Sunrise Sourdough Bread

The sun, the sun, I salute the sun, I open my heart to everyone. The sun rises and the sun sets, the whole world in my heart rests.

A fire in the wood stove, a sweet sun salutation and “cranberry orange nut sunrise sourdough bread”, it doesn’t get much better than this on a cold morning.

                           
Sourdough bread, one of my many passions. Several years ago I was given the gift of a starter. It was one of those friendship breads we so often get. We make a loaf and give loaves away then usually forget all about it. Well this time I decided to keep the “mother” alive. I tweaked the recipe a bit and spent months baking a basic boule’, without any sophisticated equipment, not even a baking stone. It was pretty good but I knew it could be better.

Time passed then one day, a friend told me about baking in a cast iron dutch oven. And as they say, the rest is history. I fell in love. Wow, crisp chewy crust, moist tender crumb! Fresh out of the oven it delights all your senses. A sight to behold, oven spring rises the dough perfectly and the crust splits and cracks beautifully. It smells lovely and sings to you as it cools. And come to find out sourdough is actually good for you, the wild yeast predigests the grains reducing the glycemic index. It is healthy for the intestinal tract, full of beneficial bacteria. After years of baking a basic bread and biscuits, I decided it was time for a little adventure. Time to step out into the world of creative add ins.

A breakfast bread was what I had in mind. I make a no knead sourdough so I stirred up my starter, added dried cranberries and orange peel, along with the salt, water, and flour. I set it to rise overnight. Turning it out onto my cutting board in the morning I gently folded in some pecans and gave it a quick shape. The loaf rested while the pot heated in the oven for an hour. Very little hands on work is involved in sourdough baking. The no knead recipe takes only 5 total minutes effort divided in 1 minute increments here and there. Time and love is all it needs.

Yummmm, bread baking feeds me, body and soul. 

KH

The Snowy Day and the Lucky Duck

The Snowy Day, a puppet show

We rarely see snow in south Louisiana but that doesn't stop us from dreaming of the fluffy white stuff. We imagine ice crystals dancing in the air and sparkly snow blanketing the earth, so that's how we set our stage for this seasonal story. In this tale Elf is excited about the snow and is determined to get his friend Reindeer to come out and play. Elf is the kind of person who intends to live on purpose with passion, and I want to be like Elf when I grow up! 

Reindeer, cozy in his bed, stubbornly refuses. But best friends don't give up so easily and with a bit of persuasion finally Reindeer relents. Reindeer finds fault with one thing or another before eventually agreeing to a sled ride down the hill, but only if Elf is right there with him. They climb aboard the sled and head down the hill. Unbeknownst to Reindeer, Elf falls off. Reindeer is having a grand ole time til he realizes Elf isn't with him. Upset he starts to trudge home. Elf eagerly joins him and Reindeer soon settles down admitting he did actually enjoy himself. Over warm cups of cocoa they share the adventures of the day. 

  

Creative crafters and their Elf puppets

We always end our puppet shows with a puppet craft and this cute Elf was perfect. With brads attaching his arms and legs he was movable, ready to tell a Moving Tale. As storytellers and librarians our passion is promoting literacy, inspiring children to express themselves through story. Puppets are fun tools to encourage a child's imagination. 

Moving Tale; Kathe and Melanie, tandem yoga storytellers

The Lucky Duck

If you have a friend who can coax you out of your comfort zones you are one lucky duck. They get us to try new things. I am a lucky duck in more ways than one. I work with my sister who is also my friend. We encourage one another with a playful shove now and again. Months ago Mel and I registered for Mahabhuta II, a three day yoga festival held in Pensacola each November. Mel wanted to try Aerial Yoga. It looked fun but...I must say I was initially reluctant. Kinda like Reindeer, comfortable in my cozy yoga routine. But I figured what the heck, and we signed up. I trusted it would be an adventure and believed it would be entertaining even if I decided to sit back and just watch. So I let my concerns go. 

In Aerial Yoga slings are attached to tree limbs and you must trust the sling to hold and support you. Much the same way we must trust life. Trust comes from a deep knowing that we are here for a purpose. Do we believe we are supported? Do we believe there is a source bigger than ourselves that upholds us? Without belief we cannot do anything. Everything starts with believing, believing in ourselves, believing in our abilities. 

