Nose Walkin & Trash Talkin

I heart e.c.

2012-02-11T18:01:00.000-08:00

The yoga ladies and me, cuddling up to Edward.

John, surprisingly not feeling threatened by Edwards presence...

scandalous.

oooolala thankful for Pinterest !

EC Love.

2012-02-11T04:04:00.000-08:00

Who got a cardboard life size standup of Edward Cullen?! THIS GIRL!! Thanks to my bestest friend Julia out in Seattle for knowing how to bring some sunshine into my world.

Ammmmazing!

2012-02-10T11:35:00.001-08:00

Amazing Ari.

2012-02-09T08:39:00.000-08:00

Ari is so so so amazing. She is the owner of The Zen Den, where I teach in margate. A major bonus of working for her is that I get to practice at the ZD for free!! Her classes are insanely challenging but as long as you go to class WITHOUT an ego, you'll be fine. Ari does an amazing job at breaking down difficult poses to make them accessible. Today we were fucking around with all sorts of inversions. The first picture is Ari showing us some craziness ( that I clearly chose to skip - and instead acted as photographer ). The second photo is Aris awwwwesone hubby, Adam getting into another inversion that just wasn't for me. And the third photo is my friend Michelle. We practiced next to each other today. Practicing next to someone you love always gives more meaning to your practice. We laughed at each other when we fell, we encouraged each other when we found our way into difficult postures, and of course we held hands in savasana. Thanks to Ari for hosting another awesome class!!!

Bacon.

2012-02-07T17:55:00.001-08:00

If you eat meat, then THIS is why you should know where it's coming from. Take the extra second and spend the extra buck to buy from companies with integrity.

Turkish Coffee.

2012-02-07T13:13:00.001-08:00

Holy shitballs.

I am so caffeinated right now I feel like I'm buzzing likea bee. Flying. Yeeeew.

Had an EPIC day today -- did a power yoga class with Ari at the Zen Den, followed up by lunch and lattes with one of my besties, Miss Jamie D, at Who's on First Cafe, and then got in some Q.T. with ROB Kulisek. Rob and I are obsessed with all-things-coffee, so I was super stoked when he offered to brew me a turkish coffee. I've had java every which way...vietnamese, iced, french press, percolated, espresso, americano, latte, cappucino, this way that way and every other way -- but never turkish. CHEERS.

1. Using on of these cool stove top thing-a-ma-jiggers (technical name: "CEZVE") put in one teaspoon sugar, and fill with cold water.

2. Grind coffee to a powder. *If you are using whole beans: grind, grind, grind. If you are using ground coffee, grind grind grind. You want a powder.

3. Pour powder into little thing-a-ma-jigger. 3 heaping tablespoons for 2 people.

And now I will reference the professionals:

1. Pour in cold water in the coffee pot. You should use one cup of cold water for each cup you are making and then add an extra half cup “for the pot”. Add a teaspoonful of the ground Turkish coffee per cup in the water while the water is cold and stir. The amount of coffee may be varied to taste, but do not forget, there will be a thick layer of coffee grounds left at the bottom of your cup for properly made Turkish coffee. Don’t fill the pot too much. If you need to add sugar this is the time to do it.

2. Heat the pot as slowly as you can. The slower the heat the better it is. Make sure you watch it to prevent overflowing when the coffee boils.

3. When the water boils pour some (not all) of the coffee equally between the cups, filling each cup about a quarter to a third of the way. This will make sure that everybody gets a fair share of the foam forming on top of the pot, without which coffee loses much of its taste. Continue heating until coffee boils again (which will be very short now that it has already boiled). Then distribute the rest of the coffee between the cups.

Since there is no filtering of coffee at any time during this process, you should wait for a few minutes before drinking your delicious Turkish coffee while the coffee grounds settle at the bottom of the cup.

Brewing: Traditionally, and for the best taste, expect the brewing process to take 15-20 minutes. Slowly bring the mixture to a frothing boil on the stovetop. As the froth gets close to the top, just before it boils over, remove the ibrik from the heat, allow the froth to go down (you can do this by stirring), then replace it on the heat. After the third frothing boil, serve the froth in equal portions into each cup, replace it on the heat for a fourth frothing boil, then serve. (Although it has become commonplace to make Turkish coffee with only 3, 2 or just a single frothing boil, it generally tastes best with the traditional 4.)

2012-02-05T10:57:00.000-08:00

This just in: I'm adding an extra class at the Zen Den!! Monday nights, 7pm-8:30pm YIN. Yeeewww!! Hope to see you there!

Fun and more Fun.

2012-02-02T14:58:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I taught 7am Yin in Avalon, followed it up with an epic breakfast and coffee, some graphic design work, gave a massage, and then taught my 5:30pm Slow Flow Vinyasa class in Margate. After the class a few of us went out for drinks. Kylee, Col, me and Paisley met some other friends at the Tilton for some Gunniess with Sprite, as well as a {pitiful} game of pool. In bed before midnight. I slept at the house where Ky is house-sitting/dog-sitting and got to cuddle with Lola this morning before I headed to the Zen Den to take one of Ari's incredibly challenging yet totally rewarding classes. It was packed and the energy was good...plus there was a very sexy yoga man in the back of the class that made my view from downward dog a pleasure! Left power yoga and stopped to visit my friend Mila at Who's On 1st cafe in OC before giving TWO massages @ Exodus. Amy (the owner) and Vicky (the massage therapist) both received one hour thai massages from me. Headed home, a bit exhausted, enjoyed some food and some family time and now I'm getting ready to head out for my 7:30pm Candlelight Slow Flow Vinyasa!! But the good times are only beginning...my favorite cuz, TC, is coming up with her boyfriend David. I love the SHIT outta both of them and cannot wait to have a full 3 day weekend with them!!!! YEEEEWWWW!!!

Prayer for Mealtime.

2012-02-02T05:50:00.000-08:00

Another thing that I took away from the Thai Yoga Massage training that wasn't part of the bodywork, was a little prayer that my teacher and her boyfriend would say before they ate. I'm not very religious, and I don't usually say a prayer for I dive into my food - but I loved the 30 seconds that they took before eating to close their eyes, hold hands and gave up a little awareness and gratitude. The prayer that Jennifer would recite is from the Gita, and she just forwarded it to me.

From Bhagavad Gita 4.24

Brahmaar panam Brahma Havir
Brahmaa gnau Brahmanaa Hutam
Brahmaiva Tena Gantavyam
Brahma Karma Samaadhi naha

Om Shanti shanti shanti

Mad Ramble Rambled Out.

2012-01-31T18:59:00.000-08:00

The mad rambler seems to be rambled out. I have nothing clever to say, nothing too crazy to report, and no new recipes. Usually this time of year is travel entry after travel entry after travel entry -- so I'm sorry to those of you who look forward to these adventure tales...they will be continued sometime when life allows. But for now the very exciting news is that I'm certified in Thai Yoga Massage! I have been massaging up a storm (2 a day!) and I'm loving it. It feels so very natural, and when people tell me that I have the "healing" touch, I believe them - because I can feel it pulsing through me. For those of you who don't necessarily 'speak' this language, I know it must be difficult to understand how one person has a healing touch and another doesn't, so you'll just have to take my word (or really, the word of my clients) as truth. If anyone is interested in a massage it's $80 for 90 minutes and I come to you! There is a hot towel for your feet, a cushy shiatsu mat (thanks mom and dad!), mellow music, and ginger tea afterwards! Today I journeyed to Brigantine to work on one of my yoga students from Margate, Gina. She loved the massage, and not only did she give me an amazing tip - but she also fed me!! I'm going to try and pry her 'vegetable meatball' recipe from her so that I can share it with all of you - because they were DELICIOUS. Anywho, that's all for now. Love you all <3

2012-01-29T05:38:00.000-08:00

I realize that I haven't blog-blogged in a long time. So here's whats been happening with me...

On the TWILIGHT front: My friend Kylee has been house/dog-sitting so I spent a night hanging with her: cracking out on Twilight and cuddling with "Lola". There is NOTHING better than cuddling with a dog...nothing. We watched the first Twilight, and Twilight Eclipse, I made some dinner, and we ate lots of Oreo's (thats all her fault, shes a junk food queen). And since we both like to read, we spent lots of time just reading. She turned me onto some serious crack: Stephanie Meyer had written the first Twilight book from EDWARDS perspective a few years ago, but after it got leaked she became frustrated and said that she made no plans to finish it and publish. But because her fans are so die-hard, once they got wind of this they began searching the web for the illegal never-released book. SO, she finally just posted it on her website. It cannot be printed out, you can't "copy and paste", you can ONLY read it online. But it is well worth it. The unpublished novel is called MIDNIGHT SUN. For all of you Twi-Hards out there, you can check it out HERE. It's A-MA-ZING.

On the YOGA front: I'm teaching 4 classes a week at Surfside Fitness in Avalon, and 2 classes a week at the amazing Zen Den in Margate. Ari Green is the owner of the Zen Den, and she is just a spectacular person. She makes me feel so welcomed and appreciated, and she always makes me feel as if when I'm in the studio that its MY studio. She gifted me these beautiful Mala beads (that I'm wearing in the picture above)...they are so beautiful and definitely bring me happiness every time I put them on!

On the FAMILY front: Saturday was family day ALL DAY LONG. I taught a vigorous, loud, energetic yoga class in the morning and then quickly rinsed off and headed to lunch at Lucky Bones down in Cape May with Mom, Dad and LP. The food was delicious, as always, and the cocktails were pretty dang good too!! New to their menu is fried zucchini with lemon aioli which is so so so yummy. After our long leisurely lunch we headed home. Dad and I both took LONG naps, while Mom and LP hung out downstairs. We watched 50/50 together, reheated leftovers, sipped on some wine, and then watch Barneys Version. Two movies, the whole family, lazy day, good food. All in all, a great day.

50/50

2012-01-25T19:49:00.001-08:00

I just watched the movie "50/50" and was totally blown away. Laughing out loud and shedding tears, this movie really hit the nail on the head. Gratitude to my mother for being so selfless in her quest to take care of my dad...never making this 'about' her, and giving without asking for anything in return. And big ups to my Dad, who remains positive and strong throughout this shit ass situation that he's been handed. Watch this movie if you have some spare time. <3

South Jersey January Sunshine

2012-01-24T18:02:00.000-08:00

Enjoying this lovely weather that we had all day. Nearly 60 degrees, sun shining bright. Hung out with my friend Kaitlin today and her dog Paisley at the beach, and then she made me a yummy summer salad!! So grateful for the mild winter. <3

2012-01-24T06:54:00.001-08:00

kurt

Corn and Crap.

2012-01-23T08:42:00.001-08:00

I'm a junky for information. When I became interested in Kundalini yoga, I went up to Massachusetts for a 4 day immersion, and ordered 6 books. What I'm trying to say is that I fully immerse myself in whatever I am interested in. And why I haven't known more about my food is beyond me...afterall, we ALL know that I live to eat food, prepare food and share meals with friends. Now- I never thought that I'd say this...but I'm going vegetarian. Yep, I said it. BUT, there are some specifications that I should make: I will continue to eat game, especially that that is killed by my friends and family. Venison, fish, home-raised pigs...all good. Also, if a restaurant KNOWS about the meats that they are selling then i would feel comfortable eating this (example: chef Gordon at La Medusa not only knows the name of the local farm his meat came from, but chances are that he was most likely present at the slaughter). These types of proteins are environmentally friendly, humane, and are about as natural as it comes. My generations life expectancy is actually going to be LOWER than that of our parents...all because of what we eat. And even if you don't care about losing a few years, at least have some respect for the planet, for the sake of the generations to come.

Take a minute to inform yourself...it is your obligation as a human being.

2012-01-22T15:32:00.001-08:00

Who's down for some partner yoga...?

Xie Xie

2012-01-21T19:46:00.000-08:00

LP and I grabbed some epic sushi tonight at Sushi Ocean View. Again- amazing meal, amazing service..Faith is the best. Learned how to say "thank you" in Chinese...it's pronounced "shay shay".

3 Bean Soup with Kale

2012-01-20T05:44:00.000-08:00

This was probably one of the easiest soups that I have EVER made, and definitely one of the most delicious.

Can of Garbanzo beans
Can of Kidney beans
Can of Black beans
A bunch of Kale (the more the better...it is soooo good)
Fresh Flat Leaf Parsley
2 shallots (or one small yellow onion)
1 clove of garlic
Dried oregano + basil (one teaspoon each)
Cayenne pepper (to taste)
Salt and Pepp (to taste)
Vegetable Broth (I prefer BETTER THAN BOUILLON concentrate as opposed to the boxes)

In the pot that you will be making the soup in, drizzle a fair amount of EVOO. Dice the shallots and the garlic and throw into the pot to sautee. Put all of your beans in a colander and rinse, rinse, rinse. Once they have been rinsed throw them into the pot. Pour in vegetable broth and seasonings. Dice a huge handful of fresh parsley, add to pot. Pull the kale off of the ribs and dice, add to pot. Enjoy!!!

I like EXTRA kale in mine, and I like it extra spicy. So before I would heat up each bowl I would add an extra handful of kale. It doesn't need to "cook down" or anything, it tastes great just as is. Also, those beans just so happened to be what I had around the house - use whatever you'd like!

Go Go Gadget

2012-01-19T10:40:00.000-08:00

Here's some cool gadgets that I came across these past few days and have fallen in love with...

TO GO WARE : sold in Whole Foods Markets, as well as online...this nifty, eco-friendly food ware should become an essential to everyones purse/backpack/car/office/you-get-where-im-going-with-this. The utensils are made out of bamboo, and the holders are made out of recycled plastic bags. The company is fair trade and they are very involved in the process of production - from start to finish. All in all, an amazing company and an amazing (and cheap!) product. www.to-goware.com to order yours now and to see about all the amazing things that this ambitious company is doing!

For all of you tea snobs out there, this CuisinArt electric tea kettle has several options so that you can best enjoy your mug of tea:

160 degrees : Delicate
175 degrees : Green
185 degrees : White
190 degrees : Oolong
200 degrees : French Press
Boil

And finally, for all of us smoothie loving vagabonds out there (or for any of you 9-5ers that like a smoothie in the a.m)...a travel sized blender that also seconds as a travel cup. Also, you create less waste because you are consuming the beverage in the container that you made it in - one less dish!

...and so the journey begins!

2012-01-18T04:41:00.000-08:00

The crew: Sara, Me, Jennifer, Josh, Alan, Ashley <3

I finished up my level one training yesterday, and now the true journey begins!! I could get into detail about my full 75min massage to the public, and how she could feel my love and energy with every touch- and I could tell you how excited and anxious I was- or how proud I was to complete- or how outstanding my teacher was, and how much I loved my 'neighbor' Sara, but instead I'll just leave you with this: Let your intuition be your guide, and when the universe points you in a certain direction...follow it, with an open mind. I have loved surfing more than anything or anyone, for my whole life. If a few years ago you had said that teaching yoga would become my passion, I would have laughed at you. If you told me a week ago that I would find a home in Thai Yoga Massage, I definitely would have rolled my eyes. How silly we are to think that we have any say in the matter! Blessings to my teacher, Jennifer Yarro...and to her assistants (boyfriend & great friend) Josh and Nikki for their patience and knowledge, to my 'neighbor' Sara for giving me constructive criticism along with encouragement to help me grow, and thank you to Daniel Orlansky for the e.p.i.c. hospitality!

Figured that I'd reward myself for a job well done....Yummy (local) "Happy Sol"....

