Thanksgiving 2021 - A Whole Lot of Gratitude

Gratitude

I will go out on a limb and state that in recent history, the word gratitude probably has not been used more readily, more often, or more deeply than in the past 2 years.  Our lives have been turned upside down.  Our faith, our health teetering on a pinhead.  Of course, there have been many other major obstacles, wars, oppression prior to 2020 but I dare say that in the past 30 years rarely has the entire globe had to look onto itself and search for help, grace and the ease of suffering all while finding gratitude in the most basic human need; our health.  

Some of us have experienced grave loss and pain.  Unimaginable grief and loneliness. Fear and terror wreaked havoc on our emotional tendons. I know my body would tense up with every ambulance siren I would hear. I would sense a physical shutter and dread. In order to hold onto sanity I began practicing gratitude that there were ambulances available to come to the aid of people. That no one I knew needed one. Before long that sound, although still alarming, didn’t have the same intense physically effect on me as once before. And so, hope and optimism spring forth.  The sun still rises. The moon still revolves. And another day dawns. And we breath, with or without a mask… we breath.

The simple glory of a sunrise. Spectacular in its power. May its warmth and golden glow surround and protect you.

My gratitude is ever present but has been more profound over these past 2 years.  I, we, feel so fortunate to have each other and been able to work to support staying in the home we love that has kept us safe and out of harm’s way.  A saying my dad has forever bestowed on us whether we were traveling afar, going to the grocery or simply taking a walk… harm’s way was always to be avoided.

Grateful for a backyard that allowed to be outdoors and social

And although all revenue avenues for me shut down during the shut down,  the downtime led to quiet time to reveal clarity. Reflection can usher in breakthroughs and new approaches to any situation. As so many people did during this time, we dug deep and asked ourselves why am I still doing this and how do I really want to use my time and talents? Can I find another path, a more meaningful journey?

Where do the various tracks of life lead you?

To reimagine and envision more, I often love sitting by the ocean’s edge. I stare out unto the open waters and embrace the sparkles that dance along the surface. To me, they have always represented possibilities, the vast amount of opportunities rushing toward me. All that is being asked of me is to grab onto them.

And just like the seagulls, all we need to do is survey the bounty and then dive in.

With the pandemic demanding change, I dove in head first designing a different path. I found an alternative way to use my talents and to prosper. One that brings me, and I dare say, others, joy.  So, I will count that as 2 gratitude notches.

As a private chef I offer weekly meal offerings.

Simple, delicious food.

And also sneaking in a celebratory cake.

My weekly outdoor stand that got it all started. Now I provide personal chef prepared weekly meals plus I sell baked goods online.
Check out my Shop Page with Granola, Nuts and more.

Weekly, happy customers.

Trying to always stir life with LOVE.

It’s evident that we are all thankful for our own health, safety and personal well being, as well as for all our family, friends and greater community.  I can add on that although we may still have tremendous division in the world, we have also become more compassionate as we watched so much pain and suffering. I pray for continued empathy, understanding and love towards one another, and the healing of our planet, on all levels.

This Thanksgiving week marks the first time I traveled since the lock down.  I had concerns and trepidation about venturing out beyond my little world but had faith that with all the precautions I continually take, I would be ok.  And I am. 

Although this may seem silly, this is my garb whenever I go anywhere. It’s my comfort level.

So my gratitude continues to grow with the great fortune of being able to spend quiet, sun filled time with my husband, JuanCarlos.  In a place that brings us peace, and is painted with wonderful memories of our togetherness. 

What can be more healing and calming than the warmth of the sun, followed by the ocean breeze and the soothing lull of lapping waves at the shore?  For me, this is paradise.

If you look closely, that’s me out there swimming in the blues.

On this day, this year, being grateful is deep, deep in my cells.  I wish for you peace and calm, health and happiness that fills you with hope and optimism.  

May you look to your left, turn to your right and notice the good that surrounds you is YOU, no matter where you travel.  You are the goodness in the world. 

Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving 2020 - A Test of Gratitude

I think we can all agree that 2020 has been a year that has tested us in many ways. We have endured long periods of isolation, some of it wrapped in fear, some of it clouded by uncertainty, but then lifted, virtually and spiritually, by the goodness and generosity of so many. Healthcare workers, essential workers, and beyond have put themselves out there providing relief, comfort and basic necessities for the mass population. I believe that their selfless acts have bolstered us, made us stronger, given us hope and belief in our good humanity. Simple acts of kindness, such as a wave and masked smile from a neighbor, or someone asking how you are doing have brightened our days. There is power in that. Power to overcome and endure. Power to help others. Power to know that the true meaning of being grateful is when we find gratitude in times as troubling as these of 2020.

Even when it seems we are beyond repair, there is beauty and strength to be found.

Photo credit: @lookasithappens.com

2020. Most commonly it symbolizes perfect vision. At the end of 2019, I often said that this year would be one of clear vision. I had no idea how truly meaningful that statement would turn out to be. Often times we see things through our own lens. Blurred by our own patterns. Blink and we see them more clearly. So much came into view this year. Some things were always there just bubbling under the surface. Some were suspected but not really understood. Others were revealed to us in global fashion; our fragility, our humanity. But it’s hard to deny that many realities that came into focus, just like 20/20 vision.

No matter what has transpired. No matter what erupted around us.

No matter our differences, our backgrounds, our color, shape or beliefs, I still believe we are all connected in a deep, meaningful, spiritual way. We are all made up of the same energy. All breathing the same air. All rumbling around the pumpkin patch trying our best to live a full, fruitful life. I don’t expect that these few words will heal wounds or alter opinions. They are simply my reflections on a year gone by. And to remind myself to be grateful in all things large and small, everywhere I find kindness, see helpfulness, share the joyfulness, and be mindful.

A bounty and co-mingling of beauty.

As this year’s Thanksgiving comes into clear view, it may look quite different from those of the past. Big gatherings may transform into a quiet day of reflection or a boisterous Zoom call with family near and far. For many, not gathering is a huge deal, and a great loss. For others, it’s another day that is marked as a holiday, and ok to sacrifice with some solitude for health and safety. Whatever it is for you, that’s ok. However, you find yourself this holiday, may it be filled with joy and safety, health and hopefulness and stirred with LOVE.

May our eyes continue be opened.
May our hearts be welcoming.
May we see with a truer insight, grace and gratitude for our many blessings.
May hope spring eternal.

Thank Fullness

I’m really digging this idea of posting my gratitude on Thanksgiving instead of a recipe. At this point, you are already in the thick of cooking up a storm and a food recipe would be a bit too late. Although, I suppose this could be considered a recipe of sorts. One without food ingredients or instructions, but a recipe for living thoughtfully, gratefully and lovingly.

I usually pause daily with grateful glee, but I do enjoy looking back on a yearlong’s journey of gratitude to feel the magnitude. I count my entire family’s accomplishments as part of my blessings because they create such joy in my life. So, here goes another acknowledgement for all of life’s waves washing upon our shores.

And as always, I am grateful for family and friends, health and abundance but I like starting with my favorite bunch of achievers - my nieces and nephew.

Gabrielle Brooke

My oldest niece, with a sharp eye for design, decor, and beauty is out there paving her way and turning heads with her multitude of talents. She consistently wows and impresses at her job at Traditions, producing successful marketing campaigns and in-store events with proven, quantitative results. The owner was so impressed with the store’s overall success and increased business that she took the entire staff to Paris to celebrate. Gabrielle, amongst great works of art, furniture, culture and food. A perfect mix.

Gabrielle Brooke in chez Paris!

Gabrielle has garnered such great exposure that it has attracted the attention of other companies in need of marketing and social media presence. Her entrepreneurial spark was lit this year as she took on private clients, in addition to her full time job. She’s always willing to lend hand or good advice, as I can confirm since she has guided me through the social media quagmire. With a blend of kindness, poise and strength, instinct and resourcefulness, she has what it takes. I fully expect her to head up her own firm, using her intelligence, grace and charm.

And a last minute gratitude addition; she will be closing on the purchase of her first home before year’s end. WooHoo!

