Cherry Blossoms: New Beginnings

The Cherry Blossoms were in full bloom. A gift from Japan and a reminder of our friends.


The course was charted.


The runners were set to begin. The volunteers were in place (beginning at 5:45am!).

"I am 57," she said. "I was never a runner, but wanted to do something just for me. Therefore, I trained and entered the Cherry Blossom Ten-Miler."

When she came back to the Bag Tent later in the day to pick up her things - a medal around her neck and a BIG SMILE on her face - she said, "I feel so happy. I want to set a positive example for my grandson, and I think I have done that today." We all clapped. She deserved it - at least as much as the first place winner, I would say.

"What I have also learned from this," she said, "is that sometimes you must keep your dreams to yourself because even your loved ones may tell you that it is not possible. Sometimes you alone have to believe in yourself. That is enough."

I will remember her when I run this race next year...and maybe she will inspire you too?

Although you haven't seen me for a while, I have been running (and traveling), and trying new things...

...among them, Sun Warrior protein drinks. I like the chocolate with raw almond milk as an afternoon / post-workout snack and the natural flavor in my morning smoothie. I haven't yet tried the vanilla, but expect it would also be good.


So, I have been told that I need to update my blog more often! :) Good advice for a new beginning!

Bulgaria: Dream House

I landed. I was jet lagged. I needed inspiration and some food!

First I encountered this...


Looking a little more closely....


I never pass up an opportunity to make a wish (even on an egg!)...especially when one can wish for health and happiness...wherever one is in the world.

With a little luck (and some help from Happy Cow), I found the Dream House right there in downtown Sofia. Behind the white plastic door...just like they said.


A place where "We Freely Speak Our Dreams."

I wanted one of everything on the menu, but I eventually decided on this:


Mint and lemon iced tea and Aubergine "Cous-co." So tasty!

Loved the menu - quote and all - "Eating is a necessity; eating intelligently - an art."

Art, dreams, wishes...thank you Bulgaria. Lovely to finally meet you.

Shake Well Before Enjoying

It has been awhile since I bought juice from concentrate. Juice-on-the-go.

While I love picking up an eclectic assortment of things while traveling (and mixing to create new looks and environments), I am not sure that I want that logic applied to my morning drink.


Fresh juice from each country - sold separately - definitely preferred!

Armenia: Today We Have Really Lived

He raised his glass and toasted us in turn. "Today we have really lived," he said.

I looked around the table, and he was right. The youngest was four. The oldest seventy-four. I realized as we clinked glasses that everyone there had made a contribution that day.

We had celebrated accomplishments.

We had given thanks.

We had shared amazing, homemade food. (Unexpected special vegan dishes made just for me - because they are like that with their generosity.)

We had remembered people who had come before us - 5,000 years before.

How did they move those stones? A castle long-since destroyed.


What and why did they write messages?


Did they really live too?

Shouldn't we say this every day?...and not only in a land far, far away...

Raw Relativity

“Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted.” – Albert Einstein

I have been taking a break.  Suspending the rules.  Eating chocolate for breakfast and Greek salad for lunch.

 
I have learned what 120mph feels like, what a sunset looks like from the Adriatic,

how good a scarf can feel, how strange it is to walk in one direction while moving in another - and then realizing that maybe this happens often in life with no further reflection or acknowledgement.


I have learned that I like drinking tea with a tailor in Milan, that I enjoy music with and without words, that sleeping in can be ideal, that it is easier to pay tolls as a team, that sometimes a smile and letting someone into the elevator first is all it takes to make someone’s day. 

I have learned that lists are not always useful, that style and well roundedness come in many forms, that friendship is key, that growth is optional, that food from a bazaar might be the best food of all…and that a willingness to risk is often the first step of an unexpected adventure.

 

 

Armenia, Fire Jumping, and Vodka (in that order)

****See Update below****

I'm a little delayed in wishing you a Happy Valentine's Day.  The reason?  I have been recovering from some over-zealous-fire-jumping in the Armenian tradition.  You see, on the evening of February 13th, I participated in Trndez in the capital city of Yerevan.  I was told that this pre-Christian, pagan, ceremony was intended to rid evil spirits and bring more love into one's life.  Who couldn't use a little more love? 