Once in the sling you have to rely on yourself to move into the yoga pose. Then comes letting go, letting go of expectations. After you flip over you expect you’ll slip right out of the sling and fall on your head. Sorta scary, it can happen but fortunately for us it didn't. Not a solemn class that’s for sure yet yoga none the same. The sling allows you to take inversions and splits with effortless ease. Much like we hope to move through life. When we trust life, believe in ourselves, and let go of expectation life unfolds in just this way, with effortless ease. 

Om Shanti

Swamp Cat Slays a Dragon

Hot dry heat beat down on the bottomland woods. The summer sun has burned up Swamp Cat’s stored energy. She is long and lean. Bedraggled she rambles the rugged route beside the brown bayou, its surface warm like café au lait. The cool shade of the cypress calls to her, come…be at ease.  She rests under the boughs; rusty leaves fall as a new season approaches.

High Lunge hands in prayer

Swamp Cat has remained in the deep of the bottomland woods all season, fending off intruders. Cunningly they approached, lurking about and hiding in the stumps and hollows. Swamp Cat suspected dragons. She felt their fiery breath but had not seen their faces. Elusive they did not show themselves. Tracks in the dry earth, and a frightening roar sounding in the dark of the night told her of their presence.  

High Lunge with a twist

Swamp Cat determined to slay the dragons, one at a time. Weary of their menacing ways, she prepared. She sharpened her claws and climbed the tall pine. Here her vision has always been clear. She spotted one. It was behind the wide old oak, its gnarly roots disguising a knotted tail. She balanced on the edge of the limb. It moved but remained sturdy. She had to trust her vision. She had to trust her power.

Crescent lunge

She leapt. Pouncing upon him, they toppled in a heap. He was scaly and rough. They twisted and turned. Swamp Cat landed on her feet. They looked upon each other, eye to eye. She saw him for what he truly was.  He hung his head. Through unspoken words he knew he must flee. This is her home and she wants to live free. 

Melting Heart

Running from dragons does more harm than good. It may be a short term fix but feelings have a way of catching up with us. They hide and lurk, breathing fire. However, when you are courageous and confront your dragons you’ll often find the strength you need to deal with them.  Recognizing our dragons allows them to be transformed.  Be they doubt, discouragement or simply the dreary wearies, once we see them and feel them they release their hold on us, at least temporarily. They may return but the quicker we recognize them and come to know our power the quicker we can respond, sending them on their way. 

This is where true freedom lives.  

Om Tat Sat

I'm Pickin' up Good Vibrations

Everything on the earth has a vibration, an energy, people, animals, plants, even rocks. The energy of a gemstone is metaphysical, that which goes beyond the physical. Metaphysics includes that which the physical and scientific world cannot define but knows exists. Rocks, crystals, and gems are powerful. 

Their power lies in how we think of them. I like to think of them as reminders. Not only are they beautiful but each time we touch one, see one, think of one we can be reminded. I like to use affirmations. Affirmations help me focus my thoughts. Remember, quantum theory tells us thoughts become things. The librarian in me has been doing research on and off for years on the attributes of gemstones, so I decided to gather up a few pieces of my jewelry and see what was what. Now each time I wear one of these lovely pieces  I am reminded to allow the energy of Mother Earth to give me her gifts.

Choose a piece of your jewelry, see what it has to offer you. Perhaps you too will pick up good vibrations. In love and light, Mahalo, I serve.

Diamond: I am aligned with the Divine, a reflection of Love and Light.

Purity, devotion, unity, dedication, abundance, clarity

Psychologically imparts fearlessness and fortitude, stimulates the imagination.

Mentally provides a link between the intellect and the higher mind.

Spiritually allows the inner light to shine.

Message; “I display brilliant energy, reflecting purity, abundance, and devotion. I welcome you with grace and an open heart. In unity there is love.”

Garnet: I am focused. I know thoughts become things.

Creative, focused, passionate

Psychologically sharpens perceptions

Mentally dissolves limiting beliefs

Emotionally bestows self confidence

Message; “I am here to help you realize your creativity. You are passionate being. I remove your fears and remind you your thoughts create your experiences. Stay focused with an attitude of gratitude and watch with astonishment as your dreams manifest.”

Emerald: I am joyful, I see clearly.