Holiday Sales Event at Traditions

Social Media and Marketing Manager, Gabrielle

John Joseph
After going above and beyond, doing an awesome job at a start up company last year, John gained invaluable experience that helped him branch out and build his own brand, Sauc. He is also in process of launching a second brand, John & Tom's. From the NextGen Summit to Burning Man, he is an adventurer putting himself in places to seek knowledge. Through research and travel, he sought out experts to help him grow his company.

But more impressive is how he grows, always thoughtful in the things he puts forth into the world. His entrepreneurial spirit soared this year, as he navigated through the business world in the most gentle, giving way. Helping others and always putting good energy out in the world. Watch out world, we have a serious do-gooder on our hands. Thank goodness.

Michella Rae

Allow me to introduce you to the next Erin Andrews… Michella is taking every opportunity to put herself in scenarios to be seen and heard in her field of Communications and Sports Reporting. She garnered a kick ass internship with Fox Sports this summer. Normally, interns just assist, watch and learn. However, Fox Sports was smart enough to take notice and be so impressed with her abilities that they had her conducting on-camera interviews, reporting and field producing. Back at school, she is shooting, editing and conducting post game interviews for IMG Media, which covers all of Georgia’s sporting events. Michella has some of the most natural on-camera talent I have ever seen. Her sports knowledge, research ability, confidence and sheer star power continues to soar. I’m always blown away with her poise and professionalism. Check out a clip below and watch out for her on the sidelines of the SuperBowl one day!

Gianna Marie

Big things happening for Gianna in her 3rd year at Binghamton as she excels academically and socially. She moved into her first apartment, and independent living, which also meant cooking for herself. She loves telling when she’s making one of my recipes or a pasta dish that we made together. And during her breaks home, she always finds a way to carve out a time to spend with me. Warms my heart, to no end. Her gentle soul and caring propelled her to do volunteer work with animals. She is so good at taking care of those in need, whether two or four legged. I know about the former, as she helped me big time this summer with projects big and small. She is majoring in anthropology with a minor in forensic health. Gianna took on the extra credit by working directly with her professor on an independent study of the analysis of bones. Fortunately, no real bones in this photo. CSI, leave a spot open for Gianna Marie.

Melanie Nicole

Mel graduated from HS and received a Senior Honors Award in Foreign Language. After years of begging, she finally got the dog she always wanted. Charlie makes her smile, for sure. Tons of schools visits lead her to chose the small college of University of Scranton which has proven to be an ideal fit for her. So in August, with Charlie along for the ride, she headed off to Pennsylvania where her focus is criminal justice/pre-law. Mel immediately made a slew of new friends and is rocking her first year of college like a champ.

Nicolette Grace

She may be the youngest in the family, but she is a big achiever in her own right. While juggling two highly intense and competitive sports, soccer and lacrosse, she also received straight A’s in her sophomore year in HS. She is a dedicated team member, a top defender and captain of her soccer team. She leads by example with her strong work ethic, making it easy to see why she is loved by her coach and peers, and by me! It’s because of her natural leadership qualities that she was chosen to take on the role of coaching the 5 year olds’ soccer team. She is bright, and funny, but more importantly has the strongest sense of morality and doing the right thing even when it’s not popular. Nicolette is driving, yes driving and doing very well, taking it as serious as she does everything she tackles.

My siblings and parents…

Alyssa

After decades of hard work, she is thinking about the next stage, and how to work and play at the same time. That idea transformed itself in purchasing a vacation/work-from-home place in Boulder CO. Hard work and determination paid off. So happy for her on this next chapter, where she can explore nature with a healthy work life balance.

Jill

Traveling like George Clooney in the movie “Up In The Air”, she had some awesome opportunities of visiting more than NYC this year. Her travels took her to Los Angeles, Switzerland and Phuket, Thailand. Although more air time keeps her away from her family, she did get a chance to spend quality time with our brother, Robert, in LA, with her co-workers in Thailand, and was blessed to hang out with my favorite animal, the elephants.