"Do you think I know what I'm doing? That for one breath I belong to myself? As much as a pen knows what it's writing, or the ball can guess where it's going next." - Rumi

Fam Florida Fun

2012-01-17T04:13:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited to be here in Cambridge, but I gotta say that there is a little tug at my heart because my parents are down in Florida!!! My Dad wanted to see his mom (who is that short, glamorous lady in yellow in the picture) so his cousin, Pat Levitt, scooped up my parents in her private jet and flew them down!! The level of comfort he was able...or should I rephrase, the level of DIScomfort that he was able to avoid, was significant...and made the trip much easier than it would have been if he had flown commercially. God bless Pat, yet again, for her humble generosity- it means so very much to everyone in our family. Here are two pictures that make me smiled: one of my parents, grandparents, aunt nelly, pat, and uncle sean and his hubby terry having lunch down in key west. I wish I could have accompanied them but am just so stoked that this was all possible. But more than anything, I am happy for my mom. She hasn't taken a second to breathe or a second for herself in over two years now. So ENJOY MOM!!

Day 3

2012-01-16T19:09:00.000-08:00

Day 3, and I am just flying high ( as well as being totally exhausted ). Still overwhelmed with gratitude...stoked to be participating in such an amazing training with a great group of people and an ammmmazing instructor. Thai Yoga Massage is way more powerful and amazing than I had originally given it credit for. I'm super excited to be on this path and definitely plan to take this much further (hopefully continuing under the tutelage of Jennifer Yarro and hopefully some of that being in Thailand!). Speaking of Jennifer, she is a multifaceted pretty spectacular human being, and her boyfriend Josh is extremely special as well. Jen is a yoga instructor, dula, body worker, healer an oh so much more. Her Josh lived as a monk in Thailand for over three years, and his peace and serenity will seep into your soul...instantly making you a better person. Seriously. No lie. He has a deep, soothing voice that reaches just above a loud whisper. Compassion oozes from his being. And him and Jennifer together...well they're something special. And all of us are sharing one roof, with the gracious Daniel Orlansky who has opened up his home (and kitchen) to us wandering nomads.

Anywho- another long day, but I was thankful for a smaller group (only 8 of us in the full certification program, but about 20 people for the two day weekend immersion). It was nice to have more individual attention, less distraction, and a more intimate group. We added a lot more onto our flow today, which was mildly overwhelming but all in all will become second nature in no time.

After a full day we headed home for leftovers, hot tea and some great company. Aaron stopped over with his kids, which was more than entertaining. His youngest son Jasper came right in the house, stripped off his clothes, and sat in front of the wood stove. His oldest (7), Body, came wearing slacks, a button down shirt, a tie, and a argyle vest. Aaron declared that this has been his style since a school Christmas party. Both little kids had very Big personalities...it was great to have them in the mix for a bit (and then to send them on their way). Excited and nervous and a tad bit sad about tomorrow being my final day. Studying my notes now and listening to some Chris & Thomas to soothe my nerves. Hasta Mañana troops!

Thai Yoga Massage Training Day 2

2012-01-15T20:11:00.000-08:00

Having a little lunch after a long morning...

The 10 major SEN lines in Thai Yoga Massage...

Jennifer and Josh demonstrating techniques....

Yeeew! Day two...and just wanted to report that I have fallen truly madly deeply in love with Thai massage. It is NOTHING like the Thai massage that I received in the touristy towns of Thailand. It is a spiritual practice and an intense body work that is deeply integrated with your energy. Powerful shit...and a bit too much for me to get into at this moment. So here are some photos: some of the osho books I've been borrowing from Daniel (he has a whole Osho library!), a few of us enjoying lunch together, an illustration of Thai "SEN" lines (similar to meridians), my amazing teacher Jennifer showing us some technique, and then a typical evening at Daniels house. Namaste my friends!

Back at Daniels, just lounging, some massage...

Cracking out on the Osho collection...

Sweet Sleep.

2012-01-14T20:41:00.000-08:00

I get to lay my head down tonight in the most beautiful home in all of Boston, and probably the most beautiful sacred living space that I have ever entered, ever. Daniel Orlansky is a teachers' teacher, and I studied Kundalini yoga with him a while back at the Kripalu yoga center in Massachusetts. Through him I heard of Jennifer Yarros Thai Yoga Massage training, and he has been so kind as to offer up his home to me while I'm here for the training (he also scooped me up at the airport!). All in all an amazing individual. Day one of training is complete, and I'm still in sensory overload, so I'll have to digest that for you all at another time. But I WILL tell you THIS: Thai massage is amazing, and very powerful form of bodywork. This will definitely become a life long journey for me, an infinite student and practitioner. Namaste my friends, write more again soon, but now I am going to rest up for what tomorrow will bring!

Rockin' at the Zen Den

2012-01-14T04:18:00.000-08:00

I taught my 4th class at the Zen Den last night. At most I've had 5 people come out to the other three classes, but I was grateful for even just that- afterall, it's quality not quantity. So five minutes before class, when there was already a dozen people in the room, I was surprised that they just kept coming in! All in all there was 20 of us in a huge, intimate circle. The class focused on Forgiveness, the 6th chakra, and the Urinary Bladder meridian. We all come touched our palms together, locking in the circle, and began with chanting one round of OM. We ended class with a reclined twist, connecting arms with our neighbors. And not only did I have everyone touch, but I took it a step further...everyone looked at their neighbors and said "YOU'RE AMAZING!". And then on a bit more deeper level we then said "I see you"...and through saying this we offered up our love, support and forgiveness to the rest in the circle. All in all a super empowering class, and one of the highlights of my journey as a teacher. Again- infinite gratitude for being able to share my passion with others. Thank you to everyone who came out last night, and a huge thank you to the Queen B, Ari Green (owner of the zen den, and amazing teacher) who has offered up her space to me!! Namaste!

The Best Gifts.

2012-01-13T06:56:00.000-08:00

"the best gift is not given, it is shared."

I love teaching yoga...it just feels natural, like breathing and walking and talking. Yoga has changed my life; physically, emotionally, spiritually - and honest to god, I can't quite imagine my life without it. Just as some people live a 'Christian life', I feel like I am on the 'path of yoga', and it is a damn fine path to be on. The fact that I get to share this passion for yoga with others is amazing - an honor that I am all too grateful to have. But what makes this even better is that the people that I'm sharing it with seem just as excited about this path as I am, and as a teacher - this is the most rewarding feeling in the world.

After class the other day, one of my newer students (who JUST started practicing) approached me with a little story. I was surprised that he'd even come to class - his first bout with yoga was on Thursday evening and he'd written to me about how sore he was -- and then to have him show up for Saturdays sweaty, high-intensity vinyasa was a shocker! He acknowledged that it may be a bit fast paced for his skill level and he was still very sore, but he just didn't want to miss a class! Anywho- He said that for years he was a nature photographer in Arizona. Countless mornings he would see the sun rise through the epic canyons, and he would be stunned by how amazing this experience was. No matter how many times he had seen the sun rise, it was just as magnificent and magical as the time before. And every morning he'd turn his gaze alongside him and say "Isn't this amazing"? But there no one there with him, no one to share in his passion for this beautiful moment. He ended by saying that yoga is my passion, and that he is so grateful to be able to be that person alongside of me, replying "Yes, this IS amazing". It took me a while to digest this. Afterall, it had just been an intense class and my mind was all aflutter with this and that. But as I drove back to my house, the depth and sincerity of his compliment really hit me. So thanks Jim, it is my PLEASURE to share this passion, my gift...especially to a group of amazing, receptive, compassionate individuals.

Remember: the best gift isn't given, it's shared. Namaste.

Broccoli Gribiche

2012-01-12T07:00:00.000-08:00

Me and Dr.J @ La Medusa in Seattle.

The lovely J-Ngan gifted me two Heidi Swanson cookbooks when I was in Seattle. Dr.J is always cooking up the most epic dishes ever, and she takes a lot of inspiration from Heidi. J cooks like me...never following the recipe line for line, but playing with it and making her own. That's exactly what I did last night. On the menu for my two guests was Steak and Broccoli Gribiche. The (venison) steaks were marinated only with salt and pepper, and then I cooked them Pittsburgh style.....hot pan, high heat, short amount of time. So it's got a crust on the outside and is rare/medium rare inside. It cooked them in a skillet in butter, and put a pat of butter ontop right before serving. The broccoli gribiche was outstanding, I gotta say - I impressed myself! I made it my own and only used the recipe for inspiration, but for all of you recipe followers out there, here is her exact recipe. Also, I did a mixture of broccoli and broccoli rabe. Sooooo tasty!!!

Broccoli Gribiche

Ingredients:

1.5 pounds of fingerling potatoes
1/2 cup EVOO
sea salt
12oz broccoli florets
4 large eggs, hard cooked and peeled
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dijon-style mustard (i used like 4 times this amount! sooo yummy!)
1 tablespoon capers, chopped
2 shallots, chopped
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (I didn't have tarragon or chives, so I used a huge heaping handful of fresh flat leaf parsley and the green tops of scallions)

Preheat the oven to 400F. Use your hands to toss potatoes with 1 tablespoon of EVOO, sprinkle with salt, and turn out onto a baking sheet. Roast until they are cooked through and starting to brown. About 15 min before you think the potatoes are done, toss the broccoli with EVOO, sprinkle with salt, and arrange on the baking sheet with the potatoes. The broccoli is delicious if it has a slight char. To make the dressing, mash just the yolk of one of the eggs in a medium bowl. Very very slowly add 1/2 cup EVOO, beating constantly; the dressing should look smooth and glossy. Whisk in the vinegar, then mustard. Stir in the capers, shallots, herbs and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Coarsely chop the remaining eggs and egg white, and fold them into the dressing. Put the warm potatoes and brocccoli in a large bowl and gently toss with the dressing.

Satya Yoga with Cailin Callahan

2012-01-10T05:38:00.000-08:00

Whether the class I am instructing is Vinyasa, Yin, Kundalini, or Slow Flow...one thing will remain the same - the Authenticity of the practice. Spiritually, physically, emotionally - we all need something a bit different from yoga, and amazingly enough Yoga has the capability to MOLD TO US. What's important is that the practice fits the person rather than the person trying to fit the practice. My goal is that each person who walks into my class will walk out the door feeling better than when they walked in...with a smile on their face and some happiness in their heart. As life evolves, as we evolve - our practice evolves, and I hope to be able to offer up authentic variations for physical, spiritual and emotional growth along the way. "SATYA" is a sanskrit term translating to "truth, one who's nature is truth, authentic, sincere"...and that is what is reflected in my teaching: being true to our Authentic bodies, and replying to that with a sincere and Authentic practice.

I created a SATYA YOGA WITH CAILIN CALLAHAN page on facebook to promote my classes and my approach to yoga. If you are on facebook, please take a second to "Like" my page. And even if you aren't on facebook, you are able to view the page and see the latest happenings. www.facebook.com/SatyaYogaCailin

Namaste.

" The only thing that can be done is enabling people into experiencing. A Moment. This moment. The miracle of life happening in us as a breath."

"You are life happening here. There is not much more to be said. What is life? You are whatever it is altogether.... You don't have to find yourself, because you never lost yourself, and all the power and intelligence of life is appearing in you, as you. Yoga is both the relaxation and participation in your own life."

--MARK WHITWELL

"There is immeasurable power and connectedness here. It can only be felt in you, as you. Nature does not work in models. We share the same condition but each one of us is utterly unique, standing in our life. The attempts to duplicate culturally prescribed spiritual models rob us of our unique presence and power. We each have our unique process. What has worked for one great person is not necessarily right for another... If there is any absolute condition of being, THIS IS IT. And this ONE is here, presently and powerfully available. It's not a question of "Be Here Now" - because you ARE here now. Yoga is the movement of the natural state of being." -- Mark Whitwell

Book One!

2012-01-09T17:08:00.001-08:00

I bought my mom a kindle for Christmas. She was reading Hunger Games and remarked that it was such a shame that dad couldn't read because he would really love it. It's like Survivor, but they hunt one another....right up his alley (kill Em and eat Em). Anywho, it sparked an idea and before we knew it dad was borrowing moms kindle and reading the Hunger Games, in the largest font possible. It was slow and steady, but he finished it yesterday, bringing tears of joy to both my mom and me.

Baby P and Mrs.P

2012-01-08T08:59:00.000-08:00

Persephone and her Mama, Emily Paul, came for a visit today. It was good to have Lil P and Mrs.P in the house....a visit was way past due.

powerful and AMAZING.

2012-01-07T13:50:00.000-08:00

Yay! I now love Saturdays classes...because there is a theme: loud, intense, sweaty, energetic and totally amazing. I had 15 amazing yogis come out this morning, of all different styles and skill levels. We started out class with 3 rounds of OM and one really loud rebel yell. The theme of today's class was to TRUST IN YOURSELF because we are POWERFUL and AMAZING. We laughed... a lot. We yelled and chanted and breathed and screamed. And we sweat. And smiled. We shouted to the person across the circle that they were amazing...and IT was amazing.

******

*Thanks to YogaJournal for the insight about believing in yourself, and thanks to my outstanding friend Gray Richards in Encinitas for the mantra "I am powerful and amazing".

No matter how challenging it may seem, everything in life is there to point us toward healing and growth. When you infuse your intention with the spirit of service, you learn to believe in yourself. When you show up with focus and integrity, especially in lifes everyday moments, you uncover the essential trustworthiness within yourself.

I am powerful and amazing. You are powerful and amazing. WE are powerful and amazing.

Surround yourself with people who support you - let us hold one another up. When you believe in yourself, you can count on yourself to follow through on the smallest of details. You know you'll behave graciously, even when your first instinct is to run away. When you meet adversity, you know you'll communicate with clarity and composure. When you believe in yourself, life flows in abundant directions, your ability to love grows stronger, and your capacity to receive is revitalized. You're able to fearlessly generate more peace in the world through each of your interactions. This is your invitation to believe in yourself.

*********

Yay! Skype!

2012-01-05T19:50:00.000-08:00

I skyped with Emmy tonight...she just moved from NYC to London, and I miss her already. She's only there for 9 months for work, but atleast we have Skype! Thank god for technology.

Cleanin' Up at Capt. Scrap

2012-01-05T15:27:00.001-08:00

Went to my beloved Capt. Scrap Antique shop in woodbine today. I just woke up with an itch to hunt...and since most of the thrift shops around here are pretty crap anymore, I just went straight to the MECCA. Not only do they know me on a first name basis at this eclectic establishment, but they know what I like and what I hunt for. In the past, Capt Scrap was my home away from me...a place to search for all the oddities that one doesn't necessarily need but that make life a bit more exciting. Today I stocked up:

-Two adorable Fire King demitasse cups with saucers
-Two crystal cocktail glasses (to be used for the "cailins")
-Vintage Mink hat (as seen above)
-Some eclectic antique baubles...necklace, bracelet, earrings, etc
-A FABULOUS vintage embroidered shirt thingy that I'm going to wear as a dress...that looks straight outta Anthropologie
-vintage wrap skirt from morocco
-Two gorgeous silk scarves

Gah. Another successful afternoon--- three hours of putzing amongst piles of randomness.

Gratitude Meditation

2012-01-04T06:56:00.000-08:00

Gratitude Meditation:

Bridget comes to all of my classes. Like, EVERY SINGLE ONE. The one day that she missed class I felt like my arm was missing or something ... she has become so much a part of MY experience as a teacher that it almost threw me off my game. Now that you've been introduced, let me tell you that Bridget also dictates many of my lesson plans. She doesn't dictate with demands, but with questions...amazing, simple, complicated, insightful questions. I love it. Her questions then inspire me to come up not just with an answer/suggestion/solution, but for a flow that would enhance it along with a meditation that plays into it as well. Her love for Yin yoga is on par with my love and admiration for it as well, so usually my Wednesday morning classes are an evolution of a question she asked me the week before. Last week she came up to me after class and said that she felt so blessed...SO much to be grateful for (she recently got married and bought a house!), and is there a way to express this abundant gratitude to the universe? She said that she had sat in meditation many times and just thought over and over "Thank You Thank You Thank You. Namaste!", but she was hoping that there might be a more authentic and deeper way to express this. So today's YIN class was focused on gratitude....starting with some chanting to open and awaken our heart chakra, focusing on the stomach and spleen meridians (which emotionally are associated to the heart chakra) and ended with a heart meditation, chanting WaheGuru WaheGuru. It was a beautiful practice, a beautiful way to begin the day. I am oh-so-grateful to be able to teach yoga...especially to this wonderful group of individuals. Bridget - I am grateful for your questions, thank you for helping me to reach higher and dig deeper.

