Ring of Fire

Last night Solar Eclipse called the Ring of Fire, made its way to the pacific northern Hemisphere. From early morning on I had felt a purposeful and meaningful energy as I awoke, that energy of it’s calling lured me to a impromptu mid morning text session.  Sam whom I just started connecting with texted me “Solar Eclipse picnic on the beach at 5pm?”…  My response was “ Aww— we just bought tickets to see the Avengers”…. She responds. “ It’s a friggen Solar Eclipse I think the movie could wait!!”… Having only met Sam last week interpreted me as the type of “soul” who might be into chasing Solar Eclipses. This was talk of kindred spirits… and on one hand she was right, I am that girl—, but the one thing about growing up in Los Angeles is that more often than not, when these occurrences happen there is very little we can see, especially living on the westside, where a thick marine layer blocks most of these spectacular occurrences. We normally travel east when viewing star gazing meteor showers, and I am so rarely drawn to seeing these eclipses…, as it happens every year— knowing that we could hardly see them. But Sam had brought to my attention this Eclipse in particular was the magical one, having been named “ The Ring of Fire” in which the moon will be analogous to a black dime in front of a shiny penny, with a thin “ring of fire” — sunlight that streams around the moon. The sun would be down for east by the time this occurrence happens, so on the rarity it happens for our viewing pleasure in California— it was a must that we stop all, and enjoy a bit of this once in a life time experience… And that we did.

Just to be certain I did a quick search on this particular one… and to my surprise this WAS going to be one of the rarest viewings, as this the ring of fire won’t happen again on this side of the hemisphere for another 59 years or so.

We were suppose see the Avengers at 4:25… But now having learning this. I said to my husband, I have to move our tickets to the late evening as we are meeting Samantha on the beach at 5:30pm. My husband knowing that when I say things with so much certainty— he just simply agrees. He trust that whenever my intuition talks to me it’s almost as if it’s a “will” to happen.. Also knowing that my intuitive certainties bring out a bit of magic.

I texted Sam back “ Let’s do it ” and that I would tell a few people… The plan was set. I picked up a couple solar viewing glasses some picnic items and we were on our way.  Sitting with our friends on the beach who chimed in to this impromptu viewing, felt the phenomenonal energy…  the spirit was alive in us as truly this moment was a blessing! 

I woke up this morning with such happiness uttering the word eclipse as I opened my eyes, smiling and remembering that moment, knowing it will forever be embedded in my soul.  In hindsight and reveling in those moments I can now look back and say,  I am SO glad I listened to the ‘message’, received it, sent it out.  those who were there with me experiencing that sublime taste of our universe no doubt felt it’s magic.

This post is dedicated to Samantha, my husband, jason, deoshia, niles, perla, doran+ eddington, taryn + lee ( friends of Samantha) Thank you for saying “ Yes”….. and without any hesitiation or uncertainty… made it happen!! my fabulous yogi Kyra– how nice of you to run into our serendipitous moment.

 

May 20th, 2012– 5:55pm…

Coco Invites you..

Hello darling friends, I am here to announce my latest project!

As you may have heard, I’ve been in the realm of Chocolate for the past 9months, thinking perhaps of formulating

my own brand but realizing that just like lip balm making, it’s not easy to create your own product.

I was reminded of difficulties of this process while making my first few batches of raw Chocolate. While grinding cocoa nibs to get it’s paste like form, my grinder burned out dead, and then the Pyrex we were using blew up in my husbands face… Shattered pieces of glass everywhere even a piece hitting his eye…, luckily he was okay, but not exactly off to a good start.  I realized most inspiring chocolate makers don’t necessary make their own chocolate, but me— I am about the whole experience of learning and knowing what is in my product.

I’ve been a label reader my whole adult life… simply because I like good products, products that are made well. everything that I use, from the chocolate I eat to the brand of my face products, it has to come from a good source.

I have learned through the process of making things from scratch that fluidity isn’t an easy as I think it would be. I find the same process in my writings… I am very passionate about writing, It’s makes me happy, but I am not perfect. There are times when I’ve laid out a good story, then come to find out after I’ve posted it, that there are several typos… I suddenly I feel embarrassed calling myself a writer, but I have learned spiritually and thoughtfully, that living is about learning, and I will always be a humble student.