What I failed to consider before taking the leap: 1) the fire was a very LARGE bonfire and 2) I was wearing high-heels.  (This is a cautionary tale for those who are considering trying this at home.)  Although I was told that the leap was "done with style and grace," the fall was substantial.  Thankfully I made it OVER the actual fire (i.e., did not set myself on fire), but landed on the concrete with multiple body parts.  The result?  Severe abrasions to both hands, both legs, one arm, and a sprained finger.  As one friend commented, "I expect this to bring extraordinary luck to you." Please let it be true!

While I do not have a photo of the actual event to share, I can share the aftermath.

Let's just say that I went to five pharmacies in order to find something to wrap my sprained finger in.  In store number 5, I met with pseudo-success through the combined efforts of 3 sales clerks and four customers.  By pseudo, I mean that I was able to get "something" to wrap my finger in - apparently the swelling did not give away what the problem was in the absence of language capability on my part.

Next I saw a local medical professional to ensure that my finger was in fact not broken.  The prescribed remedy?

Hint: It was not the walnuts, almonds, apples, or persimmons.  I was in so much pain that I followed the advice - wrapping my finger in vodka-soaked cotton and tied in a plastic bag over night.  It actually seemed to help.  Now, if only I could bend my knees!

The good news:  20 people tried their best to stitch me back together again in person. 

-7 pharmacists

-5 customers

-4 hotel workers

-3 friends

-1 medical professional

Another group wished me a speedy recovery through emails, Skype calls, and healing vibes from the Universe.  Sometimes that counts even more - especially when you are in a land far, far away.

I guess love and "extraordinary luck" are mine already.  Thanks to all. You know who you are.

****Update****

Here is what happened when I re-entered the United States:

Stern-looking official:  What happened to your finger?

Me:  I was fire jumping.

Him:   Stern look.

Me:  In Armenia.

Him:  Stern look.

Me:  I fell.

Him:  Stern look.

Me:  It was part of a pre-Christian, pagan ceremony to bring love into one's life.

Him:  (LAUGHING!!!!) YOU COULD NOT MAKE THAT UP! (I mean, he REALLY LAUGHED...doubled over from LAUGHING actually.)

I laughed too.

Germany: Weather and Reminders

1 Blizzard ("Snowmageddon").

1 case of thick fog.

2 days worth of cancelled flights.

1 taxi shared with 3 other strangers (due to shortage of people willing to drive on the roads!).

Arriving home safely: Priceless.

The upside:

2 extra days in Germany to appreciate:

Good friends.

Good food.

Good health.

...and take time to consider more closely...

the reminders that are everywhere.

Azerbaijan: Three Cups of Tea in Baku

"Three Cups of Tea" by Greg Mortenson is a must read for anyone who wants to better understand peoples and cultures different from their own - or better yet - understand anyone really. It is a true story that touches on multiple themes - turning failure into success; how giving and receiving are often the same thing; and how sometimes the most important things in life can't be hurried...In other words, it is important to take time for tea. You never know where tea can lead you. There are health benefits to be sure, but the larger benefit is when strangers are turned into friends...and sometimes even more...read Greg's book to hear his story.

I have had many cups of tea in Azerbaijan.

Tea to better understand.

Tea to better appreciate.

Tea to better see how the patterns that are woven - between us - affect us all.

I am thankful for those who drink tea with me and have taught me more than they know...

New Year's Detox

I have read about the detoxing process and how one can suffer from symptoms like headaches, runny nose, etc.  Having never experienced this, I thought it did not apply to me. Wow, was I wrong!

I spent the entire past week thinking I possibly had major head trauma due to a significant bump I suffered recently.  (I know, I know, I should have gone to see a doctor, but I didn't.) Finally someone asked me what I had eaten when I was home for the holidays.  I had to admit - a two-week steady diet of cookies and chocolate (you may remember that chocolate is largely responsible for why I started this blog in the first place!).  So, I went from veggies, fruit, grains, and seeds - to cookies and chocolate - and then back to veggies, fruit, grains, and seeds (I know, I know).  So the question posed to me was, "Did you ever consider that you are suffering from caffeine and sugar withdrawal?" No, actually I did not.  (How could I feel so awful after only two weeks??) However, now, after consideration (and consultation with a medical doctor), I realize that that was as big of a reason for my pain as the bump on my head. 