If you would like to express gratitude, here is a quick 15 minute meditation:

Begin by opening and igniting your heart chakra:

Easy Seat. Eyes closed. Neutral breath
Bring your hands into the mudra shown below (Sit cross-legged. Let the tips of your index finger and thumb touch. Put your left hand on your left knee and your right hand in front of the lower part of your breast bone (so a bit above the solar plexus).
Concentrate on the Heart chakra at the spine, level with the heart.Chant the sound YAM.**Chant YAM for 10 breaths, saying it 3 times on each exhale. Example: Inhale, Exhale: Yam, Yam, Yam. Inhale.

End with a Heart Meditation, chanting WaheGuru:

Bring your hands to your heart chakra in the center of your chest, right hand over left. Breathe directly into your heart. Feel your heart open and unfold. After several breaths, begin breathing into the space around your heart, allowing the heart to expand.
Allow the energy of gratitude and appreciation to fill your heart. Visualize this as a beautiful golden energy spilling out from your heart, then filling the space around your heart and overflowing into your body.
Begin to chant WaheGuru (wa-hey g'roo), or just mentally resonate with the chant.

This is a beautiful version of WaheGuru that I found on youtube, and have been singing along with:

******************************

These chakra meditations use mudras, which are special hand positions, to open chakras. The mudras have the power to send more energy to particular chakras. To enhance the effect, sounds are chanted. These sounds are from Sanskrit letters. When chanted, they cause a resonation in your body that you can feel at the chakra they are meant for.

For pronunciation, keep in mind that:
the "A" is pronounced as in "ah,"
the "M" is pronounced as "mng.

Reference: http://www.eclecticenergies.com/chakras/open.php (check out this site for the mudras and sounds for each chakra).

******************************

Know What You're Chanting: WAHE GURU

Wahe Guru is an expansive combination of words, which means much more than the simple four syllables it appears to be. It’s an expression of awe at all of creation and our participation in it. As you can see, it’s taken many words in English to even try to define it.

Wahe Guru is another way of expressing the joyous ecstasy that comes from knowing your true essence– call it God, call it soul, call it Self… whatever. Making the sound puts it into the mind’s vibration and like a seed planted, eventually it blossoms and what you get is the experience.

"LET US RISE UP AND BE THANKFUL, FOR IF WE DIDN'T LEARN A LOT, AT LEAST WE LEARNED A LITTLE, AND IF WE DIDN'T LEARN A LITTLE, AT LEAST WE DIDN'T GET SICK, AND IF WE GOT SICK, AT LEAST WE DIDN'T DIE; SO, LET US ALL BE THANKFUL." -- THE BUDDHA.

Big Fish.

2012-01-03T10:54:00.001-08:00

The other night my Dad and I watched Tim Burton's BIG FISH. I've seen it a few years back, but I'd forgotten what a fabulous film this is. It's a magical story, about a charming, adventurous, teller of tales...Edward Bloom. He reminds me of my Dad in so many ways, and the movie was even more special because I was able to enjoy it alongside him. I was crying like a baby by the time the credits came on, and mozied over to give my dad a big hug. He told me he loved me, bigger than the universe, and he agreed that THIS was a GOOD movie! If you have never seen this, or of its been awhile- check it out!

Shit Yogis Say

2012-01-02T19:07:00.001-08:00

Hahahahahahahahahahahaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa

Namaste Motherfuckers.

2012-01-01T20:40:00.001-08:00

My New Years Eve resolution for the past 8 years has pretty much never strayed from:

stop biting my nails
stop dating losers

On occasion I will throw in the "lose 5lbs", but even I know that a shallow endeavor such as this for an intention never sticks around for long. So, what to do - what to do? I figured that this year my aspirations should be a little bit higher, so I decided to utilize an exercise that Seane Corn ("Off the Mat, Into the World") had published in Yoga Journal a few years back {thanks Michelle for resending it to me!!}:

Making Positive Changes In The World:

1. Write down two or three words that someone who loves you would use to describe you. Choose the qualities that you think others appreciate about you.

2. Write down three of your favorite hobbies or talents (ex: gardening, surfing, etc.)

3. Write down your ideal vision of the world (ex: a world free from violence, where everyone has organic food to eat, etc.)

4. Now put it all together in a sentence.

This was mine:

Passionate, Authentic, Charismatic
Cooking, Traveling, Teaching Yoga
A more compassionate world.

Example 1:

I will use my passion for and through traveling to create a more compassionate world.

Example 2:

I will use my authenticity through teaching yoga to create a more compassionate world.

Last night when people would ask me my New Years Resolution....I'd respond with, "Well, I plan to use my authentic nature through teaching yoga in hopes of creating a more compassionate world". The response was first surprise, and then a huge, heartfelt smile.

What was YOUR resolution? Or better yet, what could your sentence be?

"I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do."

Dancing My Way into 2012

2012-01-01T09:46:00.001-08:00

I spent last new years eve in a warehouse in downtown LA with over a thousand people...6 hours of yoga, 11 minute meditation leading into the New Year, and then a wild and liberating dance party into the wee hours of the morning. I was sipping from red solo cups, but they were filled with Kombucha, not booze. It was the most fun that I had ever had celebrating the arrival of a new year. This year I was unable to get away, but hoped to be able to find something along those lines around here. Well, easier said than done.... But alas, I managed to find a 2 hour powerful prana flow vinyasa with the yogi ninja superstar, Simon Park, at Dhyana Yoga in Philadelphia.

"Simon Park was featured in Yoga Journal as "one of the most influential and gifted…next generation of yoga teachers." He draws inspiration from many styles (Vinyasa, Iyengar, Ashtanga, Thai massage, and martial arts) and teachers (Shiva Rea, Maty Ezraty, Joan White, Duncan Wong, and Dharma Mittra). Simon is dedicated to sharing the teachings of Shiva Rea, his first teacher. He leads workshops and teacher trainings in Vinyasa Yoga and Thai massage worldwide.

The class was vigorous, intense, sweaty, super challenging and totally inspiring. Afterwards delicious food was enjoyed (some briny oysters on the half shell, mussels and a champagne cocktail with St. Germaine), before heading to the World Cafe Live. Playing at the huge downstairs venue was a fabulous 20+ piece band, Philly Bloco. Tickets had been sold out, but thanks to Facebook I found the head honcho of the band, emailed him- offering up a gazillion dollars and my right arm in exchange for a ticket, and dont cha know it- voila. Ask and you shall receive! I danced to the intoxicating Brazilian Carnaval beats from 10:30pm til 2:30 in the morning. Everyone was dressed up but I opted for sneakers, and yoga clothes. Grateful for another amazing celebration of the New Year, and now-- I'm resting my legs....ALL DAY.

I wish that my camera would have been able to capture all of Philly Blocos booty-shaking-amazzzzingness!

Sent from my iPhone

The Zen Den!!

2011-12-30T08:02:00.001-08:00

Starting this Wednesday, January 4th, I will be teaching two days a week at the Zen Den in margate!!! The studio is ammmmazing, and the owner Ari Green is one of the most bad-ass and sweetest Yoginis that you'll ever meet! The space is in a business complex that had a cute court yard. It's towards the back of the development, so it's nice and quiet. The address is 101 N. Washington Ave in Margate, and I'll be teaching on Wednesday's and Fridays. The Wednesday classes are Slow Flow Vinyasa...perfect for beginners and for those who want a more restorative, sweat-free practice. Fridays will be Yin (with a touch of Kundalini!), which is all levels- and if you've never taken Yin this will blow your mind!!! Hope to see some familiar faces for this weeks classes!!! Also- Ari offers up great class pass deals that you have 6 months to use!!!

Upekkha Meditation

2011-12-30T05:58:00.000-08:00

Equanimity is a perfect, unshakable balance of mind, rooted in insight. "The state of being calm and balanced, especially in the midst of difficulty".

"The real meaning of Upekkha is equanimity, not indifference in the sense of unconcern for others. As a spiritual virtue, upekkha means equanimity in the face of fluctuations of worldly fortune. It is evenness of mind, unshakable freedom of mind, a state of inner equipoise that cannot be upset by gain and loss, honor and dishonor, praise and blame, pleasure and pain. Upekkha is freedom from all points of self-reference; it is indifference only to the demands of the ego-self with its craving for pleasure and position, not to the well-being of one's fellow human beings. True equanimity is the pinnacle of the Four Divine Abodes."

NONATTACHMENT * NONDISCRIMINATION * EVEN MINDEDNESS * LETTING GO.

The full essence of Upekkha is to go beyond attachment and detachment, beyond likes and dislikes, to relate to things as they are.

"The Great Way is not difficult, For Those who have no preferences."

"The Great Way is not difficult, just give up thinking right and wrong."

UPEKKHA: The state of being calm and balanced in the face of those things that should be let be. It is the guardianship of our own karma and the acknowledgement that we are responsible for what we think, say and do. Equanimity is a spacious balance enabling us to work with, rather than against, change. Indifference is the near enemy of equanimity. It is a cold distance from a heartfelt sense of life. Indifference blocks the potential to engage the love and freedom life has to offer.

Upekkha Meditation Mantra:

I am the owner of my own karma.

Happiness & unhappiness arise with my own actions,

and not outside sources.

First repeat this several times for YOURSELF.

Now focus it and send it to someone dear to you (You are...)

Send this to someone neutral. A neighbor, acquaintance, coworker, etc. (You are...)

Focus on someone negative or difficult. Someone that maybe you just don't like. Now send it to them (You are...)

Finally, send it to All Beings Everywhere (All beings everywhere are...)

UPEKKHA IS NOT BEING UNDULY SWAYED BY EMOTIONS, AND SEEING THE SUFFERING AND JOYS OF LIVING BEINGS WITH AN AWARENESS THAT SUFFERING AND JOY ARISE AS A NATURAL PROCESS.

Dean Randazzo Cancer Foundation

2011-12-29T11:24:00.000-08:00

Dean Randazzo is a local legend...a kid from south jersey that made his mark in the world of professional surfing. Kelly Slater (11x asp world champion) said that when Dean was on fire, it was him that he was most scared of competing against. He is responsible for putting New Jersey on the surf map! Unfortunately in 2001, Dean was diagnosed with Hodgkins disease...and it has been a long and challenging battle. Since then he has become an avid spokesperson for cancer awareness and research, and has founded the Dean Randazzo Cancer Foundation. Why am I telling you all of this? Because tomorrow night (Friday December 30th), the Atlantic City Surf Club is honoring Randazzo with the Surfer of the Year Award. The festivities are taking place at Le Grande Fromage in AC, starting at 9pm. I've volunteered to sing from 9-10, and I would love it if everyone came out to support this great foundation and a great man. There will be $5,000 worth of raffles, drink specials and of course- live entertainment. All proceeds go to the Dean Randazzo Cancer Foundation :)

A Winter Farm Feast

2011-12-28T09:37:00.000-08:00

A winter farm feast for the family.

MENU:

Apple and Bartlett Pear Sauce
Pasta Salad with Lemon, Fresh Herbs, Capers, Olives and Parmeasan Reggiano
Pickled Green Tomatoes
Freshly Ground, Freshly Packed (Freshly Killed) Venison Burgers

Pasta Salad with Lemon, Fresh Herbs, Capers, Olives and Parmeasan Reggiano

2 bags of small shells (cooked and drained)
1 lemon (juice of 1 and zest of 1/2 lemon)
Fresh basil and oregano (small handful each)
1 small container (small) capers (drained and rinsed)
1 cup kalamata olives (pits removed and diced)
2/3 cup good quality shredded parmesan reggiano
1/2 cup EVOO
salt, to taste

Apple and Bartlett Pear Sauce

2 Granny Smith apples: peeled, cored and quartered
6 *VERY ripe Pears: peeled, cored and quartered
1/2 cup of water
3 tablespoons agave nectar
juice of 1/2 lemon
cinnamon stick

Put the apples in a pot with the water, agave, lemon and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil, cover, and cook for 5minutes (until apples are soft). Turn heat to medium, add VERY RIPE pears and cook for 5minutes. Turn the heat to simmer, cover. Smash. EAT.

Muscle Testing

2011-12-28T07:37:00.000-08:00

THIS is my AMAZING friend EMILY BOGY.

I have known Emily for about 6 wonderful years now, and she is a powerful and amazing individual. She's been living in Boulder, Colorado for a little more than two years now - and as some of you may remember, this is who I connected with while driving cross country earlier this fall. Em knows a lot about everything that I am familiar with, and also with things that I HOPE to become familiar with. She's a baker out in Boulder, but for years she has worked different jobs in the Health and Holistic field. If you have a question about supplements, diet or energy work: Emily is your girl. She came to my Tuesday night class and then came back to my house for some dinner and a good old fashioned sleepover. As exhausted as we both were, we chatted on into the evening about yoga, meditation, babies (Emily is becoming certified to be a Doula), supplements, food, astrology, love, energy and all that other stuff that most people in South Jersey aren't too concerned about. My brain was in overload, and my heart was on the brink of combusting. I was soaking up all that she had to said, asked a million and one questions, and enjoyed running through some of lifes difficulties with her -- a compassionate, insightful, thoughtful and wise woman. The depth of the conversation is a bit too much to share with the WWW, but I WILL share the amazing MUSCLE TESTING sequence that she taught me....

MUSCLE TESTING: So, I was telling Emily about how my joints have been aching...to the point that it hurts to move (lymes disease). For this she recommended a super potent, high quality fish oil and lots of turmeric root and ginger. Excited - I reached for our huge supplement cabinet and pulled out a bottle of Fish Oil and a bottle of Turmeric pills...."Is this what you'd recommend", I asked. She responded with "Well, does it resonate with your body?". Huh? What the friggin' hell does that mean? She explained how to do the Muscle Testing, and godddamnit - the freakiest thing ever - and it worked!!! She had me stand and hold my phone against my chest with my right hand (if you are a righty- you'd use your right hand...a lefty, use your left). Then she had me extend my left arm straight out. Then she said that she was going to try to press my left arm down, and to resist. Sadly, it went down rather abruptly. "Shit", I thought, "I need to build some muscles...add in a few more chatarungas to my practice". Then she had me hold the bottle of turmeric to my chest, and when she pushed my arm down it barely moved!!!! Well shit balls...I was intrigued. So I was grabbing things all around me and holding them to my chest, having her press down my opposing arm. My body did NOT resonate with the brand of fish oil that we had. After going through a bunch of different objects, I was completely sold on the power and accuracy of the "muscle testing". Emily said that the next time I'm at the store and want to pick out a supplement -- just close my eyes, hold the container to my chest and have someone try to push my arm down.

Well goddamn - people ALREADY think I'm a bit looney - I can't imagine what everyone will think when they see me doing this! But who cares, I know that I'll be taking supplements that energetically correspond with my body.

In addition to just the beautiful physical presence of Emily, she also came with a present for meeee!! Sonia Choquettes' "Ask Your Guides ORACLE CARDS". My dove for a card and she picked "REST" and I dove for a card and came up with "BALANCE". How spot on! Mom has been saying for all of December how EXHAUSTED she is and how she needs to just take some time to sleep, rest, and rejuvenate after a very long, very exhausting (physically and mentally) year. Balance was perfect for me because lately I have been spreading myself thin - trying to give 180% of myself to each and every yoga class. I'm reading half a dozen kundalini/zen/meditation/vinyasa/and philosophy books simultaneously, as well as trying to promote myself and create a business. Balance, yes. I promise to honor that.