I am challenged and determine on every thing I do and make to be prosperous…, not just for me but everyone who is involved in my life, and I’m not necessary talking about money here…  more so about value, experience and overall abundance. I am one of those beings who is not attracted to competition, to me it’s an unnecessary flow of life. I’m believer that everyone you meet has some beautiful to offer and that could make for wonderful collaborations. I have met many in the course of my life, that have met a person or sparked an idea that is of value in light of business that I am in, or the social gatherings I bring, it’s something I know my personality relates to because for one, I am all about the connecting our kindred spirits.

I may not be a chocolate maker now, nor the most amazing writer,  but the wind can shift it’s course at anytime. the idea of Chocolate is still here… In fact it has hovered around me all these months and like all my grand ideas and epiphanies I realize how I can incorporate and streamline my thoughts leading me to the bigger picture.. Follow me??

The Chocolate Invitational is my latest series of intimate parties and gatherings. Along with chocolate tastings there bits of culinary delights, spirits, tea, wine, art, photography and beautiful music to get your in the euphoric spirits. Each event we will be donating proceeds to a special cause, each event will be surrounded by greenery and each event you by delight with the Chocolate…. It will be something unique and special as I am determine to find the right setting for each of these parties. We will be announcing them as we go. All parties will be a limited capacity— and will most certainly will be about attracting the savory, the succulent and the most divine human spirits..  Join us.

Our first event is Thursday June 28th–  We are just getting up to speed this week with social media— more news and info on when tickets sales will be announced.

http://www.thechocolateinvitational.com/

If you haven’t already— please go and “ Like” our page— there you will find more about our parties, sponsorship and contributors!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Chocolate-Invitational/277905665638584

During this process, I will be limiting my blog postings… So stay tuned on the Chocolate!  Much Love and Gratitude!

Did you say Chocolate?? oh yes I did!!

“All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt”. -Charles M. Schulz

Did everyone see that Big Bright Full Moon this weekend? As you know, the hubbie and I were in the woods, and while normally the woods gets dark quickly as the sun goes down, I was amazed how bright the moon illuminated the trees most of the night.

Now— as you know I am a woman who wears many hats?? If you know me,  then you know how I like to do things….  having my hands on a new fun venture is a must, as well as promoting my amazingly creative friends. These days I’ve been throwing down articles for WELO, working on my book of LOVE, promoting my husbands awesome headpieces, and whipping up some yummy lip balms. So, if dare to keep up, then you also know I’ve been tapping into the events circle working to create fashion, art, music parties here and there!

That being said– I wanted to share an idea I’ve been working on since last fall,  and while the “actual’ idea is still in the works, one branch from that idea is now here.

The event called, “The Chocolate Invitational”—  makes it’s debut on June 28th. The first of many….a series of intimate private Chocolate parties ( yes chocolate tastings and more!).  Ashley Walsh co-owner of Intentional Chocolate is bringing fourth some of her delicious chocolate pistols for a series of tastings!  Joplin Maccoll our music stylist and awesome DJ will be enchanting us with her tunes! There is so much more that will be happening— but wanted to share this tid bit.

We are so excited!!  Tickets are limited so be sure to keep checking my blog for the info! The first of many will start June 28th in Venice! Tickets, Website, Press, Sponsors, are all in the works and will officially be announced June 1st, So Stay Tuned!

http://www.intentionalchocolate.com

a Yoga thought

How was your Earth day weekend? 

I was thinking about my weekend specifically Elena Brower’s phenomenal class,the final class of the Tadasana Festival. In the moments after taking her class, I felt incredibly grateful and excited to have found my yoga practice at 24 years old. I have been practicing some 15 years, with a few years in between where I didn’t practice at all, only to continuously find myself back in that state of being.

Elena had said some very profound little messages during her class that really hit me. In life we get reminders, whether it’s through our friends, the places we go, or perhaps during a class… we must always be aware and open to hearing it.

What yoga has instilled in me is the practice of healing, and one must be must open and vulnerable before the process of healing can begin. We heal ourselves through this practice, because yoga is about focusing on the breathe…. once we find that connection we heal ourselves then we can heal others. It’s not something you find over night, but through years of experience, listening, and taking deep breathes. To some who truly don’t understand the process that one gets from yoga… I realized many do this as a form of exercise, but for me and what Elena voiced it was a reminder.  Practicing yoga doesn’t mean our fears are conquered or that our egos have diminished, we are a community that has opened ourselves to vulnerability.  I am truly blessed to have found this community so open and so vulnerable for all it’s offerings.  It has brought so much abundance, awareness, forgiveness, trust, magic…. and just like a downward dog, my hands and feet are deeply rooted to this earth… resting, rejuvenating and awaiting the next salutation.