Lesson learned going into 2010 - moderation might be a good idea!  Since I am committed to "living kinder," however, it also means being kind to myself and not beating myself up about my missteps over the holiday season.  So, moving forward...

An exciting discovery at the start of the New Year...I was given a membership to Costco - a wholesale warehouse that sells everything (e.g., books, furniture, food, office supplies, etc.) - only to find out that they sell many organic items in bulk!  These were today's purchases:

Okay, the pita chips and clementines were not organic, but I decided to throw them in anyway. I like this idea of buying in bulk, particularly when I can share with other people who are also striving to eat more healthy food in 2010.

Finally, going back to the issue of chocolate, I did find one way of satisfying my chocolate craving (as I transition back to more healthy eating.)  Let me introduce Dark Chocolate Organic Coconut Bliss "ice cream."

I purchased it at Whole Foods, despite some skepticism - namely because as much as I like chocolate, I do NOT like chocolate ice cream - at all.  Add to the fact that this is a soy-free, gluten free, vegan frozen dessert, I was trying to figure out what would be in it to like?  For the second time in this post, I will say "Wow, was I wrong!"  This was quite possibly the best "chocolate ice cream" that I have ever had.  It is that good.  Good thing it comes in pint size - to help with my "moderation" resolution!

Hope you all did a little better than me on the health front over the holidays and the New Year has started out right!  

Will be traveling again soon and will keep you posted...

Kind Countdown to 2010

I recently sat and read my New Year Resolutions...from 1989 to the present. It is fun to see how much things change...and how much they stay the same.

I am still thinking about what I want to create in my life in 2010 and what will go on this year's vision board. (Lots of *dreams* came true in 2009, so I know the importance of setting the intention. I also know, however, that manifesting dreams requires action, determination, and willingness to risk - therefore, one must choose wisely.) Regardless of the details, I know that I want to be KIND...or should I say KINDER...or should I say LIVE KIND.

As I mentioned in an earlier post, I received Alicia Silverstone's new book The Kind Diet for Christmas. (Actually, I received it twice!). I have been inspired by both the book and her new website - The Kind Life). Alicia, Kris Carr (of Crazy Sexy Life), and other Superheros will share their tips for healthy living as part of a "21-Day Vegan Kickstart" hosted by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine beginning on January 1. I have already signed up! The first step of many to a Kinder 2010.

Let the Kind Countdown begin.

Merry Christmas to All

It's a White Christmas . . .

The most beautiful tree of all . . .

Wishing you, your family, and friends . . .near or far . . .

Much happiness, health, love, and all things *magical*...today...and in the coming year! 

Let it Snow!

My favorite kind of snow is what I call "Snow Globe Snow."  It's as if someone took the world and gave it a good shake.  What comes down are big fluffy flakes that you can spin around in and catch on your tongue.  It's most fun at night when the streetlights reflect on the snowflakes and you can feel the magic in the air - because it is there - all around.  

While I will never get tired of this type of snow, I have to say that I was glad to make it out of D.C. ahead of the BLIZZARD!  I arrived home to find perhaps as much snow; only here we are prepared for it and can adjust accordingly!

In addition to looking out the window for much of the morning (as part of my self-imposed-snow-day), I did an in-home workout with resistance bands.  I never tried them before, though several people have recommended them to me - especially for travel.  I like these because they don't have plastic handles and are therefore easier to pack.  Doesn't look like much, but they definitely did something because my muscles are now sore!!  I guess that is a good thing!  (Let me know if you have used resistance bands before and found them useful or can recommend any exercises or websites for a good workout.) 

I also made a really good lunch (to offset all the Christmas cookies that I have to admit I have been eating!).  Organic salad, tomatoes, carrots, and avocado and a plate of baked pita chips and organic hummus. So good.

Finally, I came home to find that my mom bought me my FAVORITE DRINK!  When I tell people that this is my all-time-favorite-thing-to-drink (this particular brand of sparkling water), they always seem confused - as if it could not possibly be, but it is.  Love it!!