Anywho -- all in all, a FABULOUS visit from my very wonderful friend, the lovely and amazing EMILY BOGY.

2011-12-26T20:38:00.001-08:00

'twas Very Merry...

2011-12-25T20:04:00.001-08:00

So much to be thankful for this blessed Christmas.

2011-12-24T15:10:00.001-08:00

I love my family- and I love all of you MERRY CHRISTMAS EVE.

Karuna Meditation

2011-12-23T05:32:00.001-08:00

This is the Karuna Meditation...Karuna being the 3rd of the 4 Divine Abodes of Buddhism (and the Four Immeasurables from Patanjali's sutras). Karuna means compassion. The difference between Karuna and Metta is that Karuna is the desire to remove harm and suffering from others; while Metta is the desire to bring about the well-being and happiness of others.

In Indo-Tibetan Buddhism, one of the foremost authoritative texts on the Bodhisattva path is the Bodhicaryavatara by Shantideva. In the eighth section entitled Meditative Concentration, Shantideva describes meditation on Karunā as thus:

Strive at first to meditate upon the sameness of yourself and others. In joy and sorrow all are equal; Thus be guardian of all, as of yourself. The hand and other limbs are many and distinct, But all are one--the body to kept and guarded. Likewise, different beings, in their joys and sorrows, are, like me, all one in wanting happiness. This pain of mine does not afflict or cause discomfort to another's body, and yet this pain is hard for me to bear because I cling and take it for my own. And other beings' pain I do not feel, and yet, because I take them for myself, their suffering is mine and therefore hard to bear. And therefore I'll dispel the pain of others, for it is simply pain, just like my own. And others I will aid and benefit, for they are living beings, like my body. Since I and other beings both, in wanting happiness, are equal and alike, what difference is there to distinguish us, that I should strive to have my bliss alone?"

KARUNA MEDITATION (Compassion):

Begin by focusing on the heart center - the middle of the chest, just beneath the sternum. Feel the breath moving there, rising and falling. Soften the heart, let yourself be open and receptive, letting down any defenses. Very slowly move through these phrases in your mind, contemplating their meaning and letting their meaning penetrate beyond the idea to the actual feeling itself.

May I be kind.
May I be aware of my own suffering.
May I be open to my own suffering.
May I respond to my suffering with love and compassion.

First repeat this several times for YOURSELF.
Now focus it and send it to someone dear to you (May you be...)

May I be kind to you.
May I be aware of your suffering.
May I be open to your suffering.
May I respond to your suffering with love and compassion.

May you be kind.
May you be aware of your own suffering.
May you be open to your own suffering.
May you respond to your suffering with love and compassion.

Send this to someone neutral. A neighbor, acquaintance, coworker, etc. (May you be...)
Focus on someone negative or difficult. Someone that maybe you just don't like. Now send it to them (May you be...)
Finally, send it to All Beings Everywhere (May all beings everywhere be...)

Radiate Karuna outward to all beings nearby, and gradually out to the whole planet, and finally the entire universe. At the end, come back to an awareness of breath and the heart center again, returning to the reality of your own body and this present moment.

Metta Meditation

2011-12-23T05:27:00.001-08:00

I'm realizing just now that I never posted the other 2 (of the 4) Divine Abodes that we have practiced in Yin: Metta and Karuna. So, here you go!

A meditation taught by the BUddha himself, and is designed to bring unconditional love to your Self, your loved ones and even learn to send unconditional love to beings throughout the universe. IT will help bring peace to situations taking place in your life - and allow you to look at the world in a more positive light. Bring your attention to your breath - exhaling negative thoughts and emotions, breathing in pure light, kindness, generosity and love - breathe out anger, breathe out any thoughts or feelings of fear or failure. Relax your body. Feel your energy settle into your heart and into the present.

METTA MEDITATION (Loving-Kindness):

May I live in safety.
May I be happy.
May I be healthy
May I live with ease.

First repeat this several times for YOURSELF.
Now focus it and send it to someone dear to you (May you...)
Send this to someone neutral. A neighbor, acquaintance, coworker, etc. (May you...)
Focus on someone negative or difficult. Someone that maybe you just don't like. Now send it to them (May you...)
Finally, send it to All Beings Everywhere (May all beings everywhere...)

Radiate Metta outward to all beings nearby, and gradually out to the whole planet, and finally the entire universe. At the end, come back to an awareness of breath and the heart center again, returning to the reality of your own body and this present moment.

Mudita Meditation

2011-12-22T05:54:00.000-08:00

In yesterdays Yin class did a Mudita Meditation. Mudita is the 3rd of the Four Divine Abodes in Buddhism. There is Metta (loving-kidness), Karuna (compassion), Mudita (sympathetic joy) and Upekkha (equanimity). We are working our way through each meditation...and not just using them in class, but incorporating them into our lives so that we can become the best person that we are capable of being.

If you'd like to add this to your life, it is easy to incorporate (even into a busy lifestyle). You can repeat it when you first wake in the morning, or as you are winding down your day.

MUDITA MEDITATION:

May I be appreciative and grateful.
May I be aware of beauty and joy.
May I be open to beauty and joy.
May I respond to beauty and joy with appreciation and gratitude.

First repeat this several times for YOURSELF.
Now focus it and send it to someone dear to you (May you be...)
Send this to someone neutral. A neighbor, acquaintance, coworker, etc. (May you be...)
Focus on someone negative or difficult. Someone that maybe you just don't like. Now send it to them (May you be...)
Finally, send it to All Beings Everywhere (May all beings everywhere be...)

Radiate Mudita outward to all beings nearby, and gradually out to the whole planet, and finally the entire universe. At the end, come back to an awareness of breath and the heart center again, returning to the reality of your own body and this present moment.

Namaste my friends, and Happy Holidays!

JourneyDance Joy!

2011-12-20T19:33:00.000-08:00

Let's admit it, only about 99.9% of us are dealing with something right now, right?? So when you go to a place like Kripalu it is inevitable that you will have some kind of breakthrough (yes, it's not a "breakDOWN" it's a "breakTHROUGH"). The last time that I visited Kripalu (which is the largest yoga center in the US), I had my break-through in a Grief workshop. All day long they offer a variety of yoga classes, workshops (both lectures and hands on) as well as outdoor activities. I was feeling a bit too run down to partake in the Grief workshop again this year, so instead I opted for a double dose of JOURNEY DANCE, with the Oh-So-Amazing Toni Bergins. I'd danced my heart out on Saturday at Toni's Journey Dance...she had LIVE DRUMMERS!!! You could feel the beats pulsing through your feet and into your soul. We broke down any "I'm Too Cool" barriers by dancing like no one was watching (despite the fact that there were about 70 people in the room), and would at times grab a partner and have to look into their eyes. Let me tell you how LIBERATING it is to be dancing around like a complete asshole, and then to simultaneously look at a complete stranger and sing to them at the top of your lungs "YOU ARE AMAZING!". I mean - really -- how often do people look one another in the eye anymore? Especially when it concerns strangers and mildly embarrassing dance moves...

SO, Saturday was pure bliss. Sweating and dancing and laughing and not caring what anyone thought - including myself. I want to Journey Dance every day, and I think that if everyone did a little Journey Dance that the world would be a better place. Anywho....about 2 hours before our departure Kylee and I decided to sneak in one more of Toni's classes before hitting the road. The vibe of this class was totally different than Saturday. A bit slowed down, super fluid, and for me - very intimate. Now, just to set the scene - Toni has you visualize and act out all sorts of crazy shit while your dancing. So today, we were SHAMANS. We were dancing around like lunatics, and she guided us through: "put on your shaman clothes, whatever clothes you want your shaman to wear. and now dance around in a circle, because THIS is your shaman healing circle"...so on and so forth. This may come off as crazy, but I promise you it is truly and utterly amazing. During this time my mind was so crystal clear, and visualization became NO problem for me. I could picture specific, detailed images once I closed my eyes...so clear it was almost frightening. I'm going to give a weekend full of Kundalini yoga the credit for this ability to visualize, focus, and meditate on a thought, emotion or image. Powerful stuff. So as a Shaman, Toni instructed us to start healing. So I did. And this was the picture, clear as day, that was going through my mind as I danced around with eyes closed, acting this out:

My Dad was with me. And he was smiling....I was reaching into his head and pulling out all of the bad stuff. And then I figured just incase that didn't work, I wanted to fill his heart so that no matter what bad stuff may happen, no matter how things work out - that he would take comfort in the love that I gave him, and that he would always have with him. So first I was removing stuff from his head, and then taking love from my heart and filling him up. I just kept doing this over and over for awhile as tears were running down my face. And then I figured that I needed some healing, so I put all of the love that my Dad has been giving me over these past 24 years and put it into MY heart. And THEN I pictured my Mom, and I sent HER love....love that I was able to cultivate after a nourishing weekend at Kripalu, love that I have gotten FROM here and my Dad, and the love that I have been getting from my friends.

And then as Shamans, we all danced our way to the center of the room to finish our healing dance - and to throw all that bad shit into the "fire". At this point it took everything in my power to keep from losing it. Usually I'm pretty good at crying when I need to cry, but something told me that once it started it wasn't going to stop - and we were only half way through class. The Journey Dance hour ended with us standing alongside our partners and then taking turns dancing....the non-dancing partner just holding space for them and observing them. It wasn't an "I see you" but it was an "I SEE YOU...I see your pain and suffering and love and beauty. I see you." Well holy shit balls, I've never felt so vulnerable!! Because what was being seen was me totally scared and sad. A long savasana allowed me the privacy to cry it out and I felt feeling like a bit of weight had been lifted off my chest. Some times we are ignorant to the weight of our emotions, and it's something as simple as pretending you're a shaman and dancing around with strangers that helps you to digest it, break it down, and breakTHROUGH. A ton of gratitude to the amazing TONI BERGINS for allowing me the safe and sacred space, along with some encouragement, to come into a better place emotionally and spiritually. Namaste!

www.journeydance.com

Hula Hoop Heaven

2011-12-19T07:46:00.001-08:00

I just hula hooped with 50 other individuals for an hour, under the guidance and inspiration of the fabulous Coby Kozlowski. Hula Hooping = UNCONTROLLABLE BLISS. It was just pure fun for 60 minutes, and I plan to hula for at least 15minutes a day EVERY DAY for the rest of my life. Coby told us how to make our own hula for super cheap (http://www.jasonunbound.com/hoops.html)...but I'm pretty sure that they sell them at the 5 Below stores for a cool five bucks as well. So: go out, RIGHT NOW, and buy a hula. It is a cheap way to have an outstanding day.

You can check out the wonderful Coby Kozlowski online and see what hula/yoga/amazingness that she has going on...

Kripalu Kundalini and Friends.

2011-12-18T12:01:00.000-08:00

Today finished up my Kundalini immersion with Daniel Orlansky here at the Kripalu Yoga Center in Massachusetts. I don't have a ton of experience with this powerful, breath-based form of yoga...but this weekend has left me invigorated and inspired. I'm so excited to bring it home to share with my family, friends and fellow yogis! I was fortunate enough to be in a class
with some amazing individuals...a specific few with whom I really connected. Army John will definitely be getting a visit next time I'm down in DC, and I'll be sure to make a special trip to Mahwah just to see Suz (who gifted me a GORGEOUS hand knitted scarf that she made!!!!!). Boston is in the cards as well, because I'm planning to head to Daniels studio for an amazing Thai Yoga Massage certification that will be there. He has generously offered me up a place to stay, which as you all well know I will fully take him up on! So that's all for now- just a little update on the latest an greatest happenings. I'll post some basic Kundalini Kriyas once I get home, but for now I'm going to sign off and enjoy my tea, the beautiful view and my post-Sauna high. Sat Nam.

Maria, Me, Alan, Daniel, Suzanne, and John.

Suz and the BEAUTIFUL scarf that she knitted and gifted me!

Army John and I...one final farewell!

Kripalu!!

2011-12-18T03:14:00.000-08:00

Kylee, sound asleep on one of the community couches...

Kylee and I have had FULL days, hence the lack of blogs. Information overload- I promise to blog once I get back. Namaste!

Friends.

2011-12-18T03:13:00.001-08:00

Just wanted to share my moms latest email update, it's beautiful and really gets down to who and what are most important in life:

Men- I have been fascinated with them for years.They get a bad rap at times. The men in my life however are extraordinary. The men in Paul's life can not even be put into words. Paul's friends have stuck by him for these two years as if he was their only mission in life. They take him out , they call him ( not on his phone, but mine) they stop by and visit, they bring him goodies, they take him fishing , and they take him hunting. The last is what I want to talk about now.
For those of you who don't hunt, I will try to explain a few things. No one just walks into the woods and kills a deer. You scope it out, read the signs, pick a spot, clear your shooting lane, bait the spot, etc,. etc., etc. You get my drift right? Well Gary has been for 2 years keeping Paul's spots ready for him. Its a full time job. He has been waiting until Paul can hunt with him like last year, but alas this year he still isn't quite ready for those deer stands . Gary keeps at it though, because if and when Paul is ready he wants everything to be just right.
Yesterday , Jason , whose father hunts from a deer blind on the ground, called me and asked if Paul would like to go hunt today. I had to work today, so I needed to ask Joe King to take him and buy him his permit. Joe showed up and took him to Just Sports and they got all the necessary paper work. Then they came home and tried to get Paul's gear together. Paul hasn't used his muzzle loader in 2 years, so he got confused and frustrated trying to get it together. Joe tried hard , but he couldn't help. Paul was really dejected ,but I came out and told him to walk away from it and we would deal with it later.
At that point I was feeling like I needed a miracle or it would back fire and turn this into a negative experience. I texted Jason, he said if they couldn't figure it out he could just use his gun. So we were back on track.
When Jason called after work to say he was ready i woke Paul up and helped him get into some warm clothes. He wanted to wear all his camo hunting clothes , but they were a little snug ,and I convinced him that he didn't need them since he would be in a blind anyway.
When I dropped him off all I could think about was the emotions i went through sending Cailin off to kindergarten. You kiss them, tell them to listen to the teacher ( Jason in this case) remind them to be quiet ( He's sometimes a little loud because he's uncomfortable) and you just want the best for them. I cried the whole way home saying over and over, "please let him get a deer, please let him get a deer." Mostly I cried because I can't believe how good his friends are. Jason gave up a day of hunting to just sit with him and watch him and make sure he was safe. 10 people at least text me to see how he was doing just because they care.If deer could drop dead from prayer, Paul could have killed a herd.Everyone wanted him to get one.
Well , he didn't get a deer , but they saw plenty. A buck needs to have at least 3 points on one side to be legal, so they had to let a few go , but Paul walked 150 yards to and from the blind, and he stayed quiet, and he listened to Jason, and he propped his borrowed gun on his cane, while sitting in his office swivel chair, and he came home smiling, so that was a successful hunt.
Jason is going to take him again later this week. In January Cailin and I will take him to Dude's , as will several other people. Life is what you make it. And we are making ours good.
It gets even better. Paul came home with Jason and we had a venison feast with Capt. Timmy.So he got to talk about it all over again. Tomorrow Jay Hallus will come by for breakfast. We can't wait.Toni come over if you want (around 10:30)
Men, can't live without 'em. Thanks you to all the men in our lives. You astound me. love, doreen

Sent from my iPhone

Kripalu Here We Come!

2011-12-16T10:09:00.000-08:00

Kylee and I just arrived in Lenox Massachusetts, and the laughter has been going strong since 6am this morning. It's cold and windy up here, but it's toasty inside!!! First stop- Kripalus epic sauna and steam room!!

YINtastic!!

2011-12-15T13:08:00.001-08:00

Another amazing Yin class, focusing on the lung, heart and intestine meridians. We finished with a Karuna (compassion) meditation, one of the Four Immeasurables. With the stress of the holidays, take a second to treat yourself to an amazing yoga class...

