Stupid, tired gratitudes...

It's just after 10PM and I can barely keep my eyes open. I should have gone to sleep an hour ago. Working long hours at catering jobs this week has taken a toll. But there's lots to be thankful for...

1. Booking one more wedding for this year, and meeting with my first couple for a 2014 wedding!
2. Cooler temperatures
3. Catering leftovers
4. wine - specifically white wine on hot days
5. my cat Maxie for waking me up BEFORE my 4:30AM alarm  - um, not...so,
6. time to read a bit of the 5th installment of Game of Thrones

Dayum it's HOT - um, thanks!

It's almost 7PM and it's 98 degrees out there. I feel like I'm back in Davis, CA. Luckily I was inside all day, and my apartment is comfortable. It's been a long week and there's lots to be thankful for.

1. air conditioning. At work, on the subway, in my apartment.
2. lots of catering leftovers
3. Good feedback on an upcoming wedding ceremony and a consultation with a new couple for Monday
4. One of my co-workers for making me a pomegranate margarita to take home after a long week
5. Amy Height for my first guest post on her blog

Feel like sharing? Please do - in the comment section below.

The Chakras Explained - CROWN

After starting this series of posts last December, we finally reach #7 - the Crown or Sahasrara in sanskrit. The crown chakra is located at the top of the head or hovering just above. This energy center holds our aspiration, spirituality, inspiration and wisdom. While our Root connects us to the strength of the Earth, I like to think of the Crown connecting us to the world around us - both people and things. Yes, this is the most woo-woo of chakras, but that's where the inspiration and wisdom come from. You know you can feel it, you just may not be able to express them in the groundedness of words.

If you have empathy for others, a strong connection to a higher power (dare I say 'god') or a sense of balance in your subconscious and conscious self, there's a good chance that Sahasrara is open and healthy. But if your head is 'in the clouds' most of the time, you find it difficult to see the 'big picture' or have sensitivity to light and sound, your Crown may need a little cleansing. So, how do you do that, you may ask? You know, open your mind? With many people walking around staring at electronic devices, we've become a little self-centered. So, first off, PUT YOUR SMARTPHONES and E-READERS AWAY. Look up and be present in the world.  If you still feel disconnected, here are some ways you can balance your crown.

1. Meditate. Sit quietly with your eyes closed and bring your energy and awareness to the top of your head - your crown. As you breathe, allow an imaginary cord or a series of tendrils to extend out into the universe. Know that you are not alone in the world, but part of the wonder, strength and power of those around you.

2. Volunteer. There's nothing that can help bring perspective than giving your time to help others. Choose a population or a cause where you are passionate and ask them how you can be of service.

3. Surround yourself with VIOLET. The color most associated with Sahasrara is violet. So wear violet clothes, borrow or buy some amethyst jewelry, or if scent is more your style, dab some lavender essential oil on your wrists and temples.

4. Do yoga. When teaching a class that focuses on the crown, I make sure to do headstand (or a beginner variation) and everyone's favorite Savasana (corpse pose).

5. Try a little AFFIRMATION. Write "I am complete and one with divine energy" on your bathroom mirror or above your word space and read it aloud each time you see the phrase.

As we know each of the chakras are paired with a gland in the body and the crown is no exception. Sahasrara is ruled by the pineal gland. It is located in the brain and produces several important hormones including melatonin, which influences sexual development and sleep cycles.

How open is your crown? Anything work to help balance yours? If so, please share below in the comment section.

Gratitudes A to Z: Give me a C, a bouncy C!

The dog days of summer have really taken a toll. Lots of catering work, temps in the 90s and a little jaunt to the Maritime Provinces of Canada left little time or energy. I have not tackled the alphabet gratitudes weekly, nor have I been blogging regularly. While this week is crazy, I do plan to have daily office hours the following week - with regular blog and social media posts. Watch out!

In the meantime, here's a little gratitude in the 'C' Department

Cats: I really do think I'm a cat whisperer. There, I've said it. While I have my own cat, Maximillian, there's something about the cat energy that I find immensely fascinating. Amazing focus, the ability to turn on a dime. They usually laid back and cool - a quality for which I strive.

Cameras: While there's nothing like the naked eye and fully taking in an experience, the camera can at least capture the moment and help you remember.

Chocolate: Gosh, I love it. I was raised on milk, but have come to appreciate dark over the last few years. Perhaps it's because of all the supposed health benefits, but truthfully I don't care. A simple piece of chocolate can make everything better. And if it's covering an espresso bean, all the better.

Coffee: I started drinking coffee working at the now defunct Lamb's Theatre here in NY during college. I started drinking it light and sweet and iced at the beginning of the summer and drank it hot and black by the end. Now, I'm a coffee snob. Perhaps it's due to my time on the West Coast, but I am picky. I like brewing it myself in my french press with a little soy milk. I am not an addict, but I do usually have coffee every morning.

Computers: They really have changed our lives, non? A little email, a little streaming TV, social media and the ability to write, save and file documents - all at our fingertips. Amazing.

Candles: While I don't have a lot of 'stuff' anymore since I live in a super small apartment, I do still have a number of candles. I like them for their sense of ritual. Bumping up the ordinary for something special. An extra glow, perhaps some scent - it somehow allows time to slow and be more present.

That's all I can think of right now. But I will continue to add if others pop up. Feel free to add yours in the comment section below.

Happy Friday thanks!

A driver just pulled up in front of my building and is blasting their stereo so loud. They keep teasing by lowering it, but it starts back up as they change the song. It's difficult to be thankful for anything since I cannot really hear myself think. The breeze coming in from the window is so nice, but I think I am going to have to close it and turn on the air to drown it out. I just put in a noise complaint, but I doubt anything will be done about it.

I'm doing my best here, but I should be able to eek out a few gratitudes.

1. performing yet another wedding this morning!
2. my friend Amy for taking care of Max and making herself feel at home while I was away
3. a good bit of catering scheduled for next week
4. cooler weather and a lovely breeze
5. a great trip to Nova Scotia and PEI

Now you. Have any gratitudes to share? Please do so below in the COMMENTS section.

Maritime Thanks!

I am currently taking my first vacation in a few years. It's completely well deserved and long overdue. Quite a few thanks to make.

1. My parents for including me in their Canadian tour
2. Amy Banks for hanging at my little hobbit hole, keeping Maximillian company
3. sunny days on the water. Nothing like spending time in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island
4. work for when I get back
5. having good hair days - even without my usual hair products

That's all for now. I need to head back to whale watching, eating fresh oysters and lobster in Cheticamp. Bon soir!