Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Harping in Heat

(Is anyone else ready for fall?  Don't get me wrong, I enjoy summer, but the heat doesn't seem to be dying down, and I want to cozy up with a good book, blanket and 60 degree weather.)

Lately, I've spent a lot of time consoling myself.  Anniversaries tend to do that.  It's almost like New  Year's, but instead of feeling elated with a fresh start, you're reminded of the same stagnant place you've been in for the last two years.  You imagined that things would be different by now, that you wouldn't be at that same restaurant, living the same routine life (going home doesn't help this at all) and instead of moving forward, you end up crumbling under the pent up pressure that you've put on yourself.  And then you breakdown.  Several times.  Per day.

I've spent all my mental energy expecting my life to go a certain way, that I've completely missed out on what's been happening all along.  Or what could be happening.  I like to think that I have control over things, because then, I'm in charge of my life and no one else is responsible for how it goes, except for me.

The only problem with that, is it will drive you mad.

And after the madness, comes solace.  You find out you're not the only one who feels that way (definitely, not the first) and that the people around you are there to help, if you only ask them.

You remember to breathe.  That it's okay to take a break.  It's okay to not have all the answers.

Your life will go, as it is meant to.  It may sound ethereal and new age, but often times, we see so clearly where our life is headed, that we miss out on the people, places and opportunities that are right here.  Sometimes life will guide you in an unexpected way, and your only job is to allow it to happen and adjust your route.  Chances are, when you let it go, it will happen.

Listen to yourself.  In this town, it's far too easy to compare yourself to others, and feel inadequate because you don't have what others deem successful.  You have to find out what works for you, what success means to you, and not live by anyone else's standards or expectations.  Take a beat.  And make some granola. 



'Give Yourself A Break' Granola
2 c rolled oats
1 very ripe, mashed banana
1/2 c chopped almonds
1/2 c chopped walnuts
1/2 dried cherries
1/2 raisins
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 c agave (or honey)

Pre-heat oven to 350∘Combine the oats, cinnamon, nuts, dried fruit (whatever you have in stock), then add in the banana, followed by the agave.  The banana acts as a binder, and if you're sugar conscious, you could just use that without the agave/honey.  The dash of salt, brings everything together, making all the flavors pop.  Once you've combined the ingredients, spread it onto a metal sheet, and place in the oven for 15 minutes, or until golden-brown.  Let cool, and enjoy how ever you like 

.:Anais:.


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