Dear Santa

2011-12-15T11:24:00.001-08:00

Family man, surfer, fisherman, tall, handsome, funny, well-read, well-traveled, outdoorsman, tolerant of someone with a ludicrous Twilight obsession, handy, compassionate, adventurous, into yoga and good food and good wine. Is that really too much to ask....? Really? Haha. Today my mantra is focusing on what I DO have as opposed to what I DON'T have. But Santa, all I have is one little request for Christmas... Well, THAT and maybe some fabulous feather earrings!

Morocco Main Course

2011-12-14T14:26:00.001-08:00

And now onto the main courses:

Roast Chicken with Lemon and Olives
Seared Lamb Kebabs Cooked in Butter (with Eggs)
Winter Squash with Caramelized Onions
Cailin's Saffron CousCous

Roast Chicken with Lemon and Olives

This recipe I definitely altered a lot. It called for preserved lemons, Oudi, and saffron water. It was also the FIRST chicken that I have EVER made (I know, hard to believe...but I usually leave the meat cooking to my parents, and I stick with everything vegan and vegetarian).

Chicken (about 3.5lbs)

lemons

4 garlic cloves

salt

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon ground white pepper

1 teapsoon ground turmeric

sprinkle of saffron

small handful of fresh flat leaf parsley

small handful of fresh cilantro

EVOO

butter (1/2 stick)

1 cup chicken stock

2 medium onions

a dozen or so green olives

Preheat the oven to 400. Stuff a quartered lemon and some cloves of garlic up the chickens bum. In a food processor blend a few tablespoons of EVOO with all of the seasonings (fresh herbs, garlic, turmeric, ginger, salt and white pepper). This creates a sort of paste that I rubbed all over the chicken. Pour the chicken stock into the roasting pan, add the butter in, and then sprinkle in the saffron. Quarter your onions and toss them in. Cover with tin foil and cook for the first hour with the tinfoil on. An hour to an hour and a half in, remove the tin foil and throw your olives into the pan. The chicken should be done in an hour. This was my first chicken ever - and my father, the KING of roasted chicken, said that it was "GODDAMN DELICIOUS"...going in for seconds and thirds, and then claiming any leftovers for the next days lunch. Before serving it sprinkle some fresh cilantro and parsley on top to make it look pretty :)

Seared Lamb Kebabs Cooked in Butter

This lamb was crack...and that's coming from someone who doesn't enjoy lamb. CRACK. Like, I couldn't get enough -- and neither could anyone else. I definitely used more lamb than was called for, so I adjusted the amounts of other ingredients with my eyes and palate. Plus, by this time I'd been prepping and cooking for about 14 hours - plus I was pretty buzzed, so any and all rules set by Paula Wolfert went out the window. It was frickin' delicious. Because I messed with the recipe so much and just went with my gut, I'll post her recipe so that you'll have something to follow. But I will say, I didn't sear the meat -- I just sauteed it in a pan for a minute. And I actually DID grate the onion, rinse it, strain it and then used it. Also, I think I tripled the amount of butter she calls for.... So here is Paula's recipe for the Lamb:

1 1/2 pounds of boneless leg of lamb, trimmed of fat and cut into 1-inch pieces

1 cup grated onion

salt and freshly ground pepper

3 garlic cloves, crushed

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/4 cup mixed chopped flat leaf parsley and cilantro

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 round teaspoon paprika

cayenne

1 cinnamon stick

juice of 1 lemon

4 - 6 large eggs

1. Toss the lab with half the grated onion, salt and pepper to taste and the crushed garlic. All to "ripen" for at least 1 hour. (**I DEFINITELY didn't do this....and it wasn't necessary).

2. Preheat the broiler to the highest setting. Arrange the lamb on an aluminum foil lined baking sheet and, when the broiler is very hot, sear quickly on both sides. The lamb will not be fully cooked. (**I didn't do this, I just sauteed it in a hot pan, browning the outsides).

3. Melt the butter in a tagine or cazuela set over a heat diffuser. Add the meat, remaining onion, the herbs, spices, and cinnamon stick, and cook briefly, then add enough water to almost cover the meat. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer, partially covered, for 45 minutes, stirring from time to time and adding water if necessary to maintain about 1 cup of sauce. (**Okay, by this time in the evening I was definitely a bit drunk, so my memory is hazy. But I do know that I didn't use a tagine or a cazuela, I used a cast iron skillet. After browning my meat in it- step 2- I then added in the onion, herbs, spices, cinnamon stick and lots of butter. I think I added a bit of water too.... Anywho, I didn't add water throughout. There was enough sauce left at the end.)

4. Add the lemon juice (just a touch) and correct the seasoning with salt and pepper. Break in the eggs carefully, cover the tagine (or in my case, the skillet), and cook until the eggs are set. (**You want them a bit runny, so don't cook too long!)

5. Serve at once.

Winter Squash with Caramelized Onions (Cassolita)

I cooked this the night before, so I was definitely sober and remember the details! I Didn't follow her recipe word for word, so I'll give it to you from my perspective:

2 pounds butternut squash (thats just one medium sized butternut)

1/2 cup slivered almonds

2 pounds onions, thinly sliced

salt

small handful flat leaf parsley

honey

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 cup dark raisins

freshly ground pepper

Preheat the oven to 350. Cut the butternut squash in half and remove the seeds. Place it is a roasting pan, cut side down. Add just about 1/2 inch of water to the bottom of the pan, cover with tin foil and roast for about 30-40minutes (until the squash is very soft). I put it in the fridge and then this was the first thing that I started working on the morning of the dinner party. By then the squash was obviously cooled. I remove the pulp and set aside in a bowl. I thinly sliced the onions and caramelized them in a skillet for about 30 minutes. When they were almost finished I added a drizzle of honey, a sprinkle of cinnamon, a touch of salt and pepper and a handful for dark raisins. In a separate skillet I lightly toasted the slivered almonds (with just a touch of EVOO in the pan). Squash on the bottom of the serving platter, caramelized onions and raisins on top, toasted almonds on that and then some fresh flat leaf parsley for color. I heated this up in the oven about 20 minutes before serving it.

Cailin's Saffron Cous Cous

Paula only had fancy cous cous recipes, and I knew that I wanted something basic to compliment the meat dishes. SO, I just followed the instructions on the cous cous container - with a few exceptions. With cous cous you do equal parts liquid to grain. So I did 1 cup chicken stock, 2 cups water...brought it to a boil, tossed in a few saffron threads, turmeric and fresh garlic and then added in 3 cups of cous cous and about 3/4 cup of golden raisins. Take it off the heat and cover for 5 minutes and then FLUFF it with a fork. If you don't fluff it right after you've cooked it then it will never fluff. So, fluff fluff fluff. Enjoy underneath your meat dishes and their sauces, as well as with a big scoop of Harissa!!!

Morocco Round Two

2011-12-14T14:22:00.000-08:00

Again, Wolferts recipes with my own twist are what I'm posting.... This was round 2:

Riffian Split Pea Soup with Paprika Oil
Potato Pancakes

Riffian Split Pea Soup with Paprika Oil

EVOO

1 large onion, chopped

salt and pepper

1 cup dried split green peas

3 cloves garlic

small handful fresh cilantro

1-2teaspoons ground cumin

2 teaspoons paprika

lemon juice

1/2 cup crumbled aged goat cheese

cayenne

Drizzle some olive oil into the bottom of a pot and brown your chopped onion. You want the onions gold and soft, so cook over a medium heat for about 15minutes. Add the split peas, garlic, cilantro, cumin and paprika. Let it cook for just about 2 minutes and then add 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then turn heat down to medium/med-low and let it cook for about an hour - stirring occasionally.

Add in the goat cheese and once the soup has cooled a bit puree it in batches. I made this the night before and then warmed it slowly on the stove for about a half hour before serving it. Before sending it out I added some more salt (you definitely want to be a bit heavy handed with the salt for this soup...if you taste it and think "what does this need?", it needs salt). I also added fresh lemon juice and drizzled it with olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika before sending it out. The recipe called for heavy cream, but this soup doesn't need it, so I left it out. This soup is taken to a whole other level by adding a scoop of HARISSA sauce (this is a Moroccan hot sauce paste that can be bought at any Middle Eastern supermarket, any speciality store, and can also be found at Williams Sonoma. This is absolutely essential for any Moroccan meal).

Potato Pancakes

2 pounds Red Bliss potatoes (or Yukon Gold)

3 garlic cloves

sea salt

2 teaspoons cumin

small handful fresh cilantro

small handful fresh parsley

pinch each of cayenne, ground turmeric, and white pepper

2 large eggs, whipped

EVOO

flour

lemon wedges

I made this the night before. I peeled and quartered the potatoes and then tossed them into a pot of boiling water. I boiled them for probably like 20minutes or so?? I cooked them about 5 minutes shy of them being able to be used for MASHED potatoes. I let the potatos cool a bit and then I used a potato smasher and smashed em, still leaving large chunks though. Then I cracked and whipped one egg, and tossed that in with the potatoes. I threw in all of the seasoning, zested garlic, and the fresh herbs. Then I made a bunch of small fist-sized pancakes. I made about 15 of em. I put them in the fridge and then the next night right before I was ready to serve them I dipped them in egg, coated them in flour and then lightly fried them in the skillet. Before serving them I hit em with a few more turns of sea salt, a touch of cumin and I garnished the dish with lemon wedges. LEMON is NECESSARY....you .must. put lemon juice on them. Also, dip em in HARISSA sauce (this is a Moroccan hot sauce paste that can be bought at any Middle Eastern supermarket, any speciality store, and can also be found at Williams Sonoma. This is absolutely essential for any Moroccan meal).

Morocco Round One

2011-12-13T19:30:00.001-08:00

Here are recipes from the first round of food that was put out:

Fresh Tomato and Caper Salad
Orange and Olive Salad
Grilled Red Pepper Salad
Eggplant Zaalouk

The beauty of Moroccan feasts is that because there are many dishes served, there are certain things that are meant to be made and/or prepped a day ahead of time. All of this was made the day before, with the exception of the tomato salad. These are MY adaptations of Paula Wolferts recipes from her book "Food of Morocco". I've put my spin on them, so enjoy...

Fresh Tomato and Caper Salad

6 medium sized tomatoes (peeled, seeded and diced)

*the way that you peel a tomato...bring water to a boil, place the tomato in the boiling water. Remove in about a minute, once you notice that the skin has a crack in it. voila.

1 small red onion, finely diced

1 small green bell pepper, diced

1 large handful of medium to large capers (rinsed and drained)

sea salt

ground white pepper

3 tablespoons EVOO

Juice of 1 lemon and zest of one lemon

This was probably my most favorite thing of the whole evening -- and it was the EASIEST thing to make. This will definitely be a regular on our dinner table.

Orange and Olive Salad

6 navel oranges

24 oil cured black olives

dressing:

4 tablespoons EVOO

4 tablespoons orange juice (from the oranges youre peeling)

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika

pinch of cayenne

drizzle of honey

1/2 teaspoon salt

handful of chopped flat leaf parsley

Section the oranges but slicing the top and bottom off the orange. Then cut the peel off. Then slice the sections out. Easy. I made this the night before by sectioning the oranges and then making the dressing separate -- tossing it all together and throwing some parsley on just before serving.

Next up were the peppers. Again, I did things my way more so than Wolferts', but it tasted good and thats all that matters.....

Grilled Red Pepper Salad

3 large red bell peppers (peeled, seeded and quartered)

*an easy way to peel peppers....put them under the broiler and once the skin starts to bubble and char just peel them off.

sea salt

EVOO

1 medium sized tomato peeled, seeded, and diced

2 garlic cloves crushed ( i just use a zester and zest the garlic, creating a paste)

generous sprinkle of cumin

chopped flat leaf parsley

First I sprinkle the quartered and seeded peppers with salt. I rolled them in paper towels and pressed them, letting them sit for an hour. Once removing the excess moisture I put them under the broiler so that I could remove the skin. Wrapped em up and went to bed. The morning I sauteed them in a skillet with the tomato, olive oil and seasonings for several minutes. Refrigerate. Sprinkle with fresh cut parsley just before serving.

Mindy was in charge of the eggplant zaalouk...and it was delicious! She said that it sucked the day she made it, but luckily for her she followed the recipes instructions that you make this dish atleast 24 hours before consumption....

Eggplant Zaalouk

2 medium eggplants

1/3 cup EVOO

1 pound ripe tomatoes (peeled, seeded, and chopped - or 2 cups drained chopped canned tomatoes)

pinch of sugar

1 tablespoon crushed garlic

3/4 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne

salt

2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro

fresh lemon juice

Halve the eggplant lengthwise, place cut side down on a foil-lined baking sheet, and broil until blackened and tender (20minutes approximately). Dump into a colander set in the sink. Peel while still hot and allow to drain until cool. Squeeze gently to remove any bitter juices. In a skillet pour 3 tablespoons EVOO, add in tomatoes, sugar, garlic, cumin, paprika, cayenne and salt. Cook, stirring, for about 20minutes. Crush the eggplant with a fork and add to the skillet. Stir in the chopped cilantro and continue cooking for another 10minutes. Add lemon juice and salt to taste. LET COOL AND THEN COVER AND REFRIGERATE OVERNIGHT. Toss with a bit more olive oil before serving.

Moroccan Madness

2011-12-13T13:18:00.000-08:00

Wow. I cook a lot...and I gotta say, I'm pretty good at it. But for the first time ever I totally knocked my own socks off. I can't believe the I pulled off this many dishes, for this amount of people, in such a short amount of time. And I never lost my cool (only a few times when I was making the cookies...I'm definitely NOT a baker). I shopped, prepped, and cooked. I cleaned the house (and myself) and set the table in true Moroccan fashion. After many hours cooking I soaked in a hot tub infused with orange blossom water. I scrubbed my body with coarse salt and lavender oil. I soaked my hair in rose water. What an experience. Then I put on my finest Moroccan threads and finished the final preparations before company arrived. There was Middle Eastern music playing in the background, incense wafting through the air, and the scent of cumin, fresh herbs, lemon, and exotic spices filling your nose. There is NOTHING better than preparing food for people that you love, and then getting to share it with them and enjoying it in their company. Out of my many family meals, this has been my best. Hands down. Recipes will be posted later tonight I promise!!

All of the place settings had name cards, fresh mint in the tea cups, no silverware (in true Moroccan fashion), and a bowl of rose water to your right to rinse your fingers before and after the meal.

Women in the kitchen....

The people I love.

The ladies...posing with the fabbbbulous "Food of Morocco" by Paula Wolfert cookbook that inspired the meal.

Morocco.

2011-12-11T08:31:00.001-08:00

If I can't GO to Morocco, the next best thing is bringing Morocco to me. I'm transforming the house, dressing in my finest Morocco-inspired threads, and hosting a 14-dish Moroccan feast for 10 people. The catch...I know nothing about this north African cuisine! SO, I ordered Paula Wolferts famed cookbook, "the Food of Morocco". It is visually enticing (the photographs as well as the graphic design), and the recipes are mind-boggling (some that are accessible, some insanely complex). Recipes call for ingredients such as Orange Blossom Water, Harissa (a Moroccan hot pepper paste), and preserved lemons. When I first started planning this I rolled my eyes, because I had gotten myself WAY in over my head. But now that I've come up with an hour-by-hour game plan for prepping, slicing, dicing, steaming, sauteeing and roasting- I'm feeling better about this ambitious feast. I'm particularly excited about the drinks. Obviously we will be drinking Moroccan mint tea throughout our meal, but there will be cocktails as well!!! Morocco is 90% Muslim, so I was kind of own my own as far as cocktail recipes go. So I decided on a Pomegranate Martini (made with pomegranate vodka and infused with a homemade cardamom syrup), and a mint and pomegranate mojito! Now just say a little prayer for me that I can actually pull this off....

the plan

2011-12-10T19:20:00.001-08:00

I have been having a challenging few weeks. Emotionally and physically. At work and at home. Specifically these past few days. I'm trying to take some comfort in the fact that life ebbs and flows....I'm just hoping that the flowing part happens sometime soon. Can't seem to get enough sleep lately, and maybe that's hindering my ability to digest the hoard of emotions that have been bombarding me. Maybe all of the tension in the air surrounding the holiday has me on edge as well. Who knows. This week I'm looking forward to uninterrupted family time, my tues/wed/and thursday yoga classes that are always filled with good people who fill me up, and hopefully - if it's not too much to ask, I would like to TAKE an amazing yoga class, where someone reassures me that everything is going to be alright, and then massages my shoulders down as I settle into a sweet savasana....