After much thought about my weekend…. I saw this quote by Anais Nin, and while I am not following up this dialogue with a spiritual quote, this was perfectly insightful for this moment and this thought.

“You have a right to experiment with your life. You will make mistakes. And they are right too. No, I think there was too rigid a pattern. You came out of an education and are supposed to know your vocation. Your vocation is fixed, and maybe ten years later you find you are not a teacher anymore or you’re not a painter anymore. It may happen. It has happened. I mean Gauguin decided at a certain point he wasn’t a banker anymore; he was a painter. And so he walked away from banking. I think we have a right to change course. But society is the one that keeps demanding that we fit in and not disturb things. They would like you to fit in right away so that things work now.”

— Anaïs Nin

those who live in NYC are very lucky to have the beautiful teachings of Elena Brower! the class was also shared by another wonderful yogini,

Amy Ippoliti ( if I were in Boulder– I’d so be in her class).

http://virayoga.com/founders/elena-brower
http://www.amyippoliti.com/

The bu and the scenery

Superbowl for some but nature was number one. We couldn’t pass up being outdoors in nature on a day like today. We are having some amazing California warm sunshine in February. Over grown greenery with specs of wild flowers bursting with colors, covered the landscape. Sitting on top off the mountain, an eagle flew just above us, so close you can see the stripes of his wings. After hours of laughter and enjoyment, we headed down while the sun was setting.  took a few shots along the way… the shake it polaroid app for iphone is fun and great to capture the moment. there is no color manipulation on this app, but has it’s own filter.  colors of the rainbow radiated one by one changing every ten minutes until it fell into dusk.  

Solistice Canyon Malibu. “the bu” of “awesomeness”

wishing I had captured the eagle so close but enjoyed the moment instead-the was much after.

the chem trail on this perfect sunset. such a shame.

aaah… the ripples and texture of the clouds. incredible.

Brilliant setting… ten minutes after the sun went down.

Colors of the rainbow to admire.

the sea at this moment.  I called it ” Lavender Ice” !

It’s almost a full most but today just as lovely.

high five!!

Tonight my husband gave me the high-five and congrats on my ONE year anniversary of staying sober.  I marveled at the fact that it’s been a year. time flies when you’re having fun. This in fact is one gigantic accomplishment because it was something I never even thought I could do let alone wanted to do. I wasn’t an alcoholic or had a problem. I actually liked boozing and hanging out with friends getting cocktails.  I mean I can’t say there weren’t nights that made for a exhausting morning. liquor is hard on everyones body no matter what age, and I always considered myself a work hard play hard kind of girl.

A little over a year ago I started feeling a physical change, as if I was developing some kind of allergy to alcohol.  I felt physically sick not just with headaches but frequent colds and digestion problems. perhaps it was my age starting to set in? I am not sure, but I knew something needed to change.

There is a very different side of me that only a handful of friends truly get and understand. I am deeply spiritual person. I have spent the last 14 years of my life studying various eastern philosophies of nutrition and ways of life, so changing things up isn’t something that I was afraid of or couldn’t do. I actually really embrace change, and feel fearless in that way.

I have spent many years doing month long detoxes yet the thought of not drinking alcohol for an entire year never crossed my mind. When the idea to stay sober for a year came to mind, I knew then that this was going be a great learning experience and a tremendous spiritual practice.  As you get on in life, grow older, discipline gets tougher. It’s easy to lose sight of how important it is to cleanse our bodies.

It was important for me to change the course of my body’s habitual needs. Growing up in Los Angeles and being part of the entertainment business most of  my working life lead to some unsavory habits, and now that I was getting older I could feel my body not recovering like it use to. My social network has never slowed down, even when I got married. In fact it’s picked up the pace,  I seem to attract more friends being married than being single…

As the months of sobriety went on I could feel my physical self getting stronger, my mind clear and aware.  my memory sharp like an elephant. I even lost about 25lbs– I have fluctuated between 5-7lbs during the wintery months, but for the most part I trimmed down quiet a bit. I didn’t realize how bloated I looked until I saw past photos. I was probably looking that way for some time.  (much to my surprise)..

I could honestly say that not only did I lasted the year without a hitch, but it really did change me and my pursuit of happiness. and the craziest part about it, I kept on with my social life.  2011 was probably the most social year I’ve had in a long time. it’s like taking my already extremely social life and multiply it adding numerous festivals, art shows and birthday parties. not to mention the fact, out of all years, this was the year I decided to go to Burning Man for the first time . I even threw a 40th birthday party that was an all nighter!. I had a wild year staying sober while all my friends getting smashed around me. The fact that I didn’t hide away or became a complete anti-social just added to the punch.