So, no excitement today - finally just a few minutes to RELAX.  How nice to be home. :)

The Kind Diet

Yeah! Yeah! Yeah! I am jumping up and down in my living room!! I am so excited, and happy, and grateful.  Why?? Because I just had a Christmas gift exchange with my friend, and she gave me THIS - Alicia Silverstone's new book "The Kind Diet: A Simple Guide to Feeling Great, Losing Weight, and Saving the Planet!!!!"  How did she remember (I made a comment about wanting it in passing - as in when I was passing through town a month ago!)?  How did she know how happy she would make me?!  I can't wait to read it and tell you what I learn! 

 

Books are one of my most favorite things in life...as is KINDNESS. Looks like my Holidays are off to a great start! :)  I wish for you the same!!

Mac Food: Share the Love

I LOVE my MacBook. He told me I would.  Of course, he reviewed all the features - the photos, the files, the virus protection, and the customer support.  But what sold me was when he said, "People who buy Macs LOVE them.  Have you ever heard someone say, 'I LOVE my [insert PC name here]?'"  I had to think about that one for awhile...but no, I had not.  Then he said, "Mac users recognize other Mac users when they see them.  It is a really nice, supportive community."  (I wasn't bargaining for all that, I just wanted a way to write papers and check email!). Of course, I was a little skeptical...

...until it happened.

I brought my purchase up to the counter and the cashier enthusiastically exclaimed, "Oh, you are getting a Mac! I LOVE my MacBook!"

Fast-forward two months and several countries away to the airport in Istanbul, Turkey.  As I was waiting for my flight, the guy at the next table asked, "Are you a Mac user?"  "Excuse me?," I replied.  "You look like a Mac user.  I can always tell," he said. (I still don't fully know what that means.)

So, I thought...there must be something to this after all.

I now find the same to be true of eating Raw and Vegan food.  Like Mac users, people who eat this way tend to LOVE their food and food choices.  They LOVE how it tastes, how it makes them feel, what it does for the animals and the environment, the effect it has on their health, and the list goes on.  On the other hand, you rarely hear people extolling the virtues of diets comprised mainly of "manufactured food products."  While they might like the immediate sugar high of pre-packaged food, they are not raving on to friends (and strangers) about how good they feel and how happy they are with their steady diet of highly-processed junk food.  

For example, I LOVED these sweet potato fries dipped in maple syrup. How often do you want to lick your plate for food that has no cholesterol, is high in fiber, low in sodium, and an excellent source of vitamin A?  Doesn't happen every day, unless you actively look for it and plan ahead.

Also like Mac users, I am starting to realize that you can spot people who are concerned with their health and the health of the planet. It shows in their skin, in their attitude, in their posture, in what they bring to the world. They may choose to do that by being Raw, Vegan, Vegetarian, or just by making better food and health choices one day at a time. Regardless of HOW they do it, wouldn't it be nice for everyone to say I LOVE my life and share that with as many people as possible?

Cheesecake on a Mission Meets Pizza with a Mission

I came for the cheesecake.  I heard it was THE BEST vegan cheesecake in town.  I don't particularly like cheesecake, but I LOVE the IDEA of cheesecake.  (My favorite place in all the world to eat cheesecake is Prague, but I digress.)  The friends, the laughter, the cafes, the simple pleasures...all of it, I have experienced at one time or another through cheesecake.  So, you can imagine that I was excited to try this vegan alternative.

Um, I don't think cheesecake is supposed to be white.  Am I wrong?  I gave it the benefit of the doubt, but no.  I mean, I still had the benefit of friendship, laughter, and fun surroundings, but it was not the cheesecake experience I was hoping for!

I also tried the pizza, mainly because it came with a Mission.  "Every time you order this pizza we will donate $1 to Second Harvest Heartland, Minnesota's largest hunger relief organization."  That works for me!  I tried the Vegan Second Harvest Heartland pizza - tomato sauce, daiya vegan cheese, organic roma tomatoes, garlic, and fresh organic basil.  It looked like this:

I think I would have liked it better without the "cheese," though it did come out looking beautiful.

So, for my first-ever attempt at "dining-out-vegan," there were mixed results.

This place came highly recommended per reviews at the online Happy Cow Compassionate Eating Guide.  I do admit that it had a fun vibe, really nice staff, and a cool philosophy.