OH yeah, I also hope to enjoy some more of those Campari cocktails too....

Yep, that's the plan.

If you Want it, Make it.

2011-12-09T17:49:00.000-08:00

If you want a cocktail, make it. I demanded the "Cailin"...a version of the Italian spritz. One part Campari, two parts champagne, one part club soda. Two olives, slice of orange. Boom.

Delish Dolcetto!!

2011-12-08T08:06:00.000-08:00

We just bottled our Dolcetto, a 2009 vintage- and it's freaking deeeeeeelish! I usually prefer full bodied reds, but this medium to light bodied delicate wine is really somethin' else! Dolcetto is an Italian varietal that is from the Piedmont region in the northwest. Earthy aromas, tobacco, and smoky on the nose with some licorice on the palate. Also bottled this week is our Nonnas Cucina, which is a Riesling. It's sweet on the nose: pineapple and mango yet it has a semi-dry finish. It contains nearly 1% residual sugar, and would go well alongside a hearty salad (Cobb or nicoise), fowl, and anything with a bit of spice.

Both of these wines, along with the sauvignon blanc, Nonno's cellar wine, merlot, cedar hammock, Cabernet Sauvignon, shiraz, blueberry, beach plum, banana, strawberry and port will be available for our Holiday Cheer wine festival this Saturday December 10th! Kevin is also whipping up some epic sangria and mulled wine! The event is free, beginning at 11am and ending at 6pm. Live music, food vendors, and gift vendors. Eat, drink, be merry, and finish your christmas shopping!

Natali Vineyards
221 N. Delsea Drive
Cape May Court House, NJ 08210

FOOD!!!

2011-12-07T16:38:00.001-08:00

Whenever I take Dad on an errand (bloodwork, physical therapy) we head to Dino's Diner afterwards. He gets: pancakes, scrapple, fried eggs, chocolate milk and coffee. I have been a creature of habit- enjoying the asparagus, spinach and broccoli omelette. With a side of bacon and rye toast, of course. In more food news...after yoga the other day I headed to my friend Brian's house for dinner. He whipped up an epic spread...starting with roasted tomatoes (topped with fresh basil, parm regg, salt and pepp and then topped with a balsamic reducation). Next up were jalapeños stuffed with ground meat and sausage- roasted with homemade tomato sauce. For dinner was a cooked-to-perfection pork loin, served with Asian teriyaki vegetables. Thank god I've been doing lots of yoga...

Attitude of Gratitude

2011-12-05T12:47:00.001-08:00

I was introduced to Kundalini Yoga out in California a few years ago. My friends Nicole and Bri were both finishing up their teacher training the month that I was out West staying in Encinitas. They had invited me to their graduation ceremony where there'd also be a Kundalini session. And though I didn't know much about Kundalini I figured that it'd be a positive experience, plus I'd wanted to support the girls. Well...it was intense. It's nothing like a flowy vinyasa class, which I'd solely practiced for the previous year. There was lots of chanting, intense breath work, and crazy arm movements to emphasize your breath. It was the most challenging thing that I'd ever done - and the most rewarding. Though I'd attempted to "meditate" I never could quite understand HOW to do this. Well, after an hour of INTENSE, EXHAUSTING, mentally-physically-and-spiritually-challenging movements and breath I fell into the most spectacular, peaceful meditation. It was like my physical body didn't even exist. Wild. Ever since that day I have tried to incorporate Kundalini into my personal practice, and I'm just starting to feel comfortable enough as a teacher to bring it into the classroom. Some of you are going to think that I've gone crazy when I start incorporating these Kundalini Kriyas- but I promise you that they are powerful and will impact you in only the most positive ways.

I have finally tracked down the PERFECT book, a not-too-complex, easy-to-understand-and-follow book. Kundalini Yoga by Shakta Kaur Khalsa. I have read a ton of books on this style of yoga, but some are too complex or difficult to digest. For anyone interested in embracing this style, I'd encourage you to purchase this book. I got mine used for like two bucks on amazon. And it was the best $2 I've ever spent....

Towards the back of the book are some yoga poses for couples, and along with the poses are some quotes. The one I've shared below really hit home with me, though it's obviously not directed to a partner- but to my parents. And the second that I read the quote, it made me think of a picture that we have hanging on the wall downstairs. I took a picture of it to share with you.

"Don't live at or with each other, but for each other.

Hold an attitude of gratitude."

- Yogi Bhajan

My Thursday evening Candlelight Slow Flow classes (7:15pm-8:30pm) will be incorporating a bit of Kundalini. Also- I'm heading to Kripalu in Massachusetts for a "Kundalini Yoga: Breathing the Inner Body of Light" for the second week in Decemeber -- and when I get back you better believe we are gonna Kundalini all day and night!!

2011-12-04T18:06:00.000-08:00

This pose feels SO good.

Come into down dog. Lift your left leg up towards the sky, then pull your knee into your navel. Shift your weight into your hands and then step that left leg over to the right. The outside of your left foot should be resting on the ground. Your right leg should be engaged and your right toes are curled under. If you want to take this deeper....

Twist: tent your leg fingertips and "thread the needle", bringing your right arm through, reaching towards the left. Palm is facing up and your weight is resting on your right shoulder and right temple.

Well Damn, Aint that Funny....

2011-12-03T17:13:00.000-08:00

Just had a great laugh with my mom -- one of those laughs that takes over your whole body. It was awesome. We laughed about some funny things that my Dad has said, about how old I'm getting (25 pretty soon...a quarter of a century!!), and some other random nonsense that didn't make much sense but apparently was hysterical enough to warrant tears and near-pant-peeing-madness. When in doubt, laugh. Laugh a lot.

"I believe that imagination is stronger than knowledge - myth is more potent than history - dreams are more powerful than facts - hope always triumphs over experience - laughter is the cure for grief - and love is stronger than death." --Robert Fulghum

Garudasana

2011-12-02T15:23:00.000-08:00

GARUDASANA

[guh-rood-AAH-suh-nuh]

Garuda means Eagle and in Hindu mythology Garuda is the destroyer of obstacles and the carrier of Vishnu. In Tibetan tradition, the garuda is said to be a magical bird that has the ability to fly without ever needing to land. Though flying endlessly, they never tire because they have learned how to ride the wind. It's symbolic of our bodies and our yoga practice - riding our breath in and out of postures even as our body tires!

Benefits of Garudasana:

- helps develop focus and concentration

- provides a deep stretch in the hips, along the posterior shoulders, and between the shoulder blades

- strengthens the calves

Yoga Girl - Music Video

2011-12-02T07:48:00.000-08:00

Here is this weeks Yoga Schedule:

Tomorrow (Saturday): Playing with EAGLE Pose
Tuesday: Arm Balances
Wednesday: YIN Liver and Gallbladder Meridians
Thursday: Heart Salutation Slow Flow Vinyasa

Check out this absolutely hysterical YOGA GIRL music video:

Bottling Banana

2011-12-01T15:15:00.001-08:00

Work was super slow today at the Vineyard, but atleast I got some excitement...we bottled our Banana Wine! This is one of our best sellers at the vineyard...100% banana, peel and all. No essence, no sugar, no grapes, nothing besides banana (and yeast). 15.9% and an epic after dinner drink, or better yet - put some in a blender with chocolate ice cream and you've got yourself a Monkey Mudslide!! Here's how the bottling process goes:

1. Label the bottles.

2. Line em up along the bottling contraption that is connected to the barrel of filtered banana wine.

3. Cork em.

4. Place foil "hat" onto top of bottle.

5. Place "hatted" bottle on the bottle cradle and then push into "furnace" to melt the foil, airtight. Only hold inside for 2 or 3 seconds.

5. Boom.

Tomorrow we bottle our Beach Plum, and then later in the week we bottle our Dolcetto and Riesling!! Saturday December 10th we will be having our Holiday Cheer festival from 11am - 6pm....so come stock up on wine for the holidays, pick up some christmas gifts (we will have vendors), enjoy some delicious food (bunches of great food vendors) and of course - enjoy some wine while listening to the live music!! Free admission.

Sound Sleep

2011-11-30T07:53:00.000-08:00

For the past three weeks I have been having a really difficult time sleeping. Feeling exhausted but unable to sleep ranging to being wide awake and alert - tossing and turning. To me: this is unacceptable. A good nights rest is just as important as a healthy diet and a regular yoga practice. I don't need as many Hours of sleep as some, but I do need for those few hours to be uninterrupted sound sleep. The sleeplessness started in Seattle, but I was blaming that on the time difference. Once I returned back East, I still had trouble sleeping - but then attributed that to time change (again). But now that I've been home for a fair amount on time I'm getting frustrated. I find myself doing Legs-Up-The-Wall at 3 o'clock in the morning, focusing on the rising and falling of my breath, with my headphones on playing some soothing music (check out "Manose"). I hate the idea of taking any medicine: benedryl leaves you with a benedryl hangover and I'm not game for taking any of those PM products. I've cut out all caffeine, with the exception of my morning cup of coffee. So until I'm able to figure out what is keeping me tossing and turning, I've turned to Melatonin. I have been taking one at night about an hour before I go to sleep, and along with some earplugs (sorry Dad, but your snoring has become unbearable) I have been able to get a deep, sound sleep through the night. Here's what it's all about:

What is melatonin?

Melatonin is a hormone made by the pineal gland, a small gland in the brain. Melatonin helps control your sleep and wake cycles. Very small amounts of it are found in foods such as meats, grains, fruits, and vegetables. You can also buy it as a supplement.

What does natural melatonin do in the body?

Your body has its own internal clock that controls your natural cycle of sleeping and waking hours. In part, your body clock controls how much melatonin your body makes. Normally, melatonin levels begin to rise in the mid- to late evening, remain high for most of the night, and then drop in the early morning hours.

Light affects how much melatonin your body produces. During the shorter days of the winter months, your body may produce melatonin either earlier or later in the day than usual. This change can lead to symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), or winter depression.

Natural melatonin levels slowly drop with age. Some older adults make very small amounts of it or none at all.

Why is melatonin used as a dietary supplement?

Melatonin supplements are sometimes used to treat jet lag or sleep problems (insomnia). Scientists are also looking at other good uses for melatonin, such as:

Treating seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Helping to control sleep patterns for people who work night shifts.
Preventing or reducing problems with sleeping and confusion after surgery.
Reducing chronic cluster headaches.

It may be that melatonin, when taken as a supplement, can stop or slow the spread of cancer, make the immune system stronger, or slow down the aging process. But these areas need more research.

Show Update!!

2011-11-29T13:05:00.000-08:00

Show Update: I'll be playing at the Dead Dog Saloon in Sea Isle City this SATURDAY December 3rd, starting at 10pm and playing til close!! I hope to see you there...this is the Dog's last night and their Christmas Party (open to all...with great drink specials). Otherwise you won't be seeing me grace their stage until atleast July!

Cailin Callahan and Friends

Dead Dog Saloon

Sea Isle City, NJ

Saturday December 3rd

10pm - close

THURSDAY night YOGA.

2011-11-27T06:30:00.000-08:00

Yay!!! In addition to the schedule already in place (Tuesdays 5pm - 6:15pm "Peoples Yoga" / Wednesdays 7am - 8:15am "Yin" / Saturdays 9:15am - 10:30am), I am adding an additional day!!! THURSDAYS from 7:15pm - 8:30pm will be a "Candlelight Slow Flow" yoga class! I hope that you'll be able to come and check it out @ Surfside Fitness, 21st + Dune in Avalon!!

THURSDAYS

CANDLIGHT SLOW FLOW VINYASA

7:15pm - 8:30pm

Family Time and Twilight

2011-11-26T20:20:00.001-08:00

Mom, Dad and me headed up to Marlton this afternoon for lunch with my moms family. Grandma and Grandpop Karis, as well as her brother Guy- his wife Claire, and his daughter Rebecca. We had a deeeelicious meal at the Redstone, and the service was awesome. My gram had been asking me for photos, so I picked some of my favorites from the past 4 years -- as I was sorting through them I shed a few tears over the good times had, and all of the amazing people I've met. You all know who you are -- if you still read this blog from time to time, thank you! I love you all, and you certainly made a huge impact on my life.

Came home, took a power nap and then met Kylee at the movie theatre to see Twilight for the 4th time. Yep, I did it- and I'm not ashamed to admit it. I haven't gone to the movies much these past few years-- too busy working and then traveling abroad. But now that I'm committed to spending the winter at home, I'm going to start going a lot more. Movies in the afternoon are $6, at night they're $11. Compared to a pint at the bar...I think that the movie is a way better spot to enjoy a few hours. Anywho- kylee and I agreed that we love the latest, Breaking Dawn, despite it's bad reviews. This is TWILIGHT people...not an Oscar winner, but twilight. Don't take it so seriously. Just...enjoy.

I cried (again) when Charlie walked Bella down the aisle--that scene gets me everytime. Probably going to see it again this week if anyone wants to join our Twi-Hard team....

Apologies for random rambling-- it's late, I'm exhausted and have taken a melatonin in an attempt to finally readjust back to east coast time and get a decent nights sleep...

Lunar YINyasa Flow

2011-11-25T08:58:00.000-08:00

Come join me to tonight at Surfside Fitness for a candlelit lunar YINyasa flow. Class begins at 6:30pm and ends at 8pm. We are going to start with calming, flowing breath- moving into Chandra Namaskar (Moon Salutations), a soothing vinyasa. Throughout class we will be incorporating cleansing and energizing breath techniques (Kundalini-inspired) and we will end with a half hour of deep Yin. Hope to see you there and share this practice with you all!

2011-11-24T12:27:00.001-08:00

Thanks on Thanksgiving.

2011-11-24T10:02:00.000-08:00

Once again, I'm overflowing with gratitude. Thanks to yoga, I now incorporate the act of expressing this gratitude during meditation, during my practice, or even just recognizing it in my mind as I lie in bed at night just before bed...every single day. So, on this Thanksgiving holiday I don't feel the need to express gratitude for every thing, big and small, that I am thankful for - because this has become a daily ritual for me (like how grateful I am for Feist's new "Metals" album, or how thankful I am for my amazing friends, and how infinitely grateful I am for the yoga classes that I've been teaching and the people who have joined in...). Today, I am going to focus on just one thing that I am insanely, abundantly grateful for:

I am grateful that my Dad is reading the newspaper.

The man is a fucking walking, talking miracle. With an expiration date long past due, he lives each day with excitement, positivity and acceptance. He'd given up on reading the newspaper - it became difficult, frustrating and confusing. And then just the other day he declared "I'm going to read that damn newspaper!". It takes a little while, but he made his way through it - and read it yet again this morning. And for this - I am filled with gratitude. Happy Thanksgiving everyone, and remember to count and acknowledge your blessings each and every day...the big AND the small....

