,
basket with a few organic energy bars, one organic chocolate bar, and
two curious playful people. (Opps… we forgot water somehow)
We started
on the trails at Valley Green Park which is absolutely beautiful. Mother
nature is quite the cure for me, which instantly transforms my state
into deeply connected and receptive. I remember stopping a few times,
glancing up and appreciating the simple pleasure of vision, that somehow
is often taken for granted. Although I love New York City and visit
often, Philadelphia is humorously foreign to me.
We followed the path
that lead to Kelly Drive and shortly realized our lost appreciation for
clean air. Arrived at the Art Museum with high energy spontaneously
dancing with ‘Zumba on the Steps’, and feeling expansive in all of
possibilities the city had to offer. On a side note, I childishly
imagined a summer-like day, proudly wore shorts, and the only extra
clothing I brought was a tank top. ( Yikes, at 9 am early May riding a
bike in shorts-goosebumps!) Stopped at American Apparel and bought a
pair of leopard print leggings. YES! : ) We rode around on many streets
that were foreign, besides Samson where I got a parking ticket a few
months back. Had great adventures in China town while looking for
Shiatsu supplies. Bought favorites at Whole Foods for a lovely picnic,
and then questioned my strength and ability to make it back after
relaxing on the ground. Well, I did make it and with a high sense of
accomplishment.
You see, I tried to explain minute details but I
purposely left out the finale. Most importantly, I had a contagious
smile the whole entire day. A genuine smile with direct eye contact to
all whom crossed paths. The power of connection though a smile is
incredibly powerfully. After days of reflection on this experience, I
realized the power of connection is the effects I am still reminiscing.
Connection to every person I came in contact with, mother nature, and
the essence of Philadelphia. This day is stored in great memory with a
broad sense of liberation. A physical memory I have of this is not
only my new leopard print leggings but also my sore face from a frozen
smile. Life is good! Enjoy the small pleasures and leave open space for
new adventures.
Amen!
Beet Ginger and Coconut Soup
1-3 T of coconut oil
3 large red beets, scrubbed clean and cut into 1/4 inch pieces
(fyi, I don’t peel my beets. especially if they are organic)
1-3 T fresh minced ginger
1 large yellow onion, diced
3 large cloves of garlic, minced
dash of cayenne pepper
dash of red pepper flakes
1 can of full fat coconut milk
4-5 cups of veggie stock or clean water with miso and curry
sea salt and pepper to taste
In a large soup pan heat the coconut oil
over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring
occasionally. Add beets, garlic and ginger. Cook for about 3-5 more
minutes stirring often. Add 4 cups of veggie stock or water with
miso/curry, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer for about 25
minutes. Add cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes. Make sure beets are
fork tender and then carefully with a blender or immersion blender puree
the soup. (Add more water if it is too thick.) Add coconut milk. Stir
to combine. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Namaste!
