SACRED SPACE

Each of us have a sacred space within and in the world~the place that feeds the mind, body & soul. My sacred space is to be in nature by a body of water~the ocean is my favorite destination, but I can be happy by a lake, pond or a stream. I cannot go very long without a visit to the beach in any season and feel so fortunate to live 10 miles from the Long Island Sound! What feeds your soul? Take a moment today to be there in your mind or physically if you are able. Namaste!

The Meaning of "Namaste"

The gesture Namaste represents the belief that there is a Divine spark within each of us that is located in the heart chakra. The gesture is an acknowledgment of the soul in one by the soul in another. "Nama" means bow, "as" means I, and "te" means you. Therefore, Namaste literally means "bow me you" or "I bow to you."(yogajournal.com)

 

 

 Photos by Kathleen Ho for Intuitive Designs

Feng Shui: Your Stove, Prosperity & Bread Baking 101!

     I mentioned in my previous blog that in feng shui, the kitchen (stove) is one of the most important areas of the home. Symbolically, the stove and burners represent the source of wealth in the home. Use all the burners, keep them clean and make sure they are all working properly to enhance family finances. Even though bread is baked in the oven and not cooked on the cooktop, I am going to share my favorite bread recipe. The wonderful aroma of bread baking and the custom of "breaking bread" with family & friends is one of the simple joys in life. 
     I searched online for a super-easy bread recipe that would have great texture and a golden crust to bake with my "aspiring chef" daughter, Casey. I had no idea that I would be able to bake a bread that is as wonderful to look at with it's golden crust as it is to eat and as good as any bakery around. I first found No Knead Bread on YouTube with NY Times Food Columnist, Mark Bittman, & Sullivan Street Bakery Owner, Jim Lahey. 

     We have been baking it almost every week since! Mix, let it rise, bake. It's that easy. Do not let the 18-hour rising time for the dough deter you. It's beyond worth it! Thank you Jim Lahey for sharing your recipe with the world. 

After 18 hrs

Turn it over into the dutch oven, seam side up

Done

Bon Appetit!
p.s. Change it up: sub 1-2 cups whole wheat, etc. 

I found it again on Martha Stewart's website where you can see the actual recipe and a video of Martha & Jim Lahey.