Yin Yoga for Kidneys and UB

2011-11-23T06:44:00.001-08:00

As I'm sure you know by now - I am in love with Yin Yoga. Obsessed. And the more that I learn about it, the more fascinated I am by this powerful, reflective form of yoga. There are only 3 books out on the subject, and I am so very grateful for Sarah Powers incredibly descriptive but easy to digest book, Insight Yoga. It's brilliant. "In our body we have YIN organs and YANG organs. The Yin are those concerned with the pure energy of fundamental substances such as chi, blood, essence, and spirit. They transform, regulate, and store these primary energies. These are the kidneys, liver, spleen, heart, and lungs. The Yang organs are involved with impure substances such as undigested food, urine, and waste. Their job is to receive and digest food, absorbing useful components, while excreting waster. These are the urinary bladder, gallbladder, stomach, and small and large intestines.

In Chinese medicine, the organs are completely linked to the meridians that flow through them. Each yin organ and meridian has a direct sister-brother relationship with a complementary yang organ and meridian. This means that what we do to one directly affects the other. Although the yin/yang organs have different anatomical functions - their energetic, emotional and mental qualities are intimately intertwined. The KIDNEYS are paired with the URINARY BLADDER. "

****************

This is WHY we need to practice Yin yoga to keep our Kidney and UB meridians in check:

"The kidneys are a storehouse of vital energy. They house our essence energy, which is considered the substance that pervades all organic life and is the essence of growth and decline. Their energetic health rules the general health of the lower back, the reproductive organs, the urinary system, the lower intestinal track, and all the fluid systems of body (including joint lubrication, blood and circulatory system, lymphatic system, endocrine system, perspiration, saliva, tears, and sexual secretions). Kidney chi emotional imbalance is associated with all kinds of fears, while a balanced kidney chi gives us access to our innate gentleness, openness, and wisdom. With our mental qualities, the kidneys are associated with short-term memory, willpower, and healthy ambition. If our kidney energy is deficient, we have trouble completing tasks, have less energetic and sexual drive, and feel less enthusiasm. The urinary bladder is much the same in the energy, emotional and mental qualities. THe Kidney and UB meridian organs' influence on our body-mind is connected with the LIMBIC system housed near the center of the brain. The limbic system controls sleep cycles, appetite, and libido; promoting bonding; modulating motivation; and setting the emotional tone of the mind, providing a filter through which external experiences are integrated into emotional states."

The Kidney Meridian: begins at the little toe in each foot, running through the sole, through the arch, and up the sindie of the knees and legs, entering the torso near the tailbone. It moves up along the longitudinal ligaments of the lower spine, connecting internally with the bladder and kidneys. It also moves externally over the abdomen and chest, while internally flowing through the liver, diaphragm, and lungs. It goes through the throat and ends at the root of the tongue.

The Urinary Bladder Meridian: starts at the inside of the eyes, goes up the forehead and across the crown, and enters the brain. It then runs down the back body parallel to the spine. A branch goes into the body at the lumbar spince and connects with the kidneys and urinary bladder. Outer branches run all the way down the backs of the legs and end at the little toes.

***************************

One Hour YIN YOGA Session, emphasizing the Kidney and Urinary Bladder Meridians:

Butterfly
Saddle
Sphinx
Seal
Full Forward Bend
Dragonfly
Lying Spinal Twist (both sides)
Stirrup
Legs Up The Wall
Corpse

*Hold each pose for 5 minutes.

Yin is an opportunity to crawl into ourselves and stay for a while. We learn that we can relax our resistance to strong sensations and emotions, turning TOWARD - rather than away from - what is arising within us. Namaste.

Home, with Herkimer.

2011-11-22T09:04:00.000-08:00

I'm home, but I've brought a few things back from Seattle with me. First thing I brought back was "This Guy", compliments of Jer. My Dad finally got his cast off, but he was complaining that he cant bend his pinky finger anymore. I said "No worries Dad, that's how all the cool guys point to themselves...not with their thumbs, but with their pinky fingers." Apparently someone on the show 30 Rock started this, and Jer thought that it was funny - so we pointed to ourselves with pinky fingers the whole time I was in Seattle. Doesn't make much sense? Yeah, I know - you probably had to be there. Anywho - we got Dad pointing to himself with his pinky finger now.

The second thing that I brought home with me was Herkimer coffee....9 pounds of Herkimer coffee to be exact! It is simply the best, (yes I'm sorry, even better that Stumptown). When Julisa was putting in an order for the restaurant, I asked her to order me a bunch as well to last me through these upcoming months. SO delicious. Seattle is known for coffee, but this is the best.

The third thing that I brought home with me were two Heidi Swanson cookbooks, compliments of Dr.J. I love love love Heidis recipes, and found out that several of the epic meals J-Ngan has prepared are from her books. Janice and I had talked about her brilliance and I said that I planned to buy the cookbooks when I got home. Totally unnecessary because Dr.J bought them for me right before I left Seattle!! I can't wait to dive head first into these delicious and nutritious cookbooks -- thanks J!

And last, but CERTAINLY not least -- LISSIE. Big big thanks to Jer who introduced me to Illnois-based musician, Lissie. She is awesome...a big country, a bit folky, a bit rock and roll - and totally awesome. CHECK HER OUT.

Holy Shit-Balls.

2011-11-21T14:30:00.000-08:00

Yep, I just said "holy shit balls". Julisa is my only friend that not only has a potty mouth like I do-- oh no, she takes it even further. Her creative cuss words were contagious, and before I knew it I was saying things like "shit balls", and "shit fuck", "balls" and so many more ball-shit-and Fbomb variations. Mom, I know that this doesn't excite you so I'll try to keep my truck-driver-mouth to myself when I get home. Anywho- last night J-Ngan made the best meal that I've ever had in all my life. Unfortunately (for you) the recipe is top secret-- if we told you we'd have to kill ya! It was so sublime, so spectacular - that the only thing that I could think to say was "Holy Shit Balls". I think that I said it about 10times during dinner. It was so SO so SOOOO delicious. The ingredient that I think really added a ton of complexity (as well as down-right-deliciousness) to the meal was the sour pickled mustard greens that Janice incorporated. Outstanding. The pickled greens reminded me of the fermented spring onions that I ate in Laos. So yummy! Thanks again to the oh-so-wonderful Janice for making an out-of-this-world meal. Holy Shit-Balls!

Just SOME of the ingredients that went into this dinner...

Pickled Sour Mustard Greens...SOOO good!

Chef J-Ngan...holdin' it down.

Emma's Cup Cocktail

2011-11-20T18:34:00.001-08:00

It's my last night here in Seattle, and we decided to stay home for a delicious J-Ngan homemade dinner and some of Jules spectacular cocktails. The one that J, J and me are sipping in this photo is: 2/3 dry white wine, 1/3 Aperol and a generous splash of St.Germain. Shake the shit outta it to mix it and ice it, then serve strained into a cute cup. Using a vegetable peeler, peel the rind of an orange for the garnish. Enjoy, or better yet- enjoy with good friends...

Dr.J's Optometry

2011-11-20T16:57:00.000-08:00

A view from the Ferry, looking out at Mt. Rainier.

Took the ferry to visit the optometry practice that Dr.J (Janice) and Jer are buying. It's in Port Orchard, which is about an hour from where they live in Seattle. The ferry ride was beautiful- you could see Mt.Rainier as well as the Olympic mountain range. The air was crisp and cold but gorgeous and refreshing.

Dr. J in front of her soon-to-be Optometry practice.

Janice has been an optometrist for almost 7 years now, but she's decided to take it another step and buy her own practice! Things are in the works, and Dr.J should be in her new office by the new year. It's a big step for J & J, and I'm super excited for them! We had fun getting the "grand tour" and trying on heaps of different glasses. Another amazing say with Jules, Jer and Janice...only dinner tonight and breakfast tomorrow- then I'm headed back east....

Try these on, no - try these on. Hey - try THESE on....

Do I look smart in these? Wow, everything is just a blur...

Italian Spritz

2011-11-19T08:11:00.000-08:00

The "spreetz" (Spritz) is the signature cocktail of Venice. Aperol is an Italian aperitif. Some of it's main ingredients are bitter orange, gentian (gentian is a flowering plant that is often used in the making of liquors, aperitifs, and bitters - giving cocktails a floral-esque flavor), rhubarb and cinchona. It looks similar to Campari, but be warned - they are not the same. They look and smell very similar, and even have some similarities in taste - but the alcohol content in Aperol is half that of Campari, coming in at only 11%. A Spritz is Aperol, Prosecco (italian sparkling wine), and club soda - along with an orange slice and two green olives. It is light and refreshing -- perfect to sip on before a meal, and totally acceptable as a drink to be consumed throughout the day, starting early in the afternoon.

I was turned on to these Italian Aperol Spritzs by Julisa, of course. Who, I have found out, was introduced to them by the lovely Janice and Jeremy. J & J had gone to Venice for a trip and fell in love with these classic Venetian cocktails. They enjoyed them all day long through the trip and when they got home they were sure to mix up one of these for their friends. Julisa fell in love with the cocktail instantly, and then put it on La Medusas drink menu. And after that it seemed to pop up on drink lists throughout the city. So, Seattle - you have Janice and Jeremy to thank for bringing this classic but totally trendy cocktail into rotation! Since J & J were responsible for introducing us to this cocktail, I found it only fitting that Janice be the one who showed us how it was done:

Spritz:

Aperol
Prosecco
Club Soda
Orange
Green Olives
Ice
Glass: wine glass or rocks glass, either is good :)

First you fill the cup 1/4 the way with ice - you want to chill it, not water it down. Next you pour one part Aperol in a glass, top with one part prosecco, and then you can do one part club soda - or if you want a more potent spritz then you can just add a splash or two of the sparkling water. J-Ngan squeezed some orange into the cocktail, then garnished it with an orange slice (which I squeezed into my cocktail), along with two green olives (we used Picholine olives, pit in) that she stuck onto a bamboo skewer. So boom:

one part aperol

one part prosecco

one part club soda

garnish: orange slice and green olives

ENJOY, or as they'd say in Italy, Divertiti!

Dolin Blanc Vermouth

2011-11-18T17:49:00.000-08:00

I always thought that vermouth was just something that was added to a martini. I didn't think that it was something that you'd drink just on its own. But in fact, it is insanely delicious just over ice. Julisa turned me onto Dolin Blanc vermouth....we just pour it over some ice in a rocks glass and enjoy. And it's actually pretty inexpensive, only around $14 a bottle!! So drink up! Plus you look and sound super sophisticated when you order a "dolin blanc". Ha. Love it!

"Dolin Vermouth de Chambery is made with fine wines of the Savoy region and botanicals found in the Alphine meadows above Chambery. Together they impart a fresh and elegant nose, with a subtle and complex palate. Ideal as an aperitif or in cocktails"

"Once, during Prohibition, I was forced to live for days on nothing but food and water."

Team Edward Twilight Premiere

2011-11-18T10:23:00.000-08:00

We don't mess around....pouring some Pinot Blanca into a thermos and packing plastic cups.

You're goddamn right! Team Edward!

Lines, lines, and more lines. People camped out for hours. We arrived an hour and a half early and managed to get somewhat of a decent seat.

Passing the time, playing cards.

In our seats, wine in hand, ready for BREAKING DAWN!!!

Dads Current Health Update

2011-11-17T16:53:00.000-08:00

Here is the latest update about Dad, that I meant to post along with the other email that she sent the other day:

So let me describe as best I can what state of physical and mental health Paul is in right now.
Headaches-absolutely none.
Hearing-same as it ever was. Its been lousy for years.It hasn't changed , no better, no worse
Vision---same as its been for the past 6 months or so. The field of vision is small,but he can still see the same. The squiggly lines are always there , but for the most part he tries to ignore them.
He MUST wear his eye patch. If he has it off for even a minute or two with both eyes open he gets extremely dizzy.
He does have some dizziness on occasion, but he is aware of it and slows down what he's doing so it doesn't create a problem.
His shoulder is really hurting him. That's not tumor related. It might be because he hurt it when he fell in the driveway getting the paper that day, or else its just an old injury from before, that was masked while he was taking the steroids.
His memory has good days and bad days. Better now then it has been in the past few months.He loses his train of thought now and again.
He is able to read, but writing sometimes gives him a problem.
His "I'll chew my own arm off" because of steroids has slowed way down.He loves every meal, but can wait without discomfort. Dropping the steroid dose has taken some of the swelling away in his face and neck. Its still there but not as bad. His ankle swelling is pretty much a thing of the past.
His weight is still high. He's now carrying an extra 50 pounds.We are going to try to slowly lose some of that. Its going to have to be a reduction of food, because for reasons I will get to, exercise isn't the answer. I will need help with this, because in most cases, I am not with Paul when he's out for breakfast or lunch etc. So all you people who take him out, remind him that he does not need dessert at lunch. He doesn't need the appetizer either. He'll be having a small dessert at night. He doesn't need it twice a day.Getting even 10 pounds off will help, and by just making small changes we should be able to do that. You all want him to be more active and in less pain , so help out will ya. He won't love you less if you don't give him a cookie!!!!
His leg pain is tumor related. The numbness is a direct result of the tumor. Walking more is not going to "make it better" His legs won't get stronger by walking more, it will just hurt him.That is why cutting out the unnecessary calories is so important. We will keep taking short walks and hopefully doing some other upper body exercises.
His hand really bothers him, but hopefully the cast will come off and stay off tomorrow.And the hand will be as good as new.
His spirits are high as always.He never complains about anything. And he laughs more than anyone I know.
And that is the State Of Paul as of Weds. November 16th. later, Doreen

"Today is a most unusual day, because we have never lived it before;

we will never live it again; it is the only day we have."

-William Arthur Ward

Crazy Amazing Cosetta

2011-11-17T15:03:00.000-08:00

I would call Cosetta Romani amazing, but that wouldn't be enough, because she is CRAZY AMAZING. Vibrant energy, fully-engaged in life and in the moment, and a nurturing soul. I felt super blessed to be able to be in one of her classes this morning at Spira Yoga (a fabulous new studio in West Seattle), and it was even better because I got to practice alongside my best friend. It's moments like this that I hold on to and keep in my heart - and when I'm having a rough day it's reflections on these moments that make me smile despite the gloom. First of all, we practiced in a circle, which I LOVE. Those of you who have been to my classes know this, because we practice in a half circle. Yoga encourages a sense of community, and I have a hard time feeling connected to someone when my heads up their ass as our mats are stacked. In a circle I can see and feel connected to the people that I'm practicing with. It helps to break down any barriers, and I use that community that we've built for encouragement. Last night at a power yoga class at Be Luminous I wouldn't have dared trying any of the arm balances that were being barked out. But in Cosetta's class...with a little bit of guidance, alot of courage and a little bit of laughter I was able to get into a tricky arm balance that I'd once thought impossible. Cosetta is brilliant at breaking down barriers that we have built within ourselves, and she helps you to fully let go of any inhibitions that are holding you back.

I think that it's fair to say that I travel very often, and yoga is something that I never leave home without. I always have a personal practice, but I've also been really blessed to stumble upon some great yoga studios along the way {chang mai/thailand, hermosa/costa rica, boulder/colorado} and I'm so glad to have happened upon Spira. Well, I guess that I have Julia to thank for that. For anyone who is in the area, or who will ever pass through Seattle, add SPIRA YOGA as a must-stop, and of course - any class of Cosetta's is bound to blow your mind. For more about Cosetta and all of her crazy amazingness check out www.puravitayoga.com She will be holding a Trance Dance workshop from 8-10pm this Saturday if anyone lives locally...I hope to make it and let loose my inhibitions. Also, for the schedule at Spira you can check out www.spirapoweryoga.com, which is owned and operated by the equally fabulous , Dora.

namaste my friends !

Cosetta's class this morning was so fabulous I requested that everyone stay so that we could take a quick photo and capture the moment.....

Time for TWILIGHT!