But I really wanted my cheesecake to be yellow.  Who knew?  I am sure, however, that there are far more pressing ”Galactic” issues.

"You Don't Eat No Meat?!"

"What do you mean, you don't eat no meat?"

"Is okay. You eat turkey."

I felt like I was in a scene from the movie "My Big Fat Greek Wedding." My 87-year-old Italian Great Aunt kept offering to share her turkey with me throughout our Thanksgiving dinner - thinking that there must be some mistake that I didn't have any turkey on my plate already!  I tried to assure her that it was not an oversight and that I would not starve as a result.  Regardless of my attempts at explanation, she was not to be convinced.  

Once I got her off the topic of meat, however, she shared with me some of her "folk remedies" (as she calls them) to promote a long and healthy life.  Among them was her daily habit of drinking a glass of water mixed with two tablespoons of organic Apple Cider Vinegar and two tablespoons of maple syrup or honey.  I bought the ingredients, but haven't tried it yet.  While I am not entirely convinced to drink Apple Cider Vinegar, I can't argue with how good she looks at 87.  She can climb stairs, balance her checkbook, and remember her long list of remedies (of which this is only one).  

I am trying to pay attention.  Not only do I want to look and feel that good in the years to come, but I am a firm believer in the wisdom of our elders...even if she wants me to eat meat (*wink*).

Georgia: Sunrise, Wishes, and Supras

I ate raw pistachios as I watched the sunrise over Tbilisi, Georgia.  I was told that this building once housed Georgian refugees from the war in Abkhazia (during the 1990s) and wondered what they too thought of the view.  I am sure it was spectacular - even minus the bright light on the horizon - the Sameba (Trinity) Cathedral, which wasn't completed until 2004.

As I was sitting there, I realized something.  I may not know what I want to be when I grow up, but I am very clear on who I want to be. There was some satisfaction in that, since I think it is the more important of the two.

This was reinforced to me later in the day when we went to visit the 6th century Jvari Monastery that sits at a place where the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers meet.

There was a "wishing tree" in this place where the rivers both connect and diverge.  So it seemed that many people were here before me, tying ribbons, scraps of material, and pieces of paper - along with their prayers and dreams - to the branches blowing in the wind.  Did they ask for strength to take a path-less-traveled?, health for their families?, or merely give thanks for all they had already been given?  I contemplated both their dreams and mine as I stood at the rivers' edge.

How do Georgians give thanks?  One way is through a Supra - complete with a Tamada (toastmaster).  This celebration involves eating, eating, toasting, and eating some more (and then toasting some more).  There is an art to this process, which involves a particular order (which I have not yet figured out!) for toasting one's family, friends, health, country, peace...The table is full to start the meal and the plates of food pile up one-on-top-of-the-other as the eating continues - until the entire table is teetering and beyond overflowing.

Can you imagine that I experienced not one, but TWO Supras in one day??!!!!!  (Thus my need for a three-day Juice Fast!)  It should be noted that all the food was fresh, non-processed, and healthy - oh, the difference that it makes in the taste.  (I stuck to the vegetarian options - like eggplant topped with walnut paste - so delicious!)

Dinner ended with big plates of fruit.  (See the green fruit on the right. It looked like cucumber and tasted like a candy sourball.  Made me realize that the chemical flavors we have "invented" and introduced into our diets actually come from a source in nature.  Um, why not eat the original?)

A good day, a good week, and good lessons learned.  

Georgians, I toast to you - "To your families, to your health, to your country, to peace."  While I may not have the order right, I offer you my thanks and gratitude for all your kindness.

Fresh, Organic, Vegan, Airport Food

He greeted me enthusiastically: HELLO, HOW ARE YOU???  Welcome to Philly.

Good.  How are you? Thank you, I replied (as I moved down the line to buy my veggie wrap at the airport counter.)

Him:  You are that famous actress, right?!!

Me:  Who? Me? (looking around). No, I am not famous.

Him:  Okay, maybe not FAMOUS, but you are on TV.  I watch you ALL THE TIME!

Me:  Really, no. It's not me. (At this point people in line are turning around to get a look at the "famous person" in their midst.)

His co-worker:  Leave her alone. She said she is not famous.

