Friday, November 26, 2010

Gracias. Merci. Chokran. Thanks.



I am unbelievably Thankful for my life.
Like I am really, really, really, ridiculously grateful for my existence. And right now more than ever- I have an amazing and supportive family, some damn fine looking friends all over the globe, refined taste buds, healthy joints and muscles, a working passport, and a desire to experience this beautiful life.


Tips on creating a Thanksgiving experience Spain:
#1 Find fellow Americans... or just those who have visited the states in the last 10 years, thats fine too.
#2 No need to pre-order a turkey. They won't run out.
#3 Thanksgiving must be celebrated on Black Friday because no country, other than yours has Thursday off work.
#4 Everyone else in the world thinks that a "pumpkin" and a "pie" should never touch.
#5 Suggest a reenactment of the Pilgrims and Indians on Thanksgiving Day- Separating the group in two, place half on a boat at the beach and the other half (the native Mallorquins, naturally) on the sand, in loin clothes, carving arrowhead jewelry and such. Come together. Trade gifts. Sit, eat and give thanks.

Happy Thanksgiving!
A photo memoir of some of the most incredible and transformative table experiences:





















I find myself living for moments at the table. From country to country, table to table, friends to family, I am completely infatuated with the power of a group of people breaking bread at the table. Images from Italy, California, Vietnam, Morocco, Seattle, Spain, Chicago, Laos, France, Bali, etc. All share one thing in common- A plank of wood, elevated above the ground, scattered wit empty wine bottles, crumpled napkins, bread crumbs, and tales of life, love and happiness. Thankful for the table.

















.... And at this very moment, I am extra Thankful that India has not only granted me a visa for my 3 month visit, starting on Tuesday. But That it has also accepted me into a Yoga Teacher Training in Goa this February. I'll do my very best to keep you updated on my gypsy adventures on that beautiful continent... Cheers!

Friday, November 12, 2010

Kamar

... Arabic for "Full Moon"
Kamar, is the name of a woman, and is also used as a compliment from a man to a woman with an exceptionally glowing, beautiful face. I love that.

The moment I stepped off the plane in Marrakesh, I was welcomed with warm African winds carrying a night scent of diesel, cumin, and orange blossoms. I was intoxicated with affection for Morocco within moments, before my feet even touched the soil. The PMCA Culinary Adventure that I assisted was the perfect segway to indulge my senses and officially place Morocco on my list of places to long for.






Once I float down from this cloud of rose water, saffron threads, and sweet dates dipped in milk, then I will give you the full Moroccan break down. And until then, pour yourself a glass of mint tea and throw a wish to the great Kamar.
-Ash