I can’t deny there weren’t moments that were tough. friends smoking and slurring in my face started to get annoying?  the constant questioning, and feeling the need to stick up for what I was doing seem to hit some high notes. There wasn’t a whole lot of sympathy or praise, not that I was looking for any, but it’s nice when someone would say.. good for you. There were also many occasions I’d be left out of the mix, friends just stopped calling, because no drinking means no going out to bar’s. I realized it takes more effort all around to be sober person. I guess that’s why most people I talked to claim they could never do what I am doing unless they had a serious problem? definitely interesting.

I could go on about the insight to all of this?…. does it matter?

The simple truth is: I set out to do something and I accomplished my goal. I am pretty proud of that.

Oh dear, it’s been one of those weeks.

I don’t know about you, but this past week felt like one long never-ending week.  I felt like I hadn’t slept in ages and yet I was incredibly productive and my yoga practice seem to reach new levels of strength,  I was going through the motions exhausted. I did find time to organize my files from this past year so I can go into this year clear and organized. a steady stream of ideas were floating in my mind and having visions of what the year will be like hovered my brain waves.

January is my time to focus on what the year will mean. I take a much deserved time-out, and do things for me, listening to music, reading books, cooking, and having deep conversations with friends. the word “sharing” and “giving” was a vocal point of the past weeks conversation. giving me the understanding that sharing information will be a key asset to a year of success. people are shifting their core beliefs into something greater and openly sharing what they’ve learned to others in need.

If you have time next week make an effort to write out your intentions. again, the key is to stick to that goal. appreciate what your doing and give back to those who give to you. even if it’s just a connection. giving is not about receiving… it’s about giving and that’s it.

The chinese new year is upon us. The vibrant Water Dragon awaits…. it’s charisma will set you on fire!  In the most positive way I think it’s going to be one hell of a ride this year.

Happy Weekend!!

Tune in next week: I’ll have more little updates on shops, events and the chinese new year celebration. I’ll be heading downtown to do some shopping and event research. So check in!

Love the time off! Here’s to 2012

Wish those dreams alive!

Hello lovies! How was your holiday weekend? Are you ready for the NEW YEAR… 2012!!?  I am. Bring it.

If you’re an active reader on my blog then you know I am usually posting on the reg.  I decided to sink into the last remaining weeks of this year being reflective, being thankful and not writing as much until the new year. The holiday season can be chaotic for some. but for us my babe and I  don’t like to stress. We disconnect from all the hustle and get into the spirit of the holidays by being one with nature, hanging out with friends, supporting fellow artists, and being thankful for this incredibly fruitful year. It’s been a great year for us!! How was yours?

             Sparkle.

I wanted this opportunity to say:  May you have an AMAZING, HEALTHY and ABUNDANT New Year!!

This will be my last post until Jan 4th. 2012 (next week).  I am looking forward to exploring new ideas that have been swirling around me these last few months, but brewing in my heart the last few years.  Next year, the year of the Dragon is time to let it all shine.  If you are into making resolutions my advice is… be about it. I’m not into making resolutions and actually try and make a habit of “doing what I say I am going to do”.   I am a big believer in manifesting dreams but to me that also means doing what I say I am going to do.  Don’t give up or stop half way… going all the way makes anything much more tangible and real.  I promise you that.

So, In honor of that: here’s to manifesting a beautiful and abundant new year!! 2012 here we come. -Om Shanti Shanti

Build your Dreams.    

Winter Solstice Dream Rituals

HAPPY Winter Solstice… Shanti Shanti!

Rituals to make you clear your mind and allow you to move forward. my favorite was #2… you can read the rest here.

2. As it is written . . .

Write your dream on one side of a a piece of paper, then flip it over and write everything you think you need to do to accomplish it. Decide to pick one item each week from the list to do for the next 52 weeks. Find a special place to hang your list.

Before realizing it was Solstice… I was already writing ideas and dream up my new year plans:)

Tonight in North and Central America there will be a total eclipse of the moon coinciding with the winter solstice. This hasn’t happened for 456 years. If there ever was a night to declare your dream vision for the future and set it in motion with a ritual, then tonight is your night.

