I am grateful all year for the blessings I have. This year has had its challenges. Living in the moment has been very important. To remember the good and let go of the bad. The Zen masters and Buddhist teachers are always reminding me of this. My friend Arik was an Akido master and he said to follow the flow, let things flow off of you. All excellent advice, especially in times like these.
I was going to do a top 10 things I'm grateful for but its too much pressure!. So here are just a few things.
My health of course. Being alive in this beautiful world. Each day is a blessing. We don't know how long we have in this lifetime so it is very important to appreciate every moment.
My family and friends. Without them the world would be very empty. This includes my fur family.Holidays can be stressful for some. Just remember that life is fleeting, enjoy your friends and family. Tell them you love them everyday. Its so important.
My customers who become friends. Without you I would not be able to have this blessed life I have. You give me purpose, inspiration, love, and sustain me. I love you and am eternally grateful.
Mother nature. I am a tree hugging dirt worshiper from way back. I get worse or better as I age. I love the trees and all they give us. The fungus who create a magical world under ground connecting us all with their mycelium. All of the animals and creatures who share their beauty and sustain us. All the flowers and plants medicinal and ornamental, who's beauty takes my breath away. To all the creatures of the water and sea and the water itself who gives us life. I am grateful for her patience with a humanity that takes her for granted. Give thanks today for all she gives us.
Music. Oh music. It takes you away. I wouldn't be able to create without it. It makes me laugh, makes me cry, inspires me, lifts me high. I am so grateful to all the musicians of the world who share their talent.
Art. Of course. What would the world be without art? A very cold dark place to be sure. I am grateful to all the artists of the world who share what they do. You are so brave and wonderful to share your most inner spirit with us.
I could go on and on here but I think you get the drift. Enjoy your time with family and friends this week. Yesterday my son called to get one of our family recipes. He's having a gathering at his house. Taking over the tradition. When I was younger we would have huge gatherings of friends and family over. I would cook for days. Here's one of our recipes.
Balsamic Glazed Sweet Potatoes
4 small or 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 inch cubes
1/4 cup maple syrup, divided
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil , divided
2 teas. kosher salt
1 teas. freshly ground pepper
4 large shallots, peeled and sliced thinly
2 Tbls. Balsamic vinegar
Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F
In a large bowl add sweet potatoes,2 Tbls of maple syrup,2 Tbls of olive oil, 2 teas. salt, and 1 teas. pepper. Mix to evenly coat the potatoes and arrange on a sheet pan. Roast until caramelized, golden brown and soft, about 30 minutes, depending on your elevation. It might take a bit longer in the mountains.
Meanwhile in a large skillet over med. low heat, add remaining 2 Tbls olive oil and the sliced shallots and saute until they start to caramelize, about 5 minutes. Add the remaining 2 Tbls maple syrup and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Lower heat and cook until until golden brown about 5 minutes. Add water a Tbls at a time if it becomes dry.
Add the roasted sweet potato cubes to the mixture , toss and transfer to serving dish. Yum!
I keep adding new work to the website shop each week and will continue to as I make it. Please go to www.ginnywolfstudio.com.
I'm also open at my studio Thursday thru Sunday weather permitting. I'm getting a new heater soon so will be in the studio on the really cold days. I'm so excited. In past years I just had my little space heater. On those really cold South Dakota winter days I would be forced to close.
If your planning on coming up be sure to call first to make sure I'm there.
Have a great holiday if you celebrate, If not have a great day!
Here's a great film by Patagonia. All of their films are fantastic.
One more. I just fell in love with this man! Very inspiring.
Until next time. Have a wonderful life!