Robert
Continuing his career as a screenwriter, he finished rewrites on a script about a rags to riches true story about Fernando Montanyo, who emerged from the slums of Buena Ventura to dance in the Royal Ballet of London. Robert’s passion
for capturing stunning imagery is ever present, including location photography he shot as he gears up to make an independent feature about a murder that took place in Amish country.

He also started his own business as an astrology reader. He has deep interest in this subject and pure desire to help others navigate the celestial energizes. His research and knowledge are incredibly on point and valuable. He has guided me through some interesting astrological times, steering me in the right direction. Check out his instagram @thestarscience

Adrienne & Gene

This year marks one year since my Mom’s knee replacement AND exactly a year later my Dad got a new knee of his own. Talk about timing. Now, between them they have two good legs to stand on and ton of good health.
We couldn’t be more fortunate. They also traveled to Miami for their annual winter retreat, and to NC to visit Jill, Bobby and the girls. We are looking forward to watching them take many painless walks together.

These two enjoying a gift certificate from their grandson, John, to their favorite eatery in Miami, Harry’s Pizzeria

JuanCarlos

My talented husband landed one of the biggest clients he has ever had - The Waldorf Astoria renovation. Of all the signage design companies in the world, ribbit, inc. was chosen. And wisely chosen.

I couldn’t be prouder. And worth celebrating.

This year several other cool projects came knocking on ribbit’s door. Some smaller like H Club in LA, and others bigger like The New Wild Dunes Hotel and The Waterfront in Charleston, SC.

Leap frog! LEAP! You have always been my prince.

As for me, being a part of my family and framily is such a joy.

I have been blessed with work that continues to feed my love of food and entertaining, as well as in the production world. I feel honored that so many of you enjoy my blog. And I am continually grateful to those who buy and read my books… and then take the time to thank me like these two young readers!

On that note, my biggest accomplishment this year was taking the leap, Thinking first, then jumping to pitch my children’s book series Think then Jump as a TV series with my friend, Stephanie Kontzamany/Skala Connections. We went to this year’s Kidscreen Conference and met with several interested parties, but it was the BBC who showed interest in developing a pilot for a potential TV series. This was one of those overnight successes that took a decade. Definitely a lot of Thinking before Jumping. It’s still a long road ahead to see what transpires but I can’t begin to tell you the triumph and gratitude I feel in reaching this point and receiving such kind words about my books, the stories, the illustrations. There literally are no words to express what this means to me.

Stephanie and I heading into NYC to meet with the BBC about funding a pilot for The Grumpy Frog!

Then I had the most unbelievable experience of working in a prep kitchen for a James Beard Award winning restaurant group. Can you say “pinch me, now, I must be dreaming.” What a joy it was to wake up early to make the donuts, as they say. I didn’t actually make the dough or fry them, but did some of the decorating. I had my daily pastry duties and learned so much from Chef MJ, and am forever grateful to the executives who granted me this opportunity. I had no idea how much I would truly love this.

The kitchen team

Donuts, extraordinaire

Chef MJ and me. I adore her!

I was also super fortunate to be able to celebrate a special birthday with my dear, best friend Emilce in the South of France. Taking time to celebrate with the ones we love… a gratitude ricochet.

And as if all that weren’t enough, this year I also hit year 13 of good health. Each year another reminder of how blessed I am for surviving and thriving.

As much as the big accomplishments are a wonderful to rejoice, and easy to recognize, it’s the small ones I like to focus on. One, because they force you to dig deep to see the blessings in the small gifts. Two, because they actually come more often, daily even. Like the beauty of a body of water as it reveals itself upon reaching the peak of a bridge, or the burst of color in floral arrangement that came together just as it was envisioned, or the love that is felt when a text arrives from a friend reaching out with gentle support.

I am fully aware at how the world we live in can seem bleak. So much destruction, so much bickering, and so much grief. But if we neglect to appreciate, and cling to good, then it will be difficult to get through the harder times.

So I focus on those. So many grateful moments. So many positive blimps in day. So much to make me smile every moment. I, too, need reminding of all that. With my super support system showing me so much joy, they help me flip the switch off on negativity and see the light.