Ensures physical, mental, and emotional equanimity, unity, patience, joy

Psychologically imparts inspiration

Mentally promotes clarity and truth

Emotionally enhances joy

Message; “I honor your heart’s essence which is Divine Love. From thoughts to manifestation our energies join to deliver the highest good. I compel you to walk with grace the illuminated path of love. All you require and desire is yours as you focus on service.”

Sapphire: I am serene and wise.

Aligns with the physical, mental and spiritual planes, increases serenity and wisdom

Psychologically helps realize truth

Mentally brings purity of thought

Emotionally releases confusion

Message; “I awaken your intuitive senses. Trust me. It is within that the seeker finds the road of purpose. I bring you calmness and serenity, with clarity and consciousness you fulfill your responsibility with joy.”

Jade: I am happy and healthy, wealthy and wise.

Offers serenity, wisdom and prosperity

Psychologically integrates the mind with the body

Mentally soothes the mind while stimulating ideas allowing you to act with ease

Emotionally aids in the release of irritability

Spiritually assists in awakening hidden knowledge of the Self

Physically cleansing stone, removes toxins balancing the fluids of the body

Message; “I offer the gifts of serenity, tranquility, wisdom and prosperity. “

Brown Jade; grounding, brings comfort and reliability

Green Jade; symbolizes peace and reflection, brings patience and prosperity

Pearl: I am graceful. My intentions are pure.

Offers harmony and grace, purity and integrity

Message; “I emerge beautiful and transcendent. Choose acceptance and compassion to realize harmony. Become infused with the Divine through self awareness.’

Amethyst: I am intune with the Source of Life. My life transforms with ease.

Enhances higher states of consciousness

Psychologically meditation and spiritual awareness

Mentally brings balance to the mind, calming or stimulating, helps one focus and be in control, connects cause with effect

Emotionally balances highs and lows

Physically tunes the endocrine system, strengthening the immune system

Message; “I am a link to the Divine. I increase awareness of infinite possibilities helping you to realize that Heaven is available NOW, HERE on Earth.”

Smoky Quartz: I am grounded. I let go and grow.

Assists in stabilizing spiritual energies as well as raising the vibration, help to release all that no longer serves you,

Psychologically relieves fear, promoting calm, dissolves negativity

Mentally gives clear insight, promotes concentration, alleviates communication difficulties

Emotionally centering

Message; “I assist in grounding and stabilizing your spiritual energies.  I increase the ability to release fears optimizing your potential.”

Hematite: I am secure. I trust my power. All is well.

Increase harmony and confidence

Psychologically boosts self esteem, enhancing the will, imparting confidence

Mentally stimulates concentration and focus, enhancing memory and thought

Physically strengthens the blood and draws heat from the body

Message; “I enhance feelings of stability and security, escorting you to new levels of self understanding. I increase optimism and willpower. Shift your perspective and increase trust.”

Turquoise: I am intune with the energy of the Heavens and the Earth. I speak the truth without fear.

Promotes spiritual attunement, enhances intuition and meditation, releases inhibitions allowing self expression

Psychologically strengthens the spirit and well being of the body

Mentally instills inner calm, aiding in creative expression

Emotionally stabilizes mood, stimulates romance

Physically defeats depression, protects against panic attracts

Message; “I combine the blessings of water and sky. I reflect the beauty and bounty of this life. I embody the oneness of Heaven and Earth. Use me to speak your truth, heal your heart, free your soul, and move forward without fear. Ask for power and guidance and I will heed your call.”

Agate: I am balanced. I am stable.

Balance emotionally, physically and intellectually, stabilizing energy. Harmonizes yin and yang. Stabilizes the aura and chakras

Psychologically facilitates acceptance of one’s self. Aids in self-analysis and perception.

Mentally improves concentration, perception and analytical abilities

Emotionally overcomes bitterness, healing trauma

Spiritually raises consciousness and links to the collective consciousness. Encourages quiet contemplation and assimilation of life’s experiences.

Message; “Time immemorial circulates within me. I assist you in finding wisdom, confidence and self expression.”

KH

A Moment of Repose

A Moment of Repose with the Moon in Capricorn

The table is set. An eyelet edged cloth covering its scarred surface. A shiny silver platter sits polished and gleaming. The crystal placed just so. A bouquet of thyme, lavender, and rosemary are assembled. I light the candles and wait; the guest is soon to arrive.

