Envirofest at Chollas Lake Park ~ Inspired by Greatness

On Saturday, September 19, 2009, Envirofest at Chollas Lake Park finally materialized. I worked with the San Diego Girls Alliance and a host of supporters and volunteers from various backgrounds who brought the long awaited Envirofest at Chollas Lake Park to life. First of all, one of the aspects of this event is a buffet-of-activity, so to speak, that compliments the simultaneous clean-up day which is in collaboration with I Love A Clean San Diego, San Diego Coastkeeper and the Coastal Commission. People could participate in laughter yoga, hip hop classes, tai chi, yoga therapy, energy healing, music therapy and learn about the environment in addition to participating in the clean up. This clean up day occurs statewide and Chollas Lake Park is an urban park, far from the beach, which I have always felt deserves just as much attention as the "best" parks or beaches anywhere.

Over 70 volunteers were there in support of the clean up drive and it was a beautiful sight. Some of us who had been there since our first clean up in 2004 were astounded by the interest and the commitment that so many local and distant community members brought to the park. In addition, we organized vendors including Lemongrass Asian cuisine, Double Koi Organic Tea, Honest Tea, Rumba Drinks, Chipotle, Jamba Juice, Karmic Health, Drive Time Yoga, Prince Graham Hip Hop, Laughter Yoga, Effulgence Yoga, The Taoist Santuary, AcuSport, Elivelife, as well as a host of healers such as Dr. Heidi and Shani facepainting and various organizations such as Environmental Services, Resounding Joy, San Diego Youth Services, 4 Walls International, the San Diego Beekeepers Group, Green Machine (from the County Office of Education), the Environmental Health Coalition, the Maac Project, San Diego State Recreation and Tourism Department students, Animal Protection Rescue League. We had a wonderful blessing by the Red Warriors (Native American Drumming) and guitar playing and singing, featuring Sven-Eric Seaholm and Brooke MacKintosh. Daisy Rock guitars sponsored the event and the writing contest that will be in effect promoting our program scheduled to highlight more music and art.

As an indie organizer, it was so rewarding to be a part of such an amazing event and to see so many dedicated people who were all working toward a common vision: self-love, learning about the earth and the ways that we can each make a difference in our own lives, in our households, communities and beyond; the importance of living harmoniously and the ways in which we can honor the planet and one another in the process. Thanks to all the volunteers and supporters who made this wonderful day possible.

Inspired by Greatness

Everyone loves the winners when they're winning. I am loving the way we can appreciate those who are moving toward a goal in the midst of challenges and still willing to stand firm, believing, knowing, trusting and acting consistently on the vision they have received for their lives. They may not be feeling like "winners" at this stage but guess what, you better believe they are. The witnessing of the creative process, the witnessing of the artistic process and of the entrepreneurial spirit of others is deeply intense -- so moving and gratifying. Regardless of where the person may be in their journey, it is so inspiring and wonderful to encounter these visionaries as they bring forth their deepest desires. I want them to know how powerful it is for those who are observing -- for those who are witnessing the beauty of their courage on their respective paths. We are all winners. We are all great. We are all powerful and capable of creating wondrous worlds of our design! You are in the midst of it -- making it happen and sometimes it does not feel like the best day of your life, but you are moving more energy than you know and inspiring people with your ability to stay true to yourself. How cool is that?

Suite Dreams for Champagne Taste

Entrepreneurs. Gotta love them. I have loved them all my life. Risk-takers. Dreamers. Visionaries. Bringers of ideas. It certainly is not the easiest – being someone who has a dream and trying to keep it moving even during tough times. Life keeps moving, unfolding, presenting opportunities and depending on how we perceive these changes, we can continue to be mindful -- navigating as appropriate for us at the time.

I received a call from Andrea, the owner of Champagne Taste in South Park. Champagne Taste is one of my favorite boutiques in the world!! I love the fragrances, the feel of the store, the jewelry, the Italian dishes (to which I became quickly addicted), the beautiful and unusual scented candles – and the Walkabout Parties!! I have so many warm memories that are associated with this charming world that Andrea created for us.

After years of being in business, Champagne Taste may close its doors -- due to a lack of business. I'm sitting here wondering how in the world can that be possible? We love it there. I say this: if we all rally around the cause, put our energy and intentions into what is possible for Champagne Taste and remain open to amazing opportunities to flow – there are no limitations. That is what I am doing for Andrea and her shop – who were both there when I was grieving the passing of my closest friend and going through a marital separation. Those little candles and jewelry did more than wonders for my ability to move past those intense moments of sadness. Stop by and support this lovely establishment when you can.

Champagne Taste
2248 30th Street
San Diego, CA 92104
(619) 234-3585

An Impromptu Visit to Kapreeza

I am definitely a fan of self-love and giving to myself without reservation. I'll just say it: I can really enjoy glam!

Friday afternoon, I visited one of the lingerie boutiques downtown after hearing about a networking reception that had taken place there not too long ago. It is called Kapreeza and it's located in Little Italy. They sell high-end lingerie, swimwear and really lovely bridal lingerie. I have never seen a selection of the exquisite pieces of swimwear and lingerie that Kapreeza offers. The owner, Renata, explained how she spends quality time with each customer and feels that American women deserve fashionable and unique lingerie that is not only beautiful and sexy but comfortable. I agree with that! She said many women feel like they have to forego highly attractive pieces for function. Not so. Kapreeza offers magnificent imported lingerie for women of all sizes and ages and will spend the time with you to achieve the perfect fit.

Renata and I also agreed that it is not necessary to be in a relationship to look and feel good for oneself. Eating well and nourishing the body temple, taking excellent care of oneself, thinking positively about oneself, dressing to impress oneself, and, if one desires, attracting those who can honor her inner and outer radiance can be key to a joy-filled life that will open doors to the types of mutually satisfying relationships that a goddess deserves. Go ahead ... treat yourself ... just because YOU want to.

Kapreeza
2400 Kettner Boulevard
San Diego, CA
http://www.kapreeza.com/