May light shine on you. May it be bright and joyous. May it be filled with gifts you need to be your truest self. May you be the light to others, and shine brightly today and each day. Light of love.

Thankful... Again

With each passing year my heart grows with more gratitude.  My life filled with more and more blessings, and wonderment.  That's not to say that there aren't speed bumps and detours along the way.  Hell, yeah there are, but in the grand scheme, there is so very much for which to be thankful. And I choose to focus on those, and even view the speed bumps as extra caloric expenditure to pull myself up and over...another benefit! 

I try to count my blessings daily and in every way imaginable.  From the sunshine that warms me up, to crisp Fall air that fills my lungs, to getting a seat on the train away from the person coughing to all the obvious ones of happiness and health friends and family. And so, I especially look to family this year, where accomplishment and joy were the name of the game.  We rejoiced in all things big and small.

Let's get started with my favorites. My nieces and nephew. 

Gabrielle Brooke
Determined to find the right career opportunity, she searched and found a great fit at Traditions in Charlotte. As she finished her first year there, she truly made her mark and presence known including a year long anniversary campaign that showed huge improvements in business, created new exposure and increased revenue for the company. Bringing her own style and smile wherever she goes.  What a difference one rock star can make. 

Me and G (Proud aunt showed up in Charlotte for support one day!)

John Joseph

Achieving similar professional accomplishments, he turned an internship at Tribute into a job, then took this small start up company by storm.  His adventurous, 'I can do anything' spirit  increased their presence in the marketplace, as he took on new levels of responsibilities, meeting entrepreneurs, movers/shakers, all the while embarking on his own business line, consistently staying true to his social consciousness and gentle spirit.  Truly paving his own path with grace and gumption.

John, on the right with colleagues meeting entrepreneurs and industry shakers.

Michella Rae
Rocked it a college firing on all cylinders.  From being a leader in her sorority, to taking no prisoners athletically in lacrosse, to shining academically, and forging her path as on-camera talent.  She's a natural and a powerhouse in all she takes on.  Take a gander at her interviewing skills here.  This was one of her first on camera interviews.  What poise and knowledge.

Michella interviewing the lacrosse MVP.

Gianna Marie
In her second year at my alma mater, Binghamton, excelling academically at a school that is among one of the best.  Her caring, gentle spirit and love for animals is steering her in the veterinary direction. She also resurrected her love for dancing, showcasing her talents performing choreography by a senior in the performing arts school.  Check her moves out, front and to the left in the video below.  Talent and emotion that comes from deep within.

Nicolette Grace
She has become quite the adult and chef. With all Jill's travels, her self reliant style has her cooking meals from Fresh Chef that any adult would envy.  She started High School and finished her first semester of honors classes with straight A's, all the while she continued to kick serious butt as a soccer champ, literally ripping in the winning goal on a free kick from 40 yards out (video below).  A young woman's strength in all areas pushing forward and making her mark!

Melanie
A senior in H.S. with honors and embarking on college while still exploring and excelling her talents in the art world.  She is also a skilled writer and thoughtful young woman.  Her natural talent and skill are impressive.

Mom/Dad
My mom has a new knee and a new lease on life.  My dad, ever young, helping her through her recovery.  They are our rocks.  They are always there when we need them and ready to show up at any event. Living life fully and with love.

Seriously, they are amazing.

Robert
My brother came back to NY to accomplish a handful of things. Among them helping my mom with her recovery while he researched and wrote a complete new screenplay.  His writing and creative talents never cease to amaze me. We all loved having him around.  Honoring his no photo policy.  Just know he is as handsome and healthy as ever.

Alyssa
My sis, with grit, dedication and determination that boggles my mind, endured her 9th marathon and 7th NYC one. Running with 51K people, she finished with a time that ranked her... Get this:

• 8% overall, yes out of 51K crazy sweaty peeps
• Top 3% of ALL women 
• Top 1.25% in her age group.  Crap this is elite.

Check out the video of her whizzing by.

Jill
As my other sis climbs the corporate ladder, her work ethic and stamina astounds me. She completed a year at her latest promotion at Estee Lauder, making a difference from here to Europe to Asia.  While she jet sets around, she always putting family first, as her girls know well. She never knew she was such a good juggler. Another huge accomplishment, which might seem insignificant to you all, but was huge around here...