She comes, following the Bright One whose grace reveals hidden truth. Her energy is powerful yet gentle, a soft glow illuminating expressions and emotions. She opens the door joining me for a peaceful and tranquil interlude.

I offer her a bit of thyme. She tells me I must trust myself, to align my feelings with my life’s purpose. I must find the strength and courage to receive the support and nurturing I need. I nod acceptance.

She pinches a spring of lavender releasing its fragrance. To purify my sense of duty and obligation, she claims. I must find balance, releasing all that I am not responsible for. The aroma is sweet.

Subtly she withdraws, leaving a portion of her power. Looking on me and smiling. I gather the rosemary and clutch it to my heart. I vow to remember, to live in joy, knowing that dreams do come true. 

Om Tat Sat. 

KH

The Peddler and the Impossible Dream

Melanie

A Moving Tale presented “The Peddler and the Impossible Dream” as part of the summer program Dig into Reading. Kids discovered the treasure of believing in their dreams during this interactive yoga storytelling session for 5-12 year olds.

Kathe

Mel and I were thrilled when more than we expected turned out for this session. We began with full breaths, gathering our thoughts so we could focus. Emma Jean helped us get centered and imaginations were ready. The adventure took us from a small cottage out in the country, down a wide winding river to a river bridge and a big city. As the story goes a young man has a dream, but the busyness of the day soon has him forgetting all about his dream. He begins to have the same dream night after night, which he believes is impossible to achieve. Finally he gives in and goes in the direction the dream tells him. Along the way enjoying the journey, only to arrive at his destination to find disappointment. Discouraged he starts for home and is stopped by a merchant who questions him. Dreams are silly he is told. The merchant precedes to tell him a similar story of a persistent dream of his own. The young man realizes why he was sent on the journey and rushes home. Once there, he discovers a treasure. 

We opened our hearts to our dreams as the peddler, strong and courageous with Warrior II. Next, gnarly roots came up out of the ground and we grew into old, old oak trees with tree pose. Shoving off from the shoreline we paddled our boats down the wide winding river in boat pose. Finally rounding the bend in the river, the river bridge came into view and we lifted into bridge pose. Returning home, we discovered our treasure and lifted our arms to the heavens with a sunbreath and proclaimed, “Nothing is Impossible!”

 What could be more important than discovering the treasure of believing in our dreams, having faith in ourselves, and knowing our intentions are for good? So often we think our dreams are impossible to achieve. We set them aside and forget all about them. Days, months and even years pass and one day the dream again reappears. When we take the time to dig beneath the surface, we can find strength and courage, true treasures. With these we can make a commitment to our self and step in the direction of accomplishing our dreams. Thank goodness, we live in a big, big universe where “Nothing is Impossible!”

Dream Big.

Moving Tale; Tandem Yoga Storytellers, Kathe and Melanie

The Breath in the Bluebonnets

Spring was just sleeping they often say, for when daylight returns the world comes out to play. The spring equinox brings us a balance of light and dark, waking the resting earth. Roused from slumber plants stretch and open their sleepy eyes. New life emerges taking its first full breaths. We too stretch and breathe ready for new adventures.

Drizzle followed us the length of the way, grey clouds hovering low overhead. Seeking release from the confines of winter we headed to the Texas hill country. Wildflowers were beginning to break ground and we looked forward to more than a glimpse of Bluebonnets and Indian paintbrush in addition to the fresh spring air. Yet where were the sunbeams we’d yearned to see? Good yogis know we ought to surrender to whatever is to be, thus should the sun refuse to shine we’d roll out our mats then settle in to enjoy family.

The next morning dawned bright and clear however and a cold biting wind greeted us. Bundling up, we set off eager as ever to discover our treasures. Bright blue faces with sweet little smiles covered the countryside mile after mile. Vivid orange splashes popped up here and there. We snapped photos in the blustery breeze. Drinking in the wild air we were filled with the energy of life.

Breath is life. In yoga the conscious control of the breath is called pranayama.  Prana means breath and yama means control. Pranayama affects our whole being; body, mind and spirit. This awareness of the breath brings us closer to controlling the mind and directs the energy of the body. Yoga science gives instruction to the practice of pranyayama; it is good to begin breath work in the spring. During spring the air is pure, neither too hot nor too cold. Wisdom is asleep in each of us and pranayama awakens this slumbering insight.

It is spring, time to wake up, the light welcomes me and I remember to breathe. 

KH