The winter solstice comes each year between December 21 to 23  in the Northern Hemisphere, and June 20 to 23 in the Southern Hemisphere, so you can do this every year as a way to start over and reboot your life.

Symbolic rituals can mark a transition to the new by clearing the mind and allowing us to move forward into the new.

Winter Solstice is a ritual in its own right and I think it’s an event worth making meaningful with our own personal dream ritual over something that is done on New Year’s eve.

Psychic Fortunes

Want a little prediction for the new year? Kimberly Berg is an energy reader and founder of psychicfortunes

Get mini, custom, psychic reading in a cookie for friends or party guests today!  She’ll be at the holiday event Last Minute Wishes @ Studio 1520

Psychic Fortunes is a gift that will last far beyond the moment without cluttering the home or environment.   www.psychifortunes.com

Amazzone Jewelry

We are excited for author Laura Amazzone’s Jewelry…  she’ll be gracing us at Last Minute Wishes Holiday Party! Dec 20- 6pm-11pm. Come join us!

Amazzone Jewelry~ Sacred Adornment
Deity Necklaces of Healing and Empowerment

Bejeweled manifestations of Goddess and non-patriarchal god energies that offer healing, empowerment, deep transformation, joy, love, and more!

http://www.lauraamazzone.com/

Radiance Movement

Last weekend I attended Radiance Movement run by Phannie Haver and Madison Moross.  I met Madison this year while at Vardo after a yoga class at Exhale. We had small conversations that stirred into bigger ones, chatting about her organization The Big P project. A collective organization based on shifting the paradigm in creating positive change in the planet. This was all to impressive… she looked so young, a baby, and border-lining a child of mine!! I just couldn’t believe someone that young cared about the planet?

So I asked…  Do you mind me asking how old you are? with her big beautiful gracious smile, she responded an old soul at 23.  It was then that I had hope in the generations after me. Since then I met the wonderful Phannie Haver her dance partner in crime, and together they created another bold community project called Radiance Movement.

A big scoop of the westside community, artist and their friends came together Saturday night for their opening.  I was incredibly inspired by their actions… two very altruistic forward thinking young adults who aren’t partying on a saturday night but doing something good for there community and themselves. bravo!

Here’s more info:  Please check them out on facebook by clicking here.  and you can also click here for their work on the BIG P Project. 

“Radiance Movement is dedicated to providing dancers with exceptional training while sustaining the body without injury, as well as making the joy and benefits of dance and meditative arts accessible to everyone in the community.

Our aim is to keep our movers well, and to cultivate wellness through movement. We believe that no matter what background, eperience, age or condition… we can all dance for life.

Together with our right-hand-man, Nick Ware, and as an extension of our not-for-profit project, The Big P Project, we’ve also created a business model aimed at giving back to the community and environment that supports us. We will dedicate 5% of our profits to a fund that provides class scholarships, minimize our environmental impact (according to the Big P Philosophy) and choose to maximize our partnership with socially-responsible organizations.”

BOX WATER… IS better!!!

Check it out.  I am a big supporter of  MY OWN BOTTLE company….  We are really making an effort to get rid of as much plastic as possible. It won’t be easy  but we are making it happen.

We found BOX WATER to be another super Kind invention! http://www.boxedwaterisbetter.com/

So far i’ve seen it at Wurstkuche on Lincoln in Venice, and Pizzanista in Downtown LA.??   Anymore out there???  Check out their site for more info!

Having our name etched  to my own glass water bottle… is pretty stylish if you ask me.  -om shanti!

Evolve to Solve

We watched a great documentary..  

2012: Time for Change. The film presents an optimistic alternative message to apocalyptic doom. The film focuses on the shifts of consciousness and flourishing a thriving society. Change is eminent, and the biggest shift in 2012 will come from people who strive to better their existence not run from it.   

play: on netflix!!
Luminaries : Sting, Ellen Page, David Lynch, Paul Stamets

Director and Producer: João Amorim

Blog: http://2012timeforchange.com/blog/

Holy Stick

My girlfriend Mirabella gave me a Palo Santo stick as a little gift for my birthday… I’ve been loving it’s scent especially coming into the fall.  It has a fine citrus aroma with underlying notes of frankincense.

Palo Santo is “Holy Stick” in spanish.  a natural wood aromatic incense used for centuries by the Incas and indigenous people of the Andes as a spiritual remedy for purifying and cleansing, as well as to get rid of evil spirits and brings in good luck.  It is often used by shamans in sacred plant spirit ceremonies, as well as for medicinal purposes.