2011-11-17T07:53:00.000-08:00

The most common response that I get when I tell people that I love Twilight, is laughter. All of my friends mock me and have a very difficult time understanding what I see in this story. Well, aside from it being a beautiful love story (yes, it's a love story...not a vampire story), it's also the ultimate fantasy land. Originially, I had refused Twilight, condoning it to be a stupid teen drama. Julisa talked about it incessantly, going on and on about the movies and the books. I laughed at her, just like everyone now laughs at me. How had my beautiful, talented, educated, cultured, well-read friend get pulled in by such a ridiculous story of vampires? Well, the connection that I've made now is that the series is so well written by Meyers, that the fantasy land is enchanting enough for you to get lost in. When Julie discovered the series I think that she needed an escape from life for a bit. And I can say the same for myself. I don't regret one minute that I've spent with my Dad, but seeing someone slowly deteriorate in front of you everyday, someone that you love more than anything in the whole wide world , well - it begins to wear on you. And THAT is when I embarked on this love affair with Twilight. A magical fantasy land to escape to, if only for a few hours each day. (Well, it was more like full day marathons - watching movies 1, 2 and 3 every single day - and having read the series about 4 times through now). Everyone has their addictions, and atleast mine is only a silly love story. There are far worst things to turn to in dark times... SO, tonight I will be attending the premiere with my Best Friend, and the one responsible for making me a goddamn Twi-Hard, Julia. And we will proudly be rocking our Team Edward tshirts with the rest of the insane, adoring twilight fans.

He Just Keeps Going....

2011-11-16T09:02:00.000-08:00

Just making a great day even better was getting good news back from the homefront. Here is mom's latest email update about Dad:

I should have known when the manager at the Farley rest stop comped our coffees that it was going to be a good day.I told her I was the one who wrote the letter praising her employees a few weeks ago. I said they make our trip better every two weeks when we stop there. She saw Paul's patch and figured we were heading to Will's Eye and then I told her our story.Bam! Free Coffee. Mine is called HYPER BEAN. Talk about a wake up cup of Java. I fly to Philly after that.

The MRI took place almost on time. The Avastin treatment got off to a slow start , but then we caught up, and the doctor saw us as scheduled. Adding up our day so far and its already a miracle. But wait, it gets better...

Paul's scan improved again. Not drastically different from the last one, but better. At this stage of the game , no growth is good. To get a reduction is even better. She was thrilled with everything. Like us though ,she is more interested in how he "IS". How he is doing. And she was super pleased with what she saw and heard.

So Paul Callahan, who doubted me when I told him he'd get through last Christmas, is now about to celebrate Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, birthdays, and anniversaries etc Yes, he is a walking miracle.An absolute Everready Bunny. He just keeps ticking!

We will continue going to Philly every other Tuesday for his Avastin. And we will continue to take Temador once a month for at least 6 more months.He tolerates them well ,and obviously they are doing their job, so why mess with success. He will continue with his supplements, juice and good diet. And we will continue to have the time of our lives.

We won't be getting another MRI for 3 months, so I won't be writing very often unless there is some significant change.We have all been together for a long time now. Let's keep it that way.Please feel free to call , write, stop by,pray and celebrate with us.

We go back to HUP on Thursday to have Paul's cast removed. Thank God! and special thanks to lori King who had dinner and dessert here waiting for us when we got home. Love, Doreen

AMEN.

WHITE BUFFALO, Seattle

2011-11-16T08:37:00.000-08:00

I have seen the White Buffalo a number of times now, and goddamn he's JUST SO GOOD. I don't know of anyone with such a heartbreakingly beautiful voice. And to make the show even better than it already could have been - I got to enjoy it with two of my beautiful friends at a super-awesome venue, the Tractor Tavern. Our bartender Casey kept the beers flowing, and we danced and swayed the night away. The White Buffalo just released a new cd (which is amazing) but only available at his shows. He'll be releasing it sometime in December but for now, I got mine bitches!!

OMG, the white buffaloooooo!!

the two most beautiful women in the northwest <3

love.

matt, the drummer, gave me a drum stick. yeeeeeewwww!!!

And I's on an island, an island for one
Burning my eyes staring at the sun, staring at the sun

And I's always silent, well had of gone deaf and dumb
I feel like a loser cause i never won, but I never won

'Til you blew in just like paper in the wind
And I just wanted something to believe in
And I just want to be your man, your friend
Carry on with you right down to the very end
Oh I'm with you
Oh I'm with you
[ Lyrics from: http://www.lyricsmode.com/lyrics/t/the_white_buffalo/love_song_1.html ]
And I's always diving, diving under the gun
Well holding on to nothing, holding onto some, well holding onto some

And I's always striving, but I'm left undone
Countin the days but the lonely dont lye, they get up and they run

'Til you blew in just like paper in the wind
Well I just wanted somethin to believe in
And I just want you on my arm, every limb
Carry on with you right down to the bitter end
Oh I'm with you
Oh I'm with you
Oh I'm with you

the white buffalo, love song #1

J-Ngan's Sauteed Greens over Quinoa

2011-11-16T08:36:00.000-08:00

Janice has a skill that not many people have...the clean out the kitchen and make something epic skill. My mom has it too, and it's damn impressive. With a little of this and a little of that, Janice just started pulling random things from the fridge and pantry and voila....an epic meal. The whole point is to clean out the fridge, but since the recipe was so good I'm going to share it with you so you can swing by the grocery store and pick up what you need...

Sauteed Greens over Quinoa with Farm Fresh Egg

Swiss Chard
Two little heads of baby bok choy
One can of chick peas, rinsed
2 cloves of garlic, diced
One tomato, diced
Pancetta (obviously you can leave this out to make it a vegetarian meal)
Quinoa
Water, or better yet - BROTH, and better than that...HOMEMADE broth
Eggs

In a pan, sautee your diced pancetta, when that's cook remove the pancetta and set aside.

In that same pan sautee throw in the diced garlic, bok choy and the stems of the chard into the pan and sautee til they have softened a bit.
Throw in the diced tomatoes and chickpeas, and then add in the leafy parts of the greens.
In a separate bowl, cook your quinoa. I always do 1 cup quinoa, 1 1/2 cup liquid. Instead of using water Janice used a homemade chicken stock that she'd made and it was deeeeelicious.
To assemble put a bed of quinoa down, the sauteed goodness on top, toss some of your pancetta on top of that and then finish with a fried FARM FRESH EGG.

SO GOOD.

Dirt Smoothies.

2011-11-15T09:48:00.000-08:00

Jules, Jer and Janice start off their days with dirt smoothies, and since I'm game to try anything I said that I wanted to join the dirt smoothie breakfast club. Not very tasty, but I was running around the house and dancing afterwards- throwing in the occasional karate kick. Shazaaaam, feeling good.

4 huge tablespoons of cacao
2 huge tablespoons of maca
2 huge TEAspoons of spirulina
1/2 cup acai juice
2 cups water

Put the raw cacao powder, raw maca powder and spirulina into a sifter with a bowl beneath it. Using a spoon push it through the mesh to get any clumps out of the powder. Pour the acai juice into the bowl, then add the water. This, in my humble opinion, is pretty disgusting. But it's ridiculously healthy, and without all of the calories that smoothies usually contain. So, I'd say enjoy- but instead I just say drink to your health :) cheers.

2011-11-15T07:49:00.001-08:00

Dads MRI is today, and then they are meeting with Dr.Desai for an update. Everyone say a little prayer <3

Back at YoBe

2011-11-14T19:54:00.000-08:00

So one of my favorite places to practice yoga in Seattle is at YoBe: Yoga on Beacon. Julisa, Jeremy and I took Erich's 9:00am class and it was awesome. Afterwards we stayed at the studio and messed around with the straps. If the class is small enough, Erich will hold class with the straps. So cool and such a great way to get deeper into poses. Woooohoooo yoga with those you love, nothin better.

Droga.

2011-11-13T21:19:00.000-08:00

Drunk + Yoga = DROGA

We weren't drunk but we had definitely had a few cocktails, and then the yoga came out...

Though all of us are at different levels of our practice, and though we all have different preferences considering the STYLE of yoga that we like - one thing we all agree on, yoga is amaaaazing. And once the drinks start flowing we inevitably end up busting out some of our favorite asanas, and offer up fun variations to poses along with pointers about how to do this or that. Here we are enjoying a restorative but extremely powerful pose, Viparita Karani (legs up the wall). Damn it feels good!

Sweet Seattle.

2011-11-13T06:47:00.000-08:00

It feels like home sweet home in Seattle. From the moment that Jer scooped me up at the airport, I have been smothered with love, food, wine, and hugs. I love the shit outta my Three Jays (Julia, Jeremy and Janice) and I'm super excited about the awesome week that we're going to have. To start it all off, once everyone is awake (I'm up freakishly early thanks to the time difference and the fact that I'm an early riser), we are going to head out for brunch. Food is not taken lightly around these parts, and brunch is specifically epic. Oh Seattle and my Three J's...I love you and I've missed you. <3

We ARE Bliss.

2011-11-12T04:33:00.001-08:00

Krishnamacharya:

an orthodox Vedantic Brahman who united the two very different Indian traditions of Tantra and Vedantic Brahmanism. The founder of modern day yoga that we practice (hatha yoga).

Mark Whitwell:

student of Krishnamacharya, author of Yoga of Heart: the healing power of intimate connection.

I received a message from a friend that attends my yoga classes. I am adamant about asking questions, and I encourage that my friends and students feel comfortable having an open line of communication with me. The other day I talked about "detachment" in class, and got a really fantastic inquiry last night in reference to the level of detachment that we should have in our lives. This exact topic has been weighing heavy on my mind for the past two years as I dive deeper and deeper into the true essence of yoga, and I've really struggled trying to understand. That was until I got Mark Whitwells' YOGA OF HEART book. It has shed some light on a controversial issue, long debated in the 'yoga' world. I'm going to break it down for you, in a way that I have taken from the teachings of the great Krishnamacharya and Mark Whitwell.

This is the letter that I received:

"...I've really liked your discussions on detatchment. It's something I've been working on for the past year or so and I've definitely felt it has helped me get through life's frustrating times. I have a question about it though. I've learned in yoga literature and from teachers that to achieve pure "bliss" (whatever that means) the unattachment has to apply to everything in life - the good times not just the bad times. I don't really like the idea of that. When I'm happy, I like to dive right in and experience is fully. I don't want to detach and recognize that the moment is only temporary. Observe without reacting - I can't do it. It's so much easier for me to detach from the bad times. How do you feel about it? Do you detach from the happy times and pleasurable things in addition to the tough times? I've always struggled with the concept for a while and your classes have only made me wonder about it more."

And this is my response (with a huge thanks to Krishnamacharya and Whitwell):

We already ARE bliss. It is not something unachievable that we must attain. Refraining from good times, or trying to detach from positive experience isn't going to help us get any further to Bliss, because Life IS Bliss. These good times are Bliss - the beauty of Life. It's important to observe and not react during the bad times, because they will pass. Reacting to them will only give them more power. So instead of reacting and turning your world upside down, just mindfully observe. Don't detach from the good times. Observe that yes, perhaps it is only temporary - but enjoy every bit of it. Soak it up. And when it is gone, don't want for it. Hold on to it in your heart, but reflect on it with a smile, not with longing. Don't let the good times of the past negatively affect your Now. Don't let a happy memory of the past take you away from Life. Life that is right now. Whitwell has said that the only thing that can be done is enabling people into EXPERIENCING. A moment. This moment. The miracle of Life happening in us as a breath... Jivamutki means "Life Liberation". The conventional interpretation is that yoga means union with the Self: the little self merging with the big self, leading to liberation FROM Life. But yoga is union WITH life - embracing life in all its wonder and incongruities, embracing ourselves and ALL of our Selves - leading to liberation from all things that take us away from life. Traditional Brahmans (an elite caste of Hindus) developed Vedanta yoga. It rejected women, sex and other pleasures in search for a "higher" pleasure and reality. How can intimacy between two people in love be a bad thing? Is sharing that love taking us further away from God? I think not. It's enjoying a night out with friends...enjoying a surf and some beers taking us further from God? No. It is us, enjoying our Lives as they were given, and THAT is yoga. The religious method of attempting to know "source of experience" by denying experience DOESN'T WORK. It is the ultimate unreality of reality - it's denying the wonder that is Life. This is Life - given to us by God. A Blissful Life. And as Whitwell reminds us, Yoga is the mere participation in the wonder of Life as it is already perfectly given. Yoga is not an attainment but a participation in the Given. It is devotion to the Given and not a search. This occurs naturally when there is no effort in the mind to know or achieve. God is not absent, therefore does not need to be found. The basic religious notion that truth needs to be found, that it is higher, deeper but not here in this ordinariness, has denied us our power which is Life.

SO...the next time that your ipod craps on you and you start to lose your shit - DETACH. Detach from this silly object that is causing you pain. And when you have an amazing day with your family, soak it up. ATTACH. Denying love and pleasure is an antique, out-dated way of thinking. And when the good times are over, don't let your longing for them ruin your Present. Life is a river, it will bend right and left and rage with water - and at times it'll run dry. So just go with the flow and enjoy the beautiful moments, and don't identify with the painful and sad moments. And remember, we ARE Bliss. No one and no thing can help us to attain something that already lives inside of us...

Worlds Largest Sweet Potatoes

2011-11-11T20:56:00.000-08:00

Moms garden has slowed down significantly...but we still are getting a medley of greens (romaine, boston, escarole, etc.). We THOUGHT that the sweet potatoes were done. She had gone out a few times and stuck her hand in the ground, but couldn't find them...because apparently, they were there. Her and Dad went out to gaze at the garden and get him some exercise, and Dad insisted she check again for the sweet potatoes. Well, goddamn. No wonder she couldn't find any sweet potatoes, she probably thought that she had encountered a small boulder! The potatoes are HUGE, one is literally the size of a year old baby and weighs about 10 pounds. We thought that due to the size they would have lost their flavor or then something along those lines, but nope -- they are delicious! Bring on the sweet potato soup, sweet potato pie, roasted sweet potatoes, and sweet potato juice (yes...you can run these through your juicer and they are DELICIOUS). Sweet potatoes for ALL my friends....

I have discovered that CUMIN tastes ammmmaaaazing on sweet potatoes, so here is an interesting take on them roasted, I PROMISE that you will love it:

Cumin Smashed Sweet Potatoes:

Sweet potato, peeled and cubed
Onion
Fresh garlic
Fresh cilantro
Butter
Salt
Cumin

Lots of cubed sweet potato goes into a baking pan. Dice up 1/4 of an onion and one garlic clove and add to the pan. Drizzle with olive oil, salt and a touch of cumin. Roast until soft (I usually roast veggies on 350). Take em out when they are soft and hot, and add some butter to the mixture...if you want them creamier you may have to add a touch of milk (but this is totally optional). Add in a big handful of fresh cilantro, add in another large tablespoon full of cumin. Add salt to taste. ENJOY.

And here's one that I have posted in the past, a Roasted Root Wrap that was first made for me in Cardiff by my friend Nicole:

Recipe for Nicoles ROASTED ROOT WRAP:

1 large sweet potato
1 large beet
1 medium sized red potato
1 small yellow onion
6 cloves of garlic
olive oil
tahini
whole wheat wraps
arugula {or spinach}
bragg's liquid aminos (or soy sauce)
salt + pepper
rosemary
thyme

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Peel and dice sweet potato and beet. Dice red potato + onion. Throw all diced veggies and 6 cloves of garlic into a pan, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a good shaking of rosemary + thyme. Cover pan with tin foil. Bake for about 40minutes. Take a whole wheat wrapper and spread about a tablespoon of tahini onto it. Throw on a tiny handful of peppery Arugula. Pick a clove or two of roasted garlic out of the pan and spread it onto the wrap. Scoop a decent amount of your roasted roots into the wrapper and then drizzle with Bragg's Liquid Aminos. Wrap up and enjoyyyyy. This will make enough for 4 people.