She made it home for dinner one night by 6:30pm. 

Juan Carlos
Continues creating branded signage programs for the hospitality industry that stand out as beautiful and unique.  His latest work on the historic landmark property, The Beekman, proudly garnered much acclaim and attention.  Big bonus... he loves me.

As for me, I count all these joyous moments among my blessings, and being in a family so accomplished.  I also feel fortunate to be part of a great team at Despaña.  We are a diverse group, but right now we are charged with a strong management team made up of WOMEN!  You gotta love that. 

Feeling grateful for the few productions gigs this year which were fun and helpful $$.  My blog fills me with great joy, as you all send me wonderful notes and comments that keep my spirits bright and charge me with motivation to write and share my stories, recipes, entertaining ideas.  My children's books continue to sell. And above all, I am forever and always grateful for the good health of my family and myself.   

So, as we take a moment to reflect on what is truly important in these times when the TV news cycles have our heads spinning and tempers flaring and wondering where morality and decency have gone, I recommend a breath, a moment to inhale deeply and slowly.  Take in all the small milestones. Step back, step within and remember that the external swirling of bull crap will spin away as your inner strength deflects it from landing on our porch.  Speak up when needed, and fight for what you believe to be true and honorable.  Do your part to make a mark in the world.  All the rest is just noise. Don't let it clutter your brain and confuse where you are going and what is your purpose.  There is beauty and goodness all around us.  Just like WonderWoman, we sometimes need a big metal shield to protect us from the flying debris of life.

May you find gratitude in the small things.  May you cull them together and be enveloped in how big and great their sum becomes.  May these tiny moments kiss joy onto your heart and fill you with LOVE.

Happy Gratitude Day... every day.

The Powerful, Pounding Pacific & My Year of Gratitude

I know you are wondering, where is the food image?  I get it, that has been the mainstay of this blog.  And although food takes the front seat, the real driver is LOVE.  From an appetizer, to table setting, from floral design to a restaurant review, from traveling and inhaling life, it's about living fully and stirring it all with love.  And so I share a moment of exactly that in celebration of the BIRTHday of this blog.  

A little over a year ago JC and I made our first trip to Chile.  We were so grateful for this opportunity as it was a relatively unplanned vacation that was spurred on by a generous invite from our friends. We felt even more blessed upon learning that this was not only the first time they were receiving guests in their Chilean country home, but actually the first time THEY were staying in their own home after renovations.  What an enormous honor and treat. 

The breathtaking view from our guest room of their home.

The home is perched atop the cliffside with the pounding Pacific below. Pounding being the understatement, as the ever constant rush of waves beats against the shore every minute, every second of the day and night.  To some this persistent commotion might be vexing but to me it was a soothing calm. I am a Pisces and a water lover. I love hearing it, seeing it, being near it, and most definitely being IN it.  I am in awe of water, and even more so of the Pacific.  She is relentless.

Her mighty force roars; crashing, smashing into the rocks, into beaches, into whatever it pleases. Raging with a haunting 'grito' (translation: yell)  "I, more powerful than you".  A roar of hisses, a roar of crashes, a whisper of foam.  

She screams out "Surrender to me, feel my might. I will wear you down."  But the rocks simply stand, and stand taller and stronger.  Not blinking or twitching or with the slightest concern.  They make no sound against the rushing rage. Stand strong. Stand your ground. Rock solid, now and forever.

I share this beauty of nature and my profound sense of appreciation for a year of adventure for the things I love and of being grateful.  Grateful for all of life's opportunities. Grateful to have loyal readers. Grateful for that moment in Chile,  listening to the mighty water as I sat and wrote and wrote and wrote, anticipating the launch of my blog.  Breathing in strength and belief in myself. So today in honor of the exact one year anniversary posting of this blog, a birthday on many levels, I say;  
May each of us stand tall in whatever force charges our way. With calming love and in full celebration, I wish for you to be as forceful as water and as solid as rock in all your life's journeys.