Him:  Well, she is not going to TELL us that she is famous.

Me:  Yes, yes, really I would, but unfortunately I am not.  I just want a veggie wrap. (But thank you for the compliment...I think).  I regret not asking him who he thought I was...Maybe I should have just given him an autograph and made his day! :)

My quest to find healthy airport food is usually not so exciting. Recently, however, I hit the jackpot.

Let me introduce you to French Meadow Bakery and Cafe at the Minneapolis International Airport in Minnesota, USA.  Not only did they carry organic salads and bottled juice drinks, but they had a variety of vegan treats.  

I tried the Vegan Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Bar (same price as regular Peanut Butter Bar) and have to say that it was FANTASTIC.

Other options included the Healthy Hemp Brownie, Vegan Carrot Cake, and Vegan Raspberry Chocolate Bar.

For dining in, or taking out.  


Of course, I had to eat mine on the go...

The Velvet Revolution: Celebrating a Milestone

Today I am celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Velvet Revolution in Czechoslovakia - from Munich.  Through CNN, I am re-living the events that put an end to Communism at the heart of Europe.  On the plane on the way over the Atlantic, my German seatmate was surprised when I said how profoundly these events affected me and my life - as an American with no ties to the region and little knowledge of the countries (or even political awareness at that young age).  It has left me asking myself today - why?  Why did it matter so much to me 20 years ago?  And, why does it continue to matter (maybe even more so) to me today?  They are not easy questions to answer.

I think the revolutions of 1989 introduced me to my life.  They made me realize that every-day-people can accomplish things that might seem impossible - and sometimes even are.  They made me understand that things are not always as they appear and that people everywhere have something to teach me.  They also made me want to understand the people, politics, languages, and cultures that I was directly told I would never have an opportunity to know (see "The Wall is Gone"). They made me want to be a part of change - in both big and small ways.  

Maybe all idealistic notions from someone who is still trying to figure out what she wants to be when she grows up.  Yet for today, I celebrate.

"Hello Bucharest, I'm so glad to be here!"

This is what Michael Jackson meant to say when he greeted the people of Romania several years ago.  Instead he said, "Hello Budapest" (in reference to Hungary).  The Romanians told us that this faux pas occurred on the balcony of the "People's Palace" (Palace of Parliament).  (The Lonely Planet guide said that this incident occurred at the National Stadium.)  Regardless, I like the intended message - and agree - "Hello Bucharest, I'm so glad to be here!"

The People's Palace

Unlike the other countries in Central and Eastern Europe, Romania did not experience a Peaceful Revolution in 1989.  While the Communist regimes of neighboring countries fell one-by-one, as part of a domino effect begun with the opening of the Berlin Wall, Romania's leadership clung to power.  This changed in December 1989 when dictator Nicolae Ceausescu and his wife Elena were forcibly overthrown and executed.  

The People's Palace, which today houses the Constitutional Court, Chamber of Deputies, etc. was an example of Ceausescu's excesses.  It is the second largest building in the world in surface area (following the U.S. Pentagon) and is complete with multiple halls, a dizzying array of chandeliers, and marble at every turn.  See for example, custom-built "his" and "her" staircases for Nicolae and Elena, which were re-built 5 times to ensure proper proportions.

After hearing about bloody revolts, cults of personalities, and great hardships to the Romanian people, it was time to try something on the lighter side.

I liked this message in particular:

While I have to admit, this was not necessarily Romanian fare, I was not up to joining my colleagues for a lunch of  "bear" as I already had my ”Wild Game” experience.  Instead, I had the following (minus the cheese).

We also went to Bucharest's oldest beer hall. Well worth the visit.  There I tried to order a chicken and vegetable wrap - minus the chicken.  The answer was simply no.  No discussion, no alternative, just no.  It actually made me laugh.  "Just order what is on the menu."  Will do.  A House salad it is.  (I really wanted to visit Casa Satya in Bucharest. How many restaurants advertise themselves as "Alchemy for Body and Soul?" The menu even gives suggestions for ordering for your health.  Guess I will need to make another trip!)

Overall, a lovely time spent in Romania.  Still shaking my head about how 20 years have passed, how much has been accomplished, and how much more needs to be done.  Bucharest.  I thank you.